bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The discovery of a typical radio galaxy at z = 4.88
Authors: Jarvis Matt J. , Teimourian Hanifa , Simpson Chris , Smith Daniel J. B. , Rawlings Steve , Bonfield David
Published: August 2009

In this Letter, we report the discovery of a z= 4.88 radio galaxy discovered with a new technique which does not rely on pre-selection of a sample based on radio properties such as steep-spectral index or small angular size. This radio galaxy was discovered in the Elais-N2 field and has a spectral index of α= 0.75, i.e. not ultra-steep spectrum. It also has a luminosity consistent with being drawn from the break of the radio luminosity function and can therefore be considered as a typical radio galaxy. Using the Spitzer Wide-Area Infrared Extragalactic Survey (SWIRE) data over this field, we find that the host galaxy is consistent with being similarly massive to the lower redshift powerful radio galaxies (∼1–3L★). However, we note that at z= 4.88, the Hα line is redshifted into the IRAC 3.6 μm filter, and some of the flux in this band may be due to this fact rather than the stellar continuum emission. The discovery of such a distant radio source from our initial spectroscopic observations demonstrates the promise of our survey for finding the most distant radio sources.
The blazar S5 0014+813: a real or apparent monster?
Authors: Ghisellini G. , Foschini L. , Volonteri M. , Ghirlanda G. , Haardt F. , Burlon D. , Tavecchio F.
Published: August 2009

A strong hard X-ray luminosity from a blazar flags the presence of a very powerful jet. If the jet power is in turn related to the mass accretion rate, the most luminous, hard X-ray blazars should pinpoint the largest accretion rates, and thus the largest black hole masses. These ideas are confirmed by the Swift satellite observations of the blazar S5 0014+813, at the redshift z= 3.366. Swift detected this source with all its three instruments, from the optical to the hard X-rays. Through the construction of its spectral energy distribution, we are confident that its optical-ultraviolet (UV) emission is thermal in origin. Associating it with the emission of a standard optically thick geometrically thin accretion disc, we find a black hole mass, M∼ 4 × 1010 M⊙, radiating at 40 per cent the Eddington value. The derived mass is among the largest ever found. Super-Eddington slim discs or thick discs with the presence of a collimating funnel can in principle reduce the black hole mass estimate, but tend to produce spectra bluer than observed.
Proxima Centauri: a transitional modified Newtonian dynamics controlled orbital candidate?
Authors: Beech Martin
Published: August 2009

The triple-system candidacy of Proxima Centauri with α Centauri A/B is reviewed in terms of its potential to demonstrate an orbit controlled according to modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND). It is noted that Proxima is already sufficiently distant from α Cen A/B that MOND corrections to its speed and orbit should be present and therefore potentially measurable. It is argued that present-day observations of the Proxima–α Centauri A/B system do not rule out the possibility that Proxima occupies a low-eccentricity orbit with an orbital period of the order of a few million years.
The extended ionized gas around the z = 2.44 radio galaxy MRC 0406–244: the nature of the superbubbles and the optical line brightness asymmetries
Authors: Humphrey A. , Iwamuro F. , Villar-Martín M. , Binette L. , Sung E. C.
Published: August 2009

In this Letter, we investigate the nature of the dramatic ‘superbubble’ emission structures associated with the z= 2.44 radio galaxy MRC 0406−244, using rest-frame optical spectroscopy and an archival Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) image. Based on the optical line ratios and the HST morphology, we conclude that the gas in the superbubbles is photoionized by the obscured active nucleus. We suggest that this type of structure might be related to the spatially extended H i absorbers that are detected in front of many high-z radio galaxies. We also suggest that we may be witnessing the destruction of the extended emission-line region. In addition, we investigate the nature of the emission-line brightness asymmetry in MRC 0406−244: we conclude that this asymmetry is due to an asymmetry in the mass of ionized gas, confirming the scenario of McCarthy, van Breugel & Kapahi, and leading us to reject that of Gopal-Krishna & Wiita.
Vacuums and Veils: Engaging with Statistically ‘Invisible’ Indigenous Population Dynamics in Yamatji Country, Western Australia
Authors: PROUT SARAH
Published: August 2009

Although much is known about broad trends in Australian Indigenous geographies, particular aspects of Indigenous spatiality continue to be rendered invisible by standard statistical measures. The national census, for example, only registers moves at one and five year intervals. Any mobilities enacted within these timeframes are not measured. Yet these statistically ‘un‐captured’ mobility processes are often integral to Indigenous lived experiences and have a significant dialectical relationship to government service delivery processes. Understanding these population dynamics is therefore a critical, though underdeveloped, consideration within geographic enquiry and contemporary debates about State and Federal Indigenous policy directions and initiatives. This paper presents qualitative research findings regarding local experiences and perceptions of Indigenous spatiality in Yamatji country, Western Australia. Within this grounded framework, the paper builds on existing literature by drawing out some of the common spatial, temporal and demographic characteristics, or dimensions, of statistically un‐captured Indigenous mobility processes. With this discursive, albeit generalised and malleable, typology established, the analysis turns to a reflection on some of the methodological and conceptual complexities of measurement, interpretation, and translation of these mobility processes across the policy‐research nexus.
Representational Consistency: Stability and Change in Political Cleavages in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: WHITEFIELD STEPHEN , ROHRSCHNEIDER ROBERT
Published: August 2009

In contrast to often negative expectations about the nature of political cleavages in post‐communist Central and Eastern Europe, previous work by the authors has shown that the cleavages underlying party competition in the region structure the range of choices available to voters along lines that reflect regionally and nationally relevant political and economic concerns. Little attention as yet, however, has been paid to considering the stability of these cleavages, evidence for which would add further positive weight to the emerging picture of party competition in the region. The question of stability is particularly pertinent given the elements of ongoing weakness and volatility that can still be observed in aspects of party systems in the region. This paper addresses this issue of cleavage stability using comparable data on cleavages from expert surveys conducted in 2003 and 2007 in 13 countries.

En contraste con las frecuentes expectativas negativas sobre la naturaleza de las divisiones políticas (political cleavages) que prevalecen en Europa post‐Comunista Central y del Este, trabajos previos de los autores han demostrado que las divisiones subyacentes dentro de la competencia partidista en la región estructuran el rango de opciones disponibles para los votantes, en base a preferencias políticas y económicas relevantes a nivel regional y nacional. Poca atención, sin embargo, se ha puesto en la estabilidad de estas escisiones, evidencia que podría añadir mayor importancia positiva al panorama emergente de la competencia partidista en la región. La cuestión de la estabilidad es particularmente pertinente dado los elementos de debilidad y volatilidad en curso que todavía pueden ser observados en aspectos del sistema de partidos de la región. Este artículo aborda el tópico de la estabilidad de las divisiones utilizando información comparable de dichas divisiones de encuestas expertas realizadas en trece países en el año 2003 y 2007.
Are Mixed Electoral Systems the Best Choice for Central and Eastern Europe or the Reason for Defective Party Systems?
Authors: BOCHSLER DANIEL
Published: August 2009

Mixed electoral systems have been celebrated enthusiastically in the literature and by political practitioners, arguing that they combine the best of both worlds with regards to several aspects of political representation. This article calls this view into question, arguing that the mixed incentives of mixed electoral systems might hamper the stabilization and institutionalization of party systems in young democracies. Empirical results from 19 democracies in Central and Eastern Europe suggest that the learning and stabilization effect that is exerted through simple electoral systems fails under mixed systems. Using a variance model analysis, this study rejects the common belief that mixed systems lead to more moderate party systems with regards to party system fractionalization. Rather, outcomes under mixed systems vary much more widely than under proportional representation, are associated with higher disproportionality, and tend to increase volatility.

Los sistemas electorales mixtos, que combinan sistemas electorales de mayoría con los de representación proporcional (RP), han sido alabados con entusiasmo por la literatura y los políticos, argumentando que combinan lo mejor de ambos mundos con relación a los diversos aspectos de la representación política. Este artículo cuestiona tal punto de vista, señalando que los incentivos contradictorios de los sistemas electorales mixtos podrían dificultar la estabilización e institucionalización de los sistemas de partido en democracias emergentes. Los resultados empíricos de diecinueve democracias en Europa Central y del Este sugieren que el efecto de aprendizaje y de estabilización que es ejercido en los sistemas electorales simples fracasa bajo los sistemas mixtos. Utilizando un análisis de modelos de varianza, este estudio rechaza la creencia común que los sistemas mixtos conducen a un sistema de partidos más moderado en referencia a su grado de fragmentación. En cambio, bajo sistemas mixtos, los resultados varían mucho más extensamente que bajo RP. Más aún, los sistemas mixtos están asociados con una superior desproporcionalidad que en RP y tienden a incrementar la volatilidad.
Learning the Economic Vote: Hungarian Forecasts, 1998‐2010
Authors: STEGMAIER MARY , LEWIS‐BECK MICHAEL S.
Published: August 2009

Although Hungary is a new democracy, the behavior of its voters can be understood. They are systematically responsive to economic conditions, particularly unemployment. We find that the Hungarian electorate, as economic voters, has moved from a policy‐oriented to an incumbency‐oriented strategy. That is, in early elections, they favored the Socialists in the face of rising unemployment, regardless of whether they were in government. In the later elections, however, they have voted against the ruling Socialists, as a response to rising unemployment. Overall, they have learned to become classical economic voters, rewarding the government for good times, punishing it for bad. We demonstrate this pattern with regression models, by forecasting the 1998 and 2010 national elections. We conclude with a discussion of the likely outcome of the latter contest.

Aunque la democracia en Hungría es reciente, el comportamiento de sus votantes puede caracterizarse claramente. Ellos son sistemáticamente sensibles a las condiciones económicas, particularmente al desempleo. El electorado húngaro interesado en la economía se ha movido de una estrategia orientada a las políticas a una estrategia orientada a los partidos. Durante las primeras elecciones, el electorado favoreció por su política de empleo a los Socialistas frente al incremento del desempleo, sin importar si ellos estuvieran en el gobierno o no. Sin embargo, posteriormente, el electorado ha votado en contra de los Socialistas por la ineficacia de su política de empleo. Por lo tanto, ha aprendido a convertirse en votantes clásicos interesados en la economía, recompensando al gobierno por buenos tiempos, castigándolo por los malos. Demostramos este patrón con modelos de regresión, al pronosticar las elecciones nacionales de 1998 y 2010. Concluimos con una discusión sobre el resultado más probable de la próxima elección.
Poland: Parties without a Party System, 1991‐2008
Authors: MILLARD FRANCES
Published: August 2009

The development of political parties in Poland failed to match expectations that parties would stabilize and give rise to predictable patterns of interaction in a cohesive party system. Although the number of electoral and parliamentary parties fell, parties failed to cohere, with elite defections providing the main impetus for party collapse and new‐party emergence. High levels of electoral volatility meant dramatic shifts in the relative strengths of parties and the defeat of incumbent governments at every election. Although government formation reflected “closed” competition between Solidarity and successor parties until 2006, coalitions did not develop lasting relations of cooperation and compromise. Leadership volatility, party volatility, and electoral volatility created whirlpools of continuing uncertainty.

El desarrollo de los partidos políticos en Polonia fracasó su intento de satisfacer las expectativas de que estabilizarían y llevarían a patrones predecibles de interacción en un sistema de partidos cohesivo. A pesar de que el número de partidos electorales y parlamentarios disminuyó no lograron cohesionarse, siendo la deserción en sus élites el factor más importante en el colapso de los partidos y la aparición de nuevos. En cada elección, los elevados niveles de volatilidad electoral significaron dramáticos cambios en la fortaleza relativa de los partidos y la derrota de los gobiernos en turno. Aunque, hasta 2006, la conformación del gobierno reflejó una competencia “cerrada” entre Solidaridad y los partidos posteriores, las coaliciones no desarrollaron relaciones duraderas de cooperación y compromiso. La volatilidad en los líderes, partidos, y elecciones creó una vorágine de continua incertidumbre.
The Endurance of the Czech Communist Party
Authors: STEGMAIER MARY , VLACHOVÁ KLÁRA
Published: August 2009

Twenty years after the fall of communism in the Czech Republic, the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia (KSČM) continues to garner public support and maintains its presence in parliament. The party's endurance is surprising given the country's relative economic success and the presence of a strong Social Democratic Party. While the literature on communist successor parties has viewed the KSČM as unsuccessful, we argue that this perspective overlooks the resilience of the party. We analyze postelection survey data from the 2006 Czech Election Study and find that the KSČM has a loyal support base largely comprised of older voters. But even when we control for age in logistic regression analysis, we find that ideological views, satisfaction with democracy, and assessments of the national economy distinguish KSČM voters from Social Democratic voters. These findings have implications for the future of the party.

Veinte años después de la caída del comunismo en la República Checa, el Partido Comunista de Bohemia y Moravia (KSČM, por sus siglas en checo) continúa obteniendo apoyo del público y mantiene su presencia en el parlamento. Su fortaleza es sorprendente dado el relativo éxito económico y la presencia de un fuerte Partido Social‐Demócrata. Mientras la literatura sobre los partidos posteriores al comunismo ha visto al KSČM como un fracaso, argumentamos que esta perspectiva pasa por alto la resistencia del partido. Analizamos información de una encuesta post‐electoral del Estudio Electoral Checo de 2006 y encontramos que el KSČM tiene una base de soporte fiel en gran parte compuesta de votantes de edad avanzada. Aún cuando controlamos la variable de edad en el análisis de regresión logística, encontramos que las opiniones ideológicas, la satisfacción con la democracia, y la valoración positiva de la economía nacional distingue a los votantes del KSČM en relación con los votantes Social‐Demócratas. Estos resultados tienen implicaciones para el futuro del partido.
What's Left Behind When the Party's Over: Survey Experiments on the Effects of Partisan Cues in Putin's Russia
Authors: BRADER TED A. , TUCKER JOSHUA A.
Published: August 2009

We consider the question of whether Russia's greatly weakened political parties might continue to exert an influence on public opinion in twenty‐first century Russia. To do so, we carried out a series of survey‐based experiments in Moscow in the spring of 2006. We present evidence showing that partisan cues increase support for public policy proposals and make it more likely that respondents will adopt a position on an issue that mirrors their party's preferred position (“opinion taking”), as well as increase the likelihood that respondents will adopt a position on a given issue at all (“opinion giving”). We also present evidence that party cues can sway the opinions of nonpartisans, though such influence may be limited to cases when the position of a party constitutes an unusually informative or credible signal. The findings should be of interest to those concerned with Russia's post‐communist political development, those interested more broadly in the effects of partisan cues on political behavior, as well as to scholars trying to characterize the nature of “competitive authoritarian” regimes.

Consideramos la cuestión de si partidos políticos fuertemente debilitados, como es el caso de los partidos rusos, podrían continuar influyendo la opinión pública en la Rusia del siglo XXI. Para responder esto llevamos a cabo una serie de investigaciones basadas en encuestas realizadas en Moscú en la primavera de 2006. Presentamos evidencia que demuestra que las pautas partidistas incrementan el apoyo del público a sus propuestas de políticas y hacen más probable que un encuestado conozca la preferencia del partido e incluso la llegue a asumir como suya (“tomando opinión”), así como que incremente la posibilidad de que ellos adopten una determinada posición sobre un determinado tópico (“dando opinión”). También presentamos evidencia que las pautas del partido pueden producir cambios de opinión, aunque dicha influencia puede estar limitada a casos donde la posición del partido constituye una señal inusualmente informativa o creíble. Los resultados serán de interés para aquellos preocupados por el desarrollo político de Rusia post‐comunista, aquellos interesados más ampliamente en los efectos de las pautas partidistas en el comportamiento político, así como para los académicos que buscan precisar las características de los regímenes “autoritarios competitivos.”
The Protection of Origins for Agricultural Products and Foods in Europe: Status Quo, Problems and Policy Recommendations for the Green Book
Authors: Profeta Adriano , Balling Richard , Schoene Volker , Wirsig Alexander
Published: August 2009

The protection of geographical indications for agricultural products and foodstuffs is one of the major pillars of the Common European Agricultural Policy and has become an important part of the transition from supporting commodity markets to enabling producers to market goods which satisfy consumer tastes. According to estimates, a total annual sales volume of approximately €14 bn is generated with protected geographical indications (PGI) and protected designations of origin (PDO). Nevertheless, the increase in utilization of the protection systems made obvious a number of problems in the practical application of the law. The Commission recognized these criticisms and announced a discussion on the regulation that was to commence officially in the autumn of 2008 with a Green Book about the PDO/PGI protection regime. In this context, the most recent problems are discussed and proposals are made that should be taken into account in order to accomplish the main goals of the regulation. Therefore this article is addressed to agricultural policy makers, consumer associations, as well as food producers and producer associations in Europe in order to provide a starting point for the Green Book debate.
Erythropoietin Promotes Neurological Recovery after Intracerebral Haemorrhage in Rats
Authors: Seyfried D. M. , Han Y. , Yang D. , Ding J. , Chopp M.
Published: August 2009

Background

Attention has turned to neurorestorative therapies, including erythropoietin, for experimental ischaemic stroke and head injury. Treatments for intracerebral haemorrhage need to be developed, as this represents a particularly devastating and common form of neurological injury.

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic potential of erythropoietin after intracerebral haemorrhage in rats and to measure its effects on mechanisms of recovery and neurogenesis.

Methods

Intracerebral haemorrhage was induced in 24 Wistar male rats by intrastriatal infusion of autologous blood. Recombinant human erythropoietin (5000 or 10000 U/kg BW/day) or saline was administered starting 1 day after intracerebral haemorrhage and continued daily for 1 week ( n = 8 for each group). To label proliferating cells, 5‘-bromo-2’ deoxyuridine was injected daily for 13 days after intracerebral haemorrhage. All animals survived for 2 weeks after intracerebral haemorrhage. Functional outcome, area of tissue loss and immunohistochemical staining were measured at 14 days after intracerebral haemorrhage. Global test or anova was used to test the erythropoietin dose effect.

Results

Rats receiving recombinant human erythropoietin after intracerebral haemorrhage exhibited significant improvement in modified neurological severity score and corner test at 14 days ( P<0·05). Increased expression of phenotypes of synaptogenesis and proliferating immature neurons were shown by immunohistochemical staining. Only the group receiving a lower dose of recombinant human erythropoietin had significantly less tissue loss compared with the control group ( P<0·05). In rats treated with recombinant human erythropoietin, double staining for 5‘-bromo-2’ deoxyuridine and TUJ1 revealed a subpopulation of cells that express an immature neuronal marker while still dividing.

Conclusions

Erythropoietin improves neurological outcome and increases histochemical parameters of neurogenesis when given after intracerebral haemorrhage in rats. Intriguingly, only the lower dose of recombinant human erythropoietin was effective in reducing tissue loss in the region of intracerebral haemorrhage.
Trend of Stroke Incidence in a Japanese Population: Takashima Stroke Registry, 1990-2001
Authors: Kita Y. , Turin T. C. , Ichikawa M. , Sugihara H. , Morita Y. , Tomioka N. , Rumana N. , Okayama A. , Nakamura Y. , Abbott R. D. , Ueshima H.
Published: August 2009

Background

In Japan, stroke mortality and incidence started to decline during the 1960s. The recent unfavourably diverging trends in risk factors make it uncertain whether the decline will continue. Few comprehensive stroke registries of long research duration exist in Japan to illustrate the trends in stroke incidence.

Objective

We examined 12-year stroke registration data to evaluate the current trend in a Japanese population.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Takashima Stroke Registry, covering approximately 55000 residents of Takashima County in central Japan. We calculated the age-adjusted stroke incidence rates (/100 000 person-years) and 95% confidence intervals for 1990–1992, 1993–1995, 1996–1998, and 1999–2001. We applied the direct method to adjust for the age distribution among the four periods. The incidence time trend was determined by calculating the average annual change across the study years using negative binomial regression analysis.

Results

There were 1453 (men: 771 and women: 682) registered first-ever stroke cases during 1990–2001. The diagnosis was established by neuro-imaging in 93·6% of the cases. The average age was 69·4 years in men and 74·2 years in women. The age-adjusted incidence rates of stroke across the four observation periods were 143·1 (confidence interval: 127·4-158·8) in 1990–1992, 147·4 (confidence interval: 131·9–162·8) in 1993–1995, 120·4 (confidence interval: 106·7–134·0) in 1996–1998, and 122·9 (confidence interval: 109·6–136·2) in 1999–2001. The stroke incidence across the study years showed an insignificant time trend, with an average annual change of −0·33% (confidence interval: −2·44 to 1·78) per year. Similar trends were observed for both men and women and stroke subtypes.

Conclusions

The previously reported declining trend in stroke incidence may have levelled off or slowed down considerably in the Japanese population.
Hyperthermia Exacerbates Ischaemic Brain Injury
Authors: Wang C. X. , Stroink A. , Casto J. M. , Kattner K.
Published: August 2009

Hyperthermia frequently occurs in stroke patients. Hyperthermia negatively correlates with clinical outcome and adversely effects treatment regiments otherwise successful under normothermic conditions. Preclinical studies also demonstrate that hyperthermia converts salvageable penumbra to ischaemic infarct. The present article reviews the knowledge accumulated from both clinical and preclinical studies about hyperthermia and ischaemic brain injury, examines current treatment strategies and discusses future research directions.
Spatio‐temporal characterization of Korean drought using severity–area–duration curve analysis
Authors: Kim Sangdan , Kim Bokyung , Ahn Tae Jin , Kim Hung Soo
Published: August 2009

In this study, the depth–area–duration (DAD) analysis for characterizing an extreme precipitation event provides a basis for analysing drought events when storm depth is replaced by an appropriate measure of drought severity. Monthly precipitation is probabilistically transformed into standardized precipitation index (SPI) and SPI time series are decomposed into a mutually independent data set by the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. All EOFs are spatially expanded to a 6 × 6 km resolution by kriging, for which a commercial package, SuRFER™, is used. Twenty main drought events from the grid‐based SPI time series are identified to construct the drought severity–effective area–drought duration (SAD) curves. The shape of SAD curves is similar to that of the rainfall DAD curves in the sense that drought severity and effective area are out of phase and that drought severity and duration are also out of phase. However, the severity reduction rate in SAD curves is much smaller than the corresponding rate in DAD analysis.
The research/practice nexus: underlying assumptions about the nature of research uptake into practice in literature pertaining to care of the older person
Authors: Garnham Bridget , Cheek Julianne , Alde Pamela
Published: August 2009

Much has been written about the link between practice and research in the nursing and health literature. The literature from fields of practice relating to care of the older person is no exception. Enhancing best practice to effectively meet the needs and desires of older people, and provide an optimal working environment for those providing that care, requires sustainable synergies between research and practice. However, the perception of a gap(s) between ‘what we know’ and ‘what we do’ persists in the writing in relation to the care of older people, as it does in healthcare more broadly. Rather than attempting to provide an exhaustive descriptive review of the literature, this paper reports on, and provides an analysis of, two broad thematic areas that are reflected in much of the writing about research and practice relevant to the care of older people. The first thematic area relates to literature that presupposes a linear/passive view of research uptake. The second thematic area includes literature that conceptualizes research uptake as dynamic/active. The discussion focuses on what these thematic areas can tell us about enhancing and optimizing synergies and connections between research and practice relating to care of the older person.
An Evaluation of the Effects of an Angiotensin Receptor Blocker on Health‐Related Quality of Life in Patients With High‐Normal Blood Pressure (Prehypertension) in the Trial of Preventing Hypertension (TROPHY)
Authors: Williams Setareh A. , Michelson Eric L. , Cain Valerie A. , Yang Min , Nesbitt Shawna D. , Egan Brent M. , Julius Stevo
Published: August 2009

The Trial of Preventing Hypertension (TROPHY) demonstrated the feasibility of possibly reducing the incidence of hypertension with the angiotensin receptor blocker candesartan compared with placebo. The long‐term benefits of pharmacologic therapy in high‐normal blood pressure, or prehypertension are not known, and the long‐term effect on health‐related quality of life (HRQL) has not been determined. An analysis of covariance model was used to assess treatment differences from baseline in the HRQL scores using Short Form (SF)‐36, and component measures at subsequent visits. Of the 809 randomized patients, 734 had both baseline and ≥1 HRQL follow‐up assessment: 95% (379 of 397) of patients receiving candesartan and 91% (355 of 388) of patients receiving placebo. There were no statistically significant between‐group differences in least‐squares mean physical component survey and mental component survey scores or the individual scales at each scheduled visit relative to baseline values (P >.05). In TROPHY, patients with prehypertension had relatively high baseline HRQL, and HRQL was maintained with the angiotensin receptor blocker candesartan over both the 2‐year treatment period and a total 4‐year trial period.
Improving Blood Pressure Control: Increase the Dose of Diuretic or Switch to a Fixed‐Dose Angiotensin Receptor Blocker/Diuretic? The Valsartan Hydrochlorothiazide Diuretic for Initial Control and Titration to Achieve Optimal Therapeutic Effect (Val‐DICTATE) Trial
Authors: White William B. , Calhoun David A. , Samuel Rita , Taylor Addison A. , Zappe Dion H. , Purkayastha Das
Published: August 2009

To assess the strategy of increasing the dose of a diuretic compared with using an angiotensin receptor blocker in combination with a diuretic, the authors performed a multicenter, randomized, parallel group trial in hypertensive patients (baseline blood pressure [BP], 153/97 mm Hg) whose BP remained uncontrolled on initial low‐dose diuretic monotherapy (hydrochlorothiazide [HCTZ] 12.5 mg Hg). Patients with stage 1 and 2 hypertension were randomized to treatment with valsartan/HCTZ (160/12.5 mg) or to doubling of the HCTZ dose (25 mg). The primary end point was the percentage of patients whose clinic BP values were <140/90 mm Hg following 4 weeks of double‐blind therapy. A significantly higher proportion (P<.001) of hypertensive patients met BP control levels in the valsartan/HCTZ (160/12.5 mg) group compared with the HCTZ 25 mg group (37% vs 16%). Changes from baseline in BP were significantly greater (P<.001) for both systolic BP and diastolic BP in the combination therapy arm compared with the diuretic monotherapy arm (−12. 4/−7.5 mm Hg in valsartan/HCTZ 160/12.5 mg group vs −5.6/−2.1 mm Hg in HCTZ 25 mg group). Tolerability and adverse events were similar in the 2 treatment groups. This study suggests that in the management of hypertension, utilizing an angiotensin receptor blocker/diuretic combination was more effective in lowering BP and achieving BP goals when compared with increasing the dose of the diuretic.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers: Is There a Difference in Response and Any Advantage to Using Them Together in the Treatment of Hypertension?
Authors: Moser Marvin , Rosendorff Clive , White William B.
Published: August 2009

In April 2008, a panel was convened to discuss the effects of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers in the treatment of hypertension and the possible added benefit of using these agents together. The panel was moderated by Marvin Moser, MD, Clinical Professor of Medicine at Yale University School of Medicine, and included Clive Rosendorff, MD, PhD, Professor of Medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and William B. White, MD, Division Chief, Hypertension and Clinical Pharmacology and Professor, Calhoun Cardiology Center at the University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington.
Intravitreal pegaptanib sodium (Macugen®) for diabetic macular oedema
Authors: Querques Giuseppe , Bux Anna V. , Martinelli Domenico , Iaculli Cristiana , Noci Nicola D.
Published: August 2009

Purpose:  To report the functional and anatomical outcomes resulting from the use of intravitreal pegaptanib sodium (Macugen®) in patients with diabetic macular oedema (DMO).

Methods:  We conducted a retrospective outcome analysis, by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), of eyes with DMO treated with intravitreal pegaptanib sodium. Moreover, we evaluated the foveal transverse photoreceptor (PR) band integrity in the OCT images at the time of the last follow‐up visit.

Results:  Sixty‐three eyes of 48 patients with a minimum of 6 months of follow‐up were included for analysis. Intravitreal pegaptanib was found to produce significant improvements in mean BCVA (p = 0.019) and reductions in mean central macular thickness (CMT) (p < 0.001) as soon as the 6‐week follow‐up. Most eyes (60/63) required a mean of 3.03 ± 0.9 repeated treatments, over a mean follow‐up period of 6.7 ± 1.2 months, to achieve significant improvements in mean BCVA (p < 0.001) and mean CMT (p < 0.001). In our series, the lower visual acuities tended to congregate in the group with the less‐defined PR band (p < 0.001) and the lower CMT tended to congregate in the group with the best‐defined PR band (p = 0.04), even though the higher CMT did not tend to congregate in the group with the less‐defined PR band.

Conclusion:  Our findings demonstrate that selective inhibition by intravitreal pegaptanib sodium of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐165 may produce a clinically meaningful and statistically significant benefit in the treatment of DMO.
Optimal Testing for Thyroid Hormone Concentration after Treatment with Methimazole in Healthy and Hyperthyroid Cats
Authors: Rutland B.E. , Nachreiner R.F. , Kruger J.M.
Published: August 2009

Background:Methimazole suppresses thyroid hormone synthesis and is commonly used to treat feline hyperthyroidism. The degree of variation in thyroid hormone concentrations 24 hours after administration of methimazole and optimal time for blood sampling to monitor therapeutic efficacy have not been determined.

Objective:To assess thyroid hormone concentration variation in serum of normal and hyperthyroid cats after administration of methimazole.

Animals:Four healthy cats and 889 retrospectively acquired feline thyroid hormone profiles.

Methods:Crossover and retrospective studies. In the crossover study, healthy cats were treated with increasing doses of oral methimazole until steady state of thyroid suppression was achieved. Thyroid hormones and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were serially and randomly monitored after methimazole. Pairedt‐tests and a 3‐factor analysis of variance were used to determine differences between thyroid hormone concentrations in treated and untreated cats in the crossover study. Thyroid profiles from methimazole‐treated hyperthyroid cats were retrieved from the Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health database and reviewed. Linear regression analysis evaluated relationships of dosage (mg/kg), dosing interval (q24h versus q12h), and time after methimazole to all thyroid hormone concentrations.

Results:All serum concentrations of thyroid hormones were significantly suppressed and TSH was significantly increased for 24 hours after administration of oral methimazole in healthy cats (P< .005). In hyperthyroid cats, there were no significant relationships between thyroid hormone concentrations and time postpill or dosing interval.

Conclusions:Timing of blood sampling after oral methimazole administration does not appear to be a significant factor when assessing response to methimazole treatment.
Establishing maximal oxygen uptake in young people during a ramp cycle test to exhaustion
Authors: Barker A R , Williams C A , Jones A M , Armstrong N
Published: August 2009

Objectives

This study tested the hypotheses that (1) secondary criteria (respiratory exchange ratio (RER), heart rate, blood [lactate]) traditionally used to verify the determination of maximum oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) in children can result in the acceptance of a ‘submaximal’ V̇O2maxor falsely reject a ‘true’ V̇O2maxand (2) the V̇O2peakrecorded during a ramp test in children is comparable to the V̇O2peakachieved during supramaximal testing.

Methods

Thirteen children (9–10 years) completed a ramp cycle test to exhaustion to determine their V̇O2peak. After 15 min of recovery, the participants performed a supramaximal cycle test to exhaustion at 105% of their ramp test peak power.

Results

Compared with the V̇O2peakduring the ramp test, a significantly lower V̇O2was recorded at a RER of 1.00 (1.293 litre/min (SD 0.265) vs 1.681 litre/min (SD 0.295), p<0.001, n=12), at a heart rate of 195 beats/min (1.556 litre/min (SD 0.265) vs 1.721 litre/min (SD 0.318), p<0.001, n=10) and at 85% of age-predicted maximum (1.345 litre/min (SD 0.228) vs 1.690 litre/min (SD 0.284), p<0.001, n=13). Supramaximal testing yielded a V̇O2peakthat was not significantly different from the ramp test (1.615 litre/min (SD 0.307) vs 1.690 litre/min (SD 0.284), p=0.090, respectively).

Conclusions

The use of secondary criteria to verify a maximal effort in young people during ramp cycling exercise may result in the acceptance of a submaximal V̇O2max. As supramaximal testing elicits a V̇O2peaksimilar to the ramp protocol, thus satisfying the plateau criterion, the use of such tests is recommended as the appropriate method of confirming a ‘true’ V̇O2maxwith children.

Keywords

Children, Aerobic Fitness, Fitness Testing, Supramaximal Exercise.
Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α attenuates hepatic fibrosis in rats
Authors: Yue H-Y , Yin C , Hou J-L , Zeng X , Chen Y-X , Zhong W , Hu P-F , Deng X , Tan Y-X , Zhang J-P , Ning B-F , Shi J , Zhang X , Wang H-Y , Lin Y , Xie W-F
Published: August 2009

Background and aims

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a central transcriptional regulator of hepatocyte differentiation and function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of HNF4α on attenuation of hepatic fibrosis.

Methods

The adenoviruses carrying HNF4α gene or containing siRNA targeting HNF4α were injected through tail vein on two distinct hepatic fibrosis models either induced by dimethylnitrosamine or by bile duct ligation in rats. Moreover, HNF4α, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related and fibrotic markers in hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and liver tissues were detected by real time PCR, immunofluorescence or immunohistochemistry.

Results

We demonstrated that decreased expression of HNF4α and epithelial markers accompanied by enhanced expression of mesenchymal markers occurred in fibrotic liver. More importantly, forced expression of HNF4α remarkably alleviated hepatic fibrosis and improved liver function with suppression of EMT in both fibrosis models. In contrast, downregulation of HNF4α by siRNA aggravated hepatic fibrosis and decreased the expression of E-cadherin in association with the enhanced expression of vimentin and fibroblast-specific protein-1. In vitro study revealed that HNF4α could suppress the EMT process of hepatocytes induced by transforming growth factor-β1 and increase the expression of liver-specific genes. A similar phenomenon of the EMT process was observed during the activation of HSCs, which was abrogated by HNF4α. Additionally, HNF4α deactivated the myofibroblasts through inducing the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and inhibited their proliferation.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that HNF4α is critical for hepatic fibrogenesis and upregulation of HNF4α might present as an ideal option for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.
Biomass fuel use and indoor air pollution in homes in Malawi
Authors: Fullerton D G , Semple S , Kalambo F , Suseno A , Malamba R , Henderson G , Ayres J G , Gordon S B
Published: August 2009

Background:

Air pollution from biomass fuels in Africa is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity both in adults and children. The work describes the nature and quantity of smoke exposure from biomass fuel in Malawian homes.

Methods:

Markers of indoor air quality were measured in 62 homes (31 rural and 31 urban) over a typical 24 h period. Four different devices were used (one gravimetric device, two photometric devices and a carbon monoxide (HOBO) monitor. Gravimetric samples were analysed for transition metal content. Data on cooking and lighting fuel type together with information on indicators of socioeconomic status were collected by questionnaire.

Results:

Respirable dust levels in both the urban and rural environment were high with the mean (SD) 24 h average levels being 226 μg/m3(206 μg/m3). Data from real-time instruments indicated respirable dust concentrations were >250 μg/m3for >1 h per day in 52% of rural homes and 17% of urban homes. Average carbon monoxide levels were significantly higher in urban compared with rural homes (6.14 ppm vs 1.87 ppm; p<0.001). The transition metal content of the smoke was low, with no significant difference found between urban and rural homes.

Conclusions:

Indoor air pollution levels in Malawian homes are high. Further investigation is justified because the levels that we have demonstrated are hazardous and are likely to be damaging to health. Interventions should be sought to reduce exposure to concentrations less harmful to health.
Does the availability of single cigarettes promote or inhibit cigarette consumption? Perceptions, prevalence and correlates of single cigarette use among adult Mexican smokers
Authors: Thrasher J F , Villalobos V , Dorantes-Alonso A , Arillo-Santillán E , Cummings K Michael , O’Connor R , Fong G T
Published: August 2009

Background:

Single cigarette use and its implications have rarely been studied among adults.

Objective:

To assess perceptions, prevalence and correlates of single cigarette purchase behaviour and its relation to harm reduction.

Design:

Focus group transcripts and cross-sectional data were analysed.

Setting and participants:

Focus groups among convenience samples of adult smokers in two Mexican cities and a population-based sample of 1079 adult smokers from the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project in four Mexican cities.

Main outcome measures:

Purchase of single cigarettes last time cigarettes were bought, frequency of purchasing single cigarettes in the previous month and intention to quit in the next 6 months.

Results:

Focus group data indicated that smokers bought single cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy. Survey data indicated that 38% of participants purchased single cigarettes in the last month and 10% purchased them the last time they bought cigarettes, with more frequent consumption among young adults and those with lower income. Purchasing single cigarettes was independently associated with the frequency of using single cigarettes to reduce consumption and, less consistently, with the frequency of being cued to smoke after seeing single cigarettes for sale. Using single cigarettes to reduce consumption was positively associated with quit intention, whereas being cued to smoke by single cigarettes was negatively associated with quit intention.

Conclusions:

Study results suggest that some adult Mexican smokers purchase single cigarettes as a method to limit, cut down on and even quit smoking. Nevertheless, promotion of the availability of single cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy could provide additional smoking cues that undermine quit attempts and promote youth smoking.
Smoking restrictions in the home and secondhand smoke exposure among primary schoolchildren before and after introduction of the Scottish smoke-free legislation
Authors: Akhtar P C , Haw S J , Currie D B , Zachary R , Currie C E
Published: August 2009

Objective:

To examine change in home smoking restrictions one year after introduction of Scottish smoke-free legislation, and whether type of restriction impacts upon secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure among children.

Design:

Comparison of nationally representative, cross-sectional, class-based surveys carried out in the same schools before and after legislation.

Participants:

2527 primary schoolchildren (aged around 11 years) surveyed in January 2006 and 2379 in January 2007.

Outcome measures:

Self-reported home smoking restrictions, salivary cotinine concentrations.

Results:

Children surveyed after implementation of legislation were more likely than those surveyed before its introduction to report complete home smoking restrictions as opposed to partial (relative risk ratio (partial vs complete) 0.75 (95% CI 0.63 to 0.89) or no restrictions (RR (no restrictions vs complete) 0.50 (0.40 to 0.63). Children living with smokers were less likely to have stringent restrictions in place compared with children living with non-smokers (for both vs neither parents smoke: RR (partial vs complete) 18.29 (13.26 to 25.22) and RR (no restrictions vs complete) 104.73 (70.61 to 155.33). Among smoking households, restriction type varied according to the number and gender of parents who smoke. In both smoking and non-smoking households, children’s SHS exposure was directly related to type of home smoking restriction, with lowest exposures among those reporting complete restrictions.

Conclusion:

This study has shown an increase in the proportion of children reporting a complete ban on smoking in their household after the introduction of smoke-free legislation and supports growing evidence of the wider impact smoke-free legislation can have on smoker behaviour. However, quitting smoking combined with complete home smoking bans will still afford children the best protection from SHS exposure.
Risk factors associated with smoking behaviour in recreational venues: findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) China Survey
Authors: Li X , Li Q , Dong L , Sun B , Chen J , Jiang Y , Yang Y , Zhou B , Fong G T
Published: August 2009

Objective

To explore the determinants of smoking behaviour in recreational venues and to provide scientific bases for establishing smoke-free measures applying to these locations.

Methods

The International Tobacco Control (ITC) China Survey—a face-to-face cross-sectional survey of representative adult smokers from six cities (Shenyang, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Changsha and Yinchuan) was conducted between April and August 2006. A total of 4815 smokers were selected using multistage sampling methods, and final analyses were conducted on 2875 smokers who reported patronising recreational venues at least once in the last six months. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify factors influencing the smoking behaviour within recreational settings.

Outcome measure

Whether a smoker reported smoking in recreational venues during the last 6 months.

Results

84% subjects reported smoking in recreational venues. Analyses showed that smoke-free laws had been exempted, 32.0% of the patrons reporting bans on smoking in these locations. The following factors were significant predictors of smoking in recreational venues: absence of bans on smoking, support for non-bans, being aged 18–24 years, positive smoking-related attitudes, low number of health effects reported and not living in Beijing.

Conclusions

The findings point to the importance of informing Chinese smokers about the active smoking and passive smoking harmfulness in both building support for smoke-free laws and in reducing smokers’ desire to smoke within recreational venues. They also point to the importance of good enforcement of smoke-free laws when implemented. Such strategies could also serve to de-normalise smoking in China, a key strategy for reducing smoking in general.