bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achtsamkeitsbasierte Interventionsprogramme in der Integrativen Onkologie - eine Zusammenfassung der verfügbaren Evidenz
Authors: Musial Frauke , Büssing Arndt , Heusser Peter , Choi Kyung-Eun , Ostermann Thomas
Published: February 2014

Die vorliegende Arbeit versucht, einen umfassenden Überblick über die bestehende Evidenz zum Einsatz von MBSR(mindfulness-based stress reduction)-Programmen im Rahmen der onkologischen Therapie zu geben. Darüber hinaus wurde eine Meta-Analyse durchgeführt, um die Wirkung von MBSR auf Lebensqualität (quality of life; QoL), Stimmung und Stress eingehender zu untersuchen. Neben 6 Übersichtsarbeiten (5 systematische Reviews, 1 Meta-Analyse), die gesondert referiert werden, erfüllten insgesamt 19 Originalarbeiten die Einschlusskriterien. Von den 19 Originalarbeiten waren 5 Studien randomisiert und kontrolliert, 4 Studien waren nichtrandomisiert, aber kontrolliert, 9 waren Beobachtungsstudien, und eine Studie wurde als zweiarmige Beobachtungsstudie durchgeführt. Relevante Endpunkte waren QoL, Stimmung und Stress. Für jede Kategorie wurde Cohens d als Maß für die Effektstärke berechnet. Zur Abschätzung des Einflusses auf die QoL wurden insgesamt n = 248 Patienten aus 6 Studien in die Analyse eingeschlossen. Cohens d betrug 0,29 (95%-Konfidenzinterval (95%-KI) 0,17-0,40; p ≤ 0,00005). Für die Variable Stimmung wurden insgesamt 411 Patienten aus zehn Studien einbezogen; der Gesamteffekt betrug 0,42 (95%-KI 0,26-0,58; p < 0,0001). Für die Variable Stress ergab sich eine Effektstärke von 0,58 (95%-KI 0,45-0,72; p < 0,0001; n = 587 Patienten aus 15 Studien). MBSR-Programme können die QoL und Stimmung von onkologischen Patienten verbessern und die subjektiv empfundene Belastung reduzieren. Nichtsdestotrotz besteht nach wie vor Bedarf an randomisierten, kontrollierten Studien hoher Qualität, mit angemessenen, aktiven Kontrollbedingungen, längerem Follow-up, ausreichender Stichprobengröße, klaren Beschreibungen der psychologischen Profile von Patienten sowie der vermehrten Integration qualitativer Forschungsmethoden.Übersetzung aus Forsch Komplementmed 2011;18:192-202 (DOI: 10.1159/000330714)
Erfolgreiche Everolimus-Behandlung eines fortgeschrittenen neuroendokrinen Tumors der Bauchspeicheldrüse bei einem Patienten, der infolge der Everolimus-Therapie zweimal eine interstitielle Lungenerkrankung entwickelte
Authors: Nakayama Yusuke , Ikeda Masafumi , Kojima Motohiro , Goto Koichi , Hara Miyuki , Okuyama Hiroyuki , Takahashi Hideaki , Ohno Izumi , Shimizu Satoshi , Mitsunaga Shuichi , Okusaka Takuji
Published: February 2014

Interstitielle Lungenerkrankungen (ILE), die im Zusammenhang mit einer Chemotherapie auftreten, haben häufig fatale Auswirkungen; das angewandte Chemotherapieschema kann in der Regel nicht wieder aufgenommen worden. Eine ILE, die im Kontext einer Behandlung mit dem mTOR-Inhibitor Everolimus (mTOR: mammalian target of rapamycin) auftritt, unterscheidet sich in vielen Merkmalen von einer chemotherapieassoziierten ILE. Wir stellen den Fall einer 58-jährigen Patientin mit fortgeschrittenem neuroendokrinem Tumor der Bauchspeicheldrüse und Lebermetastasen vor, bei der trotz zweimaligen Auftretens einer Everolimus-induzierten ILE die Behandlung mit Everolimus fortgeführt wurde und zu einer Teilremission führte. Der Behandlungszeitraum umfasste insgesamt 31 Monate bis zur Krankheitsprogression. Ärzte, die mit Everolimus behandeln, sollten die Patienten engmaschig auf ILE überwachen und geeignete Strategien anwenden, um die Möglichkeit der Weiterführung der Everolimus-Therapie zu optimieren. Übersetzung aus Chemotherapy 2013;59:74-78 (DOI:10.1159/000351103)
How to Monitor the Brain during Immediate Neonatal Transition and Resuscitation: A Systematic Qualitative Review of the Literature
Authors: Pichler Gerhard , Cheung Po-Yin , Aziz Khalid , Urlesberger Berndt , Schmölzer Georg M.
Published: February 2014

Background: The brain is vulnerable to injury and dysfunction during transition after birth in neonates. Clinical assessment of the neurological status immediately following birth is difficult, especially during resuscitation. Objective: Our aim was to review physiological monitoring of the brain during immediate postnatal transition - the first 15 min after birth. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE was performed using the following terms: newborn, neonate, neonates, transition, after-birth, delivery room, cerebral, brain, monitoring, neurology, oxygenation, saturation, activity, imaging, perfusion, Doppler, and blood flow. Additional articles were identified by manual search of cited references. Only human studies describing cerebral changes during the first 15 min after birth were included. Results: Six studies were identified, which described sequential measurements of cerebral perfusion using Doppler sonography, one of these in combination with continuous monitoring of cerebral tissue oxygenation with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). A further 15 studies were identified that used NIRS to continuously monitor cerebral tissue oxygenation. In one study, cerebral activity was continuously monitored with an additional amplitude-integrated encephalogram. Conclusion: Monitoring the brain provides additional information during immediate transition and may help to guide resuscitation. Doppler sonography is technically challenging during resuscitation and is therefore of limited value. NIRS provides continuous monitoring and is feasible even in very-low-birth-weight infants. In the future, an amplitude-integrated encephalogram might give further information on the status of the brain, but before any of these modalities can routinely be recommended during neonatal resuscitation, clinical trials targeting stable brain function parameters are needed.
P2Y12 Receptor Inhibitors in Acute Coronary Syndromes: From the Research Laboratory to the Clinic and Vice Versa
Authors: Alexopoulos Dimitrios
Published: February 2014

The P2Y12 receptor plays a pivotal role in platelet activation and aggregation through a complex cascade of actions. Laboratory and clinical data have convincingly shown the benefit of P2Y12 inhibition combined with aspirin in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS)/undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Newer agents - like prasugrel, ticagrelor, and cangrelor - provide more consistent, faster, and stronger platelet inhibition than clopidogrel. In large clinical trials newer agents have resulted in fewer ischemic complications (though with increased bleeding potential) than clopidogrel. High-risk subpopulations like ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, elderly, and low body weight patients have been identified. A ‘return to the laboratory' has been observed recently, with several pharmacodynamic studies being performed particularly in these cohorts. This interplay between research laboratory and clinical data may lead to a more efficient and safer use of P2Y12 inhibitors.
Reninoma: The Importance of Renal Vein Renin Ratios for Lateralisation and Diagnosis
Authors: Wolley Martin , Gordon Richard D. , Stowasser Michael
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim: Reninomas are rare juxtaglomerular tumours which can cause severe hypertension and hypokalaemia. Diagnosis can be problematic and these tumours can be difficult to locate on imaging. In this report we aim to demonstrate the value of carefully performed renal vein renin ratios (RVRRs) to assist in locating these tumours. Method/Results: We report on 3 patients diagnosed with reninoma in our unit. The patients were all female, young (17, 16 and 30 years), severely hypertensive and hypokalaemic (2.5, 2.5 and 3.1 mmol/l). Plasma renin activity (PRA) was elevated (31.9, 274 and 175 ng/ml/h), and aldosterone was high-normal (19.9 ng/dl) or elevated (207 and 109.3 ng/dl). Renal artery stenosis was excluded by renal artery Doppler, DTPA scan and angiography. Renal CT detected the lesion in 2 patients, with one lesion visible on pre- and post-contrast CT and the other on post-contrast CT only. RVRRs were performed several weeks after withdrawing interfering medications, maintaining a <40 mmol/day low-sodium diet and maintaining recumbency overnight the night before and during the procedure. Ratios before and after captopril or enalaprilat administration were obtained and lateralised the tumours in all 3 cases (dominant/non-dominant ratios of 2.3, 4.3 and 3.8). All of the patients underwent nephrectomy yielding a typical juxtaglomerular tumour and resulting in cure of hypertension and hypokalaemia. Conclusions: Reninoma should be suspected in young hypertensives (especially females) with significant hypokalaemia and high PRA or direct renin concentration after renovascular hypertension has been excluded. CT imaging and carefully performed RVRRs provide the highest likelihood of locating these tumours.
Optimising Treatment of End-Stage Renal Disease in the Elderly
Authors: Power Albert , Brown Edwina
Published: February 2014

The features of ageing complicate the management of end-stage renal disease. These complicate all dialysis modalities and will greatly affect the ability to cope with interventional treatments and quality of life. The presence of other illnesses and comorbidity associated with kidney disease mean that many patients have a poor prognosis. It is therefore important to consider the impact of dialysis on lifestyle and whether survival will actually be improved for frail older patients. This review article considers how haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis can be adjusted for older patients, and, in particular, how the use of assistance makes peritoneal dialysis more feasible. Most importantly, older patients should be given realistic information about their prognosis and how they can cope with different treatment options, and then they should be involved in the decisions about their management.
Chorioamnionitis as a Risk Factor for Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mitra Souvik , Aune Dagfinn , Speer Christian P. , Saugstad Ola Didrik
Published: February 2014

Background: The role of chorioamnionitis (CA) in the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) has not been well established. Objective: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between CA and ROP in preterm infants. Data Sources: The authors searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and PubMed, reviewed reference lists of relevant articles, abstracts and conference proceedings (Society for Pediatric Research, European Society for Paediatric Research 1990-2012), sought results of unpublished trials, and contacted the primary authors of relevant studies. Study Selection: Studies were included if they had a comparison group, examined preterm infants, and reported primary data that could be used to measure the association between exposure to CA and the development of ROP. Data Extraction: Two reviewers independently screened the search results, applied inclusion criteria and assessed methodological quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. One reviewer extracted data and a second reviewer checked data extraction. Summary relative risks (RRs) were calculated using a random effects model. Data Synthesis: We identified 1,249 potentially relevant studies from the electronic databases. Twenty-seven studies involving 10,590 preterm neonates with 2,562 cases of ROP were included. Taking into account all included studies without adjusting for gestational age (GA), CA was significantly associated with ROP (any stage) [summary RR 1.33 (95% CI 1.14-1.55, I2 = 77%, pheterogeneity < 0.0001)], and a borderline significant association was observed for severe ROP (stage ≥3) [summary RR 1.27 (95% CI 0.99-1.63, I2 = 74%, pheterogeneity < 0.0001)]. There was no publication bias with Begg's test. However, subgroup analysis of studies adjusting for GA showed no significant association on CA with ROP [summary RR 0.98 (95% CI 0.77-1.26, I2 = 0%, pheterogeneity = 0.89)]. Conclusion: Unadjusted analyses showed that CA was significantly associated with ROP (any stage) as well as with severe ROP (stage ≥ 3). However, the association disappeared on analysis of studies adjusting for GA. Hence, CA cannot be definitively considered as a risk factor for ROP, and further studies should adjust for potential confounding factors and report results by stage to clarify the association with severe ROP.
Biomarkers in Growth
Authors: Raiten Daniel J. , Raghavan Ramkripa , Kraemer Klaus
Published: February 2014

Background: The current approaches to assess growth are limited to anthropometry, are insensitive and nonspecific, and do not enable an improved understanding of how nutrition might impact growth. Consequently, new tools to develop better standards of care and programs to address ongoing concerns about nutrition and health are needed. Methods: The Biomarkers of Nutrition for Development (BOND) project is designed to support the discovery, development, and use of current and new biomarkers of nutritional exposure, status, function, and effect. The Biomarkers in Growth (BIG) project was initiated as a BOND program to develop a roadmap for moving the nutrition and growth agenda forward. The first step in this project was a session jointly organized by the BOND Secretariat and Sight and Life at the 20th International Congress on Nutrition in Granada, Spain. Results: The BIG session outlined current approaches to evaluating growth and understanding of the role of nutrition in linear growth, body composition, and long-term health outcomes and the potential role of systems biology in the assessment of the nutrition-growth relationship. Conclusion: The session presentations and deliberations highlighted the need for a concerted effort to address the critical gaps in our understanding of the biology and assessment of growth.
Das letzte Mittel? Ein Überblick über die politische Diskussion und den Forschungsstand zum Einsatz medikamentöser Zwangsbehandlung in der Psychiatrie
Authors: Lincoln Tania M. , Heumann Kolja , Teichert Maria
Published: February 2014

Die Diskussion über den Einsatz medikamentöser Zwangsbehandlung ist durch veränderte Rechtsgrundlagen neu entfacht. Der folgende Beitrag führt in die Aspekte der rechtlichen Grundlagen ein, gibt Kernpositionen der laufenden politischen Diskussion wieder und geht anschließend anhand empirischer Untersuchungen den Fragen nach, wie häufig medikamentöse Zwangsbehandlungen zum Einsatz kommen, wie sie von den Betroffenen erlebt und bewertet werden und ob sie nachweislich effektiv sind. Aus epidemiologischen Studien wird ersichtlich, dass die Häufigkeit von Zwangsmedikation innerhalb Deutschlands und international erheblich variiert. Qualitative Daten in verschiedenen Kontexten weisen darauf hin, dass Zwangsmedikation bei vielen Betroffenen mit Angst, Ärger, Scham und Hilflosigkeit einhergeht und traumatisierend sein kann. Retrospektive Untersuchungen zeigen, dass Zwangsmedikation von etwa der Hälfte der Betroffenen im Nachhinein als richtig bewertet wird. Belastbare empirische Belege für eine unmittelbare oder längerfristige Wirkung von Zwangsmedikation im Hinblick auf Aggressivität, Erregung, und Symptomatik fehlen. Aus empirischer Sicht erscheinen Zwangsbehandlungen demnach eher nicht gerechtfertigt, wobei belastbare Studien aus ethischen Gründen auch schwer zu erbringen sind. Aufgrund der ausgeprägten Schwankungen in der Prävalenz ist ferner fraglich, ob der Spielraum, auf Zwang zu verzichten und mildere Mittel anzuwenden bislang bereits in allen Kliniken hinreichend ausgeschöpft wurde. Vielversprechende Ansatzpunkte für die Vermeidung von Zwangsbehandlungen liegen in einer stärker aufsuchenden Behandlung, dem systematischen Einsatz milderer Mittel in Krisensituationen, Behandlungsvereinbarungen und der Weiterentwicklung von psychotherapeutischen Behandlungsalternativen. Das Potenzial solcher Alternativen sollte stärker genutzt und erforscht werden.
Involvement of SSAO/VAP-1 in Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation-Mediated Damage Using the Endothelial hSSAO/VAP-1-Expressing Cells as an Experimental Model of Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Sun Ping , Solé Montse , Unzeta Mercedes
Published: February 2014

Background: In the acute phase of ischemic stroke, endothelial cells are activated and induce the expression of adhesion molecules. Vascular adhesion protein 1 (VAP-1) is a proinflammatory protein that mediates leukocyte recruitment through its semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase (SSAO) activity (EC 1.4.3.21). Plasmatic SSAO activity predicts the appearance of parenchymal hemorrhages after tissue plasminogen activator treatment in ischemic stroke patients, and it is increased as well in hemorrhagic stroke patients. The aim of this study has been to elucidate the role of SSAO/VAP-1 present in endothelial cells during ischemic stroke conditions. Methods: Based on the use of endothelial cells expressing, or not expressing, the human SSAO/VAP-1 protein, we have set up an easy ischemic model using oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) as an experimental approach to the stroke process. Different OGD and reoxygenation conditions have been analyzed. Western blotting has been used to analyze the activated apoptotic pathways. Several metalloproteinase inhibitors were also used to determine their role in the SSAO/VAP-1 release from the membrane of endothelial cells to the culture media, as a soluble form. Adhesion assays were also performed in order to assess the SSAO/VAP-1-dependent leukocyte adhesion to the endothelia under different OGD and reoxygenation conditions. Results: Our results show that SSAO/VAP-1 expression increases the susceptibility of endothelial cells to OGD, and that its enzymatic activity, through specific substrate oxidation, increases vascular cell damage under these experimental conditions. Caspase-3 and caspase-8 are activated during the death process. In addition, OGD constitutes a stimulus for soluble SSAO/VAP-1 release, partly mediated by metalloproteinase-2-dependent shedding. Short-time OGD induces SSAO/VAP-1-dependent leukocyte binding on endothelial cells, which is partly dependent on its enzymatic activity. Conclusions: Our results show that SSAO/VAP-1 could participate in some of the processes occurring during stroke. Its expression in endothelial cells increases the OGD-associated cell damage. SSAO/VAP-1 mediates also part of the tissue damage during the reoxygenation process by oxidizing its known enzymatic substrate, methylamine. Also, OGD constitutes a stimulus for its soluble-form release, found elevated in many pathological conditions including stroke. OGD induces SSAO-dependent leukocyte-binding activity, which may have consequences in disease progression, since leukocyte infiltration has shown a determinant role in cerebral ischemia. For all the stroke-related processes in which SSAO/VAP-1 participates, it would be an interesting therapeutic target. Therefore, this model will be a very useful tool for the screening of new molecules as therapeutic agents for cerebral ischemia.
Nutritional Therapy, Phosphate Control and Renal Protection
Authors: Carrero Juan Jesús , Cozzolino Mario
Published: February 2014

Dietary management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) focusses on limiting the intake of substances that might accumulate to toxic levels (such as potassium, phosphorus or salt) and, although still a matter of debate for some, restricting dietary protein to retard kidney damage. Recent evidence brings the opportunity to revisit the role of a healthy diet on disease progression and on some of the cardiometabolic complications of moderate/advanced CKD, such as inflammation or oxidative stress control. This review provides a brief overview of dietary strategies that delay CKD progression and CKD complications, and discusses currently limited data addressing the development of malnutrition and protein-energy wasting before dialysis initiation.
The Apolipoprotein Gene and Recovery from Brain Injury among Extremely Preterm Infants
Authors: Blackman James A. , Gordish-Dressman Heather , Bao Yondge , Matsumoto Julie A. , Sinkin Robert A.
Published: February 2014

Background: Extremely preterm infants have an increased risk of brain injury and, consequently, are more likely to exhibit signs of motor, cognitive or behavioral impairment. Various factors, including genetic, may influence how the brain responds to an injury, ranging from no to complete recovery. The apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene codes for a protein in the brain involved in maintenance and repair of neurons. Objective: To determine whether any of the three APOE alleles are related to improved outcome. Methods: A total of 87 preterm infants with birth weights less than 1,000 g and no obvious preexisting brain abnormalities were genotyped for the APOE gene; 71 of these were assessed with the Bayley III Scales at a corrected age of 12-15 months. Brain MRI was obtained on a subgroup of 52 infants at term equivalent. Results: No significant relationship was found between the three APOE alleles and developmental outcomes or brain MRI findings. Conclusion: APOE does not appear to be related in a direct way to the developmental sequelae of white or gray matter injury in extremely preterm infants.
Treatment Strategy for Rectal Cancer with Synchronous Metastasis: 65 Consecutive Italian Cases from the Bologna Multidisciplinary Rectal Cancer Group
Authors: Pinto Carmine , Pini Sara , Di Fabio Francesca , Cuicchi Dajana , Iacopino Bruno , Lecce Ferdinando , Ercolani Giorgio , Rojas Llimpe Fabiola Lorena , De Raffele Emilio , Stella Franco , Di Tullio PierGiorgio , Giaquinta Stefania , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Cola Bruno
Published: February 2014

Background: Twenty percent of rectal cancer patients have synchronous distant metastasis at diagnosis. At present, the treatment strategy in this patient setting is not well defined. This study in one institution evaluates the treatment strategy of three different patient groups. Patients and Methods: Between January 2000 and July 2011, 65 patients with M1 rectal cancer were evaluated. Three different groups were defined: rectal cancer with resectable metastatic disease (group A); rectal cancer with potentially resectable metastatic disease (group B), and rectal cancer with unresectable metastatic disease (group C). Results: Group A included 11 patients (16.9%), group B 28 patients (43.1%) and group C 26 patients (40%). Forty-three (66.2%) patients underwent surgery for primary rectal cancer, and 30 (46.2%) patients for metastasis resection (23 liver, 4 lung and 3 ovary). Median overall survival (OS) by group was: 51 (5-86; group A), 32 (24-40; group B) and 16 (7-26; group C) months. Patients undergoing metastasis resection have higher median OS than unresected patients (44 vs. 15 months; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The treatment strategy in synchronous metastatic rectal cancer must consider the possibility of distant metastasis resection. Long-term survival can be achieved using an integrated approach.
Proteome of human plasma very low-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein exhibits a link with coagulation and lipid metabolism
Authors: Dashty Monireh , Motazacker Mohammad M. , Levels Johannes , Vries Marcel de , Mahmoudi Morteza , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , Rezaee Farhad
Published: February 2014

Apart from transporting lipids through the body, the human plasma lipoproteins very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) are also thought to serve as a modality for intra-organismal protein transfer, shipping proteins with important roles in inflammation and thrombosis from the site of synthesis to effector locations. To better understand the role of VLDL and LDL in the transport of proteins, we applied a combination of LTQ ORBITRAP-XL (nLC-MS/MS) with both in-SDS-PAGE gel and in-solution tryptic digestion of pure and defined VLDL and LDL fractions. We identified the presence of 95 VLDL-and 51 LDL-associated proteins including all known apolipoproteins and lipid transport proteins, and intriguingly a set of coagulation proteins, complement system and anti-microbial proteins. Prothrombin, protein S, fibrinogen γ, PLTP, CETP, CD14 and LBP were present on VLDL but not on LDL. Prenylcysteine oxidase 1, dermcidin, cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, TFPI-1 and fibrinogen α chain were associated with both VLDL and LDL. Apo A-V is only present on VLDL and not on LDL. Collectively, this study provides a wealth of knowledge on the protein constituents of the human plasma lipoprotein system and strongly supports the notion that protein shuttling through this system is involved in the regulation of biological processes. Human diseases related to proteins carried by VLDL and LDL can be divided in three major categories: 1 – dyslipidaemia, 2 – atherosclerosis and vascular disease, and 3 – coagulation disorders.
Treatment with Angiotensin-(1–7) reduces inflammation in carotid atherosclerotic plaques
Authors: Savergnini Silvia Q. , Montecucco Fabrizio , Nencioni Alessio , Caffa Irene , Soncini Debora , Costa-Fraga Fabiana P. , De Sousa Frederico B. , Sinisterra Ruben D. , Capettini Luciano A. S. , Lenglet Sébastien , Galan Katia , Pelli Graziano , Bertolotto Maria , Pende Aldo , Spinella Giovanni , Pane Bianca , Dallegri Franco , Palombo Domenico , Mach François , Stergiopulos Nikolaos , Santos Robson A. S. , da Silva Rafaela F. , Fraga-Silva Rodrigo A.
Published: February 2014

Angiotensin (Ang)-(1–7), acting through the receptor Mas, has atheroprotective effects; however, its role on plaque vulnerability has been poorly studied. Here, we investigated the expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components in stable and unstable human carotid plaques. In addition, we evaluated the effects of the chronic treatment with an oral formulation of Ang-(1–7) in a mouse model of shear stress-determined carotid atherosclerotic plaque. Upstream and downstream regions of internal carotid plaques were obtained from a recently published cohort of patients asymptomatic or symptomatic for ischaemic stroke. Angiotensinogen and renin genes were strongly expressed in the entire cohort, indicating an intense intraplaque modulation of the RAS. Intraplaque expression of the Mas receptor mRNA was increased in the downstream portion of asymptomatic patients as compared to corresponding region in symptomatic patients. Conversely, AT1 receptor gene expression was not modified between asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. Treatment with Ang-(1–7) in ApoE-/- mice was associated with increased intraplaque collagen content in the aortic root and low shear stress-induced carotid plaques, and a decreased MMP-9 content and neutrophil and macrophage infiltration. These beneficial effects were not observed in the oscillatory shear stress-induced plaque. In vitro incubation with Ang-(1–7) did not affect ICAM-1 expression and apoptosis on cultured endothelial cells. In conclusion, Mas receptor is up regulated in the downstream portions of human stable carotid plaques as compared to unstable lesions. Treatment with the oral formulation of Ang-(1–7) enhances a more stable phenotype in atherosclerotic plaques, depending on the local pattern of shear stress forces.
Matrix metalloproteinase-2 of human carotid atherosclerotic plaques promotes platelet activation
Authors: Lenti Massimo , Falcinelli Emanuela , Pompili Marcella , Rango Paola De , Conti Valentina , Guglielmini Giuseppe , Momi Stefania , Corazzi Teresa , Giordano Giuseppe , Gresele Paolo
Published: February 2014

Purified active matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) is able to promote platelet aggregation. We aimed to assess the role of MMP-2 expressed in atherosclerotic plaques in the platelet-activating potential of human carotid plaques and its correlation with ischaemic events. Carotid plaques from 81 patients undergoing endarterectomy were tested for pro-MMP-2 and TIMP-2 content by zymography and ELISA. Plaque extracts were incubated with gel-filtered platelets from healthy volunteers for 2 minutes before the addition of a subthreshold concentration of thrombin receptor activating peptide-6 (TRAP-6) and aggregation was assessed. Moreover, platelet deposition on plaque extracts immobilised on plastic coverslips under high shear-rate flow conditions was measured. Forty-three plaque extracts (53%) potentiated platelet aggregation (+233 ± 26.8%), an effect prevented by three different specific MMP-2 inhibitors (inhibitor II, TIMP-2, moAb anti-MMP-2). The pro-MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio of plaques potentiating platelet aggregation was significantly higher than that of plaques not potentiating it (3.67 ± 1.21 vs 1.01 ± 0.43, p<0.05). Moreover, the platelet aggregation-potentiating effect, the active-MMP-2 content and the active MMP-2/pro-MMP-2 ratio of plaque extracts were significantly higher in plaques from patients who developed a subsequent major cardiovascular event. In conclusion, atherosclerotic plaques exert a prothrombotic effect by potentiating platelet activation due to their content of MMP-2; an elevated MMP-2 activity in plaques is associated with a higher rate of subsequent ischaemic cerebrovascular events.
PECAM-1-dependent heme oxygenase-1 regulation via an Nrf2-mediated pathway in endothelial cells
Authors: Saragih Hendry , Zilian Eva , Jaimes Yarúa , Paine Ananta , Figueiredo Constanca , Eiz-Vesper Britta , Blasczyk Rainer , Larmann Jan , Theilmeier Gregor , Burg-Roderfeld Monika , Andrei-Selmer Luminita-Cornelia , Becker Jan Ulrich , Santoso Sentot , Immenschuh Stephan
Published: February 2014

The antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase (HO)-1, which catalyses the first and rate-limiting step of heme degradation, has major anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects via its cell-type-specific functions in the endothelium. In the current study, we investigated whether the key endothelial adhesion and signalling receptor PECAM-1 (CD31) might be involved in the regulation of HO-1 gene expression in human endothelial cells (ECs). To this end PECAM-1 expression was down-regulated in human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) by an adenoviral vector-based knockdown approach. PECAM-1 knockdown markedly induced HO-1, but not the constitutive HO isoform HO-2. Nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), which is a master regulator of the inducible antioxidant cell response, and intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were increased in PECAM-1-deficient HUVECs, respectively. PECAM-1-dependent HO-1 regulation was also examined in PECAM-1 over-expressing Chinese hamster ovary and murine L-cells. Endogenous HO-1 gene expression and reporter gene activity of transiently transfected luciferase HO-1 promoter constructs with Nrf2 target sequences were decreased in PECAM-1 over-expressing cells. Moreover, a regulatory role of ROS for HO-1 regulation in these cells is demonstrated by studies with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine and exogenous hydrogenperoxide. Finally, direct interaction of PECAM-1 with a native complex of its binding partner NB1 (CD177) and serine proteinase 3 (PR3) from human neutrophils, markedly induced HO-1 expression in HUVECs. Taken together, we demonstrate a functional link between HO-1 gene expression and PECAM-1 in human ECs, which might play a critical role in the regulation of inflammation.
Rubus pseudofagifolius (subg. Lampobatus, Rosaceae), a replacement name for a Mexican bramble species and its lectotypification
Authors: Wang Huanchong , Sun Hang
Published: February 2014

Rubus Linnaeus (1753: 492), belonging to the monotypic tribe Rubeae of the subfamily Rosoideae (Potter et al. 2007), is one of the largest genera in the rose family (Rosaceae). The genus occurs in all continents except Antarctica (Lu & Boufford 2003, Wang et al. 2013). Rubus is a taxonomically notoriously complex group; its species circumscription is complicated by hybridization, polyploidy, agamospermy, and lack of a universal species concept (Weber 1996).
Vertical Velocity and Physical Structure of Generating Cells and Convection in the Comma Head Region of Continental Winter Cyclones
Authors: Rosenow Andrew A. , Plummer David M. , Rauber Robert M. , McFarquhar Greg M. , Jewett Brian F. , Leon David
Published: February 2014

The vertical motion and physical structure of elevated convection and generating cells within the comma heads of three continental winter cyclones are investigated using the Wyoming W-band cloud radar mounted on the National Science Foundation/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF/NCAR) C-130, supplemented by analyses from the Rapid Update Cycle model and Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) data. The cyclones followed three distinct archetypical tracks and were typical of those producing winter weather in the midwestern United States. In two of the cyclones, dry air in the middle and upper troposphere behind the Pacific cold front intruded over moist Gulf of Mexico air at lower altitudes within the comma head, separating the comma head into two zones. Elevated convection in the southern zone extended from the cold-frontal surface to the tropopause. The stronger convective updrafts ranged from 2 to 7 m s−1 and downdrafts ranged from −2 to −6 m s−1. The horizontal scale of the convective cells was approximately 5 km. The poleward zone of the comma head was characterized by deep stratiform clouds topped by cloud-top generating cells that reached the tropopause. Updrafts and downdrafts within the generating cells ranged from 1 to 2 m s−1, with the horizontal scale of the cells from about 1 to 2 km. Precipitation on the poleward side of the comma head conformed to a seeder–feeder process—the generating cells seeding the stratiform cloud—which was forced by synoptic-scale ascent. In one case, shallow clouds behind the cyclone’s cold front were also topped by cloud-top generating cells, with vertical motions ranging from 1 to 2 m s−1.
An Update on the Oceanic Precipitation Rate and Its Zonal Distribution in Light of Advanced Observations from Space
Authors: Behrangi Ali , Stephens Graeme , Adler Robert F. , Huffman George J. , Lambrigtsen Bjorn , Lebsock Matthew
Published: February 2014

This study contributes to the estimation of the global mean and zonal distribution of oceanic precipitation rate using complementary information from advanced precipitation measuring sensors and provides an independent reference to assess current precipitation products. Precipitation estimates from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation radar (PR) and CloudSat cloud profiling radar (CPR) were merged, as the two complementary sensors yield an unprecedented range of sensitivity to quantify rainfall from drizzle through the most intense rates. At higher latitudes, where TRMM PR does not exist, precipitation estimates from Aqua’s Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) complemented CloudSat CPR to capture intense precipitation rates. The high sensitivity of CPR allows estimation of snow rate, an important type of precipitation at high latitudes, not directly observed in current merged precipitation products. Using the merged precipitation estimate from the CloudSat, TRMM, and Aqua platforms (this estimate is abbreviated to MCTA), the authors’ estimate for 3-yr (2007–09) near-global (80°S–80°N) oceanic mean precipitation rate is ~2.94 mm day−1. This new estimate of mean global ocean precipitation is about 9% higher than that of the corresponding Climate Prediction Center (CPC) Merged Analysis of Precipitation (CMAP) value (2.68 mm day−1) and about 4% higher than that of the Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP; 2.82 mm day−1). Furthermore, MCTA suggests distinct differences in the zonal distribution of precipitation rate from that depicted in GPCP and CMAP, especially in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Influence of Tropical Cyclone Size on Its Intensification
Authors: Carrasco Cristina Alexandra , Landsea Christopher William , Lin Yuh-Lang
Published: February 2014

This study investigates tropical cyclones of the past two decades (1990–2010) and the connection, if any, between their size and their ability to subsequently undergo rapid intensification (RI). Three different parameters are chosen to define the size of a tropical cyclone: radius of maximum wind (RMW), the average 34-knot (kt; 1 kt = 0.51 m s−1) radius (AR34), and the radius of the outermost closed isobar (ROCI). The data for this study, coming from the North Atlantic hurricane database second generation (HURDAT2), as well as the extended best-track dataset, are organized into 24-h intervals of either RI or slow intensification/constant intensity periods (non-RI periods). Each interval includes the intensity (maximum sustained surface wind speed), RMW, AR34, and ROCI at the beginning of the period and the change of intensity during the subsequent 24-h period. Results indicate that the ability to undergo RI shows significant sensitivity to initial size. Comparisons between RI and non-RI cyclones confirm that tropical cyclones that undergo RI are more likely to be smaller initially than those that do not. Analyses show that the RMW and AR34 have the strongest negative correlation with the change of intensity. Scatterplots imply there is a general maximum size threshold for RMW and AR34, above which RI is extremely rare. In contrast, the overall size of the tropical cyclones, as measured by ROCI, appears to have little to no relationship with subsequent intensification. The results of this work suggest that intensity forecasts and RI predictions in particular may be aided by the use of the initial size as measured by RMW and AR34.
What Holds Ethical Consumers to a Cosmetics Brand
Authors: Chun Rosa
Published: February 2014

Increasing numbers of brands position having corporate social responsibility (CSR) as their founding ideology. This article examines what makes ethical consumers develop a loyalty to CSR-led brands, using a questionnaire survey of The Body Shop consumers. Contrary to some existing work in marketing, the consumer self-brand congruence on the ethical character did not have a significant impact on brand identification, with the exception of the empathy virtue character. The structural equation modeling of the data confirms that the citizenship image of the brand is influenced by brand identification, which in turn is influenced by the empathy virtue congruence. Ironically, in the case of The Body Shop, while the empathy congruence is the most important indicator for consumer identification and citizenship image, the gap on the empathy virtue was the largest. If customers with a high-empathy character see a CSR-led brand lacking empathy, consumer loyalty will be reduced. The managerial implications of the findings are discussed.
Predictors of Pro-Environmental Behavior in Rural American Communities
Authors: Takahashi Bruno , Selfa Theresa
Published: February 2014

Place and community attachment, community satisfaction, and environmental attitudes have all been independently linked to environmental behaviors. However, few efforts have attempted to determine the relationship between these factors, and together, how they relate to pro-environmental behaviors. Moreover, few studies have analyzed these concepts and relationships in the context of rural and low amenity settings. This study integrates these factors in a conceptual framework and examines them in the context of rural, low amenity communities. Based on the analysis of data from a survey of residents in six small, rural communities in Kansas and Iowa ( N = 1,088), we find that environmental attitudes and place attachment are the strongest predictors of self-reported pro-environmental behaviors, while community satisfaction—including satisfaction with services and satisfaction with community leadership—is not a significant predictor. Recommendations for future research following the theoretical approach used in the study are presented.
A nuclear South Korea?
Authors: Ahn Mun Suk , Cho Young Chul
Published: February 2014

After North Korea’s third nuclear test in February 2013, South Koreans are once again debating whether to go nuclear. Some advocates of South Korean nuclear possession argue that nuclear weapons are necessary for self-defence against the nuclear-armed North. Some support South Korea’s nuclearization as leverage vis-à-vis North Korea and China. Some argue that going nuclear will heighten the South’s national prestige. However, others counter that South Korea’s nuclearization is not desirable and, indeed, barely feasible. First, since North–South conflicts have not diminished since the 1953 truce, the nuclear armament of the two Koreas could result in a nuclear war. Second, the South’s nuclearization would only hasten North Korea’s ardent pursuit of securing and increasing its stock of nuclear warheads. Third, it would prompt a fierce arms race in Northeast Asia by pressing Japan and Taiwan to go nuclear. Finally, it would undermine Seoul’s close ties with Washington. In order to maintain a nuclear-free South Korea, the US needs to reinforce its nuclear umbrella and eradicate the North Korean nuclear threat through active and comprehensive negotiations with Pyongyang.
The two faces of Charles the Good: Charles de Gaulle, France, and decolonization in Quebec and New Caledonia
Authors: Gendron Robin S
Published: February 2014

Charles de Gaulle’s visit to Quebec in 1967 continues to attract significant scholarly and popular attention. Despite ongoing efforts to broaden our understanding of the evolution of France-Quebec relations during the 1960s, de Gaulle’s visit remains the pivotal event of that rapprochement and is believed to confirm the French president’s personal support for Quebec’s independence, stemming from his efforts to position post-colonial France as the champion of decolonization and self-determination for dependent peoples. This scholarly consensus, however, can be challenged by even a cursory glance at France’s policies toward New Caledonia in the 1960s, which reflected a fierce French determination to prevent the loss of its Pacific Ocean territory. Instead of accepting, much less encouraging, New Caledonia’s autonomy, the French state in fact re-colonized New Caledonia over the course of the 1960s, a situation that compels us to examine more closely the attitude of de Gaulle and the French state toward “decolonization” in Quebec during the same period. The national aspirations that mattered most to France or to de Gaulle were those of France itself.
The Indo-Canadian nuclear relationship: Possibilities and challenges
Authors: Sethi Manpreet
Published: February 2014

Canada was among the first countries to participate in India’s nuclear power program. Not only was CIRUS the first research reactor to be built in India with outside help; it was also Canada’s first reactor export and marked a breakthrough for its nuclear industry. But the nuclear relationship foundered when India conducted a peaceful nuclear explosion in 1974. Differences over non-proliferation and Cold War considerations kept India and Canada apart until the turn of the millennium. Then a number of factors coalesced in the first decade of the 21st century to lead the two countries to reconsider their nuclear engagement and sign a nuclear cooperation agreement in 2010. What made this possible? What are the major contours of the agreement? What potential does it hold? And what issues still bedevil the nuclear relationship? This article provides a new perspective on the possibilities and challenges of the Indo-Canadian nuclear relationship and highlights the importance of the nuclear dimension in their larger bilateral engagement. While the paper acknowledges that the relationship was influenced by Cold War considerations, it steers clear of the issues of alignment and non-alignment and deals with the historical context of the relationship only to extrapolate the possibilities and challenges for the future.
No cause for panic: Key lessons from the political science literature on nuclear proliferation
Authors: Hymans Jacques EC
Published: February 2014

This paper provides a brief overview of the progress of political science research on the causes of nuclear weapons proliferation and non-proliferation. Based on the findings of that literature, the author draws out some general lessons for today’s policymakers.
Insiders versus Outsiders
Authors: Peterson Timothy M.
Published: February 2014

A growing literature examines the link between preferential trade agreements (PTAs) and peace among member states. However, despite the potentially competitive nature of these agreements, there has been little research examining whether and how PTAs could induce hostilities between members and nonmembers. In this article, I argue that dyadic conflict is more likely when one dyad member’s exclusive PTA with a third party results in lower exports for the dyad member that is excluded from the agreement. Importantly, I contend that trade creating as well as trade diverting PTAs can have this effect. I use a triadic extension of the gravity model of trade to estimate how an exclusive PTA influences the exports of nonmembers relative to PTA members. Using these estimates in statistical tests of dyadic militarized interstate dispute onset spanning 1961 to 2000, I find that PTA-induced trade distortions are associated with a higher likelihood of conflict between members and nonmembers.
Buffering Effects of Religiosity on Crime
Authors: Salas-Wright Christopher P. , Vaughn Michael G. , Maynard Brandy R.
Published: February 2014

Studies examining the protective effect of religiosity on crime are frequently rooted in the assumption that the impact of religiosity is invariant across sociodemographic differences. This study systematically examines the validity of this assumption across gender and the developmental periods of adolescence and young adulthood. Using a nationally representative sample of adolescents ( n = 90,202) and young adults ( n = 93,710), negative binomial regression (NBR) is employed to examine the associations between religiosity and criminal behaviors (e.g., drug selling, theft) among male and female adolescents and young adults. Results indicate that the protective relationship between religiosity and criminal behaviors such as drug selling and theft is consistent across gender as well as across the developmental periods of adolescence and young adulthood. This study provides support for the validity of the invariance hypothesis as the protective effect of religiosity on criminal behavior was consistently observed across important sociodemographic differences.
Action Versus State Orientation and Self-Control Performance After Depletion
Authors: Gröpel Peter , Baumeister Roy F. , Beckmann Jürgen
Published: February 2014

Three studies investigated the role of action versus state orientation in how people deal with depletion of self-control resources. Action-oriented persons were expected to continue allocating resources and hence to perform better than state-oriented persons who were expected to conserve strength. Consistent with this, action-oriented persons performed better on the d2 test of attention than state-oriented persons after a strenuous physical exercise (Study 1), showed higher acuity on the critical fusion frequency test after a test of vigilance (Study 2), and performed better on the Stroop test after a depleting sensorimotor task (Study 3). No differences emerged between action- and state-oriented persons in their initial performance and in a non-depleting context. The impact of depletion on subsequent performance is thus not fixed, but moderated by personality.