bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caloric restriction ameliorates kidney ischaemia/reperfusion injury through PGC‐1α–eNOS pathway and enhanced autophagy
Authors: Lempiäinen J. , Finckenberg P. , Mervaala E. E. , Sankari S. , Levijoki J. , Mervaala E. M.
Published: May 2013

Aim

We investigated whether preconditioning with caloric restriction (CR) ameliorates kidney ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and whether the salutary effects of CR are mediated through enhanced autophagy and/or activation of key metabolic sensors SIRT1, AMP‐kinase and PGC‐1α.

Methods

Six‐ to seven‐week‐old Wistar rats were divided into three groups: (i) sham‐operated group; (ii) I/R group (40‐min ischaemia followed by 24 h of reperfusion); and (iii) I/R group kept under CR (energy intake 70%) for 2 weeks before surgery. In additional experiments, sirtinol and 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) were used as inhibitors of SIRT1 and autophagy respectively. Renal function was measured, and acute tubular damage and nitrotyrosine expression were scored. Kidney adenosine monophosphate‐activated kinase (AMPK), SIRT1, eNOS, PGC‐1α and LC‐3B expressions were measured.

Results

Caloric restriction improved renal function, protected against the development of acute tubular necrosis and attenuated I/R‐induced nitrosative stress. Kidney I/R injury decreased eNOS and PGC‐1α expression, inhibit autophagy and increased SIRT1 and AMPK expressions by 2.6‐ and fourfold respectively. However, phosphorylation level of AMPK was decreased. As compared with I/R injury group, CR further increased kidney SIRT1 expression by 1.8‐fold, promoted autophagy and counteracted I/R‐induced decreases in the expression of eNOS and PGC‐1α. 3‐MA abolished the renoprotective effects of CR, whereas sirtinol did not influence renal function in CR rats with I/R injury.

Conclusions

Caloric restriction ameliorates acute kidney I/R injury through enhanced autophagy and counteraction of I/R‐induced decreases in the renal expression of eNOS and PGC‐1α.
St. John's Wort Reduces Beta‐Amyloid Accumulation in a Double Transgenic Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model—Role of P‐Glycoprotein
Authors: Brenn Anja , Grube Markus , Jedlitschky Gabriele , Fischer Andrea , Strohmeier Barbara , Eiden Martin , Keller Markus , Groschup Martin H. , Vogelgesang Silke
Published: May 2013

The adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette transport protein P‐glycoprotein (ABCB1) is involved in the export of beta‐amyloid from the brain into the blood, and there is evidence that age‐associated deficits in cerebral P‐glycoprotein content may be involved in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. P‐glycoprotein function and expression can be pharmacologically induced by a variety of compounds including extracts of Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort). To clarify the effect of St. John's Wort on the accumulation of beta‐amyloid and P‐glycoprotein expression in the brain, St. John's Wort extract (final hyperforin concentration 5%) was fed to 30‐day‐old male C57BL/6J‐APP/PS1+/− mice over a period of 60 or 120 days, respectively. Age‐matched male C57BL/6J‐APP/PS1+/− mice receiving a St. John's Wort‐free diet served as controls. Mice receiving St. John's Wort extract showed (i) significant reductions of parenchymal beta‐amyloid 1–40 and 1–42 accumulation; and (ii) moderate, but statistically significant increases in cerebrovascular P‐glycoprotein expression. Thus, the induction of cerebrovascular P‐glycoprotein may be a novel therapeutic strategy to protect the brain from beta‐amyloid accumulation, and thereby impede the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Quality of life, firm productivity, and the value of amenities across Canadian cities
Authors: Albouy David , Leibovici Fernando , Warman Casey
Published: May 2013

We estimate quality‐of‐life and productivity differences across Canada's metropolitan areas in a hedonic general‐equilibrium framework. These are based on the estimated willingness‐to‐pay of heterogeneous households and firms to locate in various cities, which differ in their wage levels, housing costs, and land values. Using 2006 Canadian Census data, our metropolitan quality‐of‐life estimates are somewhat consistent with popular rankings, yet find Canadians care more about climate and culture. Quality of life is highest in Victoria for anglophones, Montreal for francophones, and Vancouver for allophones, and lowest in more remote cities. Toronto is Canada's most productive city; Vancouver is the overall most valuable city.
Middle school or junior high? How grade‐level configurations affect academic achievement
Authors: Dhuey Elizabeth
Published: May 2013

Does the grade‐level configuration of a school affect academic achievement? This research examines the effect of attending a middle/junior high school on academic outcomes in British Columbia, Canada, relative to attending a school from kindergarten through grade 8. Using an OLS strategy, I find that attending a middle/junior high school reduces grades 4 to 7 achievement gains in math and reading by 0.125–0.187 and 0.055–0.108, respectively. Similar‐sized estimates are found for math using a 2SLS strategy. Finally, large negative effects on grade 10 and grade 12 English exams are also found.
Maximizing human development
Authors: Engineer Merwan , King Ian
Published: May 2013

The Human Development Index (HDI) is widely used as a measure of well‐being. We examine the allocations implied by the maximization of this index using a standard growth model. Maximization leads to consumption (excluding education and health expenditures) being pushed to minimal levels. It also leads to the overaccumulation of education and/or health capital and possibly physical capital, relative to the standard golden rule. We propose an alternative specification for the HDI, where consumption replaces income as a proxy for decent standard of living. Maximization of this alternative implies a ‘human development golden rule’ which balances consumption, education and health expenditure. We advocate the method of optimization subject to constraints for revealing the policy implications of taking an achievement measure and its underlying philosophy seriously.
Do central banks respond to exchange rate movements? Some new evidence from structural estimation
Authors: Dong Wei
Published: May 2013

This paper investigates the impact of exchange rate movements on the conduct of monetary policy in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. We develop and estimate a structural general equilibrium model, in which monetary policy is represented as a simple rule and exchange rate pass‐through is incomplete due to the presence of local currency pricing and distribution services. We find that the Bank of Canada, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, and the Bank of England have not adjusted interest rates in response to exchange rate movements since the adoption of inflation targeting, while our model selection results for Australia are less clear.
Asymmetric Information, Auditing Commitment, and Economic Growth
Authors: Ho Wai‐Hong , Wang Yong
Published: May 2013

We analyze in this paper the growth and welfare consequences stemming from the lack of auditing commitment in a credit market with costly state verification. By studying two endogenous growth models, one of which allows lenders to commit to costly auditing strategies, whereas the other does not, we show that the inability to commit serves as a source of informational friction that results in more stringent contractual terms, which, in turn, result in lower capital accumulation, growth, and welfare. From the policy perspective, our analysis suggests a new micro‐economic channel through which institutional failings hinder economic growth and social welfare.
The fundamental problem of accounting
Authors: Cairns Robert D.
Published: May 2013

The fundamental problem of economic accounting is to determine a forward‐looking schedule of rentals, user costs or quasi‐rents to provide for the recovery of irreversible investments. The method derived herein relaxes some restrictive assumptions that are common in capital theory. There can be multiple forms of comprehensive capital. Accounting for all forms of capital, including tangible and intangible capital, is symmetrical. The analytical focus becomes one of fixities and frictions and not optimality. Rentals obey inequalities as opposed to marginal conditions. If discounted profit is positive, rentals, depreciation, and capital value are not unique.
A swing state theory of trade protection in the Electoral College
Authors: Muûls Mirabelle , Petropoulou Dimitra
Published: May 2013

This paper analyzes trade policy determination in the Electoral College in the presence of swing voters. It determines the circumstances under which incumbent politicians have an incentive to build a reputation for protectionism, thus swaying voting decisions and improving their re‐election probability. Strategic trade protection is shown to be more likely when protectionist swing voters have a lead over free trade supporters in states with relatively strong electoral competition and in states representing a larger proportion of Electoral College votes. An empirical test using a measure of industrial concentration in swing and decisive U.S. states lends support to the theoretical findings.
Electoral systems and protectionism: an industry‐level analysis
Authors: Ardelean Adina , Evans Carolyn L.
Published: May 2013

Our paper advances the previous literature on the relationship between electoral systems and trade protection in several ways. First, our paper is the first to incorporate disaggregated, product‐level data in a cross‐country study. We find that prior cross‐country results, based on national average tariffs, mask a great deal of underlying industry‐level variation. Second, we introduce an innovative proxy for geographic concentration of ownership that varies both by industry and by country. We find that geographic concentration helps to explain the industry heterogeneity. Greater geographic concentration is linked to higher average tariffs, a finding consistent with the theoretical model.
Protective Effects of Urinary Trypsin Inhibitor on Vascular Permeability Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in a Rat Model
Authors: Zhou Ning , Xu Ting , Bai Ying , Prativa Sherchan , Xu Jia‐Zhou , Li Kai , Han Hong‐Bin , Yan Jun‐Hao
Published: May 2013

Aims

Inflammation and apoptosis play important roles in increasing vascular permeability following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The objective of this study was to evaluate whether urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI), a serine protease inhibitor, attenuates vascular permeability by its antiinflammatory and antiapoptotic effects after experimental SAH.

Methods

Subarachnoid hemorrhage models were established in adult male Sprague–Dawley rats by endovascular perforation. UTI was administered by intraperitoneal injection immediately following SAH. Brain edema was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 24 h after SAH. Neurological deficits, brain water content, vascular permeability, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were evaluated. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blot were used to explore the underlying protective mechanism of UTI.

Results

Urinary trypsin inhibitor 50,000 U/kg significantly attenuated brain edema and neurological deficits and reduced vascular permeability at 24 h after SAH. MDA concentration and MPO activity in hippocampus were significantly decreased with UTI treatment. Furthermore, the levels of phosphorylated JNK, NF‐κB (p65), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and proapoptotic protein p53, caspase‐3 were elevated in the microvascular endothelial cells of the hippocampus after SAH, which were alleviated with UTI treatment.

Conclusion

Urinary trypsin inhibitor reduced vascular permeability after SAH through its antiinflammatory and antiapptotic effects via blocking the activity of JNK, NF‐κB, and p53.
Elucidation of proliferative capability of mononuclear tetraploid cells, emerging spontaneously from diploid cells, using image cytometry and fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Ito Hideaki , Oga Atsunori , Furuya Tomoko , Ikemoto Kenzo , Amakawa Genta , Chochi Yasuyo , Kawauchi Shigeto , Sasaki Kohsuke
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Proliferation of tetraploid cells (TCs) emerging from diploid cells is considered to be a critical event toward tumourigenesis, or cancer progression. Recently, several studies have reported that binuclear TCs emerging from normal cells are capable of mitosis, however, it has not been confirmed directly whether mononuclear TCs emerging from normal cells could proliferate, even cancer cells. The aim of this study is to detect mononuclear TCs in vitro, spontaneously emerging from diploid cells and to elucidate their proliferative capability directly. For this purpose, we have developed a novel method.

Materials and methods

In this study, two completely disomic cell lines were used, TIG‐7, a fibroblast cell line and CAL‐51, a breast cancer cell line. Cells were cultured on microscope slides and their DNA content was determined using an image cytometer. On the same slides, chromosome numbers were scored using centromere fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). For evaluating proliferative capability of TCs, bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) incorporation and colony‐forming ability were examined.

Results

Using our method, spontaneous emergence of mononuclear TCs was detected in both TIG‐7 and CAL‐51. Colonies of TIG‐7 TCs were not observed, but were observed of CAL‐51 TCs.

Conclusions

Our method enables detection of mononuclear TCs and elucidation of their proliferative capability, directly; this evidence reveals that mononuclear TIG‐7 TCs do not proliferate but that mononuclear CAL‐51 TCs are able to.
Patterns of participation across a range of activities among Canadian children with neurodevelopmental disorders and disabilities
Authors: Mâsse Louise C , Miller Anton R , Shen Jane , Schiariti Veronica , Roxborough Lori
Published: May 2013

Aim

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders and disabilities (NDD/D) may experience barriers or restrictions to participation in activities. We examined the extent to which this is a problem for children in particular NDD/D subgroups.

Method

We analysed the 2006 Participation and Activity Limitation Survey children data set (5–14y) collected by Statistics Canada (n = 7072 and weighted n = 340 340), having identified the following NDD/D subgroups (weighted n = 77 470; 69.1% males and 30.9% females): gross or gross and fine motor (Motor+), communication/cognition/learning (CCL), social interaction, neurosensory (vision or vision and hearing), and psychological. We used logistic regression to assess differences in participation in supervised and unsupervised physical activities, educational activities, and social/recreational activities.

Results

Participation in some school‐based activities differed significantly among children in the NDD/D subgroups (p<0.01). Participation in supervised and unsupervised physical activity was lowest for the Motor+ and social interaction subgroups, and highest for the neurosensory and CCL subgroups. Participation for the psychological subgroup was mostly in the intermediate range. In contrast, participation in educational activities was lowest for the social interaction and psychological subgroups, and higher for the other groups.

Interpretation

Given the importance of participation to child health and well‐being, these differences in participation in various in‐school activities highlight an area of need regarding policies/programmes to support subgroups of children with NDD/D.
Association between KCNQ1 genetic variants and QT interval in a Chinese population
Authors: Yu W. , Zhang F. , Hu W. , Zhang R. , Wang C. , Lu J. , Jiang F. , Tang S. , Peng D. , Chen M. , Bao Y. , Xiang K. , Hu C. , Jia W.
Published: May 2013

Aim

There is a close link between electrocardiographic ventricular repolarization QT parameters and Type 2 diabetes. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of QT‐related and diabetes‐related variants in KCNQ1 on QT interval in a Chinese population.

Methods

We recruited 2415 patients with Type 2 diabetes and 1163 subjects with normal glucose regulation in the present study. QT interval was obtained and the heart rate‐corrected QT interval (QTc) was calculated using Bazett's formula. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms in KCNQ1 were selected (rs12296050, rs12576239, rs2237892 and rs2237895) and genotyped.

Results

 In participants with normal glucose regulation, the minor allele T of rs12296050 was associated with a 3.46‐ms QTc prolongation under an additive model (P = 0.0109, empirical P = 0.0498). In patients with Type 2 diabetes, we did not find any association for the single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that KCNQ1 is associated with QT interval in a Chinese population with normal glucose regulation.
To freeze or not to freeze peripheral blood stem cells prior to allogeneic transplantation from matched related donors
Authors: Parody Rocío , Caballero Dolores , Márquez‐Malaver Francisco J. , Vázquez Lourdes , Saldaña Raquel , Madrigal Ma Dolores , Calderón Cristina , Carrillo Estrella , Lopez‐Corral Lucía , Espigado Ildefonso , Carmona Magdalena , López‐Villar Olga , Pérez‐Simón Jose A.
Published: May 2013

Background

The standard practice in allogeneic stem cell transplant (alloSCT) is to infuse peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) the same day or the day after collection once the patient has received conditioning regimen. To obtain and freeze PBSC prior to SCT would be desirable to get a better logistic and to confirm the quality of the product. Unfortunately, studies comparing both approaches are lacking.

Aim

In this retrospective study, we analyze the impact of using fresh (N: 107) or previously frozen PBSC (N: 224) on overall outcomes among patients consecutively undergoing alloPBSCT from a matched related donor.

Results

Granulocyte engraftment (>500/mcl × 3 days) was faster in the frozen group (14 vs. 16 days, respectively; P = 0.001), while no significant differences on platelet recovery were observed. Patients receiving frozen PBSC had a higher incidence of global acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) (63 vs. 44%, P < 0.001) mostly involving skin and had an earlier onset (13 vs. 30 days, P < 0.001). Response to first‐line treatment with corticoids was similar in both groups. No statistically significant differences were found regarding overall chronic GVHD (58 vs. 66%) nor global survival (44 vs 48%), disease‐free survival (39 vs. 33%), non‐relapse mortality (24 vs. 16% at 1 year), and relapse rates in the frozen vs. fresh group, respectively.

Conclusions

Infusion of previously frozen stem cells may achieve similar overall outcomes compared to fresh infusion, allowing to program donor apheresis and transplantation. However, cryopreservation might influence on the different pattern of aGVHD, issue that deserves further studies.
Chronic graft‐versus‐host disease of the kidney in patients with allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Pilar Fraile , Lourdes Vazquez , Dolores Caballero , Pedro Garcia‐Cosmes , Lucia López , Jesus San Miguel , Jose Matias Tabernero
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo‐HSCT) is the treatment of choice for several hematological diseases. Although rare, patients could present nephrotic syndrome as a clinical feature of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGVHD). The objective of our study is to screen patients with allo‐HSCT to determine who developed a glomerular pathology in the context of cGVHD.

Patients and methods

We studied patients who underwent allo‐HSCT treatment in our center between October 1995 and October 2012 and who developed glomerular pathology. cGVHD was defined as a pathology when it appeared after 100 d post‐allo‐HSCT.

Results

Five hundred eighty‐three allo‐HSCT were performed. The prevalence of cGVHD of the kidney was 1.03%. All patients with cGVHD of the kidney were hosts who received peripheral blood from an identical HLA match donor. GVHD prophylaxis with calcineurin inhibitors plus methotrexate was administered in five cases, and prophylaxis with sirolimus was used in another case. cGVHD of the kidney was seen to appear after the removal of the prophylaxis for GVHD, within 33 ± 11.54 months intervals after allo‐HSCT in five patients and in another patient, it appeared despite immunosuppressive therapy being administered. All patients had proteinuria, within 11.82 ± 9.03 g/d ranges. The kidney biopsies revealed membranous glomerulonephritis (four patients), focal segmental glomerulonephritis (one patient) and lupus nephropathy class III (one patient). It seems, immunosuppressive therapy achieved complete remission, within the first year of treatment in four patients. Although in three of them, the proteinuria recurred when we tried to remove the therapy; two patients have recently started treatment, being in partial remission now.

Conclusions

cGVHD of the kidney is a rare complication after allo‐HSCT, related with the removal of the immunosuppression. Monitoring proteinuria in these patients may be useful. In our patients, a complete remission was achieved; although the removal of the immunosuppression may lead to the appearance of outbreaks. We must reconsider the treatment of glomerular pathology secondary to cGVHD.
Changes in magnetic properties and their pedogenetic implications for paddy soil chronosequences from different parent materials in south China
Authors: Han G.‐Z. , Zhang G.‐L.
Published: May 2013

It remains unknown whether there is a consistent relationship between magnetism dynamics and pedogenesis for paddy soils. In this study, three paddy soil chronosequences, derived from purple sandy shale (PS), Quaternary red clay (RC) and red sandstone (RS) in the hilly regions of south China, were studied to identify changes in magnetism during soil development and to understand their implications for pedogenesis. The results show that magnetic susceptibility (MS) and soft isothermal remanent magnetization (IRMs) simultaneously decreased to extremely small values in the anthrostagnic epipedons during the initial stages of cultivation. In contrast, this decrease was limited in the hydragric horizons of the young paddy soils and even increased in some. These changes suggest that MS and IRMs can be enhanced by the oxidation of Fe2+ in acid paddy soils (between pH 5 and 6) or be depressed by anaerobic transformations of ferrimagnetic minerals. The main influence on magnetic properties was time duration and especially reducing degree of artificial submergence, while parent materials played a supportive role. Magnetic enrichments generally occurred in the clay fraction. Ferrimagnetic clay minerals were more easily altered than minerals in the silt and sand fractions. The study also shows that there was no fixed pattern in the relationship between magnetism and paddy pedogenesis and magnetic properties should be used with care when applying them to environments in which redox processes occur.
Differences in fungal and bacterial physiology alter soil carbon and nitrogen cycling: insights from meta‐analysis and theoretical models
Authors: Waring Bonnie G. , Averill Colin , Hawkes Christine V.
Published: May 2013

Since fungi and bacteria are the dominant decomposers in soil, their distinct physiologies are likely to differentially influence rates of ecosystem carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling. We used meta‐analysis and an enzyme‐driven biogeochemical model to explore the drivers and biogeochemical consequences of changes in the fungal‐to‐bacterial ratio (F : B). In our meta‐analysis data set, F : B increased with soil C : N ratio (R2 = 0.224,P < 0.001), a relationship predicted by our model. We found that differences in biomass turnover rates influenced F : B under conditions of C limitation, while differences in biomass stoichiometry set the upper bounds on F : B once a nutrient limitation threshold was reached. Ecological interactions between the two groups shifted along a gradient of resource stoichiometry. At intermediate substrate C : N, fungal N mineralisation fuelled bacterial growth, increasing total microbial biomass and decreasing net N mineralisation. Therefore, we conclude that differences in bacterial and fungal physiology may have large consequences for ecosystem‐scale C and N cycling.
Asymmetric pain processing in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Granovsky Y. , Schlesinger I. , Fadel S. , Erikh I. , Sprecher E. , Yarnitsky D.
Published: May 2013

Background and purpose

Reduced endogenous pain inhibition, as part of the degenerative process, is presumed to be the mechanism underlying the common presence of pain in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The present study aimed to assess an endogenous pain inhibitory system in PD using the conditioned pain modulation paradigm.

Methods

Twenty‐six predominantly unilateral PD patients and 19 controls underwent psychophysical pain assessment before and after patients' morning dopaminergic medication.

Results

An unexpected increase in several parameters of pain perception for PD patients was found after dopaminergic medication (e.g. for 49°C noxious heat stimulation an increase from 70.6 ± 4.0 to 77.6 ± 4.0 on the numerical pain scale, P < 0.001). This increase was seen in patients with predominantly left‐sided PD, regardless of the stimulated side (for 49°C noxious heat stimulation, predominantly left‐sided PD patients, pain perception increased from 73.5 ± 6.8 to 85.0 ± 6.8, P < 0.001, whereas predominantly right‐sided PD patients did not show a significant increase, 68.3 ± 6.8 to 70.4 ± 6.5, P = 0.777). Baseline efficiency of conditioned pain modulation inversely correlated with age at disease onset (r = −0.522; P = 0.009) and disease severity (Unified PD Rating Scale, r = 0.447; P = 0.032) but did not differ between patients and controls.

Conclusions

Increased sensory response causing hyperalgesia occurs after dopaminergic medication in patients with predominantly left‐sided PD.
Clinical predictors to identify paroxysmal atrial fibrillation after ischaemic stroke
Authors: Wohlfahrt J. , Stahrenberg R. , Weber‐Krüger M. , Gröschel S. , Wasser K. , Edelmann F. , Seegers J. , Wachter R. , Gröschel K.
Published: May 2013

Background and purpose

Detection of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (pAF) after an ischaemic cerebrovascular event is of imminent interest, because oral anticoagulation as a highly effective secondary preventive treatment is available. Whereas permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) can be detected during routine electrocardiogram (ECG), longer detection duration will detect more pAF but might be resource consuming. The current study tried to identify clinical predictors for pAF detected during long‐term Holter ECG and clinical follow‐up.

Methods

Patients with acute ischaemic stroke were prospectively investigated with an intensified algorithm to detect pAF (7‐day Holter ECG, follow‐up investigations after 90 days and 1 year).

Results

Two hundred and eighty‐one patients were included, 44 of whom had to be excluded since they presented with permanent AF and another 13 patients had to be excluded due to other causes leaving 224 patients (mean age 68.5 years, 58.5% male). Twenty‐nine (12.9%) patients could be identified to have pAF during prolonged Holter monitoring, an additional 13 (5.8%) after follow‐up investigations. Multivariate analysis identified advanced age [odds ratio (OR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.08] as well as clinical symptoms >24 h (OR 5.17, 95% CI 1.73–15.48) and a history of coronary artery disease (OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.35–7.28) to be predictive for the detection of pAF.

Conclusions

In acute stroke patients with advanced age, history of coronary artery disease and clinical symptoms >24 h, a prolonged Holter ECG monitoring and follow‐up is warranted to identify pAF. This could increase the detection rate of patients requiring anticoagulation and may be able to reduce the risk of recurrent stroke in the case of successful anticoagulation of these patients.
Partial mandibular condylectomy and temporal bone resection for chronic, destructive, septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint in a horse
Authors: Barnett T. P. , Powell S. E. , Head M. J. , Marr C. M. , Steven W. N. , Payne R. J.
Published: May 2013

See also Clinical Commentary by Carmalt
Bortezomib and heart failure: case‐report and review of the French Pharmacovigilance database
Authors: Honton Benjamin , Despas Fabien , Dumonteil Nicolas , Rouvellat Caroline , Roussel Murielle , Carrie Didier , Galinier Michel , Montastruc Jean Louis , Pathak Atul
Published: May 2013

Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor commonly indicated for the treatment of multiple myeloma and non Hodgkin lymphoma. Cardiac adverse drug reactions of this drug are not clearly established. We report case where direct involvement of bortezomib in the occurrence of heart failure is strongly suspected and 22 other cases spontaneously reported to the French Pharmacovigilance System. This report should increase cardiologist awareness about the risk of heart failure related to this drug. Moreover, these cases underline the need for a systematic cardiac screening in patients exposed to bortezomib.
The Value of Short‐Term Study Abroad: An Increase in Students' Cultural and Pragmatic Competency
Authors: Reynolds‐Case Anne
Published: May 2013

The effect of studying abroad on students' language production has been extensively researched. However, a question that has not been addressed is whether study abroad programs lasting six weeks or less offer sufficient time and contact for students to demonstrate measurable development in their command of the language. The current investigation reveals the effects of a short‐term study abroad program in Spain on students' recognition, comprehension, and production of region‐specific linguistic forms. In this study, pre‐ and post‐program survey data as well as observational data were gathered from a group of students during a four‐week study abroad program in an effort to access their exposure to, and use of, the vosotros form.
Osteopontin: Versatile modulator of liver diseases
Authors: Nagoshi Sumiko
Published: May 2013

Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional protein, involved in pathological conditions including inflammation, immunity, angiogenesis, fibrosis and cancer progression in various tissues. Hepatic inflammation and fibrosis induced by feeding with a diet deficient in methionine and choline (MCD diet) were markedly attenuated in OPN knockout mice when compared with wild‐type mice in the model of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Hepatic cholangiocytes, myofibroblastic stellate cells and natural killer T cells were suggested to secret OPN in mice fed an MCD diet. Plasma and hepatic OPN levels were significantly higher in patients with NASH with advanced fibrosis than in those with early fibrosis. Hepatic OPN mRNA level was correlated with hepatic neutrophil infiltration and fibrosis in patients with alcoholic liver diseases. In those with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), OPN levels in plasma and HCC were prognostic factors after liver resection or transplantation. Downregulation of OPN inhibited tumor growth and lung metastasis in nude mice implanted with HCC cells. The single nucleotide polymorphism in the promoter region of the OPN gene was shown to be associated with activity of hepatitis in chronic hepatitis C patients, prognosis in patients with HCC, and growth and lung metastasis of HCC xenografts in nude mice. OPN was reported to be a downstream effecter of Hedgehog pathway, which modulates hepatic fibrosis and carcinogenesis. This review focuses on the roles of OPN in hepatic inflammation, fibrosis and cancer progression. Further elucidation of cellular interactions and molecular mechanisms associated with OPN actions may contribute to development of novel strategies for treatment of the liver diseases.
Evolutionary Biology and Classical Teleological Arguments for God's Existence
Authors: Rooney James Dominic
Published: May 2013

Much has been made of how Darwinian thinking destroyed proofs for the existence of God from ‘design’ in the universe. I challenge that prevailing view by looking closely at classical ‘teleological’ arguments for the existence of God. One version championed by Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas stems from how chance is not a sufficient kind of ultimate explanation of the universe. In the course of constructing this argument, I argue that the classical understanding of teleology is no less necessary in modern Darwinian biology than it was in Aristotle's time. In fact, modern biology strengthens the claims that teleological arguments make by vindicating many of their key features. As a consequence, I show how Aristotle and Aquinas' teleological argument for an intelligent First Cause remains valid.
Tenebrionid beetle distributional patterns in Italy: multiple colonisation trajectories in a biogeographical crossroad
Authors: Fattorini Simone
Published: May 2013

Placed in the centre of the Mediterranean Basin, Italy is a complex biogeographical crossroad between North Western Europe, Central Europe, Eastern Europe and North Africa.

The distribution of 280 species and subspecies of tenebrionid beetles in 17 Italian natural regions was used to study the influence of climatic, spatial and historical (palaeogeographical and palaeoecological) factors on current patterns of species richness, endemism and turnover (i.e. inter‐regional biogeographical differences).

In accordance with the general latitudinal pattern of biodiversity in Europe, both tenebrionid richness and endemism increase southwards, in response to variations in rainfall and temperatures, as expected for thermo‐xerophilic animals. Turnover was correlated with both inter‐regional climatic dissimilarities and geographical distances. The importance of spatial relationships independent from climate, but consistent with palaeogeographical and palaeoecological history, was also confirmed by inter‐regional relationships based on all species and endemics only. Biogeographical similarities between Italian regions and adjacent European and North African source areas showed distinct geographical patterns which reflect various dispersal trajectories.

During the Pleistocene glacials, cold adapted species coming from northern areas via the Alps used the Apennines as a filter to disperse into central and southern Italy, thereafter remaining confined to high altitude areas after deglaciation. Xero‐thermophilic species coming from North Africa or east Mediterranean countries colonised southern Italian regions probably in more ancient times. Islands and southern areas acted as centres of both speciation and post‐glacial recolonisation.
Comparison of physicochemical properties of beef potentiators prepared by synergistic fermentation and traditional method
Authors: Gao Xianli , Yan Shuang , Yang Bao , Lu Jian , Jin Zhao
Published: May 2013

Beef potentiator was prepared by beef qu, which was previously prepared by a novel synergistic fermentation method (BPSF). Three kinds of other beef potentiators were prepared by commercial enzymes (protamex, flavourzyme and papain, BPCEs), which were used as controls to investigate the physicochemical properties of BPSF. Results showed that BPSF possessed a higher protein recovery (70.99%) and degree of hydrolysis (DH, 51.39%) than BPCEs. The tests of molecular weight distribution and free amino acids (FAAs) indicated that the moderate molecular weight peptides (1–5 kDa) were dominant (70.07–74.43%) in all beef potentiators. The low molecular weight peptides (<1 kDa), umami amino acids and total amino acids in BPSF, were 1.03‐ to 5.56‐, 5.25‐ to 26.50‐ and 1.57‐ to 4.79‐fold higher than those in BPCEs, respectively. Meanwhile, hierarchical cluster analysis indicated that BPSF was significantly different to BPCEs, and sensory evaluation showed that BPSF had apparently stronger umami taste than BPCEs.
Sleep–wake activity rhythm and health‐related quality of life among patients with coronary artery disease and in a population‐based sample—An actigraphy and questionnaire study
Authors: Johansson Anna , Svanborg Eva , Edéll‐Gustafsson Ulla
Published: May 2013

The aim of this study was to explore whether there are gender differences in sleep and health‐related quality of life in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and a matched population‐based sample and to see how subjectively rated sleep is associated with actigraphy. Secondly, to explore whether factors that predict patients' sleep quality could be identified. Fifty‐seven patients with stable CAD and 47 participants from a population‐based sample were included. All participants completed the Uppsala Sleep Inventory (USI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the SF‐36. Actigraphy recordings and a sleep diary were performed for seven 24‐h periods. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that sleep duration, sleep onset latency, nocturnal awakenings, vitality (SF‐36) and body mass index explained 60% of the sleep quality outcome (USI). Sleep duration, sleep efficiency and fragmentation index assessed with actigraphy and sleep diary accounted for 36% of the sleep quality outcome (diary). The result can form the basis for a non‐pharmacological, self‐care programme supported and led by nurses.
Past, Present, and Future of Stroke in Middle-Income Countries: The Brazilian Experience
Authors: Martins Sheila Cristina Ouriques , Pontes-Neto Octávio Marques , Alves Cloer Vescia , de Freitas Gabriel Rodriguez , Filho Jamary Oliveira , Tosta Elza Dias , Cabral Norberto Luiz
Published: May 2013

Background

Stroke is one of the major public health challenges in middle-income countries. Brazil is the world's sixth largest economy but was clearly behind the milestones in the fight against stroke, which is the leading cause of death and disability in the country. Nevertheless, many initiatives are now reshaping stroke prevention, care, and rehabilitation in the country.

Aims

The present article discusses the evolution of stroke care in Brazil over the last decade.

Methods

We describe the main characteristics of stroke care before 2008; a pilot study in a Southern Brazilian city between 2008 and 2010, the Brazilian Stroke Project initiative; and the 2012 National Stroke Policy Act.

Results

The National Stroke Project was followed by a major increased on the number of stroke center in the country. The key elements of the 2012 National Stroke Policy Act included: definition of the requirements and levels of stroke centers; improved reimbursement for stroke care; promotion of stroke telemedicine; definition of the Line of Stroke Care (to integrate available resources and other health programs); increased funding for stroke rehabilitation; funding for training of healthcare professionals and initiatives to increase awareness about stroke within the population.

Conclusions

The evolution of stroke care in Brazil over the last decade is a pathway that exemplifies the challenges that middle-income countries have to face in order to improve stroke prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. The reported Brazilian experience can be extrapolated to understand the past, present, and future of stroke care in middle-income countries.
Social citizenship going international: Changes in the reading ofUN‐sponsored economic and social rights
Authors: Davy Ulrike
Published: May 2013

The article investigates the relevance ofUN‐sponsored economic and social rights for social citizenship, commonly understood as a set of social rights granted on the national level. DoUN‐sponsored economic and social ‘rights’ promise social citizenship? The article cautions against quick assumptions that draw simply on the wording of these rights. An in‐depth historical analysis demonstrates that the advocates of economic and social rights propagated several ideas (liberalism, developmental thinking, socialism), mostly unrelated to the idea of social citizenship. Only later, in the 1990s, did the reading of these rights shift significantly, testifying to a new ideational consensus among states. Empirical data extracted from all the States Parties reports filed under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) (1977–2011) indicate that, at least with respect to poverty, important rights under theICESCRare nowadays understood so as to incorporate elements of social citizenship, obliging states to not neglect individual over collective welfare.
Biochemical Marker of Use Is a Better Predictor of Outcomes Than Self‐Report Metrics in a Contingency Management Smoking Cessation Analog Study
Authors: McPherson Sterling , Packer Robert R. , Cameron Jennifer M. , Howell Donelle N. , Roll John M.
Published: May 2013

Background and Objectives

This investigation compared cotinine (primary metabolite of nicotine) at study intake to self‐report metrics (eg, Fagerstrom Test of Nicotine Dependence [FTND]) and assessed their relative ability to predict smoking outcomes.

Methods

We used data from an analog model of contingency management for cigarette smoking. Non‐treatment seeking participants (N = 103) could earn money in exchange for provision of a negative carbon monoxide (CO) sample indicating smoking abstinence, but were otherwise not motivated to quit. We used intake cotinine, FTND, percent of friends who smoke, and years smoked to predict longitudinal CO and attendance, time‐to‐first positive CO submission, and additional cross‐sectional outcomes.

Results

Intake cotinine was consistently predictive (p < .05) of all outcomes (eg, longitudinal CO and attendance, 100% abstinence, time‐to‐first positive CO sample), while years smoked was the only self‐report metric that demonstrated any predictive ability.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Cotinine could be more informative for tailoring behavioral treatments compared to self‐report measures. (Am J Addict 2014;23:15–20)
Foreign Language Learning Motivation in Higher Education: A Longitudinal Study of Motivational Changes and Their Causes
Authors: Busse Vera , Walter Catherine
Published: May 2013

This article reports on a study involving first‐year modern foreign languages students enrolled in German degree courses at two major universities in the United Kingdom. It explores the experience of these students from a motivational angle. A longitudinal mixed‐methods approach was employed in order to address the time‐ and context‐sensitive nature of motivational attributes. The data suggest that despite students' increasing wish to become proficient in German, their effort to engage with language learning decreased over the course of the year. This change occurred in conjunction with decreasing levels of intrinsic motivation and self‐efficacy beliefs. The relationships between motivational changes and contextual factors in higher education are discussed against the backdrop of students' transition experience from school to university. The article concludes by outlining pedagogical suggestions for how to counteract decreasing motivation of modern foreign languages students during their first year university studies.
Arabic and English During Study Abroad in Cairo, Egypt: Issues of Access and Use
Authors: Trentman Emma
Published: May 2013

This article provides a snapshot of the experiences of 18 students studying abroad in Cairo, Egypt. Using a modified version of the language contact profile (Freed, Segalowitz, & Dewey, 2004), I investigate their language use and find that students use English more than they use Arabic and that there is considerable individual variation in Arabic use. Using interviews, I explore factors promoting study abroad participants' use of English and limiting their use of Arabic. The data indicate that students have difficulty gaining access to native speakers of Arabic compared to their use of English with other international students. Furthermore, gaining access to native speakers of Arabic does not guarantee the use of Arabic; their Arabic proficiency, interactional goals, and identification as foreigners can promote the use of English above Arabic. Finally, I examine the ways in which students are nevertheless able to overcome these limitations to gain access to native speakers and use Arabic.
Teachers' Education in Socratic Dialogue: Some Effects on Teacher–Learner Interaction
Authors: Knežić Dubravka , Elbers Ed , Wubbels Theo , Hajer Maaike
Published: May 2013

This article presents a quasi‐experimental study into the effects of a course offered to subject matter student teachers that focused on Socratic Dialogue as a way to enhance their interactional scaffolding of advanced second language learning. Within the framework of the sociocultural theory of learning and second language acquisition, the study uses a scoring rubric to capture and quantify the quality of Teacher–Learner Dialogues (TLDs). 202 10‐minute TLDs were scored and a multivariate analysis revealed medium to very strong effect sizes. Findings indicate that familiarity with the underlying tenets of Socratic Dialogue, understood as fostering learner agency, was able to affect teachers' ability to provide interactional scaffolding in TLDs with second language learners. At the same time, teachers became more mindful of learner language. The article concludes with recommendations for teacher education.
NanoSIMS: Technical Aspects and Applications in Cosmochemistry and Biological Geochemistry
Authors: Hoppe Peter , Cohen Stephanie , Meibom Anders
Published: May 2013

The NanoSIMS ion probe is a new‐generation SIMS instrument, characterised by superior spatial resolution, high sensitivity and multi‐collection capability. Isotope studies of certain elements can be conducted with 50–100 nm resolution, making the NanoSIMS an indispensable tool in many research fields. We review technical aspects of the NanoSIMS ion probe and present examples of applications in cosmochemistry and biological geochemistry. This includes isotope studies of presolar (stardust) grains from primitive meteorites and of extraterrestrial organics, the search for extinct radioactive nuclides in meteoritic materials, the study of lunar samples, as well as applications in environmental microbiology, cell biology, plant and soil science, and biomineralisation.
Discrimination between the rich and the poor under contrasting conditions of wealth stratification
Authors: Harvey Simon‐Pierre , Bourhis Richard Y.
Published: May 2013

Using minimal group procedures, 2 studies investigated money allocations made by rich/poor group members in wealth stratifications based on group chance, group merit, and individual merit. Study 1 participants were assigned to rich or poor groups based on a coin toss (group–chance) or on performance of each group on a test (group–merit). Study 2 participants completed a test ostensibly distinguishing between high/low effortful individuals. High‐effort individuals were assigned to the rich group, low‐effort individuals were assigned to the poor group (individual–merit). After personally receiving play money, participants distributed their money to the rich and the poor. Results show that wealth based on group chance, group merit, and individual merit yielded contrasting patterns of parity and discriminatory behaviors.
Physiological mechanisms and epidemiological research
Authors: Bluhm Robyn
Published: May 2013

In evidence‐based medicine's hierarchy of evidence, physiological research ranks very low. Recent work in philosophy of science has suggested that there may be a role for knowledge of physiological mechanisms in clinical decision making, either (in some rare circumstances) by providing sufficient evidence that a therapy is effective or by bridging the gap between the results of clinical research and the care of individual patients. I argue that both suggestions are problematic and suggest an alternative role for physiological research. Specifically, I suggest that knowledge of physiological mechanisms should be better incorporated into the kind of epidemiological research that is central to evidence‐based medicine.