bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the Numerical Aperture on the Superresolved InSb Focused Spot
Authors: Assafrao Alberto C. , Wachters Arthur J. H. , Pereira Silvania F. , Urbach H. Paul
Published: October 2012

A detailed study on the influence of the focusing lens numerical aperture on the InSb super resolved spot is presented. The super resolution effect is described using the threshold model, where the material permittivity locally changes under laser exposure, being rigorously simulated in a finite element method program. The superresolved InSb focused spot is investigated for a wide range focusing lenses systems, from high to low numerical apertures. An extension of the model to account for disc motion is discussed. Such dynamic super-resolution near-field structure (Super-RENS) threshold model is suitable for readout signal analysis when combined with a “quasi-scalar” readout program, also described. Interesting properties of the InSb Super-RENS focused spot, such as sub-diffraction limited spot size and the general conditions to achieve it, are shown. An analysis on the Super-RENS readout signal is also given, with useful applications in optical data storage. Thus, this work greatly helps in understanding the InSb scatterer type of Super-RENS effect for optical data storage and other super resolution applications.
Mechanical Flexibility of ZnSnO/Ag/ZnSnO Films Grown by Roll-to-Roll Sputtering for Flexible Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Lim Jong-Wook , Oh Se-In , Eun Kyoungtae , Choa Sung-Hoon , Koo Hyun-Woo , Kim Tae-Woong , Kim Han-Ki
Published: October 2012

The mechanical flexibility of ZnSnO (ZTO)/Ag/ZTO multilayer films prepared on flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrates by roll-to-roll (R2R) sputtering was investigated for use in cost-efficient flexible organic solar cells (FOSCs). The change of resistance (ΔR) of the ZTO/Ag/ZTO films was measured by means of lab-made outer/inner bending, twist bending, and stretching test systems. The failure bending radii of the ZTO/Ag/ZTO film in the outer and inner bending tests were 3 and 4.5 mm, respectively. In addition, the twisting test showed that the resistance of the ZTO/Ag/ZTO multilayer began to increase at an angle of 38°. Furthermore, the stretching test showed that the strain failure of the ZTO/Ag/ZTO multilayer film was 3%. The superior flexibility of the ZTO/Ag/ZTO films is attributed to the existence of a ductile Ag layer and the mechanical stability of the amorphous ZTO film. Similar performances of the FOSCs with flexible ZTO/Ag/ZTO anodes to reference OSCs with ITO anodes indicate that the R2R sputter-grown ZTO/Ag/ZTO multilayer is promising as an indium-free flexible anode for cost-efficient FOSCs.
Circulating Tumor Cells: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Balic Marija , Williams Anthony , Lin Henry , Datar Ram , Cote Richard J.
Published: October 2012

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) represent a surrogate biomarker of hematogenous metastases. In recent years, their detection has gained increasing interest. There is ample evidence regarding the ability to detect CTCs and their prognostic relevance, but their demonstrated predictive value in therapeutic response monitoring is clinically even more meaningful. Many clinical trials in the early and metastatic cancer setting now include CTCs as a monitoring parameter, and numerous translational studies attempting their molecular characterization are under way. There has been great progress in defining the clinical importance of CTCs, and it now seems likely that we may expect wider implementation of CTCs as a diagnostic oncology tool to monitor therapeutic response in real time. Novel technologies may further facilitate molecular characterization of CTCs and development of novel therapeutic targets, possibly leading to more powerful treatment strategies for cancer patients. As the detection and evaluation of CTCs are becoming an increasingly important diagnostic and prognostic tool, the goal of this review is to communicate the knowledge obtained through analysis of primary tumors and CTCs to oncologists and medical specialists in managing patients with cancer.
Harnessing the Power of the Immune System to Target Cancer
Authors: Lizée Gregory , Overwijk Willem W. , Radvanyi Laszlo , Gao Jianjun , Sharma Padmanee , Hwu Patrick
Published: October 2012

For many years, immunotherapeutic approaches for cancer held more promise than actual clinical benefit for the majority of patients. However, several recent key advances in tumor immunology have now turned the tide in favor of immunotherapy for the treatment of many different cancer types. In this review, we describe four of the most effective immunotherapeutic approaches currently used in the clinic: cancer vaccines, immunostimulatory agents, adoptive T cell therapy, and immune checkpoint blockade. In addition, we discuss some of the most promising future strategies that aim to utilize multiple immunotherapies or combine them with other approaches to more effectively target cancer.
Holes Detection in Anisotropic Sensornets: Topological Methods
Authors: Wei Wei , Yang Xiao-Lin , Shen Pei-Yi , Zhou Bin
Published: October 2012

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are tightly linked with the practical environment in which the sensors are deployed. Sensor positioning is a pivotal part of main location-dependent applications that utilize sensornets. The global topology of the network is important to both sensor network applications and the implementation of networking functionalities. This paper studies the topology discovery with an emphasis on boundary recognition in a sensor network. A large mass of sensor nodes are supposed to scatter in a geometric region, with nearby nodes communicating with each other directly. This paper is thus designed to detect the holes in the topological architecture of sensornets only by connectivity information. Existent edges determination methods hold the high costs as assumptions. Without the help of a large amount of uniformly deployed seed nodes, those schemes fail in anisotropic WSNs with possible holes. To address this issue, we propose a solution, named PPA based on Poincare-Perelman Theorem, to judge whether there are holes in WSNs-monitored areas. Our solution can properly detect holes on the topological surfaces and connect them into meaningful boundary cycles. The judging method has also been rigorously proved to be appropriate for continuous geometric domains as well as discrete domains. Extensive simulations have been shown that the algorithm even enables networks with low density to produce good results.
Geometry-Based Stochastic Modeling for MIMO Channel in High-Speed Mobile Scenario
Authors: Chen Binghao , Zhong Zhangdui
Published: October 2012

The geometry-based stochastic channel models are proposed in this paper for the terrain cutting, suburb, and urban scenarios in high-speed railway. First, the special scenarios in high-speed railway are described. And the channel models based on the geometry scenarios are introduced. Some channel parameters are based on measurement data. Then, the space-time correlation functions in analytical form are obtained in suburb and urban scenarios. Finally, the space correlation characteristics in three scenarios are compared.
Pain Management in Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: A Review
Authors: Mathuram Thiyagarajan U. , Bagul A. , Nicholson M. L.
Published: October 2012

The management of postoperative pain is a key to patient early recovery, in particular, where the surgery was performed to benefit another human being. In recent years it has been recognized that multimodal analgesic methods are superior for postoperative pain relief. It is also imperative to remember that inadequately managed acute postoperative pain opens the doorway to possible suffering from chronic postoperative pain later. Although the laparoscopic donor nephrectomy has reduced the disincentives associated with open surgery, still significant percentage of donors suffers from postoperative pain. In the UK, patient-controlled analgesic system (PCAS) using morphine for postoperative pain relief is being used in majority of the transplant centres. Though opioids provide good analgesia, they are far from being an ideal analgesic due to their adverse effects. This paper pragmatically looks in depth on different modalities of pain management in patients undergoing laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy.
Male Child with Van Wyk-Grumbach's Syndrome and Other Complications of Long-Standing Primary Hypothyroidism: A Case Report
Authors: Omran Ahmed , Peng Jing , Shrestha Biswas , Ashhab Muhammad Usman , Yin Fei
Published: October 2012

Primary hypothyroidism in the juvenile population generally leads to retardation of linear growth and delay or even arrest of puberty. However, in rare conditions, children with long-standing hypothyroidism present with signs of Van Wyk-Grumbach's syndrome (VWGS) which include juvenile hypothyroidism, delayed bone age, and pseudoprecocious puberty. We report a rare case of prepubertal male child from Asian origin, presented with long-standing untreated hypothyroidism complicated with VWGS and other complications including obesity, short stature, hepatomegaly, asymptomatic mild pericardial effusion, and pituitary hyperplasia.
Mechanical Properties of Natural Jute Fabric/Jute Mat Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Hybrid Composites
Authors: Elbadry Elsayed A. , Aly-Hassan Mohamed S. , Hamada Hiroyuki
Published: October 2012

Recycled needle punched jute fiber mats as a first natural fiber reinforcement system and these jute mats used as a core needle punched with recycled jute fabric cloths as skin layers as a second natural fiber reinforcement system were used for unsaturated polyester matrix composites via modifying the hand lay-up technique with resin preimpregnation into the jute fiber in vacuum. The effect of skin jute fabric on the tensile and bending properties of jute mat composites was investigated for different fiber weight contents. Moreover, the notch sensitivity of these composites was also compared by using the characteristic distance d o calculated by Finite Element Method (FEM). The results showed that the tensile and flexural properties of jute mat composites increased by increasing the fiber weight content and by adding the jute fabric as skin layers. On the other hand, by adding the skins, the characteristic distance decreased and, therefore, the notch sensitivity of the composites increased. The fracture behavior investigated by SEM showed that extensive fiber pull-out mechanism was revealed at the tension side of jute mat composites under the bending load and by adding the jute cloth, the failure mode of jute mat was changed to fiber bridge mechanism.
X-Cut LiNbO3 Optical Modulators Using Gap-Embedded Patch-Antennas for Wireless-Over-Fiber Systems
Authors: Wijayanto Yusuf Nur , Murata Hiroshi , Kawanishi Tetsuya , Okamura Yasuyuki
Published: October 2012

We propose an x-cut LiNbO3 optical modulator using gap-embedded patch-antennas for wireless-over-fiber systems. The proposed device is composed of an array of narrow-gap-embedded patch-antennas and an optical waveguide located at the center of the gap without a buffer layer. The modulation efficiency of the proposed x-cut LiNbO3 optical modulators was enhanced by 6 dB compared to the z-cut LiTaO3-based devices.
Prader-Willi Syndrome: Clinical Aspects
Authors: Elena Grechi , Bruna Cammarata , Benedetta Mariani , Stefania Di Candia , Giuseppe Chiumello
Published: October 2012

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a complex multisystem genetic disorder that shows great variability, with changing clinical features during a patient’s life. The syndrome is due to the loss of expression of several genes encoded on the proximal long arm of chromosome 15 (15q11.2–q13). The complex phenotype is most probably caused by a hypothalamic dysfunction that is responsible for hormonal dysfunctions and for absence of the sense of satiety. For this reason a Prader-Willi (PW) child develops hyperphagia during the initial stage of infancy that can lead to obesity and its complications. During infancy many PW child display a range of behavioural problems that become more noticeable in adolescence and adulthood and interfere mostly with quality of life. Early diagnosis of PWS is important for effective long-term management, and a precocious multidisciplinary approach is fundamental to improve quality of life, prevent complications, and prolong life expectancy.
The Nonlinear Behavior of Vibrational Conveyers with Single‐Mass Crank‐and‐Rod Exciters
Authors: Alışverişçi G. Füsun
Published: October 2012

The single‐mass, crank‐and‐rod exciters vibrational conveyers have a trough supported on elastic stands which are rigidly fastened to the trough and a supporting frame. The trough is oscillated by a common crank drive. This vibration causes the load to move forward and upward. The moving loads jump periodically and move forward with relatively small vibration. The movement is strictly related to vibrational parameters. This is applicable in laboratory conditions in the industry which accommodate a few grams of loads, up to those that accommodate tons of loading capacity. In this study I explore the transitional behavior across resonance, during the starting of a single degree of freedom vibratory system excited by crank‐and‐rod. A loaded vibratory conveyor is more safe to start than an empty one. Vibrational conveyers with cubic nonlinear spring and ideal vibration exciter have been analyzed analytically for primary and secondary resonance by the Method of Multiple Scales, and numerically. The approximate analytical results obtained in this study have been compared with the numerical results and have been found to be well matched.
Sales Rebate Contracts in Fashion Supply Chains
Authors: Chiu Chun-Hung , Choi Tsan-Ming , Yeung Ho-Ting , Zhao Yingxue
Published: October 2012

We explore in this paper the performance of sales rebate contracts in fashion supply chains. We conduct both analytical and numerical analyses via a mean‐variance framework with reference to real empirical data. To be specific, we evaluate the expected profits and variance of profits (risk) of the fashion supply chains, fashion retailers, and manufacturers under (1) the currently implemented sales rebate practices, (2) the case without sales rebate, and (3) the theoretical coordination situation (if target sales rebate is adopted). In addition, we analyze how sales effort affects the performances of the supply chain and its agents. Our analysis indicates that the rebate contracts may hurt the retailer and the manufacturer of a fashion supply chain when it is inappropriately set. Moreover, a properly designed sales rebate contract not only can coordinate the supply chain (with retail sales effort) but can also improve expected profits and lower the levels of risk for both the manufacturer and the retailer.
The First Passage Time and the Dividend Value Function for One-Dimensional Diffusion Processes between Two Reflecting Barriers
Authors: Yin Chuancun , Wang Huiqing
Published: October 2012

We consider the general one-dimensional time-homogeneous regular diffusion process between two reflecting barriers. An approach based on the Itô formula with corresponding boundary conditions allows us to derive the differential equations with boundary conditions for the Laplace transform of the first passage time and the value function. As examples, the explicit solutions of them for several popular diffusions are obtained. In addition, some applications to risk theory are considered.
Partitioning of Cephalexin in Ionic Liquid Aqueous Two‐Phase System Composed of 1‐Butyl‐3‐Methylimidazolium Tetrafluoroborate and ZnSO4
Authors: Li Yan Fang , Han Juan , Wang Yun , Ma Jing Jing , Yan Yong Sheng
Published: October 2012

Ionic liquid aqueous two‐phase system (ILATPS) was applied in the extraction and separation of hydrosoluble antibiotics. The partitioning behavior of cephalexin (CEX) in 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim]BF4)‐ZnSO4 aqueous two‐phase system was studied by the partitioning parameter of the extraction efficiency. The effect of the volume of [Bmim]BF4, the concentration of ZnSO4, temperature, pH, and the volume of ZnSO4 solution was discussed concretely. When the volume of [Bmim]BF4 was 2 mL and the concentration of ZnSO4 was 35%, the extraction efficiency of CEX could reach 92.64% with pH unadjusted. The effect of the volume of [Bmim]BF4 on the extraction efficiency was higher than that of the concentration of ZnSO4. The temperature influenced not only the formation of aqueous two‐phase system but also the extraction efficiency of CEX. The target was found to be preferentially extracted to the [Bmim]BF4‐rich phase at the pH below 4.3. The partition of CEX to the top phase was enhanced by increasing the volume of [Bmim]BF4, the concentration of ZnSO4, and temperature; however, the partition of CEX to the top phase increased by decreasing the pH.
Synthesis and Spectral Studies of Copper (II) and Manganese (II) Complexes Using 2-Hydroxybenzyl-(pyridine-2-carbo)Iminohydrazone and 2-Furyl(pyridine-2-carbo)Iminohydrazone: Evaluation of Their Magnetic, and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Singh Jagvir , Anu  , Singh NetraPal
Published: October 2012

Three new coordination complexes [Cu(HPBH)2]Cl2(1), [Cu(FPFH)2]Cl2(2), and [Mn(HPBH)2] Cl2(3) (where HPBH=2-Hydroxybenzyl(pyridine-2-carbo)iminohydrazone, and FPFH=2-furyl(pyridine-2-carbo)iminohydrazone) have been synthesized using two different tridentate hydrazones ligand. The ligands were prepared by condensation of Pyridine-2-acetylchloride, 2-Hydroxybenzaldehyde and Furan-2-carbaldehyde with hydrazine, respectively, in spite of varying the carbonyl functionality attached to the pyridine moiety present in the hydrazones ligand. In both the Schiff bases, we obtained three mononuclear complexes 1, 2, and 3 which were clearly characterized from physicochemical studies. Spectroscopic investigations like1H and13C NMR, mass spectrometric, FTIR, and UV/Vis have been carried out for new compounds. For complexes 2 cyclic voltammetry, magnetic and EPR properties have also been recorded. Antimicrobial studies have also been performed for these compounds with different antimicrobial species.
Control of Breast Cancer Growth and Initiation by the Stem Cell–Associated Transcription Factor TCF3
Authors: Slyper Michal , Shahar Amit , Bar-Ziv Anat , Granit Roy Z. , Hamburger Tamar , Maly Bella , Peretz Tamar , Ben-Porath Ittai
Published: October 2012

Regulatory factors controlling stem cell identity and self-renewal are often active in aggressive cancers and are thought to promote their growth and progression. TCF3 (also known as TCF7L1) is a member of the TCF/LEF transcription factor family that is central in regulating epidermal and embryonic stem cell identity. We found that TCF3 is highly expressed in poorly differentiated human breast cancers, preferentially of the basal-like subtype. This suggested that TCF3 is involved in the regulation of breast cancer cell differentiation state and tumorigenicity. Silencing of TCF3 dramatically decreased the ability of breast cancer cells to initiate tumor formation, and led to decreased tumor growth rates. In culture, TCF3 promotes the sphere formation capacity of breast cancer cells and their self-renewal. We found that in contrast to ES cells, where it represses Wnt-pathway target genes, TCF3 promotes the expression of a subset of Wnt-responsive genes in breast cancer cells while repressing another distinct target subset. In the normal mouse mammary gland, Tcf3 is highly expressed in terminal end buds, structures that lead duct development. Primary mammary cells are dependent on Tcf3 for mammosphere formation, and its overexpression in the developing gland disrupts ductal growth. Our results identify TCF3 as a central regulator of tumor growth and initiation, and a novel link between stem cells and cancer. Cancer Res; 72(21); 5613–24. ©2012 AACR.
Targeting the Transposase Domain of the DNA Repair Component Metnase to Enhance Chemotherapy
Authors: Williamson Elizabeth A. , Damiani Leah , Leitao Andrei , Hu Chelin , Hathaway Helen , Oprea Tudor , Sklar Larry , Shaheen Montaser , Bauman Julie , Wang Wei , Nickoloff Jac A. , Lee Suk-Hee , Hromas Robert
Published: October 2012

Previous studies have shown that the DNA repair component Metnase (SETMAR) mediates resistance to DNA damaging cancer chemotherapy. Metnase has a nuclease domain that shares homology with the Transposase family. We therefore virtually screened the tertiary Metnase structure against the 550,000 compound ChemDiv library to identify small molecules that might dock in the active site of the transposase nuclease domain of Metnase. We identified eight compounds as possible Metnase inhibitors. Interestingly, among these candidate inhibitors were quinolone antibiotics and HIV integrase inhibitors, which share common structural features. Previous reports have described possible activity of quinolones as antineoplastic agents. Therefore, we chose the quinolone ciprofloxacin for further study, based on its wide clinical availability and low toxicity. We found that ciprofloxacin inhibits the ability of Metnase to cleave DNA and inhibits Metnase-dependent DNA repair. Ciprofloxacin on its own did not induce DNA damage, but it did reduce repair of chemotherapy-induced DNA damage. Ciprofloxacin increased the sensitivity of cancer cell lines and a xenograft tumor model to clinically relevant chemotherapy. These studies provide a mechanism for the previously postulated antineoplastic activity of quinolones, and suggest that ciprofloxacin might be a simple yet effective adjunct to cancer chemotherapy. Cancer Res; 72(23); 6200–8. ©2012 AACR.
Tryptophan Catabolism in Cancer: Beyond IDO and Tryptophan Depletion
Authors: Platten Michael , Wick Wolfgang , Van den Eynde Benoît J.
Published: October 2012

Tryptophan catabolism in cancer is increasingly being recognized as an important microenvironmental factor that suppresses antitumor immune responses. It has been proposed that the essential amino acid tryptophan is catabolized in the tumor tissue by the rate-limiting enzyme indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) expressed in tumor cells or antigen-presenting cells. This metabolic pathway creates an immunosuppressive milieu in tumors and in tumor-draining lymph nodes by inducing T-cell anergy and apoptosis through depletion of tryptophan and accumulation of immunosuppressive tryptophan catabolites. Competitive inhibitors of IDO are currently being tested in clinical trials in patients with solid cancer, with the aim of enhancing the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy. There are, however, certain tumor types that are capable of catabolizing tryptophan but are largely IDO-negative. Recent evidence from studies in malignant gliomas and other types of cancers points to alternative enzymatic pathways of tryptophan catabolism involving tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO). TDO, which is considered responsible for regulating systemic tryptophan levels in the liver, is constitutively expressed in some cancers and is equally capable of suppressing antitumor immune responses. Depletion of tryptophan induces signaling events in T cells, leading to anergy and apoptosis; however, active immunomodulation by accumulating tryptophan catabolites, most notably kynurenine, appears to play an equally important role. These immunomodulatory effects of kynurenine are mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. This intracellular transcription factor has classically been viewed as a receptor for environmental toxins, such as dioxin, and its important role in influencing immune responses, especially in epithelial barriers, is only beginning to emerge. This review summarizes the exciting developments in our understanding of tryptophan catabolism as a key factor in the immunobiology of cancer. Cancer Res; 72(21); 5435–40. ©2012 AACR.
The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/Angiotensin-(1–7)/Mas receptor axis: A potential target for treating thrombotic diseases
Authors: Fraga-Silva Rodrigo , Da Silva Danielle , Montecucco Fabrizio , Mach François , Stergiopulos Nikolaos , da Silva Rafaela , Santos Robson
Published: October 2012

Despite many therapeutic advances leading to increasingly effective drug treatments, thrombotic events (such as ischaemic stroke, pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis and acute myocardial infarction) still represent a major worldwide cause of morbidity and mortality. Remarkable effort has been made to identify new drug targets. There is growing evidence indicating that the recently described counter-regulator axis of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), composed of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), Angiotensin-(1–7) and the Mas receptor, has protective effects against thrombosis. In addition, it could be considered as a promising target for treating or preventing this disease. In this narrative review, we focused on the recent findings of the role of the ACE2/Angiotensin-(1–7)/Mas axis on the haemostatic process and its therapeutic potential.
Thromboembolism and antithrombotic therapy for heart failure in sinus rhythm
Authors: Ponikowski Piotr , Andreotti Felicita , Anker Stefan , Filippatos Gerasimos , Homma Shunichi , Morais Joao , Pullicino Patrick , Rasmussen Lars , Marin Francisco , Lane Deirdre , McMurray J. , Hoes A. , Ten Berg J. , De Caterina R. , Kristensen S. D. , Zeymer U. , Lip Gregory
Published: October 2012

Chronic heart failure (HF) with either reduced or preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction is common and remains an extremely serious disorder with a high mortality and morbidity. Many complications related to heart failure can be related to thrombosis. Epidemiological and pathophysiological data also link HF to an increased risk of thrombosis, leading to the clinical consequences of sudden death, stroke, systemic thromboembolism and/or venous thromboembolism. This executive summary of a joint consensus document of the Heart Failure Association (EHFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the ESC Working Group on Thrombosis reviews the published evidence, summarises ‘best practice’, and puts forward consensus statements that may help to define evidence gaps and assist management decisions in everyday clinical practice. In HF patients with atrial fibrillation, oral anticoagulation is clearly recommended, and the CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores should be used to determine the likely risk-benefit ratio (thromboembolism prevention versus risk of bleeding) of oralnticoagulation. In HF patients with reduced LV ejection fraction who are in sinus rhythm there is no evidence of an overall benefit of vitamin K antagonists (e.g. warfarin) on mortality, with risk of major bleeding. Whilst there is the potential for a reduction in ischaemic stroke, there is currently no compelling reason to routinely use warfarin for these patients. Risk factors associated with increased risk of thromboembolic events should be identified and decisions regarding use of anticoagulation individualised. Patient values and preferences are important determinants when balancing the risk of thromboembolism against bleeding risk. Novel oral anticoagulants that offer a different risk-benefit profile compared with warfarin may appear as an attractive therapeutic option, but this would need to be confirmed in clinical trials.

Note: The editorial process for this article was fully handled by Prof. Christian Weber, Editor in Chief.
Prevalence and Presentation of Externalized Conductors and Electrical Abnormalities in Riata Defibrillator Leads After Fluoroscopic Screening
Authors: Theuns Dominic A.M.J. , Elvan Arif , de Voogt Willem , de Cock Carel C. , van Erven Lieselot , Meine Mathias
Published: October 2012

Background—

The Riata family of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads is prone to a specific insulation abrasion characterized by externalization of conductor cables. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of externalized conductors and electrical abnormalities in Riata ICD leads by fluoroscopic screening and standard ICD interrogation.

Methods and Results—

All ICD implantation centers were contacted by the Netherlands Heart Rhythm Association Device Advisory Committee to identify all patients with an active Riata ICD lead and to perform fluoroscopic screening of the lead. In addition, the electrical integrity of the lead was assessed. As of March 1, 2012, data for 1029 active Riata leads were available; 47% of these were 8-F Riata and 53% were 7-F Riata ST. Externalized conductors were observed in 147 leads (14.3%). Proportion of externalized conductors was higher in 8-F Riata compared with 7-F Riata ST (21.4% vs 8.0%;
P
<0.001). Median time from implantation to detection of externalized conductors was 65.3 months. The estimated rates of externalized conductors were 6.9% and 36.6% at 5 and 8 years after implantation, respectively. Of the 147 leads with externalized conductors, 10.9% had abnormal electrical parameters vs 3.5% in nonexternalized leads (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

The prevalence of externalized conductors in Riata leads is significantly high (14.3%) using fluoroscopic screening. The majority of externalized conductors are not detectable with standard ICD interrogation. Screening with fluoroscopy is reasonable.
Cafeteria Diet Increases Fat Mass and Chronically Elevates Lumbar Sympathetic Nerve Activity in Rats
Authors: Muntzel Martin S. , Al-Naimi Omar Ali S. , Barclay Alicia , Ajasin David
Published: October 2012

Obesity causes sympathetic activation that promotes atherosclerosis, end-organ damage, and hypertension. Because high-fat induced weight gain in rats elevates plasma leptin at 1 to 3 days after the onset of calorie-dense diets, we hypothesized that diet-induced overfeeding will increase sympathetic activity within 1 week after the onset of the regimen. To test this, we continuously measured sympathetic activity and blood pressure before and during the onset of diet-induced obesity using a high-calorie, cafeteria-style diet. Female Wistar rats, in which radiotelemeters had been implanted for continuous monitoring of lumbar sympathetic activity, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate, were randomly assigned to groups that received regular chow (control) or a cafeteria diet for a period of 15 days. This short-term, cafeteria-feeding regimen caused modest but nonsignificant increases in body weight (
P
=0.07) and a doubling of brown and white adipose tissue (
P
<0.01). The increases in fat mass were accompanied by elevations in plasma leptin (
P
<0.001) but no change in glucose. Overall heart rates and blood pressure were higher in cafeteria rats compared with controls (
P
<0.05). Cafeteria diet-induced weight gain caused increases in lumbar sympathetic nerve activity that became significant by the 12th day of the diet (
P
<0.001). These data show, for the first time, that the high-fat, cafeteria-style diet stimulates sustained increases in lumbar sympathetic neural drive in rats.
Large Artery Stiffening and Remodeling Are Independently Associated With All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Events in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Karras Alexandre , Haymann Jean-Philippe , Bozec Erwan , Metzger Marie , Jacquot Christian , Maruani Gerard , Houillier Pascal , Froissart Marc , Stengel Bénédicte , Guardiola Philippe , Laurent Stéphane , Boutouyrie Pierre , Briet Marie
Published: October 2012

Chronic kidney disease, even at moderate stages, is characterized by a high incidence of cardiovascular events. Subclinical damage to large arteries, such as increased arterial stiffness and outward remodeling, is a classical hallmark of patients with chronic kidney disease. Whether large artery stiffness and remodeling influence the occurrence of cardiovascular events and the mortality of patients with chronic kidney disease (stages 2–5) is still debated. This prospective study included 439 patients with chronic kidney disease (mean age, 59.8±14.5 years) with a mean measured glomerular filtration rate of 37 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. Baseline aortic stiffness was estimated through carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity measurements; carotid stiffness, diameter, and intima-media thickness were measured with a high-resolution echotracking system. For the overall group of patients, the 5-year estimated survival and cumulative incidence of cardiovascular events were 87% and 16%, respectively. In regression analyses adjusted on classical cardiovascular and renal risk factors, aortic stiffness remained significantly associated with all-cause mortality (for 1 SD, Cox model–derived relative risk [95% CI], 1.48 [1.09–2.02]) and with fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events (for 1 SD, Fine and Gray competing risks model–derived relative risk [95% CI], 1.35 [1.05–1.75]). Net reclassification improvement index was significant (29.0% [2.3–42.0%]). Carotid internal diameter was also independently associated with all-cause mortality. This study shows that increased aortic stiffness and carotid internal diameter are independent predictors of mortality in patients with stages 2 to 5 chronic kidney disease and that aortic stiffness improves the prediction of the risk.
Defective Cx40 Maintains Cx37 Expression but Intact Cx40 Is Crucial for Conducted Dilations Irrespective of Hypertension
Authors: Jobs Alexander , Schmidt Kjestine , Schmidt Volker J. , Lübkemeier Indra , van Veen Toon A.B. , Kurtz Armin , Willecke Klaus , de Wit Cor
Published: October 2012

The gap junction channel protein connexin40 (Cx40) is crucial in vascular and renal physiology, because Cx40-deficient mice exhibit impaired conduction of endothelium-dependent dilations and pronounced hypertension. The latter precludes mechanistic insights into the role of endothelial Cx40, because long-lasting hypertension itself may affect conduction and Cx expression. We aimed to identify endothelial Cx40 functions, their dependency on the conductive capability, and to separate these from hypertension-related alterations. We assessed conduction and Cx expression in mice with cell type–specific deletion of Cx40 and in mice expressing a defective Cx40 (Cx40A96S) identified in humans, which forms nonconducting gap junction channels. Confined arteriolar stimulation with acetylcholine or bradykinin elicited local dilations that conducted upstream without attenuation of the amplitude for distances up to 1.2-mm in controls with a floxed
Cx40
gene (Cx40
fl/fl
). Conducted responses in hypertensive animals devoid of Cx40 in renin-producing cells were unaltered but remote dilations were reduced in normotensive animals deficient for Cx40 in endothelial cells (Cx40
fl/fl
:Tie2-Cre). Surprisingly, Cx37 expression was undetectable by immunostaining in arteriolar endothelium only in Cx40
fl/fl
:Tie2-Cre; however, transcriptional activity of Cx37 in the cremaster was comparable with Cx40
fl/fl
controls. Cx40A96S mice were hypertensive with preserved expression of Cx40 and Cx37. Nevertheless, conducted responses were blunted. We conclude that endothelial Cx40 is necessary to support conducted dilations initiated by endothelial agonists and to locate Cx37 into the plasma membrane. These functions are unaltered by long-lasting hypertension. In the presence of a nonconducting Cx40, Cx37 is present but cannot support the conduction highlighting the importance of endothelial Cx40.
Exercise Training Attenuates Placental Ischemia-Induced Hypertension and Angiogenic Imbalance in the Rat
Authors: Gilbert Jeffrey S. , Banek Christopher T. , Bauer Ashley J. , Gingery Anne , Needham Karen
Published: October 2012

An imbalance between proangiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor) and antiangiogenic (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1) factors plays an important role in hypertension associated with reduced uteroplacental perfusion (RUPP). Exercise has been shown to stimulate proangiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, in both the pregnant and nonpregnant state; thus, we hypothesized that exercise training would attenuate both angiogenic imbalance and hypertension attributed to RUPP. Four groups of animals were studied, RUPP and normal pregnant controls and normal pregnant and RUPP+exercise training. Exercise training attenuated RUPP-induced hypertension (
P
<0.05), decreased soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (
P
<0.05), increased VEGF (P<0.05), and elevated the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1:vascular endothelial growth factor ratio. The positive effects of exercise on angiogenic balance in the RUPP rats were confirmed by restoration (
P
<0.05) of the RUPP-induced decrease in endothelial tube formation in human umbilical vascular endothelial cells treated with serum from each of the experimental groups. Placental prolyl hydroxylase 1 was increased (
P
<0.05) in RUPP+exercise training rats. Decreased trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity in the placenta, amniotic fluid, and kidney of the RUPP rats was reversed by exercise. RUPP-induced increase in renal thiobarbituric acid reactive species was attenuated by exercise. The present data show that exercise training before and during pregnancy attenuates placental ischemia-induced hypertension, angiogenic imbalance, and oxidative stress in the RUPP rat and reveals that increased prolyl hydroxylase 1 is associated with decreased soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, thus revealing several potential pathways for exercise training to mitigate the effects of placental ischemia-induced hypertension. Lastly, the present study demonstrates that exercise training may be a useful approach to attenuate the development of placental ischemia-induced hypertension during pregnancy.
A Differentiation Account of Recognition Memory: Evidence from fMRI
Authors: Criss Amy H. , Wheeler Mark E. , McClelland James L.
Published: October 2012

Differentiation models of recognition memory predict a strength-based mirror effect in the distributions of subjective memory strength. Subjective memory strength should increase for targets and simultaneously decrease for foils following a strongly encoded list compared with a weakly encoded list. An alternative explanation for the strength-based mirror effect is that participants adopt a stricter criterion following a strong list than a weak list. Behavioral experiments support the differentiation account. The purpose of this study was to identify the neural bases for these differences. Encoding strength was manipulated (strong, weak) in a rapid event-related fMRI paradigm. To investigate the effect of retrieval context on foils, foils were presented in test blocks containing strong or weak targets. Imaging analyses identified regions in which activity increased faster for foils tested after a strong list than a weak list. The results are interpreted in support of a differentiation account of memory and are suggestive that the angular gyrus plays a role in evaluating evidence related to the memory decision, even for new items.
The Effect of Parents’ Attitudes on Sons’ Marriage Timing
Authors: Jennings Elyse A. , Axinn William G. , Ghimire Dirgha J.
Published: October 2012

Theories of family stability and change, demographic processes, and social psychological influences on behavior all posit that parental attitudes and beliefs are a key influence on their children’s behavior. We have evidence of these effects in Western populations, but little information regarding this social mechanism in non-Western contexts. Furthermore, comparisons of mothers’ and fathers’ independent roles in these crucial intergenerational mechanisms are rare. This article uses measures from a 10-year family panel study featuring independent interviews with mothers and fathers in rural Nepal to investigate these issues. We test the association of specific attitudes, rather than broad ideational domains, about childbearing and old-age care with sons’ subsequent marriage behavior. Our results indicate that both mothers’ and fathers’ attitudes have important and independent influences on sons’ marriage behavior. Simultaneous study of both parents’ attitudes reveals that gender-specific parenting contexts can shape the relationship between parental attitudes and children’s behaviors. This crucial mechanism of intergenerational continuity and change is strong in this non-Western setting, with substantial implications for studies of intergenerational influences on behavior in all settings.
The Global Compact and Gender Inequality
Authors: Kilgour Maureen A.
Published: October 2012

A number of international organizations have identified eliminating gender inequality as a critical element in poverty reduction and development. Given that the Global Compact (GC) was launched, in part, to work toward the achievement of these goals, this article argues that the GC should pay significant attention to gender inequality in its learning network. The article discusses the findings of a review of the GC learning network, which reveals that the issue of gender inequality was missing from its agenda in its first decade. The author suggests explanations for this finding, including the lack of participation by women’s organizations in the GC learning network, the lack of a gender discourse in corporate social responsibility initiatives generally, and the GC’s focus on the business case, which may deflect attention from gender inequality where no clear business case can be made.
Transnational Governance, Deliberative Democracy, and the Legitimacy of ISO 26000
Authors: Hahn Rüdiger , Weidtmann Christian
Published: October 2012

Globalization arguably generated a governance gap that is being filled by transnational rule-making involving private actors among others. The democratic legitimacy of such new forms of governance beyond nation states is sometimes questioned. Apart from nation-centered democracies, such governance cannot build, for example, on representation and voting procedures to convey legitimacy to the generated rules. Instead, alternative elements of democracy such as deliberation and inclusion require discussion to assess new instruments of governance. The recently published standard ISO 26000 is an interesting example of transnational governance. ISO 26000 was developed in a lengthy multiorganizational process for the purpose of giving guidance on the social responsibility of organizations. By assessing the specific case of ISO 26000, this study sheds light on the question of how legitimacy beyond nation-state democracy is ensured or constricted. Centering on the idea of deliberate democracy and democratic legitimacy, the study offers in-depth insights on the normative legitimacy of the development process of ISO 26000. Positioned on the interface of business studies and public policy, this article contributes to the academic literature on transnational governance and on the role of multistakeholder processes in shaping the role of business in society.
Quality of Life in Advanced Cancer
Authors: Angiola Julie E. , Bowen Anne M.
Published: October 2012

Prognosis is poor and quantity of life is compromised for individuals with advanced cancer. Quality of life is impacted, for some, by psychological distress. According to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychological distress is associated with emotional avoidance and lack of valued living. ACT aims to increase psychological health via acceptance of one’s “minding,” a focus on present-moment living, and a commitment to value-driven life. In this article, we introduce the advanced cancer patient, the theory behind ACT, and how ACT may be delivered. We present the hypothetical case of J.B., a 56-year-old woman with recurrent Stage III ovarian cancer who reports thoughts of hopelessness and worthlessness, and how ACT might be applied to help J.B. experience a rich and meaningful life irrespective of her time remaining.
Prevention of demoralization in prolonged bicultural conflict and interaction: The role of cultural receptors II – Genesis of hybridization
Authors: de Figueiredo John M
Published: October 2012

Background:

The objective of this article is to show that bicultural hybridization for the prevention of demoralization is anchored on the discovery of certain thematic areas (cultural receptors) in which social roles or cultural mandates are missing, unclear, ambiguous or congruent.

Material:

The specific setting is the history of Goa, a former Portuguese territory on the western coast of India. Both published and unpublished sources of information were studied.

Discussion:

Education, occupation and income, the three dimensions of social class, were less dominant than other aspects of the Hindu caste system, such as birth into a group viewed as a caste, observance of marriage circles, regulations of kinship and inheritance, and identification with a location. These other aspects were preserved as much as possible. The result was the conversion of the caste system into a system more akin to social class. Other examples of cultural receptors were found.

Conclusions:

A key step in the adaptation to acculturative stress is the discovery of cultural receptors in both cultures and the development of meaningful interconnections among those receptors. Psychotherapy attempts the restoration of morale. To be effective, therapists should consider the hierarchical organization of symbols and sentiments in the patient’s culture.
An Examination of Police Department Uniform Color and Police–Citizen Aggression
Authors: Johnson Richard R.
Published: October 2012

People usually associate the color black with aggression. Previous studies have revealed that people are perceived as more aggressive, and act more aggressively, when wearing dark clothes. To investigate the influence of black clothing on criminal justice agency personnel, this study examined whether police departments that wear dark uniforms are more aggressive than those that wear lighter uniforms. It was predicted that departments utilizing black uniforms would experience more assaults on officers, citizens killed by police, and excessive force complaints. No statistically significant difference was found between departments wearing black and light uniforms after controlling for community contextual variables. The potential reasons for the inconsistency between this study and previous research findings are discussed, as are recommendations for further study.
Towards Understanding the Role of Emotions in Workplace Performance
Authors: Mishra Priti Suman
Published: October 2012

The current literature review examined a relationship between emotional intelligence and workplace performance. According to popular opinion and workplace testimonials, EI increases performance and productivity in an organization. However, there has been a general lack of independent, systematic analysis substantiating that claim. This article provides a critical review of the research field of EI linked with workplace performance and examines the usefulness of the construct in the occupational settings. Overall, this review demonstrates that recent research has made important strides towards understanding the usefulness of EI in the workplace.
National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) in India
Authors: Chhikara Kuldip S. , Kodan Anand S.
Published: October 2012

The study points out that low coverage, low operational performance, low participation of volunteer farmers, low awareness of farmers, low access of farmers to institutional credit, continuous banks’ failure in achieving the target of priority sector in common and agriculture credit in particular, shrinking the banking facilities in rural areas, re-emergence of unauthorized source of credit in rural areas, low education of farmers, non cooperation of bankers towards farmers, problems of design and implementation of the NAIS, problems of obtaining accurate and timely price data from local markets, the model of measurement of agriculture loss by natural hazards which is not appropriate to all farmers are the common weakness of the National Agriculture Insurance Scheme (NAIS). The agriculture sector of India—the main employment provider and the backbone of Indian economy, is affected most by recurring natural hazards due to climate changes, and requires the most care and protection against all sort of uncertainties, hence, NAIS can prove itself as the best protector (Ram Baan) in this context.