bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Athlete’s Redox State Induced by Habitual and Unaccustomed Exercise
Authors: Djordjevic Dusica Z. , Cubrilo Dejan G. , Puzovic Vladimir S. , Vuletic Milena S. , Zivkovic Vladimir I. , Barudzic Nevena S. , Radovanovic Dragan S. , Djuric Dragan M. , Jakovljevic Vladimir Lj.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of sport-specific and nonspecific bouts of exercise on athletes’ redox state. Blood samples were collected from 14 handball players immediately before and after graded exercise test on the cycle ergometer and handball training. Levels of superoxide anion radical (O2-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), nitrites (NO2-) as markers of nitric oxide, index of lipid peroxidation (TBARs), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activity were determined. Exercise intensity was assessed by a system for heart rate (HR) monitoring. Average athletes’ HR was not significantly different between protocols, but protocols differed in total time and time and percentage of time that athletes spent in every HR zone. The laboratory exercise test induced a significant increase of H2O2and TBARs as well as the decrease of the SOD and CAT activity, while after specific handball training, levels ofNO2-were increased and SOD activity decreased. It seems that unaccustomed short intensive physical activity may induce oxidative stress in trained athletes, while sport-specific activity of longer duration and proper warm-up period may not. Further research should show whether the change of protocol testing and the implementation of various supplementations and manual methods can affect the redox equilibrium.
Potential Effects of Nichi Glucan as a Food Supplement for Diabetes Mellitus and Hyperlipidemia: Preliminary Findings from the Study on Three Patients from India
Authors: Dedeepiya Vidyasagar Devaprasad , Sivaraman Gurusamy , Venkatesh Athi P. , Preethy Senthilkumar , Abraham Samuel J. K.
Published: December 2012

Beta Glucan food supplements have been reported to be of benefit in diabetes and hyperlipidemia. We report a pilot study of the effects of Nichi Glucan, 1, 3-1, 6 Beta Glucan food supplement, in lowering the blood glucose and lipid levels in three patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) from India. These patients had increased blood glucose and lipid levels inspite of routine antidiabetic and lipid level lowering medications. Each of the participants took 1.5 g of Nichi Glucan per day with food for two months along with their routine medications. The relevant parameters to assess glycemic status and lipid levels were calculated at the baseline and at the end of two months. After two months of continuous consumption, in one patient, the HbA1c decreased from 9.1% to 7.8%, and the glycemic target of HbA1c <6.5% laid down by the International Diabetes Federation was reached in two patients. Lipid levels also decreased significantly. Based on our findings, Nichi Glucan food supplement can be considered along with routine medications in patients with Type II diabetes with hyperlipidemia. Further studies are needed to validate the results.
Lactate Dehydrogenase B Is Required for the Growth of KRAS-Dependent Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: McCleland Mark L. , Adler Adam S. , Deming Laura , Cosino Ely , Lee Leslie , Blackwood Elizabeth M. , Solon Margaret , Tao Janet , Li Li , Shames David , Jackson Erica , Forrest William F. , Firestein Ron
Published: December 2012

Purpose: This study is aimed to identify genes within the KRAS genomic amplicon that are both coupregulated and essential for cell proliferation when KRAS is amplified in lung cancer.

Experimental Design: We used an integrated genomic approach to identify genes that are coamplified with KRAS in lung adenocarcinomas and subsequently preformed an RNA interference (RNAi) screen to uncover functionally relevant genes. The role of lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) was subsequently investigated both in vitro and in vivo by siRNA and short hairpin RNA (shRNA)–mediated knockdown in a panel of lung adenocarcinoma cells lines. LDHB expression was also investigated in patient tumors using microarray and immunohistochemistry analyses.

Results: RNAi-mediated depletion of LDHB abrogated cell proliferation both in vitro and in xenografted tumors in vivo. We find that LDHB expression correlates to both KRAS genomic copy number gain and KRAS mutation in lung cancer cell lines and adenocarcinomas. This correlation between LDHB expression and KRAS status is specific for lung cancers and not other tumor types that harbor KRAS mutations. Consistent with a role for LDHB in glycolysis and tumor metabolism, KRAS-mutant lung tumors exhibit elevated expression of a glycolysis gene signature and are more dependent on glycolysis for proliferation compared with KRAS wild-type lung tumors. Finally, high LDHB expression was a significant predictor of shorter survival in patients with lung adenocarcinomas.

Conclusion: This study identifies LDHB as a regulator of cell proliferation in a subset of lung adenocarcinoma and may provide a novel therapeutic approach for treating lung cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 19(4); 773–84. ©2012 AACR.
Integrative Cancer Epidemiology—The Next Generation
Authors: Spitz Margaret R. , Caporaso Neil E. , Sellers Thomas A.
Published: December 2012

Summary: We outline an integrative approach to extend the boundaries of molecular cancer epidemiology by integrating modern and rapidly evolving “omics” technologies into state-of-the-art molecular epidemiology. In this way, one can comprehensively explore the mechanistic underpinnings of epidemiologic observations in cancer risk and outcome. We highlight the exciting opportunities to collaborate across large observational studies and to forge new interdisciplinary collaborative ventures. Cancer Discov; 2(12); 1087–90. ©2012 AACR.
Glomerular Hyperfiltration and Proteinuria in Transfusion-Independent Patients with β-Thalassemia Intermedia
Authors: Ziyadeh Fuad N. , Musallam Khaled M. , Mallat Naji S. , Mallat Samir , Jaber Fadel , Suwaidan Ali Abdulnabi , Koussa Suzanne , Taher Ali T.
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Renal manifestations have been described in β-thalassemia major and were attributed to transfusional iron overload and chelation therapy. Patients with the milder phenotype, β-thalassemia intermedia (TI), remain largely transfusion and iron chelation independent while enduring a chronic hemolytic anemia and primary iron overload. Data on renal function in patients with TI is lacking. Methods: In this cross-sectional study of 50 TI patients, we evaluated the association of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary protein to creatinine (UPr/UCr) ratio with relevant patient, disease and laboratory indices. Results: The median age of patients was 28 years (44% males). The eGFR was >90 ml/min/1.73 m2 in all patients, with a median value of 142.3 ml/min/1.73 m2. The median UPr/UCr ratio was 213.2 mg/g. There was a negative correlation between age and eGFR, while the UPr/UCr ratio correlated positively with markers of anemia, hemolysis and iron overload. A total of 24 (48%) patients had evidence of glomerular hyperfiltration, while 7 (14%) had proteinuria (UPr/UCr ratio >500 mg/g). Patients with proteinuria were characterized by elevated liver iron concentration (>7 mg Fe/g dry weight), non-transferrin-bound iron levels and nucleated red blood cell counts. Conclusions: A considerable proportion of TI patients show evidence of abnormally elevated eGFR, with a declining trend towards advancing age. The occurrence of proteinuria is associated with anemia, hemolysis and iron toxicity.
Pentraxin 3, a Sensitive Early Marker of Hemodialysis-Induced Inflammation
Authors: Sjöberg Bodil , Qureshi A. Rashid , Anderstam Björn , Alvestrand Anders , Bárány Peter
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: The purpose of this investigation was to determine if the long pentraxin 3 (PTX-3) may be a useful marker of intradialytic inflammation since it is rapidly released in the vasculature. Methods: PTX-3, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and C-reactive protein were measured before and during a hemodialysis session in 22 patients and compared with healthy subjects. The effect of dialysis with low-flux, high-flux membranes and hemodiafiltration on the inflammatory response was compared in 11 patients. Results: C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels did not change, while a modest decrease in tumor necrosis factor-α was observed during hemodialysis. The plasma PTX-3 concentration was significantly increased (p < 0.001) after 60 min and peaked at 180 min during hemodialysis. There was no difference in the intradialytic increase in PTX-3 using different dialysis membranes and modalities. Conclusion: PTX-3 stands out as a rapid and sensitive marker of hemodialysis-induced inflammation. Membrane flux and hemodiafiltration did not alter the inflammatory response.
Nuclear Segmentation, Condensation and Bilateral Symmetry in Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes Reflect Genomic Order and Favor Immunologic Function
Authors: Chaudhuri Jyoti P. , Walther Joachim U.
Published: December 2012

Segmentation, condensation and bilateral symmetry of the nuclei of polymorphonuclear leukocytes seem related to their function. Segmentation of the nuclei into two or more lobes and their condensation facilitate their passage (diapedesis) through the endothelial layer of blood vessels to the extravasal space and subsequent locomotion through the interstitial compartment of different tissues. Bilateral symmetry of these nuclei along with their association to the cytoskeletal fibers contribute to their efficiency in locomotion by alignment of the axis of nuclear symmetry to the axis of cellular polarity, which orients towards the direction of locomotion in response to cytokines and other stimuli. Observations of the cytogenetic facets of intranuclear order support these assumptions.
Characterization of Sociodemographic and Clinicopathological Features in Brazilian Patients with Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: de Melo Maia Beatriz , Munhoz Cestari Flávia , Lavorato-Rocha André Mourão , Sant’Ana Rodrigues Iara , Baiocchi Glauco , Cardoso Guimarães Gustavo , Vassallo José , Stiepcich Mônica , Soares Fernando Augusto , Malagoli Rocha Rafael
Published: December 2012

Aim: To investigate sociodemographic and clinical-epidemiological profiles of patients with vulvar carcinoma in São Paulo, the largest city of Brazil, to establish a more consistent profile of these features once the incidence of vulvar carcinoma has risen considerably. Data regarding the epidemiological aspects of this tumor are scarce. Methods: A retrospective study was performed using 300 medical records from patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva and surgically treated at A.C. Camargo Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil, from 1978 to 2009. Results: The median age of onset was 70 years, ranging from 15 to 98 years, and most women were white (88.51%). Most patients (83.54%) had little or no schooling and had the lowest survival curve. Many patients were diagnosed in the early stages of the disease (57.09% FIGO IB), 59% had complications due to surgery and 43.71% had disease recurrence, of which about 70% died. Conclusions: Our study adds 300 Brazilian cases of vulvar carcinoma to the world literature. Given the high rate of disease recurrence and mortality in Brazil, we conclude that regular gynecologic evaluation and educational policies should be reinforced in order to raise awareness for vulvar cancer.
Recommended Measures for the Assessment of Cognitive and Physical Performance in Older Patients with Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bossers Willem J.R. , van der Woude Lucas H.V. , Boersma Froukje , Scherder Erik J.A. , van Heuvelen Marieke J.G.
Published: December 2012

Aim/Goal: To recommend a set of neuropsychological and physical exercise tests for researchers to assess cognition and physical fitness in clinical trials with older patients with dementia; to create consensus, decrease heterogeneity, and improve research quality. Methods: A literature search (2005–2011) yielded 89 randomized controlled trials. To provide information on test recommendations the frequency of test use, effect size of the test outcome, study quality, and psychometric properties of tests were analyzed. Results: Fifty-nine neuropsychological tests (cognitive domains: global cognition, executive functioning, memory, and attention) and 10 exercise tests (physical domains: endurance capacity, muscle strength, balance, and mobility) were found. Conclusion: The Severe Impairment Battery, Mini Mental State Examination, and Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale – cognitive subscale were recommended to measure global cognition. The Verbal Fluency Test Category/Letters, Clock Drawing Test, and Trail Making Test-B were recommended to measure executive functioning. No specific memory test could be recommended. The Digit Span Forward, Digit Span Backward, and Trail Making Test-A were recommended to measure attention. As physical exercise tests, the Timed Up and Go and Six Meter Walk for mobility, the Six Minute Walk Distance for endurance capacity, and the Tinetti Balance Scale were recommended.
Podocytes Express IL-6 and Lipocalin 2/ Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Glomerular Injury
Authors: Lee Sarah J. , Borsting Emily , Declèves Anne-Emilie , Singh Prabhleen , Cunard Robyn
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Acute kidney injury (AKI) contributes to significant morbidity and mortality in the intensive care unit (ICU). Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-6 predict the development of AKI and are associated with higher mortality in ICU patients with AKI. Most studies in AKI have focused on the tubulo-interstitium, despite evidence of glomerular involvement. In the following study, our goals were to investigate the expression of IL-6 and its downstream mediators in septic-induced AKI. Methods: Podocytes were treated in vitro with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and mice were treated with LPS, and we evaluated IL-6 expression by real-time PCR, ELISA and in situ RNA hybridization. Results: Following LPS stimulation, IL-6 is rapidly and highly induced in cultured podocytes and in vivo in glomeruli and infiltrating leukocytes. Surprisingly, in direct response to exogenous IL-6, podocytes produce lipocalin-2/neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (Lcn2/Ngal). LPS also potently induces Lcn2/Ngal expression in podocytes in culture and in glomeruli in vivo. Intense Lcn2/Ngal expression is also observed in IL-6 knockout mice, suggesting that while IL-6 may be sufficient to induce glomerular Lcn2/Ngal expression, it is not essential. Conclusions: The glomerulus is involved in septic AKI, and we demonstrate that podocytes secrete key mediators of AKI including IL-6 and Lcn2/Ngal.
Independent Regulation of the Cycle and Acceleration in Parkinsonian Gait Analyzed by a Long-Term Daily Monitoring System
Authors: Terashi Hiroo , Utsumi Hiroya , Ishimura Yohei , Mitoma Hiroshi
Published: December 2012

Background: Few reports have objectively assessed gait patterns of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients in their daily lives. We investigated the mean gait cycle and mean gait acceleration using a portable gait rhythmogram (PGR). Method: We continuously recorded PGR measurements for 24 h in 64 PD patients with the ability to independently engage in activities of daily living. Results: There was no significant difference in the mean gait cycle between PD patients and normal controls. However, the mean gait cycle was significantly faster in PD patients in the modified Hoehn and Yahr stage 1.5 than those in stages 2.5–3.0. The mean gait acceleration in PD patients was significantly less than in normal controls, but there were no significant differences among the stage groups. Conclusion: The results suggest that the cycle and acceleration of gait movements are controlled independently and that disturbances in these movements have different clinical courses in PD.
Pattern of Peripheral Nerve Involvement in Machado-Joseph Disease: Neuronopathy or Distal Axonopathy? A Clinical and Neurophysiological Evaluation
Authors: Escorcio Bezerra Marcio Luiz , Pedroso José Luiz , Pinheiro Denise Spinola , Braga-Neto Pedro , Povoas Barsottini Orlando Graziani , Braga Nadia Iandoli de Oliveira , Manzano Gilberto Mastrocola
Published: December 2012

Objective: Neuropathy is a well-recognized feature in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) or Machado-Joseph disease (MJD), but the pattern of neuropathy is still a matter of debate. This study aimed to evaluate peripheral nerve involvement in MJD patients. Neurophysiological and clinical data were analyzed to distinguish neuronopathy from length-dependent distal axonopathy. Methods: In the present study we evaluated 26 patients with clinical and molecular-proven MJD and investigated their peripheral nerve involvement. Neurophysiological and clinical data were compared and correlated aiming to distinguish neuronopathy from distal axonopathy. Results: The neurophysiological evaluation showed that 42.3% of the patients had polyneuropathy. Among these patients, 81.8% presented neuronopathy. Conclusion: We concluded that neuronopathy is the most common form of peripheral nerve involvement in MJD patients.
Assessment of Atrial Conduction Abnormalities in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Before and One Year after Alcohol Septal Ablation
Authors: Chen Shi , Yuan Jiansong , Zhang Jiafen , Qiao Shubin , Duan Fujian , Lv Xiuzhang , Hu Fenghuan , Yang Weixian , Yang Yuejin
Published: December 2012

Objectives: Intra- and interatrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) can be used to evaluate the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Percutaneous transluminal septal myocardial ablation (PTSMA) is an alternative therapy for patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) that results in sustained improvements in atrial structure and function. We investigated the effects of PTSMA on the intra- and inter-AEMD of HOCM patients using tissue Doppler imaging. Methods: Conventional echocardiographic and AEMD parameters were obtained in 25 healthy controls and 31 HOCM patients before and 1 year after septal ablation procedures. Results: Compared with the healthy controls, the left atrial volumes indexed by body surface area (LAVI) and the intra- and inter-AEMD were significantly higher in the HOCM patients. At 1 year after PTSMA, the LAVI was decreased (37.2 ± 11.4 to 27.0 ± 8.5 ml/m2, p < 0.001). The intra- and inter-AEMD were also significantly decreased (22.7 ± 9.2 to 16.6 ± 7.7 ms, p < 0.001 and 37.0 ± 8.4 to 26.6 ± 8.0 ms, p < 0.001, respectively). These changes correlated well with the reductions in LAVI (r = 0.83, p < 0.001; r = 0.66, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Both the intra- and inter-AEMD were significantly prolonged in the HOCM patients. PTSMA can improve the prolonged and inhomogeneous propagation of sinus impulses in atria.
Uric Acid-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction Is Associated with Mitochondrial Alterations and Decreased Intracellular ATP Concentrations
Authors: Sánchez-Lozada Laura Gabriela , Lanaspa Miguel A. , Cristóbal-García Magdalena , García-Arroyo Fernando , Soto Virgilia , Cruz-Robles David , Nakagawa Takahiko , Yu Min A , Kang Duk-Hee , Johnson Richard J.
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Endothelial dysfunction is associated with mitochondrial alterations. We hypothesized that uric acid (UA), which can induce endothelial dysfunction in vitro and in vivo, might also alter mitochondrial function. Methods: Human aortic endothelial cells were exposed to soluble UA and measurements of oxidative stress, nitric oxide, mitochondrial density, ATP production, aconitase-2 and enoyl Co-A hydratase-1 expressions, and aconitase-2 activity in isolated mitochondria were determined. The effect of hyperuricemia induced by uricase inhibition in rats on renal mitochondrial integrity was also assessed. Results: UA-induced endothelial dysfunction was associated with reduced mitochondrial mass and ATP production. UA also decreased aconitase-2 activity and lowered enoyl CoA hydratase-1 expression. Hyperuricemic rats showed increased mitDNA damage in association with higher levels of intrarenal UA and oxidative stress. Conclusions: UA-induced endothelial dysfunction is associated with mitochondrial alterations and decreased intracellular ATP. These studies provide additional evidence for a deleterious effect of UA on vascular function that could be important in the pathogenesis of hypertension and vascular disease.
Ubiquitin/proteasome-rich particulate cytoplasmic structures (PaCSs) in the platelets and megakaryocytes of ANKRD26-related thrombocytopenia
Authors: Necchi Vittorio , Balduini Alessandra , Noris Patrizia , Barozzi Serena , Sommi Patrizia , di Buduo Christian , Balduini Carlo , Solcia Enrico , Pecci Alessandro
Published: December 2012

ANKRD26-related thrombocytopenia (ANKRD26-RT) is an autosomaldominant thrombocytopenia caused by mutations in the 5’UTR of the ANKRD26 gene. ANKRD26-RT is characterised by dysmegakaryopoiesis and an increased risk of leukaemia. PaCSs are novel particulate cytoplasmic structures with selective immunoreactivity for polyubiquitinated proteins and proteasome that have been detected in a number of solid cancers, in the epithelia of Helicobacter pylori gastritis and related preneoplastic lesions, and in the neutrophils of Schwachman- Diamond syndrome, a genetic disease with neutropenia and increased leukaemia risk. We searched for PaCSs in blood cells from 14 consecutive patients with ANKRD26-RT. Electron microscopy combined with immunogold staining for polyubiquitinated proteins, 20S and 19S proteasome showed PaCSs in most ANKRD26-RT platelets, as in a restricted minority of platelets from healthy controls and from subjects with other inherited or immune thrombocytopenias. In ANKRD26-RT platelets, the PaCS amount exceeded that of control platelets by a factor of 5 (p<0.0001). Immunoblotting showed that the higher PaCS number was associated with increased amounts of polyubiquitinated proteins and proteasome in ANKRD26-RT platelets. PaCSs were also extensively represented in ANKRD26-RT megakaryocytes, but not in healthy control megakaryocytes, and were absent in other ANKRD26-RT and control blood cells. Therefore, large amounts of PaCSs are a characteristic feature of ANKRD26-RT platelets and megakaryocytes, although these novel cell components are also present in a small subpopulation of normal platelets. The widespread presence of PaCSs in inherited diseases with increased leukaemia risk, as well as in solid neoplasms and their preneoplastic lesions, suggests a link of these structures with oncogenesis.
Parallel overexpression and clinical significance of kallikrein-related peptidases 7 and 14 (KLK7 & KLK14) in colon cancer
Authors: Devetzi Marina , Trangas Theoni , Scorilas Andreas , Xynopoulos Dimitris , Talieri Maroulio
Published: December 2012

Currently available colon cancer (CC) markers lack sensitivity and specificity. Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) present a new class of biomarkers under investigation for diverse diseases, including cancer. KLKs are co-expressed in various tissues participating in proteolytic cascades. KLK7 in human tumours facilitates metastasis by degrading components of the extracellular matrix. KLK14 promotes tumourigenesis by activating proteinase-activated receptors. In the present study we examined the concomitant expression of KLK7 and KLK14 in 245 colonic tissue specimens from 175 patients; 70 were pairs of cancerous-normal tissues, 31 were cancerous tissues and 74 were colonic adenomas. We used quantitative real-time PCR and proved that both genes are up-regulated in CC at the mRNA level. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of our results showed that both genes have discriminatory value between CC and adenoma tissues, with KLK14 obtaining greater distinguishing power (area under the curve [AUC]=0.708 for KLK14; AUC=0.669 for KLK7). Current work showed that the two genes are fairly co-expressed in all three types of colon tissues examined (normal rs=0.667, p<0.001, adenomas rs=0.373, p=0.001, carcinomas rs=0.478, p<0.001). KLK14 is associated with shorter disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients (p=0.003, p=0.016 respectively), whereas KLK7 only with shorter DFS (p=0.004). KLK7 and KLK14 gene expression can be regarded as markers of poor prognosis for CC patients with discriminating power between CC and adenoma patients.
Low Wall Shear Stress Is Independently Associated With the Rupture Status of Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysms
Authors: Miura Yoichi , Ishida Fujimaro , Umeda Yasuyuki , Tanemura Hiroshi , Suzuki Hidenori , Matsushima Satoshi , Shimosaka Shinichi , Taki Waro
Published: December 2012

Background and Purpose—

We determined which hemodynamic parameter independently characterizes the rupture status of middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms using computational fluid dynamics analysis.

Methods—

In 106 patient-specific geometries of MCA aneurysms (43 ruptured, 63 unruptured), morphological and hemodynamic parameters were compared between the ruptured and unruptured groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine parameters that independently characterized the rupture status of MCA aneurysms.

Results—

Univariate analyses showed that the aspect ratio, wall shear stress (WSS), normalized WSS, oscillatory shear index, WSS gradient, and aneurysm-formation index were significant parameters. The size of the aneurysmal dome and the gradient oscillatory number were not significantly different between the 2 groups. With multivariate analyses, only lower WSS was significantly associated with the rupture status of MCA aneurysms.

Conclusions—

WSS may be the most reliable parameter characterizing the rupture status of MCA aneurysms.
Ethiopian Highlands Crop-Climate Prediction: 1979–2009
Authors: Jury Mark R
Published: December 2012

This study compares different methods of predicting crop-related climate in the Ethiopian highlands for the period 1979–2009. A target index (ETH4) is developed as an average of four variables in the June–September season—rainfall, rainfall minus evaporation, estimated latent heat flux, and vegetation, following correlation with crop yields at Melkassa, Ethiopia (8.4°N, 39.3°E, 1550 m elevation). Predictors are drawn from gridded near-global fields of surface temperature, surface air pressure, and 200-hPa zonal wind in the preceding December–March season. Prediction algorithms are formulated by stepwise multivariate regression. The first set of predictors derive from objective principal component (PC) time scores with tropical loading patterns, and the second set is based on key areas determined from correlation with the target index. The second PC of upper zonal wind reveals a tropical–subtropical dipole that is correlated with ETH4 at two-season lead time (correlation coefficient r = −0.53). Point-to-field regression maps show high-latitude signals in surface temperature (positive in North America and negative in Eurasia) and air pressure (negative in the North Pacific Ocean and positive in the South Pacific). Upper zonal winds are most strongly related with ETH4 over the tropical Pacific and Africa at two-season lead time. The multivariate algorithm that is based on PC predictors has an adjusted r2 fit of 0.23, and the algorithm using key-area predictors achieves r2 = 0.37. In comparison, numerical model forecasts reach r2 = 0.33 for ECMWF simulations but are low for other models. The statistical results are specific to the ETH4 index, which is a climate proxy for crop yields in the Ethiopian highlands.
A Climatology of Surface Cloud Radiative Effects at the ARM Tropical Western Pacific Sites
Authors: McFarlane Sally A. , Long Charles N. , Flaherty Julia
Published: December 2012

Cloud radiative effects on surface downwelling fluxes are investigated using datasets from the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program (ARM) sites in the tropical western Pacific Ocean (TWP) region. The Nauru Island (Republic of Nauru) and Darwin, Australia, sites show large variability in sky cover, downwelling radiative fluxes, and surface cloud radiative effect (CRE) that is due to El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Australian monsoon, respectively, whereas the Manus Island (Papua New Guinea) site shows little intraseasonal or interannual variability. At Nauru, the average shortwave (SW) surface CRE varies from −38.2 W m−2during La Niña conditions to −90.6 W m−2during El Niño conditions. The average longwave (LW) CRE ranges from 9.5 to 15.8 W m−2during La Niña and El Niño conditions, respectively. At Manus, the average SW and LW CREs vary by less than 5 and 2 W m−2, respectively, between the ENSO phases. The variability at Darwin is even larger than at Nauru, with average SW (LW) CRE ranging from −27.0 (8.6) W m−2in the dry season to −95.8 (17.0) W m−2in the wet season. Cloud radar measurements of cloud-base and cloud-top heights are used to define cloud types to examine the effect of cloud type on the surface CRE. Clouds with low bases contribute 71%–75% of the surface SW CRE and 66%–74% of the surface LW CRE at the three TWP sites, clouds with midlevel bases contribute 8%–9% of the SW CRE and 12%–14% of the LW CRE, and clouds with high bases contribute 16%–19% of the SW CRE and 15%–21% of the LW CRE.
Derivation of Turbulent Kinetic Energy from a First-Order Nonlocal Planetary Boundary Layer Parameterization
Authors: Shin Hyeyum Hailey , Hong Song-You , Noh Yign , Dudhia Jimy
Published: December 2012

Turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) is derived from a first-order planetary boundary layer (PBL) parameterization for convective boundary layers: the nonlocal K-profile Yonsei University (YSU) PBL. A parameterization for the TKE equation is developed to calculate TKE based on meteorological profiles given by the YSU PBL model. For this purpose buoyancy- and shear-generation terms are formulated consistently with the YSU scheme—that is, the combination of local, nonlocal, and explicit entrainment fluxes. The vertical transport term is also formulated in a similar fashion. A length scale consistent with the K profile is suggested for parameterization of dissipation.

Single-column model (SCM) simulations are conducted for a period in the second Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) Atmospheric Boundary Layer Study (GABLS2) intercomparison case. Results from the SCM simulations are compared with large-eddy simulation (LES) results. The daytime evolution of the vertical structure of TKE matches well with mixed-layer development. The TKE profile is shaped like a typical vertical velocity (w) variance, and its maximum is comparable to that from the LES. By varying the dissipation length from −23% to +13% the TKE maximum is changed from about −15% to +7%. After normalization, the change does not exceed the variability among previous studies. The location of TKE maximum is too low without the effects of the nonlocal TKE transport.
Snow–Atmosphere Coupling Strength. Part II: Albedo Effect Versus Hydrological Effect
Authors: Xu Li , Dirmeyer Paul
Published: December 2012

In this study of snow–atmosphere coupling strength, the previous snow–atmosphere coupled modeling experiment is extended to investigate the separate impacts on the atmosphere of the radiatively driven snow albedo effect and the snow hydrological effect that operates through soil moisture, evapotranspiration, and precipitation feedbacks. The albedo effect is governed by snow cover fraction, while the hydrological effect is controlled by anomalies in snow water equivalent. Realistic snow cover from satellite estimates is prescribed and compared with model-generated values to isolate the snow albedo effect. Similarly, imparting realistic snow water equivalent from the Global Land Data Assimilation System in the model allows for estimation of the snow hydrological effect. The snow albedo effect is found to be active before, and especially during, the snowmelt period, and regions of strong albedo-driven coupling move northward during spring, with the retreating edge of the snowpack in the Northern Hemisphere. The snow hydrological effect appears first during snowmelt and can persist for months afterward. The contributing factors to the snow albedo effect are analyzed in a theoretical framework.
Calibrated Short-Range Ensemble Precipitation Forecasts Using Extended Logistic Regression with Interaction Terms
Authors: Ben Bouallègue Zied
Published: December 2012

Extended logistic regression has been shown to be a method well suited to calibrating precipitation forecasts from medium-range ensemble prediction systems. The extension of the logistic regression unifies the separate predictive equations for each threshold, introducing the predictive threshold as part of the predictors. Mutually consistent probabilities and a reduction in the total number of regression parameters to be evaluated are part of the benefits of the extended approach. However, considering the predictive threshold as the only “unification” predictor constrains the regression parameters associated with the primary predictors to be constant with the threshold. To alleviate the rigidity of the extended scheme, interaction terms are introduced in the unified predictive equation. Within the framework of the convection-permitting German-focused Consortium for Small-Scale Modeling ensemble prediction system (COSMO-DE-EPS), it is shown that extended logistic regression, applied to short-range precipitation forecasts with the ensemble mean as the primary predictor, improves the performance of the system. Interaction effects are first illustrated through the analysis of regression parameters and then the positive impact on the calibrated forecasts of the new extended logistic regression scheme, including interaction terms, is shown using quantitative and qualitative measures of reliability and sharpness.
Does Fear of Crime Discourage Walkers? A Social-Ecological Exploration of Fear As a Deterrent to Walking
Authors: Foster Sarah , Giles-Corti Billie , Knuiman Matthew
Published: December 2012

Few studies have specifically investigated fear of crime as a deterrent to walking. This study tested the hypothesis that fear would inhibit residents from walking in their local neighborhoods. Homeowners ( n = 1,044) in Perth, Western Australia, reported their fear of crime, neighborhood problems and walking, and objective environmental measures were generated for each participant’s neighborhood. Multivariate logistic regression models examined the association between fear and walking, with progressive adjustment for other correlates. Fear was associated with lower odds of transport walking (OR = 0.79, p = .034); however, car access was ubiquitous so fearful participants could avoid walking. A similar association between fear and recreational walking attenuated after controlling for other neighborhood factors. Findings suggest that the capacity for fear to deter recreational walkers is not fixed, and that a supportive environment can lessen its impact. Community initiatives that encourage social interaction between residents and improve neighborhood aesthetics may increase levels of recreational walking.
The Effects of Emergent Norms and Attitudes on Recycling Behavior
Authors: Schwab Nicholas , Harton Helen C. , Cullum Jerry G.
Published: December 2012

Residence hall residents indicated their attitudes about recycling and their perceptions of whether friends and family believed they should recycle at the beginning and toward the end of a semester. They also reported their recycling behavior at the end of the semester. Attitudes, but not subjective norms, predicted behavior, and participants became more similar to their fellow group members in attitudes and behavior over time. Attitudes and fellow group member behavior best predicted recycling, supporting the theory of reasoned action, dynamic social impact theory, and their integration.
Crossing the Border: pastoral theology and psychotherapy
Authors: Miller Gavin
Published: December 2012

Contemporary accounts of pastoral theology recognize the significance for pastoral care and counselling of psychotherapeutic approaches such as psychodynamic counselling, person-centred counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and systemic counselling. Theology may be depicted as selectively importing ideas and practices from an essentially secular psychotherapeutic enterprise. However, historical consideration reveals that the disciplinary boundary between pastoral theology and psychotherapy is far from distinct: various forms of psychotherapy may, in fact, be understood as strands of heterodox pastoral theology.
The Impact of Visual Scanning in the Laparoscopic Environment After Engaging in Strain Coping
Authors: Klein Martina I. , DeLucia Patricia R. , Olmstead Ryan
Published: December 2012

Objective:

We aimed to determine whether visual scanning has a detrimental impact on the monitoring of critical signals and the performance of a concurrent laparoscopic training task after participants engaged in Hockey’s strain coping. Strain coping refers to straining cognitive (attentional) resources joined with latent decrements (i.e., stress).

Background:

DeLucia and Betts (2008) reported that monitoring critical signals degraded performance of a laparoscopic peg-reversal task compared with no monitoring. However, performance did not differ between displays in which critical signals were shown on split screens (less visual scanning) and separated displays (more visual scanning). We hypothesized that effects of scanning may occur after prolonged strain coping.

Method:

Using a between-subjects design, we had undergraduates perform a laparoscopic training task that induced strain coping. Then they performed a laparoscopic peg-reversal task while monitoring critical signals with a split-screen or separated display. We administered the NASA–Task Load Index (TLX) and Dundee Stress State Questionnaire (DSSQ) to assess strain coping.

Results:

The TLX and DSSQ profiles indicated that participants engaged in strain coping. Monitoring critical signals resulted in slowed peg-reversal performance compared with no monitoring. Separated displays degraded critical-signal monitoring compared with split-screen displays.

Conclusion:

After novice observers experience strain coping, visual scanning can impair the detection of critical signals.

Application:

Results suggest that the design and arrangement of displays in the operating room must incorporate the attentional limitations of the surgeon. Designs that induce visual scanning may impair monitoring of critical information at least in novices. Presenting displays closely in space may be beneficial.
Exploration and Long-Run Organizational Performance
Authors: Vagnani Gianluca
Published: December 2012

This study considers how cross-sectional differences and intertemporal variations in interdependencies between productive activities at the industry level moderate the contribution of exploration to long-run organizational performance. We use patent data to measure interdependencies between productive activities at the industry level and computer-assisted content analysis to derive firms’ orientation toward exploration. We also introduce statistical techniques to control bias in estimates induced by potential sources of endogeneity. Our analysis shows that exploration largely contributes positively to long-run organizational performance. This positive effect is stronger in industries with more extensive levels of interdependency or that exhibit more changes in such interdependencies. This study shows the unique and contingent ways in which exploration affects long-run performance. We hope our ideas will influence several areas of future research, not the least of which involves exploration and interdependencies in developing our understanding of organizational success.
A New Theory for Public Service Management? Toward a (Public) Service-Dominant Approach
Authors: Osborne Stephen P , Radnor Zoe , Nasi Greta
Published: December 2012

This article argues that current public management theory is not fit for purpose—if it ever has been. It argues that it contains two fatal flaws—it focuses on intraorganizational processes at a time when the reality of public services delivery is interorganizational, and it draws upon management theory derived from the experience of the manufacturing sector and which ignores the reality of public services as “services.” The article subsequently argues for a “public service dominant” approach. This not only more accurately reflects the reality of contemporary public management but also draws upon a body of substantive service-dominant theory that is more relevant to public management than the previous manufacturing focus. We argue that this approach makes an innovative contribution to public management theory in the era of the New Public Governance. The article concludes by exploring the implications of this approach in four domains of public management and by setting a research agenda for a public-service dominant theory for the future.
Facing Adulthood
Authors: Nelson Larry J. , Duan Xin xing , Padilla-Walker Laura M. , Luster Stephanie S.
Published: December 2012

Past work in China has revealed that approximately 60% of young people in China consider themselves to be adults. However, no work, prior to this study, has been done examining either the views of Chinese parents regarding their children’s adult status or the criteria that Chinese parents use in determining whether or not their children have reached adulthood. Participants included 92 unmarried college students, ages 18 to 25, and at least one of their parents (83 fathers, 84 mothers). Results revealed that (a) the majority of children and their parents did not yet view their children as adults, and (b) there was disagreement between emerging adult children and their parents in the emphasis they placed on various criteria for adulthood. Discussion will focus on how the traditional Chinese notion of “face” may play an important role in the criteria young people and their parents endorse as necessary for adulthood.
Determination of trace and heavy metals in some commonly used medicinal herbs in Ayurveda
Authors: Nema Neelesh K , Maity Niladri , Sarkar Birendra K , Mukherjee Pulok K
Published: December 2012

Traditionally, the herbal drugs are well established for their therapeutic benefits. Depending upon their geographical sources sometimes the trace and heavy metals’ content may differ, which may lead to severe toxicity. So, the toxicological and safety assessment of these herbal drugs are one of the major issues in recent days. Eight different plant species including Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, Calendula officinalis, Cucumis sativus, Camellia sinensis, Clitoria ternatea, Piper betel and Tagetes erecta were selected to determine their heavy and trace metals content and thereby to assure their safer therapeutic application. The trace and heavy metals were detected through atomic absorption spectrometry analysis. The selected medicinal plant materials were collected from the local cultivated regions of West Bengal, India, and were digested with nitric acid and hydrochloric acid as specified. Absorbance was measured through atomic absorption spectrometer (AA 303) and the concentration of different trace and heavy metals in the plant samples were calculated. The quantitative determinations were carried out using standard calibration curve obtained by the standard solutions of different metals. The contents of heavy metals were found to be within the prescribed limit. Other trace metals were found to be present in significant amount. Thus, on the basis of experimental outcome, it can be concluded that the plant materials collected from the specific region are safe and may not produce any harmful effect of metal toxicity during their therapeutic application. The investigated medicinal plants contain trace metals such as copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni) as well as heavy metals such as arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg), which were present within the permissible limit.
Importance of Diazepam Administration During Electroencephalography in the Differential Diagnosis of Cortical Visual Loss
Authors: Yis Uluc , Topcu Yasemin , Bayram Erhan , Karakaya Pakize , Cakmakci Handan , Kurul Semra Hız
Published: December 2012

A 14-year-old boy presented with acute visual loss due to cortical blindness. Two weeks after the visual symptoms, the patient developed behavioral abnormalities. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hyperintense lesions at parieto-occipital lobes on T2-weighted and fluid attenuated inversion recovery images. Sleep and awake electroencephalography (EEG) were normal, but diazepam administration revealed bilateral periodic synchronous complexes occurring every 20 to 30 seconds. Elevated measles antibody titers in cerebrospinal fluid confirmed the diagnosis of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. We conclude that visual loss due to cortical blindness is an important finding of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Diazepam administration during EEG should be a part of investigation in cases with unexplained cortical blindness.
Cerebroretinal Microangiopathy With Calcifications and Cysts Associated With CTC1 and NDP Mutations
Authors: Romaniello Romina , Arrigoni Filippo , Citterio Andrea , Tonelli Alessandra , Sforzini Cinzia , Rizzari Carmelo , Pessina Marco , Triulzi Fabio , Bassi Maria Teresa , Borgatti Renato
Published: December 2012

Mutations in the conserved telomere maintenance component 1 ( CTC1) gene were recently described in Coats plus syndrome and in cerebroretinal microangiopathy with calcifications and cysts. Norrie disease protein ( NDP) gene was found mutated in Norrie disease, in Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy, and in Coats syndrome. Here we describe a boy affected by Norrie disease who developed typical features of cerebroretinal microangiopathy with calcifications and cysts. Direct sequencing of the CTC1 and NDP genes in this patient shows the presence of compound heterozygosity for 2 mutations in CTC1 (c.775G>A, pV259M and a novel microdeletion c.1213delG) and a missense mutation in the NDP gene (c.182T>C, p.L61P). Based on these genetic findings and on the expression of both genes in endothelial cells, we postulate that microangiopathy might be a primary underlying pathologic abnormality in cerebroretinal microangiopathy with calcifications and cysts. This hypothesis is further supported by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data showing multiple minute calcifications in the deep gray nuclei and in terminal arteriolar zones.
Book Review: Breathe
Authors: Barrocas Albert
Published: December 2012

Bland A. Breathe. Bloomington, IN: Xlibris Corporation; 2009. 211 pp; $15.99. ISBN 144156213