bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Overview of the Properties of High-strength Concrete Subjected to Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Siddique Rafat , Noumowe Albert N.
Published: December 2010

Use of high-strength concrete (HSC) has become more prevalent over normal-strength concrete (NSC), and can be manufactured by ready-mixed concrete plants by using supplementary cementing materials such as silica fume (SF), fly ash, metakaolin, and water-reducing admixtures. HSC behaves differently from NSC at elevated temperatures or when exposed to fire. Efforts have been made by researchers to study the mechanical properties and durability aspect of HSCs. This paper presents an overview of the properties of HSCs subjected to elevated temperatures. This is the compilation of experimental results of the properties like; compressive strength, stress—strain relationship, permeability, porosity, pore size, modulus of elasticity, and splitting-tensile strength of HSC at elevated temperatures. This compilation would prove to be very helpful in understanding the behaviour of HSCs at elevated temperatures and for carrying out further investigation to establish standard guidelines for designing HSCs, subjected to elevated temperature or accidental fires, for its structural applications in buildings. The main advantage of using HSC in buildings/structures is its high thermal mass that leads to thermal stability.
Effects of Indoor Lighting on Occupants’ Visual Comfort and Eye Health in a Green Building
Authors: Hwang Taeyon , Jeong Tai Kim
Published: December 2010

This study investigated the effects of indoor lighting on occupants’ visual comfort and eye health and to contribute to the management and maintenance of buildings. The illuminance of the working plane and windows at Samsung Corporation Headquarters were measured, and 2744 healthy occupants of Samsung Corporation were surveyed regarding the indoor lighting environment via the company’s intranet for 1½ years. This building was certified with the highest ranking by Korea’s Green Building Council. The cumulative data reflected the management and maintenance of the building, such as screen-type shading devices automatically controlled by seasons and time, improvement of visual display terminal glare by the veiling reflection on monitors, efficiency of artificial lighting arrays, and so on. The data were analysed for occupants’ visual comfort and eye health. The result showed that daylighting could improve the occupants’ psychological health and productivity. The screen-type shading device could intercept direct sunlight and reduce annoyance glare. However, the indoor lighting and visual environment of the building were poor. After examining the questionnaire feedback concerning improvements, the occupants’ annoyance ratio was significantly reduced, and approximately 5% of the occupants’ annoyance ratio was deemed to be caused by personal characteristics related to the lighting of the environment.
Citizenship and justice
Authors: Mason Andrew
Published: December 2010

Are the rights, duties, and virtues of citizenship grounded exclusively in considerations of justice, or do some or all of them have other sources? This question is addressed by distinguishing three different accounts of the justification of these rights, duties, and virtues, namely, the justice account, the common-good account, and the equal-membership account. The common-good account is rejected on the grounds that it provides an implausible way of understanding what it is to act as a citizen. It is then argued that the justice account and the equal-membership account provide complementary perspectives that differ in terms of the scope of the duties they ground: the latter offers an analysis of the duties that citizens proper (those with an unconditional right of residence and full political rights) owe to each other, whereas the former provides an analysis of the duties that those who are under the jurisdiction of the same state, whether fellow citizens or not, owe to each other. The article concludes by arguing that the distinction between the justice account and the equal-membership account cuts across the traditional one that is drawn between liberal and republican theories of citizenship.
Hearing voices: The promise of participatory action research for animals
Authors: Merskin Debra
Published: December 2010

This article posits it is possible to extend participatory action research (PAR) beyond human beings to include other-than-human animals. This research method and philosophy offers a radical and revolutionary opportunity for trans-species communication. The goal is to highlight the ethical impetus that undergirds PAR, as a form of action research, and suggest it as an appropriate methodology for gaining an understanding not only of the value of the approach, but also how it can be used as a tool with which to ‘hear’ and consider the conditions of animals’ marginalized voices. If the primary purpose of action research is to ‘produce practical knowledge that is useful to people in the everyday conduct of their lives’ (Reason & Bradbury, 2006, p. 2) can we not also extend this goal to include animals? I argue trans-species psychology, in concert with PAR, is an ethics-based method for attaining this goal. For, as Cheney (2002, p. 91) observes, ‘to articulate an epistemology is to articulate an ethical practice’. Two examples of prototypal PAR research are discussed as practice indicators that set a challenge for researchers to fully envision those who are silenced.
Unpaid work and social policy: Engaging research with mothers on social assistance
Authors: Hanson Cindy , Hanson Lori
Published: December 2010

The interlocking issues of gender, unpaid work and multiple forms of representation or lived experiences with social policy are complex. The study ‘Who Benefits: Women, Unpaid Work and Social Policy’, supported by Status of Women Canada, and guided by an advisory group consisting of women’s and anti-poverty organizations was based in Saskatchewan, Canada. The study interrogated how mothers on social assistance (SA) defined and understood unpaid caregiving work with small children; and the impact of social welfare policy guidelines that pushed SA recipients to find paid employment. Using action research and original, creative methods to gather data, the research simultaneously created a non-threatening environment for discussion, information-sharing, support and knowledge creation among participants. Overall, findings in the study resonate with other published studies on low-income women and unpaid work. Unique to this study particularly, were the action research process and outcomes which provided ways to address the needs of the study participants and to catalyze participant-led actions. The study assisted the 28 participants in linking their unpaid work with social policy and finally, in taking socio-political action. Actions included meetings with government, press conferences, and an uptake of recommendations by advisory group organizations. Independent of the research, the participants continued to meet after the study concluded.
DNA Retention Policies: The Potential Contribution of Criminal Career Research
Authors: Kazemian Lila , Pease Ken , Farrington David P.
Published: December 2010

The S & Marper judgment of the European Court of Human Rights held that the DNA samples of individuals arrested but subsequently cleared should be discarded from the national DNA database. Though the authors are sympathetic to the privacy concerns associated with DNA retention policies, the present paper contends that the concepts and methods of criminal career research should be brought to bear on the retention issue. A worked example showing how this might be carried out for convicted offenders is provided using data from the Cambridge Study in Delinquent Development, a prospective longitudinal follow-up of 411 working-class London males. The analyses illustrate the potential for crime detection after hypothetical years of DNA retention, in relation to age of onset and offence type. Findings suggest that the selective deletion of the DNA profiles of younger offenders may be particularly detrimental for subsequent detection rates, and that the seriousness of the offence at first contact may not be an accurate criterion in the decision to delete or retain DNA information. The study also highlights some of the advantages and problems associated with DNA retention policies.
The ‘code of the street’ and the generation of street violence in the UK
Authors: Brookman Fiona , Bennett Trevor , Hochstetler Andy , Copes Heith
Published: December 2010

Just over 10 years ago, Anderson (1999) published Code of the Street, which described a behavioural code that both generated and regulated street violence in the inner-city suburbs of Philadelphia. Since then, there has been some research conducted in the United States that has tested further the concept of a street code, but little similar work in Europe exists. In this paper, we explore narratives of incidents of street violence provided by convicted violent offenders. Examples are given of violence that appears to have the characteristics of code-following of the kind described by Anderson (1999). The paper notes the potential importance of the existence of a ‘code of the street’ in the United Kingdom in understanding and responding to street violence.
Post-adversarial and post-inquisitorial justice: Transcending traditional penological paradigms
Authors: Freiberg Arie
Published: December 2010

Criminal justice systems are under constant strain. Rising case loads, crowded court dockets, growing prison populations and high recidivism rates have resulted in growing frustration with systems that have been criticized as being expensive, out of date, complex, unfair, slow and lacking regard for victims of crime and for the public generally. One consequence of these criticisms has been a search for different and innovative methods of dealing with crime and associated social problems. In a number of common law countries, theories and practices of restorative justice and therapeutic jurisprudence have developed, creating more inclusive, optimistic and positive frameworks for justice systems and transforming the ways in which dispute resolution systems are conceived of and operate. In these jurisdictions, the growth of interest in different modes of dispute resolution reflects a deep disenchantment with the traditional, confrontational techniques that are inherent in the common law adversarial system. Though therapeutic jurisprudence and restorative justice are the best-known of such theories, they are not the only ones to have been developed, articulated and practised. The purpose of this paper is to suggest that some of these innovations could be considered by inquisitorial systems, albeit with due regard to the historical, political and cultural differences between the two systems. It argues that adversarial and inquisitorial justice systems should be transformed rather than hybridized, hence the terms ‘postadversarial’ and ‘post-inquisitorial’ justice.
College Mentors
Authors: Black Maureen M. , Arteaga S. Sonia , Sanders JoAnn , Hager Erin R. , Anliker Jean A. , Gittelsohn Joel , Wang Yan
Published: December 2010

This article examined the views of college mentors who administered Challenge!—a home- and community-based health promotion/overweight prevention intervention that effectively reduced the progression to overweight among African American adolescents. In-depth qualitative interviews among 17 mentors (81%) conducted 1 year following the intervention yielded four primary findings: (a) the importance of a strong mentor–mentee relationship often extending beyond the issues of diet and physical activity, (b) concern at the adversities the adolescents faced (e.g., poverty and household instability); (c) the personal impact of the mentoring process on the mentors’ own dietary and physical activity behavior and career choices; and (d) recommendations regarding subsequent mentoring programs. In summary, college students are a valuable resource as mentors for low-income, African American adolescents and provide insights into the success of health promotion/overweight prevention interventions.
Individual Readiness for Organizational Change and Its Implications for Human Resource and Organization Development
Authors: Choi Myungweon , Ruona Wendy E. A.
Published: December 2010

Individual readiness for organizational change reflects the concept of unfreezing proposed by Lewin (1947/1997b) and is critical to successful change implementation. Understanding the conditions conducive to individual readiness for organizational change, instead of the more traditional focus on resistance to change, can be useful for designing and implementing effective human resource and organization development (HROD) interventions. In this conceptual article, we examine the concept of individual readiness for organizational change as well as its relationship to change strategies and organizational culture. A review of literature on change strategies and a learning culture suggests that individuals are more likely to have higher levels of readiness for organizational change when (a) they experience normative-reeducative change strategies and when (b) they perceive their work environment to have the characteristics associated with a learning culture.
Constructs of the Work/ Life Interface: A Synthesis of the Literature and Introduction of the Concept of Work/Life Harmony
Authors: McMillan Heather S. , Morris Michael Lane , Atchley E. Kate
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this article is to identify construct definitions and measurement tools for the work/life interface concepts: conflict, enrichment, and balance. An understanding of these concepts is critical to HRD professionals because interventions designed to counter work/life interface issues cannot be strategically created, and culture changes cannot be effectively addressed until the discipline understands the nature and the organizational implications of employees’ work/life interface. A new construct called work/life harmony and the work/life harmony model are introduced to aid in the understanding of the work/life interface.
Development Review Integrative Literature Review: Increasing Retention and Success of First-Time Managers: A Model of Three Integral Processes for the Transition to Management
Authors: Plakhotnik Maria S. , Rocco Tonette S. , Roberts Nella Ann
Published: December 2010

Making the transition to management is one of the most difficult challenges first-time managers face. Organizations pay for the failure of first-time managers and benefit from their success. The purpose of this article is to challenge Hill’s (1992) argument that the transition to management involves two processes: “a process of learning from experience” and “a transformation of professional identity” (p. 121) and suggest a third process—building leadership potential. We also contend that transformative learning (Mezirow, 1991) is central to all three processes.
Through a Different Lens: A Survey of Linear Epistemological Assumptions Underlying HRD Models
Authors: Bechtel Jayanti Elizabeth
Published: December 2010

This article attempts to define a linear epistemology in terms of what it is rather than how it functions by situating it in context. I contend that a linear epistemology is the dominant epistemology in the field of HRD and as such undergirds a majority of HRD models. Although a linear epistemology’s usefulness is implicit in its widespread impact on models and on their use, a linear epistemology has several limitations, including a tendency to privilege particular Western cultural and masculine worldviews, short-term measures, and effects close to the organization. Furthermore, a linear epistemology fails to account for synergies, environment, time, human free will, individual prior knowledge, and unknown features of a system. Under conditions of rapid change, linear models may potentially contribute to increasing organizational myopia. Organizations which misinterpret environmental conditions may take unnecessary risks which serve to reduce organizational life span. Finally, linear models may contribute to an unnecessarily wide theory—practice gap and may serve to reduce the spread of HRD practices and HRD as a profession. Future areas of research and implications for practice will be discussed.
Chemopreventive Effect of Curcuma longa Linn on Liver Pathology in HBx Transgenic Mice
Authors: Kim Jungsun , Ha Hye-Lin , Moon Hyung-Bae , Lee Yeon-Weol , Cho Chong-Kwan , Yoo Hwa-Seung , Yu Dae-Yeul
Published: December 2010

Unlike other forms of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), HCC induced by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection shows a poor prognosis after conventional therapies. HBV induces liver cirrhosis and HCC. Many researchers have made efforts to find new substances that suppress the activity of HBV. Curcuma longa Linn (CLL) has been used for traditional medicine and food in Asia, especially in India, and has shown chemopreventive effects in a HBV-related in vitro model. This in vivo study was designed to seek the chemopreventive effects of CLL and its mechanisms. CLL mixture concentrated with dextrose water by boiling was lyophilized. CLL extracts were administrated to HBV X protein (HBx) transgenic mice aged 4 weeks for 2 to 4 weeks and aged 6 months for 3 months. After administration, histological changes in the liver tissue and expression of HBx-related genes were investigated. CLL-treated mice showed less visceral fat, a smaller liver/body weight ratio and delayed liver pathogenesis. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression was also increased in CLL-treated HBx transgenic mice, indicating regeneration of damaged liver tissue. CLL treatment decreased expression of HBx and increased p21 and cyclin D1 in livers of HBx transgenic mice. In addition, p-p53 was increased after CLL treatment. These results suggest that CLL can have beneficial effects on the early and late stages of liver pathogenesis, preventing and delaying liver carcinogenesis. This drug should be considered as a potential chemopreventive agent for HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis.
Thrombospondin 1, Fibronectin, and Vitronectin are Differentially Dependent Upon RAS, ERK1/2, and p38 for Induction of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Chemotaxis
Authors: Willis Alliric I. , Sadowitz Benjamin , Fuse Shoichi , Maier Kristopher G. , Lee Tae S. , Wang Xiu-Jie , Tuszynski George P. , Sumpio Bauer E. , Gahtan Vivian
Published: December 2010

Background: Thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1), fibronectin (Fn), and vitronectin (Vn) promote vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) chemotaxis through a variety of second messenger systems, including Ras, ERK1/2, and p38. Hypothesis: Ras, ERK1/2, and p38 differentially affect TSP-1-, Fn-, and Vn-induced VSMC chemotaxis. Methods: Bovine VSMCs were transfected with Ras N17 or treated with the following inhibitors: a farnesyl protein transferase (FPT) inhibitor, PD098059 (ERK1/2 inhibitor), or SB202190 (p38 inhibitor). Thrombospondin 1, Fn, and Vn were used as chemoattractants. Results were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post hoc testing (P < .05). Results: Ras N17 transfection or FPT inhibitor treatment inhibited TSP-1-, Fn-, and Vn-induced chemotaxis. PD098059 or SB202190 resulted in more inhibition of VSMC migration to TSP-1 than to Fn or Vn. Conclusions: Ras appears equally relevant in the signal transduction pathways of TSP-1-, Fn-, and Vn-induced VSMC chemotaxis. Thrombospondin 1-induced migration is more dependent upon ERK1/2 and p38 than Fn- or Vn-included migration.
Recurrent Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Stressing the Importance of Pectoralis Minor Syndrome
Authors: Sanders Richard J.
Published: December 2010

Background: Although first described over 60 years ago, neurogenic pectoralis minor syndrome (NPMS) has only recently been noted to be present in over half the patients with a clinical diagnosis of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS). Similarly, NPMS has also been observed in the majority of patients with recurrent NTOS. This study explores the role of pectoralis minor tenotomy (PMT) in patients with recurrent NTOS. Methods: A total of 86 patients with symptoms of recurrent NTOS, who had failed to improve on conservative management, were evaluated by history and physical examination for both NPMS and NTOS. Diagnostic tests included pectoralis minor muscle (PMM) blocks, scalene muscle blocks, and medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve (MAC) measurements. Surgery was either PMT alone or PMT plus brachial plexus decompression (BPD). Follow-up was 1 to 3 years. Results: All patients had multiple symptoms of pain, weakness, and paresthesia. Patients who qualified for PMT alone had slightly fewer symptoms than those who required PMT plus BPD. There was essentially no difference in physical findings between the 2 groups. It was the response to PMM blocks and scalene muscle blocks that determined which of the 2 operations was performed. Pectoralis minor tenotomy alone gave 69% good results in 65 operations, with 8% fair and 23% failures. Pectoralis minor tenotomy plus BPD in 39 operations gave 58% good improvement, 20% fair and 22% failures. Conclusion: All patients with recurrent NTOS should be evaluated clinically for NPMS. If patients complain of pain or tenderness in the anterior chest wall and axilla, a diagnostic PMM block should be performed. A good response to the block suggests that consideration be given to performing PMT alone as it a simple, low-risk outpatient procedure. If unsuccessful, BPD can be performed at a later date. If there is a poor response to the PMM block, BPD is indicated along with PMT, provided there were some symptoms of NPMS.
The Impact of Gender on Binge Drinking Behavior Among U.S. College Students Attending a Midwestern University: An Analysis of Two Gender Measures
Authors: Peralta Robert L. , Steele Jennifer L. , Nofziger Stacey , Rickles Michael
Published: December 2010

Using a critical feminist framework, the authors examine the relationship between gender role orientation and binge drinking among college students. Two measures of gender identity are employed: The Bem Sex Role Inventory and the Personal Attributes Questionnaire. The authors test the hypothesis that traditional masculine gender role orientation is predictive of contemporary binge drinking behavior among college students. Gender role orientation, as measured by each scale (independently and combined), has a significant impact on drinking. Masculine gender identity is a significant predictor of binge drinking while controlling for respondent’s sex. Binge drinking and its implications are discussed in the context of alcohol-related crime and victimization.
Transposition of the Great Arteries
Authors: Jacobs Jeffrey Phillip , Jacobs Marshall Lewis , Mavroudis Constantine , Chai Paul Jubeong , Tchervenkov Christo I. , Lacour-Gayet Francois G. , Walters Henry , Quintessenza James Anthony
Published: December 2010

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Congenital Heart Surgery Database contains data about 3258 patients with the diagnosis of transposition of the great arteries (TGA) who underwent surgery during the 4-year time interval from July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2009, inclusive. This cohort includes 2918 patients with concordant atrioventricular connections and discordant ventriculoarterial connections and 341 patients with congenitally corrected TGA (discordant atrioventricular connections and discordant ventriculoarterial connections). The 4 most common operations were the following: (1) arterial switch operation (ASO) for TGA with intact ventricular septum (n = 1196), (2) ASO with ventricular septal defect (VSD) repair for TGA with VSD (n = 420), (3) ASO with VSD repair and aortic arch repair for TGA with VSD and hypoplastic arch (n = 55), and (4) Rastelli operation for TGA with VSD and left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (n = 49). Detailed preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were obtained about patients who underwent these 4 operations. Median age at surgery (days) was as follows: ASO: 6.0; ASO with VSD repair: 7.0; ASO with VSD repair and aortic arch repair: 7.0; and Rastelli: 309.0. Mean age at surgery (days) was as follows: ASO: 22.9; ASO with VSD repair: 24.8; ASO with VSD repair and aortic arch repair: 14.4; and Rastelli: 721.8. Discharge mortality was as follows: ASO: 2.2%; ASO with VSD repair: 5.5%; ASO with VSD repair and aortic arch repair: 7.3%; and Rastelli: 0%. Median length of stay (days) was as follows: ASO: 11.0; ASO with VSD repair: 11.0; ASO with VSD repair and aortic arch repair: 18.0; and Rastelli: 7.0. The sternum was left open in the following: ASO: 24.8%; ASO with VSD repair: 29.5%; ASO with VSD repair and aortic arch repair: 40.0%; and Rastelli: 6.1%. This review of data from the STS Congenital Heart Surgery Database allows for unique documentation of patterns of practice and outcomes. From this review, we learned that although surgery for TGA is often complex and may be associated with morbidity, most patients survive without major complications.
Anatomy of Discordant Atrioventricular Connections
Authors: Wilkinson James L. , Anderson Robert H.
Published: December 2010

The term discordant atrioventricular connections refers to the situation in which the ventricles are connected inappropriately to the atrial chambers. In most instances, the connections of the great arteries are also abnormal, with the aorta and the pulmonary trunk arising from morphologically inappropriate ventricles. This combination results in the presence of so-called congenitally corrected transposition. Double-outlet right ventricle is occasionally present, while concordant ventriculoarterial connections may be seen rarely. Most such hearts have a range of additional abnormalities, including ventricular septal defects; outflow tract obstruction, usually of the morphologically left ventricle; anomalies of the morphologically tricuspid valve; and a highly abnormal location of the specialized atrioventricular conduction axis. Some examples exhibit bizarre abnormalities of ventricular relationships and topology, including criss-cross atrioventricular connections and superoinferior ventricular relations. In describing the anatomy of these malformations, it is important to use a step-by-step segmental approach to the documentation of the connections and associated defects in each case and to avoid potentially confusing shorthand terms.
The Anatomy of Transposition
Authors: Aiello Vera Demarchi
Published: December 2010

The basic morphology of transposition of the great arteries is described, together with a discussion of anatomic variables of surgical significance including the spectrum of variation of coronary artery anatomy and associated lesions.
Impact of Shunt Type on Growth of Pulmonary Arteries After Norwood Stage I Procedure
Authors: Raja Shahzad G , Atamanyuk Iryna , Tsang Victor T
Published: December 2010

The past decade has seen a substantial improvement in the outcome following surgical palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome. This has been attributed to modifications in the surgical as well as postoperative management strategies. One such modification is the reemergence of the right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV-PA) shunt as an alternative to the modified Blalock-Taussig (mBT) shunt as the source of pulmonary blood flow. The RV-PA shunt has been shown to improve the immediate surgical outcome compared with the classic Norwood procedure with an mBT shunt. Despite the several reported advantages, the impact of the RV-PA shunt on growth of the pulmonary arteries and incidence of late development of central PA stenosis remains unclear. This systematic review evaluates the current best available evidence to address this issue and concludes that the evidence from retrospective studies and only available randomized controlled trial (RCT) is conflicting. The retrospective studies predominantly suggest that the Norwood procedure with RV-PA shunt may have favorable effects on the development of the pulmonary arteries due to even distribution of pulmonary blood flow with greater distal left pulmonary artery growth, resulting in more balanced distal branch pulmonary artery size albeit with a greater degree of central pulmonary artery hypoplasia needing surgical attention. On the contrary, the RCT reports that the overall size of the pulmonary artery on angiography before the stage II procedure was smaller in the RV-PA shunt group than in the mBT shunt group, with no information available on incidence of central pulmonary hypoplasia.
Ascites in Adult Patients With Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Martínez-Quintana Efrén , Rodríguez-González Fayna , Cabrera-Pérez Leonardo , Martínez-Martín María Soledad
Published: December 2010

Hematologic, neurologic, renal, and rheumatic complications in patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease are well known. However, the effects of this condition on the liver are poorly described. Between April 2005 and April 2010, 25 adults with cyanotic congenital heart disease were studied to determine clinical history, liver ultrasonographic data, and liver histological presentation. Twenty-five patients, with a median age of 28.7 ± 8.3 years and a basal tissue hemoglobin oxygen saturation of 83.3% ± 6.8%, were studied. Liver ultrasonographic examination showed abnormalities in 10 of 20 patients (50%): 6 patients (30%) had hepatomegaly, 2 patients (10%) heterogeneous parenchyma echo pattern, and 2 patients (10%) increased portal echogenicity. Ascites was found in 7 patients (28%): 4 patients had refractory ascites and 3 patients anasarca. Patients with anasarca responded well to oral and intravenous furosemide, but those with isolated ascites did not. No data to indicate severe ventricular dysfunction or severe valve regurgitation were seen. In patients with refractory ascites who had therapeutic paracentesis, serum–ascites albumin gradient in ascites was greater than 1.1 g/dL. No significant association was found between patients with or without ascites when laboratory data and New York Heart Association functional class were compared. Liver biopsy was performed in 6 patients (24%). The most remarkable liver histological finding, in those with refractory ascites, was the existence of periportal fibrosis associated with sinusoidal dilatation. Periportal liver fibrosis associated with congestive heart failure, sepsis, or a long-term Fontan procedure can trigger refractory ascites formation.
A Silent Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Authors: Gologorsky Edward , Giquel Jadelis , Gologorsky Angela
Published: December 2010

A 4-mm patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) was serendipitously diagnosed during intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography for a noncardiac procedure in an obese adult patient with a history of decreased exercise tolerance and dyspnea, despite a negative preoperative transthoracic examination. This uncommon event poses questions regarding the relevance of this finding to the differential diagnosis of dyspnea in an obese adult with a negative transthoracic echocardiography study, given the unknown prevalence of this pathology and the absence of consensus regarding the clinical management.
Late Arrhythmias After Surgery for Transposition of the Great Arteries
Authors: Deal Barbara J.
Published: December 2010

The evolution of surgical techniques for transposition of the great arteries (TGA) provides a moving target for the assessment of late arrhythmias. Imposed on varying anatomical substrates are progressive surgical interventions, each with its own set of sequelae. Analysis of the risk of arrhythmia development requires division into which arrhythmia is present, for which form of transposition, undergoing what type of surgery, and in which surgical era. For purposes of this review, available data on d-TGA undergoing Senning repairs, Mustard repairs, and arterial switch repairs and congenitally corrected TGA undergoing double switch repairs are reviewed.
Late Complications Following the Arterial Switch Operation
Authors: Vargo Patrick , Mavroudis Constantine , Stewart Robert D. , Backer Carl L.
Published: December 2010

The arterial switch operation has been the principal treatment for transposition of the great arteries and its variants for the last 25 years. Early mortality has decreased significantly over time, but long-term complications include pulmonary artery stenosis, coronary artery obstruction, neoaortic valvar insufficiency, arrhythmia, and aortic arch obstruction. This article provides an overview of the history, anatomic patterns, surgical results, and possible operative solutions discussed in the literature for patients with transposition of the great arteries who undergo arterial switch operations that result in late complications. Published journal articles were identified through PubMed literature search. The authors selected 72 articles for analysis. It is concluded that modifications can be made to the arterial switch operation in an effort to meet the challenges presented by late complications.
The Impact of Shunt Type on Palliative Outcomes in Neonates and Infants With Diminished Pulmonary Blood Flow
Authors: Samson Patrick von , Tatge Lena , Gottschalk Urda , Müller Götz C. , Reichenspurner Hermann , Dodge-Khatami Ali
Published: December 2010

We analyzed early and intermediate outcomes in cyanotic neonates (n = 43) and infants (n = 26) requiring palliation with either a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (MBT) or a central aortopulmonary shunt (CAP). Between 1995 and 2009, 69 consecutive patients underwent an MBT (n = 42) or CAP (n = 27) for tetralogy of Fallot (n = 21), pulmonary atresia (n = 25), severe pulmonary valve stenosis (n = 22), and 2-stage repair of transposition of the great arteries (n = 1). The groups were similar with regard to age, weight, pulmonary artery diameter, and preoperative saturations. Postoperative mortality was 3 after CAP (11.1%) versus 1 after MBT (2.4%; P = .0203). Shunt size/weight index was comparable for both groups. MBTs had shorter surgical times ( P = .002), required less inotropes (inotropic index, 103 ± 18 vs 889 ± 199; P = .0069), less blood product transfusions ( P = .01), and had shorter duration of ventilation ( P = .026) and intensive care unit (ICU) stay ( P = .042). Children with MBTs had higher saturations at hospital discharge ( P = .018). Prior to complete repair, 2 patients with a CAP and 10 patients after an MBT needed pulmonary artery dilation or stent implantation ( P = .23). At the time of complete repair and shunt takedown, 3 MBT patients needed surgical patch augmentation of the pulmonary artery. The MBT is a safer and more expeditious operation and more frequently avoids cardiopulmonary bypass. Patients require less inotropes, blood products, and ICU time but may require more interventional therapy to treat pulmonary artery stenosis in the interval to complete repair. Surgical treatment of shunt-related pulmonary artery distortion may be addressed at the time of complete repair.
Development of Pediatric Cardiology in Latin America
Authors: Capelli Horacio , Kreutzer Christian , Kreutzer Guillermo
Published: December 2010

Until the first quarter of the 20th century, most physicians were more than happy to differentiate congenital heart lesions from rheumatic heart disease, which then was rampant. As early as 1932, Dr Rodolfo Kreutzer, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, was already involved in the study of congenital heart defects. He started off assessing children with a stethoscope and with Einthoven electrocardiography equipment. The cardiac unit at the Buenos Aires Children’s Hospital was created in 1936. It established the onset of pediatric cardiology in Argentina and fueled its development in South America. Nearly at the same time, Agustin Castellanos from Cuba also became a pioneer in the assessment of congenital heart disease. He described the clinical applications of intravenous angiocardiography in 1937. Meanwhile in Mexico, Dr Ignacio Chavez founded the National Institute of Cardiology in 1944 in Mexico City. It was the first center in the world to be exclusively devoted to cardiology. From this center, Victor Rubio and Hugo Limon performed the first therapeutic cardiac catheterization in 1953. Meanwhile, Professor Euriclydes Zerbini from Sao Paulo, Brazil, built the largest and most important school of cardiac surgeons in South America. In Santiago, Chile, the Calvo Makenna Hospital was the center where Helmut Jaegger operated on the first infant with extracorporeal circulation in Latin America in 1956. The patient was a 1-month-old baby, with complete transposition of the great arteries, who underwent an Albert procedure. Currently, there are many fully equipped centers all over the region, capable of dealing with most lesions and of providing excellent medical, interventional, and surgical treatment. Outcomes have improved substantially over the last 20 years. These achievements have gone beyond our pioneers' dreams. However, many neonates and young infants die prior to surgery because referral centers are overburdened and have long surgical waiting lists. Clearly, we still have to mastermind and establish sustainable public health policies to overcome these challenges.
CD8α+ plasmacytoid precursor DCs induce antigen-specific regulatory T cells that enhance HSC engraftment in vivo
Authors: Huang Yiming , Bozulic Larry D. , Miller Thomas , Xu Hong , Hussain Lala-Rukh , Ildstad Suzanne T.
Published: December 2010

CD8-positive/T-cell receptor–negative (CD8+/TCR−) graft facilitating cells (FCs) are a novel cell population in bone marrow that potently enhance engraftment of hemopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Previously, we showed that the CD11c+/B220+/CD11b− plasmacytoid-precursor dendritic cell (p-preDC) FC subpopulation plays a critical but nonredundant role in facilitation. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of FC function. We report that FCs induce antigen-specific CD4+/CD25+/FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in vivo. The majority of chimeric Tregs were recipient derived. Chimeric Tregs harvested at ≥ 4 weeks after transplantation significantly enhanced engraftment of donor- and recipient-derived HSCs, but not third-party HSCs, in conditioned secondary recipients, demonstrating antigen specificity. Although Tregs were present 2 and 3 weeks after transplantation, they did not enhance engraftment. In contrast, week 5 and greater Tregs potently enhanced engraftment. The function of chimeric Tregs was directly correlated with the development of FoxP3 expression. Chimeric Tregs also induced significantly stronger suppression of T-cell proliferation to donor antigen in vitro. Removal of p-preDC FCs resulted in impaired engraftment of allogeneic HSCs and failure to produce chimeric Tregs, suggesting that the CD8α+ p-preDC subpopulation is critical in the mechanism of facilitation. These data suggest that FCs induce the production of antigen-specific Tregs in vivo, which potently enhance engraftment of allogeneic HSCs. FCs hold clinical potential because of their ability to remain tolerogenic in vivo.
A randomized comparison of 4 courses of standard-dose multiagent chemotherapy versus 3 courses of high-dose cytarabine alone in postremission therapy for acute myeloid leukemia in adults: the JALSG AML201 Study
Authors: Miyawaki Shuichi , Ohtake Shigeki , Fujisawa Shin , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Shinagawa Katsuji , Usui Noriko , Sakura Toru , Miyamura Koichi , Nakaseko Chiaki , Miyazaki Yasushi , Fujieda Atsushi , Nagai Tadashi , Yamane Takahisa , Taniwaki Masafumi , Takahashi Masatomo , Yagasaki Fumiharu , Kimura Yukihiko , Asou Norio , Sakamaki Hisashi , Handa Hiroshi , Honda Sumihisa , Ohnishi Kazunori , Naoe Tomoki , Ohno Ryuzo
Published: December 2010

We conducted a prospective randomized study to assess the optimal postremission therapy for adult acute myeloid leukemia in patients younger than 65 years in the first complete remission. A total of 781 patients in complete remission were randomly assigned to receive consolidation chemotherapy of either 3 courses of high-dose cytarabine (HiDAC, 2 g/m2 twice daily for 5 days) alone or 4 courses of conventional standard-dose multiagent chemotherapy (CT) established in the previous JALSG AML97 study. Five-year disease-free survival was 43% for the HiDAC group and 39% for the multiagent CT group (P = .724), and 5-year overall survival was 58% and 56%, respectively (P = .954). Among the favorable cytogenetic risk group (n = 218), 5-year disease-free survival was 57% for HiDAC and 39% for multiagent CT (P = .050), and 5-year overall survival was 75% and 66%, respectively (P = .174). In the HiDAC group, the nadir of leukocyte counts was lower, and the duration of leukocyte less than 1.0 × 109/L longer, and the frequency of documented infections higher. The present study demonstrated that the multiagent CT regimen is as effective as our HiDAC regimen for consolidation. Our HiDAC regimen resulted in a beneficial effect on disease-free survival only in the favorable cytogenetic leukemia group. This trial was registered at www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/ as #C000000157.
CD137 stimulation enhances the antilymphoma activity of anti-CD20 antibodies
Authors: Kohrt Holbrook E. , Houot Roch , Goldstein Matthew J. , Weiskopf Kipp , Alizadeh Ash A. , Brody Josh , Müller Antonia , Pachynski Russell , Czerwinski Debra , Coutre Steven , Chao Mark P. , Chen Lieping , Tedder Thomas F. , Levy Ronald
Published: December 2010

Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), which is largely mediated by natural killer (NK) cells, is thought to play an important role in the efficacy of rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (mAb) used to treat patients with B-cell lymphomas. CD137 is a costimulatory molecule expressed on a variety of immune cells after activation, including NK cells. In the present study, we show that an anti-CD137 agonistic mAb enhances the antilymphoma activity of rituximab by enhancing ADCC. Human NK cells up-regulate CD137 after encountering rituximab-coated tumor B cells, and subsequent stimulation of these NK cells with anti-CD137 mAb enhances rituximab-dependent cytotoxicity against the lymphoma cells. In a syngeneic murine lymphoma model and in a xenotransplanted human lymphoma model, sequential administration of anti-CD20 mAb followed by anti-CD137 mAb had potent antilymphoma activity in vivo. These results support a novel, sequential antibody approach against B-cell malignancies by targeting first the tumor and then the host immune system.
Circadian Control of Kisspeptin and a Gated GnRH Response Mediate the Preovulatory Luteinizing Hormone Surge
Authors: Williams Wilbur P. , Jarjisian Stephan G. , Mikkelsen Jens D. , Kriegsfeld Lance J.
Published: December 2010

In spontaneously ovulating rodents, the preovulatory LH surge is initiated on the day of proestrus by a timed, stimulatory signal originating from the circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The present studies explored whether kisspeptin is part of the essential neural circuit linking the SCN to the GnRH system to stimulate ovulation in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). Kisspeptin neurons exhibit an estrogen-dependent, daily pattern of cellular activity consistent with a role in the circadian control of the LH surge. The SCN targets kisspeptin neurons via vasopressinergic (AVP), but not vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-ergic, projections. Because AVP administration can only stimulate the LH surge during a restricted time of day, we examined the possibility that the response to AVP is gated at the level of kisspeptin and/or GnRH neurons. Kisspeptin and GnRH activation were assessed after the administration of AVP during the morning (when AVP is incapable of initiating the LH surge) and the afternoon (when AVP injections stimulate the LH surge). Kisspeptin, but not GnRH, cellular activity was up-regulated after morning injections of AVP, suggesting that time-dependent sensitivity to SCN signaling is gated within GnRH but not kisspeptin neurons. In support of this possibility, we found that the GnRH system exhibits pronounced daily changes in sensitivity to kisspeptin stimulation, with maximal sensitivity in the afternoon. Together these studies reveal a novel mechanism of ovulatory control with interactions among the circadian system, kisspeptin signaling, and a GnRH gating mechanism of control.
Prevention of DNA Double-Strand Breaks Induced by Radioiodide-131I in FRTL-5 Thyroid Cells
Authors: Hershman Jerome M. , Okunyan Armen , Rivina Yelena , Cannon Sophie , Hogen Victor
Published: December 2010

Radioiodine-131 released from nuclear reactor accidents has dramatically increased the incidence of papillary thyroid cancer in exposed individuals. The deposition of ionizing radiation in cells results in double-strand DNA breaks (DSB) at fragile sites, and this early event can generate oncogenic rearrangements that eventually cause cancer. The aims of this study were to develop a method to show DNA DSBs induced by 131I in thyroid cells; to test monovalent anions that are transported by the sodium/iodide symporter to determine whether they prevent 131I-induced DSB; and to test other radioprotective agents for their effect on irradiated thyroid cells. Rat FRTL-5 thyroid cells were incubated with 131I. DSBs were measured by nuclear immunofluorescence using antibodies to p53-binding protein 1 or γH2AX. Incubation with 1–10 μCi 131I per milliliter for 90 min resulted in a dose-related increase of DSBs; the number of DSBs increased from a baseline of 4–15% before radiation to 65–90% after radiation. GH3 or CHO cells that do not transport iodide did not develop DSBs when incubated with 131I. Incubation with 20–100 μm iodide or thiocyanate markedly attenuated DSBs. Perchlorate was about 6 times more potent than iodide or thiocyanate. The effects of the anions were much greater when each was added 30–120 min before the 131I. Two natural organic compounds recently shown to provide radiation protection partially prevented DSBs caused by 131I and had an additive effect with perchlorate. In conclusion, we developed a thyroid cell model to quantify the mitogenic effect of 131I. 131I causes DNA DSBs in FRTL-5 cells and had no effect on cells that do not transport iodide. Perchlorate, iodide, and thiocyanate protect against DSBs induced by 131I.
A Method for Approximating Univariate Convex Functions Using Only Function Value Evaluations
Authors: Siem A. Y. D. , Hertog D. den , Hoffmann A. L.
Published: December 2010

In this paper, piecewise-linear upper and lower bounds for univariate convex functions are derived that are only based on function value information. These upper and lower bounds can be used to approximate univariate convex functions. Furthermore, new sandwich algorithms are proposed that iteratively add new input data points in a systematic way until a desired accuracy of the approximation is obtained. We show that our new algorithms that use only function value evaluations converge quadratically under certain conditions on the derivatives. Under other conditions, linear convergence can be shown. Some numerical examples that illustrate the usefulness of the algorithm, including a strategic investment model, are given.
An Exact Algorithm for the Two-Dimensional Strip-Packing Problem
Authors: Boschetti Marco Antonio , Montaletti Lorenza
Published: December 2010

This paper considers the two-dimensional strip-packing problem (2SP) in which a set of rectangular items have to be orthogonally packed, without overlapping, into a strip of a given width and infinite height by minimizing the overall height of the packing. The 2SP is NP-hard in the strong sense and finds many practical applications. We propose reduction procedures, lower and upper bounds, and an exact algorithm for the 2SP. The new lower bounds are both combinatorial bounds and bounds derived from different relaxations of mathematical formulations of the 2SP. The new upper bounds are obtained by constructive heuristics based on different strategies to place the items into the strip. The new exact method is based on a branch-and-bound approach. Computational results on different sets of test problems derived from the literature show the effectiveness of the new lower and upper bounds and of the new exact algorithm.