bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preferential Effect of Premorbid Statins on Atherothrombotic Strokes through Collateral Circulation Enhancement
Authors: Sargento-Freitas Joao , Pagola Jorge , Rubiera Marta , Flores Alan , Silva Fernando , Rodriguez-Luna David , Pineiro Socorro , Alvarez-Sabín Jose , Molina Carlos A. , Ribo Marc
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Endovascular recanalization therapies are an increasingly used strategy for acute cerebral ischemia with heterogeneous clinical outcomes. We aimed to determine the impact of previous medication on ischemic stroke following intra-arterial revascularization therapy. Methods: Consecutive patients receiving intra-arterial reperfusion therapy after an acute intracranial occlusion were analyzed. Premorbid use of antiplatelets, statins, oral antidiabetic drugs, antihypertensive drugs and oral anticoagulants were recorded. Collateral pial circulation (CPC) was scored on initial angiogram. Results: 118 patients were included (mean age 70.4 ± 11 years, 45% female). 66 patients (56%) were cardioembolic, 30 (25%) atherothrombotic, and 22 (19%) other/unknown etiologies. No significant impact of medication was detected in all the series or cardioembolic strokes. However, relevant differences were found among atherothrombotic strokes. The previous use of antiplatelets was associated with smaller infarct volume (64 vs. 170 ml; p = 0.043) whereas premorbid statin predicted reduced infarct volume (64 vs. 215 ml; p = 0.019), clinical improvement (79 vs. 29%; p = 0.016) and good CPC (100 vs. 20%; p = 0.04). Statins were the only medication independently predicting reduced infarct volume and clinical improvement and this effect depended on CPC. Conclusion: Previous use of statins may preferentially benefit patients with atherothrombotic strokes by favoring the development of CPC.
Meaningful Cultural Learning by Imitative Participation: The Case of Abstract Thinking in Primary School
Authors: van Oers Bert
Published: August 2012

The article describes a theory-driven approach to meaningful learning in primary schools, based on the Vygotskian cultural-historical theory of human development and learning. This approach is elaborated into an educational concept called ‘developmental education’ that is implemented in the Netherlands in many primary schools. In this approach, meaningful learning is conceived of as a way of learning through participation in cultural practices emulated in primary schools, which integrates both cultural (conventional) meanings and personal sense of the pupils. The major mission of this developmental education approach is to engage pupils in the creative production of culture in ways that give them access to the culture’s collective memory, mastery of communicative means, and prevent alienation. The article argues that such a type of non-alienating, meaningful cultural learning can be realized optimally when pupils learn to play relevant roles in cultural practices (called ‘imitative participation’) and are assisted to critically appropriate the tools and rules that are required for the accomplishment of these roles. As a case for the illustration of the potentials of the approach, the development of abstract thinking in primary school is analyzed and clarified. Abstract thinking is here taken (following Cassirer) as a way of consistently conceiving from a specific point of view and related to the role a person enacts.
Congenital Long and Short QT Syndromes
Authors: Brenyo Andrew J. , Huang David T. , Aktas Mehmet K.
Published: August 2012

Congenital long and short QT syndromes are familial arrhythmias characterized by derangement of repolarization and a high risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular tachyarrhythmias. With growing understanding of these syndromes in both the medical and lay communities, diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties are increasingly faced by health care providers. Modern genomics has determined the mechanism of arrhythmia induction in these patients, resulting in specific medical therapies and improved risk stratification. This paper reviews the common presentations, genetic etiology, basic evaluation, risk stratification, and therapeutic approach for both syndromes. Particular attention is paid to the effect of the individual syndrome on the cardiac action potential and its correlate the surface 12 lead ECG. In conclusion, patients with long and short QT syndromes are at risk for sudden death, with accurate diagnosis, risk stratification, and resulting appropriate therapy favorably altering their outcome.
The Role of Homeobox Genes in the Development of Placental Insufficiency
Authors: Murthi Padma , Kalionis Bill , Rajaraman Gayathri , Keogh Rosemary J. , Da Silva Costa Fabricio
Published: August 2012

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is an adverse pregnancy outcome associated with significant perinatal and pediatric morbidity and mortality, and an increased risk of chronic disease later in adult life. While a number of maternal, fetal and environmental factors are known causes of IUGR, the majority of IUGR cases are of unknown cause. These IUGR cases are frequently associated with placental insufficiency, possibly as a result of placental maldevelopment. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of abnormal placental development in IUGR associated with placental insufficiency is therefore of increasing importance. Here, we review our understanding of transcriptional control of normal placental development as well as human IUGR associated with placental insufficiency. We also assess the potential for understanding transcriptional control as a means for revealing new molecular targets for the detection, diagnosis and clinical management of IUGR associated with placental insufficiency.
Olmesartan Improves Coronary Flow Reserve of Hypertensive Patients Using Coronary Magnetic Resonance Imaging Compared with Amlodipine
Authors: Toyama Takuji , Sato Chizuru , Koyama Keiko , Kasama Shu , Murakami Jun , Yamashita Eiji , Kawaguchi Ren , Adachi Hitoshi , Hoshizaki Hiroshi , Oshima Shigeru
Published: August 2012

Objectives: Hypertension impairs coronary endothelial cell function, coronary microvascular function and the coronary flow (CF) reserve (CFR). Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) have been reported to possibly improve coronary endothelial function and coronary microvascular function. The purpose of this study was to determine whether treatment with the ARB olmesartan was more effective for improving CFR than the calcium channel blocker amlodipine. Methods: Twenty patients with untreated essential hypertension (M/F = 13/7, aged 55.6 ± 11.6 years) were randomly assigned to treatment with either olmesartan (n = 10) or amlodipine (n = 10) for 6 months. CF was measured in the proximal left anterior descending artery by magnetic resonance imaging before and during intravenous infusion of adenosine. CFR was calculated as the ratio of the hyperemic to baseline diastolic peak flow before and after 6 months of treatment. Results: The extent of systolic blood pressure reduction was similar in both groups (–40.0 ± 19.1 vs. –48.8 ± 14.7 mm Hg, p = 0.26). The olmesartan group showed significant improvement of CFR (from 1.9 ± 1.0 to 3.1 ± 1.1, p = 0.005), but this did not occur in the amlodipine group. Conclusion: Olmesartan, but not amlodipine, improves CFR in hypertensive patients.
Can Animal Skin Diseases or Current Transgenic Mice Serve as a Model for Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Authors: van der Zee H.H. , Laman J.D. , Prens E.P.
Published: August 2012

The pathogenesis of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is still enigmatic, and a valid animal model for HS is currently not available. The recent discovery of γ-secretase mutations in a subpopulation of patients with HS suggested γ-secretase transgenic mice as a model for HS pathogenesis. However, the discrepancies between human HS and these mice are daunting. We critically review cases of animal HS and transgenic γ-secretase mouse models for HS and discuss the criteria which should be met for a representative pathogenic model.
In vitro and in vivo Protection against Indomethacin-Induced Small Intestinal Injury by Proton Pump Inhibitors, Acid Pump Antagonists, or Indomethacin-Phosphatidylcholine
Authors: Lim Yun Jeong , Phan Tri M. , Dial Elizabeth J. , Graham David Y. , Lichtenberger Lenard M.
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used to prevent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced peptic ulcers. NSAIDs produce small intestinal injury and some PPIs have been reported to protect against NSAID-induced small bowel injury in rats. The aim of this study was to compare PPIs, revaprazan, and phosphatidylcholine-associated indomethacin (Indo-PC) for protection against indomethacin (Indo)-induced small bowel injury. Methods: Rat intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6) were pretreated with omeprazole, lansoprazole, or revaprazan prior to exposure to Indo or Indo-PC. Cell viability was assessed by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. Omeprazole, lansoprazole, or revaprazan was administered orally to rats prior to the vehicle or Indo. Indo-PC was administered alone. After 24 h, small intestinal erosions were counted; intestinal bleeding was assessed as the hemoglobin concentration of small intestinal fluid. Results: Omeprazole, lansoprazole, and revaprazan did not protect against Indo-induced IEC-6 cell injury. Indo-PC was less damaging in vitro than Indo alone. In vivo, neither omeprazole nor lansoprazole protected against Indo-induced small bowel injury; however, revaprazan pretreatment and Indo-PC resulted in significantly fewer erosions (>50% reduction) or bleeding (>80% reduction). Conclusion: PPIs showed no small bowel protective effect in vitro or in vivo. Revaprazan showed a small bowel protective effect in vivo, whereas Indo-PC was protective both in vitro and in vivo.
Coexisting Large and Small Vessel Disease in Patients with Ischemic Stroke of Undetermined Cause
Authors: Chatzikonstantinou A. , Krissak R. , Schaefer A. , Schoenberg S.O. , Fink C. , Hennerici M.G.
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose: Large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) and small vessel disease (SVD) share common risk factors for stroke. We aimed at investigating the association of SVD with cerebral LAA as well as with atherosclerosis in patients with stroke likely to originate from aortic plaques. Methods: We investigated 71 consecutive patients (48 men, mean age 64.2 ± 13 years) with ischemic stroke of undetermined cause according to the ASCO classification, who received ECG-triggered CT angiography for best available atherosclerotic plaque detection in the aorta. Results: Aortic atherosclerotic plaques were detected in 54 patients (76.1%). The presence of SVD significantly correlated with the presence of aortic plaques (p < 0.001), as well as LAA (p < 0.001) and risk factors such as arterial hypertension (p = 0.032) and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.017). Conclusions: Aortic plaques are common in patients with stroke of undetermined cause. If so, SVD and LAA are often coexisting, which demonstrates the close link of macro- and microangiopathy, at least in cases of severe risk factors of atherosclerosis.
Early Inflammatory Markers for Prediction of Cholestasis in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants
Authors: DeMauro Sara B. , Kilpatrick Laurie E. , Gerdes Jeffrey S. , Abbasi Soraya
Published: August 2012

Background: Neonatal cholestasis is associated with increased mortality and other adverse outcomes. There are no tools for prediction of infants at risk for cholestasis. Objective: To determine if cholestasis in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants is associated with alterations in cytokines or C-reactive protein (CRP) and, if so, whether inflammatory markers predict which infants will develop cholestasis. Methods: VLBW infants expected to be on parenteral nutrition for >7 days were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Infants with direct bilirubin ≥1.0 mg/dl were considered to have a high risk for cholestasis and were compared to infants who never developed direct bilirubin ≥1.0 mg/dl. Standard descriptive statistics were used to compare biomarkers over time. Multivariable models were used to estimate associations between early inflammatory markers and cholestasis. Results: Of 63 infants enrolled, 29 were at risk for cholestasis. CRP was highly correlated with direct bilirubin. Infants in the high-risk group had significantly higher IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 at 2, 4, and 6 weeks and CRP at 2 and 6 weeks. In logistic models, CRP (OR = 4.97, p = 0.02) or IL-1β (OR = 1.11, p = 0.008) at 2 weeks of age was predictive of cholestasis. In linear mixed-effects models, CRP (p < 0.001) or IL-6 (p = 0.02) and IL-8 (p < 0.001) were predictive of cholestasis. Conclusion: Elevated CRP and cytokines are associated with cholestasis in VLBW infants. These inflammatory markers are candidates for further research into the pathogenesis, prediction, and prevention of cholestasis.
Thyroid Function in Fetuses with Down Syndrome
Authors: Luton Dominique , Azria Elie , Polak Michel , Carré Aurore , Vuillard Edith , Delezoide Anne Lise , Guibourdenche Jean
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: A mild increase in thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone; TSH) is common among Down syndrome patients but is rarely detected by neonatal screening at birth. We hypothesized that Down syndrome was associated with fetal hypothyroidism and tried to determine whether Down syndrome fetuses had evidence of hypothyroidism. Methods: We performed a prospective observational study on 13 fetuses with Down syndrome diagnosed prenatally. TSH and free thyroxine (FT4) levels were measured in fetal blood. The results were analyzed and compared with the findings from fetal sonography and histopathology. Results: Of the 13 fetuses, 6 had TSH values greater than the 95th percentile, and FT4 values were low. None of the fetuses had sonographic evidence of goiter. The thyroids were normal by gross examination but exhibited small follicles and histological features suggesting delayed maturation. Conclusion: The absence of goiter even in fetuses with hyperthyrotropinemia suggests a mild decrease in TSH responsiveness.
Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents with Growth Hormone Deficiency: Association with Growth Hormone Treatment
Authors: Geisler Alexandra , Lass Nina , Reinsch Nicole , Uysal Yvonne , Singer Viola , Ravens-Sieberer Ulrike , Reinehr Thomas
Published: August 2012

Background: Quality of life (QoL) as it is related with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a matter of controversy. Methods: We analyzed QoL in 95 children aged 8–18 years with isolated GHD (72% male) treated with growth hormone (GH). These children were compared to 190 age- and gender-matched healthy children with similar height [height <10th percentile; control group 1 (CG1)] and age- and gender-matched 285 healthy children of normal stature (control group 2: CG2). QoL was measured by the KINDL® questionnaire referring to six domains (physical well-being, emotional well-being, self-esteem, family, friends, and school). Results: QoL was significantly reduced in CG1 (effect-size 0.21) compared to CG2, while QoL was not significantly altered in children with GHD. In multiple linear regression analyses adjusted to age, gender, BMI, migration background, and socioeconomic status, decreasing height-SDS was associated with poorer QoL (especially emotional well-being), and treatment with GH was related significantly to better self-esteem. Increase of height-SDS in children treated with GH was associated positively with QoL and all its subscales except family and school. Conclusions: These findings suggest psychological consequences of short stature in children and an improvement of QoL in children treated with GH with the focus on self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Non-Circular Shape of Right Ventricular Outflow Tract
Authors: Izumo Masaki , Shiota Maiko , Saitoh Takeji , Kuwahara Eiji , Fukuoka Yoko , Gurudevan Swaminatha V. , Tolstrup Kirsten , Siegel Robert J. , Shiota Takahiro
Published: August 2012

Background—

The shape of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) has been assumed to be circular. The aim of this study was to assess RVOT morphology using 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE).

Methods and Results—

This prospective study included 114 patients who underwent 3D TEE. Two-dimensional (2D) TEE measured maximum and minimum RVOT diameters (RVOTD max and min) during a cardiac cycle. 3D TEE determined RVOT area (RVOTA) max and min, RVOT fractional area change, and RVOT shape index (RVOTSI; vertical/horizontal RVOTD). Cardiac output (CO) was calculated using 2D TEE, 3D TEE, and a Swan-Ganz catheter in 23 patients. All patients were classified into group 1 (RVOTSI ≤1) or group 2 (RVOTSI >1) based on the RVOT shapes. The mean RVOTSIs were 0.84±0.21(max) and 0.82±0.20 (min). Only 17 patients (14.9%) had circular RVOT (RVOTSI: 0.95–1.05); 82 patients (71.9%) were categorized into group 1 and 32 patients (28.1%) into group 2. 2D TEE, compared with 3D TEE, underestimated RVOTA max and min (both
P
<0.001). CO with 3D TEE had better agreement with CO with a catheter than CO with 2D TEE (
r
=0.83 and 0.53, respectively).

Conclusions—

3D TEE revealed that RVOT geometry was not generally circular but oval with 2 different types. Because of the detailed morphological information of RVOT, 3D TEE could provide more accurate assessment of CO than 2D TEE.
Mir-24 Regulates Junctophilin-2 Expression in Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Xu Ming , Wu Hao-Di , Li Rong-Chang , Zhang Hai-Bo , Wang Meng , Tao Jin , Feng Xin-Heng , Guo Yun-Bo , Li Su-Fang , Lai Shao-Ting , Zhou Peng , Li Lin-Lin , Yang Hua-Qian , Luo Guan-Zheng , Bai Yan , Xi Jianzhong J. , Gao Wei , Han Qi-De , Zhang You-Yi , Wang Xiu-Jie , Meng Xu , Wang Shi-Qiang
Published: August 2012

Rationale:

Failing cardiomyocytes exhibit decreased efficiency of excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling. The downregulation of junctophilin-2 (JP2), a protein anchoring the sarcoplasmic reticulum to T-tubules, has been identified as a major mechanism underlying the defective E-C coupling. However, the regulatory mechanism of JP2 remains unknown.

Objective:

To determine whether microRNAs regulate JP2 expression.

Methods and Results:

Bioinformatic analysis predicted 2 potential binding sites of miR-24 in the 3′-untranslated regions of JP2 mRNA. Luciferase assays confirmed that miR-24 suppressed JP2 expression by binding to either of these sites. In the aortic stenosis model, miR-24 was upregulated in failing cardiomyocytes. Adenovirus-directed overexpression of miR-24 in cardiomyocytes decreased JP2 expression and reduced Ca
2+
transient amplitude and E-C coupling gain.

Conclusions:

MiR-24–mediated suppression of JP2 expression provides a novel molecular mechanism for E-C coupling regulation in heart cells and suggests a new target against heart failure.
Physical Activity and Inflammatory Markers Over 10 Years
Authors: Hamer Mark , Sabia Severine , Batty G. David , Shipley Martin J. , Tabák Adam G. , Singh-Manoux Archana , Kivimaki Mika
Published: August 2012

Background—

Inflammatory processes are putative mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effects of physical activity. An inverse association between physical activity and inflammation has been demonstrated, but no long-term prospective data are available. We therefore examined the association between physical activity and inflammatory markers over a 10-year follow-up period.

Methods and Results—

Participants were 4289 men and women (mean age, 49.2 years) from the Whitehall II cohort study. Self-reported physical activity and inflammatory markers (serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and interleukin-6) were measured at baseline (1991) and follow-up (2002). Forty-nine percent of the participants adhered to standard physical activity recommendations for cardiovascular health (2.5 h/wk moderate to vigorous physical activity) across all assessments. Physically active participants at baseline had lower C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels, and this difference remained stable over time. Compared with participants who rarely adhered to physical activity guidelines over the 10-year follow-up, the high-adherence group displayed lower log
e
C-reactive protein (β=−0.07; 95% confidence interval, −0.12 to −0.02) and log
e
interleukin-6 (β=−0.07; 95% confidence interval, −0.10 to −0.03) at follow-up after adjustment for a range of covariates. Compared with participants who remained stable, those who reported an increase in physical activity of at least 2.5 h/wk displayed lower log
e
C-reactive protein (β coefficient=−0.05; 95% confidence interval, −0.10 to −0.001) and log
e
interleukin-6 (β coefficient=−0.06; 95% confidence interval, −0.09 to −0.03) at follow-up.

Conclusions—

Regular physical activity is associated with lower markers of inflammation over 10 years of follow-up and thus may be important in preventing the proinflammatory state seen with aging.
Automatic Orchestration in Practice
Authors: Carpentier Grégoire , Daubresse Eric , Garcia Vitoria Marc , Sakai Kenji , Villanueva Fernando
Published: August 2012

We report here on the recent use of the Orchidée software by three different young composers in various compositional and instrumental contexts. Orchidée is a computer-aided orchestration environment designed to aid musicians exploring the space of instrument timbre mixtures and finding timbre combinations that fit a set of user-specified perceptual requirements. The first beta version of the software was released by the Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique's (IRCAM's) Music Representations Group in 2009, after four years of intensive research, and it can already handle a small range of real-life situations, typically timbre imitation or orchestral synthesis, under instrumental constraints. Detailed examples, including score and audio excerpts, are provided.
A Multidimensional Environment for the Exploration of Musical Content
Authors: Tardón Lorenzo J. , Sammartino Simone , Barbancho Isabel , Barbancho Ana M.
Published: August 2012

In this article a multidimensional environment is defined to allow the exploration of musical content in a novel way by means of three-dimensional interfaces. The environment is created so that musical content can be located in a comprehensive space in which the world coordinates are related to music genres.

To this end, the songs in a database are analyzed, and a description of their spectral content is obtained. These descriptions are then projected onto six vectors, previously determined, that represent six main genres defining a global space with six dimensions. These projected representations are useful to create a multidimensional world in which the relations, orientation, and motion will be readily intelligible to users.
Environmental Disclosure
Authors: Lyon Thomas P. , Shimshack Jay P.
Published: August 2012

Corporate-level environmental information disclosure is increasingly common. This article studies the impact of a prominent media-generated sustainability ratings program, Newsweek’s 2009 ranking of the 500 largest U.S. firms. Using an event study methodology, the authors find the rankings had a significant impact on shareholder value. Firms in the top 100 experienced abnormal returns after the information release that were 0.6%–1.0% higher than returns of firms in the bottom 400. The form of the information released had significant effects as well. Nuanced environmental score variables had no independent impact on market outcomes; only the final ranking mattered. This article also explores possible channels through which the rankings may have had their impact. The authors find suggestive evidence that private and public politics mechanisms were the most important.
Everyday working life: Explaining within-person fluctuations in employee well-being
Authors: Xanthopoulou Despoina , Bakker Arnold B , Ilies Remus
Published: August 2012

Even workers who are generally happy at work can suffer short-term losses of enthusiasm and fulfilment. Short-term fluctuations matter because they can better explain work-related well-being (e.g. work engagement, flow, positive affect or passion), employees’ relations with other people at work (e.g. co-workers, clients), life outside work, and ultimately productivity. This article reviews what we know about short-term variations in employee well-being and highlights new theoretical assumptions and results from the seven articles in this special issue. The articles identify key psychological mechanisms involved in explaining within-person changes in well-being, including the ways in which people appraise events at work, the importance of humour, the sense of hope, and the balance between skills and challenges. Interventions that offer leadership training and cultivate signature strengths at work can also be effective in enhancing employee well-being. Boosting short-term well-being can make a big difference to employees and organizations.
Ballistic Missiles and International Conflict
Authors: Mettler Simon A. , Reiter Dan
Published: August 2012

Governments are concerned about the dangers posed by ballistic missiles. However, there is almost no theoretical or empirical scholarship on ballistic missiles. This article presents and tests the conventional wisdom that the spread of ballistic missiles makes conflict more likely. Original data on ballistic missiles and on crisis initiation is collected, and analysis using a variety of statistical models is conducted. It is found that among all directed dyads from 1946 to 2007, potential challengers possessing ballistic missiles are significantly more likely to initiate international crises. Further, potential targets armed with ballistic missiles are significantly less likely to be challenged. Crises are less likely to escalate when targets are armed with missiles. The results are obtained after accounting for several control variables. Analysis reveals that the findings are not affected by possible endogeneity bias. The analysis also reveals complex interactive effects between ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons on the onset of international crises.
Place-taking and Place-making in Waterfront Renewal, Australia
Authors: Oakley Susan , Johnson Louise
Published: August 2012

Globally, waterfronts have been used for trade, waste disposal, leisure and most recently for urban spectacle and lifestyle housing. While this has been explored in urban studies research, its relation to imperialism and colonisation has not. Waterfronts were often the entry points of imperial occupancy, trade and industry. Contestation over their value and use is integral to their constitution as landscapes, as place-taking becomes part of their place-making. Drawing on Adelaide and Melbourne, Australia, these sites register culturally specific imprints connected to the colonisation process. For Indigenous Australians, sea country was indistinguishable from land, but subsequent and current imperial transformations of land and water use have rendered benign an Indigenous presence through its symbolic re-presentation. This post-colonial reading will correlate the divide between land and water with those who have the imperial and class power to define this elemental boundary thus adding a new dimension to waterfront research.
Practices of Exception in Urban Governance: Reconfiguring Power Inside the State
Authors: Baptista Idalina
Published: August 2012

Supported on the analysis of a case study from Portugal (the Polis Programme), the article analyses the use of legal practices of exception in urban governance to explore the on-going reconfiguration of relationships within the state. A growing number of studies address how practices of exception shape state–society relationships, but little attention has been paid to how they shape the relationships among those governing while eliciting antagonisms from dissenting state actors. Findings suggest that legal practices of exception reconfigure the relationships within the state because, by default, they seek to redefine the field of government through a redistribution of power. The article illustrates different ways in which state actors attempt to resist practices of exception in everyday practice and concludes with a discussion of three paradoxes of their use in urban governance. The article reasserts the relevance of studying the role of the law and of the bureaucracy in urban governance.
Effect of High vs Standard Early Parenteral Amino Acid Supplementation on the Growth Outcomes in Very Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Yang Sami , Lee Byong Sop , Park Hye‐Won , Choi Yong‐Sung , Jeong Seong‐Hun , Kim Ji‐Hee , Kim Ellen Ai‐Rhan , Kim Ki‐Soo
Published: August 2012

Background: The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of 2 different strategies for parenteral amino acid (AA) supplementation in the range of standard doses (>1.0–1.5 g/kg/d) on growth outcomes in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Materials and Methods: The unit policy of AA doses on the first day of life changed from 1.5 g/kg/d (n = 56; standard protein group, SP, in 2008) to 3.0 g/kg/d (n = 53; high protein group, HP, in 2009) with a daily advance to a target dose of 3.5–4.0 g/kg/d. Daily nutritive and laboratory profiles were collected for the initial 14 days, and patient weight, height, and head circumference on postnatal day 14 and again at 36 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months of corrected age were evaluated. Results: During the first 14 days, AA intake was greater in the HP group than in the SP group (2.9 ± 0.4 vs 2.6 ± 0.4 g/kg/d, P < .001). The HP group demonstrated a lower peak plasma glucose level during the first 3 days (116 ± 24 vs 137 ± 39 mg/dL) and a higher serum urea nitrogen level for the first 14 postnatal days than the SP group (19.2 ± 7.0 vs 14.8 ± 6.7 mg/dL) (both P < .01). From birth to postnatal 14 days and to 36 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months of corrected age, the z score changes in all growth parameters did not differ between the 2 groups. Conclusion: In the range of the standard AA protocol, there was no dose‐response relationship between the early AA doses and the growth outcomes in VLBW infants.
Nonlinear multi-objective receding horizon design utilizing state-dependent formulation
Authors: Gao Chen , Liu Hugh HT
Published: August 2012

The art of multi-objective design is to extract the best compromise among conflicting requirements. The analytical multi-objective parameter synthesis adopts closed-form specifications that make the multi-objective design in linear systems computationally efficient. In this paper, the analytical multi-objective parameter synthesis method is extended to nonlinear systems via the state-dependent coefficients parametrization method in combination with the receding horizon control technique. The novel contributions presented in this paper are demonstrated on two fronts. First, the objective functions in infinite-time domain are replaced by equivalent finite-time functions with certain terminal terms, where the analytical formulations for the finite-time functions are made available and offer a computationally cost-effective approach. Second, the stability is addressed by adopting the receding horizon control technique. In addition, the proposed design approach shows benefits over the conventional nonlinear optimal control method. Two numerical examples further demonstrate the promising features of the proposed design framework.
Second-order sliding mode controllers: an experimental comparative study on a mechatronic actuator
Authors: Harmouche Mohamed , Laghrouche Salah , Ahmed Fayez Shakil , Bagdouri Mohammed El
Published: August 2012

Numerous advanced control techniques for actuator control of an engine’s air path have been developed in recent years. Among these approaches, the performance of sliding mode controllers stands out due to their robustness against changes in the physical conditions around the engine. This paper presents the design and testing of three high-order sliding mode controllers and a comparison of their performance in controlling a mechatronic engine air path valve. The most effective strategies are further tested for their robustness against variations in temperature and load conditions. The experimental results show the effectiveness and robustness of the controllers. Comparative results are presented that allow the performance of the considered algorithms to be compared both with respect to each other and with respect to sliding surfaces.
Major altitudinal shifts in Andean vegetation on the Amazonian flank show temporary loss of biota in the Holocene
Authors: González-Carranza Zaire , Hooghiemstra Henry , Vélez María Isabel
Published: August 2012

The Lateglacial and Holocene vegetation history from the Amazonian flank of the south Colombian Andes has been studied in a 12 m long sediment core from Lake La Cocha (2780 m altitude). 18 AMS 14C ages and 550 pollen samples yielded a history of a ~25 yr resolution. Montane forest extended up to 2200 m during the Lateglacial and shifted during a 10,000 yr period with millennial-scale and centennial-scale variability superimposed, to its present-day limit at 3550 m. We hypothesise that Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)-modulated trans-Amazonian moisture flows are an important driver of forest dynamics but influence of ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) variability after 7000 yr BP may also be reflected in the record. Quasi-forest stability lasted for maximally 200 to 600 years. Upslope forest shifts up to 300 m/100 yr, reflecting a 1.5°C temperature increase were common during the Holocene. During several intervals of fastest forest migration the subpáramo disappeared for short intervals of time, suggesting that upslope forest migration exceeded the migration capacity of the subpáramo biome. From Lateglacial time onwards a suite of arboreal taxa show successive upslope expansion events, suggesting internal forest dynamics during the shift of residence areas from their glacial to Holocene altitudinal intervals. Logging, preferentially Podocarpus, frequent fires, forest disturbance and changes of the diatom flora in the lake suggest strong human impact after 1405 cal. yr BP.
Postforeclosure Mobility for Households with Children in Public Schools
Authors: Allen Ryan
Published: August 2012

Foreclosure likely results in substantial residential instability, but very few research efforts have attempted to quantify this residential instability or understand the effects of the residential instability caused by foreclosures as a distinct phenomenon. Using a unique data set of households with children enrolled in public schools that experienced a foreclosure in Minneapolis, Minnesota, between July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2007, this article assesses the postforeclosure mobility patterns of households. Research findings indicate that more than 90% of households in the sample moved and one-third exited the Minneapolis Public School system following a foreclosure. Economic deprivation was associated with reduced household mobility following a foreclosure regardless of housing tenure. Households that remained in Minneapolis following a foreclosure tended to move to neighborhoods with similar characteristics as their former neighborhoods but with elevated poverty levels and racial segregation in comparison to the city overall.
Estimation of Lyapunov exponents from multibody dynamics in differential-algebraic form
Authors: Masarati Pierangelo
Published: August 2012

This article discusses the estimation of Lyapunov characteristic exponents related to the solution of non-linear multibody dynamics problems expressed in the form of systems of differential–algebraic equations. Current literature on the topic projects the differential–algebraic equations in the state space of the underlying strangeness free ordinary differential equations. This article shows how Lyapunov exponents can be successfully estimated with the discrete QR method directly applied to the matrix pencil associated to the differential–algebraic equations, using algorithmically dissipative multistep methods. Numerical results show the soundness of the proposed approach.
Uneasy being English: The significance of class for English national sentiments
Authors: Mann Robin
Published: August 2012

The contemporary forms of English identity and nationalism have received sustained attention since the late 1990s. Much of this attention has been framed in terms of English responses to recent constitutional changes in the UK, particularly Scottish and Welsh devolution in 1997. In this paper, I try to understand contemporary sentiments towards Englishness less in terms of political change, and more in terms of its relationship to class. Drawing on qualitative interviews with the ethnic majority respondents, I demonstrate the associations people make between class, inequality and exclusion and being English. In particular, I identify both a decline in social deference and an increase in contempt towards a so-called underclass in people’s talk about being English. In reflecting on this, I suggest that part of the explanation for why people are uneasy about identifying with ‘being English’ relates to an absence of an equal sense of English national membership.
Endovascular Management of Saphenous Vein Graft Aneurysm
Authors: Stone Patrick A , Lewis Stephen A. , Campbell John E. , Baker Nicholas , Phang David , Deel John T
Published: August 2012

Treatment of vein graft aneurysms can be achieved by redo coronary reconstructions or by transcatheter techniques. Coronary interventions infrequently use large diameter devices, that is, ≥6 mm, and peripheral vascular interventionalists are well versed with this size technology. We report a multidisciplinary approach with technical tips for treating this uncommon pathology using 2 peripheral polytetrafluroethylene stents using a modified guide catheter.
Identification of a TLR2-stimulating lipoprotein in Bacteroides fragilis JCM 11019 (NCTC 9343)
Authors: Hashimoto Masahito , Eguchi Haruka , Tawaratsumida Kazuki , Kirikae Teruo , Suda Yasuo
Published: August 2012

Bacteroides fragilis is found among the normal intestinal flora and is involved in host immunostimulation via TLR2. Its cell surface components, such as LPS and capsular polysaccharides, were reported to participate in host immunostimulation. In this study, we report on the existence of a lipoprotein that acts as a TLR2 stimulant in B. fragilis. The TLR2-stimulating lipoprotein was obtained using Triton X-114-water phase partitioning followed by preparative SDS-PAGE. Its N-terminal hydrophobic peptide, which was separated from a tryptic digest, was characterized as a triacylated lipopeptide, and the lipoprotein was identified as BF1333 by mass spectrometry of Asp-N-digested peptides. These results showed that the lipoprotein acts as a TLR2-stimulating component in B. fragilis.
Pseudoalteromonas strains are potent immunomodulators owing to low-stimulatory LPS
Authors: Maaetoft-Udsen Kristina , Vynne Nikolaj , Heegaard Peter MH , Gram Lone , Frøkiær Hanne
Published: August 2012

Many species of marine bacteria elicit a weak immune response. In this study, the aim was to assess the immunomodulatory properties of Gram-negative Pseudoalteromonas strains compared with other marine Gram-negative bacteria and to identify the molecular cause of the immunomodulation. Using murine bone-marrow derived dendritic cells (DCs), it was found that Pseudoalteromonas strains induced low cytokine production and modest up-regulation of surface markers CD40 and CD86 compared with other marine bacteria and Escherichia coli LPS . Two strains, Ps. luteoviolacea and Ps. ruthenica, were further investigated with respect to their immunomodulatory properties in DCs. Both inhibited IL-12 and increased IL-10 production induced by E. coli LPS. LPS isolated from the two Pseudoalteromonas strains had characteristic lipid A bands in SDS-PAGE. Stimulation of HEK293 TLR4/MD2 cells with the isolated LPS confirmed the involvement of LPS and TLR4 and established Pseudoalteromonas LPS as TLR4 antagonists. The isolated LPS was active in the endotoxin limulus amoebocyte lysate assay and capable of inducing increased endocytosis in DCs. This study highlights that antagonistic LPS from Pseudoalteromonas strains has potential as a new candidate of therapeutic agent capable of modulating immune responses.
Improving health and well-being through community health champions: a thematic evaluation of a programme in Yorkshire and Humber
Authors: Woodall James , White Judy , South Jane
Published: August 2012

Aims:

The contribution that lay people can make to the public health agenda is being increasingly recognised in research and policy literature. This paper examines the role of lay workers (referred to as ‘community health champions’) involved in community projects delivered by Altogether Better across Yorkshire and Humber. The aim of the paper is to describe key features of the community health champion approach and to examine the evidence that this type of intervention can have an impact on health.

Methods:

A qualitative approach was taken to the evaluation, with two strands to gathering evidence: interviews conducted with different stakeholder groups including project leads, key partners from community and statutory sectors and community workers, plus two participatory workshops to gather the views of community health champions. Seven projects (from a possible 12) were identified to be involved in the evaluation. Those projects that allowed the evaluation team to explore fully the champion role (training, infrastructure, etc.) and how that works in practice as a mechanism for empowerment were selected. In total, 29 semi-structured interviews were conducted with project staff and partners, and 30 champions, varying in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and disability, took part in the workshops.

Results:

Becoming a community health champion has health benefits such as increased self-esteem and confidence and improved well-being. For some champions, this was the start of a journey to other opportunities such as education or paid employment. There were many examples of the influence of champions extending to the wider community of family, friends and neighbours, including helping to support people to take part in community life. Champions recognised the value of connecting people through social networks, group activities, and linking people into services and the impact that that had on health and well-being. Project staff and partners also recognised that champions were promoting social cohesiveness and helping to integrate people into their community.

Conclusions:

The recent public health White Paper suggested that the Altogether Better programme is improving individual and community health as well as increasing social capital, voluntary activity and wider civic participation. This evaluation supports this statement and suggests that the community health champion role can be a catalyst for change for both individuals and communities.
On laser welding of thin steel sheets
Authors: El-Giar E M , Zaeem M Asle , El Kadiri H , Florea R S , Rhee H , Bienvenu Y , Dahmen M , Malot T , Cherkaoui M
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a process–structure–property relationship study of laser welds as a continuous consolidation method for joining thin monophased steel foils, thereby providing a more effective, less costly method to construct automotive catalytic converters. A body centred cubic (bcc) iron–chromium–aluminium alloy doped with Mischmetal was utilised in this study. Both pulsed and continuous wave modes were used to establish the limit welding diagrams for lap joint configuration. Actual laser welding parameters were selected using several testing conditions. The laser welds behaved substantially different from the base material under creep and high temperature oxidation. The difference was mainly attributed to the changes in grain morphology, precipitation of aluminium nitrides and carbides, and relocalisation of the reactive elements during liquid metal flow upon keyhole formation, solidification and cooling.
Influence of film thickness of Ti coating on bonding quality of glass with PET
Authors: Liu H X , Wang K , Zhang C , Li P , Gao Y Y , Hu Y , Wang X
Published: August 2012

Transmission laser bonding of dissimilar and biocompatible materials has a potential application in biomedical implants. The reliability of wafer bonding between polyethylene therephthalate and glass with Ti coating is quite dependent on the surface condition of Ti film. Ti coatings were deposited on glass substrates using radio frequency magnetron sputtering. Ti coatings with different thicknesses between 60 and 150 nm showed varying surface morphology. The effect of film thickness of Ti coating on bonding quality was studied by optical profilometer and true colour confocal microscopy for materials. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study the bonding mechanism by evaluating the formation of chemical bond during laser bonding process. The XPS results give evidence for the formation of Ti–C and Ti–O bonds in the sharp interfacial region. Experimental results show that the film thickness of Ti coating has a significant impact on bonding quality.
Effect of surface textures on friction properties of Al2O3/TiC ceramics
Authors: Xing Y Q , Deng J X , Tan Y Q , Zhou H M
Published: August 2012

Regular surface textures with different geometrical characteristics were made on the surface of Al2O3/TiC ceramic tool materials by laser, and MoS2 solid lubricants were subsequently filled into the textured surfaces. Sliding wear tests were carried out with these textured ceramics. The friction coefficient was measured. The wear surface features of the textured ceramics were examined by SEM. Results show that the friction coefficient of the textured ceramics filled with MoS2 was significantly reduced compared with that of the untextured one and was quite sensitive to the geometrical characteristics of the surface texturing. The textured ceramics with wavy grooves on its surface exhibited the smallest friction coefficient among all the samples tested. The improvement in friction properties of the textured ceramics filled with MoS2 is attributed to several physical mechanisms such as local increase of lubricant supply by reservoir creation and formation of thin lubricating film between the sliding couples.
Structure and properties of PVD coatings deposited on aluminium alloys
Authors: Tański T , Lukaszkowicz* K
Published: August 2012

Investigation results concerning microstructure and mechanical properties of the bilayer coatings are presented in this work. Gradient/monolithic coatings [Ti/Ti(C,N)-gradient/CrN, Cr/CrN-gradient/CrN] were deposited onto the aluminium alloy (Al–Si–Cu) substrate by cathodic arc evaporation method. The microstructure of the achieved layers was examined using TEM and SEM. Change of the chemical composition was measured using a glow discharge optical emission spectrometer. The physical vapour deposition coating structure is composed of small crystallites with an average size between 15 and 20 nm, depending on the coating type. Images (SEM) showed that the deposited coatings are characterised by compact structure without delamination or defects and that they closely adhere to each other. The Ti(C,N)/CrN coatings demonstrate the highest hardness and abrasive wear resistance.
Laser clad corrosion protection for mild and harsh environments
Authors: Mahmood K , Stevens N , Pinkerton A J
Published: August 2012

Corrosion of one type or another occurs in almost every environment and high performance corrosion protection methods are often too expensive to be economically viable. This work examines the performance of protective layers of Inconel 617, laser clad in the form of salvaged machining chips, to protect a corrosive substrate from both mild and harsh environments. The clad layers are investigated for microstructure and phase composition and polarisation measurements used to determine their corrosion resistance in neutral and acidified NaCl electrolyte solutions. The clad microstructure was discovered to be columnar dendritic, with an atypical upper layer. However, neither this nor any dilution by the substrate compromised the corrosion resistance of the Inconel 617, and the clad layer provided very good corrosion protection. The results confirm the viability of using this method as a low cost corrosion protection method for both mild and harsh environments.