bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying graphs from noisy and incomplete data
Authors: Namata Galileo Mark S. , Getoor Lise
Published: November 2010

There is a growing wealth of data describing networks of various types, including social networks, physical networks such as transportation or communication networks, and biological networks. At the same time, there is a growing interest in analyzing these networks, in order to uncover general laws that govern their structure and evolution, and patterns and predictive models to develop better policies and practices. However, a fundamental challenge in dealing with this newly available observational data describing networks is that the data is often of dubious quality -- it is noisy and incomplete -- and before any analysis method can be applied, the data must be cleaned, and missing information inferred. In this paper, we introduce the notion of graph identification, which explicitly models the inference of a "cleaned" output network from a noisy input graph. It is this output network that is appropriate for further analysis. We present an illustrative example and use the example to explore the types of inferences involved in graph identification, as well as the challenges and issues involved in combining those inferences. We then present a simple, general approach to combining the inferences in graph identification and experimentally show the utility of our combined approach and how the performance of graph identification is sensitive to the inter-dependencies among these inferences.
Intragastric administration of capsiate, a transient receptor potential channel agonist, triggers thermogenic sympathetic responses
Authors: Ono Kaori , Tsukamoto-Yasui Masako , Hara-Kimura Yoshiko , Inoue Naohiko , Nogusa Yoshihito , Okabe Yuki , Nagashima Kei , Kato Fusao
Published: November 2010

The sympathetic thermoregulatory system controls the magnitude of adaptive thermogenesis in correspondence with the environmental temperature or the state of energy intake and plays a key role in determining the resultant energy storage. However, the nature of the trigger initiating this reflex arc remains to be determined. Here, using capsiate, a digestion-vulnerable capsaicin analog, we examined the involvement of specific activation of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels within the gastrointestinal tract in the thermogenic sympathetic system by measuring the efferent activity of the postganglionic sympathetic nerve innervating brown adipose tissue (BAT) in anesthetized rats. Intragastric administration of capsiate resulted in a time- and dose-dependent increase in integrated BAT sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) over 180 min, which was characterized by an emergence of sporadic high-activity phases composed of low-frequency bursts. This increase in BAT SNA was abolished by blockade of TRP channels as well as of sympathetic ganglionic transmission and was inhibited by ablation of the gastrointestinal vagus nerve. The activation of SNA was delimited to BAT and did not occur in the heart or pancreas. These results point to a neural pathway enabling the selective activation of the central network regulating the BAT SNA in response to a specific stimulation of gastrointestinal TRP channels and offer important implications for understanding the dietary-dependent regulation of energy metabolism and control of obesity.
Cerebral vasoreactivity during hypercapnia is reset by augmented sympathetic influence
Authors: Zhang Peizhen , Huang Guoyuan , Shi Xiangrong
Published: November 2010

Sympathetic nerve activity influences cerebral blood flow, but it is unknown whether augmented sympathetic nerve activity resets cerebral vasoreactivity to hypercapnia. This study tested the hypothesis that cerebral vasodilation during hypercapnia is restrained by lower-body negative pressure (LBNP)-stimulated sympathoexcitation. Cerebral hemodynamic responses were assessed in nine healthy volunteers [age 25 yr (SD 3)] during rebreathing-induced increases in partial pressure of end-tidal CO2 (PetCO2) at rest and during LBNP. Cerebral hemodynamic responses were determined by changes in flow velocity of middle cerebral artery (MCAV) using transcranial Doppler sonography and in regional cerebral tissue oxygenation (ScO2) using near-infrared spectroscopy. PetCO2 values during rebreathing were similarly increased from 41.9 to 56.5 mmHg at rest and from 40.7 to 56.0 mmHg during LBNP of −15 Torr. However, the rates of increases in MCAV and in ScO2 per unit increase in PetCO2 (i.e., the slopes of MCAV/PetCO2 and ScO2/PetCO2) were significantly ( P ≤0.05) decreased from 2.62 ± 0.16 cm·s−1·mmHg−1 and 0.89 ± 0.10%/mmHg at rest to 1.68 ± 0.18 cm·s−1·mmHg−1 and 0.63 ± 0.07%/mmHg during LBNP. In conclusion, the sensitivity of cerebral vasoreactivity to hypercapnia, in terms of the rate of increases in MCAV and in ScO2, is diminished by LBNP-stimulated sympathoexcitation.
hTERT Overexpression Alleviates Intracellular ROS Production, Improves Mitochondrial Function, and Inhibits ROS-Mediated Apoptosis in Cancer Cells
Authors: Indran Inthrani R. , Hande Manoor P. , Pervaiz Shazib
Published: November 2010

The human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is the catalytic subunit of the telomerase holoenzyme. Evidence is accumulating to link hTERT to activities other than telomere maintenance and immortalization. Here, we show that hTERT overexpression not only reduces the basal cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels but also inhibits endogenous ROS production in response to stimuli that induce intracellular ROS generation. Conversely, siRNA-mediated gene silencing of hTERT potentiated the increase in cellular ROS levels following exposure to oxidative stress. This antioxidant effect of hTERT is mediated via a significant increase in the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione (GSH:GSSG) as well as efficient recovery of the oxidized peroxiredoxin to its nonoxidized form. Our data also provide evidence for mitochondrial localization of hTERT, and a significantly higher activity of cytochrome C oxidase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, in hTERT overexpressing cells. To ascertain whether the improved mitochondrial function and antioxidant effect of hTERT could provide cancer cells with a survival advantage, the effect of oxidative stress on mitochondrial apoptosis was evaluated. Indeed, hTERT overexpressing cells inhibited cytosolic acidification, translocation of Bax, the drop in mitochondrial transmembrane potential, the release of cytochrome C to the cytosol, and cell death. Taken together, these data demonstrate a hitherto undefined role of hTERT in alleviating cellular ROS levels by way of potentiating the cellular antioxidant defense systems, and in doing so endowing cancer cells with the ability to evade death stimuli. Cancer Res; 71(1); 266–76. ©2010 AACR.
Stop and Go FOLFOX plus Bevacizumab Chemotherapy in the First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Vaidyanathan Gayatri , Groman Adrienne , Wilding Gregory , Fakih Marwan G.
Published: November 2010

Background: Infusional 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) plus bevacizumab chemotherapy is commonly implemented in the first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. A stop and go oxaliplatin strategy has been recommended to reduce oxaliplatin-associated neuropathy. Despite the acceptance of this strategy by community and academic practices, efficacy data with this approach are limited. Methods: We analyzed the efficacy of a stop and go FOLFOX regimen combined with bevacizumab in a single institute between January 2007 and December 2009. Oxaliplatin was withdrawn electively after 8 cycles of treatment and patients were maintained on 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin and bevacizumab until progression. When feasible, patients were rechallenged with oxaliplatin upon progression. Results: Sixty-seven patients were treated and analyzed for outcome. The response rate of this group was 58%. The median progression-free and overall survival was 10.6 and 26.7 months, respectively. The median duration of disease control in the 18-patient subgroup that was rechallenged with oxaliplatin was 21.2 months. Conclusions: Elective withdrawal of oxaliplatin after 8 cycles in the setting of FOLFOX and bevacizumab does not appear to compromise the activity of this regimen. A stop and go approach of FOLFOX plus bevacizumab is effective and may reduce treatment costs and toxicity in comparison with a continuous FOLFOX treatment strategy.
Homeostatic Regulation of Iron and Its Role in Normal and Abnormal Iron Status in Infancy and Childhood
Authors: Lönnerdal Bo , Hernell Olle
Published: November 2010

Iron is important in neurodevelopment and cognitive function, and globally preventing iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia remains a high priority. Term breast-fed infants and infants fed an iron-fortified formula usually have a satisfactory iron status during the first 6 months of life, but there are still ambiguities in assessing iron status in infants and how to properly meet their iron requirements. This is particularly evident for preterm infants, who are born with low iron stores, and for whom recommendations for iron provision vary considerably. In part, this may be due to immaturity in the regulation of iron homeostasis in young infants. Whereas 9-month-old infants appear to be able to downregulate iron absorption when being iron replete, 6-month-old infants cannot do this. Iron may be provided as drops or in iron-fortified products, but the forms provided may be metabolized differently, and excess iron in drops may cause adverse effects, possibly due to a limited ability to regulate iron absorption in young infants. Adverse effects are manifested by decreased growth: in well-nourished infants by reduced gain in length, in poorly nourished populations by lower gain in weight. The mechanism behind the decreased growth is not known, but it may involve free radical-mediated effects of iron or an interaction with zinc absorption/homeostasis. It therefore seems that iron drops should not be given to iron-replete infants.
Dialyzers Designed to Increase Internal Filtration Do Not Result in Significantly Increased Platelet Activation and Thrombin Generation
Authors: Vernon Katherine , Peasegood Joanne , Riddell Anne , Davenport Andrew
Published: November 2010

Introduction: To increase middle molecule clearances, high-flux dialyzers with increased internal filtration have been developed. However, dialyzer design and structure may affect thrombin generation and platelet activation, thereby risking increased clotting and reduced dialyzer clearances. Methods: Coagulation parameters, platelet, white cell and endothelial activation markers were measured prior to and following dialysis sessions in 12 patients using two different dialyzers designed for increased internal filtration. Results: Prior to dialysis, patients had evidence of activation of coagulation with increased factor VIII:C, thrombin-antithrombin complexes and prothrombin fragment 1+2, increased platelet activation, with raised platelet factor 4, β-thromboglobulin levels and increased fibrinolysis (raised D-dimers). Dialysis was associated with the release of soluble platelet integrin, sP selectin, increased endothelial activation with increased levels of von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen (vWF:Ag) and vWF propeptide (vWF:pp) and sE selectin. There was no difference in tinzaparin levels at the end of the dialysis session using either dialyzer, as shown by anti-Xa activity – 0.145 ± 0.027 versus 0.11 ± 0.017 IU/ml, respectively. Conclusion: Haemodialysis patients have an inflammatory phenoytype, characterized by increased activation of coagulation, platelets and also fibrinolysis. However, dialyzers designed to increase internal filtration did not significantly increase platelet activation or thrombin generation.
Ganancia de peso durante el embarazo: Su importancia para el estado de salud materno-infantil
Authors: Herring Sharon J. , Oken Emily
Published: November 2010

La ganancia de peso gestacional es un factor pronóstico importante de los desenlaces de salud a corto y largo plazo, tanto para mujeres en edad fértil como para su descendencia. En estudios epidemiológicos se ha observado que las ganancias de peso gestacional materno más elevadas se asocian a anomalías de la glucemia prenatal materna, trastornos hipertensivos gravídicos y complicaciones del parto, junto a un mayor riesgo de retención de peso postparto, obesidad incidental y secuelas cardiometabólicas adversas en mujeres en la mediana edad. Además, datos derivados de la observación han vinculado las mayores ganancias de peso gestacional al incremento del crecimiento fetal y a la obesidad infantil ulterior. Las asociaciones de la ganancia de peso gestacional con el parto prematuro y la mortalidad del lactante pueden adoptar forma de U, de modo que los riesgos se incrementan con ganancias tanto bajas como elevadas. En un intento de optimizar los desenlaces maternos e infantiles, el Instituto de Medicina (IOM) revisó las normas de ganancia de peso gestacional en 2009, recomendando menores ganancias en mujeres con mayores índices de masa corporal previos al embarazo, especialmente mujeres que inician el embarazo con un índice de masa corporal (IMC) de 30 como mínimo. No obstante, todavía no se conoce a ciencia cierta si estas nuevas recomendaciones darán lugar a mejoras de las proporciones de mujeres que ganan las cantidades recomendadas y del estado de salud materno-infantil. Dado que menos de 1/3 de las madres ganan actualmente tasas incluidas entre los rangos recomendados por el Instituto de Medicina, las intervenciones encaminadas a contribuir a que las madres obtengan ganancias de peso gestacional saludables tienen una importancia crucial para la salud pública.
Physiologie de la grossesse: Interactions entre la mère et l’enfant
Authors: Cetin Irene , Cardellicchio Manuela
Published: November 2010

Ces dernières années, il a été démontré à quel point la croissance et le développement pendant la vie intra-utérine influaient sur le bien-être futur. La croissance du fœtus ne peut atteindre son plein potentiel qu’avec une interaction adéquate et finement régulée entre la mère, le placenta et le fœtus. Plusieurs facteurs environnementaux et maternels comme l’alimentation de la mère, sa composition corporelle et son statut endocrine peuvent modifier cet équilibre fragile. De plus, la fonction et le métabolisme du placenta contribuent à réguler la disponibilité des nutriments pour le fœtus et toute modification de ce mécanisme complexe peut compromettre le déroulement de la grossesse. Dans ce chapitre, nous souhaitons éclaircir les mécanismes physiologiques qui régulent cette interaction mère, fœtus, placenta, et aussi montrer comment de petites modifications peuvent engendrer des pathologies (tels qu’un retard de croissance intra-utérine ou un diabète gestationnel) ayant des conséquences importantes sur la santé du fœtus et de l’adulte qu’il deviendra.
Prise de poids pendant la grossesse: Conséquences pour la santé de la mère et de l’enfant
Authors: Herring Sharon J. , Oken Emily
Published: November 2010

La prise de poids maternelle lors de la grossesse est un bon outil de prédiction à court et à long terme de la santé des femmes enceintes et de leurs enfants. Des études épidémiologiques ont montré que les prises de poids les plus importantes sont associées à des déséquilibres maternels de la glycémie prénatale, des problèmes d’hypertension et des complications à l’accouchement, ainsi que des difficultés à perdre du poids après l’accouchement, un risque d’obésité et de séquelles cardiométaboliques vers la quarantaine. De plus, des études observationnelles ont mis en évidence une relation entre les gains pondéraux gestationnels les plus importants et les croissances fœtales excessives, ainsi que l’obésité apparaissant plus tard dans l’enfance. L’association entre prise de poids lors de la grossesse, naissance prématurée et mortalité infantile peut être représentée par une courbe en U, les risques étant augmentés tant par un gain pondéral insuffisant qu’excessif. Pour améliorer la santé de la mère et de l’enfant, l’Institute of Medecine a revu en 2009 les recommandations de prise de poids durant la grossesse, préconisant des prises de poids plus faibles pour les femmes ayant des IMC importants avant la grossesse, et particulièrement pour celles qui abordent leur grossesse avec un IMC supérieur ou égal à 30. Il est encore trop tôt pour savoir si ces nouvelles recommandations, lorsqu’elles sont suivies, vont améliorer la santé de la mère et celle de l’enfant. Cependant, comme moins d’un tiers des femmes respectent actuellement les limites de gain pondéral gestationnel recommandées par l’Institute of Medecine, il est essentiel, d’un point de vue de santé publique, de mettre en place des programmes pour aider les femmes enceintes à respecter ces recommandations.
Revue des bénéfices des compléments alimentaires durant la grossesse: Du fer et de l’acide folique aux acides gras polyinsaturés à chaîne longue en passant par les probiotiques
Authors: Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: November 2010

Cet article résume les connaissances actuelles sur les effets des compléments alimentaires en période prénatale sur la santé de la mère et de l’enfant: du mélange fer-acide folique (FAF), largement utilisé dans la plupart du monde, à d’autres produits plus récents tels que les acides gras ω–3 ou les probiotiques. Des études cliniques contrôlées randomisées ont montré qu’une complémentation prénatale en FAF permet de réduire le risque d’anémie et de carence ferrique durant toute la grossesse, mais peu de données existent sur l’efficacité d’une telle complémentation pour réduire le risque d’un faible poids à la naissance (FPN) ou d’un accouchement prématuré (AP). Cependant, des études récentes suggèrent qu’une complémentation prénatale en FAF réduirait la mortalité infantile. En revanche, il est à présent reconnu que les compléments alimentaires constitués d’un mélange de micronutriments et apportant 1 à 2 fois les doses journalières recommandées en plusieurs vitamines et minéraux sont sûrs et réduisent le risque de FPN respectivement de 19 et 17% comparés à un placebo ou à la complémentation habituelle en FAF. De même, les complémentations prénatales en calcium (>1 g/jour) permettent de réduire de 52% le risque de pré-éclampsie et de 20% la mortalité maternelle ou le risque de complication grave. Les compléments alimentaires contenant du zinc et de l’huile de poisson, apportant des acides gras ω–3, peuvent, dans certaines populations, augmenter la durée de la grossesse et réduire le risque d’AP, mais pas celui de FPN. Il existe cependant peu de données montrant le bénéfice de compléments apportant seulement des vitamines A et D, et des antioxydants tels que les vitamines C et E. Bien que l’effet protecteur de l’acide folique en période périconceptionnelle (permettant de réduire les anomalies du tube neural) soit bien établi, très peu voire aucune étude n’a encore évalué les effets indépendants des vitamines B spécifiques (vitamine B6, B12 et acide folique), de l’acide docosahexaénoïque et des probiotiques durant la grossesse. De même, les effets des compléments iodés en période prénatale dans les régions à forte prévalence de carence iodée légère à modérée n’ont pas été étudiés. Certains de ces nutriments ne semblent pas avoir d’incidence sur l’AP ou le FPN mais pourraient présenter des bénéfices à long-terme sur la santé et le développement de la progéniture.
Serum 25(OH)-Cholecalciferol Concentration Is Associated with Hemoglobin Level and Erythropoietin Resistance in Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Kiss Z. , Ambrus C. , Almasi C. , Berta K. , Deak G. , Horonyi P. , Kiss I. , Lakatos P. , Marton A. , Molnar M.Z. , Nemeth Z. , Szabo A. , Mucsi I.
Published: November 2010

Background: Resistance to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) has been observed in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and it is associated with clinical outcomes. The presence of ESA resistance cannot always be explained by the known risk factors of the condition, suggesting that additional factors may be involved. We wanted to test the hypothesis that vitamin D insufficiency is associated with lower hemoglobin (Hb) and ESA resistance in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Methods: Data from patients receiving maintenance HD in a single dialysis center were extracted from the medical records in a retrospective chart review. Basic patient characteristics and laboratory data including Hb, serum albumin, intact parathyroid hormone and serum 25(OH)-cholecalciferol (25(OH)D3) levels were collected. ESA dose and Kt/V were extracted from the dialysis charts. Correlation analysis and multivariate linear regression analysis were used to reveal potential independent associations between clinical and laboratory parameters and ESA resistance. Results: Data from 142 patients were analyzed. Serum 25(OH)D3 concentration was significantly correlated with Hb (ρ = 0.186, p < 0.05) and also with ESA dose/Hb index (ρ = 0.230, p < 0.01). In multivariable regression analyses, serum 25(OH)D3 concentration remained significantly associated with both Hb and ESA dose/Hb index after controlling for potentially important confounders. Conclusion: Serum 25(OH)D3 concentration is independently associated with erythropoietin responsiveness in CKD patients on maintenance HD. If this association will be confirmed, treatment trials looking at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on anemia treatment in CKD patients may be warranted.
Prediction of Mortality in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis by Charlson Comorbidity Index Using ICD-10 Database
Authors: Chae Je-Wook , Song Chang Seok , Kim Hyang , Lee Kyu-Beck , Seo Byeong-Sung , Kim Dong-Il
Published: November 2010

Background/Aims: Many patients with end-stage renal disease have additional comorbidities that are important to clinical study and impact the patient’s outcome. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) is a popular tool and a strong predictor of outcome in end-stage renal disease patients. We obtained comorbidity data from the hospital discharge database using the International Classification of Disease, 10th revision (ICD-10) and analyzed the mortality rate in incident patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Methods: We evaluated the medical records of a total of 456 patients on HD (58 ± 14 years of age, 56% males). We calculated CCI scores at the start of HD with information from the hospital discharge summary according to the ICD-10 code. We then analyzed patient mortality according to these CCI scores. Results: The percentages of patients that had diabetes with end-organ damage (51.1%), congestive heart failure (9.9%), coronary artery disease (8.1%) and stroke (6.8%) were identified. CCI scores were 5.09 ± 2.01 (range 2–11). Four comorbidity groups were established by quartile ranking of the CCI scores: low, moderate, high and very high. The mortality rates were: 0.83, 7.70, 14.09 and 18.69 deaths/100 patient-years, respectively (p = 0.001). Compared with the low comorbidity group, the hazard ratios for mortality were 9.22 (95% CI 3.29–25.84) for the moderate group, 16.77 (95% CI 5.97–47.11) for the high group, and 22.37 (95% CI 8.08–61.93) for the very high group. Conclusions: The CCI scores using the ICD-10 database information were significant predictors of mortality in incident patients undergoing maintenance HD.
Platelets
Authors: Jain Shashank , Harris John , Ware Jerry
Published: November 2010

Platelets are the main cellular component in blood responsible for maintaining the integrity of the cardiovascular system via hemostasis. Platelet dysfunction contributes to a wide range of obvious pathological conditions, such as bleeding or thrombosis, but normal platelet function is also linked to diseases not immediately associated with hemostasis or thrombosis, such as cancer. Since the description of Trousseau syndrome in 1865, various experimental and clinical studies have detailed the interaction of platelets with primary tumors and circulating metastatic tumor cells. Observations have suggested that platelets not only augment the growth of primary tumors via angiogenesis but endow tumor cells physical and mechanical support to evade the immune system and extravasate to secondary organs, the basis of metastatic disease. Many laboratory and animal studies have identified specific targets for antiplatelet therapy that may be advantageous as adjuncts to existing cancer treatments. In this review, we summarize important platelet properties that influence tumorigenesis, including primary tumor growth and metastasis at the molecular level. The studies provide a link between the well-studied paradigms of platelet hemostasis and tumorigenesis.
Signaling During Platelet Adhesion and Activation
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Delaney M. Keegan , O'Brien Kelly A. , Du Xiaoping
Published: November 2010

Upon vascular injury, platelets are activated by adhesion to adhesive proteins, such as von Willebrand factor and collagen, or by soluble platelet agonists, such as ADP, thrombin, and thromboxane A
2
. These adhesive proteins and soluble agonists induce signal transduction via their respective receptors. The various receptor-specific platelet activation signaling pathways converge into common signaling events that stimulate platelet shape change and granule secretion and ultimately induce the “inside-out” signaling process leading to activation of the ligand-binding function of integrin α
IIb
β
3
. Ligand binding to integrin α
IIb
β
3
mediates platelet adhesion and aggregation and triggers “outside-in” signaling, resulting in platelet spreading, additional granule secretion, stabilization of platelet adhesion and aggregation, and clot retraction. It has become increasingly evident that agonist-induced platelet activation signals also cross talk with integrin outside-in signals to regulate platelet responses. Platelet activation involves a series of rapid positive feedback loops that greatly amplify initial activation signals and enable robust platelet recruitment and thrombus stabilization. Recent studies have provided novel insight into the molecular mechanisms of these processes.
Elevated Soluble fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase-1 Levels in Acute Coronary Occlusion
Authors: Kapur Navin K. , Heffernan Kevin S. , Yunis Adil A. , Nguyen Tuan A. , Aronovitz Mark J. , Parpos Peter , Wilson Szuhuei , Baker Corey K. , Esposito Michele L. , Shah Ameer , Kimmelstiel Carey D. , Weintraub Andrew , Karas Richard H. , Mendelsohn Michael E.
Published: November 2010

Objective—

Early recognition of an acute coronary occlusion (ACO) improves clinical outcomes. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1) is an endothelium-derived protein induced by hypoxia. We tested whether sFLT1 levels are elevated in ACO.

Methods and Results—

Serum sFLT1 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in patients with ST-segment elevations and angiographically confirmed ACO, unstable angina/non ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, and 2 control groups. To further explore sFLT1 release, a mouse model of ACO and in vitro human coronary artery endothelial cell injury were used. sFLT1 levels were increased in ACO compared with unstable angina/non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction, catheterized controls, or healthy volunteers (200.7±15.5 versus 70.7±44.0 versus 10.2±4.0 versus 11.7±1.7 pg/mL respectively,
P
<0.001 versus ACO). At presentation, all ACO patients had elevated sFLT1 levels (>15 pg/mL, 99th percentile in controls), whereas 57% had levels of the MB isoform of creatine kinase levels >10 ng/mL (
P
<0.01) and 85% had ultrasensitive troponin I levels >0.05 ng/mL (
P
<0.05). Within 60 minutes after symptom onset, sFLT1 was more sensitive than the MB isoform of creatine kinase or ultrasensitive troponin I for ACO (100% versus 20% versus 20% respectively;
P
≤0.01 for each). Within 60 minutes of ACO in mice, sFLT1 levels were elevated. Hypoxia and thrombin increased sFLT1 levels within 15 minutes in human coronary artery endothelial cells.

Conclusion—

sFLT1 levels may be an early indicator of endothelial hypoxia in ACO.
Influence of Apolipoprotein A-I Domain Structure on Macrophage Reverse Cholesterol Transport in Mice
Authors: Alexander Eric T. , Vedhachalam Charulatha , Sankaranarayanan Sandhya , de la Llera-Moya Margarita , Rothblat George H. , Rader Daniel J. , Phillips Michael C.
Published: November 2010

Objective—

The goal of this study was to determine the influence of apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) tertiary structure domain properties on the antiatherogenic properties of the protein. Two chimeric hybrids with the N-terminal domains swapped (human-mouse apoA-I and mouse-human apoA-I) were expressed in apoA-I-null mice with adeno-associated virus (AAV) and used to study macrophage reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) in vivo.

Methods and Results—

The different apoA-I variants were expressed in apoA-I-null mice that were injected with [H
3
]cholesterol-labeled J774 mouse macrophages to measure RCT. Significantly more cholesterol was removed from the macrophages and deposited in the feces via the RCT pathway in mice expressing mouse-H apoA-I compared with all other groups. Analysis of the individual components of the RCT pathway demonstrated that mouse-H apoA-I promoted ATP-binding cassette transporter A1–mediated cholesterol efflux more efficiently than all other variants, as well as increasing the rate of cholesterol uptake into liver cells.

Conclusion—

The structural domain properties of apoA-I affect the ability of the protein to mediate macrophage RCT. Replacement of the N-terminal helix bundle domain in the human apoA-I with the mouse apoA-I counterpart causes a gain of function with respect to macrophage RCT, suggesting that engineering some destabilization into the N-terminal helix bundle domain or increasing the hydrophobicity of the C-terminal domain of human apoA-I would enhance the antiatherogenic properties of the protein.
Influences of Aortic Motion and Curvature on Vessel Expansion in Murine Experimental Aneurysms
Authors: Goergen Craig J. , Azuma Junya , Barr Kyla N. , Magdefessel Lars , Kallop Dara Y. , Gogineni Alvin , Grewall Amarjeet , Weimer Robby M. , Connolly Andrew J. , Dalman Ronald L. , Taylor Charles A. , Tsao Philip S. , Greve Joan M.
Published: November 2010

Objective—

To quantitatively compare aortic curvature and motion with resulting aneurysm location, direction of expansion, and pathophysiological features in experimental abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).

Methods and Results—

MRI was performed at 4.7 T with the following parameters: (1) 3D acquisition for vessel geometry and (2) 2D cardiac-gated acquisition to quantify luminal motion. Male 24-week-old mice were imaged before and after AAA formation induced by angiotensin II (AngII)–filled osmotic pump implantation or infusion of elastase. AngII-induced AAAs formed near the location of maximum abdominal aortic curvature, and the leftward direction of expansion was correlated with the direction of suprarenal aortic motion. Elastase-induced AAAs formed in a region of low vessel curvature and had no repeatable direction of expansion. AngII significantly increased mean blood pressure (22.7 mm Hg,
P
<0.05), whereas both models showed a significant 2-fold decrease in aortic cyclic strain (
P
<0.05). Differences in patterns of elastin degradation and localization of fluorescent signal from protease-activated probes were also observed.

Conclusion—

The direction of AngII aneurysm expansion correlated with the direction of motion, medial elastin dissection, and adventitial remodeling. Anterior infrarenal aortic motion correlated with medial elastin degradation in elastase-induced aneurysms. Results from both models suggest a relationship between aneurysm pathological features and aortic geometry and motion.
Recombinant Human Interleukin-11 Treatment Enhances Collateral Vessel Growth After Femoral Artery Ligation
Authors: Aitsebaomo Julius , Srivastava Siddharth , Zhang Hua , Jha Sushmita , Wang Zhongjing , Winnik Stephan , Veleva Anka N. , Pi Xinchun , Lockyer Pamela , Faber James E. , Patterson Cam
Published: November 2010

Objective—

To investigate the role of recombinant human interleukin-11 (rhIL-11) on in vivo mobilization of CD34
+
/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) 2
+
mononuclear cells and collateral vessel remodeling in a mouse model of hindlimb ischemia.

Methods and Results—

We observed that treatment of Sv129 mice with continuous infusion of 200-μg/kg rhIL-11 per day led to in vivo mobilization of CD34
+
/VEGFR2
+
cells that peaked at 72 hours. Sv129 mice pretreated with rhIL-11 for 72 hours before femoral artery ligation showed a 3-fold increase in plantar vessel perfusion, leading to faster blood flow recovery; and a 20-fold increase in circulating CD34
+
/VEGFR2
+
cells after 8 days of rhIL-11 treatment. Histologically, experimental mice had a 3-fold increase in collateral vessel luminal diameter after 21 days of rhIL-11 treatment and a 4.4-fold influx of perivascular CD34
+
/VEGFR2
+
cells after 8 days of therapy. Functionally, rhIL-11–treated mice showed better hindlimb appearance and use scores when compared with syngeneic mice treated with PBS under the same experimental conditions.

Conclusion—

These novel findings show that rhIL-11 promotes in vivo mobilization of CD34
+
/VEGFR2
+
mononuclear cells, enhances collateral vessel growth, and increases recovery of perfusion after femoral artery ligation. Thus, rhIL-11 has a promising role for development as an adjunctive treatment of patients with peripheral vascular disease.
Cost of Illness in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Dodel Richard , Winter Yaroslav , Ringel Florian , Spottke Annika , Gharevi Nadir , Müller Ines , Klockgether Thomas , Schramm Johannes , Urbach Horst , Meyer Bernhard
Published: November 2010

Background and Purpose—

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a cerebrovascular disease with a high mortality rate and severe disability. Longitudinal studies investigating health-economic costs in SAH are scare and only one of them analyzed cost-driving factors. The objective was to evaluate first-year costs in German patients with aneurysmal SAH and to identify independent determinants of costs.

Methods—

One hundred thirteen incident cases of aneurysmal SAH treated in the Department of Neurosurgery and Neuroradiology at the University of Bonn (catchment area of 500 000 people) between January 2004 and December 2005 were eligible for the study. Cost data were collected using health-economic questionnaires applied at baseline and 6- and 12-month follow-up time. All costs are expressed in

(year 2009 values). Clinical assessments were performed using Hunt and Hess scale, Barthel Index, and Rankin Scale. Independent cost-driving factors were determined using multiple regression analysis.

Results—

The total first-year costs were

38 300 (95% CI, 34 490 to 43 100) per patient. Direct costs accounted for 58.7% of total costs and were mainly paid by the health insurance (92.0%). Inpatient costs were the main cost component of direct and total costs (42.8% of total costs). The major cost-driving factors of total costs were younger age and worse functional outcome at 12-month follow-up (Barthel Index).

Conclusions—

Aneurysmal SAH is a cerebrovascular disease with considerable health-economic burden. Healthcare programs aimed at reducing the burden of SAH on society and individuals should consider cost-driving factors of SAH. Further health-economic studies investigating cost-driving factors of SAH in different countries are needed.
Age–Period–Cohort Analysis of Stroke Incidence in Dijon From 1985 to 2005
Authors: Khellaf Meheni , Quantin Catherine , d'Athis Philippe , Fassa Maniane , Jooste Valérie , Hervieu Marie , Giroud Maurice , Béjot Yannick
Published: November 2010

Background and Purpose—

Variations in stroke incidence could be explained by changes in vascular and environmental factors that affect the risk of stroke and changes in risk factors that are present in early life. The aim of this study was to identify and measure the effects of 3 interrelated factors, age, calendar period of stroke onset, and birth year cohort, on the incidence rates of stroke from 1985 through 2005.

Methods—

Age–period–cohort models were used to analyze stroke incidence in Dijon from 1985 to 2005 from a population-based registry that collects data on all stroke patients whatever the type of management, in the public hospital, private hospitals, or at home, in the population of Dijon (150 000 inhabitants).

Results—

For ischemic stroke, the incidence rose with time in men depending not only on age, but also on the period and cohort effects (
P
=0.017). For women, the incidence only depended on age (
P
<0.001; incidence rate ratio, 1.085; 95% CI, 1.081 to 1.089). For hemorrhagic stroke, the rise in the incidence with time depended only on age in men, whereas in women, it depended on age, period, and cohort effects (
P
=0.019).

Conclusions—

Age, birth cohort, and calendar period contain relevant information to define and explain trends in stroke incidence rates over a long period.
In Strange Paradox: Rationalizing Improvisation
Authors: Fox-Gieg Nick , Schedel Margaret
Published: November 2010

The authors discuss improvisation in music and accompanying real-time graphics, providing historical examples and a discussion of their performance group, In Strange Paradox.
Programming Machines and People: Techniques for Live Improvisation with Electronics
Authors: Welch Chapman
Published: November 2010

Many performers of new music do not come from an improvising tradition, and the addition of live electronics to works written for these performers may be intimidating due to their inexperience with improvising and/or working with technology. Although inexperience may be a problem, it can be overcome. The author describes techniques and strategies for creating rule-based improvisation environments with live electronics.
“Comprovisation”: The Various Facets of Composed Improvisation within Interactive Performance Systems
Authors: Dudas Richard
Published: November 2010

This article discusses the balance between composition and improvisation with respect to interactive performance using electronic and computer-based music systems. The author uses his own experience in this domain in the roles of both collaborator and composer as a point of reference to look at general trends in “composed improvisation” within the electronic and computer music community. Specifically, the intention is to uncover the limits and limitations of improvisation and its relationship to both composition and “composed instruments” within the world of interactive electronic musical performance.
Piano+: An Approach towards a Performance System Used within Free Improvisation
Authors: Lexer Sebastian
Published: November 2010

This article explores the author's strategy for developing a computer performance system designed for free improvisation with acoustic instruments following a non-idiomatic approach. Philosophical considerations on potentiality and personal and social space and research into the psychology of motivation and behavior have inspired and enabled a different approach to integrating technology with improvisation. The technical realization of a parameter space, in particular utilizing contingent behavior emerging from the convergent mapping of a mixture of controller types, has proven effective for the spontaneous creative decision making required to extend the sonic potential of an acoustic piano while minimizing direct computer operation, as applied regularly in practice by the author.
SOLA: Sustainable Orchestras of Laptops and Analog
Authors: Cook Perry R. , Smallwood Scott
Published: November 2010

This paper describes a series of investigations into the use of sustainable methods for powering electronic musical instruments and perhaps ultimately a large ensemble such as the Princeton Laptop Orchestra, a collection of 15–25 meta-instruments each consisting of a laptop computer, interfacing equipment and a hemispherical speaker. The research discussed includes the development of instruments specifically designed for solar power, as well as the use of solar panels and/or batteries to power more conventional devices such as computers and amplifiers.
A Possible Trace of Oresme’s Condicio-Theory of Accidents in an Anonymous Commentary on Aristotle’s Meteorology
Authors: Kirschner Stefan
Published: November 2010

In his commentary on Aristotle’s Physics, Nicole Oresme (c. 1320-1382) propounds a very specific theory of the ontological status of accidents. Characteristic of Oresme’s view on accidents is that he does not consider them accidental forms, but only so-called condiciones or modi of the substance. Unlike the term “modus”, the term “condicio” seems to be very characteristic of Oresme’s own terminology. Up to now it has been unknown whether Oresme exerted any influence with his condicio-theory of accidents. This paper presents an anonymous 14th-century commentary on Aristotle’s Meteorology (Munich, Bayerische Staatsbibliothek, Clm 4375, ff. 19r-46v), in two Questions of which the term “condicio” occurs in an ontological context. Moreover, the text shows further striking coincidences with known works by Oresme, and this makes an influence by Oresme appear all the more probable.
Knowing Lions and Understanding “Lion”: Two Jobs for Concepts in Ockham?
Authors: Schierbaum Sonja
Published: November 2010

Externalist readings of Ockham are currently most prominent in the literature. For instance, an externalist interpretation with respect both to mental content and the meaning of expressions is advocated by prominent scholars. In this paper, I want to argue that although this externalist picture is certainly not incorrect, it is nonetheless incomplete. As I show, Ockham distinguishes between two ways of acquiring concepts: one of them can be accounted for in wholly externalist terms while the other involves the understanding of linguistic expressions. According to the reading of Ockham I suggest here, it turns out that we can have two kinds of concepts pertaining to the same kind of things. But only one of the two is completely determined by external relations. Thus I conclude that the externalist picture of Ockham calls for some additions.
Doing Theology in Public: An Engagement with Economic Rationalism
Authors: Darragh Neil
Published: November 2010

This article is concerned with the process by which the reflective Christian may go about doing theology in a way that contributes to public issues affecting society. The particular method adopted by a person who is both theologian and citizen will depend on the nature of the society and Christianity’s status within that society. The article is concerned primarily with the transparency of a theological method that can operate effectively in the context of a pluralist society where social consensus is at issue. It uses the engagement with economic rationalism as a way of illustrating how such engagement in public discourse can occur.
Public Theology and Music
Authors: Gill Robin
Published: November 2010

This article argues that music may be an effective but under-explored metaphor for public theology. Specifically music can act as a helpful metaphor for theologians seeking to respond to three dominant criticisms of public theology, namely: that theology is too particularistic to be relevant to public discourse; that theology (and religion more widely) is harmful and dangerous especially after 9/11; that theology offers nothing that is objective to public discourse. The article responds to these criticisms by pointing out that they can be applied to public music too, but that the world would be impoverished if music (and theology) were simply to be eliminated.
Edward Schillebeeckx and the Suffering Human Being
Authors: Bergin Helen
Published: November 2010

This article begins by examining the nature of being human and the nature of suffering within the writings of Belgian Catholic theologian, Edward Schillebeeckx. Particular focus is given to Schillebeeckx’s understanding of the humanum—the essence of the human being which challenges another human being to respond with respect. Schillebeeckx’s understandings of the humanum are then set alongside an event in nineteenth century Aotearoa New Zealand in which Maori were forcibly removed by governmental authorities from their land at Parihaka. I propose that Schillebeeckx’s theological understandings of the humanum are valuable in engaging with and interpreting this historical event. Ultimately, I argue that Schillebeeckx’s interpretations of suffering and of being human offer fruitful insights for public theology.
Reinhold Niebuhr and the Ethics of Christian Realism
Authors: Marsden John
Published: November 2010

After considering the social and pastoral context in which Niebuhr began to develop his theology, some of the leading influences and dominant themes are identified. Through engaging with a gritty Marxian class analysis Niebuhr launched his attack upon the social idealism of so much of the Christian witness of his generation. In mid-life the critique of liberalism and his ‘Christian realism’ are informed by a wrestling with the Augustinian and Reformation traditions. Later still Christian realism gives way to a more pragmatic chastened liberalism. The dualism between the personal and social, which characterized Niebuhr’s ethics throughout his life, is critiqued and seen as part of a general pessimism that betrays the degree to which he remained marked by the Lutheran tradition.
‘If you are saved you cannot forget your parents’: Agency, Power, and Social Repositioning in Tanzanian born-again Christianity
Authors: Lindhardt Martin
Published: November 2010

In much of the literature on African Pentecostalism, conversion has been associated with a striving for modernist individualist identities and a strategy for legitimising social, generational rupture. This article contributes to the existing scholarly field by shedding light on the ways in which urban Tanzanian born-again Christians address generational antagonisms and position themselves in relation to elder generations. Drawing on anthropological discussions of the concept of agency and focusing particular attention on the ways in which a specific kind of agency is cultivated through participation in ritual, I argue against a narrow association of born-again Christianity with modernist individualism. While an assertion of individual autonomy is implied in conversion, Tanzanian born-again Christians do not cease to be social beings, deeply embedded in family relationships. I demonstrate how born-again religious practice enables urban Tanzanians to actively rephrase and sometimes even improve their relationships with unconverted family elders.
Versdubletten Zu Prudentius, Peristephanon 2,514
Authors: Gnilka Christian
Published: November 2010

The line Prud. perist. 2,514 caused the interpolation of two spurious lines, each of which was made to substitute the authentic one, which itself was considered difficult or obscure. Such traces of the rimaneggiamento of the genuine text, proven by the manuscripts, should not be neglected by the editors since they bear witness to the widespread alteration of the text, often not attested by the documents, and to the existence of a critical edition in late antiquity.
Hilary of Poitiers’ De Trinitate and the Name(s) of God
Authors: Toom Tarmo
Published: November 2010

“Hilary of Poitiers’ De Trinitate and the Name(s) of God” investigates the implications of the ancient nomos/physis debate to Trinitarian theology. While the Cappadocians, countering Heteroousians, eventually demonstrated that naturalist understanding of naming did not work for Christian theology, Hilary still assumed that it did. Hilary is usually grouped with naturalists who held that names were not arbitrary and conventional impositions, but that they corresponded to the nature of what they designated. Yet, there are several complications with such a grouping, because not all naturalists (e.g., Cratylus, Stoics, Origen, Eunomius) say the same thing, focus on same issues, have theological interest in names, or agree with Hilary. Accordingly, this paper will argue that Hilary can be called a “naturalist” only in a qualified sense.