bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sugar administration is an effective adjunctive therapy in the treatment ofPseudomonas aeruginosapneumonia
Authors: Bucior Iwona , Abbott Jason , Song Yuanlin , Matthay Michael A. , Engel Joanne N.
Published: June 2013

Treatment of acute and chronic pulmonary infections caused by opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is limited by the increasing frequency of multidrug bacterial resistance. Here, we describe a novel adjunctive therapy in which administration of a mix of simple sugars—mannose, fucose, and galactose—inhibits bacterial attachment, limits lung damage, and potentiates conventional antibiotic therapy. The sugar mixture inhibits adhesion of nonmucoid and mucoid P. aeruginosa strains to bronchial epithelial cells in vitro. In a murine model of acute pneumonia, treatment with the sugar mixture alone diminishes lung damage, bacterial dissemination to the subpleural alveoli, and neutrophil- and IL-8-driven inflammatory responses. Remarkably, the sugars act synergistically with anti- Pseudomonas antibiotics, including β-lactams and quinolones, to further reduce bacterial lung colonization and damage. To probe the mechanism, we examined the effects of sugars in the presence or absence of antibiotics during growth in liquid culture and in an ex vivo infection model utilizing freshly dissected mouse tracheas and lungs. We demonstrate that the sugar mixture induces rapid but reversible formation of bacterial clusters that exhibited enhanced susceptibility to antibiotics compared with individual bacteria. Our findings reveal that sugar inhalation, an inexpensive and safe therapeutic, could be used in combination with conventional antibiotic therapy to more effectively treat P. aeruginosa lung infections.
Optimization of Integer Order Integrators for Deriving Improved Models of Their Fractional Counterparts
Authors: Gupta Maneesha , Yadav Richa
Published: June 2013

Second and third order digital integrators (DIs) have been optimized first using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) with minimized error fitness function obtained by registering mean, median, and standard deviation values in different random iterations. Later indirect discretization using Continued Fraction Expansion (CFE) has been used to ascertain a better fitting of proposed integer order optimized DIs into their corresponding fractional counterparts by utilizing their refined properties, now restored in them due to PSO algorithm. Simulation results for the comparisons of the frequency responses of proposed 2nd and 3rd order optimized DIs and proposed discretized mathematical models of half integrators based on them, with their respective existing operators, have been presented. Proposed integer order PSO optimized integrators as well as fractional order integrators (FOIs) have been observed to outperform the existing recently published operators in their respective domains reasonably well in complete range of Nyquist frequency.
Commutators with Lipschitz Functions and Nonintegral Operators
Authors: Xie Peizhu , Gong Ruming
Published: June 2013

LetTbe a singular nonintegral operator; that is, it does not have an integral representation by a kernel with size estimates, even rough. In this paper, we consider the boundedness of commutators withTand Lipschitz functions. Applications include spectral multipliers of self-adjoint, positive operators, Riesz transforms of second-order divergence form operators, and fractional power of elliptic operators.
Imaging Tasks Scheduling for High‐Altitude Airship in Emergency Condition Based on Energy‐Aware Strategy
Authors: Zhimeng Li , Chuan He , Dishan Qiu , Jin Liu , Manhao Ma
Published: June 2013

Aiming to the imaging tasks scheduling problem on high‐altitude airship in emergency condition, the programming models are constructed by analyzing the main constraints, which take the maximum task benefit and the minimum energy consumption as two optimization objectives. Firstly, the hierarchy architecture is adopted to convert this scheduling problem into three subproblems, that is, the task ranking, value task detecting, and energy conservation optimization. Then, the algorithms are designed for the sub‐problems, and the solving results are corresponding to feasible solution, efficient solution, and optimization solution of original problem, respectively. This paper makes detailed introduction to the energy‐aware optimization strategy, which can rationally adjust airship’s cruising speed based on the distribution of task’s deadline, so as to decrease the total energy consumption caused by cruising activities. Finally, the application results and comparison analysis show that the proposed strategy and algorithm are effective and feasible.
Chemical Structure of TiO2Nanotube Photocatalysts Promoted by Copper and Iron
Authors: Liao Chang-Yu , Wang H. Paul , Lin Hong-Ping
Published: June 2013

TiO2nanotubes (TNTs) promoted by copper (5%) (Cu-TNT) and iron (5%) (Fe-TNT) were prepared for visible-light photocatalysis. By X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy, it is found that the enhanced photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) on Cu-TNT and Fe-TNT is associated with the predominant surface photoactive sites A2((Ti=O)O4). By extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy, the dispersed copper and iron also cause increases in the Ti–O and Ti–(O)–Ti bond distances by 0.01-0.02 and 0.04-0.05 Å, respectively. The decreased Ti–O bonding energy may lead to an increase of photoexcited electron transport. The copper- or-iron promoted TNT can thus enhance photocatalytic degradation of MB under the visible-light radiation.
Three Solutions for Inequalities Dirichlet Problem Driven byp(x)-Laplacian-Like
Authors: Qing-Mei Zhou , Bin Ge
Published: June 2013

A class of nonlinear elliptic problems driven byp(x)-Laplacian-like with a nonsmooth locally Lipschitz potential was considered. Applying the version of a nonsmooth three-critical-point theorem, existence of three solutions of the problem is proved.
A Mathematical Approach to Establishing Constitutive Models for Geomaterials
Authors: Yang Guang-hua , Jie Yu-xin , Li Guang-xin
Published: June 2013

The mathematical foundation of the traditional elastoplastic constitutive theory for geomaterials is presented from the mathematical point of view, that is, the expression of stress-strain relationship in principal stress/strain space being transformed to the expression in six-dimensional space. A new framework is then established according to the mathematical theory of vectors and tensors, which is applicable to establishing elastoplastic models both in strain space and in stress space. Traditional constitutive theories can be considered as its special cases. The framework also enables modification of traditional constitutive models.
A New Linearized Crank‐Nicolson Mixed Element Scheme for the Extended Fisher‐Kolmogorov Equation
Authors: Wang Jinfeng , Li Hong , He Siriguleng , Gao Wei , Liu Yang
Published: June 2013

We present a new mixed finite element method for solving the extended Fisher‐Kolmogorov (EFK) equation. We first decompose the EFK equation as the two second‐order equations, then deal with a second‐order equation employing finite element method, and handle the other second‐order equation using a new mixed finite element method. In the new mixed finite element method, the gradient ∇u belongs to the weaker space taking the place of the classical H(div ; Ω) space. We prove some a priori bounds for the solution for semidiscrete scheme and derive a fully discrete mixed scheme based on a linearized Crank‐Nicolson method. At the same time, we get the optimal a priori error estimates in L2 and H1‐norm for both the scalar unknown u and the diffusion term w = −Δu and a priori error estimates in ‐norm for its gradient χ = ∇u for both semi‐discrete and fully discrete schemes.
Trans-β-Caryophyllene: An Effective Antileishmanial Compound Found in Commercial Copaiba Oil (Copaiferaspp.)
Authors: Soares Deivid C. , Portella Nathalya A. , Ramos Mônica Freiman de S. , Siani Antonio C. , Saraiva Elvira M.
Published: June 2013

This study investigated the leishmanicidal activity againstLeishmania amazonensisof four commercial oils fromCopaiferaspp. named as C1, C2, C3, and C4, the sesquiterpene and diterpene pools obtained from distilling C4, and isolatedβ-caryophyllene (CAR). Copaiba oils chemical compositions were analyzed by gas chromatography and correlated with biological activities. Diterpenes-rich oils C2 and C3 showed antipromastigote activity. Sesquiterpenes-rich C1 and C4, and isolated CAR presented a dose-dependent activity against intracellular amastigotes, with IC50sof 2.9 µg/mL, 2.3 µg/mL, and 1.3 µg/mL (6.4 µM), respectively. Based on the highest antiamastigote activity and the low toxicity to the host cells, C4 was steamdistillated to separate pools of sesquiterpenes and diterpenes. Both pools were less active againstL. amazonensisand more toxic for the macrophages than the whole C4 oil. The leishmanicidal activity of C3 and C4 oils, as well as C4 fractions and CAR, appears to be independent of nitric oxide production by macrophages. This study pointed outβ-caryophyllene as an effective antileishmanial compound and also to its role as potential chemical marker in copaiba oils or fractions derived thereof, aiming further development of this rainforest raw material for leishmaniasis therapy.
EGF Receptor Activates MET through MAPK to Enhance Non–Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Invasion and Brain Metastasis
Authors: Breindel Jerrica L. , Haskins Jonathan W. , Cowell Elizabeth P. , Zhao Minghui , Nguyen Don X. , Stern David F.
Published: June 2013

MET amplification as a mechanism of acquired resistance to EGF receptor (EGFR)-targeted therapies in non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) led to investigation of novel combinations of EGFR and MET kinase inhibitors. However, promiscuous interactions between MET and ERBB family members have made it difficult to evaluate the effects of MET on EGFR signaling, both independent of drug treatment and in the context of drug resistance. We addressed this issue by establishing a 32D model cell system wherein ERBBs or MET are expressed alone and in combination. Using this model, we determined that EGFR signaling is sufficient to induce MET phosphorylation, although MET activation is enhanced by coexpression of ERBB3. EGFR–MET cross-talk was not direct, but occurred by a combined regulation of MET levels and intermediary signaling through mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). In NSCLCs harboring either wild-type or mutant EGFR, inhibiting EGFR or MAPK reduced MET activation and protein levels. Furthermore, MET signaling promoted EGFR-driven migration and invasion. Finally, EGFR–MET signaling was enhanced in a highly metastatic EGFR-mutant cell subpopulation, compared with the indolent parental line, and MET attenuation decreased the incidence of brain metastasis. Overall, our results establish that EGFR–MET signaling is critical for aggressive behavior of NSCLCs and rationalize its continued investigation as a therapeutic target for tumors harboring both wild-type and mutant EGFR at early stages of progression. Cancer Res; 73(16); 5053–65. ©2013 AACR.
Targeting Transmembrane TNF-α Suppresses Breast Cancer Growth
Authors: Yu Mingxia , Zhou Xiaoxi , Niu Lin , Lin Guohong , Huang Jin , Zhou Wenjing , Gan Hui , Wang Jing , Jiang Xiaodan , Yin Bingjiao , Li Zhuoya
Published: June 2013

TNF antagonists may offer therapeutic potential in solid tumors, but patients who have high serum levels of TNF-α fail to respond to infliximab, suggesting consumption of the circulating antibody and loss of transmembrane TNF-α (tmTNF-α) on tumors by ectodomain shedding. Addressing this possibility, we developed a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds both full-length tmTNF-α and its N-terminal truncated fragment on the membrane after tmTNF-α processing but does not cross-react with soluble TNF-α. We documented high levels of tmTNF-α expression in primary breast cancers, lower levels in atypical hyperplasia or hyperplasia, but undetectable levels in normal breast tissue, consistent with the notion that tmTNF-α is a potential therapeutic target. Evaluations in vitro and in vivo further supported this assertion. tmTNF-α mAb triggered antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity against tmTNF-α–expressing cells but not to tmTNF-α–negative cells. In tumor-bearing mice, tmTNF-α mAb delayed tumor growth, eliciting complete tumor regressions in some mice. Moreover, tmTNF-α mAb inhibited metastasis and expression of CD44v6, a prometastatic molecule. However, the antibody did not activate tmTNF-α–mediated reverse signaling, which facilitates tumor survival and resistance to apoptosis, but instead inhibited NF-κB activation and Bcl-2 expression by decreasing tmTNF-α–positive cells. Overall, our results established that tmTNF-α mAb exerts effective antitumor activities and offers a promising candidate to treat tmTNF-α–positive tumors, particularly in patients that are nonresponders to TNF antagonists. Cancer Res; 73(13); 4061–74. ©2013 AACR.
Optimal Targeting of HER2–PI3K Signaling in Breast Cancer: Mechanistic Insights and Clinical Implications
Authors: Rexer Brent N. , Arteaga Carlos L.
Published: June 2013

The combination of a PI3K inhibitor with trastuzumab has been shown to be effective at overcoming trastuzumab resistance in models of HER2+ breast cancer by inhibiting HER2–PI3K–FOXO–survivin signaling. In this review the potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed. Cancer Res; 73(13); 3817–20. ©2013 AACR.
Trial Designs for Personalizing Cancer Care: A Systematic Review and Classification
Authors: Tajik Parvin , Zwinderman Aleiko H. , Mol Ben W. , Bossuyt Patrick M.
Published: June 2013

There is an increasing interest in the evaluation of prognostic and predictive biomarkers for personalizing cancer care. The literature on the trial designs for evaluation of these markers is diverse and there is no consensus in the classification or nomenclature. We set this study to review the literature systematically, to identify the proposed trial designs, and to develop a classification scheme. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Methodology Register, and MathSciNet up to January 2013 for articles describing these trial designs. In each eligible article, we identified the trial designs presented and extracted the term used for labeling the design, components of patient flow (marker status of eligible participants, intervention, and comparator), study questions, and analysis plan. Our search strategy resulted in 88 eligible articles, wherein 315 labels had been used by authors in presenting trial designs; 134 of these were unique. By analyzing patient flow components, we could classify the 134 unique design labels into four basic patient flow categories, which we labeled with the most frequently used term: single-arm, enrichment, randomize-all, and biomarker-strategy designs. A fifth category consists of combinations of the other four patient flow categories. Our review showed that a considerable number of labels has been proposed for trial designs evaluating prognostic and predictive biomarkers which, based on patient flow elements, can be classified into five basic categories. The classification system proposed here could help clinicians and researchers in designing and interpreting trials evaluating predictive biomarkers, and could reduce confusion in labeling and reporting. Clin Cancer Res; 19(17); 4578–88. ©2013 AACR.
Effective Activity of Cytokine-Induced Killer Cells against Autologous Metastatic Melanoma Including Cells with Stemness Features
Authors: Gammaitoni Loretta , Giraudo Lidia , Leuci Valeria , Todorovic Maja , Mesiano Giulia , Picciotto Franco , Pisacane Alberto , Zaccagna Alessandro , Volpe Maria Giuseppa , Gallo Susanna , Caravelli Daniela , Giacone Elena , Venesio Tiziana , Balsamo Antonella , Pignochino Ymera , Grignani Giovanni , Carnevale-Schianca Fabrizio , Aglietta Massimo , Sangiolo Dario
Published: June 2013

Purpose: We investigate the unknown tumor-killing activity of cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells against autologous metastatic melanoma and the elusive subset of putative cancer stem cells (mCSC).

Experimental Design: We developed a preclinical autologous model using same patient-generated CIK cells and tumor targets to consider the unique biology of each patient/tumor pairing. In primary tumor cell cultures, we visualized and immunophenotypically defined a putative mCSC subset using a novel gene transfer strategy that exploited their exclusive ability to activate the promoter of stemness gene Oct4.

Results: The CIK cells from 10 patients with metastatic melanoma were successfully expanded (median, 23-fold; range, 11–117). Primary tumor cell cultures established and characterized from the same patients were used as autologous targets. Patient-derived CIK cells efficiently killed autologous metastatic melanoma [up to 71% specific killing (n = 26)]. CIK cells were active in vivo against autologous melanoma, resulting in delayed tumor growth, increased necrotic areas, and lymphocyte infiltration at tumor sites. The metastatic melanoma cultures presented an average of 11.5% ± 2.5% putative mCSCs, which was assessed by Oct4 promoter activity and stemness marker expression (Oct4, ABCG2, ALDH, MITF). Expression was confirmed on mCSC target molecules recognized by CIK cells (MIC A/B; ULBPs). CIK tumor killing activity against mCSCs was intense (up to 71%, n = 4) and comparable with results reported against differentiated metastatic melanoma cells (P = 0.8).

Conclusions: For the first time, the intense killing activity of CIK cells against autologous metastatic melanoma, including mCSCs, has been shown. These findings move clinical investigation of a new immunotherapy for metastatic melanoma, including mCSCs, closer. Clin Cancer Res; 19(16); 4347–58. ©2013 AACR.
Contribution of Abcc4-Mediated Gastric Transport to the Absorption and Efficacy of Dasatinib
Authors: Furmanski Brian D. , Hu Shuiying , Fujita Ken-ichi , Li Lie , Gibson Alice A. , Janke Laura J. , Williams Richard T. , Schuetz John D. , Sparreboom Alex , Baker Sharyn D.
Published: June 2013

Purpose: Several oral multikinase inhibitors are known to interact in vitro with the human ATP-binding cassette transporter ABCC4 (MRP4), but the in vivo relevance of this interaction remains poorly understood. We hypothesized that host ABCC4 activity may influence the pharmacokinetic profile of dasatinib and subsequently affect its antitumor properties.

Experimental Design: Transport of dasatinib was studied in cells transfected with human ABCC4 or the ortholog mouse transporter, Abcc4. Pharmacokinetic studies were done in wild-type and Abcc4-null mice. The influence of Abcc4 deficiency on dasatinib efficacy was evaluated in a model of Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia by injection of luciferase-positive, p185(BCR-ABL)-expressing Arf(−/−) pre-B cells.

Results: Dasatinib accumulation was significantly changed in cells overexpressing ABCC4 or Abcc4 compared with control cells (P < 0.001). Deficiency of Abcc4 in vivo was associated with a 1.75-fold decrease in systemic exposure to oral dasatinib, but had no influence on the pharmacokinetics of intravenous dasatinib. Abcc4 was found to be highly expressed in the stomach, and dasatinib efflux from isolated mouse stomachs ex vivo was impaired by Abcc4 deficiency (P < 0.01), without any detectable changes in gastric pH. Abcc4-null mice receiving dasatinib had an increase in leukemic burden, based on bioluminescence imaging, and decreased overall survival compared with wild-type mice (P = 0.048).

Conclusions: This study suggests that Abcc4 in the stomach facilitates the oral absorption of dasatinib, and it possibly plays a similar role for other orally administered substrates, such as acetylsalicylic acid. This phenomenon also provides a mechanistic explanation for the malabsorption of certain drugs following gastric resection. Clin Cancer Res; 19(16); 4359–70. ©2013 AACR.
Residual Prostate Cancer Cells after Docetaxel Therapy Increase the Tumorigenic Potential via Constitutive Signaling of CXCR4, ERK1/2 and c-Myc
Authors: Hatano Koji , Yamaguchi Souhei , Nimura Keisuke , Murakami Kouki , Nagahara Akira , Fujita Kazutoshi , Uemura Motohide , Nakai Yasutomo , Tsuchiya Mutsumi , Nakayama Masashi , Nonomura Norio , Kaneda Yasufumi
Published: June 2013

Despite an increasing prevalence of patients with docetaxel-refractory prostate cancer, little is known about the tumor biology of the docetaxel-resistant residual tumor cells compared with primary tumor cells. In this study, tumorigenic potential was increased in the docetaxel-resistant residual prostate cancer cell lines (DRD, 1G7 and PC3DR) compared with parental cells (DU145 or PC3). Enhanced tumorigenic potential was conferred by oncogenic c-Myc, which was stabilized by constitutively activated ERK1/2 in DRD, 1G7, and PC3DR cells. Constitutively activated ERK1/2 was maintained by CXCR4, which was upregulated in DRD, 1G7, and PC3DR cells. In docetaxel-treated DU145 cells, transiently activated ERK1/2 induced CXCR4 expression by stabilizing c-Myc. Furthermore, constitutive activation of CXCR4, ERK1/2, and c-Myc signaling was evident in clinical tissue samples from human patients with docetaxel-resistant prostate cancer. In DTX-resistant residual prostate cancer cells, the enhanced tumorigenic potential was reduced by ERK1/2 inhibition, or by AMD3100, a CXCR4 antagonist. Thus, docetaxel treatment constitutively activated the CXCR4, ERK1/2, and c-Myc signaling loop in docetaxel-resistant residual prostate cancer cells.

Implications: Constitutive signaling pathways are viable therapeutic targets for residual prostate tumor cells following acquisition of docetaxel resistance. Mol Cancer Res; 11(9); 1088–100. ©2013 AACR.
A1C and Coronary Artery Calcification in Nondiabetic Men and Women
Authors: Chang Yoosoo , Yun Kyung Eun , Jung Hyun-Suk , Kim Chan-Won , Kwon Min-Jung , Sung Eunju , Ryu Seungho
Published: June 2013

Objective—

This study aimed to examine the association between glycohemoglobin (A1C) and coronary artery calcification (CAC) in nondiabetic men and women without overt cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus after accounting for fasting glucose and traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Approach and Results—

A cross-sectional study was performed in 25 564 Korean adults (41.4±7.0 years) with no diabetes mellitus (fasting glucose, ≥7.0 mmol/L or a history of diabetes mellitus) and no clinically evident cardiovascular disease, who underwent a health checkup, including a cardiac computed tomography estimation of CAC scores and measurements of cardiovascular risk factors. The presence of CAC was defined as a CAC score >0; CAC was observed in 12.0% of men and 4.9% of women. Age-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for CAC comparing A1C of 5.5% to 5.6%, 5.7% to 5.9%, and 6.0% to 6.4% with A1C <5.5% were 1.12 (0.99–1.28), 1.44 (1.27–1.63), and 1.63 (1.39–1.90) in men and 1.76 (0.96–3.25), 1.86 (1.05–3.29), and 3.09 (1.68–5.70) in women, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, the odds ratios (95% confidence interval) comparing A1C of 5.5% to 5.6%, 5.7% to 5.9%, and 6.0% to 6.4% with A1C of <5.5% were 1.04 (0.91–1.19), 1.21 (1.07–1.38), and 1.25 (1.05–1.48) in men and 1.75 (0.94–3.29), 1.59 (0.88–2.87), and 2.48 (1.29–4.74) in women, respectively. These associations persisted in subjects without any metabolic abnormalities, including fasting glucose ≥100 mg/dL.

Conclusions—

A higher A1C level was found to have a modest and independent association with the subclinical coronary atherosclerosis, even in metabolically healthy individuals.
Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor γ, Coactivator 1α Deletion Induces Angiotensin II–Associated Vascular Dysfunction by Increasing Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress and Vascular Inflammation
Authors: Kröller-Schön Swenja , Jansen Thomas , Schüler Andrea , Oelze Matthias , Wenzel Philip , Hausding Michael , Kerahrodi Jasmin Ghaemi , Beisele Maike , Lackner Karl J. , Daiber Andreas , Münzel Thomas , Schulz Eberhard
Published: June 2013

Objective—

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) is an important mediator of mitochondrial biogenesis and function. Because dysfunctional mitochondria might be involved in the pathogenesis of vascular disease, the current study was designed to investigate the effects of in vivo PGC-1α deficiency during chronic angiotensin II (ATII) treatment.

Approach and Results—

Although ATII infusion at subpressor doses (0.1 mg/kg per day for 7 days) did not cause vascular dysfunction in wild-type mice, it led to impaired endothelial-dependent and endothelial-independent relaxation in PGC-1α knockout mice. In parallel, oxidative stress was increased in aortic rings from ATII-treated PGC-1α knockout mice, whereas no change in nitric oxide production was observed. By using the mitochondrial-specific superoxide dye MitoSox and complex I inhibitor rotenone, we identified the mitochondrial respiratory chain as the major PGC-1α–dependent reactive oxygen species source in vivo, accompanied by increased vascular inflammation and cell senescence. In vivo treatment with the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO partially corrected endothelial dysfunction and prevented vascular inflammation in ATII-treated PGC-1α mice, suggesting a causative role of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species in this setting.

Conclusions—

PGC-1α deletion induces vascular dysfunction and inflammation during chronic ATII infusion by increasing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production.
Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Lawrence Joanna G. , Carapetis Jonathan R. , Griffiths Kalinda , Edwards Keith , Condon John R.
Published: June 2013

Background—

Although acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its sequel, rheumatic heart disease (RHD), continue to cause a large burden of morbidity and mortality in disadvantaged populations, most studies investigating the effectiveness of control programs date from the 1950s. A control program, including a disease register, in the Northern Territory of Australia where the Indigenous population has high rates of ARF and RHD allowed us to examine current disease incidence and progression.

Methods and Results—

ARF and RHD incidence rates, ARF recurrence rates, progression rates from ARF to RHD to heart failure, and RHD survival and mortality rates were calculated for Northern Territory residents from 1997 to 2010. For Indigenous people, ARF incidence was highest in the 5- to 14-year age group (males, 162 per 100 000; females, 228 per 100 000). There was little evidence that the incidence of ARF or RHD had declined. The ARF recurrence rate declined by 9% per year after diagnosis. After a first ARF diagnosis, 61% developed RHD within 10 years. After RHD diagnosis, 27% developed heart failure within 5 years. For Indigenous RHD patients, the relative survival rate was 88.4% at 10 years after diagnosis and the standardized mortality ratio was 1.56 (95% confidence interval, 1.23–1.96).

Conclusions—

For Indigenous Australians in the Northern Territory, ARF and RHD incidence and associated mortality remain very high. The reduction in ARF recurrence indicates that the RHD control program has improved secondary prophylaxis; a decline in RHD incidence is expected to follow.
The Lukan Special Material and the Tradition History of the Pericope Adulterae
Authors: Hughes Kyle R.
Published: June 2013

Abstract

For nearly a century, scholars have wrestled with the presence of Lukanisms in the Pericope Adulterae ( John 7:53-8:11) even as the manuscript evidence clearly indicates this account was not originally part of the Third Gospel. A comparison of the version of this pericope found in Papias and the Didascalia with the pericopae associated with the Lukan special material (or “L source”) reveals remarkable similarities in style, form, and content. In light of these discoveries, we conclude that Papias and the Didascalia preserve a primitive form of the Pericope Adulterae that was originally part of the L source behind Luke’s Gospel, shedding light on the tradition history of this pericope as well as the nature of L.
Paul’s Rhetoric of Knowledge
Authors: Edsall Benjamin A.
Published: June 2013

Abstract

The force of the question “do you not know?” is often taken for granted in contemporary scholarship on 1 Corinthians. However, the rhetorical force of the question is closely linked with its referential value, neither of which is straightforward in every case. This article begins by surveying the use of the “do you not know?” question in 1 Corinthians, noting indications that the Corinthians may not in fact know what Paul is asking. Following that is a survey of the use of “do you not know?” in Greek sources ranging from the 5th century bce to the 4th century ce. It is demonstrated that the relationship between the question “do you not know?” and the audience’s actual knowledge is not invariable; the speaker may use the question to draw on actual knowledge or to introduce elements into the discussion that the interlocutor genuinely did not know. After this survey, some conclusions are drawn with relation to Paul’s use of “do you not know?” in 1 Corinthians.
Nighttime Turbulent Events in a Steep Valley: A Nested Large-Eddy Simulation Study
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Chow Fotini Katopodes
Published: June 2013

This numerical study investigates the nighttime flow dynamics in Owens Valley, California. Nested high-resolution large-eddy simulation (LES) is used to resolve stable boundary layer flows within the valley. On 17 April during the 2006 Terrain-Induced Rotor Experiment, the valley atmosphere experiences weak synoptic forcings and is largely dominated by buoyancy-driven downslope and down-valley flows. Tower instruments on the valley floor record a continuous decrease in temperature after sunset, except for a brief warming episode. This transient warming event is modeled with good magnitude and temporal precision with LES. Analysis of the LES flow field confirms the event to be the result of a slope to valley flow transition, as previously suggested by researchers based on field observations. On the same night, a northerly cold airflow from the Great Basin is channeled through a pass on the eastern valley sidewall. The current plunges into the stable valley atmosphere, overshooting the altitude of its neutral buoyancy, and generating a large-scale oscillatory motion. The resulting cross-valley flow creates strong vertical shear with the down-valley flow in the lower layers of the atmosphere. A portion of the cross-valley flow is captured by a scanning lidar. The nested LES is in good agreement with the lidar-recorded radial velocity. Furthermore, the LES is able to resolve Kelvin–Helmholtz waves, and ejection and sweep events at the two-layer interface, which lead to top-down vertical mixing.
The Historical Nature of Cities
Authors: Elliott James R. , Frickel Scott
Published: June 2013

Endemic uncertainties surrounding urban industrial waste raise important theoretical and methodological challenges for understanding the historical nature of cities. Our study advances a synthetic framework for engaging these challenges by extending theories of modern risk society and classic urban ecology to investigate the accumulation of industrial hazards over time and space. Data for our study come from a unique longitudinal dataset containing geospatial and organizational information on more than 2,800 hazardous manufacturing sites operating between 1956 and 2006 in Portland, Oregon. We pair these site data with historical data from the U.S. population census and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to examine the historical accumulation of hazardous parcels in relation to changing patterns of industrial land use, neighborhood composition, new residential development, and environmental regulation. Results indicate that historical accumulation of hazardous sites is scaling up in ways that exhibit little regard for shifting neighborhood demographics or existing regulatory policies as sites merge into larger, more contiguous industrialized areas of historically generated hazards, creating the environmental conditions of urban risk society.
Empiricism or rationalism: how should we measure proteinuria?
Authors: Methven Shona , MacGregor Mark S
Published: June 2013

Proteinuria is the cardinal sign of renal disease, therefore accurate identification of clinically significant proteinuria is essential to the diagnosis and management of kidney disease. Spot samples are now widely used, namely protein: creatinine ratio (uPCR) and albumin: creatinine ratio (uACR). In this article we review the evidence comparing uPCR and uACR including clinical, laboratory and financial arguments.

uPCR has a superior performance to uACR to predict 24-hour total proteinuria, the measurement on which the evidence for interventions in chronic kidney disease is based. Furthermore a retrospective study comparing uPCR and uACR as predictors of renal outcome found comparable performance to predict all-cause mortality, commencement of renal replacement therapy and doubling of serum creatinine. Only uPCR takes account of non-albumin proteinuria which has been shown to have prognostic significance. uACR was been thought to be superior at low levels (where there is less ‘noise’ from physiological urinary proteins), but uPCR has recently been shown to perform well at levels equivalent to <0.5 g/day (and even within the reference range) as a predictor of outcomes. uACR is measured using an immunoassay that may be technically superior, but is not without shortcomings (such as antigen excess) and is 2–10 times more expensive than uPCR.

The theories explaining the superiority of albumin are appealing. However, the available comparative data do not seem to support the theory. We cannot explain the disparity, but in science, if the data do not fit the existing theory, then maybe it's time for a new theory.
Effectiveness of Combining Statistical Tests and Effect Sizes When Using Logistic Discriminant Function Regression to Detect Differential Item Functioning for Polytomous Items
Authors: Gómez-Benito Juana , Hidalgo Mª Dolores , Zumbo Bruno D.
Published: June 2013

The objective of this article was to find an optimal decision rule for identifying polytomous items with large or moderate amounts of differential functioning. The effectiveness of combining statistical tests with effect size measures was assessed using logistic discriminant function analysis and two effect size measures: R2 and conditional log odds ratio in delta scale (ΔLR). Four independent variables were manipulated: (a) different sample sizes for the reference and focal groups (1,000/500, 1,000/250, 500/250), (b) impact between reference and focal group (equal-ability distribution, i.e., no impact; or different-ability distribution, i.e., impact), (c) the percentage of differential item functioning (DIF) items in a test (0%, 12%, i.e., only the first three items of the test; 20%, i.e., the first five items of the test; 32%, i.e., the first eight items of the test), and (d) direction of DIF (one-sided and both-sided). The magnitudes of DIF were indirectly manipulated through the percentage of DIF items and DIF direction, and they were simulated to be moderate or large. The results show that the false positive rates were low when an effect size decision rule was used in combination with a statistical test, and they were very low when R2 effect size criteria were applied. With respect to power, when a statistical test was used in conjunction with effect size criteria to determine whether an item exhibited a meaningful magnitude of DIF, we found when using the ΔLRdecision rule that the percentage of meaningful DIF items was higher with greater amounts of DIF. Examining DIF by means of blended statistical tests, in other words, those incorporating both the p value and effect size measures, can be recommended as a procedure for classifying items displaying DIF.
Low-Back Pain Ratings for Lifetime, 1-Month Period, and Point Prevalences in a Large Occupational Population
Authors: Thiese Matthew S. , Hegmann Kurt T. , Wood Eric M. , Garg Arun , Moore J. Steven , Kapellusch Jay M. , Foster James , Greene Tom , Stoddard Greg , Biggs Jeremy ,   BackWorks Study Team
Published: June 2013

Objective:

This manuscript systematically quantifies multiple measures of low-back pain (LBP) prevalence by pain rating in a large, multisite cohort of workers.

Background:

Published LBP prevalence rates vary. Studies rely on one measure of LBP and none report prevalence stratified by pain rating.

Method:

Cross-sectional analyses of baseline data from a multicenter prospective cohort study were performed to evaluate differences in lifetime prevalence, 1-month period prevalence, and point prevalence of LBP. Workers were from 28 different employment settings in 4 diverse U.S. states. All workers completed computerized questionnaires and structured interviews. LBP prevalence measures were stratified by pain ratings.

Results:

A total of 828 subjects had complete health data at baseline. Lifetime prevalence, 1-month period prevalence, and point prevalence for any LBP (≥1/10) were 63.4%, 44.0%, and 20.8% respectively. Prevalence of LBP decreased with increasing pain ratings. As an example, using a threshold of LBP ≥ 3/10 pain, prevalence measures were 61.0%, 37.6%, and 16.7% respectively. A threshold of LBP ≥ 5/10 had prevalence measures of 51.2%, 22.9%, and 9.9% respectively. Age, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and tobacco use were statistically significantly related to lifetime prevalence of LBP.

Conclusion:

Lifetime LBP prevalence, 1-month period prevalence, and point prevalence stratified by pain ratings demonstrate a wide variation of prevalence measures of LBP and self-reported pain ratings. Higher pain rating thresholds yield lower prevalence measures and may impact assessments of risk factors. Differences in pain ratings may allow for focused surveillance within an occupational cohort.
Work engagement, job design and the role of the social context at work: Exploring antecedents from a relational perspective
Authors: Freeney Yseult , Fellenz Martin R
Published: June 2013

Relational resources are now recognized as significant factors in workplaces and increasing attention is being given to the motivational impact of giving, in addition to receiving social support. Our study builds on this work to determine the role of such relational mechanisms in work engagement, a concept that simultaneously captures drive and well-being. Data from 182 midwives from two maternity hospitals revealed a best-fit model where perceived supervisor support, social support from peers, prosocial impact on others and autonomy explained 52 percent of variance in work engagement. Perceived prosocial impact acted as a significant partial mediator between autonomy and work engagement. This study provides evidence for the importance of perceived prosocial impact and the role of immediate supervisors in facilitating work engagement in midwifery. Results highlight the value of relational resources and suggest their explicit inclusion in current models of work engagement.
Hybrid accountabilities: When western and non-western accountabilities collide
Authors: Dar Sadhvi
Published: June 2013

This article critiques the international development sector by questioning the role of western reporting practices in establishing accountability between non-western stakeholders. Homi Bhabha’s theoretical framework on translation and hybridity is applied to understand how recipient NGO workers experience western forms of accountability, such as English-written reports. Drawing on ethnographic research carried out in an Indian NGO, three key findings are outlined. First, reporting subjugates local knowledge leading to workers experiencing disempowerment. Second, reporting in English can give workers a sense of accomplishment precipitating more positive associations with accounting in a western language. Third, workers produce hybrid accounts in response to top-down reporting practices that intermingle donor and local trust-building practices. These hybrid accounts are constituted within multifarious power dynamics, including caste, gender and social status. In conclusion, reporting is highlighted as reflecting far more complex power relations between actors than current understandings of postcolonial stakeholder relations suggest.
Mapping accountability changes in labour market administrations: from concentrated to shared accountability?
Authors: Jantz Bastian , Jann Werner
Published: June 2013

The article explores how recent changes in the governance of employment services in three European countries (Denmark, Germany and Norway) have influenced accountability relationships. The overall assumption in the growing literature about accountability is that the number of actors involved in accountability arrangements is rising, that accountability relationships are becoming more numerous and complex, and that these changes may lead to contradictory accountability relationships, and finally to ‘multi accountability disorder’. The article tries to explore these assumptions by analysing the different actors involved and the information requested in the new governance arrangements in all three countries. It concludes that the considerable changes in organizational arrangements and more managerial information demanded and provided have led to more shared forms of accountability. Nevertheless, a clear development towards less political or administrative accountability could not be observed.

Points for practitioners

Public organizations in many areas are confronted with and are using ever more and more sophisticated accountability measures to monitor and improve their performance. But many citizens still perceive them as being not accountable enough. These accountability problems are normally treated by recommending and establishing new and more accountability structures with more actors and information requirements and the assumption that these systems will lead to better output and outcome. At the same time there is a widespread fear that these new shared and fragmented accountability structures weaken established political accountability and legitimacy. The article explores these developments by comparing changes in accountability in labour market administration in three countries and finds that there is more shared accountability but at the same time no weakening of political and administrative accountability.
An Exploratory Multilevel Analysis of Nonprescription Stimulant Use in a Sample of College Students
Authors: Bavarian Niloofar , Flay Brian R. , Smit Ellen
Published: June 2013

Nonprescription stimulant use is a high-risk behavior prevalent in the college population. To date, research on this substance use behavior lacks a comprehensive theoretical lens as well as geographical diversity. Guided by the Theory of Triadic Influence (TTI), multilevel (i.e., students within schools) modeling was used to analyze survey data from the Spring 2009 American College Health Association–National College Health Assessment II. We hypothesized that the behavior would be associated with ultimate underlying causes, distal predisposing influences, proximal immediate predictors, and immediate precursors found in the TTI’s three streams of influence (i.e., intrapersonal, social situation/context, and sociocultural environment). In our sample ( N = 10,220 students; 18 schools), the mean prevalence of past-year use of prescription stimulants without a prescription was 10.70% (range across schools, 0.33%-20.04%). Our hypothesis regarding the multifaceted nature of the predictors of the behavior was supported. Implications for prevention efforts, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Health Information–Seeking Practices of African American Young Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Rose India D. , Friedman Daniela B. , Spencer S. Melinda , Annang Lucy , Lindley Lisa L.
Published: June 2013

The current study used a qualitative, phenomenological approach to investigate the health information–seeking practices of African American young men who have sex with men (AAYMSM). Forty-two self-identified AAYMSM, aged 18 to 21, residing in a Southeastern U.S. city participated in a qualitative focus group or face-to-face interview to examine their access to health information, current and preferred sources and types of health information, and recommendations for improving the delivery of health information to AAYMSM. Participants reported accessing health information from a complex network of sources, including peers, health care professionals, parents, and the Internet. Most consulted these sources to access information about the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS. In addition, participants provided recommendations to improve delivery of health information and identified parents and the Internet as preferred sources of health information. This research highlights the importance of developing health information, specifically for AAYMSM.
Negative Emotions and Risk for Type 2 Diabetes Among Korean Immigrants
Authors: Choi Sarah E. , Rush Elizabeth B. , Henry Shayna L.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between negative emotions and bio-behavioral risk factors among Korean immigrants at risk for type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

Data were collected from 148 Korean immigrant adults who are “at risk” for T2DM as defined by having family history of T2DM in first-degree relatives, body mass index greater than 23, or history of gestational diabetes in women. Participants completed questionnaires and underwent biological measures. Negative emotions included feeling nervous, hopeless, restless, anxious, and stressed as well as depressive symptoms.

Results

High percentages of participants had T2DM risk factors including overweight, greater than normal waist to hip ratio, and blood glucose readings that are indicative of T2DM. Feeling stressed was the most commonly reported negative emotion (66%), followed by feeling anxious (51%), restless (38%), nervous (30%), and hopeless (13%). Experience of negative emotions was significantly related to behavioral risk factors; higher levels of experiencing negative emotions were related to increased soda intake and a decreased likelihood of doing at least 10 minutes of moderate exercise. Stress and anxiety were each negatively related to moderate exercise, and depressive symptoms were negatively related to both moderate and vigorous exercise. No significant relationship was found between negative emotions and biological risk factors.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that negative emotions, individually and taken together, may be related to T2DM risk behaviors in high-risk Korean immigrants. Behavioral interventions to prevent T2DM in this population should consider assessing and addressing negative emotions.
Household Labor Allocation Among Married and Cohabiting Couples in Italy
Authors: Meggiolaro Silvia
Published: June 2013

This article examines the differences between currently married and currently cohabiting couples in their household labor allocation in Italy, distinguishing the experience of both premarital cohabitation and previous unions with other partners. Results suggest that, on one hand, cohabiting couples present more equal arrangements of household labor time than married ones, but the more equal allocation of premarital cohabitation is not carried into marriage. On the other hand, contrary to hypothesis, the experience of previous unions does not mean more equal allocation of household labor in the current union either for marriages or for cohabitations.