bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creatine loading elevates the intracellular phosphorylation potential and alters adaptive responses of rat fast-twitch muscle to chronic low-frequency stimulation
Authors: Putman Charles T. , Gallo Maria , Martins Karen J.B. , MacLean Ian M. , Jendral Michelle J. , Gordon Tessa , Syrotuik Daniel G. , Dixon Walter T.
Published: February 2015

This study tested the hypothesis that elevating the intracellular phosphorylation potential (IPP = [ATP]/[ADP]free) within rat fast-twitch tibialis anterior muscles by creatine (Cr) loading would prevent fast-to-slow fibre transitions induced by chronic low-frequency electrical stimulation (CLFS, 10 Hz, 12 h/day). Creatine-control and creatine-CLFS groups drank a solution of 1% Cr + 5% dextrose, ad libitum, for 10 days before and during 10 days of CLFS; dextrose-control and dextrose-CLFS groups drank 5% dextrose. Cr loading increased total Cr (P < 0.025), phosphocreatine (PCr) (P < 0.003), and the IPP (P < 0.0008) by 34%, 45%, and 64%, respectively. PCr and IPP were 46% (P < 0.002) and 76% (P < 0.02) greater in creatine-CLFS than in dextrose-CLFS. Higher IPP was confirmed by a 58% reduction in phospho-AMP-activated protein kinase α (Thr172) (P < 0.006). In dextrose-CLFS, myosin heavy chain (MyHC) I and IIa transcripts increased 32- and 38-fold (P < 0.006), respectively, whereas MyHC-IIb mRNA decreased by 75% (P < 0.03); the corresponding MyHC-I and MyHC-IIa protein contents increased by 2.0- (P < 0.03) and 2.7-fold (P < 0.05), respectively, and MyHC-IIb decreased by 30% (P < 0.03). In contrast, within creatine-CLFS, MyHC-I and MyHC-IIa mRNA were unchanged and MyHC-IIb mRNA decreased by 75% (P < 0.003); the corresponding MyHC isoform contents were not altered. Oxidative reference enzymes were similarly elevated (P < 0.01) in dextrose-CLFS and creatine-CLFS, but reciprocal reductions in glycolytic reference enzymes occurred only in dextrose-CLFS (P < 0.02). Preservation of the glycolytic potential and greater SERCA2 and parvalbumin contents in creatine-CLFS coincided with prolonged time to peak tension and half-rise time (P < 0.01). These results highlight the IPP as an important physiological regulator of muscle fibre plasticity and demonstrate that training-induced changes typically associated with improvements in muscular endurance or increased power output are not mutually exclusive in Cr-loaded muscles.
Temporary stability of steep, noncemented and lightly cemented soil slopes
Authors: Lade Poul V. , Yamamuro Jerry A.
Published: February 2015

Many steep soil slopes are apparently stable beyond what is indicated by slope stability analysis. The mechanism of slope stability in dilating soils is explained in detail, and the development of shear strength in such soils is demonstrated by drained and undrained tests on dense sand. It is argued that appropriate shear strength parameters for analysis of slope stability in dilating materials describe the residual strength. It is explained how reliance on peak shear strength parameters is unsafe, because the component of shear strength created by the additional effective confining pressure caused by development of suction due to inhibited dilation can be exhausted by either access to water or by drying the soil. The fleeting phenomenon of apparent additional shear strength causes super-stability of the slope. Exhaustion of the soil’s capacity to dilate results in reduction of shear strength and instability of the steep slope. It is difficult to predict the time when the soil’s capacity to dilate is exhausted and when the consequent decline in shear strength occurs. This is because this decline occurs with access to water. This is demonstrated by triaxial compression tests on saturated and partly saturated, dilating specimens.
Dynamical correlations of mutual information and tripartite entanglement for vibrational states in a trimer molecule
Authors: Hou Mo , Xia Ying-Qing , Hou Xi-Wen
Published: February 2015

Quantum mutual information and concurrence are two important measures of quantum correlations, and their similar behavior for a bipartite pure state calls for inspecting whether such a behavior remains for a multipartite pure state. The dynamical correlation of quantum mutual information and tripartite entanglement is analytically and numerically studied for initial states, total boson numbers and coupling parameters in a symmetric trimer molecule, where the entanglement is measured in terms of concurrence. A correlation parameter is introduced to describe the correlation between mutual information and concurrence. It is shown that both quantities are positively or anti-correlated in irregular manner. However, they exhibit completely positive correlation for suitable states, with their explicit expressions being presented for arbitrary model parameters. The dynamical correlation between bipartite and tripartite entanglement is discussed as well. Those shed new light on the understanding of quantum correlations of vibrational states in polyatomic molecules.
A SIMPLE METHOD TO PREPARE NANOPOROUSSn:PbCOMPOSITE METAL FOAM
Authors: ZANDI MAJID , AMIRHOSEINY MARYAM , MOSAYYEBI ABOLGHASEM
Published: February 2015

A novel and simple approach for preparing nanoporous binder free Sn : Pb composite metal foam has been demonstrated. The anodized metallic composite block was functionalized and also found a nanoporous structure. A scanning electron microscopy (SEM) result shows that the nanoflake-like arrangement has synthesized. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirm the nanoporous structure of the Sn / Pb foam after etching with 6 M NaOH . The prepared Sn : Pb metal foam is able to be used as a super capacitors electrode to offer large areal capacitance with regards to the synergic integration of Sn and Pb metals and the unique nanoporous structure.
ELECTRONIC STRUCTURES AND THE STABILITY OF MgO SURFACE: DENSITY FUNCTIONAL STUDY
Authors: ZHANG DIAN-NA , ZHAO LI , WANG JIA-FU , LI YAN-LI
Published: February 2015

The electronic structures and the stability of the low-index surface (001), (011) and (111) for MgO were investigated by first-principles method based on density functional theory (DFT). We analyzed the stability of the MgO slab in equilibrium with an arbitrary oxygen environment. The density of states (DOS) and the band structures of MgO slabs were calculated and compared with those of the bulk MgO . Our calculation results reveal that the stabilities of the surface vary with the change of O chemical potential. In addition, the (001) and (011) surfaces are semiconductors, which are similar to that of the bulk MgO . However, the MgO (111) surface exhibits metallic property due to the effect of the surface states, which is different from that of the bulk MgO .
SEGMENTATION OF BRAIN MRIs BY SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINE: DETECTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF STROKES
Authors: ASSIA CHERFA , YAZID CHERFA , SAID MOUDACHE
Published: February 2015

The aim of our work is the segmentation of healthy and pathological brains to obtain brain structures and extract strokes. We used real magnetic resonance (MR) images weighted on diffusion. The brain was isolated, and the images were filtered by an anisotropic filter, and then segmented by support vector machines (SVMs). We first applied the method on synthetic images to test the performance of the algorithm and adjust the parameters. Then, we compared our results with those obtained by a cooperative approach proposed in a previous paper.
NANODELIVERY SYSTEM FOR MITOCHONDRIAL TARGETING
Authors: YOONG SIA LEE , PASTORIN GIORGIA
Published: February 2015

Mitochondria are indispensable in cellular functions such as energy production and death execution. They are emerging as intriguing therapeutic target as their dysregulation was found to be monumental in diseases such as neurodegenerative disease, obesity, and cancer etc. Despite tremendous interest being focused on therapeutically intervening mitochondrial function, few mito-active drugs were successfully developed, particularly due to challenges in delivering active compound to this organelle. In this review, effort in utilizing nanotechnology for targeted mitochondrial delivery of compound is expounded based on the nature of the nanomaterial used. The advantage and potential offered are discussed alongside the limitation. Finally the review is concluded with perspectives of the application of nanocarrier in mitochondrial medicine, given the unresolved concern on potential complications.
Entire solutions for some reaction–diffusion systems
Authors: Lv Guangying , Luo Dang
Published: February 2015

This paper is concerned with the existence of entire solutions of some reaction–diffusion systems. We first consider Belousov–Zhabotinskii reaction model. Then we study a general model. Using the comparing argument and sub-super-solutions method, we obtain the existence of entire solutions which behave as two wavefronts coming from the both sides of x-axis, where an entire solution is meant by a classical solution defined for all space and time variables. At last, we give some examples to explain our results for the general models.
Infinitely presented small cancellation groups have the Haagerup property
Authors: Arzhantseva Goulnara , Osajda Damian
Published: February 2015

We prove the Haagerup property (= Gromov's a-T-menability) for finitely generated groups defined by infinite presentations satisfying the C'(1/6)-small cancellation condition. We deduce that these groups are coarsely embeddable into a Hilbert space and that the strong Baum–Connes conjecture holds for them. The result is a first nontrivial advancement in understanding groups with such properties among infinitely presented non-amenable direct limits of hyperbolic groups. The proof uses the structure of a space with walls introduced by Wise. As the main step we show that C'(1/6)-complexes satisfy the linear separation property.
Explaining Episodes of Growth Accelerations, Decelerations, and Collapses in Western Africa
Authors: Imam Patrick , Salinas Gonzalo
Published: February 2015

The growth literature has had problems explaining the "sub-Saharan African growth dummy" in cross-country regressions. Instead of taking the usual approach of focusing on long-run growth and assuming that sub-Saharan countries have homogenous parameters in growth regressions, we concentrate our analysis on episodes of growth turnarounds (identifying growth accelerations, decelerations, and collapses) and use only West African countries in our sample. Using probits for a group of 22 Western African economies for the period 1960–2006, we find that growth accelerations are most clearly associated with external shocks, economic liberalization, political stability, and closeness to the coast; decelerations occurred during short-lived regimes and when corruption indices weakened; and collapses are linked to external shocks, falling domestic credit, and proximity to the coast.
The Implementation of Industrial Parks: Some Lessons Learned in India
Authors: Saleman Yannick , Jordan Luke
Published: February 2015

Industrial parks are as popular as they are controversial, in India and globally. At their best they align infrastructure provision and agglomeration economies to jolt industrial growth. More often, they generate negative spillovers, provide handouts, sit empty, or simply do not get built. This paper disaggregates how parks are built and how they fail. It contextualizes parks in India, followed by a thick case study of an innovative scheme that appears to buck the trend. This performance is then explained by the way in which the scheme's design and action fit India's political economy. The paper concludes by considering how the analysis and the lessons learned might inform the design and implementation of industrial park programs and other public interventions, in India and elsewhere.
Environmentally persistent free radicals compromise left ventricular function during ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Burn Brendan R. , Varner Kurt J.
Published: February 2015

Increases in airborne particulate matter (PM) are linked to increased mortality from myocardial ischemia. PM contains environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) that form as halogenated hydrocarbons chemisorb to transition metal oxide-coated particles, and are capable of sustained redox cycling. We hypothesized that exposure to the EPFR DCB230 would increase cardiac vulnerability to subsequent myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MI/R) injury. Rats were exposed to DCB230 or vehicle via nose-only inhalation (230 μg max/day) over 30 min/day for 7 days. MI/R or sham MI/R (sham) was initiated 24 h after the final exposure. Following 1 or 7 days of reperfusion, left ventricular (LV) function was assessed and infarct size measured. In vehicle-exposed rats, MI/R injury did not significantly reduce cardiac output (CO), stroke volume (SV), stroke work (SW), end-diastolic volume (EDV), or end-systolic volume (ESV) after 1 day of reperfusion, despite significant reductions in end-systolic pressure (ESP). Preload-recruitable SW (PRSW; contractility) was elevated, presumably to maintain LV function. MI/R 1-day rats exposed to DCB230 also had similarly reduced ESP. Compared with vehicle controls, CO, SV, and SW were significantly reduced in DCB230-exposed MI/R 1-day rats; moreover, PRSW did not increase. DCB230’s effects on LV function dissipated within 8 days of exposure. These data show that inhalation of EPFRs can exacerbate the deficits in LV function produced by subsequent MI/R injury. Infarct size was not different between the MI/R groups. We conclude that inhalation of EPFRs can compromise cardiac function during MI/R injury and may help to explain the link between PM and MI/R-related mortality.
Voluntary and forced exercise differentially alters the gut microbiome in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Allen Jacob M. , Berg Miller Margret E. , Pence Brandt D. , Whitlock Keith , Nehra Vandana , Gaskins H. Rex , White Bryan A. , Fryer John D. , Woods Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2015

We have previously shown that voluntary wheel running (VWR) attenuates, whereas forced treadmill running (FTR) exacerbates, intestinal inflammation and clinical outcomes in a mouse model of colitis. As the gut microbiome is implicated in colitis, we hypothesized that VWR and FTR would differentially affect the gut microbiome. Mice (9-10/treatment) were randomly assigned to VWR, FTR, or sedentary home cage control (SED) for 6 wk. VWR were given running wheel access, whereas FTR ran on a treadmill for 40 min/day at 8–12 m/min, 5% grade. Forty-eight hours after the last exercise session, DNA was isolated from the fecal pellets and cecal contents, and the conserved bacterial 16S rRNA gene was amplified and sequenced using the Illumina Miseq platform. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance based on weighted UniFrac distance matrix revealed different bacterial clusters between feces and cecal contents in all groups ( P < 0.01). Interestingly, the community structures of the three treatment groups clustered separately from each other in both gut regions ( P < 0.05). Contrary to our hypothesis, the α-diversity metric, Chao1, indicated that VWR led to reduced bacterial richness compared with FTR or SED ( P < 0.05). Taxonomic evaluation revealed that both VWR and FTR altered many individual bacterial taxa. Of particular interest, Turicibacter spp., which has been strongly associated with immune function and bowel disease, was significantly lower in VWR vs. SED/FTR. These data indicate that VWR and FTR differentially alter the intestinal microbiome of mice. These effects were observed in both the feces and cecum despite vastly different community structures between each intestinal region.
Physical exercise increases autophagic signaling through ULK1 in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Møller Andreas Buch , Vendelbo Mikkel Holm , Christensen Britt , Clasen Berthil Forrest , Bak Ann Mosegaard , Jørgensen Jens O. L. , Møller Niels , Jessen Niels
Published: February 2015

Data from transgenic animal models suggest that exercise-induced autophagy is critical for adaptation to physical training, and that Unc-51 like kinase-1 (ULK1) serves as an important regulator of autophagy. Phosphorylation of ULK1 at Ser555 stimulates autophagy, whereas phosphorylation at Ser757 is inhibitory. To determine whether exercise regulates ULK1 phosphorylation in humans in vivo in a nutrient-dependent manner, we examined skeletal muscle biopsies from healthy humans after 1-h cycling exercise at 50% maximal O2 uptake on two occasions: 1) during a 36-h fast, and 2) during continuous glucose infusion at 0.2 kg/h. Physical exercise increased ULK1 phosphorylation at Ser555 and decreased lipidation of light chain 3B. ULK1 phosphorylation at Ser555 correlated positively with AMP-activated protein kinase-α Thr172 phosphorylation and negatively with light chain 3B lipidation. ULK1 phosphorylation at Ser757 was not affected by exercise. Fasting increased ULK1 and p62 protein expression, but did not affect exercise-induced ULK1 phosphorylation. These data demonstrate that autophagy signaling is activated in human skeletal muscle after 60 min of exercise, independently of nutritional status, and suggest that initiation of autophagy constitutes an important physiological response to exercise in humans.
Prognostic and Therapeutic Implications of Statin and Aspirin Therapy in Individuals With Nonobstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Chow Benjamin J.W. , Small Gary , Yam Yeung , Chen Li , McPherson Ruth , Achenbach Stephan , Al-Mallah Mouaz , Berman Daniel S. , Budoff Matthew J. , Cademartiri Filippo , Callister Tracy Q. , Chang Hyuk-Jae , Cheng Victor Y. , Chinnaiyan Kavitha , Cury Ricardo , Delago Augustin , Dunning Allison , Feuchtner Gundrun , Hadamitzky Martin , Hausleiter Jörg , Karlsberg Ronald P. , Kaufmann Philipp A. , Kim Yong-Jin , Leipsic Jonathon , LaBounty Troy , Lin Fay , Maffei Erica , Raff Gilbert L. , Shaw Leslee J. , Villines Todd C. , Min James K.
Published: February 2015

Objective—

We sought to examine the risk of mortality associated with nonobstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) and to determine the impact of baseline statin and aspirin use on mortality.

Approach and Results—

Coronary computed tomographic angiography permits direct visualization of nonobstructive CAD. To date, the prognostic implications of nonobstructive CAD and the potential benefit of directing therapy based on nonobstructive CAD have not been carefully examined. A total of 27 125 consecutive patients who underwent computed tomographic angiography (12 enrolling centers and 6 countries) were prospectively entered into the COronary CT Angiography EvaluatioN For Clinical Outcomes: An InteRnational Multicenter (CONFIRM) registry. Patients, without history of previous CAD or obstructive CAD, for whom baseline statin and aspirin use was available were analyzed. Each coronary segment was classified as normal or nonobstructive CAD (1%–49% stenosis). Patients were followed up for a median of 27.2 months for all-cause mortality. The study comprised 10 418 patients (5712 normal and 4706 with nonobstructive CAD). In multivariable analyses, patients with nonobstructive CAD had a 6% (95% confidence interval, 1%–12%) higher risk of mortality for each additional segment with nonobstructive plaque (
P
=0.021). Baseline statin use was associated with a reduced risk of mortality (hazard ratio, 0.44; 95% confidence interval, 0.28–0.68;
P
=0.0003), a benefit that was present for individuals with nonobstructive CAD (hazard ratio, 0.32; 95% confidence interval, 0.19–0.55;
P
<0.001) but not for those without plaque (hazard ratio, 0.66; 95% confidence interval, 0.30–1.43;
P
=0.287). When stratified by National Cholesterol Education Program/Adult Treatment Program III, no mortality benefit was observed in individuals without plaque. Aspirin use was not associated with mortality benefit, irrespective of the status of plaque.

Conclusions—

The presence and extent of nonobstructive CAD predicted mortality. Baseline statin therapy was associated with a significant reduction in mortality for individuals with nonobstructive CAD but not for individuals without CAD.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier NCT01443637
Assessing Large-Vessel Endothelial Permeability Using Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging—Brief Report
Authors: Lundeberg Erik , Van Der Does Anne M. , Kenne Ellinor , Soehnlein Oliver , Lindbom Lennart
Published: February 2015

Objective—

Loss of endothelial barrier function in arterial blood vessels is characteristic of vascular pathologies, including atherosclerosis. Here, we present a near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging methodology for quantifying endothelial permeability and macromolecular uptake in large arteries in the mouse and evaluate its applicability for studying mechanisms of vascular inflammation.

Approach and Results—

To validate the NIRF methodology, macrovascular inflammation was induced in C57bl/6 mice by local tumor necrosis factor-α stimulation of the carotid artery or in apolipoprotein E–deficient mice by Western diet for 4 weeks. Evans blue dye, serving as plasma protein marker and fluorescent in the near-infrared spectrum, was given intravenously at different doses. Carotids and aorta were excised, and Evans blue dye fluorescence was assessed through whole vessel scan in an infrared imaging system. NIRF correlated to extraction–absorbance methodology for Evans blue dye quantification and was superior at discriminating plasma protein accumulation in tumor necrosis factor-α–stimulated carotids. NIRF allowed for focal quantification of increased arterial wall Evans blue dye uptake in

apolipoprotein E–deficient

mice. Importantly, NIRF left vessels intact for subsequent histological analysis or quantification of leukocyte subpopulations by flow cytometry.

Conclusions—

The described NIRF methodology provides a sensitive and rapid tool to locate and quantify macromolecular uptake in the wall of arterial blood vessels in vascular pathologies in mice.
Expression of Human Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Inhibits Secretion of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor and Attenuates Atherosclerosis in ApoE
−/−
Mice
Authors: Chen Daxin , Xia Min , Hayford Claudia , Tham El-Li , Semik Vikki , Hurst Stuart , Chen Ying , Tam Henry H. , Pan Jun , Wang Yucheng , Tan Xiaojin , Lan Hui-Yao , Shen Huahao , Kakkar Vijay V. , Xu Qingbo , McVey John H. , Dorling Anthony
Published: February 2015

Background—

Tissue factor (TF) and coagulation proteases are involved in promoting atherosclerosis, but the molecular and cellular bases for their involvement are unknown.

Methods and Results—

We generated a new strain (ApX4) of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice expressing a membrane-tethered human tissue factor pathway inhibitor fusion protein on smooth muscle actin–positive cells, including vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). ApX4 mice developed little atherosclerosis on either a normal chow or high-fat diet. Lipid levels were similar to those in parental ApoE
−/−
mice, and there was no detectable difference in systemic (circulating) tissue factor pathway inhibitor levels or activity. The small lipid-rich lesions that developed had markedly reduced leukocyte infiltrates, and in contrast to ApoE
−/−
mice, SMCs did not express macrophage migratory inhibitory factor (MIF), including at sites distant from atheromatous lesions. Low levels of circulating MIF in ApX4 mice normalized to levels seen in ApoE
−/−
mice after injection of an inhibitory anti–human tissue factor pathway inhibitor antibody, which also led to MIF expression by tissue factor–positive medial SMCs. MIF production by SMCs in ApoE
−/−
mice in vitro and in vivo was shown to be dependent on tissue factor and protease-activated receptor signaling, which were inhibited in ApX4 mice.

Conclusions—

Our data indicate that tissue factor plays a hitherto unreported role in the generation of MIF by SMCs in atherosclerosis-prone ApoE
−/−
mice, inhibition of which significantly prevents the development of atherosclerosis, through inhibition of leukocyte recruitment. These data significantly enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of this important pathology and suggest new potential translational strategies to prevent atheroma formation.
Gait Measures as Predictors of Poststroke Cognitive Function
Authors: Ben Assayag Einor , Shenhar-Tsarfaty Shani , Korczyn Amos D. , Kliper Efrat , Hallevi Hen , Shopin Ludmila , Auriel Eitan , Giladi Nir , Mike Anat , Halevy Anat , Weiss Aner , Mirelman Anat , Bornstein Natan M. , Hausdorff Jeffrey M.
Published: February 2015

Background and Purpose—

Patients with stroke are at risk for developing cognitive impairment. We tested whether the assessment of balance and gait can enhance the prediction of long-term cognitive outcome in stroke survivors.

Methods—

Participants were patients with first-ever, mild-moderate ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack from the Tel Aviv Brain Acute Stroke Cohort (TABASCO) study, a large prospective cohort study, who underwent 3-T MRI and were followed for ≥2 years using neurological, neuropsychological, and mobility examinations 6, 12, and 24 months after the index event.

Results—

Data were available for 298 patients (age: 66.7±9.6 years). Forty-six participants (15.4%) developed cognitive decline (CD) over the 2 years of follow-up. The CD group and cognitively intact group did not differ in their neurological deficits or in their infarct volume or location. Nonetheless, 6 months after stroke, the Timed Up and Go test took longer in those who later developed CD (
P
<0.001). Additionally, the CD group also had lower Berg Balance Scale scores (
P
<0.001), slower gait (
P
<0.001), and fewer correct answers during dual-task walking (
P
=0.006). Separate analyses of the patients with transient ischemic attack revealed similar results. Multivariate regression analysis showed that Timed Up and Go times >12 s at 6 months after stroke/transient ischemic attack was a significant independent risk marker of CD 24 months after stroke (odds ratio=6.07, 95% confidence interval: 1.36–27.15).

Conclusions—

These results suggest that measures of balance and gait are significant risk markers of cognitive status 2 years after stroke. Relatively simple, performance-based tests of mobility may enhance the identification of stroke/transient ischemic attack survivors who have an increased risk of developing CD.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01926691.
Tenecteplase–Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator Evaluation for Minor Ischemic Stroke With Proven Occlusion
Authors: Coutts Shelagh B. , Dubuc Véronique , Mandzia Jennifer , Kenney Carol , Demchuk Andrew M. , Smith Eric E. , Subramaniam Suresh , Goyal Mayank , Patil Shivanand , Menon Bijoy K. , Barber Philip A. , Dowlatshahi Dar , Field Thalia , Asdaghi Negar , Camden Marie-Christine , Hill Michael D.
Published: February 2015

Background and Purpose—

Minor stroke and transient ischemic attack with an intracranial occlusion are associated with neurological deterioration and disability. Tenecteplase (TNK–tissue-type plasminogen activator) compared with alteplase is easier to administer, has a longer half-life, higher fibrin specificity, possibly a lower rate of intracranial hemorrhage, and may be an ideal thrombolytic agent in this population.

Methods—

TNK–Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator Evaluation for Minor Ischemic Stroke With Proven Occlusion (TEMPO-1) was a multicenter, prospective, uncontrolled, TNK–tissue-type plasminogen activator dose-escalation, safety, and feasibility trial. Patients with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ≤5 within 12 hours of symptom onset, intracranial arterial occlusion on computed tomographic angiography and absence of well-evolved infarction were eligible. Fifty patients were enrolled; 25 patients at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg, and 25 patients at 0.25 mg/kg. Primary outcome was the rate of drug-related serious adverse events. Secondary outcomes included recanalization and 90-day neurological outcome (modified Rankin Scale, 0–1).

Results—

Median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 2.5 (interquartile range, 1), and median age was 71 (interquartile range, 22) years. There were no drug-related serious adverse events in tier 1. In tier 2, there was 1 symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (4%; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–20.0). Stroke progression occurred in 6% of cases. Overall, 66% had excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale, 0–1) at 90 days. Recanalization rates were high; 0.1 mg/kg (39% complete and 17% partial), 0.25 mg/kg (52% complete and 9% partial). Complete recanalization was significantly related to excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale, 0–1) at 90 days (relative risk, 1.65; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–2.5;
P
=0.026).

Conclusions—

Administration of TNK–tissue-type plasminogen activator in minor stroke with intracranial occlusion is both feasible and safe. A larger randomized controlled trial is needed to prove that this treatment is efficacious.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01654445.
Malaysian Airlines, Neoliberalism and Business as Usual in Malaysia
Authors: Elder Laura
Published: February 2015

Using mixed qualitative and quantitative analysis, I analyse moves made by Malaysian authorities as they seek to engage coercive capital—in the form of state-directed market maneuvers—and mobile capital—in the form of institutional investors’ discourses—in the aftermath of the financial crises of 1997–1998 and 2007–2008. I argue that the Malaysian case reveals the continuing valence of structures of neoliberalism and, in particular, the ways in which local legitimacy continues to be mediated by global market makers. First, I show how in semi-democratic states, neoliberal policies enable the consolidation of power along intersectional axes of class and ethnicity. Next, using Tajudin Ramli’s corporate empire (as enmeshed with Malaysian Airlines) as a modal example, I explore the continuities in the nexus of political and economic elites in Malaysia. Finally, by examining discourses of the Malaysian market’s credibility among institutional investors, I show continuities in how regimes of truth are shaped through neoliberal market structures. If post-neoliberalism leads to transformations in macroeconomic policies and political discourses, I argue that in Malaysia, by contrast, we see intensification of neoliberal policies and discourses, rather than transformation.
Japanese Involvement in Central Asia
Authors: Murashkin Nikolay
Published: February 2015

This paper looks into the role of policy-making carried out by various government officials in the Japanese financial community who contributed to the formulation and implementation of Japanese “Silk Road Diplomacy” in the 1990s and 2000s. Furthermore, it examines the role of key Japanese ministries in the overall Japanese geopolitical engagement in Central Asia. When the five Central Asian republics of the USSR became independent in 1991, they soon encountered a proactive engagement of Japanese diplomacy toward them. Besides boosting bilateral assistance and economic ties, official Tokyo has vigorously promoted the Central Asian states’ eligibility in many international financial institutions and provided extensive advice on reform policies. Both Japanese and Central Asian officials shared a preference for gradualism in economic reforms as a popular approach alternative to the Western neoliberalism in Central Asian countries, although the extent of embracing gradualism varied upon individual republics and advising officials. Spurred by the failures of the Washington consensus and financial crises of the 1990s, Central Asian gradualism can be regarded as an early precursor attempt at post-neoliberalism.
In Search of a Post-Socialist Mode of Governmentality
Authors: Thiem Bui Hai
Published: February 2015

This paper examines the mode of governmentality applicable as an analytical framework in socialist states committed to market socialism. The successes of socialist states like China and Vietnam over the past few decades since their market-based reforms are attributable to this diversifying mode of governmentality and have challenged the binary dichotomy between socialism and neoliberalism. The party-states in China and Vietnam have begun to search for a post-socialist mode of governmentality, which resonates with the departure from neoliberalism towards post-neoliberalism in various capitalist countries. In Vietnam, there are signs of reconfiguration and restructuring of the party-states in such a highly complicated and fluid context to adapt themselves to a more sustainable governmentality. This results in the amorphous and ambivalent situation of a double movement of accommodating and resisting neoliberalism. That, in turn, reveals significant implications for a transformative potential for political change.
After Neoliberalism?
Authors: Suzuki Takaaki
Published: February 2015

This article examines the curious non-death of neoliberalism in Japan. After initial predictions about the end of neoliberalism in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis, more recent analysis, focusing primarily on the United States and Western European cases, have turned their attention to explaining the “resilience” or “non-death” of neoliberalism. I seek to contribute to this analysis by examining the case of Japan, a country that has faced three major financial crises since it began to embrace neoliberal policies and practices in the 1980s. I demonstrate that the Japanese state has scaled back its role in many of the functionally equivalent forms of welfare that were associated with the developmental state model that Japan adopted in the early decades of the post-war era. Moreover, despite these cutbacks, and in contrast to the predictions made by many observers of Japanese politics, I further show that there has not been a corresponding rise in more formal and universalistic forms of welfare for the working age population that would help mitigate the rise in the level of social stratification and risk in Japan caused by these cutbacks. Instead, I show that many formal welfare benefits have been cut back even as spending has risen, and the various tax and labour reform policies that have been adopted since the 1980s have further eroded the level of social equality and income security in Japan.
Hannah’s “Hard Day” and Hesiod’s “Two Roads”: Poetic Wisdom in Philo’s De ebrietate
Authors: Friesen Courtney J. P.
Published: February 2015

In De ebrietate 150, Philo quotes Hesiod’s Works and Days (287, 289-292) in his interpretation of Hannah’s alleged drunkenness in 1 Samuel. These poetic verses contrast the difficulty of the road to virtue with the ease of acquiring wickedness. On Philo’s reading, the misperception of Hannah’s “hard day” by her accuser illustrates the moral lesson of Hesiod, namely, that fools consider virtue to be beyond attainment. In the context of recent interest in the ways in which Philo’s literary methods converge with those of other ancient readers, especially Alexandrian scholars, this study situates Philo’s application of Hesiod’s didactic poetry within its wider history of interpretation. As early as Plato and continuing through Philo’s time, Hesiod’s “two roads” was frequently cited in philosophical discourse and debate. Moreover, analogously to Philo, Alexandrian critics employed this passage in explaining the morality of literary characters. Philo’s use of Hesiod is consistent with this interpretive tradition. At the same time, his originality consists in his creation of a dialogue between Hesiod and biblical narrative in which both voices converge around the same ethical lesson.
A Funny Thing Happened on My Way to Sodom
Authors: Segal Eliezer
Published: February 2015

As an illustration of the phenomena of “filtered absorption” or “controlled incorporation” of Greek and Roman culture into late classical Judaism, this article focuses on the depiction of Abraham’s servant, identified as Eliezer, in a passage in b. Sanh 109b, which consists largely of confrontations—several of them of a decidedly humorous or satirical nature—with the perverse laws, judges, and citizens of biblical Sodom. The manner in which Eliezer’s midrashic personality and role were fashioned by the rabbis evokes a familiar character from classical literature, namely the “clever slave” [servus callidus], a figure that was cultivated most famously by Plautus and which became a popular stock character in Roman theater. The article tries to reconstruct how the midrashic homilist adapted the Latin dramatic conventions for Jewish religious and exegetical purposes.Special attention is paid to the Talmud’s incorporation of the well-known motif of the “Procrustean bed”; noting the methodological and textual obstacles that plague our attempts to identify exactly which versions of that legend were being used by the Talmudic authors.
Alcimus’ Last Command
Authors: Lanzinger Daniel
Published: February 2015

The note in 1 Maccabees 9:54 that the high priest Alcimus ordered the destruction of the wall of the inner temple court is taken by most scholars as a description of a historical event. This paper, however, suggests that the note should rather be read as part of a pro-Maccabean propaganda which serves to defame Alcimus. It is argued that, from a historical perspective, it was not Alcimus but Judas who was responsible for serious damage at the temple precinct as a result of his unsuccessful military operation against the Seleucid Acra (6:18-54). The author of 1 Maccabees tries to downplay this event and to villainise Alcimus by calling destruction what was actually restoration. The paper ends with a comparison to two other passages in 1 Maccabees (4:44-46 and 5:55-62) which shows that the suggested understanding of 9:54 fits well the strategies of legitimisation and delegitimisation that can be found throughout the book.
Herod or Alexander Janneus? A New Approach to the Testament of Moses
Authors: Loader William
Published: February 2015

In recent years a consensus has emerged that the Testament of Moses is to be dated in the early first century c.e., at least in its final form, and the primary basis for that consensus is the apparently perfect match between the reference to a ruler ruling for 34 years and the years of the reign of Herod the Great. While acknowledging that much can be explained on that presupposition, I have sought to show that a fit equally as strong as with Herod may be found when chapter 6 is read as alluding to the reign of Alexander Janneus and Alexandra Salome. The figure 34 matches with as much accuracy as one could expect. But much else also matches, including the fact that his sons did reign for shorter periods than their father, unlike Herod’s sons, and that many of the details, including depictions of depravity and assumptions of religious conflict, better match what we know of the reign of Alexander, Alexandra, and their sons.
A new genus and two new species of Araecerini from high elevation in the Andes with a synopsis of the tribe in South America (Coleoptera, Anthribidae, Choraginae)
Authors: MERMUDES JOSÉ RICARDO M.
Published: February 2015

A new genus and two new species in the tribe Araecerini are described from South America. The new genus and species Aurigeripilus andinus gen. nov. et sp. nov. from high elevation (2930 m) from Colombia (PNN Chingaza Bosque Palacio) is described and characterized by a conspicuous antebasal carina of the pronotum. Neoxenus corrugatus sp. nov. is also described from Ecuador (Napo, Baeza). Illustrations are provided of both species. An overview with diagnostic characteres of South America genera of the tribe Araecerini Lacordaire is presented.
A Detailed Cloud Fraction Climatology of the Upper Indus Basin and Its Implications for Near-Surface Air Temperature*
Authors: Forsythe N. , Hardy A. J. , Fowler H. J. , Blenkinsop S. , Kilsby C. G. , Archer D. R. , Hashmi M. Z.
Published: February 2015

Clouds play a key role in hydroclimatological variability by modulating the surface energy balance and air temperature. This study utilizes MODIS cloud cover data, with corroboration from global meteorological reanalysis (ERA-Interim) cloud estimates, to describe a cloud climatology for the upper Indus River basin. It has specific focus on tributary catchments in the northwest of the region, which contribute a large fraction of basin annual runoff, including 65% of flow originating above Besham, Pakistan or 50 km3 yr−1 in absolute terms. In this region there is substantial cloud cover throughout the year, with spatial means of 50%–80% depending on the season. The annual cycles of catchment spatial mean daytime and nighttime cloud cover fraction are very similar. This regional diurnal homogeneity belies substantial spatial variability, particularly along seasonally varying vertical profiles (based on surface elevation).

Correlations between local near-surface air temperature observations and MODIS cloud cover fraction confirm the strong linkages between local atmospheric conditions and near-surface climate variability. These correlations are interpreted in terms of seasonal and diurnal variations in apparent cloud radiative effect and its influence on near-surface air temperature in the region. The potential role of cloud radiative effect in recognized seasonally and diurnally asymmetrical temperature trends over recent decades is also assessed by relating these locally observed trends to ERA-Interim-derived trends in cloud cover fraction. Specifically, reduction in nighttime cloud cover fraction relative to daytime conditions over recent decades appears to provide a plausible physical mechanism for the observed nighttime cooling of surface air temperature in summer months.
Sensitivity of 24-h Forecast Dryline Position and Structure to Boundary Layer Parameterizations in Convection-Allowing WRF Model Simulations
Authors: Clark Adam J. , Coniglio Michael C. , Coffer Brice E. , Thompson Greg , Xue Ming , Kong Fanyou
Published: February 2015

Recent NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed Spring Forecasting Experiments have emphasized the sensitivity of forecast sensible weather fields to how boundary layer processes are represented in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model. Thus, since 2010, the Center for Analysis and Prediction of Storms has configured at least three members of their WRF-based Storm-Scale Ensemble Forecast (SSEF) system specifically for examination of sensitivities to parameterizations of turbulent mixing, including the Mellor–Yamada–Janjić (MYJ); quasi-normal scale elimination (QNSE); Asymmetrical Convective Model, version 2 (ACM2); Yonsei University (YSU); and Mellor–Yamada–Nakanishi–Niino (MYNN) schemes (hereafter PBL members). In postexperiment analyses, significant differences in forecast boundary layer structure and evolution have been observed, and for preconvective environments MYNN was found to have a superior depiction of temperature and moisture profiles. This study evaluates the 24-h forecast dryline positions in the SSEF system PBL members during the period April–June 2010–12 and documents sensitivities of the vertical distribution of thermodynamic and kinematic variables in near-dryline environments. Main results include the following. Despite having superior temperature and moisture profiles, as indicated by a previous study, MYNN was one of the worst-performing PBL members, exhibiting large eastward errors in forecast dryline position. During April–June 2010–11, a dry bias in the North American Mesoscale Forecast System (NAM) initial conditions largely contributed to eastward dryline errors in all PBL members. An upgrade to the NAM and assimilation system in October 2011 apparently fixed the dry bias, reducing eastward errors. Large sensitivities of CAPE and low-level shear to the PBL schemes were found, which were largest between 1.0° and 3.0° to the east of drylines. Finally, modifications to YSU to decrease vertical mixing and mitigate its warm and dry bias greatly reduced eastward dryline errors.
Using the variance function to estimate limit of blank, limit of detection and their confidence intervals
Authors: Sadler William A
Published: February 2015

Background

Implementing International Organization for Standardization definitions of limit of blank and limit of detection requires precision estimates from specimens devoid of analyte (blank specimens) and also from specimens located close to zero. Calculations are straightforward if errors are constant over the relevant concentration range but estimation of the relationship between variability and concentration (variance function) is necessary in the general case when errors are not constant. This study investigated the efficacy of incorporating the variance function into estimation of limit of blank, limit of detection and their confidence intervals.

Methods

Simulated data, designed to encompass the range of properties that would typically be observed in practice, consisted of four distinct relationships between variance and concentration, in combination with large and small variances and three concentration ranges. Four methods of estimating limit of blank were evaluated together with the accuracy of variance function derived estimates of limit of detection and the accuracy of symmetrical 95% confidence intervals constructed from limit of blank and limit of detection constituent variables.

Results

Most limit of blank estimates and all limit of detection estimates showed systematic negative bias but, provided the data concentration range is not too small, the biases were consistently <1% with confidence interval coverages ranging from 92% to 95%. Estimating limit of blank by extrapolating the variance function to zero lost little in comparison with methods based on blank specimen data.

Conclusions

The variance function provides a convenient and reliable way of analyzing data from experiments evaluating detection capability and, provided certain assumptions are tenable, of estimating limit of blank and limit of detection as part of routine internal quality control.
Approaches to culture and diversity: A critical synthesis of occupational therapy literature
Authors: Beagan Brenda L.
Published: February 2015

Background.

The 2007 position statement on diversity for the Canadian occupational therapy profession argued discussion was needed to determine the implications of approaches to working with cultural differences and other forms of diversity. In 2014, a new position statement on diversity was published, emphasizing the importance of social power relations and power relations between client and therapist, and supporting two particular approaches: cultural safety and cultural humility with critical reflexivity

Purpose.

This paper reviews and critically synthesizes the literature concerning culture and diversity published in occupational therapy between 2007 and 2014, tracing the major discourses and mapping the implications of four differing approaches: cultural competence, cultural relevance, cultural safety, and cultural humility.

Key Issues.

Approaches differ in where they situate the “problem,” how they envision change, the end goal, and the application to a range of types of diversity.

Implications.

The latter two are preferred approaches for their attention to power relations and potential to encompass a range of types of social and cultural diversity.