bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myocardial Adeno-Associated Virus Serotype 6–βARKct Gene Therapy Improves Cardiac Function and Normalizes the Neurohormonal Axis in Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Rengo Giuseppe , Lymperopoulos Anastasios , Zincarelli Carmela , Donniacuo Maria , Soltys Stephen , Rabinowitz Joseph E. , Koch Walter J.
Published: December 2008

Background—The upregulation of G protein–coupled receptor kinase 2 in failing myocardium appears to contribute to dysfunctional β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) signaling and cardiac function. The peptide βARKct, which can inhibit the activation of G protein–coupled receptor kinase 2 and improve βAR signaling, has been shown in transgenic models and short-term gene transfer experiments to rescue heart failure (HF). This study was designed to evaluate long-term βARKct expression in HF with the use of stable myocardial gene delivery with adeno-associated virus serotype 6 (AAV6).

Methods and Results—In HF rats, we delivered βARKct or green fluorescent protein as a control via AAV6-mediated direct intramyocardial injection. We also treated groups with concurrent administration of the β-blocker metoprolol. We found robust and long-term transgene expression in the left ventricle at least 12 weeks after delivery. βARKct significantly improved cardiac contractility and reversed left ventricular remodeling, which was accompanied by a normalization of the neurohormonal (catecholamines and aldosterone) status of the chronic HF animals, including normalization of cardiac βAR signaling. Addition of metoprolol neither enhanced nor decreased βARKct-mediated beneficial effects, although metoprolol alone, despite not improving contractility, prevented further deterioration of the left ventricle.

Conclusions—Long-term cardiac AAV6-βARKct gene therapy in HF results in sustained improvement of global cardiac function and reversal of remodeling at least in part as a result of a normalization of the neurohormonal signaling axis. In addition, βARKct alone improves outcomes more than a β-blocker alone, whereas both treatments are compatible. These findings show that βARKct gene therapy can be of long-term therapeutic value in HF.
Body Mass Index and Vigorous Physical Activity and the Risk of Heart Failure Among Men
Authors: Kenchaiah Satish , Sesso Howard D. , Gaziano J. Michael
Published: December 2008

Background—

Elevated body mass index (BMI; weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) in the obese range (≥30 kg/m
2
) is associated with an excess risk of heart failure (HF). However, the impact of overweight or preobese (BMI, 25 to 29.9 kg/m
2
) status and physical activity on HF risk is unclear.

Methods and Results—

In a prospective cohort of 21 094 men (mean age, 53 years) without known coronary heart disease at baseline in the Physicians’ Health Study, we examined the individual and combined effects of BMI and vigorous physical activity (exercise to the point of breaking a sweat) on HF incidence from 1982 to 2007. We evaluated BMI as both a continuous (per 1-kg/m
2
increment) and a categorical (lean, <25 kg/m
2
; overweight, 25 to 29.9 kg/m
2
; and obese, ≥30 kg/m
2
) variable; we evaluated vigorous physical activity primarily as a dichotomous variable (inactive [rarely/never] versus active [≥1 to 3 times a month]). During follow-up (mean, 20.5 years), 1109 participants developed new-onset HF. In multivariable analyses, every 1-kg/m
2
increase in BMI was associated with an 11% (95% confidence interval [CI], 9 to 13) increase in HF risk. Compared with lean participants, overweight participants had a 49% (95% CI, 32 to 69) and obese participants had a 180% (95% CI, 124 to 250) increase in HF risk. Vigorous physical activity conferred an 18% (95% CI, 4 to 30) decrease in HF risk. No interaction was found between BMI and vigorous physical activity and HF risk (
P
=0.96). Lean active men had the lowest and obese inactive men had the highest risk of HF. Compared with lean active men, the hazard ratios were 1.19 (95% CI, 0.94 to 1.51), 1.49 (95% CI, 1.30 to 1.71), 1.78 (95% CI, 1.43 to 2.23), 2.68 (95% CI, 2.08 to 3.45), and 3.93 (95% CI, 2.60 to 5.96) in lean inactive, overweight active, overweight inactive, obese active, and obese inactive men, respectively.

Conclusions—

In this cohort of men, elevated BMI, even in the preobese range, was associated with an increased risk of HF, and vigorous physical activity was associated with a decreased risk. Public health measures to curtail excess weight, to maintain optimal weight, and to promote physical activity may limit the scourge of HF.
Randomized Study of the Crush Technique Versus Provisional Side-Branch Stenting in True Coronary Bifurcations
Authors: Colombo Antonio , Bramucci Ezio , Saccà Salvatore , Violini Roberto , Lettieri Corrado , Zanini Roberto , Sheiban Imad , Paloscia Leonardo , Grube Eberhard , Schofer Joachim , Bolognese Leonardo , Orlandi Mario , Niccoli Giampaolo , Latib Azeem , Airoldi Flavio
Published: December 2008

Background—

Sirolimus-eluting stents have been reported to be effective in the treatment of coronary bifurcations. Still, it has not been fully clarified which strategy would provide the best results with true bifurcation lesions.

Methods and Results—

The CACTUS trial (Coronary bifurcations: Application of the Crushing Technique Using Sirolimus-eluting stents) is a prospective, randomized, multicenter study comparing 2 different techniques of stenting, with mandatory final kissing-balloon inflation, in true bifurcations: (1) elective “crush” stenting and (2) stenting of only the main branch, with provisional side-branch T-stenting. From August 2004 to June 2007, 350 patients were enrolled in 12 European centers. The primary angiographic end point was the in-segment restenosis rate, and the primary clinical end point was the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or target-vessel revascularization) at 6 months. At 6 months, angiographic restenosis rates were not different between the crush group (4.6% and 13.2% in the main branch and side branch, respectively) and the provisional stenting group (6.7% and 14.7% in the main branch and side branch, respectively;
P
=NS). Additional stenting on the side branch in the provisional stenting group was required in 31% of lesions. Rates of major adverse cardiac events were also similar in the 2 groups (15.8% in the crush group versus 15% in the provisional stenting group,
P
=NS).

Conclusions—

In most bifurcations with a significant stenosis in both branches, a provisional strategy of stenting the main branch only is effective, with the need to implant a second stent on the side branch occurring in approximately one third of cases. The implantation of 2 stents does not appear to be associated with a higher incidence of adverse events at 6 months.
Epicardial Border Zone Overexpression of Skeletal Muscle Sodium Channel SkM1 Normalizes Activation, Preserves Conduction, and Suppresses Ventricular Arrhythmia
Authors: Lau David H. , Clausen Chris , Sosunov Eugene A. , Shlapakova Iryna N. , Anyukhovsky Evgeny P. , Danilo Peter , Rosen Tove S. , Kelly Caitlin , Duffy Heather S. , Szabolcs Matthias J. , Chen Ming , Robinson Richard B. , Lu Jia , Kumari Sinhu , Cohen Ira S. , Rosen Michael R.
Published: December 2008

Background—

In depolarized myocardial infarct epicardial border zones, the cardiac sodium channel (SCN5A) is largely inactivated, contributing to low action potential upstroke velocity (V̇
max
), slow conduction, and reentry. We hypothesized that a fast inward current such as the skeletal muscle sodium channel (SkM1) operating more effectively at depolarized membrane potentials might restore fast conduction in epicardial border zones and be antiarrhythmic.

Methods and Results—

Computer simulations were done with a modified Hund-Rudy model. Canine myocardial infarcts were created by coronary ligation. Adenovirus expressing SkM1 and green fluorescent protein or green fluorescent protein alone (sham) was injected into epicardial border zones. After 5 to 7 days, dogs were studied with epicardial mapping, programmed premature stimulation in vivo, and cellular electrophysiology in vitro. Infarct size was determined, and tissues were immunostained for SkM1 and green fluorescent protein. In the computational model, modest SkM1 expression preserved fast conduction at potentials as positive as −60 mV; overexpression of SCN5A did not. In vivo epicardial border zone electrograms were broad and fragmented in shams (31.5±2.3 ms) and narrower in SkM1 (22.6±2.8 ms;
P
=0.03). Premature stimulation induced ventricular tachyarrhythmia/fibrillation >60 seconds in 6 of 8 shams versus 2 of 12 SkM1 (
P
=0.02). Microelectrode studies of epicardial border zones from SkM1 showed membrane potentials equal to that of shams and V̇
max
greater than that of shams as membrane potential depolarized (
P
<0.01). Infarct sizes were similar (sham, 30±2.8%; SkM1, 30±2.6%;
P
=0.86). SkM1 expression in injected epicardium was confirmed immunohistochemically.

Conclusions—

SkM1 increases V̇
max
of depolarized myocardium and reduces the incidence of inducible sustained ventricular tachyarrhythmia/fibrillation in canine infarcts. Gene therapy to normalize activation by increasing V̇
max
at depolarized potentials may be a promising antiarrhythmic strategy.
Disparity in Outcomes of Surgical Revascularization for Limb Salvage
Authors: Nguyen Louis L. , Hevelone Nathanael , Rogers Selwyn O. , Bandyk Dennis F. , Clowes Alexander W. , Moneta Gregory L. , Lipsitz Stuart , Conte Michael S.
Published: December 2008

Background—

Vein bypass surgery is an effective therapy for atherosclerotic occlusive disease in the coronary and peripheral circulations; however, long-term results are limited by progressive attrition of graft patency. Failure of vein bypass grafts in patients with critical limb ischemia results in morbidity, limb loss, and additional resource use. Although technical factors are known to be critical to the success of surgical revascularization, patient-specific risk factors are not well defined. In particular, the relationship of race/ethnicity and gender to the outcomes of peripheral bypass surgery has been controversial.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed the Project of Ex Vivo Vein Graft Engineering via Transfection III (PREVENT III) randomized trial database, which included 1404 lower extremity vein graft operations performed exclusively for critical limb ischemia at 83 North American centers. Trial design included intensive ultrasound surveillance of the bypass graft and clinical follow-up to 1 year. Multivariable modeling (Cox proportional hazards and propensity score) was used to examine the relationships of demographic variables to clinical end points, including perioperative (30-day) events and 1-year outcomes (vein graft patency, limb salvage, and patient survival). Final propensity score models adjusted for 16 covariates (including type of institution, technical factors, selected comorbidities, and adjunctive medications) to examine the associations between race, gender, and outcomes. Among the 249 black patients enrolled in PREVENT III, 118 were women and 131 were men. Black men were at increased risk for early graft failure (hazard ratio [HR], 2.832 for 30-day failure; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.393 to 5.759;
P
=0.0004), even when the analysis was restricted to exclude high-risk venous conduits. Black patients experienced reduced secondary patency (HR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.08 to 2.06;
P
=0.016) and limb salvage (HR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.27 to 3.20;
P
=0.003) at 1 year. Propensity score models demonstrate that black women were the most disadvantaged, with an increased risk for loss of graft patency (HR, 2.02 for secondary patency; 95% CI, 1.27 to 3.20;
P
=0.003) and major amputation (HR, 2.38; 95% CI, 1.18 to 4.83;
P
=0.016) at 1 year. Perioperative mortality and 1-year mortality were similar across race/gender groups.

Conclusions—

Black race and female gender are risk factors for adverse outcomes after vein bypass surgery for limb salvage. Graft failure and limb loss are more common events in black patients, with black women being a particularly high-risk group. These data suggest the possibility of an altered biological response to vein grafting in this population; however, further studies are needed to determine the mechanisms underlying these observed disparities in outcome.
Activated Endocannabinoid System in Coronary Artery Disease and Antiinflammatory Effects of Cannabinoid 1 Receptor Blockade on Macrophages
Authors: Sugamura Koichi , Sugiyama Seigo , Nozaki Toshimitsu , Matsuzawa Yasushi , Izumiya Yasuhiro , Miyata Keishi , Nakayama Masafumi , Kaikita Koichi , Obata Toru , Takeya Motohiro , Ogawa Hisao
Published: December 2008

Background—

Cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor blockade with rimonabant represents a clinical therapeutic strategy for obesity. Recently, the role of the endocannabinoid system has been described in peripheral organs. We sought to determine whether the endocannabinoid system could be involved in human atherosclerosis and whether CB1 receptor blockade could modulate proinflammatory activity in macrophages.

Methods and Results—

mRNA expression levels of CB1 receptor in coronary atherectomy samples were significantly higher in patients with unstable angina than in those with stable angina (3.62±2.96-fold; n=7;
P
<0.05). Immunoreactive area analysis of the coronary artery showed that CB1 receptor expression was greater in lipid-rich atheromatous plaques than in fibrous plaques, especially in CD68 macrophages (9.5±1.2% versus 0.6±0.6%; n=5;
P
<0.01). Levels of blood endocannabinoids were significantly higher in patients with coronary artery disease (n=20) than those without coronary artery disease (n=20) (median [interquartile range]: anandamide, 1.048 pmol/mL [0.687 to 1.387 pmol/mL] versus 0.537 pmol/mL [0.468 to 0.857 pmol/mL],
P
<0.01; 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, 13.30 pmol/mL [6.65 to 16.21 pmol/mL] versus 7.67 pmol/mL [6.39 to 10.03 pmol/mL],
P
<0.05). In cultured macrophages, expression of CB1 receptor was significantly increased during monocyte-macrophage differentiation (1.78±0.13-fold; n=6;
P
<0.01). CB1 receptor blockade in macrophages induced a significant increase in cytosolic cAMP (29.9±13.0%; n=4;
P
<0.01), inhibited phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (−19.1±12.6%, n=4;
P
<0.05), and resulted in a significant decrease in the production of proinflammatory mediators (interleukin-1β, −28.9±10.9%; interleukin-6, −24.8±7.6%; interleukin-8, −22.7±5.2%; tumor necrosis factor-α, −13.6±4.8%; matrix metalloproteinase-9, −16.4±3.8%; n=4 to 8;
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

Patients with coronary artery disease demonstrated the activation of the endocannabinoid system with elevated levels of blood endocannabinoids and increased expression of CB1 receptor in coronary atheroma. CB1 receptor blockade exhibited antiinflammatory effects on macrophages, which might provide beneficial effects on atherogenesis.
Multimarker Approach to Evaluate Correlates of Vascular Stiffness
Authors: Lieb Wolfgang , Larson Martin G. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Yin Xiaoyan , Tofler Geoffrey H. , Selhub Jacob , Jacques Paul F. , Wang Thomas J. , Vita Joseph A. , Levy Daniel , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Mitchell Gary F.
Published: December 2008

Background—

Arterial stiffness increases with age and contributes to the pathogenesis of systolic hypertension and cardiovascular disease in the elderly. Knowledge about the pathophysiological processes that determine arterial stiffness may help guide therapeutic approaches.

Methods and Results—

We related 7 circulating biomarkers representing distinct biological pathways (C-reactive protein, aldosterone-to-renin ratio, N-terminal proatrial natriuretic peptide and B-type natriuretic peptide, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, fibrinogen, and homocysteine) to 5 vascular function measures (central pulse pressure, carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity, mean arterial pressure, forward pressure wave amplitude [all measures of conduit artery stiffness], and augmented pressure, an indicator of wave reflection) in 2000 Framingham Offspring Study participants (mean age, 61 years; 55% women). Tonometry measures were obtained on average 3 years after the biomarkers were measured. In multivariable linear regression models adjusting for covariates, the biomarker panel was significantly associated with all 5 vascular measures (
P
<0.003 for all). On backward elimination, the aldosterone-to-renin ratio was positively associated with each stiffness measure (
P
≤0.002 for all). In addition, C-reactive protein was positively related to augmented pressure (
P
=0.0003), whereas plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 was positively associated with mean arterial pressure (
P
=0.003), central pulse pressure (
P
=0.001), and forward pressure wave (
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

Our cross-sectional data on a community-based sample suggest a distinctive pattern of positive associations of biomarkers of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation with pan-arterial vascular stiffness, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 with central vascular stiffness indices, and C-reactive protein with wave reflection. These observations support the notion of differential influences of biological pathways on vascular stiffness measures.
Stress-Induced Sodium Excretion
Authors: Ge Dongliang , Su Shaoyong , Zhu Haidong , Dong Yanbin , Wang Xiaoling , Harshfield Gregory A. , Treiber Frank A. , Snieder Harold
Published: December 2008

Impaired stress-induced pressure natriuresis, ie, an inadequate compensatory increase in urinary sodium excretion (U
Na
V) in response to a stress-induced blood pressure increase, may lead to the premature development of essential hypertension. To assess the heritability of baseline U
Na
V, stress U
Na
V, and the U
Na
V response to stress (ΔU
Na
V=stress U
Na
V− baseline U
Na
V), we studied 396 black and 494 white twins, including monozygotic and dizygotic twins of the same as well as the opposite sex (mean age: 17.6±3.3 years; range: 11.9 to 30.0 years). Bivariate genetic model fitting was performed to examine the extent to which genetic and environmental factors are common or specific to baseline and stress U
Na
V. Heritability estimates for ΔU
Na
V can be derived from these bivariate models. All of the bivariate analyses were performed separately in whites and blacks, because univariate models for baseline U
Na
V showed significant ethnic differences in heritability estimates. Best-fitting models showed that the heritability of stress U
Na
V was 0.42 in whites and 0.58 in blacks. Only 15% and 11% of the total variance could be attributed to genetic factors common to baseline and stress U
Na
V in whites and blacks, respectively. After removal of all of the shared influences with baseline U
Na
V, heritabilities for stress U
Na
V were 0.32 in whites and 0.57 in blacks. Heritability estimates for ΔU
Na
V were 0.36 in whites and 0.39 in blacks. In summary, this study establishes ΔU
Na
V and stress U
Na
V as heritable phenotypes that may be used to study the genetic etiology of early hypertension development.
Obesity Increases Blood Pressure, Cerebral Vascular Remodeling, and Severity of Stroke in the Zucker Rat
Authors: Osmond Jessica M. , Mintz James D. , Dalton Brian , Stepp David W.
Published: December 2008

Obesity is a risk factor for stroke, but the mechanisms by which obesity increases stroke risk are unknown. Because microvascular architecture contributes to the outcome of stroke, we hypothesized that middle cerebral arteries (MCAs) from obese Zucker rats (OZRs) undergo inward remodeling and develop increased myogenic tone compared with those in lean Zucker rats (LZRs). We further hypothesized that OZRs have an increased infarct after cerebral ischemia and that changes in vascular structure and function correlate with the development of hypertension in OZRs. Blood pressure was measured by telemetry in LZRs and OZRs from 6 to 17 weeks of age. Vessel structure and function were assessed in isolated MCAs. Stroke damage was assessed after ischemia was induced for 60 minutes followed by 24 hours of reperfusion. Although mean arterial pressure was similar between young rats (6 to 8 weeks old), mean arterial pressure was higher in adult (14 to 17 weeks old) OZRs than in LZRs. MCAs from OZRs had a smaller lumen diameter and increased myogenic vasoconstriction compared with those from LZRs. After ischemia, infarction was 58% larger in OZRs than in LZRs. Before the development of hypertension, MCA myogenic reactivity and lumen diameter, as well as infarct size, were similar between young LZRs and OZRs. Our results indicate that the MCAs of OZRs undergo structural remodeling and that these rats have greater cerebral injury after cerebral ischemia. These cerebrovascular changes correlate with the development of hypertension and suggest that the increased blood pressure may be the major determinant for stroke risk in obese individuals.
Leptin Signaling in the Nucleus Tractus Solitarii Increases Sympathetic Nerve Activity to the Kidney
Authors: Mark Allyn L. , Agassandian Khristofor , Morgan Donald A. , Liu Xuebo , Cassell Martin D. , Rahmouni Kamal
Published: December 2008

The hypothalamic arcuate nucleus was initially regarded as the principal site of leptin action, but there is increasing evidence for functional leptin receptors in extrahypothalamic sites, including the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). We demonstrated previously that arcuate injection of leptin increases sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) to brown adipose tissue and kidney. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that leptin signaling in the NTS affects sympathetic neural outflow. Using a stereotaxic device in anesthetized rats, we microinjected leptin (0.25 to 1.00 μg) or saline into the NTS while recording SNA to kidney and brown adipose tissue. Microinjection of leptin into the commissural and medial subnuclei of the caudal NTS at the level of the area postrema in Sprague-Dawley rats produced a dose-related increase in renal SNA (+112±15% with leptin 1 μg; n=7;
P
<0.001) but did not increase SNA to brown adipose tissue (−15±12%;
P
value not significant). This effect depended on intact functional leptin receptors, because it was not observed in Zucker obese rats that have a missense mutation in the leptin receptor. Rostral NTS injection of leptin failed to increase SNA, indicating that leptin signaling in the NTS is probably confined to the caudal NTS at the level of the area postrema. In summary, this study demonstrates that leptin signaling in the caudal NTS increases SNA to the kidney but not to the brown adipose tissue. The study strengthens the concept of a distributed brain network of leptin action and demonstrates that these distributed brain sites can mediate contrasting sympathetic responses to leptin.
Hypertension and Sex Differences in the Age-Related Renal Changes When Cyclooxygenase-2 Activity Is Reduced During Nephrogenesis
Authors: Sáez Fara , Reverte Virginia , Salazar Francisco , Castells María T. , Llinás María T. , Salazar F. Javier
Published: December 2008

Several studies have proposed that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) is involved in the regulation of nephrogenesis and that an impaired nephrogenesis may induce the development of hypertension. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that the decrease of COX2 activity leads to a reduction in nephron number, an increase in arterial pressure, and age-dependent renal alterations that are greater in male than in female rats. Arterial pressure was measured from the first to the 16th month of life in rats treated with vehicle or a COX2 inhibitor during the nephrogenic period. Stereological and histological evaluations and renal function studies were performed at different ages. Arterial pressure increased (14%;
P
<0.05) and nephron number decreased (17%;
P
<0.05) to similar levels in male and female COX2-treated rats. However, glomerular filtration rate (31%) and renal plasma flow (25%) decreased (
P
<0.05) in male but not in female COX2-treated rats. A greater (
P
<0.05) age-dependent elevation in glomerular hypertrophy was also found in male COX2-treated rats compared with their female littermates. Glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial damage in renal cortex and medulla were also significantly enhanced in male but not in female aged COX2-treated rats. Our results demonstrate that the decrease in COX2 activity during renal development leads to a reduction in nephron number and to an elevation in arterial pressure that are similar in males and females. However, the consequent age-dependent deterioration of the renal structure and renal function is only significantly enhanced in male rats.
Protective Factors as Barriers to Depression in Gifted and Nongifted Adolescents
Authors: Mueller Christian E.
Published: December 2008

Despite continued efforts by researchers, a gap still exists in our understanding of the psychological, social, and emotional adjustment of gifted students. Historically, research and education of the gifted has focused on cognitive variables, with less attention given to the social and emotional needs of these students. The current study used data from the full Add Health data set to examine how protective factors moderated depression differently for gifted and nongifted adolescents. Results of the study indicate that gifted students are significantly less depressed than nongifted students, and all of the protective factors moderated depression for both groups. Future research should examine additional indicators of psychosocial well-being provide a more comprehensive framework for understanding the social and emotional development of gifted and nongifted adolescents.

Putting the Research to Use: Empirical research examining the unique social and emotional needs of gifted adolescents is at a critical juncture. Both educators and researchers have become increasingly aware that giftedness, in whatever form, has unique influences on the social and emotional development of gifted adolescents. In line with previous findings, results in the current study suggest that for both gifted and nongifted adolescents, social support at home and at school can play an important role in reducing problems (i.e. depression) and at the same time enhancing resiliency. It is time, as Ford (1994) has suggested, for educators and researchers to take substantial steps to strengthen the “family-school-community” link in order to provide adequate social support in the many contexts that both gifted and nongifted adolescents live (Bronfenbrenner, 1977).
A Longitudinal Study of Negative Life Events, Stress, and School Experiences of Gifted Youth
Authors: Peterson Jean , Duncan Nancy , Canady Kate
Published: December 2008

An 11-year mixed-methods, cross-sectional longitudinal study began with a group of 121 children, identified as gifted, and followed them until high-school graduation. Parents annually identified negative life events experienced by child and family, and, at graduation, students completed an open-ended retrospective questionnaire, focusing on events, impact of events, supports, and hindrances during the school years. As a result of attrition, participants became increasingly homogeneous over time. School data were available for 59 students (of 63 family units who sustained involvement) at the end. The students had experienced many negative events and situations during the school years. However, they usually cited academic challenges, school transitions, peer relationships, and overcommitment as their most challenging experiences, not life events. Almost without exception, they maintained high achievement.

Putting the Research to Use: Gifted students may not communicate their distress to adults who are invested in their achievement or non-achievement. Significant adults therefore might wisely keep the findings in this study in mind as they interact with them. Inquiring casually about how the students are feeling or how they are managing high-stress times in the academic or extra-curricular year might be appreciated and potentially helpful. Though habits of achievement may help them to maintain high grades and high levels of extra-curricular performance, achievers might quietly experience high levels of stress from their heavy involvements in or outside of school. Low achievement and a high number of absences may also reflect personal stress in gifted students. Showing non-voyeuristic, holistic interest in gifted students as complex individuals, gently commenting when they seem “flat,” not fueling ultra-competitive attitudes, and offering credible comments about personal strengths and resilience might offer crucial support at a time of vulnerability.
Judging Drawing Abilities of Hong Kong Chinese Gifted Students: Could Nonexperts Make Expert-Like Judgments?
Authors: Chan David W. , Chan Lai-kwan , Chau Amethyst
Published: December 2008

Two drawings based on tasks originally used in Clark's Drawing Abilities Test from each of 297 Chinese students were first evaluated independently by two Chinese visual artists as below average, average, and above average in drawing abilities. Based on these judges' verbalization to make explicit their implicit criteria for judgments, a set of guidelines containing these criteria was developed for nonexpert or lay judges. The substantial and significant correlations between global ratings by lay judges and expert judges on the drawings of a separate sample of 105 students provided evidence that the guidelines were useful in helping nonexperts closely replicate expert judgments rendered by visual artists. Implications of the findings for the identification of visual arts talents in the school setting are discussed.

Putting the Research to Use: Assessing and identifying students with visual arts talents to support their artistic development often constitutes a problem in schools where no resident artists could be readily called on to help make the judgment. This study on judging drawing abilities of students offers grounds for optimism in demonstrating that lay judges could make judgments approaching those of visual artists, especially when these lay judges were provided with guidelines based on the verbalized criteria of expert judges. The set of guidelines developed in this study also serves as an example for future development of simpler and more refined guidelines that hold promise for applications in multicultural settings.
Self-Concept and Social Status of Accelerated and Nonaccelerated Students in the First 2 Years of Secondary School in the Netherlands
Authors: Hoogeveen Lianne , van Hell Janet G. , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: December 2008

This study examined the self-concept and social status of accelerated and nonaccelerated students in their first 2 years of secondary school in the Netherlands. In 357 students from 18 secondary schools, we measured self-concept, sociometric status, and behavior reputations at three times. Accelerated students had more positive self-concepts concerning school in general and mathematics than nonaccelerated students, but a less positive social self-concept. In girls but not in boys, the difference in social self-concept of accelerated and nonaccelerated students was no longer present at the end of the 2nd year. Accelerated students had a lower social status than nonaccelerants and were considered to be less cooperative, humorous, helpful, leading, and social. peer ratings were more negative for accelerated boys than for accelerated girls. Implications for the education of accelerated students, including the social emotional development of accelerated students in their 1st years of secondary school, are discussed.

Putting the Research to Use: In this study, we found that accelerated students have a more positive academic self-concept than their nonaccelerated classmates. We also found, however, indications that accelerated students, especially boys, in their first two years in secondary school (Grades 7 and 8 in the U.S. secondary educational system), have a more negative social status than their classmates. Many empirical studies and practitioners' experiences with gifted students point at the benefits of acceleration and the negative consequences of not accelerating a child. So, to abolish acceleration is not a realistic option. We should, however, take into account that accelerated students might have a more negative social status than their classmates. Knowledgeable teachers, with a positive attitude toward accelerated students, should be alert about possible prejudices of classmates and should aim for an accepting, tolerating climate in the classroom.
Improving Electrical Performances of Wool Textiles: Synthesis of Conducting Polypyrrole on the Fiber Surface
Authors: Varesano A. , Tonin C.
Published: December 2008

Antistatic treatments lower the electrical resistivity of textiles and facilitate charge dissipation avoiding high potential electrical discharges. Moreover, low surface resistivity gives textiles electro-conducting, soil release, thermal and electromagnetic shielding properties. A new way of producing electrically conducting textiles consists of treatments with organic conducting polymers. Unfortunately, conducting polymers have a low level of processability because of their poor mechanical and physical properties. These problems have been overcome by simple in situ depositions of conducting polymers on different substrates in order to produce composite materials with good mechanical properties. Polypyrrole (PPy) is one of the most promising candidates because it exhibits high conductivity and good environmental stability. In situ PPy synthesis on wool and on other animal fibers is presented in this work. A preliminary oxidative treatment (e.g. shrink-proofing, bleaching or depigmentation) improves the electrical properties of the resulting conductive composite textiles significantly.
Fabric Color Changes in Polyester Micro-fibers Caused by the Multiple Reuse of Dispersed-dyes Dye Baths: Part 1
Authors: Agudelo Carlos , Lis Manel , Valldeperas José , Sato Tetsuya
Published: December 2008

Fabric color change is analyzed with three dispersed dyestuffs (C.I. Disperse Blue 56, C.I. Disperse Yellow 211 and C.I. Disperse Red 167:1) when 100% polyester micro-fiber dye baths are reused several times. The polyester fabrics were dyed with a single dyestuff, binary mixtures and ternary mixtures using different concentrations, but keeping the same shade. The color of the dyed samples was determined using colorimetry on the basis of the samples' reflectance measurements. The CIELAB color space coordinates ( L*, a*, b*, C* and h) were calculated together with the color differences Δ L*, Δa*, Δ b*, Δ Cab and Δ Hab between fabrics dyed in reuse dye baths and the standard fabric dyed in the initial dyeing process, and total color differences between two samples was calculated using the CMC ( l: c) equation, Δ ECMC(2:1). Graphics in the CIELAB color space were created using a Matlab algorithm. Part 2 of this study analyzes whether dye bath reuse technology can prove to be efficient when a fabric is dyed with binary and ternary mixtures.
Kinematics of Rotary Dobby and Analysis of Heald Frame Motion in Weaving Process
Authors: Eren Recep , Özkan Gülcan , Turhan Yildiray
Published: December 2008

In this study, a mechanism model is introduced then kinematic design and analysis equations are presented for a rotary dobby. Heald frame motion curve is obtained and analyzed. Mechanism parameters affecting heald frame motion are discussed. It is shown that heald frame motion characteristics were mainly determined by the design of modulator mechanism. Eccentric mechanism of a rotary dobby also had a significant effect on heald frame motion.
Peroxide Decoloration of Azo Dye Catalyzed by Manganese Porphyrin Derivatives in Non-aqueous Solvent
Authors: Nakamura Junko , Oura Ritsuko , Nango Mamoru
Published: December 2008

The effect of manganese protoporphyrin, manganese halogenated porphyrins, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-linked manganese porphyrin and PEG-linked manganese halogenated porphyrins (Scheme 1), on the decoloration rates of C.I. Solvent Yellow 14 by m-chloroperbenzoic acid (mCPBA) at 25°C in non-aqueous solvent was examined. The decoloration rate of C.I. Solvent Yellow 14 by mCPBA was accelerated due to the presence of manganese porphyrin derivatives, depending on the structures of porphyrin derivatives. Interestingly, the decoloration rate decreased due to the presence of ligands such as imidazole, in comparison to the rate catalyzed by the manganese porphyrins in aqueous solution.
Elasticity and Shape Memory Effect of Shape Memory Fabrics
Authors: Xiaoxia Liu  , Jinlian Hu  , Murugesh Babu K. , Shanyuan Wang
Published: December 2008

An attempt has been made in this paper to investigate the distinction between shape memory effect and the wrinkle recovery property of cotton fabrics in terms of temperature sensitivity and elasticity. Elasticity is an inherent characteristic of typical wrinkle-free fabrics, because they are suppose to recover after the release of an external force that creates wrinkling, whereas the shape memory effect of a fabric needs extra energy (heating) to allow the fabric to return to its original shape from the wrinkled appearance. An experimental investigation of elasticity of fabrics finished with conventional dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU) and the shape memory effect of fabrics treated with shape memory emulsions under repeated laundering has also been reported. The results reveal a higher elasticity, in terms of the wrinkle recovery angle (WRA), for shape memory fabrics than those finished with DMDHEU. It was observed that the shape memory fabrics exhibit substantially better flat appearance and crease retention behavior after repeated laundering and drying. Under both hot water and air environment, the WRA of shape memory fabrics has a significant increase at 60°C showing a rapid change from 50 to 60oC. The WRA of these fabrics shows a positive correlation to the flat appearance ratings.
Production and Applications of Geogrids with Functional Stainless Steel/Polypropylene Composite Yarns
Authors: Chen Jin-Mao , Chiang Shih-Hua , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: December 2008

The study used stainless steel fibers as core yarns and wrapped them in polypropylene fibers. Three yarns were designed and a composite yarn was braided by a braiding machine to obtain good experimental materials. The yarn surface was rough and uneven to increase frictional force between the geogrid and concrete. Exactly how geogrids and concrete are related is also discussed.
Impact of Fabric Moisture Transport Properties on Physiological Responses when Wearing Protective Clothing
Authors: Yueping Guo  , Yi Li  , Tokura Hiromi , Wong Thomas , Chung Joanne , Wong Anthony S.W. , Indulal Gohel Mayur Danny , Hang Mei Leung Polly
Published: December 2008

This purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of fabric moisture transport properties (MTP) on physiological responses when wearing protective clothing. Ten healthy subjects wore two kinds of personal protective equipment (PPE) ensembles and exercised on a treadmill, worked on a computer, and moved a mannequin in an environment that simulated where health carers work. PPE1 consisted of cotton underwear and 100% polyethylene outerwear. PPE2 consisted of cotton underwear with moisture management function and outerwear made of waterproof breathable fabric. The results showed that there were significantly higher cumulative one-way transport capacity, liquid moisture management capacity, and wetting time in PPE2 than in PPE1 underwear. There was significantly higher water vapor permeability (WVP) in PPE2 than in PPE1 outerwear. Deep ear canal temperature, mean skin temperature, and chest wall skin and clothing microclimates (temperature and humidity) were significantly lower with PPE2 than PPE1. The level of plasma oxygen saturation was significantly higher with PPE 2 than PPE1. In the present study, due to the MTP of the fabrics, liquid sweat transferred from the skin surface to the opposite surface quickly and speeded up the processes of evaporation and heat dissipation. It was concluded that the fabric's MTP, when incorporated into protective clothing, is the main physiological mechanism for reduced heat stress.
Application of Zero-Crossing Technique in Derivatives of the Kubelka—Munk Function to the Quantitative Analysis of Bicomponent Mixtures of Dyes
Authors: Shams Nateri A. , Ekrami E.
Published: December 2008

In this study a new derivative method is introduced for the computation of color recipe in bicomponent mixtures of textile dyes. The reflectance spectra of the samples dyed with different binary mixtures of dyes were recorded between 400 and 700 nm. The derivative amplitudes of the Kubelka—Munk function at appropriate zero-crossing wavelengths were selected for the determination of dyes in the mixtures. The obtained results indicate that the developed zero-crossing-point derivative method is more accurate than the normal Kubelka—Munk method. The proposed derivative method is simple, accurate, and suitable for quantitative analysis of samples dyed with binary mixed shades.
Textile Heartvalve Prosthesis: Manufacturing Process and Prototype Performances
Authors: Heim Frédéric , Durand Bernard , Chakfe Nabil
Published: December 2008

A textile heart valve prosthesis is manufactured by forming fabric in such a way as to obtain a valve geometry close to that of the native valve. The forming process leads to optimal closing geometry and limited deformation of the fabric structure during manufacture. The hydrodynamic performance of a fabric heart valve prototype is measured and compared with other commercially available heart valve prosthesis types. In vitro performance of the prototype is evaluated using a pulse duplicator simulating the left side of the human circulatory system, with a 70 ml cardiac output at a constant heart rate of 70 beats/min under a mean diastolic pressure of 100 Hg mm.
Tourism, a Classic Novel, and Television
Authors: Ryan Chris , Yanning Zhang , Huimin Gu , Song Ling
Published: December 2008

This article reports a study of the importance of the classic Chinese novel, The Dream of the Red Mansion, in attracting visitors to Grand View Gardens in Beijing. That site was built as a replica of a Qing Dynasty palace for a popular television series. The study found that 52% of the 308 respondents stated that the novel was very or extremely important in attracting them to the gardens. The article seeks to go beyond this statistic by examining how familiarity with the novel might help explain some of the statistical findings and concludes by arguing that if one is to obtain an understanding of the tourist experience of a place made popular by fiction, then it is also necessary to engage in cultural, media, and literary studies as well as conversations and surveys of visitors. Hence, the text of the novel is itself part of the data set.
When Chronic Isn't Chronic: The Moderating Role of Active Self-Aspects
Authors: Brown Christina M. , McConnell Allen R.
Published: December 2008

The current work considered how self-concept organization moderates the consequences of chronic attributes, which are widely assumed to be always accessible and influential. In Study 1, the accessibility of participants' chronic attributes was assessed before and after activating a self-aspect that was either relevant or irrelevant to participants' chronic attributes. Results showed that chronic attributes were more accessible when they were relevant to a participant's active self-aspect than when they were irrelevant to it. In Study 2, participants read ambiguous behaviors performed by others, some of which could be interpreted in line with their own chronic attribute or an alternative attribute. Participants were more likely to interpret behaviors as consistent with their own chronic attributes, but only when a relevant self-aspect had been previously activated. These studies suggest that chronicity can be moderated by self-aspect activation, consistent with the perspective that the self consists of multiple, context-dependent self-aspects.
Intergroup Trust in Northern Ireland
Authors: Tam Tania , Hewstone Miles , Kenworthy Jared , Cairns Ed
Published: December 2008

Although prominent political agendas have placed a great deal of importance on building trust in postconflict areas, there has been a lack of empirical research on its role in areas of intergroup conflict. The authors conducted two studies to examine the relationship between trust and intergroup behavioral tendencies—and the potential for intergroup contact to build trust in Northern Ireland. Study 1 showed that outgroup trust mediates the impact of intergroup contact on behavioral tendencies toward the outgroup. Study 2 revealed the importance of trusting the outgroup over simply liking the outgroup; establishing outgroup trust is crucial, as trust is a stronger predictor of behavioral tendencies toward the outgroup than positive attitudes are. Results also demonstrated two mechanisms for increasing outgroup trust—through both direct and extended intergroup contact. These studies further our understanding of the psychological mechanisms underlying the formation of intergroup trust and behavior in areas of conflict.
The Strange Case of Sustained Dedication to an Unfulfilling Relationship: Predicting Commitment and Breakup From Attachment Anxiety and Need Fulfillment Within Relationships
Authors: Slotter Erica B. , Finkel Eli J.
Published: December 2008

Two studies investigated whether need fulfillment within relationships moderates the associations of attachment anxiety with relationship commitment and persistence. The authors hypothesized that individuals who experience low attachment anxiety would exhibit declining commitment and increased risk of breakup if their partner failed to meet their core psychological needs, whereas individuals who experience high attachment anxiety would not. Study 1 employed longitudinal procedures to examine the associations among need fulfillment within relationships, attachment anxiety, commitment, and breakup. Study 2 employed experimental procedures to examine whether the temporary activation of attachment anxiety alters the association of need fulfillment with commitment. As predicted, relative to their high anxiety counterparts, individuals experiencing low attachment anxiety reported less commitment at study entry (Studies 1 and 2), declining commitment over time (Study 1), and an increased risk of breakup (Study 1)—but only when their partner failed to help them fulfill their relatedness and autonomy needs.
Finding the Critical Cue: Implementation Intentions to Change One's Diet Work Best When Tailored to Personally Relevant Reasons for Unhealthy Eating
Authors: Adriaanse Marieke A. , de Ridder Denise T. D. , de Wit John B. F.
Published: December 2008

Implementation intentions promote acting on one's good intentions. But does specifying where and when to act also suffice when goals involve complex change that requires not merely initiating a behavior but rather substituting a habit with a new response? In a pilot study and two experiments, the authors investigated the efficacy of implementation intentions to replace unhealthy snacks with healthy snacks by linking different types of cues for unhealthy snacking (if-part) to healthy snacking (then-part). The pilot study identified cues for unhealthy snacking, differentiating between situational (where/when) and motivational (why) cues. Studies 1 and 2 tested the efficacy of implementation intentions that specified either situational or motivational cues in altering snacking habits. Results showed that implementation intentions specifying motivational cues decreased unhealthy snack consumption whereas the classic specification of where and when did not. Extending previous research, for complex behavior change “why” seems more important than “where and when.”