bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Chemical Synthesis and Analgesic Activity of Fluorinated Thiazolidinone, Pyrazolidinone, and Dioxanedione Derivatives
Authors: Sachdeva Harshita , Dwivedi Diksha , Goyal Pradeep
Published: July 2013

Facile lemon juice catalyzed green and efficient synthesis of a series of new classes of 5-(fluorinatedbenzylidene)-2-thioxo-1,3-thiazolidin-4-ones(3a–e), 5-methyl-4-(fluorinatedbenzylidene)-2-phenylpyrazolidin-3-ones(5a–e), and 2,2-dimethyl-5-(fluorinatedbenzylidene)-1,3-dioxane-4,6-diones(7a–e)by the reaction of fluorinated aromatic aldehydes with active methylene compounds is reported. Lemon juice is natural acid catalyst which is readily available, cheap, nontoxic, and ecofriendly. This method is experimentally simple, clean, high yielding, green, and with reduced reaction times. The product is purified by simple filtration followed by washing with water and drying process. Some of the synthesized compounds have been evaluated “in vivo” for their analgesic activity and all the synthesized compounds are characterized by IR,1H NMR,13C NMR,19F NMR, and mass spectral studies.
A Survey on Inverse Problems for Applied Sciences
Authors: Yaman Fatih , Yakhno Valery G. , Potthast Roland
Published: July 2013

The aim of this paper is to introduce inversion-based engineering applications and to investigate some of the important ones from mathematical point of view. To do this we employ acoustic, electromagnetic, and elastic waves for presenting different types of inverse problems. More specifically, we first study location, shape, and boundary parameter reconstruction algorithms for the inaccessible targets in acoustics. The inverse problems for the time-dependent differential equations of isotropic and anisotropic elasticity are reviewed in the following section of the paper. These problems were the objects of the study by many authors in the last several decades. The physical interpretations for almost all of these problems are given, and the geophysical applications for some of them are described. In our last section, an introduction with many links into the literature is given for modern algorithms which combine techniques from classical inverse problems with stochastic tools into ensemble methods both for data assimilation as well as for forecasting.
Correlations between Psoriasis and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Skroza Nevena , Proietti Ilaria , Pampena Riccardo , La Viola Giorgio , Bernardini Nicoletta , Nicolucci Francesca , Tolino Ersilia , Zuber Sara , Soccodato Valentina , Potenza Concetta
Published: July 2013

For a long time the relationship between inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) and psoriasis has been investigated by epidemiological studies. It is only starting from the 1990s that genetic and immunological aspects have been focused on. Psoriasis and IBD are strictly related inflammatory diseases. Skin and bowel represent, at the same time, barrier and connection between the inner and the outer sides of the body. The most important genetic correlations involve the chromosomal loci 6p22, 16q, 1p31, and 5q33 which map several genes involved in innate and adaptive immunity. The genetic background represents the substrate to the common immune processes involved in psoriasis and IBD. In the past, psoriasis and IBD were considered Th1-related disorders. Nowadays the role of new T cells populations has been highlighted. A key role is played by Th17 and T-regs cells as by the balance between these two cells types. New cytokines and T cells populations, as IL-17A, IL-22, and Th22 cells, could play an important pathogenetic role in psoriasis and IBD. The therapeutic overlaps further support the hypothesis of a common pathogenesis.
Infiltrating Macrophages Promote Prostate Tumorigenesis via Modulating Androgen Receptor-Mediated CCL4–STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Fang Lei-Ya , Izumi Kouji , Lai Kuo-Pao , Liang Liang , Li Lei , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Lin Wen-Jye , Chang Chawnshang
Published: July 2013

Infiltrating macrophages are a key component of inflammation during tumorigenesis, but the direct evidence of such linkage remains unclear. We report here that persistent coculturing of immortalized prostate epithelial cells with macrophages, without adding any carcinogens, induces prostate tumorigenesis and that induction involves the alteration of signaling of macrophage androgen receptor (AR)-inflammatory chemokine CCL4–STAT3 activation as well as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and downregulation of p53/PTEN tumor suppressors. In vivo studies further showed that PTEN+/− mice lacking macrophage AR developed far fewer prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) lesions, supporting an in vivo role for macrophage AR during prostate tumorigenesis. CCL4-neutralizing antibody effectively blocked macrophage-induced prostate tumorigenic signaling and targeting AR via an AR-degradation enhancer, ASC-J9, reduced CCL4 expression, and xenografted tumor growth in vivo. Importantly, CCL4 upregulation was associated with increased Snail expression and downregulation of p53/PTEN in high-grade PIN and prostate cancer. Together, our results identify the AR-CCL4-STAT3 axis as key regulators during prostate tumor initiation and highlight the important roles of infiltrating macrophages and inflammatory cytokines for the prostate tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 73(18); 5633–46. ©2013 AACR.
Utility of Progranulin and Serum Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Carlson Aaron M. , Maurer Matthew J. , Goergen Krista M. , Kalli Kimberly R. , Erskine Courtney L. , Behrens Marshall D. , Knutson Keith L. , Block Matthew S.
Published: July 2013

Background: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death in females and leading gynecologic cause of cancer-related death. Despite the identification of a number of serum biomarkers, methods to identify early-stage disease and predict prognosis remain scarce. We have evaluated two biologically connected serum biomarkers, serum leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) and progranulin (PGRN).

Methods: Two-hundred frozen plasma samples were acquired from the Mayo Clinic Biospecimen Repository for Ovarian Cancer Research. Samples were obtained from 50 patients with benign conditions, 50 with American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I and II EOC, and 100 with AJCC stage III and IV EOC. Samples were obtained before surgical resection of a mass and were analyzed for absolute levels of SLPI and PGRN using ELISA assays. Receiver-operator characteristic curves were generated for SLPI and PGRN. Median follow-up was 48 months.

Results: Absolute levels of SLPI were significantly elevated in patients with EOC compared with benign disease and predicted the presence of EOC (AUC of 0.812; P = 0.04); SLPI remained elevated in the subset of patients with normal CA-125. PGRN levels were not significantly increased in patients with early-stage or late-stage EOC as a whole, but an increase in PGRN levels was associated with decreased overall survival in advanced EOC.

Conclusions: SLPI levels are elevated in EOC, and SLPI shows promise as a diagnostic biomarker for patients with both elevated and normal CA-125 levels. An increase in PGRN is associated with decreased overall survival.

Impact: SLPI is elevated in EOC and warrants investigation in a screening study in women at risk for EOC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1730–5. ©2013 AACR.
An Evaluation of Novel, Lower-Cost Molecular Screening Tests for Human Papillomavirus in Rural China
Authors: Zhao Fang-Hui , Jeronimo Jose , Qiao You-Lin , Schweizer Johannes , Chen Wen , Valdez Melissa , Lu Peter , Zhang Xun , Kang Le-Ni , Bansil Pooja , Paul Proma , Mahoney Charles , Berard-Bergery Marthe , Bai Ping , Peck Roger , Li Jing , Chen Feng , Stoler Mark H. , Castle Philip E.
Published: July 2013

New, lower-cost tests that target high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) have been developed for cervical cancer screening in lower-resource settings but large, population-based screening studies are lacking. Women ages 25 to 65 years and living in rural China (n = 7,543) self-collected a cervicovaginal specimen, had 2 cervical specimens collected by a clinician, and underwent visual inspection after acetic acid (VIA). The self- and one clinician-collected specimens underwent HR-HPV DNA testing by careHPV (QIAGEN) and Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2; QIAGEN) and the other clinician-collected specimen was tested for HPV16, 18, and 45 E6 using OncoE6 (Arbor Vita Corporation). Women who screened positive for any test and a random sample of those negative on all tests underwent colposcopic evaluation. The percent test positive was 1.8% for HPV E6 oncoprotein, between 14% and 18% for HR-HPV DNA testing, and 7.3% for VIA. The sensitivity for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 or more severe (CIN3+; n = 99) was 53.5% for OncoE6, 97.0% for both careHPV and HC2 testing of the clinician-collected specimen, 83.8% for careHPV testing and 90.9% for HC2 testing of the self-collected specimen, and 50.5% for VIA. OncoE6 had the greatest positive predictive value (PPV), at 40.8% for CIN3+, compared with the other tests, which had a PPV of less than 10%. OncoE6 tested 70.3% positive for HPV16, 18, or 45-positive CIN3+ and tested negative for all HPV16-, 18-, or 45-negative CIN3+ (P < 0.0001). HPV E6 oncoprotein detection is useful for identifying women who have cervical precancer and cancer. Cancer Prev Res; 6(9); 938–48. ©2013 AACR.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Making Immunotherapy a Reality for the Treatment of Lung Cancer
Authors: Brahmer Julie R. , Pardoll Drew M.
Published: July 2013

Despite the limited success of immunotherapies in solid malignancy, two human cancers, melanoma and renal cancer, have, for many years, responded to systemic administration of immune-targeted biologics and showed signals of response to certain therapeutic vaccines. These findings underpinned a long-held perception that melanoma and renal cancer were uniquely “immunogenic” but that virtually all other human cancers were not and thus would not respond to immune modulation. That notion has now been shattered by the significant and durable responses in non–small cell lung cancer induced by therapeutic treatment with antibodies blocking the PD-1 checkpoint. The immunotherapy success in lung cancer thus provides a gateway to development of treatments for multiple cancer types that were previously believed not accessible to immune-based therapies. Cancer Immunol Res; 1(2); 85–91. ©2013 AACR.
Two Cases of Interferon-Alpha-Induced Sarcoidosis Koebnerized along Venous Drainage Lines: New Pathogenic Insights and Review of the Literature of Interferon-Induced Sarcoidosis
Authors: Buss G. , Cattin V. , Spring P. , Malinverni R. , Gilliet M.
Published: July 2013

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disorder of unknown origin commonly affecting the lung, the lymphoid system and the skin. We report here two cases of cutaneous sarcoidosis in two former intravenous drug users following interferon (IFN)-α and ribavirin therapy for chronic hepatitis C. Both patients developed skin sarcoidosis along venous drainage lines of both forearms, coinciding with the areas of prior drug injections. The unique distribution of the skin lesions suggests that tissue damage induced by repeated percutaneous drug injections represents a trigger for the local skin manifestation of sarcoidosis. Interestingly, skin damage was recently found to induce the local expression IFN-α, a well-known trigger of sarcoidosis in predisposed individuals. Here we review the literature on sarcoidosis elicited in the context of IFN-α therapy and propose a new link between the endogenous expression of IFN-α and the induction of disease manifestations in injured skin.
Evaluation of Fetal Vocal Cords to Select Candidates for Successful Fetoscopic Treatment of Congenital High Airway Obstruction Syndrome: Preliminary Case Series
Authors: Martínez J.M. , Castañón M. , Gómez O. , Prat J. , Eixarch E. , Bennasar M. , Puerto B. , Gratacós E.
Published: July 2013

Objective: Congenital high airway obstruction syndrome (CHAOS) normally has a dire prognosis due to laryngeal atresia and association with other anomalies. However, rare cases with an isolated tracheal membrane have been described. We assessed systematically the larynx and vocal cords in fetuses with CHAOS, with the goal of identifying such cases and attempting fetoscopic deobstruction. Methods: Between 2008 and 2012, 7 cases of CHAOS were referred to our institution. The ultrasonographic aspect of the larynx and trachea was assessed. We report the ultrasound findings, necropsy findings of 6 cases and perinatal outcome in 1 case undergoing therapy. Results: In 6 cases, laryngeal atresia was presumed by ultrasound and confirmed by necropsy after termination of pregnancy. In 1 case, normal appearance of the vocal cords led to suspicion of a possible isolated tracheal web completely occluding the trachea. Fetoscopy confirmed the finding, thus the membrane was perforated. Lung size normalized and hydrops resolved. A normal fetus was delivered at term, requiring no respiratory support. At 9 months of age, the infant showed a normal laryngoscopy and was developing well. Conclusions: Systematic ultrasound assessment of the vocal cords can be performed in fetuses with CHAOS. We report the first case of long-term intact survival after fetoscopic airway deobstruction.
Apolipoprotein Ε ε4 Frequency Is Increased among Chinese Patients with Frontotemporal Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Ji Yong , Liu Mengyuan , Huo Ya Ruth , Liu Shuling , Shi Zhihong , Liu Shuai , Wisniewski Thomas , Wang Jinhuan
Published: July 2013

The relationship between the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) ε4 genotype and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been well established in Caucasians but is less established among other ethnicities. ApoE ε4 has also been associated with several other neurological disorders. Whether ApoΕ4 ε4 is a risk factor for frontotemporal dementia (FTD) remains controversial. This study examined 432 patients with AD, 62 with FTD, and 381 sex- and age-matched controls. The ApoE ε4 allele frequency was significantly increased among patients in the AD and FTD groups compared with controls. The frequency of the ApoΕ ε4 allele was 24.86% in late-onset AD (p < 0.01), 18.02% in early-onset AD (p < 0.01), 16.13% in FTD (p < 0.01), and 7.34% in controls. ApoΕ ε4 prevalence was similar in the FTD and AD groups. The present study suggests that the ApoE ε4 allele is a risk factor for both disorders.
First Experiences with the Spanner™ Temporary Prostatic Stent for Prostatic Urethral Obstruction
Authors: Goh Matthew H.C. , Kastner Christof , Khan Shahid , Thomas Philip , Timoney Anthony G.
Published: July 2013

Objectives: To assess the ease of insertion and removal of a temporary prostatic stent (the Spanner™) following the use of a prostatic urethral measuring device (the Surveyor™). Patients and Methods: Patients with bladder outflow obstruction or urinary retention awaiting definitive surgery were fully consented. Data were collected pre- and post-insertion and patients followed-up until definitively treated. Results: 16 patients had the Spanner inserted following use of the Surveyor. All insertions were uncomplicated. 14 patients were able to void satisfactorily immediately post-insertion with a mean Qmax of 15.0 ml/s and post-void residual of 51.3 ml. No symptomatic infection was reported. The stents stayed in situ for a median of 10 days. 12 stents were removed prematurely due to severe symptoms or retention. A total of 12 stents had to be removed endoscopically. Conclusions: The Spanner is easy to insert. Stent removal via the retrieval suture has been difficult necessitating the use of endoscopy in the majority of cases. Possible causes of stent failure include underestimation of the prostatic urethral length by the Surveyor leading to obstruction by apical prostatic tissue, excessive suture length between the stent and distal anchor permitting proximal migration or inadequate suture length leading to urinary incontinence. Further design modifications are suggested.
The Use of Indwelling Pleural Catheters for the Management of Malignant Pleural Effusion - Direct Costs in a Dutch Hospital
Authors: Boshuizen Rogier C. , Onderwater Suzanne , Burgers Sjaak J.A. , van den Heuvel Michel M.
Published: July 2013

Background: Indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs) are increasingly used in the treatment of malignant pleural effusion (MPE). In general, these catheters have been reported to manage MPE efficiently. Unfortunately, insurance companies in the Netherlands do not reimburse these catheters in either first-line treatment or following failed talc pleurodesis. Objectives: Investigation of direct costs of IPC placement. Methods: Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database. Direct costs for both catheters and vacuum bottles were calculated. Indicators for indirect costs such as adverse events and complications and the need for additional home care for drainage were registered. Results: Mean costs for IPC amounted to EUR 2,173 and were different between tumor types - mesothelioma: EUR 4,028, breast: EUR 2,204, lung: EUR 1,146 and other: EUR 1,841; p = 0.017. Four patients were admitted to hospital for treatment of complications. Mean costs for IPC placement was similar when inserted as frontline treatment and after failed pleurodesis. Approximately 75% of patients did not need any help from specialized home care. Conclusion: Direct costs for IPC placement turn out to be acceptable when compared with estimated hospitalization costs for pleurodesis treatment. Randomized controlled trials have to be performed to compare the cost-effectiveness of IPCs compared to pleurodesis.
Evidence that Adrenergic and Cholinergic but Not Capsaicin-Sensitive Nerves Are Involved in the Nerve-Mediated Contraction of the Guinea Pig Seminal Vesicle
Authors: Benko Rita , Szombati Veronika , Bartho Lorand
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims: The neurotransmitters participating in the nerve-mediated contraction of the guinea pig seminal vesicle (GPSV) have not been firmly established. There is debate as to the mediating role of norepinephrine and acetylcholine. Methods: We have used longitudinally and circularly oriented strips of GPSV and activated their intramural nerves by electrical field stimulation (5 and 10 Hz for 30 s). Results: Contractile responses to stimulation were enhanced by a cholinesterase inhibitor and reduced by the adrenergic α-receptor antagonist phentolamine (2.5 μmol/l). Atropine (1 μmol/l) significantly reduced responses in longitudinal preparations; a less consistent inhibition was found in circular preparations. The sensory neuron stimulant and blocker capsaicin was without effect. Conclusions: It is concluded that adrenergic nerves and also acetylcholine mediate the contractile response of the GPSV.
Contribution of Dysfunction of Maternal Hemodynamics to Renal Impairment in Preeclampsia
Authors: Jia Rui-Zhe , Qian Yu-Jia , Zhang Xiang , Ding Hong-Juan , Wu Hai-Qing , Shao Ke-Mei
Published: July 2013

Aims: To investigate the contribution of dysfunction of maternal hemodynamics to renal impairment in preeclampsia (PE). Methods: Urinary protein excretion, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, and glomerular filtration rate were assessed in 571 pregnant women with PE in addition to and noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring. Patients were classified into two groups: PE with renal impairment (glomerular filtration rate <90 ml/min/1.73 m2, n = 161) and PE with normal renal function (n = 410). Cut-off values for hemodynamic parameters were calculated using receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Maternal systolic function and cardiac output parameters were low and peripheral resistance was high in the PE renal impairment group. Cut-off values for the hemodynamic parameters, cardiac index, cardiac output, systemic vascular resistance index, and systemic vascular resistance were 2.85 l/min/m2, 5.25 l/min, 3,014.5 dyn s cm-5 m2 and 1,636.0 dyn s cm-5, respectively, according to receiver-operating characteristics curves. Conclusion: Renal impairment in PE is associated with reduced maternal cardiac output and increased peripheral resistance.
Evaluation of the Protective Effects of CoQ10 on Ovarian I/R Injury: An Experimental Study
Authors: Ozler Ali , Turgut Abdulkadir , Görük Neval Yaman , Alabalik Ulas , Basarali Mustafa Kemal , Akdemir Fatih
Published: July 2013

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on ovarian ischemia/reperfusion injury in an experimental rat adnexal torsion model. Methods: 48 female adult Wistar albino rats, weighing 220-250 g, were randomly equally divided into six groups (n = 8): sham, torsion, detorsion, sham+CoQ10, torsion+CoQ10, and detorsion+CoQ10 groups. Bilateral adnexal torsion was performed for 3 h in all groups, except the sham and sham+CoQ10 groups. Bilateral adnexal detorsion was performed on the detorsion and detorsion+CoQ10 groups. CoQ10 was injected intraperitoneally 30 min before the sham operation, torsion, and detorsion. Results: The torsion and detorsion groups had significantly higher histologic evaluation scores, as well as higher MDA levels, TOS values, and oxidative stress index values than the sham group. A strong correlation between total histologic evaluation scores for ischemia/reperfusion injury and the oxidative stress index was found. The mean oxidant marker levels and histopathologic scores for the ovarian tissue significantly decreased after using CoQ10, which is a potent antioxidant. Conclusions: Conservative surgery (detorsion) was found to provide inadequate protection to ovarian tissue. The results of this study suggest that CoQ10 could be useful for the protection of ovarian tissue before conservative surgery.
Epigenetic Regulation of Toll-Like Receptor Signaling: Implications for Cancer Development
Authors: Boi Shannon K. , Elsawa Sherine F.
Published: July 2013

The innate immune response acts in a myriad of ways to protect the host from pathogenic agents. This interplay requires changes in gene expression patterns that allow the host to effectively respond. Epigenetic mechanisms are important in this scenario. Understanding these mechanisms is of great interest for the development of appropriate therapies modulating the immune response. One of the important receptor families responsible for the activity of the innate immune system is the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family. This family is important for the innate immune response to infections and has been implicated to play a role in cancer. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms regulated by TLR signaling is important for the development of novel therapies for a multitude of diseases including cancer. In this article, we present an overview of this pathway and its role in carcinogenesis, and we discuss the epigenetic mechanisms regulating its activity.
Transcription Factor Nrf2 Protects Renal Dopamine D1 Receptor Function During Oxidative Stress
Authors: Banday Anees Ahmad , Lokhandwala Mustafa F.
Published: July 2013

The renal dopaminergic system plays a significant role in controlling sodium excretion and blood pressure (BP). Overwhelming evidence shows that oxidative stress downregulates renal dopamine receptors (D1R), and antioxidant supplementation protects D1R function. However, the mechanisms for benefits of antioxidants in protecting D1R function are unknown. We investigated the role of nuclear factor E2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), a redox-sensitive transcription factor, in reducing oxidative stress, protecting renal D1R function and lowering BP in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with L-buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO) and sulforaphane for 4 weeks. Rats treated with BSO exhibited significant increase in oxidative stress and BP. BSO treatment reduced renal D1R expression and abolished SKF38393 (a D1R agonist)-induced Na/K-ATPase and Na/H-exchanger (NHE3) inhibition. Also, in these rats, SKF38393 failed to promote sodium excretion. BSO caused an increase in nuclear factor-κB expression, a modest nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and a moderate activation of phase II antioxidant enzymes. Treatment of rats with sulforaphane alone induced modest activation of Nrf2 and phase II antioxidant enzymes, although having no effect on BP, redox status, or D1R function. However, sulforaphane prevented oxidative stress, protected D1R function, and abrogated hypertension in BSO-treated rats. In these animals, sulforaphane, whereas attenuating nuclear factor-κB activation, caused a robust stimulation of Nrf2 and phase II antioxidant enzyme pathway. In conclusion, oxidative stress via nuclear factor-κB activation downregulated D1R function causing a decrease in sodium excretion, which contributed to an increase in BP. Sulforaphane via activation of Nrf2-phase II antioxidant enzyme pathway mitigated oxidative stress and nuclear factor-κB activation, preserved D1R function, and prevented hypertension.
Maternal Prepregnancy Body Mass Index and Their Children’s Blood Pressure and Resting Cardiac Autonomic Balance at Age 5 to 6 Years
Authors: Gademan Maaike G.J. , van Eijsden Manon , Roseboom Tessa J. , van der Post Joris A.M. , Stronks Karien , Vrijkotte Tanja G.M.
Published: July 2013

Adverse intrauterine conditions can program hypertension. Because one of the underlying mechanisms is thought to be cardiac autonomic balance, we investigated the association between prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure and indicators of the autonomic balance in the child at age 5 to 6 years. Also investigated was whether these associations were mediated by standardized birth weight and child BMI. Pregnant women (n=3074) participating in the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development study completed a questionnaire at gestational week 14. At age 5 to 6 years, offspring’s sympathetic drive (pre-ejection period), parasympathetic drive (respiratory sinus arrhythmia), and heart rate were measured by electrocardiography and impedance cardiography at rest. Blood pressure was assessed simultaneously. After adjusting for possible maternal/offspring confounders, prepregnancy BMI was positively linearly associated with diastolic blood pressure (β=0.11 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, 0.05–0.17), systolic blood pressure (β=0.14 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, 0.07–0.21), but not with heart rate, sympathetic or parasympathetic drive. After adding birth weight and child BMI to the model, the independent effect size of prepregnancy body mass index on systolic blood pressure (β=0.07 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, 0.00–0.14) and diastolic blood pressure (β=0.07 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.13) decreased by ≈50%. Birth weight did not mediate these relationships, but was independently and negatively associated with blood pressure. Child BMI was positively associated with blood pressure and partly mediated the association between prepregnancy BMI and blood pressure. In conclusion, higher prepregnancy BMI is associated with higher blood pressure in the child (aged 5–6 years) but does not seem to be attributable to early alterations in resting cardiac autonomic balance. Child BMI, but not birth weight, mediated the association between prepregnancy BMI and blood pressure.
The Tawagonshi Tale: Can Linguistic Analysis Prove the Tawagonshi Treaty to be a Forgery?
Authors: Hermkens Harrie , Noordegraaf Jan , van der Sijs Nicoline
Published: July 2013

In 1968 the American physician Lawrence G. van Loon published the text of the so-called Tawagonshi Treaty. This treaty, allegedly drawn up in 1613 between Dutch traders and Iroquois tribal leaders, is by some considered to be the first treaty made between Europeans and Native Americans. Others, however, believe it to be a fake. In this article we try to establish at what date the text was written, using linguistic analysis. Our conclusion is that the anachronisms and anglicisms in the Tawagonshi Treaty demonstrate without doubt that the text was forged in the twentieth century. Although it is plausible that Van Loon was the forger, we have only circumstantial evidence for this but no direct proof.
Early Dutch Explorations in North America
Authors: Jacobs Jaap
Published: July 2013

The Tawagonshi document suggests that an official treaty was conducted between the Dutch and Native Americans in 1613. Yet a close look at the background of Dutch-Native interaction in the Hudson and Delaware Valleys during the 1610s throws doubt on the historical veracity of the document. Prior to 1621, Dutch traders did not have any need for an official treaty with local Indian groups on behalf of the authorities in the Dutch Republic, nor were they authorized to engage in such treaty-making. Thus any agreement cannot be construed to be a treaty between sovereign nations. Yet there is reason to believe that Dutch traders and local native people entered into some form of negotiation. The Dutch building of Fort Nassau on native lands and the military collaboration of which the Kleyntjen affair is evidence suggest as much.
The Meaning of Kaswentha and the Two Row Wampum Belt in Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) History: Can Indigenous Oral Tradition be Reconciled with the Documentary Record?
Authors: Parmenter Jon
Published: July 2013

This essay analyzes the colonial era documentary record for corroboration of Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) oral tradition regarding the kaswentha (as currently understood and represented in the form of a Two-Row wampum belt). Eighteen different recitations of the tradition appear in documentary sources from 1656 to 1755. These findings demonstrate substantial convergence and complementarity between two perspectives on the past and suggest that the comparison and integration of indigenous oral tradition and documentary research may yield a more robust understanding of the past than would be the case of either undertaken alone.
The States General and the Stadholder: Dutch Diplomatic Practices in the Atlantic World before the West India Company
Authors: Meuwese Mark
Published: July 2013

After a discussion of the States General and the office of stadholder as the two key institutions of Dutch sovereignty in Dutch foreign relations, this article analyzes to what extent the two institutions were involved in Dutch diplomacy with non-European peoples in the Atlantic World before the founding of the West India Company in 1621. On the Gold Coast and in West-Central Africa, regions controlled by centralized states and shaped by the presence of Iberian colonizers, Dutch traders relied on the support of the States General and the stadholder to establish alliances. On the Wild Coast of South America and in New Netherland, uncontested regions dominated by decentralized Indigenous groups, Dutch merchants did not require the diplomatic support of the States General or the stadholder but instead established alliances based on local Indigenous protocol.
Wampum, Tawagonshi, and the Two Row Belt
Authors: Otto Paul
Published: July 2013

This essay outlines the early history of wampum, explaining its origin, its value to Native Americans, and its first observations by Europeans. It then considers how wampum, as it existed in the 1610s, fits the role of wampum as described in the Tawagonshi document and fits with its manifestation in the Two Row Belt. The essay argues that key elements in the Tawagonshi document and the Two Row Belt itself are inconsistent with wampum use as recorded in archaeological, documentary, and visual sources. This finding does not discount the possibility of a Dutch-Native agreement similar to the one recorded in the Tawagonshi document that included wampum rituals and the creation of a wampum belt such as the Two Row Belt.
A new genus and family of sejine mites (Acari, Parasitiformes, Mesostigmata, Sejoidea) based on new species from Lord Howe Island and Brazil, and a redescription of Sejus americanus (Banks, 1902)
Authors: WALTER DAVID EVANS
Published: July 2013

The Sejoidea currently contains three families (Sejidae, Ichthyostomatogasteridae, Uropodellidae) of enigmatic mesostig-matic mites with a mixture of characters of general distribution in the Parasitiformes (e.g. hypertrichy, tarsus IV with an intercalary sclerite bearing a pair of ventral setae, archispermous mating system) and derived character states both unique (e.g. distinctive female sterno-gential region; first hypostomal setae adjacent and more or less membranous) and appar-ently convergent with other Mesostigmata (e.g. 2-tined palpal apotele, reduced dorsal sclerotisation in the adult, phoretic deutonymph). In this paper, I review the characters defining the Sejoidea; propose a new genus, Reginacharlottia gen. nov. based on two new species: one from Lord Howe Island, New South Wales, Australia (R. lordhowensis sp. nov.) and one from Bahia State, Brazil (R. braziliensis sp. nov.) and erect a new family, Reginacharlottiidae fam. nov. to accommo-date them. These new species share a number of unusual characters not otherwise known in the Sejida, including a plu-mose interdigital cheliceral excrescence, a highly reduced female genital shield, and a highly modified anal region covered by a pair of hypertrophied pre-anal setae; the postanal seta is absent. Adult female R. lordhowensis carry up to a dozen eggs that enclose fully developed larvae; the larvae also lack the postanal seta, but have a unique pygidial tubercle that may act as an egg burster. In addition, the female of Sejus americanus (Banks, 1902) is redescribed and the male described for the first time. Sejus species tend to be more typical of the warmer parts of the world, but S. americanus extends well into the boreal forest of Alberta, Canada (56°N). A key to separate the families of Sejoidea is provided.
A new species of mole cricket (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae: Gryllotalpinae) from Bukit Fraser, Malay Peninsula, with taxa notes on another similar mole cricket
Authors: TAN MING KAI , KAMARUDDIN KHAIRUL NIZAM
Published: July 2013

One new species of Gryllotalpa from Bukit Fraser, Pahang of Malay Peninsula is described: Gryllotalpa fraser sp. n. Photographs of Gryllotalpa hirsuta Burmeister, 1838 were examined and some remarks are made here, including a comparison with Gryllotalpa fraser sp. n. and Gryllotalpa nymphicus Tan, 2012.
Diversity of the genus Terebellides (Polychaeta: Trichobranchidae) in the Adriatic Sea with the description of a new species
Authors: PARAPAR JULIO , MIKAC BARBARA , FIEGE DIETER
Published: July 2013

Based on specimens collected during the sampling campaigns in the Northern Adriatic from 2003–2010, the diversity of genus Terebellides (Polychaeta; Trichobranchidae) was studied and three species are reported for the Northern Adriatic Sea: Terebellides gracilis Malm, 1874, Terebellides mediterranea spec. nov., and Terebellides stroemii Sars, 1835. Terebellides stroemii was the only species previously reported from the area. Terebellides gracilis is reported for the first time for the Mediterranean Sea and its geographical distribution is extended south. Terebellides mediterranea spec. nov., is characterised by the presence of long notopodia and notochaetae in the first thoracic chaetiger. These three species are compared to other Terebellides species described or reported from North Atlantic waters, and a key to Terebellides species of the North East Atlantic and Mediterranean is provided.
Nomenclature of African species of the genus Stenodactylus
(Squamata: Gekkonidae)
Authors: METALLINOU MARGARITA , CROCHET PIERRE-ANDRÉ
Published: July 2013

The statuses of proposed nomina of the North African species of the genus Stenodactylus have been revised based on the study of their original descriptions and the examination of their name-bearing types. Important nomenclatural actions proposed include the designation of a lectotype for the nomen Stenodactylus guttatus ensuring continuity of the prevailing usage of S. petrii, and the proposal of maintaining prevailing usage of Stenodactylus sthenodactylus by applying to the International Commission of Zoological Nomenclature to set aside the existing name-bearing type and replace it with a neotype corresponding with that usage.
Onycocaris maui sp. nov., a new pontoniine sponge associate (Crustacea: Decapoda: Palaemonidae) from the Hawai’ian Islands
Authors: BRUCE A. J.
Published: July 2013

A new species of pontoniine shrimp, Onycocaris maui sp. nov., from Maui Island, Hawai’i, is described and illustrated. A heterosexual pair were found in an intertidal Haliclona sponge. A member of the O. quadratophthalma species group, its relationships are discussed and a key provided for their identification.
Morphological and molecular differentiation of Staphylocystis clydesengeri n. sp. (Cestoda, Hymenolepididae) from the vagrant shrew, Sorex vagrans (Soricomorpha, Soricidae), in North America
Authors: TKACH VASYL V. , MAKARIKOV ARSENY A. , KINSELLA JOHN M.
Published: July 2013

Staphylocystis clydesengeri n. sp. is described from shrews Sorex vagrans in Montana and Washington, United States. It differs from the only previously known North American representative of the genus, S. schilleri, in having more numerous (37–42 vs 22–30) and larger (39–44 µm vs 27–30 µm) rostellar hooks. The two species also differ in several other important characters such as relative length of the cirrus pouch, position of gonads and shape of mature proglottides. Morphological differentiation of the new species from all previously known Palearctic species of Staphylocystis from Sorex is also provided. Differentiation from Staphylocystis parasitic in crocidurine shrews is not provided due to the high level of specificity among shrew hymenolepidids to the host genera and much greater levels of sequence divergence between Staphylocystis from the two groups of shrews. Molecular differentiation based on 2,800 base pair long sequences of nuclear ribosomal RNA (complete ITS region and partial 28S region), 663 base pair long sequences of mitochondrial nad1 gene and 542 base pair long sequences of mitochondrial ribosomal 16S gene strongly support the status of Staphylocystis clydesengeri n. sp. Relative utility of the DNA fragments used in this study for reliable differentiation among closely related species of mammalian hymenolepidids is discussed. Nuclear ribosomal RNA region appears to be too conserved for this purpose. Use of at least one mitochondrial gene in addition to nuclear ribosomal RNA or without it, is recommended. Vampirolepis novosibirskiensis Sawada & Kobayashi, 1994 is transferred to Staphylocystis as a junior synonym of S. furcata (Stieda, 1862). Rodentolepis gnoskei Greiman & Tkach, 2012 is transferred to Pararodentolepis Makarikov and Gulyaev, 2009 as a new combination Pararodentolepis gnoskei (Greiman & Tkach, 2012) n. comb.
The Importance of Spring and Autumn Atmospheric Conditions for the Evaporation Regime of Lake Superior
Authors: Spence C. , Blanken P. D. , Lenters J. D. , Hedstrom N.
Published: July 2013

Feedbacks between ice extent and evaporation have long been suspected to be important for Lake Superior evaporation because it is during autumn and winter when latent heat fluxes are highest. Recent direct measurements of evaporation made at the Stannard Rock Lighthouse have provided new information on the physical controls on Lake Superior evaporation, in particular that evaporation can react within hours to days to a change in synoptic conditions. However, the large heat capacity of the lake creates a strong seasonal cycle of energy storage and release. There is a complex interaction among heat storage, evaporation, and ice cover that is highly dependent on atmospheric conditions in the spring and autumn “shoulder seasons.” Small changes in conditions in November and March caused by synoptic-scale events can have profound impacts on annual evaporation, the extent of ice cover, and the length of the ice-covered period. Early winter air temperatures in November and December dictate the nature of ice formation and much of the winter evaporative flux. Decreased ice cover, by itself, does not necessarily lead to enhanced annual evaporation losses. Rather, a combination of low ice cover and warm spring air temperatures, leading to an early breakup, can significantly lengthen the next evaporation season and cause greater cumulative water loss the subsequent year. The influence of individual synoptic events on annual evaporation is notable enough that the research community should ensure that their role is properly captured in numerical models to provide sound predictions of future Laurentian Great Lakes evaporation regimes.
Using NWP Simulations in Satellite Rainfall Estimation of Heavy Precipitation Events over Mountainous Areas
Authors: Zhang Xinxuan , Anagnostou Emmanouil N. , Frediani Maria , Solomos Stavros , Kallos George
Published: July 2013

In this study, the authors investigate the use of high-resolution simulations from the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) for evaluating satellite rainfall biases of flood-inducing storms in mountainous areas. A probability matching approach is applied to evaluate a power-law relationship between satellite-retrieved and WRF-simulated rain rates over the storm domain. Satellite rainfall in this study is from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH). Results are presented based on analyses of five heavy precipitation events that induced flash floods in northern Italy and southern France complex terrain basins. The WRF-based adjusted CMORPH rain rates exhibited improved error statistics against independent radar rainfall estimates. The authors show that the adjustment procedure reduces the underestimation of high rain rates, thus moderating the magnitude dependence of CMORPH rainfall bias. The Heidke skill score for the WRF-based adjusted CMORPH was consistently higher for a range of rain rate thresholds. This is an indication that the adjustment procedure ameliorates the satellite rain rates to provide a better estimation. Results also indicate that the low rain detection of CMORPH technique is also identifiable in the WRF–CMORPH comparison; however, the adjustment procedure herein does not incorporate this effect on the satellite rainfall bias adjustment.
Intercalibrating Microwave Satellite Observations for Monitoring Long-Term Variations in Upper- and Midtropospheric Water Vapor*
Authors: Chung Eui-Seok , Soden Brian J. , John Viju O.
Published: July 2013

This paper analyzes the growing archive of 183-GHz water vapor absorption band measurements from the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit B (AMSU-B) and Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS) on board polar-orbiting satellites and document adjustments necessary to use the data for long-term climate monitoring. The water vapor channels located at 183.31 ± 1 GHz and 183.31 ± 3 GHz are sensitive to upper- and midtropospheric relative humidity and less prone to the clear-sky sampling bias than infrared measurements, making them a valuable but underutilized source of information on free-tropospheric water vapor. A method for the limb correction of the satellite viewing angle based upon a simplified model of radiative transfer is introduced to remove the scan angle dependence of the radiances. Biases due to the difference in local observation time between satellites and spurious trends associated with satellite orbital drift are then diagnosed and adjusted for using synthetic radiative simulations based on the Interim European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim). The adjusted, cloud-filtered, and limb-corrected brightness temperatures are then intercalibrated using zonal-mean brightness temperature differences. It is found that these correction procedures significantly improve consistency and quantitative agreement between microwave radiometric satellite observations that can be used to monitor upper- and midtropospheric water vapor. The resulting radiances are converted to estimates of the deep-layer-mean upper- and midtropospheric relative humidity, and can be used to evaluate trends in upper-tropospheric relative humidity from reanalysis datasets and coupled ocean–atmosphere models.
Maturity onset diabetes of the young: identification and diagnosis
Authors: McDonald Tim J , Ellard Sian
Published: July 2013

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a monogenic disorder that results in a familial, young-onset non-insulin dependent form of diabetes, typically presenting in lean young adults before 25 years. Approximately 1% of diabetes has a monogenic cause but this is frequently misdiagnosed as Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. A correct genetic diagnosis is important as it often leads to improved treatment for those affected with diabetes and enables predictive genetic testing for their asymptomatic relatives. An early diagnosis together with appropriate treatment is essential for reducing the risk of diabetic complications in later life. Mutations in the GCK and HNF1A/4 A genes account for up to 80% of all MODY cases. Mutations in the GCK gene cause a mild, asymptomatic and non-progressive fasting hyperglycaemia from birth usually requiring no treatment. In contrast, mutations in the genes encoding the transcription factors HNF1A and HNF4A cause a progressive insulin secretory defect and hyperglycaemia that can lead to vascular complications. The diabetes in these patients is usually well controlled with sulphonylurea tablets although insulin treatment may be required in later life. In this review, we outline the key clinical and laboratory characteristics of the common and rarer causes of MODY with the aim of raising awareness of this condition amongst health-care scientists.
Examining the construct validity of the Cognitive Competency Test for occupational therapy practice / Évaluer la validité de construit du Cognitive Competency Test en fonction de la pratique de l’ergothérapie
Authors: Zur Briana M. , Rudman Debbie Laliberte , Johnson Andrew M. , Roy Eric A. , Wells Jennie L.
Published: July 2013

Background.

Enhancing occupational therapy practice requires critical examination of assessment tools and the conclusions being drawn from their use. When working with cognitively impaired older individuals, judgments about occupational competence are often informed by an assessment of cognitive competence.

Purpose.

The Cognitive Competency Test (CCT) is a frequently used measure in Canada to inform predictions of occupational competence. However, there is an absence of published evidence that addresses its validity.

Methods.

To appraise validity of the CCT, a retrospective chart review ( n = 107) of CCT reports for inpatient and outpatient clients with cognitive impairment was conducted. Data were subjected to exploratory factor analyses to examine the factor structure, and the measure was compared with commonly used clinical variables reflecting cognitive and occupational competence.

Findings.

Results suggest that the CCT measures a unitary construct and provide some support for its predictive capacity.

Implications.

CCT scores can add incremental validity to cognitive screens, such as the Mini Mental State Exam, when evaluating occupational competence.