bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Preferential Flexibility Direction on Fluidelastic Instability of a Rotated Triangular Tube Bundle
Authors: Khalvatti A. , Mureithi N. W. , Pettigrew M. J.
Published: August 2010

In operating shell-and-tube heat exchangers, tube vibration induced by cross-flow can be a serious problem. The region of concern in steam generators is the upper most U-bend region where the flow crosses a large number of tubes, which also cause significant hydraulic resistance. This hydraulic resistance forces the flow to change direction. From a fluidelastic instability point of view, the tube bundle is excited by oblique cross-flow. A secondary consequence of change in flow direction is a change in the flexibility direction of the tubes relative to the oncoming flow direction at different locations within the U-bend region. It is this somewhat simpler problem that is studied in this work. The effect of array flexibility direction on the fluidelastic instability phenomenon in a rotated-triangular tube bundle is investigated for single phase flow as a starting point. The study consists of both experiments and theoretical analysis of a simplified single-flexible-tube array. Experimental tests are conducted in a wind tunnel on a reconfigurable tube bundle. The results show that fluidelastic instability is strongly dependent on the flexibility angle. The results also show that, generally, the elimination of bundle flexibility in the direction transverse to the flow has a strong stabilizing effect on the tube bundle. The effect is, however, nonlinearly related to flexibility angle. In the second part of this work, the quasi-steady fluidelastic analysis is adapted for a single tube (within a rigid array), flexible in a single but arbitrary direction relative to the flow and subjected to cross-flow. The fluid-force expressions are rewritten to account for an arbitrary tube flexibility direction relative to the approaching flow. In the process, a simplified, flexibility direction dependent, one degree-of-freedom equation is obtained. The model is then evaluated against measured experimental data. This evaluation shows that the predicted critical flow velocity for fluidelastic instability is in qualitative agreement with experimental results, at least in the trend on the effect of varying the flexibility angle. At the same time, the model sheds some light on the role played by the flexibility angle in determining the overall fluid-structure damping underlying the observed stability behavior.
Nutrition support teams: how they work, are set up and maintained
Authors: Nightingale Jeremy
Published: August 2010

Safe cost effective nutritional support is provided by a multidisciplinary team whose activity is overseen by a Nutrition Steering Group that reports directly to the Hospital Trust Board. When a nutrition support team (NST) is first formed, a nutrition nurse specialist enables parenteral nutrition to be given safely. An NST needs to have a clearly agreed scope of practice and needs to be able to justify its presence in terms of quality and cost savings.
Murine vasa recta pericyte chloride conductance is controlled by calcium, depolarization, and kinase activity
Authors: Lin Hai , Pallone Thomas L. , Cao Chunhua
Published: August 2010

We used the whole cell patch-clamp technique to investigate the regulation of descending vasa recta (DVR) pericyte Ca2+-dependent Cl− currents (CaCC) by cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca]CYT), voltage, and kinase activity. Murine CaCC increased with voltage and electrode Ca2+ concentration. The current saturated at [Ca]CYT of ∼1,000 nM and exhibited an EC50 for Ca2+ of ∼500 nM, independent of depolarization potential. Activation time constants were between 100 and 200 ms, independent of electrode Ca2+. Repolarization-related tail currents elicited by stepping from +100 mV to varying test potentials exhibited deactivation time constants of 50–200 ms that increased with voltage when electrode [Ca]CYT was 1,000 nM. The calmodulin inhibitor N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide hydrochloride (W-7, 30 μM) blocked CaCC. The myosin light chain kinase blockers 1-(5-iodonaphthalene-1-sulfonyl)-1H-hexahydro-1,4-diazepine hydrochloride (ML-7, 1–50 μM) and 1-(5-chloronaphthalene-1-sulfonyl)-1H-hexahydro-1,4-diazepine hydrochloride (ML-9, 10 μM) were similarly effective. Resting pericytes were hyperpolarized by ML-7. Pericytes exposed to ANG II (10 nM) depolarized from a baseline of −50 ± 6 to −29 ± 3 mV and were repolarized to −63 ± 7 mV by exposure to 50 μM ML-7. The Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase inhibitor KN-93 reduced pericyte CaCC only when it was present in the electrode and extracellular buffer from the time of membrane break-in. We conclude that murine DVR pericytes are modulated by [Ca]CYT, membrane potential, and phosphorylation events, suggesting that Ca2+-dependent Cl− conductance may be a target for regulation of vasoactivity and medullary blood flow in vivo.
Dilute bird nectars: viscosity constrains food intake by licking in a sunbird
Authors: Köhler Angela , Leseigneur Carolina D. C. , Verburgt Luke , Nicolson Susan W.
Published: August 2010

Floral nectars of bird-pollinated plants are relatively dilute. One hypothesis proposed to explain this concerns the difficulty for birds of drinking nectar of high viscosity. We examined the effects of viscosity, separately from those of sugar concentration, on feeding by captive whitebellied sunbirds ( Cinnyris talatala ). Viscosities of artificial nectar (sucrose solutions ranging in concentration from 0.25 to 1.5 mol/l) were altered with Tylose, an inert polysaccharide. Food consumption was measured over 3 h, and lick frequency and duration were recorded using photodetection devices on feeding apertures too small for the bill but large enough for the extended tongue. Volumetric intake rates (ml/s) were inversely proportional to nectar viscosity, and were similar over the range of sucrose concentrations when viscosity was held constant. Sucrose intake rates (mg/s) remained the same on pure sucrose solutions, but they decreased with increasing viscosity at a constant sucrose concentration. Lick frequencies and tongue loads were reduced at high viscosities, and lick duration increased, which confirms that sunbirds take longer to ingest viscous solutions. Licking behavior was remarkably similar in birds feeding on different sucrose concentrations if viscosity was held constant. Nectar ingestion rate is determined by viscosity; however, total food intake is mainly modulated by sugar concentration. Similar effects of food viscosity have been observed in insects that suck nectar.
Phase I Safety, Pharmacokinetic, and Biomarker Study of BIBF 1120, an Oral Triple Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Okamoto Isamu , Kaneda Hiroyasu , Satoh Taroh , Okamoto Wataru , Miyazaki Masaki , Morinaga Ryotaro , Ueda Shinya , Terashima Masaaki , Tsuya Asuka , Sarashina Akiko , Konishi Koichi , Arao Tokuzo , Nishio Kazuto , Kaiser Rolf , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: August 2010

BIBF 1120 is an oral multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor that blocks the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other growth factor receptors. We have done a phase I study to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers of BIBF 1120. Patients with advanced refractory solid tumors were treated with BIBF 1120 at oral doses of 150 to 250 mg twice daily. Drug safety and pharmacokinetics were evaluated, as were baseline and post-treatment levels of circulating CD117-positive bone marrow–derived progenitor cells and plasma soluble VEGF receptor 2 as potential biomarkers for BIBF 1120. Twenty-one patients were treated at BIBF 1120 doses of 150 (n = 3), 200 (n = 12), or 250 mg twice daily (n = 6). Dose-limiting toxicities of reversible grade 3 or 4 elevations of liver enzymes occurred in 3 of 12 patients at 200 mg twice daily and 3 of 6 patients at 250 mg twice daily. Stable disease was achieved in 16 (76.2%) patients, and median progression-free survival was 113 days (95% confidence interval, 77-119 d). Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the maximum plasma concentration and area under the curve for BIBF 1120 increased with the dose within the dose range tested. Levels of CD117-positive bone marrow–derived progenitors and soluble VEGF receptor 2 decreased significantly during treatment over all BIBF 1120 dose cohorts. In conclusion, the maximum tolerated dose of BIBF 1120 in the current study was determined to be 200 mg twice daily, and our biomarker analysis indicated that this angiokinase inhibitor is biologically active. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(10); 2825–33. ©2010 AACR.
The Gustatory System of Lampreys
Authors: Barreiro-Iglesias Antón , Anadón Ramón , Rodicio María Celina
Published: August 2010

The present is a review of the gustatory system of lampreys, which are representative of the earliest vertebrates. They are the oldest extant vertebrates that possess taste buds. Because of the phylogenetic position of lampreys, the study of their gustatory system will provide important information to help understand the early evolution of this system in vertebrates. The taste buds of larval lampreys, which are papillae located on the first six pairs of gill arches facing the water current, respond to classical taste substances. They consist of two types of tall differentiated cells, serotonergic biciliated taste receptors (‘light’ cells) and microvillous sustentacular cells (‘dark cells’). The taste buds also contain basal proliferative cells. Afferent gustatory fibers of the glossopharyngeal and vagal nerves innervate the taste buds of lampreys and contact the basal surface of the biciliated cells without entering the bud. Central processes of the glossopharyngeal and vagal cranial nerves terminate in a caudal rhombencephalic region that may correspond to the nucleus of the solitary tract of gnathostomes. To date, most studies in lampreys have focused on characterizing taste buds; future research should focus on the central processing of the gustatory information. Here we will review the current knowledge about the gustatory system of lampreys to provide a basis for establishing the direction of further studies of this chemosensory system.
Altered Renal Expression of Angiotensin II Receptors, Renin Receptor, and ACE-2 Precede the Development of Renal Fibrosis in Aging Rats
Authors: Schulman Ivonne Hernandez , Zhou Ming-Sheng , Treuer Adriana V. , Chadipiralla Kiranmai , Hare Joshua M. , Raij Leopoldo
Published: August 2010

Background: The susceptibility to fibrosis and progression of renal disease is mitigated by inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). We hypothesized that activation of the intrarenal RAS predisposes to renal fibrosis in aging. Methods: Intrarenal expression of angiotensin II type 1 (AT1R), type 2 (AT2R), and (pro)renin receptors, ACE and ACE-2, as well as pro- and antioxidant enzymes were measured in 3-month-old (young), 14-month-old (middle-aged), and 24-month-old (old) male Sprague-Dawley rats. Results: Old rats manifested glomerulosclerosis and severe tubulointerstitial fibrosis with increased fibronectin and TGF-β expression (7-fold). AT1R /AT2R ratios were increased in middle-aged (cortical 1.6-fold, medullary 5-fold) and old rats (cortical 2-fold, medullary 4-fold). Similarly, (pro)renin receptor expression was increased in middle-aged (cortical 2-fold, medullary 3-fold) and old (cortical 5-fold, medullary 3-fold) rats. Cortical ACE was increased (+35%) in old rats, whereas ACE-2 was decreased (–50%) in middle-aged and old rats. NADPH oxidase activity was increased (2-fold), whereas antioxidant capacity and expression of the mitochondrial enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (cortical –40%, medullary –53%) and medullary endothelial nitric oxide synthase (–48%) were decreased in old rats. Conclusion: Age-related intrarenal activation of the RAS preceded the development of severe renal fibrosis, suggesting that it contributes to the increased susceptibility to renal injury observed in the elderly.
Identification of Structural Proteins of Bombyx mori Parvo-Like Virus (China Zhenjiang Isolate)
Authors: Lv Meng , Yao Qin , Wang Yong , Liu Xiaoyong , Liu Haijun , Huang Guoping , Chen Keping , Zhang Junhong , Li Xiaogang
Published: August 2010

Objective:Bombyx mori parvo-like virus is a type of virus containing two single-stranded linear DNA molecules (VD1, VD2). In the present work, the structural proteins of B. mori parvo-like virus (China Zhenjiang isolate) (BmDNV-Z) were identified. Methods: The virions were purified by cesium chloride density gradient centrifugation from the feces of B. mori larvae infected with BmDNV-Z and analyzed by SDS-PAGE, Western blotting and MALDI-TOF/mass spectometry. Results: There were seven polypeptides of the virions, named P1 to P7, which reacted with the anti-virion serum. In addition, two polypeptides, P5 and P6, were recognized by the antibody against a viral protein encoded by VD1-ORF3. Conclusion: The results showed that the viral polypeptides were mainly composed of 7 proteins named P1 to P7. Western blotting with anti-virion serum indicated that structural proteins P5, P6 and P7 had molecular weights of around 50, 55 and 130 kDa, respectively. They were the major immunogens of the virion. Among them, P5 and P6 were coded by VD1-ORF3 and P7 was encoded by VD2-ORF1. Taken together, three viral structural proteins encoded by VD1-ORF3 and VD2-ORF1 were identified in BmDNV-Z for the first time.
Prevalence and Management of Anaemia in Renal Transplant Recipients: Data from Ten European Centres
Authors: Molnar Miklos Zsolt , Mucsi Istvan , Macdougall Iain C. , Marsh James E. , Yaqoob Magdi , Main John , Courtney Aisling E. , Fogarty Damien , Mikhail Ashraf , Choukroun Gabriel , Short Colin D. , Covic Adrian , Goldsmith David J.
Published: August 2010

Background: Although it is a known predictor of mortality, there is a relative lack of recent information about anaemia in kidney transplant recipients. Thus, we now report data about the prevalence and management of post-transplant anaemia (PTA) in Europe 5 years after the TRansplant European Survey on Anemia Management (TRESAM) study. Methods: In a cross-sectional study enrolling the largest number of patients to date, data were obtained from 5,834 patients followed at 10 outpatient transplant clinics in four European countries using the American Society of Transplantation anaemia guideline. Results: More than one third (42%) of the patients were anaemic. The haemoglobin (Hb) concentration was significantly correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (r = 0.4, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, eGFR, serum ferritin, age, gender, time since transplantation and centres were independently and significantly associated with Hb. Only 24% of the patients who had a Hb concentration <110 g/l were treated with an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent. The prevalence of anaemia and also the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents were significantly different across the different centres, suggesting substantial practice variations. Conclusions: PTA is still common and under-treated. The prevalence and management of PTA have not changed substantially since the TRESAM survey.
The Sask Formula to Estimate Glomerular Filtration Rate in Renal Transplant Patients
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Akhtar , Elmoselhi Hamdi , Elshorbagy Amin A. , Shoker Ahmed
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to develop a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) equation for renal transplant and compare its performance with Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) and isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) equations. Using genetic symbolic regression analysis, the Sask equation was developed from a training sample of 772 isotope GFR (iGFR) scans performed in 99 transplanted patients. It was then validated in two other samples of 269 scans with the same number of patients. Standard methods including accuracy at 30% range from reference values were compared. In two validation samples, the Sask equation maintained the lowest bias of –0.7 ± 19.0 and 0.4 ± 18.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.05) versus –3.1 ± 19.6 and –7.2 ± 18.8 ml/min/1.73 m2 for CKD-EPI and –2.2 ± 19.2 and –6.5 ± 18.3 ml/min/1.73 m2 for IDMS, respectively. In those with iGFR between 90 and 30 ml/min/1.73 m2, the Sask equation demonstrated: (1) the lowest bias of –1.0 ± 15.7 and –0.4 ± 15.7 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.05 vs. other tests); (2) an accuracy of 75.5 and 76.1% (p < 0.05 vs. other tests), and (3) a mean percentage error of 1.9 ± 30.5 and –4.1 ± 31.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.05 vs. other tests). Analysis based on gender demonstrated improved performance in the total and subtotal female populations with GFR between 90 and 30 ml/min/1.73 m2. The CKD-EPI and Sask equations performed better than IDMS. The Sask equation demonstrated improved bias over CKD-EPI, with iGFR between 90 and 30 ml/min/1.73 m2, particularly in females.
Adjunctive treatment with ticagrelor, but not clopidogrel, added to tPA enables sustained coronary artery recanalisation with recovery of myocardium perfusion in a canine coronary thrombosis model
Authors: Zhou Xiaorong , Huang Yanming , Khalil Mazen , Wiktor Dominik , van Giezen J. J. J. , Penn Marc , Wang Kai
Published: August 2010

Reperfusion therapy for myocardial infarction is limited by significant re-occlusion rates and less-than-optimal myocardial tissue perfusion. It was the objective of this study to assess and compare the effect of ticagrelor, the first reversibly binding oral P2Y12 receptor antagonist, with that of clopidogrel, in conjunction with thrombolytic therapy, on platelet aggregation, thrombus formation, and myocardial perfusion in a canine model. Thrombus formation was induced by electrolytic injury and blood flow was measured with a Doppler ultrasonic flowmeter. All animals received tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) (1 mg/kg over 20 min); 10 animals received clopidogrel (10 mg/kg IV bolus over 5 min), 10 animals received ticagrelor initiated with a 1-min bolus (75 μg/kg/ min), followed by continuous infusion (10 μg/kg/min) for 2 h, and 10 animals received IV saline. Re-occlusion rate and cyclic flow variation decreased with ticagrelor compared to saline groups (p<0.05). Adenosine phosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation decreased with ticagrelor (1.9% ± 2.67) and clopidogrel (1.11% ± 2.0) vs. saline (26.3% ± 23.5, p<0.05) at the end of adjunctive therapy. Bleeding time increased in the clopidogrel compared to the ticagrelor group (p=0.01). Infarct size was reduced with ticagrelor compared to the clopidogrel and saline groups (p<0.05). Blood flow remained significantly below baseline values at 20 min after tPA administration in the saline and clopidogrel groups but not in the ticagrelor group. In conclusion, in a dog coronary thrombosis model, ticagrelor blocks ADP-induced platelet activation and aggregation; prevents platelet-mediated thrombosis; prolongs reperfusion time and reduces re-occlusion and cyclic flow variation; and significantly decreases infarct size and rapidly restores myocardial tissue perfusion.
Haemophilia, human immunodeficiency virus and human immunodeficiency virus pathogenesis
Authors: Lederman Michael
Published: August 2010

In July 1982, the occurrence of three cases of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in men with haemophilia was an immediate signal to Oscar Ratnoff that AIDS was transmissible through blood products. Work that he led provided important and clear indication that the AIDS agent was transmissible through pooled plasma products and had rapidly infected many men who had haemophilia. Before the blood supply was protected, the risk for infection in haemophilia was related directly to the intensity of therapy with pooled anti-haemophilic factor concentrates. Studies performed among the small proportion of haemophiliacs who remained uninfected despite heavy exposure to these plasma products revealed that the rare protective genotype – homozygosity for the 32 base pair deletion in the CCR5 gene was heavily concentrated in this population. Among those who did not have this protective genotype, a state of diminished immune activation distinguished these high risk uninfected haemophiliacs from haemophiliacs who later acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and from healthy uninfected controls. Immune activation state may not only predict risk for HIV acquisition but also appears to be an important predictor and likely determinant of HIV disease progression. The potential drivers of immune activation in chronic HIV infection include HIV itself, other co-infecting pathogens, homeostatic responses to cytopenia as well as the recently recognised phenomenon of translocation of microbial products across a damaged gut mucosal surface. This latter process is particularly compelling as clinical studies have shown a good relationship between indices of microbial translocation and markers of both immune activation and T cell homeostasis in chronic HIV infection. More recently, we have also found evidence that these microbial products also may drive a heightened tendency to thrombus formation in HIV infection via induction of monocyte tissue factor expression. Thus systemic exposure to microbial elements that are translocated through a gut mucosa damaged in the first few weeks of HIV infection may contribute to the pathogenesis of both immune deficiency and the heightened risk for vascular events that have been noted in persons with HIV infection.
Combination of Injectable Multiple Growth Factor–Releasing Scaffolds and Cell Therapy as an Advanced Modality to Enhance Tissue Neovascularization
Authors: Saif Jaimy , Schwarz Theresa M. , Chau David Y.S. , Henstock James , Sami Paramjit , Leicht Simon F. , Hermann Patrick C. , Alcala Sonia , Mulero Francisca , Shakesheff Kevin M. , Heeschen Christopher , Aicher Alexandra
Published: August 2010

Objective—

Vasculogenic progenitor cell therapy for ischemic diseases bears great potential but still requires further optimization for justifying its clinical application. Here, we investigated the effects of in vivo tissue engineering by combining vasculogenic progenitors with injectable scaffolds releasing controlled amounts of proangiogenic growth factors.

Methods and Results—

We produced biodegradable, injectable polylactic coglycolic acid–based scaffolds releasing single factors or combinations of vascular endothelial growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor, and angiopoietin-1. Dual and triple combinations of scaffold-released growth factors were superior to single release. In murine hindlimb ischemia models, scaffolds releasing dual (vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor) or triple combinations improved effects of cord blood–derived vasculogenic progenitors. Increased migration, homing, and incorporation of vasculogenic progenitors into the vasculature augmented capillary density, translating into improved blood perfusion. Most importantly, scaffold-released triple combinations including the vessel stabilizer angiopoietin-1 enhanced the number of perivascular smooth muscle actin
+
vascular smooth muscle cells, indicating more efficient vessel stabilization.

Conclusion—

Vasculogenic progenitor cell therapy is significantly enhanced by in vivo tissue engineering providing a proangiogenic and provasculogenic growth factor-enriched microenvironment. Therefore, combined use of scaffold-released growth factors and cell therapy improves neovascularization in ischemic diseases and may translate into more pronounced clinical effects.
Involvement of the Brain (Pro)renin Receptor in Cardiovascular Homeostasis
Authors: Shan Zhiying , Shi Peng , Cuadra Adolfo E. , Dong Ying , Lamont Gwyneth J. , Li Qiuhong , Seth Dale M. , Navar L. Gabriel , Katovich Michael J. , Sumners Colin , Raizada Mohan K.
Published: August 2010

Rationale:

Despite overwhelming evidence of the importance of brain renin–angiotensin system (RAS), the very existence of intrinsic brain RAS remains controversial.

Objective:

To investigate the hypothesis that the brain (pro)renin receptor (PRR) is physiologically important in the brain RAS regulation and cardiovascular functions.

Methods and Results:

PRR is broadly distributed within neurons of cardiovascular-relevant brain regions. The physiological functions of PRR were studied in the supraoptic nucleus (SON) because this brain region showed greater levels of PRR mRNA in the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) compared with normotensive Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) rats. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated overexpression of human PRR in the SON of normal rats resulted in increases in plasma and urine vasopressin, and decreases in H
2
O intake and urine output without any effects on mean arterial pressure and heart rate. Knockdown of endogenous PRR by AAV-short hairpin RNA in the SON of SHRs attenuated age-dependent increases in mean arterial pressure and caused a decrease in heart rate and plasma vasopressin. Incubation of neuronal cells in culture with human prorenin and angiotensinogen resulted in increased generation of angiotensin I and II. Furthermore, renin treatment increased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase ½ in neurons from both WKY rats and SHRs; however, the stimulation was 50% greater in the SHR.

Conclusions:

The study demonstrates that brain PRR is functional and plays a role in the neural control of cardiovascular functions. This may help resolve a long-held controversy concerning the existence of intrinsic and functional brain RAS.
Stroke Thrombolysis: Having More Time Translates Into Delayed Therapy
Authors: Ferrari Julia , Knoflach Michael , Kiechl Stefan , Willeit Johann , Matošević Benjamin , Seyfang Leonhard , Lang Wilfried
Published: August 2010

Background and Purpose—

Efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke declines with increasing time to treatment initiation. Previous small-scale studies suggested that the earlier patients arrive, the longer it takes to administer recombinant tissue plasminogen activator.

Methods—

Of 32 529 patients with stroke prospectively enrolled in the Austrian Stroke Unit Registry (2004 to 2009), 3287 received intravenous thrombolysis and 2663 of them were eligible for the current analysis.

Results—

Median (interquartile range) onset-to-door and door-to-needle times were 70 (50 to 100) and 50 (35 to 70) minutes. Of note, both time intervals were inversely correlated with each other. After adjustment for multiple stroke characteristics, the door-to-needle time of patients arriving in the hospital within the first hour after stroke onset was 6.9 minutes (
P
<0.001) and 13.9 minutes (
P
<0.001) longer than those for patients arriving between 61 to 120 and 121 to 180 minutes. Findings were consistent in subgroups.

Conclusions—

Early hospital arrival translates into a significant delay in the application of intravenous thrombolysis among patients with acute stroke. This finding calls for concerted measures to ensure that all patients with stroke are treated with the same urgency irrespective of the time available.
Stroke Incidence and Survival in Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
Authors: Palm Frederick , Urbanek Christian , Rose Steffen , Buggle Florian , Bode Barbara , Hennerici Michael G. , Schmieder Kirsten , Inselmann Gerhard , Reiter Rainer , Fleischer Robert , Piplack Karl-Otto , Safer Anton , Becher Heiko , Grau Armin J.
Published: August 2010

Background and Purpose—

Considerable locoregional differences in stroke incidence exist even within countries. Based on data from a statewide stroke care quality monitoring project, we hypothesized a high stroke incidence mainly among younger age groups in the industrial city of Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany. To test this hypothesis and to provide data on stroke incidence and case-fatality rates, a population-based stroke register was initiated.

Methods—

The Ludwigshafen Stroke Study is a prospective ongoing population-based stroke register among the 167 906 inhabitants of Ludwigshafen am Rhein. Starting on January 1, 2006, standard definitions and multiple overlapping methods of case ascertainment were used to identify all patients with incident stroke or transient ischemic attack.

Results—

In 2006 and 2007, 1231 cases with stroke or transient ischemic attack including 725 patients with first-ever stroke were identified. The crude annual incidence rate per 1000 for first-ever stroke was 2.16 (95% CI 2.10 to 2.32). After age adjustment to the European population, incidence for first-ever stroke was 1.46 (95% CI 1.35 to 1.57; men: 1.63; 95% CI 1.46 to 1.81; women: 1.29; 95% CI 1.15 to 1.43). Crude annual incidence rates per 1000 were 1.86 for ischemic stroke, 0.19 for intracerebral hemorrhage, 0.05 for subarachnoid hemorrhage, and 0.05 for undetermined stroke. Case-fatality rates for first-ever stroke were 13.6%, 16.4%, and 23.2% at Days 28, 90, and 365, respectively.

Conclusions—

High crude incidence rates in our study reflect the rising burden of stroke in our aging population. Age-adjusted incidence rates were somewhat higher than those reported by recent studies from Western Europe, mainly due to higher incidence in subjects <65 years.
To Whom Was Christ a Slave (Phil 2:7)? Double Agency and the Specters of Sin and Death in Philippians
Authors: Gupta Nijay K.
Published: August 2010

Paul’s so-called “Christ-hymn” in Philippians 2:6-11 regarding its origins, purpose, format, and the theological components of its Christology. One factor in the determination of this Christology is the interpretation of doulos in 2:7 focusing on the question to whom was Christ a slave? While a number of answers have been put forward, it will be argued that the best explanation involves “double agency.” That is, when the hymn is closely examined, as well as the theological character of the whole letter, Christ appears to be a subject and agent of the powers Sin and Death, but Paul knows and communicates the reality that he is really God’s agent who subverts and enervates these hegemonic powers. This not only illuminates Paul’s Christology, but can be identified as a model for other believers discussed in Philippians, including himself.
Cyprian’s Scriptural Hermeneutic of Identity: The Laxist ‘Heresy’
Authors: Wilhite David E.
Published: August 2010

Scholars have widely noted Cyprian as a key figure in the development of the episcopate, a point which too often eclipses his use of scripture in scholarly studies of his writings. Cyprian himself claims a scriptural basis for his episcopal authority and for his teachings on ecclesial unity. His works need to be reread, therefore, in light of his construction of identities, namely his own “orthodox” identity in contrast to the “schismatic” identity of his opponents which he demarcates along the lines of scripturally informed/loyal and scripturally aberrant. The following article explores Cyprian’s social identities as constructed in his early works which address the laxist controversy.
Person Categorization and Automatic Racial Stereotyping Effects on Weapon Identification
Authors: Jones Christopher R. , Fazio Russell H.
Published: August 2010

Prior stereotyping research provides conflicting evidence regarding the importance of person categorization along a particular dimension for the automatic activation of a stereotype corresponding to that dimension. Experiment 1 replicated a racial stereotyping effect on object identification and examined whether it could be attenuated by encouraging categorization by age. Experiment 2 employed socially complex person stimuli and manipulated whether participants categorized spontaneously or by race. In Experiment 3, the distinctiveness of the racial dimension was manipulated by having Black females appear in the context of either Black males or White females. The results indicated that conditions fostering categorization by race consistently produced automatic racial stereotyping and that conditions fostering nonracial categorization can eliminate automatic racial stereotyping. Implications for the relation between automatic stereotype activation and dimension of categorization are discussed.
An actor—partner interdependence model of relational turbulence: Cognitions and emotions
Authors: Knobloch Leanne K. , Theiss Jennifer A.
Published: August 2010

We extend the relational turbulence model by applying an actor—partner interdependence model to people’s experiences of cognitive and emotional turbulence. In the study, 135 dating couples reported on their relationship once per week for six consecutive weeks. People’s appraisals of turmoil and feelings of negative emotion were predicted by (i) their own relational uncertainty, (ii) their partner’s relational uncertainty, and (iii) their own experiences of a partner’s interference. When partners reported more turmoil and negative emotion in one week, actors experienced more relational uncertainty and interference from partners in the following week. The findings illuminate the interdependence between dating partners’ experiences of relational turbulence over time.
Memory for partner-related stimuli: Free recall and frequency estimation
Authors: Jose Anita , Rajaram Suparna , O'Leary K. Daniel , Williams Mathew C.
Published: August 2010

The role of partner schema in memory for laboratory-presented stimuli was examined to evaluate the existence of memory bias associated with partner sentiment. Highly dissatisfied (n = 30) or satisfied (n = 35) dating individuals rated, recalled, and estimated the frequency of positive and negative partner trait-relevant words. Word applicability ratings were consistent with relationship schema for all participants. Recall for positive partner-related words was schema consistent, but recall for negative words was unrelated to relationship satisfaction. All participants accurately estimated the proportion of positive and negative words, suggesting that recall is better than frequency estimation for detecting partner schemas in memory. Together, findings suggest a positive sentiment-override in memory for partner-related stimuli in dating relationships.
Overview of common, rare and atypical manifestations of cutaneous lupus erythematosus and histopathological correlates
Authors: Obermoser G. , Sontheimer RD , Zelger B.
Published: August 2010

The skin is the second most frequently affected organ system in lupus erythematosus. Although only very rarely life threatening — an example is lupus erythematosus-associated toxic epidermal necrolysis — skin disease contributes disproportionally to disease burden in terms of personal and psychosocial wellbeing, vocational disability, and hence in medical and social costs. Since several manifestations are closely associated with the presence and activity of systemic lupus erythematosus, prompt and accurate diagnosis of cutaneous lupus erythematosus is essential. This review aims to cover common, rare, and atypical manifestations of lupus erythematosus-associated skin disease with a detailed discussion of histopathological correlates. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus covers a wide morphological spectrum well beyond acute, subacute and chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus, which are commonly classified as lupus-specific skin disease. Other uncommon or less well-known manifestations include lupus erythematosus tumidus, lupus profundus, chilblain lupus, mucosal lupus erythematosus, and bullous lupus erythematosus. Vascular manifestations include leukocytoclastic and urticarial vasculitis, livedoid vasculopathy and livedo reticularis/ racemosa. Finally, we discuss rare presentations such as lupus erythematosus-related erythema exsudativum multiforme (Rowell syndrome), Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, extravascular necrotizing palisaded granulomatous dermatitis (Winkelmann granuloma), and neutrophilic urticarial dermatosis. Lupus (2010) 19, 1050—1070.
Cutaneous manifestations of complement deficiencies
Authors: Lipsker D. , Hauptmann G.
Published: August 2010

In this review we address the main cutaneous manifestations and diseases associated with deficiencies in components of the complement system. The first part is devoted to hereditary angioedema, in which acute, sometimes life-threatening recurrent attacks of acute swelling, usually associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, occur. It is related to a structural or functional deficiency of C1 esterase inhibitor. Patients usually have lowered C4 levels, and diagnosis relies on determination of antigenic and/or functional C1 inhibitor level. The second part focuses on lupus erythematosus, as deficiencies in early components of the complement system, such as C1q, C1r, C1s, C2 or C4, are the strongest known disease susceptibility genes for the development of human systemic lupus erythematosus. Severe infections early in life and marked photosensitivity in a patient with lupus erythematosus are clues to an underlying complement deficiency. The genetic background and the clinical associations of the different components of the complement system will be detailed. Lupus (2010) 19, 1096—1106.
Understanding union power: resources and capabilities for renewing union capacity
Authors: Lévesque Christian , Murray Gregor
Published: August 2010

Power is at the core of current debates over the future of trade unionism. This article provides a framework to assess the power resources and strategic capabilities central to union capacity building. We identify four key power resources: internal solidarity; network embeddedness; narrative resources that frame understandings and union actions; and infrastructural resources (material, human, processes, policies and programmes). Resources alone are not enough; unions must also be capable of using them. We identify four strategic capabilities: intermediating between contending interests to foster collaborative action and to activate networks; framing; articulating actions over time and space; and learning. Much experimentation and research on the interactions between these resources and capabilities in particular contexts is required to advance our understanding of the renewal of union power.
Democratic dilemmas: union democracy and union renewal
Authors: Voss Kim
Published: August 2010

This article examines the academic debate over union democracy and compares it with recent research on union renewal in the United States. The juxtaposition reveals that revitalization in US unions has not happened in the ways assumed in the literature on union democracy. Rather than being largely a bottom-up process, revitalization has contained a strong element of centralism and coordination. I suggest that union democracy has too often been framed in singular terms, as only involving the curbing of the illegitimate accumulation of power by union leaders. Yet a key problem faced by unions today — how they might best aggregate the interests of diverse workers and represent new constituencies — is also fundamentally a democratic concern, one that can be addressed only by broadening our understanding of union democracy.
Repenser la représentation collective: introduction FR
Authors: Dufour Christian , Murray Gregor , Peetz David , Yates Charlotte
Published: August 2010

Ce numéro spécial de Transfer s’intéresse aux cadres analytiques utilisés pour comprendre les syndicats et leurs actions. Centré sur les conditions du renouveau syndical, il explore des idées clé, susceptibles de stimuler la réflexion sur la revitalisation du syndicalisme et sur les formes futures de la représentation collective. Chaque auteur ou groupe d’auteurs a dû se confronter à l’élaboration d’un cadre conceptuel susceptible d’aider les lecteurs à repenser leurs propres compréhensions et scénarios (narratives) concernant la représentation collective. Ces concepts comprennent la politique, le pouvoir, la légitimité, la démocratie, l’individualisme et le souci du collectif, le cadrage du genre et de la condition des femmes, ainsi que le changement climatique.
Review Article: High temperatures and health outcomes: A review of the literature
Authors: Martiello Michele Arcangelo , Giacchi Mariano Vincenzo
Published: August 2010

Aims: To analyse the relationship between high temperatures and population health impacts, in terms of mortality and morbidity. Methods: A literature search was conducted using Medline to collect data from studies on heat waves, temperature—health impacts curve, risk factors, and preventive measures. All the data collected was published in English and available up to December 2009. Results: Numerous studies carried out in Europe following the 2003 heat wave, as well as those conducted prior to this date in Europe and North America, showed an increase in heat wave-related excess mortality. Recent studies have demonstrated that a forward shift of deaths may only explain a very limited quantity of the excess mortality observed (up to 15%) during major heat waves. Moreover, the results seem to exclude that ozone acts as a confounding variable, whilst it remains a potential effect modifier. Conclusions: Future research needs to explore the consistency of results in new settings, to quantify the burden of heat-related morbidity and in particular to evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented preventive measures.
Biobanking, consent, and commercialization in international genetics research: the Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium
Authors: Hall Mark A , King Nancy MP , Perdue Letitia H , Hilner Joan E , Akolkar Beena , Greenbaum Carla J , McKeon Catherine ,   T1DGC
Published: August 2010

Background and Purpose This article describes several ethical, legal, and social issues typical of international genetics biobanking, as encountered in the Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium (T1DGC).

Methods By studying the examples set and lessons learned from other international biobanking studies and by devoting considerable time and resources to identifying, addressing, and continually monitoring ethical and regulatory concerns, T1DGC was able to minimize the problems reported by some earlier studies.

Conclusions Several important conclusions can be drawn based on the experience in this study: (1) Basic international standards for research ethics review and informed consent are broadly consistent across developed countries. (2) When consent forms are adapted locally and translated into different languages, discrepancies are inevitable and therefore require prompt central review and resolution before research is initiated. (3) Providing separate ‘check-box’ consent for different elements of a study creates confusion and may not be essential. (4) Creating immortalized cell lines to aid future research is broadly acceptable, both in the US and internationally. (5) Imposing some limits on the use of stored samples aids in obtaining ethics approvals worldwide. (6) Allowing potential commercial uses of donated samples is controversial in some Asian countries. (7) Obtaining government approvals can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, and can require legal and diplomatic skills. Clinical Trials 2010; 7: S33—S45. http:// ctj.sagepub.com
Precipitation sequences in cold deformed superaustenitic stainless steels
Authors: Koutsoukis T. , Papadopoulou E. G. , Zormalia S. , Kokkonidis P. , Fourlaris G.
Published: August 2010

The present paper presents the results of a study on the effect of cold deformation upon isothermal aging in S32654 and S31254 superaustenitic stainless steels. Samples were cold rolled up to 60% and aged within the temperature range of 650–950°C for time up to 120 h. Several precipitate species were identified following aging of the steels, with sigma σ phase being the predominant one. The present study helped clarify the effect of cold deformation on the precipitation sequences for both superaustenitic stainless steel grades studied. Cold rolling was found to accelerate precipitation, which occurred during subsequent isothermal exposure. The amount, shape and spatial distribution of all precipitates is an important factor that in general results to higher hardness values, found to be enhanced by prior cold deformation. Finally, the experiments performed indicate a number of phase transformations to precipitation sequences of intermetallic phases taking place, clearly specifying a time–temperature transformation regime where care must be taken during the use of these steels.
Functional divergence between 2 chemokines is conferred by single amino acid change
Authors: Dubrac Alexandre , Quemener Cathy , Lacazette Eric , Lopez Fréderic , Zanibellato Catherine , Wu Wen-Guey , Bikfalvi Andréas , Prats Hervé
Published: August 2010

CXCL4 and CXCL4L1 are 2 closely related CXC chemokines that exhibit potent antiangiogenic activity. Because interactions with glycosaminoglycans play a crucial role in chemokines activity, we determined the binding parameters of CXCL4 and CXCL4L1 for heparin, heparan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate B. We further demonstrated that the Leu67/His67 substitution is critical for the decrease in glycan binding of CXCL4L1 but also for the increase of its angiostatic activities. Using a set of mutants, we show that glycan affinity and angiostatic properties are not completely related. These data are reinforced using a monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes structural modifications in CXCL4L1 due to the presence of His67 and that blocks its biologic activity. In vivo, half-life and diffusibility of CXCL4L1 compared with CXCL4 is strongly increased. As opposed to CXCL4L1, CXCL4 is preferentially retained at its site of expression. These findings establish that, despite small differences in the primary structure, CXCL4L1 is highly distinct from CXCL4. These observations are not only of great significance for the antiangiogenic activity of CXCL4L1 and for its potential use in clinical development but also for other biologic processes such as inflammation, thrombosis or tissue repair.
Improved regulatory T-cell activity in patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia treated with thrombopoietic agents
Authors: Bao Weili , Bussel James B. , Heck Susanne , He Wu , Karpoff Marissa , Boulad Nayla , Yazdanbakhsh Karina
Published: August 2010

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoantibody-mediated bleeding disorder with both accelerated platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. We and others have described impaired regulatory CD4+CD25hi T cells (Treg) numbers and/or suppressive function in ITP patients. Clinical trials using thrombopoietic agents to stimulate platelet production have shown favorable outcomes in ITP patients, but information on the immunologic responses of treated patients are lacking. We studied the immunologic profile of chronic ITP patients before (n = 10) and during treatment with thrombopoietin receptor (TPO-R) agonists (n = 9). Treg activity, as measured by suppression of proliferation of autologous CD4+ CD25− cells, was improved in patients on treatment (P < .05), and the improvement correlated with reduction in interleukin-2–producing CD4+ cells, consistent with dampening of immune responses. There was a concomitant increase in total circulating transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels (P = .002) in patients on treatment, and the levels of TGF-β1 correlated with the degree of improvement in platelet counts (r = .8, P = .0002). This suggests that platelets in patients on TPO-R treatment may play a role in improving Treg function, either directly or indirectly by enhanced release of TGF-β1 as a result of greater platelet turnover. In conclusion, our findings suggest that thrombopoietic agents in patients with ITP have profound effects to restore immune tolerance.