bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Hippocampal Neuron Apoptosis Involved in Diabetic Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , Xu Linhao , He Daqiang , Ling Shucai
Published: April 2013

Poor management of DM causes cognitive impairment while the mechanism is still unconfirmed. The aim of the present study was to investigate the activation of C/EBP Homology Protein (CHOP), the prominent mediator of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced apoptosis under hyperglycemia. We employed streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats to explore the ability of learning and memory by the Morris water maze test. The ultrastructure of hippocampus in diabetic rats and cultured neurons in high glucose medium were observed by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. TUNEL staining was also performed to assess apoptotic cells while the expression of CHOP was assayed by immunohistochemistry and Western blot assay in these hippocampal neurons. Six weeks after diabetes induction, the escape latency increased and the average frequency in finding the platform decreased in diabetic rats (P<0.05). The morphology of neuron and synaptic structure was impaired; the number of TUNEL-positive cells and the expression of CHOP in hippocampus of diabetic rats and high glucose medium cultured neurons were markedly altered (P<0.05). The present results suggested that the CHOP-dependent endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated apoptosis may be involved in hyperglycemia-induced hippocampal synapses and neurons impairment and promote the diabetic cognitive impairment.
Pathogenesis and Novel Treatment from the Mouse Model of Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Furukawa Masako , Gohda Tomohito , Tanimoto Mitsuo , Tomino Yasuhiko
Published: April 2013

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of end‐stage kidney disease worldwide. However, current treatments remain suboptimal. Many factors, such as genetic and nongenetic promoters, hypertension, hyperglycemia, the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), dyslipidemia, and albuminuria/proteinuria itself, influence the progression of this disease. It is important to determine the molecular mechanisms and treatment of this disease. The development of diabetes results in the formation of AGEs, oxidative stress, and the activation of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) within the kidney, which promotes progressive inflammation and fibrosis, leading to DN and declining renal function. A number of novel therapies have also been tested in the experimental diabetic model, including exercise, inhibitors of the RAAS (angiotensin type 1 receptor blockers (ARB), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors), inhibitors of AGE (pyridoxamine), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) γ agonists (pioglitazone), inhibitors of lipid accumulation (statins and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)), and the vitamin D analogues. This review summarizes the advances in knowledge gained from our studies and therapeutic interventions that may prevent this disease.
Endocrine and Metabolic Signaling in Retroperitoneal White Adipose Tissue Remodeling during Cold Acclimation
Authors: Jankovic Aleksandra , Korac Aleksandra , Buzadzic Biljana , Otasevic Vesna , Stancic Ana , Vucetic Milica , Markelic Milica , Velickovic Ksenija , Golic Igor , Korac Bato
Published: April 2013

The expression profiles of adiponectin, resistin, 5′-AMP-activated protein kinaseα(AMPKα), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α(HIF-1α), and key enzymes of glucose and fatty acid metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation in rat retroperitoneal white adipose tissue (RpWAT) during 45-day cold acclimation were examined. After transient suppression on day 1, adiponectin protein level increased following sustained cold exposure. In parallel, on day 1, the protein level of HIF-1αwas strongly induced and AMPKαsuppressed, while afterwards the reverse was seen. What is more, after an initial decrease on day 1, a sequential increase in pyruvate dehydrogenase, acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, cytochromecoxidase, and ATP synthase and a decrease in acetyl-CoA carboxylase (from day 3) were observed. Similar to adiponectin, protein level of resistin showed a biphasic profile: it increased after days 1, 3, and 7 and decreased below the control after 21 days of cold-acclimation. In summary, the data suggest that adiponectin and resistin are important integrators of RpWAT metabolic response and roles it plays during cold acclimation. It seems that AMPKαmediate adiponectin effects on metabolic remodeling RpWAT during cold acclimation.
A Review of IEEE 802.15.6 MAC, PHY, and Security Specifications
Authors: Ullah Sana , Mohaisen Manar , Alnuem Mohammed A.
Published: April 2013

IEEE 802.15.6 is the first international Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) standard that supports communications in the vicinity of or inside a human body to serve a variety of medical and nonmedical applications. The standard defines a Medium Access Control (MAC) layer that supports several Physical (PHY) layers. In this paper, the key features of the IEEE 802.15.6 standard are presented. The MAC, PHY, and security specifications of the standard are explained in detail. Different communication modes and access mechanisms are presented. The Narrowband (NB), Ultra-wideband (UWB), and Human Body Communications (HBC) specifications are reviewed in terms of frame structure, modulation, and other important parameters. Finally, the security paradigm and services of the standard are highlighted.
Obesity and Future Prostate Cancer Risk among Men after an Initial Benign Biopsy of the Prostate
Authors: Rundle Andrew , Jankowski Michelle , Kryvenko Oleksandr N. , Tang Deliang , Rybicki Benjamin A.
Published: April 2013

Background: In general population studies, obesity has been associated with risk of high-grade prostate cancer, but little is known about obesity and future prostate cancer risk among men with an initial benign biopsy of the prostate; a high-risk population.

Methods: Within a cohort of 6,692 men followed up after a biopsy or transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) with benign findings, a nested case–control study was conducted of 494 prostate cancer cases and controls matched on age, race, follow-up duration, biopsy versus TURP and date of procedure. Body mass index at the time of the initial procedure was abstracted from medical records, and initial biopsy specimens were reviewed for the presence of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN).

Results: Obesity was associated with the presence of PIN in the initial benign specimen [OR = 2.15; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13–4.11]. After adjustment for the matching variables, family history of prostate cancer, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels at the initial procedure, the number of PSA tests and digital rectal examinations during follow-up, obesity (OR = 1.57; 95% CI, 1.07–2.30) at the time of the initial procedure was associated with prostate cancer incidence during follow-up. Risk associated with obesity was confined to cases with follow-up less than 1,538 days, the median duration of follow-up among cases (OR = 1.95; 95% CI, 1.09–3.48).

Conclusions: Obesity is associated with the presence of PIN in benign specimens and with future prostate cancer risk after an initial benign finding.

Impact: Obesity may be a factor to consider when planning clinical follow-up after a benign biopsy. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(5); 898–904. ©2013 AACR.
Increasing Hepatitis B Screening for Hmong Adults: Results from a Randomized Controlled Community-Based Study
Authors: Chen Moon S. , Fang Dao M. , Stewart Susan L. , Ly May Ying , Lee Serge , Dang Julie H.T. , Nguyen Tram T. , Maxwell Annette E. , Bowlus Christopher L. , Bastani Roshan , Nguyen Tung T.
Published: April 2013

Background: Hepatitis B-linked liver cancer disproportionately affects Hmong Americans. With an incidence rate of 18.9 per 100,000, Hmong Americans experience liver cancer at a rate that is 6 to 7 times more than that of non-Hispanic Whites. Serologic testing for the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a principal means to prevent liver cancer-related deaths through earlier identification of those at risk.

Methods: Academic researchers and Hmong leaders collaborated in the design, conduct, and evaluation of a 5-year randomized controlled trial testing a lay health worker (LHW) intervention to promote HBV testing among 260 Hmong adults through in-home education and patient navigation.

Results: Intervention group participants were more likely to report receiving serologic testing for HBV (24% vs. 10%, P = 0.0056) and showed a greater mean increase in knowledge score (1.3 vs. 0.3 points, P = 0.0003) than control group participants. Multivariable modeling indicated that self-reported test receipt was associated with intervention group assignment [OR 3.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3–9.2], improvement in knowledge score (OR 1.3 per point; 95% CI 1.02–1.7), female gender (OR 5.3; 95% CI 1.7–16.6), and having seen a doctor in the past year at baseline (OR 4.8; 95% CI 1.3–17.6). The most often cited reason for testing was a doctor's recommendation.

Conclusions: LHWs were effective in bringing about HBV screening. Doctor visits and adherence to doctors' recommendations were pivotal. Participation of health care providers is essential to increase HBV testing.

Impact: LHWs can significantly increase HBV screening rates for Hmong but their doctors' recommendation is highly influential and should be pursued. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(5); 782–91. ©2013 AACR.
Biological and Clinical Relevance of miRNA Expression Signatures in Primary Plasma Cell Leukemia
Authors: Lionetti Marta , Musto Pellegrino , Di Martino Maria Teresa , Fabris Sonia , Agnelli Luca , Todoerti Katia , Tuana Giacomo , Mosca Laura , Gallo Cantafio Maria E. , Grieco Vitina , Bianchino Gabriella , D'Auria Fiorella , Statuto Teodora , Mazzoccoli Carmela , De Luca Luciana , Petrucci Maria Teresa , Offidani Massimo , Di Raimondo Francesco , Falcone Antonietta , Caravita Tommaso , Omede' Paola , Morabito Fortunato , Tassone Pierfrancesco , Boccadoro Mario , Palumbo Antonio , Neri Antonino
Published: April 2013

Purpose: Primary plasma cell leukemia (pPCL) is a rare and very aggressive form of plasma cell dyscrasia. To date, no information on microRNA (miRNA) expression in pPCL has been reported. This study aimed at investigating the involvement of miRNAs in pPCL and their possible relationship with higher tumor aggressiveness.

Experimental design: Global miRNA expression profiles were analyzed in highly purified malignant plasma cells from 18 pPCL untreated patients included in a prospective clinical trial. MiRNA expression patterns were evaluated in comparison with a representative series of multiple myeloma patients, in relation to the most recurrent chromosomal abnormalities (as assessed by fluorescence in situ hybridization and single-nucleotide polymorphism-array analysis), and in association with clinical outcome. MiRNA expression was also integrated with gene expression profiles in pPCL and multiple myeloma samples.

Results: We identified a series of deregulated miRNAs in pPCL (42 upregulated and 41 downregulated) in comparison with multiple myeloma. Some of them, on the basis of their reported functions and putative target genes computed by integrative analysis, might have a role in the pathobiology of pPCL. As regards chromosomal aberrations, the expression of some miRNAs mapped to hotspot altered regions was associated with DNA copy number of the corresponding loci. Finally, 4 miRNA (miR-497, miR-106b, miR-181a*, and miR-181b) were identified as having expression levels that correlated with treatment response, and 4 (miR-92a, miR-330-3p, miR-22, and miR-146a) with clinical outcome.

Conclusions: Overall, our study provides insights into the possible contribution of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of pPCL and suggests targets for future therapeutic investigations. Clin Cancer Res; 19(12); 3130–42. ©2013 AACR.
Gliomas Promote Immunosuppression through Induction of B7-H1 Expression in Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Bloch Orin , Crane Courtney A. , Kaur Rajwant , Safaee Michael , Rutkowski Martin J. , Parsa Andrew T.
Published: April 2013

Purpose: Gliomas are known to induce local and systemic immunosuppression, inhibiting T-cell–mediated cytotoxic responses to tumor growth. Tumor-associated macrophages are a significant component of the immune infiltrate in gliomas and may express immunosuppressive surface ligands, such as B7-H1.

Experimental Design: Tumor and peripheral blood samples from patients with glioblastoma (GBM) were analyzed by flow cytometry to evaluate the expression of B7-H1 in circulating and tumor-infiltrating macrophages. Human monocytes from healthy patients were stimulated with conditioned media from glioma cells to evaluate B7-H1 expression. Production of interleukin (IL)-10 by stimulated monocytes was measured by ELISA, and stimulation with IL-10 alone was evaluated for the ability to induce B7-H1 expression. The effect of inhibiting IL-10 and its receptor on glioma-induced B7-H1 expression in monocytes was evaluated.

Results: Circulating monocytes in patients with GBM had significantly increased expression of B7-H1 compared with healthy control patients. Tumor-associated macrophages from matched GBM tissue had even greater B7-H1 expression. Treatment of normal monocytes with glioma-conditioned media could significantly increase B7-H1 expression. Stimulation of monocytes with conditioned media resulted in substantial production of IL-10 and upregulation of the IL-10 receptor. Stimulation of monocytes with IL-10 alone could significantly increase B7-H1 expression, sufficient to induce T-cell apoptosis when cocultured with stimulated monocytes. Inhibition of IL-10 and the IL-10 receptor could knock down the effect of glioma media on B7-H1 by more than 50%.

Conclusions: Gliomas can upregulate B7-H1 expression in circulating monocytes and tumor-infiltrative macrophages through modulation of autocrine/paracrine IL-10 signaling, resulting in an immunosuppressive phenotype. Clin Cancer Res; 19(12); 3165–75. ©2013 AACR.
Inhibition of Ron Kinase Blocks Conversion of Micrometastases to Overt Metastases by Boosting Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Eyob Henok , Ekiz Huseyin Atakan , DeRose Yoko S. , Waltz Susan E. , Williams Matthew A. , Welm Alana L.
Published: April 2013

Many “nonmetastatic” cancers have spawned undetectable metastases before diagnosis. Eventual outgrowth of these microscopic lesions causes metastatic relapse and death, yet the events that dictate when and how micrometastases convert to overt metastases are largely unknown. We report that macrophage-stimulating protein and its receptor, Ron, are key mediators in conversion of micrometastases to bona fide metastatic lesions through immune suppression. Genetic deletion of Ron tyrosine kinase activity specifically in the host profoundly blocked metastasis. Our data show that loss of Ron function promotes an effective antitumor CD8+ T-cell response, which specifically inhibits outgrowth of seeded metastatic colonies. Treatment of mice with a Ron-selective kinase inhibitor prevented outgrowth of lung metastasis, even when administered after micrometastatic colonies had already been established. Our findings indicate that Ron inhibitors may hold potential to specifically prevent outgrowth of micrometastases in patients with cancer in the adjuvant setting.

Significance: Our data shed new light on an understudied, yet critically important aspect of metastasis: the conversion of clinically undetectable micrometastatic tumor cells to overt metastases that eventually cause death of the patient. Our work shows that Ron inhibition can significantly reduce metastatic outgrowth, even when administered after metastatic colonies are established. Cancer Discov; 3(7); 751–60. ©2013 AACR.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 705
Effects of Movement Music Therapy with the Naruko Clapper on Psychological, Physical and Physiological Indices among Elderly Females: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shimizu Nobuko , Umemura Tomohiro , Hirai Takayoshi , Tamura Taro , Sato Kazuhiro , Kusaka Yukinori
Published: April 2013

Background: Recent interventional studies have indicated that some exercise programs have beneficial physical and immunological effects for older people. Some evidence suggests that exercise programs involving music and/or a rhythmic movement component may be particularly beneficial. Objective: To assess the effects of a new type of movement music therapy (MMT) on physical, immunological, hormonal and psychosocial health parameters among older adults. Methods: 112 elderly female subjects (average age 73.62 ± 5.50 years) who performed little habitual exercise participated in this randomized, controlled, single-blinded intervention trial. The subjects were divided into two groups which participated in different exercise programs (experimental group: MMT; control group: simple exercise program). We assessed a comprehensive range of indices before and after the interventions, which lasted a total of 8 weeks. These indices included (1) the Philadelphia Geriatric Center morale scale, (2) self-rated health status, (3) physical function tests (e.g. blood pressure, pulmonary function, body balance, gait ability, muscle endurance, muscle-strength, and functional mobility), and (4) saliva analysis for physiological function indices (e.g. secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA), chromogranin A, cortisol, and total protein). Results: In comparisons between the MMT and control interventions in younger elderly subjects (≤74 years old), systolic blood pressure decreased (p = 0.02), pulmonary function improved (p = 0.05) and body balance improved (p = 0.04) in the MMT group, but not in the control group. The SIgA secretion rate of the experimental group remained significantly elevated (p = 0.02) 15 min after exercise compared with before exercise. There were no significant differences between interventions in psychosocial indices. In contrast, no significant differences were detected between interventions in any measures in the older elderly group (≥75 years old). Conclusion: These results indicate that the MMT, even with a short (8-week) intervention period, improves physical and physiological functions to a significantly greater extent in younger elderly individuals compared with a control intervention without music.
Social Media Use of Older Adults: A Mini-Review
Authors: Leist Anja K.
Published: April 2013

Background: Maintaining social relationships has been defined as a core element of aging well. With a considerable amount of older adults living alone, social media provides the possibility to engage in meaningful social contact, e.g. by joining online social networks and online discussion forums. Objective: The review encompasses current knowledge of prerequisites in social media use of older adults such as functional capacity, information and communications technology-related knowledge, and favorable attitudes towards social media. Then, the potential of social media use for clinical practice and possible negative consequences are outlined. Method: Literature on social media use from a gerontological perspective was reviewed in July and August 2012. Results: Online communities are suitable for providing and receiving social support when confronted with a difficult life situation, regardless of geographical location or time. From a practitioner's perspective, social media can be used to advance health-related knowledge such as information on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of specific conditions and disorders. Further positive consequences have been shown to be overcoming loneliness, relieving stress, and raising feelings of control and self-efficacy. Possible negative consequences could be misuse of personal data as well as the distribution and uncritical adoption of potentially harmful information via online communities. Discussion: The potential of social media in clinical practice is reflected in a wide range of intervention possibilities for older adults. However, with the rise of social media, new threats emerge for older adults as well.
A Two-Step Method of Constructing Mature Cartilage Using Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Xue Ke , Qi Lin , Zhou Guangdong , Liu Kai
Published: April 2013

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a promising source of stem cells for tissue engineering in cartilage repair. However, construction of cartilage using BMSCs can involve many problems, such as fibrosis, vascularization, the ‘hollow' phenomenon and shrinkage, which may be caused by the incomplete differentiation of BMSCs and prevent the clinical application of tissue-engineered cartilage. A novel induction system that facilitates chondrogenesis by swine BMSCs has been developed. In this study, we constructed cartilage using a two-step procedure: first, promoting complete chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs in 8 weeks, and second, these chondrocytes which differentiated from BMSCs in vitro were provided with a three-dimensional scaffold, which was then implanted subcutaneously. The results indicate that this two-step construction procedure can promote the full chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs in vitro and the formation of mature ectopic cartilage by BMSCs in vivo.
Molecular Mechanisms of Age-Related Sleep Loss in the Fruit Fly - A Mini-Review
Authors: Robertson Meagan , Keene Alex C.
Published: April 2013

Across phyla, aging is associated with reduced sleep duration and efficiency. Both aging and sleep involve complex genetic architecture and diverse cell types and are heavily influenced by diet and environment. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms of age-dependent changes in sleep will require integrative approaches that go beyond examining these two processes independently. The fruit fly,Drosophila melanogaster, provides a genetically amenable system for dissecting the molecular basis of these processes. In this review, we examine the role of metabolism and circadian rhythms in age-dependent sleep loss.
Evolutionary Conservation of Kv3.1 in the Barn Owl Tyto alba
Authors: Kullmann Lars , Schlüter Tina , Wagner Hermann , Nothwang Hans Gerd
Published: April 2013

For prey capture in the dark, the barn owl Tyto alba has evolved into an auditory specialist with an exquisite capability of sound localization. Adaptations include asymmetrical ears, enlarged auditory processing centers, the utilization of minute interaural time differences, and phase locking along the entire hearing range up to 10 kHz. Adaptations on the molecular level have not yet been investigated. Here, we tested the hypothesis that divergence in the amino acid sequence of the voltage-gated K+ channel Kv3.1 contributes to the accuracy and high firing rates of auditory neurons in the barn owl. We therefore cloned both splice variants of Kcnc1, the gene encoding Kv3.1. Both splice variants, Kcnc1a and Kcnc1b, encode amino acids identical to those of the chicken, an auditory generalist. Expression analyses confirmed neural-restricted expression of the channel. In summary, our data reveal strong evolutionary conservation of Kcnc1 in the barn owl and point to other genes involved in auditory specializations of this animal. The data also demonstrate the feasibility to address neuroethological questions in organisms with no reference genome by molecular approaches. This will open new avenues for neuroethologists working in these organisms.
Investigators' Perspectives on Translating Human Microbiome Research into Clinical Practice
Authors: Slashinski M.J. , Whitney S.N. , Achenbaum L.S. , Keitel W.A. , McCurdy S.A. , McGuire A.L.
Published: April 2013

Background: Human microbiome research has the potential to transform the practice of medicine, fundamentally shifting the ways in which we think not only about human health, illness and disease, but also about clinical practice and public health interventions. Drawing from a larger qualitative study on ethical, legal and social dimensions of human microbiome research, in this article, we document perspectives related to the translation of human microbiome research into clinical practice, focusing particularly on implications for health, illness and disease. Methods: We conducted 60 in-depth, semi-structured interviews (2009-2010) with 63 researchers and National Institutes of Health project leaders (‘investigators') involved with human microbiome research. The interviews explored a range of ethical, legal and social implications of human microbiome research, including investigators' perspectives on potential strategies for translating findings to clinical practice. Using thematic content analysis, we identified and analyzed emergent themes and patterns. Results: We identified 3 themes: (1) investigators' general perspectives on the clinical utility of human microbiome research, (2) investigators' perspectives on antibiotic use, overuse and misuse, and (3) investigators' perspectives concerning future challenges of translating data to clinical practice. Conclusion: The issues discussed by investigators concerning the clinical significance of human microbiome research, including embracing a new paradigm of health and disease, the importance of microbial communities, and clinical utility, will be of critical importance as this research moves forward.
Regulation of Neutrophil Apoptosis Differs after in vivo Transmigration to Skin Chambers and Synovial Fluid: A Role for Inflammasome-Dependent Interleukin-1β Release
Authors: Christenson Karin , Björkman Lena , Karlsson Anna , Bylund Johan
Published: April 2013

Short-lived neutrophils are major players in inflammation, arriving early to infected and/or injured tissues. After performed duty, neutrophils are programmed to die by apoptosis and are thereafter rapidly cleared by other phagocytes. In vitro, modulation of the apoptotic process has been thoroughly investigated in neutrophils isolated from peripheral blood, but less is known about the regulation of this process in neutrophils derived from extravascular tissues. We recently demonstrated that neutrophils having transmigrated in vivo, obtained from experimental skin chambers of healthy human subjects, are resistant to the death-delaying signals induced by a range of antiapoptotic stimuli. In the current study, we show that skin chamber neutrophils spontaneously secrete high levels of antiapoptotic interleukin (IL)-1β which delays neutrophil apoptosis. Contrary to skin chamber fluid, synovial fluid from patients with rheumatic arthritis contained only moderate levels of IL-1β, and neutrophils taken from this site were fully responsive to antiapoptotic stimulation during in vitro culture. Our data demonstrate that resistance to antiapoptotic stimulation is not a general feature of tissue neutrophils and imply that autocrine IL-1β signaling could be an important factor in determining how life and death of neutrophils is regulated in inflamed tissues.
Mechanisms and Implications of Age-Associated Impaired Innate Interferon Secretion by Dendritic Cells: A Mini-Review
Authors: Agrawal Anshu
Published: April 2013

Initial secretion of interferons by innate immune cells such as dendritic cells is crucial for protection against infections as well as for alerting and activating the downstream immune responses. The secretion of innate interferons, both type I and type III, by dendritic cells is severely impaired in aged subjects. This review focuses on the mechanisms responsible for the reduced interferon secretion by dendritic cells and the role this plays in the increased susceptibility of the elderly to infections, particularly of the respiratory mucosa.
Association Between Postresuscitation Partial Pressure of Arterial Carbon Dioxide and Neurological Outcome in Patients With Post–Cardiac Arrest Syndrome
Authors: Roberts Brian W. , Kilgannon J. Hope , Chansky Michael E. , Mittal Neil , Wooden Jonathan , Trzeciak Stephen
Published: April 2013

Background—

Partial pressure of arterial CO
2
(Pa
co
2
) is a regulator of cerebral blood flow after brain injury. Recent guidelines for the management of cardiac arrest recommend maintaining Pa
co
2
at 40 to 45 mm Hg after successful resuscitation; however, there is a paucity of data on the prevalence of Pa
co
2
derangements during the post–cardiac arrest period and its association with outcome.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed a prospectively compiled and maintained cardiac arrest registry at a single academic medical center. Inclusion criteria are as follows: age ≥18, nontrauma arrest, and comatose after return of spontaneous circulation. We analyzed arterial blood gas data during 0 to 24 hours after the return of spontaneous circulation and determined whether patients had exposure to hypocapnia and hypercapnia (defined as Pa
co
2
≤30 mm Hg and Pa
co
2
≥50 mm Hg, respectively, based on previous literature). The primary outcome was poor neurological function at hospital discharge, defined as Cerebral Performance Category ≥3. We used multivariable logistic regression, with multiple sensitivity analyses, adjusted for factors known to predict poor outcome, to determine whether post–return of spontaneous circulation hypocapnia and hypercapnia were independent predictors of poor neurological function. Of 193 patients, 52 (27%) had hypocapnia only, 63 (33%) had hypercapnia only, 18 (9%) had both hypocapnia and hypercapnia exposure, and 60 (31%) had no exposure; 74% of patients had poor neurological outcome. Hypocapnia and hypercapnia were independently associated with poor neurological function, odds ratio 2.43 (95% confidence interval, 1.04–5.65) and 2.20 (95% confidence interval, 1.03–4.71), respectively.

Conclusions—

Hypocapnia and hypercapnia were common after cardiac arrest and were independently associated with poor neurological outcome. These data suggest that Pa
co
2
derangements could be potentially harmful for patients after resuscitation from cardiac arrest.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health in Adolescence
Authors: Pahkala Katja , Hietalampi Hanna , Laitinen Tomi T. , Viikari Jorma S.A. , Rönnemaa Tapani , Niinikoski Harri , Lagström Hanna , Talvia Sanna , Jula Antti , Heinonen Olli J. , Juonala Markus , Simell Olli , Raitakari Olli T.
Published: April 2013

Background—

In the Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project for Children (STRIP) study, repeated dietary counseling introduced in infancy and maintained until 20 years of age has led to lower intakes of saturated fat and serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In this study, we examined prospectively the intervention effects on the ideal cardiovascular health concept recently described by the American Heart Association. Additionally, we investigated the association between the concept and vascular intima-media thickness and elasticity in adolescence.

Methods and Results—

In adolescents participating in the longitudinal, randomized, atherosclerosis-prevention STRIP study, complete data on ideal cardiovascular health metrics were available at 15 (n=394), 17 (n=376), and 19 (n=298) years of age. Aortic intima-media thickness and elasticity were measured with ultrasonography at the same ages. None of the adolescents had all 7 ideal cardiovascular health metrics. At least 5 ideal metrics was found in 60.2%, 45.5%, and 34.2% of the adolescents at 15, 17, and 19 years of age, respectively. Adolescents in the control group had an increased risk of low ideal cardiovascular health (≤3 metrics) compared with the intervention adolescents (risk ratio=1.35; 95% confidence interval=1.04–1.77). The number of ideal cardiovascular health metrics was inversely associated with aortic intima-media thickness (
P
<0.0001) and directly associated with elasticity (
P
=0.045). The risk of having high intima-media thickness (>85th percentile) was nearly 2-fold in adolescents with a low number of metrics (≤3) compared with those with a higher score (risk ratio=1.78; 95% confidence interval=1.31–2.43).

Conclusions—

Ideal cardiovascular health as determined by the AHA can be promoted in adolescents. The ideal cardiovascular health concept is beneficially associated with vascular health already in adolescence, supporting the relevance of targeting these metrics as part of primordial prevention.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00223600
PHA-543613 Preserves Blood–Brain Barrier Integrity After Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice
Authors: Krafft Paul R. , Caner Basak , Klebe Damon , Rolland William B. , Tang Jiping , Zhang John H.
Published: April 2013

Background and Purpose—

Blood–brain barrier disruption and consequent vasogenic edema formation codetermine the clinical course of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This study examined the effect of PHA-543613, a novel α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist, on blood–brain barrier preservation after ICH.

Methods—

Male CD-1 mice, subjected to intrastriatal blood infusion, received PHA-543613 alone or in combination with α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist methyllycaconitine or phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor wortmannin.

Results—

PHA-543613 alone, but not in combination with methyllycaconitine or wortmannin, inhibited glycogen synthase kinase-3β, thus, stabilizing β-catenin and tight junction proteins, which was paralleled by improved blood–brain barrier stability and ameliorated neurofunctional deficits in ICH animals.

Conclusions—

PHA-543613 preserved blood–brain barrier integrity after ICH, possibly through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt–induced inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3β and β-catenin stabilization.
Genetic Programming for Evolving Due-Date Assignment Models in Job Shop Environments
Authors: Nguyen Su , Zhang Mengjie , Johnston Mark , Tan Kay Chen
Published: April 2013

Due-date assignment plays an important role in scheduling systems and strongly influences the delivery performance of job shops. Because of the stochastic and dynamic nature of job shops, the development of general due-date assignment models (DDAMs) is complicated. In this study, two genetic programming (GP) methods are proposed to evolve DDAMs for job shop environments. The experimental results show that the evolved DDAMs can make more accurate estimates than other existing dynamic DDAMs with promising reusability. In addition, the evolved operation-based DDAMs show better performance than the evolved DDAMs employing aggregate information of jobs and machines.
Tennis in Early Modern Visual Culture
Authors: Tosi Alessandro
Published: April 2013

Taking as its departure point the celebrated passage in Galileo’s Dialogo sopra i due massimi sistemi del mondo on the game of pallacorda, this paper is an invitation to re-read the ample visual documentation on the game, on its perception and its representation in early modern Europe. In fact, prints and paintings produced between the end of the sixteenth and the middle of the seventeenth centuries testify to the vast and complex panorama of themes and motifs which marked the development of the imagerie linked to games (in particular, its allegorical dimension), and to tennis as its most noble expression. The metaphor conceived by Galileo and the interest of other scientists in games as a source of models and illustrative examples can be seen as part of a broader cultural and social sensibility in which games played a central role.
A 3-year retrospective cohort study of predictors of relapse in first-episode psychosis in Hong Kong
Authors: Hui Christy L-M , Tang Jennifer Y-M , Leung Chung-Ming , Wong Gloria H-Y , Chang Wing-Chung , Chan Sherry K-W , Lee Edwin H-M , Chen Eric Y-H
Published: April 2013

Objective:

Relapses in psychosis are costly and may have irreversible consequences. Relapse prevention is thus critical in the treatment of schizophrenia. Apart from medication discontinuation, a consistent relapse predictor has not been identified due to limitations in previous studies. We aim to investigate relapse predictors in a large cohort of patients with first-episode psychosis.

Method:

This is a retrospective cohort study designed to evaluate relapses in first-episode psychosis patients in 3 years. A total of 1400 patients’ case records were retrieved from a hospital database. Potential relapse predictors including demographic variables, baseline clinical measures, medication adherence, and residual positive symptoms upon clinical stabilization were collected.

Results:

The cumulative relapse rates were 19.3% by year 1, 38.4% by year 2, and 48.1% by year 3. Multivariate Cox-proportional hazards regression analysis revealed that medication non-adherence, smoking, schizophrenia diagnosis, younger age, and shorter baseline hospitalization were associated with an increased risk of relapse in 3 years.

Conclusions:

Nearly half of patients relapsed after 3 years following their first-episode psychosis. Smoking as a predictor of relapse is an intriguing new finding supportive of a link between nicotinic receptors and the dopamine system. Their relationship deserves further investigations with potential clinical implications for relapse prevention.
Impact of a district-wide diabetes prevention programme involving health education for children and the community
Authors: Sheeladevi Sethu , Sagar Jayanthi , Pujari Siddharth , Rani Padmaja Kumari
Published: April 2013

Objective:

To present results from a district-wide diabetes prevention programme involving health education for school children and the local community.

Method:

The model of health education that was utilized aimed to secure lifestyle changes and the identification of diabetes risk by school children (aged 9–12 years). The children acted as health messengers in their families as well as in the neighbouring community. Health education sessions were also held for school teachers, non-governmental organizations, primary health centre physicians, self-help groups and laypeople in the district. All were trained in diabetes risk assessment by using the standardized Indian diabetic risk score and were trained to estimate urine glucose.

Results:

Over a four-year period (2005–2009) the programme trained 8288 teachers and 119,743 schoolchildren in 679 schools and 30,915 people working in the health and development sectors. Trained school children reached out to 2.4 million people in over 500,000 families, covering 80% of the district population (3 million). The project identified 83,907 (3.5%) people as being at high risk of developing diabetes and these were counselled regarding risk reduction and lifestyle modifications. Among those identified with diabetes risk, 15,868 (19%) people were identified as having positive urine glucose. There were 10,522 (0.4%) people with known diabetes who were referred to identified diabetes care centres in the district.

Conclusion:

This child-to-family-based lifestyle change and health education intervention, along with community participation, offers a novel approach with substantial coverage of district populations in India.
Military Tradition, the Human Costs of War and the 2008 Election
Authors: Gill Jungyun , DeFronzo James
Published: April 2013

Opposition to the Iraq War is thought to have contributed to the election of Barack Obama in 2008. The present study shows that controlling for other factors, including the percentage of the vote going to the prewar Democratic presidential candidate, states with relatively high levels of Iraq War military fatalities had a higher percentage vote for Obama. This result is consistent with a prediction derived from rational political theory and the results of several studies examining the impacts of war fatality rates in other military conflicts in previous elections. However, in the current study, we find that the effect of Iraq War fatalities on the percentage vote for Obama is conditioned by state military enlistment rates. Military fatalities have a strong effect in states with historically low military enlistment rates. But the effect disappears in states with very high levels of military enlistment.
Are You Doing Your Part?
Authors: Klingler Jonathan D. , Chatagnier J. Tyson
Published: April 2013

Drawing from the concept of citizenship in the novel, Starship Troopers, we consider public opinion in a world in which “service guarantees citizenship.” We do this by examining the political attitudes of US (volunteer) veterans—a group generally neglected in the public opinion literature—relative to the adult population at large. Using data from the 2006 Cooperative Congressional Election Study, we demonstrate that, as a group, veterans tend to be more ideologically conservative and more likely to identify as Republican than their nonveteran counterparts. This finding holds for both individual issues and self-identification.
Self-Determination and Sexual Experience in Dating Relationships
Authors: Brunell Amy B. , Webster Gregory D.
Published: April 2013

The authors propose the Model of Self-Determined Sexual Motivation to examine sexual motivation in dating relationships using a Self-Determination Theory (SDT) framework. This model predicted that sexual need satisfaction would mediate the association between self-determined sexual motives and the outcome variables of psychological well-being and relational quality. Three studies tested this model. Study 1 was a cross-sectional study that investigated sexual motivation in dating relationships. Study 2 was an event-contingent interaction record study that investigated specific sexual interactions over 2 weeks. Study 3 combined event- and interval-contingent methods using a daily diary to examine the model for both partners to enable examination of actor and partner effects. Discussion section focuses on the power of examining SDT in the sexual domain.
I Am My (High-Power) Role
Authors: Joshi Priyanka D. , Fast Nathanael J.
Published: April 2013

Research indicates that power liberates the self, but findings also show that the powerful are susceptible to situational influences. The present article examines whether enacting roles that afford power leads people to identify with the roles or, instead, liberates them from role expectations altogether. The results of three experiments support the hypothesis that power enhances role identification. Experiment 1 showed that enacting a particular role resulted in greater implicit and explicit role identification when the role contained power. In Experiment 2, infusing a role with power resulted in greater role identification and role-congruent behavior. Experiment 3 demonstrated that power resulted in greater role-congruent self-construal, such that having power in a close relationship caused participants to define themselves relationally, whereas having power in a group situation caused participants to embrace a collective self-construal. Implications for research on power, roles, and the self are discussed.
Walter Isard and the Role of Regional Science and Peace Science for the Poor Countries
Authors: Chatterji Manas
Published: April 2013

The objective of this article is to show how the techniques of regional science and peace science can be applied for the economic development of poor countries. This article also describes techniques for integrating regional science and peace science.
Delimitation of Functional Regions Using a p-Regions Problem Approach
Authors: Kim Hyun , Chun Yongwan , Kim Kamyoung
Published: April 2013

Various spatial data analyses have been used for the identification of functional regions. Functional regions are identified by grouping many areal units into fewer clusters to classify the areal units in terms of similar properties, as well as to constrain the spatial contiguity of the areal units in each cluster. This article proposes a spatial optimization model, called the p-functional regions problem, to solve a regionalization problem by considering geographic flows. The magnitude of geographic flows, such as journey-to-work, is widely considered a good indicator of functional relationships between areas so that regionalization models incorporating various criteria, such as the maximum intraregion flows or the total inflows from other units, may be used to identify the p regions. We also propose an analytical target reduction approach to enhance the model tractability in generating optimal solutions to large problems and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimization model using journey-to-work data from Seoul (South Korea) and South Carolina (the United States).
Ideal or Not Ideal Interregional Input–Output Accounts and Model
Authors: Polenske Karen R. , Rockler Nicolas O.
Published: April 2013

The significant role that Walter Isard played in regional analyses is well known at least among those of us conducting regional studies, as recently reviewed by Boyce. In this short article, we examine several aspects of Isard’s input–output accounts and models and raise two important points about his accounting framework and the underlying theory.
A cross-national cross-sectional survey of the attitudes and perceived competence of final-year medicine, nursing and pharmacy students in relation to end-of-life care in dementia
Authors: De Witt Jansen Bannin , Weckmann Michelle , Nguyen Christopher M , Parsons Carole , Hughes Carmel M
Published: April 2013

Background:

Little is known about the attitudes of healthcare professional students’ perceived competence and confidence in treating those with dementia who are at the end of life.

Aim:

To explore the attitudes of final year medical, nursing and pharmacy students towards people with dementia and to evaluate their perceived competence and confidence dealing with biomedical and psychosocial issues within the context of palliative care provision to patients with dementia.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey using a questionnaire.

Setting/participants:

Final-year students in each profession from Queen’s University Belfast (Northern Ireland) and the University of Iowa (USA) were recruited.

Method:

Three versions of an online questionnaire (containing the Attitudes to Dementia Questionnaire and a series of questions on end-of-life care in dementia) were distributed.

Results:

A total of 368 responses were received (response rate 42.3%). All respondents reported positive attitudes towards people with dementia. US nursing students reported significantly more positive attitudes than the medical students of United States and Northern Ireland. Medical students were more likely to report low confidence in discussing non-medical aspects of dying, whereas nursing students were most likely to feel prepared and confident to do this. Medical and nursing students reported low confidence with aspects of medication-related care; however, data from the pharmacy samples of Northern Ireland and United States suggested that these students felt confident in advising other healthcare professionals on medication-related issues.

Conclusions:

While healthcare students hold positive attitudes towards people with dementia, some clinical tasks remain challenging and further basic training may be of benefit.
Determinants of Local Government Workforce Planning
Authors: Goodman Doug , French P. Edward , Battaglio R. Paul
Published: April 2013

This article evaluates the utilization of workforce planning by municipalities across the United States with data derived from a survey of local government human resource professionals. The research demonstrates that certain aspects of workforce planning such as assessments of employee retirement, long-term recruitment and retention, and training and development have been integrated into the human resource functions of several municipalities. The authors also find that local governments that recognize the importance of training and development, information management, managing diversity, unions, and council–manager forms of government are more progressive in their implementation of workforce planning initiatives. However, many local governments still fail to recognize the opportunities that comprehensive workforce planning presents in developing and achieving the strategic goals of their organizations and managing human capital, especially given the political and economic climates.