bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered regulation of the rostral ventrolateral medulla in hypertensive obese Zucker rats
Authors: Huber Domitila A. , Schreihofer Ann M.
Published: May 2011

Obese Zucker rats (OZR) have elevated sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) compared with lean Zucker rats (LZR). We examined whether altered tonic glutamatergic, angiotensinergic, or GABAergic inputs to the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) contribute to elevated SNA and MAP in OZR. Male rats (14–18 wk) were anesthetized with urethane (1.5 g/kg iv), ventilated, and paralyzed to record splanchnic SNA, heart rate (HR), and MAP. Inhibition of the RVLM by microinjections of muscimol eliminated SNA and evoked greater decreases in MAP in OZR vs. LZR ( P < 0.05). Antagonism of angiotensin AT1 receptors in RVLM with losartan yielded modest decreases in SNA and MAP in OZR but not LZR ( P < 0.05). However, antagonism of ionotropic glutamate receptors in RVLM with kynurenate produced comparable decreases in SNA, HR, and MAP in OZR and LZR. Antagonism of GABAA receptors in RVLM with gabazine evoked smaller rises in SNA, HR, and MAP in OZR vs. LZR ( P < 0.05), whereas responses to microinjections of GABA into RVLM were comparable. Inhibition of the caudal ventrolateral medulla, a major source of GABA to the RVLM, evoked attenuated rises in SNA and HR in OZR ( P <0.05). Likewise, inhibition of nucleus tractus solitarius, the major excitatory input to caudal ventrolateral medulla, produced smaller rises in SNA and HR in OZR. These results suggest the elevated SNA and MAP in OZR is derived from the RVLM and that enhanced angiotensinergic activation and reduced GABAergic inhibition of the RVLM may contribute to the elevated SNA and MAP in the OZR.
Mineralocorticoid receptor expression in human venous smooth muscle cells: a potential role for aldosterone signaling in vein graft arterialization
Authors: Bafford Richard , Sui Xin Xin , Park Min , Miyahara Takuya , Newfell Brenna G. , Jaffe Iris Z. , Romero Jose R. , Adler Gail K. , Williams Gordon H. , Khalil Raouf A. , Conte Michael S.
Published: May 2011

Experimental studies have suggested a role for the local renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the response to vascular injury. Clinical data support that aldosterone, via activation of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), is an important mediator of vascular damage in humans with cardiovascular disease. In mineralocorticoid-sensitive target tissue, aldosterone specificity for MR is conferred enzymatically by the cortisol-inactivating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase-2 (11βHSD2). However, the role of MR/aldosterone signaling in the venous system has not been explored. We hypothesized that MR expression and signaling in venous smooth muscle cells contributes to the arterialization of venous conduits and the injury response in vein bypass grafts. MR immunostaining was observed in all samples of excised human peripheral vein graft lesions and in explanted experimental rabbit carotid interposition vein grafts, with minimal staining in control greater saphenous vein. We also found upregulated transcriptional expression of both MR and 11βHSD2 in human vein graft and rabbit vein graft, whereas control greater saphenous vein expressed minimal MR and no detectable 11βHSD2. The expression of MR and 11βHSD2 was confirmed in cultured human saphenous venous smooth muscle cells (hSVSMCs). Using an adenovirus containing a MR response element-driven reporter gene, we demonstrate that MR in hSVSMCs is capable of mediating aldosterone-induced gene activation. The functional significance for MR signaling in hSVSMCs is supported by the aldosterone-induced increase of angiotensin II type-1 receptor gene expression that was inhibited by the MR antagonist spironolactone. The upregulation of MR and 11βHSD2 suggests that aldosterone-mediated tissue injury plays a role in vein graft arterialization.
sGCα1 mediates the negative inotropic effects of NO in cardiac myocytes independent of changes in calcium handling
Authors: Cawley Sharon M. , Kolodziej Starsha , Ichinose Fumito , Brouckaert Peter , Buys Emmanuel S. , Bloch Kenneth D.
Published: May 2011

In the heart, nitric oxide (NO) modulates contractile function; however, the mechanisms responsible for this effect are incompletely understood. NO can elicit effects via a variety of mechanisms including S-nitrosylation and stimulation of cGMP synthesis by soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC). sGC is a heterodimer comprised of a β1- and an α1- or α2-subunit. sGCα1β1 is the predominant isoform in the heart. To characterize the role of sGC in the regulation of cardiac contractile function by NO, we compared left ventricular cardiac myocytes (CM) isolated from adult mice deficient in the sGC α1-subunit (sGCα1−/−) and from wild-type (WT) mice. Sarcomere shortening under basal conditions was less in sGCα1−/− CM than in WT CM. To activate endogenous NO synthesis from NO synthase 3, CM were incubated with the β3-adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) agonist BRL 37344. BRL 37344 decreased cardiac contractility in WT CM but not in sGCα1−/− myocytes. Administration of spermine NONOate, an NO donor compound, did not affect sarcomeric shortening in CM of either genotype; however, in the presence of isoproterenol, addition of spermine NONOate reduced sarcomere shortening in WT but not in sGCα1−/− CM. Neither BRL 37344 nor spermine NONOate altered calcium handling in CM of either genotype. These findings suggest that sGCα1 exerts a positive inotropic effect under basal conditions, as well as mediates the negative inotropic effect of β3-AR signaling. Additionally, our work demonstrates that sGCα1β1 is required for NO to depress β1/β2-AR-stimulated cardiac contractility and that this modulation is independent of changes in calcium handling.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia with the t(8;21) Translocation: Clinical Consequences and Biological Implications
Authors: Reikvam Håkon , Hatfield Kimberley Joanne , Kittang Astrid Olsnes , Hovland Randi , Bruserud Øystein
Published: May 2011

The t(8;21) abnormality occurs in a minority of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The translocation results in an in‐frame fusion of two genes, resulting in a fusion protein of one N‐terminal domain from the AML1 gene and four C‐terminal domains from the ETO gene. This protein has multiple effects on the regulation of the proliferation, the differentiation, and the viability of leukemic cells. The translocation can be detected as the only genetic abnormality or as part of more complex abnormalities. If t(8;21) is detected in a patient with bone marrow pathology, the diagnosis AML can be made based on this abnormality alone. t(8;21) is usually associated with a good prognosis. Whether the detection of the fusion gene can be used for evaluation of minimal residual disease and risk of leukemia relapse remains to be clarified. To conclude, detection of t(8;21) is essential for optimal handling of these patients as it has both diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of SNOT-20 in Portuguese
Authors: Bezerra Thiago Freire Pinto , Piccirillo Jay F. , Fornazieri Marco Aurélio , Pilan Renata R. de M. , Abdo Tatiana Regina Teles , Pinna Fabio de Rezende , Padua Francini Grecco de Melo , Voegels Richard Louis
Published: May 2011

Introduction. Chronic rhinosinusitis is a highly prevalent disease, so it is necessary to create valid instruments to assess the quality of life of these patients. The SNOT-20 questionnaire was developed for this purpose as a specific test to evaluate the quality of life related to chronic rhinosinusitis. It was validated in the English language, and it has been used in most studies on this subject. Currently, there is no validated instrument for assessing this disease in Portuguese.Objective. Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of SNOT-20 in Portuguese.Patients and Methods. The SNOT-20 questionnaire underwent a meticulous process of cross-cultural adaptation and was evaluated by assessing its sensitivity, reliability, and validity.Results. The process resulted in an intelligible version of the questionnaire, the SNOT-20p. Internal consistency (Cronbach'salpha=0.91,P<.001), reliability testing-retesting (r=0.994,P<.001), content validity, validity of discrimination of patients without chronic rhinosinusitis (U=44,P<.0001) and assessment of sensitivity to change (SRM=1.53and 1.09) were evaluated.Conclusion. We conducted a successful process of cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the SNOT-20 questionnaire into Portuguese.
Generalization of the Self-Shrinking Generator in the Galois Field
Authors: Tasheva Antoniya Todorova , Tasheva Zhaneta Nikolova , Milev Aleksandar Petrov
Published: May 2011

The proposed by Meier and Staffelbach Self-Shrinking Generator (SSG) which has efficient hardware implementation only with a single Linear Feedback Shift Register is suitable for low-cost and fast stream cipher applications. In this paper we generalize the idea of the SSG for arbitrary Galois Field . The proposed variant of the SSG is called the -ary Generalized Self-Shrinking Generator (pGSSG). We suggest a method for transformation of a non-binary self-shrunken pGSSG sequence into balanced binary sequence. We prove that the keystreams of the pGSSG have large period and good statistical properties. The analysis of the experimental results shows that the pGSSG sequences have good randomness properties. We examine the complexity of exhaustive search and entropy attacks of the pGSSG. We show that the pGSSG is more secure than SSG and Modified SSG against these attacks. We prove that the complexity of the used pGSSG attacks increases with increasing the prime . Previously mentioned properties give the reason to say that the pGSSG satisfy the basic security requirements for a stream chipper and can be useful as a part of modern stream ciphers.
Stability of the Supply Chain Using System Dynamics Simulation and the Accumulated Deviations from Equilibrium
Authors: Rabelo Luis , Sarmiento Alfonso T. , Jones Albert
Published: May 2011

We propose and demonstrate a new methodology to stabilize systems with complex dynamics like the supply chain. This method is based on the accumulated deviations from equilibrium (ADE). It is most beneficial for controlling system dynamic models characterized by multiple types of delays, many interacting variables, and feedback processes. We employ the classical version of particle swarm optimization as the optimization approach due to its performance in multidimensional space, stochastic properties, and global reach. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method based on ADE using a manufacturing‐supply‐chain case study.
Potential Role of Nuclear FactorκB in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lorenzo O. , Picatoste B. , Ares-Carrasco S. , Ramírez E. , Egido J. , Tuñón J.
Published: May 2011

Diabetic cardiomyopathy entails the cardiac injury induced by diabetes independently of any vascular disease or hypertension. Some transcription factors have been proposed to control the gene program involved in the setting and development of related processes. Nuclear factor-kappa B is a pleiotropic transcription factor associated to the regulation of many heart diseases. However, the nuclear factor-kappa B role in diabetic cardiomyopathy is under investigation. In this paper, we review the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway and its role in several processes that have been linked to diabetic cardiomyopathy, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, hypertrophy and apoptosis.
Global Attractor for the Generalized Dissipative KDV Equation with Nonlinearity
Authors: Zhang Zai-yun , Liu Zhen-hai
Published: May 2011

We discuss global attractor for the generalized dissipative KDV equation with nonlinearity under the initial condition u(x, 0) = u0(x). We prove existence of a global attractor in space H2(Ω), by using decomposition method with cut‐off function and Kuratowski α‐measure in order to overcome the noncompactness of the classical Sobolev embedding.
Quality of Life and Myelomeningocele: An Ethical and Evidence-Based Analysis of the Groningen Protocol
Authors: Barry Sean
Published: May 2011

In 2005, a group of pediatricians at the University Medical Center in Groningen, The Netherlands, published the Groningen Protocol (GP) for Euthanasia in Newborns. This protocol is a set of guidelines devised in 2001 to clarify and facilitate the assessment of clinically stable neonates deemed to be in unbearable suffering for whom the prognosis is felt to be hopeless. At the time of publication, the GP had been in use for 7 years, and 22 patients, all with diagnosed myelomeningocele (MMC), had met the selection criteria for euthanasia by lethal injection. MMC is the most common neurological congenital anomaly, affecting approximately 300,000 newborns yearly worldwide. Neurosurgeons have a unique perspective on this disease and therefore an important voice, given the significant role they have in caring for these patients at all stages of their lives. This paper reviews the principal ethical arguments presented to date in the literature regarding the GP. It also provides an evidence-based critique of the GP in light of quality-of-life studies addressing adults with MMC, and ascertains whether or not the GP meets the criteria for an evidence-based guideline.
Surgery versus Conservative Antibiotic Treatment in Acute Appendicitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ansaloni Luca , Catena Fausto , Coccolini Federico , Ercolani Giorgio , Gazzotti Filippo , Pasqualini Eddi , Pinna Antonio Daniele
Published: May 2011

Background/Aims: Although standard treatment typically consists of an early appendectomy, there has recently been an increase in the use of antibiotic therapy as primary treatment for acute appendicitis (AA). The aim of this analysis is to systematically evaluate the evidence available in relevant literature in order to compare the relative effectiveness of antibiotic therapy as a viable alternative to appendectomies in the treatment of AA. Methods: Literature was searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy of surgery versus antibiotic therapy. Differences in pooled odds ratios (OR) for outcomes within 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: Four RCTs were identified including 741 patients. Efficacy was significantly higher for surgery (OR = 6.01, 95% CI = 4.27–8.46). No differences were found in the numbers of perforated appendices (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.29–1.84) and patients treated with antibiotics (OR = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.00–3.27). Complication rates were significantly higher for surgery (OR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.30–2.85). Conclusion: Although a nonsurgical approach in AA can reduce the complications rate, the lower efficacy prevents antibiotic treatment from being a viable alternative to surgery. Since only a small number of RCTs of poor methodological quality are available, well-designed RCTs are needed for further investigation.
Analysis of the Surgical Outcome and Prognostic Factors for Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma: A Chinese Experience
Authors: Li Huikai , Qin Yu , Cui Yunlong , Chen Hua , Hao Xishan , Li Qiang
Published: May 2011

Purposes: Hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HC) is the most common location for bile duct cancer. It represents a significant technical challenge for surgical operation due to the close proximity to major vascular structures and to the liver and arborization of the right and left biliary tree. The objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic strategies and prognostic factors that could influence the clinical outcome of HC. Methods: From January 1990 to December 2009, a total of 215 HC patients undergoing resection were included in this study. Survival and follow-up were calculated from the date of initial histologic diagnosis to the dates of first recurrence or death and last contact, respectively. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to examine factors affecting clinical outcome and recurrence. Results: 215 patients underwent resection: 141 (65.6%) had an R0 resection (negative histologic margins), 46 (21.4%) had an R1 resection (positive histologic margins), 28 (13.0%) had an R2 resection. The 1-, 3- and 5-year cumulative survival rates (%) of the patients were 60.3, 37.2 and 29.7%. The median survival time after R0 resection was 47.1 months, 17.2 months after R1 resection, and 12.1 months after R2 resection. The results from univariate analyses suggest that poor histopathological grade (p = 0.004), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.000), vascular invasion (p = 0.005), neuroinvasion (p = 0.044), R1 resection (p = 0.000) and T2 or T3 stage (p = 0.009) were significant predictors for poor survival rates. By multivariate analysis, only the lymph node metastasis (RR = 2.450, 95% CI 1.677–3.579) and R1 resection (RR = 0.283, 95% CI 0.183–0.437) were significantly associated with poor survival rates. Conclusions: Negative histologic margins were associated with improved outcome after all HC resections. Complete resection remains the only therapy that offers the possibility of long-term survival, and hepatic resection is a critical component of the surgical approach.
The Antioxidant EPC-K1 Attenuates Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in a Rat Model
Authors: Yamamoto Shunsuke , Hagiwara Satoshi , Hidaka Seigo , Shingu Chihiro , Goto Koji , Kashima Kenji , Noguchi Takayuki
Published: May 2011

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs frequently in the intensive care unit. A primary cause is renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, during which excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced. ROS subsequently damage renal cells, leading to the development of AKI. Here, we investigated whether renal I/R injury could be attenuated by the antioxidant EPC-K1. Methods: We divided male Wistar rats into the following three groups: (1) a renal I/R group, (2) an EPC-K1 + renal I/R group and (3) a control group. Rats were sacrificed 24 h after treatment (I/R or sham). To measure oxidative stress in renal tissue, histological examinations were performed and serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine were measured. The antioxidant action of EPC-K1 was also evaluated in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with antimycin A. Results: Serum BUN and creatinine levels were elevated in the I/R group; however, this increase was significantly attenuated by EPC-K1 in the EPC-K1 + I/R group. Renal tissue injury was also significantly lower in the EPC-K1 + I/R group compared with the I/R group. In vitro experiments showed that EPC-K1 significantly attenuated the generation of ROS induced by antimycin A. Conclusion: In our study, EPC-K1 was able to attenuate AKI due to renal I/R by reducing oxidative stress. These results suggest that EPC-K1 may be effective against various types of I/R injury.
Differences in Repeating Patterns of Complex Fractionated Left Atrial Electrograms in Longstanding Persistent Atrial Fibrillation as Compared With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Ciaccio Edward J. , Biviano Angelo B. , Whang William , Vest John A. , Gambhir Alok , Einstein Andrew J. , Garan Hasan
Published: May 2011

Background—

Complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE) are morphologically more uniform in persistent longstanding as compared with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). It was hypothesized that this may result from a greater degree of repetitiveness in CFAE patterns at disparate left atrial (LA) sites in longstanding AF.

Methods and Results—

CFAEs were obtained from recording sites outside the 4 pulmonary vein (PV) ostia and at a posterior and an anterior LA site during paroxysmal and longstanding persistent AF (10 patients each, 120 sequences total). To quantify repetitiveness in CFAE, the dominant frequency was measured from ensemble spectra using 8.4-second sequences, and repetitiveness was calculated by 2 novel techniques: linear prediction and Fourier reconstruction methods. Lower prediction and reconstruction errors were considered indicative of increasing repetitiveness and decreasing randomness. In patients with paroxysmal AF, CFAE pattern repetitiveness was significantly lower (randomness higher) at antral sites outside PV ostia as compared with LA free wall sites (
P
<0.001). In longstanding AF, repetitiveness increased outside the PV ostia, especially outside the left superior PV ostium, and diminished at the LA free wall sites. The result was that in persistent AF, there were no significant site-specific differences in CFAE repetitiveness at the selected LA locations used in this study. Average dominant frequency magnitude was 5.32±0.29 Hz in paroxysmal AF and higher in longstanding AF, at 6.27±0.13 Hz (
P
<0.001), with the frequency of local activation approaching a common upper bound for all sites.

Conclusions—

In paroxysmal AF, CFAE repetitiveness is low and randomness high outside the PVs, particularly the left superior PV. As evolution to persistent longstanding AF occurs, CFAE repetitiveness becomes more uniformly distributed at disparate sites, possibly signifying an increasing number of drivers from remote PVs.
Growth-Differentiation Factor-15 Is a Robust, Independent Predictor of 11-Year Mortality Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Daniels Lori B. , Clopton Paul , Laughlin Gail A. , Maisel Alan S. , Barrett-Connor Elizabeth
Published: May 2011

Background—

Growth-differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is emerging as a prognostic marker in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), but its prognostic value in community-dwelling adults has not been reported. We hypothesized that GDF-15 would add incremental power for prediction of mortality in a population of community-dwelling older adults without known heart disease.

Methods and Results—

We measured plasma GDF-15, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and C-reactive protein levels in 1391 Rancho Bernardo Study participants, mean age 70 years, with no history of CVD and followed them for a mean of 11 years. In models adjusted for traditional CVD risk factors, GDF-15 was a robust predictor of all-cause, cardiovascular, and noncardiovascular mortality. GDF-15 was a stronger predictor of all-cause mortality than either NT-proBNP or C-reactive protein (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval] per SD log
10
units 1.5 [1.3 to 1.8],
P
<0.0001 for GDF-15 versus 1.3 [1.2 to 1.5],
P
<0.0001 for NT-proBNP; C-reactive protein was not a significant predictor). Among biomarkers considered, only GDF-15 predicted noncardiovascular death (hazard ratio 1.6 [1.4 to 2.0],
P
<0.0001). Growth differentiation factor-15 improved discrimination and modestly but significantly improved reclassification for all-cause and noncardiovascular mortality with borderline improvement for cardiovascular mortality; NT-proBNP significantly improved reclassification for all-cause and for cardiovascular mortality; C-reactive protein did not improve reclassification for any end point tested. Participants in the highest quartile of both GDF-15 and NT-proBNP had an increased risk of death compared with participants with only NT-proBNP elevated (hazard ratio 1.5 [1.1 to 2.0],
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

Growth differentiation factor-15 is a strong predictor of all-cause, cardiovascular, and noncardiovascular mortality in community-dwelling older individuals, adding incremental value to traditional risk factors and to NT-proBNP and C-reactive protein levels.
Ethnic Differences in Arterial Wave Reflections and Normative Equations for Augmentation Index
Authors: Chirinos Julio A. , Kips Jan G. , Roman Mary J. , Medina-Lezama Josefina , Li Yan , Woodiwiss Angela J. , Norton Gavin R. , Yasmin  , Van Bortel Luc , Wang Ji-Guang , Cockcroft John R. , Devereux Richard B. , Wilkinson Ian B. , Segers Patrick , McEniery Carmel M.
Published: May 2011

Data regarding ethnic differences in wave reflections, which markedly affect the central pressure profile, are very limited. Furthermore, because age, heart rate, and body height are strong determinants of augmentation index, relating single measurements to normative data (in which augmentation index values correspond with average population values of its determinants) is challenging. We studied subject-level data from 10 550 adults enrolled in large population-based studies. In a healthy reference sample (n=3497), we assessed ethnic differences in augmentation index (ratio of second/first systolic peaks) and generated equations for adjusted
z
scores, allowing for a standardized comparison between individual augmentation index measurements and the normative population mean from subjects of the same age, sex, ethnic population, body height, and heart rate. After adjustment for age, body height, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure, African blacks (women: 154%; men: 138%) and Andean Hispanics (women: 152%; men: 133%) demonstrated higher central (aortic) augmentation index values than British whites (women: 140%; men: 128%), whereas American Indians (women: 133%; men: 122%) demonstrated lower augmentation index (all
P
<0.0001), without significant differences between Chinese and British whites. Similar results were found for radial augmentation index. Nonlinear ethnic/sex-specific equations for
z
scores were successfully generated to adjust individual augmentation index values for age, body height, and heart rate. Marked ethnic differences in augmentation index exist, which may contribute to ethnic differences in hypertensive organ damage. Our study provides normative data that can be used to complement the interpretation of individual hemodynamic assessments among men and women of various ethnic populations, after removing the effect of various physiological determinants.
Transmissions between Memory and Amnesia: The Radio Memorial in a New Media Age
Authors: Kanouse Sarah
Published: May 2011

In light of constantly exploding bandwidth and nearly limitless digital storage, FM radio may appear an anachronistic means of communication. However, many new media artists are using this most ephemeral, unindexable, “old” medium instead of or in addition to digital technologies. In this paper, artist Sarah Kanouse discusses three of her own projects that use radio transmission as a unique public material to create ephemeral monuments to difficult moments in American history. By using an analog and dissipating material, these pieces suggest that the struggle to remember is more meaningful than the total recall promised by the digital archive.
Networks of Photos, Landmarks, and People
Authors: Crandall David , Snavely Noah
Published: May 2011

Social photo-sharing sites like Flickr contain vast amounts of latent information about the world and human behavior. The authors describe their recent work in building automatic algorithms that analyze large collections of imagery in order to extract some of this information. At a global scale, geo-tagged photographs can be used to identify the most photographed places on Earth, as well as to infer the names and visual representations of these places. At a local scale, the authors build detailed 3D models of a scene by combining information from thousands of 2D photographs taken by different people and from different vantage points.
Documenting Artistic Networks: Anna Oppermann's Ensembles Are Complex Networks!
Authors: Warnke Martin , Wedemeyer Carmen
Published: May 2011

Anna Oppermann's Ensembles are scale-free networks. This explains their robustness and legitimates the art critic's metaphors.
Spectacle of the Masses: Characteristics of the Masses in MIOON's Works
Authors: Choi Moonsun , Yoon Joonsung
Published: May 2011

The characteristics of masses have been researched widely in many fields, from the social sciences to economics. With the authors' early work, they focused their themes on the characteristics of “the mass” and its organic characteristics and tried to visualize its spectacular aspect.
Contingent Rule: Information Aesthetic, Performance and Hypermediacy
Authors: Kim Eung Suk , Yoon Joonsung
Published: May 2011

This paper proposes a model of information aesthetic performance in the context of hypermediacy. It addresses the need to consider the features of performance in recently emerging information visualization artwork. By analyzing an artwork, the real-time stock market data-based Contingent Rule, the authors discuss aesthetic effects of performance as well as information visualization. The proposed model could contribute to a better understanding of information visualization in terms of Jay David Bolter and Richard Grusin's ‘hypermediacy.’ This research provides a new guideline for reviewing information visualization.
A Grin without a Cat: The Faciality of Electronic Art
Authors: Kim Yonggeun , Yoon Joonsung
Published: May 2011

This paper looks at electronic art as a new form, suggesting the term ‘faciality’. It is not simply for re-staging the invisible using the visible, but for provoking a fresh view on the discussion of electronic art in terms of reconsidering ideas and concepts of art and technology.
The Business Model: Recent Developments and Future Research
Authors: Zott Christoph , Amit Raphael , Massa Lorenzo
Published: May 2011

This article provides a broad and multifaceted review of the received literature on business models in which the authors examine the business model concept through multiple subject-matter lenses. The review reveals that scholars do not agree on what a business model is and that the literature is developing largely in silos, according to the phenomena of interest of the respective researchers. However, the authors also found emerging common themes among scholars of business models. Specifically, (1) the business model is emerging as a new unit of analysis; (2) business models emphasize a system-level, holistic approach to explaining how firms “do business”; (3) firm activities play an important role in the various conceptualizations of business models that have been proposed; and (4) business models seek to explain how value is created, not just how it is captured. These emerging themes could serve as catalysts for a more unified study of business models.
Managerial Mystique
Authors: Young Maia J , Morris Michael W. , Scherwin Vicki M.
Published: May 2011

Successful businesspeople are often attributed somewhat mystical talents, such as the ability to mesmerize an audience or envision the future. We suggest that this mystique—the way some managers are perceived by observers—arises from the intuitive logic that psychologists and anthropologists call magical thinking. Consistent with this account, Study 1 found that perceptions of a manager’s mystique are associated with judgments of his or her charismatic vision and ability to forecast future business trends. The authors hypothesized that mystique arises especially when success is observed in the absence of mechanical causes, such as long hours or hard-won skills. In Study 2, managers who succeeded mysteriously rather than mechanically evoked participants’ attributions of foresight and their expectations of success at visionary tasks yet not at administrative tasks. The authors further hypothesized that as mystique is assumed to spread through contagion, observers desire physical contact with managers who are attributed mystique and with these managers’ possessions. Study 3 found that managers described as visionary as opposed to diligent are judged to be charismatic and ultimately magnetic. The authors discuss the implications of these judgment patterns for the literatures on perception biases and impression management in organizations.
The Relationship Between Governance Roles and Performance in Local Public Interorganizational Networks
Authors: Span Kees C. L. , Luijkx Katrien G. , Schols Jos M. G. A. , Schalk Rene
Published: May 2011

Local public networks can be governed in many different ways. Among scholars as well as among practitioners, there is some debate about the best approach. Based on literature, this article examines the relationship between local public network governance roles, contingency factors, and network performance in a theoretically informed way. Governance roles are positioned on a continuum from top-down (commissioner) to bottom-up (facilitator), with an intermediate area (coproducer). How governance roles influence the performance of local public networks is assumed to depend on contingency factors, which might explain the inconsistent results of studies examining this influence. An integrated model of local public network governance is presented that includes four contingency factors: the number of network participants, diversity of network members, degree of customizability of service demands, and the number of new network participants. The model can be applied to the heterogeneous contexts that local governments encounter when governing local public networks.
Characterization, Treatment, and Outcome of Intracranial Neoplasms in the First 120 Days of Life
Authors: Qaddoumi Ibrahim , Carey Steven S. , Conklin Heather , Jenkins Jesse , Sabin Noah , Boop Frederick , Pai-Panandiker Atmaram , Baker Justin , Wright Karen , Broniscer Alberto , Gajjar Amar
Published: May 2011

Little is known about brain tumors in early infancy. Investigators reviewed the records of 27 patients (12 boys and 15 girls) diagnosed within 120 days of birth. The median age was 66 days (range, 0-110 days) at diagnosis. All patients underwent surgery; 18 received adjuvant chemotherapy, and 3 received adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The median follow-up was 2.1 years (range, 0.2-21.6 years). At last encounter, 15 patients were alive, and 11 had no evidence of disease. Ten patients died of progressive disease, and 2 died of treatment-related complications. All survivors experienced late effects, including endocrine, neurologic, and cognitive deficits. Of the 13 patients who completed neurocognitive assessments, 7 had an IQ score less than 70. Children in whom brain tumors arise during early infancy can be cured with conventional therapy; however, contemporary approaches can adversely affect long-term function, and families need to be aware of these effects when making therapeutic decisions.
Comparing Upward and Speeding Up
Authors: Mussweiler Thomas , Mayer Jennifer
Published: May 2011

Comparison is one of the most ubiquitous and versatile components in human information processing. Social comparisons in particular have multifaceted judgmental, affective, behavioral, and motivational consequences. Initially, the consequences of nonsocial comparisons may appear to be less complex than the consequences of social comparisons. Comparing a smaller circle with a larger circle, for example, has little motivational relevance. Across two studies, however, we demonstrated that different types of nonsocial comparisons influence the motivational underpinnings of participants’ subsequent performance. Participants who were perceptually or numerically induced to compare upward (e.g., to compare a smaller stimulus with a larger stimulus) in a first task traded accuracy for speed in a subsequent unrelated performance task. Conversely, participants who had compared downward traded speed for accuracy. These trade-offs are indicative of promotion- and prevention-focused motivational orientations, respectively. Comparing a geometric circle with a “superior” (e.g., larger) circle seems to yield promotion-focused strategic orientations similar to those produced by comparing oneself to a person one perceives as superior. These findings demonstrate the surprising motivational power of nonsocial comparisons.
Formalizing Game-play
Authors: By Tomas
Published: May 2011

Current computer conflict simulation games, or wargames, are opaque in the sense that most of the game mechanisms are not directly visible to the players and are frequently not described in user accessible documentation, have a transient lifetime that is mainly shaped by the evolution of graphics hardware and processor speed, and do not, in contrast with, for example, the well-known abstract board games CHESS and GO, have the technical prerequisites for critical intellectual discussion that the thought-intensive and knowledge-rewarding character of these games seems to warrant. The main reason for this state of affairs is that many of the mechanisms of the games, and in particular the details of how the game state changes over time, are directly expressed in computer code. This is purely a technical problem, and it has a straightforward solution, namely, treating this information as data by creating a formalism for describing not just the game map and playing pieces but also all the game rules including the “sequence of play.” The article suggests such a formalism and shows a complete specification of a simple, but complicated enough for present purposes, “introductory” board wargame. This formalism, with tools that support it, can provide an unambiguous authoritative definition of the rules, accessible by both human and computer players; would allow existing board wargames to be played on a computer, without any simplifications or sacrifices of rule details; and may allow construction of more advanced computer players, since a complete formal specification of the game rules is available as input to them.
Unwrapping Myelination by MicroRNAs
Authors: He Xuelian , Yu Yang , Awatramani Rajeshwar , Lu Q. Richard
Published: May 2011

Myelination of axons by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells in the central and peripheral nervous system, respectively, is essential for normal neuronal functions, and its failure results in devastating demyelinating diseases. During development, both oligodendrocyte and Schwann cell precursors undergo a temporally well-defined series of molecular and structural changes, ultimately culminating in the cessation of proliferation and the elaboration of a highly complex myelin sheath. Recent studies have demonstrated a critical role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the progression of oligodendrocyte and Schwann cell precursors to the myelinating state—depletion of miRNAs from either cell type results in an arrest in differentiation and lack of myelination. Furthermore, these studies have begun to elucidate the dynamic regulation of miRNA expression and the complexity of miRNA-mediated gene regulation during differentiation of myelinating cells. In this review, the authors highlight the recent understanding of functional links of miRNAs to regulatory networks for central and peripheral myelination, as well as perspectives on the role of miRNAs in demyelinating diseases.
Endocannabinoids and Retrograde Modulation of Synaptic Transmission
Authors: Ohno-Shosaku Takako , Tanimura Asami , Hashimotodani Yuki , Kano Masanobu
Published: May 2011

Since the first reports of endocannabinoid-mediated retrograde signaling in 2001, great advances have been made toward understanding the molecular basis and functions of the endocannabinoid system. Electrophysiological studies have revealed that the endocannabinoid system is functional at various types of synapses throughout the brain. Basic mechanisms have been clarified as to how endocannabinoids are produced and released from postsynaptic neurons and regulate neurotransmitter release through activating presynaptic cannabinoid CB1 receptors, although there remain unsolved questions and some discrepancies. In addition to this major function, recent studies suggest diverse functions of endocannabinoids, including control of other endocannabinoid-independent forms of synaptic plasticity, regulation of neuronal excitability, stimulation of glia-neuron interaction, and induction of CB1R-independent plasticity. Using recently developed pharmacological and genetic tools, behavioral studies have elucidated the roles of the endocannabinoid system in various aspects of neural functions. In this review, we make a brief overview of molecular mechanisms underlying the endocannabinoid-mediated synaptic modulation and also summarize recent findings, which shed new light on a diversity of functional roles of endocannabinoids.
Review: Relation Between Quality-of-Care Indicators for Diabetes and Patient Outcomes: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Sidorenkov Grigory , Haaijer-Ruskamp Flora M , de Zeeuw Dick , Bilo Henk , Denig Petra
Published: May 2011

The authors conducted a systematic literature review to assess whether quality indicators for diabetes care are related to patient outcomes. Twenty-four studies were included that formally tested this relationship. Quality indicators focusing on structure or processes of care were included. Descriptive analyses were conducted on the associations found, differentiating for study quality and level of analysis. Structure indicators were mostly tested in studies with weak designs, showing no associations with surrogate outcomes or mixed results. Process indicators focusing on intensification of drug treatment were significantly associated with better surrogate outcomes in three high-quality studies. Process indicators measuring numbers of tests or visits conducted showed mostly negative results in four high-quality studies on surrogate and hard outcomes. Studies performed on different levels of analysis and studies of lower quality gave similar results. For many widely used quality indicators, there is insufficient evidence that they are predictive of better patient outcomes.
The Health Insurance Status of Low-Wage Workers: The Role of Workplace Composition and Marital Status
Authors: Vistnes Jessica , Monheit Alan C.
Published: May 2011

Many of the provisions in the Affordable Care Act (ACA), such as tax credits and penalties for employers, vary by employer size and average wage level. Therefore, knowing the wage and firm size distribution of low-wage workers and how employer-sponsored insurance (ESI) characteristics vary by these dimensions is particularly important for understanding the extent to which low-wage workers and their employers may be affected by different provisions in the ACA. To inform this issue, the authors use data from the 2006 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey—Insurance Component to examine offers of coverage and cost-sharing requirements by the wage distribution and firm size dimensions of employers. They also draw on Medical Expenditure Panel Survey household-level data to describe the household circumstances of low-wage workers. The authors find that where low-wage workers are employed, who their colleagues are, and their spouses’ wage levels are important factors in determining low-wage workers’ access to coverage and the cost and generosity of such coverage.
The (In)visible People in the Room: Men in Women’s Studies
Authors: Alilunas Peter
Published: May 2011

Men who take Women’s Studies classes often exist in a paradoxical space, the physical bearers of much that is discussed within the room while also the symbol of that which chooses not to participate. This status of (in)visibility, in which men find themselves simultaneously the most conspicuous and the most absent members of the discourse, has led to a situation in which feminist theorizing has not kept up with practical reality. In this article, part narrative and part critical examination, (in)visibility is analyzed as both a phenomenon and an opportunity for the discipline and the theory to move forward toward more productive coalition while keeping lived realities and experiences squarely in the forefront.
Subjects of stalled revolution: A theoretical consideration of contemporary American femininity
Authors: Carlson Jennifer
Published: May 2011

This article suggests that looking at the ways in which subjects relate to and internalise gender norms is a fruitful way to explore socially constructed differences between masculinity and femininity in the U.S. Throughout this article, I am in dialogue with Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity as I focus on practices of subject formation that I denote as ‘logics’ of subject formation. I propose several key ways to distinguish a feminine logic of subject formation from a masculine logic of subjectivity. I suggest that femininity is a multiplicitous, self-proliferating strategy that forecloses truth as a means for achieving selfhood. Alternatively, I postulate that masculinity tends to masquerade as an (oftentimes failed) achievement that is singular and self-consolidating and that generates truth as a means for realising selfhood. In order to contextualise these distinctions between masculinity and femininity, I look to the recent influx of American women into masculine-marked domains such as the workforce, politics and sports without a corresponding entrance of men into feminine-marked domains. Known as the stalled gender revolution, these shifts, I argue, have created the context for the gendered divergences in subjectivity I suggest here. Focusing on examples of women in sports to illustrate these distinctions, I provide a detailed characterisation of femininity as a logic of subject formation. As such, I argue that this approach to gender may provide relevant insights to understanding gender practice, agency and resistance, particularly with respect to Butler’s formulation of gender performativity and subversion. I conclude by providing some preliminary thoughts on how to re-envision agency and subversion in light of the proposed framework.
Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome: A Nonvascular, Vascular Diagnosis
Authors: Skeik Nedaa , Cooper Leslie T. , Duncan Audra A. , Jabr Fadi I.
Published: May 2011

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is often diagnosed when idiopathic, episodic abdominal pain is associated with dynamic compression of the proximal celiac artery by fibers of the median arcuate ligament. The character of the abdominal pain is often postprandial and associated with gradual weight loss from poor food intake, suggestive of chronic mesenteric ischemia. However, the pathognomonic imaging feature of dynamic, ostial celiac artery compression with expiration does not consistently predict clinical improvement from revascularization. Proposed but unproven pathophysiological mechanisms include neurogenic pain from compression of the splanchnic nerve plexus and intermittent ischemia from compression of the celiac artery. Alterations in blood flow and ganglion compression are both associated with delayed gastric emptying, another physiological correlate of the clinical syndrome. Published reports describe a variable response to revascularization and nerve plexus resection suggest a need for translational research to better characterize this poorly understood clinical entity. We illustrate the current gaps in our knowledge of MALS with the case of a 51-year-old woman with a 4-year history of chronic abdominal pain who responded to a combination of ganglion resection and celiac artery reconstruction.
Tell Me Lies
Authors: Wright Travis
Published: May 2011

This case explores the impact of being closeted on a gay, male preschool educator and the ways in which homophobic culture is fostered in one early learning center. Although sometimes protective, being challenged to hide one’s sexual orientation most always has negative consequences for the individual and society. Internalized homophobia silences and devalues individuals, and maintains a dominant homophobic culture. The complicated relationships between sexual orientation, race, class, and gender are also illuminated. This case encourages education administration students to consider the impact of homophobia on individual staff members and to imagine possibilities for advocacy and adequate staff support.