bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial Effects of Vildagliptin on Retinal Injury in Obese Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Maeda Satoshi , Yamagishi Sho-ichi , Matsui Takanori , Nakashima Sae , Ojima Ayako , Maeda Sayaka , Nishino Yuri , Ishibashi Yuji , Yoshida Yumiko , Yamakawa Ryoji
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: Vildagliptin is an oral inhibitor of dipeptidyl peptidase-4, an enzyme mainly responsible for inactivating incretins, and one of the widely used drugs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, effects of vildagliptin on retinal injury in diabetes remain unclear. We examined here whether oral administration of vildagliptin inhibited gene expression of inflammatory and thrombogenic parameters in Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats (OLETF rats), an animal model of obese type 2 diabetes. Methods: OLETF rats at 22 weeks of age were given vehicle or 3 mg/kg of vildagliptin for another 10 weeks. Gene expression was analyzed in quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results: Vildagliptin significantly inhibited the increase in body weight and decreased average fasting blood glucose in the OLETF rats. Compared with 22-week-old OLETF rats, gene expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and pigment epithelium-derived factor were significantly increased in the retinas of OLETF rats at 32 weeks of age, all of which were inhibited by treatment with vildagliptin. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated for the first time that vildagliptin inhibited inflammatory and thrombogenic reactions in the retinas of obese type 2 diabetic rats. Vildagliptin may play a protective role against diabetic retinopathy.
Electronic Approaches to Restitute Vision in Patients with Neurodegenerative Diseases of the Retina
Authors: Stingl K. , Zrenner E.
Published: September 2013

Degenerations of the outer retina are hereditary diseases leading to significant loss of vision. Several concepts of active electrical stimulation of the remaining retinal network resulted in the development of retinal visual implants and prosthetic vision. Subretinal and epiretinal visual implants are currently the leading approaches in restoring functional vision in blind humans with retinitis pigmentosa or other outer retinal degenerations. This review gives a short overview about the principles, advantages, limitations and vision outcome of the up-to-date published artificial vision by electronic visual implants, as well as their known biocompatibility and safety issues.
Myoglobin Removal Using High-Volume High-Flux Hemofiltration in Patients with Oliguric Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Guzman Nelio , Podoll Amber S. , Bell Cynthia S. , Finkel Kevin W.
Published: September 2013

Background: Rhabdomyolysis can cause acute kidney injury (AKI). It remains controversial whether or not myoglobin can be removed from the circulation with extracorporeal therapy and decrease the incidence of AKI. Therefore, we examined myoglobin removal in a series of 11 patients with oliguric AKI treated with high-volume hemofiltration. Methods: Patients received prefilter hemofiltration using a polysulphone filter with a molecular size cutoff of 65 kDa and a surface area of 1.7 m2. Sieving coefficients and myoglobin clearances were calculated at 6, 12, and 24 h after the start of hemofiltration. Results: The mean sieving coefficient was 0.158, and the mean myoglobin clearance was 8.7 ml/min. Conclusion: Despite the use of high-volume hemofiltration, the removal of myoglobin was negligible. In patients with normal renal function, the anticipated amount of extracorporeal removal would not significantly impact renal exposure to myoglobin.
Cognitive Decline Predicts Long-Term Care Insurance Requirement Certification in Community-Dwelling Older Japanese Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Nishiguchi Shu , Yamada Minoru , Sonoda Takuya , Kayama Hiroki , Tanigawa Takanori , Yukutake Taiki , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: September 2013

Aim: The purpose of this prospective cohort study is to examine whether cognitive decline is an independent predictor of new long-term care insurance (LTCI) requirement certifications in Japan. Methods: A total of 5,765 community-dwelling older Japanese adults who, at baseline, were independent in terms of their activities of daily living participated in this study and were followed up for 18 months. The outcome measure was the number of new LTCI requirement certifications during the 18-month period of the study. We collected demographic information through questionnaires and assessed cognitive skills with the Cognitive Performance Scale (CPS). The participants were divided into 3 groups according to CPS scores (0, 1, and 2 or greater). Results: During the 18-month period, 399 subjects (6.9%) became newly certified for LTCI services. In a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model, older participants with a CPS score of 1 (adjusted HR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.08-1.77) and 2 or greater (adjusted HR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.74-2.96) were significantly more likely to receive an LTCI certification compared to those with a CPS score of 0. Conclusions: Cognitive decline is an independent predictor of new LTCI requirement certifications and the severity of cognitive decline in elderly adults is positively associated with receiving an LTCI requirement certification in Japan.
Generalized Subcutaneous Emphysema Caused by Injection of Air into the Penis for Autoerotic Purposes
Authors: Ural Y. , Muthen N. , Engelmann U. , Wille S.
Published: September 2013

The injection of air or water into the scrotum has been described only a few times so far in the literature. Injection of air into the penis and its consequences has not been described at all. Here, we present the case of a young man who, acting on his previously suppressed sexual fantasies, injected air into his penis and caused generalized subcutaneous emphysema.
Effect on Platelet Reactivity From a Prasugrel Loading Dose After a Clopidogrel Loading Dose Compared With a Prasugrel Loading Dose Alone
Authors: Diodati Jean G. , Saucedo Jorge F. , French John K. , Fung Anthony Y. , Cardillo Tracy E. , Henneges Carsten , Effron Mark B. , Fisher Harold N. , Angiolillo Dominick J.
Published: September 2013

Background—

Adding a prasugrel loading dose (LD) to a clopidogrel LD could be desirable because clopidogrel may fail to provide adequate levels of platelet inhibition in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results—

The pharmacodynamic response of prasugrel 60 mg LD alone was compared with prasugrel 60 mg or 30 mg added ≤24 hours to clopidogrel 600 mg in Transferring from Clopidogrel Loading Dose to Prasugrel Loading Dose in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients study—a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, 3-arm, parallel, active-comparator controlled study. Two hundred eighty-two patients were randomized to 3 LD strategies: placebo plus prasugrel 60 mg, clopidogrel 600 mg plus prasugrel 60 mg, or clopidogrel 600 mg plus prasugrel 30 mg. Platelet function was assessed using VerifyNow P2Y12 Reaction Units (PRU) immediately before prasugrel LD, and 2, 6, 24, and 72 hours after prasugrel LD in 149 patients with evaluable platelet function studies. At 6 hours after the prasugrel 60 mg LD, the least squares mean (95% confidence interval) difference between placebo/prasugrel 60 mg and clopidogrel 600 mg/prasugrel 60 mg (primary outcome) was 22.2 (−11.0 to 55.5;
P
=0.19; least squares mean PRU 57.9 versus 35.6, respectively). For clopidogrel 600 mg/prasugrel 30 mg (least squares mean PRU, 53.9), the difference was 3.9 (−28.2 to 36.1;
P
=0.81) versus placebo/prasugrel 60 mg. No significant differences in PRU were observed at any time point across the 3 groups. There were few bleeding events observed regardless of treatment.

Conclusions—

Platelet reactivity with prasugrel 60 mg LD added to clopidogrel 600 mg LD was not significantly different compared with prasugrel 60 mg LD alone in acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01115738.
Endothelial Junctional Adhesion Molecule-A Guides Monocytes Into Flow-Dependent Predilection Sites of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Schmitt Martin M.N. , Megens Remco T.A. , Zernecke Alma , Bidzhekov Kiril , van den Akker Nynke M. , Rademakers Timo , van Zandvoort Marc A. , Hackeng Tilman M. , Koenen Rory R. , Weber Christian
Published: September 2013

Background—

Junctional adhesion molecule (JAM)-A expressed in endothelial, epithelial, and blood cells can regulate permeability and leukocyte extravasation. Atherosclerosis develops at sites of disturbed flow in large arteries, but the mechanisms guiding inflammatory cells into these predilection sites remain unknown.

Methods and Results—

To characterize cell-specific functions of JAM-A in atherosclerosis, we used apolipoprotein E–deficient mice with a somatic or endothelium-specific deficiency in JAM-A and bone marrow chimeras with JAM-A–deficient leukocytes. We show that impaired JAM-A expression in endothelial cells reduced mononuclear cell recruitment into the arterial wall and limited atherosclerotic lesion formation in hyperlipidemic mice. In contrast, JAM-A deficiency in bone marrow cells impeded monocyte de-adhesion, thereby increasing vascular permeability and lesion formation, whereas somatic JAM-A deletion revealed no significant effects. Regions with disturbed flow displayed a focal enrichment and luminal redistribution of endothelial JAM-A and were preferentially protected by its deficiency. The functional expression and redistribution of endothelial JAM-A was increased by oxidized low-density lipoprotein, but confined by atheroprotective laminar flow through an upregulation of microRNA (miR)-145, which repressed JAM-A.

Conclusions—

Our data identify endothelial JAM-A as an important effector molecule integrating atherogenic conditions to direct inflammatory cell entry at predilection sites of atherosclerosis.
Solar Work #2: A Solar-Powered Sound Artwork
Authors: Blow Mike
Published: September 2013

This paper describes the concept and realization of Solar Work #2, an outdoor, solar-powered sound artwork that responds to the sun, creating a field of small sounds and drawing visitors into the physical and sonic landscape.
Radioscape: Into Electromagnetic Space
Authors: van der Heide Edwin
Published: September 2013

The author describes his use of radio waves in public spaces to create interactive sonic compositions in his project, Radioscape.
Instruments of Tension: Gramophones, Springs and the Performance of Place
Authors: Needham Jay , Leonardson Eric
Published: September 2013

The authors discuss Chronography: animal, a live electroacoustic work based on sound recordings Needham gathered in Antarctica in 2009, along with related works.
Extinction and Progress in Charles Kingsley’s Alton Locke (1850)
Authors: Talairach-Vielmas Laurence
Published: September 2013

Charles Kingsley’s Alton Locke (1850), written a decade before the publication of Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, emphasizes newly-emerging definitions of nature and modern perceptions of the interrelations between the human social system and the ecosystem. In so doing, the modern conceptions of the natural environment which the novel highlights, shape a utopian model for a more democratic society. As this paper points out, by using environmental metaphors, Kingsley questions human nature and the potential of the environment to change it. As a result, his depiction of natural ecosystems, though charged with ideology and the weight of conservative discourse, is progressive, inviting humans to change society—and themselves in the process.
The enigmatic history of the European, Asian and American plethodontid salamanders
Authors: Wake David B.
Published: September 2013

Recently published research addressing the question of relationships and biogeography of European plethodontid salamanders has refined time estimates for divergence from American relatives. The recently discovered Korean plethodontid Karsenia is either the sister-taxon of Hydromantes (which has members in Europe and California), or a close relative and co-member of a larger clade that originated in western North America, not eastern North America as formerly thought. The new information strengthens the biogeographical hypothesis that Hydromantes entered Eurasia via the Bering Land Bridge. Arguments are made favoring the placement of European and American relatives in a genus Hydromantes, with an American clade (subgenus Hydromantes) and a European clade (subgenera Atylodes and Speleomantes).
Additions to the lizard diversity of the Horn of Africa: Two new species in the Agama spinosa group
Authors: Wagner Philipp , Leaché Adam , Mazuch Tomáš , Böhme Wolfgang
Published: September 2013

The Horn of Africa is a center of diversity for African agamid lizards. Among the nine species of Agama occurring in the Horn of Africa, Agama spinosa is the most widely distributed. The A. spinosa group (sensu stricto, morphologically defined by possessing six clusters of spinose scales around the ear) contains two species: A. spinosa occurs from Egypt to Ethiopia and Somalia where it is replaced by the morphologically distinct and therefore sensu lato A. bottegi. Both species are only represented in museum collections by a small number of specimens from Ethiopia and Somalia, presumably the result of constant civil war that has plagued the region for decades and impeded field surveys. In this study, we examine species limits in the A. spinosa group using molecular genetic data (503 characters; mitochondrial 16S rRNA) and morphological data (67 characters). Deep divisions among populations of A. spinosa are supported by phylogenetic analyses and by multivariate analyses of morphometric data. Two new species from northern Somalia that differ from A. spinosa and A. bottegi are described. Furthermore, A. smithi, currently recognized as a synonym of A. agama, is re-assessed and recognized as a species of uncertain taxonomic position (i.e., incertae sedis). The results of this study improve our understanding of the evolution of agamid lizard diversity in the Horn of Africa, a significant biodiversity hotspot in Africa.
Thirty years of artificial syntopy between Hydromantes italicus and H. ambrosii ambrosii (Amphibia, Plethodontidae)
Authors: Cimmaruta Roberta , Forti Gianluca , Lucente Daniela , Nascetti Giuseppe
Published: September 2013

Thirty years ago, in 1983, an experiment of artificial syntopy put together two allopatric taxa of mainland European plethodontids: Hydromantes ambrosii ambrosii and H. italicus. An equal number of specimens of both species were released in a cave with a suitable environment but located outside the range of the genus. The aim was to test the effectiveness of the reproductive isolating mechanisms of these two moderately divergent taxa and, in the case hybridization would have occurred, to analyse the extent and mechanisms of introgressive hybridization while in progress. Previous data collected between 1996 and 1999 showed that H. italicus and H. a. ambrosii were hybridizing and that their hybrids were viable and fertile enough to produce backcrosses. The data presented here, based on allozymes and restriction enzymes on a fragment of the mitochondrial Cytochrome-b gene, showed that introgressive hybridization is still ongoing. However, the gene exchange between the two taxa is restricted since most of the specimens scored were pure H. a. ambrosii, the percentage of hybrid/recombinant specimens was quite low and a strong deficiency of heterozygote genotypes was recorded.

The results presented showed that this long term experiment assisted in providing insights into the patterns and mechanisms underlying hybridization and introgression, showing the spreading of a foreign mtDNA (H. italicus) into the gene pool of another species (H. a. ambrosii) despite the fact that the nuclear genomes remain substantially differentiated.
Further contribution to the knowledge of Ityphilus calinus Chamberlin, 1957, a poorly known ballophilid centipede from Colombia, with description of Ityphilus bonatoi, a new diminutive geophilomorph species from Brazil (Myriapoda: Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha)
Authors: PEREIRA LUIS ALBERTO
Published: September 2013

Ityphilus calinus Chamberlin, 1957 (Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha, Ballophilidae), a poorly known centipede from Cauca Valley, Colombia, is herein redescribed and illustrated after the male holotype, revealing the condition of the forcipular tarsungulum (which is completely smooth), also giving new data on many other morphological features of specific value until now unknown. A new diminutive species named Ityphilus bonatoi sp. nov. is herein proposed after the holotype female from Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. The new species is characterized by having the internal edge of the forcipular tarsungulum serrate; among the other Neotropical members of the genus having the same trait, it only shares with I. donatellae Pereira, 2012 (from Central Amazon) a very small body size and a low number of leg-bearing segments. The new species represents the first record of the genus Ityphilus from the Atlantic Rainforest biome, and the southernmost representative of the genus in the Continent. A key for identification of the Neotropical species currently included in Ityphilus is also given.
New species of high elevation cloud forest butterflies of the genus Pedaliodes Butler from the northern Colombian Andes (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
Authors: PYRCZ TOMASZ W. , PRIETO CARLOS , VILORIA ANGEL L. , C. GONZALO ANDRADE
Published: September 2013

Four new species of Pedaliodes Butler (i.e., P. adrianae, n. sp., P. haydoni, n. sp., P. philinae, n. sp. and P. rodriguezi, n. sp.) are described from the high elevation cloud forests in the Frontino massif in the Colombian Western Cordillera and the northern part of the Central and Eastern Cordilleras. The affinities of these new species with other congeners are discussed. The total number of described species of Colombian Pronophilina is increased to 208, with a particularly high total number of species (88) and proportion of endemic species (26%) in the Western Cordillera.
A new and possibly critically endangered species of casque-headed tree frog Aparasphenodon Miranda-Ribeiro, 1920 (Anura, Hylidae) from southeastern Brazil
Authors: DE ASSIS Clodoaldo LOPES , SANTANA DIEGO JOSÉ , DA SILVA FABIANO AGUIAR , QUINTELA FERNANDO MARQUES , Feio Renato neves
Published: September 2013

A new species of casque-headed tree frog of the genus Aparasphenodon is described from the municipality of Cataguases (21º20’S, 42º45’W; 288 m a.s.l.) in the Atlantic Rain Forest of Minas Gerais State, southeastern Brazil. Aparasphenodon pomba sp. nov. is characterized by medium size (males, snout-vent length, SVL 51.6–60.5 mm; females, SVL 58.7–62.1 mm); snout almost round in dorsal view; dorsum and limbs with cream-colored reticulation on dark-brown background; spots on ventral surface cream-colored; lips white; cream-colored dorsolateral stripe originating on the snout, crossing the upper eyelid and extending posteriorly to the axilla level; and red iris.
First record of the genus Chvalaea Papp & Földvári from Northern Europe (Diptera: Hybotidae)
Authors: KAHANPÄÄ JERE
Published: September 2013

Two species of Chvalaea Papp & Földvári, 2001 are known from Europe. Chvalaea rugosiventris (Strobl, 1910), the type species of the genus, was originally described as a species of Leptopeza Macquart, 1827 (Strobl 1910). It was long known only by the holotype male from Austria, but today it is known also from Croatia and Hungary (Chvála 1983, 2003; Papp & Földvári 2001). Sinclair and Cumming (2000) first recognised Chvalaea as “undescribed genus B”. Papp and Földvári (2001) subsequently described the genus and added a second European species, Chvalaea sopianae Papp & Földvári, 2001, from Hungary. Five additional species of Chvalaea have recently been described by Ale-Rocha (2006) from the Neotropics, including the first description of males of the genus. The genus is also known from China and SE Asia from unpublished records (Adrian Plant, pers. comm.). Ale-Rocha (2007) and Cumming and Sinclair (2009) have published keys for separating Chvalaea from Oropezella based on South American material, but they are also valid for the currently known European species of these genera. Chvalaea sopianae keys out, somewhat uneasily, as an Oropezella in Chvála (1983). It differs from true Oropezella by the heavily sclerotized and rugose abdomen, hooked hind tarsi and the lack of acrostichal and dorsocentral setae on the mesonotum.
Novel techniques for biodiversity studies of gordiids and description of a new species of Chordodes (Gordiida, Nematomorpha) from Kenya, Africa
Authors: BOLEK MATTHEW G. , SZMYGIEL CLEO , KUBAT AUSTIN , SCHMIDT-RHAESA ANDREAS , HANELT BEN
Published: September 2013

We review recent advances in the use of non-adult gordiid cyst stages to locate gordiids over large geographical regions and new culturing techniques which can help overcome current difficulties in nematomorph biodiversity studies. Using these techniques, we collected a new species of gordiid as cysts in aquatic snails (Biomphalaria pfeifferi) from the Lake Victoria Basin, western Kenya, Africa and cultured them in the laboratory. We describe the adult free-living male and female worms using morphological (light and scanning electron microscopy) and molecular data as well as the life cycle, mating and oviposition behavior, egg strings, eggs, larvae, and cysts of this new species. Chordodes kenyaensis n. sp. belongs to a large group of African Chordodes in which simple areoles are smooth or superficially structured less so than “blackberry” areoles but contain filamentous projections. Present among the simple areoles are clusters of bulging areoles, crowned and circumcluster areoles along with thorn and tubercle areoles. In the laboratory, worms developed and emerged within 53–78 days from three species of laboratory-reared crickets exposed to cysts of this species. Adult male and female C. kenyaensis n. sp. initiated typical Gordian knots within hours to days of being placed together and males deposited masses of sperm on the cloacal region of females. Females began oviposition within a week of copulating and attached egg strings in a continuous zigzag pattern on small branches or air-hoses but never free in the water column. Larvae hatched within two to three weeks, and cysts developed in laboratory-reared and exposed snails within 14–24 days. Morphological characteristics of egg strings, eggs, larvae and cysts of C. kenyaensis were most similar to other gordiids in the genus Chordodes but differed morphologically from other gordiid genera for which similar information is available.
New species and checklist of Turkish Eupithecia Curtis (Geometridae: Larentiinae)
Authors: MIRONOV VLADIMIR
Published: September 2013

Four new species of Eupithecia are described from Turkey; seven species are added as new for the fauna of Turkey; two taxa are raised from subspecies rank and restored from synonymy to species rank; one species is downgraded to subspecies rank; five other species names are synonymized; an updated checklist of the genus Eupithecia in Turkey is provided.
Description of a new species of Anagyrus Howard (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Encyrtidae), a promising biological control agent of the invasive Madeira mealybug, Phenacoccus madeirensis Green (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: RAMESHKUMAR A. , NOYES J. S. , POORANI J. , CHONG J. H.
Published: September 2013

Anagyrus amnestos sp. n. (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), a promising parasitoid of the invasive Madeira mealybug, Phenacoccus madeirensis Green (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is described based on material collected from India. This parasitoid was identified as Anagyrus sp. nov. nr. sinope Noyes & Menezes in recent literature, and was initially collected in Georgia, USA. It was found to be a specific parasitoid of the Madeira mealybug and its biological attributes and potential as a biological control agent of this pest were studied. In what appears to be a case of fortuitous introduction, we detected this parasitoid in large numbers on Madeira mealybugs from the southern Indian state of Karnataka, where the mealybug is a recently introduced invasive pest. In view of its economic importance as a potential biological control agent of the Madeira mealybug, it is formally described and illustrated here. Comparative accounts of the new species vis-a-vis its close relatives in India and the Americas are provided.
A new goatfish of the genus Upeneus (Mullidae) from Angoche,
northern Mozambique
Authors: UIBLEIN FRANZ , LISHER MARK
Published: September 2013

A new goatfish, Upeneus saiab n. sp. (Mullidae), is described from six specimens collected off Angoche, northern Mozambique, during a research cruise of the RV Dr. F. Nansen in August 2009. Upeneus saiab n. sp. differs from all congeneric species in the following combination of characteristics: seven dorsal-fin spines, 29 total gill rakers, body depth at anal-fin origin 17–19% SL, and pectoral-fin length 20–21% SL. Detailed comparisons with the eight other species of the japonicus group are made and a key for Western Indian Ocean species is provided. A new record of Upeneus pori for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is reported based on in situ photographs. The need for further exploration of the rather long and ecologically diverse Mozambican coast and adjacent areas of southeastern Africa for the occurrence of yet undescribed or unreported goatfish species is emphasized.
Strong Downslope Wind Events in Ammassalik, Southeast Greenland
Authors: Oltmanns M. , Straneo F. , Moore G. W. K. , Mernild S. H.
Published: September 2013

Ammassalik in southeast Greenland is known for strong wind events that can reach hurricane intensity and cause severe destruction in the local town. Yet, these winds and their impact on the nearby fjord and shelf region have not been studied in detail.

Here, data from two meteorological stations and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Interim Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) are used to identify and characterize these strong downslope wind events, which are especially pronounced at a major east Greenland fjord, Sermilik Fjord, within Ammassalik. Their local and regional characteristics, their dynamics and their impacts on the regional sea ice cover, and air–sea fluxes are described. Based on a composite of the events it is concluded that wind events last for approximately a day, and seven to eight events occur each winter. Downslope wind events are associated with a deep synoptic-scale cyclone between Iceland and Greenland. During the events, cold dry air is advected down the ice sheet. The downslope flow is accelerated by gravitational acceleration, flow convergence inside the Ammassalik valley, and near the coast by an additional thermal and synoptic-scale pressure gradient acceleration. Wind events are associated with a large buoyancy loss over the Irminger Sea, and it is estimated that they drive one-fifth of the net wintertime loss. Also, the extreme winds drive sea ice out of the fjord and away from the shelf.
The Multidecadal Atlantic SST—Sahel Rainfall Teleconnection in CMIP5 Simulations
Authors: Martin Elinor R. , Thorncroft Chris , Booth Ben B. B.
Published: September 2013

This study uses models from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) to evaluate and investigate Sahel rainfall multidecadal variability and teleconnections with global sea surface temperatures (SSTs). Multidecadal variability is lower than observed in all historical simulations evaluated. Focus is on teleconnections with North Atlantic SST [Atlantic multidecadal variability (AMV)] as it is more successfully simulated than the Indian Ocean teleconnection. To investigate why some models successfully simulated this teleconnection and others did not, despite having similarly large AMV, two groups of models were selected. Models with large AMV were highlighted as good (or poor) by their ability to simulate relatively high (low) Sahel multidecadal variability and have significant (not significant) correlation between multidecadal Sahel rainfall and an AMV index. Poor models fail to capture the teleconnection between the AMV and Sahel rainfall because the spatial distribution of SST multidecadal variability across the North Atlantic is incorrect. A lack of SST signal in the tropical North Atlantic and Mediterranean reduces the interhemispheric SST gradient and, through circulation changes, the rainfall variability in the Sahel. This pattern was also evident in the control simulations, where SST and Sahel rainfall variability were significantly weaker than historical simulations. Errors in SST variability were suggested to result from a combination of weak wind–evaporation–SST feedbacks, poorly simulated cloud amounts and feedbacks in the stratocumulus regions of the eastern Atlantic, dust–SST–rainfall feedbacks, and sulfate aerosol interactions with clouds. By understanding the deficits and successes of CMIP5 historical simulations, future projections and decadal hindcasts can be examined with additional confidence.
The Great Recession and Health
Authors: Burgard Sarah A. , Ailshire Jennifer A. , Kalousova Lucie
Published: September 2013

Two research traditions have evolved to assess links between recessions and health, with seemingly divergent findings. Aggregate-level studies generally find that mortality rates decline during recessionary periods. By contrast, individual-level studies generally find that events that frequently occur during recessions, like job loss, unemployment, and material hardship, carry negative health consequences. We comprehensively review evidence from these two bodies of research, illustrate key findings, and show how the different mechanisms can operate in parallel. We also outline some of the limitations of the extant evidence, discuss studies emerging to address these limits and directions for future research, and provide brief empirical examples to illustrate some of these limits and directions using the Health and Retirement Study and the Michigan Recession and Recovery Study. Our review emphasizes the importance of considering both the aggregate- and individual-level associations when evaluating the likely short- and longer-term consequences of the Great Recession for health and health disparities.
Effects of the Great Recession on Child Development
Authors: Kalil Ariel
Published: September 2013

The Great Recession and its reverberations resulted in levels of economic distress unprecedented since the 1930s. Economic downturns, including the Great Recession, are known to affect adult employment and income, housing, family composition, and financial strain. Many of these family characteristics affect child and adolescent development in the short and long run. The nature of children’s experiences in economically unstable families during the Great Recession is not yet fully understood. This article summarizes empirical research on the relationship between economic downturns and child and youth development. It also discusses theoretical perspectives linking economic downturns to child development through the family’s emotional and behavioral processes, on one hand, and family investments of time and money, on the other. The evidence from existing studies of parental job loss, residential moves, income instability, and financial strain suggests that the Great Recession may ultimately have negative effects on child development.
Mean Platelet Volume is Elevated in Patients With Low High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
Authors: Varol Ercan , Aksoy Fatih , Bas Hasan Aydin , Ari Hatem , Ozaydin Mehmet
Published: September 2013

A low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level is a predictor of increased cardiovascular risk. We assessed the mean platelet volume (MPV) in patients with low HDL-C. We studied 59 patients with low HDL-C (HDL-C ≤35 mg/dL) and 56 control participants (HDL-C levels >35 mg/dL) with similar cardiovascular risk factors. As expected, HDL-C was significantly lower among the patients with low HDL-C than that of the control group (32 ± 3 vs 51 ± 5 mg/dL, respectively; P < .001). Platelet count was significantly lower among the patients with low HDL-C than that of the control group (213 ± 60 vs 285 ± 75 × 109/L, respectively; P < .001). The MPV was significantly higher among the patients with low HDL-C than that of the control group (8.7 ± 0.6 vs 7.1 ± 0.5 fL, respectively; P < .001). We have shown that MPV was significantly elevated in patients with low HDL-C compared with control participants.
Understanding Issues of People Living With Disabilities in South Africa
Authors: Susuman A Sathiya , Blignaut Renette , Lougue Siaka
Published: September 2013

The problem of disabilities is growing all over the world. Nevertheless, some progress has been made since the year 1981 was proclaimed International Year of Disabled Persons. In 2001 people living with disabilities accounted for 5% of the South African population. Because of their disabilities or the perception society has regarding their potential, this population is mostly economically inactive. This study assesses the relationship between disabilities and the adverse socio-economic impacts. Both descriptive and logistics regression models are used to understand the problem by exploring the data of the 2006 South African General Household Survey. The overall people living with disabilities and aged 15–49 years is estimated at 1742 (961 males and 780 females), when exploring people with disabilities findings reveal that the Western Cape Province’s disabled are mostly affected by physical disabilities (40%). People living with disabilities are 3.5 times ( p < 0.01) more likely to suffer from illness/injuries (flu, tuberculosis (TB) and severe cough, diarrhea, blood pressure and HIV/AIDS) than others. Therefore, the study aims to contribute to a better condition of people living with disabilities in South Africa by informing and possibly changing the public perception about them.
Comparison of Long-term Survival of Implants and Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Setzer F.C. , Kim S.
Published: September 2013

The outcomes of both dental implants and endodontically treated teeth have been extensively studied. However, there is still a great controversy over when to keep a natural tooth and when to extract it for a dental implant. This article reviews the benefits and disadvantages of both treatment options and discusses success vs. survival outcomes, as well as the impact of technical advances for modern endodontics and endodontic microsurgery on the long-term prognosis of tooth retention.
The Circadian Clock in Oral Health and Diseases
Authors: Papagerakis S. , Zheng L. , Schnell S. , Sartor M.A. , Somers E. , Marder W. , McAlpin B. , Kim D. , McHugh J. , Papagerakis P.
Published: September 2013

Most physiological processes in mammals display circadian rhythms that are driven by the endogenous circadian clock. This clock is comprised of a central component located in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus and subordinate clocks in peripheral tissues. Circadian rhythms sustain 24-hour oscillations of a large number of master genes controlling the correct timing and synchronization of diverse physiological and metabolic processes within our bodies. This complex regulatory network provides an important communication link between our brain and several peripheral organs and tissues. At the molecular level, circadian oscillations of gene expression are regulated by a family of transcription factors called “clock genes”. Dysregulation of clock gene expression results in diverse human pathological conditions, including autoimmune diseases and cancer. There is increasing evidence that the circadian clock affects tooth development, salivary gland and oral epithelium homeostasis, and saliva production. This review summarizes current knowledge of the roles of clock genes in the formation and maintenance of oral tissues, and discusses potential links between “oral clocks” and diseases such as head and neck cancer and Sjögren’s syndrome.
Retained rectal foreign body with rectal perforation; a complication of the traditional management of haemorrhoids: a case report
Authors: Olaoye Iyiade Olatunde , Adensina Micheal Dapo
Published: September 2013

Retained rectal foreign bodies are most commonly seen in homosexuals and after assault. A few have been reported after self-treatment of anorectal conditions and prostatic massage. Harmful traditional medical practices have been reported in many communities in Africa but therapeutic anal insertion of foreign bodies for the management of haemorrhoids is rare. We present a patient with features of peritonitis following insertion of a wine bottle into his rectum in an attempt to manage his prolapsed haemorrhoids.
Expanding Assessments of Translational Research Programs
Authors: Scott Craig S. , Nagasawa Pamela R. , Abernethy Neil F. , Ramsey Bonnie W. , Martin Paul J. , Hacker Beth M. , Schwartz Havivah D. , Brock Douglas M. , Robins Lynn S. , Wolf Fred M. , Carter-Dubois Marie , Disis Mary L.
Published: September 2013

The University of Washington (UW) Institute for Translational Health Sciences (ITHS), funded by a Clinical and Translational Sciences Award program, has supplemented its initial Kellogg Logic Model–based program evaluation with the eight judgment-based evaluative elements of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Health Services Assessment Model. This article describes the relationship between the two models, the rationale for the decision to supplement the evaluation with WHO evaluative elements, the value-added results of the WHO evaluative elements, and plans for further developing the WHO assessments.
The Subalar Graft and Its Role in Nasal Tip Medialization and Improved Nostril Symmetry
Authors: Aynehchi Behrad B. , Mascaro Miguel E. , Rosenfeld Richard M. , Westreich Richard W.
Published: September 2013

Objectives

Relationships between nasal axis deviation and lower midfacial asymmetry or hypoplasia have been established in prior studies. We describe our experience with the subalar grafting technique in addressing nasal tip deviation associated with facial asymmetry. Indications in using this graft in isolation or in conjunction with other tip modification techniques are also investigated.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Thirty‐seven consecutive patients from a single surgeon (R.W.W.) treated using subalar grafting are evaluated for correction. Various measurements from preoperative and postoperative photographs are analyzed to determine the effectiveness of this intervention.

Results

Statistically significant correlations between improvement in nasal axis and alar‐facial angle on base view (AFAB) (P<. 001) and between alar‐facial angle on frontal view (AFAF) (P=. 017) were observed. In addition, a significant correlation between AFAB improvement and AFAF normalization was observed (P<. 001). The improved nostril symmetry was significantly correlated with base view correction and was not the result of general improvements in nasal deviation.

Conclusion

While measuring the independent effects of subalar grafting is limited due to contaminant procedures, it can be recognized as a foundation rhinoplasty technique that, in conjunction with septoplasty, provides medialization of the tip in patients with facial asymmetry. Furthermore, aesthetic correction of nostril horizontal dystopia and/or nostril “show” is achieved with the proper application of this technique. This correction represents a unique intervention in rhinoplasty and should be considered a second indication for its use.
An Introduction to Propensity Scores
Authors: Beal Sarah J. , Kupzyk Kevin A.
Published: September 2013

The use of propensity scores as a method to promote causality in studies that cannot use random assignment has increased dramatically since its original publication in 1983. While the utility of these approaches is important, the concepts underlying their use are complex. The purpose of this article is to provide a basic tutorial for conducting analyses using propensity scores and what researchers should be aware of in reading papers that choose propensity scores as a method, as well as in conducting their own research. In addition to the explanations given, examples are presented, based on actual studies, which illustrate the use of propensity scores for regression adjustment, stratification, and matching. The syntax, datasets, and output used for these examples are available on http://jea.sagepub.com/content/early/recent for readers to download and follow.
Corporate diversification, executive compensation and firm value: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Choe Chongwoo , Dey Tania , Mishra Vinod
Published: September 2013

We estimate the effect of corporate diversification on firm value using a sample of 766 segment-year observations during 2004–2008 for firms listed on the Australian Stock Exchange as of August 2009. In addition to conventionally used measures of diversification, we develop five new measures of diversification that explicitly take into account the degree to which a multi-segment firm’s various segments are in related lines of business. We use three different excess value measures to estimate the valuation effect of diversification. We find that multi-segment firms in our sample enjoyed a significant diversification premium that ranges from 12.4% to 18% depending on the measures of diversification and excess value. We also find some evidence that multi-segment firms benefit more from diversification when their executives are motivated more through long-term incentives such as stock and stock options.
Congruence of leader self-perceptions and follower perceptions of authentic leadership: Understanding what authentic leadership is and how it enhances employees’ job satisfaction
Authors: Černe Matej , Dimovski Vlado , Marič Miha , Penger Sandra , Škerlavaj Miha
Published: September 2013

We propose and empirically test a multilevel model of cross-level interactions between leader self-perceptions (team level) and follower perceptions of authentic leadership on job satisfaction. Data from 24 supervisors and 171 team members were used. Applying hierarchical linear modelling, we found that follower perceptions of authentic leadership predict employee job satisfaction. We also found support for the interaction effect of leader self-perceptions and follower perceptions of authentic leadership in predicting job satisfaction, integrating the leader- and follower-centric perspectives of authentic leadership. Polynomial regression analysis further supported the fact that the congruence between leader self-perceptions and follower perceptions of authentic leadership is beneficial and that both need to be present at high levels to produce the most beneficial results in terms of followers’ job satisfaction.
Latent Profile Analyses of Test Anxiety
Authors: von der Embse Nathaniel P. , Mata Andrea D. , Segool Natasha , Scott Emma-Catherine
Published: September 2013

In an era of test-based accountability, there has been a renewed interest in understanding the relationship between test anxiety and test performance. The development and validation of test anxiety scales have grown with the rise of test anxiety research. Research is needed to critically examine the psychometric properties of these scales prior to widespread use. The purpose of this brief report is to demonstrate the use of latent profile analysis (LPA) to develop test anxiety profiles on the FRIEDBEN Test Anxiety Scale. LPA was performed using a sample of 1,133 students from five high schools in a Midwestern state. Results indicate three distinct test anxiety profiles (i.e., high, mid, and low anxiety profiles).
Glucose Metabolism in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Nielsen Signe Tellerup , Krogh-Madsen Rikke , Møller Kirsten
Published: September 2013

Critical illness afflicts millions of people worldwide and is associated with a high risk of organ failure and death or an adverse outcome with persistent physical or cognitive deficits. Spontaneous hyperglycemia is common in critically ill patients and is associated with an adverse outcome compared to normoglycemia. Insulin is used for treating hyperglycemia in the critically ill patients but may be complicated by hypoglycemia, which is difficult to detect in these patients and which may lead to serious neurological sequelae and death. The incretin hormone, glucagon-like peptide (GLP) 1, stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon release both in healthy individuals and in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Compared to insulin, GLP-1 appears to be associated with a lower risk of severe hypoglycemia, probably because the magnitude of its insulinotropic action is dependent on blood glucose (BG). This is taken advantage of in the treatment of patients with T2DM, for whom GLP-1 analogs have been introduced during the recent years. Infusion of GLP-1 also lowers the BG level in critically ill patients without causing severe hypoglycemia. The T2DM and critical illness share similar characteristics and are, among other things, both characterized by different grades of systemic inflammation and insulin resistance. The GLP-1 might be a potential new treatment target in critically ill patients with stress-induced hyperglycemia.
Outcomes Assessment of a Pharmacist-Directed Seamless Care Program in an Ambulatory Oncology Clinic
Authors: Edwards Scott J. , Abbott Rick , Edwards Jonathan , LeBlanc Michael , Dranitsaris George , Donnan Jennifer , Laing Kara , Whelan Maria A. , MacKinnon Neil J.
Published: September 2013

The primary goal of seamless care is improved patient outcomes and improved standards of care for patients with cancer. The pharmacy service of the Newfoundland Cancer Treatment and Research Foundation conducted a randomized control study that measured clinical and humanistic outcomes of a pharmacist-directed seamless care program in an ambulatory oncology clinic. This article focuses on the intervention group, particularly the identification of drug-related problems (DRPs) and utilization of health care services as well the satisfaction of 3 types of health professionals with the services provided by the pharmacist-directed seamless care program. Overall, the seamless care pharmacist (SCP) identified an average of 3.7 DRPs per intervention patient; the most common DRP reported was a patient not receiving or taking a drug therapy for which there is an indication. The SCP identified more DRPs in patients receiving adjuvant treatment compared to those receiving palliative treatment. On average, family physicians, oncology nurses, and hospital pharmacists were satisfied with the SCP intervention indicating that they agreed the information collected and distributed by the SCP was useful to them. Pharmacist-directed seamless care services in an ambulatory oncology clinic have a significant impact on clinical outcomes and processes of patient care. The presence of a SCP can help identify and resolve DRPs experienced by patients in an outpatient oncology clinic, ensuring that patients are receiving the highest standard of care.