bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Catalysts and Its Application for Low-Temperature CO Oxidation
Authors: Lee Der-Shing , Chen Yu-Wen
Published: March 2013

A series of Au/-TiO2 with various Co/Ti ratios prepared. /TiO2 was prepared by incipient wetness impregnation with aqueous solution of cobalt nitrate. Au catalysts were prepared by deposition-precipitation (DP) method at pH 7 and 338 K. The catalysts were characterized by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, temperature programming reduction, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The reaction was carried out in a fixed bed reactor with a feed containing 1% CO in air at weight hourly space velocities of 120,000 mL/h g and 180,000 mL/h g. High gold dispersion and narrow particle size distribution were obtained by DP method. The addition of into Au/TiO2 enhanced the activity of CO oxidation significantly. Au/5%  -TiO2 had the highest catalyst among all the catalysts. was mainly in the form of nanosize Co3O4 which could stabilize the Au nanoparticles. donated partial electrons to Au. The interactions among Au, , and TiO2 account for the high catalytic activity for CO oxidation.
Magnolol Ameliorates Ligature-Induced Periodontitis in Rats and Osteoclastogenesis:In VivoandIn VitroStudy
Authors: Lu Sheng-Hua , Huang Ren-Yeong , Chou Tz-Chong
Published: March 2013

Periodontal disease characterized by alveolar bone resorption and bacterial pathogen-evoked inflammatory response has been believed to have an important impact on human oral health. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether magnolol, a main constituent ofMagnolia officinalis, could inhibit the pathological features in ligature-induced periodontitis in rats and osteoclastogenesis. The sterile, 3–0 (diameter; 0.2 mm) black braided silk thread, was placed around the cervix of the upper second molars bilaterally and knotted medially to induce periodontitis. The morphological changes around the ligated molars and alveolar bone were examined by micro-CT. The distances between the amelocemental junction and the alveolar crest of the upper second molars bilaterally were measured to evaluate the alveolar bone loss. Administration of magnolol (100 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly inhibited alveolar bone resorption, the number of osteoclasts on bony surface, and protein expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), a key mediator promoting osteoclast differentiation, in ligated rats. Moreover, the ligature-induced neutrophil infiltration, expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-9, superoxide formation, and nuclear factor-κB activation in inflamed gingival tissues were all attenuated by magnolol. In thein vitrostudy, magnolol also inhibited the growth ofPorphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitansthat are key pathogens initiating periodontal disease. Furthermore, magnolol dose dependently reduced RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation from RAW264.7 macrophages, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity of differentiated cells accompanied by a significant attenuation of resorption pit area caused by osteoclasts. Collectively, we demonstrated for the first time that magnolol significantly ameliorates the alveolar bone loss in ligature-induced experimental periodontitis by suppressing periodontopathic microorganism accumulation, NF-κB-mediated inflammatory mediator synthesis, RANKL formation, and osteoclastogenesis. These activities support that magnolol is a potential agent to treat periodontal disease.
A Generalized KdV Equation of Neglecting the Highest-Order Infinitesimal Term and Its Exact Traveling Wave Solutions
Authors: Wu Xianbin , Rui Weiguo , Hong Xiaochun
Published: March 2013

We study a generalized KdV equation of neglecting the highest order infinitesimal term, which is an important water wave model. Some exact traveling wave solutions such as singular solitary wave solutions, semiloop soliton solutions, dark soliton solutions, dark peakon solutions, dark loop-soliton solutions, broken loop-soliton solutions, broken wave solutions of U-form and C-form, periodic wave solutions of singular type, and broken wave solution of semiparabola form are obtained. By using mathematical softwareMaple, we show their profiles and discuss their dynamic properties. Investigating these properties, we find that the waveforms of some traveling wave solutions vary with changes of certain parameters.
Testing for Main Random Effects in Two-Way Random and Mixed Effects Models: Modifying the Statistic
Authors: Gaugler Trent , Akritas Michael G.
Published: March 2013

A procedure for testing the significance of the main random effect is proposed under a model which does not require the traditional assumptions of symmetry, homoscedasticity, and normality for the error term and random effects. To accommodate this level of model generality, and also unbalanced designs, suitable adjustments to theF-test are made. The extensive simulations performed under the random effects model, and the unrestricted and restricted versions of the mixed effects model, indicate that the classicalFprocedure is extremely liberal under heteroscedasticity and unbalancedness. The proposed test procedure performs well in all settings and is comparable to the classicalF-test when the classical assumptions are met. An analysis of a dataset from the Mussel Watch Project is presented.
A Framework for Coxeter Spectral Classification of Finite Posets and Their Mesh Geometries of Roots
Authors: Simson Daniel , Zając Katarzyna
Published: March 2013

Following our paper [Linear Algebra Appl. 433(2010), 699–717], we present a framework and computational tools for the Coxeter spectral classification of finite posetsJ≡(J,⪯). One of the main motivations for the study is an application of matrix representations of posets in representation theory explained by Drozd [Funct. Anal. Appl. 8(1974), 219–225]. We are mainly interested in a Coxeter spectral classification of posetsJsuch that the symmetric Gram matrixGJ:=(1/2)[CJ+CJtr]∈𝕄J(ℚ)is positive semidefinite, whereCJ∈𝕄J(ℤ)is the incidence matrix ofJ. Following the idea of Drozd mentioned earlier, we associate toJits Coxeter matrixCoxJ:=-CJ·CJ-tr, its Coxeter spectrumspeccJ, a Coxeter polynomialcoxJ(t)∈ℤ[t], and a Coxeter number  cJ. In caseGJis positive semi-definite, we also associate toJa reduced Coxeter number  čJ, and the defect homomorphism∂J:ℤJ→ℤ. In this case, the Coxeter spectrumspeccJis a subset of the unit circle and consists of roots of unity. In caseGJis positive semi-definite of corank one, we relate the Coxeter spectral properties of the posetsJwith the Coxeter spectral properties of a simply laced Euclidean diagramDJ∈{𝔻̃n,𝔼̃6,𝔼̃7,𝔼̃8}associated withJ. Our aim of the Coxeter spectral analysis of such posetsJis to answer the question when the Coxeter typeCtypeJ:=(speccJ,cJ,  čJ)ofJdetermines its incidence matrixCJ(and, hence, the posetJ) uniquely, up to aℤ-congruency. In connection with this question, we also discuss the problem studied by Horn and Sergeichuk [Linear Algebra Appl. 389(2004), 347–353], if for anyℤ-invertible matrixA∈𝕄n(ℤ), there isB∈𝕄n(ℤ)such thatAtr=Btr·A·BandB2=Eis the identity matrix.
Hereditary Breast Cancer: The Era of New Susceptibility Genes
Authors: Apostolou Paraskevi , Fostira Florentia
Published: March 2013

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among females. 5%–10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary and are caused by pathogenic mutations in the considered referenceBRCA1andBRCA2genes. As sequencing technologies evolve, more susceptible genes have been discovered andBRCA1andBRCA2predisposition seems to be only a part of the story. These new findings include rare germline mutations in other high penetrant genes, the most important of which includeTP53mutations in Li-Fraumeni syndrome,STK11mutations in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, andPTENmutations in Cowden syndrome. Furthermore, more frequent, but less penetrant, mutations have been identified in families with breast cancer clustering, in moderate or low penetrant genes, such asCHEK2,ATM,PALB2,andBRIP1. This paper will summarize all current data on new findings in breast cancer susceptibility genes.
Effects of Dispersal for a Logistic Growth Population in Random Environments
Authors: Zou Xiaoling , Fan Dejun , Wang Ke
Published: March 2013

We study a stochastic logistic model with diffusion between two patches in this paper. Using the definition of stationary distribution, we discuss the effect of dispersal in detail. If the species are able to have nontrivial stationary distributions when the patches are isolated, then they continue to do so for small diffusion rates. In addition, we use some examples and numerical experiments to reflect that diffusions are capable of both stabilizing and destabilizing a given ecosystem.
The Proteasome Inhibitor Carfilzomib Functions Independently of p53 to Induce Cytotoxicity and an Atypical NF-κB Response in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Gupta Sneha V. , Hertlein Erin , Lu Yanhui , Sass Ellen J. , Lapalombella Rosa , Chen Timothy L. , Davis Melanie E. , Woyach Jennifer A. , Lehman Amy , Jarjoura David , Byrd John C. , Lucas David M.
Published: March 2013

Purpose: The proteasome consists of chymotrypsin-like (CT-L), trypsin-like, and caspase-like subunits that cleave substrates preferentially by amino acid sequence. Proteasomes mediate degradation of regulatory proteins of the p53, Bcl-2, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) families that are aberrantly active in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CLL remains an incurable disease, and new treatments are especially needed in the relapsed/refractory setting. We therefore investigated the effects of the proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib (CFZ) in CLL cells.

Experimental Design: Tumor cells from CLL patients were assayed in vitro using immunoblotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. In addition, a p53 dominant-negative construct was generated in a human B-cell line.

Results: Unlike bortezomib, CFZ potently induces apoptosis in CLL patient cells in the presence of human serum. CLL cells have significantly lower basal CT-L activity compared to normal B and T cells, although activity is inhibited similarly in T cells versus CLL. Co-culture of CLL cells on stroma protected from CFZ-mediated cytotoxicity; however, PI3K inhibition significantly diminished this stromal protection. CFZ-mediated cytotoxicity in leukemic B cells is caspase-dependent and occurs irrespective of p53 status. In CLL cells, CFZ promotes atypical activation of NF-κB evidenced by loss of cytoplasmic IκBα, phosphorylation of IκBα, and increased p50/p65 DNA binding, without subsequent increases in canonical NF-κB target gene transcription.

Conclusions: Together, these data provide new mechanistic insights into the activity of CFZ in CLL and support phase I investigation of CFZ in this disease. Clin Cancer Res; 19(9); 2406–19. ©2013 AACR.
Multifunctional T-cell Analyses to Study Response and Progression in Adoptive Cell Transfer Immunotherapy
Authors: Ma Chao , Cheung Ann F. , Chodon Thinle , Koya Richard C. , Wu Zhongqi , Ng Charles , Avramis Earl , Cochran Alistair J. , Witte Owen N. , Baltimore David , Chmielowski Bartosz , Economou James S. , Comin-Anduix Begonya , Ribas Antoni , Heath James R.
Published: March 2013

Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) of genetically engineered T cells expressing cancer-specific T-cell receptors (TCR) is a promising cancer treatment. Here, we investigate the in vivo functional activity and dynamics of the transferred cells by analyzing samples from 3 representative patients with melanoma enrolled in a clinical trial of ACT with TCR transgenic T cells targeted against the melanosomal antigen MART-1. The analyses included evaluating 19 secreted proteins from individual cells from phenotypically defined T-cell subpopulations, as well as the enumeration of T cells with TCR antigen specificity for 36 melanoma antigens. These analyses revealed the coordinated functional dynamics of the adoptively transferred, as well as endogenous, T cells, and the importance of highly functional T cells in dominating the antitumor immune response. This study highlights the need to develop approaches to maintaining antitumor T-cell functionality with the aim of increasing the long-term efficacy of TCR-engineered ACT immunotherapy.

Significance: A longitudinal functional study of adoptively transferred TCR–engineered lymphocytes yielded revealing snapshots for understanding the changes of antitumor responses over time in ACT immunotherapy of patients with advanced melanoma. Cancer Discov; 3(4); 418–29. ©2013 AACR.

See related commentary by Speiser, p. 379

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 363
Calf Bioimpedance Spectroscopy for Determination of Dry Weight in Hemodialysis Patients: Effects on Hypertension and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Seibert Eric , Müller Stephan G. , Fries Peter , Pattmöller Johanna , Kuss Oliver , Heine Gunnar H. , Girndt Matthias , Schneider Günther , Kotanko Peter , Zhu Fansan , Levin Nathan W. , Kuhlmann Martin K.
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: Dry weight estimation in hemodialysis patients is still a substantial problem. Despite meticulous clinical assessment, fluid overload is common, leading to hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Segmental calf bioimpedance spectroscopy (cBIS) is a novel tool for dry weight assessment. Here we tested the hypothesis, that its clinical routine use reduces arterial hypertension and left ventricular mass. Methods: Left ventricular mass (determined by magnetic resonance imaging), blood pressure and antihypertensive medication (defined daily doses, ddd) were assessed at baseline (BL). Thereafter post-dialytic target weight was reduced until cBIS-defined dry weight was reached (DW). During a 6-month follow up, DW was re-evaluated monthly by cBIS and end-dialytic weight was adjusted correspondingly. At the end, left ventricular mass, blood pressure and antihypertensive medication were determined a 3rd time (follow-up, FU). Results: Eleven out of 15 patients were available for analysis after 6 months. Left ventricular mass showed a declining trend during the study period (Mean±SD; BL 145±54g; DW 142±55g; FU 137±52g; p=0.61, linear mixed model). Comparable results were obtained for systolic blood pressure (BL 158±18mmHg; DW 144±19mmHg; FU 149±21mmHg; p=0.07), and antihypertensive medication (BL 3.28±2.82ddd; DW 2.86±2.81ddd; FU 3.36±3.05ddd; p=0.37). Conclusions: We conclude that attainment of dry weight assessed by cBIS tends to reduce left ventricular mass and blood pressure while antihypertensive medication remains unchanged. While the study was underpowered, its results provide an important hypothesis generating data basis for the design of larger studies.
Excessive Mood Elevation and Behavioral Activation with Antidepressant Treatment of Juvenile Depressive and Anxiety Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Offidani Emanuela , Fava Giovanni A. , Tomba Elena , Baldessarini Ross J.
Published: March 2013

Background: The prevalence, characteristics and implications of excessive arousal-activation in children and adolescents treated with antidepressants for specific illnesses have not been systematically examined. Methods: We compared reports of antidepressant trials (n = 6,767 subjects) in juvenile depressive (n = 17) and anxiety disorders (n = 25) for consensus-based indications of psychopathological mood elevation or behavioral activation. Results: Rates of excessive arousal-activation during treatment with antidepressants were at least as high in juvenile anxiety (13.8%) as depressive (9.79%) disorders, and much lower with placebos (5.22 vs. 1.10%, respectively; both p < 0.0001). The antidepressant/placebo risk ratio for such reactions in paired comparisons was 3.50 (12.9/3.69%), and the meta-analytically pooled rate ratio was 1.7 (95% confidence interval: 1.2-2.2; both p ≤ 0.001). Overall rates for ‘mania or hypomania', specifically, were 8.19% with and 0.17% without antidepressant treatment, with large drug/placebo risk ratios among depressive (10.4/0.45%) and anxiety (1.98/0.00%) disorder patients. Conclusions: Risks of excessive mood elevation during antidepressant treatment, including mania-hypomania, were much greater than with placebo, and similar in juvenile anxiety and depressive disorders. Excessive arousal-activation in children or adolescents treated with antidepressants for anxiety as well as depressive disorders calls for particular caution and monitoring for potential risk of future bipolar disorder.
Ultrasonography Imaging during Nasal Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Ota Yasushi , Mami Ishikawa
Published: March 2013

A 59-year-old Japanese woman presented with right visual impairment and tunnel vision. Pituitary gland tumor was diagnosed and nasal endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery was performed. Following partial removal of the posterior wall of the sphenoid sinus and extension of the ultrasonography probe to contact the dura mater, the bilateral carotid arteries and the pituitary gland tumor were clearly visualized. The ultrasonography image became clearer when the sphenoid sinus was filled with physiological saline. Histopathological analysis of the resected specimen revealed a pituitary adenoma. Ultrasonography was particularly useful in depicting the arteries, showing the tumor at the nasal endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery.
The Effect of Forest Fragment Characteristics on Abundance of Colobus vellerosus in the Forest-Savanna Transition Zone of Ghana
Authors: Kankam Bright O. , Sicotte Pascale
Published: March 2013

We explore the factors influencing the abundance of Colobus vellerosus in 11 forest fragments [Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary and 9 surrounding forest fragments (range: 3.2-190 ha)] in the forest-savanna transition zone of Ghana. We used a ‘complete' count for the colobus census in the fragments. We determined the fragment sizes using geographic information system methods and assessed forest fragment quality (tree species richness). Colobus individuals were absent from 4 forest fragments but present in 7 (densities of 0.13/ha-1.63/ha). We modelled colobus density using Poisson regression and selected models based on corrected Akaike information criterion model weights. Fragment size and tree species richness in the fragments were positively associated with colobus density, whereas isolation distance of the forest fragments (range: 20-5,632 m) was negatively associated with colobus density. Our analysis suggests that the isolation distance between the fragments and Boabeng does impede colobus movement. As the colobus populations in Boabeng and Fiema increase, some of the unoccupied fragments may become more attractive to dispersing monkeys. Management measures that aim at increasing tree species richness within fragments, while maintaining some large trees between fragments, might help to increase the occupancy of some of the fragments that currently have no permanent colobus groups.
Primary Intestinal Lymphangiectasia: Is It Always Bad Two Cases with Different Outcome
Authors: Xinias Ioannis , Mavroudi Antigoni , Sapountzi Evi , Thomaidou Agathi , Fotoulaki Maria , Kalambakas Athanasios , Karypidou Elina , Kollios Konstantinos , Pardalos Grigorios , Imvrios George
Published: March 2013

Primary intestinal lymphangiectasia (PIL) or Waldmann's disease is a rare protein-losing gastroenteropathy of unknown etiology. Less than 200 cases have been reported globally. Patients may be asymptomatic or present edema, lymphedema, diarrhea, ascites and other manifestations. We report two pediatric cases with PIL with extremely different outcome in a 3-year follow-up period. The first patient presented with persistent diarrhea, hypoalbuminemia and failure to thrive, while the second patient presented with an abrupt eyelid edema. Hypoproteinemia was the common laboratory finding for the two patients and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy established the diagnosis. The first patient relapsed five times during the follow-up period after the diagnosis had been made and required intravenous albumin administration and micronutrient supplementation. The second patient revealed normal gastrointestinal endoscopy 4 months after the diagnosis had been established; he followed an unrestricted diet and remained asymptomatic throughout the follow-up period. PIL can be either severe, affecting the entire small bowel, leading to lifetime disease, or sometimes affects part of the small bowel, leading to transient disorder.
Haemodiafiltration Results in Similar Changes in Intracellular Water and Extracellular Water Compared to Cooled Haemodialysis
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Khosravi Maryam , Massart Annick , Potluri Madhu , Davenport Andrew
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: Intradialytic hypotension is the most common complication of modern day haemodialysis (HD). Convective modalities, including haemodiafiltration (HDF) are reported to result in greater cardiovascular stability compared to standard HD, which has been suggested to be due to improved solute transport between compartments. We therefore investigated the effect of treatment on body water by bioimpedance. Methods: We measured the change in extracellular water (ECW) and intracellular water (ICW) in 263 outpatients attending for HD using cooled dialysate and 134 patients for HDF. Results: Patient cohorts were matched for demographics, dialysate composition, ultrafiltration rate, and session duration. The fall in systolic blood pressure following HD was -11.8 mm Hg (-25.3 to 2.3) and not different from that following HDF -12 mm Hg (-27 to 6). Similarly there were no differences in pretreatment serum sodium and dialysate sodium gradient [HD 1 mmol/l (-1 to 3) vs. HDF 2 mmol/l (1 to 4)], or change in serum sodium posttreatment [HD 0 mmol/l (-2 to 2) vs. HDF 1 mmol/l (-1 to 3)]. There were no differences in ICW or ECW pretreatment, and following treatment the reduction in ICW and ECW did not differ [ICW HD -3.5% (-5.7 to -1.8) vs. -4.1% (-6.0 to -1.7), ECW HD -7.1% (-9.4 to -4.7) vs. HDF -7.1% (-9.7 to -4.9)]. Conclusion: We were unable to demonstrate any advantage for HDF over HD using cooled dialysate in terms of changes in blood pressure during a treatment session, or differences in the relative changes in ICW or ECW volumes.
Management Considerations for Purported Spontaneous Regression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Sasaki Takahide , Fukumori Daisuke , Yamamoto Kentaroh , Yamamoto Fumio , Igimi Hirotsune , Yamashita Yuichi
Published: March 2013

Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an extraordinary phenomenon that occurs rarely. While more than 80 cases have been described, most have been established via radiological findings or examination of biopsy tissues rather than via pathological examination of a resected specimen. The present report describes a purported case of spontaneous regression of HCC as indicated by radiological examination. Subsequent immunostaining of surgically resected specimens revealed viable cancer cells, though only necrotic tissues were seen on hematoxylin and eosin staining. These data indicate that viable cancer cells may still be present even if imaging findings suggest spontaneous regression of HCC. Therefore, these patients should receive aggressive treatment similar to that used for patients with established HCC.
Sox18 Genetically Interacts With VegfC to Regulate Lymphangiogenesis in Zebrafish
Authors: Cermenati Solei , Moleri Silvia , Neyt Christine , Bresciani Erica , Carra Silvia , Grassini Daniela R. , Omini Alice , Goi Michela , Cotelli Franco , François Mathias , Hogan Benjamin M. , Beltrame Monica
Published: March 2013

Objective—

Lymphangiogenesis is regulated by transcription factors and by growth factor pathways, but their interplay has not been extensively studied so far. We addressed this issue in zebrafish.

Approach and Results—

Mutations in the transcription factor–coding gene
SOX18
and in
VEGFR3
cause lymphedema, and the VEGFR3/Flt4 ligand VEGFC plays an evolutionarily conserved role in lymphangiogenesis. Here, we report a strong genetic interaction between Sox18 and VegfC in the early phases of lymphatic development in zebrafish. Knockdown of
sox18
selectively impaired lymphatic sprouting from the cardinal vein and resulted in defective lymphatic thoracic duct formation. Sox18 and the related protein Sox7 play redundant roles in arteriovenous differentiation. We used a novel transgenic line that enables inducible expression of a dominant-negative mutant form of mouse Sox18 protein. Our data led us to conclude that Sox18 is crucially involved in lymphangiogenesis after arteriovenous differentiation. Combined partial knockdown of
sox18
and
vegfc
, using subcritical doses of specific morpholinos, revealed a synergistic interaction in both venous and lymphatic sprouting from the cardinal vein and greatly impaired thoracic duct formation.

Conclusions—

This interaction suggests a previously unappreciated crosstalk between the growth factor and transcription factor pathways that regulate lymphangiogenesis in development and disease.
Nitroglycerine-Induced Vasodilation for Assessment of Vascular Function
Authors: Maruhashi Tatsuya , Soga Junko , Fujimura Noritaka , Idei Naomi , Mikami Shinsuke , Iwamoto Yumiko , Kajikawa Masato , Matsumoto Takeshi , Hidaka Takayuki , Kihara Yasuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Noma Kensuke , Nakashima Ayumu , Goto Chikara , Higashi Yukihito
Published: March 2013

Objective—

Nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation has been used as a control test for flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) to differentiate endothelium-dependent from endothelium-independent response when evaluating endothelial function in humans. Recently, nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation has also been reported to be impaired in patients with atherosclerosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation and cardiovascular risk factors.

Approach and Results—

We measured nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation and FMD in 436 subjects who underwent health examinations (mean age, 53±19 years; age range, 19–86 years), including patients with cardiovascular diseases. There was a significant relationship between nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation and FMD (
r
=0.42;
P
<0.001). Univariate regression analysis revealed that nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation correlated with age (
r
=−0.34;
P
<0.001), systolic blood pressure (
r
=−0.32;
P
<0.001), diastolic blood pressure (
r
=−0.24;
P
<0.001), heart rate (
r
=−0.21;
P
<0.001), glucose (
r
=−0.23;
P
<0.001), and smoking pack-year (
r
=−0.12;
P
=0.01), as well as Framingham risk score (
r
=−0.30;
P
<0.001). Nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation was significantly smaller in patients with cardiovascular disease than in both subjects with and without cardiovascular risk factors (10.5±5.6% versus 13.7±5.4% and 15.3±4.3%;
P
<0.001, respectively), whereas there was no significant difference in nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation between subjects with and without cardiovascular risk factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that male sex, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, baseline brachial artery diameter, and FMD were independent predictors of nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation.

Conclusions—

These findings suggest that nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation may be a marker of the grade of atherosclerosis. FMD should be interpreted as an index of vascular function reflecting both endothelium-dependent vasodilation and endothelium-independent vasodilation in subjects with impaired nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation.
Influence of Crossover on Mortality in a Randomized Study of Revascularization in Patients With Systolic Heart Failure and Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Doenst Torsten , Cleland John G.F. , Rouleau Jean L. , She Lilin , Wos Stanislaw , Ohman E. Magnus , Krzeminska-Pakula Maria , Airan Balram , Jones Robert H. , Siepe Matthias , Sopko George , Velazquez Eric J. , Racine Normand , Gullestad Lars , Filgueira Jose Luis , Lee Kerry L.
Published: March 2013

Background—

To assess the influence of therapy crossovers on treatment comparisons and mortality at 5 years in patients with ischemic heart disease and heart failure randomly assigned to medical therapy alone (MED) or to MED and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in the Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure (STICH) trial.

Methods and Results—

The influence of early crossover (within the first year after randomization) on 5-year mortality was assessed using time-dependent multivariable Cox models. CABG was performed in 65/602 patients (10.8%) assigned to MED, and 55/610 patients (9.0%) assigned to CABG received MED only. Common reasons for crossover from MED to CABG were progressive symptoms or acute decompensation. MED-assigned patients who underwent CABG had lower 5-year mortality than those who received MED only (25% vs 42%; hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.30–0.85;
P
=0.008).The main reason for crossover from CABG to MED was patient/family decision. Five patients did not undergo their assigned CABG within a year but died before receiving surgery without status change. They were deemed crossover to MED. The CABG-to-MED crossover population had higher 5-year mortality compared with those treated with CABG per-protocol (59% vs 33%; hazard ratio, 2.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.36–2.96;
P
<0.001). CABG was associated with lower mortality compared with MED in per-protocol and several time-dependent analyses (all
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

CABG reduced mortality in both the per-protocol and crossover STICH patient populations. Crossover from assigned therapy, therefore, diminished the impact of CABG on survival in STICH when analyzed by intention to treat.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00023595.
MicroRNA-144 Regulates Hepatic ATP Binding Cassette Transporter A1 and Plasma High-Density Lipoprotein After Activation of the Nuclear Receptor Farnesoid X Receptor
Authors: de Aguiar Vallim Thomas Q. , Tarling Elizabeth J. , Kim Tammy , Civelek Mete , Baldán Ángel , Esau Christine , Edwards Peter A.
Published: March 2013

Rationale:

The bile acid receptor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates many aspects of lipid metabolism by variouscomplex and incompletely understood molecular mechanisms. We set out to investigate the molecular mechanisms for FXR-dependent regulation of lipid and lipoprotein metabolism.

Objective:

To identify FXR-regulated microRNAs that were subsequently involved in regulating lipid metabolism.

Methods and Results:

ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is a major determinant of plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels. Here, we show that activation of the nuclear receptor FXR in vivo increases hepatic levels of miR-144, which in turn lowers hepatic ABCA1 and plasma HDL levels. We identified 2 complementary sequences to miR-144 in the 3′ untranslated region of ABCA1 mRNA that are necessary for miR-144–dependent regulation. Overexpression of miR-144 in vitro decreased both cellular ABCA1 protein and cholesterol efflux to lipid-poor apolipoprotein A-I protein, whereas overexpression in vivo reduced hepatic ABCA1 protein and plasma HDL-cholesterol. Conversely, silencing miR-144 in mice increased hepatic ABCA1 protein and HDL-cholesterol. In addition, we used tissue-specific FXR-deficient mice to show that induction of miR-144 and FXR-dependent hypolipidemia requires hepatic, but not intestinal, FXR. Finally, we identified functional FXR response elements upstream of the miR-144 locus, consistent with direct FXR regulation.

Conclusions:

We have identified a novel pathway involving FXR, miR-144, and ABCA1 that together regulate plasma HDL-cholesterol.
Metabolite Profiling Identifies a Branched Chain Amino Acid Signature in Acute Cardioembolic Stroke
Authors: Kimberly W. Taylor , Wang Yu , Pham Ly , Furie Karen L. , Gerszten Robert E.
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

There is limited information about changes in metabolism during acute ischemic stroke. The identification of changes in circulating plasma metabolites during cerebral infarction may provide insight into disease pathogenesis and identify novel biomarkers.

Methods—

We performed filament occlusion of the middle cerebral artery of Wistar rats and collected plasma and cerebrospinal fluid 2 hours after the onset of ischemia. Plasma samples from control and patients with acute stroke were also analyzed. All samples were examined using liquid chromatography followed by tandem mass spectrometry. Positively charged metabolites, including amino acids, nucleotides, and neurotransmitters, were quantified using electrospray ionization followed by scheduled multiple reaction monitoring.

Results—

The concentrations of several metabolites were altered in the setting of cerebral ischemia. We detected a reduction in the branched chain amino acids (valine, leucine, isoleucine) in rat plasma, rat cerebrospinal fluid, and human plasma compared with respective controls (16%, 23%, and 17%, respectively;
P
<0.01 for each). In patients, lower branched chain amino acids levels also correlated with poor neurological outcome (modified Rankin Scale, 0–2 versus 3–6;
P
=0.002).

Conclusions—

Branched chain amino acids are reduced in ischemic stroke, and the degree of reduction correlates with worse neurological outcome. Whether branched chain amino acids are in a causal pathway or are an epiphenomenon of ischemic stroke remains to be determined.
Method for Enhancing Real-World Use of a More Affected Arm in Chronic Stroke
Authors: Taub Edward , Uswatte Gitendra , Mark Victor W. , Morris David M. , Barman Joydip , Bowman Mary H. , Bryson Camille , Delgado Adriana , Bishop-McKay Staci
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

Constraint-induced movement therapy is a set of treatments for rehabilitating motor function after central nervous system damage. We assessed the roles of its 2 main components.

Methods—

A 2×2 factorial components analysis with random assignment was conducted. The 2 factors were type of training and presence/absence of a set of techniques to facilitate transfer of therapeutic gains from the laboratory to the life situation (Transfer Package; TP). Participants (N=40) were outpatients ≥1-year after stroke with hemiparesis. The different treatments, which in each case targeted the more affected arm, lasted 3.5 hours/d for 10 weekdays. Spontaneous use of the more affected arm in daily life and maximum motor capacity of that arm in the laboratory were assessed with the Motor Activity Log and the Wolf Motor Function Test, respectively.

Results—

Use of the TP, regardless of the type of training received, resulted in Motor Activity Log gains that were 2.4 times as large as the gains in its absence (
P
<0.01). These clinical results parallel previously reported effects of the TP on neuroplastic change. Both the TP and training by shaping enhanced gains on the Wolf Motor Function Test (
P
<0.05). The Motor Activity Log gains were retained without loss 1 year after treatment. An additional substudy (N=10) showed that a single component of the TP, weekly telephone contact with participants for 1 month after treatment, doubled Motor Activity Log scores at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions—

The TP is a method for enhancing both spontaneous use of a more affected arm after chronic stroke and its maximum motor capacity. Shaping enhances the latter.
Emergence of Optimal Decoding of Population Codes Through STDP
Authors: Habenschuss Stefan , Puhr Helmut , Maass Wolfgang
Published: March 2013

The brain faces the problem of inferring reliable hidden causes from large populations of noisy neurons, for example, the direction of a moving object from spikes in area MT. It is known that a theoretically optimal likelihood decoding could be carried out by simple linear readout neurons if weights of synaptic connections were set to certain values that depend on the tuning functions of sensory neurons. We show here that such theoretically optimal readout weights emerge autonomously through STDP in conjunction with lateral inhibition between readout neurons. In particular, we identify a class of optimal STDP learning rules with homeostatic plasticity, for which the autonomous emergence of optimal readouts can be explained on the basis of a rigorous learning theory. This theory shows that the network motif we consider approximates expectation-maximization for creating internal generative models for hidden causes of high-dimensional spike inputs. Notably, we find that this optimal functionality can be well approximated by a variety of STDP rules beyond those predicted by theory. Furthermore, we show that this learning process is very stable and automatically adjusts weights to changes in the number of readout neurons, the tuning functions of sensory neurons, and the statistics of external stimuli.
Efficient Sample Reuse in Policy Gradients with Parameter-Based Exploration
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Hachiya Hirotaka , Tangkaratt Voot , Morimoto Jun , Sugiyama Masashi
Published: March 2013

The policy gradient approach is a flexible and powerful reinforcement learning method particularly for problems with continuous actions such as robot control. A common challenge is how to reduce the variance of policy gradient estimates for reliable policy updates. In this letter, we combine the following three ideas and give a highly effective policy gradient method: (1) policy gradients with parameter-based exploration, a recently proposed policy search method with low variance of gradient estimates; (2) an importance sampling technique, which allows us to reuse previously gathered data in a consistent way; and (3) an optimal baseline, which minimizes the variance of gradient estimates with their unbiasedness being maintained. For the proposed method, we give a theoretical analysis of the variance of gradient estimates and show its usefulness through extensive experiments.
Cross-border Patients and Informed Choices on Treatment in English and French Law and the Patients’ Rights Directive
Authors: Taylor Simon
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Developments in European Union law have created rules favourable to cross-border patient movement. However, where national laws on patient rights differ, this may limit movement by creating confusion for patients and by reducing their confidence in seeking treatment abroad. This article examines the extent to which English and French law recognize a patient right to information regarding treatment. In light of the differences between the two systems concerning both the form and the content of the law, highlighted by recent developments in French law, the article then considers whether the Patients’ Rights Directive can provide a framework for coordination of national rules.
Sensitivity of Arctic Climate Variability to Mean State: Insights from the Cretaceous
Authors: Poulsen Christopher J. , Zhou Jing
Published: March 2013

This study investigates Arctic climate variability during a period of extreme warmth using the Community Climate System Model, version 3 (CCSM3) coupled ocean–atmosphere general circulation model. Four mid-Cretaceous simulations were completed with different CO2 levels (1, 10, and 16 times preindustrial levels with dynamic vegetation) and vegetation treatments (10 times with specified uniform bare ground). The magnitude and frequency of Arctic temperature variability is highly sensitive to the mean state and high-latitude upper-ocean static stability. As stability increases with a rise in CO2 levels from 1 to 10 times preindustrial levels, the frequency of temperature variability increases from decades (1x) to centuries (10x with bare ground) and longer (10x) and the peak-to-peak magnitude increases from ~1° (for 1x) to ~2°C (for 10x). In the 16x simulation with a highly stratified ocean, Arctic temperature variability is low with peak-to-peak magnitudes <0.5°C. Under low CO2, Arctic climate variability is tied to sensible heat release from the ocean during movement of the sea ice margin. In absence of substantial sea ice, variability is driven by mass transport and upper-ocean salinity advection into the Arctic. In both cases, destruction of low-level clouds acts as an important feedback on low-level warming. The authors also report a link between unforced Arctic climate variability and North Pacific meridional overturning with warming events leading intensification. These results suggest that the nature of Arctic climate variability was likely much different in past climates and is likely to be so in the future.
Contextual School Counseling
Authors: Slaten Christopher D. , Baskin Thomas W.
Published: March 2013

The current article provides a framework for training professional school counselors based on contextual school counseling (CSC). This framework includes a competency-based approach to training using the clusters identified by the Council of Counseling Psychology Training Programs (CCPTP) working group on master’s-level professional psychology training—professionalism, relational, science, application, and systems. Foundational competencies for school counselors are proposed under each cluster, and the differences between clinical mental health competencies and school counseling competencies are emphasized and discussed. The proposed framework is followed by implications for counseling psychologists and counselor educators who train school counselors, and include supervision of school counselors-in-training, curriculum needs for school counselors-in-training, practice for school counselors, and suggestions for related future research.
The evolution of Public Service Bargains of Australian senior public servants
Authors: Halligan John
Published: March 2013

The agreements between the Australian senior public service and the political executive have undergone several shifts during the reform era of the last thirty years. These have involved fundamental redefinitions of the role, responsibilities, identity and autonomy of the senior public servant.There has been a succession of challenges to the relationship focusing on the role and status of the public service on the one hand and the behaviour and resources of the political executive on the other. Over time the trend has been towards strengthening the political executive, but punctuated by debates about issues that slowed the rate of change and contained political pressures on the public service. This process has produced clarifications of central aspects of the relationship and a clearer articulation of the range of roles provided by departmental secretaries. The article examines the evolution of public service bargains centred on the changing roles of the secretaries of departments of state, and analyses the implications of the changing relationship for the role and functioning of the public service in governance and public policy.

Points for practitioners

The article addresses how the roles of departmental secretaries in Australia have varied in significance during the reform era. A new arrangement has now emerged which clearly articulates the roles and codifies them. One of the roles, stewardship, recognizes that secretaries have a part to play independently of ministers.
New Public Management, Public Service Bargains and the challenges of interdepartmental coordination: a comparative analysis of top civil servants in state administration
Authors: Hansen Morten Balle , Steen Trui , Jong Marsha de
Published: March 2013

In this article we are interested in how the coordinating role of top civil servants is related to the argument that country-level differences in the adoption of New Public Management significantly alter the Public Service Bargains of top civil servants and consequently their capacity to accomplish interdepartmental coordination. A managerial PSB limits top civil servants’ role in interdepartmental coordination, as their focus will be on achieving goals set for their specific departments, rather than for the central government as a collective. We test our argument with empirical insights from a comparative analysis of five countries: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. We find that our argument is only partly valid and discuss the theoretical and empirical implications of the analysis.

Points for practitioners

Alongside the introduction of New Public Management, the relationships between ministers and their top civil servants in state administration have evolved. At the same time, societal issues are getting more complex and demand a holistic, cross-sector approach. The concept of a managerial Public Service Bargain is used to analyze changes in top civil servants’ role and the impact of reforms on the capacity of top civil servants to accomplish interdepartmental coordination. Practitioners can learn more about the close link between challenges for interdepartmental coordination and changes in the role and functioning of top civil servants.
Finite element modeling of compression behavior of extruded polystyrene foam using X-ray tomography
Authors: Sadek E , Fouad NA
Published: March 2013

Extruded polystyrene rigid foams have attracted a great attention as a superior load-bearing thermal insulation material since their implementation in building construction. One of the most common application areas of this type of thermal insulation material is under raft foundations, where the foam normally undergoes high levels of compression loads. The purpose of this research is to determine how to simulate and optimize the structural response of extruded polystyrene under compression stresses. The optimization has been achieved through investigating the relation between the foam microstructure and the global mechanical properties. The foam was first examined using X-ray tomography imaging technique to acquire some morphological information about the microstructure. The obtained morphological data of extruded polystyrene boards were then utilized to develop microstructure-based finite element models based on the so-called idealized realistic Kelvin cell. The finite element simulation was accomplished with the help of the nanoindentation technology to explore the mechanical properties of the cell wall material. The finite element models were validated by comparisons between the simulated and the experimental results. It has been found that the mechanical properties of the foam in different loading directions can be adequately simulated using the approach of the idealized realistic Kelvin cell. With the help of these models, a parameter study was carried out. This study included the effect of cell size and cell anisotropy on the mechanical response of extruded polystyrene boards under compression stresses. Charts relating between the foam microstructure characteristics and the compression behavior were generated based on the parametric study.
Microwave foaming of starch-based materials (II) thermo-mechanical performance
Authors: Peng Xi , Song Jim , Nesbitt Alan , Day Richard
Published: March 2013

The thermo-mechanical performance of extruded wheat starch/flour containing different additives was examined via microwave-heated thermo-mechanical analysis. Additionally, the dielectric property of the wheat starch-based materials was also studied using a microwave calorimeter. It has been found that when glycerol or polyvinyl alcohol was used as single additive in wheat starch, a content limit existed and using the additives at a concentration higher than the limit will lead to deterioration of the material’s microwave foamability. A good initial thermal expansion is essential for a proper foaming of the wheat starch-based materials; however, high enough dielectric loss factor (ɛ″) is also required for the formation of foam structure under microwave radiation. Glass transition temperature ( Tg) for the extruded wheat starch materials was detected by microwave thermo-mechanical analysis at about 75–95°C when heated at 15°C/min; and for the foamable formulations, the foaming temperature ( Tf) is generally 10–20°C higher than the corresponding Tg. Impurities like proteins play important roles in the microwave foaming of extruded wheat flour. Overall, the extruded wheat flour with additives is more difficult to foam under microwave heating than the wheat starch extruded from the similar formulations.