bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial progenitor cells in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Brittan Mairi , Hoogenboom Mathilde M. , Padfield Gareth J. , Tura Olga , Fujisawa Takeshi , MacLay John D. , MacNee William , Mills Nicholas L.
Published: October 2013

The pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is not fully understood. The objective of this study was to compare circulating endothelial progenitor cells in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to age, sex, and cigarette smoking matched healthy controls. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( n = 37) and healthy controls ( n = 19) were matched by age, sex, and smoking status. Circulating hematopoietic progenitor cells (CD34+ or CD133+ mononuclear cells) and endothelial progenitor cells (CD34+KDR+ or CD34+CD133+KDR+ mononuclear cells) were quantified by flow cytometry. Endothelial cell-colony forming units from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were quantified in vitro and phenotypic analysis carried out using immunocytochemistry. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had more circulating mononuclear cells compared with controls (8.4 ± 0.6 vs. 5.9 ± 0.4 × 109 cells/l; P = 0.02). CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells were reduced as a proportion of mononuclear cells in patients compared with controls (0.99 ± 0.12 vs. 1.9 ± 0.12%; P = 0.02); however, there were no differences in the absolute number of CD34+, CD34+KDR+, or CD34+CD133+KDR+ cells ( P > 0.05 for all). Endothelial cell-colony forming units were increased in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared with controls (13.7 ± 5.2 vs. 2.7 ± 0.9 colonies; P = 0.048). In contrast to previous studies, the number of circulating progenitor cells was not reduced in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared with carefully matched controls. It seems unlikely that circulating endothelial progenitor cells or failure of angiogenesis plays a central role in the development of emphysema.
A cross-validation of near-infrared spectroscopy measurements of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity with phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Ryan Terence E. , Southern W. Michael , Reynolds Mary Ann , McCully Kevin K.
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study was to cross-validate measurements of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity made with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) measurements to those made with phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS). Sixteen young (age = 22.5 ± 3.0 yr), healthy individuals were tested with both31P-MRS and NIRS during a single testing session. The recovery rate of phosphocreatine was measured inside the bore of a 3-Tesla MRI scanner, after short-duration (∼10 s) plantar flexion exercise as an index of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. Using NIRS, the recovery rate of muscle oxygen consumption was also measured using repeated, transient arterial occlusions outside the MRI scanner, after short-duration (∼10 s) plantar flexion exercise as another index of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. The average recovery time constant was 31.5 ± 8.5 s for phosphocreatine and 31.5 ± 8.9 s for muscle oxygen consumption for all participants ( P = 0.709).31P-MRS time constants correlated well with NIRS time constants for both channel 1 (Pearson's r = 0.88, P < 0.0001) and channel 2 (Pearson's r = 0.95, P < 0.0001). Furthermore, both31P-MRS and NIRS exhibit good repeatability between trials (coefficient of variation = 8.1, 6.9, and 7.9% for NIRS channel 1, NIRS channel 2, and31P-MRS, respectively). The good agreement between NIRS and31P-MRS indexes of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity suggest that NIRS is a valid method for assessing mitochondrial function, and that direct comparisons between NIRS and31P-MRS measurements may be possible.
The PALB2 Gene Is a Strong Candidate for Clinical Testing in BRCA1- and BRCA2-Negative Hereditary Breast Cancer
Authors: Janatova Marketa , Kleibl Zdenek , Stribrna Jana , Panczak Ales , Vesela Kamila , Zimovjanova Martina , Kleiblova Petra , Dundr Pavel , Soukupova Jana , Pohlreich Petr
Published: October 2013

Background: Several reports indicate that inherited mutations in the PALB2 gene predispose to breast cancer. However, there is little agreement about the clinical relevance and usefulness of mutation screening in this gene. We analyzed the prevalence and spectrum of germline mutations in PALB2 to estimate their contribution to hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancer in the Czech Republic.

Methods: The entire PALB2 coding region was sequenced in 409 breast/ovarian cancer patients negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Testing for large genomic rearrangements (LGR) was performed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis.

Results: We have identified 13 different pathogenic alterations including 10 truncating mutations and three LGRs in 16 of 409 patients (3.9%), whereas one truncating mutation was found in a group of 1,226 controls (0.08%; P = 2.6 × 10−9). Three novel LGRs included deletions involving exons 7–8 and 9–10, respectively, and a duplication spanning exons 9–11. Five frameshift and two nonsense mutations were novel, whereas three truncating mutations were described previously. The only recurrent mutation was the c.172_175delTTGT detected in four unrelated breast cancer individuals.

Conclusions: Our analyses demonstrated the significant role of the PALB2 gene in breast cancer susceptibility. The highest frequency of PALB2 mutations (comparable with that previously reported for BRCA2) was found in a subgroup of patients with hereditary breast cancer (HBC) (13/235; 5.5%).

Impact: Our results show that mutation analysis of the PALB2 gene, including the analysis of LGRs, is primarily indicated in patients with HBC in case of their BRCA1 and BRCA2 negativity. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(12); 2323–32. ©2013 AACR.
Argon Plasma Coagulation of Gastric Inlet Patches for the Treatment of Globus Sensation: It Is an Effective Therapy in the Long Term
Authors: Klare P. , Meining A. , von Delius S. , Wolf P. , Konukiewitz B. , Schmid R.M. , Bajbouj M.
Published: October 2013

Aim: To determine the long-term effect of argon plasma coagulation (APC) of gastric inlet patches in the cervical esophagus for patients suffering from globus sensation. Methods: We intended to follow up all patients between 2004 and 2011 (n = 49) who received argon plasma ablation of gastric inlet patches for globus sensation at our clinic. Symptoms were assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS) in 31 of 49 patients. Follow-up endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract was performed to confirm residual or relapsed cervical inlet patches. Results: After a median period of 27 months, APC was assessed as a successful therapy in 23 of 31 patients (74%). VAS scores decreased significantly from 7.6 to 4.0 in the long term. Twenty-two of 31 patients were willing to undergo follow-up endoscopy. Endoscopy revealed recurrent/residual gastric inlet patches after APC in 11 of 22 cases. These patients suffered from a significant relapse of symptoms in the postinterventional period (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This retrospective study indicates that APC of gastric inlet patches for the treatment of globus sensation might be a sufficient therapy option. Recurrences or residual heterotopic gastric mucosa are possible and seem to be associated with a relapse of symptoms. Therefore, endoscopic follow-up and retreatment might be necessary if globus sensation is not sufficiently eliminated.
Benefits of Exercise Training during Hemodialysis Sessions: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mihaescu Adelina , Avram Claudiu , Bob Flaviu , Gaita Dan , Schiller Oana , Schiller Adalbert
Published: October 2013

Background: End-stage renal disease patients can be considered as ‘cardiovascular time bombs' due to their tremendous cardiovascular risk. Our study has determined the impact of 3 months of exercise training during dialysis on some of the cardiovascular risk factors (arterial stiffness, body composition and physical performance) in a chronic hemodialyzed population. Methods: The study group (n = 19) and control group (n = 16) of chronic hemodialysis patients from Timisoara, Romania, were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. The intervention - 40 min of exercise training (with non-fistula hand and both lower limbs) during each hemodialysis session for 3 months - was applied only to the study group. The measurements made before and after intervention were aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV), aortic augmentation index, return time and both central and peripheral blood pressure for arterial stiffness evaluation, using the Arteriograph Tensiomed system, body composition by multifrequency bioimpedance and physical performance (Myotest PRO system and hand dynamometer). Results: We found a significant 1-m/s reduction in PWV, a 12-second increase in return time and a 10-mm Hg reduction in both central and systolic blood pressure driven only by the exercise training. Exercise training significantly increased the skeletal muscle mass and the soft lean mass of the study group patients. Physical performance significantly improved in the study group jumping height by 1 cm, lower limbs explosive power by 3 W/kg and non-fistula hand strength prehension by 0.06 bar. Conclusions: Exercise training during dialysis has a positive effect on arterial stiffness, body composition and physical performance of chronic hemodialyzed patients.
Restoration of Severely Impaired Eyesight in an Adolescent with Down Syndrome and Bilateral Cataract in South Asia
Authors: Schönfeld Carl-Ludwig , Hennig Albrecht
Published: October 2013

Purpose: To report the recovery of visual function after phacoemulsification in a 16-year-old adolescent with Down syndrome (DS) from Saharsa, India. Methods: Interventional case report and short review of the pertinent literature. Results: A 16-year-old South Asian male with DS and bilateral cataract underwent successful surgery in both eyes after considerable difficulty for his parents including cross-border travel from India into Nepal. After the operation, the patient responded to visual stimuli (e.g. movement of hands) that had eluded him prior to surgery, and thus the additional obstacle to social participation imposed by the impaired eyesight could be removed. Conclusions: The establishment of basic ophthalmological surgery in developing countries is feasible and can yield extraordinary benefits for individual patients.
Role of IκB Kinase-β in the Growth-Promoting Effects of Angiotensin II In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Doyon Priscilla , van Zuylen Wendy J. , Servant Marc J.
Published: October 2013

Objective—

Angiotensin II (Ang II) is implicated in processes underlying the development of arterial wall remodeling events, including cellular hypertrophy and inflammation. We previously documented the activation of IκB kinase-β (IKKβ) in Ang II–treated cells, a kinase involved in inflammatory reactions. In light of a study suggesting a role of IKKβ in angiogenesis through its effect on the tuberous sclerosis (TSC)1/2–mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway in cancer cells, we hypothesized that targeting IKKβ could reduce arterial remodeling events by affecting both the inflammatory and the growth-promoting response of Ang II.

Approach and Results—

Treatment of aortic vascular smooth muscle cells with Ang II induced the rapid and sustained phosphorylation of TSC1 on Ser511, which paralleled the activation of effectors of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway. Furthermore, we show that Ser511 of TSC1 acted as a phosphoacceptor site for Ang II–activated IKKβ. Consistent with this, the use of different short hairpin RNA constructs targeting IKKβ reduced Ang II–induced TSC1, S6 kinase, and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E–binding protein 1 phosphorylation and the rate of protein synthesis. Overexpression of TSC1 lacking Ser511 in vascular smooth muscle cells also exerted detrimental effects on the hypertrophic effect of Ang II. Furthermore, the selective IKKβ inhibitor
N
-(6-chloro-7-methoxy-9H-β-carbolin-8-yl)-2 methylnicotinamide reduced the inflammatory response and dose-dependently diminished Ang II–induced TSC1 phosphorylation and effectors of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway, leading to inhibition of protein synthesis in vitro and in rat arteries in vivo.

Conclusions—

Our findings provide new insights into the molecular understanding of the pathological role of Ang II and assist in identifying the beneficial effects of IKKβ inhibition for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Prenatal Diagnosis, Birth Location, Surgical Center, and Neonatal Mortality in Infants With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Morris Shaine A. , Ethen Mary K. , Penny Daniel J. , Canfield Mark A. , Minard Charles G. , Fixler David E. , Nembhard Wendy N.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Most studies have not demonstrated improved survival after prenatal diagnosis of critical congenital heart disease, including hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). However, the effect of delivery near a cardiac surgical center (CSC), the recommended action after prenatal diagnosis, on HLHS mortality has been poorly investigated.

Methods and Results—

Using Texas Birth Defects Registry data, 1999 through 2007, which monitored >3.4 million births, we investigated the association between distance (calculated driving time) from birth center to CSC and neonatal mortality in 463 infants with HLHS. Infants with extracardiac birth defects or genetic disorders were excluded. The associations between prenatal diagnosis, CSC HLHS volume, and mortality were also examined. Neonatal mortality in infants born <10 minutes from a CSC was 21.0%, 10 to 90 minutes 25.2%, and >90 minutes 39.6% (
P
for trend <0.001). Prenatal diagnosis alone was not associated with improved survival (
P
=0.14). In multivariable analysis, birth >90 minutes from a CSC remained associated with increased mortality (odds ratio, 2.03; 95% confidence interval, 1.19–3.45), compared with <10 minutes. In subanalysis, birth >90 minutes from a CSC was associated with higher pretransport mortality (odds ratio, 6.69; 95% confidence interval, 2.52–17.74) and birth 10 to 90 minutes with higher presurgical mortality (odds ratio, 4.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–17.00). Higher surgical mortality was associated with lower CSC HLHS volume (odds ratio per 10 patients, 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.84–0.91).

Conclusions—

Infants with HLHS born far from a CSC have increased neonatal mortality, and most of this mortality is presurgical. Efforts to improve prenatal diagnosis of HLHS and subsequent delivery near a large volume CSC may significantly improve neonatal HLHS survival.
N2 Neutrophils, Novel Players in Brain Inflammation After Stroke
Authors: Cuartero María Isabel , Ballesteros Iván , Moraga Ana , Nombela Florentino , Vivancos José , Hamilton John A. , Corbí Ángel L. , Lizasoain Ignacio , Moro María A.
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—

Neutrophils have been traditionally recognized as major mediators of a deleterious inflammatory response in acute ischemic stroke, but their potential as a therapeutic target remains unexplored. Recent evidence indicates that neutrophils may acquire different phenotypes and contribute to resolution of inflammation through the release of anti-inflammatory mediators. Thus, similar to M2 macrophages, neutrophils have been proposed to shift toward an N2 phenotype, a polarization that is peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ dependent in macrophages. We hypothesize that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ activation with rosiglitazone induces changes in neutrophilic mobilization and phenotype that might influence stroke outcome.

Methods—

Brain sections and cell suspensions were prepared from mice exposed to permanent distal middle cerebral artery occlusion. Double immunostaining with stereological counting of brain sections and flow-cytometry analysis of brain cell suspensions were performed.

Results—

Rosiglitazone accelerated neutrophil infiltration to the ischemic core, concomitantly to neuroprotection. Some neutrophils (≈31%) expressed M2 markers, namely Ym1 and CD206 (mannose receptor). After treatment with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist rosiglitazone, most neutrophils (≈77%) acquired an N2 phenotype. Interestingly, rosiglitazone increased neutrophil engulfment by microglia/macrophages, a clearance that preferentially affected the N2 subset.

Conclusions—

We present the first evidence of neutrophil reprogramming toward an N2 phenotype in brain inflammation, which can be modulated by activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ nuclear receptor. We also show that N2 polarization is associated with an increased neutrophil clearance, thus suggesting that this switch is a crucial event for resolution of inflammation that may participate in neuroprotection.
Intracranial Stent Placement for Symptomatic Intracranial Stenosis as Part of a Clinical Trial Versus Outside a Clinical Trial
Authors: Siddiq Farhan , Adil Malik M. , Norby Kiersten , Qureshi Adnan I.
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—

A high rate of postprocedure complications in the Stenting versus Aggressive Medical Therapy for Intracranial Arterial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) trial has raised concerns whether such results are representative of intracranial stent placement in actual routine practice.

Methods—

Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2008 to 2010, patients with cerebral ischemic events treated with intracranial stent as part of a clinical trial or outside the trial were identified. The composite end point (postoperative stroke, cardiac complications, and mortality) was reported.

Results—

Of the 3447 patients who underwent intracranial stent placement, 223 patients (6.5%) were enrolled in a clinical trial. The rate of composite end point was higher in patients treated outside clinical trials compared with those treated within clinical trials (14.2% versus 4.5%;
P
=0.1). The proportion of patients discharged to home was higher in those treated in clinical trials (76.8% versus 49.6%;
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

Intracranial stent placement procedures outside a clinical trial have higher rates of postoperative stroke, cardiac complication, and mortality.
Does the Influence of Stroke on Dementia Vary by Different Levels of Prestroke Cognitive Functioning?
Authors: Dregan Alex , Wolfe Charles D.A. , Gulliford Martin C.
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—

The association between stroke and subsequent dementia or Alzheimer disease is well established. What is less understood is the extent to which this association is dependent on prestroke cognitive functioning. The study estimated the occurrence in poststroke dementia as a function of prestroke cognitive status and incident stroke.

Methods—

Study data were derived from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, a 10-year long prospective cohort study of older adults living in England. Baseline data (2002/2003) were used to group participants into tertiles of cognitive, memory, and executive functioning before an incident stroke. Data from 4 follow-up surveys were used to identify new stroke and poststroke dementia events.

Results—

The analyses were based on 10 809 participants aged ≥50 years at baseline. High prestroke executive functioning was associated with lower relative risk (RR) of dementia (RR, 0.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.13–0.45;
P
<0.001). Stroke was associated with increased RR of poststroke dementia (RR, 2.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.80–3.84;
P
<0.001). The association of stroke with poststroke dementia was greater for participants with higher prestroke executive functioning (interaction term RR, 4.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.35–14.63;
P
=0.014). For participants with higher executive functioning, the probability of dementia was 0.3% without stroke and 3.1% after stroke, compared with 1.9% and 5.2% for lower executive functioning.

Conclusions—

Stroke and prestroke cognition were independently associated with increased probability of poststroke dementia. Stroke results in disproportionate increase in the risk of dementia when premorbid cognitive functioning is high.
The embryonic development of the snapping shrimp, Alpheus angulosus McClure, 2002 (Decapoda, Caridea)
Authors: Tracey E. , Pereira A. , Hughes M. , Korey C. A.
Published: October 2013

Alpheus angulosus McClure, 2002 is one of several species of snapping shrimp that live along the east coast of the United States and belong to the edwardsii group of Alpheus. The genus Alpheus presents with bilateral asymmetry in their chelipeds, specifically a large snapper and a smaller pincer. This is an extreme example of the asymmetry found in many other crustaceans. A significant amount of work has been done on the adult behavior, physiology, and transformation/regeneration of the two claws, but less is known about the early development of the nervous system that underlies this asymmetry. The work reported here begins to establish an atlas of embryonic development in this species staged by using both eye index and percent development connected to yolk depletion during embryogenesis. This represents the first step toward a more comprehensive understanding of embryonic development that can be used to address future neuro-developmental questions regarding limb asymmetry and plasticity.
The effect of the bopyrid isopod Probopyrus pandalicola (Packard, 1879) (Isopoda, Bopyridae) on the survival time of the daggerblade grass shrimp Palaemonetes pugio Holthuis, 1949 (Decapoda, Palaemonidae) during starvation at two different temperatures
Authors: Sherman M. B. , Curran M. C.
Published: October 2013

The daggerblade grass shrimp Palaemonetes pugio Holthuis, 1949 is prevalent in estuaries along the East and Gulf coasts of the United States, and is an integral part of the estuarine food web. Probopyrus pandalicola (Packard, 1879) is a bopyrid isopod that parasitizes P. pugio and decreases the energy available to its host by feeding on the hemolymph of the shrimp. The parasite also causes female shrimp to be castrated. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Probopyrus pandalicola on the survival time of P. pugio during starvation at two different temperatures. The experiment was conducted between September 2009 and June 2012 at 20.0 ± 0.11°C and 25.0 ± 0.10°C. Three trials at each temperature were performed. For each trial, parasitized, deparasitized and unparasitized shrimp were randomly placed into individual aquaria in a temperature-controlled chamber. All trials lasted until 100% shrimp mortality occurred. The bopyrid isopod did have a significant effect on shrimp survival times, but only at the higher temperature during which parasitized shrimp survived a significantly shorter amount of time (21.8 ± 6.93 days) than unparasitized shrimp (25.2 ± 8.25 days). In contrast, the bopyrid did not have a significant effect on shrimp survival times at the lower temperature, with shrimp surviving an average of 26.9-27.5 days. The results of this study have implications related to potential climate change, specifically higher temperatures, as we found that a small increase in temperature significantly affected the response of P. pugio to the isopod parasite. This supports prior research on other host-parasite interactions that are affected by increased temperature.
Risk-taking Behaviour in South African Correctional Centres: A Case Study of the Leeuwkop Correctional Centre
Authors: Luyt Willem F.M. , Moshoeu Gomolemu M.
Published: October 2013

Risk-taking behaviour is a global phenomenon that shows increased presence in certain institutional circles. Various forms of risk-taking behaviours are deeply rooted in the South African correctional system and other branches of the criminal justice system. South Africa needs new approaches to deal with matters related to risk-taking behaviour in the criminal justice system (particularly inside correctional centres), for example, HIV infection, inmate rape and a growing problem concerning substance abuse. This investigation looks into risk-taking behaviour behind prison walls. The Leeuwkop correctional complex, a microcosm of the South African correctional system, was chosen for the investigation.
Possible Impacts of Climate Change on Wind Gusts under Downscaled Future Climate Conditions: Updated for Canada
Authors: Cheng Chad Shouquan , Lopes Edwina , Fu Chao , Huang Zhiyong
Published: October 2013

The methods used in earlier research focusing on the province of Ontario, Canada, were adapted for the current paper to expand the study area over the entire nation of Canada where various industries (e.g., transportation, agriculture, energy, and commerce) and infrastructure are at risk of being impacted by extreme wind gust events. The possible impacts of climate change on future wind gust events across Canada were assessed using a three-step process: 1) development and validation of hourly and daily wind gust simulation models, 2) statistical downscaling to derive future station-scale hourly wind speed data, and 3) projection of changes in the frequency of future wind gust events. The wind gust simulation models could capture the historically observed daily and hourly wind gust events. For example, the percentage of excellent and good validations for hourly wind gust events ≥90 km h−1 ranges from 62% to 85% across Canada; the corresponding percentage for wind gust events ≥40 km h−1 is about 90%. For future projection, the modeled results indicated that the frequencies of the wind gust events could increase late this century over Canada using the ensemble of the downscaled eight-GCM simulations [Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES) A2 and B1]. For example, the percentage increases in future daily wind gust events ≥70 km h−1 from the current condition could be 10%–20% in most of the regions across Canada; the corresponding increases in future hourly wind gust events ≥70 km h−1 are projected to be 20%–30%. In addition, the inter-GCM and interscenario uncertainties of future wind gust projections were quantitatively assessed.
Multidecadal Variability of North China Aridity and Its Relationship to PDO during 1900–2010
Authors: Qian Cheng , Zhou Tianjun
Published: October 2013

North China has undergone a severe drying trend since the 1950s, but whether this trend is natural variability or anthropogenic change remains unknown due to the short data length. This study extends the analysis of dry–wet changes in north China to 1900–2010 on the basis of self-calibrated Palmer drought severity index (PDSI) data. The ensemble empirical mode decomposition method is used to detect multidecadal variability. A transition from significant wetting to significant drying is detected around 1959/60. Approximately 70% of the drying trend during 1960–90 originates from 50–70-yr multidecadal variability related to Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) phase changes. The PDSI in north China is significantly negatively correlated with the PDO index, particularly at the 50–70-yr time scale, and is also stable during 1900–2010. Composite differences between two positive PDO phases (1922–45 and 1977–2002) and one negative PDO phase (1946–76) for summer exhibit an anomalous Pacific–Japan/East Asian–Pacific patternlike teleconnection, which may develop locally in response to the PDO-associated warm sea surface temperature anomalies in the tropical Indo-Pacific Ocean and meridionally extends from the tropical western Pacific to north China along the East Asian coast. North China is dominated by an anomalous high pressure system at mid–low levels and an anticyclone at 850 hPa, which are favorable for dry conditions. In addition, a weakened land–sea thermal contrast in East Asia from a negative to a positive PDO phase also plays a role in the dry conditions in north China by weakening the East Asian summer monsoon.
A Probabilistic View on Raindrop Size Distribution Modeling: A Physical Interpretation of Rain Microphysics
Authors: Tapiador Francisco J. , Haddad Ziad S. , Turk Joe
Published: October 2013

The raindrop size distribution (RDSD) is defined as the relative frequency of raindrops per given diameter in a volume. This paper describes a mathematically consistent modeling of the RDSD drawing on probability theory. It is shown that this approach is simpler than the use of empirical fits and that it provides a more consistent procedure to estimate the rainfall rate (R) from reflectivity (Z) measurements without resorting to statistical regressions between both parameters. If the gamma distribution form is selected, the modeling expresses the integral parameters Z and R in terms of only the total number of drops per volume (NT), the sample mean [m = E(D)], and the sample variance [σ2 = E(m − D)2] of the drop diameters (D) or, alternatively, in terms of NT, E(D), and E[log(D)]. Statistical analyses indicate that (NT, m) are independent, as are (NT, σ2). The Z–R relationship that arises from this model is a linear R = T × Z expression (or Z = T−1R), with T a factor depending on m and σ2 only and thus independent of NT. The Z–R so described is instantaneous, in contrast with the operational calculation of the RDSD in radar meteorology, where the Z–R arises from a regression line over a usually large number of measurements. The probabilistic approach eliminates the need of intercept parameters N0 or , which are often used in statistical approaches but lack physical meaning. The modeling presented here preserves a well-defined and consistent set of units across all the equations, also taking into account the effects of RDSD truncation. It is also shown that the rain microphysical processes such as coalescence, breakup, or evaporation can then be easily described in terms of two parameters—the sample mean and the sample variance—and that each of those processes have a straightforward translation in changes of the instantaneous Z–R relationship.
Parent Perspectives on the Design of a Personal Online Pediatric Immunization Record
Authors: Kitayama Ken , Stockwell Melissa S. , Vawdrey David K. , Peña Oscar , Catallozzi Marina
Published: October 2013

Objective. To examine desired characteristics of an online immunization record for parents from a predominantly Latino, low-income population. Methods. Four focus groups were conducted with parents (n = 29) from an urban, primarily Latino, low-income population in New York. The data were collected and analyzed during winter 2008-2009. Results. Participants expressed interest in using an online immunization record that has the ability to show a child’s immunization status and to access consumer health information related to vaccinations. Participants suggested that the online record be translated into multiple languages and provide user-friendly interfaces. Participants were enthusiastic about the benefits offered by the online immunization record, highlighting having an electronic copy of their child’s immunization record available. Concerns over disclosing personal information were raised, and safeguards to protect confidentiality were requested. Conclusions. If concerns about privacy are adequately addressed, parents of low-income, urban children are likely to use and benefit from an online immunization record.
School and Behavioral Outcomes Among Inner City Children
Authors: Kim Seijeoung , Mazza Jessica , Zwanziger Jack , Henry David
Published: October 2013

Educational achievement is a key determinant of future life chances, but children growing up in poverty tend to do worse by many academic measures. Family, school, and neighborhood contextual characteristics may affect academic outcomes. In an attempt to explore neighborhood and individual-level factors, we performed multilevel analyses to explain child’s behavioral problems, repeat grade, average math, and reading scores. Outcome measures were associated with specific neighborhood characteristics, above and beyond the effect of student-/family-level factors. The findings warrant further consideration of ecological interventions aiming to improve academic and behavioral outcomes of children living in poverty.
Intramedullary cervical abscess in the setting of aortic valve endocarditis
Authors: Arnáiz-García María Elena , González-Santos Jose María , López-Rodriguez Javier , Dalmau-Sorli María José , Bueno-Codoñer María , Arévalo-Abascal Adolfo
Published: October 2013

Spinal cord tissue has a remarkable resistance to infection. An intramedullary abscess is an exceptional complication of infective endocarditis in the post-antibiotic era. We describe the case of a 42-year-old man who presented with fever and cephalea. Two days later, left-side numbness, lack of sphincter control, and a new aortic murmur were noticed. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an 8 ×15-mm intramedullary cervical abscess. Transesophageal echocardiography revealed an aortic valve perforation as a result of infective endocarditis. Conservative management was decided for the intramedullary abscess.
The usefulness of the oblique coronal plane in knee MRI on the evaluation of the posterior cruciate ligament
Authors: Park Hee-Jin , Lee So-Yeon , Chung Eun-Chul , Rho Myung-Ho , Ahn Jin Hwan , Kim Mi-Sung , Park Ji-Yeon , Lee Eun-Ja
Published: October 2013

Background

Imaging findings of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury may be equivocal, particularly when the patient has suffered a partial ligament tear. Some PCLs are positioned more horizontally, making it difficult to diagnose injury based on routine imaging planes alone due to partial volume artifact.

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of combining oblique coronal imaging (PCL view) with traditional orthogonal views for PCL evaluation.

Material and Methods

This retrospective study included 20 patients with PCL injury and 43 patients with intact PCL who underwent PCL view imaging. Anatomic identification of PCL pathology on the orthogonal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences and PCL views was evaluated. Subjective scoring of the PCL was performed by two radiologists who assessed the possibility of a PCL tear based on an entire length view, an entire width view, and margin sharpness according to a 4-point scale. Diagnostic accuracy using these two views was evaluated by calculating the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Arthroscopic and clinical findings were used as the reference standard.

Results

Total scores for the PCL view were higher than those of orthogonal views ( P < 0.001). Both readers found that anatomic identification using the full width view and sharp margin to be superior using the PCL view compared with the orthogonal views ( P < 0.001). The specificities and accuracies were higher in cases where an additional PCL view was provided, but did not show statistical significance.

Conclusion

PCL view provides better anatomic evaluation of the PCL and mild improvement in the specificity and accuracy.
A Study in Africana Existential Ontology: Rum as a Metaphor of Existence
Authors: Headley Clevis
Published: October 2013

This paper investigates the idea of rum as an ontology of life. More specifically, it explores the rum as metaphor in the context of Africana existential ontology. Here it is argued that rum drinking can serve as the basis for understanding and conceptualizing certain basic structures of human existence in the Caribbean mode of existence. In pursuing these tasks, ontology is not construed as the study of the kinds of entities that exist; rather, ontology is given an existential twist in the sense of focusing on patterns of human existence, as well as practices that are indicative of human creative agency.
Everyone’s Talking About It, But Does It Work? Nursing Home Diversion and Transition
Authors: Bardo Anthony R. , Applebaum Robert A. , Kunkel Suzanne R. , Carpio Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2013

In response to increasing Medicaid expenditures and consumer preferences, states are reforming their long-term care systems to provide more community-based services. One popular reform is renewed efforts to prevent unnecessary long-term nursing home placement (diversion) and to provide nursing home residents an opportunity to return to the community (transition). Nearly 3,800 individuals, 60 years old and older, participated in Ohio’s statewide nursing home diversion and transition initiative between March 2010 and May 2011. This research tracked outcomes for consumers and evaluated the implementation of the new program. Nearly 80% of diversion and transition participants who were still living at the time of their 6-month follow-up were residing in the community. An agency-level process analysis revealed innovative intervention strategies, promising practices, and barriers. Process results found that Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) have become more proactive in working with high-risk individuals, with agencies identifying new at-risk consumers through hospital and nursing home interventions.
Career Development for College Students With Asperger’s Syndrome
Authors: Mynatt Blair Sumner , Gibbons Melinda M. , Hughes Amber
Published: October 2013

An increasing number of students with Asperger’s syndrome are entering college today. Students with Asperger’s syndrome face complex symptomology such as difficulty with social skills, narrowed interests, sensory issues, and lack of self-awareness that may affect their ability to complete college and successfully enter the workforce. Career counselors could apply social cognitive career theory as an effective intervention when working with college students diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. A case illustration is presented as an example.
Fault-tolerant control of uncertain Stewart platform under loss of actuator effectiveness
Authors: Meng Qiang , Zhang Tao , He Jing-feng , Song Jing-yan , Yuan Chun-yang
Published: October 2013

A novel fault-tolerant control scheme is proposed for the uncertain Stewart platform under loss of actuator effectiveness. The uncertain friction, parameter estimated errors, unmodeled dynamics, and even the unknown actuator faults are analyzed in the controller design, which are open problems in the uncertain nonlinear system control theory and have not been well treated yet. The control torque is computed by the model-based control theory, and subsequently be renewed by compensating the influences of the uncertainties and disturbances based on time delay control scheme. Finally, the novel fault-tolerant controller is derived to extremely reduce the conservativeness and enhance the tracking accuracy. Numerical simulations in the fault-free and faulty conditions are both analyzed to verify the advantages of the proposed control scheme comparing with the model-based controller. Moreover, the proposed control theory can be employed in other parallel robots with a few modifications.
A comparison between multiproxy and historical data (ad 1990–1840) of drift ice conditions on the East Greenland Shelf (~66°N)
Authors: Alonso-García Montserrat , Andrews John T , Belt Simon T , Cabedo-Sanz Patricia , Darby Dennis , Jaeger John
Published: October 2013

The reduction in sea ice along the SE Greenland coast during the last century has severely impacted ice-rafting to this area. In order to reconstruct ice-rafting and oceanographic conditions in the area of Denmark Strait during the last ~150 years, we conducted a multiproxy study on three short (20 cm) sediment cores from outer Kangerdlugssuaq Trough (~300 m water depth). The proxy-based data obtained have been compared with historical and instrumental data to gain a better understanding of the ice sheet–ocean interactions in the area. A robust chronology has been developed based on 210Pb and 137Cs measurements on core PO175GKC#9 (~66.2°N, 32°W) and expanded to the two adjacent cores based on correlations between calcite weight percent records. Our proxy records include sea-ice and phytoplankton biomarkers, and a variety of mineralogical determinations based on the <2 mm sediment fraction, including identification with quantitative x-ray diffraction, ice-rafted debris counts on the 63–150 µm sand fraction, and source identifications based on the composition of Fe oxides in the 45–250 µm fraction. A multivariate statistical analysis indicated significant correlations between our proxy records and historical data, especially with the mean annual temperature data from Stykkishólmur (Iceland) and the storis index (historical observations of sea-ice export via the East Greenland Current). In particular, the biological proxies (calcite weight percent, IP25, and total organic carbon %) showed significant linkage with the storis index. Our records show two distinct intervals in the recent history of the SE Greenland coast. The first of these (ad 1850–1910) shows predominantly perennial sea-ice conditions in the area, while the second (ad 1910–1990) shows more seasonally open water conditions.
Rituximab in systemic lupus erythematosus: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Duxbury B , Combescure C , Chizzolini C
Published: October 2013

The wide spectrum of clinical manifestations and high relapse rate represent a therapeutic challenge in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Observational studies suggested efficacy of rituximab (RTX), a B-cell-targeting antibody, to control the activity of SLE. Two randomized trials controlled by placebo did not prove the superiority of RTX when used in addition to conventional treatment in nonrenal (EXPLORER) and renal (LUNAR) lupus.

A systematic review of studies exploring the efficacy of RTX in SLE patients was conducted. The pooled percentages of response were assessed.

Thirty studies with 1243 patients were analyzed. In studies using the British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG), the complete response (CR) rate was 46.7% (95% CI 36.8%–56.8%) and the partial response (PR) was 37.9% (95% CI 30.6%–45.8%). With the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), the CR was 56.6% (95% CI 32.4%–78.1%) and the PR was 30.9% (95% CI 8.9%–46%). In renal lupus the CR was 36.1% (95% CI 25.2%–48.6%); PR was 37.4% (95% CI 28.5%–47.3%). In EXPLORER, CR was 12.4% and PR was 17.2%; in LUNAR CR was 26.4% and PR was 30.6%, in both cases not different from controls.

Assessment and standardization of SLE response to treatment remain a challenge. The discrepancy in the perceived efficacy of RTX between controlled and observational studies reflects the heterogeneity of lupus and stringency in criteria of response. Further randomized trials focusing on selected SLE manifestations and using composite response indices are warranted.
Reconsidering the “Palin Effect” in the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election
Authors: Burmila Edward M. , Ryan Josh M.
Published: October 2013

“The ‘Palin Effect’ in the U.S. 2008 Presidential Election” analyzes the effect of Sarah Palin on presidential vote choice. Two of the substantive conclusions are (1) Palin cost McCain votes among independents and moderates, and (2) Palin had the largest effect on vote choice of any recent vice-presidential nominee. Our analysis shows that the data do not support these findings. We find that respondent evaluations of Palin have a positive effect on McCain vote choice, even among independents and moderates, and Palin’s effect on the election outcome is comparable with ten of the last fifteen vice-presidential nominees.
Drawing the Line
Authors: Rivas Carol , Kelly Moira , Feder Gene
Published: October 2013

This study explores how African, Caribbean and White British women worked to hide psychological partner abuse as they experienced it, “do gender,” and appear competent in social roles. They prioritized negotiated competencies as “good partners,” actively setting socially and culturally embedded boundaries to their abuser’s behaviors: an inner boundary encompassing normal behaviors and an outer one of “acceptable” behaviors projected as normal through remedial work. Behaviors breaching the outer boundary (e.g., if the women narrowed the bounds of the “acceptable”) compromised the women’s competence. This sometimes led them to actively use support services. Appropriate advice and support may change the boundaries.
Green Innovation and Financial Performance
Authors: Aguilera-Caracuel Javier , Ortiz-de-Mandojana Natalia
Published: October 2013

Green innovation incorporates technological improvements that save energy, prevent pollution, or enable waste recycling and can include green product design and corporate environmental management. This type of innovation also contributes to business sustainability because it potentially has a positive effect on a firm’s financial, social, and environmental outcomes. However, the specific effect of green innovation on these outcomes can be highly influenced by the national context in which firms develop their activities. Using an institutional approach and employing a sample of 88 green innovative firms and 70 matched pairs (green innovative and non–green innovative firms), we find that green innovative firms are situated in contexts characterized by more stringent environmental regulations and higher environmental normative levels.Nevertheless, when compared to non–green innovative firms, we observe that green innovative firms do not experience improved financial performance. In focusing on green innovative firms, we note that the intensity of green innovation is positively related to firm profitability. Finally, we study whether national institutional conditions (stringency of environmental regulations and normative levels) impose a moderating effect on the relationship between green innovation intensity and the financial performance improvement of innovative firms. Our results show that regulatory and normative dimensions do not have the same influence on that relationship, creating implications for academia, managers, and policy makers.
Performance evaluation of ultra-large-scale first-principles electronic structure calculation code on the K computer
Authors: Hasegawa Yukihiro , Iwata Jun-Ichi , Tsuji Miwako , Takahashi Daisuke , Oshiyama Atsushi , Minami Kazuo , Boku Taisuke , Inoue Hikaru , Kitazawa Yoshito , Miyoshi Ikuo , Yokokawa Mitsuo
Published: October 2013

Silicon nanowires are potentially useful in next-generation field-effect transistors, and it is important to clarify the electron states of silicon nanowires to know the behavior of new devices. Computer simulations are promising tools for calculating electron states. Real-space density functional theory (RSDFT) code performs first-principles electronic structure calculations. To obtain higher performance, we applied various optimization techniques to the code: multi-level parallelization, load balance management, sub-mesh/torus allocation, and a message-passing interface library tuned for the K computer. We measured and evaluated the performance of the modified RSDFT code on the K computer. A 5.48 petaflops (PFLOPS) sustained performance was measured for an iteration of a self-consistent field calculation for a 107,292-atom Si nanowire simulation using 82,944 compute nodes, which is 51.67% of the K computer’s peak performance of 10.62 PFLOPS. This scale of simulation enables analysis of the behavior of a silicon nanowire with a diameter of 10–20 nm.
Figuring identity: Media licensing and the racialization of LEGO bodies
Authors: Johnson Derek
Published: October 2013

Bridging critical race studies with inquiries into media licensing and industrial cultures of production, this research examines the ubiquitous LEGO minifigure as a significant site of identity and power in the construction of both corporate brands and raced bodies. From analysis of the minifigures themselves, as well as press releases, interviews, and other managed corporate disclosures, media licensing can be understood as shaping racialized practices of representation while also acting discursively to imagine that racialization as the work of an industrial ‘other’. This affords LEGO a claim to a ‘pre-racial’ corporate identity that can disavow the politics of bodily representation.