bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper Removal from Aqueous Media Using a Cylindrical Flow Electrochemical Reactor
Authors: Carreon-Alvarez Alejandra , Rodriguez-Arreola Alicia , Guitrón-Robles Ofelia , Gomez-Salazar Sergio , Barcena Soto Maximiliano , Casillas Santana Norberto
Published: December 2009

The construction and application of an electrochemical cylindrical flow reactor packed with copper wires, was used to eliminate Cu2+ ions from dilute aqueous CuSO4 solutions. The cathode of reactor was constructed with a series copper wire cylindrical hanks, piled up one on top of the other. The anode consisted of a graphite road electrode surrounded with a drilled PVC tube wrapped with Celgard® that serves to separate both the cathode and anode electrodes. Current and potential are supplied by an external power source. Results for Cu2+ ion concentration profile for dilute aqueous solutions applying an 8 V potential and a 0.17 cm3/s flow are reported. Copper removal efficiency ranges from 35 to 70% for all the samples examined. The experimental concentration profile fits an exponential decay along the axial reactor coordinate, in agreement with the theory for porous tubular flow reactors. A decrease in both solution conductivity and pH due to the reduction of copper ion concentration and water oxidation was observed.
Effect of pH on the Formation of Poly Fe (III)-5-amino 1, 10 Phenanthroline
Authors: Lozano Maria Luisa C. , Galicia Luis Laura
Published: December 2009

In this work, the results related to the electrochemical behavior of the Fe (III)-5-Amino 1,10 phenanthroline system (Fe(III)-5-Aphen) are presented. The electropolymerization process of this chemical species was studied onto a carbon paste electrode (CPE), as a function of pH's values inside the 0.3 - 6.2 interval. The cyclic voltammetry technique was used to form and determine the incorporation of the Fe (III) ion into the polymer matrix. It was observed that Fe(III) was incorporated into de polymer matrix in the 2.5 < pH > 6.0 interval. At pH < 2.5, only the characteristic electrochemical signals of the 5-Aphen ligand were observed. These results are in good agreement with the spectrophotometric study of the Fe (III)-5-Aphen complex in aqueous solution. In these experiments, it was found that the metal complex is stable at pH > 2.5 and poly Fe (III)-5-Aphen films are obtained.
Nickel Removal from Rinse Waters Generated by Electroplating Industry Using a Rotating Cylinder Electrode (RCE) Reactor
Authors: Tesillo Martín , Alonso Samuel , Rivera Fernando F. , Rivero Eligio P. , Gonzales Ignacio
Published: December 2009

This work shows the application of a rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) in the removal of Ni(II) content from an industrial effluent. The study was initially performed in model solution [Ni(II)]=1200 ppm = 0.02M. The model solution was prepared according to the physicochemical properties determined from rinse water from the electrolytic nickel process generated by a plastics chromium-plating industry. The operational conditions were determined from microelectrolysis (stainless steel 316L, RDE) characterization of this model solution. The recovery of Ni(0) in the RCE (SS 316L) was achieved at speed rotations within 300 {less than or equal to} w {less than or equal to} 900 rpm interval, at - 1.4 V vs. SSE under potentiostatic control with and without pH control. The removal of Ni(II) (initially 1200 ppm) reached 20 ppm in 60 minutes of electrolysis for ωw= 300 rpm with pH control, 94.5% current efficiency, and energy consumption of 2.11 KWh m-3.
Analysis of Michelson Optical Interferometry Using Recurrence Plots During Corrosion of Aluminium in NaCl Solution
Authors: Mayorga-Cruz Darwin , Sarmiento-Martinez Oscar , Menchaca Campos Carmina , Uruchurtu Jorge
Published: December 2009

This work presents the assessment of the dynamics of electrochemical corrosion of pure aluminium through Michelsońs optical interferometry measurements. These data were analysed using a new analysis method named Recurrence Plots (RP) analysis. This method allows the assessment of the dynamics of the pitting corrosion process of aluminium in chloride solution at room temperature. After electrochemical potentiodynamic polarization curve characterizing the system corrosion regions was obtained, interferograms for these different regions (potentials) under potentiostatic control were obtained, and digitally transformed. The analysis of these optical variable-time series was conducted using a recurrence plot (RP) and quantification analysis (RQA). From the analysis it was possible to determine the percent recurrence (%R), the percent determinism (%D) and the information Entropy of the aluminium corrosion process for different electrochemical potentials. These parameters increased with the polarization potential defining the different corrosion conditions of the metal sample from the active, passive pre-pitting and pitting regions within the polarization curve. From the interferometric measurements and RP analysis, it was possible to identify the different corrosion conditions and establish that pitting corrosion induced a more deterministic dynamics on the electrochemical process.
Synthesis of Hydroxyl-Rich Anatase Nanocrystallites, Their Characterization and Performance as Photoanode in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Demopoulos George P. , Charbonneau C , Lee Keeeun , Shan Guobin , Gomez Mario A. , Gauvin R
Published: December 2009

In this work an environmentally-friendly aqueous solution process was elaborated to produce hydroxyl-rich anatase nanocrystallites of very large surface area. The aqueous-synthesized nanocrystalline anatase material was shown to have favorable physical properties (e.g. 160-280 m2/g specific surface area, 5~8 nm crystallite size, high concentration of OH surface groups) for fabricating photoanodes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The fabrication process involved paste preparation, "double-layer" screen printing, annealing and sensitization with the N719 dye [cis - (2,2'- bipyridyl - 4,4'- dicarboxylate)2 (NCS)2 ruthenium(II)]. Photocurrent -voltage measurements of DSSCs based on the aqueous-synthesized titania showed higher photocurrent and conversion efficiency when compared to cells built from commercial benchmark nanotitania materials. The enhanced performance of the aqueous titania-based DSSC is discussed on the basis of extensive characterization work that included XRD, TEM, UV-Vis and Raman/ATR-FTIR spectroscopy.
Human solCD39 inhibits injury-induced development of neointimal hyperplasia
Authors: Kraemer Rosemary , Shen Hao , Upmacis Rita , Marcus Aaron , Musi Elgilda , Drosopoulos Joan
Published: December 2009

Blood platelets provide the initial response to vascular endothelial injury, becoming activated as they adhere to the injured site. Activated platelets recruit leukocytes, and initiate proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) within the injured vessel wall, leading to development of neointimal hyperplasia. Endothelial CD39/NTPDase1 and recombinant solCD39 rapidly metabolise nucleotides, including stimulatory ADP released from activated platelets, thereby suppressing additional platelet reactivity. Using a murine model of vascular endothelial injury, we investigated whether circulating human solCD39 could reduce platelet activation and accumulation, thus abating leukocyte infiltration and neointimal formation following vascular damage. Intraperitoneally-administered solCD39 ADP -ase activity in plasma peaked 1 hour (h) post-injection, with an elimination half-life of 43 h. Accordingly, mice were administered solCD39 or saline 1 h prior to vessel injury, then either sacrificed 24 h post-injury or treated with solCD39 or saline (three times weekly) for an additional 18 days. Twenty-four hours post-injury, solCD39-treated mice displayed a reduction in platelet activation and recruitment, P-selectin expression, and leukocyte accumulation in the arterial lumen. Furthermore, repeated administration of solCD39 modulated the late stage of vascular injury by suppressing leukocyte deposition, macrophage infiltration and smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation/migration, resulting in abrogation of neointimal thickening. In contrast, injured femoral arteries of saline-injected mice exhibited massive platelet thrombus formation, marked P-selectin expression, and leukocyte infiltration. Pronounced neointimal growth with macrophage and SMC accretion was also observed (intimal-to-medial area ratio 1.56 ± 0.34 at 19 days). Thus, systemic administration of solCD39 profoundly affects injury-induced cellular responses, minimising platelet deposition and leukocyte recruitment, and suppressing neointimal hyperplasia.
Frequency, demographics and risk (according to tumour type or site) of cancer-associated thrombosis among patients seen at outpatient DVT clinics
Authors: Paneesha Shankaranarayana , McManus Aidan , Arya Roopen , Scriven Nicholas , Farren Timothy , Nokes Tim , Bacon Sue , Nieland Anthea , Cooper Derek , Smith Harry , O‘Shaughnessy Denise , Rose Peter ,   for the VERITY Investigators
Published: December 2009

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a clinically important complication for both hospitalised and ambulatory cancer patients. In the current study, the frequency, demographics and risk (according to tumour site) of VTE were examined among patients seen at outpatient DVT (deep-vein thrombosis) clinics. Of 10,015 VTE cases, 1,361 were diagnosed with cancer, for an overall rate of cancer-associated VTE of 13.6% in this outpatient population. Patients with cancer-associated VTE were significantly older than cancer-free VTE cases (66.4 ± 12.7 vs. 58.8 ± 18.5 years; p<0.0001). The frequency of cancer-associated VTE peaked earlier among females than males, occurring in the sixth (137/639, 21.4% vs. 98/851, 11.3%; p<0.001) and seventh decades (213/980, 21.7% vs. 197/1096, 18%; p=0.036). VTE was described most frequently in common cancers – breast, prostate, colorectal and lung (56.1% of cases). The risk of VTE varied widely across 17 cancer types. Calculating odds ratios (OR) to assess the effect size of cancer type on VTE risk, the highest odds were observed for patients with pancreatic cancer (OR 9.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] (5.51–16.91). Tumours of the head and neck had higher odds than previously reported (OR 8.24, 95% CI 5.06–13.42). Reduced risk estimates were observed for skin cancers (melanoma and non-melanoma: OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.42–1.87; OR 0.74, 95% CI, 0.32–1.69, respectively). We conclude that outpatients have a similar rate of cancer-associated VTE as VTE patient populations previously reported, that cancer-associated VTE occurs in an older age group and earlier in females and that outpatients exhibit distinct tumour site-specific risk from that described among hospitalised cancer patients.
Proteolytic resistance conferred to fibrinogen by von Willebrand factor
Authors: Tanka-Salamon Anna , Machovich Raymund , Komorowicz Erzsebet , Kolev Krasimir
Published: December 2009

The formation of platelet-rich thrombi under high shear rates requires both fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor (VWF) as molecular adhesives between platelets. We attempted to describe the role of VWF as a potential substrate and modulator of the fibrinolytic system using binding assays, as well as kinetic measurements on the cleavage of fibrin(ogen) and a synthetic plasmin substrate (Spectrozyme-PL). The similar dissociation constants for the binding of plasminogen, plasmin, and active site-blocked plasmin onto immobilised VWF suggest that the primary binding site in plasmin(ogen) is not the active site. The progressive loss of clottability and generation of degradation products during fibrinogen digestion with plasmin were delayed in the presence of VWF at physiological concentrations, while VWF cleavage was not detectable. Determination of kinetic parameters for fibrinogen degradation by plasmin, miniplasmin and microplasmin showed that VWF did not modify the Km, whereas kcat values decreased with increasing VWF concentrations following the kinetic model of non-competitive inhibition. Inhibitory constants calculated for VWF were in the range of its physiological plasma concentration (5.4 μg/ml, 5.7 μg/ml and 10.0 μg/ ml for plasmin, miniplasmin and microplasmin, respectively) and their values suggested a modulating role of the kringle 5 domain in the interaction between VWF and (mini)plasmin. VWF had no effect on the amidolytic activity of plasmin on Spectrozyme-PL, or on fibrin dissolution by (mini)plasmin. Our data suggest that VWF, while a poor plasmin substrate relative to fibrinogen, protects fibrinogen against degradation by plasmin preserving its clottability in plasma and its adhesive role in platelet-rich thrombi.
Toll-like receptor 2 stimulation of platelets is mediated by purinergic P2X1-dependent Ca2+ mobilisation, cyclooxygenase and purinergic P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptor activation
Authors: Skoglund Caroline , Helldahl Christian , Lerm Maria , Grenegård Magnus , Bengtsson Torbjörn , Kälvegren Hanna
Published: December 2009

Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), which recognise and respond to conserved microbial pathogen-associated molecular patterns, is expressed on the platelet surface. Furthermore, it has recently been shown that the TLR2/1 agonist Pam3CSK4 stimulates platelet activation. The aim of the present study was to clarify important signalling events in Pam3CSK4-induced platelet aggregation and secretion. Platelet interaction with Pam3CSK4 and the TLR2/6 agonist MALP-2 was studied by analysing aggregation, ATP-secretion, [Ca2+]i mobilisation and thromboxane B2 (TxB2) production. The results show that Pam3CSK4 but not MALP-2 induces [Ca2+]i increase, TxB2 production, dense granule secretion and platelet aggregation. Preincubation of platelets with MALP-2 inhibited the Pam3CSK4-induced responses. The ATP-secretion and aggregation in Pam3CSK4-stimulated platelets was impeded by the purinergic P2X1 inhibitor MRS 2159, the purinergic P2Y1 and P2Y12 antagonists MRS 2179 and cangrelor, the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, the calcium chelator BAPT-AM and aspirin. The calcium mobilisation was lowered by MRS 2159, aspirin and U73122 whereas the TxB2 production was antagonised by MRS 2159, aspirin and BAPT-AM. When investigating the involvement of the myeloid differentiation factor-88 (MyD88) -dependent pathway, we found that platelets express MyD88 and interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK-1), which are proteins important in TLR signalling. However, Pam3CSK4 did not stimulate a rapid (within 10 minutes) phosphorylation of IRAK-1 in platelets. In conclusion, the results show that Pam3CSK4-induced platelet aggregation and secretion depends on a P2X1-mediated Ca2+ mobilisation, production of TxA2 and ADP receptor activation. The findings in this study further support a role for platelets in sensing bacterial components.
Anticoagulation for valvular heart disease in community-based practice
Authors: Ozonoff Al , Henault Lori , Hylek Elaine , Rose Adam
Published: December 2009

Little is known about patients who receive oral anticoagulation for valvular heart disease (VHD) in community-based practice. It was this study’s objective to describe the characteristics, management, and outcomes of patients anticoagulated for VHD, compared to patients anticoagulated for atrial fibrillation (AF). We used a nationally-representative cohort of community-based anticoagulation care in the United States. Data collected included indications for therapy, demographics, selected comorbid conditions, international normalised ratio (INR) target ranges, INR control, and clinical outcomes. We identified 1,057 patients anticoagulated for VHD (15.6% of the overall cohort) and 3,396 patients anticoagulated for AF (50.2%). INR variability was similar between the two groups (0.64 vs. 0.69, p = 0.80). Among patients with aortic VHD, for whom a standard (2–3) target INR range is recommended, 461 (84%) had a high target range (2.5–3.5), while 95 (16%) had a standard target range. VHD patients had a higher rate of major haemorrhage compared to AF patients (3.57 vs. 1.78 events per 100 patient-years, incidence rate ratio 2.02, 95% CI 1.33 – 3.06). The rate of stroke/systemic embolus was similar between groups (0.67 vs. 0.97 events per 100 patient-years, incidence rate ratio 0.71, 95% CI 0.32 – 1.57). In our community-based study, approximately 15.6% of patients receiving warfarin were anticoagulated for VHD. VHD patients achieved similar anticoagulation control to patients with AF, as measured by INR variability. Nevertheless, the rate of major haemorrhage was elevated among VHD patients compared to AF patients; this finding requires further investigation.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this manuscript do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
Overexpression of Dimethylarginine Dimethylaminohydrolase Protects Against Cerebral Vascular Effects of Hyperhomocysteinemia
Authors: Rodionov Roman N. , Dayoub Hayan , Lynch Cynthia M. , Wilson Katina M. , Stevens Jeff W. , Murry Daryl J. , Kimoto Masumi , Arning Erland , Bottiglieri Teodoro , Cooke John P. , Baumbach Gary L. , Faraci Frank M. , Lentz Steven R.
Published: December 2009

Rationale
:

Hyperhomocysteinemia is a cardiovascular risk factor that is associated with elevation of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA).

Objective
:

Using mice transgenic for overexpression of the ADMA-hydrolyzing enzyme dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase-1 (DDAH1), we tested the hypothesis that overexpression of DDAH1 protects from adverse structural and functional changes in cerebral arterioles in hyperhomocysteinemia.

Methods and Results
:

Hyperhomocysteinemia was induced in DDAH1 transgenic (DDAH1 Tg) mice and wild-type littermates using a high methionine/low folate (HM/LF) diet. Plasma total homocysteine was elevated approximately 3-fold in both wild-type and DDAH1 Tg mice fed the HM/LF diet compared with the control diet (
P
<0.001). Plasma ADMA was approximately 40% lower in DDAH1 Tg mice compared with wild-type mice (
P
<0.001) irrespective of diet. Compared with the control diet, the HM/LF diet diminished endothelium-dependent dilation to 10 μmol/L acetylcholine in cerebral arterioles of both wild-type (12±2 versus 29±3%;
P
<0.001) and DDAH1 Tg (14±3 versus 28±2%;
P
<0.001) mice. Responses to 10 μmol/L papaverine, a direct smooth muscle dilator, were impaired with the HM/LF diet in wild-type mice (30±3 versus 45±5%;
P
<0.05) but not DDAH1 Tg mice (45±7 versus 48±6%). DDAH1 Tg mice also were protected from hypertrophy of cerebral arterioles (
P
<0.05) but not from accelerated carotid artery thrombosis induced by the HM/LF diet.

Conclusions
:

Overexpression of DDAH1 protects from hyperhomocysteinemia-induced alterations in cerebral arteriolar structure and vascular muscle function.
Chemoreceptor Hypersensitivity, Sympathetic Excitation, and Overexpression of ASIC and TASK Channels Before the Onset of Hypertension in SHR
Authors: Tan Zhi-Yong , Lu Yongjun , Whiteis Carol A. , Simms Annabel E. , Paton Julian F.R. , Chapleau Mark W. , Abboud François M.
Published: December 2009

Rationale
:

Increased sympathetic nerve activity has been linked to the pathogenesis of hypertension in humans and animal models. Enhanced peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity which increases sympathetic nerve activity has been observed in established hypertension but has not been identified as a possible mechanism for initiating an increase in sympathetic nerve activity before the onset of hypertension.

Objective
:

We tested this hypothesis by measuring the pH sensitivity of isolated carotid body glomus cells from young spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) before the onset of hypertension and their control normotensive Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) rats.

Methods and Results
:

We found a significant increase in the depolarizing effect of low pH in SHR versus WKY glomus cells which was caused by overexpression of 2 acid-sensing non–voltage-gated channels. One is the amiloride-sensitive acid-sensing sodium channel (ASIC3), which is activated by low pH and the other is the 2-pore domain acid-sensing K
+
channel (TASK1), which is inhibited by low pH and blocked by quinidine. Moreover, we found that the increase in sympathetic nerve activity in response to stimulation of chemoreceptors with sodium cyanide was markedly enhanced in the still normotensive young SHR compared to control WKY rats.

Conclusions
:

Our results establish a novel molecular basis for increased chemotransduction that contributes to excessive sympathetic activity before the onset of hypertension.
Fibulin-4 Deficiency Results in Ascending Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Huang Jianbin , Davis Elaine C. , Chapman Shelby L. , Budatha Madhusudhan , Marmorstein Lihua Y. , Word R. Ann , Yanagisawa Hiromi
Published: December 2009

Rationale
:

Loss of fibulin-4 during embryogenesis results in perinatal lethality because of aneurysm rupture, and defective elastic fiber assembly has been proposed as an underlying cause for the aneurysm phenotype. However, aneurysms are never seen in mice deficient for elastin, or for fibulin-5, which absence also leads to compromised elastic fibers.

Objective
:

We sought to determine the mechanism of aneurysm development in the absence of fibulin-4 and establish the role of fibulin-4 in aortic development.

Methods and Results
:

We generated germline and smooth muscle cell (SMC)-specific deletion of the fibulin-4 gene in mice (
Fbln4
GKO
and
Fbln4
SMKO
, respectively).
Fbln4
GKO
and
Fbln4
SMKO
aortic walls fail to fully differentiate, exhibiting reduced expression of SM-specific contractile genes and focal proliferation of SMCs accompanied by degenerative changes of the medial wall. Marked upregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathway was observed in the aneurysmal wall of
Fbln4
GKO
and
Fbln4
SMKO
mice and both mutants developed aneurysm predominantly in the ascending thoracic aorta. In vitro,
Fbln4
GKO
SMCs exhibit an immature SMC phenotype with a marked reduction of SM-myosin heavy chain and increased proliferative capacity.

Conclusions
:

The vascular phenotype in
Fbln4
mutant mice is remarkably similar to a subset of human thoracic aortic aneurysms caused by mutations in SMC contractile genes. Our study provides a potential link between the intrinsic properties of SMCs and aneurysm progression in vivo and supports the dual role of fibulin-4 in the formation of elastic fibers as well as terminal differentiation and maturation of SMCs in the aortic wall.
Angiotensin II Induces a Region-Specific Hyperplasia of the Ascending Aorta Through Regulation of Inhibitor of Differentiation 3
Authors: Owens A. Phillip , Subramanian Venkateswaran , Moorleghen Jessica J. , Guo Zhenheng , McNamara Coleen A. , Cassis Lisa A. , Daugherty Alan
Published: December 2009

Rationale
:

Angiotensin II (Ang II) has diverse effects on smooth muscle cells (SMCs). The diversity of effects may relate to the regional location of this cell type.

Objective
:

The aim of this study was to define whether Ang II exerted divergent effects on smooth muscle cells in the aorta and determine the role of blood pressure and specific oxidant mechanisms.

Methods and Results
:

Ang II (1000 ng/kg per minute) infusion for 28 days into mice increased systolic blood pressure and promoted medial expansion of equivalent magnitude throughout the entire aorta. Both effects were ablated by angiotensin II type 1a (AT
1a
) receptor deficiency. Similar increases in systolic blood pressure by administration of norepinephrine promoted no changes in aortic medial thickness. Increased medial thickness was attributable to SMC expansion owing to hypertrophy in most aortic regions, with the exception of hyperplasia of the ascending aorta. Deficiency of the p47
phox
component of NADPH oxidase ablated Ang II–induced medial expansion in all aortic regions. Analysis of mRNA and protein throughout the aorta revealed a much higher abundance of the inhibitor of differentiation 3 (Id3) in the ascending aorta compared to all other regions. A functional role was demonstrated by Id3 deficiency inhibiting Ang II–induced SMC hyperplasia of the ascending aorta.

Conclusions
:

In conclusion, Ang II promotes both aortic medial hypertrophy and hyperplasia in a region-specific manner via an oxidant mechanism. The ascending aortic hyperplasia is dependent on Id3.
Predictors of Outcome in Childhood Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Beslow Lauren A. , Licht Daniel J. , Smith Sabrina E. , Storm Phillip B. , Heuer Gregory G. , Zimmerman Robert A. , Feiler Alana M. , Kasner Scott E. , Ichord Rebecca N. , Jordan Lori C.
Published: December 2009

Background and Purpose—

The purposes of this study were to describe features of children with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and to determine predictors of short-term outcome in a single-center prospective cohort study.

Methods—

A single-center prospective consecutive cohort study was conducted of spontaneous ICH in children aged 1 to 18 years from January 2006 to June 2008. Exclusion criteria were inciting trauma; intracranial tumor; isolated epidural, subdural, intraventricular, or subarachnoid hemorrhage; hemorrhagic transformation of ischemic stroke; and cerebral sinovenous thrombosis. Hospitalization records were abstracted. Follow-up assessments included outcome scores using the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure and King’s Outcome Scale for Childhood Head Injury. ICH volumes and total brain volumes were measured by manual tracing.

Results—

Twenty-two patients, median age 10.3 years (range, 4.2 to 16.6 years), had presenting symptoms of headache in 77%, focal deficits 50%, altered mental status 50%, and seizures 41%. Vascular malformations caused hemorrhage in 91%. Surgical treatment (hematoma evacuation, lesion embolization or excision) was performed during acute hospitalization in 50%. One patient died acutely. At a median follow-up of 3.5 months (range, 0.3 to 7.5 months), 71% of survivors had neurological deficits; 55% had clinically significant disability. Outcome based on Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure and King’s Outcome Scale for Childhood Head Injury scores was worse in patients with ICH volume >2% of total brain volume (
P
=0.023) and altered mental status at presentation (
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—

Spontaneous childhood ICH was due mostly to vascular malformations. Acute surgical intervention was commonly performed. Although death was rare, 71% of survivors had persisting neurological deficits. Larger ICH volume and altered mental status predicted clinically significant disability.
Slumming and/as Self-Making in Barack Obama’sDreams From My Father
Authors: Mastey David
Published: December 2009

This article examines how Barack Obama’s narrative Dreams From My Father functions for a White audience. It argues that the narrative provides potential White readers the opportunity to “slum” alongside Obama in Chicago’s South Side ghettos. More than entertainment, slumming is for many White people an effective means of racial self-making in a process parallel to that undertaken by the narrator. Potential White readers encounter various Black characters as caricatures in the text—for example, the conspiratorial nationalist, the radical preacher—which reinforce their comprehensive generalizations of Blacks (i.e., stereotypes), the primary means by which they comprehend them and also how they understand themselves as White. It argues that the narrative simultaneously interrogates race as a concept and reproduces for potential White readers the dualistic conceptualizations of race that drive racialist thinking and racist behavior.
Promoting Physical Activity for Persons With Diabetes
Authors: Diedrich Andrea , Munroe Donna J. , Romano Melissa
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-help physical activity program for persons with type 2 diabetes. Effectiveness was measured by cardiovascular indicators, hemoglobin A1C, anthropometric indicators, and activity levels.

Methods

This intervention study included 53 individuals with type 2 diabetes. Participants were randomly assigned. Participants in the intervention group attended the usual Diabetes Self-Management Education Program (DSMEP) and received a copy of the book, Manpo-kei; a concise handout summarizing the key points of Manpo-kei; and a pedometer. Participants not assigned to the intervention attended the usual DSMEP only. Data collection was completed at the beginning of the study and 3 months later using a lifestyle and diabetes questionnaire, a physical activity questionnaire, and cardiovascular and anthropometric measures.

Results

Those who participated in the intervention demonstrated a significant decrease in hemoglobin A1C, weight, and body fat. In addition, they increased their number of daily steps as measured by the pedometer. The control group also demonstrated a significant decrease in hemoglobin A1C and weight. Both groups demonstrated increases in their regular weekly activity. At the end of the study period, the intervention group had a significantly lower diastolic blood pressure than the control group.

Conclusions

Pedometers can be a helpful strategy to motivate persons with diabetes to increase physical activity. However, it appears that attendance at DSMEP alone may be enough to increase physical activity for persons with type 2 diabetes.
A Comparison of Content-Balancing Procedures for Estimating Multiple Clinical Domains in Computerized Adaptive Testing: Relative Precision, Validity, and Detection of Persons With Misfitting Responses
Authors: Riley Barth B. , Dennis Michael L. , Conrad Kendon J.
Published: December 2009

This simulation study sought to compare four different computerized adaptive testing (CAT) content-balancing procedures designed for use in a multidimensional assessment with respect to measurement precision, symptom severity classification, validity of clinical diagnostic recommendations, and sensitivity to atypical responding. The four content-balancing procedures were (a) no content balancing, (b) screener-based, (c) mixed (screener plus content balancing), and (d) full content balancing. In full content balancing and in mixed content balancing following administration of the screener items, item selection was based on (a) whether the target number of items for the item’s subscale was reached and (b) the item’s information function. Mixed and full content balancing provided the best representation of items from each of the main subscales of the Internal Mental Distress Scale. These procedures also resulted in higher CAT to full-scale correlations for the Trauma and Homicidal/Suicidal Thought subscales and improved detection of atypical responding.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Chiral Poly(imide-urethane) Derived from N,N′-(4,4′-carbonyl-diphthaloyl)-bis-(L-phenylalanine)diol with Different Diisocyanates
Authors: Hajipour Abdol Reza , Omidian Forugh
Published: December 2009

N,N′-(4,4′-carbonyl-diphthaloyl)-bis-(L-phenylalanine)diol (p4) as novel chiral diol was prepared from L-phenylalaninol (2) and 4,4′-carbonyldiphthalic dianhydride (3) in dry acetic acid under refluxing conditions in high yield and characterized with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR. The step-growth polymerization of this novel chiral diol (p4) containing an imide group and a chiral group with different diisocyanates in dry N-methylpyrrolidinone (NMP) was conducted under conventional heating conditions. The resulting new optically active polymers were obtained in good yields and their inherent viscosities ranged between 0.18 and 0.29 dL g—1. The polymers were characterized with FTIR, 1H-NMR, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. These polymers are soluble in aprotic-polar solvents such as N, N-dimethylacetamide, NMP, N, N-dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide and sulfuric acid. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the 10% weight loss temperature under air atmosphere were more than 265°C and glass transition temperature ( Tg) between 130 and 160°C.
Film Properties of Polyazomethines (2). Poly(imide-azomethine)s Derived from Ester-containing Dialdehydes, Tetracarboxylic Dianhydrides, and a Fluorinated Diamine
Authors: Ishii Junichi , Tanaka Yuma , Hasegawa Masatoshi
Published: December 2009

Poly(imide-azomethine)s (PIAzMs) were prepared from 1,2,3,4-cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride (CBDA) and terephthalaldehyde (TPAL) with 2,2'-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine (TFMB) to improve the dielectric constants and the film transparency while keeping low CTE characteristics. However, this approach using CBDA instead of pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) was less effective for improving the film transparency than initially expected. The results were explained by a rather strong contribution around the azomethine units to the electronic conjugation. As an alternative approach, novel dialdehyde monomers, 4-formylphenyl-4'-formylbenzoate (FPFB) and bis(4-formylphenyl)terephthalate (FPTP) were synthesized in which two formyl groups of the monomers were separated via some nonconjugated para-ester spacers. The PIAzM film derived from FPFB, PMDA, and TFMB achieved excellent combined properties, an extremely low CTE (—0.81 ppmK-1), a low water absorption (0.33%), a very high tensile modulus (6.3 GPa), sufficient film flexibility ( εb = 14%), good thermal stability, and improved transparency. A mechanism for the generation of a negative CTE was also proposed. The use of FPTP with a longer ester spacer allowed further improvement of the film transparency (cut-off wavelength = 362 nm) and the optically estimated dielectric constant ( εcal = 2.97) on the basis of reduced electronic conjugation. The results suggest that the ester-containing PIAzMs can be promising candidates as a new type of heat-resistant dielectric materials.
Zero Poisson’s Ratio Cellular Honeycombs for Flex Skins Undergoing One-Dimensional Morphing
Authors: Olympio Kingnidé Raymond , Gandhi Farhan
Published: December 2009

Cellular honeycomb cores with overlying flexible face sheets have been proposed for use as flex skins for morphing aircraft. The cellular cores, which provide underlying support to the face sheets for carrying aerodynamic loads, must have low in-plane stiffness and high in-plane strain capability. For one-dimensional morphing applications such as span-, chord-, or camber-change, restraining the Poisson’s contraction (or bulging) that a conventional cellular honeycomb core would otherwise experience in the non-morphing direction results in a substantial increase in the effective modulus in the morphing direction. To overcome this problem, this article develops zero Poisson’s ratio hybrid and accordion cellular honeycombs. Cellular Material Theory is extended, and analytical solutions for the mechanical properties and global strains of the hybrid and accordion cellular honeycombs are developed. The analytical results show excellent agreement with ANSYS finite element results. Comparing the properties shows that the hybrid and accordion honeycombs proposed have generally similar in-plane axial stiffness and strain capabilities to conventional honeycombs when the latter are unrestrained in the non-morphing direction. However, with the zero Poisson’s ratio of the hybrid and accordion honeycombs, it is observed that the axial stiffness in the morphing direction will not increase when the skins are restrained in the non-morphing direction. The zero Poisson’s ratio of the accordion and hybrid cellular honeycombs is not helpful from an out-of-plane load carrying ability standpoint. However, the out-of-plane load carrying ability of the accordion honeycombs can be superior to those of conventional honeycombs if the ‘continuous fibers’ are sufficiently thick, leading to a very large modulus in the non-morphing direction. The effective out-of-plane stiffness of hybrid cellular honeycombs, on the other hand, is poorer than conventional cellular honeycombs.
Multi-tone Switching Shunt Control by a PZT Network Embedded into a Fiberglass Panel: Design, Manufacture, and Test
Authors: Ciminello Monica , Lecce Leonardo , Ameduri Salvatore , Calabrò Antonio , Concilio Antonio
Published: December 2009

Research in noise and vibration control has partially focused on semi-active attenuation techniques such as switching shunt control (SSC) systems. Among the various methods, SSC architectures exhibit several interesting advantages such as low power absorption and intrinsic adaptive capabilities. This approach may represent an acceptable compromise between passive and active solutions. In previous work the authors implemented and validated 1D and 2D numerical models, addressed to describe continuous simple isotropic structures under tonal excitations controlled by single-element SSC system. Further efforts were then directed to extend the applicability of those models to non-isotropic structures and to multi-tone control devices. In this article, a 6-PZT network multi-tone SSC system is presented, and embedded into a balanced fiberglass laminate. The network geometry is defined according to an optimization process following modal information. The former 1-channel control circuit was extended to drive up to four independent channels. The complete system dynamics was simulated by assembling the structural matrices into a Matlab code, where both the electromechanical coupling and the control circuit behavior were taken into account. The structure was excited by broadband sweep signals in a selected range. Numerical and experimental results were compared and discussed.
The Effectiveness of Coethnic Contact on Latino Political Recruitment
Authors: Barreto Matt A. , Nuño Stephen A.
Published: December 2009

Since the 2000 presidential election, voter education and mobilization have witnessed a renaissance in targeted contact and segmented messaging. Candidates, political parties, and interest groups have taken advantage of advances in electronic databases to divide and subdivide the electorate into different groups and have different messages and messengers for each subgroup of voters.This article takes up the question of whether or not personalized or segmented contact during a campaign is more successful at convincing voters than “generic” contact or no contact at all. Using data from a national survey of Latino registered voters in 2004, the authors examine the impact of being contacted by a coethnic messenger on support for the Republican and Democratic Parties. While some previous studies have examined voter turnout or vote choice, this article examines the deeper implications of coethnic contact, including support for public policy and candidate favorability. The authors find that when Latinos were contacted by non-Latino Republicans, they were significantly less likely to support Bush and Republican issues, but when Latinos were contacted by Latino Republicans, they were significantly more likely to support Bush and Republican issues. Democratic contact did not have a significant effect on support for Democratic policy, which remained very high among Latino voters.
Cognitive Dissonance on the U.S. Supreme Court
Authors: Collins Paul M.
Published: December 2009

This research examines the applicability of cognitive dissonance theory to explain a judge’s decision to author or join a separate opinion. The author proposes that, when a judge casts a counterattitudinal vote, that judge will endeavor to reduce the aversive consequences of being viewed as an inconsistent decision maker by justifying his or her attitudinally incongruent vote choice to the public in a separate opinion. The author tests this possibility by examining U.S. Supreme Court justices’ decisions to author or join concurring and dissenting opinions during the 1946 to 2001 terms. The empirical results provide qualified support for the use of separate opinions as dissonance reduction mechanisms, suggesting that dissonance theory both is applicable to the actions of elite decision makers and enjoys validity outside of a laboratory setting.
The ‘‘Critical Thrombosis Period’’ in Major Orthopedic Surgery: When to Start and When to Stop Prophylaxis
Authors: Warwick David , Rosencher Nadia
Published: December 2009

Patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery are at high venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk, with morbid and potentially fatal consequences. Anticoagulant VTE prophylaxis reduces rates of postoperative deep vein thrombosis by up to 60% to 70% in these patients. Therefore, pharmacological prophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs), vitamin K antagonists, or fondaparinux is recommended by current guidelines. However, there remains an ongoing debate regarding when to initiate and the optimal duration for prophylaxis. Here, we discuss the mechanisms underlying thrombus formation in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery, and we review the current literature on the benefit-to-risk ratio associated with preoperative and postoperative initiation of thromboprophylaxis and also the benefit-to-risk ratio in cases of neuraxial anesthesia. We also discuss the duration of postoperative VTE risk following major orthopedic surgery and assess the ‘‘critical thrombosis period’’ when prophylaxis should be provided. Current literature reflects the need to balance the improved efficacy of initiating prophylaxis close to the surgery with increased risk of perioperative bleeding. Evidence from pathology, epidemiology, and clinical studies suggests the risk period for VTE begins at surgery and extends well beyond hospitalization—a crucial issue when considering how long to give prophylaxis—and, in the case of total hip arthroplasty, for at least 3 months after surgery. Literature supports the greater use of ‘‘just-in-time’’ thromboprophylaxis initiation and after-discharge continuation of optimal prophylaxis in orthopedic surgery patients. Providing optimal thromboprophylaxis throughout the critical thrombosis period where a patient is at VTE risk will ensure the best reductions in VTE-related morbidity and mortality.
Why Don’t We Practice What We Preach? A Meta-Analytic Review of Religious Racism
Authors: Hall Deborah L. , Matz David C. , Wood Wendy
Published: December 2009

A meta-analytic review of past research evaluated the link between religiosity and racism in the United States since the Civil Rights Act. Religious racism partly reflects intergroup dynamics. That is, a strong religious in-group identity was associated with derogation of racial out-groups. Other races might be treated as out-groups because religion is practiced largely within race, because training in a religious in-group identity promotes general ethnocentrism, and because different others appear to be in competition for resources. In addition, religious racism is tied to basic life values of social conformity and respect for tradition. In support, individuals who were religious for reasons of conformity and tradition expressed racism that declined in recent years with the decreased societal acceptance of overt racial discrimination. The authors failed to find that racial tolerance arises from humanitarian values, consistent with the idea that religious humanitarianism is largely expressed to in-group members. Only religious agnostics were racially tolerant.
Determining minimally important score differences in scales of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire
Authors: Pejtersen Jan Hyld , Bjorner Jakob Bue , Hasle Peter
Published: December 2009

Aim: To determine minimally important differences (MIDs) for scales in the first version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). Methods: Data were taken from two separate studies: a national population survey (N = 1062), and an intervention study at 14 workplaces (N = 1505). On the basis of the population survey, the MID for each COPSOQ scale was calculated as one-half of a standard deviation (0.5 SD). For the core COPSOQ scales on ‘‘Quantitative demands’’, ‘‘Influence at work’’, ‘‘Predictability’’, ‘‘Social support (from colleagues and supervisors, respectively)’’, and ‘‘Job satisfaction’’, the MIDs were evaluated in the intervention study, where score differences for the scales were linked to the respondents’ global self-evaluation of the impact of the interventions. The scales were scored from 0 to 100 in both studies. Results: The MIDs calculated as 0.5 SD were, on average, 9.2 (range 6.8—14.9) for the long version scales, and 10.8 (range 7.6—14.9) for the medium-length version scales. The analysis of the self-evaluated changes on the scale scores for the core COPSOQ scales showed that the anchor-based estimates of MID were generally lower than 0.5 SD. Conclusions: We recommend the following MID values for the COPSOQ scales: ‘‘Quantitative demands’’, 0.3 SD; ‘‘Influence’’, 0.2 SD; ‘‘Predictability’’, 0.3 SD; ‘‘Social support from colleagues’’, 0.3 SD; ‘‘Social support from supervisor’’, 0.7 SD; and ‘‘Job satisfaction’’, 0.4 SD. For all other COPSOQ scales, where we do not have anchor-based results, we recommend the conventional MID value of 0.5 SD.
Reliability of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire
Authors: Thorsen Sannie Vester , Bjorner Jakob Bue
Published: December 2009

Aims: Reliabilities of the work environment questionnaire Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) have previously been estimated by Cronbach’s alpha, but since the internal consistency assumption may not apply to all COPSOQ scales, Cronbach’s alpha may underestimate true reliability. This study aims to evaluate reliability in a test—retest design. Methods: We analyzed postal questionnaire data from 349 persons (of whom 283 were employees) who completed two forms with a median interval of 22 (range 6—65) days between baseline and follow-up. Test—retest reliabilities were estimated by the intraclass correlation (ICC). For scales where the internal consistency assumption was theoretically plausible, reliabilities were also estimated by Cronbach’s alpha and by Green’s test—retest alpha. Results: With one exception, the ICC estimated reliabilities of the COPSOQ scales were adequate or good (range 0.70—0.89). A scale concerning mutual trust between employees had a low reliability of 0.64. Among the scales where the internal consistency assumption was plausible, Cronbach’s alpha was adequate or good (0.75—0.85) for seven out of eight scales. Green’s retest alpha was adequate or good for six out of eight scales (0.72—0.81). Conclusions: Standard criteria for acceptable intraclass correlation reliability were achieved for all COPSOQ scales but one. The test—retest design and intraclass correlation appears to be more appropriate than Cronbach’s alpha for assessing the reliability of psychosocial work environment scales.
Do dimensions from the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire predict vitality and mental health over and above the job strain and effort—reward imbalance models?
Authors: Burr Hermann , Albertsen Karen , Rugulies Reiner , Hannerz Harald
Published: December 2009

Aims: The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) comprises dimensions (emotional demands, demands of hiding emotions, meaning of work, quality of leadership, and predictability) that are not in the job strain or the effort—reward imbalance (ERI) models. The study aim was to investigate whether these dimensions explain changes in vitality and mental health over and above the job strain and ERI models. Methods: A cohort of 3552 employees in 2000 were followed up in 2005 (cohort participation of 51%). Regression analyses were carried out with mental health and vitality as dependent variables. A significance level of 0.01 was applied when comparing regression models. Results: Regarding mental health, both the full COPSOQ—ERI model (p = 0.005) and the full job strain—COPSOQ model (p = 0.01) were significantly better than the ERI and the job strain models. Regarding vitality, none of the full COPSOQ models (i.e. with new COPSOQ dimensions together with job strain or ERI respectively) was significantly better than the ERI (p = 0.03) or the job strain (p = 0.04) models. Emotional demands and low meaning of work predicted poor mental health and low vitality. Conclusions: In relation to mental health, new psychosocial risk factors have the potential to add to the predictive power of the job strain and ERI models. The current practice of including only items from the ERI and job strain models in public health studies should be reconsidered. Theories regarding the status of, for example, emotional demands and meaning of work should be developed and tested.