bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tolerability and Acceptance of Prolonged Low/Delayed Mitoxantrone Regimens in Patients with Worsening Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Zecca Chiara , Petrini Liliane , Limoni Costanzo , Staedler Claudio , Gobbi Claudio
Published: December 2010

Background: Severe side effects such as cardiotoxicity and leukemia limit long-term use of mitoxantrone (MTX) despite its recommendation in patients with malignant forms of relapsing remitting (RR) and secondary progressive (SP) multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: We analyzed data on tolerability, measured as compliance with the treatment, and patients’ acceptance of an alternative MTX treatment schedule in 12 patients with aggressive RRMS or SPMS treated for at least 3 years with low/delayed dose MTX. Results: Twelve patients received 9–17 cycles of MTX treatment, with individual median doses of 7.6–12.16 mg/m2/course during 36 to 114 (median 49.5) months resulting in cumulative doses of 101.9–143.0 mg/m2 per patient. The overall follow-up period was 37–122 (median 69.5) months. Treatment was well tolerated and appreciated by patients according to the Treatment Satisfaction-Visual Analogue Scale. No significant safety findings were seen concerning cardiological, hematological and oncological follow-up. The patients showed a stabilization of disease progression and a reduced annual relapse rate. Conclusions: Delayed, and/or dose-reduced, long-term MTX regimens over several years might represent a feasible alternative treatment for MS patients without any other therapeutic options.
Identification of three novel plasminogen (PLG) gene mutations in a series of 23 patients with low PLG activity
Authors: Klammt Jürgen , Kobelt Louise , Aktas Dilek , Durak Ismet , Gokbuget Aslan , Hughes Quintin , Irkec Murat , Kurtulus Idil , Lapi Elisabetta , Mechoulam Hadas , Mendoza-Londono Roberto , Palumbo Joseph , Steitzer Hansjörg , Tabbara Khalid , Ozbek Zeynep , Pucci Neri , Sotomayor Talia , Sturm Marian , Drogies Tim , Ziegler Maike , Schuster Volker
Published: December 2010

Inherited severe hypoplasminogenaemia is a multisystemic disorder leading to deficient extravascular fibrinolysis. As a clinical consequence wound healing capacity of mucous membranes is markedly impaired leading to ligneous conjunctivitis and several other manifestations. Here we report the molecular genetic and clinical findings on 23 new cases with severe hypoplasminogenaemia. Homozygous or compound-heterozygous mutations in the plasminogen (PLG) gene were found in 16 of 23 patients (70%), three of which were novel mutations reported here for the first time (C166Y, Y264S, IVS10–7T/G). Compared to 79 previously published cases, clinical manifestations of the current group of patients showed higher percentages of ligneous periodontitis, congenital hydrocephalus, and involvement of the female genital tract. In contrast, involvement of the gastrointestinal or urogenital tract was not observed in any of the cases. Patients originated to a large extent (61%) from Turkey and the Middle East, and showed a comparably frequent occurrence of consanguinity of affected families and a greater female to male ratio than was derived from previous reports in the literature. Individual treatment of ligneous conjunctivitis included topical plasminogen or heparin eye drops, topical or systemic fresh frozen plasma, and surgical removal of ligneous pseudomembranes, mostly with modest or transient efficacy. In conclusion, the present study underscores the broad range of clinical manifestations in PLG-deficient patients with a trend to regional differences. Transmission of genetic and clinical data to the recently established Plasminogen Deficiency Registry should help to determine the prevalence of the disease and to develop more efficient treatment strategies.
Regulation of the endothelial plasminogen activator system by fluvastatin
Authors: Dunoyer-Geindre Sylvie , Fish Richard , Kruithof Egbert
Published: December 2010

Statins are cholesterol-lowering drugs that exert pleiotropic effects which include changes in the plasminogen activation (PA) system of endothelial cells (EC). It was the objective of this study to investigate the signal transduction pathways by which statins increase the expression of tissue-type PA (t-PA) and decrease PA inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) in human umbilical vein EC. Fluvastatin treatment increased t-PA expression more than 10-fold and reduced PAI-1 expression up to fivefold. This effect was mimicked by geranylgeranyl transferase inhibition. The role of geranylgeranylated small G-proteins of the Rho family was assessed by adenovirus-mediated expression of dominant negative (DN) RhoA, Cdc42 and Rac1 and by siRNA-mediated suppression of these proteins. DN-Cdc42 and DN-Rac1, as well as siRNA for Cdc42, increased t-PA expression, while DN-RhoA and DN-Rac1 decreased PAI-1 expression. Latrunculin B, an inhibitor of actin polymerisation, in-creased t-PA mRNA and reduced PAI-1 mRNA to the same extent as fluvastatin. Inhibition of p38, as well as p38α or p38β siRNA, reversed the effects of fluvastatin on t-PA expression. Treatment with p38β siRNA partially reversed the effect of fluvastatin on PAI-1, whereas p38α siRNA had no significant effect. Inhibition of jun kinase reduced basal and fluvastatin-induced t-PA expression to the same extent and increased PAI-1. MEK/ERK inhibition had no effect. In human EC, the fluvastatin-induced increase in t-PA is mediated by Cdc42 and, as with t-PA induced by inhibition of actin polymerisation, requires activation of p38MAP kinase. The mechanisms by which fluvastatin treatment reduces PAI-1 are different from those that increase t-PA.
Inhibition of von Willebrand factor by ARC1779 in patients with acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Jilma Bernd , Siller-Matula Jolanta , Gilbert James , Knöbl Paul , Jilma-Stohlawetz Petra , Gorczyca Monika
Published: December 2010

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) can cause severe organ damage due to enhanced platelet aggregation by ultra-large von Wille-brand factor (VWF) multimers. Thus inhibition of VWF by the anti-VWF ARC1779 might potentially be beneficial for TTP patients. This prospective trial tested the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the anti-VWF aptamer ARC1779 added to plasma exchange therapy (PEX) in patients with acute TTP. Seven patients received bolus primed continuous i.v. infusions of ARC1779 (1–2 μg/kg/min) in addition to PEX until remission of TTP was induced or for 14 days. Mean steady state ARC1779 plasma concentrations of 9.9 μg/ml reduced VWF activity to 5% (mean baseline activity was 125% in TTP patients compared to a reference plasma). PEX reduced ARC1779 levels by 50%, but steady state concentrations were restored rapidly with a mini-bolus. After discontinuation of PEX, ARC1779 alone further increased platelet counts in one patient. Stopping ARC1779 was associated with an immediate drop of platelet counts in this patient. This suggests that ARC1779 can block the progression of TTP in patients with severe ADAMTS13 is deficiency. ARC1779 was generally well tolerated without any signs of bleeding. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ARC1779 were well predictable and in agreement with those observed in a previous trial with healthy volunteers. Based on its mechanism of action and the observed effect on platelet counts, ARC1779 used as an adjunctive to PEX may help accelerate recovery from organ dysfunction.
Degradation of the endothelial glycocalyx is associated with chylomicron leakage in mouse cremaster muscle microcirculation
Authors: Constantinescu Alina , Spaan Jos , Arkenbout E. Karin , Vink Hans , VanTeeffelen Jurgen
Published: December 2010

A thick endothelial glycocalyx contributes to the barrier function of vascular endothelium in macro- and microcirculation. We hypothesised in the current study that diet-induced hyperlipidaemia perturbs the glycocalyx, resulting in decreased dimensions of this layer and increased transendothelial lipoprotein leakage in capillaries. Glycocalyx thickness was measured in mouse cremaster muscle capillaries by intravital microscopy from the distance between flowing red blood cells and the endothelial surface. In control C57BL/6 mice on standard chow, glycocalyx thickness measured 0.58 ± 0.01 (mean ± SEM) μm, and no lipo-proteins were observed in the tissue. After three months administration of an either mild or severe high-fat / high-cholesterol diet (HFC) to C57BL/6 and ApoE3-Leiden mice, circulating large lipoproteins appeared into the subendothelial space in an increasing proportion of cre-master capillaries, and these capillaries displayed reduced glycocalyx dimensions of 0.40 ± 0.02 and 0.30 ± 0.01 μm (C57BL/6 mice), and 0.37 ± 0.01 and 0.28 ± 0.01 μm (ApoE3-Leiden mice), after the mild and severe HFC diet, respectively. The chylomicron nature of the accumulated lipoproteins was confirmed by observations of subendothelial deposition of DiI-labeled chylomicrons in capillaries after inducing acute glycocalyx degradation by heparitinase in normolipidaemic C57BL/6 mice. It is concluded that while under control conditions the endothelial glycocalyx contributes to the vascular barrier against transvascular lipoprotein leakage in the microcirculation, diet-induced hyperlipidaemia reduces the thickness of the glycocalyx, thereby facilitating leakage of chylomicrons across the capillary wall.
Pre-analytical and analytical issues in the analysis of blood microparticles
Authors: Yuana Yuana , Bertina Rogier , Osanto Susanne
Published: December 2010

Results of plasma microparticles (MPs) measurements reported in the literature vary widely. This is clearly not only related to the lack of well-standardised MP assays, but also to variations in pre-analytical conditions. In this review we will discuss the pre-analytical variables related to plasma and MP preparation which may affect MP analysis. Additionally we will address several analytical issues in commonly used MP as-says and briefly discuss some novel approaches for the detection and characterisation of MPs. Ideally MP measurements should be performed in plasma, freshly prepared directly after blood withdrawal. As platelet contamination seems to be one of the major pre-analytical problems in processing plasma for MP measurement, the use of platelet-free plasma may be preferred. When frozen-thawed plasma is used, especially PMP and annexinV-positive MP counts should be interpreted with caution. When flow cytometry is chosen as a method for quantifi-cation of MPs, some analytical conditions should be standardised, e.g. settings of the flow cytometer, quality of the antibodies, and use of counting beads. Fluorescence-nanoparticle tracking analysis and atomic force microscopy can accurately count nanosized MPs, but unfortunately the operational procedures of both methods are still time consuming and they give no information on the functional properties of MPs. The MP-TF activity assay provides information on MPs carrying active TF, regardless of their parental origin. Ultimately, standardisation of pre-analytical procedures and the introduction of reliable and rapid methods for the measurement of MPs are urgently needed to facilitate their use as biomarker in the pathophysiology of diseases.
Association between γ′ fibrinogen levels and inflammation
Authors: Alexander Kristine , Madden Theresa , Farrell David
Published: December 2010

The γ’ fibrinogen isoform produces clots that are stiffer and more resistant to breakdown than the more common fibrinogen isoform, γA. Increased levels of γ’ fibrinogen are associated with several forms of cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationship between γ’ fibrinogen, an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory markers in subjects with a chronic inflammatory state. The 284 subjects for this study came from the Periodontitis And Vascular Events (PAVE) study, and γ’ fibrinogen and total fibrinogen in plasma were measured by ELISA. Information on patient demographics and health status, as well as levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker, have previously been collected for this study. The mean (SE) γ’ fibrinogen level in the subjects was 0.622 (0.017) mg/ml. Levels of γ’ fibrinogen were correlated with CRP (p = 0.006), with a one unit increase in CRP associated with a 1.9% increase in γ’ fibrinogen, after adjustment for potential confounders. Total fibrinogen was not correlated with γ’ fibrinogen in these subjects. The number of dental sites with evidence of tissue inflammation was also significantly associated with γ’ fibrinogen levels. These results provide an important step in the evolution of γ’ fibrinogen not only as a general risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but as a potentially useful biomarker for assessing a patient’s inflammatory state and associated cardiovascular disease risk.
Venous thromboembolism and bleeding after total knee and hip arthroplasty
Authors: Guijarro Ricardo , Montes Julio , Roman Carlos San , Arcelus Juan Ignacio , Barillari Giovanni , Granero Xavier , Monreal Manuel
Published: December 2010

The impact of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding in patients undergoing major joint surgery has not been thoroughly studied. The Spanish National Discharge Database during the years 2005–2006 was used to assess the frequency and clinical impact of VTE and bleeding after elective total knee (TKA) or hip (THA) arthroplasty. Of 58,037 patients undergoing TKA, 0.18% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15–0.22) were diagnosed with pulmonary embolism (PE), 0.57% (95% CI: 0.51–0.63) with deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), 1.20% (95% CI: 1.12–1.30) had bleeding complications, and 0.09% (95% CI: 0.07–0.12) died. Of 54 patients who died, 20.4% (95% CI: 10.7–35.4) had been diagnosed with PE, 3.70% (95% CI: 0.63–11.7) with DVT, and 13.0% (95% CI: 5.67–25.6) had bled. Of 31,769 patients undergoing elective THA, 0.23% (95% CI: 0.18–0.29) were diagnosed with PE, 0.44% (95% CI: 0.37–0.52) with DVT, 1.21% (95% CI: 1.10–1.34) bled, and 0.16% (95% CI: 0.12–0.21) died. Of 52 patients who died, 13.5% (95% CI: 6.08–24.8) had been diagnosed with PE, and 9.61% (95% CI: 3.52–21.3) had bled. On multivariable analysis, PE (odds ratio [OR]: 157; 95% CI: 75–328), DVT (OR: 6.3; 95% CI: 1.5–27) and bleeding (OR: 8.5; 95% CI: 3.6–20) were independent predictors for death after TKA. After THA, only PE (OR: 65; 95% CI: 26–160) and bleeding (OR: 6.4; 95% CI: 2.3–17) predicted the risk for death. Bleeding, DVT, and PE, arising after TKA were all independent predictors for death. Their increase in risk was, however, substantially higher for PE. After THA, only PE and bleeding independently predicted death.
CC and CXC chemokines are pivotal mediators of cerebral injury in ischaemic stroke
Authors: Viviani Giorgio Luciano , Dallegri Franco , Quercioli Alessandra , Veneselli Edvige , Mach François , Mirabelli-Badenier Marisol , Braunersreuther Vincent , Montecucco Fabrizio
Published: December 2010

The definition of ischaemic stroke has been recently updated as an acute episode of neurological dysfunction caused by focal brain, spinal cord, or retinal ischaemia in the presence of a cerebral infarction. This “tissular” definition has highlighted the importance of pathophysiological processes underlying cerebral damage. In particular, post-ischaemic inflammation in the brain and in the blood stream could influence crucial steps of the tissue injury/repair cascade. CC and CXC chemokines orchestrate the inflammatory response in atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability and cerebral infarction. These molecules exert their activities through the binding to selective transmembrane receptors. CC and CXC chemokines modulate crucial processes (such as inflammatory cell recruitment and activation, neuronal survival, neoangio-genesis). On the other hand, CXC chemokines could also modulate stem cell homing, thus favouring tissue repair. Given this evidence, both CC and CXC chemokines could represent promising therapeutic targets in primary and secondary prevention of ischaemic stroke. Only preliminary studies have been performed investigating treatments with selective chemokine agonists/antagonists. In this review, we will update evidence on the role and the potential therapeutic strategies targeting CC and CXC chemokines in the pathophysiology of ischaemic stroke.
Survival Comparison of the Ross Procedure and Mechanical Valve Replacement With Optimal Self-Management Anticoagulation Therapy
Authors: Mokhles M. Mostafa , Körtke Heinrich , Stierle Ulrich , Wagner Otto , Charitos Efstratios I. , Bogers Ad J.J.C. , Gummert Jan , Sievers Hans-Hinrich , Takkenberg Johanna J.M.
Published: December 2010

Background—

It is suggested that in young adults the Ross procedure results in better late patient survival compared with mechanical prosthesis implantation. We performed a propensity score–matched study that assessed late survival in young adult patients after a Ross procedure versus that after mechanical aortic valve replacement with optimal self-management anticoagulation therapy.

Methods and Results—

We selected 918 Ross patients and 406 mechanical valve patients 18 to 60 years of age without dissection, aneurysm, or mitral valve replacement who survived an elective procedure (1994 to 2008). With the use of propensity score matching, late survival was compared between the 2 groups. Two hundred fifty-three patients with a mechanical valve (mean follow-up, 6.3 years) could be propensity matched to a Ross patient (mean follow-up, 5.1 years). Mean age of the matched cohort was 47.3 years in the Ross procedure group and 48.0 years in the mechanical valve group (
P
=0.17); the ratio of male to female patients was 3.2 in the Ross procedure group and 2.7 in the mechanical valve group (
P
=0.46). Linearized all-cause mortality rate was 0.53% per patient-year in the Ross procedure group compared with 0.30% per patient-year in the mechanical valve group (matched hazard ratio, 1.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.58 to 5.91;
P
=0.32). Late survival was comparable to that of the general German population.

Conclusions—

In comparable patients, there is no late survival difference in the first postoperative decade between the Ross procedure and mechanical aortic valve implantation with optimal anticoagulation self-management. Survival in these selected young adult patients closely resembles that of the general population, possibly as a result of highly specialized anticoagulation self-management, better timing of surgery, and improved patient selection in recent years.
Randomized Comparison of Final Kissing Balloon Dilatation Versus No Final Kissing Balloon Dilatation in Patients With Coronary Bifurcation Lesions Treated With Main Vessel Stenting
Authors: Niemelä Matti , Kervinen Kari , Erglis Andrejs , Holm Niels R. , Maeng Michael , Christiansen Evald H. , Kumsars Indulis , Jegere Sanda , Dombrovskis Andis , Gunnes Pål , Stavnes Sindre , Steigen Terje K. , Trovik Thor , Eskola Markku , Vikman Saila , Romppanen Hannu , Mäkikallio Timo , Hansen Knud N. , Thayssen Per , Åberge Lars , Jensen Lisette O. , Hervold Anders , Airaksinen Juhani , Pietilä Mikko , Frobert Ole , Kellerth Thomas , Ravkilde Jan , Aarøe Jens , Jensen Jan S. , Helqvist Steffen , Sjögren Iwar , James Stefan , Miettinen Heikki , Lassen Jens F. , Thuesen Leif
Published: December 2010

Background—

It is unknown whether the preferred 1-stent bifurcation stenting approach with stenting of the main vessel (MV) and optional side branch stenting using drug-eluting stents should be finalized by a kissing balloon dilatation (FKBD). Therefore, we compared strategies of MV stenting with and without FKBD.

Methods and Results—

We randomized 477 patients with a bifurcation lesion to FKBD (n=238) or no FKBD (n=239) after MV stenting. The primary end point was major adverse cardiac events: cardiac death, non–procedure-related index lesion myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization, or stent thrombosis within 6 months. The 6-month major adverse cardiac event rates were 2.1% and 2.5% (
P
=1.00) in the FKBD and no-FKBD groups, respectively. Procedure and fluoroscopy times were longer and more contrast media was needed in the FKBD group than in the no-FKBD group. Three hundred twenty-six patients had a quantitative coronary assessment. At 8 months, the rate of binary (re)stenosis in the entire bifurcation lesion (MV and side branch) was 11.0% versus 17.3% (
P
=0.11), in the MV was 3.1% versus 2.5% (
P
=0.68), and in the side branch was 7.9% versus 15.4% (
P
=0.039) in the FKBD versus no-FKBD groups, respectively. In patients with true bifurcation lesions, the side branch restenosis rate was 7.6% versus 20.0% (
P
=0.024) in the FKBD and no-FKBD groups, respectively.

Conclusions—

MV stenting strategies with and without FKBD were associated with similar clinical outcomes. FKBD reduced angiographic side branch (re)stenosis, especially in patients with true bifurcation lesions. The simple no-FKBD procedures resulted in reduced use of contrast media and shorter procedure and fluoroscopy times. Long-term data on stent thrombosis are needed.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00914199.
Influence of Aortic Pressure Wave Components Determined Noninvasively on Myocardial Oxygen Demand in Men and Women
Authors: Namasivayam Mayooran , Adji Audrey , O'Rourke Michael F.
Published: December 2010

Myocardial oxygen consumption is increased by arterial stiffening. It is not known precisely how. This study aimed to evaluate the role of the incident and reflected pressure wave in raising myocardial oxygen demand. Central (aortic) pressure waveforms were generated from radial waveforms using a generalized transfer function in 1628 cardiology outpatients (1038 males and 590 females). Aortic waveforms were used to derive measures of incident and reflected waves, as well as to measure mean central systolic pressure (an indicator of systolic ventricular load), left ventricular ejection duration, and tension time index (a surrogate of myocardial oxygen demand) using validated techniques. Incident and reflected waves were measured using the conventional and an alternative method (aortic flow triangulation). Relationships were tested before and after correction for age, height, weight, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure using simple and multivariate linear regression models. Analyses were conducted separately by gender. In both genders (according to conventional or alternative methods of wave measurement), both the incident and reflected wave were strong predictors of tension time index (
P
<0.001). Both pressure waves raised the mean central systolic pressure (
P
<0.001). The reflected wave (
P
<0.001), unlike the incident wave (
P
>0.05), was also associated with a longer cardiac ejection duration. Tension time index (
P
<0.0001), mean central systolic pressure (
P
<0.001), and ejection duration (
P
<0.0001) were greater in women. Changes in arterial properties alter the nature of pressure wave propagation and predispose to cardiac ischemia (especially in women).
Elevated Maternal Soluble Gp130 and IL-6 Levels and Reduced Gp130 and SOCS-3 Expressions in Women Complicated With Preeclampsia
Authors: Wang Yuping , Lewis David F. , Gu Yang , Zhao Shuang , Groome Lynn J.
Published: December 2010

Increased inflammatory response plays a significant role in the vascular pathophysiology in preeclampsia. However, the mechanism for increased inflammatory response in preeclampsia is largely unknown. Interleukin (IL)-6 levels are elevated in women with preeclampsia. IL-6 and its receptors, IL-6R and glycoprotein (gp)130, play a critical role in mediating antiinflammatory response via induction of SOCS-3 (suppressor of cytokine signaling-3). However, IL-6 receptor levels and expressions have not been studied in preeclampsia. In this study, we measured IL-6 and its 2 soluble receptors, soluble IL-6R and soluble gp130, in maternal plasma from normal and preeclamptic pregnant women and found that not only IL-6 but also soluble gp130 levels were significantly higher in preeclamptic women than in normotensive pregnant controls. We further examined IL-6R, gp130, and SOCS-3 expressions in maternal vessels and leukocytes and found that gp130 and SOCS-3 expressions were downregulated in both vessel endothelium and leukocytes from preeclampsia. Different patterns for IL-6R and gp130 expressions were found. IL-6R expression was also downregulated in leukocytes from preeclampsia. Our results suggest that increased plasma soluble gp130/soluble IL-6R/IL-6 ratio and reduced membrane transsignaling gp130 expression could contribute to decreased SOCS-3 expression and subsequent reduction in SOCS-3 antiinflammatory activity in women with preeclampsia. Thus, reduced gp130 and SOCS-3 expressions may offer, at least in part, a plausible explanation of reduced antiinflammatory protection in the maternal vascular system in preeclampsia.
Tropical Plumes over Eastern North Africa as a Source of Rain in the Middle East
Authors: Rubin Shira , Ziv Baruch , Paldor Nathan
Published: December 2010

Tropical plumes (TPs) reflect tropical–extratropical interaction associated with the transport of moisture from the Tropics to extratropical latitudes. They are observed in satellite images as continuous narrow cloud bands ahead of upper-level subtropical troughs at times when the subtropical jet is highly perturbed. Rainstorms usually develop in the exit regions of TPs, so their presence over northern Africa has an impact on the precipitation regime in the southeastern Mediterranean. Based on satellite images and rainfall measurements from Israel, 10 TPs over eastern North Africa between 1988 and 2005 in which considerable rain was recorded were selected. Using the NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data, the structure and evolution of these TPs were characterized and their regional canonical features were identified. A typical TP that occurred in March 1991 is described in detail. The main canonical characteristics are as follows: the TP development is preceded by an incubation period, expressed either as a stationary upper-level trough, persisting 2–6 days, or as two consecutive TP pulses; the preferred location for TP origin is 5°–15°N, 5°W–15°E; the TP is separated from the underlying dry Saharan PBL; the subtropical trough undergoes a phase locking with the lower tropical trough; the cloudiness in the TP-induced rainstorm is mostly stratified with continuous moderate rain, originating from midlevel moisture; and the TP tends to be followed by a midlatitude cyclogenesis over the eastern Mediterranean. This analysis proposes several explanations for the efficiency of the TPs in transporting moisture over a 2000-km distance.
Estimating the Sensitivity of Radiative Impacts of Shallow, Broken Marine Clouds to Boundary Layer Aerosol Size Distribution Parameter Uncertainties for Evaluation of Satellite Retrieval Requirements
Authors: Fridlind Ann M. , Ackerman Andrew S.
Published: December 2010

A proposed objective of the planned Aerosol–Cloud–Ecosystem (ACE) satellite mission is to provide constraints on climate model representation of aerosol effects on clouds by retrieving profiles of aerosol number concentration, effective variance, and effective radius over the 0.1–1-μm radius range under humidified ambient conditions with 500-m vertical resolution and uncertainties of 100%, 50%, and 10%, respectively. Shallow, broken marine clouds provide an example of conditions where boundary layer aerosol properties would be retrieved in clear-sky gaps. To quantify the degree of constraint that proposed retrievals might provide on cloud radiative forcing (CRF) simulated by climate models under such conditions, dry aerosol size distribution parameters are independently varied here in large-eddy simulations of three well-established modeling case studies. Using the rudimentary available aerosol specifications, it is found that relative changes of total dry aerosol properties in simulations can be used as a proxy for relative changes of ambient aerosol properties targeted by ACE retrievals. The sensitivity of simulated daytime shortwave CRF to the proposed uncertainty in retrieved aerosol number concentration is −15 W m−2 in the overcast limit, roughly a factor of 2 smaller than a simple analytic estimate owing primarily to aerosol-induced reductions in simulated liquid water path across this particular set of case studies. The CRF sensitivity to proposed uncertainties in retrieved aerosol effective variance and effective radius is typically far smaller, with no corresponding analytic estimate. Generalization of the results obtained here using only three case studies would require statistical analysis of relevant meteorological and aerosol observations and quantification of observational and model uncertainties and biases.
Model-Inspired Predictors for Model Output Statistics (MOS)*
Authors: Termonia Piet , Deckmyn Alex
Published: December 2010

This article addresses the problem of the choice of the predictors for the multiple linear regression in model output statistics. Rather than devising a selection procedure directly aimed at the minimization of the final scores, it is examined whether taking the model equations as a guidance may render the process more rational. To this end a notion of constant fractional errors is introduced. Experimental evidence is provided that they are approximately present in the model and that their impact is sufficiently linear to be corrected by a linear regression. Of particular interest are the forcing terms in the coupling of the physics parameterization to the dynamics of the model. Because such parameterizations are estimates of subgrid processes, they are expected to represent degrees of freedom that are independent of the resolved-scale model variables. To illustrate the value of this approach, it is shown that the temporal accumulation of sensible and latent heat fluxes and net solar and thermal radiation utilized as predictors add a statistically significant improvement to the 2-m temperature scores.
Views of Economic Inequality in Latin America
Authors: Cramer Brian D. , Kaufman Robert R.
Published: December 2010

The authors assess the factors that affect judgments about the fairness of the distribution of wealth with pooled public opinion data from Latinobarometro surveys conducted in 1997, 2001, and 2002. They test hypotheses with a multilevel logit model that allows them not only to examine the effects of the class background and perceptions of individual respondents but also to assess the impact of society-level differences in economic growth, GDP per capita, income concentration, and the availability of information. Examining the direct and conditional effects of these society-level factors, the authors find support for relative deprivation approaches but much more limited evidence for hypotheses derived from distributive conflict and development theories.
The Heavens May Fall: School Dropouts, the Achievement Gap, and Statistical Bias
Authors: Verdugo Richard R.
Published: December 2010

In this article, the author examined the AG by noting that the NAEP reported math scores among 17-year-olds is upwardly biased when compared with the scores of this same cohort 4 years earlier when they were 13 years old. It is upwardly biased because an important event happens over the 4-year period between 8th and 12th grade—a large percentage of students leave school without graduating, and they tend to be the poorest performing students. The analyses indicate that there is indeed a considerable amount of bias in these test scores, for all three ethnic-racial groups and thus for the reported achievement gaps. There are two conclusions to be drawn from the analysis. First, it is inappropriate to compare the eighth-grade scores with those that occur 4 years later when they were 17 year old. Over the 4-year period, the population of high school students has changed as a result of significant events, such as dropout rates. These rates are especially significant among Black and Hispanic students. Second, because of such bias, the achievement gap, as reported, is misleading and adjustments need to be made if we are to get an accurate portrait of student achievement and the achievement gap.
Reframing Professional Development for South African Schools
Authors: Steyn G. M.
Published: December 2010

Often research on the professional development (PD) of staff is framed within a problem-based context that focuses on the PD-related problems experienced by staff. This study pursued a different approach by using the appreciative inquiry (AI) theoretical perspective to study the positive experiences of staff in respect of PD and their desire to improve the practice of PD even further. A qualitative study was carried out among four schools with maximum variance. The findings reveal the main aim of continuing PD, the changing attitudes engendered by PD, the prominent role of the principal and the requirements for effective PD programs including the selection of facilitators, appropriate venues and the timing and duration of workshops, as well as feedback on workshops. The study provides evidence that an AI approach may be used as a basis for identifying guidelines on improving PD practice. The article concludes with implications of the findings for principals of schools.
Administrative obstacles to reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Trefon Theodore
Published: December 2010

Emerging from two major wars (1996—97 and 1998—2002), the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of Africa’s most notoriously failed states. Since President Joseph Kabila came to power in 2001, the international community has invested significantly in efforts to rebuild the Congo. State-building efforts, however, have not achieved the expected results. International partners and the Congolese authorities share responsibility for failing to bring about genuine political change and institutional reconstruction. The former have underestimated the complexities of Congolese political culture while the latter deliberately hamper reform. Administrative weaknesses and the particular nature of public service provision in Congo constitute overwhelming obstacles to state-building. After presenting the different logics that motivate state-building and an overview of recent political history, the Congolese administrative reality will be discussed. Analysis will follow, revealing that implementing meaningful reform under the current framework is improbable.

Points for practitioners

This article is useful for professionals working in public management and administration because it offers arguments concerning: the importance of taking into account political culture for improved aid efficiency; the dangers of importing state-building ‘templates’ and standardized post-conflict reconstruction peace kits; the role played by national administrations in state-building and reform; the capacity of disillusioned public servants to hamper state-building and reform; lessons to be drawn from the DRC state-building and reform package for similar initiatives in other post-conflict and failed states.
Philanthropy in European welfare states: a challenging promise?
Authors: Schuyt Theo N.M.
Published: December 2010

Philanthropy is growing rapidly in Europe and in most of the countries in the industrialized world. A well-known phenomenon from history, philanthropy has made a come-back in recent years and is finding new form and meaning in an emerging ‘civil society’. But how do we define this new ‘modern’ philanthropy? Does it differ from concepts such as ‘charity’ and the ‘third sector’? Has it already earned a place at the table of EC policymakers? Is this ‘old’ but ‘new’ phenomenon awakening scholarly interest? These questions are discussed in this article. Philanthropy is defined by applying theoretical insights on the concept of philanthropy. Scholarly interest is measured by using the attention paid to philanthropy in leading English-language political science journals between 2000 and 2008 as a yardstick. The results show that though philanthropy is a distinct concept, it receives very little scholarly attention in these journals. The article concludes by arguing that the growth of philanthropy today offers a promising challenge for policymakers in welfare states provided that ‘private actions for the public good’ can be incorporated in the welfare-state paradigm.

Points for practitioners

Philanthropy is playing an increasingly stronger role in welfare states. However, governments and public administrators searching for new ways to fund welfare services have still to fully recognize the potential of philanthropy. In addition to commercialization and the market, a non-profit sector based more on philanthropic revenue could be an interesting option for delivering services. Public administrators will therefore have to rise to the challenging task of creating a legal, economic and cultural framework that will stimulate and enhance philanthropy.
Does reliance on tax revenue build state capacity in sub-Saharan Africa?
Authors: Prichard Wilson , Leonard David K.
Published: December 2010

Academics and donors have increasingly argued that African states can enhance their general administrative capacity by improving tax revenue collection. Proponents argue that administratively demanding improvements in tax administration may spillover to other areas of public administration by introducing improved practices, necessitating improvements elsewhere and providing data for other government activities. We make the first effort to test this hypothesis empirically, using an improved cross-country data set for sub-Saharan Africa. We find some evidence that from 1973 until the late 1990s improvements in tax administration tended to precede broader administrative improvements, consistent with the research hypothesis. By contrast, we find no evidence of such a pattern over the past decade. We conclude that these results provide tentative support for the hypothesis that improvements in tax collection can be a catalyst for broader gains in state capacity, but that such linkages are not guaranteed and depend on the particular character of reform.

Points for practitioners

Those involved with public administrative reform efforts have long been confronted with the question of whether reform is, or should be, an essentially system-wide process, or focused on developing ‘pockets of effectiveness’. This debate is particularly relevant to tax reform: a growing academic literature has argued that tax reform can be a catalyst for system-wide change, but the dominant reform model has focused on the creation of autonomous revenue agencies to achieve rapid but focused capacity gains. This research examines the case for believing that tax reform can be a catalyst for broader reform, and thus the case for adopting a reform model that focuses more explicitly on system-wide change.
Physical properties and cytotoxicity of surface-modified bovine bone-based hydroxyapatite/poly(lactic acid) composites
Authors: Rakmae Suriyan , Ruksakulpiwat Yupaporn , Sutapun Wimonlak , Suppakarn Nitinat
Published: December 2010

This study was a preliminary observation for a potential use of the bovine bone-based hydroxyapatite (b-HA)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composite as a biomaterial. SEM micrographs, XRD pattern, and FTIR spectrum of calcined bovine bone revealed that the obtained powder was in a form of crystalline carbonated HA, and highly agglomerated. The surface of HA powder was modified with either 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APES) or 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTS) in order to enhance the compatibility between b-HA and PLA matrix. TGA and GPC results revealed that the incorporation of silane-treated HA into the PLA matrix significantly increased thermal stability of the composites and decreased the thermal degradation of PLA chains. SEM micrographs revealed that modification of HA with APES or MPTS eased dispersion of HA in PLA matrix and enhanced interfacial adhesion between both phases. Therefore, the mechanical properties of silane treated HA/PLA composites were improved as compared with those of b-HA/PLA composites. In addition, in vitro cytotoxicity tests indicated that the extracts from all HA/PLA composites had no toxicity to human osteoblast cell.
Safrole Induces Apoptosis in Human Oral Cancer HSC-3 Cells
Authors: Yu F.-S. , Yang J.-S. , Yu C.-S. , Lu C.-C. , Chiang J.-H. , Lin C.-W. , Chung J.-G.
Published: December 2010

Phytochemicals have been used as potential chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic agents. However, there are data suggesting a mutagenic effect of some phytochemicals. We hypothesized that safrole would have anticancer effects on human oral squamous cell carcinoma HSC-3 cells. Safrole decreased the percentage of viable HSC-3 cells via induction of apoptosis by an increased level of cytosolic Ca2+ and a reduction in the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ m). Changes in the membrane potential were associated with changes in the Bax, release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and activation of downstream caspases-9 and -3, resulting in apoptotic cell death. In vivo studies also showed that safrole reduced the size and volume of an HSC-3 solid tumor on a xenograft athymic nu/nu mouse model. Western blotting and flow cytometric analysis studies confirmed that safrole-mediated apoptotic cell death of HSC-3 cells is regulated by cytosolic Ca2+ and by mitochondria- and Fas-dependent pathways.
Teaching Students about Performance Anxiety
Authors: Robertson Donald U. , Eisensmith Kevin E.
Published: December 2010

Performance anxiety is a common problem for many students and an issue that educators often address. This article examines a model of performance anxiety based on working memory and attentional processes. The model is described in a way that is easily understood by students of all ages. It is then used to classify methods of reducing performance anxiety and explaining how they work. Practical exercises for helping students understand performance anxiety and cope with it are presented.
Your Personal Learning Network
Authors: Bauer William I.
Published: December 2010

Web 2.0 tools and resources can enhance our efficiency and effectiveness as music educators, supporting personal learning networks for ongoing professional growth and development. This article includes (a) an explanation of Really Simple Syndication (RSS) and the use of an RSS reader/aggregator; (b) a discussion of blogs, podcasts, wikis, folksonomies, and other resources that can be subscribed to via RSS, with examples of these media applicable to music teaching and learning highlighted; (c) a list of tools that allow one to search for RSS-enabled content of interest; and (d) instructions for accessing resources to create and develop blogs, podcasts, wikis, and folksonomies.
A New Approach to Oppositions in Discourse
Authors: Davies Matt
Published: December 2010

This article proposes a flexible typology of syntactic frames (e.g., “X not Y,” “ either X or Y”) which can act independently or cooperatively as triggers for noncanonical oppositions that co-occur in those frames. The provisional categories are based on Jones’s quantitative study of syntactic frames for housing co-occurring canonical (conventional) antonyms (e.g., “war” / “peace”) but are substantially revised to account for a broadening of the definition of opposition. These revisions also take into consideration how syntactic frames overlap and interact in context, making qualitative analyses necessary. Data are taken from U.K. newspaper reports of two major protest marches in London. Here, the use of common syntactic frames that house co-occurring canonical oppositions trigger a range of noncanonical examples, which contribute to a binary representation of people, groups, events, ideas, and processes. The typology proposed in this article can open up new ground for locating and investigating the ideological influence of oppositions in discourse in disciplines such as critical discourse analysis.
Manifesting Empowerment: How a Family Health Program Can Address Racism
Authors: McBride Dominica Francoise
Published: December 2010

Racism has been conducive to ostensible health disparities, with African Americans being gravely affected. The lack of cultural responsiveness within the health care system is one reason among others for the persistence of such discrepancies. Family is an integral factor in the culture and history of the African American community, making the inclusion of this variable in health care a potentially ancillary response to culture. The present study endeavored to ascertain the views of African American parents/guardians and health care professionals on how a family health program could address racism and the subsequent ill effects. Applying qualitative methods, various themes on addressing racism emerged, including the following: (1) enhancing self-esteem, increasing cultural pride and knowledge, and enhancing conduct; (2) increasing intraracial community cohesion; and (3) bolstering inter-racial community connection.
Early word formation in German language acquisition: A study on word formation growth during the second and third years
Authors: Schipke Christine S. , Kauschke Christina
Published: December 2010

This study investigates the development of German word formation as an important step in mastering complex lexical items for the language learning child. Thirty mother— child dyads participated. Means of word formation and resulting word categories were analyzed in children’s spontaneous speech at ages 1;9, 1;11, 2;6, and 3;0. In contrast to the acquisition of English, the results show simultaneous development of compounds and derivations. German toddlers produce more verbal than nominal derivations and more compounds based on verbs than on nouns. The findings suggest that (1) there are cross-linguistic differences in the development of word formation devices, and (2) children rely heavily on verbs in word formation.
Socio-emotional engagement, joint attention, imitation, and conversation skill: Analysis in typical development and specific language impairment
Authors: Farrant Brad M. , Maybery Murray T. , Fletcher Janet
Published: December 2010

According to Racine and Carpendale’s constructivist theory, the acquisition of shared linguistic practice is grounded in the development of competence in shared forms of activity such as joint attention which are naturally embedded in socio-emotional engagement. The present study investigated the relationships among socio-emotional engagement, joint attention, imitation, and conversation skill by establishing a model of these relationships in 94 typically developing children ( M age = 5;4) and further assessing this model in another group of 93 typically developing children ( M age = 5;1) and 30 children with specific language impairment ( M age = 5;3). Joint attention and imitation were found to mediate the relationship between socio-emotional engagement and conversation skill.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Acceptance-Based Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Therapy for Test Anxiety: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brown Lily A. , Forman Evan M. , Herbert James D. , Hoffman Kimberly L. , Yuen Erica K. , Goetter Elizabeth M.
Published: December 2010

Many university students suffer from test anxiety that is severe enough to impair performance. Given mixed efficacy results of previous cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) trials and a theoretically driven rationale, an acceptance-based behavior therapy (ABBT) approach was compared to traditional CBT (i.e., Beckian cognitive therapy; CT) for the treatment of test anxiety. In this pilot study, 16 university students with test anxiety were randomly assigned to receive either a CT or ABBT 2-hr group workshop. The two treatments produced markedly different effects on test performance (measured by exam scores), with those receiving ABBT experiencing improvements in performance, whereas those receiving CT exhibited reduced performance. In addition, there was a suggestion that ABBT might have been more effective at reducing subjectively experienced test anxiety (i.e., a nonsignificant but medium-sized group by time interaction effect). Implications of these results for the treatment of test anxiety and for theoretical notions related to cognitive change strategies are discussed.