bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular Outcomes and Mortality in Patients Using Clopidogrel With Proton Pump Inhibitors After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention or Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Rassen Jeremy A. , Choudhry Niteesh K. , Avorn Jerry , Schneeweiss Sebastian
Published: November 2009

Background—

Recent studies have raised concerns about the reduced efficacy of clopidogrel when used concurrently with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), but those studies may have overestimated the risk.

Methods and Results—

We studied the potential for increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events among users of clopidogrel with versus without concurrent use of PPIs in 3 large cohorts of patients ≥65 years of age, treated between 2001 and 2005. All patients had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention or had been hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or British Columbia, and subsequently had initiated treatment with clopidogrel. We recorded myocardial infarction hospitalization, death, and revascularization among PPI users and nonusers. We assessed our primary end point of myocardial infarction hospitalization or death using cohort-specific and pooled regression analyses. We entered 18 565 clopidogrel users into our analysis. On a pooled basis, 2.6% of those who also initiated a PPI versus 2.1% of PPI nonusers had a myocardial infarction hospitalization; 1.5% versus 0.9% died; and 3.4% versus 3.1% underwent revascularization. The propensity score–adjusted rate ratio for the primary end point of myocardial infarction or death was 1.22 (95% confidence interval, 0.99 to 1.51); for death, 1.20 (95% confidence interval, 0.84 to 1.70); and for revascularization, 0.97 (95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 1.21). Matched analyses generally yielded similar results.

Conclusions—

Although point estimates indicated a slightly increased risk of myocardial infarction hospitalization or death in older patients initiating both clopidogrel and a PPI, we did not observe conclusive evidence of a clopidogrel-PPI interaction of major clinical relevance. Our data suggest that if this effect exists, it is unlikely to exceed a 20% risk increase.
Modification of the Effect of Glycemic Status on Aortic Distensibility by Age in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Stacey R. Brandon , Bertoni Alain G. , Eng John , Bluemke David A. , Hundley W. Gregory , Herrington David
Published: November 2009

Elevated serum glucose from diabetes mellitus (DM) or impaired fasting glucose shares many mechanisms with aging that decrease aortic distensibility (AD), such as glycation of the extracellular matrix. However, few data compare the simultaneous effects of elevated serum glucose and aging on AD. To study this, we examined the relationship among fasting glucose status, age, and AD in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis: a multiethnic cohort of individuals aged 45 to 84 years without clinical cardiovascular disease. In the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, participants with normal fasting glucose (n=2270), impaired fasting glucose (n=870), and DM (n=412) underwent MRI assessment of proximal thoracic aortic distensibility. This sample was 46% male, 42% white, 30% black, 11% Asian, and 17% Hispanic. The relationship among glucose status, age, and AD was analyzed with general linear models by adjusting for factors influential on AD. An interaction term was used to determine whether age modified the effect of glucose status on AD. AD was lowest among those with DM. The interaction term was significant (
P
=0.024). Comparing participants <65 years of age, AD was different between normal fasting glucose and DM (
P
<0.01) and between normal fasting glucose and impaired fasting glucose (
P
=0.02). In those >65 years of age, the fasting glucose group was no longer a significant predictor of AD. Our data indicate that there are overall differences in AD among DM, impaired fasting glucose, and normal fasting glucose. However, age modified the effect of glucose status such that differences between the groups diminished with advancing age.
Assessing Maize and Peanut Yield Simulations with Various Seasonal Climate Data in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Shin D. W. , Baigorria G. A. , Lim Y-K. , Cocke S. , LaRow T. E. , O’Brien James J. , Jones James W.
Published: November 2009

A comprehensive evaluation of crop yield simulations with various seasonal climate data is performed to improve the current practice of crop yield projections. The El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)-based historical data are commonly used to predict the upcoming season crop yields over the southeastern United States. In this study, eight different seasonal climate datasets are generated using the combinations of two global models, a regional model, and a statistical downscaling technique. One of the global models and the regional model are run with two different convective schemes. These datasets are linked to maize and peanut dynamic models to assess their impacts on crop yield simulations and are then compared with the ENSO-based approach. Improvement of crop yield simulations with the climate model data is varying, depending on the model configuration and the crop type. Although using the global climate model data directly provides no improvement, the dynamically and statistically downscaled data show increased skill in the crop yield simulations. A statistically downscaled operational seasonal climate model forecast shows statistically significant (at the 5% level) interannual predictability in the peanut yield simulation. Since the yield amount simulated by the dynamical crop model is highly sensitive to wet/dry spell sequences (water stress) during the growing season, fidelity in simulating the precipitation variability is essential.
A Density Current Parameterization Coupled with Emanuel’s Convection Scheme. Part II: 1D Simulations
Authors: Grandpeix Jean-Yves , Lafore Jean-Philippe , Cheruy Frédérique
Published: November 2009

The density current parameterization coupled with Emanuel’s convection scheme, described in Part I of this series of papers, is tested in a single-column framework for continental and maritime convective systems. The case definitions and reference simulations are provided by cloud-resolving models (CRMs). For both cases, the wake scheme yields cold pools with temperature and humidity differences relative to the environment in reasonable agreement with observations (with wake depth on the order of 2 km over land and 1 km over ocean). The coupling with the convection scheme yields convective heating, drying, and precipitation similar to those simulated by the CRM. Thus, the representation of the action of the wakes on convection in terms of available lifting energy (ALE) and available lifting power (ALP) appears satisfactory. The sensitivity of the wake–convection system to the basic parameters of the parameterization is widely explored. A range of values for each parameter is recommended to help with implementing the scheme in a full-fledged general circulation model.
A Bayesian Algorithm for Reconstructing Climate Anomalies in Space and Time. Part II: Comparison with the Regularized Expectation–Maximization Algorithm
Authors: Tingley Martin P. , Huybers Peter
Published: November 2009

Part I presented a Bayesian algorithm for reconstructing climate anomalies in space and time (BARCAST). This method involves specifying simple parametric forms for the spatial covariance and temporal evolution of the climate field as well as “observation equations” describing the relationships between the data types and the corresponding true values of the climate field. As this Bayesian approach to reconstructing climate fields is new and different, it is worthwhile to compare it in detail to the more established regularized expectation–maximization (RegEM) algorithm, which is based on an empirical estimate of the joint data covariance matrix and a multivariate regression of the instrumental time series onto the proxy time series. The differing assumptions made by BARCAST and RegEM are detailed, and the impacts of these differences on the analysis are discussed. Key distinctions between BARCAST and RegEM include their treatment of spatial and temporal covariance, the prior information that enters into each analysis, the quantities they seek to impute, the end product of each analysis, the temporal variance of the reconstructed field, and the treatment of uncertainty in both the imputed values and functions of these imputations. Differences between BARCAST and RegEM are illustrated by applying the two approaches to various surrogate datasets. If the assumptions inherent to BARCAST are not strongly violated, then in scenarios comparable to practical applications BARCAST results in reconstructions of both the field and the spatial mean that are more skillful than those produced by RegEM, as measured by the coefficient of efficiency. In addition, the uncertainty intervals produced by BARCAST are narrower than those estimated using RegEM and contain the true values with higher probability.
Errors in Cloud Detection over the Arctic Using a Satellite Imager and Implications for Observing Feedback Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Yinghui , Ackerman Steven A. , Maddux Brent C. , Key Jeffrey R. , Frey Richard A.
Published: November 2009

Arctic sea ice extent has decreased dramatically over the last 30 years, and this trend is expected to continue through the twenty-first century. Changes in sea ice extent impact cloud cover, which in turn influences the surface energy budget. Understanding cloud feedback mechanisms requires an accurate determination of cloud cover over the polar regions, which must be obtained from satellite-based measurements. The accuracy of cloud detection using observations from space varies with surface type, complicating any assessment of climate trends as well as the understanding of ice–albedo and cloud–radiative feedback mechanisms. To explore the implications of this dependence on measurement capability, cloud amounts from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) are compared with those from the CloudSat and Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder (CALIPSO) satellites in both daytime and nighttime during the time period from July 2006 to December 2008. MODIS is an imager that makes observations in the solar and infrared spectrum. The active sensors of CloudSat and CALIPSO, a radar and lidar, respectively, provide vertical cloud structures along a narrow curtain.

Results clearly indicate that MODIS cloud mask products perform better over open water than over ice. Regional changes in cloud amount from CloudSat/CALIPSO and MODIS are categorized as a function of independent measurements of sea ice concentration (SIC) from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for Earth Observing System (AMSR-E). As SIC increases from 10% to 90%, the mean cloud amounts from MODIS and CloudSat–CALIPSO both decrease; water that is more open is associated with increased cloud amount. However, this dependency on SIC is much stronger for MODIS than for CloudSat–CALIPSO, and is likely due to a low bias in MODIS cloud amount. The implications of this on the surface radiative energy budget using historical satellite measurements are discussed. The quantified ice–water difference in MODIS cloud detection can be used to adjust estimated trends in cloud amount in the presence of changing sea ice cover from an independent dataset. It was found that cloud amount trends in the Arctic might be in error by up to 2.7% per decade. The impact of these errors on the surface net cloud radiative effect (“forcing”) of the Arctic can be significant, as high as 8.5%.
Robust Characterization of Model Physics Uncertainty for Simulations of Deep Moist Convection
Authors: Posselt Derek J. , Vukicevic Tomislava
Published: November 2009

This study explores the functional relationship between model physics parameters and model output variables for the purpose of 1) characterizing the sensitivity of the simulation output to the model formulation and 2) understanding model uncertainty so that it can be properly accounted for in a data assimilation framework. A Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is employed to examine how changes in cloud microphysical parameters map to changes in output precipitation, liquid and ice water path, and radiative fluxes for an idealized deep convective squall line. Exploration of the joint probability density function (PDF) of parameters and model output state variables reveals a complex relationship between parameters and model output that changes dramatically as the system transitions from convective to stratiform. Persistent nonuniqueness in the parameter–state relationships is shown to be inherent in the construction of the cloud microphysical and radiation schemes and cannot be mitigated by reducing observation uncertainty. The results reinforce the importance of including uncertainty in model configuration in ensemble prediction and data assimilation, and they indicate that data assimilation efforts that include parameter estimation would benefit from including additional constraints based on known physical relationships between model physics parameters to render a unique solution.
Social Mobility and Education of Finnish Cohorts Born 1936—75
Authors: Erola Jani
Published: November 2009

This is a study of the intergenerational occupational class mobility of cohorts born 1936—75 in Finland and of the role of the changes in educational attainment. The data are taken from the Finnish Census Panel, from which mobility tables for 5-year cohorts that have reached the age of 25 have been constructed at 7 time-points: 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995 and 2000. The period change in social fluidity appears to be towards greater openness for both men and women. However, the cohort differences are more significant. Class origins and destinations are more strongly associated with the youngest cohorts than with the cohorts born in 1951—65, suggesting a strengthening of social inheritance. The period change can be explained by the changes in educational attainment. However, although the changes in the origin—education association play some role in reducing cohort differences, controlling education-related variation does not change them very much. The findings suggest that, in order to explain the cohort differences, it might be worthwhile considering institutional factors other than education.
Gender, Alcohol Consumption Patterns, and Engagement in Sexually Intimate Behaviors Among Adolescents and Young Adults in Nha Trang, Viet Nam
Authors: Kaljee Linda M. , Green Mackenzie S. , Min Zhan  , Riel Rosemary , Lerdboon Porntip , Lostutter Ty W. , Le Huu Tho  , Vo Van Luong  , Truong Tan Minh
Published: November 2009

A randomly selected cross-sectional survey was conducted with 880 youth (16 to 24 years) in Nha Trang City to assess relationships between alcohol consumption and sexual behaviors. A timeline followback method was employed. Chi-square, generalized logit modeling and logistic regression analyses were performed. Of the sample, 78.2% male and 56.1% female respondents ever consumed alcohol. Males reporting sexual behaviors (vaginal, anal, oral sex) had a significantly higher calculated peak BAC of 0.151 compared to 0.082 for males reporting no sexual intimacy ( p < .0001). Females reporting sexual behaviors had a peak BAC of 0.072 compared to 0.027 for those reporting no sexual intimacy ( p = .016). Fifty percent of (33/66) males and 30.4% (7/23) females report event specific drinking and engagement in sexual behaviors. Males reporting 11+ drinks in 30 days had more sexual partners than those reporting 1 to 10 drinks ( p = .037). Data suggest different physical and psychosocial mediators between alcohol consumption and sexual behaviors by gender.
Preadolescent Violence Among Girls
Authors: Boyer Wanda
Published: November 2009

This research study explored preadolescent girl-to-girl violence based on the perceptions of the victim at 14 years of age and those of her family. Using a heuristic research design (Moustakas, 1990), this constant comparative analysis of multiple data sources found (a) a clearly delineated progression of girl-to-girl violence, (b) blindness surrounding girl-to-girl violence in the responses of not only the victim’s family but also the victim herself, and (c) proactive factors and strategies for early recognition and prevention of girl-to-girl violence. The implications based on these findings include examining when and under what conditions various forms of aggression emerged, alternative trajectories of victimization, and future research that can inform the prevention of girl-to-girl violence.
Resilience and Political Violence
Authors: Lavi Iris , Slone Michelle
Published: November 2009

Children in countries involved in violent national conflicts experience difficult and, at times, extreme events such as spending long hours in shelters, witnessing terror attacks, or having a family member absent or injured while participating in battle. This study explores the moderating effect of resilience factors, self-esteem, and self-control, on relations between political violence and children’s difficulties. Children and mothers from 104 Jewish- and 108 Arab-Israeli families complete questionnaires assessing political violence exposure, self-esteem, self-control, and the child’s social, psychological, and behavioral difficulties. Findings show that Israeli children exhibited heightened levels of psychological difficulties with high impact of political violence, a relationship that is partially moderated by self-control. In addition, significant ethnic group differences are found. First, political life events (PLE) are positively related to the child’s social, psychological, and behavioral difficulties in the Arab group. Second, the relationship between political life events and the child’s difficulties is moderated by self-control in the Jewish group and by self-esteem in the Arab group. Consequences of these results to understanding the impact of political violence and the role of individual resilience during conflict are discussed.
Diet-Specific Family Support and Glucose Control Among Korean Immigrants With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Choi Sarah E.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of diet family support on glucose outcome in Korean immigrants with type 2 diabetes, taking into consideration patient gender.

Methods

A total of 143 Korean immigrants with type 2 diabetes were recruited from a West Coast Koreatown. On com- pleting questionnaires (demographic, health history, and the Diabetes Family Behavior Checklist-II [DFBC]), a participant was given a finger stick blood test for glyco-sylated hemoglobin (A1C). Body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were calculated after measurements were taken. Analyses assessed the independent associations of diet family support, gender, and diet fam- ily support by gender interactions with glucose outcome.

Results

A higher level of diet family support was significantly associated with lower A1C, indicating the beneficial effect of diet family support on glucose control. Although the main effect of gender on A1C was not significant, the effect of the product term of family support and gender was, indicating that the significant beneficial impact of diet family support on A1C depends on gender. The impact is much more pronounced in men (B = -.516) than women (B = -.038).

Conclusions

Family support, specific to diet, is significantly associ- ated with glucose outcomes in Korean immigrants with type 2 diabetes. That is, more perceived family support was associated with better glucose control. The positive impact of family support on glucose outcome was sig- nificantly stronger in men than in women, even after other factors were taken into consideration
Using Meal-Based Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose (SMBG) Data to Guide Dietary Recommendations in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Jovanovic Lois
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this article is to describe how self- monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) data is a useful tool for identifying and managing postprandial hypergly- cemia (PPHG). PPHG and postprandial glucose excur- sions occur frequently in patients with diabetes even when hemoglobin A1C is controlled below 7.0%, and convey increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Consequently, effective management of diabe- tes must include control of postprandial glucose levels. Postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) depends on the com- position of meals, specifically the amount of carbohy- drates. Reduced-carbohydrate diets offer short-term improvements in glycemic control and other metabolic parameters, but await the support of long-term efficacy and safety studies. Glucose profiling and paired-meal SMBG are useful tools for detecting PPHG and glucose excursions. They provide immediate feedback to patients on the effect of foods and meals, thereby allowing appro- priate food and medication adjustments to improve post- prandial glycemic control
No Place Like Home: Home Tours Correlate With Daily Patterns of Mood and Cortisol
Authors: Saxbe Darby E. , Repetti Rena
Published: November 2009

The way people describe their homes may reflect whether their time at home feels restorative or stressful. This article uses linguistic analysis software (Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count) to analyze 60 dual-income spouses’ self-guided home tours by calculating the frequency of words describing clutter, a sense of the home as unfinished, restful words, and nature words. Based on a principal components analysis, the former two categories were combined into the variable stressful home and the latter two into restorative home. Over 3 weekdays following the home tours, wives with higher stressful home scores had flatter diurnal slopes of cortisol, a profile associated with adverse health outcomes, whereas women with higher restorative home scores had steeper cortisol slopes. These results held after controlling for marital satisfaction and neuroticism. Women with higher stressful home scores had increased depressed mood over the course of the day, whereas women with higher restorative home scores had decreased depressed mood over the day.
Delving Into Teacher Collaboration: Untangling Problems and Solutions for Leadership
Authors: Gates Gordon , Robinson Sharon
Published: November 2009

This article offers description and interpretation for understanding the exercise of leadership in teacher collaboration. Data gathered in two urban high schools through observations and interviews were coded and categorized following Miles and Huberman’s modified analytic induction technique. The analysis contributes to emerging theory on leadership through examining and reframing Heifetz’s typology of technical and adaptive work to include nonrational properties evidenced in teacher teamwork. The findings forward questions, insights, and recommendations for practitioners about distributing leadership in efforts to reform teacher practice.
Premature coronary artery calcification is associated with disease duration and bone mineral density in young female systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Ribeiro GG , Bonfá E. , Sasdeli R. , Abe J. , Caparbo VF , Borba EF , Lopes JB , Gebrim E. , Pereira RMR
Published: November 2009

Our objective was to evaluate the relevance of traditional and disease-related cardiovascular risk factors and of bone mineral density for premature coronary artery calcification in young patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Ninety-four female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with disease durations >5 years and <45 years were consecutively selected. Cardiovascular risks (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, dyslipoproteinemia, smoking, family history, body mass index, ovarian and renal insufficiency) and systemic lupus erythematosus-related risk factors (disease duration, ACR criteria, modified SLICC/ ACR, SLEDAI and treatment) were evaluated. Bone mineral density was assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry. Coronary artery calcification was determined by computed tomography. Coronary artery calcification was identified in 12 (12.7%) patients and was associated with a higher frequency of patients with cardiovascular risks (p = 0.001), higher number of cardiovascular risks (p = 0.002), age (p = 0.025), disease duration (p = 0.011) and SLICC (p=0.011). Individual analysis of cardiovascular risks demonstrated that menopause (p = 0.036), dyslipidemia (p = 0.003) and hypertension (p = 0.006) were significantly associated with coronary artery calcification. In addition, coronary artery calcification was associated with a lower whole body bone mineral density (p = 0.013). Multiple logistic regression analysis using cardiovascular risks, age, disease duration, SLICC and whole body bone mineral density revealed that only disease duration (p = 0.038) and whole body bone mineral density (p = 0.021) remained significant for coronary artery calcification. In conclusion, we found that disease duration and decreased bone mineral density are independent predictors for premature coronary calcification in young women with systemic lupus erythematosus, suggesting a common underlying mechanism. Lupus (2010) 19, 27—33.
Electrical-resistance-based Sensing of Impact Damage in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Cement-based Materials
Authors: Meehan David G. , Shoukai Wang  , Chung D.D.L.
Published: November 2009

Damage monitoring of the civil infrastructure is critically needed. This article provides the first report of impact damage self-sensing in cement-based materials. Cement mortar reinforced with short (5—7 mm) carbon fiber and in bulk or coating (5—10 mm thick) form is effective for sensing its own impact damage through DC/AC electrical resistance measurement, provided that the region of resistance measurement contains the point of impact. The mortar resistivity needs to be 104—105 Ω cm, as provided by pitch-based fiber (15 µm diameter, unsized) at 0.5% or 1.0% by mass of cement, or type A PAN-based fiber (7 µm diameter, desized) at 0.5%. Due to the low mortar resistivity of 103 Ω cm, pitch-based fiber at 1.5% and type B PAN-based fiber (7 µm diameter, unsized) at 0.5% are less effective. Without fiber, there is no sensing ability. The surface resistance of the surface receiving the impact is an effective indicator of the damage, even for minor damage without cracking, inflicted by impact at 880 J. The oblique or longitudinal volume resistance is much less effective. The surface resistance increases abruptly upon impact, but it decreases abruptly upon impact after 5—40 impacts (number decreasing with increasing impact energy) have been inflicted.
Recycled Writing: Assembling Actor Networks From Reusable Content
Authors: Swarts Jason
Published: November 2009

Drawing on a study of writers reusing content from one document to another, this study examines the rhetorical purpose of reuse. Writing reuse is predominantly studied through the literature on single sourcing and enacted via technologies built on single-sourcing models. Such theoretical models and derivative technologies cast reusable content as context-less and rhetorically neutral, a perspective that overlooks the underlying rhetorical strategies of reuse. The author argues for a new understanding of reuse as a rhetorical act of creating hybrid utterances that gather their rhetorical strength by assembling ever larger and denser actor networks.
State Regulations for School Nursing Practice
Authors: Praeger Susan , Zimmerman Barbara
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this article is to present a state-by-state summary of rules and regulations governing school nursing practice in the United States. Official government and agency sites were reviewed to determine providers of services in schools, criteria for becoming a school nurse, protection of titling, mandates for school nursing, and the requirements for continuing to practice as a school nurse. Trends were identified after verifying regulatory information. The majority of states credential school nurses for practice, with Departments of Education being the most frequent authorizing agency. Almost half ( n = 23, 45%) of the states refer to the role of licensed practical nurses in the school setting. Requirements for becoming a school nurse range from licensed practical or vocational nurse (LPN) to registered nurse−bachelor of science degree in nursing with additional education and experience. Limitations related to data collection issues and implications for practice, education, and leadership are discussed.
Reducing “Unknown” Data in Violent Death Surveillance: A Study of Death Certificates, Coroner/Medical Examiner and Police Reports From the National Violent Death Reporting System, 2003-2004
Authors: Logan Joseph E. , Karch Debra L. , Crosby Alexander E.
Published: November 2009

To better understand the determinants of violent deaths, researchers need surveillance systems that include a broad spectrum of information (e.g., victim demographics, event characteristics [date/location of death] and preceding circumstances). Missing information can limit the ability to develop preventive interventions.This study examines the value of using multiple source documents (i.e., death certificates, coroner/medical examiner reports, and police reports) to reduce missing or “unknown” data on violent deaths. When all sources are accessible, more sources should reduce the amount of unknown data. This study finds this to be true only for certain variables, that is, those capturing preceding circumstances.
Toward a Two-Party System or Two Party Systems?
Authors: Jou Willy
Published: November 2009

This article examines whether electoral reform in Japan replacing a single non-transferable vote (SNTV) system with a parallel mixed system has led to two-party competition in single-member districts (SMDs) in House of Representative elections from 1996 to 2005. While nationwide figures suggest declining numbers of effective candidates and losers, distinguishing SMDs by levels of urbanization reveals that this trend is largely limited to urban areas. Instead of converging toward a two-party system as many proponents of electoral reforms had anticipated, elections under the SMD portion of the new system have witnessed the emergence and continuation of two distinct patterns of competition: urban constituencies featuring contests between two major parties, and rural constituencies dominated by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). The persistence of the latter pattern diminishes the prospect of power alternation.
The Payoff to Leadership in Teams
Authors: Brook Stacey
Published: November 2009

In a recent paper estimating the wage premium to leaders in the NHL, Duetscher (2009) has made what I feel are measurement and specification errors in the estimation of the wage premium to leaders in the NHL. Here I lay out my views as to the problems and possible remedies to the solution.
Venous Leg Ulcers and Emotional Consequences
Authors: Souza Nogueira Graziela , Rodrigues Zanin Carla , Miyazaki Maria Cristina O. S. , Pereira de Godoy José Maria
Published: November 2009

Venous leg ulcers are a chronic disease that affects populations around the world. For sufferers, it leads to physical, social, economic, and emotional consequences. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of anxiety and depression, as well as to investigate possible associations with sociodemographic variables. A total of 30 patients, both men and women, with venous ulcers receiving care under outpatient treatment in a teaching hospital of a provincial city of São Paulo State, were included in this study. The evaluation tools used were the following: the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and a sociodemographic questionnaire that included job status, religion, marital status, gender, duration of disease, and age. A descriptive analysis of the data was performed. Statistical analysis used means, the Student t test, and the χ 2 test. Anxiety was identified in 30% of the patients and depression in 40%. No statistically significant correlation was found between anxiety or depression and the sociodemographic variables. Patients with chronic venous ulcers may present with anxiety and depression independent of socioeconomic variables such as religion, occupation, marital status, and duration of lesion.
Lithium treatment — moderate dose use study (LiTMUS) for bipolar disorder: rationale and design
Authors: Nierenberg Andrew A , Sylvia Louisa G , Leon Andrew C , Reilly-Harrington Noreen A , Ketter Terence A , Calabrese Joseph R , Thase Michael E , Bowden Charles L , Friedman Edward S , Ostacher Michael J , Novak Lena , Iosifescu Dan V ,   Litmus Study Group
Published: November 2009

Background Recent data indicate that lithium use for bipolar disorder has declined over the last decade and that lithium largely has been replaced with alternate, commercially promoted medications that may or may not result in better outcomes.

Purpose This article describes the rationale and study design of LiTMUS, a multi-site, prospective, randomized clinical trial of outpatients with bipolar disorder. LiTMUS seeks to address whether initiating therapy at lower doses of lithium as part of optimized treatment (OPT, guideline-informed, evidence-based, and personalized pharmacotherapy) improves outcomes and decreases the need for other medication changes across 6 months of therapy.

Methods LiTMUS will randomize 284 adults with bipolar disorder (Type I or II) across 6 study sites. The co-primary outcomes are overall illness severity on clinical global improvement scale for bipolar disorder and a novel measure, necessary clinical adjustments. This metric provides a composite that reflects both clinical response and tolerability. Other relevant outcomes include full symptomatic recovery, quality of life, suicidal behaviors, and moderators of suicidality.

Results As of August 28th, 2009, we have consented 338 patients and randomized 281 for this study.

Limitations The potential limitations of the study include an arbitrary definition of ‘low, but effective’ doses of lithium, lack of a placebo-controlled group, open treatment, and use of a new outcome measure (i.e., necessary clinical adjustments).

Conclusion We expect that this study will inform our understanding of the effectiveness of low to moderate doses of lithium therapy for individuals with bipolar disorder. Clinical Trials 2009; 6: 637—648. http://ctj.sagepub.com
Paget’s disease of bone: a review of epidemiology, pathophysiology and management
Authors: Shaker Joseph L.
Published: November 2009

Paget’s disease of bone is a common disorder which may affect one or many bones. Although many patients are asymptomatic, a variety of symptoms and complications may occur. Fortunately, effective pharmacologic therapy, primarily with potent bisphosphonates, is now available to treat patients with complications or symptoms. This review of Paget’s disease of bone will include epidemiology and pathophysiology, complications and clinical findings, indications for treatment, and the drugs currently available to treat this condition.
A small molecule inhibitor of Pim protein kinases blocks the growth of precursor T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma
Authors: Lin Ying-Wei , Beharry Zanna M. , Hill Elizabeth G. , Song Jin H. , Wang Wenxue , Xia Zuping , Zhang Zhenhua , Aplan Peter D. , Aster Jon C. , Smith Charles D. , Kraft Andrew S.
Published: November 2009

The serine/threonine Pim kinases are up-regulated in specific hematologic neoplasms, and play an important role in key signal transduction pathways, including those regulated by MYC, MYCN, FLT3-ITD, BCR-ABL, HOXA9, and EWS fusions. We demonstrate that SMI-4a, a novel benzylidene-thiazolidine-2, 4-dione small molecule inhibitor of the Pim kinases, kills a wide range of both myeloid and lymphoid cell lines with precursor T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (pre–T-LBL/T-ALL) being highly sensitive. Incubation of pre–T-LBL cells with SMI-4a induced G1 phase cell-cycle arrest secondary to a dose-dependent induction of p27Kip1, apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway, and inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin C1 (mTORC1) pathway based on decreases in phospho-p70 S6K and phospho-4E-BP1, 2 substrates of this enzyme. In addition, treatment of these cells with SMI-4a was found to induce phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinase1/2 (ERK1/2), and the combination of SMI-4a and a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) inhibitor was highly synergistic in killing pre–T-LBL cells. In immunodeficient mice carrying subcutaneous pre–T-LBL tumors, treatment twice daily with SMI-4a caused a significant delay in the tumor growth without any change in the weight, blood counts, or chemistries. Our data suggest that inhibition of the Pim protein kinases may be developed as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of pre–T-LBL.
Histone modifications are specifically relocated during gene activation and nuclear differentiation
Authors: Heyse Katharina Sarah , Weber Susanne Erika , Lipps Hans-Joachim
Published: November 2009

Background

Post-translational histone modifications (PTMs) and their specific distribution on genes play a crucial role in the control of gene expression, but the regulation of their dynamics upon gene activation and differentiation is still poorly understood. Here, we exploit the unique genome organization of ciliates to analyse PTM dynamics during gene activation in the differentiated cell and during nuclear differentiation. In the macronucleus of these cells the DNA is organized into nanochromosomes which represent independent functional units. Therefore, ciliated protozoa represent a simplistic model system to analyse the relevance of histone modifications and their localization for gene expression and differentiation.

Results

We analysed the distribution of three PTMs on six individual nanochromosomes, two of which are silenced in the vegetative cell and only activated during sexual reproduction. We show that a specific relocation of these PTMs correlates with gene activation. Moreover, macronuclear-destined sequences in the differentiating macronucleus display a distribution of PTMs which differs significantly from the PTM patterns of actively transcribed genes.

Conclusion

We show for the first time that a relocation of specific histone modifications takes place during activation of genes. In addition, we demonstrate that genes in a differentiating nucleus are characterised by a specific distribution and composition of PTMs. This allows us to propose a mechanistic model about the relevance of PTMs for gene activation, gene silencing and nuclear differentiation. Results described here will be relevant for eukaryotic cells in general.
Combining next-generation pyrosequencing with microarray for large scale expression analysis in non-model species
Authors: Bellin Diana , Ferrarini Alberto , Chimento Antonio , Kaiser Olaf , Levenkova Natasha , Bouffard Pascal , Delledonne Massimo
Published: November 2009

Background

The next generation sequencing technologies provide new options to characterize the transcriptome and to develop affordable tools for functional genomics. We describe here an innovative approach for this purpose and demonstrate its potential also for non-model species.

Results

The method we developed is based on 454 sequencing of 3' cDNA fragments from a normalized library constructed from pooled RNAs to generate, through de novo reads assembly, a large catalog of unique transcripts in organisms for which a comprehensive collection of transcripts or the complete genome sequence, is not available. This "virtual transcriptome" provides extensive coverage depth, and can be used for the setting up of a comprehensive microarray based expression analysis. We evaluated the potential of this approach by monitoring gene expression during berry maturation in Vitis vinifera as if no other sequence information was available for this species. The microarray designed on the berries' transcriptome derived from half of a 454 run detected the expression of 19,609 genes, and proved to be more informative than one of the most comprehensive grape microarrays available to date, the GrapeArray 1.2 developed by the Italian-French Public Consortium for Grapevine Genome Characterization, which could detect the expression of 15,556 genes in the same samples.

Conclusion

This approach provides a powerful method to rapidly build up an extensive catalog of unique transcripts that can be successfully used to develop a microarray for large scale analysis of gene expression in any species, without the need for prior sequence knowledge.
An ongoing process: A qualitative study of how the alcohol-dependent free themselves of addiction through progressive abstinence
Authors: Yeh Mei-Yu , Che Hui-Lian , Wu Shu-Mei
Published: November 2009

Background

Most people being treated for alcoholism are unable to successfully quit drinking within their treatment programs. In few cases do we know the full picture of how abstinence is achieved in Taiwan. We tracked processes of abstinence in alcohol-dependency disorders, based on study evidence and results. This research explores the process of recovery from the viewpoint of the alcohol-dependent.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted in two different settings, using purpose sampling, during 2003-2004. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Participants were 32 adults, purposefully selected from an Alcoholics Anonymous group and a psychiatric hospital in North Taiwan.

Results

We found that the abstinence process is an ongoing process, in which the alcohol-dependent free themselves of addiction progressively. This process never ends or resolves in complete recovery. We have identified three stages in the struggle against alcoholism: the Indulgence, Ambivalence and Attempt (IAA) cycle, in which the sufferer is trapped in a cycle of attempting to give up and failing; the Turning Point, in which a Personal Nadir is reached, and the Ongoing Process of abstinence, in which a constant effort is made to remain sober through willpower and with the help of support groups. We also discuss Influencing Factors that can derail abstinence attempts, pushing the sufferer back into the IAA cycle.

Conclusion

This study provides important points of reference for alcohol and drug service workers and community healthcare professionals in Taiwan, casting light on the abstinence process and providing a basis for intervention or rehabilitation services.
Glycosylated VCAM-1 isoforms revealed in 2D western blots of HUVECs treated with tumoral soluble factors of breast cancer cells
Authors: Montes-Sánchez Delina , Ventura Jose Luis , Mitre Irma , Frías Susana , Michán Layla , Espejel-Nuñez Aurora , Vadillo-Ortega Felipe , Zentella Alejandro
Published: November 2009

Background

Several common aspects of endothelial phenotype, such as the expression of cell adhesion molecules, are shared between metastasis and inflammation. Here, we analyzed VCAM-1 variants as biological markers of these two types of endothelial cell activation. With the combination of 2-DE and western blot techniques and the aid of tunicamycin, we analyzed N-glycosylation variants of VCAM-1 in primary human endothelial cells stimulated with either TNF or tumoral soluble factors (TSF's) derived from the human breast cancer cell line ZR75.30.

Results

Treatments induced a pro-adhesive endothelial phenotype. 2D western blots analysis of cells subjected to both treatments revealed the expression of the two known VCAM-1 isoforms and of previously unknown isoforms. In particular TSFZR75.30 induced an isoform with a relative molecular mass (Mr) and isoelectric point (pI) of 75-77 kDa and 5.0, respectively.

Conclusion

The unknown isoforms of VCAM-1 that were found to be overexpressed after treatment with TSF's compared with TNF, could serve as biomarkers to discriminate between inflammation and metastasis. 2D western blots revealed three new VCAM-1 isoforms expressed in primary human endothelial cells in response to TSF stimulation. Each of these isoforms varies in Mr and pI and could be the result of differential glycosylation states.
Multi-body simulation of a canine hind limb: model development, experimental validation and calculation of ground reaction forces
Authors: Helms Gabriele , Behrens Bernd-Arno , Stolorz Martin , Wefstaedt Patrick , Nolte Ingo
Published: November 2009

Background

Among other causes the long-term result of hip prostheses in dogs is determined by aseptic loosening. A prevention of prosthesis complications can be achieved by an optimization of the tribological system which finally results in improved implant duration. In this context a computerized model for the calculation of hip joint loadings during different motions would be of benefit. In a first step in the development of such an inverse dynamic multi-body simulation (MBS-) model we here present the setup of a canine hind limb model applicable for the calculation of ground reaction forces.

Methods

The anatomical geometries of the MBS-model have been established using computer tomography- (CT-) and magnetic resonance imaging- (MRI-) data. The CT-data were collected from the pelvis, femora, tibiae and pads of a mixed-breed adult dog. Geometric information about 22 muscles of the pelvic extremity of 4 mixed-breed adult dogs was determined using MRI. Kinematic and kinetic data obtained by motion analysis of a clinically healthy dog during a gait cycle (1 m/s) on an instrumented treadmill were used to drive the model in the multi-body simulation.

Results and Discussion

As a result the vertical ground reaction forces (z-direction) calculated by the MBS-system show a maximum deviation of 1.75%BW for the left and 4.65%BW for the right hind limb from the treadmill measurements. The calculated peak ground reaction forces in z- and y-direction were found to be comparable to the treadmill measurements, whereas the curve characteristics of the forces in y-direction were not in complete alignment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it could be demonstrated that the developed MBS-model is suitable for simulating ground reaction forces of dogs during walking. In forthcoming investigations the model will be developed further for the calculation of forces and moments acting on the hip joint during different movements, which can be of help in context with thein silicodevelopment and testing of hip prostheses.
Temporal and spatial distribution of human cryptosporidiosis in the west of Ireland 2004-2007
Authors: Callaghan Mary , Cormican Martin , Prendergast Martina , Pelly Heidi , Cloughley Richard , Hanahoe Belinda , O'Donovan Diarmuid
Published: November 2009

Background

Cryptosporidiosis is increasingly recognised as a cause of gastrointestinal infection in Ireland and has been implicated in several outbreaks. This study aimed to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution of human cryptosporidiosis in the west of Ireland in order to identify high risk seasons and areas and to compare Classically Calculated (CC) and Empirical Bayesian (EB) incidence rates. Two spatial scales of analysis were used with a view to identifying the best one in assessing geographical patterns of infection. Global Moran's I and Local Moran's I tests of autocorrelation were used to test for evidence of global and local spatial clustering.

Results

There were statistically significant seasonal patterns of cryptosporidiosis with peaks in spring and an increasing temporal trend. Significant (p < 0.05) global spatial clustering was observed in CC rates at the Electoral Division (ED) level but not in EB rates at the same level. Despite variations in disease, ED level was found to provide the most accurate account of distribution of cryptosporidiosis in the West of Ireland but required spatial EB smoothing of cases. There were a number of areas identified with significant local clustering of cryptosporidiosis rates.

Conclusion

This study identified spatial and temporal patterns in cryptosporidiosis distribution. The study also showed benefit in performing spatial analyses at more than one spatial scale to assess geographical patterns in disease distribution and that smoothing of disease rates for mapping in small areas enhances visualisation of spatial patterns. These findings are relevant in guiding policy decisions on disease control strategies.