bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental Origins of Chronic Renal Disease: An Integrative Hypothesis
Authors: Boubred F. , Saint-Faust M. , Buffat C. , Ligi I. , Grandvuillemin I. , Simeoni U.
Published: August 2013

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of mortality. Hypertension (HT) is one of the principal risk factors associated with death. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is probably underestimated, increases the risk and the severity of adverse cardiovascular events. It is now recognized that low birth weight is a risk factor for these diseases, and this relationship is amplified by a rapid catch-up growth or overfeeding during infancy or childhood. The pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms involved in the “early programming” of CKD are multiple and partially understood. It has been proposed that the developmental programming of arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease is related to a reduced nephron endowment. However, this mechanism is still discussed. This review discusses the complex relationship between birth weight and nephron endowment and how early growth and nutrition influence long term HT and CKD. We hypothesize that fetal environment reduces moderately the nephron number which appears insufficient by itself to induce long term diseases. Reduced nephron number constitutes a “factor of vulnerability” when additional factors, in particular a rapid postnatal growth or overfeeding, promote the early onset of diseases through a complex combination of various pathophysiological pathways.
Resonance Two-Photon Ionization of Diarylethene in the Presence of Cyclodextrin
Authors: Hara Michihiro , Miwa Makoto , Takeshita Tatsuya , Watanabe Shouhei
Published: August 2013

The transient absorption of the diarylethene 1,2-bis(2,4-dimethyl-5-phenyl-3-thienyl)-3,3,4,4,5,5-hexafluoro-1-cyclopentene (DE) was measured using 266 nm laser flash photolysis in the presence of various cyclodextrins (CDs) in aqueous solvent. Ionization of DE occurred within the laser flash (5 ns) to give the DE radical cation and water-solvated electron. The electron was generated by two-photon excitation through simultaneous irradiation with 266 nm laser light, and the ionization quantum yields of DE in the presence ofα-CD,β-CD, m-β-CD, andγ-CD depended on the properties of the DE/CD complexes. These results suggest that useful two-photon ionization occurred for these complexes. The ionization quantum yield of DE was found to increase in aqueous solution after the addition of m-β-CD (50 mM), in which m-β-CD likely controlled the photochromic reactivity of DE.
A New 7-Level Symmetric Multilevel Inverter with Minimum Number of Switches
Authors: Umashankar S. , Sreedevi T. S. , Nithya V. G. , Vijayakumar D.
Published: August 2013

Though the multilevel inverters hold attractive features, usage of more switches in the conventional configuration poses a limitation to its wide range application. Therefore, a renewed 7-level multilevel inverter topology is introduced incorporating the least number of unidirectional switches and gate trigger circuitry, thereby ensuring the minimum switching losses, reducing size and installation cost. The new topology is well suited for drives and renewable energy applications. The performance quality in terms of THD and switching losses of the new MLI is compared with conventional cascaded MLI and other existing 7-level reduced switch topologies using carrier-based PWM techniques. The results are validated using MATLAB/SIMULINK.
Viscous Potential Flow Analysis of Electroaerodynamic Instability of a Liquid Sheet Sprayed with an Air Stream
Authors: Awasthi Mukesh Kumar , Srivastava Vineet K. , Tamsir M.
Published: August 2013

The instability of a thin sheet of viscous and dielectric liquid moving in the same direction as an air stream in the presence of a uniform horizontal electric field has been carried out using viscous potential flow theory. It is observed that aerodynamic-enhanced instability occurs if the Weber number is much less than a critical value related to the ratio of the air and liquid stream velocities, viscosity ratio of two fluids, the electric field, and the dielectric constant values. Liquid viscosity has stabilizing effect in the stability analysis, while air viscosity has destabilizing effect.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Mast Cells Using c-Kit in Various Grades of Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Authors: Khatri Musarrat J. , Desai Rajiv S. , Mamatha G. S. , Kulkarni Meena , Khatri Jay
Published: August 2013

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a high risk precancerous condition characterized by changes in the connective tissue fibers of lamina propria and deeper parts of mucosa. Mast cells are local residents of connective tissue and have been identified to participate in fibrotic process. These cells produce pharmacologically active substances necessary for the physiological function of our body in response to various stimuli as and when required and also play a significant role in the pathogenesis of oral diseases. Ten healthy volunteers and 30 clinically diagnosed OSF cases with histopathological confirmation were included in the study. Immunohistochemical (c-kit) as well as acidified toluidine blue staining techniques were used to evaluate density and expression of mast cells. The mast cell density assessed using c-kit and toluidine blue showed significant difference in various stages of OSF. In general the mean number of mast cells obtained using c-kit was found to be more than that obtained using toluidine blue in various stages of OSF. The comparison of mast cell densities using immunohistochemistry (c-kit) and toluidine blue stain confirmed that c-kit is a more reliable technique to assess mast cell density in OSF.
Short Interval Infield Sarcoma Development following Resection of Glioblastoma and Adjuvant Radiotherapy and Temozolomide
Authors: Alotaibi Fahad E. , Petrecca Kevin
Published: August 2013

Background. The development of 2 unassociated brain cancers in the same patient is a rare occurrence. Secondary cancers are generally thought to develop as an oncogenic consequence of the radiation therapy delivered to treat the primary cancers, always requiring a significant time interval between radiation treatment and secondary cancer development.Case Description. We report the development of an undifferentiated myxoid sarcoma only 13 months following radiation therapy for a glioblastoma.Conclusion. This case represents the shortest time interval reported between radiation therapy and secondary brain cancer development.
The Effect of Curcumin and Cotrimoxazole in Salmonella Typhimurium Infection In Vivo
Authors: Rahayu Siwipeni Irmawanti , Nurdiana Nurdiana , Santoso Sanarto
Published: August 2013

Typhoid fever is a disease caused by Salmonella Typhi and commonly treated by an antimicrobial agent such as cotrimoxazole. On the other hand, herbal usage has risen as an adjunctive therapy to treat many diseases. Curcuma (Curcuma domestica) is a commonly used herb which consists of curcumin as its major active compound. Curcumin has been known for its antimicrobial effect, but there is no proof regarding the usage of curcumin and cotrimoxazole together. This research was conducted by using typhoid fever model in mice infected by Salmonella Typhimurium. Each animal was treated with curcumin, cotrimoxazole, or both. Ileum, spleen, and liver of each animal were isolated and cultured. We found that curcumin-cotrimoxazole combination therapy lowered the antimicrobial effectivity of cotrimoxazole in both intraintestinal and extraintestinal organs. We conclude that curcumin-cotrimoxazole combination therapy in typhoid fever has to be reconsidered.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Complicating T-Cell Lymphoma in a Patient with HIV Infection
Authors: Uemura Marc , Huynh Richard , Kuo Allen , Antelo Fernando , Deiss Robert , Yeh James
Published: August 2013

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), while uncommon, may be a devastating complication of lymphoma and/or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. While several of the diagnostic criteria for HLH are relatively nonspecific, particularly in the setting of a systemic inflammatory response, more diagnostic specificity may be achieved with marked elevations in serum ferritin (e.g., >100,000 ng/mL). Increased suspicion of HLH, particularly in the setting of persistent, unexplained fevers, pancytopenia, and transaminitis, should prompt consideration of HLH. Earlier diagnosis and initiation of therapy have the potential to alter the natural history and poor prognosis of this disorder. We present a patient with HIV infection who developed relapsed T-cell lymphoma complicated by hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.
Nonsurgical Treatment of a Massive Substance Loss
Authors: Fino Pasquale , Paolo Fioramonti , Massera Diego , Amorosi Vittoria , Onesti Maria Giuseppina
Published: August 2013

Traumatic wounds are caused by severe trauma, resulting in lesions with extensive skin and subcutaneous tissue loss and damage to tissue viability. A “difficult wound” is a solution of continuity that does not heal spontaneously within three months. The factors that determine it may be as follows: a massive loss of substance, an infection, the presence of foreign bodies, or the clinical condition of the patient. We report a case of a 25-year-old man that presents a skin lesion on the anterior region of the left arm with extensive necrosis of skin and subcutaneous plants that involve the underlying muscle planes, caused by a trauma due to a car accident. In most of the lesions of such size and position, there is always a need for surgery. But in this case, considering the young age and the regenerative capacity of the patient, a quick and targeted antibiotic therapy was chosen, combined with debridement and worked with collagenase ointment.
Influence of Sulfurization Temperature on Photoelectric Properties Cu2SnS3Thin Films Deposited by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Zhao Pengyi , Cheng Shuying
Published: August 2013

Cu2SnS3is a narrow-band-gap semiconductor material. It has suitable optical and electrical properties which make it a potential absorber layer of solar cells. In this paper, Cu2SnS3thin films were successfully obtained by sulfurizing CuSnS2thin films deposited by RF magnetron sputtering at temperatures of 350–425°C for 2 h in an atmosphere of hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen. The influence of the sulfurization temperature on the electrical and optical properties of the Cu2SnS3thin films was investigated. The experimental results show that the Cu2SnS3thin films sulfurized at a temperature of 425°C exhibit better properties than others. The mobility and resistivity of the Cu2SnS3films are 9 cm2/V·s and 3 Ω·cm, respectively. And its optical band gap is estimated to be about 1.77 eV.
Gel Characteristics of Urea-Formaldehyde Resin under Shear Flow Conditions
Authors: Wang Dang-liang , Bai Han-ying , Yue Gao
Published: August 2013

Urea-formaldehyde resin (UFR), one of chemical grouts in which the major ingredients are urea-formaldehyde and resin, is widely used in Chinese coal mines grouting. The gel characteristics of urea-formaldehyde resin (UFR) chemical grout under static conditions have been studied by many researchers. However, there is little research carried out on the gel characteristics under shear flow conditions. In fact, chemical grout like UFR keeps in shear flow conditions before gelling in the grouting process. In order to investigate the gel characteristics of UFR in shear flow conditions, an apparatus which consists of a magnetic stirrer and a viscometer was established. Magnetic stirrer was used to shear UFR at different velocity. Then the changes of UFR viscosity could be recorded by viscometer. As a result, the gel characteristics were summarized under different shear rates, and a formula of gelling is derived. The results show that the grouting flow rate influences the gelling time. Faster flow rates will cause longer gelling time, which means that the time for the grout to gel during the flowing process under shear flow conditions is longer than that under static conditions.
Alterations in Phosphorylated CREB Expression in Different Brain Regions following Short- and Long-Term Morphine Exposure: Relationship to Food Intake
Authors: Ren Xiuhai , Lutfy Kabirullah , Mangubat Michael , Ferrini Monica G. , Lee Martin L. , Liu Yanjun , Friedman Theodore C.
Published: August 2013

Background. Activation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/phosphorylated CREB (P-CREB) system in different brain regions has been implicated in mediating opioid tolerance and dependence, while alteration of this system in the lateral hypothalamus (LH) has been suggested to have a role in food intake and body weight.Methods. Given that opioids regulate food intake, we measured P-CREB in different brain regions in mice exposed to morphine treatments designed to induce different degrees of tolerance and dependence.Results. We found that a single morphine injection or daily morphine injections for 8 days did not influence P-CREB levels, while the escalating dose of morphine regimen raised P-CREB levels only in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Chronic morphine pellet implantation for 7 days raised P-CREB levels in the LH, VTA, and dorsomedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (DM) but not in the nucleus accumbens and amygdala. Increased P-CREB levels in LH, VTA, and DM following 7-day treatment with morphine pellets and increased P-CREB levels in the VTA following escalating doses of morphine were associated with decreased food intake and body weight.Conclusion. The morphine regulation of P-CREB may explain some of the physiological sequelae of opioid exposure including altered food intake and body weight.
Effect of Temperature on Photonic Band Gaps in Semiconductor-Based One-Dimensional Photonic Crystal
Authors: Malik J. V. , Jindal K. D. , Kumar Vinay , Kumar Vipin , Kumar Arun , Singh Kh. S. , Singh T. P.
Published: August 2013

The effect of the temperature and angle of incidence on the photonic band gap (PBG) for semiconductor-based photonic crystals has been investigated. The refractive index of semiconductor layers is taken as a function of temperature and wavelength. Three structures have been analyzed by choosing a semiconductor material for one of the two materials in a bilayer structure. The semiconductor material is taken to be ZnS, Si, and Ge with air in first, second, and third structures respectively. The shifting of band gaps with temperature is more pronounced in the third structure than in the first two structures because the change in the refractive index of Ge layers with temperature is more than the change of refractive index of both ZnS and Si layers with temperature. The propagation characteristics of the proposed structures are analyzed by transfer matrix method.
A Preliminary Study on the Synthesis and Characterization of Multilayered Ag/Co Magnetic Nanowires Fabricated via the Electrodeposition Method
Authors: Peng Cheng-Hsiung , Wu Tsung-Yung , Hwang Chyi-Ching
Published: August 2013

A single‐bath electrodeposition method was developed to integrate multilayer Ag/Co nanowires with a commercial anodic alumina oxide (AAO) template with a pore diameter of 100–200 nm. An electrolyte system containing silver nitride and cobalt sulfide was studied using cyclic voltammetry, and the electrodeposition rate was varied to optimize the electrodeposition conditions. A constant stepwise potential and a variable cation ratio of [Co2+]/[Ag+] were used during electrodeposition. After the dissolution of the template in aqueous NaOH solution, multilayered Ag/Co nanowires were obtained with a composition of [Co]/[Ag80Co20], as identified by XRD and TEM, when [Co2+]/[Ag+] = 150. By annealing at 200°C for 1 h, uniformly structured (Co99.57/Ag100) nanowires were obtained. Compared with pure Co nanowires, the magnetic hysteresis loops showed a greater magnetic anisotropy for (Co99.57/Ag100) nanowires than for pure Co nanowires, corresponding to a change in the easy axis upon magnetization.
Correlation between Ocular Manifestations and Their Complications as Opposed to Visual Acuity and Treatment in Behcet's Disease
Authors: Paovic Jelena , Paovic Predrag , Sredovic Vojislav
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to analyze ocular manifestations, their complications, and treatment in a sample of 40 patients with confirmed Behcet’s disease.Results. Serofibrinous iridocyclitis was the most common form of uveitis (60%). Retinal periphlebitis manifested in 92.5% of cases, and periphlebitis in conjunction with periarteritis was diagnosed in 72.5% of cases. Macular edema was the most frequent complication on the posterior segment (60%) and it correlated with periphlebitis (P=0.45) and periphlebitis associated with periarteritis (P=0.51). Cyclosporine A and corticosteroids were used in the majority of cases (67%). Following six months of therapy, a significant improvement of visual acuity occurred in patients with initial visual acuity >0.5 on both eyes. Level of visual acuity before and after treatment had a strong significant correlation coefficient with various ocular complications. Previously proven significant increase of visual acuity in patients with macular edema depicts effectiveness of treatment in these types of ocular manifestations of Behcet’s disease.Conclusions. Significant improvement of visual acuity occurred in patients with initial visual acuity >0.5 on both eyes. The highest increase in visual acuity was achieved by laser photocoagulation in combination with triamcinolone acetonideP=0.038<0.050.
Endocannabinoids and Endovanilloids: A Possible Balance in the Regulation of the Testicular GnRH Signalling
Authors: Chianese Rosanna , Ciaramella Vincenza , Scarpa Donatella , Fasano Silvia , Pierantoni Riccardo , Meccariello Rosaria
Published: August 2013

Reproductive functions are regulated both at central (brain) and gonadal levels. In this respect, the endocannabinoid system (eCS) has a very influential role. Interestingly, the characterization of eCS has taken many advantages from the usage of animal models different from mammals. Therefore, this review is oriented to summarize the main pieces of evidence regarding eCS coming from the anuran amphibianRana esculenta, with particular interest to the morphofunctional relationship between eCS and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Furthermore, a novel role for endovanilloids in the regulation of a testicular GnRH system will be also discussed.
Laser Induced Spectra of SiN Molecule in Near IR Region
Authors: Ojha K. S. , Gopal R.
Published: August 2013

Laser-induced spectra of SiN molecule are recorded in the region of 670–1060 nm using laser-induced spectroscopy technique and about 80 bands are observed. Out of total 80 bands, 49 bands are attributed to F-B system and the rest 27 bands are analyzed into J-D system. The rest 18 bands are unidentified. The molecular constant of the , , and states is determined and reported.
Generalized Peritonitis Secondary to Spontaneous Perforation of Pyometra in a 63-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Abu-Zaid Ahmed , AlOmar Osama , Nazer Ahmed , Azzam Ayman , Abudan Zainab , Al-Badawi Ismail
Published: August 2013

Spontaneous perforation of pyometra resulting in generalized diffuse peritonitis is extremely uncommon. Herein, we report the case of a 63-year-old woman who presented to emergency department with a 2-day history of severe diffuse abdominal pain, high-grade fever, nausea, and vomiting. Acute abdomen series was done, and upright plain chest radiograph showed free air under diaphragm. A noncontrast-enhanced computed tomography scan showed a significantly distended fluid-filled uterus measuring 10 × 7.8 × 10 cm, in addition to a single focus of perforation involving the uterine fundus and associated with presence of free air within the nondependant area. No evidence of ascites or pelvi-abdominal lymphadenopathy was identified. A preoperative diagnosis of generalized peritonitis secondary to spontaneous perforation of uterus was established. Subsequently, patient underwent urgent exploratory laparotomy which revealed pus-filled uterus with perforated fundus. Diagnosis of generalized peritonitis secondary to spontaneous perforation of pyometra was established. Consequently, patient underwent total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, as well as thorough drainage and irrigation of pelvi-abdominal cavity. Postoperatively, patient was admitted to intensive care unit. Histopathological examination of uterus was negative for malignancy, and surgical culture grewStreptococcus constellatus. Patient had an uneventful recovery. Moreover, a brief literature review on pyometra is presented.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid for the Prevention of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography: The ALIVE Study - A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Jo Sang-Ho , Kim Sung-Ai , Kim Hyun-Sook , Han Sang-Jin , Park Woo-Jung , Choi Young Jin
Published: August 2013

Objectives: α-Lipoic acid (ALA) is widely used for diabetic neuropathy due to its antioxidant properties. We evaluated its potential for preventing contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). Methods: We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of ALA in CIN prevention. Two hundred and two patients with basal renal insufficiency who received elective coronary angiography were randomized to the ALA group [ALA treatment for 2 days (600 mg orally three times a day before and after coronary catheterization, n = 100)] or the control group (n = 102). The primary end point was the maximum increase in serum creatinine (sCr) and the secondary end point was the incidence of CIN defined as an increase in sCr of either ≥25% or ≥44.2 µmol/l. Results: Mean maximum increase in sCr was not different between the ALA and the control group (-1.32 ± 30.5 vs. -1.19 ± 30.1 µmol/l, respectively; p = 0.977). sCr did not significantly change from baseline (120.8 ± 69.8 vs. 122 ± 88.1 µmol/l) in the ALA group and the simple saline hydration group (108.2 ± 37.5 vs. 110 ± 49 µmol/l). There was a lower rate of CIN in the ALA group than in the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant (3.0 vs. 6.9%, respectively; p = 0.332). Conclusion: ALA showed no benefit in CIN prevention.
Do Circadian Preferences Influence the Sleep Patterns of Night Shift Drivers?
Authors: Narciso Fernanda V. , Esteves Andrea M. , Oliveira e Silva Luciana , Bittencourt Lia R.A. , Silva Rogerio S. , Pires Maria Laura N. , Tufik Sergio , de Mello Marco Tulio
Published: August 2013

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of individual circadian preferences of drivers with fixed night work schedules on sleep patterns. Subjects and Methods: A total of 123 professional drivers, 32 indifferent preference drivers and 91 morning preference drivers of an intermunicipality and interstate bus transportation company were evaluated. All drivers underwent polysomnographic recordings after their shifts. Furthermore, they filled out a questionnaire that contained sociodemographic and health questions. The Horne and Östberg questionnaire was used to assess the subjects' morningness-eveningness preference. Results: The mean age was 42.54 ± 6.98 years and 82 (66.66%) of the drivers had worked for ≥15 years. A significant effect on rapid eye movement (REM) was observed in the morning preference drivers. They showed an increased sleep latency and an REM sleep percentage of 5% of the total REM time. This reveals a significant effect on sleep architecture associated with work time. Conclusion: The drivers reported that morning preference had a significant effect on their sleep pattern indicating less REM sleep and longer REM sleep latency in the morning preference group. Thus, it is important to evaluate interactions between individual aspects of health and other parameters, such as sleep quality and work organizational factors, to promote night shift workers' health and well-being.
Moyamoya Syndrome as an Unusual Presenting Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Young Woman
Authors: Zhou Guanen , An Zhongping , Gokhale Sankalp
Published: August 2013

Objective: To describe a rare case of moyamoya syndrome associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Presentation and Intervention: A 22-year-old woman presented with left-sided hemiparesis in addition to fever, fatigue and malar rash. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed acute infarction in the right middle cerebral artery territory. Cerebral angiography showed features of moyamoya syndrome. Brain biopsy showed evidence of vasculitis. She responded well to steroid therapy. Conclusion: This case represented a rare co-occurrence of SLE-related vasculitis and moyamoya syndrome. Early vascular imaging is critical in patients with SLE and suspected ischemic stroke.
Epigenetic Epidemiology of Complex Diseases Using Twins
Authors: Tan Qihua
Published: August 2013

In the past decades, studies on twins have had a great impact on dissecting the genetic and environmental contributions to human diseases and complex traits. In the era of functional genomics, the valuable samples of twins help to bridge the gap between gene activity and environmental conditions through multiple epigenetic mechanisms. This paper reviews the new developments in using twins to study disease-related epigenetic alterations, links them to lifetime environmental exposure with a focus on the discordant twin design and proposes novel data-analytical approaches with the aim of promoting a more efficient use of twins in epigenetic studies of complex human diseases.
Effect of Antiasthmatic Medication on the Surface Roughness and Color Stability of Dental Restorative Materials
Authors: Ayaz Elif Aydogan , Bagis Bora , Turgut Sedanur
Published: August 2013

Objective: This study evaluated the effect of antiasthmatic medication on the surface roughness and color stability of dental restorative materials. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 disc-shaped specimens were fabricated from glass ionomer (n = 20), composite resin (n = 20) and feldspathic porcelain (n = 20). Each material group was randomly divided into two subgroups (n = 10): (1) control group and (2) test group. Control groups of the specimens were kept in artificial saliva. Test groups were exposed to salbutamol sulfate (Ventolin Nebules) using an inhaler machine. Surface roughness measurements were done using a profilometry and color measurements were done with digital colorimetry at baseline and after inhalation and storing in artificial saliva. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc Fisher's least significant difference test were used to compare the change in surface roughness and color. The confidence level was set at 95%. Results: Inhaler treatment significantly increased the surface roughness and color change of glass ionomer and composite resin materials (p < 0.05), while the surface roughness and color of feldspathic porcelain was not changed after inhaler treatment (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The antiasthmatic inhaler medication (salbutamol sulfate) affected the surface roughness and color of composite resin and glass ionomer restorative materials.
Genetic Cardiomyopathies Causing Heart Failure
Authors: Cahill Thomas J. , Ashrafian Houman , Watkins Hugh
Published: August 2013

Despite the striking advances in medical and surgical therapy, the morbidity, mortality, and economic burden of heart failure (HF) remain unacceptably high. There is increasing evidence that the risk and course of HF depend on genetic predisposition; however, the genetic contribution to HF is heterogeneous and complex. At one end of the spectrum are the familial monogenic HF syndromes in which causative mutations are rare but highly penetrant. At the other, HF susceptibility and course may be influenced by more common, less penetrant genetic variants. As detailed in this review, efforts to unravel the basis of the familial cardiomyopathies at the mendelian end of the spectrum already have begun to deliver on the promise of informative mechanisms, novel gene-based diagnostics, and therapies for distinct subtypes of HF. However, continued progress requires the differentiation of pathogenic mutations, disease modifiers, and rare, benign variants in the deluge of data emerging from increasingly accessible novel sequencing technologies. This represents a significant challenge and demands a sustained effort in analysis of extended family pedigrees, diligent clinical phenotyping, and systematic annotation of human genetic variation.
Integrating the Myocardial Matrix Into Heart Failure Recognition and Management
Authors: Spinale Francis G. , Zile Michael R.
Published: August 2013

In contrast to public perception, the morbidity and mortality and the resultant healthcare costs associated with chronic heart failure (HF) are increasing and arguably reaching epidemic proportions. Although basic research efforts have provided unique insights into fundamental processes that govern myocardial extracellular matrix (ECM) growth and function, the translation of these findings to improved diagnostics and therapeutics for HF has not been as forthcoming. The factors that contribute to this relative paucity of new clinical tools for HF are multifactorial but likely include the need to recognize and differentiate HF phenotypes and to couple the use of biomarkers and multimodality imaging in early translational research studies. Recognizing the classification scheme of HF with a reduced ejection fraction (EF) to that of HF with a preserved EF and incorporating unique and differential measurements of ECM remodeling to these specific disease processes are warranted. For example, profiling pathways of ECM degradation such as the matrix metalloproteinases in patients with ischemic heart disease and HF with a reduced EF can provide prognostic information in terms of risk of progression to HF. In patients with chronic hypertensive disease and HF with a preserved EF, plasma profiling indexes of ECM synthesis and turnover, as well as advances in ECM imaging, have been shown to provide diagnostic and prognostic use. In terms of therapeutics, strategies to stabilize the ECM in HF with a reduced EF hold potential, whereas in contradistinction, selective antifibrotic agents may hold promise for HF with a preserved EF.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT 00946231
Fractional Flow Reserve–Guided Versus Angiography-Guided Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Toth Gabor , De Bruyne Bernard , Casselman Filip , De Vroey Frederic , Pyxaras Stylianos , Di Serafino Luigi , Van Praet Frank , Van Mieghem Carlos , Stockman Bernard , Wijns William , Degrieck Ivan , Barbato Emanuele
Published: August 2013

Background—

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is well established for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, yet little is known about candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Methods and Results—

From 2006 to 2010, we retrospectively included in this registry 627 consecutive patients treated by coronary artery bypass graft surgery having at least 1 angiographically intermediate stenosis. In 429 patients, coronary artery bypass graft surgery was based solely on angiography (angiography-guided group). In 198 patients, at least 1 intermediate stenosis was grafted with an FFR ≤0.80 or deferred with an FFR >0.80 (FFR-guided group). The end point was major adverse cardiovascular events at 3 years, defined as the composite of overall death, myocardial infarction, and target vessel revascularization. The rate of angiographic multivessel disease was similar in the angiography-guided and FFR-guided groups (404 [94.2%] versus 186 [93.9%];
P
=0.722). In the FFR-guided group, this was significantly downgraded after FFR measurements to 86.4% (
P
<0.001 versus before FFR) and was associated with a smaller number of anastomoses (3 [2–3] versus 3 [2–4];
P
<0.001) and rate of on-pump surgery (49% versus 69%;
P
<0.001). At 3 years, major adverse cardiovascular events were not different between the angiography-guided and FFR-guided groups (12% versus 11%; hazard ratio, 1.030; 95% confidence interval, 0.627–1.692;
P
=0.908). However, the FFR-guided group compared with the angiography-guided group presented a significantly lower rate of angina (Canadian Cardiovascular Society class II–IV, 31% versus 47%;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

FFR-guided coronary artery bypass graft surgery was associated with a lower number of graft anastomoses and a lower rate of on-pump surgery compared with angiography-guided coronary artery bypass graft surgery. This did not result in a higher event rate during up to 36 months of follow-up and was associated with a lower rate of angina.
Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Attenuates the Development of Atherosclerosis in ApoE
−/−
Mice
Authors: Yu Kunwu , Zhu Pengfei , Dong Qian , Zhong Yucheng , Zhu Zhengfeng , Lin Yingzhong , Huang Ying , Meng Kai , Ji Qingwei , Yi Guiwen , Zhang Wei , Wu Bangwei , Mao Yi , Cheng Peng , Zhao Xiaoqi , Mao Xiaobo , Zeng Qiutang
Published: August 2013

Background

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (
TSLP
) is a cytokine with multiple effects on the body. For one thing,
TSLP
induces Th2 immunoreaction and facilitates allergic reaction; for another, it promotes the differentiation of naturally occurring
CD
4
+
CD
25
+
Foxp3
+
regulatory T cells (nTregs) and maintains immune tolerance. However, the exact role of
TSLP
in atherosclerosis remains unknown.

Methods and Results

In vitro, we examined the phenotype of
TSLP
‐conditioned bone marrow dendritic cells (
TSLP
‐
DC
s) of apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE
−/−
) mice and their capacity to induce the differentiation of Tregs. Our results indicated that
TSLP
‐
DC
s obtained the characteristics of tolerogenic dendritic cells and increased a generation of
CD
4
+
latency‐associated peptide (
LAP
)
+
Tregs and nTregs when cocultured with naive T cells. In addition, the functional relevance of
TSLP
and
TSLP
‐
DC
s in the development of atherosclerosis was also determined. Interestingly, we found that
TSLP
was almost absent in cardiovascular tissue of ApoE
−/−
mice, and
TSLP
administration increased the levels of antioxidized low‐density lipoprotein IgM and IgG
1
, but decreased the levels of IgG
2a
in plasma. Furthermore, mice treated with
TSLP
and
TSLP
‐
DC
s developed significantly fewer (32.6% and 28.2%, respectively) atherosclerotic plaques in the aortic root compared with controls, along with increased numbers of
CD
4
+
LAP
+
Tregs and nTregs in the spleen and decreased inflammation in the aorta, which could be abrogated by anti‐
TGF
‐β antibody.

Conclusions

Our results revealed a protective role for
TSLP
in atherosclerosis that is possibly mediated by reestablishing a tolerogenic immune response, which may represent a novel possibility for treatment or prevention of atherosclerosis.
A Secular Bible?
Authors: Mack Burton L.
Published: August 2013

Abstract

What has been called secular criticism among some scholars in the Society of Biblical Literature has been pursued as a critique and alternative to traditional theological studies. The question is whether the term secular is being used to describe a method, characterize the biblical literature, or propose a postmodern hermeneutic for a secular age. The article explores these issues to find that secular criticism has not been able to escape the assumption of biblical authority by criticizing theological interpretations. The alternative would be to study the Christian myth embedded in the Bible and render a cultural critique.
Threats of Hellfire and Jumping for Heavenly Joy
Authors: Heimola Mikko
Published: August 2013

Religious revivals are often accompanied by manifest emotional phenomena, such as ecstaticism, trances, and glossolalia, which have proven challenging to explain. Following the recent wave of insights to properties of religious rituals and beliefs conductive to human cooperation, I propose that emotional signals provide a solution to the problem of Machiavellian opportunists who undertake displays of commitment as calculated investments and are liable to defect when it appears more profitable. As an empirical case I explore the Christian revivals that arose in early 19th century Finland, and demonstrate how their emotionalism was connected to assumed hypocrisy of ordinary Christians and especially that of the state church clergy. In addition to exposing the context in which to expect emotional revivals, the article suggests ways to reconciliate long-standing debates on the relative importance of socioeconomical versus religious motivations in the birth of new movements.
Preliminary Report on the Late Pleistocene and Holocene Diatoms of Swamp Lake, Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Authors: STARRATT SCOTT W. , ANDERSON R. SCOTT
Published: August 2013

Swamp Lake, Yosemite National Park, is the only known lake in California containing long sequences of varved sediments and thus has the potential to provide a high-resolution record of climate variability. This preliminary analysis of the diatom assemblages from a 947-cm-long composite sediment core (freeze core FZ02–05; 0–67 cm, Livingstone core 02–05; 53–947 cm) shows that the lake has been freshwater, oligotrophic, and circumneutral to alkaline throughout its ~16,000-year-long history. The first sediments deposited in the lake show that the vegetation in the watershed was sparse, allowing organic matter-poor silt and clay to be deposited in the basin. The basin filled quickly to a depth of at least 5 m and remained at least that deep for most of the sediment record. Several short intervals provided evidence of large fluctuations in lake level during the Holocene. The upper 50 cm of the core contains evidence of the Medieval Climate Anomaly and Little Ice Age.
Encyonema droseraphilum sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) and other rare diatoms from undisturbed floating-mat fens in the northern Rocky Mountains, USA
Authors: BAHLS LOREN , PIERCE JOHN , APFELBECK RANDY , OLSEN LOIS
Published: August 2013

Relict assemblages of arctic, sub-arctic, and boreal diatoms were found intact in two undisturbed floating-mat fens at 47o north latitude and 1,830 m elevation in the Rocky Mountains of western Montana, USA. The fens support Encyonema droseraphilum sp. nov. and several rare northern/alpine diatom species—including eleven apparent first records for the contiguous United States—and three species of vascular plants that are imperiled in Montana. For many of the diatoms and one of the vascular plants, the fens are at the southern limit of their known distributions in North America. Twenty-seven of the 49 diatom taxa in the fens are considered at risk or declining in Germany, and similar ratings appear to be appropriate for these taxa in Montana, especially in light of global warming and human destruction of wetlands. A nearby wetland that has been disturbed by dam-building activities of beaver (Castor canadensis), but not by human landscape alterations, produced a diatom assemblage that contained three times more taxa than the fens but was dominated by common species, primarily Staurosirella pinnata. Our findings illustrate the effects of natural, intermediate disturbance on diatom species composition and underscore the importance of protecting undisturbed aquatic systems for the purpose of conserving rare species and for monitoring environmental change.
A Revision of the Australian species of Lynceus Müller, 1776 (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Laevicaudata, Lynceidae)
Authors: TIMMS BRIAN V
Published: August 2013

Australia has had two species of Lynceus, L. macleayanus (King, 1855) and L. tatei (Brady, 1886) reported to date, both poorly described and without types, and supposedly both widely distributed. This study establishes neotypes and redescribes each according to modern standards. The present distribution of each is severely restricted by the destruction of temporary aquatic habitats, both in cities and in the country and also misunderstood by the lack of recent collecting in some outlying areas. Detailed study of male first thoracopods, together with an understanding of the form of the head and rostrum, antenna 2 spinal patterns, carapace shape, and the females’ lamina abdominalis, most of which are discontinuously variable, has resulted in the delineation of four more species: L. baylyi sp. nov. in desert rockholes of Western Australia; L magdaleanae sp. nov. mainly in deep gnammas of the WA Wheatbelt and Goldfields but also extending into NT, Qld and SA; L. susanneae sp. nov. of rockholes on the Nullarbor Plain, WA; and L. argillaphilus sp. nov. of the coastal Pilbara, WA. Identification keys are provided for all six species, both males and females.
Belonging Before Believing
Authors: Xu Xiaohong
Published: August 2013

Why did Communism take root in China during the May Fourth Movement era (1917 to 1921)? I argue that a key factor was the revolutionary vanguard’s emergence through taking over existing activist organizations. Using reports and meeting minutes of 28 organizations and individual activists’ correspondence, diaries, and memoirs as sources for comparative cross-sectional analysis and processual case studies of the organizational debates over whether to adopt Bolshevism as a unifying ism, I find that a crucial factor explaining an organization’s positive response to Communist bloc recruitment was whether it practiced ethical activism, which engendered a sectarian group ethos that meshed with Bolshevik organizational culture. By contrast, the absence of ethical activism, and the correlative mismatch in organizational ethos, was associated with a negative response to Communist recruitment efforts. Two key mechanisms—frame resonance and group discipline—mediate this selective attraction. I conclude by discussing how organization-level analysis of selective spillover between social movements enhances our understanding of both individual participants’ motivations and the distinct style in which a movement responds to its political environment.
Fragmented outcomes: International comparisons of gender, managerialism and union strategies in the nonprofit sector
Authors: Baines Donna , Charlesworth Sara , Cunningham Ian
Published: August 2013

Since the mid-1980s, the nonprofit social services sector has been promoted as an option for cheaper and more flexible delivery of services. In order to comply with government standards and funding requirements, the sector has been subject to ongoing waves of restructuring and the introduction of new private market-like, outcomes-based management models, such as New Public Management. This article explores ways in which nonprofit social services sector workers experience their work as highly fragmented. Drawing on case studies completed as part of a larger project addressing restructuring in the nonprofit social services sector in Scotland, New Zealand, Australia and Canada, we examine three key aspects shaping work in the nonprofit social services sector: 1) workers’ experience of managerialism; 2) gendered strategies drawn on by workers in the agencies studied; and 3) union strategies in the nonprofit social services sector, as well as within individual workplaces. Conclusions focus on contributions to understanding managerialism as a strong but fragmented project in which even weak union presence and the willingness of the predominantly female workforce to sacrifice to provide care for others ensure that some level of social solidarity endures.
Survival of a victim of Isadora Duncan syndrome: A case report
Authors: Mugadlimath Anand B , Sane Mandar Ramchandra , Kallur Sunil M , Patil Mallikarjun N
Published: August 2013

Incidents of accidental strangulation by uncovered (open-spoked) wheels of vehicles are not uncommon but survival following such incidents is quite a rare phenomenon. The possibility of death from strangulation by a scarf getting caught in the wheel spokes of a vehicle was brought to the public’s attention when the world famous dancer Isadora Duncan died on 14 September 1929. Cycle-powered rickshaws, bicycles and bullock-carts remain common forms of transport in India. However, the uncovered spokes of the vehicle wheel can trap the dupatta/chunni/odhani (long scarf worn around neck) worn by Indian women. A number of cases of fatal accidental strangulation have been described by different authors involving vehicles like cycle-powered rickshaws, bicycles and bullock-carts, with very few cases of reported survivors. Here we report a case of accidental strangulation involving a young girl with the dupatta getting caught in moving wheel of a bullock-cart, in which the victim survived in spite of severe injury to neck structures.
The Severity, Frequency, and Variety of Crime in Heroin-Dependent Prisoners Enrolled in a Buprenorphine Clinical Trial
Authors: Gordon Michael S. , Kinlock Timothy W. , Schwartz Robert P. , Couvillion Kathryn A. , O’Grady Kevin E.
Published: August 2013

Data were obtained on four dimensions of criminal activity (frequency, variety, severity, and income) from male and female prisoners ( N = 200) with preincarceration heroin dependence who participated in a randomized clinical trial of buprenorphine treatment. The article examines the above-mentioned dimensions of crime and their relationships with demographic characteristics, substance use, legitimate employment, drug treatment episodes, and psychological problems. Results largely show several important similarities to results on previous prison inmate cohorts with histories of heroin addiction, although the present sample may have more of a tendency toward violent crime than earlier cohorts of heroin-dependent offenders. This study’s findings may have implications for the design of appropriate treatment interventions for prisoners with preincarceration heroin dependence that address not only substance use but also criminal activity.
Protecting Prisoners
Authors: Easton Susan
Published: August 2013

This article considers the impact of international human rights law and standards on the protection of prisoners in the UK, with specific reference to the European Convention on Human Rights, incorporated into UK law by the Human Rights Act 1998. Although prisoners do benefit from the protection of the Convention within prison, the scope of these rights will be limited by the needs of the prison administration as well as the political climate and the public’s attitude toward prisoners. The conflicts between these variables are addressed. Respect for prisoners’ rights, it is argued, may contribute to raised prison standards and to good order in prison.
Representing Micro–Macro Linkages by Actor-based Dynamic Network Models
Authors: Snijders Tom A. B. , Steglich Christian E. G.
Published: August 2013

Stochastic actor-based models for network dynamics have the primary aim of statistical inference about processes of network change, but may be regarded as a kind of agent-based models. Similar to many other agent-based models, they are based on local rules for actor behavior. Different from many other agent-based models, by including elements of generalized linear statistical models they aim to be realistic detailed representations of network dynamics in empirical data sets. Statistical parallels to micro–macro considerations can be found in the estimation of parameters determining local actor behavior from empirical data, and the assessment of goodness of fit from the correspondence with network-level descriptives. This article studies several network-level consequences of dynamic actor-based models applied to represent cross-sectional network data. Two examples illustrate how network-level characteristics can be obtained as emergent features implied by microspecifications of actor-based models.