bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The morbidity and mortality conference as an adverse event surveillance tool in a paediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Cifra Christina L , Jones Kareen L , Ascenzi Judith , Bhalala Utpal S , Bembea Melania M , Fackler James C , Miller Marlene R
Published: July 2014

Objective

To determine if standardised chart review applied to records of patients discussed at a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) morbidity and mortality conference (MMC) yields additional or different information regarding safety event occurrence and characteristics.

Design

Retrospective record review.

Setting

Single tertiary referral PICU in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

Participants

96 patients discussed at the PICU MMC over 14 months (November 2011–December 2012).

Main outcome measures

Safety events and their characteristics (medical error category, severity and preventability).

Results

A total of 275 safety events were identified through the MMC and/or chart review. The MMC identified 131 (48%) events, 53 (19%) of which were identified through the MMC alone. After chart review was performed, an additional 144 (52%) events were identified. 78 (28%) events were identified through both. High severity adverse events potentially contributing to permanent harm or death were more likely to be identified through both the MMC and chart review (47%) compared with either alone. The MMC alone identified more near-misses (21%) and preventable events (96%) compared with chart review alone or both MMC and chart review. Although chart review alone helped to identify many healthcare-associated infections, medication errors and sedation/pain control issues not elicited through the MMC, the MMC alone identified more communication errors and workflow problems. The MMC alone also identified 40% of all diagnostic errors, which would not have been discovered otherwise despite chart review by itself identifying 50% of such misdiagnoses.

Conclusions

Standardised chart review applied to records of patients discussed at a PICU MMC identified significantly more safety events not initially discovered through the MMC. However, the MMC was superior to chart review in identifying broader problems such as communication errors, workflow issues and certain diagnostic errors not captured by chart review, which can potentially affect many aspects of care.
Review of performance-based incentives in community-based family planning programmes
Authors: Bellows Nicole M , Askew Ian , Bellows Benjamin
Published: July 2014

Background

One strategy for improving family planning (FP) uptake at the community level is the use of performance-based incentives (PBIs), which offer community distributors financial incentives to recruit more users of FP. This article examines the use of PBIs in community-based FP programmes via a literature search of the peer-reviewed and grey literature conducted in April 2013.

Results

A total of 28 community-based FP programmes in 21 countries were identified as having used PBIs. The most common approach was a sales commission model where distributors received commission for FP products sold, while a referral payment model for long-term methods was also used extensively. Six evaluations were identified that specifically examined the impact of the PBI in community-based FP programmes. Overall, the results of the evaluations are mixed and more research is needed; however, the findings suggest that easy-to-understand PBIs can be successful in increasing the use of FP at the community level.

Conclusion

For future use of PBIs in community-based FP programmes it is important to consider the ethics of incentivising FP and ensuring that PBIs are non-coercive and choice-enhancing.
Patterns of detection of respiratory viruses in nasal swabs from calves in Ireland: a retrospective study
Authors: O'Neill R. , Mooney J. , Connaghan E. , Furphy C. , Graham D. A.
Published: July 2014

A retrospective analysis was conducted to investigate the prevalence and seasonality of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV), bovine coronavirus (BoCV), bovine herpesvirus‐1 (BoHV‐1), bovine respiratory syncytical virus (BRSV) and parainfluenza virus‐3 (PI3V) in calves (aged three months and below) in Ireland. Results from real‐time PCR testing, including cycle threshold values, conducted on nasal swabs (single or pooled) submitted from 1364 respiratory disease outbreaks between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2012 were included in this study. One or more viruses were detected in 34.6 per cent of submissions, with BoCV detected most frequently (22.9 per cent), followed by BRSV (11.6 per cent), PI3 V (7.0 per cent), BoHV‐1 (6.1 per cent) and BVDV (5.0 per cent). The detection rate of all viruses was higher when pooled multiple swabs were submitted from outbreaks rather than single swabs, with these differences being significant for all except BVDV. Two or more viruses were detected in 39.4 per cent of positive submissions, with BoCV and BRSV most commonly present as one of the two partners in detection. With the exception of BVDV, which was detected all year round, the others showed a clear seasonal pattern, being most commonly detected in winter and spring.
Ectopic trypsin in the myocardium promotes dilated cardiomyopathy after influenza A virus infection
Authors: Pan Hai-Yan , Sun Hua-Mei , Xue Lu-Jing , Pan Min , Wang Yi-Ping , Kido Hiroshi , Zhu Jian-Hua
Published: July 2014

We have previously reported that ectopic trypsin in the myocardium triggers acute myocarditis after influenza A virus (IAV) infection. As myocarditis is a common precursor to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), the aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of trypsin on the progression of DCM after IAV infection. IAV-infected mice treated with saline or trypsin inhibitor were euthanized on days 0, 9, 20, 40 and 60 postinfection. Trypsin expression colocalized with myocardial inflammatory loci and IAV-induced myocarditis peaked on day 9 postinfection and alleviated by day 20 but persisted until day 60 postinfection, even though replication of IAV was not detected from day 20 postinfection. Similar time courses were observed for the activation of pro-matrix metalloproteinase (pro-MMP)-9 and expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Degradation of collagen type I, proliferation of ventricular interstitial collagen, and expression of collagen type I and III mRNA increased significantly during acute and chronic phases; collagen type III mRNA increased more significantly than collagen type I mRNA. Cardiac function progressively deteriorated with progressive left ventricular dilation. The trypsin inhibitor aprotinin suppressed pro-MMP-9 activation and cytokine release, alleviated myocardial inflammation, and restored collagen metabolism during acute and chronic phases of myocarditis. This effectively prevented ventricular dilation and improved cardiac function. These results suggest that ectopic trypsin in the myocardium promoted DCM through chronic activation of pro-MMP-9, persistent induction of cytokines, and mediation of collagen remodeling. Pharmacological inhibition of trypsin activity might be a promising approach for the prevention of viral cardiomyopathy.
Dantrolene suppresses spontaneous Ca2+release without altering excitation-contraction coupling in cardiomyocytes of aged mice
Authors: Domeier Timothy L. , Roberts Cale J. , Gibson Anne K. , Hanft Laurin M. , McDonald Kerry S. , Segal Steven S.
Published: July 2014

Cardiac dysfunction in the aged heart reflects abnormalities in cardiomyocyte Ca2+homeostasis including altered Ca2+cycling through the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). The ryanodine receptor antagonist dantrolene exerts antiarrhythmic effects by preventing spontaneous diastolic Ca2+release from the SR. We tested the hypothesis that dantrolene prevents spontaneous Ca2+release without altering excitation-contraction coupling in aged myocardium. Left ventricular cardiomyocytes isolated from young (3 to 4 mo) and aged (24–26 mo) C57BL/6 mice were loaded with the Ca2+indicator fluo-4. Amplitudes of action potential-induced Ca2+transients at 1-Hz pacing were similar between young and aged mice, yet cell shortening was impaired in aged mice. Isoproterenol (1 μM) increased Ca2+transient amplitude and cell shortening to identical levels in young and aged; dantrolene (1 μM) had no effect on Ca2+transients or cell shortening during pacing. Under Ca2+overload conditions induced with 10 mM extracellular Ca2+concentration, spontaneous Ca2+waves were of diminished amplitude and associated with lower SR Ca2+content in aged versus young mice. Despite no effect in young mice, dantrolene increased SR Ca2+content and Ca2+wave amplitude in aged mice. In the presence of isoproterenol following rest from 1-Hz pacing, Ca2+spark frequency was elevated in aged mice, yet the time to spontaneous Ca2+wave was similar between young and aged mice; dantrolene decreased Ca2+spark frequency and prolonged the time to Ca2+wave onset in aged mice with no effect in young mice. Thus dantrolene attenuates diastolic Ca2+release in the aged murine heart that may prove useful in preventing cardiac dysfunction.
Influenza causes prolonged disruption of the alveolar-capillary barrier in mice unresponsive to mesenchymal stem cell therapy
Authors: Gotts Jeffrey E. , Abbott Jason , Matthay Michael A.
Published: July 2014

Viral pneumonia is a major cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Anti-inflammatory therapies for viral-induced lung injury show promise in preclinical models. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent, self-renewing cells that secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines and epithelial and endothelial growth factors. We inoculated mice intranasally with influenza A (murine-adapted Puerto Rico/8/34) or PBS, and the mice were killed at multiple time points after infection for measures of lung injury and viral load. We report that influenza induces marked, long-lasting dysfunction of the alveolar-capillary barrier peaking at 1 wk but lasting longer than 3 wk postinfection. Weight loss, commonly employed as a criterion for euthanasia (and hence “survival”), was found to be poorly predictive of the severity of lung injury at its peak; rather, persistent weight loss 11 days postinfection identified mice with impaired injury resolution. Murine and human bone marrow-derived MSCs (obtained from the National Institutes of Health repository) were then administered intravenously during the rapid phase of injury progression. Murine MSCs (mMSCs) given two times 24 h apart failed to improve weight loss, lung water, bronchoalveolar lavage inflammation, or histology. However, mMSCs prevented influenza-induced thrombocytosis and caused a modest reduction in lung viral load at day 7. Human MSCs administered intravenously showed a similar lack of efficacy. The results demonstrate that the influenza murine model bears important similarities to the slow resolution of ARDS in patients. Despite their potent therapeutic effects in many models of acute inflammation and lung injury, MSCs do not improve influenza-mediated lung injury in mice.
VEGF receptors mediate hypoxic remodeling of adult ovine carotid arteries
Authors: Adeoye Olayemi O. , Bouthors Vincent , Hubbell Margaret C. , Williams James M. , Pearce William J.
Published: July 2014

Recent studies suggest that VEGF contributes to hypoxic remodeling of arterial smooth muscle, although hypoxia produces only transient increases in VEGF that return to normoxic levels despite sustained changes in arterial structure and function. To explore how VEGF might contribute to long-term hypoxic vascular remodeling, this study explores the hypothesis that chronic hypoxia produces sustained increases in smooth muscle VEGF receptor density that mediate long-term vascular effects of hypoxia. Carotid arteries from adult sheep maintained at sea level or altitude (3,820 m) for 110 days were harvested and denuded of endothelium. VEGF levels were similar in chronically hypoxic and normoxic arteries, as determined by immunoblotting. In contrast, VEGF receptor levels were significantly increased by 107% (VEGF-R1) and 156% (VEGF-R2) in hypoxic compared with normoxic arteries. In arteries that were organ cultured 24 h with 3 nM VEGF, VEGF replicated effects of hypoxia on abundances of smooth muscle α actin (SMαA), myosin light chain kinase (MLCK), and MLC20 and the effects of hypoxia on colocalization of MLC20 with SMαA, as measured via confocal microscopy. VEGF did not replicate the effects of chronic hypoxia on colocalization of MLCK with SMαA or MLCK with MLC20, suggesting that VEGF's role in hypoxic remodeling is highly protein specific, particularly for contractile protein organization. VEGF effects in organ culture were inhibited by VEGF receptor blockers vatalinib (240 nM) and dasatinib (6.3 nM). These findings support the hypothesis that long-term upregulation of VEGF receptors help mediate sustained effects of hypoxia on the abundance and colocalization of contractile proteins in arterial smooth muscle.
Measuring diffusion limitation with a perfusion-limited gas—Hyperpolarized 129Xe gas-transfer spectroscopy in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Kaushik S. Sivaram , Freeman Matthew S. , Yoon Suk W. , Liljeroth Maria G. , Stiles Jane V. , Roos Justus E. , Michael Foster W. Sivaram , Rackley Craig R. , McAdams H. P. , Driehuys Bastiaan
Published: July 2014

Although xenon is classically taught to be a “perfusion-limited” gas, 129Xe in its hyperpolarized (HP) form, when detected by magnetic resonance (MR), can probe diffusion limitation. Inhaled HP 129Xe diffuses across the pulmonary blood-gas barrier, and, depending on its tissue environment, shifts its resonant frequency relative to the gas-phase reference (0 ppm) by 198 ppm in tissue/plasma barrier and 217 ppm in red blood cells (RBCs). In this work, we hypothesized that in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the ratio of 129Xe spectroscopic signal in the RBCs vs. barrier would diminish as diffusion-limitation delayed replenishment of 129Xe magnetization in RBCs. To test this hypothesis, 129Xe spectra were acquired in 6 IPF subjects as well as 11 healthy volunteers to establish a normal range. The RBC:barrier ratio was 0.55 ± 0.13 in healthy volunteers but was 3.3-fold lower in IPF subjects (0.16 ± 0.03, P = 0.0002). This was caused by a 52% reduction in the RBC signal ( P = 0.02) and a 58% increase in the barrier signal ( P = 0.01). Furthermore, the RBC:barrier ratio strongly correlated with lung diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) ( r = 0.89, P < 0.0001). It exhibited a moderate interscan variability (8.25%), and in healthy volunteers it decreased with greater lung inflation ( r = −0.78, P = 0.005). This spectroscopic technique provides a noninvasive, global probe of diffusion limitation and gas-transfer impairment and forms the basis for developing 3D MR imaging of gas exchange.
Macrophage Inflammatory Protein Derivative ECI301 Enhances the Alarmin-Associated Abscopal Benefits of Tumor Radiotherapy
Authors: Kanegasaki Shiro , Matsushima Kouji , Shiraishi Kenshiro , Nakagawa Keiichi , Tsuchiya Tomoko
Published: July 2014

Radiotherapy can produce antitumor benefits beyond the local site of irradiation, an immune-based phenomenon known as the abscopal effect, but the mechanisms underlying these benefits are poorly understood. Preclinical studies of ECI301, a mutant derivative of macrophage inhibitory protein-1α, have shown that its administration can improve the antitumor effects of radiotherapy in a manner associated with a tumor-independent abscopal effect. In this article, we report that i.v. administration of ECI301 after intratumoral injection of tumor cell lysates can inhibit tumor growth, not only at the site of injection but also at nontreated sites. Effects of the tumor lysate were further recapitulated by i.v. administration of the alarmins HSP70 or HMGB1, but not HSP60, and combinations of ECI301 + HSP70 were sufficient to inhibit tumor growth. Although injection of ECI301 + HMGB1 did not inhibit tumor growth, we found that administration of a neutralizing HMGB1 antibody neutralized the cooperative effects of ECI301 on tumor irradiation. Moreover, mice genetically deficient in TLR4, an immune pattern receptor that binds alarmins, including HMGB1 and HSP70, did not exhibit antitumor responses to irradiation with ECI301 administration. Although ECI301 was cleared rapidly from peripheral blood, it was found to bind avidly to HSP70 and HMGB1 in vitro. Our results suggest a model in which sequential release of the alarmins HSP70 and HMGB1 from a tumor by irradiation may trap circulating ECI301, thereby licensing or restoring tumor immunosurveillance capabilities of natural killer cells or CD4+ and CD8+ T cells against tumor cells that may evade irradiation. Cancer Res; 74(18); 5070–8. ©2014 AACR.
NACK Is an Integral Component of the Notch Transcriptional Activation Complex and Is Critical for Development and Tumorigenesis
Authors: Weaver Kelly L. , Alves-Guerra Marie-Clotilde , Jin Ke , Wang Zhiqiang , Han Xiaoqing , Ranganathan Prathibha , Zhu Xiaoxia , DaSilva Thiago , Liu Wei , Ratti Francesca , Demarest Renee M. , Tzimas Cristos , Rice Meghan , Carpio Rodrigo Vasquez-Del , Dahmane Nadia , Robbins David J. , Capobianco Anthony J.
Published: July 2014

The Notch signaling pathway governs many distinct cellular processes by regulating transcriptional programs. The transcriptional response initiated by Notch is highly cell context dependent, indicating that multiple factors influence Notch target gene selection and activity. However, the mechanism by which Notch drives target gene transcription is not well understood. Herein, we identify and characterize a novel Notch-interacting protein, Notch activation complex kinase (NACK), which acts as a Notch transcriptional coactivator. We show that NACK associates with the Notch transcriptional activation complex on DNA, mediates Notch transcriptional activity, and is required for Notch-mediated tumorigenesis. We demonstrate that Notch1 and NACK are coexpressed during mouse development and that homozygous loss of NACK is embryonic lethal. Finally, we show that NACK is also a Notch target gene, establishing a feed-forward loop. Thus, our data indicate that NACK is a key component of the Notch transcriptional complex and is an essential regulator of Notch-mediated tumorigenesis and development. Cancer Res; 74(17); 4741–51. ©2014 AACR.
Survival After Primary Prevention Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Placement Among Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Hess Paul L. , Hellkamp Anne S. , Peterson Eric D. , Sanders Gillian D. , Al-Khalidi Hussein R. , Curtis Lesley H. , Hammill Bradley G. , Pun Patrick H. , Curtis Jeptha P. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Hammill Stephen C. , Al-Khatib Sana M.
Published: July 2014

Background—

Guidelines recommend that implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) candidates have an estimated longevity of ≥1 year. Longevity can be affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods and Results—

Using the National Cardiovascular Data Registry ICD registry linked with the Social Security Death Master File, we assessed the rate of death after primary prevention ICD placement between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2007, according to CKD stage. Using Cox models, we identified factors associated with death among patients with CKD. Compared with patients without CKD (n=26 056), those with CKD (n=21 226) were older, less commonly men, more often white, and more frequently had comorbid illness. Compared with patients without CKD, patients with a glomerular filtration rate 30 to 60, glomerular filtration rate <30, and end-stage renal disease on dialysis had a higher risk of death after ICD placement (hazard ratio, 2.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.99–2.18;
P
<0.0001; hazard ratio, 4.20; 95% confidence interval, 3.92–4.50;
P
<0.0001; and hazard ratio, 4.80; 95% confidence interval, 4.46–5.17;
P
<0.0001, respectively). Corresponding 1-year death rates were 4.4%, 9.1%, 20.2%, and 22.4%. Among patients with CKD, factors associated with increased risk of death included CKD severity, age >65 years, heart failure symptoms, diabetes mellitus, lung disease, serum sodium <140 mEq/L, atrial fibrillation or flutter, and a lower ejection fraction.

Conclusions—

The risk of death after primary prevention ICD placement is proportional to CKD severity. Among patients with CKD, several factors are prognostically significant and could inform clinical decision making on primary prevention ICD candidacy.
Percutaneous Ventricular Restoration Using the Parachute Device in Patients With Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Costa Marco A. , Mazzaferri Ernest L. , Sievert Horst , Abraham William T. , Gradinac Sinisa , Sagic Dragan , Otasevic Petar , Hasan Ayesha K. , Goff Thomas L. , Wunderlich Nina , DePuy Venita , Smart Frank
Published: July 2014

Background—

Left ventricle remodeling after anterior wall myocardial infarction leads to increased left ventricle volumes, myocardial stress, and ultimately heart failure (HF). Treatment options are limited for these high-risk HF patients. A study was conducted to assess safety and feasibility of a percutaneous ventricular restoration therapy using the Parachute device in subjects with HF because of a cardiac ischemic event.

Methods and Results—

Thirty-nine subjects with New York Heart Association class II to IV ischemic HF, ejection fraction between 15% and 40%, and dilated akinetic or dyskinetic anterior-apical wall without the need to be revascularized were enrolled in a prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter investigation testing percutaneous ventricular restoration using the Parachute device. The safety primary end point was defined as successful procedure without device-related major adverse cardiac events during 6 months. Clinical and echocardiographic outcomes were obtained at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months post-treatment. Echocardiographic and end point data were adjudicated independently. Of the 39 subjects enrolled, device implantation was attempted in 34 and successful in 31 patients. Twenty-three subjects reached 3 years post-treatment with the device implanted. New York Heart Association symptom class was improved or maintained in 85% of subjects. Left ventricle end-diastolic volume index and end-systolic volume index were reduced from 128.4±22.1 and 94.9±22.3 mL/m
2
preimplant to 115.2±23.1 and 87.3±18.7 mL/m
2
at 3-year follow-up (end-diastolic volume index,
P
=0.0056; end-systolic volume index,
P
=0.4719). The cumulative incidence of HF hospitalization or death was 16.1%, 32.3%, and 38.7% at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. By 3-year follow-up, 2 (6.5%) of 31 patients with successful implant had died from cardiac reasons, with no cardiac deaths occurring past 6 months post-treatment.

Conclusions—

The first series of ischemic HF patients treated with percutaneous ventricular restoration using the Parachute device demonstrates feasibility and safety of the device ≤3 years post-treatment.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifiers: NCT00573560 (US patients) and NCT01286116 (EU patients).
Repeat Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography in Patients With a Prior Scan Excluding Significant Stenosis
Authors: Kumamaru Kanako K. , Kondo Takeshi , Kumamaru Hiraku , Amanuma Makoto , George Elizabeth , Rybicki Frank J.
Published: July 2014

Background—

ACCF/SCCT/ACR/AHA/ASE/ASNC/NASCI/SCAI/SCMR 2010 Appropriate Use Criteria for Cardiac Computed Tomography (AUC2010) does not incorporate prior coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) results in the appropriateness of a CCTA examination. The purpose of this study was to explore the criteria for forgoing repeat CCTA among patients with clinical scenarios suggesting CCTA as appropriate after prior CCTA excluding coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results—

Among patients from a single center (February 2006 to April 2013) who underwent appropriate CCTA based on AUC2010, consecutive 555 CCTAs, which had a prior CCTA excluding significant stenosis (>50% stenosis in diameter), were selected. The median time difference between the studies was 34.2 (Q1–Q3, 22.9–50.1) months. Significant stenosis was detected at the time of repeat scan (by CCTA or subsequent catheter angiography) in 13.3% (74 of 555). A multivariable logistic model (C-statistic, 0.74; bootstrapped overfitting bias, 0.8%) identified 3 predictors of significant stenosis: time difference between the studies >3 years (adjusted odds ratio, 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–3.5), diabetes mellitus (odds ratio, 2.4; 95% confidence interval,1.4–4.3), and 26% to 50% stenosis on the initial CCTA (odds ratio, 5.6; 95% confidence interval, 3.2–9.6). When these 3 factors were all absent (corresponding to 31.9% of the population), the probability of significant stenosis was 4.5% (95% confidence interval, 2.7–7.4%), whereas 17.1% of patients had significant stenosis among those with at least 1 positive variable. When coronary arteries were completely normal at the initial scan, the prevalence of significant stenosis was only 1.8% irrespective of other factors, and no patient underwent revascularization.

Conclusions—

Nondiabetic patients with a prior CCTA <3 years showing no or ≤25% stenosis had a <5% prevalence of significant stenosis. The value of repeat CCTA in this group is likely small, especially when the prior CCTA demonstrated normal coronaries, even if the clinical scenario considered a CCTA appropriate.
Circulating Dickkopf‐1 in Diabetes Mellitus: Association With Platelet Activation and Effects of Improved Metabolic Control and Low‐Dose Aspirin
Authors: Lattanzio Stefano , Santilli Francesca , Liani Rossella , Vazzana Natale , Ueland Thor , Di Fulvio Patrizia , Formoso Gloria , Consoli Agostino , Aukrust Pål , Davì Giovanni
Published: July 2014

Background

Dickkopf‐1 (
DKK
‐1) is a major regulator of the Wnt signaling pathway, involved in inflammation, atherogenesis, and the regulation of glucose metabolism. Because platelets are major contributors to circulating levels of
DKK
‐1 in other clinical settings, we aimed at characterizing the platelet contribution to
DKK
‐1 in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2
DM
) and evaluating associations of
DKK
‐1 with glucose metabolism, platelet activation, and endothelial dysfunction.

Methods and Results

A cross‐sectional comparison of DKK‐1, soluble CD40L (
sCD
40L; reflecting platelet‐mediated inflammation), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA; marker of endothelial dysfunction), and urinary 11‐dehydro‐thromboxane B
2
(in vivo marker of platelet activation) was performed among 214 diabetic patients (90 receiving aspirin at 100 mg/day) and 30 healthy controls. Plasma DKK‐1 levels were markedly higher in patients with T2DM than in healthy patients (
P
<0.0001). DKK‐1 levels were significantly lower in diabetic patients receiving compared with those not on aspirin treatment (
P
=0.008); in the latter, DKK‐1 was significantly correlated with 11‐dehydro‐thromboxane B
2
, ADMA, and CD40L (ρ=0.303.
P
<0.0001, ρ=0.45.
P
<0.0001, and ρ=0.37,
P
<0.0001, respectively) but not with glycemic control or DM duration. Among patients not receiving aspirin, improvement of metabolic control in a subgroup of newly diagnosed patients treated with acarbose for 20 weeks and in a group treated with rosiglitazone for 24 weeks was associated with concurrent significant reductions in DKK‐1 (
P
=0.005 and
P
=0.004) and 11‐dehydro‐thromboxane B
2
(
P
=0.005 and
P
=0.004).

Conclusions

Circulating
DKK
‐1 is increased in T2
DM
and associated with endothelial dysfunction and platelet activation. Plasma
DKK
‐1 levels are reduced with improvement of glycemic control and low‐dose aspirin treatment.
The process of epithelial cell death in Pinus thunbergii caused by the pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Authors: Son Joung A. , Son Joung A. , Hogetsu Taizo , Son Joung A. , Hogetsu Taizo , Moon Yil-Sung
Published: July 2014

This study describes a new technique to investigate how the pine wood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, kills pine epithelial cells. After inoculating PWN into 20-cm-long Pinus thunbergii stem cuttings and incubating for 1, 3 or 7 days, the cuttings were split into 2.5 cm segments. The segments were tangentially cut so that the epithelia of several cortical resin canals were exposed, and these were stained with Evans Blue for the detection of dead epithelial cells. While almost no dead epithelial cells were found in the cortical resin canals of non-PWN-inoculated control cuttings up to day 7 of the experiment, dead epithelial cells were distributed sparsely in the epithelium of cortical resin canals throughout pine cuttings inoculated with PWN 1, 3 and 7 days after inoculation. The sparse and sporadic distribution of dead pine cells in the epithelium suggested that individual PWN attacked one epithelial cell at a time with its stylet and migrated between attacks.
Plant-mediated RNA interference of effector gene Mc16D10L confers resistance against Meloidogyne chitwoodi in diverse genetic backgrounds of potato and reduces pathogenicity of nematode offspring
Authors: Dinh Phuong T.Y. , Dinh Phuong T.Y. , Zhang Linhai , Dinh Phuong T.Y. , Zhang Linhai , Brown Charles R. , Dinh Phuong T.Y. , Zhang Linhai , Brown Charles R. , Elling Axel A.
Published: July 2014

Meloidogyne chitwoodi is a major problem for potato production in the Pacific Northwest of the USA. In spite of long-term breeding efforts no commercial potato cultivars with resistance to M. chitwoodi exist to date. The resistance gene against M. chitwoodi has been introgressed from Solanum bulbocastanum into cultivated potato (S. tuberosum), but M. chitwoodi pathotypes are able to overcome this resistance. In this study, an RNA interference (RNAi) transgene targeting the M. chitwoodi effector gene Mc16D10L was introduced into potato cvs Russet Burbank and Désirée, and the advanced breeding line PA99N82-4, which carries the gene. Stable transgenic lines were generated for glasshouse infection assays. At 35 days after inoculation (DAI) with M. chitwoodi race 1 the number of egg masses (g root)−1 formed on RNAi lines of cvs Russet Burbank and Désirée was reduced significantly by up to 68% compared to empty vector control plants. At 55 DAI, the number of eggs was reduced significantly by up to 65%. In addition, RNAi of Mc16D10L significantly reduced the development of egg masses and eggs formed by the resistance-breaking M. chitwoodi pathotype Roza on PA99N82-4 by up to 47 and 44%, respectively. Importantly, the plant-mediated silencing effect of Mc16D10L was transmitted to M. chitwoodi offspring and significantly reduced pathogenicity in the absence of selection pressure on empty vector control plants. This finding suggests that the RNAi effect is stable and nematode infection decreases regardless of the genotype of the host once the RNAi process has been initiated in the nematode through a transgenic plant. In summary, plant-mediated down-regulation of effector gene Mc16D10L provides a promising new tool for molecular breeding against M. chitwoodi.
Comparative susceptibility of Macrotermes bellicosus and Trinervitermes occidentalis (Isoptera: Termitidae) to entomopathogenic nematodes from Benin
Authors: Zadji Lionel , Zadji Lionel , Baimey Hugues , Zadji Lionel , Baimey Hugues , Afouda Leonard , Zadji Lionel , Baimey Hugues , Afouda Leonard , Moens Maurice , Zadji Lionel , Baimey Hugues , Afouda Leonard , Moens Maurice , Decraemer Wilfrida
Published: July 2014

The differential susceptibility of two termite species, Macrotermes bellicosus and Trinervitermes occidentalis, to four entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) isolates from Benin, Heterorhabditis indica Ayogbe1, H. sonorensis Azohoue2, H. sonorensis Ze3 and Steinernema sp. Bembereke, was bio-assayed in laboratory tests. Soldiers of both M. bellicosus and T. occidentalis were similarly susceptible, but more susceptible than workers. Forty-eight h post-exposure of workers of M. bellicosus to 50 infective juveniles (IJ) of H. indica Ayogbe1, H. sonorensis Azohoue2, H. sonorensis Ze3 and Steinernema sp. Bembereke for each termite resulted in 96.3, 87.9, 94.5 and 75.0% mortality, respectively, whereas under the same conditions, these EPN isolates caused 91.7, 98.5, 75.0 and 95.0% mortality of workers of T. occidentalis. Soldiers of M. bellicosus were the most invaded with 13.2-18.6% of applied IJ. Based on concentration-mortality data, the isolates H. indica Ayogbe1 and H. sonorensis Ze3 were more virulent to M. bellicosus with LC50 values of 11 IJ, whereas Steinernema sp. Bembereke was the most virulent to T. occidentalis with LC50 values of 12 IJ. However, none of these isolates showed the highest penetration rate. All tested EPN isolates can recycle in both M. bellicosus and T. occidentalis. Our EPN repellent-dispersing assay did not show evidence that M. bellicosus and T. occidentalis would be able to detect the presence of IJ of any EPN isolates/species. However, it was observed that nematode dispersal occurred by infected termites or phoresis.
Nutraceuticals in Lipid-Lowering Treatment
Authors: Patti Angelo Maria , Katsiki Niki , Nikolic Dragana , Al-Rasadi Khalid , Rizzo Manfredi
Published: July 2014

Lipid-lowering drugs may cause adverse effects and, although lipid targets may be achieved, a substantial residual cardiovascular (CV) risk remains. Treatment with agents mimicking proteins present in the body, such as incretin-based therapies, provided promising results. However, in order to improve lipids and CV risk, lifestyle measures remain important. Some researchers focused on nutraceuticals that may beneficially affect metabolic parameters and minimize CV risk. Chitosan, a dietary fiber, can regulate lipids with benefit on anthropometric parameters. The beneficial properties of dietary supplements (such as green tea extract, prebiotics, plant sterols, and stanols) on plasma lipids, lipoproteins, blood pressure, glucose, and insulin levels and their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects are documented. However, larger, prospective clinical trials are required to confirm such benefits. Such treatments may be recommended when lipid-lowering drugs are neither indicated nor tolerated as well as in order to achieve therapeutic targets and/or overcome residual CV risk.
Training Undergraduate Students to Use Insight Skills
Authors: Hill Clara E. , Spangler Patricia T. , Jackson John L. , Chui Harold
Published: July 2014

We compare the results of a series of studies (Chui et al., Jackson et al., and Spangler et al.) investigating the effects of training undergraduate students in helping skills courses to use insight skills (immediacy, challenges, interpretation) after they had learned exploration skills. A comparison of students and instructors indicated similarity across the samples. Increases in self-efficacy for the target skill were found across all studies. In addition, all components (reading, lecture, video modeling, practice, and feedback) were found to be effective, but students found practice and lecture to be particularly effective in all three studies. Higher initial self-efficacy for the target skill and higher prior helping experiences were associated with higher final levels of self-efficacy; lower self-efficacy for the target skill and higher prior helping experiences were associated with greater gains in self-efficacy over the course of training in two studies. Limitations and implications across all three studies are discussed.
School–Nongovernmental Organization Engagement as an Entrepreneurial Venture
Authors: Yemini Miri , Sagie Netta
Published: July 2014

Purpose: This study examines the objectives, nature, and perceived outcomes of school–nongovernmental organization (school-NGO) engagements in the Israeli education system, focusing on a single case study of a school-NGO interaction. We aim to characterize the conflicting motivations of each stakeholder involved in the creation and formulation of such engagement and to capture the process of interaction—from its initiation through the decision to continue, expand, or abolish these relations. Research Design: We employ a case study approach based on in-depth interviews with school principals, the NGO’s CEO, representatives of the local education authority and Ministry of Education, and the Israeli parliament’s Education Committee director, in addition to publication analysis, to provide a comprehensive view of the interaction from the stakeholders’ perspectives. Findings: We find that school-NGO interaction results from multidimensional relations, wherein each involved entity holds a set of aims and motivations that intermingle with those of other entities to create and form the engagement. School-NGO interaction can be considered a form of entrepreneurship within the education system, with each stakeholder acting entrepreneurially to gain value, attain resources, and mitigate risks in a proactive and innovative matter. All stakeholders employ this initiative to address their own, sometimes conflicting, goals and to benefit according to their own agendas. Conclusions: We conclude by discussing possible theoretical and practical implications involving school principals’ agency and NGO-school engagements in the local and global context.
Are Canadians still liberal internationalists? Foreign policy and public opinion in the Harper era
Authors: Paris Roland
Published: July 2014

Since coming into office in 2006, the government of Prime Minister Stephen Harper has rejected many of the symbols and practices of the liberal internationalist approach to foreign affairs that Canadian governments of all political stripes broadly embraced during the preceding six decades. As part of this change, the Harper government has also promoted a new narrative about Canada’s history and foreign policy, which encourages Canadians to change how they think about their country and its role in the world. By examining recent opinion surveys, this article asks whether Canadian public attitudes on foreign policy have shifted away from liberal internationalism and toward the Harper government's narrative since 2006.
The Recruitment and Retention of African American Women as Public School Superintendents
Authors: Brown Anita R.
Published: July 2014

This qualitative study was based on a phenomenological narrative design that specifically addresses the issues of recruitment and retention of African American women in the public school superintendency. The narratives of eight African American women participants identified common similarities and differences about race, gender, and social politics as applied to recruitment and retention of public school superintendents. When African American women are hired for and able to maintain the public school superintendency, they in fact are learning, teaching, and modeling how to overcome racism, sexism, and oppressive sociopolitics. This is not to say that every African American woman hired as a public school superintendent has the capacity to become a transformative leader within a school district, but rather their mere presence in the position demonstrates their individual ability to transcend the challenges presented throughout this study.
The back-to-the-city movement: Neighbourhood redevelopment and processes of political and cultural displacement
Authors: Hyra Derek
Published: July 2014

While certain US cities are still depopulating, others have experienced a reversal of aggregate out-migration patterns. Some scholars, politicians and real estate boosters celebrate this urban population influx, as it will likely increase property values and municipal tax bases; however, we know little about the social costs associated with the back-to-the-city movement. This study investigates the consequences of the back-to-the-city movement through a four-year (2009–2012) ethnographic case study of the revitalisation of Washington, DC’s Shaw/U Street neighbourhood. The redevelopment of this African-American neighbourhood is associated with the city’s 5.2 percent population increase, which occurred between 2000 and 2010. While affordable housing efforts help to keep a portion of long-term, low-income residents in place, political and cultural displacement is occurring as upper-income newcomers flock into this neighbourhood. This article contributes to the urban literature by highlighting that population influx, and associated neighbourhood revitalisation, can have important social implications.
The cosmopolitanism of David Mitrany: Equality, devolution and functional democracy beyond the state
Authors: Steffek Jens
Published: July 2014

In this article, I engage with the normative foundations of David Mitrany’s international political theory. My aim is to show that there is more to be found in Mitrany’s approach to international organization than the technocratic problem-solving often associated with his name today. To pinpoint the essence of Mitrany’s normative thought, I introduce the term ‘functional cosmopolitanism’. This variety of cosmopolitan theorizing starts from the equality of individual needs (not from rights or obligations), suggesting that transnational institutions, rather than states, should cater to these needs. An important aim of this ‘functional devolution’ is to limit and reconfigure public power, thus countering the threat of an ever more powerful nation-state. Mitrany’s proposal for introducing a functional dimension into the political system can be interpreted as a ‘thin’ cosmopolitanism, designed to free citizens from war and oppressive concentrations of political power, but vague in its ideas about individual political engagement.
‘You try to be a fair employer’: Regulation and employment relationships in medium-sized firms
Authors: Atkinson Carol , Mallett Oliver , Wapshott Robert
Published: July 2014

In this article, we explore the dynamic, indirect effects of employment regulation through a qualitative study of three medium-sized enterprises and their ongoing, everyday employment relationships. Whereas owner–manager prerogative is generally associated with informality in small and medium-sized enterprises, we identify instances of formal policies and procedures implemented in response to regulation being instrumental in exerting this prerogative. Furthermore, employees reinforced this process by making judgements regarding the employment relationship in terms of their perceived informal psychological contract rather than external regulatory obligations. This article extends understanding of dynamic, indirect regulatory effects in relation to the interplay of informality and formality within psychological contracts in medium-sized enterprises.
‘The Crisis’ as a journalistic frame in Romanian news media
Authors: Vincze Hanna Orsolya
Published: July 2014

The economic crisis and the policies proposed in response to it have held the attention of news media for many years. This article argues that the frequent use of the term ‘crisis’ as a catchphrase signals the presence of a journalistic frame, which possesses both generic and issue-specific features. The crisis-frame is analytically described along the four structural dimensions identified by Pan and Kosicki, using both content analytical arguments and close reading of characteristic passages. The crisis-frame is shown to have intersected with other local discursive constructs like the reform of the state or the problems of unemployment and migration. The article thus discusses substantive features of the news media of an Eastern European country, on which framing research is notoriously scarce. At the same time, it also contributes to the wider theoretical debate surrounding frame analysis, by describing how a media issue takes on generic features and becomes applicable to various topics and spheres of life.
Inpatient Rehabilitation Outcomes in a National Sample of Medicare Beneficiaries With Hip Fracture
Authors: Cary Michael P. , Merwin Elizabeth I. , Oliver M. Norman , Williams Ishan C.
Published: July 2014

Effects of patient characteristics on rehabilitation outcomes (functional status at discharge, discharged home) were assessed in a retrospective study of Medicare beneficiaries admitted to Medicare-certified inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) following hospitalization for hip fracture in 2009 ( N = 34,984). Hierarchical regression analysis showed significantly higher functional status at discharge ( p < .0001) for patients with these characteristics: White or Asian, younger, female, lived alone, higher functional status at admission, fewer comorbidities, no tier comorbidities, and longer IRF length of stay (LOS). Likelihood of discharged home was higher for patients with these characteristics: Hispanic (1.49 [1.32, 1.68]), Asian (1.35 [1.04, 1.74]), or Black (1.28 [1.12, 1.47]); younger (0.96 [0.96, 0.96]); female (1.14 [1.08, 1.20]); lived with others (2.12 [2.01, 2.23]); higher functional status at admission (1.06 [1.06, 1.06]); fewer comorbidities, no tier comorbidities; and longer LOS (1.61 [1.56, 1.67]). Functional status at admission, tier comorbidities, and race/ethnicity contributed the most to variance in functional status at discharge. Living with others contributed the most to variance in discharged home.
Spousal Caregiving for Partners With Dementia
Authors: Hong Sung-chull , Coogle Constance L.
Published: July 2014

Spousal caregiving allows stressed couples to continue living in the community rather than seeking institutional solutions. Dr. Toni Calasanti has postulated that there are gender differences in the care work styles and coping strategies used by spousal caregivers dealing with dementia. While caregiving husbands tend to adopt task-oriented (masculine) approaches, caregiving wives are more likely to take an emotionally focused (feminine) orientation. These differences result in the need for varied interventions. Male caregivers tend toward a managerial approach, whereas female caregivers generally adopt a relational approach. This distinction was examined in the course of a literature review through the deductive process. It was determined that the core thesis of such a gender-based view of care work as a tiered entity threaded with masculinity/femininity remains quite plausible in contrast to models based on self-perceived gender identity of caregivers that require more exploration. Recommendations for future investigations are offered as new questions arise.
Upper Extremity Multifocal Neuropathy in a 10-Year-Old Boy Associated With NS6S Disaccharide Antibodies
Authors: Edelman Frederick , Naddaf Elie , Waclawik Andrew J.
Published: July 2014

We present a 10-year-old boy with a predominantly motor multifocal neuropathy with demyelinating and axonal changes with sensory involvement, affecting only one upper extremity. Laboratory studies revealed an elevated titer of immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against the NS6S antigen. He responded to treatment with high dose intravenous immunoglobulins. Focal or multifocal immune-mediated neuropathies are not common in children and may be underdiagnosed.
Sibling Bullying Perpetration
Authors: Tanrikulu Ibrahim , Campbell Marilyn A.
Published: July 2014

This study investigated bullying among siblings in both traditional and cyber forms, and the associations of gender, grade, peer bullying perpetration, trait anger, and moral disengagement. The participants were 455 children in Grades 5 to 12 (262 girls and 177 boys with 16 unknown gender) who had a sibling. As the number of siblings who only bullied by technology was low, these associations were not able to be calculated. However, the findings showed that the percentage of sibling traditional bullying perpetration (31.6%) was higher than peer bullying perpetration (9.8%). Sibling bullies reported engaging in complex behaviors of perpetration and victimization in both the physical and in cyber settings, although the number was small. Gender, trait anger, moral disengagement, and bullying peers at school (but not grade) were all significantly associated with sibling traditional bullying perpetration. The implications of the findings are discussed for bullying intervention and prevention programs to understand childhood bullying in diverse contexts.