bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomarkers and anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery: C‐reactive protein trajectory is the gold standard
Authors: Smith Stephen R. , Pockney Peter , Holmes Ryan , Doig Fiona , Attia John , Holliday Elizabeth , Carroll Rosemary , Draganic Brian
Published: March 2017

Background

Anastomotic leakage is a feared complication following colorectal surgery. Early prediction results in improved clinical outcome, but accurate predictive factors remain elusive. Many biomarkers have been studied with respect to diagnosis of anastomotic leakage but the concept of trajectory testing, using biomarkers, has not been assessed with regards to early diagnosis of anastomotic leak.

Methods

C‐reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), white cell count (WCC) and gamma‐glutamyl transferase were assessed for predictive utility in diagnosing anastomotic leakage with emphasis on identifying an association with change in their levels or trajectory. Levels were collected preoperatively and daily for the first 5 post‐operative days on patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery, involving an anastomosis. Anastomotic leakage was defined clinically by operative or radiological intervention. Comparison was made between biomarkers and clinical anastomotic leakage, using receiver operator characteristic curves for logistic models, based on trajectory of the four biomarkers.

Results

A total of 197 consecutive patients were analysed. Eleven patients developed clinical anastomotic leakage. An association of biomarker trajectory with anastomotic leakage was observed for WCC, PCT and CRP, but not for gamma‐glutamyl transferase. CRP was the superior biomarker based on trajectory, with area under the receiver operator curve of 0.961.

Conclusion

This study identifies change in CRP, WCC and PCT as potential markers of anastomotic leakage following colorectal surgery and in particular highlights CRP trajectory as extremely accurate in diagnosing anastomotic leakage requiring intervention. External validation should be sought before incorporating this into routine clinical practice, given the numbers in this study.
House Price Dynamics with Household Debt: The Korean Case*
Authors: Kim Hyun Jeong , Son Jong Chil , Yie Myung‐Soo
Published: March 2017

This paper revisits the long‐run determinants of house prices, and analyzes the house price dynamics using Korean data taking into account the close relationship between house prices and household debt. The results of cointegrating regression indicate that the major portion of the rise in house prices in Korea over the last 15 years can be explained by changes in macro variables such as household income, the demographic structure, the user cost of home ownership and the housing stock supply. The results also confirm that house prices are, indeed, closely linked to the steep increase in household debt seen over this period. Estimation of an error correction model shows that the extent of convergence of actual house prices to their long‐run equilibrium path has weakened somewhat since the global financial crisis while the speed of convergence has slowed, indicating structural changes in the Korean housing market. Finally, a forecast for house prices over the next several years suggests that they are unlikely to rise as sharply as they did in the 2000s, given the likely changes in the macro‐financial environment, and that their future path will be closely associated with that of the household debt‐to‐income ratio.
Rise and Fall of Multinational Enterprises in Vietnam: Survival Analysis Using Census Data during 2000–2011*
Authors: Vu Tien Manh , Yamada Hiroyuki , Otsuki Tsunehiro
Published: March 2017

This study examined the survival of multinational enterprises (MNE) in Vietnam during 2000–2011 using Cox hazard models. The characteristics and ownership structure of firms and the nationality of foreign partners are found to be associated with the probability of firm exit, with a firm having greater capital share of foreign partners surviving longer. An efficient local government requiring less time for bureaucratic procedures and inspections is found to be associated with a lower probability of MNE exiting. Meanwhile, transparency in business regulations and predictability in implementing central government policies accelerate the survival of highly competitive MNE.
The sigh of the oppressed: The palliative effects of ideology are stronger for people living in highly unequal neighbourhoods
Authors: Sengupta Nikhil K. , Greaves Lara M. , Osborne Danny , Sibley Chris G.
Published: March 2017

Ideologies that legitimize status hierarchies are associated with increased well‐being. However, which ideologies have ‘palliative effects’, why they have these effects, and whether these effects extend to low‐status groups remain unresolved issues. This study aimed to address these issues by testing the effects of the ideology of Symbolic Prejudice on well‐being among low‐ and high‐status ethnic groups (4,519 Europeans and 1,091 Māori) nested within 1,437 regions in New Zealand. Results showed that Symbolic Prejudice predicted increased well‐being for both groups, but that this relationship was stronger for those living in highly unequal neighbourhoods. This suggests that it is precisely those who have the strongest need to justify inequality that accrue the most psychological benefit from subscribing to legitimizing ideologies.
cAMP‐dependent regulation of RhoA/Rho‐kinase attenuates detrusor overactivity in a novel mouse experimental model
Authors: Akakpo William , Musicki Biljana , Burnett Arthur L.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To investigate detrusor function and cAMP activation as a possible target for detrusor overactivity in an experimental model lacking a key denitrosylation enzyme, S‐nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR).

Materials and Methods

GSNOR‐deficient (GSNOR−/−) (n = 30) and wild‐type (WT) mice (n = 26) were treated for 7 days with the cAMP activator, colforsin (1 mg/kg), or vehicle intraperitoneally. Cystometric studies or molecular analyses of bladder specimens were performed. Bladder function indices and expression levels of proteins that regulate detrusor relaxation (nitric oxide synthase pathway) or contraction (RhoA/Rho‐kinase pathway) and oxidative stress were assessed. For statistical analysis the Student's t‐test and one‐way analysis of variance were used.

Results

GSNOR−/− mice had significantly higher (P < 0.05) voiding and non‐voiding contraction frequencies compared to WT mice (Cohen's effect size values d = 1.82 and 2.52, respectively). Colforsin normalised these abnormalities (Cohen's effect size values d = 1.85 and 1.28, respectively). Western blot analyses showed an up‐regulation of the RhoA/Rho‐kinase pathway reflected by significantly higher (P < 0.05) phosphorylated myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (P‐MYPT‐1) expression in GSNOR−/− mouse bladders, which was reversed by colforsin treatment. There was a higher level (P < 0.05) of gp91phox expression in the bladders of GSNOR−/− mice without significant change after colforsin treatment. Neuronal and endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation on Ser‐1412 and Ser‐1177, respectively, did not differ between GSNOR−/− and WT mouse bladders irrespective of colforsin treatment.

Conclusion

Impaired denitrosylation is associated with detrusor overactivity, which is linked with upregulated RhoA/Rho‐kinase signalling. Colforsin reverses physiological and molecular abnormalities. This study describes a novel model of detrusor overactivity and suggests a possible basis for its treatment.
WHAT DETERMINES VACATION LEAVE? THE ROLE OF GENDER
Authors: Fakih Ali
Published: March 2017

Vacation leave is introduced in workplaces to improve the working environment. Surprisingly, it has been observed that a large number of workers do not use all of their entitled vacation days. This paper provides a novel set of facts about the gender differences in taking vacation time using the Canadian Workplace Employee Survey, which is a linked longitudinal employer‐employee dataset. The results show considerable differences between men and women in the estimated effects of some demographic characteristics after controlling for job and workplace characteristics. However, they reveal significant implications of work arrangements (e.g., part‐time work, flexible work schedules, and home‐based work), job promotion, supervisory tasks, and union membership for vacation use, for both men and women. This paper provides further insights on the use of fringe benefits that may be useful to policymakers and businesses.
Anal function after endoluminal locoregional resection by transanal endoscopic microsurgery and radiotherapy for rectal cancer
Authors: Biviano I. , Balla A. , Badiali D. , Quaresima S. , D'Ambrosio G. , Lezoche E. , Corazziari E. , Paganini A. M.
Published: March 2017

Aim

In patients with rectal cancer, surgery and chemoradiotherapy may affect anal sphincter function. Few studies have evaluated anorectal function after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (n‐CRT) and/or transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of n‐CRT and TEM on anorectal function.

Method

Thirty‐seven patients with rectal cancer underwent anorectal manometry and Wexner scoring for faecal incontinence at baseline, after n‐CRT (cT2‐T3N0 cancer) and at 4 and 12 months after surgery. Water‐perfused manometry measured anal tone at rest and during squeezing, rectal sensitivity and compliance. Twenty‐seven and 10 patients, respectively, underwent TEM without (Group A) or with n‐CRT (Group B).

Results

In Group A, anal resting pressure decreased from 68 ± 23 to 54 ± 26 mmHg at 4 months (P = 0.04) and improved 12 months after surgery (60 ± 30 mmHg). The Wexner score showed a significant increase in gas incontinence (59%), soiling (44%) and urgency (37%) rates at 4 months, followed by clinical improvement at 1 year (41%, 26% and 18%, respectively). In group B, anal resting pressure decreased from 65 ± 23 to 50 ± 18 mmHg at 4 months but remained stable at 12 months (44 ± 11 mmHg, P = 0.02 vs preoperative values – no significant difference compared with evaluation at 4 months). Gas incontinence, soiling and urgency were observed in 50%, 50%, 25% and in 38%, 12% and 12% of cases, respectively, 4 and 12 months after treatment.

Conclusion

TEM does not significantly affect anal function. Instead, n‐CRT does affect anal function but without causing major anal incontinence.
Factors contributing to employment patterns after liver transplantation
Authors: Beal Eliza W. , Tumin Dmitry , Mumtaz Khalid , Nau Michael , Tobias Joseph D. , Hayes Don , Washburn Kenneth , Black Sylvester M.
Published: March 2017

Background

Many liver transplant recipients return to work, but their patterns of employment are unclear. We examine patterns of employment 5 years after liver transplantation.

Methods

First‐time liver transplant recipients ages 18‐60 years transplanted from 2002 to 2009 and surviving at least 5 years were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing registry. Recipients' post‐transplant employment status was classified as follows: (i) never employed; (ii) returned to work within 2 years and remained employed (continuous employment); (iii) returned to work within 2 years, but was subsequently unemployed (intermittent employment); or (iv) returned to work ≥3 years post‐transplant (delayed employment).

Results

Of 28 306 liver recipients identified during the study period, 12 998 survived at least 5 years and contributed at least 1 follow‐up of employment status. A minority of patients (4654; 36%) were never employed, while 3780 (29%) were continuously employed, 3027 (23%) were intermittently employed, and 1537 (12%) had delayed employment. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, predictors of intermittent and delayed employment included lower socioeconomic status, higher local unemployment rates, and post‐transplant comorbidities or complications.

Conclusion

Never, intermittent, and delayed employment are common after liver transplantation. Socioeconomic and labor market characteristics may add to clinical factors that limit liver transplant recipients’ continuous employment.
Low serum testosterone is associated with impaired graft function early after heart transplantation
Authors: Poglajen Gregor , Jensterle Mojca , Kravos Nika , Janež Andrej , Vrtovec Bojan
Published: March 2017

Background

We sought to investigate a correlation between serum testosterone levels and graft function early after heart transplantation.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, we measured serum testosterone levels 4 weeks after heart transplantation in 49 consecutive male recipients. Echocardiography was carried out to evaluate graft function. Low serum testosterone was defined as <11 nmol/L.

Results

Low serum testosterone was present in 21 (43%) recipients (Group A), and 28 (57%) had normal testosterone levels (Group B). The two groups did not differ in age and presence of renal dysfunction, arterial hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. Donor age and allograft ischemic time were not different between the two groups. Both groups had comparable tacrolimus through levels, dose of mycophenolate mophetil, and methylprednisolone. Patients in Group A had significantly lower LVEF (58±5% vs 65±6% vs Group B, P=.001) and TAPSE (1.3±0.3 cm vs 1.6±0.3 cm in Group B, P=.01). In comparison with Group B, more patients in Group A were found to have low grade (1R) rejection (25% vs 3%; P=.02).

Conclusion

Low serum testosterone levels appear to be associated with impaired graft function and an increased incidence of low‐grade rejection episodes early after heart transplantation.
Evidence connecting old, new and neglected glucose‐lowering drugs to bile acid‐induced GLP‐1 secretion: A review
Authors: Kårhus Martin L. , Brønden Andreas , Sonne David P. , Vilsbøll Tina , Knop Fillip K.
Published: March 2017

Bile acids are amphipathic water‐soluble steroid‐based molecules best known for their important lipid‐solubilizing role in the assimilation of fat. Recently, bile acids have emerged as metabolic integrators with glucose‐lowering potential. Among a variety of gluco‐metabolic effects, bile acids have been demonstrated to modulate the secretion of the gut‐derived incretin hormone glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), possibly via the transmembrane receptor Takeda G‐protein‐coupled receptor 5 and the nuclear farnesoid X receptor, in intestinal L cells. The present article critically reviews current evidence connecting established glucose‐lowering drugs to bile acid‐induced GLP‐1 secretion, and discusses whether bile acid‐induced GLP‐1 secretion may constitute a new basis for understanding how metformin, inhibitors of the apical sodium‐dependent bile acids transporter, and bile acid sequestrants – old, new and neglected glucose‐lowering drugs – improve glucose metabolism.
Impact of atrial fibrillation on platelet gene expression
Authors: Wysokinski Waldemar E. , Tafur Alfonso , Ammash Naser , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Wu Yanhong , Gosk‐Bierska Izabella , Grill Diane E. , Slusser Joshua P. , Mruk Jozef , McBane Robert D.
Published: March 2017

Aims

Platelets retain cytoplasmic messenger RNA and are capable of protein biosynthesis. Several diseases are known to impact the platelet transcriptome but the effect of non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) on platelet RNA transcript is essentially unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of NVAF on platelet RNA transcript by measuring platelet genes expression in consecutive NVAF patients before and 3‐4 months after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and compared to normal sinus rhythm controls (NSR).

Methods and Results

RNA from isolated platelets were reverse transcribed, assayed against 15 genes using real‐time qPCR, and expressed as mean cycle threshold (ΔCt) using beta‐2‐microglobulin as endogenous control. Expression of all evaluated genes, except cathepsin A gene, was significantly lower (higher ΔCt) in 103 NVAF patients compared to 55 NSR controls. Insulin‐like growth factor binding protein acid labile subunit gene (IGFALS) had expression more than 16 fold‐lower (17.0±2.8 vs 12.5±3.8, P<.001), follow by genes encoding for prostacyclin receptor, and for von Willebrand factor which had fourfold lower expression compared to NSR controls. Gender, type of atrial fibrillation, heart failure, hypertension, prior stroke, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerosis were associated with different gene expression. Following PVI, expression of four genes significantly increased, particularly IGFALS gene (increased 256‐fold) and ADAMT gene increased 16‐fold); expression of three genes significantly decreased, and expression of eight genes has not changed.

Conclusions

Platelets are capable to respond to the circulatory environment of NVAF by altering transcript and changing prothrombotic status. This shows platelet potential for molecular “reprogramming” possibly induced by flow disturbances of NVAF.
Antipredator responses to alarm pheromone in groups of young and/or old thrips larvae
Authors: de Bruijn Paulien J. A. , Sabelis Maurice W. , Egas Martijn
Published: March 2017

Many prey species suffer from different predators in the course of their ontogeny. Hence, the alarm signal a small prey individual sends can have a different meaning than the signal a large prey individual sends, both for small and for large receivers. Larvae of Western Flower Thrips face predators that attack only small larvae, or predators that attack small larvae and large larvae. Furthermore, thrips larvae release a two‐component alarm pheromone, which varies in composition with larval age. Here, we study whether their response to alarm pheromone varies with composition of the pheromone. First, we confirmed that large and small larvae respond when nearby larvae of both sizes were prodded with a brush to induce alarm pheromone excretion. Subsequently, we tested whether thrips larvae of a given size respond differentially to alarm pheromone excreted by a small or large companion larva. We analyzed two types of behavior used in direct defense against a predator and one type of escape response. Only small (not large) larvae attempted to escape more frequently in response to excretions from a large larva. This difference in response could have been due to the alarm pheromone or to the companion larva in the vicinity. We subsequently tested for, but did not find, an effect of size of the companion larva on the behavior of the test larva when exposed to synthetic pheromone mimicking that of a large larva. Finally, we tested how pheromone composition affects antipredator behavior by exposing thrips larvae to synthetic pheromones differing in amount and ratio of the two components. Only for small larvae, we found significant changes in escape behavior with pheromone amount, and a trend with the ratio. Overall, we conclude that small thrips larvae respond differentially to alarm pheromones excreted by small and large larvae and that this differential response is due to differences in pheromone quantity and possibly also quality. Our results suggest that responses to alarm signals can vary with the chemical composition of those alarm signals.
The effects of paternal reproductive tactic and rearing environment on juvenile variation in growth as mediated through aggression and foraging behaviours of Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Forest Adriana R. , Dender Mitchel G. E. , Pitcher Trevor E. , Semeniuk Christina A. D.
Published: March 2017

In species with indeterminate growth, differential growth rates can lead to animals adopting alternative reproductive tactics such as sneak–guard phenotypes, which is partially predicted by variation in growth during the juvenile life‐history stage. To investigate sources of growth variation, we examined the independent and joint effects of paternal reproductive tactic (G) and rearing environment (E) on juvenile growth in Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), hypothesizing G and E effects are partially mediated through differences in behaviour such as aggressive interactions and resulting foraging behaviours. We created maternal half‐sibling families with one‐half of the female's eggs fertilized by the milt of a sneaker “jack” and the other half by a guarder “hooknose”. At the exogenous feeding stage, each split‐clutch family was then divided again and reared in a rationed diet or growth‐promotion diet environment for approximately 6 months, during which growth parameters were measured. Before saltwater transfer at 9 months of age, social interactions were observed in groups of six fish of various competitor origins. We found ration restricts growth rate and juvenile mass, and evidence of genetic effects on growth depensation, where jack‐sired individuals grew less uniformly over time. These growth‐related differences influenced an individual's level of aggression, with individuals raised on a restricted diet and those whose families experienced greatest growth being most aggressive. These individuals were more likely to feed than not and feed most often. Jack‐sired individuals were additionally aggressive in the absence of food, and when raised on a rationed diet outcompeted others to feed most. These results show how individuals may achieve higher growth rates via intrinsic (G) or induced (E) aggressive behavioural phenotypes, and eventually attain the threshold body size necessary during the saltwater phase to precociously sexually mature and adopt alternative reproductive phenotypes.
Responses of male cricket frogs (Acris crepitans) to attenuated and degraded advertisement calls
Authors: Venator Kurt R. , Ryan Michael J. , Wilczynski Walter
Published: March 2017

We examined the vocal and non‐vocal responses of male cricket frogs (Acris crepitans) to conspecific advertisement calls that had been attenuated or degraded by reducing the depth of amplitude modulation (AM). Both are characteristic of changes to the call as it is transmitted through natural habitats. As stimulus calls became more intense or less degraded, male cricket frogs gradually decreased their call rate and increased the number of call groups and pulse groups in their calls, changes indicative of increased aggressive interactions. At the higher intensities and lower degradation levels, the probability that males would shift to one of two non‐vocal behavioral responses, attacking the perceived intruder or ceasing calling and abandoning the call site, gradually increased. The results show that differences in signal attenuation and AM degradation levels are perceived by males and trigger both vocal and non‐vocal behavioral responses consistent with their use in evaluating the distance to a challenging male. Furthermore, the results indicate that the male responses are graded, increasing as intensity rises and degradation falls, and hierarchical, with vocal responses preceding behavioral responses over the range of intensities and degradation levels presented.
Human activity and habitat type affect perceived predation risk in urban white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus)
Authors: Persons William E. , Eason Perri
Published: March 2017

Predation risk is one of the largest costs associated with foraging in small mammals. Small mammals select microhabitat features such as tree and shrub canopy cover, woody debris and vegetative ground cover that can lower the risk of detection from predators and provide greater protection if discovered. Small mammals also increase foraging activity and decrease selection for cover when cloud cover increases and moon illumination is less. Often researchers assume small mammals in urban areas respond to these cues in the same manner as in natural areas, but these cues themselves are altered in urban zones. In this study, we investigated how Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) and coarse woody debris (CWD) affected giving‐up density (GUD) in white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus). Each of three habitat treatments (open flood channel, the edge and interior of the honeysuckle patch) contained cover treatments with coarse woody debris present or absent. The six treatment combinations were compared to environmental variables (temperature, humidity and illumination) and habitat variables to test their effect onGUD.Peromyscus leucopusforaged to lower densities in areas withCWDpresent and also under the honeysuckle canopy, using this invasive shrub to decrease predation risk, potentially increasing survivability within this urban park. Increased human presence negatively affected foraging behavior across treatments. Human presence and light pollution significantly influencedP. leucopus, modifying their foraging behavior and demonstrating that both fine‐ and coarse‐scale urban factors can affect small mammals. Foraging increased as humidity increased, particularly under the honeysuckle canopy. Changes in illumination due to moonlight and cloud cover did not affect foraging behavior, suggesting urban light pollution may have altered behavioral responses to changes in light levels.Lonicera maackiiseemed to facilitate foraging inP. leucopus, even though it adversely affects the plant community, suggesting that its impact may not be entirely negative.
Genetic diversity and structure of Lolium perenne ssp. multiflorum in California vineyards and orchards indicate potential for spread of herbicide resistance via gene flow
Authors: Karn Elizabeth , Jasieniuk Marie
Published: March 2017

Management of agroecosystems with herbicides imposes strong selection pressures on weedy plants leading to the evolution of resistance against those herbicides. Resistance to glyphosate in populations of Lolium perenne L. ssp. multiflorum is increasingly common in California, USA, causing economic losses and the loss of effective management tools. To gain insights into the recent evolution of glyphosate resistance in L. perenne in perennial cropping systems of northwest California and to inform management, we investigated the frequency of glyphosate resistance and the genetic diversity and structure of 14 populations. The sampled populations contained frequencies of resistant plants ranging from 10% to 89%. Analyses of neutral genetic variation using microsatellite markers indicated very high genetic diversity within all populations regardless of resistance frequency. Genetic variation was distributed predominantly among individuals within populations rather than among populations or sampled counties, as would be expected for a wide‐ranging outcrossing weed species. Bayesian clustering analysis provided evidence of population structuring with extensive admixture between two genetic clusters or gene pools. High genetic diversity and admixture, and low differentiation between populations, strongly suggest the potential for spread of resistance through gene flow and the need for management that limits seed and pollen dispersal in L. perenne.
Survival and behaviour of Atlantic salmon smolts passing a run‐of‐river hydropower facility with a movable bulb turbine
Authors: Thorstad E. B. , Havn T. B. , Sæther S. A. , Heermann L. , Teichert M. A. K. , Diserud O. H. , Tambets M. , Borcherding J. , Økland F.
Published: March 2017

Downstream migration of radio‐tagged Atlantic salmon smolts, Salmo salar L., was studied in the Kinzig, Germany, to examine effects of passing a run‐of‐river hydropower station with a movable bulb turbine. Immediate mortality for smolts passing the power station was low (3%–6%), probably facilitated by a curved rack in front of the turbine and the possibility to pass over it. Mortality in the impounded stretch above the power station was also low (1.5% extra mortality compared to a control stretch). The combined mortality due to hydropower was 5%–8%, excluding delayed effects. Most smolts followed the main flow passing through the turbine area (94%). Only few used a fishway (4%) or a nearby millstream (2%). Migration speed was slowed down at the power station, but the passage only caused a short delay (average/median 8.6/1.3 hr). However, even low mortality and short delays at several power stations and reservoirs may have considerable cumulative effects.
Photoperiod cues and patterns of genetic variation limit phenological responses to climate change in warm parts of species’ range: Modeling diameter‐growth cessation in coast Douglas‐fir
Authors: Ford Kevin R. , Harrington Constance A. , St. Clair J. Bradley
Published: March 2017

The phenology of diameter‐growth cessation in trees will likely play a key role in mediating species and ecosystem responses to climate change. A common expectation is that warming will delay cessation, but the environmental and genetic influences on this process are poorly understood. We modeled the effects of temperature, photoperiod, and seed‐source climate on diameter‐growth‐cessation timing in coast Douglas‐fir (an ecologically and economically vital tree) using high‐frequency growth measurements across broad environmental gradients for a range of genotypes from different seed sources. Our model suggests that cool temperatures or short photoperiods can induce cessation in autumn. At cool locations (high latitude and elevation), cessation seems to be induced primarily by low temperatures in early autumn (under relatively long photoperiods), so warming will likely delay cessation and extend the growing season. But at warm locations (low latitude or elevation), cessation seems to be induced primarily by short photoperiods later in autumn, so warming will likely lead to only slight extensions of the growing season, reflecting photoperiod limitations on phenological shifts. Trees from seed sources experiencing frequent frosts in autumn or early winter tended to cease growth earlier in the autumn, potentially as an adaptation to avoid frost. Thus, gene flow into populations in warm locations with little frost will likely have limited potential to delay mean cessation dates because these populations already cease growth relatively late. In addition, data from an abnormal heat wave suggested that very high temperatures during long photoperiods in early summer might also induce cessation. Climate change could make these conditions more common in warm locations, leading to much earlier cessation. Thus, photoperiod cues, patterns of genetic variation, and summer heat waves could limit the capacity of coast Douglas‐fir to extend its growing season in response to climate change in the warm parts of its range.
Total ankle replacement in patients with haemophilic arthropathy: primary arthroplasty and conversion of painful ankle arthrodesis to arthroplasty
Authors: Preis M. , Bailey T. , Jacxsens M. , Barg A.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

There are two general surgical approaches for operative treatment of end‐stage haemophilic ankle arthropathy: ankle arthrodesis and total ankle replacement (TAR).

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine intraoperative and postoperative complications and evaluate the mid‐term clinical and radiographic outcomes of TAR in patients with haemophilic arthropathy.

Methods

Fourteen patients with a mean age of 51.4 ± 10.2 years (range = 32.9–63.7) were treated for end‐stage haemophilic ankle arthropathy. Nine procedures were primary arthroplasties, five procedures were conversions of painful ankle arthrodesis to TAR. The mean duration of follow‐up was 5.8 ± 2.3 years (range = 2.0–9.2). Component stability and alignment was assessed with weight‐bearing radiographs. Clinical assessment was performed.

Results

One patient sustained an intraoperative medial malleolar fracture. In two patients, delayed wound healing was observed. In one patient, open arthrolysis was performed due to painful arthrofibrosis. Both components were neutrally aligned. Visual analogue scale (VAS) significantly decreased from 8.5 ± 0.9 (range = 8–10) to 1.3 ± 1.6 (range = 0–6). Significant functional improvement including range of motion (ROM) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score was observed. The summarized components of the SF‐36 physical and mental outcomes score significantly improved at the latest follow‐up. Complication rates and clinical/radiographic outcomes were comparable in patients with primary TAR and conversion of ankle arthrodesis to TAR.

Conclusion

The mid‐term results following TAR or a conversion procedure in patients with haemophilic arthropathy are encouraging. However, for postoperative success, access to an experienced, multidisciplinary team including a haematologist is mandatory.
Plasma levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and bleeding phenotype in patients with von Willebrand disease
Authors: Abdul S. , Boender J. , Malfliet J. J. M. C. , Eikenboom J. , Fijn van Draat K. , Mauser‐Bunschoten E. P. , Meijer K. , de Meris J. , Laros‐van Gorkom B. A. P. , van der Bom J. G. , Leebeek F. W. G. , Rijken D. C. , Uitte de Willige S. ,   WIN study group
Published: March 2017

Introduction

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder. In VWD patients, large variations in bleeding tendency are observed, which cannot be completely explained by the variation in von Willebrand factor levels or activities. Thus, there must be additional factors, for instance, changes in fibrinolysis that have an effect on the variation in bleeding tendency in VWD patients.

Aim

To investigate whether plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) level influences the variation in bleeding tendency in VWD patients.

Methods

PAI‐1 antigen levels were measured in the plasma of 633 patients with moderate or severe VWD who participated in the ‘Willebrand in the Netherlands’ (WiN) study, a nationwide multicentre cross‐sectional study. Bleeding severity was assessed using the Tosetto bleeding score.

Results

PAI‐1 levels increased with age (Spearman's rho: 0.225, P < 0.001) and were higher in men (23 [IQR 12–60] vs. 20 [IQR 10–44] ng mL−1 in women, P = 0.039), whereas the bleeding score was higher in women (11 [IQR 7–17] vs. 9 [IQR 5–14] ng mL−1 in men, P = 0.002). After adjustment for age and sex by stratification, PAI‐1 level and bleeding score were negatively correlated (Spearman's rho: −0.170, P = 0.017) in the group of 196 young (age ≤ 45 year) female VWD patients, accounting for 31% of our study population.

Conclusion

In young female VWD patients, we observed that low PAI‐1 levels were associated with a higher bleeding score, which may partly explain the observed variability in bleeding phenotype in VWD patients.
Analysis of the effects of several decalcifying agents alone and in combination with sodium hypochlorite on the chemical composition of dentine
Authors: Tartari T. , Bachmann L. , Zancan R. F. , Vivan R. R. , Duarte M. A. H. , Bramante C. M.
Published: March 2017

Aim

To investigate the effects of several decalcifying agents alone and in combination with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) on the organic and inorganic components of dentine using attenuated total reflectance in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR).

Methodology

Dentine slices from bovine teeth were submitted to (n = 5) the following: 0.9% saline, 9% and 18% etidronic acid (HEDP), 5% and 10% tetrasodium EDTA (EDTANa4), 17% trisodium EDTA (EDTAHNa3), and 0.5% and 2.0% peracetic acid (PAA) for 0.5–10 min; and to the combinations: G1 – mixture 5% NaOCl + 18% HEDP (5 and 10 min); G2 – mixture 5% NaOCl + 10% EDTANa4 (5 and 10 min); G2 – 2.5% NaOCl (5 min) + 17% EDTAHNa3 (1 min); G3 – 2.5% NaOCl (5 min) + 0.5% PAA (1 min); G4 – 2.5% NaOCl (5 min) + 9% HEDP (5 min). Specimens of G2, G3 and G4 received final flushes with 2.5% NaOCl for 0.5–10 min. Amide III/phosphate and carbonate/phosphate ratios of the spectra collected from the dentine specimens before and after immersion in the solutions were determined. Data were submitted to one‐way repeated measures and one‐way anova.

Results

For the same decalcifying agent, the higher the concentration and immersion time the greater the removal of phosphate, exposure of collagen matrix and consequently the increases in amide III/phosphate ratio. However, significant differences were found only between the two concentrations of PAA (P < 0.05). PAA caused greater increases in this ratio, followed by EDTAHNa3, EDTANa4 and HEDP, and this order was retained in the combinations with NaOCl. This ratio was significantly reduced in G1 (P < 0.05) and not altered in G2 (P > 0.05). Due to collagen degradation, the amide III/phosphate ratio reduced significantly after the use of NaOCl in G3, G4 and G5 (P < 0.05). NaOCl required approximately 0.5 s to deproteinate the collagen matrix exposed after phosphate removal by EDTAHNa3 and PAA. The carbonate of dentine was removed more rapidly than phosphate by all decalcifying agents alone and in G3, G4 and G5. In the combinations with NaOCl, the last irrigant used defined the dentine amide III/phosphate and carbonate/phosphate ratios.

Conclusions

HEDP and EDTANa4 caused minor whilst EDTAHNa3 and PAA caused greater demineralization of dentine; both effects were time and concentration dependent. NaOCl degraded the dentine organic matrix more rapidly when it was exposed. Combinations of NaOCl and decalcifying agents can be used to create dentine surfaces with varying compositions for interaction with endodontic sealers.
Nurses' intention to remain employed in hospitals: Understanding the shortage in the context of Myanmar
Authors: Lwin Pyone Mjinzu , Rattanapan Cheerawit , Laosee Orapin
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain the rate and identify the factors associated with nurses' intention to remain employed at hospitals in the Yangon Region.

Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive study was conducted among 300 nurses aged between 20 and 60 years working at both private and public hospitals in the Yangon Region during May to June 2015. Chi‐square tests were used to identify factor associations, and multiple logistic regression was examined to determine predictive factors.

Results

The study revealed that 63.6% of nurses intended to remain employed. Marital status (adjusted odd ratio: 2.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05‐4.32), work characteristics (adjusted odd ratio: 2.42; 95% CI: 1.33‐4.41), job stress and burnout (adjusted odd ratio: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.01‐3.11), and recognition (adjusted odd ratio: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.07‐3.59) were found to be significant predictors of nurses' intention to remain employed at the hospitals.

Conclusions

Recognition and other nonmonetary incentive support systems should be provided to enhance the retention of nurses at the hospitals.
Portfolio management with higher moments: the cardinality impact
Authors: Brito Rui Pedro , Sebastião Hélder , Godinho Pedro
Published: March 2017

This paper extends the study of the cardinality impact on portfolio performance, from the traditional mean‐variance framework to more general frameworks that include higher moments. For each framework, we propose a biobjective model that allows the investor to explicitly analyze the efficient trade‐off between expected utility and cardinality. We applied the proposed methodology to data from the Portuguese Stock Index (PSI20 index). The empirical results show that, in‐sample, the certainty equivalent and the Sharpe ratio increase with the cardinality level in all frameworks. The results also suggest that there are no performance gains, in‐sample, in terms of certainty equivalent, when higher moments are considered. Out of sample, the turnover increases up to a certain cardinality level, then decreases. For certain cardinality levels, there are gains in terms of out‐of‐sample certainty equivalent and Sharpe ratio, when skewness and kurtosis are considered. Finally, we check the robustness of these results in a large dataset from the EUROSTOXX50 index.
Viral Hepatitis in Israel
Authors: Egoz N. , Brachott D. , Mosley J. W. , Yekutiel P.
Published: March 2017

Follow‐up of 1,754 transfused persons and 1,659 nontransfused patients at two hospitals in Israel revealed 13 cases of icteric hepatitis, all among transfusion recipients. Factors influencing attack rate were number of units administered and age (but not sex) of the recipient. Interview of 47 donors to cases and 248 donors to non‐cases indicated an increased risk to patients receiving blood from individuals with a past history of jaundice, from those with a history of transfusion, and from persons born in North Africa.
Comparison of Methods for the Preparation of Leukocyte‐poor Blood
Authors: Halterman R. H. , Grumet F. C. , Watson L. , Yanchulis E. , Yankee R. A.
Published: March 2017

A rapid and efficient method for preparing leu‐kocyte‐poor red blood cells, utilizing inexpensive, commercially available material, is described. Whole blood anticoagulated with ACD was collected into standard quadruple packs and centrifuged. Platelet‐rich plasma and buffy coat were extracted as part of the routine preparation of platelet concentrate, cryoprecipitate and residual plasma. Heparin and CaCl2 were added to the packed cells which were then filtered through a nylon column (LEUKO‐PAK®). This method for preparing leukocyte‐poor erythrocytes removed 97 per cent of the white blood cells and 99 per cent of the platelets.

This procedure has the advantage of conserving platelets as well as plasma and compares favorably with other technics for preparing leukocyte‐poor blood.
Serum Creatinine and Creatinine Clearance after Transfusion with ACD–Adenine Blood and ACD Blood
Authors: Westman B.J.M.
Published: March 2017

In order to evaluate the nephrotoxic effect of adenine which is used to improve the viability of preserved erythrocytes, massively transfused patients undergoiag open heart surgery were investigated. The serum creatinine level and creatinine clearance were recorded during the eight‐day period following the operation. Serum creatinine was tested repeatedly in 118 patients receiving a mean of 13.0 units of ACD–adenine blood and 49 patients receiving a mean of 15.9 units of ACD–blood. For the studies of creatinine clearance two additional groups of ten patients each were used. The patients in the first group were given a mean 17.5 units of ACD‐adenine blood and the patients in the second group were given a mean of 16.6 units of ACD blood.

Serum creatinine increased to about 150 percent of the preoperative value on the first postoperative day without any significant difference between the two groups. The preoperative values of serum creatinine were then reached within a few days. Postoperatively, there was only a slight decrease of clearance values in the two groups. On one occasion there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in serum creatinine between the ACD–adenine and the ACD–group. All other differences were not significant and thus no evidence of nephrotoxic effect of the adenine added to the ACD solution.

The estimated maximal amounts of adenine administered throngh the transfusions varied between 2 and 15 mg per kg body weight. There was no tendency of higher serum creatinine values in patients receiving higher doses of adenine.
The Occurrence and Binding of 2, 8‐Dioxyadenine in Plasma
Authors: Stern I. J. , Cosmas F. , Garvin P. J.
Published: March 2017

By application of a micro‐column procedure small quantities of 2,8‐dioxy adenine (DA) formed after intravenous administration of adenine (Ad) were detected in dog plasma. Errors due to the overlapping absorbancy of 8‐hydroxy adenine which occurred simultaneously in plasma were compensated for by application of simultaneous equations. An isotopic method was also described which was based on the uniquely low solubility of DA. Investigations in vitro indicated that DA was produced from liver slices in linear fashion with time, while only small amounts were produced after long incubation with kidney slices. The binding of DA to human serum albumin was tighter than that described previously for Ad and for uric acid and permitted apparent plasma concentrations to exceed the solubility in water. The results were consistent with the hypothesis that 2,8‐dioxyadenine was formed in the liver and transported in the plasma to the kidney, where precipitation occurred during protein removal and solute concentration.
Some Observations on the T, Tn and Sda Antigens and the Antibodies that Define Them
Authors: Issitt P. D. , Issitt C. H. , Moulds J. , Berman H. J.
Published: March 2017

T‐ and Tn‐activation are known to result in polyagglutinability of red blood cells. Unlike polyagglutinability associated with the presence of the Cad antigen, there is no association in these two states with the antigen Sda. Alteration or destruction of the T‐receptor on T‐activated cells by the proteases fidn and papain is strictly dependent on the strength of the protease solution used. There is no correlation of amounts of anti‐T and anti‐Tn in normal sera.
An Autoantibody with U‐specificity in a Patient with Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Beck M. L. , Butch S. H. , Armstrong W. D. , Oberman H. A.
Published: March 2017

Lack of reactivity of IgG autoantibodies with Rhnull red blood cells does not necessarily imply specificity directed towards the Rh system. Recent reports have indicated that occasionally the autoantibodies of warm antibody type hemolytic anemia may have U‐specificity. This report describes an example of auto‐anti‐U occurring in a patient with myasthenia gravis who had no evidence of hemolysis.
Book Reviews
Authors: Bove Joseph R.
Published: March 2017

Cytomegalovirus Infections of Man. U. H. Krech, M. Jung and F. Jung. New York, S. Karger, 1971. 124 pp., $7.70.

Prevention of Rh Sensitization: Report of a WHO Scientific Group. World Health Organization Technical Report Series, No. 468. Geneva, 1971. 36 pp. $1.00. (*Also published in French; Russian and Spanish editions in preparation.)
A Multi‐Level Approach to European Identity: Does Integration Foster Identity?
Authors: Luhmann Sybille
Published: March 2017

Many integration theories predict that heightened integration in Europe will give rise to a European identity. As integration advances, so does the scholarly debate on identity. This article endeavours to contribute to the debate by investigating the relationship between European integration and European identity longitudinally in 14 countries over 21 years from 1992 to 2012. Using Eurobarometer and EU Index data, this relationship is found to be exponential with current integration levels predicting the imminent emergence of a European identity. In order to better understand whose identities are impacted or formed most by integration, the paper then turns to three intervening concepts: (1) cognitive mobilization, (2) optimism, and (3) support of the EU. All of these amplify the effect of integration on identity with the noteworthy exception of optimism. Finally, the article evaluates the implications of these findings for neofunctionalism and the literature on European identity more broadly.
Osteoblast growth, after cleaning of biofilm‐covered titanium discs with air‐polishing and cold plasma
Authors: Matthes Rutger , Duske Kathrin , Kebede Tewodros Getachew , Pink Christiane , Schlüter Rabea , von Woedtke Thomas , Weltmann Klaus‐Dieter , Kocher Thomas , Jablonowski Lukasz
Published: March 2017

Aim

To investigate the effects of a combined biofilm removal with an optimized air polishing and a cold plasma device on cells in vitro.

Materials and Methods

A 7‐day‐old biofilm was removed from rough titanium discs with an air‐polishing device with erythritol powder (AP) or with a cold atmospheric pressure argon plasma (CAP) device or in combination of both (AP + CAP). The removal efficacy was evaluated by subsequent cell seeding of osteoblast‐like cells (MG‐63). The cell spreading was analysed after 5 days of incubation by scanning electron microscopy. Separately, the surface hydrophilicity was analysed by measuring the water contact angle (WCA) of the disc for each treatment method.

Results

The mechanical plaque removal with AP rendered specimen conducive for cell growth, 85% of the surface was covered with cells. An advantage of the combination of AP + CAP was not detectable compared to AP (cell coverage ranged from 57% up to 75%). After sole CAP treatment, microorganisms re‐grew and destroyed all cells. The WCA was reduced by all treatment methods.

Conclusion

An AP treatment has the potential to remove biofilm from rough implant surfaces completely. In contrast to our hypothesis, the combination of plasma and AP treatment did not enhance osteoblast spreading.