bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the triage assessment system for psychological assessment for pregnant women with a deadly fetal abnormality
Authors: Yu Xiao‐yan , Hu Yin , Li Ya‐cen , Feng Su‐wen
Published: April 2014

To explore suitable scales to assess psychological status of pregnant women whose fetuses have grave deformities, a face‐to‐face interview guided by the Triage Assessment System (TAS) was conducted. Also, a questionnaire of the Impact of Event Scale‐Revised (IES‐R) was obtained in 44 pregnant women diagnosed with a fetal deformity. Percentages and non‐parametric Spearman correlations were used to analyse the scores of the two scales. The total score of TAS ranged from 3 to 26, with a mean of 9.93; and the total score of IES‐R ranged from 5 to 63, with a mean of 40.36. The total score and the two subscales of each scale were significantly correlated (P < 0.05). The TAS subscale of emotion and IES‐R subscale of intrusion were not significantly correlated, with r = 0.24 (P = 0.11). Combined use of TAS and IES‐R can make up for each other's deficiencies and guide the clinician to make individual interventions during screening and treatment.
Changes in quality of life associated with surgical risk in elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery
Authors: Romero Paola Severo , de Souza Emiliane Nogueira , Rodrigues Juliane , Moraes Maria Antonieta
Published: April 2014

The study aims to verify quality of life of elderly patients submitted to cardiac surgery, and correlating surgical risk to health‐related quality of life instrument domains. Prospective cohort study, performed at a cardiology hospital. It included elderly patients who had undergone elective cardiac surgery. Pre‐ and postoperative quality of life was evaluated by applying the World Health Organization Quality of Life–Old (WHOQOL‐OLD) scale and the Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐36) questionnaire. Surgical risk was stratified using the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE). Fifty‐four patients, mostly men (64.8%), were included, with a mean age of 69.3 ± 5.7 years. The eight domains of the SF‐36 questionnaire, and the four facets presented for the WHOQOL‐OLD scale showed improved quality of life 6 months after surgery (P < 0.001). No difference was found in the association of EuroSCORE with the domains of the health‐related quality of life instruments. The data showed improved quality of life of elderly people submitted to cardiac surgery, unrelated to surgical risk.
Constipation and defecation pattern the first 30 days after hip fracture
Authors: Trads Mette , Pedersen Preben U.
Published: April 2014

Constipation is often an overlooked aspect of patient care and increases the risk of postoperative complications, can prolong hospital stay, increase financial cost and add to staff nursing care time. A prospective descriptive design was used. One hundred six patients with hip fracture participated. On admission, day of discharge and 30 days after surgery, patients' normal and actual defecation pattern, stool consistency and if they had experienced problems with defecation were assessed using Bristol Stool Scale and a scale composed by Rasmussen. There were 69.1% of the patients who developed constipation during the first postoperative days and 62.3% reported the same problems 30 days after surgery. Normal defecation pattern was re‐established 9.5 days after surgery, though 22.7% of the patients did not re‐establish normal defecation pattern within the first 30 days after surgery. The results imply that further studies are needed to prevent constipation and help patients to cope with this side‐effect of surgery after discharge.
An integrated literature review on sexuality of elderly nursing home residents with dementia
Authors: Makimoto Kiyoko , Kang Hee Sun , Yamakawa Miyae , Konno Rie
Published: April 2014

This study presents an integrative literature review on sexuality among elderly people with dementia living in nursing homes. Original research studies published from 1980 to 2012 were included in the review. Sexual expressions ranged from holding hands to sexual intercourse. These behaviours were sometimes directed towards caregivers while the latter were providing daily care. Sexual expressions were sometimes assessed and reported subjectively without context. Responses to sexual expressions varied from positive to negative. Some sexual expressions were dealt with inconsistently, and some were considered to be problematic due to a lack of policy or privacy.

It is important to assess and report sexual expressions objectively, preferably with a standardized form, and to consider context in doing so. Effort is required to provide privacy for residents' sexual expressions and a safe environment for all residents and caregivers. It is important that a policy and guidelines for care be established regarding issues related to sexuality among elderly people with dementia.
The Use of Mobile Devices in High‐stakes Remotely Delivered Assessments and Testing
Authors: Arthur Winfred , Doverspike Dennis , Muñoz Gonzalo J. , Taylor Jason E. , Carr Alison E.
Published: April 2014

With Internet access no longer restricted to desktop and laptop computers, job applicants now have the opportunity to complete remotely delivered assessments on mobile, handheld small screen devices such as smartphones, and personal digital assistants. In this study, a large dataset is used to investigate demographic and score differences between job applicants who completed a remotely delivered high‐stakes assessment on a mobile device and those who completed it on a nonmobile device. Based on a sample of 3,575,207 job applicants who completed an unproctored Internet‐based assessment between January 2011 and April 2012, the percentage of applicants completing the assessment on a mobile device was small, 1.93%, but nevertheless represented more than 69,000 people. Overall, there were small test‐taker demographic differences in the use of mobile devices versus nonmobile devices in that mobile devices were slightly more likely to be used by women, African‐Americans and Hispanics, and younger applicants. Scores on a personality measure were similar for mobile and nonmobile devices but scores on a general mental ability test were substantially lower for mobile devices. Tests of measurement invariance also indicated equivalence across the mobile and nonmobile samples. Test taker and organizational implications for completing remotely delivered high‐stakes noncognitive and cognitive assessments on mobile versus nonmobile devices are discussed.
Establishing the Measurement Equivalence of Online Selection Assessments Delivered on Mobile versus Nonmobile Devices
Authors: Morelli Neil A. , Mahan Robert P. , Illingworth A. James
Published: April 2014

Recent usage data suggest job applicants are completing online selection assessments using mobile devices (e.g., smartphones) in greater numbers. To determine the appropriateness of this new technology, this study examined the measurement equivalence of selection assessments delivered on mobile and nonmobile devices (e.g., personal computers). Measurement invariance tests conducted with multigroup confirmatory factor analysis suggest mobile versions of a cognitive ability‐type assessment, two biodata assessments, a multimedia work simulation, and a text‐based situational judgment test appear to be equivalent to nonmobile versions. However, mobile device user latent means were half a standard deviation lower than their nonmobile counterparts for the situational judgment test. Implications for mobile device usage within selection and assessment are discussed.
Cross‐cultural Measurement Invariance of the Employment Opportunity Index (EOI) in Mexican and Brazilian Professionals
Authors: Morse Brendan J. , Weinhardt Justin M. , Griffeth Rodger W. , de Oliveira Manoela Ziebell
Published: April 2014

Perceived employment alternatives have been shown to add incremental variance in understanding voluntary turnover as well as factors related to recruiting and staffing. The Employment Opportunity Index (EOI) is a multidimensional assessment of perceived employment alternatives that has exhibited predictive validity across multiple job types and populations. This study assessed the measurement invariance of the EOI in American, Mexican, and Brazilian professionals. We found support for configural and metric invariance in all five dimensions of the EOI with these populations, and support for scalar invariance three of the five EOI dimensions. The construct validity of the EOI appears to be relatively robust in Latin American populations, although cultural and macroeconomic factors may impose some response bias in these groups.
Cardiovascular disease: the effect of erectile dysfunction on adherence to cardiovascular disease medication
Authors: Williams Paul , McBain Hayley , Mulligan Kathleen , Steggall Martin J
Published: April 2014

Due to their similar aetiologies, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are closely linked, with the prevalence of ED being approximately 75% for individuals at high risk of CVD. ED can have a detrimental effect on quality of life not only for the individual but also his sexual partner which in turn impacts upon their intimate relationship. Some CVD medications have been found to have a negative effect on erectile function and therefore act as an influential factor for the cessation of important CVD medication. Low adherence to CVD medication has been linked to increased health costs, hospitalizations and importantly, a higher risk of mortality. Research has shown that men find it difficult to seek medical help in relation to ED which is also compounded by the notion that health care providers do not address sexual issues adequately. Patients' beliefs about CVD medication are modifiable and therefore an opportunity exists not only for health care providers to facilitate discussions in relation to ED and medication adherence but also encompass an opportunity to increase adherence to CVD medication through intervention.
A system dynamics model to support the management of artisanal dredge fisheries in the south coast of Portugal
Authors: Martins J.H. , Camanho A.S. , Oliveira M.M. , Gaspar M.B.
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a management model developed to promote the sustainability of artisanal fisheries, considering socioeconomic and environmental dimensions. The management of artisanal fisheries faces many challenges, including the lack of appropriate tools to support policy makers and stakeholders in the decision‐making process. The model presented in this study is based on system dynamics and allows the simulation of the behavior of the artisanal dredge fishery on the south coast of Portugal, including four main species and two fleets. Two scenarios were simulated to assess the impact of regulatory measures on the system sustainability: scenario 1 simulated a permanent reduction of fishing effort, returning an improvement of biologic and economic sustainability; scenario 2 simulated the closure of one species for a period of one year to allow its recovery. It was found that although the revenue of fisheries decreases in that year, the system is able to return to the average levels of revenue three years after the closure. The study aimed to guide decision makers in the selection of the most appropriate measures toward the preservation of marine ecosystems and socioeconomic stability of fishing communities. The developed system dynamics model, combining available data with knowledge of fisheries experts, proved to be a useful scientific tool to identify management policies and organizational structures leading to greater success. This technique can be applied to the study of other fishery systems worldwide.
DEA models with a constant input for SRI mutual funds with an application to European and Swedish funds
Authors: Basso Antonella , Funari Stefania
Published: April 2014

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) allows one to take into account the degree of social responsibility of mutual funds, together with financial risk and return. This contribution proposes some DEA models in which the input and output variables are focused on the main determinants of investments in socially responsible investing (SRI) mutual funds. Unlike other DEA models, a constant initial capital and the final value of the investment are considered; this ensures the positivity of all variables, even during financial crises. The initial capital deposited by an investor is assumed to be equal for all funds, so that we have a constant input. The implications of the presence of a constant input in DEA models are studied, which have important consequences for the analysis of the performance of mutual funds, in particular with regard to the type of returns to scale. The models proposed are applied to the European data to evaluate the performance of SRI mutual funds in the period June 2006 to June 2009. Moreover, a specific analysis compares the performance of SRI and non‐SRI mutual funds, in order to determine if SRIs require a sacrifice in terms of financial rewards. Finally, a more detailed investigation is carried out for the Swedish SRI mutual funds.
Microbiology of the infected recurrent sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus
Authors: Ardelt Michael , Dittmar Yves , Kocijan Roland , Rödel Jürgen , Schulz Birte , Scheuerlein Hubert , Settmacher Utz
Published: April 2014

The aim of the present retrospective single centre study was to define the changes in the microbiological flora of the recurring sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus (PS). Microbiological findings of swab samples of abscess‐forming PS from 2000 to 2010 were evaluated. Within this time span, 73 swab samples were taken from primary sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus (pPS) and 23 swab samples of patients with recurring sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus (rPS). Our results show a statistically significant shift of the bacterial flora towards the gram‐positive range (P = 0·029) and a shift with tendency towards the aerobic range (P = 0·090). Pathogens of pPS are not always solely anaerobic or gram‐negative, and those of rPS not always aerobic or gram‐positive. Therefore, antibiosis preceding microbiological examination should cover both the aerobic and anaerobic bacteria as well as the gram‐positive and the gram‐negative spectrum.
Expression of Epstein–Barr virus in children with sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus determined by immunohistochemical methods
Authors: Karakuş Esra , Kaçar Ayper , Karakuş Resul , Mambet Ervin , Şenaylı Atilla
Published: April 2014

In this study, we probed whether chronic infections of skin such as pilonidal sinus could be a potential site of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) replication. Pilonidal sinus is associated with a high recurrence rate. Therefore, we decided to determine the role of EBV's presence to explain whether it is correlated with the recurrence of pilonidal sinuses. This study was conducted on 36 patient samples with sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus. Samples were immunohistochemically stained for EBV, CD3 and CD20 expression. Thirty‐six adolescents with pilonidal disease were evaluated. EBV‐positive cells were located in dermis with high inflammatory activity. EBV‐positive cells stained positive for the B‐cell antigen CD20 and were detected in 10 of 36 (27%) pilonidal sinus specimens. Among those who had experienced a relapse, three were positive for EBV expression. In addition, EBV expression was detected in eight cases with severe inflammation, and in two with minimal or moderate inflammation. Our study advances the field by demonstrating that similar to gastrointestinal mucosa, skin could be a reservoir for EBV. EBV was found to be restricted to B cells in skin lesions, and it was found that skin lesions with severe inflammation showed higher frequency of EBV expression in comparison to minimal or moderately inflammed skin lesions. Additionally, recurrence was more frequently observed among EBV‐positive cases. These findings point out for a role of EBV infection in the recurrence of pilonidal sinuses.
Vitamin E improves growth of collared flycatcherFicedula albicollisyoung: a supplementation experiment
Authors: Matrková Jana , Remeš Vladimír
Published: April 2014

In altricial birds, the quantity and quality of food provided by parents is a crucial determinant of nestling performance. Vitamin E is an important micronutrient with various physiological functions, including a positive role in the antioxidant system. Sufficient intake of vitamin E has been shown to condition normal avian development in poultry, yet, our knowledge of the role of vitamin E in free‐living birds is limited. Thus, we experimentally examined the effects of vitamin E on nestling development in the collared flycatcherFicedula albicollis. We supplemented nestlings with vitamin E and evaluated their growth and survival till fledging. Increased availability of vitamin E did not affect body mass, wing length or survival, but improved tarsus growth. The effect of supplementation on tarsus length changed over season and with initial body mass. Supplemented nestlings that were smaller at hatching and those that hatched later in the season grew longer tarsi compared to the control. Our results suggest that 1) vitamin E may be limiting for the development of collared flycatcher nestlings, 2) seasonal changes of vitamin E availability may affect breeding success of collared flycatchers, and 3) increased income of vitamin E may improve growth of nestlings with bad start in life.
Lockup Agreements and Survival of UK IPOs
Authors: Ahmad Wasim , Jelic Ranko
Published: April 2014

This paper examines the role of lockup agreements on the survival of 580 UK Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) during the period of 1990–2011. Our accelerated failure time (AFT) survival model shows a statistically and economically significant effect of lockup length on the post‐IPO survival. A 12 month increase in median lockup period increases the (median) survival time by 27%. Furthermore, the failure rates for IPOs with longer lockups are consistently lower than the failure rates for IPOs with shorter lockups regardless of delisting reasons. The results are robust to choice of different survival estimation models, heterogeneity, clustering, and alternative specification of variables. Our results highlight the importance of lockup characteristics on the subsequent survival of newly listed firms and inform recent debate regarding alleged short‐termism in the UK equity market.
What Drives Executive Stock Option Backdating?
Authors: Veld Chris , Wu Betty H.T.
Published: April 2014

We study motives for executive stock option backdating, the practice of changing the grant dates of current options to dates in the past using hindsight. We find that smaller, younger and less profitable firms tend to be more heavily involved in backdating. These results are consistent with the retention hypothesis. In line with the incentive hypothesis, we find that backdating occurs more for options that are out‐of‐the‐money. We derive some evidence for the agency hypothesis, in the sense that backdating companies have a larger percentage of inside directors. However, contrary to this hypothesis, we conclude that backdating firms have better protection for minority shareholders compared to firms that do not backdate.
Compatibility of Electroanatomical Mapping Systems with a Concurrent Percutaneous Axial Flow Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: VAIDYA VAIBHAV R. , DESIMONE CHRISTOPHER V. , MADHAVAN MALINI , NOHERIA AMIT , SHAHID MOHAMMED , WALTERS JACOB , LADEWIG DOROTHY J. , MIKELL SUSAN B. , JOHNSON SUSAN B. , SUDDENDORF SCOTT H. , ASIRVATHAM SAMUEL J.
Published: April 2014

Electromagnetic Interference with Ventricular Assist Device

Background

Hemodynamic instability hinders activation and entrainment mapping during ventricular tachycardia ablation. The Impella 2.5 microaxial flow device (MFD; Abiomed Inc., Danvers, MA, USA) is used to prevent hemodynamic instability during electrophysiologic study. However, electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by this device can preclude accurate electroanatomic mapping.

Methods

Impella was placed in the left ventricle of 7 canines for circulatory support. Electroanatomic mapping during sinus rhythm, ventricular pacing, and ventricular fibrillation (VF) was performed using magnet‐ (CARTO3, Biosense Webster Inc., Diamond Bar, CA, USA) and impedance‐ (EnSite Velocity System/EnSite NavX, St. Jude Medical Inc., St. Paul, MN, USA) based systems. Distance from device to points with severe EMI precluding acquisition was compared to points with mild/no EMI. Two methods were used to reduce EMI: (1) titration of MFD performance, and (2) impedance‐only mapping combined with manual annotation of activation.

Results

Severe EMI did not occur during impedance‐based mapping. Severe EMI was observed using CARTO3 at 9.4% of all points attempted at maximum performance level (P8) of device. Severe EMI occurred at points closer to device (40.1 ± 16.8 mm) versus (55.5 ± 20.0 mm) for mild/no EMI, P < 0.0001. Severe EMI using CARTO3 was resolved by either (1) reduction of performance from P8 to P6 or (2) impedance‐only mapping with manual annotation.

Conclusion

Concurrent use of MFD caused EMI to prevent acquisition of points with magnet‐based mapping. Predictors for EMI were distance from device and performance level. Temporary reductions to P6 or impedance‐only mapping are 2 methods to resolve EMI.
Early Procedure‐Related Adverse Events by Gender in MADIT‐CRT
Authors: JAMERSON DEANDRA , MCNITT SCOTT , POLONSKY SLAVA , ZAREBA WOJCIECH , MOSS ARTHUR , TOMPKINS CHRISTINE
Published: April 2014

Adverse Events by Gender in MADIT‐CRT

Background

Whether gender differences exist in procedure‐related adverse events following cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT‐D) implantation is unknown. We investigated the type and frequency of procedure‐related adverse events among those enrolled in MADIT‐CRT and identified clinical predictors for gender‐specific events.

Methods

We compared differences in the rate of procedure‐related adverse events by gender (444 females and 1,346 males) that occurred ≤30 days after the index procedure in the implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and CRT‐D groups. Eight types of major adverse events were identified, defined as procedure‐related complications deemed potentially life‐threatening. Best subset regression analysis (P < 0.10) was performed to identify baseline clinical factors associated with procedure‐related adverse events that differed by gender.

Results

Women randomized to CRT‐D received a greater reduction in the risk of heart failure or death versus men (P < 0.001). Women were twice as likely as men to experience a major procedure‐related adverse event (6.3% vs. 2.7%; P < 0.001), including pneumothorax/hemothorax (3% vs. 1%; P < 0.001). Women were more likely to experience a major adverse event related to CRT‐D than ICD implantation (7.7% vs. 2.9%; P = 0.018). Clinical predictors of major adverse events in females were smaller body mass index (BMI), elevated blood urea nitrogen, and elevated creatinine. The main predictor for pneumothorax/hemothorax was reduced BMI for women and men.

Conclusion

Women demonstrate greater clinical benefit from CRT than men but are more likely to experience adverse procedure‐related events within the first 30 days after device implantation. A smaller BMI seems to be a major factor associated with pneumothorax/hemothorax in both females and males.
Time‐Domain T‐Wave Alternans is Strongly Associated with a History of Ventricular Fibrillation in Patients with Brugada Syndrome
Authors: UCHIMURA‐MAKITA YUKO , NAKANO YUKIKO , TOKUYAMA TAKEHITO , FUJIWARA MAI , WATANABE YOSHIKAZU , SAIRAKU AKINORI , KAWAZOE HIROSHI , MATSUMURA HIROYA , ODA NOZOMU , IKANAGA HIROKI , MOTODA CHIKAAKI , KAJIHARA KENTA , ODA NOBORU , VERRIER RICHARD L. , KIHARA YASUKI
Published: April 2014

Time‐Domain T‐Wave Alternans and Brugada Syndrome

Aims

T‐wave alternans (TWA) is an indicator of vulnerability to ventricular arrhythmias and is useful for predicting sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with various structural heart diseases. We evaluated whether high levels of time‐domain TWA on ambulatory ECG (AECG) are associated with a history of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in Brugada syndrome (BrS) patients.

Methods and Results

We examined the associations among VF history, family history of SCD, spontaneous type 1 electrocardiogram (ECG), late potentials, VF induction by programmed electrical stimulation, and TWA in 45 BrS patients (44 males; mean age, 45 ± 15 years). TWA analyzed from 24‐h AECG recordings using the modified moving average method was positive in 13 of 43 patients (30%). Patients with a history of VF had a significantly higher incidence of a positive TWA test (82% vs. 13%; P < 0.001) and spontaneous type 1 ECG (92% vs. 38%; P = 0.007) than those without VF history. Multivariate analysis indicated that positive TWA (OR 7.217; 95% CI 2.503–35.504; P = 0.002) and spontaneous type 1 ECG (OR 5.530; 95% CI 1.651–34.337; P = 0.020) were closely associated with VF history. Spontaneous type 1 ECG had high sensitivity (92%) but low specificity (63%). Positive TWA was a reliable marker with high sensitivity and specificity (82% and 88%, respectively).

Conclusion

Elevated time‐domain TWA on AECG confirms arrhythmia risk in symptomatic BrS patients without the need for provocative stimuli.
Renal telocytes contribute to the repair of ischemically injured renal tubules
Authors: Li Liping , Lin Miao , Li Long , Wang Rulin , Zhang Chao , Qi Guisheng , Xu Ming , Rong Ruiming , Zhu Tongyu
Published: April 2014

Telocytes (TCs), a distinct type of interstitial cells, have been identified in many organs via electron microscopy. However, their precise function in organ regeneration remains unknown. This study investigated the paracrine effect of renal TCs on renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) in vitro, the regenerative function of renal TCs in renal tubules after ischaemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) in vivo and the possible mechanisms involved. In a renal IRI model, transplantation of renal TCs was found to decrease serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, while renal fibroblasts exerted no such effect. The results of histological injury assessments and the expression levels of cleaved caspase‐3 were consistent with a change in kidney function. Our data suggest that the protective effect of TCs against IRI occurs via inflammation‐independent mechanisms in vivo. Furthermore, we found that renal TCs could not directly promote the proliferation and anti‐apoptosis properties of TECs in vitro. TCs did not display any advantage in paracrine growth factor secretion in vitro compared with renal fibroblasts. These data indicate that renal TCs protect against renal IRI via an inflammation‐independent pathway and that growth factors play a significant role in this mechanism. Renal TCs may protect TECs in certain microenvironments while interacting with other cells.
Improving health behaviours of Latina mothers of youths and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Magaña S. , Li H. , Miranda E. , Paradiso de Sayu R.
Published: April 2014

Background

Latina mothers who care for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) over the lifespan struggle to take care of their own health needs in the context of their caregiving experience. Services are typically aimed at the persons with IDD and not their family caregivers. Yet, attending to family caregiver needs may contribute to better long‐term care of persons with IDD who remain at home. To address this unmet need, we developed a culturally sensitive health education intervention for Latina mothers who care for youth and adults with IDD. The aim of the intervention is to improve maternal health‐related self‐efficacy and health behaviours, and to reduce stress.

Method

A randomised control design was employed to determine preliminary efficacy of the intervention. Paired sample t‐tests were conducted to examine within‐group changes from baseline to 3‐month post‐test. Repeated‐measures analysis of covariance was used to examine the group‐by‐time interaction effects.

Results

Intervention participants showed greater increases between pre‐ and post‐test in health‐related self‐efficacy; self‐care, nutrition and overall health behaviours. Both groups reported decreases in depressive symptoms and caregiver burden.

Conclusions

While additional research is needed to determine long‐term effects and to replicate findings, our results suggest that this culturally sensitive health intervention is a promising way to increase health behaviours which may lead to overall good health for Latina mothers who care for children with IDD across the lifespan.
A novel high‐resolution anorectal manometry parameter based on a three‐dimensional integrated pressurized volume of a spatiotemporal plot, for predicting balloon expulsion in asymptomatic normal individuals
Authors: Jung Kee Wook , Joo Segyeong , Yang Dong‐Hoon , Yoon In Ja , Seo So Young , Kim Seon‐Ok , Lee Jungbok , Lee Hyo Jeong , Kim Kyung Jo , Ye Byong Duk , Byeon Jeong‐Sik , Jung Hwoon‐Yong , Yang Suk‐Kyun , Kim Jin‐Ho , Myung Seung‐Jae
Published: April 2014

Background

Anorectal manometry with simulated evacuation (SE) has limited applicability in predicting balloon expulsion (BE) test results. The newly developed high‐resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) technique can yield spatiotemporal plots with three‐dimensional pressurization. We aimed to define new parameters based on three‐dimensional integrated pressurized volume (IPV) for predicting the BE test results in asymptomatic normal individuals.

Methods

Fifty‐four asymptomatic healthy individuals were prospectively enrolled. BE tests were performed using 50 mL of water, and a requirement of more than 1 min was considered as delayed BE. HRAM profiles were converted into ASCII files and analyzed using a MATLAB program. A three‐dimensional IPV was plotted after transforming the data to a cubic spline interpolation followed by resampling the manometry position at 0.1‐cm intervals.

Key Results

Eight of the 54 (15%) individuals demonstrated delayed BE. Conventional manometric profiles did not differ significantly between cases of early and delayed BE. Receiver‐operator characteristic curve analysis revealed that the ratio of the IPVs of the upper 1 cm to the lower 4 cm of the anorectal canal with balloon distension was more predictable of the BE results (area under curve, 0.73: 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.92; p = 0.04) than the other IPVs or their ratios.

Conclusions & Inferences

The newly developed IPV methods could predict delayed BE tests during SE better than the conventional parameters defined on the basis of linear waves. Well‐designed prospective trials on a large number of subjects are warranted to validate the clinical application of this novel parameter.
Down‐regulation of A‐type potassium channel in gastric‐specific DRG neurons in a rat model of functional dyspepsia
Authors: Li S. , Chen J. D. Z.
Published: April 2014

Background

Although without evidence of organic structural abnormalities, pain or discomfort is a prominent symptom of functional dyspepsia and considered to reflect visceral hypersensitivity whose underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we studied electrophysiological properties and expression of voltage‐gated potassium channels in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in a rat model of functional dyspepsia induced by neonatal gastric irritation.

Methods

Male Sprague‐Dawley rat pups at 10‐day old received 0.1% iodoacetamide (IA) or vehicle by oral gavage for 6 days and studied at adulthood. Retrograde tracer‐labeled gastric‐specific T8–T12 DRG neurons were harvested for the patch‐clamp study in voltage and current‐clamp modes and protein expression of K+ channel in T8–T12 DRGs was examined by western blotting.

Key Results

(1) Gastric specific but not non‐gastric DRG neurons showed an enhanced excitability in neonatal IA‐treated rats compared to the control: depolarized resting membrane potentials, a lower current threshold for action potential (AP) activation, and an increase in the number of APs in response to current stimulation. (2) The current density of tetraethylammonium insensitive (transiently inactivating A‐type current), but not the tetraethylammonium sensitive (slow‐inactivating delayed rectifier K+ currents), was significantly smaller in IA‐treated rats (65.4 ± 6.9 pA/pF), compared to that of control (93.1 ± 8.3 pA/pF). (3) Protein expression of KV4.3 was down‐regulated in IA‐treated rats.

Conclusions & Inferences

A‐type potassium channels are significantly down‐regulated in the gastric‐specific DRG neurons in adult rats with mild neonatal gastric irritation, which in part contribute to the enhanced DRG neuron excitabilities that leads to the development of gastric hypersensitivity.
Decreased L‐type calcium current in antral smooth muscle cells of STZ‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Li S. , Chen J. D. Z.
Published: April 2014

Background

Diabetic gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying) is associated with antral hypomotility. L‐type Ca2+ channels play an important role in generation of action potentials and activation of contractions. This study was designed to investigate if the function of the L‐type Ca2+ channels of antral circular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is impaired in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats.

Methods

Eight weeks after the injection of STZ or vehicle, whole‐cell patch clamp was used to record Ca2+ currents, and isometric tension recording was used to measure Ca2+ influx‐induced contractions in circular muscle strips. Solid gastric emptying was measured in diabetic and control rats. Protein expression of Ca2+αlC‐subunit in antral smooth muscles was compared between diabetic and control rats.

Key Results

(1) Solid gastric emptying, independent of age or bodyweight, was slower in the diabetic rats, even after acute correction of hyperglycemia. (2) Verapamil, a potent calcium channel blocker, dose dependently reduced solid gastric emptying in normal rats. (3) Current density of L‐type Ca2+ channel at 10 mV in antral circular SMCs was significantly decreased in the diabetic rats (−9.8 ± 0.7 pA/pF vs −15.9 ± 1.0 pA/pF in control, p < 0.001). However, protein expression of the Ca2+ channel in antral muscles did not differ between diabetic and control rats. (4) Contractile responses to 1 and 3 mM [Ca2+] were significantly reduced in the diabetic antral circular muscle strips, indicative of reduced Ca2+ influx.

Conclusions & Inferences

These data suggested that the decreased L‐type Ca2+ current in antral SMCs may contribute to antral hypomotility in STZ‐induced diabetic rats.
Involvement of two‐component signalling systems in the regulation of stomatal aperture by light in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Marchadier Elodie , Hetherington Alistair M.
Published: April 2014

Two‐component signalling (TCS) systems play important roles in cytokinin and ethylene signalling in Arabidopsis thaliana. Although the involvement of histidine kinases (AHKs) in drought stress responses has been described, their role and that of histidine phosphotransferases (AHPs) in guard cell signalling remain to be fully elucidated.

Here, we investigated the roles of TCS genes, the histidine phosphotransferase AHP2 and the histidine kinases AHK2 and AHK3, previously reported to play roles in cytokinin and abscisic acid (ABA) signalling.

We show that AHP2 is present in the nucleus and the cytoplasm, and is involved in light‐induced opening. We also present evidence that there is some redistribution of AHP2 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm on addition of ABA. In addition, we provide data to support a role for the cytokinin receptors AHK2 and AHK3 in light‐induced stomatal opening and, by inference, in controlling the stomatal sensitivity to ABA.

Our results provide new insights into the operation of TCS in plants, cross‐talk in stomatal signalling and, in particular, the process of light‐induced stomatal opening.
Optical quality and visual performance with customised soft contact lenses for keratoconus
Authors: Jinabhai Amit , O'Donnell Clare , Tromans Cindy , Radhakrishnan Hema
Published: April 2014

Purpose

This study investigated how aberration‐controlling, customised soft contact lenses corrected higher‐order ocular aberrations and visual performance in keratoconic patients compared to other forms of refractive correction (spectacles and rigid gas‐permeable lenses).

Methods

Twenty‐two patients (16 rigid gas‐permeable contact lens wearers and six spectacle wearers) were fitted with standard toric soft lenses and customised lenses (designed to correct 3rd‐order coma aberrations). In the rigid gas‐permeable lens‐wearing patients, ocular aberrations were measured without lenses, with the patient's habitual lenses and with the study lenses (Hartmann‐Shack aberrometry). In the spectacle‐wearing patients, ocular aberrations were measured both with and without the study lenses. LogMAR visual acuity (high‐contrast and low‐contrast) was evaluated with the patient wearing their habitual correction (of either spectacles or rigid gas‐permeable contact lenses) and with the study lenses.

Results

In the contact lens wearers, the habitual rigid gas‐permeable lenses and customised lenses provided significant reductions in 3rd‐order coma root‐mean‐square (RMS) error, 3rd‐order RMS and higher‐order RMS error (p ≤ 0.004). In the spectacle wearers, the standard toric lenses and customised lenses significantly reduced 3rd‐order RMS and higher‐order RMS errors (p ≤ 0.005). The spectacle wearers showed no significant differences in visual performance measured between their habitual spectacles and the study lenses. However, in the contact lens wearers, the habitual rigid gas‐permeable lenses and standard toric lenses provided significantly better high‐contrast acuities compared to the customised lenses (p ≤ 0.006).

Conclusions

The customised lenses provided substantial reductions in ocular aberrations in these keratoconic patients; however, the poor visual performances achieved with these lenses are most likely to be due to small, on‐eye lens decentrations.
A Novel Elastin Gene Mutation in a Vietnamese Patient with Cutis Laxa
Authors: Siefring Mark L. , Lawrence Elizabeth C. , Nguyen Tom C. , Lu Doanh , Pham Giang , Lorenchick Christa , Levine Kara L. , Urban Zsolt
Published: April 2014

We report a 3‐year‐old girl from Vietnam with severe congenital cutis laxa; no cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurologic, or visceral involvement; and no family history of cutis laxa. Mutational analysis of the elastin gene identified heterozygosity for a previously unreported de novo c.2184delT mutation in exon 30 not present in either parent.
The effects of age on the neural correlates of feedback processing in a naturalistic gambling game
Authors: West Robert , Tiernan Brandy N. , Kieffaber Paul D. , Bailey Kira , Anderson Stephen
Published: April 2014

We examined age‐related differences in the spatiotemporal distribution of event‐related brain potentials (ERPs) related to feedback processing in a virtual blackjack game. The behavioral data revealed that older adults were less risk seeking than younger adults both within and across trials. Age‐related differences were observed in the amplitude of several ERP components (P2‐FN‐P3a, P3a, slow wave activity) related to feedback processing. These components were localized to the anterior and posterior cingulate, the occipital cortex, and the inferior and medial frontal cortices. The effects of aging on the ERPs ranged from 200–2,000 ms after feedback onset. Our findings indicate that aging affects the activity of a distributed neural network that underpins processing the valence and motivational significance of feedback related to risky decisions.
Time And Income Poverty: An Interdependent Multidimensional Poverty Approach With German Time Use Diary Data
Authors: Merz Joachim , Rathjen Tim
Published: April 2014

This study contributes to the multidimensional poverty discussion in two ways. First, we argue for and consider time—in particular genuine personal leisure time—as an important and prominent resource, additional to income, for everyday activities and individual well‐being. Second, we evaluate and quantify the interdependence among the multiple poverty dimensions (via aCESwell‐being function andSOEPdata) of theGerman population instead of arbitrarily choosing substitution parameters. We characterize the working poor and their multidimensional poverty regimes by descriptive results and by multinomial logit estimation based on German 2001/02 time use diary data. We find that the interdependence between time and income is significant. There is an important fraction of time poor individuals who are assigned not to compensate their time deficit even by above poverty threshold income. These poor people in particular have so far been ignored in the literature on poverty and well‐being as well as the time pressure/time crunch.
Time-resolved surface infrared spectroscopy during atomic layer deposition of TiO2 using tetrakis(dimethylamido)titanium and water
Authors: Sperling Brent A. , Hoang John , Kimes William A. , Maslar James E. , Steffens Kristen L. , Nguyen Nhan V.
Published: April 2014

Atomic layer deposition of titanium dioxide using tetrakis(dimethylamido)titanium (TDMAT) and water vapor is studied by reflection-absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS) with a time resolution of 120 ms. At 190 °C and 240 °C, a decrease in the absorption from adsorbed TDMAT is observed without any evidence of an adsorbed product. Ex situ measurements indicate that this behavior is not associated with an increase in the impurity concentration or a dramatic change in the growth rate. A desorbing decomposition product is consistent with these observations. RAIRS also indicates that dehydroxylation of the growth surface occurs only among one type of surface hydroxyl groups. Molecular water is observed to remain on the surface and participates in reactions even at a relatively high temperature (110 °C) and with long purge times (30 s).
Narratives of Athletic Identity After Acquiring a Permanent Physical Disability
Authors: Perrier Marie-Josée , Strachan Shaelyn M. , Smith Brett , Latimer-Cheung Amy E.
Published: April 2014

Individuals with acquired physical disabilities report lower levels of athletic identity. The objective of this study was to further explore why athletic identity may be lost or (re)developed after acquiring a physical disability. Seven women and four men (range = 28–60 years) participated in approximately 1-hour-long semi-structured interviews; data were subjected to a narrative analysis. The structural analysis revealed three narrative types. The nonathlete narrative described physical changes in the body as reasons for diminished athletic identity. The athlete as a future self primarily focused on present sport behavior and performance goals such that behavior changes diminished athletic identity. The present self as athlete narrative type focused on the aspects of their present sport involvement, such as feedback from other athletes and skill development, which supported their athletic identity. Implications of these narrative types with respect to sport promotion among people with acquired physical disabilities are discussed.
The Correlates of Body Mass Index and Risk Factors for Being Overweight Among Preschoolers With Motor Delay
Authors: Hwang Ai-Wen , Chen Chiao-Nan , Wu I-Chin , Cheng Hsin-Yi Kathy , Chen Chia-Ling
Published: April 2014

This cross-sectional study investigated the correlates of body mass index (BMI) and risk factors for overweight among 91 children with motor delay (MD) aged 9–73 months. Anthropometric measurements and questionnaires regarding multiple risk factors were obtained. Simple correlations between BMI percentile classifications and potential predictors were examined using Spearman’s rank/Pearson’s correlations and χ2 analysis. Multiple predictors of overweight were analyzed using logistic regression. BMI was correlated positively with higher caloric intake (rs = .21, p < .05) and negatively with passive activity (rs = -.21, p < .05). When multiple predictors were considered, more severe dysphagia (odds ratio [OR], 2.81, p = .027, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–7.04) and antiepileptic drug use (OR, 19.12, p = .008, 95% CI, 2.14–170.81) had significant partial effects on overweight status. Agencies supporting early development should consider caregiver education regarding the potential implication of feeding style and medication on BMI.
Active Women before/after an Intervention Designed to Restore Menstrual Function: Resting Metabolic Rate and Comparison of Four Methods to Quantify Energy Expenditure and Energy Availability
Authors: Guebels Charlotte P. , Kam Lynn C. , Maddalozzo Gianni F. , Manore Melinda M.
Published: April 2014

It is hypothesized that exercise-related menstrual dysfunction (ExMD) results from low energy availability (EA), defined as energy intake (EI)—exercise energy expenditure (EEE). When EI is too low, resting metabolic rate (RMR) may be reduced to conserve energy.

Purpose:

To measure changes in RMR and EA, using four methods to quantify EEE, before/after a 6-month diet intervention aimed at restoring menses in women with ExMD; eumenorrheic (Eumen) active controls (n = 9) were also measured.

Methods:

Active women with ExMD (n = 8) consumed +360 kcal/d (supplement) for 6 months; RMR was measured 2 times at 0 months/6 months. EI and total energy expenditure (TEE) were estimated using 7-day diet/activity records, with EA assessed using four methods to quantify EEE.

Results:

At baseline, groups did not differ for age, gynecological age, body weight, lean/fat mass, VO2max, EI and EA, but mean TEE was higher in ExMD (58.3 ± 4.4kcal/kgFFM/d; Eumen = 50.6 ± 2.4; p < .001) and energy balance (EB) more negative (–10.3 ± 6.9 kcal/kgFFM/d; Eumen=-3.0 ± 9.7; p = .049). RMR was higher in ExMD (31.3 ± 1.8 kcal/kgFFM/d) vs. Eumen (29.1 ± 1.9; p < .02). The intervention increased weight (1.6 ± 2.0kg; p = .029), but there were no significant changes in EA (0-month range = 28.2–36.7 kcal/kgFFM/d; 6-month range = 30.0–45.4; p > .05), EB (6 months = –0.7 ± 15.1 kcal/kgFFM/d) or RMR (0 months = 1515 ± 142; 6 months = 1522 ± 134 kcal/d). Assessment of EA varied dramatically (~30%) by method used.

Conclusions:

For the ExMD group, EI and weight increased with +360 kcal/d for 6 months, but there were no significant changes in EB, EA or RMR. No threshold EA value was associated with ExMD. Future research should include TEE, EB and clearly quantifying EEE (e.g.,>4 MET) if EA is measured.
Dietary Regimens of Athletes Competing at the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games
Authors: Pelly Fiona E. , Burkhart Sarah J.
Published: April 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the dietary regimens reported by athletes competing at a major international competition and report whether these were based on nutrient composition, religious beliefs, cultural eating style, food intolerance or avoidance of certain ingredients. A questionnaire was randomly distributed to 351 athletes in the main dining hall of the athletes’ village over the three main meal periods during the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games (23rd Sept—14th Oct, 2010). The majority (n = 218, 62%) of athletes reported following one or more dietary regimens, with 50% (n = 174) following a diet based on the nutrient composition of the food. Significantly more athletes from weight category and aesthetic sports (28%, p = .005) and from power/sprint sports (41%, p = .004) followed low fat and high protein regimens respectively. Other specialized dietary regimens were followed by 33% of participants, with avoidance of red meat (13%), vegetarian (7%), Halal (6%), and low lactose regimens (5%) reported most frequently. Significantly more athletes from non-Western regions followed a vegetarian diet (p < .001), while more vegetarians reported avoiding additives (p = .013) and wheat (p ≤ .001). A Western style of eating was the most commonly reported cultural regimen (72% of total with 23% from non-Western regions). Those following a Western diet were significantly more likely to report following a regimen based on nutrient composition (p = .02). As a high proportion of athletes from differing countries and sports follow specialized dietary regimens, caterers and organizers should ensure that adequate nutrition support and food items are available at similar events.