bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐partum weight loss and glucose metabolism in women with gestational diabetes: the DEBI Study
Authors: Ehrlich S. F. , Hedderson M. M. , Quesenberry C. P. , Feng J. , Brown S. D. , Crites Y. , Ferrara A.
Published: March 2014

Aims

Women with gestational diabetes are at high risk for developing diabetes; post‐partum weight loss may reduce the risk of diabetes. We evaluated the association of post‐partum weight change with changes in glucose, insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in a subsample (n = 72) of participants from Diet Exercise and Breastfeeding Intervention (DEBI), a randomized pilot trial of lifestyle intervention for women with gestational diabetes.

Methods

Glucose and insulin were measured fasting and 2 h after an oral glucose tolerance test at 6 weeks and 12 months post‐partum. Women were categorized by weight change (lost > 2 kg vs. maintained/gained) between 6 weeks and 12 months post‐partum.

Results

Compared with women who maintained or gained weight, women who lost > 2 kg experienced significantly lower increases in fasting glucose [age‐adjusted means: 0.1 mmol/l (95% CI –0.03 to 0.3) vs. 0.4 mmol/l (95% CI 0.3–0.6); P < 0.01] and 2‐h insulin [10.0 pmol/l (95% CI –56.9 to 76.9) vs. 181.2 pmol/l (95% CI 108.3–506.9); P < 0.01] and a significant reduction in 2‐h glucose [–0.9 mmol/l (95% CI –1.4 to –0.3) vs. 0.3 mmol/l (95% CI –0.3 to 0.9); P < 0.01]. In multiple linear regression models adjusted for age, Hispanic ethnicity, medication use, meeting the Institute of Medicine's recommendations for gestational weight gain, breastfeeding and randomized group, a 1‐kg increase in weight was significantly associated with increases in fasting and 2‐h glucose (P < 0.05), but was not associated with insulin or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance.

Conclusions

In women with gestational diabetes, modest post‐partum weight loss may be associated with improvements in glucose metabolism.
Thermal acclimation of leaf respiration of tropical trees and lianas: response to experimental canopy warming, and consequences for tropical forest carbon balance
Authors: Slot Martijn , Rey‐Sánchez Camilo , Gerber Stefan , Lichstein Jeremy W. , Winter Klaus , Kitajima Kaoru
Published: March 2014

Climate warming is expected to increase respiration rates of tropical forest trees and lianas, which may negatively affect the carbon balance of tropical forests. Thermal acclimation could mitigate the expected respiration increase, but the thermal acclimation potential of tropical forests remains largely unknown. In a tropical forest in Panama, we experimentally increased nighttime temperatures of upper canopy leaves of three tree and two liana species by on average 3 °C for 1 week, and quantified temperature responses of leaf dark respiration. Respiration at 25 °C (R25) decreased with increasing leaf temperature, but acclimation did not result in perfect homeostasis of respiration across temperatures. In contrast, Q10of treatment and control leaves exhibited similarly high values (range 2.5–3.0) without evidence of acclimation. The decrease inR25was not caused by respiratory substrate depletion, as warming did not reduce leaf carbohydrate concentration. To evaluate the wider implications of our experimental results, we simulated the carbon cycle of tropical latitudes (24°S–24°N) from 2000 to 2100 using a dynamic global vegetation model (LM3VN) modified to account for acclimation. Acclimation reduced the degree to which respiration increases with climate warming in the model relative to a no‐acclimation scenario, leading to 21% greater increase in net primary productivity and 18% greater increase in biomass carbon storage over the 21st century. We conclude that leaf respiration of tropical forest plants can acclimate to nighttime warming, thereby reducing the magnitude of the positive feedback between climate change and the carbon cycle.
Surface treatment with methyl formate–methyl acetate increased the shear bond strength between reline resins and denture base resin
Authors: Osathananda Rachanee , Wiwatwarrapan Chairat
Published: March 2014

Background

Chemical surface treatment increases the shear bond strength (SBS) between hard reline resins (HRRs) and denture base resin.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of methyl formate–methyl acetate (MF‐MA), when used as a surface treatment agent, on the SBS between denture base resin and different HRRs.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and twenty specimens of heat‐polymerised acrylic resin denture base (Meliodent®) were divided into 12 groups. These groups comprised denture base relined with three self‐polymerised HRRs [Unifast trad® (UT), Tokuyama® RebaseII Fast (TR), Ufi gel hard®(UG)], and treated with their respective Bonding Agent (BA) or by MF:MA solutions at ratios of 35:65, 25:75, and 15:85 for 15 s. The SBS was measured using a Universal Testing Machine. The data were analysed using two‐way anova and post hoc Tukey's analysis at p < 0.05.

Results

The highest SBS was in the UT treated with MF:MA at a ratio of 25:75 group, followed by UT treated with MF:MA at ratios of 15:85, 35:65, UT treated with BA, and all UG treated with MF:MA groups. The SBS of the UT treated with MF:MA at a ratio of 25:75 group was significantly higher than those of the groups treated with BA. The SBS of the UG treated with MF:MA groups was significantly higher than control. The TR groups treated with BA or MF:MA groups showed no significant difference in SBS.

Conclusion

Surface treatment with MF‐MA significantly enhanced the SBS of denture base resin and UT and UG compared to that of the groups treated with BA.
Analysis of patient organizations' needs and ICT use – The APTIC project in Spain to develop an online collaborative social network
Authors: Hernández‐Encuentra Eulàlia , Gómez‐Zúñiga Beni , Guillamón Noemí , Boixadós Mercè , Armayones Manuel
Published: March 2014

Background

The purpose of this first part of the APTIC (Patient Organisations and ICT) project is to design and run an online collaborative social network for paediatric patient organizations (PPOs).

Objective

To analyse the needs of PPOs in Spain to identify opportunities to improve health services through the use of ICT.

Setting and participants

A convenience sample of staff from 35 PPOs (54.68% response rate) participated in a structured online survey and three focus groups (12 PPOs).

Results

Paediatric patient organizations' major needs are to provide accredited and managed information, increase personal support and assistance and promote joint commitment to health care. Moreover, PPOs believe in the Internet's potential to meet their needs and support their activities. Basic limitations to using the Internet are lack of knowledge and resources.

Conclusion

The discussion of the data includes key elements of designing an online collaborative social network and reflections on health services provided.
Reconstruction of full‐thickness defect of the alar rim with a combined advancement chondro‐mucous and bilobed myocutaneous flap
Authors: Otero‐Rivas María Mercedes , González‐Sixto Beatriz , Valladares‐Narganes Luis Miguel , Pérez‐Bustillo Alicia , Rodríguez‐Prieto Manuel Ángel
Published: March 2014

Background

The nasal pyramid is frequently affected by nonmelanoma skin cancer. In full thickness defects of the nose, reconstruction of all the layers results in better outcomes.

Methods

We present a case in which the combination of two flaps adequately reconstructs a full thickness defect of the nasal ala.

Results

The images provide proof of the excellent functional and aesthetic results.

Conclusions

Our technique is a simple, one‐stage procedure, with no distant donor site morbidity that achieves good coverage of the internal nasal lining with good external aesthetic result.
AHP and multichoice goal programming integration for course planning
Authors: Kırış Şafak
Published: March 2014

Course planning is one of the important problems in the education systems of universities. The processes cannot continue efficiently without planning, and various interruptions can appear in the system. This way decisions concerning which courses, when, how, and for what purposes should be answered by considering the available resources and stakeholders’ preferences. Besides, universities aiming to be in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) have to adapt their systems to the Bologna process in order to create a lifelong student‐centered, learning‐oriented area based on quality assurance. In this study, an integrated approach based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and multichoice goal programming (MCGP) model was proposed to construct an efficient course plan following the Bologna process. The proposed approach was applied in an industrial engineering department.
Assessment of Alternative Methods for Statistically Downscaling Daily GCM Precipitation Outputs to Simulate Regional Streamflow
Authors: Hwang Syewoon , Graham Wendy D.
Published: March 2014

This study applied three statistical downscaling methods: (1) bias correction and spatial disaggregation at daily time scale (BCSD_daily); (2) a modified version ofBCSDwhich reverses the order of spatial disaggregation and bias correction (SDBC), and (3) the bias correction and stochastic analog method (BCSA) to downscale general circulation model daily precipitation outputs to the subbasin scale for west‐centralFlorida. Each downscaled climate input dataset was then used in an integrated hydrologic model to examine differences in ability to simulate retrospective streamflow characteristics. Results showed theBCSD_daily method consistently underestimated mean streamflow because the highly spatially correlated small precipitation events produced by this method resulted in overestimation of evapotranspiration. Highly spatially correlated large precipitation events produced by theSDBCmethod resulted in overestimation of the standard deviation of wet season daily streamflow and the magnitude/frequency of high streamflow events.BCSAshowed better performance than the other methods in reproducing spatiotemporal statistics of daily precipitation and streamflow. This study demonstrated differences in statistical downscaling techniques propagate into significant differences in streamflow predictions, and underscores the need to carefully select a downscaling method that reproduces precipitation characteristics important for the hydrologic system under consideration.
Testing the ability of topoclimatic grids of extreme temperatures to explain the distribution of the endangered brush‐tailed rock‐wallaby (Petrogale penicillata)
Authors: Ashcroft Michael B. , Cavanagh Mike , Eldridge Mark D. B. , Gollan John R.
Published: March 2014

Aim

Many species are susceptible to climatic extremes, yet few fine‐scale studies consider the factors that determine the distribution of extreme temperatures at landscape and regional scales. These factors include cold air drainage, canopy cover and topographical exposure to winds and radiation. We used the brush‐tailed rock‐wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) to test whether innovative topoclimatic grids of extreme temperatures are an important predictor of regional‐scale species distributions.

Location

Hunter Valley region, New South Wales, Australia (31.2–33.4° S, 148.6–153.0° E).

Methods

We modelled the regional distributions of rock‐wallaby observations and colonies using topoclimatic, macroclimatic, topographical and habitat factors. We employed a randomization procedure to reduce spatial clustering of records and divide the data into 10 different training and testing datasets. Models were assessed using the Akaike information criterion (AIC) on the training datasets, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) on the test datasets, and the consistency of the response curves. We compared multiple univariate and multivariate models, rather than producing one ‘true’ model, to examine the evidence that different environmental factors consistently influenced the distribution of rock‐wallabies.

Results

The environmental factors that were consistently strongest at explaining the distribution of rock‐wallabies were the topoclimatic estimate of extreme cold, the macroclimatic estimate of annual precipitation, and the amount of cleared land within 1600 m. Rock‐wallaby colonies were in areas where minimum temperatures were high, rainfall was low, and there was a low proportion of cleared land. Topographical surrogates performed well in univariate models but poorly in multivariate models.

Main conclusions

We have shown that topoclimatic maps of extreme conditions have the potential to model the regional distributions of at least some species better than indirect surrogates based on topography or macroclimate. Topoclimatic grids are an important tool for regional conservation planning, but practitioners need to place more emphasis on the derivation and accuracy of the climate grids, not just the spatial resolution.
The Impact of Catheter Ablation in the Interpulmonary Isthmus on Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Outcomes: A Randomized Study
Authors: LETSAS KONSTANTINOS P. , EFREMIDIS MICHAEL , VLACHOS KONSTANTINOS , KARLIS DIMITRIOS , LIONI LOUIZA , ASVESTAS DIMITRIOS , VALKANAS KOSMAS , MIHAS CONSTANTINOS C. , SIDERIS ANTONIOS
Published: March 2014

Catheter Ablation in the Interpulmonary Isthmus

Introduction

Previous studies have underscored the importance of the interpulmonary isthmus in the initiation and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). The efficacy of additional radiofrequency energy delivery in the interpulmonary isthmus following pulmonary vein antral isolation (PVAI) was investigated.

Methods and Results

A total of 76 patients (49 males, mean age 56.8 ± 10.3) with drug‐resistant paroxysmal (n = 64) and short‐lasting persistent AF (n = 12) underwent PVAI. Patients were then randomly assigned to receive either “no further ablation” (group I, n = 38) or additional lesions in the interpulmonary isthmus of both ipsilateral pulmonary veins (group II, n = 38). There were no significant differences between study groups regarding the clinical and echocardiographic data. A trend towards a longer fluoroscopy time was observed in group II (P = 0.076). After a mean follow‐up period of 11.1 ± 2.6 months, 22 patients in group I (57.9%) and 25 patients in group II (65.8%) were free from arrhythmia recurrence without any antiarrhythmic drug treatment after a single ablation procedure. The Kaplan–Meier arrhythmia‐free survival curves showed no significant differences between study groups (P = 0.460).

Conclusions

Additional lesions in the interpulmonary isthmus following PVAI do not have incremental value in preventing AF recurrence.
MR‐guided laser‐induced thermotherapy (LITT) in patients with liver metastases of uveal melanoma
Authors: Eichler K. , Zangos S. , Gruber‐Rouh T. , Vogl T.J. , Mack M.G.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

Evaluation of the local tumour control rate and survival data for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging–guided laser ablation of uveal malignant melanoma liver metastases by using laser‐induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT).

Materials and methods

The LITT was performed in 18 patients with liver metastases (n = 44) from uveal malignant melanoma. All patients tolerated this intervention well. With the Kaplan–Meier method, the survival rates were calculated. Indications for the procedure were defined for patients with no more than five metastases, none of which were larger than 5 cm in diameter: The Indication for LITT treatment were recurrent liver metastases after partial liver resection (22%), locally non‐resectable tumours (17%) or metastases in both liver lobes (61%).

Results

The mean survival rate for all treated patients was 3.6 years (95% CI: 2.19, 5.06). We started the calculation on the date of diagnosis of the metastases treated with LITT. The median survival was 1.83 years; 1‐year survival, 88%; 3‐year survival 47%, 5‐year survival 17%. Calculated after the first LITT treatment the median survival was 2.8 years (95% CI: 1.0, 5.0). 10 patients were treated by transarterial chemoembolization before LITT.

Conclusion

MR‐guided LITT treatment shows a high local tumour control and survival rates in patients with liver metastases of uveal malignant melanoma.
Fibre‐optical microendoscopy
Authors: GU M. , BAO H. , KANG H.
Published: March 2014

Microendoscopy has been an essential tool in exploring micro/nano mechanisms in vivo due to high‐quality imaging performance, compact size and flexible movement. The investigations into optical fibres, micro‐scanners and miniature lens have boosted efficiencies of remote light delivery to sample site and signal collection. Given the light interaction with materials in the fluorescence imaging regime, this paper reviews two classes of compact microendoscopy based on a single fibre: linear optical microendoscopy and nonlinear optical microendoscopy. Due to the fact that fluorescence occurs only in the focal volume, nonlinear optical microendoscopy can provide stronger optical sectioning ability than linear optical microendoscopy, and is a good candidate for deep tissue imaging. Moreover, one‐photon excited fluorescence microendoscopy as the linear optical microendoscopy suffers from severe photobleaching owing to the linear dependence of photobleaching rate on excitation laser power. On the contrary, nonlinear optical microendoscopy, including two‐photon excited fluorescence microendoscopy and second harmonic generation microendoscopy, has the capability to minimize or avoid the photobleaching effect at a high excitation power and generate high image contrast. The combination of various nonlinear signals gained by the nonlinear optical microendoscopy provides a comprehensive insight into biophenomena in internal organs. Fibre‐optical microendoscopy overcomes physical limitations of traditional microscopy and opens up a new path to achieve early cancer diagnosis and microsurgery in a minimally invasive and localized manner.
Tuberculosis Treatment for Mexican Americans Living on the U.S.–Mexico Border
Authors: Zuñiga Julie Ann , Muñoz Silvia E. , Johnson Mary Zuñiga , Garcia Alexandra
Published: March 2014

Purpose

This study produced a rich description of the lived experiences of tuberculosis (TB) treatment among Mexican Americans living in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) of Texas.

Design

This qualitative study used phenomenological methodology, guided by Merleau‐Ponty's philosophical framework, particularly his theories on mind–body influence, fabric of relationships, importance of culture, and equilibrium. A purposive sample was recruited through TB clinics in four south Texas border counties: Hidalgo, Cameron, Starr, and Willacy, which make up the LRGV. Interviews from 18 participants—5 women and 13 men—were conducted in the participant's preferred language. Interviews were analyzed for common themes as described by Cohen Kahn and Steeves.

Findings

The majority of interviews were conducted in Spanish. Five themes were discovered: (a) day‐to‐day life during Directly Observed Therapy treatment, (b) signs and symptoms, (c) familismo, (d) living on the border, and (e) stigma.

Conclusions

TB treatment can create a high level of patient burden. The participants in TB treatment in the LRGV on the Texas‐Mexico border reported a high level of stigma. Due to this stigma, patients struggled to find a balance between exposure to stigma and the support from family that buoyed them through treatment.

Clinical Relevance

The findings support the importance of addressing stigma and the resulting sense of isolation in patients being treated for TB, perhaps through bolstering support from family and healthcare providers, which is relevant for public health professionals working in regions with high rates of TB.
Power of the Metaphor: Forty Signs on Brain Imaging
Authors: Gocmen Rahsan , Guler Ezgi , Kose Ilgaz Cagatay , Oguz Kader K.
Published: March 2014

We retrospectively reviewed neuroradiology database at our tertiary‐care hospital to search for patients with metaphoric or descriptive signs on brain computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Only patients who had clinical or pathological definitive diagnosis were included in this review.
Medication Management in Belgian Residential Care Facilities for Individuals With Intellectual Disability: An Observational Study
Authors: Joos Elke , Mehuys Els , Van Bocxlaer Jan , Remon Jean Paul , Van Winckel Myriam , Boussery Koen
Published: March 2014

Organizational aspects of the medication management process (MMP) have been investigated in hospital and nursing home settings. However, the amount of literature on medication management in residential care facilities (RCF) for individuals with ID is limited to two studies from the Netherlands, focusing only on drug administration errors. To assess the organization of the MMP in Belgian RCFs for people with ID, the authors undertook a cross‐sectional observational study in 34 Belgian RCFs for people with ID. Structured interviews were performed using a questionnaire: the first part (for the RCF directors) addressed administrative and policy issues. The second (for unit employees) and third parts (for medical office employees) addressed practical aspects of the MMP. The fourth part (for physicians) focused on the physician's role in the MMP, on the therapeutic drug formulary, and on communication with staff and delivering pharmacist. Standard operating procedures concerning the MMP were not available in 32% of the RCFs. About one‐quarter of the RCFs did not have a medication error reporting system, and most RCFs did not systematically (i.e., at least annually) review their MMP for failures. Only two participating RCFs were equipped with an electronic prescribing system. The role of the pharmacist was mainly limited to delivery of medication. Medication was mostly administered by nonmedically qualified staff (e.g., educators). Most frequently cited problems by the interviewees were problems in the medication preparation and administration stage. Most frequently cited possible improvement actions were education/sensitization of staff and improved communication among all stakeholders. The authors note that as this study revealed operational inadequacies, problem areas can be identified and targeted quality improvement actions can be undertaken.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders Symptomatology Among Individuals With Down Syndrome
Authors: Edvardson Simon , Msallam Nadira , Hertz Pnina , Malkiel Sarah , Wexler Isaiah D. , Tenenbaum Ariel
Published: March 2014

The prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) among individuals with Down syndrome (DS) has been difficult to ascertain. This is because many of the phenotypic features of DS may resemble the clinical manifestations of DS and the myriad methodological challenges in diagnosing ADHD in children with intellectual disabilities (ID). With this in mind, the authors set to determine the prevalence of ADHD symptomatology in a cohort of children and young adults in a DS clinic. Subjects were 83 children and adults, ages 5–38, who were attending the Down Syndrome Center at the Hadassah Mount Scopus University Medical Center. All were screened for ADHD. Screening methods included review of medical files, telephone interviews, and use of the ADHD module of the Autism‐Tics, Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder, and other Comorbidities questionnaire. It was found that 26 (31.3%) of the subjects fulfilled the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.) criteria for ADHD. Of these, 17 (65.4%) were diagnosed as predominantly inattentive type. Four (15.4%) were predominantly impulsive‐hyperactive, and five (19.2%) had the combined type. No statistically significant association was found between ADHD and age, sex, number of siblings, presence of heart disease, thyroid dysfunction, sleep disorders, or a family history of ADHD. The prevalence of ADHD symptomatology among individuals with DS in this representative sample is high compared with the general population. ADHD may be underdiagnosed in this special population, hence the need for systematic screening.
Treatment of five haemodynamically stable dogs with immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia using mycophenolate mofetil as single agent
Authors: Yau V. K. , Bianco D.
Published: March 2014

Five dogs were presumptively diagnosed with immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia. As they had all been chronically treated with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, administration of immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids was considered contraindicated. Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs were temporarily discontinued in all the dogs and mycophenolate mofetil was introduced as first‐line single immunomodulatory therapy. This treatment protocol resulted in complete remission of immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia in all the dogs, and mycophenolate mofetil was discontinued after several months of therapy in four of the five dogs with no relapses, even when non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug administration was resumed. The remaining dog required continued mycophenolate mofetil therapy to avoid relapse. One dog experienced diarrhoea, and another dog had diarrhoea and decreased appetite.
Plant phylogeography in arid Northwest China: Retrospectives and perspectives
Authors: MENG Hong‐Hu , GAO Xiao‐Yang , HUANG Jian‐Feng , ZHANG Ming‐Li
Published: March 2014

Despite the absence of major Quaternary glaciations in arid Northwest China, significant climatic oscillations definitely impacted the evolution of the biota in situ. Phylogeography has grown as a discipline because it has provided explicit tools for the study of geographical subdivision among populations. But phylogeographical application for arid Northwest China has begun to blossom, which has provided evidence that aridification played a significant role in the increase of genetic diversity and species diversification. The time frame corresponds with Pleistocene climatic oscillations, which caused extreme aridity and the expansion of sandy deserts. In the Asian desert flora subkingdom and Eurasian forest subkingdom of Northwest China, the recurrent phylogeographical scenarios, identified by different case studies, broadly agree with longstanding biogeographic, floristic, and topographic concepts: (i) aridification promoted diversification and speciation of desert plants; (ii) desert expansion caused habitat fragmentation; (iii) the Altay–Tianshan Mountains included glacial refugia for plants; (iv) population expansion and recolonization from glacial refugia occurred during the postglacial period; and (v) desert plants persistence and alpine plants retreat during climate oscillations. We discuss the main phylogeographical findings in light of molecular and paleo‐environmental evidence, emphasizing notable gaps in our knowledge and outlining future research perspectives for disentangling the evolutionary history of this arid region's flora.
Acute Effects of Ivabradine on Dynamic Obstruction of the Left Ventricular Outflow Tract in Cats with Preclinical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Blass K.A. , Schober K.E. , Li X. , Scansen B.A. , Bonagura J.D.
Published: March 2014

Background

Ivabradine is a negative chronotropic drug with minimal effects on central hemodynamics. Its effect on dynamic obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) remains unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Ivabradine reduces dynamic obstruction of the LVOT in cats with HCM.

Animals

Twenty‐eight client‐owned cats with preclinical HCM and dynamic LVOT obstruction.

Methods

Randomized, double‐blind, active‐control single dose study. Cats received a single dose of either ivabradine (0.3 mg/kg PO) or atenolol (2 mg/kg PO). Heart rate, echocardiographic variables, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were recorded before and 3 hours after drug administration. Statistical comparisons were made using ANCOVA.

Results

Peak velocity in the LVOT was significantly decreased compared to baseline for both drugs; however, the effect was more prominent with atenolol (mean reduction 2.53 m/s; 95% CI 2.07–3.13 m/s) compared to ivabradine (mean reduction 0.32 m/s; 95% CI −0.04 to 0.71 m/s; P < .0001). Echocardiographic indices of systolic function were largely unchanged by ivabradine, but significantly reduced by atenolol.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A single dose of ivabradine decreases dynamic LVOT obstruction in cats with HCM, but the clinical effect is negligible and inferior compared to that achieved by atenolol.
Vaccine‐Associated Leptospira Antibodies in Client‐Owned Dogs
Authors: Martin L.E.R. , Wiggans K.T. , Jablonski Wennogle S.A. , Curtis K. , Chandrashekar R. , Lappin M.R.
Published: March 2014

Background

Long‐term microscopic agglutination test (MAT) results after vaccination with 4‐serovar Leptospira vaccines are not available for all vaccines used in client‐owned dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine antibody responses of client‐owned dogs given 1 of 4 commercially available Leptospira vaccines.

Animals

Healthy client‐owned dogs (n = 32) with no history of Leptospira vaccination for at least the previous year.

Methods

Dogs were given 1 of 4 Leptospira vaccines on week 0 and then approximately on week 3 and week 52. Sera were collected before vaccine administration on week 0 and then within 3 days of week 3, within 2 days of week 4, and approximately on weeks 7, 15, 29, 52, and 56. Antibody titers against Leptospira serovars bratislava, canicola, grippotyphosa, hardjo, icterohemorrhagiae, and pomona and were determined by MAT.

Results

When compared among vaccines, MAT results varied in maximal titers, the serovars inducing maximal titers, and the time required to reach maximal titers. Each vaccine induced at least some MAT titers ≥1 : 800. Most dogs were negative for antibodies against all serovars 1 year after vaccination, and anamnestic responses were variable.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs vaccinated with Leptospira vaccines have variable MAT titers over time, and antibodies should not be used to predict resistance to Leptospira infection. MAT titers ≥1 : 800 can develop after Leptospira spp. vaccination, which can complicate the clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis.
Structural and molecular insights into novel surface‐exposed mucus adhesins from Lactobacillus reuteri human strains
Authors: Etzold Sabrina , MacKenzie Donald A. , Jeffers Faye , Walshaw John , Roos Stefan , Hemmings Andrew M. , Juge Nathalie
Published: March 2014

The mucus layer covering the gastrointestinal tract is the first point of contact of the intestinal microbiota with the host. Cell surface macromolecules are critical for adherence of commensal bacteria to mucus but structural information is scarce. Here we report the first molecular and structural characterization of a novel cell‐surface protein, Lar_0958 from Lactobacillus reuteri JCM 1112T, mediating adhesion of L. reuteri human strains to mucus. Lar_0958 is a modular protein of 133 kDa containing six repeat domains, an N‐terminal signal sequence and a C‐terminal anchoring motif (LPXTG). Lar_0958 homologues are expressed on the cell‐surface of L. reuteri human strains, as shown by flow‐cytometry and immunogold microscopy. Adhesion of human L. reuteri strains to mucus in vitro was significantly reduced in the presence of an anti‐Lar_0958 antibody and Lar_0958 contribution to adhesion was further confirmed using a L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 lar_0958 KO mutant (6475‐KO). The X‐ray crystal structure of a single Lar_0958 repeat, determined at 1.5 Å resolution, revealed a divergent immunoglobulin (Ig)‐like β‐sandwich fold, sharing structural homology with the Ig‐like inter‐repeat domain of internalins of the food borne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. These findings provide unique structural insights into cell‐surface protein repeats involved in adhesion of Gram‐positive bacteria to the intestine.
Charles Peirce's Limit Concept of Truth
Authors: Legg Catherine
Published: March 2014

This entry explores Charles Peirce's account of truth in terms of the end or ‘limit’ of inquiry. This account is distinct from – and arguably more objectivist than – views of truth found in other pragmatists such as James and Rorty. The roots of the account in mathematical concepts is explored, and it is defended from objections that it is (i) incoherent, (ii) in its faith in convergence, too realist and (iii) in its ‘internal realism’, not realist enough.
Silicon nutrition alleviates the negative impacts of arsenic on the photosynthetic apparatus of rice leaves: an analysis of the key limitations of photosynthesis
Authors: Sanglard Lílian M. V. P. , Martins Samuel C. V. , Detmann Kelly C. , Silva Paulo E. M. , Lavinsky Alyne O. , Silva Mariela M. , Detmann Edenio , Araújo Wagner L. , DaMatta Fábio M.
Published: March 2014

Silicon (Si) plays important roles in alleviating various abiotic stresses. In rice (Oryza sativa), arsenic (As) is believed to share the Si transport pathway for entry into roots, and Si has been demonstrated to decrease As concentrations. However, the physiological mechanisms through which Si might alleviate As toxicity in plants remain poorly elucidated. We combined detailed gas exchange measurements with chlorophyll fluorescence analysis to examine the effects of Si nutrition on photosynthetic performance in rice plants [a wild‐type (WT) cultivar and its lsi1 mutant defective in Si uptake] challenged with As (arsenite). As treatment impaired carbon fixation (particularly in the WT genotype) that was unrelated to photochemical or biochemical limitations but, rather, was largely associated with decreased leaf conductance at the stomata and mesophyll levels. Indeed, regardless of the genotypes, in the plants challenged with As, photosynthetic rates correlated strongly with both stomatal (r2 = 0.90) and mesophyll (r2 = 0.95) conductances, and these conductances were, in turn, linearly correlated with each other. The As‐related impairments to carbon fixation could be considerably reverted by Si in a time‐ and genotype‐dependent manner. In conclusion, we identified Si nutrition as an important target in an attempt to not only decrease As concentrations but also to ameliorate the photosynthetic performance of rice plants challenged with As.
Expression of Adiponectin and its Receptors in the Porcine Hypothalamus During the Oestrous Cycle
Authors: Kaminski T , Smolinska N , Maleszka A , Kiezun M , Dobrzyn K , Czerwinska J , Szeszko K , Nitkiewicz A
Published: March 2014

Contents

Adiponectin is a hormonal link between obesity and reproduction, and its actions are mediated by two types of receptors: adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) and adiponectin receptor 2 (AdipoR2). This study compares the expression levels of adiponectin and adiponectin receptor mRNAs and proteins in selected areas of the porcine hypothalamus responsible for GnRH production and secretion: the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH), pre‐optic area (POA) and stalk median eminence (SME). The tissue samples were harvested on days 2–3, 10–12, 14–16 and 17–19 of the oestrous cycle. Adiponectin mRNA expression in MBH was significantly lower on days 14–16, whereas in SME, the most pronounced gene expression was found on days 2–3 of the cycle (p < 0.05). Adiponectin protein in MBH was most abundant on days 17–19 and in POA on days 2–3 (p < 0.05). Adiponectin protein expression in SME was at similar level throughout the most of the cycle with a statistically significant drop (p < 0.05) on days 14–16. AdipoR1 gene expression in POA was potentiated on days 2–3 and 10–12 of the oestrous cycle (p < 0.05). In SME, the highest AdipoR1 mRNA expression was noted on days 2–3 (p < 0.05). The concentrations of the AdipoR1 protein in POA were similar throughout the luteal phase (days 2–14 of the cycle), and they decreased on days 17–19 (p < 0.05). In SME, AdipoR1 protein expression peak occurred on days 2–3 (p < 0.05). The expression patterns of the AdipoR2 gene in MBH, POA and SME revealed the highest mRNA levels on days 2–3 of the cycle (p < 0.05). The highest content of AdipoR2 protein in MBH was reported on days 2–3 (p < 0.05), while in POA on days 17–19 and in SME on days 10–12 and 14–16 (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that adiponectin and adiponectin receptor mRNAs and proteins are present in the porcine hypothalamus and that their expression levels are determined by the pig's endocrine status related to the oestrous cycle.
Faith, form and faction: Samuel Purchas's Purchas His Pilgrimage (1613)
Authors: Dimmock Matthew
Published: March 2014

In his Purchas his Pilgrimage (1613) Samuel Purchas claimed to ‘bring Religion from Paradise to the Arke, and thence follow her about the World, and (for her sake) obserue the World it selfe, with the seuerall Countries and peoples therein’. This project was clearly ambitious and encyclopaedic, incorporating all the religions of the known world with the exclusion of Europe, but it was also necessarily innovative. This article explores the way in which Purchas leads his reader from one faith into copious different faiths in a journey underpinned by the expectation of apocalyptic resolution and reunification. Of particular prominence are his struggles with the relative value of non‐Christian religions and their vexed incorporation into a narrative of Anglican universalism.
On understanding the role of need thwarting in the association between athlete attachment and well/ill‐being
Authors: Felton L. , Jowett S.
Published: March 2014

Grounded in attachment theory and basic psychological needs theory, the current study aimed to examine the mediating role of basic psychological need thwarting between perceptions of athlete attachment to the coach and indexes of athlete well/ill‐being. A sample of athletes (N = 241) participating in various organized sports completed a multisection questionnaire assessing the main study variables. Bootstrap mediation analysis revealed that the perceived psychological needs of thwarted autonomy and competence within the coach relational context mediated the associations between athletes' perceptions of insecure attachments to the coach and experiences of life satisfaction and negative affect. Analysis also revealed that the perceived psychological needs of thwarted competence and relatedness within the sport context mediated the associations between athletes' attachment style and experiences of performance satisfaction, life satisfaction, depression, and negative affect. Overall, the findings of the study highlight that the examination of negative aspects of sport participation may facilitate a more complete understanding of athletes' psychological functioning.
Gendered Dimensions of the HIV Pandemic: A Cross‐National Investigation of Women's International Nongovernmental Organizations, Contraceptive Use, and HIV Prevalence in Less‐Developed Nations
Authors: Noble Mark D. , Austin Kelly F.
Published: March 2014

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic has a profound impact on women as a result of social and biological vulnerabilities to the infection. In this article, we explore the influence of democracy, women's international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs), and contraceptive use on female HIV rates, using indirect‐effect modeling techniques to properly test the interrelationships among key variables. Structural equation models reveal that democracy and women's INGOs work to reduce female HIV rates indirectly, by promoting the use of contraceptives among women in less‐developed nations. Despite these promising findings, the analyses also reveal that INGOs are negatively associated with sociohealth dimensions of female empowerment, which thus serves to promote HIV rates. The results suggest that interventions undertaken by INGOs may not be as successful as government programs in addressing inequalities in health and social resources for women in poor nations.
Exploring Arts‐Based Knowledge Translation: Sharing Research Findings Through Performing the Patterns, Rehearsing the Results, Staging the Synthesis
Authors: Rieger Kendra , Schultz Annette S.H.
Published: March 2014

Background

Cultivation of knowledge translation (KT) strategies that actively engage health professionals in critical reflection of their practice and research‐based evidence are imperative to address the research‐practice gap. While research‐based evidence is exponentially growing, our ability to facilitate uptake by nurses and other health professionals has not kept pace. Innovative approaches that extend epistemological bias beyond a singular standpoint of postpositivism, such as the utilization of arts‐based methods, expand the possibility to address the complexities of context, engage audience members, promote dissemination within communities of practice, and foster new audiences interested in research findings.

Aim

In this paper, we address the importance of adopting a social constructivist epistemological stance to facilitate knowledge translation to diverse audiences, explore various arts‐based knowledge translation (ABKT) strategies, and open a dialogue concerning evaluative tenets of ABKT.

Discussion

ABKT utilizes various art forms to disseminate research knowledge to diverse audiences and promote evidence‐informed practice. ABKT initiatives translate knowledge not based upon a linear model, which views knowledge as an objective entity, but rather operate from the premise that knowledge is socially situated, which demands acknowledging and engaging the learner within their context. Theatre, dance, photography, and poetry are art forms that are commonly used to communicate research findings to diverse audiences. Given the emerging interest and importance of utilizing this KT strategy situated within a social constructivist epistemology, potential challenges and plausible evaluative criteria specific to ABKT are presented.

Conclusion

ABKT is an emerging KT strategy that is grounded in social constructivist epistemological tenets, and holds potential for meaningfully sharing new research knowledge with diverse audiences.

Linking Evidence to Action

ABKT is an innovative and synergistic approach to traditional dissemination strategies. This creative KT approach is emerging as potent transformational learning tools that are congruent with the relational nature of nursing practice. ABKT facilitates learning about new research findings in an engaging and critical reflective manner that promotes learning within communities of practice.
An Analytical Study of Dynamic Characteristics of Multi-Story Timoshenko Planar Frame Structures
Authors: Mei C.
Published: March 2014

This paper concerns in-plane vibration analysis of coupled bending and longitudinal vibrations in multi-story planar frame structures based on the advanced Timoshenko bending theory. It takes into account the effects of both rotary inertia and shear distortion. A wave based vibration analysis approach is proposed. From a wave vibration standpoint, vibrations propagate along a uniform waveguide (or structural element), and are reflected and transmitted at discontinuities (such as joints and boundaries). Reflection matrices at various boundaries, as well as transmission and reflection matrices at joint discontinuities are derived. Natural frequencies of coupled bending and longitudinal in-plane vibrations are obtained by assembling these propagation, reflection, and transmission matrices. Numerical examples are presented along with comparisons to results available in literature. The examples show good agreement with the results presented in the available literature.
Heat Transfer Enhancement for Blocks in a Channel Using a Rotationally Oscillating Plate
Authors: Alawadhi Esam M.
Published: March 2014

Heat transfer enhancement using a rotationally oscillating plate in a channel containing heated blocks is numerically studied. The blocks simulate electronic chips with a high thermal dissipation rate. The model consists of a channel formed by two plates with heated blocks attached to bottom walls and a plate installed at the centerline of the channel. The rotationally oscillating plate enhances heat transfer from the blocks through the flow accelerating above the blocks. The effect of the frequency and maximum angle of attack of the plate on the Nusselt number is investigated for different Reynolds numbers. Heat transfer enhancement of the blocks with the plate is evaluated by comparing their thermal characteristics to a channel without plate. The results show that the oscillating plate enhances overall heat flow out of the blocks by 21.72% but with significant pressure drop of 300%.
Three-dimensional finite element modeling of the human external ear: Simulation study of the bone conduction occlusion effect
Authors: Brummund Martin K. , Sgard Franck , Petit Yvan , Laville Frédéric
Published: March 2014

A linear three-dimensional (3D) elasto-acoustic finite element model was used to simulate the occlusion effect following mechanical vibration at the mastoid process. The ear canal and the surrounding soft and bony tissues were reconstructed using images of a female cadaver head (Visible Human Project®). The geometrical model was coupled to a 3D earplug model and imported into comsol Multiphysics (COMSOL®, Sweden). The software was used to solve for the sound pressure at the eardrum. Finite element modeling of the human external ear and of the occlusion effect has several qualities that can complement existing measuring and modeling techniques. First, geometrically complex structures such as the external ear can be reconstructed. Second, various material behavioral laws and complex loading can be accounted for. Last, 3D analyses of external ear substructures are possible allowing for the computation of a broad range of acoustic indicators. The model simulates consistent occlusion effects (e.g., insertion depth variability). Comparison with an experimental dataset, kindly provided by Stenfelt and Reinfeldt [Int. J. Audiol. 46, 595-608 (2007)], further demonstrates the model's accuracy. Power balances were used to analyze occlusion effect differences obtained for a silicone earplug and to examine the increase in sound energy when the ear canal is occluded (e.g., high-pass filter removal).
An Instrumented Footbar for Evaluating External Forces in Pilates
Authors: Brodt Guilherme Auler , Cantergi Débora , Gertz Luiz Carlos , Loss Jefferson Fagundes
Published: March 2014

The intensity of Pilates exercises is almost exclusively based on experience. Therefore, knowing the precise amount of effort that is exerted during exercises could be useful for professionals conducting exercise assessments and for future research using inverse dynamics (ID) analyses. The reformer is an apparatus that contains a carriage on rails to which resistance is applied via springs attached to the carriage. Subjects apply force to a footbar to displace the carriage, but the magnitude and direction of this force are unknown and need to be quantified if the ID approach is to be used. This study aimed to develop and describe a device built with commercial load cells attached to the reformer’s footbar, with the device capable of measuring the direction and magnitude of the force exerted on the reformer’s footbar, and to compare the force found using the device with the force estimated using the springs’ parameters. To illustrate the device’s use, one volunteer performed footwork exercises at different speeds and with different foot support positions and loads. External force estimated by the springs’ level of deformation was significantly different (P < .001) from the magnitude of force acquired using the device, showing that the estimation is imprecise.