bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specificity of Elevated Intercostal Space ECG Recording for the Type 1 Brugada ECG Pattern
Authors: Holst Anders G. , Tangø Mogens , Batchvarov Velislav , Govindan Malini , Haunsø Stig , Svendsen Jesper H. , Behr Elijah R. , Tfelt‐Hansen Jacob
Published: April 2012

Background: Right precordial (V1–3) elevated electrode placement ECG (EEP‐ECG) is often used in the diagnosis of Brugada syndrome (BrS). However, the specificity of this has only been studied in smaller studies in Asian populations. We aimed to study this in a larger European population.

Methods: Two different populations consisting of healthy subjects were used. A total of 340 subjects were included, 80% were men, the median age was 43 year (interquartile range: 31–51) and all were of European ethnicity.

Results: No type 1 ECG patterns were identified but 16 (4.7%) subjects with a type 2 ECG and 32 (9.4%) subjects with a type 3 ECG were identified in any lead placement. In total 43 (13%) subjects had any BrS ECG pattern in any lead placement. The specificity was 100% (one‐sided 97.5% CI: 99%) for the use of EEP‐ECG to uncover type 1 pattern. For type 2 pattern the specificity was 95% (95% CI: 92–97%) and for type 3 pattern 91% (95% CI: 88–94%).

Conclusions: Elevated electrode placement ECG in the diagnosis of BrS seems to have a very high specificity with regards to the finding of a type 1 ECG pattern in a European population; conversely a finding of a type 2 or 3 pattern is of a significantly lower specificity and should perhaps be disregarded.
Global and Regional Ventricular Repolarization Study by Body Surface Potential Mapping in Patients with Left Bundle‐Branch Block and Heart Failure Undergoing Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Douglas Roberto A. G. , Samesima Nelson , Filho Martino M. , Pedrosa Anísio A. , Nishioka Silvana A. D. , Pastore Carlos A.
Published: April 2012

Background: The controversial effects promoted by cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on the ventricular repolarization (VR) have motivated VR evaluation by body surface potential mapping (BSPM) in CRT patients.

Methods: Fifty‐two CRT patients, mean age 58.8 ± 12.3 years, 31 male, LVEF 27.5 ± 9.2, NYHA III‐IV heart failure with QRS181.5 ± 14.2 ms, underwent 87‐lead BSPM in sinus rhythm (BASELINE) and biventricular pacing (BIV). Measurements of mean and corrected QT intervals and dispersion, mean and corrected T peak end intervals and their dispersion, and JT intervals characterized global and regional (RV, Intermediate, and LV regions) ventricular repolarization response.

Results: Global QTm (P < 0.001) and QTcm (P < 0.05) were decreased in BIV; QTm was similar across regions in both modes (P = ns); QTcm values were lower in RV/LV than in Intermediate region in BASELINE and BIV (P < 0.001); only RV/Septum showed a significant difference (P < 0.01) in the BIV mode. QTD values both of BASELINE (P < 0.01) and BIV (P < 0.001) were greater in the Intermediate than in the LV region. CRT effect significantly reduced global/regional QTm and QTcm values. QTD was globally decreased in RV/LV (Intermediate: P = ns). BIV mode significantly reduced global T peak end mean and corrected intervals and their dispersion. JT values were not significant.

Conclusions: Ventricular repolarization parameters QTm, QTcm, and QTD global/regional values, as assessed by BSPM, were reduced in patients under CRT with severe HF and LBBB. Greater recovery impairment in the Intermediate region was detected by the smaller variation of its dispersion.
Brown tumors in dialyzed patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism: Report of 16 cases
Authors: Hamouda Mouna , Handous Insaf , Dhia Nasr Ben , Ayachi Samia , Letaief Ahmed , Aloui Sabra , Frih Ammeur , Skhiri Habib , Khochtali Habib , Elmay Mezri
Published: April 2012

Brown tumors (BTs) are relatively uncommon but they are serious complications of renal osteodystrophy. The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical, biological, and radiological characteristics of 16 patients with BTs provoked by secondary hyperparathyroidism (sHPT) and its response to the decrease in parathyroid hormone levels after parathyroidectomy (PTX). The management of that uncommon condition was also reviewed. We conducted a retrospective study including 16 end‐stage renal disease patients who underwent subtotal PTX between 1997 and 2007 for severe sHPT with BTs. Our study included 10 men and 6 women, whose average age was 34 years. All patients were on dialysis. Ten of them were on dialysis for more than 5 years. The median duration on dialysis was 84 months. Patients included suffered from swellings associated with functional limitations. BTs had multiple locations in 7 patients. Jaw was the most frequent location (62%). Radiography and tomodensitometry demonstrated a mixed radio lucent and radio‐opaque lesions with an expansion of the cortical bone. Bone scan demonstrated an increased uptake of lesions. Chirurgical treatment was indicated in all cases because of severe refractory sHPT with functional limitations and/or disfiguring deformities. In all cases, BTs stopped its progression and even decreased in size. However, it was insufficient in four cases, which required a surgical resection. PTX remains an efficacious approach in resistant cases of sHPT with persistent BTs.
Development and Characterization of Ag2O‐Doped ZnLB Glasses and Biological Assessment of Ag2O–ZnLB–Hydroxyapatite Composites
Authors: Coelho João , Nandyala Sooraj Hussain , Gomes Pedro S. , Sampaio Paula , Pacheco Ana P. , Nunes Olga C. , Lopes Maria A. , Fernandes Maria H. , Santos José D.
Published: April 2012

This work aims to report the preparation, physico‐chemical characterization, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility testing of novel Ag‐containing ZnO–Li2O–B2O3–HA composites, which are intended to be applied in bone tissue regenerative applications.

Silver oxide (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 mol%) doped ZnO–Li2O–B2O3 (Ag2O–ZLB) glasses were prepared by conventional quenching techniques. The newly developed glasses were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Raman and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, and Scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, glass‐ceramic composites (Ag2O–ZnLB–HA composites) were obtained by the mixture of 2.5 wt% of each silver glass with 97.5 wt% of hydroxyapatite, and thoroughly characterized. The initial bacteria adhesion was evaluated using Escherichia coli, whereas the biocompatibility profile of these materials was assessed following the establishment of MG63 osteoblast‐like cell cultures, for 7 days. All the assayed compositions revealed a significant antibacterial activity against E. coli, at early culture time points. Moreover, osteoblastic cells revealed an adequate adhesion to all the assayed Ag2O–ZnLB–HA compositions and following, an active proliferation was established over seeded materials, throughout the culture period. No signs of cytotoxicity were attained by the assessment of cell morphology, viability, and proliferation. Furthermore, the composites containing a higher amount of silver (2 Ag2O–ZnLB–HA and 4 Ag2O–ZnLB–HA) allowed an increased cell proliferation, in comparison with control.
NIR to Visible Up‐conversion Luminescence of Er3+‐Doped PMN‐PT Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Zeng Jiangtao , Wei Zhihao , Huang Yanlin , Tsuboi Taiju , Zheng Liaoying , Ruan Wei , Wang Shiwei , Li Guorong
Published: April 2012

The non‐doped and 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 mol% Er3+‐doped 0.75Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.25PbTiO3 (called PMN‐PT) transparent ceramics have been fabricated. The optical absorption spectra, photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra, and the up‐conversion luminescence spectra under the excitation of 980 nm laser were investigated. The up‐conversion luminescence of Er3+‐doped PMN‐PT transparent ceramics changes from yellowish green to reddish orange with increasing the Er3+ doping concentration. The dependence of visible up‐conversion luminescence on the laser power was measured. The up‐conversion luminescence saturation is observed for Er3+ 5.0 mol%‐doped PMN‐PT. A possible up‐conversion luminescence mechanism is proposed, which depends on Er3+ concentration. The up‐conversion emission is mainly due to excited state absorption for lightly Er3+‐doped PMN‐PT transparent ceramics, while the energy‐transfer processes are for highly doped ones.
MMP3 and TIMP1 variants contribute to chronic periodontitis and may be implicated in disease progression
Authors: Letra Ariadne , Silva Renato M. , Rylands Ryan J. , Silveira Elcia M. , de Souza Ana P. , Wendell Steven K. , Garlet Gustavo P. , Vieira Alexandre R.
Published: April 2012

Aim

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a key role in the tissue destruction characteristic of chronic periodontitis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of MMP and TIMP polymorphisms with chronic periodontitis in two populations.

Material and Methods

A total of 34 polymorphisms spanning 12 MMP and 2 TIMP genes were genotyped in 401 individuals from Brazil (99 cases with chronic periodontitis and 302 controls), and 274 individuals from the US (70 cases and 204 controls). Individuals were considered cases if presenting at least three teeth exhibiting sites of clinical attachment loss ≥5 mm in two different quadrants. Controls were characterized by absence of clinical attachment loss and no sites with probing depth >3 mm. MMP3 and TIMP1 mRNA expression was evaluated in healthy and diseased periodontal tissues.

Results

TIMP1 showed association with chronic periodontitis in the Brazilian population (for rs5906435, p = 0.0004), whereas MMP3 showed association in the US population (for rs679620, p = 0.0003; and rs650108, p = 0.002) and in the Brazilian population (for rs639752, p = 0.005). MMP3 and TIMP1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in diseased tissues when compared to control tissues.

Conclusions

Our results further support a role for variations in MMP3 in chronic periodontitis and report a novel association with TIMP1. These genes may be considered additional candidate genes for chronic periodontitis.
Occurrence of risk factors for dental erosion in the population of young adults in Norway
Authors: Asmyhr Øyvind , Grytten Jostein , Holst Dorthe
Published: April 2012

Objectives 

The aim of this study was to describe the occurrence of risk factors for dental erosion for a group of young adults who are particularly susceptible to erosion. Another aim was to describe the awareness of erosion and distribution of risk factors according to the educational background of the parents.

Methods 

The sample (n = 2004 individuals) was randomly drawn from the population of 19–20‐year‐old Norwegians. The data were collected using telephone interviews. We measured awareness about erosion using the following question: ‘Have you ever heard about dental erosion?' We obtained information about the frequency of intake of the following risk factors: soft drinks with and without sugar, and juice. Soft drinks with sugar included lemonade (Coca‐Cola, Solo, Pepsi, Mozell and ice tea) and sport drinks (XL1, Maxim). Soft drinks without sugar included Cola light, Zero, PepsiMax, Solo light and ice tea light. Juice included orange, grapefruit, apple and kiwi juice. The parents' level of education was based on the Norwegian school system, which has three levels: compulsory schooling (10 years), upper secondary school education (up to 13 years) and university/college education. The data were analysed using logistic regressions analyses.

Results 

Awareness of erosion was high – 93.5% of respondents were aware of the problem. The majority of respondents believed that erosion can be prevented – altogether 84.9%. They also believed that soft drinks with and without sugar are equally important for the development of erosion. 17.5% of respondents drank soft drinks with sugar daily or several times a day. The corresponding figures for soft drinks without sugar and juice were 4.9% and 34.1%, respectively. Young adults with mothers with high education drank soft drinks both with and without sugar less frequently than those who had mothers with low education. This pattern was the opposite for juice.

Conclusion 

Consumption of soft drinks and juice is high, even though awareness and knowledge about the causes of erosion are widespread. This indicates the need for effective intervention strategies to reduce the level of consumption. These strategies should take into account the fact that the distribution of risk factors is skewed with respect to parents' level of education.
Factors affecting sick leave prescribing by dentists
Authors: Kankaanpää Anni Tuulia , Suominen Anna Liisa , Tuominen Risto Juhani
Published: April 2012

Objectives

The aim was to examine the prescribing of sick leave by dentists and factors affecting prescribing practices.

Methods

A questionnaire study covering sick leave‐prescribing practice during the preceding year and in response to 16 hypothetical patient cases was conducted among 1132 Finnish dentists. The effects of both dentist‐related and local structural background variables on sick leave prescribing were studied.

Results

During the preceding year, dentists who were young, male, or practicing in small municipalities prescribed more days of sick leave than comparator groups. In response to the 16 hypothetical cases, dentists prescribed a mean of 31.6 days of sick leave (range, 0–98 days). The dentists with a specialty degree in oral and maxillofacial surgery prescribed longer sick leave than other dentists. Dentists working only in public dental services (PDS) and older dentists prescribed significantly less sick leave than others.

Conclusions

There is considerable variation among dentists in sick leave‐prescribing practices. The most significant factors affecting this variation are having a specialty in oral and maxillofacial surgery and working only in PDS. Further education and guidelines on dental sick leave prescribing are needed.
Effect of overreaching on cognitive performance and related cardiac autonomic control
Authors: Dupuy O. , Lussier M. , Fraser S. , Bherer L. , Audiffren M. , Bosquet L.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study was to characterize the effect of a 2‐week overload period immediately followed by a 1‐week taper period on different cognitive processes including executive and nonexecutive functions, and related heart rate variability. Eleven male endurance athletes increased their usual training volume by 100% for 2 weeks, and decreased it by 50% for 1 week. A maximal graded test, a constant speed test at 85% of peak treadmill speed, and a Stroop task with the measurement of heart rate variability were performed at each period. All participants were considered as overreached. We found a moderate increase in the overall reaction time to the three conditions of the Stroop task after the overload period (816 ± 83 vs 892 ± 117 ms, P = 0.03) followed by a return to baseline after the taper period (820 ± 119 ms, P = 0.013). We found no association between cognitive performance and cardiac parasympathetic control at baseline, and no association between changes in these measures. Our findings clearly underscore the relevance of cognitive performance in the monitoring of overreaching in endurance athletes. However, contrary to our hypothesis, we did not find any relationship between executive performance and cardiac parasympathetic control.
Retromer Guides STxB and CD8‐M6PR from Early to Recycling Endosomes, EHD1 Guides STxB from Recycling Endosome to Golgi
Authors: McKenzie Jenna E. , Raisley Brent , Zhou Xin , Naslavsky Naava , Taguchi Tomohiko , Caplan Steve , Sheff David
Published: April 2012

Retrograde trafficking transports proteins, lipids and toxins from the plasma membrane to the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). To reach the Golgi, these cargos must transit the endosomal system, consisting of early endosomes (EE), recycling endosomes, late endosomes and lysosomes. All cargos pass through EE, but may take different routes to the Golgi. Retromer‐dependent cargos bypass the late endosomes to reach the Golgi. We compared how two very different retromer‐dependent cargos negotiate the endosomal sorting system. Shiga toxin B, bound to the external layer of the plasma membrane, and chimeric CD8‐mannose‐6‐phosphate receptor (CI‐M6PR), which is anchored via a transmembrane domain. Both appear to pass through the recycling endosome. Ablation of the recycling endosome diverted both of these cargos to an aberrant compartment and prevented them from reaching the Golgi. Once in the recycling endosome, Shiga toxin required EHD1 to traffic to the TGN, while the CI‐M6PR was not significantly dependent on EHD1. Knockdown of retromer components left cargo in the EE, suggesting that it is required for retrograde exit from this compartment. This work establishes the recycling endosome as a required step in retrograde traffic of at least these two retromer‐dependent cargos. Along this pathway, retromer is associated with EE to recycling endosome traffic, while EHD1 is associated with recycling endosome to TGN traffic of STxB.
Peripheral Blood NK Cell Cytotoxicities are Negatively Correlated with CD8+ T Cells in Fertile Women but not in Women with a History of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Yoo Ji Hee , Kwak‐Kim Joanne , Han Ae‐Ra , Ahn Hyunkyong , Cha Sun‐Hwa , Koong Mi Kyung , Kang In Soo , Yang Kwang Moon
Published: April 2012

Problem

We aim to investigate NK cell cytolytic activities and its relationship to other lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood of women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).

Methods of Study

Women with a history of RPL (n = 48) comprised RPL group, and 15 fertile women served as controls. Lymphocyte subsets such as T (CD3+), T helper (CD3+/4+), cytotoxic T (CD3+/8+), NK (CD3−/56+), and peripheral blood NK cell cytolytic activities at three different effector to target cell ratios (E/T ratio, 50:1, 25:1 and 12.5:1) are measured by flow cytometric analysis.

Results

Peripheral blood NK cell levels are significantly increased in women with RPL as compared to controls (
P
 = 0.001). NK cell cytolytic activities in RPL group are significantly increased as compared to those of controls at E/T ratio of 50:1 (42.5 ± 16.3 versus 29.9 ± 13.8,
P
 = 0.009), 25:1 (31.6 ± 15.0 versus 19.4 ± 10.1,
P
 = 0.004), and 12.5:1 (20.1 ± 10.9 versus 12.3 ± 7.5,
P
 = 0.011). In RPL group, peripheral blood NK cell levels (%) showed a significant positive correlation with NK cell cytolytic activities at E/T ratio of 50:1 (r = 0.522,
P < 0.001), 25:1 (r = 0.588,
P
 < 0.001), and 12.5:1 (r = 0.604,
P
 < 0.001). In controls, CD3+/8+ cells (%) show a negative correlation with NK cell cytolytic activities at E/T ratio of 50:1 (r = −0.566,
P
 = 0.028), 25:1 (r = −0.60.,
P
 = 0.017), and 12.5:1 (r = −0.602,
P
 = 0.018). Ratios of T‐helper cell to T‐cytotoxic cell are positively correlated with NK cell cytolytic activities at E/T ratio of 50:1 (r = 0.601,
P
 = 0.018), 25:1 (r = 0.632,
P
 = 0.012), and 12.5:1 (r = 0.637,
P
 = 0.011).

Conclusion

NK cell‐mediated immunopathology plays a role in RPL. Women with RPL have a disrupted immune regulation between cytotoxic T and NK cells. Failure of immune modulation by CD8+ T cells may exert NK cell activation and reproductive failures in women with RPL.
Fundamental Role of microRNAs in Androgen‐Dependent Male Reproductive Biology and Prostate Cancerogenesis
Authors: Todorova Krassimira , Mincheff Milcho , Hayrabedyan Soren , Mincheva Jana , Zasheva Diana , Kuzmanov Aleksandar , Fernández Nelson
Published: April 2012

Male reproductive failure has been linked to successive development of various urologic diseases including prostate cancer. There is strong epidemiologic data in support of this association, it is important therefore to identify the fundamental grounds that lay beneath such a connection. Male reproductive biology, as sex determined, is significantly dependent upon the hormonal regulation of androgens. With the advancement of knowledge on androgen receptivity and epigenetic regulation, the role of new regulatory factors such as microRNAs becomes essential. This review focuses on unraveling the role of microRNA tight incorporation in androgen‐dependent male reproductive biology in the context of recent prostate cancer data.
Automatic generation of causal networks linking growth factor stimuli to functional cell state changes
Authors: Guziolowski Carito , Kittas Aristotelis , Dittmann Florian , Grabe Niels
Published: April 2012

Despite the increasing number of growth factor‐related signalling networks, their lack of logical and causal connection to factual changes in cell states frequently impairs the functional interpretation of microarray data. We present a novel method enabling the automatic inference of causal multi‐layer networks from such data, allowing the functional interpretation of growth factor stimulation experiments using pathway databases. Our environment of evaluation was hepatocyte growth factor‐stimulated cell migration and proliferation in a keratinocyte‐fibroblast co‐culture. The network for this system was obtained by applying the steps: (a) automatic integration of the comprehensive set of all known cellular networks from the Pathway Interaction Database into a master structure; (b) retrieval of an active‐network from the master structure, where the network edges that connect nodes with an absent mRNA level were excluded; and (c) reduction of the active‐network complexity to a causal subnetwork from a set of seed nodes specific for the microarray experiment. The seed nodes comprised the receptors stimulated in the experiment, the consequently differentially expressed genes, and the expected cell states. The resulting network shows how well‐known players, in the context of hepatocyte growth factor stimulation, are mechanistically linked in a pathway triggering functional cell state changes. Using bioquali, we checked and validated the consistency of the network with respect to microarray data by computational simulation. The network has properties that can be classified into different functional layers because it not only shows signal processing down to the transcriptional level, but also the modulation of the network structure by the preceeding stimulation. The software for generating computable objects from the Pathway Interaction Database database, as well as the generated networks, are freely available at: http://www.tiga.uni‐hd.de/supplements/inferringFromPID.html.
Changes in the Neuronal Glutamate Transporter EAAT3 in Rat Brain after Exposure to Methamphetamine
Authors: Kerdsan Walailuk , Thanoi Samur , Nudmamud‐Thanoi Sutisa
Published: April 2012

Methamphetamine (METH), an addictive psychostimulant, can induce glutamate release in several brain areas such as cerebral cortex, hippocampus and striatum. Excess glutamate is ordinarily removed from the synaptic cleft by glutamate transporters for maintaining homoeostasis. EAAT3, a subtype of glutamate transporter expressed mainly by neurons, is a major glutamate transporter in the hippocampus and cortex. Therefore, this study examined the effects of acute and sub‐acute METH administration on the expression of the EAAT3 in the hippocampal formation, striatum and frontal cortex. Male Sprague–Dawley rats received vehicle injections (i.p.) for 13 days followed by one injection of METH (8 mg/kg, i.p.) on day 14 in acute group. Animals received METH (4 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle for 14 days in sub‐acute and control groups, respectively. EAAT3 immunoreactivity was determined by western blotting followed by measurement of the integrated optical density. A significant increase in EAAT3 was found in the hippocampal formation after sub‐acute, but not acute, METH administration. Conversely, a significant decrease in EAAT3 in striatum was observed in both acute and sub‐acute groups. A trend towards a decrease in EAAT3 was also found in frontal cortex in the sub‐acute group. Our results of decreased EAAT3 in striatum and frontal cortex suggest deficits of cortico‐striatal glutamatergic synapses after METH exposure. Increased EAAT3 expression in the hippocampus may be a compensatory response to possible deficits of glutamatergic neurotransmission induced by METH. Moreover, our findings provide further support for glutamatergic dysfunction with abnormalities involving a transporter important in the regulation of neuronal glutamate.
Low Primate Diversity and Abundance in Northern Amazonia and its Implications for Conservation
Authors: Pontes Antonio Rossano Mendes , de Paula Mateus Dantas , Magnusson William E.
Published: April 2012

Large areas of the Rio Negro basin in Amazonia are covered by continuous tracts of tropical forest, but have few primate species. This is anomalous considering the general relationship between area and number of species. One possibility is that much of the forest is unsuitable habitat for most primates and the area of suitable habitat is much less than the forested area. This has important consequences for the design of reserves and predictions of the consequences of climate change, which tend to be based on broad categories based on satellite images, and not on information of species distributions within those broad categories. The study was conducted through diurnal and nocturnal line‐transect surveys in the Biodiversity Research Program 25‐km2 permanent grid in Viruá National Park, which has vegetation associations typical of much of northern Amazonia. The highest primate diversity and abundances occurred in tall terra firme forests (58%), whereas inundated forests and scrublands, which cover 42 percent of the survey grid and 90.8 percent of the Viruá National Park, have virtually no primates. This suggests that parks and reserves in northwestern Amazonia will have to be very large to maintain viable populations of most primates and their ecological interactions, and that very broad habitat categories are not sufficient to make predictions about actual and future suitability of areas for primate conservation.
Predator Assemblage Structure and Temporal Variability of Species Richness and Abundance in Forests of High Tree Diversity
Authors: Schuldt Andreas , Bruelheide Helge , Härdtle Werner , Assmann Thorsten
Published: April 2012

Predators significantly affect ecosystem functions, but our understanding of to what extent findings can be transferred from experiments and low‐diversity systems to highly diverse, natural ecosystems is limited. With a particular threat of biodiversity loss at higher trophic levels, however, knowledge of spatial and temporal patterns in predator assemblages and their interrelations with lower trophic levels is essential for assessing effects of trophic interactions and advancing biodiversity conservation in these ecosystems. We analyzed spatial and temporal variability of spider assemblages in tree species‐rich subtropical forests in China, across 27 study plots varying in woody plant diversity and stand age. Despite effects of woody plant richness on spider assemblage structure, neither habitat specificity nor temporal variability of spider richness and abundance were influenced. Rather, variability increased with forest age, probably related to successional changes in spider assemblages. Our results indicate that woody plant richness and theory predicting increasing predator diversity with increasing plant diversity do not necessarily play a major role for spatial and temporal dynamics of predator assemblages in such plant species‐rich forests. Diversity effects on biotic or abiotic habitat conditions might be less pronounced across our gradient from medium to high plant diversity than in previously studied less diverse systems, and bottom‐up effects might level out at high plant diversity. Instead, our study highlights the importance of overall (diversity‐independent) environmental heterogeneity in shaping spider assemblages and, as indicated by a high species turnover between plots, as a crucial factor for biodiversity conservation at a regional scale in these subtropical forests.
Voice behavior and work engagement: the moderating role of supervisor‐attributed motives
Authors: Cheng Jen‐Wei , Lu Kuo‐Ming , Chang Yi‐Ying , Johnstone Steward
Published: April 2012

Understanding employee voice behavior is a crucial aspect of organizing for high performance. In this paper, we extend previous studies and examine the consequences of voice behavior and boundary conditions of supervisor‐attributed motives. Data for the sample was collected from 206 supervisor–subordinate pairs from a variety of companies in Taiwan. Hierarchal regression analysis was performed to test our model. The results show that voice behavior was positively related to leader–member exchange (LMX), and LMX was positively associated with work engagement. Supervisor‐attributed motives moderate the relationship between voice behavior and LMX. Specifically, voice behavior may more strongly influence LMX when supervisors label voice behavior as being more prosocial and less motivated by impression management.
Polar bulges and polar nuclear discs: the case of NGC 4698
Authors: Corsini E. M. , Méndez-Abreu J. , Pastorello N. , Bontà E. Dalla , Morelli L. , Beifiori A. , Pizzella A. , Bertola F.
Published: April 2012

The early-type spiral NGC 4698 is known to host a nuclear disc of gas and stars which is rotating perpendicularly with respect to the galaxy main disc. In addition, the bulge and main disc are characterized by a remarkable geometrical decoupling. Indeed, they appear elongated orthogonally to each other. In this work, the complex structure of the galaxy is investigated by a detailed photometric decomposition of optical and near-infrared images. The intrinsic shape of the bulge was constrained from its apparent ellipticity, its twist angle with respect to the major axis of the main disc and the inclination of the main disc. The bulge is actually elongated perpendicular to the main disc and it is equally likely to be triaxial or axisymmetric. The central surface brightness, scalelength, inclination and position angle of the nuclear disc were derived by assuming that it is infinitesimally thin and exponential. Its size, orientation and location do not depend on the observed passband. These findings support a scenario in which the nuclear disc is the end result of the acquisition of external gas by the pre-existing triaxial bulge on the principal plane perpendicular to its shortest axis and perpendicular to the galaxy main disc. The subsequent star formation either occurred homogeneously all over the extension of the nuclear disc or through an inside-out process that ended more than 5 Gyr ago.
Multiple Suburban Publics: Rethinking Community Opposition to Consolidation in Sydney
Authors: RUMING KRISTIAN , HOUSTON DONNA , AMATI MARCO
Published: April 2012

Since the late 1980s urban consolidation has become the dominant strategic planning paradigm across Australian cities; however, sites of densification are increasingly becoming sites of community resistance and conflict. In the context of the Sydney Metropolitan Strategy, this paper explores Ku‐ring‐gai in Sydney's northern suburbs as a site of community resistance centred on opposition to urban consolidation. Moving beyond more traditional constructions of community resistance as a form of NIMBYism, we present here a typology of community resistance groups and explore the complex relationships between these groups, which are used to challenge development. In addition we draw on understanding of urban publics to explore the ways in which these groups attempt to engage and act on behalf of a diverse set of publics operating across scales.
Design and initial evaluation of a virtual pediatric primary care clinic in Second Life®
Authors: Jane Cook Mary
Published: April 2012

Purpose: To present an example of an innovative educational strategy using a theoretical framework for the design and evaluation of a virtual world simulation for family nurse practitioner (FNP) students.

Data sources: The example arises from a primary care pediatric clinic developed for FNP students in Second Life® to supplement experiences in clinical practice sites. The simulation uses a case‐based interactive format. The educational strategy is based on constructivist learning theory and experiential learning principles. Report of initial prototype testing of faculty and FNP students is reported.

Conclusions: Virtual‐world simulations have the potential to provide a safe environment for students to practice clinical decision making for pediatric patients. However, attention to the context, pedagogy, learner, and the capabilities of the technology is essential to provide a quality educational experience.

Implications for practice: Preparation of FNP students can include quality educational experiences in a virtual world when guided by a theoretical framework.
The lived experience of ovarian cancer: A phenomenological approach
Authors: Guenther Joanna , Stiles Anne , Champion Jane Dimmitt
Published: April 2012

Purpose: To describe the lived experience of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer using individual interviews.

Data sources: Eleven women who had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer within the past five years were interviewed with open‐ended guiding questions. The narrative responses were analyzed for constitutive patterns and relational themes according to Diekelmann and Allen's hermeneutic phenomenological process.

Conclusions: This phenomenological study gave voice to the women's experience with ovarian cancer. The following six constitutive patterns and associated themes emerged: (a) The Revelation, (b) Jeopardy, (c) On the Lookout, (d) Becoming Normal, and (e) Living Every Moment.

Implications for practice: An understanding of the common experiences and shared meanings of women with ovarian cancer may contribute to earlier diagnosis and improved quality of life. The women identified symptoms that should generate concern when reported to providers, potentially leading to diagnostic testing. The experiences may also serve to inform the development of interventions aimed at meeting the needs of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
First record of the beetle family Biphyllidae (Coleoptera) in Korea
Authors: Park Sun‐Jae , Ko Eun‐Sun , Ahn Kee‐Jeong
Published: April 2012

The Biphyllidae including four species,Biphyllus lewisi(Reitter),B. marmoratus(Reitter),B. rufopictus(Wollaston) andB. throscoides(Wollaston), are discovered for the first time in Korea. A key, habitus photographs and illustrations of diagnostic characters of the species are presented.
Dynamic progress of 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid induced chronic colitis and fibrosis in rat model
Authors: ZHU Mei Ying , LU Yun Min , OU Yang Xiao , ZHANG Hui Zhen , CHEN Wei Xiong
Published: April 2012

OBJECTIVE:  To investigate the dynamic progress of 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)‐induced chronic colitis and fibrosis in rat model.

METHODS:  In all, 44 Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into the model and control groups. Colitis was induced by intrarectal injection of 10–30 mg TNBS in 50% ethanol enema weekly for 5 cycles. The control group received an equal volume of 50% ethanol. If the rat died during the procedure, necropsy was performed immediately. At the end of the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th week the rats were sacrificed, and histological damage and fibrosis of the colon were examined using HE and Masson trichrome stain. The concentrations of Th1, Th2, Th17 cytokines in colon tissue were detected by ELISA, intestinal fibrosis‐relevant cytokine expressions were detected by fluorescent quantification‐polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS:  Colitis model was successfully induced with a low mortality rate. The microscopic colonic damage score, collagen area, Th1/Th17 cytokines and expressions of intestinal fibrosis‐relevant cytokines were significantly higher in the model group than those in the control group. Furthermore, the collagen area, content of interleukin 17 and expressions of intestinal fibrosis‐related cytokines in the model group were more elevated in the chronic phase (after 3 to 4 cycles) than in the acute phase (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:  Multiple inflammatory responses participate in the formation and dynamic progression of TNBS‐induced chronic colitis. In particular, acute colitis may turn into chronic colitis after 3 cycles of TNBS administration. This coincides with the formation of intestinal fibrosis which is concomitantly exacerbated after cycle 4.
Early detection of pancreatic cancer: A possibility in some cases but not a reality in most
Authors: GOH Khean‐Lee , YOON Boon‐Koon
Published: April 2012

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to diagnose until a late stage when curative options are no longer available. Owing to its relatively low incidence and the lack of sensitivity of current diagnostic tool, screening of pancreatic cancer in the general population is not recommended. However, in high‐risk individuals, especially those with well‐described genetic syndromes and a strong family history of pancreatic cancer, screening can be carried out. Detection of a lesion of the diameter < 1 cm without lymph node involvements and subsequent removal of the tumor results in long‐term cure of the cancer. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is the only diagnostic tool that is able to detect such small lesions. EUS is often combined with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography to augment the diagnostic yield. The conundrum in clinical practice is to differentiate between a malignant and a benign lesion. Resection of the pancreas constitutes major surgery with a high morbidity and mortality. The need continues, therefore, to find even more accurate imaging modalities to diagnose small pancreatic cancers with confidence.
Exercise Training Improves Heart Rate Variability in Older Patients With Heart Failure: A Randomized, Controlled, Single‐Blinded Trial
Authors: Murad Khalil , Brubaker Peter H. , Fitzgerald David M. , Morgan Timothy M. , Goff David C. , Soliman Elsayed Z. , Eggebeen Joel D. , Kitzman Dalane W.
Published: April 2012

Congest Heart Fail. ****;**:**–**. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) in older patients with heart failure (HF) is common and indicates poor prognosis. Exercise training (ET) has been shown to improve HRV in younger patients with HF. However, the effect of ET on HRV in older patients with HF is not known. Sixty‐six participants (36% men), aged 69±5 years, with HF and both preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) and reduced ejection fraction (HFREF), were randomly assigned to 16 weeks of supervised ET (ET group) vs attention‐control (AC group). Two HRV parameters (the standard deviation of all normal RR intervals [SDNN] and the root mean square of successive differences in normal RR intervals [RMSSD]) were measured at baseline and after completion of the study. When compared with the AC group, the ET group had a significantly greater increase in both SDNN (15.46±5.02 ms in ET vs 2.37±2.13 ms in AC, P=.016) and RMSSD (17.53±7.83 ms in ET vs 1.69±2.63 ms in AC, P=.003). This increase was seen in both sexes and HF categories. ET improved HRV in older patients with both HFREF and HFPEF.
Prognostic Value of Capnography During Rest and Exercise in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Arena Ross , Guazzi Marco , Myers Jonathan , Chase Paul , Bensimhon Daniel , Cahalin Lawrence P. , Peberdy Mary Ann , Ashley Euan , West Erin , Forman Daniel E.
Published: April 2012

©2012 Wiley Periodicals Inc.

New variables obtained from cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) have received attention in recent years, in particular the partial pressure of end‐tidal carbon dioxide (PETCO2). The purpose of this study was to therefore comprehensively assess the ability of resting and exercise PETCO2 to predict major cardiac events in a heart failure (HF) cohort referred for CPX. A total of 963 patients with systolic HF undergoing symptom‐limited CPX were included in the analysis. Resting and exercise PETCO2 along with other CPX variables were determined, and patients were followed for major adverse events. With regard to resting measures, multivariate analysis revealed that left ventricular ejection fraction was the most robust prognostic marker (P<.001) while resting PETCO2 added significant predictive value and was retained in the regression (P<.001). When exercise data were considered, the multivariate analysis revealed that the PETCO2 apex during exercise added predictive value and was retained (P<.05). In what is the largest evaluation of PETCO2 in the assessment of systolic HF patients to date, the authors substantiate prior (smaller) studies showing prognostic utility of PETCO2, both as a resting measure (an important potential screening tool) and during exercise. These data add to the rationale to incorporate PETCO2 as a routine monitoring component in HF management.
Medical–dental findings and management of a child with infantile Refsum disease: a case report
Authors: Acharya Bhavini S. , Ritwik Priyanshi , Velasquez Gisela M. , Fenton Sanford J.
Published: April 2012

Infantile Refsum disease (IRD) is a peroxisome biogenesis disorder (PBD), and is part of a larger group of diseases called leukodystrophies, which are inherited conditions that damage the white matter of the brain and affect motor movements. Multiple signs and symptoms of IRD begin in infancy and progress through early childhood, including hearing and visual impairment, intellectual and growth impairment, seizures, liver involvement, and orofacial and dental abnormalities. This paper presents a case history of a 12‐year‐old female patient with IRD who underwent dental rehabilitation in the operating room under general anesthesia and includes a 2‐year follow‐up. Medical, dental, and management considerations in the care of this child's condition are presented. This paper also discusses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the management of children with special needs.
The role of the Weberian Reform in European Rubus research and the taxonomy of locally distributed species – which species should we describe?
Authors: Haveman Rense , Ronde Iris de
Published: April 2012

After Sudre published his treatment of European Rubi in the early 20th century, Rubus taxonomy in Europe suffered from a scholastic phase and a longer period of stagnation. The so‐called ‘Weberian Reform’ initiated the necessary revival of European batology. It rests on four major pillars: 1) mapping projects over larger areas, 2) evaluation of type material, 3) visits to loci classici, and 4) evaluation of the status of species by means of their distribution areas. Subsequently, it has become widely accepted in European batology that only species with a distribution area over 50 km should be described. Although this pragmatic species concept has been useful in making a continent‐wide overview of brambles, we argue that it is lacking a scientific basis, and should thus be rejected.

There are at least four distinctive problems when treating locally distributed brambles: 1) primary hybrids, 2) locally distributed stabilised apomicts, 3) intraspecific variation in species with a larger distribution range, and 4) unstabilised swarms of hybridogenic biotypes and the derivates thereof (mainly in the montane regions). When facing the problems in Rubus systematics, we argue that all independently evolving lineages should be described as species, including apomictic lineages with very small distribution ranges, both from the mountain‐dwelling glandular series and from the lowlands. Neither primary hybrids (which are not stabilised by apomixis), nor biotypes without an independent and coherent distribution area are independently evolving lineages, and should thus not be described as species. We advocate a restrained attitude when describing new species with limited distribution areas.
Assessment of Parent Orientation towards Autonomy vs. Control in Promoting Children's Healthy Eating and Exercise
Authors: Chiang Evelyn S. , Padilla Miguel A.
Published: April 2012

Background: Self‐determination theory has been widely applied to understanding individuals' health‐related behaviors such as eating healthy foods and exercising. Different reasons for engagement are associated with varying levels of personal agency or autonomy. Authority figures in the environment can be supportive of autonomy or, in contrast, controlling. Although researchers have assessed individuals' perceptions of the autonomy‐support in their environments, studies have not directly examined the authority figures' orientations to autonomy with respect to health contexts. Methods: A new scale, Parent Orientations to Health, was created to investigate parent orientation to autonomy and control with respect to healthy eating and exercise in children. One hundred and forty‐three parents of elementary school‐aged children responded to the scale. Results: Scale validation and reliability results indicate that the scale successfully assessed parent orientation towards autonomy for children in health contexts. Furthermore, parent autonomy orientation varied according to child weight status and the healthiness of the child's diet. Conclusions: Parent orientation towards autonomy can be evaluated through the use of the Parent Orientations to Health scale. In addition, parent autonomy orientation is associated with both the healthiness of the child's diet (as perceived by the parent) and the child's body mass index.
Young children's interest in live animals
Authors: LoBue Vanessa , Bloom Pickard Megan , Sherman Kathleen , Axford Chrystal , DeLoache Judy S.
Published: April 2012

Animals are important stimuli for humans, and for children in particular. In three experiments, we explored children's affinity for animals. In Experiment 1, 11‐ to 40‐month‐old children were presented with a free‐play session in which they were encouraged to interact with several interesting toys and two live animals – a fish and a hamster. Experiment 2 used the same methodology with 18‐ to 36‐month‐old children and two additional animals – a snake and a spider – to examine whether children's behaviours would differ for benign and potentially threatening animals. Finally, in Experiment 3, a more controlled paired‐preference paradigm was employed to assess 18‐ to 33‐month‐old children's interactions with three live animals – a fish, hamster, and gecko – versus three physically similar toy animals. Across all three experiments, children interacted with the animals more often than with the toys. Further, they behaved differently towards the animals than the toys, talking about the animals more than the toys and asking more questions about them. The parents of the children also spent more time interacting with the animals, directing their children's attention more towards the animals than the toys. This research supports the idea that humans have an affinity for animals that draws their attention to animals, even when attractive toys are present.
A Study on Multidisciplinary Optimization of an Axial Compressor Blade Based on Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Luo Chang , Song Liming , Li Jun , Feng Zhenping
Published: April 2012

An aerodynamic single disciplinary optimization and an aerodynamic/structural multidisciplinary optimization of an axial compressor blade are performed using evolutionary algorithms in this paper. The blade is optimized for maximizing its isentropic efficiency in the aerodynamic single disciplinary optimization. The isentropic efficiency of the optimum blade obtained from the aerodynamic single disciplinary optimization is 1.65% higher than that of the reference blade, however, the mechanical performance analysis indicates that it has a higher stress distribution and does not satisfy the vibration frequency constraint. In the multidisciplinary optimization, the maximum of the isentropic efficiency and the minimization of the maximum stress are selected as the design objectives. The analysis results indicate that the method of dealing with minimization of the maximum stress as a design objective is proper and that the presented multiobjective and multidisciplinary optimization method is more suitable for the optimization design of a real turbomachinery blade than the traditional heuristic aerodynamic-structural iteration.