bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transesophageal Echocardiography during Pulmonary Vein Cryoballoon Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kerut Edmund Kenneth , Hanawalt Curtis , McKinnie James
Published: May 2014

We describe our first 20 cases of cryoablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Continuous procedural monitoring with TEE by a cardiologist and senior sonographer assists the electrophysiologist in performance of the cryoballoon procedure of AF. Previously using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) we have found TEE to have better overall procedural imaging, and monitoring for pericardial effusion or thrombus formation. We have found TEE monitoring to be helpful with positioning for interatrial septal (IAS) puncture, catheter tip avoidance of the left atrial appendage (LAA), and guidance of the balloon catheter into each pulmonary vein (PV), with proper positioning within each PV orifice, and documentation of PV occlusion for the cryoballoon procedure. Procedural equipment and the cryoballoon protocol used are presented in detail. The role of TEE imaging during the procedure and in preventing potential dangers is illustrated. It is the goal of this study to demonstrate how the electrophysiology and echocardiography laboratories work together in this cryoablation procedure.
Assessment of the Helical Ventricular Myocardial Band Using Standard Echocardiography
Authors: Hayabuchi Yasunobu , Sakata Miho , Kagami Shoji
Published: May 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of morphological and functional evaluation of the helical ventricular myocardial band using standard echocardiographic images.

Methods

Echocardiographic data were obtained from 132 normal children. We attempted to identify the echogenic bright line serving as the boundary between the ascending and descending segments in the ventricular septum, and between the left and ascending segments in the left ventricular inferior wall in the helical myocardial band model proposed by Torrent‐Guasp. Myocardial deformations on both sides of the bright line were compared using speckle tracking echocardiography.

Results

The bright line separating the ascending from descending segment was visible in the mid‐ventricular septum in the four‐chamber view in all subjects. This echogenic boundary was observed obliquely in the parasternal short‐axis view in 116 subjects (87.9%). There was no significant difference in peak longitudinal or circumferential strain between the ascending and descending segments. However, the time from the QRS onset to peak circumferential strain was significantly lower in the descending than ascending segment (394.5 ± 37.0 vs. 432.7 ± 33.1 ms, P < 0.0001), whereas there was no significant difference in the time to peak longitudinal strain (394.4 ± 26.4 vs. 393.2 ± 24.1 ms). The bright line between the left and ascending segment was detected in the short‐axis view from the subcostal region in 86 subjects (65.2%). The time to peak circumferential strain was significantly lower in the left than ascending segment (380.1 ± 32.0 vs. 435.7 ± 37.9 ms, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

There is a helical ventricular myocardial band that can be observed in standard echocardiographic images.
An unfished area enhances a spiny lobster, Panulirus argus, fishery: implications for management and conservation within a Biosphere Reserve in the Mexican Caribbean
Authors: Ley‐Cooper K. , De Lestang S. , Phillips B. F. , Lozano‐Álvarez E.
Published: May 2014

The Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus, Latreille, is the main source of income for the communities in the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve Mexico. The fishery has recently been certified as sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council provided that further stock assessment is carried out. A total of 379 lobsters were tagged in an unfished area offshore from the Bahía del Espíritu Santo fishing grounds to assess whether lobsters remained within these areas and were thus fully protected. The lobsters recaptured in the shallow area (5.3%) were sufficient to develop a multistate mark recapture model, which takes into account fishing and natural mortality, tag reporting rate and tag loss. This estimated that between 15 and 20% of all adult lobsters dwelling in the unfished area moved into the fishery and were subjected to exploitation. This study suggests that the offshore unfished area provides protection to the majority of the stock in this area while adding to and maintaining fishing yields within the inshore commercial fishery.
Assessment of a catchmentwide salmon habitat rehabilitation scheme on a drained river system in Northern Ireland
Authors: Kennedy R. J. , Johnston P. , Allen M.
Published: May 2014

A catchment‐scale salmon, Salmo salar L., habitat enhancement scheme was developed for the River Main (Northern Ireland) with reference to baseline habitat and electric fishing surveys. In total, 19 separate sites were enhanced using flow deflectors or random boulder addition. Habitat suitability for juvenile salmon increased at enhanced sites following the scheme, and significant changes in underlying physical habitat characteristics (particle size, depth and flow) were detected after the installation of flow deflectors. The overall index of salmon fry recruitment, monitored across the catchment, showed no change between pre‐ and post‐enhancement periods. The mean biomass of salmon evident at individual enhancement sites (5.1 g m−2) was significantly higher than the mean biomass at control sites (1.2 g m−2). Increased densities of >0+ juvenile salmon were associated with enhanced sites relative to controls. Marking studies indicated the potential for long‐range dispersal of juvenile salmon between 0+ (summer) and 1+ (summer) age classes. The potential of the scheme to enhance the local salmon stock was discussed.
The role of social norms and informal sanctions in catch‐and‐release angling
Authors: Stensland S. , Aas Ø.
Published: May 2014

This study focuses on norms and informal sanctions of catch‐and‐release angling and their implications for fishery management. A Web‐based questionnaire of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., anglers in the Lakselva River, Norway, yielded 656 answers (response rate 68 %). Anglers were segmented into four subgroups: catch and release, keeper, something else, trophy angler. In all groups, the reward (positive feeling) was high and punishment was low for releasing a large salmon as expressed by the intensity of self‐sanctions. All groups saw keeping a large salmon mostly as a rewarding experience, although the C&R and trophy segments reported less rewards and more ‘punishment’ for keeping. There is evidence for both a medium strength C&R norm and a weak keep norm in this fishery, receiving different ascriptions between angler groups. The results help understand angler group conflicts and explain how angling behaviour is formed, thereby helping management agencies achieving angler satisfaction.
Changes in floral bouquets from compound‐specific responses to increasing temperatures
Authors: Farré‐Armengol Gerard , Filella Iolanda , Llusià Joan , Niinemets Ülo , Peñuelas Josep
Published: May 2014

We addressed the potential effects of changes in ambient temperature on the profiles of volatile emissions from flowers and tested whether warming could induce significant quantitative and qualitative changes in floral emissions, which would potentially interfere with plant–pollinator chemical communication. We measured the temperature responses of floral emissions of various common species of Mediterranean plants using dynamic headspace sampling and used GC‐MS to identify and quantify the emitted terpenes. Floral emissions increased with temperature to an optimum and thereafter decreased. The responses to temperature modeled here predicted increases in the rates of floral terpene emission of 0.03–1.4‐fold, depending on the species, in response to an increase of 1 °C in the mean global ambient temperature. Under the warmest projections that predict a maximum increase of 5 °C in the mean temperature of Mediterranean climates in the Northern Hemisphere by the end of the century, our models predicted increases in the rates of floral terpene emissions of 0.34–9.1‐fold, depending on the species. The species with the lowest emission rates had the highest relative increases in floral terpene emissions with temperature increases of 1–5 °C. The response of floral emissions to temperature differed among species and among different compounds within the species. Warming not only increased the rates of total emissions, but also changed the ratios among compounds that constituted the floral scents, i.e. increased the signal for pollinators, but also importantly altered the signal fidelity and probability of identification by pollinators, especially for specialists with a strong reliance on species‐specific floral blends.
Natural variation in Miscanthus sinensis seed germination under low temperatures
Authors: Dwiyanti Maria S. , Stewart J. Ryan , Nishiwaki Aya , Yamada Toshihiko
Published: May 2014

Species within the genus Miscanthus show potential as sustainable bioenergy crops given their low nutrient requirements and high biomass yields. One such species, Miscanthus sinensis, has a wide natural distribution and wide phenotypic variation, including its seed germination characteristics. Such characteristics need to be considered, particularly in ensuring plant establishment in regions with harsh winters. Germination rates were measured for 33 M. sinensis accessions from different latitudinal regions in Japan. Generally, seeds of accessions from regions of higher latitude germinate earlier than those from more southerly regions under both warm (30°C/20°C day/night) and cool temperature (15°C/10°C day/night) treatments. However, accessions that had lighter seeds germinated late regardless of origin. This survey serves as a basis for identifying M. sinensis accessions that are able to germinate early under low‐temperature conditions.
European Society of Endodontology position statement: The use of CBCT in Endodontics
Authors: Patel S. , Durack C. , Abella F. , Roig M. , Shemesh H. , Lambrechts P. , Lemberg K.
Published: May 2014

This Position Statement represents a consensus of an expert committee convened by the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) on the use of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). The statement is based on the current scientific evidence, and provides the clinician with evidence‐based criteria on when to use CBCT in Endodontics. Given the dynamic and changing nature of research, development of new devices and clinical practice relating to CBCT, this Position Statement will be updated within 3 years, or before that time should new evidence become available.
American India Pale Ale matrix rich in xanthohumol is potent in suppressing proliferation and elevating apoptosis of human colon cancer cells
Authors: Henley Twila , Reddivari Lavanya , Broeckling Corey D. , Bunning Marisa , Miller Jeff , Avens John S. , Stone Martha , Prenni Jessica E. , Vanamala Jairam
Published: May 2014

American India Pale Ales (IPAs) with and without addition of dark/roasted malts (DRM) and dry hopping (DP) were analysed to determine whether these processes will increase total phenolic content (TP), antioxidant capacity (AA) and the levels of bioactive compounds (xanthohumol, XN and isoxanthohumol, IX). In addition, bioactivity of whole beer matrices, that is, the ‘phytochemical team approach,’ was compared to isolated compounds, the ‘silver bullet approach,’ by measuring antiproliferative and pro‐apoptotic properties using HCT 116 human colon cancer cells. DP and addition of DRM elevated the XN, IX, TP and AA. Dark malts reduced losses in XN and TP due to filtration. Xanthohumol content positively correlated with phenolic content (r = 0.88, P = 0.0002), indicating that the processes which increased xanthohumol content also elevated other bioactive compounds in beer. However, whole extract from IPAs were more potent in suppressing proliferation and elevating apoptosis in colon cancer cells compared with xanthohumol alone.
Non‐surgical and supportive periodontal therapy: predictors of compliance
Authors: Delatola Chrysoula , Adonogianaki Evagelia , Ioannidou Effie
Published: May 2014

Aim

To identify predictors of compliance during non‐surgical and supportive periodontal therapy (SPT).

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective study, demographic, dental, medical data of 427 new patients in a private practice were collected. Data were analysed in statistical models with non‐surgical therapy and SPT compliance used as dependent variables.

Results

Of the 427 patients, 17.3% never agreed to initial therapy, 10.7% never completed therapy and 20.8% completed treatment, but never entered SPT. Of the 218 SPT patients, 56% became non‐attenders after a period of 20 months, 33% were erratic attenders and 10.5% were regular attenders until the end of the observation period (5.5–6.5 years). Patients became erratic attenders after a mean period of regular attendance of 18.1 ± 16.2 months, whereas 49.6% of the patients, who abandoned SPT, were regular attenders until the time they stopped. In a univariate correlation model, periodontal disease severity emerged as a significant predictor of the completion of non‐surgical periodontal therapy (p = 0.01). In a multivariate linear regression model, smoking was negatively associated with SPT compliance (p = 0.047).

Conclusions

A low compliance of the population was observed. Smoking and periodontal disease severity represented significant, but modest modifiers of a patient compliance with SPT and initial therapy respectively.
Translation and validation of a Chinese version of the 8‐item Morisky medication adherence scale in myocardial infarction patients
Authors: Yan Jun , You Li‐Ming , Yang Qiaohong , Liu Bailing , Jin Shangyi , Zhou Jingjing , Lin Chunxi , Morisky Donald E.
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

 Poor medication adherence is a major global public health challenge. A valid, reliable, cost‐effective tool for measuring medication adherence would lead to a better understanding of non‐adherence and lay the groundwork for interventions aimed at facilitating adherence to therapies. The aim of this study was to translate and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the 8‐item Morisky medication adherence scale (C‐MMAS‐8) in Chinese myocardial infarction (MI) patients.

Methods

 Psychometric testing of the C‐MMAS‐8 was conducted using a convenience sample of 176 MI patients recruited from four major hospitals in Guangzhou in southern China. Socio‐demographic data, C‐MMAS‐8 and three subscales of the revised illness perception questionnaire (treatment control, personal control and illness coherence subscales) were administered to the MI patients. Thirty MI patients participated in a 4‐week retest.

Results

 The C‐MMAS‐8 demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.77) and test–retest reliability (r = 0.88, P < 0.001). Significant correlations with treatment control subscale (r = 0.32, P < 0.01), personal control subscale (r = 0.47, P < 0.01), and illness coherence subscale (r = 0.44, P < 0.01) of the revised illness perception questionnaire demonstrated good construct validity.

Conclusions

 The psychometric properties of the C‐MMAS‐8 are satisfactory.
Economic impact of 13‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in Finnish adults ≥50 years with underlying chronic medical conditions
Authors: Martikainen Janne A. , Soini Erkki J. , Laine Juha , Åhman Heidi , Postila Ville , Klemets Peter
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPD) are associated with substantial burden in adults (≥50 years). Moreover, adults with vascular, metabolic or respiratory diseases have been shown to have a 3–6 times higher risk of IPD when compared with their healthy controls. These persons at higher risk are likely to benefit most from pneumococcal vaccinations. The 13‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) was recently introduced to prevent the 13 most prevalent serotypes causing invasive pneumococcal disease in adults. The objective of this study was to estimate the expected 5‐year economic impact of targeted PCV13 vaccination compared with no vaccination in Finnish adults (≥50 years) at moderate or high risk for IPD.

Methods

A budget impact model was developed to predict the impact of PCV13 vaccination in terms of the costs and IPD events avoided for years 2012–2016.

Results

Approximately 35% of the 2.2 million Finns over 50 years of age can be considered to be at moderate or high risk for IPD because of underlying chronic medical conditions. Vaccination of these people with PCV13 could provide an estimated net budget savings of about €218 million compared with the current no‐vaccination situation over the next 5 years. Among the risk groups considered, the largest absolute net savings (€66.2 million) could be expected to be obtained by vaccinating people with heart disease, due to its high prevalence in the target population.

Conclusion

In Finland, the immunization with PCV13 vaccine, of adults (≥50 years) at moderate and high risk of IPD, is estimated to lead to substantial cost savings in the 5 years after vaccination.
Chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy and vitamin B6: a controlled population‐based study
Authors: Visser Nora A. , Notermans Nicolette C. , Degen Lieveke A. R. , de Kruijk Jelle R. , van den Berg Leonard H. , Vrancken Alexander F. J. E.
Published: May 2014

Abstract

Vitamin B6 intoxication can result in a sensory ataxic neuropathy, but the association with a milder predominantly sensory or sensorimotor phenotype in chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (CIAP) remains unclear. A total of 381 patients with CIAP and 140 healthy controls were prospectively included. In a standardized fashion the use of vitamin B6 containing supplements and vitamin B6 levels were compared between patients and controls. On follow‐up, patients were questioned about cessation of supplement use and the impact on the symptoms of polyneuropathy. Vitamin B6 levels in patients (median: 99 nmol/l, range: 38–2,967 nmol) were not significantly higher than in controls (median: 109 nmol/l, range: 41–2,373 nmol/l, p = 0.58), nor were daily dose, cumulative dose or duration of supplement use. However, more patients (31%) than controls (22%) used vitamin B6 containing supplements (odds ratio [OR] 1.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0–2.7, p = 0.032). Follow‐up of patients confirming the cessation of supplements showed slow progression of symptoms in 64%, stabilization in 26%, and regression in 10%. On the basis of our prospective case–control study and review of the literature, an association between CIAP and vitamin B6 exposure or elevated vitamin B6 levels appears unlikely.
A description of nurses' decision‐making in managing electrocardiographic monitor alarms
Authors: Gazarian Priscilla K , Carrier Natalie , Cohen Rachel , Schram Haley , Shiromani Samara
Published: May 2014

Aims and objectives

To describe the cues and factors that nurses use in their decision‐making when responding to clinical alarms.

Background

Alarms are designed to be very sensitive, and as a result, they are not very specific. Lack of adherence to the practice standards for electrocardiographic monitoring in hospital settings has been observed, resulting in overuse of the electrocardiographic monitoring. Monitoring without consideration of clinical indicators uses scarce healthcare resources and may even produce untoward circumstances because of alarm fatigue. With so many false alarms, alarm fatigue represents a symptom of a larger problem. It cannot be fixed until all of the factors that contribute to its existence have been examined.

Design

This was a qualitative descriptive study.

Method

This study was conducted at an academic medical centre located in the Northeast United States. Eight participants were enrolled using purposive sampling. Nurses were observed for two three‐hour periods. Following each observation, the nurse was interviewed using the critical decision method to describe the cognitive processes related to the alarm activities. Qualitative data from the conducted interviews were analysed via an a priori framework founded in the critical decision method.

Results

This study reveals information, experience, guidance and decision‐making as the four prominent categories contributing to nurses' decision‐making in relation to alarm management. Managing technology was a category not identified a priori that emerged in the data analysis.

Conclusion

Nurses revealed a breadth of information needed to adequately identify and interpret monitor alarms, and how they used that information to put the alarms into the particular context of an individual patient's situations.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding the cues and factors nurses use when responding to cardiac alarms will guide the development of learning experiences and inform policies to guide practice.
From a diagnostic and particular approach to a person‐centred approach: a development project
Authors: Larsson Helena , Blomqvist Kerstin
Published: May 2014

Aims and objectives

To investigate changes over time in an interdisciplinary group that was engaged in development work regarding pain and pain assessment.

Background

The outcomes of nursing research do not always find their way to the daily care of patients. This is evident within, for instance, physical rehabilitation, where relieving patients' pain is a major challenge. To gain new understanding, develop and change, registered nurses have a great part in engaging their staff.

Design

A qualitative study using a participatory action research approach was used, and a hermeneutic analysis was conducted.

Methods

A group of three registered nurses, two assistant nurses and a physiotherapist took part in focus group sessions. This group was followed with seven repeated sessions during a period of five months from January 2010 until June 2010. A hermeneutic analysis was used.

Results

The participants changed their attitudes towards the patient in pain, their own caring role and the team's role towards a more person‐centred care.

Conclusions

Participation and reflection were key aspects as means to transfer knowledge into action and establish change. The participants came to the sessions, shared actively their experiences and expressed pride in the work they accomplished. This can be seen as an expression of a need to share and a joy to be working together in a person‐oriented development area. In addition, the approach seemed to contribute to increased job satisfaction.

Relevance to clinical practice

The participants expressed that their work resulted in a changed approach to pain and pain assessment in their daily practice at the ward. The participants were actively engaged in enhancing their work with pain and pain assessment in their own daily practice and in implementing research‐based knowledge.
Patient involvement climate: views and behaviours among registered nurses in myocardial infarction care
Authors: Arnetz Judith E , Zhdanova Ludmila
Published: May 2014

Aims and objectives

To introduce and define the patient involvement climate and measure its quality and strength via views and behaviours among nurses in coronary care units.

Background

Patient involvement is receiving increased attention among healthcare providers. To better understand and optimise the interpersonal dynamics of patient involvement, it is important to study the organisational context in which the patient–provider interaction occurs.

Design

Cross‐sectional, self‐report questionnaire study.

Methods

Registered nurses across 12 coronary care units (n = 303) completed a questionnaire reporting their views and behaviours regarding patient involvement. Analyses assessed climate quality (the positive or negative nature of nurses' perceptions) and climate strength (the degree of consensus within coronary care units).

Results

Climate quality and strength were greatest for the dimensions measuring nurses' views of patient involvement, the nurse–patient information exchange process and nurses' responsiveness to patient needs. Climate quality and strength were weaker for the dimensions measuring nurses' views of the hindrances associated with patient involvement, discussion of daily activities and efforts to motivate patients to take responsibility for their health. In units with consensus that patient involvement poses hindrances, nurses were less likely to address patient needs.

Conclusions

When nurses perceived patient involvement as less of a hindrance in their work, they were more responsive to patient needs. A patient involvement climate characterised by motivational behaviour among nurses was marked by better information exchange and discussion of suitable activities postdischarge.

Relevance to clinical practice

Managers can capitalise on positive climate aspects by encouraging ward activities that facilitate active patient involvement among nurses. One suggestion is educational interventions at the workplace focused on reducing perceptions of patient involvement as a hindrance and encouraging the attitudes that it can enrich nursing work and patient outcomes.
Reliability of pain tolerance threshold testing by applying an electrical current stimulus to the alveolar ridge
Authors: Nakashima Y. , Kimoto S. , Kawai Y.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of testing pain tolerance threshold (PTT) by applying an electrical current stimulus to the alveolar ridge. Twenty volunteers studying or working at the Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo participated in this study. Participants were seated comfortably on a dental chair in a quiet room during testing. A single operator obtained mucosal PTT measurements around the right greater palatine foramen using a Neurometer CPT/C® device (Neurotron Inc., Baltimore, MD, USA) to deliver electrical stimulation at frequencies of 5, 250 and 2000 Hz. The participant released a button to automatically discontinue the stimulus when it could no longer be tolerated. Two types of factors were confirmed: the consistency of repeated measurements and a potential carry‐over effect on PTTs. The consistency and carry‐over effects of pain with regard to PTT measurements were analysed via Cronbach's coefficient α. The Cronbach's coefficient α of PTTs calculated more than 6 days of PTT testing at 5, 250 and 2000 Hz was 0·97, 0·95 and 0·97, respectively, suggesting that the consistency of the measurements was excellent. The Cronbach's coefficient α calculated when the three frequencies of 5, 250 and 2000 Hz were applied in different orders was 0·91, 0·87 and 0·90, respectively, suggesting no carry‐over effect. In conclusion, the measurement of PTTs at the alveolar ridge as assessed by applying an electrical current stimulus with an electro‐diagnostic device exhibited excellent reliability, and thus, it constitutes a widely available option for PTT measurement in the clinical setting.
Mericitabine and ritonavir‐boosted danoprevir with or without ribavirin in treatment‐naive HCV genotype 1 patients: INFORM‐SVR study
Authors: Gane Edward J. , Pockros Paul J. , Zeuzem Stefan , Marcellin Patrick , Shikhman Anna , Bernaards Coen , Zhou Julian , Yetzer Ellen S. , Ballester Rosa , Dwyer Cindy , Tong Xiao , Nájera Isabel , Bertasso Anne , Hammond Janet , Kindrick Amy , Morcos Peter N. , Smith Patrick , Stancic Saray , Shulman Nancy S.
Published: May 2014

Background & Aims

Safety and tolerability of peginterferon‐based hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection therapy remains suboptimal, even when direct‐acting antiviral agents are added. This study assessed the efficacy, safety and tolerability of mericitabine combined with ritonavir‐boosted danoprevir (danoprevir/r) ± ribavirin for up to 24 weeks in treatment‐naïve HCV genotype (G)1 infected patients.

Methods

Patients received twice daily mericitabine (1000 mg) and danoprevir/r (100 mg/100 mg) plus either ribavirin (1000/1200 mg/day; Arm A) or placebo (Arm B) for 12 or 24 weeks. Patients with HCV RNA <43 IU/ml between Weeks 2 and 8 and HCV RNA <15 IU/ml at Week 10 were rerandomized (1:1) at Week 12 to discontinue/continue assigned regimens until Week 24. Because of unacceptable relapse rates in both 12‐week arms and in ribavirin‐free Arm B, treatment was extended to 24 weeks and patients in Arm B received peginterferon alfa‐2a/ribavirin. The primary outcome was sustained virological response 24 weeks after end of treatment (SVR24).

Results

In Arm A, the SVR24 rate in patients receiving 24 weeks of therapy was 37.9% (25/66); 63.6% (14/22) in G1b and 25.0% (11/44) in G1a patients. Virologic breakthrough and relapse were associated with danoprevir‐resistant virus in most cases. The mericitabine‐resistance mutation (NS5BS282T) was detected in two patients bearing dual resistant virus NS3 R155K/NS5B S282T and dual resistance mutation L159F/L320F in one patient. Treatment was safe and well tolerated.

Conclusions

Mericitabine, danoprevir/r plus ribavirin for 24 weeks were safe and well tolerated. However, SVR rates were poor, achieving rates of only 25.0% in G1a and 63.6% in G1b patients.
Telbivudine therapy may shape CD4+ T‐cell response to prevent liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Li Jing , Jia Minglei , Liu Yun , She Weimin , Li Lei , Wang Jiyao , Jiang Wei
Published: May 2014

Background & Aims

Nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) can indirectly restore host immunity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) by inhibiting virus replication. We aimed to investigate whether telbivudine could prevent HBV‐related fibrosis progression by their influence on CD4+ T‐cell response.

Methods

Thirty‐six HBeAg‐positive patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) were enrolled for 52‐week telbivudine monotherapy and were followed at treatment week (TW)‐0, 4, 12, 24 and 52. By TW‐52, the patients were classified into a complete‐response group (CR, n = 10) with both negative HBV‐DNA and HBeAg, or a part‐response group (PR, n = 11) only with negative DNA, or a non‐response group (NR, n = 15) still with positive DNA. The peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were prepared for further flow cytometric and real‐time PCR analyses, and also for the in vitro experiments with primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs).

Results

Peripherally, all chronic HBV‐infected subjects showed the involvement of CD4+ T‐cell responses, among whom the inactive carriers (IC) had Th1 (CD4+IFNγ+) dominated, CHB had Th17 (CD4+IL‐17+) dominated, while the immune tolerant (IT) subjects had Treg (CD4+CD25highFoxp3+) dominated. Besides, we found the therapeutic responses to telbivudine were especially associated with up‐regulation of Th1 and Th17, and down‐regulation of Treg. Furthermore, compared to CD4+ cells from CR, those from NR could in vitro significantly exacerbate cell activation, proliferation and cytokine production of HSCs, which were partly mediated by IL‐4 and TGF‐β1.

Conclusions

Telbivudine might slow down HBV‐related liver fibrosis progression by restoring CD4+ T‐cell responses against HBV.
The burden of caring for people with dementia at the end of life in nursing homes: a postdeath study among nursing staff
Authors: Albers Gwenda , Van den Block Lieve , Vander Stichele Robert
Published: May 2014

Aims

To investigate how often nursing staff perceive caring for nursing home residents with dementia at the end of life as an emotional and/or physical burden, and to identify associated factors.

Design

Postdeath study conducted in 2010 in Flanders, Belgium. Nursing homes were selected through random clustersampling.

Methods

All residents who died with dementia in a three‐month period were identified, and a structured questionnaire was completed by the nurse mostly involved. Nursing staff were asked to indicate how they perceived burden of caregiving for this resident on 10‐point scale.

Results

Sixty‐nine out of 120 nursing homes (response rate 58%) participated in the study. In 37% and 32% of cases, respectively, the nursing staff reported that they perceived themselves as experiencing a high emotional and physical burden. In cases where the resident had capacity for medical decision making during the last week of life and where the nurse had spoken with a relative about wishes for medical end‐of‐life treatments, they were more likely to report an emotional burden. A physical burden was more likely to be reported where the resident had decubitus ulcers or had developed pneumonia.

Conclusion

In one‐third of cases, nursing staff experienced a high emotional and/or physical burden. While experiencing a physical burden seems to be related to the poorer clinical status of the resident, an emotional burden was more likely to be related to greater and closer contact with the resident or a relative and to the nurse being involved in the process of care and decision making in the last phase of life.

Implications for practice

This study highlights the need to support nursing home staff in providing compassionate end‐of‐life care for people with dementia and suggests that both the physical and emotional burdens in staff should be monitored regularly to achieve optimal working.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Subcutaneous Methylnaltrexone in Patients with Advanced Illness and Opioid‐Induced Constipation: A Responder Analysis of 2 Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Trials
Authors: Nalamachu Srinivas R. , Pergolizzi Joseph , Taylor Robert , Slatkin Neal E. , Barrett Andrew C. , Yu Jing , Bortey Enoch , Paterson Craig , Forbes William P.
Published: May 2014

Background

Subcutaneous methylnaltrexone is efficacious and well tolerated in inducing bowel movements in patients with advanced illness and opioid‐induced constipation (OIC); factors determining optimal responsiveness to OIC treatment, however, have not been elucidated. This post hoc responder analysis examined the influence of demographic and baseline characteristics on methylnaltrexone efficacy and tolerability in this population.

Methods

Data were pooled from 2 randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase 3 studies of subcutaneous methylnaltrexone (0.15 and 0.30 mg/kg) [ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: Study 301 – NCT00401362; Study 302 – NCT00402038]. Subgroup analyses of the primary outcome, percentage of patients with rescue medication‐free bowel movements (RFBM) within 4 hours of first dose, were conducted for age, sex, primary diagnosis, baseline constipation‐related distress score, and baseline oral morphine equivalent dose.

Results

More than 50% of 165 patients treated with either methylnaltrexone dose experienced a RFBM within 4 hours vs. 14.6% of 123 placebo‐treated patients (P < 0.0001 for both methylnaltrexone doses vs. placebo). Methylnaltrexone response was significantly greater than placebo response in all subgroups (P < 0.01). The largest differences vs. placebo were observed for patients taking methylnaltrexone 0.30 mg/kg with a noncancer primary diagnosis (70.0% [methylnaltrexone] vs. 12.8% [placebo]; P < 0.001) and for patients taking methylnaltrexone 0.30 mg/kg maintained on ≥ 150 mg/day baseline morphine equivalent doses (73.3% vs. 16.7%; P < 0.0001). Common adverse events were abdominal pain (pooled methylnaltrexone: 27.9%, placebo: 9.8%), flatulence (13.3%, 5.7%), and nausea (10.9%, 4.9%). Tolerability was comparable across subgroups.

Conclusion

Subcutaneous methylnaltrexone provides a rapid, robust, and consistent RFBM response in patients with advanced illness and OIC. Methylnaltrexone 0.30 mg/kg may elicit particularly favorable responses in select patient populations.
Ostwald Ripening During Freezing on Scalable Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Authors: Miljkovic Nenad , Preston Daniel J. , Wang Evelyn N. , Enright Ryan
Published: May 2014

Photogallery Entry 1
Evolution of Differential Pressure Inside a Venturi Tube With Traveling Air Slug
Authors: Oh Dong-Wook , Bae Jae Hyun , Park Jang Min , Lee Jungho
Published: May 2014

Photogallery Entry 5
Polygonal Droplets on Microstructured Surfaces
Authors: Raj Rishi , Adera Solomon , Wang Evelyn N.
Published: May 2014

Photogallery Entry 6
Visualization in the Contact Line Region of an Evaporating Nanofluid Drop
Authors: Shin Dong Hwan , Allen Jeffrey S , Choi Chang Kyoung , Lee Seong Hyuk
Published: May 2014

Photogallery Entry 13
Motion of Spherical Droplets against Marangoni Flow in a Thin Liquid Film
Authors: Davanlou Ashkan , Cho Hyoung J. , Kumar Ranganathan
Published: May 2014

Photogallery Entry 15
Free Vibration of a Multilayered One-Dimensional Quasi-Crystal Plate
Authors: Waksmanski Natalie , Pan Ernian , Yang Lian-Zhi , Gao Yang
Published: May 2014

An exact closed-form solution of free vibration of a simply supported and multilayered one-dimensional (1D) quasi-crystal (QC) plate is derived using the pseudo-Stroh formulation and propagator matrix method. Natural frequencies and mode shapes are presented for a homogenous QC plate, a homogenous crystal plate, and two sandwich plates made of crystals and QCs. The natural frequencies and the corresponding mode shapes of the plates show the influence of stacking sequence on multilayered plates and the different roles phonon and phason modes play in dynamic analysis of QCs. This work could be employed to further expand the applications of QCs especially if used as composite materials.
Time-Dependent Mechanism Reliability Analysis With Envelope Functions and First-Order Approximation
Authors: Du Xiaoping
Published: May 2014

This work develops an envelope approach to time-dependent mechanism reliability defined in a period of time where a certain motion output is required. Since the envelope function of the motion error is not explicitly related to time, the time-dependent problem can be converted into a time-independent problem. The envelope function is approximated by piecewise hyperplanes. To find the expansion points for the hyperplanes, the approach linearizes the motion error at the means of random dimension variables, and this approximation is accurate because the tolerances of the dimension variables are small. The expansion points are found with the maximum probability density at the failure threshold. The time-dependent mechanism reliability is then estimated by a multivariable normal distribution at the expansion points. As an example, analytical equations are derived for a four-bar function generating mechanism. The numerical example shows the significant accuracy improvement.
A Probabilistic Environmentally Assisted Cracking Model for Steam Generator Tubes
Authors: Hyun Lee Tae , Young Yoon Jae , On Nam Hyo , Soon Hwang Il
Published: May 2014

A probabilistic environmentally assisted cracking (PEAC) model was developed to describe the propagation of primary water stress corrosion cracking for Alloy 600 in roll-transition region of steam generator (SG), a severe environmentally assisted cracking problem in pressurized water reactors (PWRs). In the PEAC model, crack growth rate (CGR) and probability of failure (POF) were obtained by adopting a Bayesian inference that decreases the uncertainties of unknown parameters and their distributions in theoretical equations. The CGR is mainly dependent on three factors: probability of detection (POD), initial crack size distribution, and stress distribution. The POD, which is a logistic link was updated with Bayesian inference based on SG inspection data. The crack size distribution, which is relative to initiation time expressed by a Weibull function, was also updated with Bayesian inference using POD. The stress distribution caused by mechanical rolling is considered to be a major contributing factor along the SG tube. It based on finite element analysis is deterministic model unlike POD and initial crack distribution. According to this model, the uncertainty of hyperparameters in the CGR which are parameters of a prior distribution was reduced, and the appropriate level of confidence was achieved by utilizing the available data. Moreover, a benchmark study for the SG tube was performed to evaluate reliability of Alloy 600 SG components in nuclear power plants. The POF was estimated from the developed PEAC model and failure criteria by taking into account the effects of inspection and repair of defective tubes. The results from this study are applied to demonstrate risk reduction in PWRs by adopting risk-informed in-service inspection.
Evaluation of a Thermal-Tuft Probe for Turbulent Separating and Reattaching Flows
Authors: Schwaab Quentin , Weiss Julien
Published: May 2014

The validation and testing of a thermal-tuft probe is described in detail. The thermal tuft consists of three parallel wires where the middle wire is heated and the two lateral wires act as resistance thermometers, thereby sensing the flow direction. The probe's function principle is validated in an acoustic resonator that generates a nearly sinusoidal velocity perturbation with zero mean. It is shown that the variation in electrical resistance of the sensing wires is a measure of the flow direction. The probe's sensitivity to the heater current in the central wire and to the flow angle is also investigated. The electronic circuit is validated by placing the probe on a mechanical shaker. The output voltage is shown to be consistent with the variation in electrical resistance of the sensing wires. The flow direction can thus simply be measured by recording the probe's output voltage with a single digital data-acquisition channel. Finally, the thermal tuft is evaluated in a low-speed, pressure-driven, turbulent, separation-bubble flow. It is shown that the forward-flow fraction and the intermittent frequency can be measured with an uncertainty of about ±1.5%. The positions of separation and reattachment in the test section, measured with the thermal tuft, are consistent with flow-visualization experiments reported elsewhere.
Nanoparticle-Assisted Heating Utilizing a Low-Cost White Light Source
Authors: Taylor Robert A. , Kai Wong Jun , Baek Sungchul , Hewakuruppu Yasitha , Jiang Xuchuan , Chen Chuyang , Gunawan Andrey
Published: May 2014

In this experimental study, a filtered white light is used to induce heating in water-based dispersions of 20 nm diameter gold nanospheres (GNSs)—enabling a low-cost form of plasmonic photothermal heating. The resulting temperature fields were measured using an infrared (IR) camera. The effect of incident radiative flux (ranging from 0.38 to 0.77 W·cm−2) and particle concentration (ranging from 0.25–1.0 × 1013 particles per mL) on the solution's temperature were investigated. The experimental results indicate that surface heat treatments via GNSs can be achieved through complementary tuning of GNS solutions and filtered light.
An Investigation of the Effect of Weatherstrip Seals on Vehicle Vibration and Acoustics Using an Alternative Modeling Technique
Authors: Tuncer Aydin , Anlas Gunay , Yilmaz Yasin
Published: May 2014

In this study, the effect of weatherstrip seals on panel vibrations and structure borne noise is studied. First, a test structure is built to model vehicle's body and door; hammer impact tests are carried out to determine frequency shifts in door vibration modes with the inclusion of rubber seals. Then, a finite element model of the test structure is built. Rubber seals are modeled as spring elements, and a modal analysis is carried out. Finite element results are compared to experimental ones to check the validity of the model used. Following a parametric study to determine stiffness of linear springs, the full vehicle is modeled using finite elements, and the effect of rubber weatherstrip seals on sound pressure level (SPL) inside the passenger compartment is studied. Frequency response curves are plotted.
Discussion of “Nanoscale Fluid Mechanics and Energy Conversion” (Chen, X., Xu, B., and Liu, L., 2014, ASME Appl. Mech. Rev., 66(5), p. 050803)
Authors: Eijkel Jan
Published: May 2014

The authors of the paper “Nanoscale Fluid Mechanics and Energy Conversion” have presented an overview of recent applications of nanofluidic phenomena for energy conversion and storage. The discussion given here aims to place this paper in a broader context of literature and theory.
A model for sound propagation between two adsorbing microporous plates
Authors: Nori Massimiliano , Brandani Stefano
Published: May 2014

A model describing the sound propagation between two infinite adsorbing plates is proposed in order to investigate the extension to the audible sound range of the Frequency Response method applied to the measurement of diffusion in micropores. The model relates adsorption parameters (i.e., diffusivity and equilibrium constant) to an acoustic quantity (i.e., propagation constant). The equations describing sound propagation in the presence of adsorbing boundaries are obtained on the basis of the classical Kirchhoff theory [(1868). Ann. Phys. (Leipzig) 134, 177–193]. The solution is derived using the Low Reduced Frequency Approximation method [Tijdeman, (1975). J. Sound Vib. 39, 1–33].
Estimation of the low-frequency components of the head-related transfer functions of animals from photographs
Authors: Rébillat Marc , Benichoux Victor , Otani Makoto , Keriven Renaud , Brette Romain
Published: May 2014

Reliable animal head-related transfer function (HRTF) estimation procedures are needed for several practical applications, for example, to investigate the neuronal mechanisms of sound localization using virtual acoustic spaces or to have a quantitative description of the different localization cues available to a given animal species. Here, two established techniques are combined to estimate an animal's HRTF from photographs by taking into account as much morphological detail as possible. The first step of the method consists in building a three-dimensional-model of the animal from pictures taken with a standard camera. The HRTFs are then estimated by means of a rapid boundary-element-method implementation. This combined method is validated on a taxidermist model of a cat by comparing binaural and monaural localization cues extracted from estimated and measured HRTFs. It is shown that it provides a reliable way to estimate low-frequency HRTF, which is difficult to obtain with standard acoustical measurements procedures because of reflections.
Wave propagation in sandwich panels with a poroelastic core
Authors: Liu Hao , Finnveden Svante , Barbagallo Mathias , Lopez Arteaga Ines
Published: May 2014

Wave propagation in sandwich panels with a poroelastic core, which is modeled by Biot's theory, is investigated using the waveguide finite element method. A waveguide poroelastic element is developed based on a displacement-pressure weak form. The dispersion curves of the sandwich panel are first identified as propagating or evanescent waves by varying the damping in the panel, and wave characteristics are analyzed by examining their motions. The energy distributions are calculated to identify the dominant motions. Simplified analytical models are also devised to show the main physics of the corresponding waves. This wave propagation analysis provides insight into the vibro-acoustic behavior of sandwich panels lined with elastic porous materials.