bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recruitment ecology of pelagic‐broadcast spawning minnows: paradigms from the ocean advance science and conservation of an imperilled freshwater fauna
Authors: Hoagstrom Christopher W , Turner Thomas F
Published: August 2013

Pelagic‐broadcast spawning is a dominant mode of fish reproduction in the oceans and is associated with Fundamental Triad (i.e. nutrient enrichment, nutrient concentration, propagule retention) and Loophole (i.e. disruption of larval competition and predation) processes that are mediated by water currents. Pelagic‐broadcast spawning is uncommon in freshwater, but is employed by an evolutionarily convergent spawning guild in rivers on the Great Plains, North America. We reviewed ecological studies of pelagic‐broadcast spawning minnows to evaluate whether Fundamental Triad and Loophole concepts explain the adaptive significance of this behaviour. Pelagic‐broadcast spawning minnows exhibit spawning periodicity dependent on floods. Nutrient enrichment, nutrient concentration and propagule retention are enhanced during flood recession. Retention is also enhanced by high fecundity and rapid development of pelagic‐broadcast propagules. Predation and competition threats are relatively low in temporary, patchily distributed nurseries present during flood recession. Extended spawning periods and diffusive spread of juveniles and adults ensure annual recruitment despite the unpredictable and often harsh conditions in rivers on the plains. Over the last century, pelagic‐broadcast spawners have suffered declines due to dewatering, flood control and sediment deprivation that disrupt natural Fundamental Triad and Loophole processes. We propose that restoration of conditions necessary for Fundamental Triad and Loophole processes to operate will be most successful at stopping decline and extinction of pelagic‐broadcast spawning minnows of the Great Plains.
Rhabdoid morphology in gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) is associated with PDGFRA mutations but does not imply aggressive behaviour
Authors: Schaefer Inga‐Marie , Ströbel Philipp , Cameron Silke , Beham Alexander , Otto Claudia , Schildhaus Hans‐Ulrich , Agaimy Abbas
Published: August 2013

Aims

Rhabdoid morphology resembling that of the aggressive paediatric rhabdoid tumours occurs in various malignancies usually lacking characteristic SMARCB1 (INI1) loss. Little is known about the clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of the rhabdoid phenotype in gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs).

Methods and results

Six gastric rhabdoid GISTs were examined by immunohistochemistry, KIT and platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐α gene (PDGFRA) mutation analysis, and comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). All tumours expressed KIT, PDGFRA, DOG‐1, and SMARCB1 (two of six with a mosaic pattern). Five of six tumours harboured PDGFRA mutations (D842V in four; N659K in one), and one case was wild type for KIT/PDGFRA and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) A‐negative and SDHB‐negative by immunohistochemistry. CGH revealed aberrations typical of GISTs (−1p, −14, and −22q in three, five, and three cases, respectively), with a mean of 1.7 aberrations in the epithelioid component and 2.7 in the rhabdoid component. None showed progression (mean follow‐up of 25 months).

Conclusions

Rhabdoid gastric GISTs are associated with epithelioid morphology and PDGFRA mutations. They harbour CGH aberrations that are typical of ordinary GISTs in both tumour components. The presence of additional genetic alterations in the rhabdoid areas indicates evolution from the epithelioid components, and possible genetic and biological progression. On the basis of our series and previous reports, rhabdoid morphology in GISTs presumably does not imply aggressiveness.
Coexistence of Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis with Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: Liang Yongping , Wang Jun , Li Baomin
Published: August 2013

Background

Studies have hypothesized that alterations in haemodynamics and rheological properties in the main vessels like the main stem of the carotid artery or the internal carotid arteries are responsible for the formation of cerebral aneurysms.

Aims

The objectives of the current analyses were to collate data that have examined the occurrence of cerebral aneurysm with coexisting internal carotid artery stenosis.

Methods

Data sources were collated from detailed PubMed search obtained from 1990 till current. Published literature that deals with the epidemiologic properties as well as prevalence was scanned for data extraction. Publications that reported coexistence of internal carotid artery stenosis with intracranial aneurysm, detected by any modality of imaging, was included in the current study. Spearman's correlation analyses were used to obtain significant information of coexistence of an intracranial aneurysm with an extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis.

Results

The frequency of concurrent extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis and an unruptured cerebral artery aneurysm is not known exactly, but has been estimated to be approximately 4%. The major limitations of the current analyses actually can be retrospectively traced to the lack of detailed analyses in this important area of investigation.

Conclusions

Although low in absolute occurrence, there is a significant correlation of the existence of an intracranial aneurysm with carotid artery stenosis. Thus, if peripheral stenosis is detected by any imaging modality including carotid Ultrasonography scan, we recommend digital subtraction intracranial angiography to detect any potential aneurysm and define its radiologic morphology.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Stroke Case Fatality – Observations from Riks-Stroke, the Swedish Stroke Register
Authors: Lindmark Anita , Glader Eva-Lotta , Asplund Kjell , Norrving Bo , Eriksson Marie ,   for the Riks-StrokeCollaboration
Published: August 2013

Background

Low socioeconomic status (low education and income level) has been found to be associated with increased stroke mortality. However, findings from previous studies on the association between socioeconomic status and case fatality (survival) after stroke have been inconsistent.

Aims

The study aims to explore the association between socio-economic status and survival after stroke using Riks-Stroke, the Swedish Stroke Register, with emphasis on changes in survival (in)equality with time after stroke.

Methods

All 76 hospitals in Sweden admitting acute stroke patients participate in Riks-Stroke. Riks-Stroke data on 18- to 74-year-old patients with onset of first stroke during the years 2001–2009 were combined with data from other official Swedish registers. Case fatality was analyzed by socioeconomic status (education, income, country of birth, and cohabitation) and other patient characteristics.

Results

Of the 62 497 patients in the study, a total of 6094 (9·8%) died within the first year after stroke. Low income, primary school education, and living alone were independently associated with higher case fatality after the acute phase. Differences related to income and cohabitation were present already early, at 8–28 days after stroke, with the gaps expanding thereafter. The association between education and case fatality was not present until 29 days to one-year after stroke. Dissimilarities in secondary preventative medications prescribed on discharge from hospital had only a minor impact on these differences.

Conclusions

Socioeconomic status had only a limited effect on acute phase case fatality, indicating minor disparities in acute stroke treatment. The survival inequality, present already in the subacute phase, increased markedly over time since the stroke event. The socioeconomic differences could not be explained by differences in secondary prevention at discharge from hospital. Large socioeconomic differences in long-term survival after stroke may exist also in a country with limited income inequity.
Explaining the perceived justice of disaster relief policy: An empirical study based on the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake in China
Authors: Zhang Huan
Published: August 2013

The Chinese government issued generous relief policies after the Wenchuan Earthquake. However, according to my survey, 20.32 per cent (n = 1,949) of the earthquake victim‐survivors felt that they were treated unfairly in receiving government assistance after the earthquake. In the present study, a perceived justice framework was established to explain the victim‐survivors’ perception of justice of the disaster relief policy in China and several hypotheses were developed. The hypotheses were tested empirically using household survey data of the Wenchuan Earthquake. The empirical study found that perceived justice, which is composed of three dimensions (distributive justice, interpersonal justice and informational justice), could directly assess the effect of the disaster relief policy. The results of the empirical study also demonstrated that the most important principle of the disaster relief policy was ‘need distribution’, which was also the most important factor of perceived justice. The study concluded that it is imperative to improve victim‐survivors’ feeling of fairness, policy information delivery and their expectations management when implementing a disaster relief policy.
White blood cell count is positively associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Fujita Kazutoshi , Hosomi Masahiro , Nakagawa Masahiro , Tanigawa Go , Imamura Ryoichi , Uemura Motohide , Nakai Yasutomo , Takayama Hitoshi , Yamaguchi Seiji , Nonomura Norio
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To determine whether low‐grade systemic inflammation is associated with prostatic enlargement/benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods

Prostate volume was measured by transrectal ultrasonography in 576 Japanese men. The association between prostate volume and routine clinical inflammatory markers (C‐reactive protein level, white blood cell count, or the differential white cell count [neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils, eosinophils, and monocytes]) were analyzed. Contributors to prostate volume were identified in univariate and multivariable linear regression models.

Results

Prostate volume was found to have a positive association with serum prostate‐specific antigen level (P < 0.001), white blood cell count (P = 0.027) and absolute neutrophil count (P = 0.010). In univariate linear regression models, a large prostate volume was associated with older age, higher prostate‐specific antigen, and higher white blood cell and neutrophil counts. A multivariable model adjusted for age, prostate‐specific antigen, and C‐reactive protein showed that the white blood cell count and the neutrophil count were independently associated with prostate volume. An increased white blood cell count was also associated with higher total International Prostatic Symptom Scores (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

White blood cell count seems to be associated with the degree of prostate enlargement and lower urinary tract symptoms. Chronic low‐grade systemic inflammation might be involved in the etiology of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
No place to turn: Nursing students' experiences of moral distress in mental health settings
Authors: Wojtowicz Bernadine , Hagen Brad , Van Daalen‐Smith Cheryl
Published: August 2013

While researchers have documented the significant issue of moral distress among nurses, few have explored moral distress among mental health nurses. In addition, no research to date has explored nursing students' experiences of moral distress during mental health clinical rotations, despite nursing students typically reporting negative attitudes towards mental health nursing. This manuscript reports on a qualitative study involving seven Canadian baccalaureate nursing students, who reported on their experiences of moral distress during a 13‐week clinical rotation on inpatient psychiatric units. Overall, nursing students reported significant moral distress related to the perceived lack of nurses talking meaningfully to patients on the unit, a hierarchical power structure for physicians, a lack of information given to patients about their psychiatric medications, and an inability of their nursing instructors to advocate for ethical change on the units. Several students made a specific connection between their moral distress and not wanting to pursue a career in mental health nursing.
An updated systematic review of the role of host genetics in susceptibility to influenza
Authors: Horby Peter , Nguyen Nhu Y. , Dunstan Sarah J. , Kenneth Baillie John
Published: August 2013

The World Health Organization has identified studies of the role of host genetics on susceptibility to severe influenza as a priority. A systematic review was conducted in June 2011 to summarise the evidence on the role of host genetics in susceptibility to influenza, and this report updates that previously published review. Animal studies suggest that genetic control of susceptibility to severe influenza in mice is complex and not controlled by a single locus, but there is encouraging evidence that some of the host genetic determinants of susceptibility to severe disease may be common across influenza subtypes. Although a number of studies on genetic susceptibility to influenza in humans have been published recently, all are underpowered and unreplicated, so do not provide robust statistical evidence of an association between the identified genetic loci and susceptibility. One study does however present convincing functional evidence for an important role for IFITM3 in susceptibility to severe influenza in mice, and some evidence that this may also be important in human A/H1N1/pdm2009 infection.
Impact of H1N1 on socially disadvantaged populations: summary of a systematic review
Authors: Tricco Andrea C. , Lillie Erin , Soobiah Charlene , Perrier Laure , Straus Sharon E.
Published: August 2013

Background

Previous reviews found that the H1N1 pandemic was associated with a large proportion of hospitalizations, severe illness, workplace absenteeism, and high costs. However, the burden among socially disadvantaged groups of the population is unclear. This is a summary of a previously published systematic review commissioned by the World Health Organization on the burden of H1N1 pandemic (influenza A/Mexico/2009 (H1N1)) among socially disadvantaged populations.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched to identify studies reporting hospitalization, severe illness, and mortality attributable to the 2009 H1N1 pandemic among socially disadvantaged populations, including ethnic minorities and low‐income or lower‐middle‐income economy countries (LIC/LMIC). SAS and Review Manager were used to conduct random effects meta‐analysis.

Results

Forty‐eight cohort studies and 14 companion reports including 44 777 patients were included after screening 787 citations and 164 full‐text articles. Twelve of the included studies provided data on LIC/LMIC, including one study from Guatemala, two from Morocco, one from Pakistan, and eight from India, plus four companion reports. The rest provided data on ethnic minorities living in high‐income economy countries (HIC). Significantly more hospitalizations were observed among ethnic minorities versus nonethnic minorities in two North American studies [1313 patients, odds ratio (OR) 2·26 (95% confidence interval: 1·53–3·32)]. Among hospitalized patients in HIC, statistically significant differences in intensive care unit admissions (n = 8 studies, 15 352 patients, OR 0·84 [0·69–1·02]) and deaths (n = 6 studies, 14 757 patients, OR 0·85 [95% CI: 0·73–1·01]) were not observed.

Conclusion

We found significantly more hospitalizations among ethnic minorities versus nonethnic minorities in North America, yet no differences in intensive care unit admissions or deaths among H1N1‐infected hospitalized patients were observed in North America and Australia. Our results suggest a similar burden of H1N1 between ethnic minorities and nonethnic minorities living in HIC.
Antivirals for influenza: a summary of a systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Santesso Nancy , Hsu Jonathan , Mustafa Reem , Brozek Jan , Chen Yao Long , Hopkins Jessica P. , Cheung Adrienne , Hovhannisyan Gayane , Ivanova Liudmila , Flottorp Signe A. , Sæterdal Ingvil , Wong Arthur D. , Tian Jinhui , Uyeki Timothy M. , Akl Elie A. , Alonso‐Coello Pablo , Smaill Fiona , Schünemann Holger J.
Published: August 2013

Despite the use of antivirals to treat patients with severe influenza, questions remain with respect to effects and safety. Although a recent systematic review has provided some indication of benefit, the analysis is limited by the quality of the available evidence from randomized controlled trials. To supplement the existing information, the authors conducted a systematic review of observational studies of antiviral treatment for influenza. This report summarises the findings of that review. Similar to the randomised trials, the confidence in the estimates of the effects for decision‐making is low to very low primarily due to the risk of selection and publication bias in the observational studies. From these observational studies, the summary estimates suggest that oseltamivir may reduce mortality, hospitalisation and duration of symptoms compared with no treatment. Inhaled zanamivir may also reduce symptom duration and hospitalisations, but patients may experience more complications compared with no treatment. Earlier treatment with antivirals is generally associated with better outcomes than later treatment. Further high‐quality evidence is needed to inform treatment guidelines because of the overall low to very low quality of evidence.
Clinical care for severe influenza and other severe illness in resource‐limited settings: the need for evidence and guidelines
Authors: Ortiz Justin R. , Jacob Shevin T. , Eoin West T.
Published: August 2013

The 2009 influenza A (H1N1) pandemic highlighted the importance of quality hospital care of the severely ill, yet there is evidence that the impact of the 2009 pandemic was highest in low‐ and middle‐income countries with fewer resources. Recent data indicate that death and suffering from seasonal influenza and severe illness in general are increased in resource‐limited settings. However, there are limited clinical data and guidelines for the management of influenza and other severe illness in these settings. Life‐saving supportive care through syndromic case management is used successfully in high‐resource intensive care units and in global programs such as the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI). While there are a variety of challenges to the management of the severely ill in resource‐limited settings, several new international initiatives have begun to develop syndromic management strategies for these environments, including the World Health Organization's Integrated Management of Adult and Adolescent Illness Program. These standardized clinical guidelines emphasize syndromic case management and do not require high‐resource intensive care units. These efforts must be enhanced by quality clinical research to provide missing evidence and to refine recommendations, which must be carefully integrated into existing healthcare systems. Realizing a sustainable, global impact on death and suffering due to severe influenza and other severe illness necessitates an ongoing and concerted international effort to iteratively generate, implement, and evaluate best‐practice management guidelines for use in resource‐limited settings.
Healthcare worker compliance with seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccination
Authors: Bellia Claire , Setbon Michel , Zylberman Patrick , Flahault Antoine
Published: August 2013

Healthcare workers (HCWs) can be an important source of transmission of influenza to patients and family members, and their well‐being is fundamental to the maintenance of healthcare services during influenza outbreaks and pandemics. Unfortunately, studies have shown consistently low levels of compliance with influenza vaccination among HCWs, a finding that became particularly pronounced during recent pandemic vaccination campaigns. Among the variables associated with vaccine acceptance in this group are demographic factors, fears and concerns over vaccine safety and efficacy, perceptions of risk and personal vulnerability, past vaccination behaviours and experience with influenza illness, as well as certain situational and organisational constructs. We report the findings of a review of the literature on these factors and highlight some important challenges in interpreting the data. In particular, we point out the need for longitudinal study designs, as well as focused research and interventions that are adapted to the most resistant HCW groups. Multi‐pronged strategies are an important step forward in ensuring that future influenza vaccination campaigns, whether directed at seasonal or pandemic strains, will be successful in ensuring broad coverage among HCWs.
Unresolved issues in risk communication research: the case of the H1N1 pandemic (2009–2011)
Authors: Barrelet Clara , Bourrier Mathilde , Burton‐Jeangros Claudine , Schindler Mélinée
Published: August 2013

The 2009 H1N1 pandemic had considerable impact on risk perceptions, vaccination campaigns, and global health governance. In this context, risk communication issues have been probably the most puzzling and the least understood in retrospect. This article reviews the current knowledge on the following issues: risk and pandemic perceptions; vaccination perceptions and practices; rumors and rumor propagation; and health risk communication. It also highlights the research gaps in these areas that remain to be further explored in the future.
Infection of swine ex vivo tissues with avian viruses including H7N9 and correlation with glycomic analysis
Authors: Chan Renee W. Y. , Karamanska Rositsa , Van Poucke Sjouke , Van Reeth Kristien , Chan Icarus W. W. , Chan Michael C. W. , Dell Anne , Peiris Joseph S. M. , Haslam Stuart M. , Guan Yi , Nicholls John M.
Published: August 2013

Objectives

Swine have been regarded as intermediate hosts in the spread of influenza from birds to humans but studies of the sialylated glycans that comprise their respiratory tract have not been extensively studied in the past. This study analyzed the sialylated N‐glycan and O‐glycan profile of swine trachea and lung and correlated this with ex‐vivo infection of swine explants with avian influenza viruses.

Sample

Lungs and tracheal samples were obtained from normal farm and laboratory raised swine and used for ex vivo infection as well as mass spectrometric analysis. Infection of the ex vivo tissues used high pathogenic and low pathogenic avian viruses including the novel H7N9 virus that emerged in China in early 2013.

Main outcome measures

Assessment of successful replication was determined by TCID50 as well as virus immunohistochemistry. The N‐glycan and O‐glycan profiles were measured by MALDI‐TOF and sialylated linkages were determined by sialidase treatment. Lectin binding histochemistry was also performed on formalin fixed tissue samples with positive binding detected by chromogen staining.

Results

The swine respiratory tract glycans differed from the human respiratory tact glycans in two main areas. There was a greater abundance of Gal‐α‐Gal linkages resulting in a relative decrease in sialylated glycans. The swine respiratory tract also had a greater proportion of glycans containing Neu5Gc and Siaα2‐6 glycans than the human respiratory tract. Infection with avian viruses was confined primarily to lung bronchioles rather than trachea and parenchyma.

Conclusions

In contrast to previous studies we found that there was not as much expression of Siaα2‐3 glycans on the surface of the trachea. Infection of Siaα2‐3 binding avian viruses was restricted to the lower respiratory tract bronchioles. This finding may diminish the ability of the swine to act as an intermediary in the transmission of avian viruses to humans.
Molecular characterization of the hepatitis G virus
Authors: Kim J. P. , Fry K. E.
Published: August 2013

SUMMARY. A novel virus associated with acute and chronic hepatitis has been cloned and characterized. The single‐stranded RNA genome is approximately 9000 nucleotides long and has the structure of a virus in the Flaviviridae family. The genes of the virus have been identified and characterized by a number of molecular techniques and a genetic map has been determined.
Modulation of hepatitis C virus quasispecies heterogeneity by interferon‐α and ribavirin therapy
Authors: Gonzalez‐Peralta R. P. , Liu W. Z. , Davis G. L. , Qian K. P. , Lau J. Y. N.
Published: August 2013

SUMMARY. To determine the effects of interferon‐α (IFN‐α) and ribavirin therapy on hepatitis C virus (HCV) quasispecies heterogeneity, 29 patients with chronic HCV infection treated with either IFN‐α (n = 15), ribavirin (n = 7) or placebo (n = 7) were studied. HCV quasispecies heterogeneity was determined by single‐strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of the HCV E2 hypervariable region 1 (HVR1). For patients receiving IFN‐α, HVR1 was amplified in 14 of 15 patients before, and in six of seven patients after therapy. After controlling the amount of amplicon loaded, a reduction in the number of SSCP bands was observed with IFN‐α therapy (median number of SSCP bands per patient was eight before therapy and two after therapy). In the seven patients within each of the ribavirin‐ and placebo‐treated groups, there was no significant difference in the viraemia level, number of SSCP bands per patient or the SSCP band pattern, before and after therapy. These findings suggest that at the doses given, IFN‐α, but not ribavirin, exerts a selective pressure on HCV quasispecies heterogeneity.
Reduced glutathione concentration in erythrocytes of patients with acute and chronic viral hepatitis
Authors: Świetek K. , Juszczyk J.
Published: August 2013

SUMMARY. Reduced glutathione (GSH), the main intracellular mechanism that protects against oxidative stress, is the subject of considerable interest in viral hepatitis. In patients with chronic hepatitis C, results reported from different centres are controversial, demonstrating either a reduction or an elevation of GSH concentration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the glutathione concentration in erythrocytes (normal range 2.45 ± 0.15 mmol l−1) in patients with acute and chronic viral hepatitis. In 52 patients with acute viral hepatitis (hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection) there was marked reduction of GSH at the beginning of the disease (0.79 ± 0.43 mmol l−1. P < 0.001) with high alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity (1549 ± 772.9 IU l−1). In 37 patients with chronic HCV infection the mean value of GSH was below the normal range (1.92 ± 0.62 mmol l−1. P < 0.001). In 60% of patients (n = 22), depletion of GSH was observed and 40% (n = 15) presented with a normal concentration of GSH. In 10 patients with chronic HBV infection the mean value of GSH was also below the normal range (1.93 ± 0.32 mmol l−1, P < 0.001); in 80% of cases (n = 8) depletion of GSH was observed and 20% of patients (n = 2) had normal GSH concentrations. The ALT activity was not significantly different in patients with depleted and normal GSH concentrations (P > 0.05) in groups with chronic HBV and HCV infection.
Individual differences in searching behaviour and spatial foraging consistency in a central place marine predator
Authors: Patrick Samantha C. , Bearhop Stuart , Grémillet David , Lescroël Amélie , Grecian W. James , Bodey Thomas W. , Hamer Keith C. , Wakefield Ewan , Le Nuz Mélanie , Votier Stephen C.
Published: August 2013

Consistent intra‐population variability in foraging behaviour is found among a wide range of taxa. Such foraging specialisations are common among marine vertebrates, yet it is not clear how individuals repeatedly locate prey or foraging sites at ocean‐wide scales. Using GPS and time‐depth loggers we studied the fine‐scale foraging behaviour of central‐place northern gannets Morus bassanus at two large colonies. First, we estimated the degree of consistency in individual foraging routes and sites across repeated trips. Second, we tested for individual differences in searching behaviour in response to environmental covariates using reaction norms, estimated from mixed effect models. Adult gannets tracked over multiple foraging trips showed repeatable between‐individual differences in terminal points and departure angles of foraging trips, but low repeatability in trip duration and trip length. Importantly, individual birds showed highly repeatable dive locations, with consistently different environmental conditions (such as copepod abundance), suggesting a high degree of foraging site specialisation. Gannets also showed between‐individual differences in searching behaviour along environmental gradients, such that individuals intensified searching under different conditions. Together these results suggest that widespread individual foraging consistency may represent specialisation and be linked with individual responses to environmental conditions. Such divergent searching behaviour could provide a mechanism by which consistent foraging behaviour arises and is maintained among animals that forage across large spatial scales.
Surface Energetics of Nanoscale LaMnO3+δ Perovskite
Authors: Vradman Leonid , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: August 2013

Perovskite type LaMnO3 and related materials are important compounds with many useful and unique physical and chemical properties. There is a lack of experimental thermochemical data on the energetics of LaMnO3 nanoparticles. In this work, a series of LaMnO3+δ samples were synthesized via the citrate method and calcined at 700°C–1050°C. All samples displayed rhombohedral structure (X‐ray diffraction) with similar oxygen stoichiometry 3+δ = 3.16–3.18 (iodometric titration coupled with gravimetric analysis). The BET surface area varied from null for bulk sample to 6.88 ± 0.08 × 103 m2/mol for the sample calcined at 700°C. The water content varied linearly with the surface area with the highest value being 2.34 wt%. The chemisorbed water adsorption enthalpy was −63.0 ± 4.1 kJ/mol with the chemisorbed water coverage of 8 H2O/nm2. High‐temperature oxide melt drop solution calorimetry, performed in sodium molybdate at 702°C, yielded enthalpy of formation from La2O3, Mn2O3, and O2 of bulk LaMnO3.16 of −77.85 ± 1.94 kJ/mol. After correction of drop solution enthalpies of nanometric samples for water content, the calorimetric data were used to calculate the surface energy of LaMnO3+δ. The energy of the anhydrous surface was 2.27 ± 0.29 J/m2, and that of the hydrous surface was 2.02 ± 0.27 J/m2. These values are higher than the surface energies of LaMnO3.00 predicted elsewhere by theoretical methods, probably due to the different oxygen content and possibly more complex surface structure and exposed surface planes. The measured surface energy of LaMnO3+δ lies between the values reported recently for BaTiO3 and PbTiO3 and close to the reported values for MnO2. This suggests that LaMnO3+δ surface is predominantly MnO2‐terminated, in line with the trends predicted by theoretical calculations.
2D‐ and 3D‐Photoluminescence Imaging of Eu(III) Embedded in CeO2 Nanomatrix
Authors: Sohn Youngku
Published: August 2013

2D‐ and 3D‐photoluminescence characteristics of Eu(III) doped in CeO2 nanoparticles were fully imaged for the first time. Their fundamental natures were also examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) crystallography, and UV–visible absorption spectroscopy. The magnetic dipole 5D0 → 7F1 transition was dominated by an indirect transition associated with a O2−–Ce4+ charge‐transfer band of CeO2. The electric dipole 5D0 → 7F2 transition was dominated by a direct transition of Eu(III), indicating that Eu(III) replaces Ce(IV) at octahedral sites (Oh and O) with and without an inversion center. Upon annealing, the photoluminescence intensity caused by direct transition was dramatically decreased, whereas that induced by indirect transition was greatly enhanced. These findings indicate that charge transfer to the Eu(III) at the octahedral (Oh) site with the inversion center is more efficient than that to the Eu(III) site without an inversion center. The absolute quantum yield for the 10 mol% Eu(III)–CeO2 was found to be ϕ = 0.007 at an excitation wavelength of 350 nm. The photoluminescence of Tb‐doped CeO2 was briefly discussed for comparison.
Programming Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators in Patients with Primary Prevention Indication to Prolong Time to First Shock: Results from the PROVIDE Study
Authors: SAEED MOHAMMAD , HANNA IBRAHIM , ROBOTIS DIONYSSIOS , STYPEREK ROBERT , POLOSAJIAN LEO , KHAN AHMED , ALONSO JOSEPH , NABUTOVSKY YELENA , NEASON CURTIS
Published: August 2013

ICD Programming for Shock Reduction

Background

Shock therapy delivery by implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICD) can be painful and may have adverse consequences. Reducing shock burden for patients with ICDs would be beneficial.

Methods

PROVIDE was a prospective, randomized study of primary prevention ICD patients. Patients in the experimental group received a combination of programmed parameters with higher detection rates, longer detection intervals, empiric antitachycardia pacing (ATP), and optimized supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) discriminators, while those in the control group were programmed with conventional parameters. Shock therapy and arrhythmic syncope were compared.

Results

Of 1,670 patients enrolled (846 in the experimental group, 824 in the control group) and monitored over a follow‐up of 530 ± 241 days, 202 patients received shock therapy for any cause (82 in the experimental group and 120 in the control group). The median time to first shock was significantly prolonged (13.1 vs 7.8 months, hazard ratio [HR]: 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.47 to 0.82, P = 0.0005) and the 2‐year shock rate significantly reduced (12.4% vs 19.4%, P < 0.001) in the experimental group compared to the control group. There was no increase in arrhythmic syncope (HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 0.69 to 3.90, P = 0.26), while the overall mortality was reduced (HR: 0.7, 95% CI: 0.50 to 0.98, P = 0.036) in the experimental group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

A combination of programmed parameters utilizing higher detection rate, longer detection intervals, empiric ATP, and optimized SVT discriminators reduced ICD therapies without increasing arrhythmic syncope and was associated with reduction in all‐cause mortality among ICD patients.
Irritable bowel syndrome in patients with chronic pruritus of undetermined origin
Authors: Ekiz Ö. , Balta İ. , Özuğuz P. , Şen B.B. , Rifaioğlu E.N. , Ekiz F. , Yüksel İ. , Çoban Ş. , Başar Ö.
Published: August 2013

Background

Chronic pruritus is an important distressing condition that is often refractory to treatment. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that occurs without an organic cause.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the relationship between chronic pruritus of undetermined origin (CPUO) and IBS.

Methods

Eighty patients with chronic pruritus (CP) of undetermined origin and fifty healthy control subjects without pruritus were included into the study. All of the participants were examined by a gastroenterologist for concomitant IBS.

Results

The frequency of IBS was found higher in patients with CP of undetermined origin (P: 0.02), but we did not observe any significant association between pruritus intensity and either presence of IBS (P: 0.08) or the subtypes of the syndrome (P: 0.40). Furthermore, patients with CP of undetermined origin between 40 and 60 years, female gender and longer duration of the disease were found to be significantly associated with the presence of IBS (P: 0.02, P: 0.01 and P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We found that the frequency of IBS was higher in patients with CP than in healthy controls. Our study is the first report about the relation between CP of undetermined origin and IBS. Further studies with larger numbers of the patients are needed to show association between IBS and CPUO using laboratory tests to define underlying diseases such as lactose intolerance, functional dyspepsia and emotional diseases.
Laser and light‐based treatment of Keloids – a review
Authors: Mamalis A.D. , Lev‐Tov H. , Nguyen D.‐H. , Jagdeo J.R.
Published: August 2013

Background

Keloids are an overgrowth of fibrotic tissue outside the original boundaries of an injury and occur secondary to defective wound healing. Keloids often have a functional, aesthetic, or psychosocial impact on patients as highlighted by quality‐of‐life studies.

Objectives

Our goal is to provide clinicians and scientists an overview of the data available on laser and light‐based therapies for treatment of keloids, and highlight emerging light‐based therapeutic technologies and the evidence available to support their use.

Methods

We employed the following search strategy to identify the clinical evidence reported in the biomedical literature: in November 2012, we searched PubMed.gov, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Reviews (1980‐present) for published randomized clinical trials, clinical studies, case series and case reports related to the treatment of keloids. The search terms we utilized were ‘keloid(s)’ AND ‘laser’ OR ‘light‐emitting diode’ (LED) OR ‘photodynamic therapy’ (PDT) OR ‘intense pulsed light’ OR ‘low level light’ OR ‘phototherapy.’

Results

Our search yielded 347 unique articles. Of these, 33 articles met our inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Conclusion

We qualitatively conclude that laser and light‐based treatment modalities may achieve favourable patient outcomes. Clinical studies using CO2 laser are more prevalent in current literature and a combination regimen may be an adequate ablative approach. Adding light‐based treatments, such as LED phototherapy or PDT, to laser treatment regimens may enhance patient outcomes. Lasers and other light‐based technology have introduced new ways to manage keloids that may result in improved aesthetic and symptomatic outcomes and decreased keloid recurrence.
Early Transcriptomic Adaptation to Na2CO3 Stress Altered the Expression of a Quarter of the Total Genes in the Maize Genome and Exhibited Shared and Distinctive Profiles with NaCl and High pH Stresses
Authors: Zhang Li‐Min , Liu Xiang‐Guo , Qu Xin‐Ning , Yu Ying , Han Si‐Ping , Dou Yao , Xu Yao‐Yao , Jing Hai‐Chun , Hao Dong‐Yun
Published: August 2013

Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) presents a huge challenge to plants by the combined damaging effects of Na+, high pH, and CO32‐. Little is known about the cellular responses to Na2CO3 stress. In this study, the transcriptome of maize (Zea mays L. cv. B73) roots exposed to Na2CO3 stress for 5 h was compared with those of NaCl and NaOH stresses. The expression of 8,319 genes, representing over a quarter of the total number of genes in the maize genome, was altered by Na2CO3 stress, and the downregulated genes (5,232) outnumbered the upregulated genes (3,087). The effects of Na2CO3 differed from those of NaCl and NaOH, primarily by downregulating different categories of genes. Pathways commonly altered by Na2CO3, NaCl, and NaOH were enriched in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters, as well as the metabolism of secondary metabolites. Genes for brassinosteroid biosynthesis were specifically upregulated by Na2CO3, while genes involved in ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum and by N‐glycosylation, fatty acid biosynthesis, and the circadian rhythm were downregulated. This work provides the first holistic picture of early transcriptomic adaptation to Na2CO3 stress, and highlights potential molecular pathways that could be manipulated to improve tolerance in maize.
Crystallization kinetics during regional metamorphism of porphyroblastic rocks
Authors: Kelly E. D. , Carlson W. D. , Ketcham R. A.
Published: August 2013

Numerical simulations of diffusion‐controlled nucleation and growth of garnet porphyroblasts in regionally metamorphosed rocks constrain interfacial energy and rates of nucleation and Al intergranular diffusion. The 13 rocks analysed in this study were collected from seven localities exhibiting a diverse range of crystallization conditions. Kinetic parameters governing nucleation and intergranular diffusion were adjusted iteratively to achieve fits between simulated and natural porphyroblastic textures. Model fits were assessed primarily from textural characteristics precisely measured by high‐resolution X‐ray computed tomography. Interfacial energy for heterogeneous nucleation ranges from 0.007 to 0.255 J m−2 for the sample suite, assuming shape factors in the range 0.01–1.0. Nucleation rates change through space and time due to growth and impingement of Al depletion zones surrounding porphyroblasts. In some models, the overall rock‐wide nucleation rate rises steeply, achieves a steady state, and then falls rapidly as reactants are consumed; in others, the steady state is not achieved, but instead the rate simply peaks before falling. Maximum rock‐wide nucleation rates range from 10−14.7 to 10−10.7 nuclei cm−3 s−1, and maximum local rates range from 10−13.7 to 10−9.7 nuclei∙cm−3 s−1 depending on Al supersaturation. Diffusive fluxes of Al are well constrained by the simulated textures, but rates of intergranular diffusion are subject to uncertainties in Al solubility and interconnected porosity. Best estimates of Al diffusivities at 600 °C span 10−12.3 to 10−10.5 m2 s−1 for the sample suite, a narrow range considering natural variability and the uncertainties in solubility and porosity. Eliminating some models suspected of higher uncertainty for these quantities yields diffusivities at 600 °C near 10−11.0 m2 s−1, with dispersion of less than half an order of magnitude. These simulations, which are among the first attempted for regionally metamorphosed rocks, emphasize that: (i) nucleation rates vary markedly in time and space during crystallization; (ii) nucleation extends well beyond equilibrium conditions; (iii) Al diffusivity likely varies over only a narrow range across common metamorphic circumstances; and (iv) better determinations of both Al solubility and interconnected porosity are needed to constrain rates of Al intergranular diffusion more precisely.
Alveolar bone regeneration potential of a traditional Chinese medicine, Bu‐Shen‐Gu‐Chi‐Wan, in experimental periodontitis
Authors: Yang H. , Wen Q. , Xue J. , Ding Y.
Published: August 2013

Background and Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a traditional Chinese medicine, Bu‐Shen‐Gu‐Chi‐Wan, on experimental periodontitis and bone regeneration in rat.

Material and Methods

Sixty female Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided equally into three groups: a healthy control group (Group N); a periodontitis group (Group P); and the Bu‐Shen‐Gu‐Chi‐Wan treatment group (Group T). A 0.2‐mm wire was placed around the maxillary first molar and Porphyromonas gingivalis was injected into the gingival sulcus. Rats in different groups were administered 0.9% normal saline or Bu‐Shen‐Gu‐Chi‐Wan solution (4 g/kg of body weight, for three alternate days), and the animals were killed after 4 wk. Morphological analysis of alveolar bone rebuilding was performed using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) and stereomicroscopy, and the variation of inflammation in the periodontium was determined histologically. The serum levels of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and of the bone‐turnover biomarkers pyridinoline cross‐linked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) and osteocalcin (OC) were determined using radioimmunoassays.

Results

After treatment with Bu‐Shen‐Gu‐Chi‐Wan, there were significant decreases in the levels of IL‐1β, TNF‐α, ICTP and OC and decreased inflammatory infiltration in the periodontal tissues of Group T. significant changes in alveolar bone volume and density were detected by micro‐CT, but stereomicroscopy did not detect a significant improvement of alveolar bone height.

Conclusion

The data of the present study suggest that the traditional Chinese medicine, Bu‐Shen‐Gu‐Chi‐Wan, has anti‐inflammatory function in experimental periodontitis and may simultaneously improve alveolar bone remodeling.
Greater Self, Lesser Self: Dimensions of Self‐Interest in Chinese Filial Piety
Authors: Barbalet Jack
Published: August 2013

While self‐interest is depreciated in Confucian ethics the processes of family relations in traditional China are animated by the self‐interested actions of family members. The paper outlines the Confucian ideology of filial piety which is commensurate with the governance of family life organized hierarchically and through the senior male's management of the joint‐family's collective property. The structure, operations and principles of membership in traditional Chinese families are indicated, highlighting the tensions within them between consanguinity and conjugality and their material bases. The differential operation of self‐interested actions by husbands and wives is also presented. A non‐Confucian model of the relational‐self is outlined in which both the collective context of Chinese families and the self‐interested actions of individual family members within them is explicated.
Bolus Moisture Content of Solid Foods during Mastication
Authors: Motoi Lidia , Morgenstern Marco P. , Hedderley Duncan I. , Wilson Arran J. , Balita Sinag
Published: August 2013

Saliva addition plays an important role in bolus formation. During chewing, food breaks down, exposing food particles to saliva. The aim of this study was to explore and understand how bolus moisture content changes during the oral processing of solid foods. Twelve subjects chewed commercially produced solid foods; the boluses were collected at different stages of the mastication process, including the swallowing point, and all of the boluses produced were analyzed for their moisture content. The chewing sessions were recorded on video, enabling the number of chews to be assessed for each subject and food type. Results showed that moisture content of boluses during mastication increased linearly at a rate depending on the subject and food types studied. It was found that for the food types studied, an increase in initial food moisture content increased the bolus moisture content at the swallowing point.

Practical Applications

Sensory perception experienced during oral processing of foods is through sensing the bolus properties, which change continuously in between ingestion and swallowing. Understanding changes in bolus moisture content, the role of food structure and effects on sensory perception can help in designing foods with predictable sensory attributes. This study demonstrated that while saliva additions vary between people and food types, they increase linearly during mastication. Changes in bolus moisture content during mastication could be used to guide the design of solid foods with target properties.