bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Notch pathway is a critical regulator of angiogenesis in a skin model of ischemia
Authors: Abbas Ozan L , Borman Hüseyin , Terzi Yunus K , Terzi Ayşen , Bayraktar Nilüfer , Yazıcı Ayşe C
Published: April 2015

The Notch pathway is definitely required for normal vascular development. Although the contribution of Notch in postnatal angiogenesis is the focus of intense investigation, the implication of Notch in reparative neovascularization in the skin remains unexplored. In this study, we investigated Notch changes using a skin model of ischemia. Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups. In the surgery group ( n = 24), a caudally based dorsal skin flap was raised and sutured back into its initial position. In the control group, no surgical procedure was performed. Tissue biopsies were obtained at different time intervals. Tissue specimens were assessed for Delta-like ligand 4 ( DLL4) and vascular endothelial growth factor ( VEGF) gene expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Immunohistochemical staining was used for detection of DLL4 in tissue materials. Quantitative assessment of skin flap microvasculature was made. Compared with normoperfused tissue, VEGF and DLL4 expressions increased significantly ( p < 0.01). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed weak and patchy expression of DLL4 in microvascular endothelial cells of normoperfused tissues. Conversely, DLL4 expression was upregulated in capillary endothelial cells after ischemia. In conclusion, in this study we have shown that the Notch ligand DLL4 is upregulated in skin tissue after ischemia. A deeper understanding of these fundamental principles will aid in the development of new avenues for the treatment of blood vessel-related skin pathologies.
Endovascular medicine certification 2005–2014: Report from the American Board of Vascular Medicine
Authors: Slovut David Paul , Saiar Amin , Gray Bruce H ,   on behalf of the American Board of Vascular Medicine
Published: April 2015

This report describes the methods used to develop and maintain the endovascular medicine certification examination, which has been offered by the American Board of Vascular Medicine (ABVM) to practicing physicians since 2005. The report covers the methods and findings used to develop examination specifications which ensure the content and construct validity of the examination assessment such that the examination is reflective of the job tasks associated with the endovascular medicine specialty, as well as being a meaningful indicator of whether a candidate possesses the knowledge and skills necessary for competent practice. Further, this report covers the procedures used to develop, maintain, and administer the examination, including a summary of the content review process and the use of statistical information. Based on psychometric evaluation of the examination’s performance, the ABVM’s endovascular medicine examination appears to be a valid assessment of professional competency in the specialty area; a finding that supports the inference that candidates who pass the examination are qualified to practice in a manner that protects patients.
The validity of ICD codes coupled with imaging procedure codes for identifying acute venous thromboembolism using administrative data
Authors: Alotaibi Ghazi S , Wu Cynthia , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , McMurtry M Sean
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of using a combination of International Classification of Diseases (ICD) diagnostic codes and imaging procedure codes for identifying deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) within administrative databases. Information from the Alberta Health (AH) inpatients and ambulatory care administrative databases in Alberta, Canada was obtained for subjects with a documented imaging study result performed at a large teaching hospital in Alberta to exclude venous thromboembolism (VTE) between 2000 and 2010. In 1361 randomly-selected patients, the proportion of patients correctly classified by AH administrative data, using both ICD diagnostic codes and procedure codes, was determined for DVT and PE using diagnoses documented in patient charts as the gold standard. Of the 1361 patients, 712 had suspected PE and 649 had suspected DVT. The sensitivities for identifying patients with PE or DVT using administrative data were 74.83% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 67.01–81.62) and 75.24% (95% CI: 65.86–83.14), respectively. The specificities for PE or DVT were 91.86% (95% CI: 89.29–93.98) and 95.77% (95% CI: 93.72–97.30), respectively. In conclusion, when coupled with relevant imaging codes, VTE diagnostic codes obtained from administrative data provide a relatively sensitive and very specific method to ascertain acute VTE.
Groups’ search for meaning: Redemption on the path to intergroup reconciliation
Authors: Rotella Katie N. , Richeson Jennifer A. , McAdams Dan P.
Published: April 2015

Four studies investigated the utility of finding meaning in past wrongdoing to promote intergroup reconciliation. Studies 1a, 1b, and 2 demonstrated that prompting members of perpetrator groups to engage in redemption narratives increases collective guilt and willingness to make reparations—both important in obtaining victims’ forgiveness. Further, Study 2 suggests that redemption narratives (but not sense-making) increase willingness to reconcile and reduce perceived justification. Study 3 suggests that perpetrators’ redemption, but not simply sense-making, narratives led victims to perceive greater change in the perpetrator group and increased victims’ willingness to reconcile, but not forgive. Taken together, the present work highlights the potential for redemption narratives to serve as an intervention for past intergroup conflict, increasing the chance for intergroup reconciliation.
Gazing at suffering Gaza from suffering Sderot: Seeds of forgiveness and reconciliation amidst the turmoil?
Authors: Klar Yechiel , Schori-Eyal Noa
Published: April 2015

Most studies on forgiveness and reconciliation in intergroup conflicts are conducted during the postresolution stages of conflict. The present research was conducted in the south of Israel to examine the issue of forgiveness among people currently enmeshed in active and violent conflict. Study 1 was conducted in the Israeli town of Sderot, which for more than a decade has been under frequent rocket fire from neighboring Palestinian Gaza and has also witnessed numerous Israeli retaliatory attacks on Gaza. Study 2 was conducted among residents of towns and communities close to the Gaza border during the 2014 war. We investigated the potential readiness for mutual forgiveness with Gaza residents, apology, and reparation and help to repair war damage. Mutual forgiveness received considerable support, but apology and reparations did not. Perspective-taking vis-à-vis the Palestinians predicted support for mutual forgiveness in the first but not the second study. Acceptance of moral responsibility and dismissal of exonerating cognitions regarding Israel’s conduct in Gaza predicted readiness for apology and reparations. Hence a step towards mutual forgiveness with the adversarial outgroup is feasible under active conflict mainly because it does not involve culpability.
Priming White identity elicits stereotype boost for biracial Black-White individuals
Authors: Gaither Sarah E. , Remedios Jessica D. , Schultz Jennifer R. , Sommers Samuel R.
Published: April 2015

Psychological threat experienced by students of negatively stereotyped groups impairs test performance. However, stereotype boost can also occur if a positively stereotyped identity is made salient. Biracial individuals, whose racial identities may be associated with both negative and positive testing abilities, have not been examined in this context. Sixty-four biracial Black-White individuals wrote about either their Black or White identity or a neutral topic and completed a verbal Graduate Record Examination (GRE) examination described as diagnostic of their abilities. White-primed participants performed significantly better than both Black-primed and control participants. Thus, biracial Black-White individuals experience stereotype boost only when their White identity is made salient.
Leaving Sweden behind: Gains in life expectancy in Canada
Authors: Auger Nathalie , Le Serbon Emilie , Rostila Mikael
Published: April 2015

Aims: Sweden and Canada are known for quality of living and exceedingly high life expectancy, but recent data on how these countries compare are lacking. We measured life expectancy in Canada and Sweden during the past decade, and identified factors responsible for changes over time. Methods: We calculated life expectancy at birth for Canada and Sweden annually from 2000 to 2010, and determined the ages and causes of death responsible for the gap between the two countries using Arriaga’s method. We determined how population growth, ageing, and mortality influenced the number of deaths over time. Results: During 2000–2010, life expectancy in Canada caught up with Sweden for men, and surpassed Sweden by 0.4 years for women. Sweden lost ground owing to a slower reduction in circulatory and tumour mortality after age 65 years compared with Canada. Nonetheless, population ageing increased the number of deaths in Canada, especially for mental and nervous system disorders. In Sweden, the number of deaths decreased. Conclusions: In only one decade, life expectancy in Canada caught up and surpassed Sweden due to rapid improvements in circulatory and tumour mortality. Population ageing increased the number of deaths in Canada, potentially stressing the health care system more than in Sweden.
Experiences of and attitudes towards HIV/STI prevention among holidaymaking men who have sex with men living in Sweden: A cross-sectional Internet survey
Authors: Qvarnström Anna , Oscarsson Marie G
Published: April 2015

Aim: Foreign travellers and men who have sex with men (MSM) are prioritised groups for human immunodeficiency virus/sexually transmitted infection (HIV/STI) prevention efforts in Sweden because of high prevalence of sexual risk-taking. This study aims to describe experiences of and attitudes towards HIV/STI prevention efforts, prior to travelling abroad, among MSM, and to investigate the kinds of prevention efforts that are desirable. Methods: The study is based on survey responses from 656 MSM who had travelled abroad. Recruitment took place through a Nordic website, and had a cross-sectional design. The analysis has mainly been descriptive, but bivariate analyses were performed using the chi-square test. The level of significance was p <.05. Results: Only a few of the participants had encountered HIV/STI prevention efforts in Sweden (5%) and abroad (23%), and a majority (58%) felt that it should be more prevalent. Having free access to condoms and lubricants was preferred among 68% of the men. Furthermore, having written information, as opposed to oral, was also preferred (68% vs. 26%). MSM felt that it was easy to find out information (79%) and claimed they would use the Internet to do so (87%). Conclusions: Service providers who offer their services to travellers are encouraged to provide helpful links to information about sexual health. Information that is geared towards risk groups such as young adults should be presented with awareness that MSM are also part of that group. It is important for information to be conveyed respectfully to everyone, but perhaps MSM in particular, since they may have experienced feelings of being stigmatised or discriminated against previously.
Mentoring and coaching in academia: Reflections on a mentoring/coaching relationship
Authors: Carmel Roofe G. , Paul Miller W.
Published: April 2015

The changing landscape in Higher Education has made it more difficult for less experienced academics to find persons willing and able to invest in, and support their professional development. Mentoring and coaching provide psychosocial assistance in the work space, which assists mentees to deal more effectively with role ambiguity, role conflict and a perceived uncertain environment. This paper presents a single case study of two academics at a university in Jamaica. Using minutes collected from 19 meetings over nine months, the paper discusses the processes and outcomes of an academic mentoring/coaching relationship on the professional development of a faculty member. The main findings indicated that the mentee was positively impacted by opportunities related to career advancement, expanded thinking, scholarly confidence, facilitation of a collaborative culture, and the importance of goal setting in academia. Based on these positive impacts, the mentor and mentee theorize that mentoring is an important activity that should be facilitated in higher education through structures peculiar to each unique context.
Defining the Quality of Acupuncture
Authors: Grant Suzanne J. , Smith Caroline A. , de Silva Nimna , Su Chunxiang
Published: April 2015

Background. The quality and dose of acupuncture used in a clinical trial affects the outcome, as with the quality and dose of any intervention. The dose of acupuncture treatment may be characterized by the frequency of treatment, needle type and depth, length of needle retention, point selection, and combination. The dose in trials of acupuncture has at times been described as low or inappropriate but is seldom assessed in systematic reviews of acupuncture trials. This article examines the research evaluating acupuncture for cancer-related fatigue to determine what characteristics of treatment may contribute to a quality acupuncture intervention. Methodology. English and Chinese language databases were searched from inception to December 2013 for randomized controlled trials of acupuncture for the treatment of cancer-related fatigue. Assessment of the quality of the acupuncture intervention was undertaken using the domains and items from the NICMAN framework. Results. Seven studies with a total of 690 patients were included. Four of the studies were designed as feasibility or pilot studies, and the other 3 studies were described as “effectiveness” trials. The treatment paradigm for the active intervention was based on traditional Chinese medicine in all studies, yet few of the studies were explicit as to how the active intervention was justified within a traditional Chinese medicine paradigm. Acupuncture point prescriptions were developed by a small consensus panel or based on typical points and/or “clinical experience.” No discussion of traditional Chinese medicine theory or literature review was reported in any studies. Acupuncture point location was adequately described in 4 of the 7 studies. Frequency of treatment was twice per week in 2 studies; all others were once per week. Two studies did not apply needle manipulation or stimulation, and no justification was given. Conclusion. The 7 trials reviewed meet some criteria for a quality acupuncture intervention. However, frequently elements of the intervention were not addressed, and it is possible that the dosage trialed was suboptimal. Systematic reviews of acupuncture are likely to continue to be inconclusive while comparisons are conducted of heterogeneous interventions without providing.
Development and experimental verification of a model for an air jet penetrated by plumes
Authors: Wang Xin , Dai Yuntian , Ma Jingsi
Published: April 2015

This article presents the fluid mechanics of a ventilation system formed by a momentum source and buoyancy sources. We investigate the interaction between plumes and a non-isothermal air jet for separate sources of buoyancy produced by the plume and the momentum of the air jet. The mathematical model represents the situation in which a plume rises from two heat sources causing buoyancy. The model is used to discuss the interactions involved. The effects of parameters such as the power of the source and the air-flow volume used in the mathematical-physical model are also discussed. An expression is deduced for the trajectory of the non-isothermal air jet penetrated by plumes. Experiments were also carried out to illustrate the effect on the flow of the air jet and to validate the theoretical work. The results show that the buoyancy source’s efforts to baffle the descent of the cold air have even been effective in reversing the direction of the trajectory. However, increasing the distance between the plumes can reduce the effect of the plumes on the jet curve. And it is apparent that when the velocity of the air supply increases, the interference caused by the plumes can be reduced.
Modified robust sliding-mode control method for wafer scanner
Authors: Wang Yiguang , Chen Xinglin , Li Xiaojie
Published: April 2015

This article studies the precision motion control of a long-stroke reticle stage driven by the permanent magnet linear motor in wafer scanner. A robust sliding-mode control method is proposed for tracking the reference trajectory in the presence of un-modeled dynamics, parametric uncertainty and external disturbances including force ripple, cogging and friction in the controlled system. A modified sliding-mode term based on the variable structure technique for eliminating the tracking error is employed in the proposed control law. The system stability and tracking convergence of the closed-loop control system are guaranteed by Lyapunov theory theoretically. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are demonstrated by comparative experiments on a linear motion testbed. The experimental results show that better tracking performance can be achieved by the proposed method compared with the conventional proportional–integral–derivative method and it can be considered as a possible alternative in the precision motion control system.
Effects of film thickness and microstructures on residual stress
Authors: Liu J. , Xu B. , Wang H. , Cui X. , Zhu L. , Jin G.
Published: April 2015

The accurate measurement of stress is an essential requirement of residual stress studying. In this paper, Cu thin films with different thickness were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The micromorphologies of the films were observed using atomic force microscopy, and the microstructures were analysed by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The residual stress distributions of the films were measured by the curvature and nanoindentation methods. The results show that Cu films present polycrystalline state, and the grains size grew up with increasing film thickness. The residual stress calculation results from nanoindentation tests using the Suresh model were consistent with the curvature method, the residual compressive stress changed into residual tensile stress and the D values (the difference between the maximum and minimum stress value) decreased with increasing film thickness, and the stress distribution became uniform. The interface stress of the films weakened with the film thickness increasing because the crystalline grains grew larger.
CNTs as ion carriers in formation of calcium phosphate coatings
Authors: Wysocki B. , Dybała B. , Kurzydłowski K. J. , Leszczyńska D. , Święszkowski W.
Published: April 2015

Surface functionalisation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) provides possibility of employing them in the biomedical industry as drug/growth factor carriers improving healing of a patient after injury. Carbon nanotubes are also very perspective nanomaterials as reinforcement in composites because of their mechanical properties. In the present work, single wall CNTs (SWCNTs), single wall/double wall (SW/DWCNTs) and multiwall CNTs (MWCNTs) functionalised with –COOH, –OH and –NH2 groups were tested as ion carriers in electrodeposition and as reinforcements in the composite calcium phosphate coatings. In our research, new composite coatings with Ca/P ratios ranging from 1·0 to 1·50 were obtained during electrodeposition in electrolytic solutions containing –COOH functionalised SWCNTs and MWCNTs. Amorphous calcium phosphates were fabricated in electrolytic solutions containing –NH2 functionalised MWCNTs, while no coating was fabricated in electrolytes containing –OH functionalised SW/DWCNTs. The structure and kind of functionalised groups of CNTs had an influence on the type, morphology and thickness of electrodeposited calcium phosphate coatings.
A randomized comparison of daunorubicin 90 mg/m2 vs 60 mg/m2 in AML induction: results from the UK NCRI AML17 trial in 1206 patients
Authors: Burnett Alan K. , Russell Nigel H. , Hills Robert K. , Kell Jonathan , Cavenagh Jamie , Kjeldsen Lars , McMullin Mary-Frances , Cahalin Paul , Dennis Mike , Friis Lone , Thomas Ian F. , Milligan Don , Clark Richard E.
Published: April 2015

Key Points

In a first randomized comparison of daunorubicin dose in induction (90 mg/m2 vs 60 mg/m2) for AML, no evidence of overall benefit was seen with the 90 mg/m2 dose. There was no disease subgroup in which benefit could be shown.
The epidemiology of primary headache disorders in Zambia: a population-based door-to-door survey
Authors: Mbewe Edward , Zairemthiama Pachuau , Yeh Hsueh-Han , Paul Ravi , Birbeck Gretchen L , Steiner Timothy J
Published: April 2015

Background

Little is known of the epidemiology of primary headache disorders in sub-Saharan Africa. We performed a population-based survey in Zambia using methods previously tested in multiple other countries.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted by visiting households unannounced, using cluster-randomized sampling, in the mostly urban Lusaka Province and mostly rural Southern Province. Within clusters, households were selected randomly, as was one adult member (18-65 years old) of each selected household. A structured questionnaire, translated into the local languages, was administered face-to-face by trained interviewers. Demographic enquiry was followed by diagnostic questions based on ICHD-II criteria. A random sub-sample of participants were invited for subsequent physician-interview to validate the diagnostic part of the questionnaire.

Results

Of 1,134 eligible household members contacted, 1,085 (450 male, 887 urban) consented to interview (refusal rate 4.3%). Others who had been selected but remained unavailable on three visits were not counted as refusals since their reasons were unknown, but gave rise to gender biases, being mostly male in urban areas and mostly female in rural areas. Statistical correction was applied. Adjusted for gender and habitation (urban/rural), the 1-year prevalence of any headache was 61.6%, of migraine 22.9%, of tension-type headache (TTH) 22.8%, of headache on ≥15 days/month 11.5% and of probable medication-overuse headache (pMOH) 7.1%. The adjusted point-prevalence of any headache (headache yesterday) was 19.1%. There was a small proportion (5.3%) of unclassified headache, some of which may have been secondary. The overwhelmingly strong association was between urban dwelling and pMOH (OR: 8.6; P=0.0001), with an urban prevalence of 14.5% (gender-adjusted). Validation of the questionnaire was limited by participants’ reluctance to present for physician review, substantial delays in doing so and major self-selection bias among those who did. These were unavoidable problems in resource-limited Zambia.

Conclusions

Primary headache disorders, common in high-income countries, are at least as prevalent in Zambia, a sub-Saharan African country. The selectively urban problem of pMOH seems likely to reflect ready availability of non-prescription analgesics, without easy access to professional health care for headache or any focused public-health education regarding correct usage of analgesics or the dangers of their overuse.
Hemopexin in severe inflammation and infection: mouse models and human diseases
Authors: Lin Tian , Maita Dayana , Thundivalappil Sujatha R , Riley Frank E , Hambsch Jasmin , Van Marter Linda J , Christou Helen A , Berra Lorenzo , Fagan Shawn , Christiani David C , Warren H Shaw
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Cell-free plasma hemoglobin is associated with poor outcome in patients with sepsis. Extracellular hemoglobin and secondarily released heme amplify inflammation in the presence of microbial TLR ligands and/or endogenous mediators. Hemopexin, a plasma protein that binds heme with extraordinary affinity, blocks these effects and has been proposed as a possible treatment approach to decrease inflammation in critically ill patients.

Methods

We studied mouse models of endotoxemia, burn wound infections and peritonitis in order to assess if a repletion strategy for hemopexin might be reasonable. We also measured hemopexin in small numbers of three patient populations that might be logical groups for hemopexin therapy: patients with sepsis and ARDS, patients with severe burns, and premature infants.

Results

Despite severe disease, mean plasma hemopexin levels were increased above baseline in each murine model. However, plasma hemopexin levels were decreased or markedly decreased in many patients in each of the three patient populations.

Conclusions

Potentially different behavior of hemopexin in mice and humans may be important to consider when utilizing murine models to represent acute human inflammatory diseases in which heme plays a role. The findings raise the possibility that decreased hemopexin could result in insufficiently neutralized or cleared heme in some patients with ARDS, burns, or in premature infants who might be candidates to benefit from hemopexin administration.
High central venous saturation after cardiac surgery is associated with increased organ failure and long-term mortality: an observational cross-sectional study
Authors: Balzer Felix , Sander Michael , Simon Mark , Spies Claudia , Habicher Marit , Treskatsch Sascha , Mezger Viktor , Schirmer Uwe , Heringlake Matthias , Wernecke Klaus-Dieter , Grubitzsch Herko , von Heymann Christian
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Central venous saturation (ScvO2) monitoring has been suggested to address the issue of adequate cardiocirculatory function in the context of cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of low (L) (<60%), normal (N) (60%-80%), and high (H) (>80%) ScvO2 measured on intensive care unit (ICU) admission after cardiac surgery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study at three ICUs of a university hospital department for anaesthesiology and intensive care. Electronic patient records of all adults who underwent cardiac surgery between 2006 and 2013 and available admission measurements of ScvO2 were examined. Patients were allocated to one of three groups according to first ScvO2 measurement after ICU admission: group L (<60%), group N (60%-80%), and group H (>80%). Primary end-points were in-hospital and 3-year follow-up survival.

Results

Data from 4,447 patients were included in analysis. Low and high initial measurements of ScvO2 were associated with increased in-hospital mortality (L: 5.6%; N: 3.3%; H: 6.8%), 3-year follow-up mortality (L: 21.6%; N: 19.3%; H: 25.8%), incidence of post-operative haemodialysis (L: 11.5%; N: 7.8%; H: 15.3%), and prolonged hospital length of stay (L: 13 days, 9–22; N: 12 days, 9–19; H: 14 days, 9–21). After adjustment for possible confounding variables, an initial ScvO2 above 80% was associated with adjusted hazard ratios of 2.79 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.565-4.964, P <0.001) for in-hospital survival and 1.31 (95% CI 1.033-1.672, P = 0.026) for 3-year follow-up survival.

Conclusions

Patients with high ScvO2 were particularly affected by unfavourable outcomes. Advanced haemodynamic monitoring may help to identify patients with high ScvO2 who developed extraction dysfunction and to establish treatment algorithms to improve patient outcome in these patients.
Resuscitation strategies with different arterial pressure targets after surgical management of traumatic shock
Authors: Bai Xiaowu , Yu Wenkui , Ji Wu , Duan Kaipeng , Tan Shanjun , Lin Zhiliang , Xu Lin , Li Ning
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Hypotensive fluid resuscitation has a better effect before and during surgical intervention for multiple trauma patients with haemorrhagic shock. However, it is questionable whether hypotensive fluid resuscitation is suitable after surgical intervention for these patients, and whether resuscitation with different mean arterial pressure (MAP) targets after surgical intervention can obtain different results. The aim of this study was to investigate these questions and to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

A total of 30 anesthetized piglets were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 10 per group): low MAP, middle MAP, and high MAP, which had MAP targets of 60, 80, and 100 mmHg, respectively. All animals underwent femur fracture, intestine and liver injury, haemorrhagic shock, early hypotensive resuscitation, and surgical intervention. Then, the animals received fluid resuscitation with different MAP targets as mentioned above for 24 hours. Hemodynamic parameters and vital organ functions were evaluated.

Results

Fluid resuscitation in the 80 mmHg MAP group maintained haemodynamic stability, tissue perfusion, and organ function better than that in the other groups. The 60 mmHg MAP group presented with profound metabolic acidosis and organ histopathologic damage. In addition, animals in the 100 mmHg MAP group exhibited severe tissue oedema, organ function failure, and histopathologic damage.

Conclusions

In our porcine model of resuscitation, targeting high MAP by fluid administration alone resulted in a huge increase in the infusion volume, severe tissue oedema, and organ dysfunction. Meanwhile, targeting low MAP resulted in persistent tissue hypoperfusion and metabolic stress. Hence, a resuscitation strategy of targeting appropriate MAP might be compatible with maintaining haemodynamic stability, tissue perfusion, and organ function.
Performance and user evaluation of a novel capacitance-based automatic urinometer compared with a manual standard urinometer after elective cardiac surgery
Authors: Eklund Anton , Slettengren Martin , van der Linden Jan
Published: April 2015

Introduction

In the intensive care setting, most physiologic parameters are monitored automatically. However, urine output (UO) is still monitored hourly by manually handled urinometers. In this study, we evaluated an automatic urinometer (AU) and compared it with a manual urinometer (MU).

Methods

This prospective study was carried out in the intensive care unit of a cardiothoracic surgical clinic. In postoperative patients (n = 34) with indwelling urinary catheters and an expected stay of 24 hours or more, hourly UO samples were measured with an AU (Sippi, n = 220; Observe Medical, Gothenburg, Sweden) or an MU (UnoMeter™ 500, n = 188; Unomedical, Birkerød, Denmark) and thereafter validated by cylinder measurements. Malposition of the instrument at the time of reading excluded measurement. Data were analyzed with the Bland-Altman method. The performance of the MU was used as the minimum criterion of acceptance when the AU was evaluated. The loss of precision with the MU due to temporal deviation from fixed hourly measurements was recorded (n = 108). A questionnaire filled out by the ward staff (n = 28) was used to evaluate the ease of use of the AU compared with the MU.

Results

Bland-Altman analysis showed a smaller mean bias for the AU (+1.9 ml) compared with the MU (+5.3 ml) (P <0.0001). There was no statistical difference in measurement precision between the two urinometers, as defined by their limits of agreement (±15.2 ml vs. ±16.6 ml, P = 0.11). The mean temporal variation with the MU was ±7.4 minutes (±12.4%), and the limits of agreement were ±23.9 minutes (±39.8%), compared with no temporal variation with the AU (P <0.0001). The ward staff considered the AU easy to learn to use and rated it higher than the MU (P <0.0001).

Conclusions

The AU was not inferior to the MU and was significantly better in terms of bias, temporal deviation and staff opinion, although the clinical relevance of these findings may be open to discussion.
Background risk of breast cancer and the association between physical activity and mammographic density
Authors: Trinh Thang , Eriksson Mikael , Darabi Hatef , Bonn Stephanie E , Brand Judith S , Cuzick Jack , Czene Kamila , Sjölander Arvid , Bälter Katarina , Hall Per
Published: April 2015

Introduction

High physical activity has been shown to decrease the risk of breast cancer, potentially by a mechanism that also reduces mammographic density. We tested the hypothesis that the risk of developing breast cancer in the next 10 years according to the Tyrer-Cuzick prediction model influences the association between physical activity and mammographic density.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study of 38,913 Swedish women aged 40–74 years. Physical activity was assessed using the validated web-questionnaire Active-Q and mammographic density was measured by the fully automated volumetric Volpara method. The 10-year risk of breast cancer was estimated using the Tyrer-Cuzick (TC) prediction model. Linear regression analyses were performed to assess the association between physical activity and volumetric mammographic density and the potential interaction with the TC breast cancer risk.

Results

Overall, high physical activity was associated with lower absolute dense volume. As compared to women with the lowest total activity level (<40 metabolic equivalent hours [MET-h] per day), women with the highest total activity level (≥50 MET-h/day) had an estimated 3.4 cm3 (95% confidence interval, 2.3-4.7) lower absolute dense volume. The inverse association was seen for any type of physical activity among women with <3.0% TC 10-year risk, but only for total and vigorous activities among women with 3.0-4.9% TC risk, and only for vigorous activity among women with ≥5.0% TC risk. The association between total activity and absolute dense volume was modified by the TC breast cancer risk (Pinteraction = 0.05). As anticipated, high physical activity was also associated with lower non-dense volume. No consistent association was found between physical activity and percent dense volume.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that physical activity may decrease breast cancer risk through reducing mammographic density, and that the physical activity needed to reduce mammographic density may depend on background risk of breast cancer.
The Fasciola hepatica genome: gene duplication and polymorphism reveals adaptation to the host environment and the capacity for rapid evolution
Authors: Cwiklinski Krystyna , Dalton John Pius , Dufresne Philippe J , La Course James , Williams Diana JL , Hodgkinson Jane , Paterson Steve
Published: April 2015

Background

The liver fluke Fasciola hepatica is a major pathogen of livestock worldwide, causing huge economic losses to agriculture, as well as 2.4 million human infections annually.

Results

Here we provide a draft genome for F. hepatica, which we find to be among the largest known pathogen genomes at 1.3 Gb. This size cannot be explained by genome duplication or expansion of a single repeat element, and remains a paradox given the burden it may impose on egg production necessary to transmit infection. Despite the potential for inbreeding by facultative self-fertilisation, substantial levels of polymorphism were found, which highlights the evolutionary potential for rapid adaptation to changes in host availability, climate change or to drug or vaccine interventions. Non-synonymous polymorphisms were elevated in genes shared with parasitic taxa, which may be particularly relevant for the ability of the parasite to adapt to a broad range of definitive mammalian and intermediate molluscan hosts. Large-scale transcriptional changes, particularly within expanded protease and tubulin families, were found as the parasite migrated from the gut, across the peritoneum and through the liver to mature in the bile ducts. We identify novel members of anti-oxidant and detoxification pathways and defined their differential expression through infection, which may explain the stage-specific efficacy of different anthelmintic drugs.

Conclusions

The genome analysis described here provides new insights into the evolution of this important pathogen, its adaptation to the host environment and external selection pressures. This analysis also provides a platform for research into novel drugs and vaccines.
Characterization of the postsynaptic protein neurogranin in paired cerebrospinal fluid and plasma samples from Alzheimer’s disease patients and healthy controls
Authors: Kvartsberg Hlin , Portelius Erik , Andreasson Ulf , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Hellwig Konstantin , Lelental Natalia , Kornhuber Johannes , Hansson Oskar , Minthon Lennart , Spitzer Philipp , Maler Juan M , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Lewczuk Piotr
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Synaptic dysfunction and degeneration are central events in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathophysiology that are thought to occur early in disease progression. Synaptic pathology may be studied by examining protein biomarkers specific for different synaptic elements. We recently showed that the dendritic protein neurogranin (Ng), including the endogenous Ng peptide 48 to 76 (Ng48–76), is markedly increased in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in AD and that Ng48–76 is the dominant peptide in human brain tissue. The aim of this study was to characterize Ng in plasma and CSF using mass spectrometry and to investigate the performance of plasma Ng as an AD biomarker.

Methods

Paired plasma and CSF samples from patients with AD (n = 25) and healthy controls (n = 20) were analyzed in parallel using an immunoassay developed in-house on the Meso Scale Discovery platform and hybrid immunoaffinity-mass spectrometry (HI-MS). A second plasma material from patients with AD (n = 13) and healthy controls (n = 17) was also analyzed with HI-MS. High-resolution mass spectrometry was used for identification of endogenous plasma Ng peptides.

Results

Ng in human plasma is present as several endogenous peptides. Of the 16 endogenous Ng peptides identified, seven were unique for plasma and not detectable in CSF. However, Ng48–76 was not present in plasma. CSF Ng was significantly increased in AD compared with controls (P < 0.0001), whereas the plasma Ng levels were similar between the groups in both studies. Plasma and CSF Ng levels showed no correlation. CSF Ng was stable during storage at −20°C for up to 2 days, and no de novo generation of peptides were detected.

Conclusions

For the first time, to our knowledge, we have identified several endogenous Ng peptides in human plasma. In agreement with previous studies, we show that CSF Ng is significantly increased in AD as compared with healthy controls. The origin of Ng in plasma and its possible use as a biomarker need to be further investigated. The results suggest that CSF Ng, in particular Ng48–76, might reflect the neurodegenerative processes within the brain, indicating a role for Ng as a potential novel clinical biomarker for synaptic function in AD.
Characterization of aflatoxin producing Aspergillus flavus from food and feed samples
Authors: Fakruddin Md , Chowdhury Abhijit , Hossain Md Nur , Ahmed Monzur Morshed
Published: April 2015

Aspergillus flavus is one of the major producers of aflatoxin and can contaminate wide range of agricultural commodities either in field or in storage. 15 presumptive Aspergillus flavus has been isolated from 30 feed and grain samples. All the isolates were morphologically similar to Aspergillus flavus type strains. All the isolates were found to be aflatoxigenic. DNA sequencing of 5.8 s rDNA confirmed all of them to be Aspergillus flavus. Only 1 isolate possessed all the seven toxigenic gene (aflR, aflS, aflQ, aflP, aflD, aflM, and aflO) while aflP & aflQ were most prevalent in the isolates. All the isolates possessed at least three toxigenic genes. Toxin producing ability in solid culture media showed that 11 isolates isolates were able to produce both aflatoxin B1 & B2. More than 90% isolates produced aflatoxin B1 ranging 7–22 μg/g of agar. This study alarms us about the potential risks of Aspergillus flavus to public health if contaminate agricultural commodities such as grains or raw materials such as poultry feed. Proper harvest and storage management is required to reduce the risk of aflatoxin in feed and grains.
The endophytic fungi of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge.f. alba are a potential source of natural antioxidants
Authors: Li Yan-Ling , Xin Xiao-Ming , Chang Zheng-Yao , Shi Ren-Jiu , Miao Zeng-Min , Ding Jing , Hao Gang-Ping
Published: April 2015

Background

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. f. alba is a traditional Chinese herbal drug with special pharmacological effect on thromboangiitis obliterans. However, the nature source of S.miltiorrhiza Bge.f.alba is now in short supply because of the over-collection of the wild plant. To better utilize this resource, the diversity and antioxidant activity of endophytic fungi isolated from S. miltiorrhiza Bge. f. alba were investigated.

Results

A total of 14 endophytic fungi were isolated from different parts of S. miltiorrhiza Bge.f.alba. Based on morphological and molecular identification, the endophytic fungi isolated were classified into four genera (Alternaria sp., Fusarium sp., Schizophyllum sp. and Trametes sp.). These fungal extracts were prepared using ethanol and evaluated for their phytochemical compounds and antioxidant activity. Alternaria alternata SaF-2 and Fusarium proliferatum SaR-2 are of particular interest because they yielded all of nine phytochemicals including saponins, phenol, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, tannins, alkaloids, anthroquinone and terpenoids. F. proliferatum SaR-2 and A. alternata SaF-2 also exhibited stronger antioxidant activities by FRAP and DPPH method, having the higher levels of phenol and flavonoid than those of plant root. The total amount of phenol and flavonoid quantified were of 21.75, 20.53 gallic acid equivalent per gram and 8.27 and 7.36 μg/mg of quercetin equivalent respectively. These two endophytic fungi (SaR-2 and SaF-2) were found to have comparable scavenging abilities on both FRAP (1682.21 and 1659.05 μmol/mg, respectively) and DPPH-free radicals (90.14% and 83.25%, respectively, at 0.1 mg/mL). This is the first report about isolation of endophytic fungi from S. miltiorrhiza Bge.f.alba and their antioxidant activities.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the endophytic fungi associated with S. miltiorrhiza Bge.f. alba can be a potential source of novel natural antioxidants.
Pulse polarographic determination of thiophanate methyl fungicide in relation to its soil adsorption study
Authors: Sharma Devender Kumar , Verma Naresh K , Suman Sapna , Kashyap Rajinder Kumar
Published: April 2015

Background

The environmental pollution caused by the extensive use of the pesticide thiophanate methyl is of great concern, because it is a category III acute toxicant and a suspected carcinogen.

Method

A remarkably sensitive differential pulse polarographic method for the determination of thiophanate methyl has been developed. The method is based on the reaction of the fungicide with copper(II) perchlorate in the presence of butylmethylimidazolium bromide (ionic liquid) in acetonitrile.

Results

The reaction product exhibits an analytical useful diffusion controlled peak at −180 mV (vs SCE), and the thiophanate methyl has been determined in the linearity range 1.25 × 10−6 to 12.5 × 10−6 mol L−1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.997. To study the fate of this pesticide in soil and extent of surface and groundwater contamination, its adsorption on four soils of different soil characteristics has been studied using batch equilibrium technique.

Conclusion

The leaching potential, a measure of ground and surface water contamination, has been evaluated in terms of groundwater ubiquity score (GUS) and the value obtained is in the range 0.87 to 0.97, classifying it as non-leaching pesticide.
Introduction to this special section: Geohazards / OTC
Authors: Dev Ashwani , Torres-Verdín Carlos
Published: April 2015

This special section focuses on offshore geohazards. Its publication is aligned with the annual Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), which has been held in early May in Houston since 1969. The OTC is one of the most popular and well -attended conferences, focused largely on drilling and drilling equipment. Over the years, the OTC and SEG partnership has grown through cross-organizational support and sponsorship. SEG is one of the sponsoring societies for OTC events. Every year, OTC facilitates various geosciences sessions through the support and efforts of the SEG-OTC technical committee. OTC and SEG appreciate the organizational efforts of all individuals serving on the technical committee, headed by Charles Knobloch and Rocco Detomo, who make sure that the geosciences technical sessions become a success.
Application of an integrated workflow for shallow-hazard characterization using a 3D high-resolution survey offshore Azerbaijan
Authors: Gherasim Mariana , Viceer Shazia , Brusova Olga , Naumenko Julia , Gullette Kenny , Dingler Jeff , Hill Andrew W.
Published: April 2015

A methodology has been developed for quantitative prediction of shallow-hazard zones based on 3D high-resolution (3DHR) seismic and shallow-log data. The main goal of the integrated workflow is to produce an optimal structural image, conduct an AVO feasibility study and, if applicable, identify AVO trends within the depositional sequences of the shallow overburden at the Azeri field offshore Azerbaijan. Shallow, near-surface geologic-engineering hazards and features are not always visible on seismic volumes typically processed for reservoir targets. The 3D high-resolution seismic data provide good definition of shallow stratigraphy, indication of buried mudflows and landslides, and good fault delineation. AVO feasibility from rock-property analysis was affected by uncertainties arising from lack of or poor log data quality. With limited amounts of log data increasing the uncertainties, the use of trends based on data provided offered some initial understanding of shallow-seismic sensitivity. In depths < 300 m below mud line (BML), there is greater uncertainty because rock-physics models are not well understood in a generally unconsolidated section. However, where log data are available, there is an opportunity to use the integrated workflow in combination with geohazard interpretation to reduce uncertainty in subsurface description.
PS imaging of ocean-bottom data
Authors: Casasanta Lorenzo , Gray Samuel H.
Published: April 2015

Opportunities and challenges exist for imaging seismic data acquired using conventional marine sources and receivers on the seafloor. Compared with conventional imaging of sea-surface streamer data, seabed acquisition and processing offer some opportunities to provide higher value of information. One of the opportunities is to use P-wave to S-wave converted reflection energy (PS imaging). Challenges include overcoming the effects of current seafloor receiver spacing, which can be large enough to negate the promised resolution gains and complicate the velocity model-building workflow. A synthetic data set illustrates possible imaging improvements that can result from seafloor acquisition as well as image degradation that can result when seafloor receivers are separated by typical current distances.
GSH-SEG 2015 Spring Symposium honors Leon Thomsen
Authors: Farley Isaac
Published: April 2015

I don't know how others are introduced to Leon Thomsen, but my introduction came in two forms. The first was via e-mail — my request to interview him during the GSH-SEG 2015 Annual Spring Symposium on 10–11 March in Houston, where he was to be honored for his “lifetime achievements and contributions to the industry.” Thomsen promptly responded to my last-minute request with warmth and flexibility. Like other great interviewees, he even gave me a head start on my homework for the exchange. I could not have been more appreciative.
Seismic petrophysics: Part 1
Authors: Amato del Monte Alessandro
Published: April 2015

We never seem to have enough data to analyze the complexity of the subsurface. The geologist would love to have hundreds of cores, but the manager will let him have just one. The geophysicist's dream is to acquire a new 3D with long offsets, complete azimuth coverage, and 5-m bins, but she is more likely to be stuck with a couple of 2D lines.
Memorials
Authors: Khan Sofia , Barr Fred
Published: April 2015

Memorials for: Tawassul Ali Khan