bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualizing the production and arrangement of peptidoglycan in Gram‐positive cells
Authors: Popham David L.
Published: April 2013

Decades of study have revealed the fine chemical structure of the bacterial peptidoglycan cell wall, but the arrangement of the peptidoglycan strands within the wall has been challenging to define. The application of electron cryotomography (ECT) and new methods for fluorescent labelling of peptidoglycan are allowing new insights into wall structure and synthesis. Two articles in this issue examine peptidoglycan structures in the model Gram‐positive species Bacillus subtilis. Beeby et al. combined visualization of peptidoglycan using ECT with molecular modelling of three proposed arrangements of peptidoglycan strands to identify the model most consistent with their data. They argue convincingly for a Gram‐positive wall containing multiple layers of peptidoglycan strands arranged circumferentially around the long axis of the rod‐shaped cell, an arrangement similar to the single layer of peptidoglycan in similarly shaped Gram‐negative cells. Tocheva et al. examined sporulating cells using ECT and fluorescence microscopy to demonstrate the continuous production of a thin layer of peptidoglycan around the developing spore as it is engulfed by the membrane of the adjacent mother cell. The presence of this peptidoglycan in the intermembrane space allows the refinement of a model for engulfment, which has been known to include peptidoglycan synthetic and lytic functions.
Type 2 diabetes in East Asians: similarities and differences with populations in Europe and the United States
Authors: Ma Ronald C.W. , Chan Juliana C.N.
Published: April 2013

There is an epidemic of diabetes in Asia. Type 2 diabetes develops in East Asian patients at a lower mean body mass index (BMI) compared with those of European descent. At any given BMI, East Asians have a greater amount of body fat and a tendency to visceral adiposity. In Asian patients, diabetes develops at a younger age and is characterized by early β cell dysfunction in the setting of insulin resistance, with many requiring early insulin treatment. The increasing proportion of young‐onset and childhood type 2 diabetes is posing a particular threat, with these patients being at increased risk of developing diabetic complications. East Asian patients with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of developing renal complications than Europeans and, with regard to cardiovascular complications, a predisposition for developing strokes. In addition to cardiovascular–renal disease, cancer is emerging as the other main cause of mortality. While more research is needed to explain these interethnic differences, urgent and concerted actions are needed to raise awareness, facilitate early diagnosis, and encourage preventive strategies to combat these growing disease burdens.
Density Nowcasts and Model Combination: Nowcasting Euro‐Area GDP Growth over the 2008–09 Recession*
Authors: Mazzi Gian Luigi , Mitchell James , Montana Gaetana
Published: April 2013

Combined density nowcasts for quarterly Euro‐area GDP growth are produced based on the real‐time performance of component models. Components are distinguished by their use of ‘hard’ and ‘soft’, aggregate and disaggregate, indicators. We consider the accuracy of the density nowcasts as within‐quarter indicator data accumulate. We find that the relative utility of ‘soft’ indicators surged during the recession. But as this instability was hard to detect in real‐time it helps, when producing density nowcasts unknowing any within‐quarter ‘hard’ data, to weight the different indicators equally. On receipt of ‘hard’ data for the second month in the quarter better calibrated densities are obtained by giving a higher weight in the combination to ‘hard’ indicators.
Intravenous versus intramuscular epinephrine administration during cardiopulmonary resuscitation – a pilot study in piglets
Authors: Mauch Jacqueline , Ringer Simone K. , Spielmann Nelly , Weiss Markus
Published: April 2013

Background

Early epinephrine administration in cardiac arrest seems to be advantageous to achieve return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Because intravenous (i.v.) or intraosseous access is not always immediately available, this study compares efficacy of early intramuscular (i.m.) epinephrine administration with early and delayed i.v. epinephrine injection in an animal cardiac arrest model.

Methods

Piglets anesthetized with sevoflurane were intoxicated by an i.v. ropivacaine infusion until circulatory arrest. After 1 min basic life support (chest compression and ventilation), epinephrine i.v. (10 μg·kg−1, group IV) or epinephrine i.m. (100 μg·kg−1, group IM) or normal saline (group NS) was applied. Further doses of epinephrine were given in group IV every 4 min and in group IM after 10 min if required. Twenty‐one minutes after circulatory arrest, i.v. epinephrine – as necessary – was given to all animals. Thus, group NS represents late epinephrine administration. Outcomes were survival and time to ROSC.

Results

Twenty‐four pigs aged 19.5 (median, interquartile range 16–22) days, weighing 5.4 (5.0–5.7) kg were investigated. Total amount of ropivacaine administered was 8.9 (8.1–10.1) mg·kg−1. Cardiac rhythm before starting CPR was pulseless electric activity and asystole in 15 and 9 pigs, respectively. Eight, seven, and four pigs survived in group IV, IM, and NS. Focusing on surviving animals, time to ROSC was 2, 4 and 19.5 min in group IV, IM, and NS.

Conclusions

Early i.m. epinephrine provided similar survival compared with early i.v. epinephrine and was superior to delayed epinephrine administration in resuscitation of ropivacaine‐induced cardiac arrest in piglets.
The STBUR questionnaire for predicting perioperative respiratory adverse events in children at risk for sleep‐disordered breathing
Authors: Tait Alan R. , Voepel‐Lewis Terri , Christensen Robert , O'Brien Louise M.
Published: April 2013

Background

In the absence of formal polysomnography (PSG), many children with symptoms of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) go unrecognized and thus may be at risk for perioperative respiratory adverse events (PRAE).

Objectives

To develop a simple practical tool to identify children with symptoms consistent with SDB who may be at risk for PRAE.

Methods

Three‐hundred and thirty‐seven parents of children scheduled for surgery completed the Sleep‐Related Breathing Disorder (SRBD) questionnaire. Data regarding the incidence and severity of PRAE including airway obstruction and laryngospasm, were collected prospectively.

Results

Thirty‐two (9.5%) children had a confirmed diagnosis of SDB by PSG and 90 (26.7%) had symptoms consistent with SDB based on the SRBD questionnaire. Principal component analysis identified five symptoms from the SRBD questionnaire that were strongly predictive of PRAE and which were incorporated into the STBUR tool (Snoring, Trouble Breathing, Un‐Refreshed). The likelihood of PRAE was increased by threefold (positive likelihood ratio 3.06 [1.64–5.96] in the presence of any 3 STBUR symptoms and by tenfold when all five symptoms were present (9.74 [1.35–201.8]). In comparison, the likelihood of PRAE based on a PSG‐confirmed diagnosis of SDB was 2.63 (1.17–6.23).

Conclusions

Children presenting for surgery with symptoms consistent with SDB may be at risk for PRAE. It is important therefore that anesthesia providers identify these individuals prior to surgery to avoid potential complications. The STBUR questionnaire appears promising as a simple, clinically useful tool for identifying children at risk for PRAE. Further studies to validate the STBUR questionnaire as a diagnostic tool may be warranted.
The Effect of Terror on Institutional Trust: New Evidence from the 3/11 Madrid Terrorist Attack
Authors: Dinesen Peter Thisted , Jæger Mads Meier
Published: April 2013

Research from the United States suggests that the 9/11 terrorist attack increased trust in political institutions by creating a “rally effect.” In this research note we analyze Eurobarometer data collected immediately before and after the March 11, 2004 terrorist attack in Madrid to replicate and extend previous findings from the United States. We report that, first, trust in different types of institutions (political, media, justice) increased significantly immediately after the Madrid terrorist attack; second, the effect of the attack varied systematically across different types of institutions; and, third, the effect was generally short‐lived. Our results suggest that the rally effect of terror on trust in institutions generalizes across national contexts but also that the effect differs across types of institutions.
Legacies of Srebrenica: The Dutch Factor inEU‐Serbian Relations
Authors: Lašas Ainius
Published: April 2013

Having been traumatized by the actions of theBosnianSerb army and its primary supporterSerbia in Srebrenica, theNetherlands insisted on applying strictEUconditionality criteria forBelgrade's candidacy. TheDutch determination to repeatedly stall the process ofEU‐Serbian negotiations and to snub the preferences of the rest of theEUmembers cannot be adequately explained without taking into account the role of self‐conscious affect. The article not only provides a fresh perspective of the enlargement process, but it also offers revisions to the habituated‐deliberative choice hypothesis, which to date has not taken into account the role of self‐conscious affect.
Association between awareness of harmful effects of smoking and smoking cessation advice provided by hospital chest physicians in Guangzhou, China: A multi‐institutional cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Tang Yan , Jiang Mei , Li De‐rong , Guan Wei‐jie , Liang Yi‐hua , Li Shi‐yue , Zheng Jin‐ping , Chen Rong‐chang , Zhong Nan‐shan
Published: April 2013

Background and objective

It is unknown which factors are associated with smoking cessation interventions initiated by hospital chest physicians in China. We examined physicians' awareness of negative effects of smoking on smoking cessation advice given.

Methods

A cluster randomized cross‐sectional survey was conducted from July to August 2011 in hospital chest physicians (n = 354) in Guangzhou, China.

Results

Of those who responded (n = 354, 92%), 63.8% were aware of negative effects of smoking and 64.5% initiated smoking cessation programmes with their patients. Awareness differed among physicians depending on their hospital affiliation (χ2 = 54.7, P > 0.001), that is, primary (44.9%), secondary (55.1%) and tertiary hospitals (87.0%), (odds ratio = 1.732, 95% confidence interval: 1.072–2.797, P < 0.05). Physicians with less awareness prescribed smoking cessation medication less frequently (χ2 = 137.71, P < 0.001). Smoking cessation practice by physicians also depended on hospital affiliation (χ2 = 5.7, P > 0.001), (odds ratio = 4.074, 95% confidence interval: 1.399–11.860, P = 0.010). Smoking status of physicians was related to smoking cessation practice.

Conclusions

Physicians more aware of the health hazards of smoking provided more smoking cessation advice. Awareness correlated with hospital levels and smoking status. Physician's advice correlated with their smoking status and educational background, but not with the levels of hospital, position or department affiliation.
Citizenship Status and Patterns of Inequality in theUnitedStates andCanada
Authors: Aptekar Sofya
Published: April 2013

Objective

This study investigates inequalities in the distribution of citizenship status among immigrants inCanada and theUnitedStates between 1970 and 2001. It is motivated by a desire to probe deeper into the gap in citizenship rates between the two countries.

Methods

Logistic regression analysis of census data is used to predict the odds of citizenship among the foreign born, controlling for a range of factors.

Results

There has been a growing inequality in the distribution of citizenship in theUnitedStates, but not inCanada. Low rates of citizenship hide the appearance of a large disparity in citizenship between those with the lowest levels of education and everyone else. These results cannot be entirely ascribed to the presence of undocumented immigrants.

Conclusion

Persistent and large inequalities in citizenship leave the already disadvantaged unskilled immigrants without access to rights, representation, security, or job and educational opportunities.
Self‐Esteem and the Reproduction of Social Class
Authors: James Spencer L. , Amato Paul R.
Published: April 2013

Objective

Although prior research has demonstrated the multiple pathways through which socioeconomic attainment occurs, one unexplored avenue regards the role of psychological mechanisms such as self‐esteem in this process.

Methods

Using three waves of data from the National Survey of Families and Households (N = 1,952), we employed structural equation models to examine the relationship between parenting practices and attitudes, socioeconomic status, offspring's self‐esteem, and the likelihood of offspring college attendance.

Results

Self‐esteem was positively related to the likelihood of offspring's college attendance. Additionally, self‐esteem was found to be a modest mediator of the relationship between parental educational expectations and parental income, respectively, and the likelihood of offspring completing or being currently enrolled in college.

Conclusion

Self‐esteem may constitute one previously unconsidered mechanism for reproducing the class structure in the United States.
The Gender Gap in High School Physics: Considering the Context of Local Communities
Authors: Riegle‐Crumb Catherine , Moore Chelsea
Published: April 2013

Objectives

We focus on variation in gender inequality in physics course‐taking, questioning the notion of a ubiquitous male advantage. We consider how inequality in high school physics is related to the context of students’ local communities, specifically the representation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations in the labor force.

Methods

This study uses nationally representative data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and its education component, the Adolescent Health and Academic Achievement Transcript Study.

Results

Approximately half of schools are characterized by either gender equality or even a small female advantage in enrollment in this traditionally male subject. Furthermore, variation in the gender gap in physics is related to the percent of women who are employed in STEM occupations within the community.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that communities differ in the extent to which traditionally gendered status expectations shape beliefs and behaviors.
The Aguacaliente Fault, source of the Cartago 1910 destructive earthquake (Costa Rica)
Authors: Alonso‐Henar Jorge , Montero Walter , Martínez‐Díaz José J. , Álvarez‐Gómez José A. , Insua‐Arévalo Juan M. , Rojas Wilfredo
Published: April 2013

On 4 May 1910, the most destructive earthquake in the history of Costa Rica (Ms 6.4) destroyed the city of Cartago, a major city located in the Valle Central of Costa Rica. Using both palaeo‐seismological and morphotectonic analyses, we have found evidence that points to the Aguacaliente Fault (AF) as the source of this earthquake. This structure is a N100° E trending, strike‐slip fault situated to the south of Cartago and within a wide band of deformation. We excavated two trenches near Bermejo, south of Cartago. We found evidence of three surface ruptures within the last 1000 years on this fault. The age of the most recent rupture is consistent with the Cartago 1910 earthquake. TheAFis a seismogenic source capable of producing large earthquakes (Mw 6.5–6.9) with an estimated recurrence interval of about 500 years.
Prevalence of placenta praevia by world region: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cresswell Jenny A. , Ronsmans Carine , Calvert Clara , Filippi Véronique
Published: April 2013

Objectives

(i) To estimate the prevalence burden of placenta praevia in each world region, and (ii) to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity.

Methods

Systematic review of the literature and random‐effects meta‐analysis. Potential sources of heterogeneity were investigated using meta‐regression.

Results

The overall prevalence of placenta praevia was 5.2 per 1000 pregnancies (95% CI: 4.5–5.9). However, there was evidence of regional variation (P = 0.0001); prevalence was highest among Asian studies (12.2 per 1000 pregnancies; 95% CI: 9.5–15.2) and lower among studies from Europe (3.6 per 1000 pregnancies; 95% CI: 2.8–4.6), North America (2.9 per 1000 pregnancies; 95% CI: 2.3–3.5) and Sub‐Saharan Africa (2.7 per 1000 pregnancies; 95% CI: 0.3–11.0). The prevalence of major placenta praevia was 4.3 per 1000 pregnancies (95% CI: 3.3–5.4).

Conclusion

The prevalence of placenta praevia is low at around 5 per 1000 pregnancies. There is some evidence suggestive of regional variation in its prevalence, but it is not possible to determine from existing data whether this is due to true ethnic differences or other unknown factor(s).
The hybrid Four‐CBS‐Domain KINβγ subunit functions as the canonical γ subunit of the plant energy sensor SnRK1
Authors: Ramon Matthew , Ruelens Philip , Li Yi , Sheen Jen , Geuten Koen , Rolland Filip
Published: April 2013

The AMPK/SNF1/SnRK1 protein kinases are a family of ancient and highly conserved eukaryotic energy sensors that function as heterotrimeric complexes. These typically comprise catalytic α subunits and regulatory β and γ subunits, the latter function as the energy‐sensing modules of animal AMPK through adenosine nucleotide binding. The ability to monitor accurately and adapt to changing environmental conditions and energy supply is essential for optimal plant growth and survival, but mechanistic insight in the plant SnRK1 function is still limited. In addition to a family of γ‐like proteins, plants also encode a hybrid βγ protein that combines the Four‐Cystathionine β‐synthase (CBS)‐domain (FCD) structure in γ subunits with a glycogen‐binding domain (GBD), typically found in β subunits. We used integrated functional analyses by ectopic SnRK1 complex reconstitution, yeast mutant complementation, in‐depth phylogenetic reconstruction, and a seedling starvation assay to show that only the hybrid KINβγ protein that recruited the GBD around the emergence of the green chloroplast‐containing plants, acts as the canonical γ subunit required for heterotrimeric complex formation. Mutagenesis and truncation analysis further show that complex interaction in plant cells and γ subunit function in yeast depend on both a highly conserved FCD and a pre‐CBS domain, but not the GBD. In addition to novel insight into canonical AMPK/SNF/SnRK1 γ subunit function, regulation and evolution, we provide a new classification of plant FCD genes as a convenient and reliable tool to predict regulatory partners for the SnRK1 energy sensor and novel FCD gene functions.
Wound biofilms: Lessons learned from oral biofilms
Authors: Mancl Kimberly A. , Kirsner Robert S. , Ajdic Dragana
Published: April 2013

Biofilms play an important role in the development and pathogenesis of many chronic infections. Oral biofilms, more commonly known as dental plaque, are a primary cause of oral diseases including caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Oral biofilms are commonly studied as model biofilm systems as they are easily accessible; thus, biofilm research in oral diseases is advanced with details of biofilm formation and bacterial interactions being well elucidated. In contrast, wound research has relatively recently directed attention to the role biofilms have in chronic wounds. This review discusses the biofilms in periodontal disease and chronic wounds with comparisons focusing on biofilm detection, biofilm formation, the immune response to biofilms, bacterial interaction, and quorum sensing. Current treatment modalities used by both fields and future therapies are also discussed.
Conserved shell disguises diversity in Mesodontrachia land snails from the Australian Monsoon Tropics (Gastropoda: Camaenidae)
Authors: Criscione Francesco , Köhler Frank
Published: April 2013

We comprehensively revise the taxonomy of the camaenid genus Mesodontrachia Solem, 1985, which is endemic to the Victoria River District and East Kimberley in the north‐western Australian Monsoon Tropics based on comparative analyses of key morphological features and mitochondrial DNA sequences. We examined newly collected samples from several collection sites spread over nearly 20 000 km2 of mostly inaccessible land, which represented all three currently known and three previously undescribed species. All species were initially identified as members of Mesodontrachia based on their similar, putatively typical shell. However, Mesodontrachia as so delimited was polyphyletic in a mitochondrial phylogeny with respect to several other camaenid genera from NW Australia. Contrary to the shell, we found considerable variation in the penial anatomy that was consistent with the mtDNA differentiation. To retain monophyletic taxa, we propose a revised taxonomy whereby Mesodontrachia is maintained as a monotypic taxon. In addition, four genera (Nodulabium, Ototrachia, Pseudomesodontrachia and Vincentrachia) and three species (P. gregoriana, O. compressa and N. solidum) are newly described. The shell of all these taxa is highly conserved and of little taxonomic utility. Shell similarity is attributed to a similar life style in a similar and harsh environment.
Electron stimulated desorption from the 316 L stainless steel as a function of impact electron energy
Authors: Malyshev Oleg B. , Jones Rebecca M. A. , Hogan Benjamin T. , Hannah Adrian
Published: April 2013

The electron stimulated desorption (ESD) yields of vacuum chamber wall materials are required as one of the important input parameters in the design of vacuum systems for particle accelerators and many other vacuum systems where energetic electrons hit vacuum chamber walls. In the present study, the ESD yields were measured and analyzed (a) as a function of accumulated electron dose, (b) as a function of the total amount of desorbed gas, and (c) as a function of the energy of electrons bombarding. In this study, three separate 316 L stainless steel samples were bombarded with electrons up to an accumulated electron dose of ∼2 × 1023 e−/m2 at three different corresponding electron energies: 50 eV, 500 eV, and 5 keV. Once the required dose was reached, the ESD yield as a function of electron energy was measured between 10 eV and 6.5 keV. The results obtained by both methods were in agreement showing that ESD yield increases with electron energy. Experimental difficulties and problems with interpretation of data relating to such a study are described and discussed in the paper.
Physiological Changes Associated with de qi during electroacupuncture to LI4 and LI11: A randomised, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Yu David Tai Wai , Jones Alice Yee Men
Published: March 2013

Background

Studies on the relationship between de qi intensity and activity changes in the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are scarce. This study investigates the physiological responses associated with de qi. The relationship between de qi intensity and such responses was determined.

Method

This was a single-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 36 subjects (19 men, 17 women), aged 34.5±4.6 years, were randomly assigned to group 1 (electroacupuncture at 2 Hz, 0.4 ms to right LI4 and LI11 for 30 min), group 2 (electroacupuncture stimulation to bilateral patellae) or group 3 (sham electroacupuncture to right LI4 and LI11 but over Duoderm pads). Heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and HR variability by low/high frequency (LF/HF) were recorded 5 min before, during and 5 min after the intervention. Needle sensations were quantified by the Modified Massachusetts General Hospital Acupuncture Sensation Scale – Chinese version (C-MMASS) and the C-MMASS index was computed.

Results

A significant increase in LF/HF, MAP and HR was observed in group 1. A small and significant increase in LF/HF was observed in group 2 but the changes in MAP and HR in groups 2 and 3 were not significant. The C-MMASS index was highest in group 1 (5.3±1.3), moderate in group 2 (3.5±0.7) and lowest in group 3 (0.77±0.2). A positive correlation between de qi intensity and changes in LF/HF, MAP and HR was observed.

Conclusions

This study suggests that de qi is associated with physiological changes, and that de qi intensity increases with an increase in sympathetic discharge of the ANS.
Multiple overlapping stents as monotherapy in the treatment of ‘blister’ pseudoaneurysms arising from the supraclinoid internal carotid artery: a single institution series and review of the literature
Authors: Walsh Kevin M , Moskowitz Shaye I , Hui Ferdinand K , Spiotta Alejandro M
Published: March 2013

Background

The ‘blister-type’ aneurysm is one of the most devastating cerebrovascular lesions. Flow diversion with stent reconstruction is an emerging treatment and has shown promising initial results.

Objective

To evaluate the experience of one institution using stent reconstruction for pseudoaneurysms of the supraclinoid internal carotid artery and to compare with a review of the literature.

Methods

A retrospective review from one institution identified eight patients with ‘blister’ aneurysms over a 47-month period. The Raymond scale was used to classify the aneurysms. Clinical data were obtained using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale. A literature review was performed and compared with our results. Clinical and angiographic data were obtained.

Results

After treatment, two aneurysms were Raymond class 1 (25%) and six were class 3 (75%). Of the class 3 aneurysms, two required retreatment, three (50%) progressed to complete occlusion and three (50%) had persistent aneurysm filling. Clinical data revealed two patients with mRS score of 0 (25%), five with mRS score of 1 (62.5%) and one with mRS score of 2 (12.5%). From the literature review, residual filling was evident in nine patients (64.3%) and complete occlusion in four (28.6%). On follow-up angiography, nine (64.3%) were occluded, two (14.3%) had residual neck filling and one (7.1%) had persistent aneurysm filling. Thirteen patients (92.9%) had an mRS score of 2 or better. Combining the available experience, patients demonstrated either improvement (n=9, 41%) or stability (n=11, 50%). Only two (9%) had progression requiring retreatment.

Conclusions

Endovascular stent remodeling of ‘blister-type’ aneurysms is a safe and effective strategy.
High incidence of acute coronary occlusion in patients without protocol positive ST segment elevation referred to an open access primary angioplasty programme
Authors: Apps Andrew , Malhotra Aseem , Tarkin Jason , Smith Robert , Kabir Tito , Lane Rebecca , Mason Mark , Ali Omar , Rogers Paula , Banya Winston , Whitbread Mark , Ilsley Charles , Dalby Miles
Published: March 2013

Background

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) programmes vary in admission criteria from open referral to acceptance of electrocardiogram (ECG) protocol positive patients only. Rigid criteria may result in some patients with acutely occluded coronary arteries not receiving timely reperfusion therapy.

Objective

To compare the prevalence of acute coronary occlusion and, in these cases, single time point biomarker estimates of myocardial infarct size between patients presenting with protocol positive ECG changes and those presenting with less diagnostic changes in the primary angioplasty cohort of an open access PPCI programme.

Methods

We retrospectively performed a single centre cross sectional analysis of consecutive patients receiving PPCI between January and August 2008. Cases were categorised according to presenting ECG—group A: protocol positive (ST segment elevation/left bundle branch block/posterior ST elevation myocardial infarction), group B: ST segment depression or T-wave inversion, or group C: minor ECG changes. Clinical characteristics, coronary flow grades and 12 h postprocedure troponin-I levels were reviewed.

Results

During the study period there were 513 activations of the PPCI service, of which 390 underwent immediate angiography and 308 underwent PPCI. Of those undergoing PPCI, 221 (72%) were in group A, 41 (13%) in group B and 46 (15%) in group C. Prevalence of coronary occlusion was 75% in group A compared with 73% in group B and 63% in group C. Median 12 h postintervention troponin-I (25th–75th percentile) for those with coronary occlusion was significantly higher in group A patients; 28.9 μg/l (13.2–58.5) versus 18.1 μg/l (6.7–32.4) for group B (p=0.03); and 15.5 μg/l (3.8–22.0) for group C (p<0.001), suggesting greater infarct size in group A.

Conclusions

A number of patients referred to an open access PPCI programme have protocol negative ECGs but myocardial infarction and acute coronary artery occlusion amenable to angioplasty.
The development and validation of an internet-based training package for the management of perineal trauma following childbirth: MaternityPEARLS
Authors: Mahmud Ayesha , Kettle Christine , Bick Debra , Rowley Claire , Rathod Trishna , Belcher John , Abdelmaguid Mohamed M , Ismail Khaled M K
Published: March 2013

Background

Birth-related perineal trauma has a major impact on women's health. Appropriate management of perineal injuries requires clinical knowledge and skill. At present, there is no agreement as to what constitutes an effective clinical training programme, despite the presence of sufficient evidence to support standardised perineal repair techniques. To address this deficiency, we developed and validated an interactive distance learning multi-professional training package called MaternityPEARLS.

Method

MaternityPEARLS was developed as a comprehensive e-learning package in 2010. The main aim of the MaternityPEARLS project was to develop, refine and validate this multi-professional e-learning tool. The effect of MaternityPEARLS in improving clinical skills and knowledge was compared with two other training models; traditional training (lectures + model-based hands on training) and offline computer lab-based training. Midwives and obstetricians were recruited for each training modality from three maternity units. An analysis of covariance was done to assess the effects of clinical profession and years of experience on scoring within each group. Feedback on MaternityPEARLS was also collected from participants. The project started in January 2010 and was completed in December 2010.

Results

Thirty-eight participants were included in the study. Pretraining and post-training scores in each group showed considerable improvement in skill scores (p<0.001 in all groups). Mean changes were similar across all three groups for knowledge (3.24 (SD 5.38), 3.00 (SD 3.74), 3.30 (SD 3.73)) and skill (25.34 (SD 8.96), 22.82 (SD 9.24), 20.7 (SD 9.76)) in the traditional, offline computer lab-based and e-learning groups, respectively. There was no evidence of any effect of clinical experience and baseline knowledge on outcomes.

Conclusions

MaternityPEARLS is the first validated perineal trauma management e-learning package. It provides a level of improvement in skill and knowledge comparable to traditional methods of training. However, as an e-learning system, it has the advantage of ensuring the delivery of a standardised, continuously updated curriculum that has global accessibility.
The clinical spectrum ofTrichomonas vaginalisinfection and challenges to management
Authors: Muzny Christina A , Schwebke Jane R
Published: March 2013

Trichomonas vaginalisis the most common curable sexually transmitted infection worldwide.T vaginalisinfections in women can range from asymptomatic to acute inflammatory vaginitis. In men, this infection is typically asymptomatic but is increasingly being recognised as a cause of non-gonococcal urethritis. Diagnosis ofT vaginalishas traditionally been made by direct microscopic examination of a wet mount of vaginal fluid or through the use of culture. The recent commercial availability of nucleic acid amplification tests for the detection ofT vaginalishas seen these replace culture as the gold standard for diagnosis. Nitroimidazoles (ie, metronidazole and tinidazole) are the mainstay of therapy. In the case of treatment failure due to drug resistance or in the case of a severe nitroimidazole allergy, alternative intravaginal therapies exist, although their effectiveness has not been evaluated systematically. Novel systemic agents other than nitroimidazoles for the treatment ofT vaginalisare needed, and efforts to promote and support antimicrobial drug development in this setting are necessary.
Puerperal development of ewes following dystocia: a retrospective analysis of two approaches to caesarean section
Authors: Ennen S. , Scholz M. , Voigt K. , Failing K. , Wehrend A.
Published: March 2013

The objective of this study was to retrospectively analyse the puerperal development of ewes referred to a veterinary teaching hospital following caesarean section in comparison with assisted parturition. Laparotomy was performed either via left flank incision (group 1, n=86) or ventral mid‐line approach (group 2, n=33). Both groups were compared with ewes following non‐surgical intervention (group 3, n=73). The overall fetal death rate was 41 per cent. There was no significant difference in fetal deaths between groups 1 and 2, but assisted delivery led to a higher number of liveborn lambs compared with caesarean section (P<0.05). Seven ewes (3.6 per cent) died or were euthanased on welfare grounds during caesarean surgery, and the overall maternal mortality rate following dystocia in the postpartum period was 10.9 per cent. While there was no significant difference between groups 1 and 2 in the percentage of ewes developing healing disorders, the complications that occurred were more severe after the left flank approach (P=0.04), and the mean hospitalisation period was significantly longer in group 1 than in group 2 (P<0.05), leading to the conclusion that ventral mid‐line laparotomy has some advantages over a left flank approach.
Allometric scaling of peak oxygen uptake in male roller hockey players under 17 years old
Authors: Valente-dos-Santos João , Sherar Lauren , Coelho-e-Silva Manuel J. , Pereira João R. , Vaz Vasco , Cupido-dos-Santos Amândio , Baxter-Jones Adam , Visscher Chris , Elferink-Gemser Marije T. , Malina Robert M.
Published: April 2013

Peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak) is routinely expressed in litres per minute and by unit of body mass (mL·kg−1·min−1) despite the theoretical and statistical limitations of using ratios. Allometric modeling is an effective approach for partitioning body-size effects in a performance variable. The current study examined the relationships among chronological age (CA), skeletal age (SA), total body and appendicular size descriptors, and V̇O2peakin male adolescent roller hockey players. Seventy-three Portuguese, highly trained male athletes (CA, 15.4 ± 0.6 years; SA, 16.4 ± 1.5 years; stature, 169.9 ± 6.9 cm; body mass, 63.7 ± 10.7 kg; thigh volume, 4.8 ± 1.0 L) performed an incremental maximal test on a motorized treadmill. Exponents for body size descriptors were 2.15 for stature (R2= 0.30, p < 0.01) and 0.55 for thigh volume (R2= 0.46, p < 0.01). The combination of stature or thigh volume and CA or SA, and CA2or SA2, increased the explained variance in V̇O2peak(R2ranged from 0.30 to 0.55). The findings of the allometric model combining more than 1 body size descriptor (i.e., stature and thigh volume) in addition to SA and CA2were not significant. Results suggest that thigh volume and SA are the main contributors to interindividual variability in aerobic fitness.
The Lachenaie clay deposit: some geochemical and geotechnical properties in relation to the salt-leaching process
Authors: Duhaime François , Benabdallah El Mehdi , Chapuis Robert P.
Published: April 2013

This paper summarizes a detailed geotechnical and geochemical characterization program for the Champlain clay deposit in Lachenaie, Quebec. Presently, the clay pore water is saline. The main objective of the testing program was to study the leaching of the clay saline pore water since its deposition. Four issues are discussed in this paper. First, the deposit is shown to comprise two distinct clay layers with contrasting geotechnical properties. The liquid limit and grain-size distribution are the properties that best distinguish the two materials. The upper layer is more plastic while the lower one is relatively silty. The occurrence of these two layers is shown to be in agreement with some recent findings in Quaternary geology. Second, the relatively high pre-consolidation pressures of the clay in the Lachenaie area are shown to be coherent with an erosion scenario and the elevation of a neighbouring bluff previously interpreted as an erosion terrace. Third, the relatively constant hydraulic conductivity values obtained from permeability tests throughout the deposit are shown to be consistent with the variations of liquid limit and void ratio in the two clay sublayers. Fourth, the occurrence of sensitive clay pockets (sensitivity greater than 50) in this otherwise saline clay body is elucidated.
Stability assessment for highway with large-span box culvert jacking underneath: a case study
Authors: Wang Hao , Qin Wei-Min , Jiao Yu-Yong
Published: April 2013

A case study of a double-cell, large-span prefabricated reinforced concrete box culvert with a total length of 52 m, a width of 46.8 m, and a height of 9.3 m, which passes beneath the Beijing – Hong Kong –Macau highway, is presented. The culvert is embedded in silty sand and silty clay at a depth of 1.2 m. To ensure the safety and normal operation of the highway, hydraulic jacking with the protection of a pipe roof was adopted for this project. This paper introduces the construction scheme in detail. A three-dimensional numerical simulation of the responses of the highway under which a wide box culvert jacking passes was conducted. The monitoring results on the highway as well as the actual construction process and problems encountered were analyzed. The different development characteristics or trends for the settlement and horizontal displacement of a highway surface are presented. In addition, this paper discusses the reasons for the large deformation of the highway surface as well as proposes reasonable suggestions.
Clonal relationship of Escherichia coli biofilm producer isolates obtained from mastitic milk
Authors: Silva Vitor Oliveira , Espeschit Isis Freitas , Moreira Maria Aparecida Scatamburlo
Published: April 2013

Escherichia coli is capable of producing several virulence factors involved in the pathophysiology of bovine mastitis. Cell surface structures such as flagella, pili, and other outer membrane adhesins are considered essential for biofilm formation on abiotic surfaces. The aim of this study was characterize the molecular profile of E. coli isolates obtained from mastitic milk by using the technique of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and evaluating results within the pulsetypes formed with the presence of virulence genes involved in biofilm production. Twenty-seven E. coli biofilm-producing isolates were obtained from mastitic milk samples belonging to Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation; these samples were analyzed by PFGE. We identified 9 (I to IX) different phylogenetic groups with a similarity of 90% and observed the presence of fimA (large subunit of the fimbriae type 1) and csgA gene (large subunit of curli fimbriae) in all isolates. Sixteen isolates had the gene fliC (flagellin). Evaluation of the genetic profile carried out through the PFGE showed that the bacteria do not share the same origin. It was not possible to associate the biofilm production capacity with the presence or absence of related genes. Therefore, strains of environmental mastitis-causing E. coli present different pathotypes.
A BINARY PHASE-SHIFT KEYING RECEIVER FOR THE DETECTION OF ATTENTION TO HUMAN SPEECH
Authors: LOPEZ-GORDO M. A. , PELAYO F.
Published: April 2013

Synthetic sounds, tone-beeps, vowels or syllables are typically used in the assessment of attention to auditory stimuli because they evoke a set of well-known event-related potentials, whose characteristics can be statistically contrasted. Such approach rules out the use of stimuli with non-predictable response, such as human speech. In this study we present a procedure based on the robust binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) receiver that permits the real-time detection of selective attention to human speeches in dichotic listening tasks. The goal was achieved by tagging the speeches with two barely-audible tags whose joined EEG response constitutes a reliable BPSK constellation, which can be detected by means of a BPSK receiver. The results confirmed the expected generation of the BPSK constellation by the human auditory system. Also, the bit-error rate and the information transmission rate achieved in the detection of attention fairly followed the expected curves and equations of the standard BPSK receiver. Actually, it was possible to detect attention as well as the estimation a priori of its accuracy based on the signal-to-noise ratio of the BPSK signals. This procedure, which permits the detection of the attention to human speeches, can be of interest for new potential applications, such as brain–computer interfaces, clinical assessment of the attention in real time or for entertainment.
CLOSED-LOOP CONTROL OF THE THALAMOCORTICAL RELAY NEURON'S PARKINSONIAN STATE BASED ON SLOW VARIABLE
Authors: LIU CHEN , WANG JIANG , CHEN YING-YUAN , DENG BIN , WEI XI-LE , LI HUI-YAN
Published: March 2013

A novel closed-loop control strategy is proposed to control Parkinsonian state based on a computational model. By modeling thalamocortical relay neurons under external electric field, a slow variable feedback control is applied to restore its relay functionality. Qualitative and quantitative analysis demonstrates the performance of feedback controller based on slow variable is more efficient compared with traditional feedback control based on fast variable. These findings point to the potential value of model-based design of feedback controllers for Parkinson's disease.
MODELING THE IMPACT OF SPATIAL STRUCTURE ON GROWTH DYNAMICS OF INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES
Authors: MURPHY JAMES T. , JOHNSON MARK P. , WALSHE RAY
Published: April 2013

Invasive nonindigenous plant species can have potentially serious detrimental effects on local ecosystems and, as a result, costly control efforts often have to be put in place to protect habitats. An example of an invasive problem on a global scale involves the salt marsh grass species from the genus Spartina. The spread of Spartina anglica in Europe and Asia has drawn much concern due to its ability to convert coastal habitats into cord-grass monocultures and to alter the native food webs. However, the patterns of invasion of Spartina species are amenable to spatially-explicit modeling strategies that take into account both temporal and spatio-temporal processes. In this study, an agent-based model of Spartina growth on a simulated mud flat environment was developed in order to study the effects of spatial pattern and initial seedling placement on the invasion dynamics of the population. The spatial pattern of an invasion plays a key role in the rate of spread of the species and understanding this can lead to significant cost savings when designing efficient control strategies. We present here a model framework that can be used to explicitly represent complex spatial and temporal patterns of invasion in order to be able to predict quantitatively the impact of these factors on invasion dynamics. This would be a useful tool for assessing eradication strategies and choosing optimal control solutions in order to be able to minimize future control costs.
ON THE VA-POLYNOMIAL OF PERIODIC VIRTUAL KNOTS
Authors: KIM JOONOH , LEE SANG YOUL , SEO MYOUNGSOO
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we investigate the behavior of the VA-polynomial over ℤ[t, t-1] for periodic virtual knots and give a necessary condition for a given virtual knot to have period p. Indeed, we show that if K is a p-periodic virtual knot, then p divides the VA-polynomial of K. As an application, we improve the Im–Lee's table of possible periods for 117 virtual knots with classical crossings ≤4.
SATANIC AND THELEMIC CIRCLES ON KNOTS
Authors: FLOWERS G.
Published: April 2013

While Vassiliev invariants have proved to be a useful tool in the classification of knots, they are frequently defined through knot diagrams, and fail to illuminate any significant geometric properties the knots themselves may possess. Here, we provide a geometric interpretation of the second-order Vassiliev invariant by examining five-point cocircularities of knots, extending some of the results obtained in [R. Budney, J. Conant, K. P. Scannell and D. Sinha, New perspectives on self-linking, Adv. Math. 191(1) (2005) 78–113]. Additionally, an analysis on the behavior of other cocircularities on knots is given.
THE INFLUENCE OF EXTERNAL DISTURBANCE ON BUCKLING PATTERNS IN WEDGE-SHAPED Fe FILMS
Authors: ZHOU HONG , YU SEN-JIANG , ZHANG YONG-JU , CHEN MIAO-GEN
Published: April 2013

A wedge-shaped iron (Fe) film system, quenched by silicone oil during deposition, has been prepared on glass substrates by direct current magnetron sputtering, and the influence of external disturbance on buckling patterns is investigated. The experiment shows that the wedge-shaped Fe film possesses a high compressive stress, which is relieved by spontaneous formation of telephone cord buckles in the atmosphere condition. The growth process can last several days to more than a month. When the film is disturbed by an external force, the stored stress energy will release drastically to form straight-sided buckles within several seconds. The morphological characteristics, edge effect and formation mechanism of the straight-sided buckles are discussed in detail.
EFFECT OF TiO2 ON STRUCTURE AND DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF RO-Al2O3-B2O3-SiO2(R = Ca, Mg) GLASSES
Authors: ZHANG XUEHONG , DU ZHAO , WU HAITAO , YUE YUNLONG
Published: March 2013

RO - Al 2 O 3- B 2 O 3- SiO 2( R = Ca , Mg ) glasses containing different concentrations of TiO 2 (ranging from 0 to 9 mol.%) were prepared by conventional melting method. When TiO 2 was present in lower concentrations (≤ 6 mol.%), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated that titanium ions took part in network forming positions. However, for further increase in the concentration of TiO 2 (> 6 mol.%), FTIR data indicated the formation of TiO 4 tetrahedrons and TiO 6 octahedrons. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) were determined using a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The Tg variation with the concentration of TiO 2 showed an increasing trend up to 6 mol.% of TiO 2 and beyond this concentration, Tg was found to decrease. The dielectric constant εr and loss tan δ continued to decrease with the concentration of TiO 2 up to 6 mol.% and beyond that εr and tan δ were found to increase. This behavior was mainly explained in terms of the rigidity of glass network.
ENHANCING PRODUCT INNOVATION THROUGH A CUSTOMER-CENTERED, LEAN FRAMEWORK
Authors: WELO TORGEIR , OLSEN TONJE OVERVIK , GUDEM MARTIN
Published: April 2013

For companies to survive and thrive in today's market, a key strategy is to leverage innovation capability through an effective process of converting unmet customer needs into successful products, creating value for customers, the company and other stakeholders. This work demonstrates how Lean becomes a pre-competitive factor in product innovation through customer value focus. The goal is to determine the applicability of user-centered methodologies in generating input that ultimately leads to differentiated products. An office chair case study implies that although user-focus is necessary, this will not inevitably lead to novel products, since users are engrossed with past and present.