bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contractile Vacuole as a Key Regulator of Cellular Water Flow in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Komsic-Buchmann Karin , Wöstehoff Luisa , Becker Burkhard
Published: September 2014

Most freshwater flagellates use contractile vacuoles (CVs) to expel excess water. We have used
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
as a green model system to investigate CV function during adaptation to osmotic changes in culture medium. We show that the contractile vacuole in
Chlamydomonas
is regulated in two different ways. The size of the contractile vacuoles increases during cell growth, with the contraction interval strongly depending on the osmotic strength of the medium. In contrast, there are only small fluctuations in cytosolic osmolarity and plasma membrane permeability. Modeling of the CV membrane permeability indicates that only a small osmotic gradient is necessary for water flux into the CV, which most likely is facilitated by the aquaporin major intrinsic protein 1 (MIP1). We show that MIP1 is localized to the contractile vacuole, and that the expression rate and protein level of MIP1 exhibit only minor fluctuations under different osmotic conditions. In contrast, SEC6, a protein of the exocyst complex that is required for the water expulsion step, and a dynamin-like protein are upregulated under strong hypotonic conditions. The overexpression of a CreMIP1-GFP construct did not change the physiology of the CV. The functional implications of these results are discussed.
Off-Target Effects of the Septin Drug Forchlorfenuron on Nonplant Eukaryotes
Authors: Heasley Lydia R. , Garcia Galo , McMurray Michael A.
Published: September 2014

The septins are a family of GTP-binding proteins that form cytoskeletal filaments. Septins are highly conserved and evolutionarily ancient but are absent from land plants. The synthetic plant cytokinin forchlorfenuron (FCF) was shown previously to inhibit budding yeast cell division and induce ectopic septin structures (M. Iwase, S. Okada, T. Oguchi, and A. Toh-e, Genes Genet. Syst. 79:199–206, 2004,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1266/ggs.79.199
). Subsequent studies in a wide range of eukaryotes have concluded that FCF exclusively inhibits septin function, yet the mechanism of FCF action in nonplant cells remains poorly understood. Here, we report that the cellular effects of FCF are far more complex than previously described. The reported growth arrest of budding yeast cells treated with 1 mM FCF partly reflects sensitization caused by a
bud4
mutation present in the W303 strain background. In wild-type (
BUD4
+
) budding yeast, growth was inhibited at FCF concentrations that had no detectable effect on septin structure or function. Moreover, FCF severely inhibited the proliferation of fission yeast cells, in which septin function is nonessential. FCF induced fragmentation of budding yeast mitochondrial reticula and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Mitochondria also fragmented in cultured mammalian cells treated with concentrations of FCF that previously were assumed to target septins only. Finally, FCF potently inhibited ciliation and motility and induced mitochondrial disorganization in
Tetrahymena thermophila
without apparent alterations in septin structure. None of these effects was consistent with the inhibition of septin function. Our findings point to nonseptin targets as major concerns when using FCF.
Developing Objective Metrics for Unit Staffing (DOMUS) study
Authors: Siddiqui I , Whittingham B , Meadowcroft K , Richardson M , Cooper J C , Belcher J , Morris E , Ismail K M K
Published: September 2014

Objective

Safe midwifery staffing levels on delivery suites is a priority area for any maternity service. Escalation policies are tools that provide an operational response to emergency pressures. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of using a scoring system to contemporaneously assess the required staffing level based on demand and use this to determine delivery suite escalation level and utilise the information generated regarding clinical activity (Demand) and staffing levels (Capacity) to generate unit-specific calculation for the actual number of midwifery staff required.

Setting

A maternity unit of a university-affiliated tertiary referral hospital.

Design

Over a 12-month period, specifically designed scoring sheets were completed by delivery suite shift co-ordinators four times a day (04:00, 10:00, 16:00 and 22:00). Based on the dependency score (Demand) and the number of midwifery staff available (Capacity), an escalation level was determined for each shift. The 80th centile of the demand was used to determine optimal capacity.

Results

A total of 1160 scoring sheets were completed. Average staff number throughout the year on any shift was 7 (range 3–11). Average dependency score was 7 (range 1–14). The 80th centile for demand was calculated to be 11.

Conclusions

This study stresses the importance and usefulness of a simple tool that can be used to determine the level of escalation on delivery suite based on an objective scoring system and can also be used to determine the appropriate staffing on delivery suite.
Reducing non-attendance rates in a community mental health team
Authors: Filippidou Maria , Lingwood Susie , Mirza Ilyas
Published: September 2014

The project aimed to improve productivity of psychiatric out patient clinic using quality improvement techniques through "Listening Into Action", a national programme designed to engage and support front-line clinicians to make improvements to patient care. We identified reasons as to why our patients missed appointments and then introduced a system to reduce "did not attend" (DNA) rates.

Non-attendance at appointments results in a waste of resources and increases waiting times. It has been reported that DNA rates in mental health are higher compared to other settings. Therefore, reducing DNA rates are a priority for mental health care providers.

We collected DNA rates over a period of months over May 2013 to September 2013. We conducted a patient survey to inquire why the patients missed their appointments. The aim of the project and results from the survey were presented and discussed at the multi-disciplinary team meeting to generate ideas for improvement and engage the team with the project. As the most frequent response from the survey was ‘forgetting the appointment’, we decided to introduce text messaging as an intervention to remind patients of their appointments. We also ensured that staff updated the mobile phone records for the patients at each appointment. We monitored the DNA rates after introducing this change on a monthly basis.

Following our intervention, there was an overall reduction in DNA rates for all disciplines from 11.4% to 10.62% with the greatest change for medical DNA’s from 17.7% to 11.8 %.

Results from a patient survey showed that the reasons for non-attendance are multi-factorial and require a complex approach. Our intervention was a simple one but still it demonstrated some effectiveness. Reducing DNA rates requires interventions to be regularly monitored so that their effect is sustained over a period of time.
Improving surgical weekend handover
Authors: Culwick Caroline , Devine Chris , Coombs Catherine
Published: September 2014

Effective handovers are vital to patient safety and continuity of care, and this is recognised by several national bodies including the GMC. The existing model at Great Western Hospital (GWH) involved three general surgical teams and a urology team placing their printed patient lists, complete with weekend jobs, in a folder for the on-call team to collect at the weekend. We recognised a need to reduce time searching for patients, jobs and reviews, and to streamline weekend ward rounds.

A unified weekend list ordering all surgical patients by ward and bed number was introduced. Discrepancies in the layout of each team’s weekday list necessitated the design of a new weekday list to match the weekend list to facilitate the easy transfer of information between the two lists. A colour coding system was also used to highlight specific jobs.

Prior to this improvement project only 7.1% of those polled were satisfied with the existing system, after a series of interventions satisfaction increased to 85.7%. The significant increase in overall satisfaction with surgical handover following the introduction of the unified weekend list is promising. Locating patients and identifying jobs is easier and weekend ward rounds can conducted in a more logical and timely fashion. It has also helped facilitate the transition to consultant ward rounds of all surgical inpatients at the weekends with promising feedback from a recent consultants meeting.
Improving the frequency of visual infusion phlebitis (VIP) scoring on an oncology ward
Authors: Tzolos Evangelos , Salawu Abdulazeez
Published: September 2014

Phlebitis from peripheral intravenous infusions is an important potential source of oncology patient morbidity. Important factors found to determine phlebitis incidence include the kind of infusion and dwell time of intravenous cannula. Early studies showed incidence rates of between 25-70% worldwide, and association with up to 10% of S. aureus bacteraemia. The introduction of the visual infusion phlebitis (VIP) score tool for assessment of the early signs of phlebitis, along with prompt removal of peripheral intravenous cannulas, has been very successful in reducing the incidence below the acceptable rate of 5%. However, achieving this goal depends on strict compliance with guidelines for cannula insertion, documentation, and assessment using the VIP tool.

This study aimed to increase the use of VIP scoring tool to 100% on an oncology ward during a four to six month period in order to maximise its utility in phlebitis prevention. Three plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles were carried out, during which two major interventions were introduced. The first cycle aimed to improve junior doctors’ awareness of VIP scoring using presentations in induction meetings and posters. The second cycle ensured that ready access to the VIP tool was provided in the form of bedside intentional rounding charts. Proportions of intravenous cannulas with proper documentation and VIP assessment were measured before intervention and at nine subsequent bi-weekly time points.

Pre-intervention, under 30% of cannulas were properly documented and assessed. This proportion rose to around 80% by the end of the second PDSA cycle and achieved 100% by the end of the third cycle.
HEART score and clinical gestalt have similar diagnostic accuracy for diagnosing ACS in an unselected population of patients with chest pain presenting in the ED
Authors: Visser Anniek , Wolthuis Albert , Breedveld Rob , ter Avest Ewoud
Published: September 2014

Background

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) can be a diagnostic challenge in the emergency department (ED). Recently, the HEART score was developed, a simple bedside scoring system that quantifies risk of ischaemic events in patients with undifferentiated chest pain presenting in the ED.

Objective

In this prospective cohort study, we compared the diagnostic accuracy of HEART score and clinical gestalt (clinical judgement) for diagnosing ACS in an unselected population of patients with chest pain presenting to the ED.

Methods

HEART score (0–10) and clinical gestalt (low risk, intermediate risk or high risk of ACS) were prospectively determined in the ED in 255 patients presenting with chest pain by the treating physician. The reference standard was the presence of ACS, which was defined as either acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or the occurrence of a major adverse cardiac event within 6 weeks after presentation in the ED.

Results

75 out of 255 patients (29%) had an ACS. A HEART score ≤3 had a lower negative likelihood ratio (0.15 (0.06–0.36)) for ACS than a low risk based on clinical gestalt (0.35 (0.19–0.64)), whereas a high HEART score ≥7 had a higher positive likelihood ratio (5.2 (3.2–8.5) vs 3.1 (2.2–4.4)). However, c-statistic of HEART score was not significantly different from clinical gestalt (0.81 (0.76–0.86) vs 0.79 (0.73–0.84), p=0.13).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that HEART score and clinical gestalt have similar diagnostic accuracy for diagnosing ACS in an unselected population of patients with chest pain presenting in the ED.
ERCP cannulation success benchmarking: implications for certification and validation
Authors: Sheppard D P , Craddock S J , Warner B D , Wilkinson M L
Published: September 2014

Objective

Investigate success rates of cannulating a ‘virgin’ papilla during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) at a tertiary referral centre; determine reasons for failure and propose learnings for consideration in future revision of success benchmarking.

Design

Review of all ERCPs recorded on Endosoft database from 2006 to 2012 (n=1862). Specifically, ‘virgin’ papillae, defined as those with no evidence of prior surgical intervention, stentsin situor sphincterotomy (n=947). Virgin papillae present the most challenging target for endoscopists.

Setting

Gastroenterology department, St Thomas’ Hospital, London.

Patients

All patients who underwent an ERCP recorded on Endosoft from 2006 to 2012 (n=1134). A proportion of these patients underwent repeat procedures, all considered virgin provided the aforementioned criteria were met.

Interventions

None, retrospective audit and benchmarking exercise.

Main outcome measures

Determine criteria for successful cannulation of a virgin papilla.

Results

Overall success of cannulation of a virgin papilla at ERCP was 79.5%, 753 out of a total of 947 virgin papillae cases. Per patient with a virgin papilla, the success rate was 79.7%, 693 out of 869. Eliminating cases with features complicating cannulation increased success rates to 86% and 87%, respectively. Chronic pancreatitis was the single Indication associated with a failed cannulation (OR=3.9, CI 2.1 to 7.1), while biliary stones were significantly associated with a successful cannulation (OR=0.3, CI 0.2 to 0.4). Reasons for failure included patient agitation (OR=27.1, CI 7.9 to 92.7), duodenal stricturing (OR=12.5, CI 5.5 to 28.5), previous anatomy-changing surgery (OR=12.2, CI 3.3 to 45.4), tumour impingement (OR=9.5, CI 4.1 to 22.3) and equipment failure (OR=7.9, CI 1.4=43.5).

Conclusions

The Joint Advisory Group’s 80% success rate for completion of therapeutic intent must be viewed in light of published difficulty rating scales, if fair comparisons and standards are to be met. This highlights the need for standardised success criterion for ERCP training and accreditation.
A decision tree model for the implementation of a safety strategy in the horse-racing industry
Authors: Hitchens Peta L , Curry Beverley , Blizzard C Leigh , Palmer Andrew J
Published: September 2014

Objectives

The profession of a horse-racing jockey is a dangerous one. We developed a decision tree model quantifying the effects of implementing different safety strategies on jockey fall and injury rates and their associated costs.

Methods

Data on race-day falls were obtained from stewards’ reports from August 2002 to July 2009. Insurance claim data were provided by Principal Racing Authorities and workers’ compensation authorities in each jurisdiction. Fall and claim incidence data were used as baseline rates. The model considered (1) the status quo, in which policy was unchanged; and (2) compared it with four hypothetical changes in policy that restricted apprentice jockeys from riding less-accomplished horses, with the aim of improving safety by reducing incidence of injurious jockey falls. Second-order Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to account for uncertainties.

Results

The point estimate for mean costs of falls under the status quo was $30.73/ride, with falls by apprentice jockeys with <250 career race rides riding horses with less than five race starts contributing the highest costs ($98.49/ride). The hypothetical safety strategies resulted in a 1.04%–5.07% decrease in fall rates versus status quo. For three of the four strategies, significant reductions of 8.74%–13.13% in workers’ compensation costs over one single race season were predicted. Costs were highly sensitive to large claims.

Conclusions

This model is a useful instrument for comparing potential changes in cost and risks associated with implementing new safety strategies in the horseracing industry.
Non-fatal work-related traumatic brain injuries treated in US hospital emergency departments, 1998–2007
Authors: Konda Srinivas , Reichard Audrey , Tiesman Hope M , Hendricks Scott
Published: September 2014

Purpose

Little is known about work-related traumatic brain injuries (WRTBI). This study describes non-fatal WRTBIs treated in US emergency departments (ED) from 1998 through 2007.

Methods

Non-fatal WRTBIs were identified from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System occupational supplement (NEISS-Work) using the diagnoses of concussion, internal organ injury to the head and skull fracture. WRTBI rates and rate ratios were calculated, and the trend in rates was assessed.

Results

An estimated 586 600 (95% CI=±150 000) WRTBIs were reported during the 10-year period at a rate of 4.3 (CI=±1.1) per 10 000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers (1 FTE=2000 h per year). From 1998 through 2007, the rate of WRTBIs increased at an average of 0.21 per 10 000 FTE per year (p<0.0001) and the rate of fall-related WRTBIs increased at an average of 0.10 per 10 000 FTE (p<0.0001). During the same period, the annual rate of WRTBIs resulting in hospitalisation increased 0.04 per 10 000 FTE (p<0.0001). Ten percent of WRTBIs were hospitalised, compared with hospitalisation of 2% all NEISS-Work injuries. Also, workers with highest fall-related TBI rates per 10 000 FTE were the youngest (2.4; CI=±1.4) and oldest (55 and older) workers (1.9; CI=±0.8).

Conclusions

Non-fatal WRTBIs are one of the most serious workplace injuries among ED-treated work-related injuries. Non-fatal WRTBIs are much more likely to result in hospitalisation compared with other types of injuries. The upward trend of WRTBI rates from 1998 through 2007 underscore the need for more directed effective prevention methods to reduce WRTBI injuries.
Assessment of suitability of the one step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) assay as an intraoperative procedure for detection of metastasis in sentinel lymph nodes of breast cancer
Authors: Jara-Lazaro Ana Richelia , Hussain Ilyana Huda Mohamed , Thike Aye Aye , Wong Chow Yin , Ho Gay Hui , Yong Wei Sean , Ong Kong Wee , Madhukumar Preetha , Tan Benita Kiat Tee , Oey Chung Lie , Hwang Jacqueline Siok Gek , Tan Puay Hoon
Published: September 2014

Aim

We aimed to assess the one step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) assay as an intraoperative method in comparison with frozen sections (FS) for detection of metastasis in sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) of breast cancer.

Method

100 SLNs from patients with breast carcinoma were enrolled within a 3-month period. Alternate 2 mm node slices were subjected to routine FS, and later to permanent histology, and the rest for automated molecular detection of CK19 mRNA using OSNA. FS and OSNA findings were compared with permanent histology results. Difference in turnaround time was also noted.

Results

With permanent histology as gold standard, OSNA was discrepant in 8 of 98 (3 false negative, 5 false positive) included SLNs whereas FS had 2 false negative cases. FS had higher sensitivity (89%, p=<0.001), specificity (100%, p=0.001) and concordance rate (98%) than OSNA (83%, 94% and 92%, respectively). FS showed almost perfect agreement (κ=0.929) whereas OSNA showed substantial agreement (κ=0.740) when compared with permanent histology. OSNA turnaround time was twice longer (mean of 47.7 min) than FS.

Conclusions

Automation of SLN assessment using OSNA is a potentially useful intraoperative diagnostic tool with acceptable accuracy. Discordant findings in this study may be due to sampling allocation. Since OSNA is more time-consuming, its practical advantage over routine FS requires further study in view of current technical workflow considerations.
Comparison of genomic abnormality in malignant mesothelioma by the site of origin
Authors: Takeda Maiko , Kasai Takahiko , Enomoto Yasunori , Takano Masato , Morita Kohei , Nakai Tokiko , Iizuka Norishige , Maruyama Hiroshi , Ohbayashi Chiho
Published: September 2014

Aims

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) results from the accumulation of a number of acquired genetic events at the onset. In MM, the most frequent changes are losses in 9p21, 1p36, 22q12 and 14q32, and gains in 5p, 7p and 8q24 by comparative genomic hybridisation analysis. We have examined various genomic losses and gains in MM and benign mesothelial proliferation by fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) analysis. 9p21 deletion was reported to be less frequent in peritoneal than in pleural MMs. This study analysed various genomic losses and gains in MM by the site of origin using FISH analysis.

Materials and methods

We performed FISH analysis using paraffin-embedded tissues from 54 cases (40 pleural and 14 peritoneal) of MMs and compared the frequency of genomic abnormality by the site of origin.

Results

9p21 deletion was shown in 34 of 40 cases (85%) of pleural MMs, and was less frequent in five of 14 cases (36%) of peritoneal MMs (p<0.001) by FISH analysis. By contrast, 5p15 and 7p12 amplification was more significantly frequent in peritoneal than in pleural MMs. No difference between the two sites of MM in other genes was found.

Conclusions

9p21 homozygous deletion assessed by FISH has been reported to be useful for differentiating MM from reactive mesothelial proliferation, but it should be noted that 9p21 deletion was less frequent in peritoneal MM. Our study suggests that the pathway of the genetic abnormality might vary between pleural and peritoneal MM.
Explaining the excess mortality in Scotland compared with England: pooling of 18 cohort studies
Authors: McCartney Gerry , Russ Tom C , Walsh David , Lewsey Jim , Smith Michael , Davey Smith George , Stamatakis Emmanuel , Batty G David
Published: September 2014

Background

Mortality in Scotland is higher than in the rest of west and central Europe and is improving more slowly. Relative to England and Wales, the excess is only partially explained by area deprivation. We tested the extent to which sociodemographic, behavioural, anthropometric and biological factors explain the higher mortality in Scotland compared with England.

Methods

Pooled data from 18 nationally representative cohort studies comprising the Health Surveys for England (HSE) and the Scottish Health Survey (SHS). Cox regression analysis was used to quantify the excess mortality risk in Scotland relative to England with adjustment for baseline characteristics.

Results

A total of 193 873 participants with a mean of 9.6 years follow-up gave rise to 21 345 deaths. The age-adjusted and sex-adjusted all-cause mortality HR for Scottish respondents compared with English respondents was 1.40 (95% CI 1.34 to 1.47), which attenuated to 1.29 (95% CI 1.23 to 1.36) with the addition of the baseline socioeconomic and behavioural characteristics. Cause-specific mortality HRs attenuated only marginally to 1.43 (95% 1.28 to 1.60) for ischaemic heart disease, 1.37 (95% CI 1.15 to 1.63) for stroke, 1.41 (95% CI 1.30 to 1.53) for all cancers, 3.43 (95% CI 1.85 to 6.36) for illicit drug-related poisoning and 4.64 (95% CI 3.55 to 6.05) for alcohol-related mortality. The excess was greatest among young adults (16–44 years) and was observed across all occupational social classes with the greatest excess in the unskilled group.

Conclusions

Only a quarter of the excess mortality among Scottish respondents could be explained by the available baseline risk factors. Greater understanding is required on the lived experience of poverty, the role of social support, and the historical, environmental, cultural and political influences on health in Scotland.
Predicting the risk of physical disability in old age using modifiable mid-life risk factors
Authors: Wong Evelyn , Stevenson Christopher , Backholer Kathryn , Woodward Mark , Shaw Jonathan E , Peeters Anna
Published: September 2014

Background

We aimed to investigate the relationship between potentially modifiable risk factors in middle age and disability after 13 years using the Framingham Offspring Study (FOS). We further aimed to develop a disability risk algorithm to estimate the risk of future disability for those aged 45–65 years.

Methods

FOS is a longitudinal study. We used examination 5 (1991–1995; ‘baseline’) and examination 8 (2005–2008; ‘follow-up’). We included participants aged between 45–65 years at ‘baseline’ with complete predictor and outcome measures (n=2031; mean age 53.9 years). Predictors considered were body mass index, smoking, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia. We used multinomial logistic regression to identify predictors of disability or death.We assessed external validity using Australian data.

Results

By examination 8, 156 participants had disability and 198 had died. Disability was associated with smoking (OR (95% CI) 1.81 (1.18 to 2.78)); obesity (2.95 (1.83 to 4.77)); diabetes 1.96 (1.11 to 3.45) and being female (OR 1.67 (1.13 to 2.45). The model performed moderately well in predicting disability and death in an Australian population. Based on our algorithm, a 45-year-old man/woman with the combined risk factors of obesity, diabetes and smoking has similar likelihood of surviving free of disability to a 65-year-old man/woman without any of the same risk factors.

Conclusions and relevance

The derived risk algorithm allows, for the first time, quantification of the substantial combined impact on future disability of key modifiable risk factors in mid-life. Here we demonstrated the combined impact of obesity, diabetes and smoking to be similar to 20 years of aging.
Plugging effect of open-ended piles in sandy soil
Authors: Ko Junyoung , Jeong Sangseom
Published: September 2014

This paper presents an experimental study of the plugging effect on the capacity of open-ended piles installed in sandy soil. Full-scale tests, including dynamic and static axial compression load tests, were carried out on three instrumented piles with different diameters (508.0, 711.2, and 914.4 mm). To measure the outer and inner shaft resistances acting on the piles, a double-walled system was utilized, with instrumented strain gauges on the outside and inside walls of the pile. The results of field tests show that the inner shaft resistance was mostly mobilized at the location between the pile tip and 18%–34% of the total plug length. It was found that the soil plugging in the lower portion has influence on the inner shaft resistance. In addition, it can be also demonstrated that the ratio of inner shaft resistance plus annulus load resistance to total resistance was decreased with increasing pile diameters. The results of these tests show that the relationship between the degree of plugging and pile diameter is clearly established. Direct observations of the soil plugs were made and used to quantify both the plug length ratio (PLR) and the incremental filling ratio (IFR). Based on this result, it was realized that the N value of the standard penetration test (SPT) is highly correlated with the IFR.
Range-wide age and growth characteristics of shovelnose sturgeon from mark–recapture data: implications for conservation and management
Authors: Hamel Martin J. , Pegg Mark A. , Goforth Reuben R. , Phelps Quinton E. , Steffensen Kirk D. , Hammen Jeremy J. , Rugg Mathew L.
Published: September 2014

We used mark–recapture data from shovelnose sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus platorynchus) to describe range-wide growth characteristics and developed a model to estimate ages. Data were solicited throughout much of the current distribution of shovelnose sturgeon, specifically from the mainstem Missouri and Mississippi rivers and their tributaries. Shovelnose sturgeon exhibited variable growth among locations; however, adult fish exhibited almost no growth after they reached a particular size, presumably the size at sexual maturity. Shovelnose sturgeon from the Mississippi River basin attained greater maximum sizes and ages compared with the Missouri River basin. However, two populations from the Mississippi River that received high exploitation from commercial harvest had truncated age distributions with smaller asymptotic lengths. Lower Missouri River populations were characteristic of exploited populations (i.e., smaller fish and reduced longevity), presumably a result of anthropogenic effects. Wide discrepancies in maximum age and size suggest shovelnose sturgeon are capable of displaying phenotypic plasticity in response to exploitation or environmental influences. Determining metapopulation dynamics is a priority because it is unknown how population connectivity may influence dynamic rate functions and persistence of large-river fishes. Identifying potential source–sink connections in terms of population dynamics may provide a template for direction of future restoration and recovery efforts.
Pathophysiological impact of serum fibroblast growth factor 23 in patients with nonischemic cardiac disease and early chronic kidney disease
Authors: Imazu Miki , Takahama Hiroyuki , Asanuma Hiroshi , Funada Akira , Sugano Yasuo , Ohara Takahiro , Hasegawa Takuya , Asakura Masanori , Kanzaki Hideaki , Anzai Toshihisa , Kitakaze Masafumi
Published: September 2014

Although the important role of fibroblast growth factor (FGF)23 on cardiac remodeling has been suggested in advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), little is known about serum (s)FGF23 levels in patients with heart failure (HF) due to nonischemic cardiac disease (NICD) and early CKD. The present study aimed to investigate sFGF23 levels in NICD patients and identify the responsible factors for the elevation of sFGF23 levels. We prospectively measured sFGF23 levels in consecutive hospitalized NICD patients with early CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 40 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2) and analyzed the data of both echocardiography and right heart catheterization. Of the 156 NICD patients (estimated glomerular filtration rate range: 41–128 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2), the most severe HF symptom (New York Heart Association class III-IV, 53% vs. 33%, P = 0.015) was found in the above median sFGF23 (39.1 pg/ml) group compared with the below median sFGF23 group. sFGF23 levels were higher in patients with HF hospitalization history compared with those without HF [median: 46.8 (interquartile range: 38.8–62.7) vs. 34.7 (interquartile range: 29.6–42.4) pg/ml, P < 0.0001]. In the multivariate analysis, HF hospitalization was independently related to elevated sFGF23 levels ( P = 0.022). Both systolic dysfunction and high plasma aldosterone concentration were identified as predictors of high sFGF23 levels ( P < 0.05). Among the neurohormonal parameters, elevated sFGF23 levels were the only factor to predict a declining left ventricular ejection fraction ( P = 0.001). These findings suggest that the progression of HF per se contributes to the elevation of sFGF23 levels even in the early stages of CKD, which leads to further myocardial dysfunction, potentially creating a vicious cycle.
Left atrial function in patients with mitral valve regurgitation
Authors: Ren Ben , de Groot-de Laat Lotte E. , Geleijnse Marcel L.
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess left atrial (LA) function and myocardial mechanics in patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation (MR). Eighty patients with degenerative MR and twenty control subjects were included prospectively. LA volume (LAV) and right atrial (RA) volume (RAV) were measured with three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography at three phases of the cardiac cycle as maximal volume (LAVmax and RAVmax), minimal volume (LAVmin and RAVmin), and volume before atrial contraction (LAVpre-A and RAVpre-A). From these volumes, active stroke volume (SV), distensibility, and emptying fraction were calculated. LA strain and strain rate were measured with vector velocity imaging on four- and two-chamber views. Left ventricular (LV) filling pressures were increased in patients with severe MR ( E/ E′: 16 ± 4 vs. 10 ± 3 in control subjects). LAVmax, LAVmin, and LAVpre-A all increased with increasing MR volume. As LAVpre-A increased, both LA total SV ( r = 0.68, P < 0.001) and passive filling volume ( r = 0.76, P < 0.001) increased. LA active SV increased with LAVpre-A up to a certain point, upon which it decreased despite further increased LAVpre-A ( r = 0.53, P < 0.001). LA late negative strain decreased with increasing MR volume. A positive correlation existed between LA late negative strain and LA active emptying fraction ( r = 0.55, P < 0.001). In contrast, RA function was comparable between groups. In conclusion, LA contractility (active SV) increased in response to an increase in LA preload (LAVpre-A) up to a point beyond which LA contractility (active SV) decreased. Whether this is due to working of the LA at the descending limb of the Frank-Starling curve or mainly due to changes in afterload still remains unclear.
Small size ionic heterogeneities in the human heart can attract rotors
Authors: Defauw Arne , Vandersickel Nele , Dawyndt Peter , Panfilov Alexander V.
Published: September 2014

Rotors occurring in the heart underlie the mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias. Answering the question whether or not the location of rotors is related to local properties of cardiac tissue has important practical applications. This is because ablation of rotors has been shown to be an effective way to fight cardiac arrhythmias. In this study, we investigate, in silico, the dynamics of rotors in two-dimensional and in an anatomical model of human ventricles using a Ten Tusscher-Noble-Noble-Panfilov (TNNP) model for ventricular cells. We study the effect of small size ionic heterogeneities, similar to those measured experimentally. It is shown that such heterogeneities cannot only anchor, but can also attract, rotors rotating at a substantial distance from the heterogeneity. This attraction distance depends on the extent of the heterogeneities and can be as large as 5–6 cm in realistic conditions. We conclude that small size ionic heterogeneities can be preferred localization points for rotors and discuss their possible mechanism and value for applications.
Oxidative stress associated with middle aging leads to sympathetic hyperactivity and downregulation of soluble guanylyl cyclase in corpus cavernosum
Authors: Silva Fábio H. , Lanaro Carolina , Leiria Luiz Osório , Rodrigues Renata Lopes , Davel Ana Paula , Claudino Mário A. , Toque Haroldo A. , Antunes Edson
Published: September 2014

Impairment of nitric oxide (NO)-mediated cavernosal relaxations in middle age contributes to erectile dysfunction. However, little information is available about the alterations of sympathetic neurotransmission and contraction in erectile tissue at middle age. This study aimed to evaluate the alterations of the contractile machinery associated with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in rat corpus cavernosum (RCC) at middle age, focusing on the role of superoxide anion. Male Wistar young (3.5-mo) and middle-aged (10-mo) rats were used. Electrical-field stimulation (EFS)- and phenylephrine-induced contractions were obtained in RCC strips. Levels of reactive-oxygen species (ROS) and TH mRNA expression, as well as protein expressions for α1/β1-subunits of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), in RCC were evaluated. The neurogenic contractile responses elicited by EFS (4–32 Hz) were greater in RCC from the middle-aged group that was accompanied by elevated TH mRNA expression ( P < 0.01). Phenylephrine-induced contractions were also greater in the middle-aged group. A 62% increase in ROS generation in RCC from middle-aged rats was observed. The mRNA expression for the α1A-adrenoceptor remained unchanged among groups. Protein levels of α1/β1-sGC subunits were decreased in RCC from the middle-aged compared with young group. The NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin (85 mg·rat−1·day−1, 4 wk) fully restored the enhanced ROS production, TH mRNA expressions, and α1/β1-subunit sGC expression, indicating that excess of superoxide anion plays a major role in the sympathetic hyperactivity and hypercontractility in erectile tissue at middle age. Reduction of oxidative stress by dietary antioxidants may be an interesting approach to treat erectile dysfunction in aging population.
Cell-cell interactions and bronchoconstrictor eicosanoid reduction with inhaled carbon monoxide and resolvin D1
Authors: Shinohara Masakazu , Kibi Megumi , Riley Ian R. , Chiang Nan , Dalli Jesmond , Kraft Bryan D. , Piantadosi Claude A. , Choi Augustine M. K. , Serhan Charles N.
Published: September 2014

Polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN)-mediated acute lung injury from ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in critical care medicine. Here, we report that inhaled low-dose carbon monoxide (CO) and intravenous resolvin D1 (RvD1) in mice each reduced PMN-mediated acute lung injury from I/R. Inhaled CO (125–250 ppm) and RvD1 (250–500 ng) each reduced PMN lung infiltration and gave additive lung protection. In mouse whole blood, CO and RvD1 attenuated PMN-platelet aggregates, reducing leukotrienes (LTs) and thromboxane B2(TxB2) in I/R lungs. With human whole blood, CO (125–250 ppm) decreased PMN-platelet aggregates, expression of adhesion molecules, and cysteinyl LTs, as well as TxB2. RvD1 (1–100 nM) also dose dependently reduced platelet activating factor-stimulated PMN-platelet aggregates in human whole blood. In nonhuman primate (baboon) lung infection with Streptococcus pneumoniae, inhaled CO reduced urinary cysteinyl LTs. These results demonstrate lung protection by low-dose inhaled CO as well as RvD1 that each reduced PMN-mediated acute tissue injury, PMN-platelet interactions, and production of both cysteinyl LTs and TxB2. Together they suggest a potential therapeutic role of low-dose inhaled CO in organ protection, as demonstrated using mouse I/R-initiated lung injury, baboon infections, and human whole blood.
Epidermal growth factor receptor activity is necessary for mouse basal cell proliferation
Authors: Brechbuhl Heather M. , Li Bilan , Smith Russell W. , Reynolds Susan D.
Published: September 2014

ERB family receptors (EGFR, ERB-B2, ERB-B3, and ERB-B4) regulate epithelial cell function in many tissue types. In the human airway epithelium, changes in ERB receptor expression are associated with epithelial repair defects. However, the specific role(s) played by ERB receptors in repair have not been determined. We aimed to determine whether ERB receptors regulate proliferation of the tracheobronchial progenitor, the basal cell. Receptor tyrosine kinase arrays were used to evaluate ERB activity in normal and naphthalene (NA)-injured mouse trachea and in air-liquid interface cultures. Roles for epidermal growth factor (EGF), EGFR, and ERB-B2 in basal cell proliferation were evaluated in vitro. NA injury and transgenic expression of an EGFR-dominant negative (DN) receptor were used to evaluate roles for EGFR signaling in vivo. EGFR and ERB-B2 were active in normal and NA-injured trachea and were the only active ERB receptors detected in proliferating basal cells in vitro. EGF was necessary for basal cell proliferation in vitro. The EGFR inhibitor, AG1478, decreased proliferation by 99, and the Erb-B2 inhibitor, AG825, decreased proliferation by ∼66%. In vivo, EGFR-DN expression in basal cells significantly decreased basal cell proliferation after NA injury. EGF and EGFR are necessary for basal cell proliferation. The EGFR/EGFR homo- and the EGFR/ERB-B2 heterodimer account for ∼34 and 66%, respectively, of basal cell proliferation in vitro. Active EGFR is necessary for basal cell proliferation after NA injury. We conclude that EGFR activation is necessary for mouse basal cell proliferation and normal epithelial repair.
Physical and Dosimetric Optimization of Laser Equipment in Dermatology: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Soriani A. , D'Alessio D. , Cattelan V. , Cameli N. , Mariano M. , Ungania S. , Guerrisi M. , Strigari L.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this preliminary study is to investigate the correlation between clinical set-up at present used in the treatment of specific skin conditions and laser beam absorbed power in the tissue. This study focused on the CO2and Nd-Yag laser equipment used in the daily clinical practice in the Department of Dermatology of San Gallicano Institute in Rome. Different types of tissue-equivalent material with various water and haemoglobin concentrations were tested to evaluate laser beam attenuation power. In particular, thinly sliced pork loin, of uniform consistency and without fat, was selected for its high content of haemoglobin to mimic human tissues. An optical power meter was used to measure the power or energy of a laser beam. During measurements, the tissue equivalent phantoms were positioned on the detector head and the laser beam was orthogonally oriented. The results of two experimental set-ups are reported here. The dependence of residual power (W) as a function ofex vivotissue thickness (mm) for different laser output powers was studied. Data were fitted by a parametric logistic equation. These preliminary data allow for more accurately determining the energy fraction released from lasers to the tissues in order to improve clinical outcomes.
FRW Cosmology with the Extended Chaplygin Gas
Authors: Pourhassan B. , Kahya E. O.
Published: September 2014

We propose extended Chaplygin gas equation of state for which it recovers barotropic fluid with quadratic equation of state. We use numerical method to investigate the behavior of some cosmological parameters such as scale factor, Hubble expansion parameter, energy density, and deceleration parameter. We also discuss the resulting effective equation of state parameter. Using density perturbations we investigate the stability of the theory.
Three-Dimensional Lower Extremity Joint Loading in a Carved Ski and Snowboard Turn: A Pilot Study
Authors: Klous Miriam , Müller Erich , Schwameder Hermann
Published: September 2014

A large number of injuries to the lower extremity occur in skiing and snowboarding. Due to the difficulty of collecting 3D kinematic and kinetic data with high accuracy, a possible relationship between injury statistic and joint loading has not been studied. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to compare ankle and knee joint loading at the steering leg between carved ski and snowboard turns. Kinetic data were collected using mobile force plates mounted under the toe and heel part of the binding on skies or snowboard (KISTLER). Kinematic data were collected with five synchronized, panning, tilting, and zooming cameras. An extended version of the Yeadon model was applied to calculate inertial properties of the segments. Ankle and knee joint forces and moments were calculated using inverse dynamic analysis. Results showed higher forces along the longitudinal axis in skiing and similar forces for skiing and snowboarding in anterior-posterior and mediolateral direction. Joint moments were consistently greater during a snowboard turn, but more fluctuations were observed in skiing. Hence, when comparing joint loading between carved ski and snowboard turns, one should differentiate between forces and moments, including the direction of forces and moments and the turn phase.
The Antioxidant Profiles, Lysosomal and Membrane Enzymes Activity in Patients with Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Milnerowicz Halina , Bukowski Radosław , Jabłonowska Monika , Ściskalska Milena , Milnerowicz Stanisław
Published: September 2014

Oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators, such as IL-6, play an important role in the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. The study was aimed to assess the degree of the pro/antioxidative imbalance and estimate which antioxidant plays a role in the maintenance of pro/antioxidative balance during acute pancreatitis. The study was investigated in the blood of 32 patients with acute pancreatitis and 37 healthy subjects. IL-6 concentration as early marker of inflammation was determinated. The intensity of oxidative stress was assessed by TBARS concentration. To investigate antioxidative status, the GPx and Cu/Zn SOD activities and the levels of GSH, MT, SH groups, and TRAP were measured. The concentrations of Cu and Zn as ions participating in the maintenance of antioxidant enzymes stability and playing a role in the course of disease were determinated. The activities of GGT, AAP, NAG, andβ-GD as markers of tissue damage were also measured. An increase in IL-6 concentration, which correlated with Ranson criteria, and an increase in GPx activity, levels of MT, TBARS, or GGT, and NAG activities in patients group compared to healthy subjects were demonstrated. A decrease in GSH level in patients group compared to control group was noted. The studies suggest that GPx/GSH and MT play the role of the first line of defence against oxidative stress and pro/antioxidant imbalance in the course of acute pancreatitis.
Spontaneous Massive Splenic Infarction in the Setting of Renal Transplant and Septic Shock: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bokman Christine L. , Sfeir Maroun , Chahwala Veer , Ginzburg Enrique
Published: September 2014

Massive splenic infarction (MSI) is a rare phenomenon that results from compromised blood flow to more than half of the spleen. Causes of MSI include hematological disorders, coagulopathies, infection, and embolization, and, rarely, MSI is spontaneous. The mainstay of treatment is splenectomy. We report the case of a 50-year-old man with a history of renal transplant who presented with diffuse abdominal pain and rapidly developed septic shock. A computed tomographic study (CT scan) of the abdomen demonstrated MSI. The surgical team was consulted for splenectomy but conservative management was maintained and immune function preserved. The patient’s clinical condition was resolved over a three-week period. This report demonstrates successful nonoperative management of a spontaneous MSI most likely secondary to hypoperfusion and a hypercoagulable state from both septic shock and renal transplant.
Modified Differential Transform Method for Solving the Model of Pollution for a System of Lakes
Authors: Benhammouda Brahim , Vazquez-Leal Hector , Hernandez-Martinez Luis
Published: September 2014

This work presents the application of the differential transform method (DTM) to the model of pollution for a system of three lakes interconnected by channels. Three input models (periodic, exponentially decaying, and linear) are solved to show that DTM can provide analytical solutions of pollution model in convergent series form. In addition, we present the posttreatment of the power series solutions with the Laplace-Padé resummation method as a useful strategy to extend the domain of convergence of the approximate solutions. The Fehlberg fourth-fifth order Runge-Kutta method with degree four interpolant (RKF45) numerical solution of the lakes system problem is used as a reference to compare with the analytical approximations showing the high accuracy of the results. The main advantage of the proposed technique is that it is based on a few straightforward steps and does not generate secular terms or depend of a perturbation parameter.