bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary time‐course study of antiinflammatory macrophage infiltration in crush‐injured skeletal muscle
Authors: Shono Jun‐ichi , Sakaguchi Shohei , Suzuki Takahiro , Do Mai‐Khoi Q. , Mizunoya Wataru , Nakamura, Mako , Sato Yusuke , Furuse Mitsuhiro , Yamada Koji , Ikeuchi Yoshihide , Tatsumi Ryuichi
Published: August 2013

Muscle damage induces massive macrophage infiltration of the injury site, in which activated pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory phenotypes (currently classified as M1 and M2, respectively) have been documented as distinct functional populations predominant at different times after the conventional acute injury by intramuscular injection of snake venoms (cardiotoxin, notexin) or chemicals (bupivacaine hydrochloride, barium chloride). The present study employed a muscle‐crush injury model that may better reflect the physiologic damage and repair processes initiated by contusing a gastrocnemius muscle in the lower hind‐limb of adult mice with hemostat forceps, and examined the time‐course invasion of M1 and M2 macrophages during muscle regeneration by immunocytochemistry of CD197 and CD206 marker proteins. CD197‐positive M1 macrophages were observed exclusively at 1–4 days after crush followed by the alternative prevalence of CD206‐positive M2 at 7 days of myogenic differentiation, characterized by increasing levels of myogenin messenger RNA expression. Preliminary PCR analysis showed that M2 may produce hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in culture, providing additional benefit to understanding that M2 populations actively promote regenerative myogenesis (muscle fiber repair) and moto‐neuritogenesis (re‐attachment of motoneuron terminals onto damaged fibers) through their time‐specific infiltration and release of growth factor at the injury site early in muscle regeneration.
The evaluation of children with prolonged cough accompanied by American College of Chest Physicians guidelines
Authors: Karabel Müsemma , Kelekçi Selvi , Karabel Duran , Gürkan Mehmet Fuat
Published: August 2013

Introduction

In children, coughs lasting longer than 4 weeks are considered to be chronic, with etiological factors varying widely.

Objective

This study included children with chronic cough who were followed for 1 year. All cases were evaluated with the guidance of the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), and etiological factors were analyzed.

Methods

The study included 270 children between the ages of 2 months and 14 years. Their presenting symptoms, physical examination findings and laboratory data were recorded. All patients underwent laboratory tests including direct chest X‐ray and spirometric measurements. Several patients required additional advanced examinations such as a sweat test, determination of immunoglobulin levels and bronchoscopy. Patients were reevaluated according to ACCP recommendations, and etiological factors were investigated.

Results

The total of 270 patients were included in the study included 43.3% (n = 153) females with a mean age of 6.5 ± 2.3 years (7 months to 17 years). After a 1‐year follow‐up of patients, we determined that the most common etiologic factors were asthma (27%), asthma‐like syndrome (15.5%) and gastroesophageal reflux (10%). Other etiological factors included upper airway cough syndrome and protracted bronchitis, respectively.

Conclusion

The use of a standardized clinical approach such as the ACCP increases the possibility for fast and accurate diagnosis during the treatment of children with chronic cough, and the use of these guidelines should be required.
Histopathological diagnosis of adenocarcinoma in Barrett's esophagus
Authors: Takubo Kaiyo , Vieth Michael , Aida Junko , Matsutani Takeshi , Hagiwara Nobutoshi , Iwakiri Katsuhiko , Kumagai Yoichi , Hongo Michio , Hoshihara Yoshio , Arai Tomio
Published: August 2013

The present review describes the histological markers of Barrett's esophagus (BE) that make it possible to distinguish between Barrett's carcinoma (BC) and gastric carcinoma. With regard to high‐grade dysplasia, the indications for endoscopic resection (ER) or major surgery for management of BC cannot be decided on the basis of biopsy histology, and the choice between them should be made according to BC invasion depth. Therefore, we recommend that the term ‘well‐differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma’ be used rather than ‘high‐grade dysplasia’ (intraepithelial neoplasia). High‐grade dysplasia is regarded as BC in Japan and other countries such as Germany. Such lesions should not be treated by endoscopic ablation but by ER, because components of invasive carcinoma are frequently present in the mucosa and submucosa, and knowledge obtained from ER samples is needed for additional therapy. Further studies on the relationship between the incidence of nodal metastasis and mucosal depth in mucosal BC are needed to decide the indications for ER. Suchstudies should involve subserial microscopic examination of slices 2–3 mm thick. To resolve the issue of regression of high‐grade dysplasia, international experts in gastroenterological pathology need to conduct histopathological reviews of the first and last samples taken from such cases, as there are large differences between North American, European, and Japanese pathologists in the criteria used for histological diagnosis of dysplasia and adenocarcinoma without clear invasion, and both interobserver and intraobserver variations have been reported. Future studies will need to focus on which carcinomas are curable by ER.
Neuroprotection and reduction of glial reaction by cannabidiol treatment after sciatic nerve transection in neonatal rats
Authors: Perez Matheus , Benitez Suzana U. , Cartarozzi Luciana P. , del Bel Elaine , Guimarães Francisco S. , Oliveira Alexandre L. R.
Published: August 2013

In neonatal rats, the transection of a peripheral nerve leads to an intense retrograde degeneration of both motor and sensory neurons. Most of the axotomy‐induced neuronal loss is a result of apoptotic processes. The clinical use of neurotrophic factors is difficult due to side effects and elevated costs, but other molecules might be effective and more easily obtained. Among them, some are derived from Cannabis sativa. Cannabidiol (CBD) is the major non‐psychotropic component found on the surface of such plant leaves. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective potential of CBD. Thus, 2‐day‐old Wistar rats were divided into the following experimental groups: sciatic nerve axotomy + CBD treatment (CBD group), axotomy + vehicle treatment (phosphate buffer group) and a control group (no‐treatment group). The results were analysed by Nissl staining, immunohistochemistry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling at 5 days post‐lesion. Neuronal counting revealed both motor and sensory neuron rescue following treatment with CBD (15 and 30 mg/kg). Immunohistochemical analysis (obtained by synaptophysin staining) revealed 30% greater synaptic preservation within the spinal cord in the CBD‐treated group. CBD administration decreased the astroglial and microglial reaction by 30 and 27%, respectively, as seen by glial fibrillary acidic protein and ionised calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 immunolabeling quantification. In line with such results, the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling reaction revealed a reduction of apoptotic cells, mostly located in the spinal cord intermediate zone, where interneurons promote sensory–motor integration. The present results show that CBD possesses neuroprotective characteristics that may, in turn, be promising for future clinical use.
Development of a Children's Version of the SCORE Index of Family Function and Change
Authors: Jewell Tom , Carr Alan , Stratton Peter , Lask Judith , Eisler Ivan
Published: August 2013

The Systemic Clinical Outcome and Routine Evaluation (SCORE) Index of Family Function and Change is a recently developed outcome measure. It was designed to be acceptable to adults and children aged 12 and over. Thus far no research has been conducted using the SCORE in children under the age of 12. The aim of this study was to pilot a children's version of the SCORE. An existing 29‐item version of the SCORE was completed by a sample of seven children aged 8–10. Time was allowed for group discussion with the children. Feedback from this stage of the study was used to develop a draft version of the SCORE for children. An expert panel of clinicians and researchers were also consulted. A pilot version of the Child SCORE was administered to 80 children aged 7–10 in an inner London primary school. Thirty‐five children also completed the measure for a second time, 1 week later. Findings suggested that the Child SCORE was acceptable to children in the 8–11 age range. Values for internal reliability and test–retest reliability were good. The Child SCORE appears to be a promising instrument. Further research is required to confirm its acceptability to clinical populations, and to demonstrate sensitivity to change.
The transporter–opsin–G protein‐coupled receptor (TOG) superfamily
Authors: Yee Daniel C. , Shlykov Maksim A. , Västermark Åke , Reddy Vamsee S. , Arora Sumit , Sun Eric I. , Saier Milton H.
Published: August 2013

Visual rhodopsins are recognized members of the large and diverse family of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), but their evolutionary origin and relationships to other proteins are not known. In a previous paper [Shlykov MA, Zheng WH, Chen JS & Saier MH Jr (2012) Biochim Biophys Acta 1818, 703–717], we characterized the 4‐toluene sulfonate uptake permease (TSUP) family of transmembrane proteins, and showed that these 7‐transmembrane segment (TMS) or 8‐TMS proteins arose by intragenic duplication of a gene encoding a 4‐TMS protein, sometimes followed by loss of a terminal TMS. In this study, we show that the TSUP, GPCR and microbial rhodopsin families are related to each other and to six other currently recognized transport protein families. We designate this superfamily the transporter/opsin/G protein‐coupled receptor (TOG) superfamily. Despite their 8‐TMS origins, the members of most constituent families exhibit 7‐TMS topologies that are well conserved, and these arose by loss of either the N‐terminal TMS (more frequent) or the C‐terminal TMS (less frequent), depending on the family. Phylogenetic analyses revealed familial relationships within the superfamily and protein relationships within each of the nine families. The results of the statistical analyses leading to the conclusion of homology were confirmed using hidden Markov models, Pfam and 3D superimpositions. Proteins functioning by dissimilar mechanisms (channels, primary active transporters, secondary active transporters, group translocators and receptors) are interspersed on a phylogenetic tree of the TOG superfamily, suggesting that changes in the transport and energy‐coupling mechanisms occurred multiple times during evolution of this superfamily.
Influence of hydraulics on the uptake of ammonium by two freshwater plants
Authors: Bal Kris D. , Brion Natacha , Woulé‐Ebongué Veronique , Schoelynck Jonas , Jooste Antoinette , Barrón Cristina , Dehairs Frank , Meire Patrick , Bouma Tjeerd J.
Published: August 2013

Macrophytes are important in the biogeochemistry of flowing rivers, although most information so far has relied on measurements of nutrients in plant tissues. This yields only indirect information on the nutrient uptake fluxes by roots and shoots and about nutrient translocation between roots and shoots. Here, we studied nitrogen uptake through experiments with enriched 15N stable isotopes.

Two macrophytes (Potamogeton natans and Ranunculus fluitans) were grown in a closed race track‐shaped flume, allowing us to control the hydraulic conditions in and around the plants. Overall ammonium uptake rates (μmol g−1 dry mass h−1) were higher for R. fluitans than P. natans.

In addition to differences between the species, the spatial position of individuals within the plant patch and water flow were also important in explaining ammonium uptake. Thus, ammonium uptake was high at the leading edge of the patch and increased with velocity.

Plant characteristic, such as the angle at which the plants bent in the flow, was also correlated with ammonium uptake. Differences in nutrient uptake associated with hydrodynamic parameters raised the question of how the two are related. For both species, uptake was not correlated with Reynolds stress, indicating the poor effect of turbulent mixing in determining ammonium uptake.
Climate change and trophic interactions in model temporary pond systems: the effects of high temperature on predation rate depend on prey size and density
Authors: Ewald Naomi C. , Hartley Sue E. , Stewart Alan J. A.
Published: August 2013

Climatic warming has induced marked shifts in the geographical distribution and seasonal phenology of many species, although the impacts of climatic changes on the interactions between species across trophic levels are far less well known.

Freshwater microcosms were used to test the effect of temperature on the life history traits of a prey species, the fairy shrimp Chirocephalus diaphanus (Anostraca), the abundance of a predator, the microcrustacean Heterocypris incongruens (Ostracoda), and on the interaction between them.

When reared in the absence of predators, C. diaphanus survival was low at the highest temperature (25 °C) and greatly reduced at the lowest temperature (5 °C). It was reproductively most successful at an intermediate temperature (20 °C), suggesting that it may benefit from the increase in temperature predicted under future climate change scenarios. In the absence of other species, temperature would have to increase dramatically to affect C. diaphanus adversely.

Heterocypris incongruens was more abundant and its predation on C. diaphanus greatest at higher temperatures, partially offsetting the positive effect of raised temperature on prey observed when the predator was absent. The net effect was that the optimal temperature for C. diaphanus when coexisting with its predator was lower than when it was in isolation. This means that currently predicted increases in temperature ultimately may be detrimental to C. diaphanus.

Predation rates were generally enhanced by high temperature, prey size and prey density, with significant interaction between them. Thus, the positive effects of raised temperature on predation rate were additionally dependent upon prey characteristics, being strongest when prey were large and at high density and weakest when prey were small and at low density.

Interactions with a natural enemy, in this case a predator, may alter how species respond to raised temperatures; prey size and density further modify the outcome of this interaction. This context dependency in the response of both predators and prey to temperature suggests that the ecological impacts of future climate change on trophic interactions may be difficult to predict.
The influence of native replanting on stream ecosystem metabolism in a degraded landscape: can a little vegetation go a long way?
Authors: Giling Darren P. , Grace Michael R. , Mac Nally Ralph , Thompson Ross M.
Published: August 2013

The effectiveness of revegetation is usually gauged by responses in biodiversity, which may differ between isolated replanted patches. The ecological value of revegetation may be detected more effectively by monitoring ecosystem processes. In‐stream metabolism has been much modified by the degradation of riparian vegetation in agricultural landscapes around the world. We sought to determine whether the spatial scale typical of most riparian replanting projects (i.e. <1 km long) influences stream metabolism.

Metabolism is a functional measure that incorporates gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER) and the difference between them [net ecosystem productivity (NEP)]. We hypothesised that replanted reaches would have lower GPP (due to greater canopy shading) and greater ER (governed by larger terrestrial energy inputs) compared with pasture reaches.

We measured metabolism in paired reaches within four agricultural streams. Two streams had an untreated pasture reach contrasted with a reach replanted with native woody vegetation >17 years ago. The other two streams had similar riparian vegetation condition adjacent to both reaches, to act as reference sites.

Mean daily GPP (0.27–4.9 g O2 m−2 day−1) and ER (1.1–22 g O2 m−2 day−1) were within the range of values recorded previously in agricultural streams elsewhere. Replanted reaches had rates of NEP lower than upstream untreated reaches at treatment sites, but NEP was similar between reaches at reference sites.

The effects of replanting on stream ecosystem processes are detectable even when the spatial scale of restoration is relatively small in a whole‐of‐catchment context. Land managers can protect and restore vegetation at feasible spatial scales and benefit ecosystem processes. Ecosystem metabolism should be included in the range of responses that need to be monitored to provide a complete picture of the effectiveness of stream restoration.
Long‐term changes in hypoxia and soluble reactive phosphorus in the hypolimnion of a large temperate lake: consequences of a climate regime shift
Authors: North Ryan P. , North Rebecca L. , Livingstone David M. , Köster Oliver , Kipfer Rolf
Published: August 2013

The (Lower) Lake of Zurich provides an ideal system for studying the long‐term impact of environmental change on deep‐water hypoxia because of its sensitivity to climatic forcing, its history of eutrophication and subsequent oligotrophication, and the quality and length of its data set. Based on 39 years (1972–2010) of measured profiles of temperature, oxygen concentration and phosphorus (P) concentration, the potentially confounding effects of oligotrophication and climatic forcing on the occurrence and extent of deep‐water hypoxia in the lake were investigated. The time‐series of Nürnberg's hypoxic factor (HF) for the lake can be divided into three distinct segments: (i) a segment of consistently low HF from 1972 to the late‐1980s climate regime shift (CRS); (ii) a transitional segment between the late‐1980s CRS and approximately 2000 within which the HF was highly variable; and (iii) a segment of consistently high HF thereafter. The increase in hypoxia during the study period was not a consequence of a change in trophic status, as the lake underwent oligotrophication as a result of reduced external P loading during this time. Instead, wavelet analysis suggests that changes in the lake's mixing regime, initiated by the late‐1980s CRS, ultimately led to a delayed but abrupt decrease in the deep‐water oxygen concentration, resulting in a general expansion of the hypoxic zone in autumn. Even after detrending to remove long‐term effects, the concentration of soluble reactive P in the bottom water of the lake was highly correlated with various measures of hypoxia, providing quantitative evidence supporting the probable effect of hypoxia on internal P loading. Such climate‐induced, ecosystem‐scale changes, which may result in undesirable effects such as a decline in water quality and a reduction in coldwater fish habitats, provide further evidence for the vulnerability of large temperate lakes to predicted increases in global air temperature.
Investigating Groundwater Flow Between Edwards and Trinity Aquifers in Central Texas
Authors: Wong C.I. , Kromann J.S. , Hunt B.B. , Smith B.A. , Banner J.L.
Published: August 2013

Understanding the nature of communication between aquifers can be challenging when using traditional physical and geochemical groundwater sampling approaches. This study uses two multiport wells completed within Edwards and Trinity aquifers in central Texas to determine the degree of groundwater inter‐flow between adjacent aquifers. Potentiometric surfaces, hydraulic conductivities, and groundwater major ion concentrations and Sr isotope values were measured from multiple zones within three hydrostratigraphic units (Edwards and Upper and Middle Trinity aquifers). Physical and geochemical data from the multiport wells were combined with historical measurements of groundwater levels and geochemical compositions from the region to characterize groundwater flow and identify controls on the geochemical compositions of the Edwards and Trinity aquifers. Our results suggest that vertical groundwater flow between Edwards and Middle Trinity aquifers is likely limited by low permeability, evaporite‐rich units within the Upper and Middle Trinity. Potentiometric surface levels in both aquifers vary with changes in wet vs. dry conditions, indicating that recharge to both aquifers occurs through distinct recharge areas. Geochemical compositions in the Edwards, Upper, and Middle Trinity aquifers are distinct and likely reflect groundwater interaction with different lithologies (e.g., carbonates, evaporites, and siliceous sediments) as opposed to mixing of groundwater between the aquifers. These results have implications for the management of these aquifers as they indicate that, under current conditions, pumping of either aquifer will likely not induce vertical cross‐formational flow between the aquifers. Inter‐flow between the Trinity and the Edwards aquifers, however, should be reevaluated as pumping patterns and hydrogeologic conditions change.
Catheter‐free discharge on first postoperative day after bipolar transurethral resection of prostate: Clinical outcomes of 100 cases
Authors: Shum Cheuk Fan , Mukherjee Amit , Teo Chang Peng Colin
Published: August 2013

Objectives

Our center has adopted a protocol for catheter‐free first postoperative day discharge after bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate. We present the immediate, 1‐month and 6‐month outcomes of our first 100 cases following this protocol.

Methods

All bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate patients followed the protocol regardless of indications and background comorbid conditions. Bladder irrigation was stopped in the evening after transurethral resection of the prostate, and the catheter was removed at 06.00 hours. All patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. They were reviewed at 1 month and 6 months with the International Prostate Symptom Score and uroflowmetry.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 70.8 years. A total of 40 patients had urinary retention and were on an indwelling catheter before transurethral resection of the prostate. A total of 14 patients had other surgeries in the same setting as the transurethral resection of the prostate. The mean resection weight was 32.7 g. The mean irrigation time and catheter time were 4.2 h and 15.0 h, respectively. The improvement in terms of International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life score, peak flow rate and post‐void residual volume was comparable with those reported in the literature for bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate. Similarly, early and late complication rates also compared favorably with the literature. The perioperative cost was significantly reduced.

Conclusions

Catheter‐free first postoperative day discharge after bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate is safe with good clinical outcomes and cost savings.
Enhanced Sonocatalytic Activity, Kinetic Analysis, and Sonocatalytic Mechanism for Silver Phosphate by Br Modifying with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zhang Shuna , Tian Haifeng , Zhang Shujuan , Wu Xiaoqing , Song Limin , Ye Jiayi , Wei Qingwu
Published: August 2013

The Ag3PO4 and Ag3PO4 sonocatalysts with surface enrichment of Br− anions (Br–Ag3PO4) were synthesized using a facile precipitate process. Various analysis, including X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscope, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, photoluminescence (PL) spectra, and UV–Vis absorption spectra were carried out to investigate the property and structure. The effect of a variety of changing conditions on ultrasonic degradation of organic dye has been investigated. Both of them exhibited obvious activity for sonocatalytic degradation of organic dyes. However, Br–Ag3PO4 sonocatalysts showed much higher activity than that of Ag3PO4. By XRD analysis, the Br− anions of the surface of Ag3PO4 has been transformed into AgBr in the preparation process. The high activity could be attributed to AgBr for modifying Ag3PO4. By detecting hydroxyl radicals (·OH) in the reactive solution, we found that AgBr on the surface of Ag3PO4 can help to produce a lot of additional ·OH radicals. These ·OH radicals may be significant reason to improve Ag3PO4 activity, which further proved the ·OH radical mechanism of Ag3PO4 degradation of dyes under ultrasonic radiation. In addition, kinetic analysis and sonocatalytic mechanism were discussed in detail.
Observation charts with overlapping blood pressure and heart rate graphs do not yield the performance advantage that health professionals assume: an experimental study
Authors: Christofidis Melany J. , Hill Andrew , Horswill Mark S. , Watson Marcus O.
Published: August 2013

Aim

To investigate whether overlapping blood pressure and heart rate graphs improve chart‐users' ability to recognize derangements in these vital signs on hospital observation charts.

Background

Many health professionals prefer blood pressure and heart rate graphs to overlap. One justification is the use of a visual cue called the ‘Seagull Sign’ to detect physiological abnormalities.

Design

A 3 × 2 × 2 mixed‐design experiment, with three independent variables: participant group, graph format (separate vs. overlapping) and alerting system (integrated colour‐based track‐and‐trigger system present vs. absent).

Methods

Over 64 experimental trials, ‘Seagull‐trained’ nurses and novices randomly assigned to receive ‘Seagull training’ or remain untrained, viewed sequences of blood pressure and heart rate observations recorded on four different chart design extracts. The designs represented a crossing of the graph format and alerting system variables. For each design, eight cases contained normal data and eight contained an abnormal systolic blood pressure or heart rate observation (half of which yielded a Seagull Sign on overlapping plots). Participants (tested between January–May 2011) judged whether observations were physiologically normal or abnormal.

Results

Across all cases, participants from all groups responded faster and made fewer errors when blood pressure and heart rate observations were graphed separately, especially when a track‐and‐trigger system was present. Even for ‘Seagull‐trained’ participants viewing ‘Seagull Sign available’ cases, no advantage of overlapping graphs was found.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that overlapping graphs do not yield the performance advantage that many health professionals assume, either for novices or experienced nurses, even when the Seagull Sign is used.
Range dynamics of the reindeer in Europe during the last 25,000 years
Authors: Sommer Robert S. , Kalbe Johannes , Ekström Jonas , Benecke Norbert , Liljegren Ronnie
Published: August 2013

Aim

To understand the role and significance of the reindeer, Rangifer tarandus (Linnaeus, 1758), as a specific indicator in terms of late Quaternary biogeography and to determine the effects of global climate change on its range and local extinction dynamics at the end of the Ice Age.

Location

Late Pleistocene/early Holocene range of reindeer over all of central and western Europe, including southern Scandinavia and northern Iberia, but excluding Russia, Belarus and the Ukraine.

Methods

Radiocarbon‐dated subfossil records of R. tarandus from both archaeological and natural deposits younger than 25,000 years were assembled in a database. The distribution area was divided into six representative regions. The 14C dates were calibrated and plotted chronologically in maps in order to compare presence and absence and regional extinction patterns from one region to another.

Results

After the Last Glacial Maximum, R. tarandus disappeared from south‐eastern Central Europe but survived in the south‐west until the Younger Dryas period. The ‘Allerød warming’ did not result in complete extirpation of reindeer in Central Europe. Reindeer probably disappeared c. 11,250 years ago in the North European Plain and c. 11,000 years ago in the British Isles. In southern Scandinavia the species survived until c. 10,300 years ago.

Main conclusions

The late Quaternary record for reindeer in Europe during the last 25 kyr shows a climate‐driven dispersal and retreat in response to climate change, with regional variations. The collapse of the mammoth steppe biome did not lead to the local extinction in Europe, as in the case of other megafaunal species. Rangifer tarandus co‐existed for about 3000 years during the Late Glacial and early Holocene with typical temperate species such as red deer and roe deer in non‐analogue faunal communities. The regional extinction at the end of the Pleistocene coincides with the transition from light open birch/pine forests to pine/deciduous forests.
Electrophysiological Properties of the Superior Vena Cava and Venoatrial Junction in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: FUKUMOTO KOTARO , TAKATSUKI SEIJI , KIMURA TAKEHIRO , NISHIYAMA NOBUHIRO , TANIMOTO KOJIRO , AIZAWA YOSHIYASU , TANIMOTO YOKO , FUKUDA YUKIKO , MIYOSHI SHUNICHIRO , FUKUDA KEIICHI
Published: August 2013

Electrophysiological Properties of the Superior Vena Cava and Venoatrial Junction

Background

Although the superior vena cava (SVC) has been well known to be one of the important foci triggering atrial fibrillation (AF), its electrophysiological characteristics have received little research attention. The aim of this study was to investigate the electrophysiological properties of the SVC and venoatrial junction (VAJ).

Methods

Twenty‐five consecutive AF patients without structural heart disease undergoing electrical SVC isolation were included in this study. After pulmonary vein isolation, a circular decapolar catheter and 2 multipolar catheters were emplaced in the VAJ, right atrial appendage (RAA), and SVC, respectively. Burst pacing and single extrastimulus were applied from the RAA and SVC. The atrial and caval potentials on the circular catheter in the VAJ were investigated.

Results

Intracaval conduction delay and various degrees of conduction block over the VAJ were observed with burst pacing from both the RAA and SVC. A single extrastimulus from the RAA and SVC with a basic cycle length of 600 milliseconds prolonged the conduction time via the VAJ by 81 ± 49.7 milliseconds and 61 ± 58.7 milliseconds, respectively. The atrial and caval electrograms at the VAJ, which were separated from each other by pacing applications, facilitated mapping of the earliest activation site at the VAJ.

Conclusions

Intracaval conduction delay and decremental conduction property via the VAJ were demonstrated using pacing maneuvers. Pacing applications from the RAA or SVC can help distinguish the atrial and caval potentials and can facilitate mapping of the optimal ablation sites to isolate the SVC.
Ethnic differences in oro‐facial somatosensory profiles—quantitative sensory testing in Chinese and Danes
Authors: Yang G. , Luo Y. , Baad‐Hansen L. , Wang K. , Arendt‐Nielsen L. , Xie Q.‐F. , Svensson P.
Published: August 2013

Ethnic differences in pain experiences have been widely assessed in various pathological and experimental conditions. However, limited sensory modalities have been described in previous research, and the affective‐motivational factors have so far been estimated to be the main mediator for the ethnic differences. This study aimed to detect the ethnic differences of oro‐facial somatosensory profiles related to the sensory‐discriminative dimension in healthy volunteers. The standardised quantitative sensory testing battery developed by the German Research Network on Neuropathic Pain was performed bilaterally in the infraorbital and mental regions on age‐ and gender‐matched healthy Chinese and Danes, 29 participants each group. The influences of ethnicity, gender and test site on the somatosensory profile were evaluated by three‐way anova. The ethnic disparities were also presented by Z‐scores. Compared to Danes, Chinese were more sensitive to thermal detection, thermal pain, mechanical deep pain and mechanical pain rating parameters (P < 0·002) related to small fibre functions. However, the inverse results were observed for mechanical tactile modality related to large fibre function (P < 0·001) and wind‐up ratio (P = 0·006). Women presented higher sensitivity compared to men. The mean Z‐scores of all the parameters from Chinese group were in the normal zone created by Danish Caucasians’ means and SDs. The ethnic disparities in somatosensory profile illustrated the necessity of establishing the reference data for different ethnic groups and possibly individual pain management strategies for the different ethnic groups.
Do Social Relationships Buffer the Effects of Widowhood? A Prospective Study of Adaptation to the Loss of a Spouse
Authors: Anusic Ivana , Lucas Richard E.
Published: August 2013

The idea that strong social relationships can buffer the negative effects of stress on well‐being has received much attention in existing literature. However, previous studies have used less than ideal research designs to test this hypothesis, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions regarding the buffering effects of social support. In this study, we examined the buffering hypothesis in the context of reaction and adaptation to widowhood in three large longitudinal datasets. We tested whether social relationships moderated reaction and adaptation to widowhood in samples of people who experienced loss of a spouse from three longitudinal datasets of nationally representative samples from Germany (N = 1,195), Great Britain (N = 562), and Australia (N = 298). We found no evidence that social relationships established before widowhood buffered either reaction or adaptation to the death of one's spouse. Similarly, social relationships that were in place during the first year of widowhood did not help widows and widowers recover from this difficult event. Social relationships acquired prior to widowhood, or those available in early stages of widowhood, do not appear to explain individual differences in adaptation to loss.
SQUATTING ON GOVERNMENT LAND
Authors: Shah Nilopa
Published: August 2013

This paper presents an economic theory of squatter settlements in developing countries. It adds to the existing literature by explicitly modeling squatting on government‐owned land and presents a unified framework for analysis of issues related to squatting, urban planning and policy. In the model, a squatter‐organizer optimally controls squatting so as to forestall eviction. The model highlights how the existence of an eviction cost leads to formal residents tolerating squatting, trading‐off “open space” to avoid paying taxes toward evicting squatters. The paper derives comparative‐static results under some functional form assumptions. The analysis is extended to examine the comparative‐static effects for the case where squatters freely migrate into the city. The framework for exploring a combined model of squatting on government and private land is also laid out. Finally, some policy analysis of squatter formalization is carried out.
Seasonal Dynamics of Black Leaf Mould (Pseudocercospora fuligena) on Greenhouse‐Grown Fresh Market Tomatoes
Authors: Mersha Zelalem , Zhang Shouan , Hau Bernhard
Published: August 2013

Black leaf mould (BLM), caused by Pseudocercospora fuligena, is a major fungal foliar disease of greenhouse‐grown tomatoes in the humid tropics. Quantifying the disease and yield loss from seasonal plantings will help mitigate the heavy reliance on frequent sprays of curative fungicides. In this study, severity of BLM was investigated in sequential plantings of tomatoes in two 50‐mesh BioNet greenhouses in central Thailand from June 2005 to January 2007. Each planting consisted of a block of six plants that received two applications of mancozeb and another block of six plants with no fungicide application at all. Two BLM peak epidemic periods were identified, that is, from plantings that were started in August–September and in January. On average, a yield loss of 30.6% was recorded from the two peak epidemic periods based on comparison of fungicide‐sprayed and non‐sprayed plants. Two sprays of mancozeb resulted in 71.6% reduction in disease severity during these peak epidemic periods. Mean disease severity (DS*) was highly correlated with a favourability index of relative humidity (RH), which was quantified on a scale of 0 (<85%, non‐favourable) to 1 (≥85%, extremely favourable). A three‐parameter logistic function explained the data well (R2 = 0.81, P < 0.0001). Marketable yield (MY) was positively correlated with maximum plant height (PHmax) but negatively correlated with DS*. In addition, MY was higher from plantings during October to December. It was predicted well (R2 = 0.60; P < 0.0001) using the model MY = (a + b × PHmax) × (1‐c × DS*), which combined both PHmax and DS*. Using this model, a reduction of 1.05% in marketable yield was predicted for each 1% increase in mean disease severity. The outcomes of this study implicated the need for management of RH and critical relevance of protecting tomato plants against BLM when they are grown during the peak epidemic periods.
Size-dependent internalisation of folate-decorated nanoparticles via the pathways of clathrin and caveolae-mediated endocytosis in ARPE-19 cells
Authors: Suen Wai-Leung Langston , Chau Ying
Published: August 2013

Objectives

We aim to quantify the effect of size and degree of folate loading of folate-decorated polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) on the kinetics of cellular uptake and the selection of endocytic pathways in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells.

Methods

In this study, methoxy-poly(ethylene glycol)-b-polycaprolactone (mPEG-b-PCL) and folate-functionalized PEG-b-PCL were synthesized for assembling into nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 50 nm to 250 nm. These nanoparticles were internalized into ARPE-19 (human RPE cell line) via receptor-mediated endocytosis. A two-step endocytosis process mathematical model was adopted to quantify binding affinity and uptake kinetics of nanoparticles in RPE cells in uptake and inhibition studies.

Key findings

Nanoparticles with 100% folate loading have highest binding affinity and uptake rate in RPE cells. Maximum uptake rate (Vmax) of nanoparticles increased as the size of particles decreased from 250 nm to 50 nm. Endocytic pathway study was studied by using chlorpromazine and methyl-β-cyclodextran (MβCD), which are clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis inhibitors, respectively. Both chlorpromazine and MβCD inhibited the uptake of folate-decorated nanoparticles. Inhibition constant (Ki) and maximum uptake rate (Vmax) revealed that 50 nm and 120 nm folate-decorated nanoparticles were found to be internalized via both clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis. The 250 nm folate-decorated nanoparticles, however, were only internalized via caveolae-mediated pathway.

Conclusions

Increased uptake rate of folate-decorated NPs into RPE cells is observed with increasing degree of folate modification. These NPs utilize both clathrin- and caveolae-mediated receptor-mediated endocytosis pathways to enter RPE cells upon size variation. The 50 nm NPs are internalized the fastest, with clathrin-mediated endocytosis as the preferred route. Uptake of 250 nm particles is the slowest and is dominated by caveolae-mediated endocytosis.
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship of cefquinome against Pasteurella multocida in a tissue‐cage model in yellow cattle
Authors: Shan Q. , Yang F. , Wang J. , Ding H. , He L. , Zeng Z.
Published: August 2013

The cephalosporin antimicrobial drug cefquinome was administered to yellow cattle intravenously (i.v.) and intramuscularly (i.m.) at a dose of 1 mg/kg of body weight in a two‐period crossover study. The pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of cefquinome in serum, inflamed tissue‐cage fluid (exudate), and noninflamed tissue‐cage fluid (transudate) were studied using a tissue‐cage model. The in vitro and ex vivo activities of cefquinome in serum, exudate, and transudate against a pathogenic strain of Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida) were determined. A concentration‐independent antimicrobial activity of cefquinome was confirmed for levels lower than 4 × MIC. Integration of in vivo pharmacokinetic data with the in vitro MIC provided mean values for the time that drug levels remain above the MIC (T > MIC) in serum was 14.10 h after intravenous and 14.46 h after intramuscular dosing, indicating a likely high level of effectiveness in clinical infections caused by P. multocida of MIC 0.04 μg/mL or less. These data may be used as a rational basis for setting dosing schedules, which optimize clinical efficacy and minimize the opportunities for emergence of resistant organisms.
Interactions of bacteria with diatoms: influence on natural marine biofilms
Authors: Khandeparker Lidita , D'Costa Priya M. , Anil Arga C. , Sawant Subhash S.
Published: August 2013

Interactions between microfouling components influence the biofilm community and the cascading events, thus playing an important role in the biofouling process. Bacteria and diatoms are among the dominant forms reported in biofilms. Experiments were carried out with natural marine biofilms from a tropical monsoon‐influenced environment to evaluate the interactions between bacteria and diatoms through application of antibiotics (streptomycin and chloramphenicol). Overall, chloramphenicol inhibited diatom communities, whereas streptomycin did not. These antibiotic‐mediated changes in the fouling diatom community were consistent across the seasons. However, the rates at which the fouling communities changed depended on the initial species composition. It was also observed that elevated nutrient concentrations overrode the inhibitory effect of chloramphenicol. Maximum Vibrio enhancement was observed in the enriched conditions during the pre‐monsoon and unenriched conditions during the monsoon (with naturally elevated background nutrient concentrations), highlighting the relevance of nutrient concentrations for Vibrio spp. This has interesting implications for antibiotic‐mediated interactions between fouling diatom and bacterial communities under differing nutrient regimes. Although this study indicates the relevance of ‘cross‐talk’ at the microfouling level, understanding the effects of additional microbial products (e.g. bacteriocins and peptidoglycan) on these community‐level interactions will represent a step forward.
A Pavement Crack Detection Method Combining 2D with 3D Information Based on Dempster‐Shafer Theory
Authors: Huang Jianping , Liu Wanyu , Sun Xiaoming
Published: August 2013

Pavement cracking is one of the main distresses presented in the road surface. Objective and accurate detection or evaluation for these cracks is an important task in the pavement maintenance and management. In this work, a new pavement crack detection method is proposed by combining two‐dimensional (2D) gray‐scale images and three‐dimensional (3D) laser scanning data based on Dempster‐Shafer (D‐S) theory. In this proposed method, 2D gray‐scale image and 3D laser scanning data are modeled as a mass function in evidence theory, and 2D and 3D detection results for pavement cracks are fused at decision‐making level. The experimental results show that the proposed method takes advantage of the respective merits of 2D images and 3D laser scanning data and therefore improves the pavement crack detection accuracy and reduces recognition error rate compared to 2D image intensity‐based methods.
Granular cell tumour of the tongue in a 17‐year‐old orthodontic patient: a case report
Authors: Hita‐Davis P. , Edwards P. , Conley S. , Dyer T.J.
Published: August 2013

To describe the clinical presentation of a granular cell tumour (GCT) in an orthodontic patient, as well as discuss its aetiology and treatment of choice. We present a case of GCT of the tongue in an otherwise healthy 17‐year‐old male patient along with a brief review of literature on GCTs. The lesion was surgically excised and orthodontic treatment was successfully finalised. Clinically, GCTs are indistinguishable from other benign connective tissue and neural tissue neoplasms and may be found in any site, with cases commonly involving the gastrointestinal system, breast and lung. However, over 50% of cases involve the head and neck, with the tongue being the most frequently involved site (65–85% of oral GCTs). GCTs demonstrate a close anatomical relationship with peripheral nerve fibres and demonstrate the presence of myelin and axon‐like structures thus lending credence to their neural origin. The treatment of choice for GCTs is conservative surgical excision. Because GCTs present with a potential for recurrence, follow‐up is recommended. While the primary focus of orthodontic treatment is the position of the teeth within the orofacial complex, the health and wellness of the patient and his/her surrounding oral tissues always take precedence. This case demonstrates the importance of routine physical examination of the intraoral and extraoral tissues during routine orthodontic care.
Assessment of Adequate Safety Margin Using Single Coupling Interval‐Upper Limit of Vulnerability Test
Authors: PATEL MEHUL B. , PANDYA KHYATI , THAKUR RANJAN K.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Upper limit of vulnerability (ULV) testing using T‐wave scanning shocks at multiple coupling intervals correlates well with defibrillation threshold (DFT), but remains underutilized in clinical practice. We measured DFT and ULV at a single coupling interval (SCI), with the aim to identify adequate safety margin at a coupling interval that correlates best with DFT.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation underwent simultaneous SCI‐ULV and DFT assessment. Following a drive train of 400 ms, a T‐wave‐coupled shock was delivered. To minimize shocks, patients were randomized to programmed shock at 20 ms before peak (Group I), at peak (Group II), or 20 ms after peak (Group III) of T wave. An initial T‐wave test shock at 9 J was followed by ±2 J shocks, until SCI‐ULV was ascertained. Device rescue shocks were programmed at test shock +2 J and +4 J shocks followed by external rescue shock.

Results

There were 200 patients: 66 patients in Group I, 67 patients each in Groups II and III; mean age was 68.9 ± 12.4 years; 75% of patients men, 66% with ischemic heart disease and mean ejection fraction of 27.1 ± 7.1%. Overall, the mean number of ventricular fibrillation induction was 1.39 ± 0.8, mean SCI‐ULV energy was 7.97 ± 3.39 J, and mean DFT was 8.68 ± 3.19 J. The correlation between SCI‐ULV and DFT improved from Group I to Group III and was best in Group III (r2 = 0.689). There were no major adverse events.

Conclusions

SCI‐ULV measured 20 ms after the peak of the T wave correlates well with DFT for assessment of adequate safety margin.