bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant‐mediated effects of butterfly egg deposition on subsequent caterpillar and pupal development, across different species of wild Brassicaceae
Authors: PASHALIDOU FOTEINI G. , FATOUROS NINA E. , VAN LOON JOOP J. A. , DICKE MARCEL , GOLS RIETA
Published: April 2015

1. Herbivory can change plant quality, which may have consequences for interactions between the inducing herbivore and other insect community members.

2. Studies investigating the effects of plant quality on herbivore performance often have neglected the egg stage, and instead introduced larvae onto the plant. Recently, we reported that herbivore oviposition by Pieris brassicae (Linnaeus) (Large Cabbage White Butterfly) reduced the plant quality of Brassica nigra L. (black mustard) for subsequent herbivores.

3. It remains unclear how persistent and common these plant‐mediated effects of oviposition are. Here, five species of wild Brassicaceae were used (B. nigra L., Brassica oleracea L., Sinapis arvensis L., Moricandia arvensis L., and Moricandia moricandioides Boiss). The response to oviposition by the specialist P. brassicae was determined by following the natural sequence of events: oviposition, egg, larval, and pupal development. All tested plant species are known to interact with P. brassicae in nature. Caterpillar, pupal mass, and development time on plants exposed to butterfly eggs were assessed compared with egg‐free plants.

4. It was shown that the plant‐mediated effects of oviposition are not specific for B. nigra but occur in most of the tested plant species except for M. arvensis. However, the strength of the plant‐mediated effect on caterpillar growth depended on plant species. Thus, across different members of the Brassicaceae family, oviposition can influence plant quality and has negative consequences on P. brassicae growth. Further studies are needed to assess to what extent this trait might be phylogenetically conserved.
Indirect effects of grazing intensity on pollinators and floral visitation
Authors: TADEY MARIANA
Published: April 2015

1. The introduction of livestock in natural areas is a common disturbance that affects both plant and pollinator diversity and might affect their interaction. Understanding whether livestock affect a food resource for pollinators (i.e. flower abundance) and/or a pollinator assemblage (i.e. abundance and richness) has important implications for plant–pollinator interactions and still needs deeper investigation.

2. This study investigated how pollinator communities and flower abundance determined floral visitation frequency along a grazing gradient, using seven large paddocks in Patagonian Monte Desert that varied in livestock densities. Pollinator visitation frequency was measured in five of the most abundant native plant species of the region, present in all the paddocks, but that differed in reproductive strategy ranging from insect‐pollinated self‐compatible and self‐incompatible to wind‐pollinated. The influence of livestock density, insect, and flower abundance on visitation frequency was evaluated using D‐separation hierarchical path models.

3. Intermediate stocking densities showed the highest insect richness and abundance. Livestock density showed a negative quadratic relationship with insect richness; hymenopterans being the main insect group in the region. Flower density decreased with the increase in livestock density. The five plant species shared several pollinator species although each one supported a distinct assemblage.

4. The path model showed that livestock was not directly associated with pollinator visitation frequency; however, this apparent lack of association was as a result of opposite forces acting together. An increase in livestock density reduced visitation frequency through a decrease in insect abundance, yet, livestock simultaneously increased the pollinator visitation rate through decreased flower abundance.

5. This study describes how changes in the density of exotic mammals can affect pollinator and flower abundance, resulting in contrasting effects on flower visitation rates with, apparently, neutral net consequences. This illustrates the complexity of responses to plant–pollinator interactions to anthropogenic disturbances that alter the ecological context.
The effects of cross‐orientation masking on the visual gamma response in humans
Authors: Perry Gavin
Published: April 2015

Electrophysiological recordings in primates indicate that visual gamma contains distinct broad‐ and narrowband components that reflect different neuronal processes. Evidence suggests that cross‐orientation masking of luminance‐defined gratings should differentially modulate these two components. To test this we measured the effect of cross‐orientation masking on the gamma response in 12 human participants using magentoencephalography (MEG). Although both the amplitude and the frequency of gamma were modulated by the presence of a cross‐orientation mask, we failed to find evidence for distinguishable components: both broadband gamma at stimulus onset and sustained narrowband gamma were similarly modulated by mask contrast. However, we could not confirm the presence of masking effects due to mask contrast being confounded with the contrast of the stimulus as a whole. We therefore tested a further 12 participants in a second experiment in which the stimuli were: a plaid stimulus, the two component gratings which formed the plaid and the same two gratings but with Michelson contrast matched to the plaid. We found that gamma amplitude was reduced and gamma frequency increased to the plaid stimulus when compared with the contrast‐matched gratings or with the sum of the two component gratings, indicating that visual gamma was indeed modulated by cross‐orientation masking. Surprisingly, masking did not affect the pattern‐onset evoked response, challenging previous hypotheses that cross‐orientation suppression – the phenomenon by which the response to an orientated grating is suppressed by a cross‐orientation mask – is driven by feedforward inputs to V1.
Artificial neural network approach to predict the fracture parameters of the size effect model for concrete
Authors: Yan Y. , Ren Q. , Xia N. , Shen L. , Gu J.
Published: April 2015

The fracture parameters (the fracture energy and the effective length of the fracture process zone for an infinitely large specimen) in the size effect model of concrete exhibit a large scatter as measured in most of the experimental studies. This phenomenon is ubiquitous and has presented a great challenge to characterize the structural failure over the last decade. In order to remove the perplexing issue, this paper develops two models to predict the two fracture parameters using the artificial neural network (ANN) methodology. The proposed models are verified by using 77 experimental data collected from the literature. The results demonstrate that the two ANN‐based size effect model models (ANN‐I and ANN‐II) are viable for predicting the fracture parameters and yield more accurate results than those obtained from the conventional regression formulations. Additionally, a parametric study is employed to evaluate the impact of each independent material parameter on the fracture parameters.
Carbon storage capacity of semi‐arid grassland soils and sequestration potentials in northern China
Authors: Wiesmeier Martin , Munro Sam , Barthold Frauke , Steffens Markus , Schad Peter , Kögel‐Knabner Ingrid
Published: April 2015

Organic carbon (OC) sequestration in degraded semi‐arid environments by improved soil management is assumed to contribute substantially to climate change mitigation. However, information about the soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration potential in steppe soils and their current saturation status remains unknown. In this study, we estimated the OC storage capacity of semi‐arid grassland soils on the basis of remote, natural steppe fragments in northern China. Based on the maximum OC saturation of silt and clay particles <20 μm, OC sequestration potentials of degraded steppe soils (grazing land, arable land, eroded areas) were estimated. The analysis of natural grassland soils revealed a strong linear regression between the proportion of the fine fraction and its OC content, confirming the importance of silt and clay particles for OC stabilization in steppe soils. This relationship was similar to derived regressions in temperate and tropical soils but on a lower level, probably due to a lower C input and different clay mineralogy. In relation to the estimated OC storage capacity, degraded steppe soils showed a high OC saturation of 78–85% despite massive SOC losses due to unsustainable land use. As a result, the potential of degraded grassland soils to sequester additional OC was generally low. This can be related to a relatively high contribution of labile SOC, which is preferentially lost in the course of soil degradation. Moreover, wind erosion leads to substantial loss of silt and clay particles and consequently results in a direct loss of the ability to stabilize additional OC. Our findings indicate that the SOC loss in semi‐arid environments induced by intensive land use is largely irreversible. Observed SOC increases after improved land management mainly result in an accumulation of labile SOC prone to land use/climate changes and therefore cannot be regarded as contribution to long‐term OC sequestration.
Measuring Spatial Correspondence among Network Paths
Authors: Matisziw Timothy C. , Demir Emre
Published: April 2015

Measuring the spatial correspondence among geographic features is an important component of many analyses such as those seeking to identify similar or dissimilar features, explore the extent to which change has taken place, and explain the processes influencing spatial change. In networked systems, the paths providing connectivity between pairs of nodes are often the geographic features among which spatial correspondence is to be assessed. That is, given a set of paths between a pair of nodes, the extent to which they share portions of the network and spatially deviate from one another can provide insight on the factors underlying the use of a system. While methods for measuring the spatial correspondence among specific types of network paths have been devised, this article proposes a methodology for measuring the spatial correspondence among the topology of network paths of any type, including those involving redundant use of network space. By basing comparisons upon the topologic relationships among the paths, the proposed approach better accounts for average spatial deviation as well as the asymmetric spatial relationship between pairs of paths, enabling greater stability and consistency in the analysis of their spatial characteristics. The developed methodology is applied to evaluate variability in spatial correspondence among a set of network paths to demonstrate its utility.
Disappearance of centroacinar cells in the Notch ligand‐deficient pancreas
Authors: Nakano Yasuhiro , Negishi Naoko , Gocho Seiho , Mine Tetsuya , Sakurai Yuri , Yazawa Masaki , Abe Koichiro , Yagita Hideo , Habu Sonoko , Kageyama Ryoichiro , Kawaguchi Yoshiya , Hozumi Katsuto
Published: April 2015

Notch signaling has been shown to contribute to murine pancreatic development at various stages. Delta‐like 1 (Dll1) or Jagged1 (Jag1) are the Notch ligands that solely function to trigger this signaling during the pancreatic bud stage (~e9.5) or after birth, respectively. However, it has not been elucidated whether these Notch ligands are required at the later stage (e10.5–18.5) when the particular pancreas structures form. Here, we detected the dual expression of Dll1 and Jag1 in the epithelium after e10.5, which was restricted to the ductal cell lineage, including centroacinar cells expressing Sox9, CD133 and Hes1 but not the ductal cell markers Hnf1β and DBA, at e18.5. To evaluate the significance of the Notch ligands during this period, we established double‐floxed mice of Dll1 and Jag1 genes with Ptf1a‐Cre knock‐in allele and examined the effects on development. The abrogation of both ligands but not a single one led to the loss of centroacinar cells, which was due to the decrease in cell proliferation and the increase in cell death, as well as to the reduction of Sox9. These results suggested that Dll1 and Jag1 function redundantly and are necessary to maintain the centroacinar cells as an environmental niche in the developing pancreas.
Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor is associated with better prognosis in classical Hodgkin's lymphoma: Correlation with MET expression
Authors: Koh Young Wha , Yoon Dok Hyun , Suh Cheolwon , Cha Hee Jeong , Huh Jooryung
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the prognostic significance of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) expression alone and in relation to the expression of the MET‐ receptor and the MET‐homologous receptor RON, in classical Hodgkin's lymphoma (cHL). Tumour samples from patients with cHL (n = 202; median age 37.5 years) were analysed retrospectively for IGF‐R1, MET or RON expression by immunohistochemistry using tissue microarrays. The median follow‐up time was 3.7 years (range, 0.1–20 years). Twenty‐nine patients (14.3%) expressed IGF‐1R protein in Hodgkin/Reed–Sternberg (HRS) cells, which was associated with a better overall survival (OS) (P = 0.036). IGF‐1R expression was closely associated with MET receptor expression and low level of lactate dehydrogenase. In patients with cHL receiving doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine, those expressing IGF‐1R showed a trend towards better OS and event‐free survival than IGF‐1R‐negative patients (P = 0.129 and P = 0.115 respectively), but statistical significance was not reached. This study suggests that IGF‐1R expression could be associated with better clinical outcome in cHL but is significantly associated with the expression of MET receptor.
Southern Hemisphere Influenza and Vaccine Effectiveness Research and Surveillance
Authors: Huang Qiu Sue , Turner Nikki , Baker Michael G. , Williamson Deborah A. , Wong Conroy , Webby Richard , Widdowson Marc‐Alain
Published: April 2015

The 2009 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 pandemic highlighted the need for improved scientific knowledge to support better pandemic preparedness and seasonal influenza control. The Southern Hemisphere Influenza and Vaccine Effectiveness Research and Surveillance (SHIVERS) project, a 5‐year (2012–2016) multiagency and multidisciplinary collaboration, aimed to measure disease burden, epidemiology, aetiology, risk factors, immunology, effectiveness of vaccination and other prevention strategies for influenza and other respiratory infectious diseases of public health importance. Two active, prospective, population‐based surveillance systems were established for monitoring influenza and other respiratory pathogens among those hospitalized patients with acute respiratory illness and those enrolled patients seeking consultations at sentinel general practices. In 2015, a sero‐epidemiological study will use a sample of patients from the same practices. These data will provide a full picture of the disease burden and risk factors from asymptomatic infections to severe hospitalized disease and deaths and related economic burden. The results during the first 2 years (2012–2013) provided scientific evidence to (a) support a change to NZ's vaccination policy for young children due to high influenza hospitalizations in these children; (b) contribute to the revision of the World Health Organization's case definition for severe acute respiratory illness for global influenza surveillance; and (c) contribute in part to vaccine strain selection using vaccine effectiveness assessment in the prevention of influenza‐related consultations and hospitalizations. In summary, SHIVERS provides valuable international platforms for supporting seasonal influenza control and pandemic preparedness, and responding to other emerging/endemic respiratory‐related infections.
Acute and Long‐Term Outcomes of Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation Using the Second‐Generation Cryoballoon versus Open‐Irrigated Radiofrequency: A Multicenter Experience
Authors: ARYANA ARASH , SINGH SHELDON M. , KOWALSKI MARCIN , PUJARA DEEP K. , COHEN ANDREW I. , SINGH STEVE K. , ALEONG RYAN G. , BANKER RAJESH S. , FUENZALIDA CHARLES E. , PRAGER NELSON A. , BOWERS MARK R. , D'AVILA ANDRÉ , O'NEILL PADRAIG GEAROID
Published: April 2015

Second‐Generation Cryoballoon versus RF

Introduction

There are limited comparative data on catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (CAAF) using the second‐generation cryoballoon (CB‐2) versus point‐by‐point radiofrequency (RF). This study examines the acute/long‐term CAAF outcomes using these 2 strategies.

Methods and Results

In this multicenter, retrospective, nonrandomized analysis, procedural and clinical outcomes of 1,196 patients (76% with paroxysmal AF) undergoing CAAF using CB‐2 (n = 773) and open‐irrigated, non‐force sensing RF (n = 423) were evaluated. Pulmonary vein isolation was achieved in 98% with CB‐2 and 99% with RF (P = 0.168). CB‐2 was associated with shorter ablation time (40 ± 14 min vs. 66 ± 26 min; P < 0.001) and procedure time (145 ± 49 minutes vs. 188 ± 42 minutes; P < 0.001), but greater fluoroscopic utilization (29 ± 13 minutes vs. 23 ± 14 minutes; P < 0.001). While transient (7.6% vs. 0%; P < 0.001) and persistent (1.2% vs. 0%; P = 0.026) phrenic nerve palsy occurred exclusively with CB‐2, other adverse event rates were similar between CB‐2 (1.6%) and RF (2.6%); P = 0.207. However, freedom from AF/atrial flutter/tachycardia at 12 months following a single procedure without antiarrhythmic therapy was greater with CB‐2 (76.6%) versus RF (60.4%); P < 0.001. While this difference was evident in patients with paroxysmal AF (P < 0.001), it did not reach significance in those with persistent AF (P = 0.089). Additionally, CB‐2 was associated with reduced long‐term need for antiarrhythmic therapy (16.7% vs. 22.0%; P = 0.024) and repeat ablations (14.6% vs. 24.1%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this multicenter, retrospective, nonrandomized study, CAAF using CB‐2 coupled with RF as occasionally required was associated with greater freedom from atrial arrhythmias at 12 months following a single procedure without antiarrhythmic therapy when compared to open‐irrigated, non‐force sensing RF, alone.
nMARQ Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Results from a Multicenter Study
Authors: MAHIDA SAAGAR , HOOKS DARREN A. , NENTWICH KARIN , NG G. ANDRE , GRIMALDI MASSIMO , SHIN DONG‐IN , DERVAL NICOLAS , SACHER FREDERIC , BERTE BENJAMIN , YAMASHITA SEIGO , DENIS ARNAUD , HOCINI MÉLÈZE , DENEKE THOMAS , HAISSAGUERRE MICHEL , JAIS PIERRE
Published: April 2015

nMARQ AF Ablation

Background

nMARQ is a multipolar catheter designed to simultaneously ablate at multiple sites around the pulmonary vein (PV) circumference with a single radiofrequency application. We sought to define the safety and efficacy of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation with the nMARQ catheter.

Methods

In a multicenter study, patients with drug‐refractory AF were included. Procedural outcomes were documented at 1 year.

Results

374 patients underwent PV isolation using nMARQ (age 60 ± 10 years, 264 male), of whom 263 patients had paroxysmal AF (PAF), while 111 patients had persistent AF. A total of 1,468 of 1,474 veins (99.6%) were isolated with the nMARQ catheter alone. Thirty‐five (13%) PAF patients and 30 (27%) persistent AF patients underwent additional ablation at non‐PV sites (2.4 ± 1.4 non‐PV sites). Procedure time for PV isolation only was 1.9 ± 0.7 hours (fluoroscopy 24 ± 14 minutes). Procedure time for PV isolation and non‐PV ablation was 2.4 ± 1.0 hours (fluoroscopy 30 ± 23 minutes). Major adverse events occurred in two patients (0.5%); one esophago‐pericardial fistula and a second, mortality due to sepsis of unknown cause. One‐year follow‐up data were available in 65 (25%) PAF and 20 (18%) persistent AF patients. Forty‐two (65%) PAF and 13 (65%) persistent AF patients were free of arrhythmia at 1 year. In patients undergoing repeat procedures (n = 17) the most frequent points of PV reconnection were: anterior RSPV, inferior RIPV, and superior LSPV.

Conclusions

AF ablation with nMARQ is associated with short procedure times and high acute success rates. Further research is necessary to more clearly define long‐term outcome.
Shock Reduction With Multiple Bursts of Antitachycardia Pacing Therapies to Treat Fast Ventricular Tachyarrhythmias in Patients With Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators: A Multicenter Study
Authors: ANGUERA IGNASI , DALLAGLIO PAOLO , MARTÍNEZ‐FERRER JOSE , RODRÍGUEZ ANÍBAL , ALZUETA JAVIER , PÉREZ‐VILLACASTÍN JULIÁN , PORRES JOSÉ MANUEL , VIÑOLAS XAVIER , FONTENLA ADOLFO , FERNÁNDEZ‐LOZANO IGNACIO , GARCÍA‐ALBEROLA ARCADIO , SABATÉ XAVIER
Published: April 2015

Multiple Bursts for Fast Ventricular Tachycardia

Introduction

An empirical sequence of burst antitachycardia pacing (ATP) is effective in terminating fast ventricular tachycardias (FVT) in patients with implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs). We aimed to determine whether multiple ATP bursts for termination of FVT results in shock reduction compared to a single ATP burst.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data from the Umbrella trial, a multicenter prospective observational study of ICD patients followed by the CareLink Monitoring System. We compared the safety and effectiveness of a single ATP burst (Group 1) with a strategy of successive ATP sequences (Group 2) for termination of FVT episodes (cycle lengths 250–320 milliseconds) before shock therapy. Over a mean follow‐up of 35 months, a total of 650 FVT episodes were detected in 154 patients (mean cycle length: 299 ± 18 milliseconds). Effectiveness of the first burst ATP in Group 1 was 73% and shocks were required in 27% of episodes. Effectiveness of the first burst ATP in Group 2 was 77%, and this increased to 91% with the third or successive ATP bursts. Shocks were required in 9% of episodes in group 2, representing a 67% reduction in the need of high‐energy shocks. Median duration of FVT episodes and mortality in both groups were similar. Multivariate analysis indicated that programming multiple ATP bursts (OR 3.4, 95%CI 1.7–6.8, P = 0.001) was an independent predictor of ATP effectiveness.

Conclusion

This study provides first evidence that a strategy of multiple burst ATP sequences for termination of FVT episodes leads to a clinically meaningful reduction in the need for shocks.
Nematode parasites infecting the starry batfish Halieutaea stellata (Vahl) (Lophiiformes: Ogcocephalidae) from the East and South China Sea
Authors: Li L , Zhao W‐T , Guo Y‐N , Zhang L‐P
Published: April 2015

The starry batfish Halieutaea stellata (Vahl) is a small, benthic fish found in Indo‐West Pacific Oceans. However, our present knowledge of the helminth parasites of this fish is still fragmentary. In this study, a total of 29 fish collected from the East and South China Sea were examined to determine the prevalence, intensity and species composition of helminth parasites in H. stellata. Using morphological and molecular approaches, four species of nematodes were found parasitic in this fish host, including the adults and fourth‐stage larvae of Raphidascaroides nipponensis Yamaguti 1941; adults and third‐stage larvae of Raphidascaris lophii (Wu 1949), third‐ and fourth‐stage larvae of Hysterothylacium larval type IV‐A of Shamsi, Gasser & Beveridge 2013 and third‐stage larvae of Hysterothylacium amoyense (Hsü 1993). Halieutaea stellata represents a new host record for the three last‐named nematodes. Raphidascaroides nipponensis with the highest prevalence (82.5%) and intensity (mean = 13.5) of infection was considered as the dominant parasite species in H. stellata. The detailed morphology of the different developmental stages of the four nematode species was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. All nematode species were also genetically characterized by sequencing and analysing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of the ribosomal DNA. This study provides further data on the occurrence of nematode parasites in H. stellata and also contributes to facilitate an accurate and rapid diagnosis of the infection by these little‐known nematodes.
Modifiable Midlife Risk Factors, Independent Aging, and Survival in Older Men: Report on Long‐Term Follow‐Up of the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men Cohort
Authors: Franzon Kristin , Zethelius Björn , Cederholm Tommy , Kilander Lena
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To examine relationships between modifiable midlife factors, aging, and physical and cognitive function (independent aging) and survival in very old age.

Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men, Uppsala, Sweden.

Participants

Swedish men investigated in 1970–74 (aged 48.6–51.1) and followed up for four decades (N = 2,293).

Measurements

Conventional cardiovascular risk factors, body mass index (BMI), and dietary biomarkers were measured, and a questionnaire was used to gather information on lifestyle variables at age 50. Four hundred seventy‐two men were reinvestigated in 2008–09 (aged 84.8–88.9). Independent aging was defined as survival to age 85, Mini‐Mental State Examination score of 25 or greater, not living in an institution, independent in personal care and hygiene, able to walk outdoors without personal help, and no diagnosis of dementia. The National Swedish Death Registry provided survival data.

Results

Thirty‐eight percent of the cohort survived to age 85. Seventy‐four percent of the participants in 2008–09 were aging independently. In univariable analyses, high leisure‐time physical activity predicted survival but not independent aging. Low work‐time physical activity was associated more strongly with independent aging (odds ratio (OR) = 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18–2.88) than with survival (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.05–1.52). In multivariable analyses, midlife BMI was negatively associated (OR = 0.80/SD, 95% CI = 0.65–0.99/SD), and never or former smoking was positively associated (OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.07–2.59), with independent aging. As expected, conventional cardiovascular and lifestyle risk factors were associated with mortality.

Conclusion

A normal midlife BMI and not smoking were associated with independent aging close to four decades later, indicating that normal weight at midlife has the potential not only to increase survival, but also to preserve independence with aging.
Determinants and Long‐Term Effects of Attendance Levels in a Marital Enrichment Program for African American Couples
Authors: Barton Allen W. , Beach Steven R. H. , Hurt Tera R. , Fincham Frank D. , Stanley Scott M. , Kogan Steven M. , Brody Gene H.
Published: April 2015

Although most efficacious marital enrichment programs are multisession, few studies have explored whether outcomes differ according to session attendance, particularly among minority groups with lower than average participation in prevention programs. This study therefore investigates attendance levels and long‐term improvements in couple functioning among 164 couples participating in the Promoting Strong African American Families program. Structural equation models indicated session attendance predicted 2‐year changes for men's reports of communication, commitment, and spousal support (marginally) but not for women's. Individual and couple characteristics that predicted attendance levels were also identified. Results highlight distinct gender differences in the effects of sustained attendance as well as characteristics that provide early identifiers for African American couples at increased risk of low program attendance.
Risk Factors for Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation in Horses After Cardioversion to Sinus Rhythm
Authors: Decloedt A. , Schwarzwald C.C. , De Clercq D. , Van Der Vekens N. , Pardon B. , Reef V.B. , van Loon G.
Published: April 2015

Background

Although atrial fibrillation (AF) can be successfully treated in horses, recurrence occurs frequently. In humans, atrial function after cardioversion can predict recurrence.

Objectives

To examine the prognostic value of atrial mechanical function at 24 hours after cardioversion and other potential predictor variables for AF recurrence in horses.

Animals

117 horses treated for AF at 4 referral centers.

Methods

Retrospective study. Inclusion criteria were successful cardioversion, echocardiography at 24 hours after cardioversion and ≥4 months follow‐up. To determine factors associated with AF recurrence, a multivariable survival model was built.

Results

133 AF episodes in 117 horses were included. AF recurred in 36/100 horses with a first AF episode and in 57/133 AF episodes overall. Factors associated with recurrence in horses with a first episode were previous unsuccessful treatment attempt (hazard ratio HR 2.36, 95% confidence interval CI 1.11–4.99, P = .025) and mild or moderate mitral regurgitation (HR 2.70, 95% CI 1.23–5.91, P = .013). When the last AF episode of all horses was included, previous AF (HR 2.53, 1.33–4.82, P = .005) and active left atrial fractional area change ≤9.6% (HR 3.43, 1.22–9.67, P = .020) were significant predictors.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The only echocardiographic variable of left atrial function with significant prognostic value for recurrence was low active left atrial fractional area change. Further research is necessary to evaluate whether echocardiography at a later timepoint could provide more prognostic information.
Comparison of air‐Q and Ambu Aura‐i for controlled ventilation in infants: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Darlong Vanlal , Biyani Ghansham , Baidya Dalim K. , Pandey Ravindra , Chandralekha  , Punj Jyotsna , Upadhyay Ashish D.
Published: April 2015

Background

The air‐Q is a new supraglottic airway device (SAD) and has been increasingly used as a primary airway device and as a conduit for tracheal intubation in children as well as in adults. This device has either performed equally or better than other SADs in children. The Ambu Aura‐i is a commonly used SAD in children undergoing various short surgical procedures. However, limited literature is available evaluating the safety and efficacy of the air‐Q and the Ambu Aura‐i in small children. We, therefore, conducted this study to compare the clinical performance of these two airway devices in infants weighing up to 10 kg. Our hypothesis is that air‐Q, due to its improved and larger cuff design will yield better airway seal pressures as compared with the Ambu Aura‐i.

Methods

Sixty‐four ASA I–II infants weighing <10 kg undergoing elective ophthalmic surgery were randomly assigned to receive either an air‐Q or the Ambu Aura‐i. After induction of general anesthesia (GA) and muscle relaxation, we measured oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP) as the primary outcome. The secondary end points measured were time to insert, first insertion success rate, fiberoptic grade (FO) of laryngeal view and any other airway complications like trauma, laryngospasm, and desaturation.

Results

The air‐Q ILA provided significantly higher OLP as compared with the Ambu Aura‐i [20.2 ± 4.6 cm H2O, CI 18.55–21.88; vs 16.2 ± 5.6 cmH2O, CI 14.27–18.25, P = 0.003; mean difference 4 ± 1.29 cm H2O, CI 1.41–6.58]. However, the Ambu Aura‐i required significantly less time for its insertion (14.6 ± 2.8 s, CI 13.66–15.70; vs 16.3 ± 1.5 s, CI 15.75–16.86, P = 0.005; mean difference 1.625 ±  0.56 s, CI 0.48–2.76). There were no differences in first insertion success rate, FO view, and postoperative complications.

Conclusion

We conclude that air‐Q may be considered superior to Ambu Aura‐i in infants for controlled ventilation as it provides higher airway sealing pressures.
Examining the response of needle carbohydrates from Siberian larch trees to climate using compound‐specific δ13C and concentration analyses
Authors: Rinne K. T. , Saurer M. , Kirdyanov A. V. , Bryukhanova M. V. , Prokushkin A. S. , Churakova (Sidorova) O. V. , Siegwolf R. T. W.
Published: April 2015

Little is known about the dynamics of concentrations and carbon isotope ratios of individual carbohydrates in leaves in response to climatic and physiological factors. Improved knowledge of the isotopic ratio in sugars will enhance our understanding of the tree ring isotope ratio and will help to decipher environmental conditions in retrospect more reliably. Carbohydrate samples from larch (Larix gmelinii) needles of two sites in the continuous permafrost zone of Siberia with differing growth conditions were analysed with the Compound‐Specific Isotope Analysis (CSIA). We compared concentrations and carbon isotope values (δ13C) of sucrose, fructose, glucose and pinitol combined with phenological data. The results for the variability of the needle carbohydrates show high dynamics with distinct seasonal characteristics between and within the studied years with a clear link to the climatic conditions, particularly vapour pressure deficit. Compound‐specific differences in δ13C values as a response to climate were detected. The δ13C of pinitol, which contributes up to 50% of total soluble carbohydrates, was almost invariant during the whole growing season. Our study provides the first in‐depth characterization of compound‐specific needle carbohydrate isotope variability, identifies involved mechanisms and shows the potential of such results for linking tree physiological responses to different climatic conditions.
Association of cerebrospinal fluid tap‐related oscillatory activity and shunt outcome in idiopathic normal‐pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Ikeda Shunichiro , Kazui Hiroaki , Tanaka Toshihisa , Ishii Ryouhei , Aoki Yasunori , Hata Masahiro , Canuet Leonides , Yoshiyama Kenji , Iwase Masao , Pascual‐Marqui Roberto , Takeda Masatoshi
Published: April 2015

Background

Idiopathic normal‐pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by the clinical triad of gait disturbance, urinary dysfunction, and cognitive impairment. The aim of the present study was to find specific EEG patterns associated with shunt response in iNPH.

Methods

Twenty five iNPH patients (10 shunt responders and 15 non‐responders) were enrolled in this study. We performed current source density (CSD) analysis in several frequency bands (delta: 2–4Hz, theta: 4–8Hz, alpha: 8–13Hz, beta: 13–30Hz, gamma: 30–60Hz) using exact Low Resolution Brain Electromagnetic Tomography (eLORETA). CSD distribution was compared between shunt responders and non‐responders for each frequency band before and after CSF tap test.

Results

Shunt responders showed increased gamma CSD in the left temporal cortex before CSF tapping relative to non‐responders. However, after CSF tapping, shunt response was associated with significantly higher CSDs in several frequency bands, specifically theta, alpha, beta and gamma, involving mainly the frontal and temporal areas. Using eLORETA analysis, we were able to identify cortical oscillatory activity before and after CSF tap test related to clinical recovery due to shunt operation in iNPH.

Conclusion

Our findings support and extend the results of previous studies examining the effects of CSF tap test and shunt operation in patients with iNPH, possibly indicating electrophysiological features of shunt response in this disease. These findings warrant future studies to use EEG for prediction of shunt response in iNPH.
A comparative analysis of dementia inpatient characteristics: results from a nationwide survey of different care facilities in Japan
Authors: Yoshimura Atsuko , Lebowitz Adam , Bun Shogyoku , Aiba Miyuki , Ikejima Chiaki , Asada Takashi
Published: April 2015

Background

In Japan, the number of dementia patients admitted to hospitals and other care facilities has been increasing and their hospital stays prolonged. Until now, there has been no study examining the differences between patients in psychiatric hospitals and other care facilities. Here we attempt a comparative analysis of characteristics of dementia patients in psychiatric hospitals and other types of facilities based on a nationwide survey.

Method

A nationwide, cross‐sectional survey was conducted in 2009–2011. Questionnaires were sent to randomly selected facilities and asked about each facility's status as of September 2009 and about individuals with dementia residing in each facility during the 2008 fiscal year. The portion about individuals consisted of items to assess eligibility for the Long‐Term Care Insurance programme. Based on data from 6121 patients residing in seven different types of facilities, features of dementia patients in psychiatric hospitals and differences among facilities were analyzed.

Results

There was a significant difference in average age, activities of daily living level, and dementia severity level among the seven types of facilities. The average age in all types of facilities, except for psychiatric hospitals, was higher than the national average life expectancy of 82.59 years. The results of the study revealed that in psychiatric hospitals the proportion of men, those aged <75 years, demented patients with severe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, and those with frontotemporal dementia was significantly greater than in other types of facilities. In other Long‐Term Care Insurance care facilities, dementia patients >80 years and women accounted for 80% of all patients.

Conclusion

Result showed that dementia patients in psychiatric hospitals had a higher proportion of men, younger age groups, and severe dementia than other types of facilities. These features contrast markedly with status of dementia patients in other Long‐Term Care Insurance care facilities. In order to facilitate dementia patients' early discharge from psychiatric hospitals to other care facilities or to home, further fulfilment care services corresponding to severe dementia and early‐onset dementia may be needed.
Increased medical cost metrics for patients 50 years of age and older in the collaborate care model of treatment for depression
Authors: Angstman Kurt B. , Doganer Yusuf C. , DeJesus Ramona S. , Rohrer James E.
Published: April 2015

Background

The collaborative care model (CCM) has been consistently shown to achieve effectiveness in depression management compared to usual care. In the present study, we aimed to determine the impact of age on cost metrics in patients who were treated with CCM for 6 months after a diagnosis of depression.

Methods

The upper quartile of age was 50 years and older (n = 56), and the comparison group was composed of patients in the three younger quartiles, aged 18–49 years (n = 163).

Results

Patients in the older age group had an elevated median Current Procedure Terminology cost rank of 255.5 compared to 168.0 for the younger patients (P < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that being in the upper quartile of age (≥50 years) (odds ratio = 2.272, 95% confidence interval: 1.064–4.851; P = 0.034) and having higher numbers of clinical visits 6 months prior to index (odds ratio = 1.209, 95% confidence interval: 1.118–1.307; P < 0.001) were significant predictor variables of being cost rank outliers (>80th percentile) in patients with CCM.

Conclusion

Medical cost utilization in the 6 months after diagnosis of depression was significantly higher in patients in the upper age quartile (≥50 years) enrolled in CCM than those in the lower quartiles (age <50).
Looking at the hand modulates the brain responses to nociceptive and non‐nociceptive somatosensory stimuli but does not necessarily modulate their perception
Authors: Torta Diana M. , Legrain Valéry , Mouraux André
Published: April 2015

Previous studies have suggested that looking at the hand can reduce the perception of pain and the magnitude of the ERPs elicited by nociceptive stimuli delivered onto the hand. In contrast, other studies have suggested that looking at the hand can increase tactile sensory discrimination performance, and enhance the magnitude of the ERPs elicited by tactile stimulation. These opposite effects could be related to differences in the crossmodal effects between vision, nociception, and touch. However, these differences could also be related to the use of different experimental designs. Importantly, most studies on the effects of vision on pain have relied on a mirror to create the illusion that the reflected hand is a direct view of the stimulated hand. Here, we compared the effects of direct versus mirror vision of the hand versus an object on the perception and ERPs elicited by non‐nociceptive and nociceptive stimuli. We did not observe any significant effect of vision on the perceived intensity. However, vision of the hand did reduce the magnitude of the nociceptive N240 wave, and enhanced the magnitude of the non‐nociceptive P200. Our results confirm that vision of the body differentially affects nociceptive and non‐nociceptive processing, but question the robustness of visual analgesia.
Achilles tendon loading patterns during barefoot walking and slow running on a treadmill: An ultrasonic propagation study
Authors: Wulf M. , Wearing S. C. , Hooper S. L. , Smeathers J. E. , Horstmann T. , Brauner T.
Published: April 2015

Measurement of tendon loading patterns during gait is important for understanding the pathogenesis of tendon “overuse” injury. Given that the speed of propagation of ultrasound in tendon is proportional to the applied load, this study used a noninvasive ultrasonic transmission technique to measure axial ultrasonic velocity in the right Achilles tendon of 27 healthy adults (11 females and 16 males; age, 26 ± 9 years; height, 1.73 ± 0.07 m; weight, 70.6 ± 21.2 kg), walking at self‐selected speed (1.1 ± 0.1 m/s), and running at fixed slow speed (2 m/s) on a treadmill. Synchronous measures of ankle kinematics, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and vertical ground reaction forces were simultaneously measured. Slow running was associated with significantly higher cadence, shorter step length, but greater range of ankle movement, higher magnitude and rate of vertical ground reaction force, and higher ultrasonic velocity in the tendon than walking (P < 0.05). Ultrasonic velocity in the Achilles tendon was highly reproducible during walking and slow running (mean within‐subject coefficient of variation < 2%). Ultrasonic maxima (P1, P2) and minima (M1, M2) were significantly higher and occurred earlier in the gait cycle (P1, M1, and M2) during running than walking (P < 0.05). Slow running was associated with higher and earlier peaks in loading of the Achilles tendon than walking.
Organizational socialization in team sport environments
Authors: Benson A. J. , Evans M. B. , Eys M. A.
Published: April 2015

Socialization tactics are often used to manage initial group member interactions in a way that facilitates transition experiences. Although this process is heavily researched in organizational contexts, we sought to extend this line of inquiry to sport by examining the nature of socialization tactics used to integrate new members into existing teams. Interviews were conducted with 12 coaches and 12 athletes from several Canadian Interuniversity Sport teams to explore the nature of socialization and the circumstances underscoring why certain approaches are taken over others. A key process involved establishing congruency of role expectations between incoming athletes and group leaders, and socialization processes balanced expectations of conformity with encouragement of individual personalities within the group. A conceptual basis to examine socialization into team sport environments is discussed in relation to the extant organizational theories, and the practical implications of delineating sport socialization tactics are forwarded.
The biomechanics of running in athletes with previous hamstring injury: A case‐control study
Authors: Daly C. , McCarthy Persson U. , Twycross‐Lewis R. , Woledge R. C. , Morrissey D.
Published: April 2015

Hamstring injury is prevalent with persistently high reinjury rates. We aim to inform hamstring rehabilitation by exploring the electromyographic and kinematic characteristics of running in athletes with previous hamstring injury. Nine elite male Gaelic games athletes who had returned to sport after hamstring injury and eight closely matched controls sprinted while lower limb kinematics and muscle activity of the previously injured biceps femoris, bilateral gluteus maximus, lumbar erector spinae, rectus femoris, and external oblique were recorded. Intergroup comparisons of muscle activation ratios and kinematics were performed. Previously injured athletes demonstrated significantly reduced biceps femoris muscle activation ratios with respect to ipsilateral gluteus maximus (maximum difference −12.5%, P = 0.03), ipsilateral erector spinae (maximum difference −12.5%, P = 0.01), ipsilateral external oblique (maximum difference −23%, P = 0.01), and contralateral rectus femoris (maximum difference −22%, P = 0.02) in the late swing phase. We also detected sagittal asymmetry in hip flexion (maximum 8°, P = 0.01), pelvic tilt (maximum 4°, P = 0.02), and medial rotation of the knee (maximum 6°, P = 0.03) effectively putting the hamstrings in a lengthened position just before heel strike. Previous hamstring injury is associated with altered biceps femoris associated muscle activity and potentially injurious kinematics. These deficits should be considered and addressed during rehabilitation.
Changes in Achilles tendon mechanical properties following eccentric heel drop exercise are specific to the free tendon
Authors: Obst S. J. , Newsham‐West R. , Barrett R. S.
Published: April 2015

Mechanical loading of the Achilles tendon during isolated eccentric contractions could induce immediate and region‐dependent changes in mechanical properties. Three‐dimensional ultrasound was used to examine the immediate effect of isolated eccentric exercise on the mechanical properties of the distal (free tendon) and proximal (gastrocnemii) regions of the Achilles tendon. Participants (n = 14) underwent two testing sessions in which tendon measurements were made at rest and during a 30% and 70% isometric plantar flexion contractions immediately before and after either: (a) 3 × 15 eccentric heel drops or (b) 10‐min rest. There was a significant time‐by‐session interaction for free tendon length and strain for all loading conditions (P < 0.05). Pairwise comparisons revealed a significant increase in free tendon length and strain at all contraction intensities after eccentric exercise (P < 0.05). There was no significant time‐by‐session interaction for the gastrocnemii (medial or lateral) aponeurosis or tendon for any of the measured parameters. Immediate changes in Achilles tendon mechanical properties were specific to the free tendon and consistent with changes due to mechanical creep. These findings suggest that the mechanical properties of the free tendon may be more vulnerable to change with exercise compared with the gastrocnemii aponeurosis or tendon.