bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of topical anaesthetics and repeated tonometry on intraocular pressure
Authors: Jóhannesson Gauti , Hallberg Per , Eklund Anders , Behndig Anders , Lindén Christina
Published: February 2013

Purpose:  To investigate the effects of repeated measurements of intraocular pressure (IOP) using Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) and applanation resonance tonometry (ART) to identify mechanisms contributing to the expected IOP reduction.

Methods:  A prospective, single‐centre study with six healthy volunteers. Consecutive repeated series (six measurements/serie/method) were made alternately on both eyes for 1 hr with oxybuprocaine/fluorescein in the right eye and tetracaine in the left. The left eye was Pentacam® photographed before and repeatedly for 20 min after the IOP measurements. On a separate occasion, the same volunteers received the same amount of anaesthetic drops for 1 hr but without repeated IOP measurements.

Results:  A significant IOP reduction occurred with both ART and GAT in the oxybuprocaine‐treated eye, −4.4 mmHg and −3.8 mmHg, respectively and with ART in the tetracaine eye, −2.1 mmHg. There was a significant difference in IOP reduction between the oxybuprocaine and tetracaine eyes with ART. There was a significant drop in anterior chamber volume (ACV) immediately after the IOP measurements, −12.6 μl that returned to pretrial level after 2 min. After 1 hr of receiving anaesthetic eye drops (without IOP measurements), the IOP decreased significantly in the oxybuprocaine eye for both ART and GAT, −3.1 and −1.7 mmHg, respectively, but not in the tetracaine eye (p = 0.72).

Conclusion:  The IOP reduction cannot be explained solely by aqueous humor being pressed out of the anterior chamber. While significant IOP reduction occurred with both tetracaine and oxybuprocaine after repeated mechanical applanation, the IOP reduction was significantly greater with oxybuprocaine.
Detection of early visual impairment in patients with epiretinal membrane
Authors: Nishi Yasuyo , Shinoda Hajime , Uchida Atsuro , Koto Takashi , Mochimaru Hiroshi , Nagai Norihiro , Tsubota Kazuo , Ozawa Yoko
Published: February 2013

Purpose:  Patients with epiretinal membrane sometimes complain of impaired central visual function, despite good best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), as measured by visual acuity (VA) charts. Here, we evaluate early epiretinal membrane–induced changes in central VA.

Methods:  Subjects were 72 eyes of 36 patients with epiretinal membrane in only one eye and a BCVA in each eye better than 1.0, as measured by conventional Landolt C chart, at the Retina Division Clinic of the Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University Hospital, between December 2010 and November 2011. The conventional Landolt VA, functional VA (FVA) and contrast VA measurements were taken after a general eye examination. For the FVA, Landolt optotypes were sequentially displayed every 2 seconds, which size was changed according to the correctness of the answer. To exclude the influence of other diseases, a standard Schirmer test was performed to diagnose dry eye, and corneal and lens densities were evaluated.

Results:  Average BCVA measured by Landolt C chart was not changed between affected and unaffected fellow eyes. However, the affected eyes showed a poorer FVA score (0.21 ± 0.12, affected; 0.09 ± 0.12, fellow) and visual maintenance ratio (VMR) (0.90 ± 0.04, affected; 0.94 ± 0.04, fellow), measured by the FVA system, and contrast VA score (0.35 ± 0.11, affected; 0.25 ± 0.14, fellow) than fellow eyes. The FVA and contrast VA values were correlated with the presence of epiretinal membrane, but not with the presence of dry eye, cataract and corneal densities.

Conclusion:  FVA and contrast VA results reflected early changes in central visual function caused by epiretinal membrane, which were not detected by conventional Landolt BCVA.
Morphological and functional differences between normal‐tension and high‐tension glaucoma
Authors: Häntzschel Janek , Terai Naim , Sorgenfrei Friederike , Haustein Michael , Pillunat Karin , Pillunat Lutz E.
Published: February 2013

Purpose:  To compare visual field (VF) and nerve fibre loss in patients with normal‐tension (NTG) and high‐tension glaucoma (HTG) at an equal level of glaucomatous structural damage of the optic nerve head (ONH).

Methods:  In a retrospective, pair‐matched, comparative study, 126 eyes with NTG and 126 eyes with HTG were matched according to the same glaucomatous ONH damage based on rim volume, rim area and disc size measured by the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT III). Visual field by Humphrey perimetry and nerve fibre layer thickness measured by scanning laser polarimetry (GdxVCC) were compared between both groups.

Results:  Based on the HRT, NTG and HTG displayed comparable structural damage of the ONH without a statistically significant difference between both groups (mean, NTG/HTG: disc area 2.32/2.32 mm², p =0.342; rim area 1.03/1.00 mm², p = 0.279; rim volume 0.2/0.19 mm³; p = 0.274). Eyes with NTG had significantly less VF damage than eyes with HTG (mean, NTG/HTG: mean deviation (MD) −3.69/−9.77 dB, p = 0.0001; pattern standard deviation (PSD) 4.80/7.17 dB, p = 0.0001). The nerve fibre layer of NTG patients was thicker than that of HTG patients (mean, NTG/HTG: GDx total: 46.9/44.0 μm, p = 0.073; GDx superior: 57.2/49.9 μm, p = 0.0001; GDx inferior: 54.9/49.7 μm, p = 0.001).

Conclusions:  At an equal level of glaucomatous structural damage of the ONH indicated by cupping, rim area and rim volume, NTG patients seem to have a less affected visual field and a better preserved nerve fibre layer than HTG patients.
Calculation of central retinal artery diameters from non‐invasive ocular haemodynamic measurements in type 1 diabetes patients
Authors: Pemp Berthold , Cherecheanu Alina‐Popa , Garhofer Gerhard , Schmetterer Leopold
Published: February 2013

Purpose:  The aim of the study was to compare the diameter of the central retinal artery (CRA) between patients with diabetes mellitus and healthy subjects in vivo. CRA diameters were calculated from retinal haemodynamic parameters measured with noninvasive measurement techniques.

Methods:  Sixteen patients with type 1 diabetes with no or mild diabetic retinopathy and 16 age‐matched healthy controls were included in this study. Total retinal blood flow was assessed by combining bidirectional laser Doppler velocimetry in all veins entering the optic disc with measurements of retinal vessel diameters using a Dynamic Vessel Analyser. Blood flow velocity in the CRA was measured with colour Doppler imaging (CDI). The diameter of the CRA in the optic nerve was then calculated for each subject using the individual ocular haemodynamic data.

Results:  Calculated CRA diameters were significantly larger in patients with diabetes (180 ± 13 μm) compared with healthy controls (166 ± 10 μm, p =  0.001). No significant differences were found in retinal blood flow, retinal artery or vein diameters or mean flow velocity of the CRA.

Conclusion:  The data of the present study show increased calculated CRA diameter in patients with type 1 diabetes with no or mild retinopathy. Blood flow velocity measurements in retrobulbar vessels using CDI need to be interpreted with caution in terms of retinal blood flow, because no information about vessel diameters is obtained by this technique.
Allograft survival enhancement using doxycycline in alkali‐burned mouse corneas
Authors: Ling Shiqi , Li Weihua , Liu Lin , Zhou Hongmei , Wang Tao , Ye Hui , Liang Lingyi , Yuan Jin
Published: February 2013

Purpose:  To explore the inhibitory effects of doxycycline on allograft rejection in alkali‐burned cornea beds.

Methods:  The corneas of BALB/c mice were injured using a 1 mol/l NaOH solution. Following the injury, the corneas from C57BL/6 mice were transplanted into the eyes of BALB/c mice after being randomized into three groups: allogeneic corneal transplantation (group A), topical use of doxycycline after allogeneic corneal transplantation (group B) and syngeneic corneal transplantation (group C). Corneal angiogenesis was examined using whole‐mount immunofluorescence, and corneal inflammation was evaluated using inflammation index scoring. The immune rejection of the grafts was examined using a slit lamp. In addition, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A and interleukin‐1β in the transplanted corneas was examined using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  The outgrowth of the corneal blood vessels in the group A mice was faster than that in the group B and group C mice. The inflammation index levels were highest in the group A mice, intermediate in the group B mice and lowest in the group C mice. Vascular endothelial growth factor and the interleukin‐1β protein and mRNA levels decreased dramatically in the group B mice compared with the group A mice (all p‐values < 0.01). In addition, the mean survival time in the group B mice (27.00 ± 2.00 days) was significantly longer than that in the group A mice (11.67 ± 1.51 days; p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Doxycycline may have had a significant role in preventing corneal angiogenesis and inflammation in alkali‐burned corneal beds, which resulted in higher allograft survival rates.
Multimodal imaging of the macula in hereditary and acquired lack of macular pigment
Authors: Theelen Thomas , Berendschot Tos T. J. M. , Klevering B. Jeroen , Fuijkschot Joris , Hoyng Carel B. , Willemsen Michèl A. A. P.
Published: February 2013

Purpose:  Macular pigment (MP) deficit has been described in macular teleangiectasia type 2 (MTA; acquired MP loss) and in Sjögren–Larsson syndrome (SLS; hereditary MP deficiency). Central blue light‐induced fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and blue light fundus reflectance (BLR) are thought to reflect MP distribution. This study was performed to describe the macular morphology in SLS and MTA by multimodal imaging to further investigate the causes of FAF and BLR changes in these disorders.

Methods:  This was a single‐centre, cross‐sectional, retrospective, observational study on SLS and MTA patients treated at our institution. In a multimodal retinal imaging dataset, patterns of BLR and FAF changes were compared with the optical coherence tomography (OCT) and clinical appearance of the patients’ retinas.

Results:  Multimodal image sets of seven eyes of four patients with SLS and of 25 eyes of 15 patients with MTA were included in this study. In MTA, areas of focal FAF increase were mainly associated with retinal pseudocysts and photoreceptor loss and were co‐located with regions of increased BLR. In SLS, areas of focally decreased FAF correlated with the typical intraretinal glistening dots. Frequently, a spot of focally increased FAF was visible at the fovea of SLS patients, often independent of the presence of pseudocysts or photoreceptor loss on OCT.

Conclusion:  In MTA and SLS different patterns of FAF alterations could be observed. The areas of increased BLR, which are thought to correlate with MP loss, appeared to have only restricted correlation with FAF appearance.
Congestive heart failure with diffuse neonatal hemangiomatosis – case report and literature review
Authors: Dotan Moshe , Lorber Avraham
Published: February 2013

Background

Vascular hemangiomas are considered to be a common finding among neonates and infants. The presence of five or more cutaneous hemangiomas may carry a higher incidence of multiple organ involvement

Materials & Methods

An eleven week old female infant with high cardiac output heart failure and multiple cutaneous hemangiomas was referred to our clinic. Soon after birth she failed to gain weight and developed breathlessness. There was partial response to Captopril and Frusemide therapy, with development of a progressive cough. Echocardiogram and liver and brain ultrasound scans revealed heart chamber enlargement, multiple liver hemangiomas and an isolated cerebellar arterio‐venous malformation (AVM). Supportive treatment for congestive heart failure combined with propranolol therapy resulted in rapid clinical response and recovery.

Discussion

The diagnosis of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis in infants with failure to thrive and symptoms of heart failure raises the possibility of internal organ involvement. Augmentation of propranolol in such cases may cause regression of Hemangiomatosis with patient clinical improvement.

Conclusion

We report our experience with a single patient of Hemangiomatosis induced heart failure which responded to propranolol combined with medication to control heart failure and failure to thrive prevention. This treatment should be further evaluated with special attention to potential adverse effects, tolerance and compliance
Maternal intrapartum antibiotics and decreased vertical transmission of Lactobacillus to neonates during birth
Authors: Keski‐Nisula Leea , Kyynäräinen Hanna‐Reetta , Kärkkäinen Ulla , Karhukorpi Jari , Heinonen Seppo , Pekkanen Juha
Published: February 2013

Aim

To estimate the transmission of maternal vaginal microbiota to neonates during term delivery, focusing on Lactobacillus flora in relation to various obstetric clinical factors.

Methods

Fifty consecutive pregnant healthy women with singleton term pregnancies and their newborn infants. Vertical transmission of Lactobacillus flora to the newborn during delivery was evaluated in 45 mother–newborn pairs.

Results

Lactobacillus‐dominant mixed flora was detected in 90% (N = 45) of vaginal samples, but only in 28% (N = 14) of neonatal cultures (transmission rate 31%). All neonates with Lactobacillus‐dominant mixed flora had findings similar to those in maternal cultures. Cocci‐dominant flora was the most common finding in neonates. Administration of antibiotics to the mother during the intrapartum period before birth and duration of rupture of membranes (ROM), regardless of maternal antibiotic treatment, were associated significantly with a decreased transmission rate of Lactobacillus‐dominant mixed flora to neonates.

Conclusion

Maternal intrapartum antibiotics and prolonged expectant management after ROM were associated with decreased transmission rate of vaginal Lactobacillus flora to the neonate during birth. As early colonization of Lactobacillus flora may have a preventive role in the development of allergic diseases later, the significance of intrapartum prophylactic antibiotics needs to be highlighted in forthcoming studies, especially as regards immunological development of the offspring.
The enigma to achieve normal postnatal growth in preterm infants – using parenteral or enteral nutrition?
Authors: Christmann V , Visser R , Engelkes M , de Grauw AM , van Goudoever JB , van Heijst AFJ
Published: February 2013

Aim

To evaluate whether increasing the amount of amino acids and energy in parenteral nutrition combined with rapid increment of enteral feeding improves postnatal growth in preterm infants.

Methods

Observational study; two consecutive year‐cohorts of preterm infants; Cohort 2 received higher supplementation of parenteral amino acids and energy with more rapid enhancement of enteral feeding than Cohort 1. Nutritional intake, weight and head circumference (HC) were compared.

Results

Cohort 2 [N: 79, gestational age (GA): 29.8 ± 2.2 weeks, birth weight (BW): 1248 ± 371 g] achieved full enteral feeds earlier (p < 0.001) and had a higher protein/energy intake during the first week (p < 0.001) than Cohort 1 (N: 68, GA: 29.5 ± 2.3 weeks, BW: 1261 ± 339 g). Both cohorts developed cumulative protein/energy deficits, but less in Cohort 2 (p < 0.01). Appropriate for gestational age infants (AGA) of Cohort 2 improved weight gain until week 5 (p < 0.01) compared to AGA of Cohort 1, nevertheless all infants demonstrated a decline in mean standard deviation score (>1) for weight at term. Small for GA infants failed to improve HC.

Conclusion

Improved parenteral intake may lead to improved short‐term postnatal weight gain. Faster increase of enteral nutrition was well tolerated but failed to prevent nutritional deficits. Practising early enteral feeding with higher supplementation of nutrients may be needed and requires further study.
L‐arginine or tempol supplementation improves renal and cardiovascular function in rats with reduced renal mass and chronic high salt intake
Authors: Carlström M. , Brown R. D. , Yang T. , Hezel M. , Larsson E. , Scheffer P. G. , Teerlink T. , Lundberg J. O. , Persson A. E. G.
Published: February 2013

Aim

Early life reduction in nephron number and chronic high salt intake cause development of renal and cardiovascular disease, which has been associated with oxidative stress and nitric oxide (NO) deficiency. We investigated the hypothesis that interventions stimulating NO signalling or reducing oxidative stress may restore renal autoregulation, attenuate hypertension and reduce renal and cardiovascular injuries following reduction in renal mass and chronic high salt intake.

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley rats were uninephrectomized (UNX) or sham‐operated at 3 weeks of age and given either a normal‐salt (NS) or high‐salt (HS) diet. Effects on renal and cardiovascular functions were assessed in rats supplemented with substrate for NO synthase (L‐Arg) or a superoxide dismutase mimetic (Tempol).

Results

Rats with UNX + HS developed hypertension and displayed increased renal NADPH oxidase activity, elevated levels of oxidative stress markers in plasma and urine, and reduced cGMP in plasma. Histological analysis showed signs of cardiac and renal inflammation and fibrosis. These changes were linked with abnormal renal autoregulation, measured as a stronger tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) response. Simultaneous treatment with L‐Arg or Tempol restored cGMP levels in plasma and increased markers of NO signalling in the kidney. This was associated with normalized TGF responses, attenuated hypertension and reduced signs of histopathological changes in the kidney and in the heart.

Conclusion

Reduction in nephron number during early life followed by chronic HS intake is associated with oxidative stress, impaired renal autoregulation and development of hypertension. Treatment strategies that increase NO bioavailability, or reduce levels of reactive oxygen species, were proven beneficial in this model of renal and cardiovascular disease.
Facilitating in a demanding environment: Experiences of teaching in virtual classrooms using web conferencing
Authors: Cornelius Sarah
Published: February 2013

“How to” guides and software training resources support the development of the skills and confidence needed to teach in virtual classrooms using web‐conferencing software. However, these sources do not often reveal the subtleties of what it is like to be a facilitator in such an environment—what it feels like, what issues might emerge and what personal challenges will be faced. This paper reports findings from a phenomenological study guided by the following question: “how do experienced teachers describe and understand their experiences in synchronous virtual classrooms?” which aimed to find out what it is like to be a teacher in a virtual classroom. The transcripts of semi‐structured interviews with four experienced web‐conferencing users across the UK were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. One of the themes that emerged—“facilitating in a demanding environment”—is explored in this paper to give an insight into participants' experiences and some of the challenges faced when encouraging interaction in an environment where feedback is limited. The discussion may be relevant to those developing their practice in virtual classrooms, as well as staff developers and software designers.
Sensitivity and kinase activity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 and others to EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Furuyama Kazuto , Harada Taishi , Iwama Eiji , Shiraishi Yoshimasa , Okamura Kyoko , Ijichi Kayo , Fujii Akiko , Ota Keiichi , Wang Shuo , Li Heyan , Takayama Koichi , Giaccone Giuseppe , Nakanishi Yoichi
Published: February 2013

The presence of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) somatic mutations in non‐small‐cell lung cancer patients is associated with response to treatment with EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as gefitinib and erlotinib. More than 100 mutations in the kinase domain of EGFR have been identified. In particular there are many variations of deletion mutations in exon 19. In this study, using yellow fluorescent protein‐tagged fragments of the EGFR intracellular domain, we examined the differences in sensitivity to gefitinib, erlotinib and afatinib between several exon 19 mutants and other common EGFR mutations. We also used serum of patients undergoing treatment with EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors in this system. In addition, we examined the relative kinase activity of these mutants by measuring relative fluorescent intensity after immunofluorescence staining. We found that both sensitivity to EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors and relative kinase activity differed among several EGFR mutations found in the same region of the kinase domain. This study underscores the importance of reporting the clinical outcome of treatment in relation to different EGFR mutations.
Accelerated and Enhanced Bone Formation on Novel Simvastatin‐Loaded Porous Titanium Oxide Surfaces
Authors: Nyan Myat , Hao Jia , Miyahara Takayuki , Noritake Kanako , Rodriguez Reena , Kasugai Shohei
Published: February 2013

Background

With increasing application of dental implants in poor‐quality bones, the need for implant surfaces ensuring accelerated osseointegration and enhanced peri‐implant bone regeneration is increased.

Purpose

A study was performed to evaluate the osseointegration and bone formation on novel simvastatin‐loaded porous titanium oxide surface.

Materials and Methods

Titanium screws were treated by micro‐arc oxidation to form porous oxide surface and 25 or 50 μg of simvastatin was loaded. The nontreated control, micro‐arc oxidized, and simvastatin‐loaded titanium screws were surgically implanted into the proximal tibia of 16‐week‐old male Wistar rats (n = 36). Peri‐implant bone volume, bone‐implant contact, and mineral apposition rates were measured at 2 and 4 weeks. Data were analyzed by one‐way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test.

Results

New bone was formed directly on the implant surface in the bone marrow cavity in simvastatin‐loaded groups since 2 weeks. Bone‐implant contact values were significantly higher in simvastatin‐loaded groups than control and micro‐arc oxidized groups at both time points (p < .05). Peri‐implant bone volume and mineral apposition rate of simvastatin‐loaded groups were significantly higher than control and micro‐arc oxidized groups at 2 weeks (p < .05).

Conclusions

These data suggested that simvastatin‐loaded porous titanium oxide surface provides faster osseointegration and peri‐implant bone formation and it would be potentially applicable in poor‐quality bones.
Transmission of World Prices to Ugandan Coffee Growers in a Liberalised Economy
Authors: Musumba Mark , Gupta Rajorshi Sen
Published: February 2013

This article examines the transmission of world coffee prices to the price received by Ugandan coffee growers by means of Directed Acyclic Graphs which reveal the flow of information from the spot indicator price to the London futures price and then to the growers' price. A positive shock in the futures and indicator prices has respectively a positive and negative effect on the growers' price, and Forecast Error Variance Decomposition shows that uncertainty is attributable to own price, London futures price, and indicator price, in rank order. The article recommends that the Ugandan Coffee Development Authority should provide information on both futures and indicator prices to the growers.
Role of the NH2‐terminal fragment of dentin sialophosphoprotein in dentinogenesis
Authors: Gibson Monica P. , Liu Qilin , Zhu Qinglin , Lu Yongbo , Jani Priyam , Wang Xiaofang , Liu Ying , Paine Michael L. , Snead Malcolm L. , Feng Jian Q. , Qin Chunlin
Published: February 2013

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is a large precursor protein that is proteolytically processed into a NH2‐terminal fragment [composed of dentin sialoprotein (DSP) and a proteoglycan form (DSP‐PG)] and a COOH‐terminal fragment [dentin phosphoprotein (DPP)]. In vitro studies indicate that DPP is a strong initiator and regulator of hydroxyapatite crystal formation and growth, but the role(s) of the NH2‐terminal fragment of DSPP (i.e. DSP and DSP‐PG) in dentinogenesis remain unclear. This study focuses on the function of the NH2‐terminal fragment of DSPP in dentinogenesis. Here, transgenic (Tg) mouse lines expressing the NH2‐terminal fragment of DSPP driven by a 3.6‐kb type I collagen promoter (Col 1a1) were generated and cross‐bred with Dspp null mice to obtain mice that express the transgene but lack the endogenous Dspp (Dspp KO/DSP Tg). We found that dentin from the Dspp KO/DSP Tg mice was much thinner, more poorly mineralized, and remarkably disorganized compared with dentin from the Dspp KO mice. The fact that Dspp KO/DSP Tg mice exhibited more severe dentin defects than did the Dspp null mice indicates that the NH2‐terminal fragment of DSPP may inhibit dentin mineralization or may serve as an antagonist against the accelerating action of DPP and serve to prevent predentin from being mineralized too rapidly during dentinogenesis.
Regional scale patterns of fine root lifespan and turnover under current and future climate
Authors: Luke McCormack M. , Eissenstat David M. , Prasad Anantha M. , Smithwick Erica A. H.
Published: February 2013

Fine root dynamics control a dominant flux of carbon from plants and into soils and mediate potential uptake and cycling of nutrients and water in terrestrial ecosystems. Understanding of these patterns is needed to accurately describe critical processes like productivity and carbon storage from ecosystem to global scales. However, limited observations of root dynamics make it difficult to define and predict patterns of root dynamics across broad spatial scales. Here, we combine species‐specific estimates of fine root dynamics with a model that predicts current distribution and future suitable habitat of temperate tree species across the eastern United States (US). Estimates of fine root lifespan and turnover are based on empirical observations and relationships with fine root and whole‐plant traits and apply explicitly to the fine root pool that is relatively short‐lived and most active in nutrient and water uptake. Results from the combined model identified patterns of faster root turnover rates in the North Central US and slower turnover rates in the Southeastern US. Portions of Minnesota, Ohio, and Pennsylvania were also predicted to experience >10% increases in root turnover rates given potential shifts in tree species composition under future climate scenarios while root turnover rates in other portions of the eastern US were predicted to decrease. Despite potential regional changes, the average estimates of root lifespan and turnover for the entire study area remained relatively stable between the current and future climate scenarios. Our combined model provides the first empirically based, spatially explicit, and spatially extensive estimates of fine root lifespan and turnover and is a potentially powerful tool allowing researchers to identify reasonable approximations of forest fine root turnover in areas where no direct observations are available. Future efforts should focus on reducing uncertainty in estimates of root dynamics by better understanding how climate and soil factors drive variability in root dynamics of different species.
Increasing variance in North Pacific climate relates to unprecedented ecosystem variability off California
Authors: Sydeman William J. , Santora Jarrod A. , Thompson Sarah Ann , Marinovic Baldo , Lorenzo Emanuele Di
Published: February 2013

Changes in variance are infrequently examined in climate change ecology. We tested the hypothesis that recent high variability in demographic attributes of salmon and seabirds off California is related to increasing variability in remote, large‐scale forcing in the North Pacific operating through changes in local food webs. Linear, indirect numerical responses between krill (primarilyThysanoessa spinifera) and juvenile rockfish abundance (catch per unit effort (CPUE)) explained >80% of the recent variability in the demography of these pelagic predators. We found no relationships between krill and regional upwelling, though a strong connection to the North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO) index was established. Variance inNPGOand related central Pacific warming index increased after 1985, whereas variance in the canonicalENSOand Pacific Decadal Oscillation did not change. Anthropogenic global warming or natural climate variability may explain recent intensification of theNPGOand its increasing ecological significance. Assessing non‐stationarity in atmospheric‐environmental interactions and placing greater emphasis on documenting changes in variance of bio‐physical systems will enable insight into complex climate‐marine ecosystem dynamics.
A sink‐limited growth model improves biomass estimation along boreal and alpine tree lines
Authors: Leuzinger Sebastian , Manusch Corina , Bugmann Harald , Wolf Annett
Published: February 2013

Aim

Despite increasing evidence for plant growth often being limited by sink (meristem) activity rather than source (photosynthesis) activity, all currently available dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs) simulate plant growth via source‐limited processes. For a given climatic region, this may lead to an overestimation of carbon stock per unit surface area, particularly if a model fails to correctly predict forest cover. Our aim is to improve the Lund–Potsdam–Jena (LPJ) DGVM by replacing the source‐limited (SoL) tree growth algorithm by a sink‐limited (SiL) one.

Location

Our analysis focuses on the cold tree line at high latitudes and altitudes. We study two altitudinal transects in the Swiss Alps and the northern tree line.

Methods

We limit annual net primary productivity of the LPJ DGVM by an algorithm based on the annual sum of growing degree‐days (GDD), assuming that maximum plant growth is reached asymptotically with increasing GDD.

Results

Comparing simulation results with observational data, we show that the locations of both the northern and the alpine tree line are estimated more accurately when using a SiL algorithm than when using the commonly employed SoL algorithm. Also, simulated carbon stocks decrease in a more realistic manner towards the tree line when the SiL algorithm is used. This has far‐reaching implications for estimating and projecting present and future carbon stocks in temperature‐limited ecosystems.

Main conclusions

In the range of 60–80° N over Europe and Asia, carbon stored in vegetation is estimated to be c. 50% higher in the LPJ standard version (LPJ‐SoL) compared with LPJ‐SiL, resulting in a global difference in estimated biomass of 25 Pg (c. 5% of the global terrestrial standing biomass). Similarly, the simulated elevation of the upper tree line in the European Alps differs by c. 400 m between the two model versions, thus implying an additional overestimation of carbon stored in mountain forests around the world.
Platelet activation and aggregation: the importance of thrombin activity—A laboratory model
Authors: Jensen M. S. , Larsen O. H. , Christiansen K. , Fenger‐Eriksen C. , Ingerslev J. , Sørensen B.
Published: February 2013

This study introduces a new laboratory model of whole blood platelet aggregation stimulated by endogenously generated thrombin, and explores this aspect in haemophilia A in which impaired thrombin generation is a major hallmark. The method was established to measure platelet aggregation initiated by tissue factor evaluated by means of impedance aggregometry. Citrated whole blood from healthy volunteers and haemophilia A patients with the addition of inhibitors of the contact pathway and fibrin polymerization was evaluated. In healthy persons, a second wave of platelet aggregation was found to coincide with the thrombin burst and to be abolished by thrombin inhibitors. In this system, platelet aggregation in severe haemophilia A (n = 10) was found to be significantly decreased as compared with healthy individuals (912 ± 294 vs. 1917 ± 793 AU × min, P = 0.003), most probably due to the weak level of thrombin generation. For the first time, analysis of platelet aggregation as induced by endogenously generated thrombin was demonstrated. The new method makes it possible to explore the influence of the coagulation system on platelet function. In contrast to the general understanding, the data suggest that the impaired thrombin generation in haemophilia may affect platelet activation. Future studies will address whether our results may contribute to understanding differences in bleeding phenotypes and response to haemostatic substitution observed among patients.
Extending Technology Acceptance Model to the E‐recruitment Context in Iran
Authors: Kashi Kia , Zheng Connie
Published: February 2013

Using a sample of 332 job applicants in Iran, this study integrates Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and signaling theory to explain factors influencing applicants' behavioral intentions to apply for jobs online. Of the two main constructs of TAM, perceived usefulness was found to have a significant impact on applicants' behavioral intentions, while perceived ease of use was not. Based on the signaling theory, impression of the organizational website appeared to create interests in organization as a potential employer; hence, prompt applicants to apply for jobs. These results extend our understanding of the online recruitment in different context and provide further insights with regard to possible effects of website features on applicants' attractions toward organizations operating in Iran.
Sex‐specific Differential Prediction of Academic Achievement by German Ability Tests
Authors: Schult Johannes , Hell Benedikt , Päßler Katja , Schuler Heinz
Published: February 2013

Tests of cognitive ability play a major role in the selection of students. Still, data regarding the fairness of standardized tests in Germany is scarce. We use three samples (N = 2,616; 58% women) from German universities to investigate the sex‐specific differential prediction of college performance based on intelligence tests. The predictive bias we find is small and in line with US‐American research. The direction of the effect depends on the cognitive ability domain investigated: Numeric test scores are prone to disadvantage women whereas verbal test scores are more likely to discriminate against men. Including high school grade point average in the prediction model can help to offset differential prediction that underestimates women's academic achievement.
Is pelvic lymph node dissection required at radical prostatectomy for low‐risk prostate cancer?
Authors: Mitsuzuka Koji , Koie Takuya , Narita Shintaro , Kaiho Yasuhiro , Yoneyama Takahiro , Kawamura Sadafumi , Tochigi Tatsuo , Ohyama Chikara , Habuchi Tomonori , Arai Yoichi
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To determine the necessity of pelvic lymph node dissection for low‐risk prostate cancer, we analyzed the incidence of lymph node invasion and the therapeutic value of pelvic lymph node dissection in low‐risk prostate cancer patients.

Methods

Medical records for 1268 patients undergoing open radical prostatectomy between January 2000 and December 2009 who had not undergone neoadjuvant therapy were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with low‐risk disease (n = 222; prostate‐specific antigen <10 ng/mL, biopsy Gleason score ≤6, clinical T1c or T2a) were classified according to whether they underwent pelvic lymph node dissection (pelvic lymph node dissection group, n = 147) or did not (no pelvic lymph node dissection group, n = 75). Pelvic lymph node dissection was carried out in a limited style, which included the external iliac vein and the obturator fossa. The incidence of lymph node invasion was determined and referred to the preoperative nomogram developed for Japanese patients (Japanese nomogram), Partin and Kattan nomograms. The 5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survivals in both groups were analyzed.

Results

Lymph node invasion in low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk disease was 0.7% (1/147), 1.2% (7/595) and 6.1% (23/374). The 5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival rates for patients with low‐risk disease were 87.6% in the pelvic lymph node dissection group and 87.1% in the no pelvic lymph node dissection group (P = 0.65, log–rank). No patients in the pelvic lymph node dissection group exceeded 2% of lymph node invasion risk with Japanese and Partin nomograms. With the Kattan nomogram, 22.4% (33/147) of the pelvic lymph node dissection group exceeded 2% of lymph node invasion risk, and one patient had documented lymph node invasion, but none exceeded 2.5%.

Conclusions

Pelvic lymph node dissection can be spared at radical prostatectomy for low‐risk disease, as its diagnostic and therapeutic value is poor.
Packing circles within ellipses
Authors: Birgin Ernesto G. , Bustamante Luis Henrique , Callisaya Hector Flores , Martínez Jose Mario
Published: February 2013

The problem of packing circles within ellipses is considered in the present paper. A new ellipse‐based system of coordinates is introduced by means of which a closed formula to compute the distance of an arbitrary point to the boundary of an ellipse exists. Nonlinear programming models for some variants of 2D and 3D packing problems involving circular items and elliptical objects are given. The resulting models are medium‐sized highly challenging nonlinear programming problems for which a global solution is sought. For this purpose, multistart strategies are carefully and thoroughly explored. Numerical experiments are exhibited.
Inverted sand dollars actively orient themselves in flow to increase likelihood of righting
Authors: Hardy Adam R. , Merz Rachel A.
Published: February 2013

The fact that sand dollars are often dislodged and inverted is an inescapable consequence of living at or slightly below the sediment–water interface. Once inverted, however, how do sand dollars effectively right themselves, given their small spines and stiff internal skeletons? Here, we examined the possibility that individuals of Mellita quinquiesperforata and Dendraster excentricus may take advantage of the interaction of their morphology and flow to increase the likelihood of righting. Based on flow tank observations, the critical velocity required to flip an inverted sand dollar varies with orientation and increases with test size. For both species, the critical velocity was lower when inverted sand dollars were oriented with the posterior margin facing directly downstream, compared with when the posterior margin was positioned in an upstream orientation. To test whether inverted sand dollars would actively rotate into a more advantageous position for flipping, we exposed inverted animals in three starting orientations – with their posterior edge directed upstream (the least favored position for flipping), perpendicular, and downstream to flow – to the minimum flow expected to induce flipping and compared their responses. Time‐lapse photography showed that regardless of initial orientation, within one hour, a majority of individuals of both species rotated into positions that were not statistically different from the downstream orientation (the most favored position for flipping). These results for D. excentricus were further confirmed in a field experiment. Taken together, these data suggest that inverted sand dollars are able to recognize flow direction and respond by modifying their orientation to maximize lift and drag for righting.
Effects of Tobacco Smoking on Neuropsychological Function in Schizophrenia in Comparison to Other Psychiatric Disorders and Non‐psychiatric Controls
Authors: Morisano Dominique , Wing Victoria C. , Sacco Kristi A. , Arenovich Tamara , George Tony P.
Published: February 2013

Background and Objectives

Compared to the general population cigarette smoking prevalence is elevated in psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia (SZ), bipolar disorder (BD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). These disorders are also associated with neurocognitive impairments. Cigarette smoking is associated with improved cognition in SZ. The effects of smoking on cognition in BD and MDD are less well studied.

Methods

We used a cross‐sectional design to study neuropsychological performance in these disorders as a function of smoking status. Subjects (N = 108) were SZ smokers (n = 32), SZ non‐smokers (n = 15), BD smokers (n = 10), BD non‐smokers (n = 6), MDD smokers (n = 6), MDD non‐smokers (n = 10), control smokers (n = 12), and control non‐smokers (n = 17). Participants completed a neuropsychological battery; smokers were non‐deprived.

Results

SZ subjects performed significantly worse than controls in select domains, while BD and MDD subjects did not differ from controls. Three verbal memory outcomes were improved in SZ smokers compared with non‐smokers; smoking status did not alter performance in BD or MDD.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

These data suggest that smoking is associated with neurocognitive improvements in SZ, but not BD or MDD. Our data may suggest specificity of cigarette‐smoking modulation of neurocognitive deficits in SZ. (Am J Addict 2013;22:46‐53)
Brief Intervention for Risk‐Drinking Women: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Content and Process
Authors: DeMarinis Valerie , Caplan Jason , Chang Grace
Published: February 2013

Background and Objectives

Although brief interventions (BIs) are among the most highly promoted treatments for alcohol problems, their effective components are unknown. This may be particularly important when considering women since some reviews have suggested that BIs are more efficacious among men. The purpose of this pilot study is to utilize a mixed methods and gender analysis approach to generate hypotheses about the effective components of BIs given to women with medical problems exacerbated by problem drinking.

Methods

Random sample of 20 BIs given to women with diabetes, hypertension, infertility, or osteoporosis. Quantitative and qualitative analytic methods were undertaken in a stepwise progression, followed by a gender analysis using the Worldview Assessment Framework.

Results

Main findings include that a worldview encompassing drinking as an entitlement may be a moderator limiting the effectiveness of a BI, that understanding the impact of alcohol on infertility problems as distinct from prenatal alcohol use may be a mediator for BI effectiveness, and that providing information about sensible drinking limits in the context of a specific medical problem was feasible.

Conclusions and Significance

Content and process areas are important to consider when offering BI for risk‐drinking women with medical problems and may help to improve treatment efficacy in this group. (Am J Addict 2013;22:67‐74)
Novel Low‐Firing Microwave Dielectric Ceramic LiCa3MgV3O12 with Low Dielectric Loss
Authors: Fang Liang , Su Congxue , Zhou Huanfu , Wei Zhenhai , Zhang Hui
Published: February 2013

Novel low temperature firing microwave dielectric ceramic LiCa3MgV3O12 (LCMV) with garnet structure was fabricated by the conventional solid‐state reaction method. The phase purity, microstructure, and microwave dielectric properties were investigated. The densification temperature for the LCMV ceramic is 900°C. LCMV ceramic possessed εr = 10.5, Qu × f = 74 700 GHz, and τf = −61 ppm/°C. Furthermore, 0.90LiCa3MgV3O12–0.10CaTiO3 ceramic sintered at 925°C for 4 h exhibited good properties of εr = 12.4, Qu × f = 57 600 GHz, and τf = 2.7 ppm/°C. The LCMV ceramic could be compatible with Ag electrode, which makes it a promising ceramic for LTCC technology application.
Can you see me? Experiences of nurses working night shift in Australian regional hospitals: a qualitative case study.
Authors: Powell Idona
Published: February 2013

Aim

To report a study that explored the experiences of night‐shift nurses, focusing on employee interrelationships and work satisfaction.

Background

Night‐shift nurses are a critical component in hospital care making it essential to understand the experiences that give meaning to their work and understand how these nurses and the organization can benefit from their contribution to hospital care. A literature review revealed minimal research in this area.

Design

Qualitative case study.

Method

A qualitative case study using semi‐structured interviews and self‐completed diaries was conducted in 2010 in regional public hospitals in Australia. Participants were 14 nurses working nights half or more of their shifts in medical or surgical wards.

Findings

Thematic analysis identified four major areas of concern: work relationships, work environment, work practices and lifestyle impact. Notably, work relationships were most meaningful for nurses on the same shift; night‐shift nurses experienced working conditions inferior to their daytime counterparts including a perception of minimal leadership. Despite limited education opportunities, night shift provided opportunity for professional growth for some nurses with a slippage in skills for others; night shift provided flexibility for family and social activities, yet impeded these same activities, primarily due to pervasive fatigue. Night‐shift nurses considered their role critical, yet believed that they were poorly regarded.

Conclusion

The strong interpersonal relationships developed between night‐shift workers need to be capitalized on whilst developing a more effective leadership model, improved work environment, more equitable professional development, and genuine recognition of the critical role of night nurses.
From theoretical model to practical use: an example of knowledge translation
Authors: Bjørk Ida Torunn , Lomborg Kirsten , Nielsen Carsten Munch , Brynildsen Grethe , Frederiksen Anne‐Marie Skovsgaard , Larsen Karin , Reierson Inger Åse , Sommer Irene , Stenholt Britta
Published: February 2013

Aim

To present a case of knowledge translation in nursing education and practice and discusses mechanisms relevant to bringing knowledge into action.

Background

The process of knowledge translation aspires to close the gap between theory and practice. Knowledge translation is a cyclic process involving both the creation and application of knowledge in several phases. The case presented in this paper is the translation of the Model of Practical Skill Performance into education and practice. Advantages and problems with the use of this model and its adaptation and tailoring to local contexts illustrate the cyclic and iterative process of knowledge translation.

Discussion

The cultivation of a three‐sided relationship between researchers, educators, and clinical nurses was a major asset in driving the process of knowledge translation. The knowledge translation process gained momentum by replacing passive diffusion strategies with interaction and teamwork between stakeholders. The use of knowledge creates feedback that might have consequences for the refinement and tailoring of that same knowledge itself. With end‐users in mind, several heuristics were used by the research group to increase clarity of the model and to tailor the implementation of knowledge to the users.

Implications for nursing

This article illustrates the need for enduring collaboration between stakeholders to promote the process of knowledge translation. Translation of research knowledge into practice is a time‐consuming process that is enhanced when appropriate support is given by leaders in the involved facilities.

Conclusion

Knowledge translation is a time‐consuming and collaborative endeavour. On the basis of our experience we advocate the implementation and use of a conceptual framework for the entire process of knowledge translation. More descriptions of knowledge translation in the nursing discipline are needed to inspire and advise in this process.