bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meaningful Improvement in Gait Speed in Hip Fracture Recovery
Authors: Alley Dawn E. , Hicks Gregory E. , Shardell Michelle , Hawkes William , Miller Ram , Craik Rebecca L. , Mangione Kathleen K. , Orwig Denise , Hochberg Marc , Resnick Barbara , Magaziner Jay
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVES: To estimate meaningful improvements in gait speed observed during recovery from hip fracture and to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of gait speed changes in detecting change in self‐reported mobility.

DESIGN: Secondary longitudinal data analysis from two randomized controlled trials

SETTING: Twelve hospitals in the Baltimore, Maryland, area.

PARTICIPANTS: Two hundred seventeen women admitted with hip fracture.

MEASUREMENTS: Usual gait speed and self‐reported mobility (ability to walk 1 block and climb 1 flight of stairs) measured 2 and 12 months after fracture.

RESULTS: Effect size–based estimates of meaningful differences were 0.03 for small differences and 0.09 for substantial differences. Depending on the anchor (stairs vs walking) and method (mean difference vs regression), anchor‐based estimates ranged from 0.10 to 0.17 m/s for small meaningful improvements and 0.17 to 0.26 m/s for substantial meaningful improvement. Optimal gait speed cutpoints yielded low sensitivity (0.39–0.62) and specificity (0.57–0.76) for improvements in self‐reported mobility.

CONCLUSION: Results from this sample of women recovering from hip fracture provide only limited support for the 0.10‐m/s cut point for substantial meaningful change previously identified in community‐dwelling older adults experiencing declines in walking abilities. Anchor‐based estimates and cut points derived from receiver operating characteristic curve analysis suggest that greater improvements in gait speed may be required for substantial perceived mobility improvement in female hip fracture patients. Furthermore, gait speed change performed poorly in discriminating change in self‐reported mobility. Estimates of meaningful change in gait speed may differ based on the direction of change (improvement vs decline) or between patient populations.
Cost‐Effectiveness of Oral Bisphosphonates for Osteoporosis at Different Ages and Levels of Life Expectancy
Authors: Pham Annalise N. , Datta Santanu K. , Weber Thomas J. , Walter Louise C. , Colón‐Emeric Cathleen S.
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of oral bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis in women at different ages and life expectancies.

DESIGN: A Markov model was used to analyze oral bisphosphonate treatment for 5 years compared to no intervention. Women at each age were divided into life expectancy quartiles: the lowest 1% to 25% (sickest group), the two middle 26% to 75% (average health group), and the highest 76% to 100% of life expectancy (healthiest group). Simulations were performed for hypothetical cohorts at 5‐year intervals with starting ages between 50 and 90 and for each life expectancy group and followed for up to 100 years or until death. Data sources included published fracture rates, costs, utility values, and mortality risks.

SETTING: Computer simulation using a societal perspective.

PARTICIPANTS: Hypothetical cohort of women with various life expectancies beginning osteoporosis treatment between the age of 50 and 90 years.

MEASUREMENTS: Cost per quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) gained for 5 years of bisphosphonate therapy compared to no treatment. Cost‐effectiveness was defined at a willingness‐to‐pay of $50,000.

RESULTS: In the healthiest group, all costs were less than $18,000 per QALY. In the median quartiles of life expectancy, lifetime costs per QALY were less than $27,000 for patients at all ages; treatment became cost‐saving at a starting age of 75 and remained so through a starting age of 85. Even in the sickest group, although osteoporosis treatment was not cost‐saving, it remained cost‐effective through a starting age of 90 with lifetime costs of less than $43,000 per QALY.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with an oral bisphosphonate for 5 years was cost‐effective for all women, regardless of quartile of life expectancy. Advanced age should not prevent consideration of osteoporosis treatment based on cost effectiveness, and strategies to improve care, such as nurse‐led screening programs or electronic medical record tools, are needed.
Physician Follow‐Up Visits After Acute Care Hospitalization for Elderly Medicare Beneficiaries Discharged to Noninstitutional Settings
Authors: Lin Caroline Y. , Barnato Amber E. , Degenholtz Howard B.
Published: September 2011

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of posthospital physician follow‐up on readmissions in older adults. Physician follow‐up visits after discharge have been promoted as a way to improve outcomes and reduce readmissions, but the evidence base for this recommendation is limited. A retrospective analysis of data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) was conducted for 2001 to 2003. Data were extracted on elderly Medicare beneficiaries with an index hospitalization in 2002, and physician follow‐up visits and readmissions within 90 days of discharge were identified. Analysis was conducted with multivariable logistic regression modeling to assess the independent effect on 90‐day readmission of any physician follow‐up, timing of physician follow‐up, and follow‐up with only primary care physicians. A generalized linear model was used to assess the effect of physician follow‐up on total health expenditures. The analytical sample included 326 beneficiaries; 79% had a physician follow‐up visit within 90 days, and 28% were readmitted within 90 days. In multivariable modeling, physician follow‐up was negatively associated with 90‐day readmissions (odds ratio=0.23, 95% confidence interval=0.13–0.43). Follow‐up visits were protective against readmissions regardless of timing of visit and when restricted to those by primary care physicians. Having a follow‐up visit was associated with approximately $10,000 lower annual health expenditures. In conclusion, physician follow‐up protects against readmission after adjusting for important covariates and is associated with significantly lower expenditures. Future efforts should ensure that patients have adequate physician follow‐up.
Implication of transfected cell lines for the detection of alloantibodies against human neutrophil antigen‐3
Authors: Bayat Behnaz , Tjahjono Yudy , Werth Silke , Berghöfer Heike , Reil Angelika , Kroll Hartmut , Sachs Ulrich J. , Santoso Sentot
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Alloantibodies against human neutrophil antigen‐3 (HNA‐3) are responsible for the fatalities reported in transfusion‐related acute lung injury. Consequently, reliable detection of these alloantibodies is mandatory to improve blood transfusion safety. In this study, we developed stable cell lines for the detection of HNA‐3 antibodies.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: HEK293T were transfected with HNA‐3a or HNA‐3b constructs and sorted by flow cytometry according to high surface expression. Transfected cells were tested with sera containing HNA‐3 antibodies in flow cytometry and antibody capture assay (ACA). The results were compared with granulocyte agglutination test and granulocyte immunofluorescence test.

RESULTS: In flow cytometry, 12 of 14 HNA‐3a sera reacted specifically with HNA‐3aa cells. One serum sample showed positive reaction with HNA‐3bb cells. All HNA‐3b sera recognized HNA‐3bb cells. No reaction was observed with broad reactive antibodies against HLA Class I. In ACA, all HNA‐3a sera (12/12) showed positive reactivity with HNA‐3aa cells with no cross‐reactivity with HNA‐3bb cells. Again, all HNA‐3b sera reacted with HNA‐3bb cells only. Furthermore, genotyping of 249 individuals detected a new HNA‐3 allele caused by a nucleotide substitution C>T at Position 457 leading to L153F mutation in choline transporter‐like protein‐2. This mutation impairs polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific primers based HNA‐3a typing. However, analysis with cells expressing F153 isoform showed that this mutation did not alter the binding of HNA‐3 antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that HEK293T cells expressing stable recombinant HNA‐3 are suitable for the detection of HNA‐3 alloantibodies allowing reliable screening of blood products.
Long‐term follow‐up among Danish transfusion recipients identified in the national hepatitis C lookback
Authors: Just Søren Andreas , Grau Katrine , Georgsen Jørgen , Weis Nina , Cowan Susan , Groenbaek Karin , Krarup Henrik , Christensen Peer Brehm ,   The Danish HCV Lookback Group
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: In 1996, a national lookback study was performed in Denmark identifying 1018 patients exposed to hepatitis C virus (HCV) by transfusion before 1991. The objective of this study was to describe morbidity and mortality during extended follow‐up among patients in the Danish HCV lookback cohort alive in 1996.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In a retrospective cohort study of 230 patients exposed to HCV by blood transfusion and alive in 1996 we extracted data from national registers and compared these with a matched group of unexposed transfusion recipients.

RESULTS: Among 230 HCV‐exposed recipients alive in 1996, 124 (53.9%) had chronic hepatitis C, 43 (18.7%) were not infected, and 63 (27.4%) had incomplete HCV data. In 2009, 121 (52.6%) were still alive a median of 21.8 years after transfusion. The mortality rate among the HCV‐exposed recipients followed from 1996 was 4.9 per 100 person‐years (PY). The incidence of liver cirrhosis and decompensated cirrhosis was 1.0 per 100 PY and 0.4 per 100 PY, respectively; 16.5% had cirrhosis at death. Among HCV‐exposed recipients, no difference in all‐cause or liver‐related mortality was observed between HCV‐infected and HCV‐uninfected recipients. Further, there was no difference in mortality between HCV‐exposed and ‐unexposed transfusion recipients (mortality rate ratio [MRR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96‐1.17; p = 0.47), but liver‐related mortality was significantly higher among HCV‐exposed patients (MRR, 10.0; 95% CI, 7.20‐17.7; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Two decades after exposure to blood products from HCV‐infected donors, only 121(11.8%) of 1018 recipients remained alive. For HCV‐exposed recipients no excess all‐cause mortality was observed, but liver‐related mortality was significantly increased.
Serologic characteristics of ceftriaxone antibodies in 25 patients with drug‐induced immune hemolytic anemia (CME)
Authors: Arndt Patricia A. , Leger Regina M. , Garratty George
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Ceftriaxone, a third‐generation cephalosporin, is commonly used to prevent and treat infections. Since 1987, it has been the second most common cause of drug‐induced immune hemolytic anemia (DIIHA) investigated in our laboratory.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Samples from 79 patients (1987‐2010), suspected of having DIIHA caused by ceftriaxone, were studied for the presence of ceftriaxone antibodies. Direct antiglobulin tests (DATs) and tests with ceftriaxone‐treated red blood cells (RBCs) or untreated and enzyme‐treated RBCs in the presence of ceftriaxone were performed.

RESULTS: Twenty‐five (32%) of the 79 patients had antibodies to ceftriaxone detected. Seventeen (68%) of the 25 patients were children; reactions in children were usually dramatic and severe. Nine (36%) of the 25 patients had fatal DIIHA. Nineteen of the 25 samples had DATs performed by our laboratory; 100% of samples were reactive with anti‐C3 and 47% were reactive with anti‐IgG. All 25 sera had ceftriaxone antibodies detected when testing untreated or ficin‐treated RBCs in the presence of ceftriaxone (resulting in agglutination, hemolysis or sensitization of test RBCs). These antibodies were primarily IgM and reactivity was enhanced by testing ficin‐treated RBCs. Sixteen (64%) of the 25 sera reacted with test RBCs when no ceftriaxone was added in vitro; this was most likely due to the transient presence of drug or drug‐immune complexes in the patient's circulation at the time that the blood samples were drawn.

CONCLUSION: Ceftriaxone antibodies can cause severe intravascular hemolysis. Complement can usually be detected on the patient's RBCs and IgM antibodies are usually detected in the patient's serum.
The Semantic Distinction Between “Risk” and “Danger”: A Linguistic Analysis
Authors: Boholm Max
Published: September 2011

The analysis combines frame semantic and corpus linguistic approaches in analyzing the role of agency and decision making in the semantics of the words “risk” and “danger” (both nominal and verbal uses). In frame semantics, the meanings of “risk” and of related words, such as “danger,” are analyzed against the background of a specific cognitive‐semantic structure (a frame) comprising frame elements such as Protagonist, Bad Outcome, Decision, Possession, and Source. Empirical data derive from the British National Corpus (100 million words). Results indicate both similarities and differences in use. First, both “risk” and “danger” are commonly used to represent situations having potential negative consequences as the result of agency. Second, “risk” and “danger,” especially their verbal uses (to risk, to endanger), differ in agent‐victim structure, i.e., “risk” is used to express that a person affected by an action is also the agent of the action, while “endanger” is used to express that the one affected is not the agent. Third, “risk,” but not “danger,” tends to be used to represent rational and goal‐directed action. The results therefore to some extent confirm the analysis of “risk” and “danger” suggested by German sociologist Niklas Luhmann. As a point of discussion, the present findings arguably have implications for risk communication.
Phase Homogeneity in Y2O3–MgO Nanocomposites Synthesized by Thermal Decomposition of Nitrate Precursors with Ammonium Acetate Additions
Authors: Muoto Chigozie K. , Jordan Eric H. , Gell Maurice , Aindow Mark
Published: September 2011

Nanocomposite powders with equal volume fractions of Y2O3 and MgO have been produced by the thermal decomposition of precursor mixtures of yttrium nitrate and magnesium nitrate. Solutions of the precursor salts were mixed with ammonium acetate fuel, dried to form a gel‐like substance, and then calcined to give nanocrystalline ceramic powders. The amount of ammonium acetate added to the metal nitrate precursors was varied systematically, and the morphology and distribution of the component phases in consolidated compacts of the resultant ceramic powders were examined by a combination of focused ion beam sectioning, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. The dispersion of the Y2O3 and MgO phases within the synthesized powders improved, and the sizes of the phase domains reduced, with increasing ammonium acetate content up to the quantity required for a stoichiometric redox reaction with the metal nitrates. The addition of excess ammonium acetate gave no further improvement in phase domain dispersion or reduction in phase domain sizes. These phenomena are related to the thermal characteristics for the decomposition of the precursors and their effect on phase separation during oxide crystallization.
Fabrication of Transparent Yttria by High‐Pressure Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Zhang Haibin , Kim Byung‐Nam , Morita Koji , Yoshida Hidehiro , Hiraga Keijiro , Sakka Yoshio
Published: September 2011

Transparent yttria was prepared by means of high‐pressure spark plasma sintering at 1050°C under the uniaxial pressure of 300 MPa. The resulting yttria possessed the in‐line transmittance of 68% at the wavelength of 700 nm and the nanometric grains of about 400 nm. In the near‐infrared spectral region, the transparency of the present specimen approached the level of single crystal yttria. This research highlighted the efficiency and simplicity of high‐pressure spark plasma sintering for fabricating transparent yttria.
Designing of Glass‐FreeLTCCMicrowave Ceramic‐Ca1−x(Li0.5Nd0.5)xWO4by Crystal Chemistry
Authors: Bian Jian Jiang , Wu Jia Yin
Published: September 2011

Designing guidelines for glass‐free low‐temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) materials were proposed from the point of view of crystal chemistry. As an example,Ca1−x(Nd0.5Li0.5)xWO4was successfully designed as glass‐freeLTCCmaterials by crystal chemistry. The sintering behavior, microstructure, and microwave dielectric properties ofCa1−x(Nd0.5Li0.5)xWO4ceramics were investigated in this study. The structure and microstructure of the compounds were investigated byX‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The microwave dielectric properties of the ceramics were studied with a network analyzer at the frequency of about 9–13 GHz. Continuous solid solutionsCa1−x(La0.5Na0.5)xWO4(0.1 ≤ x≤0.5) were formed as expected in the experimented composition range. They could be sintered into dense ceramics (approximately 96%–98% theoretical density) at 825°C–875°C per 2 h. All samples exhibit Scheelite structure (I41/a) phase. Both of the sintering temperature and microwave dielectric properties, especially the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf), could be tuned in a wide range. Combined excellent microwave dielectric properties with εr = 11.7,Q × f = 36 700 GHz, andτf = 5.36 ppm/°C could be obtained for thex = 0.2 composition after sintering at 825°C/2 h. The chemical compatibility ofCa0.8(Nd0.5Li0.5)0.2WO4ceramic with silver (Ag) powders was also investigated. No chemical reaction has taken place between the matrix phase andAgafter sintering at 850°C/2 h. Thus, it can be used as a promising glass‐free microwave dielectric material forLTCCapplications.
Pyrochlore Range from Bi2O3–Fe2O3–TeO3 System for LTCC and Photocatalysis and the Crystal Structure of New Bi3(Fe0.56Te0.44)3O11
Authors: Valant Matjaz , Babu Gunda Santosh , Vrcon Mojca , Kolodiazhnyi Taras , Axelsson Anna‐Karin
Published: September 2011

A new pyrochlore homogeneity field in Bi2O3–Fe2O3–TeO3 system is characterized with respect to its compositional range and phase relations to adjacent phases. The sintering temperature of these pyrochlores is 880°C and they do not react with metallic silver, which makes them suitable for low‐temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) technology. Magnetic measurements indicate a spin‐glass formation. The spin freezing temperature that occurs at around 20 K shows a slight, yet systematic, variation with the sample composition. The dielectric constant increases with an increase in Bi content from 37(1) to 55(1). At cryogenic temperatures, they show the dielectric relaxation typical for displacive pyrochlores. The UV–Vis diffuse reflectance data were used for calculation of the electronic band gap. The lowest band gap was determined to be 1.965 eV. Next to the pyrochlore range, another new phase was discovered. Structural analysis showed that Bi3(Fe0.56Te0.44)3O11 crystallizes as KSbO3‐type in a displacive disordered cubic symmetry with a lattice parameter of 9.47045(15) Å.
Sonographic Assessment of the Optic Nerve Sheath and Transorbital Monitoring of Treatment Effects in a Patient with Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: Case Report
Authors: Bäuerle Jochen , Gizewski Elke R. , Stockhausen Kerstin von , Rosengarten Bernhard , Berghoff Martin , Grams Astrid E. , Kaps Manfred , Nedelmann Max
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential of the ultrasound‐based evaluation of the optic nerve sheath in a patient with spontaneous intracranial hypotension due to cervical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage.

METHODS

Repeated measurements of the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) using B‐mode sonography were performed before treatment initiation, during medical treatment, and during a course of repeated placement of epidural blood patches.

RESULTS

On admission, transorbital sonography revealed a decreased ONSD of 4.1 mm on the right and 4.3 mm on the left side. After 8 months of treatment with caffeine and computed tomography‐guided epidural blood patches a gradual distension of the ONSD into the normal range was bilaterally observed (right: 5.2 mm; left: 5.3 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The ultrasound‐based evaluation of the optic nerve sheath may be helpful in detecting CSF hypovolemia and for determination of treatment effects. This report should be seen as a basis for future investigations on the sonographic assessment of the optic nerve sheath in diagnosis and treatment of intracranial hypotension.
Arriving by Emergency Medical Services Improves Time to Treatment Endpoints for Patients With Severe Sepsis or Septic Shock
Authors: Band Roger A. , Gaieski David F. , Hylton Julie H. , Shofer Frances S. , Goyal Munish , Meisel Zachary F.
Published: September 2011

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2011; 18:934–940 © 2011 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The objective was to evaluate the effect of arrival to the emergency department (ED) by emergency medical services (EMS) on time to initiation of antibiotics, time to initiation of intravenous fluids (IVF), and in‐hospital mortality in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.

Methods:  The authors performed an evaluation of prospectively collected registry data of patients with a diagnosis of severe sepsis or septic shock who presented to an urban academic ED during a 2‐year period from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2006. Descriptive and multivariate analytic methods were used to analyze the data. Using unadjusted and adjusted models, out‐of‐hospital patients who presented to the ED by ambulance (EMS) were compared to control patients who arrived by alternative means (non‐EMS). Primary outcomes measured were ED time to initiation of antibiotics, ED time to initiation of IVF, and in‐hospital mortality.

Results:  A total of 963 severe sepsis patients were enrolled in the registry. Median time to antibiotics was 116 minutes for EMS (interquartile range [IQR] = 66 to 199) vs. 152 minutes for non‐EMS (IQR = 92 to 252, p ≤ 0.001). Median time to initiation of IVF was 34 minutes for EMS (IQR = 10 to 88) and 68 minutes for non‐EMS (IQR = 25 to 121, p ≤ 0.001). After adjustment for the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, age, and initial serum lactate level, no significant differences in hospital mortality were seen (adjusted relative risk [aRR] for EMS vs. non EMS = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92 to 1.66, p = 0.16). The Cox proportional hazard ratio (HR) comparing EMS to non‐EMS care after similar adjustment was HR = 1.27 for IVF (95% CI = 1.10 to 1.47, p = 0.004) and HR = 1.25 for antibiotics (95% CI = 1.08 to 1.44, p = 0.003).

Conclusions:  Out‐of‐hospital care was associated with improved in‐hospital processes for the care of critically ill patients. Despite shortened ED treatment times for septic patients who arrive by EMS, a mortality benefit could not be demonstrated.
Does exercise during pregnancy prevent postnatal depression?
Authors: SONGØYGARD KRISTIAN M. , STAFNE SIGNE N. , EVENSEN KARI ANNE I. , SALVESEN KJELL Å. , VIK TORSTEIN , MØRKVED SIV
Published: September 2011

Objective. To study whether exercise during pregnancy reduces the risk of postnatal depression. Design. Randomized controlled trial. Setting. Trondheim and Stavanger University Hospitals, Norway. Population and Sample. Eight hundred and fifty‐five pregnant women were randomized to intervention or control groups. Methods. The intervention was a 12week exercise program, including aerobic and strengthening exercises, conducted between week 20 and 36 of pregnancy. One weekly group session was led by physiotherapists, and home exercises were encouraged twice a week. Control women received regular antenatal care. Main Outcome Measures. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) completed three months after birth. Scores of 10 or more and 13 or more suggested probable minor and major depression, respectively. Results. Fourteen of 379 (3.7%) women in the intervention group and 17 of 340 (5.0%) in the control group had an EPDS score of ≥10 (p=0.46), and four of 379 (1.2%) women in the intervention group and eight of 340 (2.4%) in the control group had an EPDS score of ≥13 (p=0.25). Among women who did not exercise prior to pregnancy, two of 100 (2.0%) women in the intervention group and nine of 95 (9.5%) in the control group had an EPDS score of ≥10 (p=0.03). Conclusions. We did not find a lower prevalence of high EPDS scores among women randomized to regular exercise during pregnancy compared with the control group. However, a subgroup of women in the intervention group who did not exercise regularly prior to pregnancy had a reduced risk of postnatal depression.
Geographical and interspecific variation and the nutrient‐enrichment hypothesis as an adaptive advantage of myrmecochory
Authors: Manzaneda Antonio J. , Rey Pedro J.
Published: September 2011

In myrmecochory, the relocation of diaspores to ant nests may lead to the enhancement of plant fitness because ant nests and their middens are often richer in essential nutrients than surrounding areas. This idea is the basis of the nutrient‐enrichment hypothesis (NEH), which suggests that nutrient enrichment may be a major selective influence in the evolution of myrmecochory. However, there is little evidence regarding whether the greater plant performance and fitness enhancement in ant nests is due to nutrient enrichment or other benefits of directed dispersal. Here, we present the results of a large‐scale seed‐sowing experiment that tests the NEH in the ant‐dispersed perennial herb Helleborus foetidus, exploring geographical and inter‐ant taxa variation. Experiments were conducted in three well‐separated regions of the Iberian Peninsula, targeting the nests of major and minor local ant dispersers (nine ant species in total) and the soil beneath maternal plants as seed destinations. Seedling emergence, survival and early establishment rates, as well as variation in soil characteristics, were obtained for each seed destination at each region. Our results do not fully support the NEH in our study system. Instead, we found that the advantage of ant nest soil for establishment in H. foetidus was conditional. Differences in soil fertility and concomitant differences in seedling establishment between ant nests and beneath the canopy of maternal plants were observed in some regions and for some ant species, but not in others. Thus, the conditional outcomes arise from inconsistencies among regions, between stages of seedling regeneration and among ant species in the advantages of being dispersed to nests. Because variation in the guilds of ant dispersers of myrmecochore plants across their ranges is common, this study illustrates the need to consider geographic and inter‐ant taxa variation for a complete evaluation of the NEH.
Genetic variations in multiple myeloma II: association with effect of treatment
Authors: Vangsted Annette , Klausen Tobias W. , Vogel Ulla
Published: September 2011

Association studies on genetic variation to treatment effect may serve as a predictive marker for effect of treatment and can also uncover biological pathways behind drug effect. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been studied in relation to high‐dose treatment (HDT), thalidomide‐ and bortezomib‐based therapy, maintenance treatment with interferon‐α and in relation to therapy‐related adverse effects caused by treatment. Candidate genes for prediction of effect of HDT include DNA repair genes, CYP genes and genes involved in inflammation and apoptosis such as IL1B and RAI. In thalidomide‐ and bortezomid‐based therapy, candidate genes include TNFA and genes involved in the nuclear factor kappa B pathway (NFKB2 and TRAF3), respectively. In maintenance treatment with interferon‐α, a polymorphism in gene NFKB1 is a candidate gene for prediction for effect. Adverse effect includes infection, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), venous thrombotic events (VTE) and peripheral neuropathy (PN). A SNP in MBL2 and MPO gene was associated with septicemia and a SNP in the gene CYP2C8 was strongly associated with ONJ. Several SNPs in genes encoding DNA repair, apoptosis, inflammation and genes involved in function of the nervous system have been associated with VTE induced by thalidomide and with PN induced by bortezomib. SNP analysis is simple and can be performed, e.g., on blood and buccal cells. Further analysis of SNPs in clinical trials is needed, and collaboration between scientific groups will be an advantage because SNP analysis required large number of patients.
C allocation to the fungus is not a cost to the plant in ectomycorrhizae
Authors: Corrêa A. , Gurevitch J. , Martins‐Loução M. A. , Cruz C.
Published: September 2011

Mycorrhizal benefit to plants is most frequently evaluated through growth differences between mycorrhizal (M) and non‐mycorrhizal (NM) plants. These growth differences are often considered to be due to differences in belowground C expenditure, or in cost efficiency, i.e. amount of nutrients acquired per C expended.

We searched published reports for relations between plant growth and belowground C allocation, C use efficiency, or nutrient uptake, in ectomycorrhizal (ECM) versus non‐mycorrhizal plants. We found a similar number of cases of negative, null or positive effects of ECM on plant growth. These effects were not correlated with differences on belowground C allocation or C use efficiency between M and NM plants. In contrast, they were very strongly correlated with mycorrhizal effects on plant N gain.

A comprehensive analysis of the published data therefore provided evidence that C is an excess, rather than a costly, resource, and that the outcome of the symbiosis depends only on whether mycorrhizae result in increased or decreased nutrient acquisition compared with NM plants, and not on cost efficiency differences between M and NM plants. Consequences of this finding for the regulation of resource exchange between symbionts and the nature of the symbiosis are discussed.
The preliminary study of the relationship between facial movements and wrinkle formation
Authors: Fujimura Tsutomu , Hotta Mitsuyuki
Published: September 2011

Background

As facial wrinkles develop particularly in areas of the skin that are subject to repeated facial movements, the degree of facial movements may be related to the degree of facial wrinkles, although no data have been reported.

Methods

Wrinkles were graded on the faces of Japanese female subjects when they made strong voluntary facial movements (eyes closed tightly, raised eyebrows, and frowns) and also when they were at rest using a set of photos (a photo scale) obtained from subjects with different degrees of wrinkles in the static and dynamic states. Scores obtained were compared between the dynamic and static states, and were analyzed in relation to age and to facial region.

Results

We found that the levels of wrinkles in both states showed a significant positive correlation with age. Further, the distribution of wrinkles in the dynamic state was found to be similar to those in the static states. Finally, the correlations between static and dynamic wrinkles in the same facial sites were higher than those in different facial sites.

Conclusion

Facial movements cause wrinkling in both the dynamic and the static states and also that static wrinkles may work at the kinetic origins of dynamic wrinkles.
Development and characterization of a human dermal equivalent with physiological mechanical properties
Authors: Rolin Gwenaël , Placet Vincent , Jacquet Emmanuelle , Tauzin Hélène , Robin Sophie , Pazart Lionel , Viennet Celine , Saas Philippe , Muret Patrice , Binda Delphine , Humbert Philippe
Published: September 2011

Background/aims

Different models of reconstructed skin are available, either to provide skin wound healing when this process is deficient, or to be used as an in vitro model. Nevertheless, few studies have focused on the mechanical properties of skin equivalent. Indeed, human skin is naturally under tension. Taking into account these features, the purpose of this work was to obtain a cellularized dermal equivalent (CDE), composed of collagen and dermal fibroblasts.

Methods

To counteract the natural retraction of CDE and to maintain it under tension, different biomaterials were tested. Selection criteria were biocompatibility, bioadhesion properties, ability to induce differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and mechanical characterization, considering that of skin in vivo. These assays led to the selection of honeycomb of polyester. CDE constructed on this biomaterial was further characterized mechanically using tensile tests.

Results

The results showed that mechanical features of the obtained dermal equivalent, including myofibroblasts, were similar to skin in vivo.

Conclusion

The original model of dermal equivalent presented herein may be a useful tool for clinical use and as an in vitro model for toxicological/pharmacological research.
Paradigm shift in consciousness research: the child′s self‐awareness and abnormalities in autism, ADHD and schizophrenia
Authors: Lou Hans C.
Published: September 2011

Self‐awareness is a pivotal component of any conscious experience and conscious self‐regulation of behaviour. A paralimbic network is active, specific and causal in self‐awareness. Its regions interact by gamma synchrony. Gamma synchrony develops throughout infancy, childhood and adolescence into adulthood and is regulated by dopamine and other neurotransmitters via GABA interneurons. Major derailments of this network and self‐awareness occur in developmental disorders of conscious self‐regulation like autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia.

Conclusion:  Recent research on conscious experience is no longer limited to the study of neural ‘correlations’ but is increasingly lending itself to the study of causality. This paradigm shift opens new perspectives for understanding the neural mechanisms of the developing self and the causal effects of their disturbance in developmental disorders.
Comparison of two clinical scoring systems for emergency department risk stratification of suspected acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Macdonald Stephen PJ , Nagree Yusuf , Fatovich Daniel M , Flavell Helen L , Loutsky Francis
Published: September 2011

Objective: To compare two methods of risk stratification for suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the ED.

Methods: A prospective observational multicentre study was undertaken of patients undergoing evaluation in the ED for possible ACS. We compared the National Heart Foundation of Australia/Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (NHF/CSANZ) guideline and the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score for differentiating high‐ and low‐risk patients. Composite outcome was all cause death, myocardial infarction or coronary revascularisation within 30 days.

Results: Of 1758 enrolments, 223 (13%) reached the study outcome. Area under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.79 (95% CI 0.76–0.81) for the NHF/CSANZ group and 0.71 (0.68–0.75) for TIMI score based on initial troponin result (P < 0.001), and 0.82 (95% CI 0.80–0.84) and 0.76 (0.73–0.79) respectively when the 8–12 h troponin result is included (P = 0.001). Thirty day event rates were 33% for NHF/CSANZ high‐risk vs 1.5% for combined low/intermediate risk (P < 0.001). For TIMI score, 30 day event rates were 23% for a score ≥2 and 4.8% for TIMI < 2 (P < 0.001). The NHF/CSANZ guideline identified more patients as low risk compared with the TIMI risk score (61% vs 48%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: The NHF/CSANZ guideline is superior to the TIMI risk score for risk stratification of suspected ACS in the ED.
Sedation assessment tool to score acute behavioural disturbance in the emergency department
Authors: Calver Leonie A , Stokes Barrie , Isbister Geoffrey K
Published: September 2011

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the sedation assessment tool (SAT) in assessing patient response to treatment for acute behavioural disturbance (ABD).

Methods: The SAT is a simplified version of the altered mental status score (AMSS) and is a 7‐point scale assessing levels of agitation and sedation using only two descriptors. To assess the SAT we firstly compared plots of the SAT and the AMSS versus time in patients with ABD recruited to a clinical trial. AMSS were converted to the SAT for this comparison. Second, the sensitivity and specificity were calculated for an increase in the SAT to +2 or +3 as a predictor of whether additional sedation was required in a prospective cohort of 138 patients. Third, interrater reliability was assessed using two individuals to score the same patient at two different time points and finally the time to record the score was measured.

Results: Plots of AMSS and SAT for 91 patients in the clinical trial illustrated similar trends in agitation/sedation. Seventeen of 138 patients in the second cohort had an increase in the SAT. Fifteen of 17 (88%) received additional sedation. The sensitivity and specificity of the SAT for additional sedation was 100% (95% CI 75–100%) and 98% (95% CI 94–100%), respectively. The median time for staff to assign the SAT was 10 s (range 3–15 s). Interrater reliability was high with a kappa of 0.87.

Conclusion: The SAT is a simple, rapid and useful measure of the level of agitation/sedation in patients with ABD. Increases in the score reliably indicated the need for further sedation.
PG 1211+143: probing high-frequency lags in a high-mass active galactic nucleus
Authors: De Marco B. , Ponti G. , Uttley P. , Cappi M. , Dadina M. , Fabian A. C. , Miniutti G.
Published: September 2011

We present the timing analysis of the four archived XMM–Newton observations of PG 1211+143. The source is well-known for its spectral complexity, comprising a strong soft excess and different absorption systems. Soft energy band (0.3–0.7 keV) lags are detected over all the four observations, in the frequency range ν≲ 6 × 10−4 Hz, where hard lags, similar to those observed in black hole X-ray binaries, are usually detected in smaller mass active galactic nuclei (AGN). The lag magnitude is energy-dependent, showing two distinct trends apparently connectable to the two flux levels at which the source is observed. The results are discussed in the context of disc- and/or corona-reprocessing scenarios, and of disc wind models. Similarities with the high-frequency negative lag of 1H 0707−495 are highlighted, and, if confirmed, they would support the hypothesis that the lag in PG 1211+143 represents the signature of the same underlying mechanism, whose temporal characteristics scale with the mass of the central object.
Estimation of Streambed Groundwater Fluxes Associated with Coaster Brook Trout Spawning Habitat
Authors: Van Grinsven Matthew , Mayer Alex , Huckins Casey
Published: September 2011

We hypothesized that the spatial distribution of groundwater inflows through river bottom sediments is a critical factor associated with the distribution of coaster brook trout (a life history variant of Salvelinus fontinalis) spawning redds. An 80‐m reach of the Salmon Trout River, in the Huron Mountains of the upper peninsula of Michigan, was selected to test the hypothesis based on long‐term documentation of coaster brook trout spawning at this site. A monitoring well system consisting of 22 wells was installed in the riverbed to measure surface and subsurface temperatures over a 13‐month period. The array of monitoring wells was positioned to span areas where spawning has and has not been observed. Over 200,000 total temperature measurements were collected from five depths within each monitoring well. Temperatures in the substrate beneath the spawning area were generally less variable than river temperatures, whereas temperatures under the nonspawning area were generally more variable and closely tracked temporal variations in river temperatures. Temperature data were inverted to obtain subsurface groundwater velocities using a numerical approximation of the heat transfer equation. Approximately 45,000 estimates of groundwater velocities were obtained. Estimated groundwater velocities in the spawning area were primarily in the upward direction and were generally greater in magnitude than velocities in the nonspawning area. Both the temperature and velocity results confirm the hypothesis that spawning sites correspond to areas of significant groundwater flux into the river bed.
“Oh No, We Are Just Getting to Know You”: The Relationship in Research With Children and Youth in Indigenous Communities
Authors: Allen James , Mohatt Gerald V. , Markstrom Carol A. , Byers Lisa , Novins Douglas K.
Published: September 2011

Abstract— This article describes important elements in the process of engaging with tribal communities in research with children and youth and their families. In particular, it emphasizes the need to understand the research relationship with tribal communities through the lens of kinship relations. Such an approach requires a reexamination of the nature of research and the researcher, with important implications for the research processes, including design and organization, project timelines, recovery from errors, and dissemination of results. This approach also calls for a reexamination of certain canons of research methods and research ethics, along with a willingness to address new challenges, to share control of the research process, and to be open to new conceptual perspectives, including alternative research strategies. Its repercussions hold promise for a deepening of the research relationship with, and the role of researcher in, the community.
Perspectives of Native and Non‐Native Scholars: Opportunities for Collaboration
Authors: Galliher Renee V. , Tsethlikai Monica M. , Stolle Darrell
Published: September 2011

Abstract— Fundamental epistemological differences between Western and traditional Native American (NA) approaches to generating knowledge present both opportunities and challenges for researchers working with NA and Alaska Native (AN) communities. For non‐Native researchers, the research process is facilitated by genuine respect for the ability of communities to identify their own needs and provide their own leadership in the research process, as well as by sensitivity to the traumatic history of cultural annihilation that NA communities have endured. NA researchers, trained in Western institutions of higher education, must negotiate professional and NA identities as they strive to collaborate with their own or other communities to develop culturally relevant programs of research. Representing the personal viewpoints of a Native researcher and two non‐Native researchers, this article suggests strategies for working with NA and AN communities and offers guidelines for critical self‐assessment of personal knowledge, personal and professional attitudes, and outcome expectations relevant for work in Native communities.
Light‐activated Antibacterial Surfaces Comprise Photosensitizers
Authors: Cahan Rivka , Schwartz Ronen , Langzam Yakov , Nitzan Yeshayahu
Published: September 2011

Antibacterial surfaces were prepared using a base polyethylene sheet topped with a layer containing a mixed powder of poly (vinylidene fluoride) and photosensitizers (PSs). A crimpled stamp was placed on the mixed powder, and then it was passed through a heating and pressing device. The three chosen PSs were rose bengal, toluidine blue O and methylene blue. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed that the PS surface texture was coarse and highly developed. Measurement of the apparent contact angles of the droplets deposited on the PS surfaces using goniometry showed that all three surfaces were hydrophobic. Photodynamic analysis of the surfaces into which the PSs were incorporated indicated significant reactive oxygen species formation after illumination with light fluency rate of 1.46 mW cm−2 for 30 min. Photodynamic inactivation assays performed in nutrient broth demonstrated more than 4 log reduction of the attached Escherichia coli after illumination (1.46 mW cm−2) for 24 h when the inoculum was 103 CFU mL−1. However, more than 4 log reduction of Staphylococcus aureus occurred even when the cultures were illuminated for only 6 h. Our results provide an inexpensive, simple, state‐of‐the‐art method for preparing antibacterial surfaces that may help prevent infections in hospital surroundings and in some medical devices.
Effect of Laser Dose and Treatment Schedule on Excision Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Hegde Vishal N. , Prabhu Vijendra , Rao Satish B.S. , Chandra Subhash , Kumar Pramod , Satyamoorthy Kapaettu , Mahato Krishna K.
Published: September 2011

The present study was undertaken to evaluate a He‐Ne laser (632.8 nm; 7 mW; 4.02 mW cm−2; 15 mm spot size) dose and the treatment schedule on diabetic wound healing in a mouse model. Circular wounds of 15 mm diameter were created on streptozotocin induced diabetic Swiss albino mice, and were uniformly illuminated with the single exposure of various He‐Ne laser doses of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 J cm−2 respectively. Further, the treatment schedule was also optimized by exposing the wounds with 3 J cm−2 at 0, 24 h, 48 h postwounding. Contraction kinetics, mean area under the curve and the mean healing time of the wounds were computed along with the collagen and the glucosamine levels in the wound ground tissues at various postwounding treatment schedules. Results of this study indicated that the single exposure of 3 J cm−2 laser dose applied immediately after the wounding caused a significant reduction in the mean area under the curve and the mean healing time along with the elevated levels of collagen and glucosamine contents in the tissue compared to the controls. In conclusion, He‐Ne laser dose of 3 J cm−2 applied immediately after the wounding has demonstrated optimum wound healing compared to the other doses and treatment schedules.
Photosensitization Reactions In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Kruft Bonnie I. , Greer Alexander
Published: September 2011

This review of Photochemistry and Photobiology summarizes articles published in 2010, and highlights progress in the area of photosensitization. The synthesis of conjugated photosensitizers is an area of interest where increasing water solubility has been a goal. Targeting infrared sensitizer absorption has been another goal, and relates to the practical need of deep tissue absorption of light. Photodynamic techniques for inactivating microbes and destroying tumors have been particularly successful. Biologically, singlet oxygen [1O2(1Δg)] is an integral species in many of these reactions, although photosensitized oxidations tuned to electron and hydrogen transfer (Type I) give rise to other reactive species, such as superoxide and hydrogen peroxide. How photoprotection against yellowing, oxygenation and degradation occurs was also an area of topical interest.
Photooxidation of Alkaloids: Considerable Quantum Yield Enhancement by Rose Bengal‐sensitized Singlet Molecular Oxygen Generation
Authors: Görner Helmut , Miskolczy Zsombor , Megyesi Mónika , Biczók László
Published: September 2011

The photooxidation of sanguinarine, coralyne and berberine was studied in oxygenated alkaline methanol solutions. Rose bengal as photosensitizer significantly accelerates the process, indicating the importance of singlet molecular oxygen in the reaction mechanism. The quantum yield of sensitized oxidation was found to increase significantly with pH and reaches 0.4 for berberine at pH 13.8. The direct oxidation of alkaloids is less efficient, the quantum yield does not exceed 0.01 even in oxygen‐saturated solutions. The photoinduced electron ejection does not play a role in the oxidation. The uncharged pseudobase forms, which are present in alkaline medium, are oxidized much more easily than the alkaloid cations.