bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the electron spin resonance saturation on the power sensitivity of cryogenic sapphire resonators
Authors: Giordano Vincent , Grop Serge , Bourgeois Pierre-Yves , Kersalé Yann , Rubiola Enrico
Published: August 2014

Here, we study the paramagnetic ions behavior in presence of a strong microwave electromagnetic field sustained inside a cryogenic sapphire whispering gallery mode resonator. The high frequency measurement resolution that can be now achieved by comparing two Cryogenic Sapphire Oscillators (CSOs) permit to observe clearly the non-linearity of the resonator power sensitivity. These observations that, in turn, allow us to optimize the CSO operation are well explained by the electron spin resonance saturation of the paramagnetic impurities contained in the sapphire crystal.
Very low surface recombination velocity in n-type c-Si using extrinsic field effect passivation
Authors: Bonilla Ruy S. , Woodcock Frederick , Wilshaw Peter R.
Published: August 2014

In this article, field-effect surface passivation is characterised as either intrinsic or extrinsic, depending on the origin of the charges present in passivation dielectric layers. The surface recombination velocity of float zone, 1 Ω cm, n-type silicon was reduced to 0.15 cm/s, the lowest ever observed for a passivating double layer consisting of thermally grown silicon dioxide and plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposited silicon nitride. This result was obtained by enhancing the intrinsic chemical and field-effect passivation of the dielectric layers with uniform, extrinsic field-effect passivation induced by corona discharge. The position and stability of charges, both intrinsic and extrinsic, were characterised and their passivation effect was seen stable for two months with surface recombination velocity <2 cm/s. Finally, the intrinsic and extrinsic components of passivation were analysed independently. Hydrogenation occurring during nitride deposition was seen to reduce the density of interfacial defect states from ∼5 × 1010 cm−2 eV−1 to ∼5 × 109 cm−2 eV−1, providing a decrease in surface recombination velocity by a factor of 2.5. The intrinsic charge in the dielectric double layer provided a decrease by a factor of 4, while the corona discharge extrinsic field-effect passivation provided a further decrease by a factor of 3.
Crystallography and New Medicines: Examples from Influenza and Cell Death
Authors: Colman Peter M.
Published: August 2014

Biomolecular crystallography underpins contemporary drug discovery. The author’s experiences in early (influenza) and recent (cancer) examples mark progress in the sophistication of approaches that have enabled a shift from simpler problems, as in enzyme inhibition, to complex problems, as in blocking protein–protein interactions.
Assessment of psychosocial impact of genital warts among patients in Singapore
Authors: Tan Lucinda S. , Chio Martin T. W. , Sen Priya , Lim Yong Kuei , Ng Joseph , Ilancheran Arunachalam , Low Jeffrey J. , Yeoh Yen Shing , Chan Roy K. , Luo Nan
Published: August 2014

Background
Genital warts (GW) are a common sexually transmissible infection (STI) among young adults and are associated with poor quality of life (QoL). We investigated the functional and psychosocial effect of GW on Singaporean patients and evaluated for any variations in QoL between genders. Methods: Patients with GW completed a standard questionnaire containing the Short Form-36 (SF-36) health survey and the Cuestionario Específico para Condiloma Acuminado in a cross-sectional survey. QoL deficits were determined by comparing the SF-36 scores with local population norms. Variations in SF-36 (norm-based) scores among patients with different characteristics were examined using multiple linear regressions. All data analyses were performed for male and female patients separately. Results: The mean age of male (n = 100) and female patients (n = 80) was 31 years. The typical patient profile was male, ethnic Chinese, single, tertiary education level and presenting with recurrent warts and a history of prior STIs. Compared with the general population, male patients had similar or better functioning and wellbeing, whereas female patients had lower levels of productivity, mental health and general health. Among male patients, individuals afflicted with their first episode of GW and currently with a partner had better QoL. In contrast, for females, tertiary education, older age and being a nonsmoker were positively associated with better QoL. Conclusions: Patients with GW have a significant psychosocial burden, with differences in certain aspects of QoL between genders. We hope that with active intervention, we will be able to mitigate the associated negative impact to QoL.
Wagner's Parsifal as ritual theater: approaching the numinous unknown
Authors: Thomas Douglas , Nelson Elizabeth Eowyn
Published: August 2014

Richard Wagner spent 37 years developing and refining his final work,Parsifal, which he would not call an opera but, rather, a ‘Festival Play for the Consecration of the Stage’. Critical response toParsifalhas historically taken up the work's ambiguous nature as a puzzle to be analyzed and solved, yet treating the opera as a Grail quest for some ultimate meaning reveals more about the seeker than the work and simultaneously errs by distancing the audience from participation in the ritual Wagner orchestrated.Parsifalis deeply psychological in the most radical sense of the word. A depth psychological approach finds the essential value of the work through a direct encounter with the dynamic symbols of the archetypal unconscious, which emerge through Wagner's images and music. Then, the light of understanding emanates from within the drama, from within the music, and from within the landscape and its characters as complex and dynamic autonomous beings – so that it becomes, in Nietzsche's description ofParsifal, ‘an event of the soul’.
Dynamic myosin phosphorylation regulates contractile pulses and tissue integrity during epithelial morphogenesis
Authors: Vasquez Claudia G. , Tworoger Mike , Martin Adam C.
Published: August 2014

Apical constriction is a cell shape change that promotes epithelial bending. Activation of nonmuscle myosin II (Myo-II) by kinases such as Rho-associated kinase (Rok) is important to generate contractile force during apical constriction. Cycles of Myo-II assembly and disassembly, or pulses, are associated with apical constriction during Drosophila melanogaster gastrulation. It is not understood whether Myo-II phosphoregulation organizes contractile pulses or whether pulses are important for tissue morphogenesis. Here, we show that Myo-II pulses are associated with pulses of apical Rok. Mutants that mimic Myo-II light chain phosphorylation or depletion of myosin phosphatase inhibit Myo-II contractile pulses, disrupting both actomyosin coalescence into apical foci and cycles of Myo-II assembly/disassembly. Thus, coupling dynamic Myo-II phosphorylation to upstream signals organizes contractile Myo-II pulses in both space and time. Mutants that mimic Myo-II phosphorylation undergo continuous, rather than incremental, apical constriction. These mutants fail to maintain intercellular actomyosin network connections during tissue invagination, suggesting that Myo-II pulses are required for tissue integrity during morphogenesis.
Imre Lakatos
Authors: Larvor Brendan , Rittberg Colin Jakob
Published: August 2014

Imre Lakatos (b. 1922–d. 1974) was a philosopher of mathematics and science. Having left Hungary in 1956, he made his first appearance on the international stage with a series of four papers during 1963 and 1964 in the British Journal for the Philosophy of Science, later published together posthumously in Proofs and Refutations (1976), in which he discusses the formation of mathematical concepts by proof-analysis. This radical break with classical approaches to the philosophy of mathematics attracted sufficient interest that Kitcher and Aspray deem Lakatos to have started a new and “maverick” tradition in the field (“An Opinionated Introduction,” in History and Philosophy of Modern Mathematics, 1988). By 1959, Lakatos had become an assistant lecturer in the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method at the London School of Economics and Political Science. This department was still under the direction of its founder, Karl Popper, and Lakatos’s evolving and ultimately antagonistic relations with Popper and the Popperians conditioned much of his work. The chief part of this work was a series of influential papers on the philosophy of science. These are included in the two books of his work that two of his former students, John Worrall and Gregory Currie, published after his death (Lakatos 1978a and Lakatos 1978b, cited under Posthumously Published). In 1974, Lakatos died of a heart attack, leaving his projects in philosophy of science and mathematics incomplete.
Analysis of Cervical Angiograms in Cervical Spine Trauma Patients, Does it Make a Difference?
Authors: Dreger Tina , Place Howard , Mattingly Theresa , Piper Christine , Brechbuehler Jennifer
Published: August 2014

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Objective:

To evaluate computed tomography angiogram (CTA) use for diagnosing blunt vertebral artery injury (BVAI) at a single institution, to assess the incidence of BVAI in the studied population, and determine if diagnosis affected care. We also wanted to evaluate if testing and treatment resulted in complications.

Summary of Background Data:

BVAI is an example of a previously underdiagnosed injury. Ease of CTA has simplified vertebral artery evaluation. Injury to the vertebral or carotid arteries is diagnosed in approximately 0.1% of blunt trauma patients when there is high clinical suspicion, or when symptoms of central nervous system damage are apparent on initial examination. Routine screening of asymptomatic patients increases the incidence to approximately 1%.

Materials and Methods:

After IRB approval, the hospital trauma registry identified patients aged 18–89 presenting with cervical spine fracture from 2006 to 2011. A retrospective review of charts was completed. Data collection included demographic data, fracture pattern, and neurological findings. The indications for and the results of CTA was also reviewed. The type of treatment and any complications were recorded.

Results:

A total of 637 charts reviewed. A total of 108 subjects underwent CTA/magnetic resonance angiography; 15 diagnosed with VAI injury. Four received treatment. There were no complications from imaging or treatment of BVAI. Eight subjects without CTA evaluation presented with symptoms potentially related to injury on arrival. Three had neurological decline, although none were eligible for treatment. No routine diagnostic/treatment protocol for vertebral arteries was found at our institution.

Conclusions:

Although neurological sequelae after VAI can be devastating, routine screening after cervical spine fracture may not be warranted. Beside cost, our study suggests it is rarely associated with symptoms, and the asymptomatic patient rarely receives treatment due to concomitant injuries. Our study reinforces the need for further research to establish protocols so that patient-appropriate, cost-effective evaluation and treatment can be provided.
Establishing a Fiber-Optic-Based Optical Neural Interface
Authors: Adamantidis Antoine R. , Zhang Feng , de Lecea Luis , Deisseroth Karl
Published: August 2014

Selective expression of opsins in genetically defined neurons makes it possible to control a subset of neurons without affecting nearby cells and processes in the intact brain, but light must still be delivered to the target brain structure. Light scattering limits the delivery of light from the surface of the brain. For this reason, we have developed a fiber-optic-based optical neural interface (ONI), which allows optical access to any brain structure in freely moving mammals. The ONI system is constructed by modifying the small animal cannula system from PlasticsOne. The system for bilateral stimulation consists of a bilateral cannula guide that has been stereotactically implanted over the target brain region, a screw cap for securing the optical fiber to the animal’s head, a fiber guard modified from the internal cannula adapter, and a bare fiber whose length is customized based on the depth of the target region. For unilateral stimulation, a single-fiber system can be constructed using unilateral cannula parts from PlasticsOne. We describe here the preparation of the bilateral ONI system and its use in optical stimulation of the mouse or rat brain. Delivery of opsin-expressing virus and implantation of the ONI may be conducted in the same surgical session; alternatively, with a transgenic animal no opsin virus is delivered during the surgery. Similar procedures are useful for deep or superficial injections (even for neocortical targets, although in some cases surface light-emitting diodes or cortex-apposed fibers can be used for the most superficial cortical targets).
Measuring Ca2+ Pump Activity in Overexpression Systems and Cardiac Muscle Preparations
Authors: Holemans Tine , Vandecaetsbeek Ilse , Wuytack Frank , Vangheluwe Peter
Published: August 2014

Sarco-/endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER) Ca2+ pumps (SERCAs) build up vital Ca2+ gradients across the intracellular SR/ER membrane, helping to control cell function, proliferation, growth, differentiation, and death. We describe two techniques to measure the SERCA activity either in mammalian culture cells overexpressing SERCAs or in muscle tissue containing high levels of endogenous SERCAs. As Ca2+ transport is tightly coupled to ATP hydrolysis, it is possible to determine the rate of Ca2+-dependent ATP hydrolysis and use it as a measure for SERCA activity or, in a second approach, to quantify ATP-stimulated uptake of radioactive 45Ca2+. Here, we first provide an overview of the mechanism of Ca2+-transport ATPases and show how this can be taken advantage of in protocols for measuring Ca2+ pump activity.
Association between aggregative adherence fimbriae types including putative new variants and virulence‐related genes and clump formation amongaggR‐positiveEscherichia colistrains isolated in Thailand and Japan
Authors: Ito Kenitiro , Matsushita Shigeru , Yamazaki Mitsugu , Moriya Kazuo , Kurazono Takayuki , Hiruta Noriaki , Narimatsu Hiroshi , Ueno Nobuhiro , Isobe Junko , Yatsuyanagi Jun , Kumagai Norimichi , Hashimoto Michiko , Ratchtrachenchai Orn‐Anong
Published: August 2014

EnteroaggregativeEscherichia coli(EAggEC) are an important cause of diarrhea. Four types of AAF have been identified; however, their prevalence and association with virulence properties remain unclear.E. colistrains carrying theaggRgene as EAggEC that were isolated in Japan and Thailand (n = 90) were examined for AAF subunit genes, two toxin genes (pet/astA), and clump formation. The most prevalent AAF gene washdaA (28%), followed byaafA(20%),aggA(12%), andagg3A(4%), as well as a putative new AAF sequence (25.6%). Retention status of the toxin genes and intensities of clump formation appeared to vary according to the AAF type.
A prospective double‐blind cross‐sectional study of the accuracy of the use of dry vaginal tampons for self‐sampling of human papillomaviruses
Authors: Khan AM , Sasieni P , Singer A
Published: August 2014

Objective

To evaluate if a dry vaginal tampon can be used to accurately detect high‐risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) and so be used as a cervical screening tool for the early detection of high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+).

Design

Prospective double‐blinded cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Colposcopy unit in North London.

Population

Women referred for colposcopy with both abnormal and normal cervical cytology were invited to participate in this study.

Methods

Women inserted a dry tampon in the vagina before colposcopic examination. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) HPV test was carried out on the dry tampon. Cervical samples were collected by the colposcopist for HPV testing using Hybrid Capture (an HC2 kit).

Main outcome measure

Detection of CIN2+.

Results

In all, 501 women participated in the study. The majority of participants (69%) were in the 25–35‐year age group. Overall sensitivity and specificity for detection of CIN2+ by vaginal tampon were 76% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 65–85) and 61% (95% CI 56–66), respectively, and HC2 had a sensitivity of 92% (95% CI 83–97) with a specificity of only 46% (95% CI 41–51). Sensitivity ratio was 0.83 (95% CI 0.73–0.94) (P = 0.004) and Specificity ratio for CIN2+ was 1.33 (95% CI 1.22–1.45). Indicating that the tampon test was significantly (P < 0.0001) more specific. Sensitivity decreased and specificity improved with increasing age.

Conclusions

Dry tampon test showed reasonably high sensitivity and specificity when detecting CIN2+. The majority of participants (98%) approved of the use of dry tampons as a method of sample collection, which could be an effective alternative method for detecting HPV infection.
Driving Under the Influence of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist XLR‐11
Authors: Lemos Nikolas P.
Published: August 2014

The case of a 22‐year‐old male Caucasian driver is presented. He was involved in a traffic collision. At the roadside, he displayed blank stare and mellow speech with a barely audible voice. A DRE found low body temperature, rigid muscle tone, normal pulse, lack of horizontal and vertical gaze nystagmus, nonconvergence of the eyes, dilated pupil size, and normal Pupillary reaction to light. A standard toxicology DUID protocol was performed on the driver's whole blood including ELISA and GC‐MS drug screens with negative results. Additional drug screening was undertaken for bath salts and synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists by LC‐MS/MS by a commercial laboratory and identified the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist XLR‐11 in the driver's blood. XLR‐11 was subsequently quantified at 1.34 ng/mL. This is the first documented case involving a driver operating a motor vehicle under the influence of the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist XLR‐11.
Gonadal Development of the Piau Leporinus copelandii (Characiformes, Anostomidae) in a Tropical River in South‐eastern Brazil
Authors: Araújo F. G. , Gomes I. D. , Nascimento A. A. , Sales A.
Published: August 2014

Histological analysis of the gonadal development of Leporinus copelandii Steindachner, 1875, a rheophilic Characiformes species in the Paraiba do Sul River, South‐eastern Brazil, was described. We expect that this species adapt gonadal development to succeed in this river basin that has its longitudinal profile blocked by several impoundments. Fishes were examined by routine macroscopic and histological techniques. Stages of oocyte and spermatocyte development were described, and gonadal maturation was proposed. Mean oocyte diameter obtained from histological observations increased from the pre‐spawning (4.2–175.5 μm) to spawning (148.5–262.0 μm) phases, followed by a sharp decrease in the post‐spawning (27.0–56.7 μm) phase. Based on occurrence of different oocytes phases and oocyte size distribution, this species has group‐synchronic development of oocytes. Further studies are necessary to clarify the spawning grounds for L. copelandii in the Paraíba do Sul River basin, especially considering that several impoundments obliterate the natural river course and this could limit spawning grounds.
Developmental vulnerability – don't investigate without a model in mind
Authors: Woolfenden S. , Williams K. , Eapen V. , Mensah F. , Hayen A. , Siddiqi A. , Kemp L.
Published: August 2014

Children who are developmentally vulnerable are at risk of a difficult start to school, and ongoing educational challenges which may adversely impact on long term health outcomes. Clinicians, researchers and service providers need a thorough understanding of both risk and protective factors and their complex interplay to understand their impact on early childhood development, in order to plan effective and comprehensive prevention and interventions strategies. In this opinion piece we recommend that investigation of developmental vulnerability should only proceed if underpinned by both a theoretical model through which the interaction between risk and protective factors may be investigated, and analytical models that are appropriate to assess these impacts.
Molecular and computational analyses of genes involved in mannose 6‐phosphate independent trafficking
Authors: Coutinho M.F. , Lacerda L. , Pinto E. , Ribeiro H. , Macedo‐Ribeiro S. , Castro L. , Prata M.J. , Alves S.
Published: August 2014

The newly‐synthesized lysosomal enzymes travel to the trans‐Golgi network (TGN) and are then driven to the acidic organelle. While the best‐known pathway for TGN‐to‐endosome transport is the delivery of soluble hydrolases by the M6P receptors (MPRs), additional pathways do exist, as showed by the identification of two alternative receptors: LIMP‐2, implicated in the delivery of β‐glucocerebrosidase; and sortilin, involved in the transport of the sphingolipid activator proteins prosaposin and GM2AP, acid sphingomyelinase and cathepsins D and H. Disruption of the intracellular transport and delivery pathways to the lysosomes may result in lysosomal dysfunction, predictably leading to a range of clinical manifestations of lysosomal storage diseases. However, for a great percentage of patients presenting such manifestations, no condition is successfully diagnosed. To analyse if, in this group, phenotypes could be determined by impairments in the known M6P‐independent receptors, we screened the genes that encode for LIMP‐2 and sortilin. No pathogenic mutations were identified. Other approaches will be needed to clarify whether sortilin dysfunction may cause disease.
Lateral Left Ventricular Wall Rupture Following Acute Myocardial Infarction: Pathophysiological Interpretation by Multimodality Imaging Approach
Authors: Avegliano Gustavo , Conde Diego , Ruiz María Isabel González , Kuschnir Paola , Sciancalepore Agustina , Castro Florencia , Ronderos Ricardo
Published: August 2014

Lateral left ventricular wall rupture (LVWR) is a rare complication following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) less than 1%. After cardiogenic shock, LVWR constitutes the most common cause of in‐hospital death in AMI patients. Around 40% of all LVWR occurred during the first 24 hours and 85% within the first week. In the present case, 76 hours following the intervention, LVWR was observed likely due to a small infarction at the lateral left ventricular wall possibly due to the marginal lesion. Our patient refused surgery and was followed clinically. Eighteen months later, real time three‐dimensional echocardiography showed a pseudoaneurysm.
THE IMPACT OF A PUBLIC OPTION IN THE U.S. HEALTH INSURANCE MARKET
Authors: Barbos Andrei , Deng Yi
Published: August 2014

We develop a game‐theoretical framework to examine the implications of the introduction of a nonprofit “public option” in the U.S. health insurance market. In this model, heterogeneous consumers have to choose between two competing insurance plans. One plan is offered by a profit‐maximizing private insurer; the other by social‐welfare‐maximizing public option. In equilibrium, the distinct objectives of the two insurers induce adverse selection in consumer choice: the public option covers the less healthy consumers, yielding the more profitable segment of market to the private insurer. However, our empirical results suggest that both insurers will capture significant parts of the health insurance market. (JEL I11, L10, L21, L32)
Epilepsy: Asia versus Africa
Authors: Bhalla Devender , Tchalla Achille Edem , Marin Benoît , Ngoungou Edgard Brice , Tan Chong Tin , Preux Pierre‐Marie
Published: August 2014

Is epilepsy truly an “African ailment”? We aimed to determine this, since international health agencies often refer to epilepsy as an African disease and the scientific literature has spoken the same tone. Various published materials, mainly reports, articles, were used to gather Asian and African evidence on various aspects of epilepsy and many of its risk and associated factors. Our results suggest that in no way can epilepsy be considered as an African ailment and such characterization is most likely based on popular beliefs rather than scientific evidence. In comparison to Africa, Asia has a 5.0% greater burden from all diseases, and is 17.0% more affected from neuropsychiatric disorders (that include epilepsy). Given that more countries in Asia are transitioning, there may be large demographic and lifestyle changes in the near future. However these changes are nowhere close to those expected in Africa. Moreover, 23 million Asians have epilepsy in comparison to 3.3 million Africans and 1.2 million sub‐Saharan Africans. In comparison to Africa, Asia has more untreated patients, 55.0% more additional epilepsy cases every year, because of its larger population, with greater treatment cost and possibly higher premature mortality. Of several associated factors discussed herein, many have more importance for Asia than Africa. The current state of epilepsy in Asia is far less than ideal and there is an urgent need to recognize and accept the importance of epilepsy in Asia. In no way can epilepsy be considered as an African ailment. This is most likely based on popular beliefs rather than scientific evidence.

A PowerPoint slide summarizing this article is available for download in the Supporting Information sectionhere.
Association of Baseline Dyslipidemia with Stroke Recurrence within Five-Years after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Kumral Emre , Evyapan Dilek , Gökçay Figen , Karaman Bedriye , Orman Mehmet
Published: August 2014

Background and purpose

The association between dyslipidemia (DL) and stroke recurrence is unclear, but may be influenced by different subtypes of stroke. This study aims to explore whether DL contributes to the recurrence of certain subtypes of ischemic stroke.

Methods

Data from the Ege Stroke Registry was examined, and five-years follow-up data for stroke recurrence was analyzed. Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment criteria was used to classify the subtypes of all stroke. Recurrent stroke was defined as a new neurological deficit compatible to ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage. The association between DL and stroke recurrence in patients with different sroke subtypes was analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. Survival curves were estimated with Kaplan–Meier methods, and survival analyses were undertaken using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Of the 9940 patients with ischemic stroke, 5838 (58·7%) had DL and 2202 (22·2%) experienced a stroke recurrence within five-years. The frequency of stroke recurrence of patients with DL was unsignificantly higher than those without at five-years of follow-up (18·0% vs. 17·0%; P = 0·21). After stratification by Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment subtypes, multivariable analysis revealed a significant association between DL and stroke recurrence in all ischemic stroke at five-years (odds ratio, 1·2; 95% confidence interval, 1·02–1·42), and in the large-artery disease subtype (odds ratio, 1·46; 95% confidence interval, 1·12–1·91), but not in the other stroke subtypes (cardioembolic: odds ratio, 1·18; 95% confidence interval, 0·84–1·65; small-artery disease: odds ratio, 1·24; 95% confidence interval, 0·87–1·76; other subtype: odds ratio, 0·79; 95% confidence interval, 0·48–1·31). The probability of stroke recurrence increased in patients with large-artery disease and DL, compared with other subtypes of stroke [log rank test (Mantel–Cox) P < 0·013].

Conclusions

Our results showed that DL is related to the recurrent strokes in patients with ischemic stroke within five-years after ischemic stroke, specifically to the large-artery disease subtype.
Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status and the Prevalence of Stroke and Coronary Heart Disease in Rural China: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Tang Xun , Laskowitz Daniel T. , He Liu , Østbye Truls , Bettger Janet Prvu , Cao Yang , Li Na , Li Jingrong , Zhang Zongxin , Liu Jianjiang , Yu Liping , Xu Haitao , Hu Yonghua , Goldstein Larry B.
Published: August 2014

Background

Lower neighborhood-level socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with an increased risk of vascular disease in developed countries.

Aims

This study aims to identify village- and individual-level determinants of stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD) in a rural Chinese population.

Methods

We analyzed data from a population-based survey of 14 424 rural Chinese adults aged over 40 years from 54 villages. Primary outcomes were stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD) prevalence. Village-level SES was determined from the Chinese government's official statistical yearbook. Individual-level characteristics were obtained by in-person interviews. Prevalence rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using generalized linear mixed models with log-link function to explore associations of village-level SES and individual social, demographic, and cardiovascular risk factors with stroke or CHD. Variance was expressed using the median rate ratio (MRR) and interval rate ratio (IRR).

Results

Village accounted for significant variability in the prevalence of stroke (MRR = 1·70; 95% CI: 1·42–1·94; P < 0·05) and CHD (MRR = 1·59; 95% CI: 1·35–1·78, P < 0·05), with village-level income alone accounting for 10% and 13·5% of between-village variation in stroke and CHD, respectively. High-income villages were at higher risk of both stroke (RR = 1·69, 95% CI: 1·09–2·62) and CHD (RR = 1·63, 95% CI: 1·13–2·34) than lower-income villages. Among individual-level risk factors, hypertension was associated with a higher prevalence of stroke (RR = 2·33, 95% CI: 1·93–2·80) than CHD (RR = 1·58, 95% CI: 1·38–1·82), whereas obesity was only associated with CHD (RR = 1·43, 95% CI: 1·23–1·66). In addition, there was an interaction between age and income; residents of higher-income villages below age 60 had a higher prevalence of CHD (RR = 1·58, 95% CI: 1·15–2·18) but not stroke.

Conclusions

There were differences in vascular risk across rural villages in China, with higher lifetime stroke and CHD prevalence in higher-income villages. For CHD, neighborhood effects were stronger among younger residents of high-income villages. The results may have implications for public health interventions targeting populations at risk.
THrombolysis for Acute Wake-up and Unclear-Onset Strokes with Alteplase at 0·6 mg/kg (THAWS) Trial
Authors: Koga Masatoshi , Toyoda Kazunori , Kimura Kazumi , Yamamoto Haruko , Sasaki Makoto , Hamasaki Toshimitsu , Kitazono Takanari , Aoki Junya , Seki Kenta , Homma Kazunari , Sato Shoichiro , Minematsu Kazuo ,   on behalf of the THAWS investigators
Published: August 2014

Rationale

Because of lack of information regarding timing of stroke, patients who suffer stroke during sleep are generally ineligible for intravenous thrombolysis, although many of these patients could potentially recover with this treatment. Magnetic resonance image findings with positive diffusion-weighted imaging and no marked parenchymal hyperintensity on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (negative pattern) can identify acute ischemic stroke patients within 4·5 h from symptom onset.

Aims

The THrombolysis for Acute Wake-up and unclear-onset Strokes with alteplase at 0·6 mg/kg trial aims to determine the efficacy and safety of intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase at 0·6 mg/kg body weight, the approved dose for Japanese stroke patients, using magnetic resonance image-based selection in ischemic stroke patients with unclear time of symptom onset, and compare findings with standard treatment.

Design

This is an investigator-initiated, multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-treatment, blinded-end-point clinical trial. The design is similar to the Efficacy and Safety of MRI-based Thrombolysis in Wake-up Stroke trial. Patients with unclear-onset time of stroke symptoms beyond 4·5 h and within 12 h after the time of the last-known-well period and within 4·5 h after symptom recognition, who showed a negative fluid-attenuated inversion recovery pattern, are randomized to either intravenous thrombolysis or standard treatment. Study outcomes The primary efficacy end-point is modified Rankin Scale 0–1 at 90 days. The safety outcome measures are symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage at 22–36 h, and major bleeding and mortality at 90 days.

Discussion

This trial may help determine if low-dose alteplase at 0·6 mg/kg should be recommended as a routine clinical strategy for ischemic stroke patients with unclear-onset time.
The General Factor of Personality (GFP) Relates to Other Ratings of Character and Integrity: Two validity studies in personnel selection and training of the Dutch armed forces
Authors: van der Linden Dimitri , te Nijenhuis Jan , Cremers Myckel , van de Ven Cyril , van der Heijden‐Lek Kitty
Published: August 2014

In two studies, we tested whether scores on the general factor of personality (GFP) are associated with other ratings of character and integrity. In Study 1, a total of 3,670 applicants for a military job filled out personality surveys and went through a selection interview. GFPs extracted from two different personality surveys showed meaningful relationships with the job suitability judgments based on the interviews. In Study 2, supervisors rated the integrity of participants (N = 167) who followed a 4‐month military training at the Royal Dutch Military Police. GFPs extracted from three different surveys were correlated with integrity. The findings imply that the GFP is associated with behavioral outcomes, and that the GFP is potentially relevant for personnel selection and appraisal.
Predicting Voluntary Turnover from Job Applicant Biodata and Other Applicant Information
Authors: Breaugh James A.
Published: August 2014

Research suggests that biodata (i.e., personal history information) is one of the best predictors of voluntary employee turnover. Given this fact, it is surprising that research on biodata has declined in recent years, and that biodata is not commonly used by employers for selecting employees. This article presents the results of a study that focused on the ability of biodata items and other information available on job applicants to predict voluntary turnover. With one exception, the hypotheses offered were confirmed. Specifically, applicant status (i.e., previously had applied for a job), submission of optional personal history information, employment status (i.e., job applicant was employed), and recruitment source (i.e., employee referral) all predicted voluntary turnover. The ability of applicant status, submission of a personal statement, and recruitment source to predict employee performance also was examined. Applicant status and recruitment source were found to predict subsequent performance ratings.
Shift of Exit Site During Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia Originating from the Vicinity of Left Ventricular Summit
Authors: BUU DAN DO VAN , CHANG SHIH‐LIN , LIN YENN‐JIANG , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: August 2014

Shift of Exit Site During Ablation

A 44‐year‐old man with structurally normal heart underwent catheter ablation of left ventricular summit tachycardia. The initial mapping revealed the origin of tachycardia at the junction of great cardiac vein and anterior interventricular vein. During ablation the exit site shifted to the nearby regions, which was recognized by subtle changes of 12‐lead ECG. Mapping and ablating at different exit sites rendered the tachycardia noninducible.
Serum YKL‐40 in psoriasis with and without arthritis; correlation with disease activity and high‐resolution power Doppler ultrasonographic joint findings
Authors: Ahmed S.F. , Attia E.A.S. , Saad A.A. , Sharara M. , Fawzy H. , El Nahrery E.M.A.
Published: August 2014

Background

YKL‐40 may be involved in angiogenesis in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). High‐resolution power Doppler ultrasound (PDUS) can detect angiogenesis of synovium in PsA.

Aim

To assess serum YKL‐40 in psoriasis patients with or without PsA, and to correlate its levels with disease activity and high‐resolution PDUS findings.

Methods

In this case–control study, 48 patients with psoriasis (26 of them also had PsA) and 30 controls were assessed by high‐resolution PDUS, and assayed for serum levels of YKL‐40 by ELISA. Patients were clinically assessed using Composite Psoriatic Disease Activity Index (CPDAI). Total joint score (TJS) was used to assess joint involvement in PsA.

Results

A statistically significant elevation was found in YKL‐40 levels in psoriatics with or without PsA compared with controls (P < 0.001), as well as in PsA (group II) compared to patients without arthritis (group I) (P = 0.002). CPDAI, synovial thickness score and colour Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) score were highly significantly higher in group II vs. group I (P < 0.001). In all patients, CPDAI, synovial thickness and CDUS score were positively correlated to each other, and each of them was positively correlated to serum YKL‐40 levels (P < 0.05). In either group I or II, serum YKL‐40 levels correlated positively with CPDAI (P < 0.05). In group II, TJS, synovial thickness and CDUS score were positively correlated to each other (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Serum YKL‐40 can be used as a new biological marker for angiogenesis and disease activity in psoriasis with or without PsA. High‐resolution PDUS is a non‐invasive tool for the evaluation of angiogenesis in PsA patients as well as for the detection of early synovial changes in psoriasis patients without arthritis.
Preventing metachronous gastric lesions after endoscopic submucosal dissection through Helicobacter pylori eradication
Authors: Jung Sungmo , Park Chan Hyuk , Kim Eun Hye , Shin Su Ji , Chung Hyunsoo , Lee Hyuk , Park Jun Chul , Shin Sung Kwan , Lee Yong Chan , Lee Sang Kil
Published: August 2014

Background and Aim

Metachronous recurrence often occurs after endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer, and a method for preventing recurrence is unknown. We aimed to identify risk factors for metachronous lesions, and the effects of aspirin use and Helicobacter pylori eradication on preventing recurrence.

Methods

A total of 1041 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer between January 2007 and December 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. Every patient was examined endoscopically at 2, 6, and 12 months after endoscopic submucosal dissection, and then annually. Patients were classified into the metachronous group or non‐metachronous group according to the existence of metachronous lesions and subdivided by Helicobacter pylori status into three groups: not infected, eradicated after infection, and not eradicated.

Results

At 39 months' median follow‐up, metachronous gastric lesions had developed in 35 patients (3.4%), including 16 with dysplasia and 19 cancers. Metachronous group were significantly older than non‐metachronous group (P = 0.02). Although non‐metachronous group took aspirin more frequently than metachronous group (15.5% vs 5.7%), the difference was statistically insignificant (P = 0.11). In the not eradicated group, the odds ratio of metachronous lesion was 7.762 compared with the not infected group (95% confidence interval, 1.483–60.854; P = 0.02). In the eradicated group, the odd ratio of metachronous lesion was 8.120 compared with not infected group (95% confidence interval, 1.950–58.985; P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Helicobacter pylori infection was an independent risk factor for metachronous gastric lesions. However, eradication of Helicobacter pylori alone does not prevent all metachronous lesions in an inflamed stomach.
Prevalence of Genital Human Papillomavirus among Men in Europe: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hebnes Julie B. , Olesen Tina B. , Duun-Henriksen Anne Katrine , Munk Christian , Norrild Bodil , Kjaer Susanne K.
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the commonest sexually transmitted infection worldwide and causes substantial morbidity in both sexes. Most European countries offer HPV vaccination for girls, but vaccine recommendations for boys are warranted.

Aims

The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of genital HPV, identify parameters that affect the prevalence, and describe the type-specific prevalence among men in Europe.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature in PubMed and Embase.

Main Outcome Measures

Genital HPV prevalence and factors influencing prevalence in general and high-risk male populations in Europe.

Results

We included 31 articles that gave the prevalence of genital HPV DNA among men in northern, southern and western Europe; no studies from eastern Europe were identified. The pooled HPV prevalence among 1,863 men representing the general population (nine studies) was 12.4%, with large heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 96.3%, P < 0.0001). The pooled HPV prevalence among 6,428 men in the high-risk population (22 studies) was 30.9%, also with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 95.6%, P < 0.0001). In unadjusted meta-regression analysis, the HPV prevalence in the general population was significantly higher in studies published after 2000 (28.5%) than in earlier studies (8.8%) (P = 0.0179). In the meta-regression analysis adjusted by publication year, the heterogeneity in the two population groups could not be explained by geographical region, anatomical sampling site, or HPV detection method. HPV16 was the most prevalent high-risk type in both populations.

Conclusions

HPV prevalence differs in male general and high-risk populations, but HPV16 and HPV18 are among the most common HPV types detected in both groups. Our findings contribute knowledge that may be useful as a baseline measure before the introduction of HPV vaccination for boys in Europe, and add to understanding of the epidemiology of HPV infection in men.
Analysis of the sporozoite ELISA for estimating infection rates in Mozambican anophelines
Authors: CHARLWOOD J. D. , TOMÁS E. V. E. , CUAMBA N. , PINTO J.
Published: August 2014

Comparisons were undertaken to investigate cost‐effective methods of implementing the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for sporozoite determination in anophelines when large numbers require processing. Comparisons between ELISA plate reader and visual assessments were performed with Anopheles funestus and Anopheles gambiae s.l. (Diptera: Culicidae), as were comparisons between whole‐body mosquito samples, heads and thoraces, and abdomens alone. Rates obtained from pools of five or 10 mosquitoes were compared with those for individual mosquitoes, as were rates obtained using different sampling methods. A total of 41 792 An. funestus and 9431 An. gambiae s.l. collected in light traps, and 22 323 An. funestus and 6860 An. gambiae s.l. from exit collections were analysed. Visual assessments gave results similar to those of machine readings. Sporozoite rates were similar in both species, as were rates by collection method. The use of whole mosquitoes increased estimates of infection rate by 0.6%. Pool size did not affect infection rates of An. gambiae s.l., but rates were higher among individually tested An. funestus than among those tested in pools. For large‐scale surveys, the use of whole mosquitoes in pools of 10 mosquitoes, with correction for overestimation, and the noting of results according to a simple three‐stage visual assessment of positivity is the most cost‐effective approach and is sufficient to obtain reliable data for comparative purposes.
Interplay between myogenic pacemakers and enteric neurons determine distinct motor patterns in the rat colon
Authors: Mañé N. , Jimenez M.
Published: August 2014

Waxing and waning of slow waves amplitude has been recently associated with a segmentation motor pattern in the murine small intestine. The ‘wax and wane’ phenomenon in this area of the gastrointestinal tract seems to be the result of modulation of slow waves by a second pacemaker of a lower frequency displayed by the interstitial cells of Cajal near the deep muscular plexus (ICC‐DMP). In the rat colon, smooth muscle cyclic depolarizations causing low‐frequency (LF) contractions (0.9 ± 0.1 cpm) occur together with slow wave activity associated to high‐frequency (HF) contractions (14 ± 0.3 cpm; ripples). In the present manuscript, we demonstrate the presence of ‘wax and wane’ in rat colonic slow waves. Depolarization from the ‘wax’ to the ‘wane’ was 7.6 ± 1.2 mV, i.e., smooth muscle cells went from a resting membrane potential (RMP) of −50.0 mV to a RMP of −42.4 mV. The amplitude of the slow wave decreased from 14.0 ± 2.2 mV to 3.4 ± 0.7 mV. The wax and wane phenomenon occurred at 0.9 ± 0.1 cpm, coinciding with the frequency of cyclic depolarizations. Therefore, we hypothesized that the ‘wax and wane’ of slow waves in the rat colon could be the result of their interaction with the LF pacemaker. We describe three different myogenic motor patterns that depend on the level of smooth muscle and ICC excitation: (i) LF propulsive contractions, (ii) regular slow waves causing ripples, and (iii) a wax and wane pattern that may lead to segmentation. Different intra‐ and extra‐luminal inputs probably determine the dominating motor pattern in each area through the enteric nervous system.
Hepatic artery reconstruction preserving the pancreaticoduodenal arcade in pediatric liver transplantation with celiac axis compression syndrome: Report of a case
Authors: Uchida Hajime , Sakamoto Seisuke , Matsunami Masatoshi , Sasaki Kengo , Shigeta Takanobu , Kanazawa Hiroyuki , Fukuda Akinari , Nakazawa Atsuko , Miyazaki Osamu , Nosaka Shunsuke , Kasahara Mureo
Published: August 2014

CACS is rare, although it has been reported to be a potential risk factor for hepatic artery thrombosis following LT. We herein present the case of a 14‐yr‐old male with stenosis of the origin of the celiac trunk. Preoperative CT and color ultrasonography showed narrowing of the proximal celiac artery. The patient underwent DDLT with standard arterial reconstruction without dividing the gastroduodenal artery. His postoperative course was uneventful, with an excellent hepatic artery flow on Doppler ultrasonography. Applying a meticulous preoperative evaluation and the appropriate surgical technique is crucial in patients with CACS.
Computing Hasse–Witt matrices of hyperelliptic curves in average polynomial time
Authors: Harvey David , Sutherland Andrew V.
Published: August 2014

We present an efficient algorithm to compute the Hasse–Witt matrix of a hyperelliptic curve$\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}C/\mathbb{Q}$modulo all primes of good reduction up to a given bound$N$, based on the average polynomial-time algorithm recently proposed by the first author. An implementation for hyperelliptic curves of genus 2 and 3 is more than an order of magnitude faster than alternative methods for $N = 2^{26}$.
A Temperature Dependent, Single Particle, Lithium Ion Cell Model Including Electrolyte Diffusion
Authors: Tanim Tanvir R. , Rahn Christopher D. , Wang Chao-Yang
Published: August 2014

Low-order, explicit models of lithium ion cells are critical for real-time battery management system (BMS) applications. This paper presents a seventh-order, electrolyte enhanced single particle model (ESPM) with electrolyte diffusion and temperature dependent parameters (ESPM-T). The impedance transfer function coefficients are explicit in terms of the model parameters, simplifying the implementation of temperature dependence. The ESPM-T model is compared with a commercially available finite volume based model and results show accurate matching of pulse responses over a wide range of temperature (T) and C-rates (I). The voltage response to 30 s pulse charge–discharge current inputs is within 5% of the commercial code for 25 °C<T<50 °C at I≤12.5C and -10 °C<T<50°C at I≤1C for a graphite/nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) lithium ion cell.