bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of DGAT1 and DGAT2 from Jatropha curcas and their functions in storage lipid biosynthesis
Authors: Xu Ronghua , Yang Tianquan , Wang Ruling , Liu Aizhong
Published: November 2013

Diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGATs) catalyse the final step of triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthesis of the Kennedy pathway, and play a critical role during TAG accumulation in developing oleaginous seeds. In this study, the molecular cloning and characterisation of two DGAT genes, JcDGAT1 and JcDGAT2, from jatropha (Jatropha curcas L., a potential biodiesel plant) is presented. Using heterogonous overexpression techniques, both JcDGAT1 and JcDGAT2 were able to restore TAG biosynthesis in a yeast mutant H1246 strain, and enhance the quantity of TAG biosynthesis by 16.6 and 14.3%, respectively, in strain INVSc1. In transgenic tobacco, overexpression of JcDGAT1 and JcDGAT2 resulted in an increase in seed oil content of, respectively, 32.8 and 31.8%. Further, the functional divergence of JcDGAT1 and JcDGAT2 in TAG biosynthesis was demonstrated by comparing the fatty acid compositions in both the transgenic yeast and tobacco systems. In particular, JcDGAT2 incorporated a 2.5-fold higher linoleic acid content into TAG than JcDGAT1 in transgenic yeast and exhibited a significant linoleic acid substrate preference in both yeast and tobacco. This study provides new insights in understanding the molecular mechanisms of DGAT genes underlying the biosynthesis of linoleic acids and TAG in plants.
Hypertrophy and Fibrosis of the Ligamentum Flavum in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is Associated With Increased Expression of LPA and LPAR1
Authors: Zhang Kai , Sun Wei , Liu Xin-yu , Zhao Chang-qing , Li Hua , Sun Xiao-jiang , You-zhuan Xie , Ding Wei , Zhao Jie
Published: November 2013

Study Design:

Histologic, immunohistochemical (IHC), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis of the human ligamentum flavum (LF).

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of expression of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) in the LF from lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) patients and to analyze the relationship among LPA, LPA receptors (LPARs), and LF hypertrophy.

Summary of Background Data:

LF hypertrophy and fibrosis are important causes of LSS. LPA is involved in the fibrotic process in multiple organ systems. Therefore, we hypothesized that LPA and its receptors might also play a role in degeneration of the LF in LSS patients.

Methods:

Forty-one LF samples were enrolled in this study. The thickness of the LF was measured by magnetic resonance imaging. Histologic analysis using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome stain was performed for each LF to evaluate the architecture of the extracellular matrix. The content of LPA and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in LF samples was analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of LPAR1 was determined by IHC.

Results:

Degeneration of the LF was characterized by an increase in disorganized elastic fibers and fibrotic transformation by extracellular collagen deposition. The thickness of the LF and the concentration of LPA and CTGF in the hypertrophic LF group were significantly higher than the control group. Furthermore, the LPA and CTGF concentrations had a positive correlation with the LF thickness (r=0.91, P<0.001 and r=0.943, P<0.001, respectively). On the basis of IHC analysis, the expression of LPAR1 was increased in the hypertrophy group.

Conclusions:

The increased expression of LPA and LPAR1 is associated with the fibrosis and hypertrophy of the LF in patients with LSS. Further study on the mechanism underlying LF fibrosis may lead to new therapies for LF hypertrophy and fibrosis.
Comparison of Radiofrequency-targeted Vertebral Augmentation With Balloon Kyphoplasty for the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures
Authors: Bornemann Rahel , Jansen Tom R. , Kabir Koroush , Pennekamp Peter H. , Stüwe Brit , Wirtz Dieter C. , Pflugmacher Robert
Published: November 2013

Study Design:

A retrospective study.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was the evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of radiofrequency-targeted vertebral augmentation (RF-TVA) in comparison with balloon kyphoplasty (BK) for the treatment of acute painful vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) on the basis of matched pairs.

Summary of Background:

Vertebroplasty and BK are the common surgical interventions for the treatment of VCF. Both are effective and safe but pose some risks such as adjacent fractures and cement leakage. In 2009, RF-TVA was introduced as an innovative augmentation procedure for the treatment of VCF.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 192 patients (116 female; 51–90 y) with VCF (n=303) at 1 to 3 levels were treated with RF-TVA or BK. Functionality (Oswestry Disability Index), pain (visual analogue scale), vertebral height (anterior, middle), and kyphotic angle were evaluated over a 2-year period (postoperatively, 3–4 d, 3, 6, 12, and 24 mo). In addition, operating time and occurrence of cement leakage were recorded.

Results:

Pain and functionality were significantly improved after both treatments. In both groups, there was an increase in the vertebral height and a decrease in the kyphotic angle, which remained relatively consistent during 24 months. The incidence of cement leakage was 9.4% (n=9) in the RF-TVA group and 24.0% (n=25) in the BK group. The mean operating time with radiofrequency kyphoplasty was 25.9±9.9 minutes, and with balloon kyphoplasty 48.0±18.4 minutes.

Conclusions:

RF-TVA is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures when compared with BK. Improvement in pain and functional scores after RF-TVA are durable through 24 months postprocedure and remained better than those after BK at long-term follow-up. Operating time for RF-TVA is shorter and the risk of cement leakage is lower. Both procedures provided similar results in vertebral height restoration and reduction in the kyphotic angle.
Leveraging Electronic Health Records to Develop Measurements for Processes of Care
Authors: Tai‐Seale Ming , Wilson Caroline J. , Panattoni Laura , Kohli Nidhi , Stone Ashley , Hung Dorothy Y. , Chung Sukyung
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To assess the reliability of data in electronic health records (EHRs) for measuring processes of care among primary care physicians (PCPs) and examine the relationship between these measures and clinical outcomes.

Data Sources/Study Setting

EHRdata from 15,370 patients with diabetes, 49,561 with hypertension, in a group practice serving fourNorthernCalifornia counties.

Study Design/Methods

Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and multilevel analyses of the relationships between processes of care variables and factor scales with control of hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure (BP), and low density lipoprotein (LDL) among patients with diabetes andBPamong patients with hypertension.

Principal Findings

Volume of e‐messages, number of days to the third‐next‐available appointment, and team communication emerged as reliable factors ofPCPprocesses of care inEFA(Cronbach's alpha = 0.73, 0.62, and 0.91). Volume of e‐messages was associated with higher odds ofLDLcontrol (≤100) (OR = 1.13,p < .05) among patients with diabetes. Frequent in‐person visits were associated with betterBP(OR = 1.02,p < .01) andLDLcontrol (OR = 1.01,p < .01) among patients with diabetes, and betterBPcontrol (OR = 1.04,p < .01) among patients with hypertension.

Conclusions

TheEHRoffers process of care measures which can augment patient‐reported measures of patient‐centeredness. Two of them are significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Future research should examine their association with additional outcomes.
Topical diltiazem before transrectal ultrasonography‐guided biopsy of the prostate: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zargar Homayoun , Marshall Daniel , Siva Ganesh , King Quinten
Published: November 2013

Background

Injection of local anaesthetic agents around the prostatic nerve bundles during transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) biopsy of the prostate has shown to reduce the pain associated with the procedure. It has been shown that some of the discomfort associated with the procedure is secondary to spasm of the anal sphincter. Topical diltiazem can relax the anal sphincter. Our aim was to evaluate the use of topical diltiazem cream as an adjunct to periprostatic nerve block in reducing pain associated with TRUS‐guided prostatic biopsy.

Method

Between September 2009 and September 2010, 114 patients were enrolled in the trial (from two centres). Patients undergoing TRUS biopsy of prostate were randomized into diltiazem and placebo groups. Patients were asked to fill out a questionnaire at the end of the procedure. The questionnaire enquired about discomfort associated with various parts of the procedure using a 10‐cm visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

For discomfort due to the presence of the probe, pain during the biopsy and overall pain prior to leaving the department, mean VAS was higher for the placebo group, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Diltiazem cream has a better side effect profile than glyceryl trinitrate cream and is better tolerated. Although we have demonstrated trends favouring diltiazem use as an adjunct to local anaesthetic in TRUS biopsy of the prostate, this did not reach a statistically significant level. The pain scores associated with TRUS biopsy in our cohort were lower than those in the published literature. This phenomenon might have contributed to the results observed in this trial.
Retinal nerve fibre layer cross‐sectional area, neuroretinal rim area and body mass index
Authors: Jonas Jost B. , Nangia Vinay , Gupta Rajesh , Agarwal Shubhra , Matin Arshia , Khare Anshu , Bhate Karishma , Sinha Ajit , Bhojwani Krishna , Kulkarni Maithili , Panda‐Jonas Songhomitra
Published: November 2013

Purpose

To examine associations between body mass index, neuroretinal rim area and retinal nerve fibre layer cross‐sectional area (RNFLCRA) in a population‐based setting.

Methods

The Central India Eye and Medical Study is a population‐based study performed in a rural region of Central India. The study included 4711 subjects (aged 30 + years). A detailed ophthalmic and medical examination was performed. Inclusion criteria for this study were an intra‐ocular pressure ≤21 mmHg, open anterior chamber angles and an axial length ≤26.5 mm. Neuroretinal rim area and RNFLCRA were measured by confocal laser scanning tomography.

Results

The study included 3959 subjects fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Larger neuroretinal rim area (mean: 1.63 ± 0.32 mm2) was significantly (p = 0.004) associated with a higher body mass index after adjusting for larger disc area (p < 0.001), younger age (p < 0.001), lower intraocular pressure (p < 0.001), and hyperopic refractive error (p < 0.001). Larger retinal nerve fibre layer cross‐sectional area (mean:1.29 ± 0.39 mm2) was significantly associated with higher body mass index (p = 0.001) after adjusting for younger age (p < 0.001), shorter axial length (p < 0.001), larger optic disc area (p < 0.001), taller body height (p < 0.001) and male gender (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

In a rural Central Indian population, neuroretinal rim area and RNFLCRA as surrogates of the optic nerve fibres were related to a higher body mass index. Because body mass index is associated with cerebrospinal fluid pressure, the higher cerebrospinal fluid pressure may be associated with a larger neuroretinal rim area. It may vaguely point towards an association between cerebrospinal fluid pressure and glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
Review article: vitamin D and inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Mouli V. P. , Ananthakrishnan A. N.
Published: November 2013

Background

Vitamin D is traditionally associated with bone metabolism. The immunological effects of vitamin D have increasingly come into focus.

Aim

To review the evidence supporting a role of vitamin D in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed on PubMed using the terms ‘crohn's disease’ ‘ulcerative colitis’ and ‘vitamin D’.

Results

Vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) (16–95%) including those with recently diagnosed disease. Evidence supports immunological role of vitamin D in IBD. In animal models, deficiency of vitamin D increases susceptibility to dextran sodium sulphate colitis, while 1,25(OH)2D3 ameliorates such colitis. One prospective cohort study found low predicted vitamin D levels to be associated with an increased risk of Crohn's disease (CD). Limited data also suggest an association between low vitamin D levels and increased disease activity, particularly in CD. In a large cohort, vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) was associated with increased risk of surgery (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.5) in CD and hospitalisations in both CD (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.6–2.7) and UC (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.7–3.1). A single randomised controlled trial demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation may be associated with reduced frequency of relapses in patients with CD compared with placebo (13% vs. 29%, P = 0.06).

Conclusions

There is growing epidemiological evidence to suggest a role for vitamin D deficiency in the development of IBD and also its influence on disease severity. The possible therapeutic role of vitamin D in patients with IBD merits continued investigation.
Ultrastructural organization of the genital tracts in amphigonic females of Euceraphis betulae Koch (Aphididae: Calaphidinae)
Authors: Vitale Danilo G. M. , Viscuso Renata
Published: November 2013

The ultrastructure of the genital tracts in amphigonic females of Aphidoidea is described for the first time, using Euceraphis betulae Koch (Aphididae: Calaphidinae) as a representative. The female reproductive apparatus consists of two ovaries, each one with three/four meroistic telotrophic ovarioles; two sac‐like accessory glands lie laterally to a sac‐like seminal receptacle, opening into the dorso‐medial part of the common oviduct by means of a spermathecal duct. A marked secretory activity takes place in the epithelial cells of all the investigated tracts as shown by ultrastructural observation of many organelles involved in this process. No evident golgian area was observed in the cytoplasm of these cells. Extensive smooth endoplasmic reticulum, whose probable role is here discussed, was observed in epithelial cells of the wall of the accessory gland. Spermathecal duct and seminal receptacle had peculiar features that could be related to different secretory activities carried out by these two parts of the spermatheca.
Gonadal status and outcome of bariatric surgery in obese men
Authors: Aarts Edo , van Wageningen Bas , Loves Sandra , Janssen Ignace , Berends Frits , Sweep Fred , de Boer Hans
Published: November 2013

Background

Obesity‐related hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (OrHH) occurs in over 40% of morbidly obese men. Obesity‐related hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism may reduce the beneficial effects of bariatric surgery.

Objective

To assess the impact of OrHH on the outcome of bariatric surgery in men.

Patients and methods

Observational study with measurement of serum gonadal hormones, and assessment of body composition, glucose, lipid and bone metabolism during the first year after bariatric surgery in 13 men with OrHH (free testosterone (free T) <225 pmol/l) and 11 age‐matched eugonadal morbidly obese men (free T > 225 pmol/l).

Results

Serum free T was inversely related to body weight (R = −0·65, P < 0·0001) and rose gradually after bariatric surgery, in eugonadal as well as in OrHH men, by 30 pmol/l for every 10 kg loss of weight. In three patients, serum free T remained within the hypogonadal range despite substantial weight loss. Gonadal hormone status prior to surgery did not affect the 1‐year outcome of surgery.

Conclusion

Obesity‐related hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism is a reversible condition in the majority of obese men. It does not reduce the efficacy of bariatric surgery. Preoperative weight‐adjusted normal values are recommended to avoid an incorrect diagnosis of hypogonadism in obese men.
The influence of whole body vibration on the central and peripheral cardiovascular system
Authors: Robbins Dan , Yoganathan Priya , Goss‐Sampson Mark
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the physiological changes of the cardiovascular system in response to whole body vibration during quiet standing and identify whether there is a greater influence on the central or peripheral cardiovascular system. Twenty healthy participants (12 male and 8 female) were assessed over two separate testing sessions for changes in peripheral skin temperature, peripheral venous function, blood flow velocity in the dorsalis pedis artery, blood pressure and heart rate during quiet standing with 40 Hz 1·9 mm synchronous vibration. Vibration exposure totalled 5 min in 1 min increments with 5 min recovery during each testing session. There were no significant changes in heart rate, blood pressure or peripheral skin temperature. Significant results were obtained for blood flow velocity with increases from 0·5 + 0·2 cm·s−1 at baseline to 1 + 0·2 cm·s−1 during vibration, returning to baseline levels during the recovery period. Due to the absence of changes in heart rate, blood pressure or lower leg and foot temperature, the change in blood flow velocity can be attributed to changes in peripheral vascular function. The results suggest a high level of sensitivity of the peripheral vascular system to vibration exposure; therefore, further studies should be completed to ascertain the physiological mechanisms underlying the effects of vibration on the peripheral vascular system.
Visual control of manual actions: brain mechanisms in typical development and developmental disorders
Authors: Braddick Oliver , Atkinson Janette
Published: November 2013

Some key stages in the development of manual actions have been discussed in this supplement based on the idea of the dorsal cortical stream as the pathway for translating visual information into action control. We argue that visual information, transmitted through specialized visuomotor dorsal‐stream modules, is required in the control of manual actions for selecting and attending to the target object of the action, translating visual spatial information into motor programmes and planning a coordinated sequence of actions so as to reach an optimal end‐state. In typical development, we illustrate dorsal‐stream processing through results on the use of stereoscopic information to guide infants' reaches, and changes in target selection and detailed kinematics of reaches depending on age, object size, and reaching in darkness (when dorsal‐stream information rapidly decays). We hypothesize ‘dorsal‐stream vulnerability’ as a widespread feature of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, Williams syndrome, and children born very preterm. Such deficits, identified as abnormal visuomanual actions, are seen in bimanual coordination, visual guidance of action in the ‘postbox’ task, and failures in motor planning for end‐state comfort. We discuss the possible application of these approaches to a wider range of disorders including developmental coordination disorder.
Reorganization of visual fields after periventricular haemorrhagic infarction: potentials and limitations
Authors: Guzzetta Andrea , Fiori Simona , Scelfo Danilo , Conti Eugenia , Bancale Ada
Published: November 2013

Visual functions are often impaired in preterm infants with periventricular haemorrhagic infarction, because of the involvement of the region where the optic radiations are located. In some cases an unexpected sparing of the visual fields has been described, and related to the plasticity of thalamo‐cortical afferents that are supposedly able to bypass the lesion when it occurs in the early third trimester of gestation. We systematically reviewed the literature in the field to determine the limits and potentials of this type of reorganization. We found four studies meeting our criteria, from which we extracted case reports on 19 individuals with intraventricular haemorrhagic infarction. Eleven of the 19 did not have visual field defects, five had a bilateral visual field defect, and the remaining three had a unilateral visual field defect. The involvement of the optic radiations was often associated with normal visual fields as only one of the four individuals with damaged optic radiations showed visual field defects. Conversely, the presence of basal ganglia/thalamus involvement apparently prevented such reorganization, as the only two individuals with unilateral field restriction and available magnetic resonance imaging data both showed abnormalities in those structures. Consistent with this, we report on a further individual in which visual field restriction was associated with abnormal tractography on brain magnetic resonance imaging. Overall, this review supports the existence of effective mechanisms of plastic reorganization that allow a rewiring of geniculo‐calcarine connections with restoration of full field vision but which are hindered by the involvement of the basal ganglia and thalamus.
Temporal regularity facilitates higher‐order sensory predictions in fast auditory sequences
Authors: Tavano Alessandro , Widmann Andreas , Bendixen Alexandra , Trujillo‐Barreto Nelson , Schröger Erich
Published: November 2013

Does temporal regularity facilitate prediction in audition? To test this, we recorded human event‐related potentials to frequent standard tones and infrequent pitch deviant tones, pre‐attentively delivered within isochronous and anisochronous (20% onset jitter) rapid sequences. Deviant tones were repeated, either with high or low probability. Standard tone repetition sets a first‐order prediction, which is violated by deviant tone onset, leading to a first‐order prediction error response (Mismatch Negativity). The response to highly probable deviant repetitions is, however, attenuated relative to less probable repetitions, reflecting the formation of higher‐order sensory predictions. Results show that temporal regularity is required for higher‐order predictions, but does not modulate first‐order prediction error responses. Inverse solution analyses (Variable Resolution Electrical Tomography; VARETA) localized the error response attenuation to posterior regions of the left superior temporal gyrus. In a control experiment with a slower stimulus rate, we found no evidence for higher‐order predictions, and again no effect of temporal information on first‐order prediction error. We conclude that: (i) temporal regularity facilitates the establishing of higher‐order sensory predictions, i.e. ‘knowing what next’, in fast auditory sequences; (ii) first‐order prediction error relies predominantly on stimulus feature mismatch, reflecting the adaptive fit of fast deviance detection processes.
Comparison of Encapsulated Versus Nonencapsulated 14C‐urea Breath Test for the Detection of Helicobacter pylori Infection: A Scintigraphy Study
Authors: Pathak Chander M. , Kaur Balwinder , Bhasin Deepak K. , Mittal Bhagwant R. , Sharma Sarika , Khanduja Krishan L. , Aggarwal Lalit , Rana Surinder S.
Published: November 2013

Background and Aims

14C‐urea breath test (14C‐UBT) is considered as “gold standard” for detection of active gastric H. pylori infection. However, till date no comparative study using encapsulated and non‐encapsulated 14C‐UBT protocols has been conducted in same subjects in identical conditions. We monitored gastric fate of capsule containing 14C‐urea with real time display and compared sensitivities of these protocols at different time points of breath collection.

Methods

Non‐encapsulated 14C‐UBT was performed using 74 kBq of 14C‐urea in 100 dyspeptic patients by collecting breath samples at 10, 15 and 20 minutes. Thereafter, within 2 days a gelatin capsule containing 14C‐urea along with 6.0 MBq of 99mTc‐diethylene triamine penta‐acetic acid was administered to each patient for real time display of capsule movement and its fate in gastrointestinal tract by gamma camera. Simultaneously, breath samples were collected for 14CO2 measurement during image acquisition.

Results

Employing non‐encapsulated 14C‐UBT, 74 out of 100 dyspeptic patients were found to be H. pylori positive. Discordant 14C‐UBT results were obtained in 4/74 (5.4%) cases using these two protocols. By employing encapsulated and nonencapsulated 14C‐UBT protocols, sensitivities of 14C‐UBT were found to be 90.5 versus 98.6% at 10 and 91.8 versus 97.2% at 15 minutes respectively; while these were 94.6 versus 100, 90.7 versus 98.6 and 83.7 versus 93.2% considering any one, two or all three positive values respectively.

Conclusions

Incomplete/non‐resolution of 14C‐urea capsule in stomach during the phase of breath collections appears to decrease sensitivity of encapsulated 14C‐UBT as compared to nonencapsulated protocol for detection of H. pylori infection.
Anti‐phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 antibody in patients with autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Kanno Yukiko , Watanabe Hiroshi , Takahashi Atsushi , Abe Kazumichi , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: November 2013

Aim

To identify a novel autoantibody specific to autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and to evaluate its clinical significance.

Methods

Non‐nuclear component protein extracted from normal human liver cell CyrohNHpes cultures that reacted with sera from AIH patients on a western blot was identified as an antigenic protein and subjected to N‐terminal amino acid analysis to identify phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 (PCK2). Enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) for anti‐PCK2 antibody was conducted on sera samples from patients with AIH (n = 42), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC; n = 48), non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH, n = 41), chronic hepatitis C (CHC, n = 20), drug‐induced liver injury (DILI, n = 10), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, n = 16) and on sera samples from healthy volunteers (n = 30). Clinical findings were compared for AIH patients testing positive and negative for anti‐PCK2 antibody.

Results

ELISA findings showed that mean anti‐PCK2 antibody titer in sera from AIH patients was significantly higher than in PBC, NASH, CHC, DILI and SLE patients, as well as in healthy volunteers. Anti‐PCK2 antibody was present in 50.0% (21/42) of AIH, 14.6% (7/48) of PBC, 4.9% (2/41) of NASH, and 10.0% (2/20) of CHC patients, 0% (0/10) of DILI, 12.5% (2/16) of SLE and in 3.3% (1/30) of healthy volunteers. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of using the detection of anti‐PCK2 antibody in diagnosing AIH were 50.0%, 91.5% and 83.1%, respectively. None of the AIH patients positive for anti‐PCK2 antibody showed characteristic clinical features.

Conclusion

Although further investigations into the clinical usefulness are necessary, anti‐PCK2 may have potential as a diagnostic marker for AIH.
The Process Mechanisms Linking Recruiter Positive Moods and Organizational Attraction
Authors: Chen Chien‐Cheng , Hsu Chi‐Sheng , Tsai Pei‐Shan
Published: November 2013

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanisms through which recruiters' positive moods lead to organizational attraction. Participants consisted of 161 applicant–recruiter dyads from 55 companies in Taiwan. Results show that recruiters' felt positive moods were positively related to applicant's perceptions of informativeness and competence, which, in turn, influenced organizational attraction. In addition, recruiters felt that positive moods were positively related to their display of positive moods, which were positively related to applicant's positive moods, which, in turn, affected organizational attraction.
Procrastination's Impact in the Workplace and the Workplace's Impact on Procrastination
Authors: Nguyen Brenda , Steel Piers , Ferrari Joseph R.
Published: November 2013

Procrastination is a self‐regulatory failure, whose costs are debated. Here, we establish its impact in the workplace. Using an Internet sample, we assessed 22,053 individuals in terms of their sex, employment status, employment duration, income, occupational attainment and level of procrastination. High levels of procrastination is associated with lower salaries, shorter durations of employment, and a greater likelihood of being unemployed or under employed rather than working full‐time. Also, procrastination partially mediates sex's relationship with these work variables. Women tend to procrastinate less than men, evidently giving women an employment advantage. If women procrastinated the same as men, there should be 1.5 million fewer women in full‐time employment in the US. alone. Determining the causes of procrastination in the workplace, we also examined it at an occupational level. The results strongly support the gravitational hypothesis: jobs that require higher levels of motivational skills are less likely to retain procrastinators. However, there was some support that jobs can foster procrastination. Procrastinators tend to have jobs that are lower in intrinsically rewarding qualities.
Delivering good service: personal resources, job satisfaction and nurses’ ‘customer’ (patient) orientation
Authors: Gountas Sandra , Gountas John , Soutar Geoffrey , Mavondo Felix
Published: November 2013

Aims

To explore the complex relationships between nurses’ personal resources, job satisfaction and ‘customer’ (patient) orientation.

Background

Previous research has shown that nursing is highly intensive, emotionally charged work, which affects nurses’ job performance and their customer orientation as well as patient or ‘customer’ satisfaction. This study contributes to the literature by examining how nurses’ personal resources relate to their personal satisfaction and customer orientation and the relationships between them. Specifically, this study explores the effects of two facets of emotional labour (deep acting and surface acting), empathic concern, self‐efficacy and emotional exhaustion on personal job satisfaction and customer orientation. We also test the moderating effects of inauthenticity and emotional contagion.

Design

A quantitative survey.

Method

Data were collected through a self‐completion questionnaire administered to a sample of 159 Australian nurses, in a public teaching hospital, in 2010. The data were analysed using Partial Least Square analysis.

Results

Partial Least Square analysis indicates that the final model is a good fit to the data (Goodness of Fit = 0·51). Deep acting and surface acting have different effects (positive and negative) on job satisfaction and ‘customer’ orientation, self‐efficacy has a positive effect on both and emotional exhaustion has a positive effect on customer orientation and a negative effect on job satisfaction. The moderating effects of emotional contagion and empathic concern, in the final model, are discussed.

Conclusions

Understanding the complex interactions between personal resources, job satisfaction and customer orientation helps to increase service providers’ (nurses in this study) personal satisfaction and ‘customer’ orientation particularly in difficult contexts.
Heritabilities and genetic correlations between fetlock, hock and stifle osteochondrosis and fetlock osteochondral fragments inHanoverianWarmblood horses
Authors: Hilla D. , Distl O.
Published: November 2013

The main objective of this study is to estimate genetic parameters for osteochondrosis (OC) and osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) in fetlock, hock and stifle joints as well as for palmar or plantar osteochondral fragments (POFs) and dorsodistal osteochondral fragments (DOFs) in fetlock joints. For this purpose, the results of a standardized radiographic examination of 7396 Hanoverian Warmblood horses were used. Heritabilities and genetic correlations were estimated using residual maximum likelihood (REML) under a linear animal model. Heritability estimates forOCat the different joints were at 0.17–0.34, forOCDat 0.16–0.46, forPOFs at 0.19 and forDOFs at 0.22 after transformation onto the liability scale. For osteochondral fragments (OFs), lower heritabilities were estimated, especially in fetlock joints.POFs were genetically negatively correlated withOCin each joint. The size of the heritability estimates indicates that the prevalence of these radiographic findings can be reduced by breeding measures. However, differentiation among the different clinical entities is crucial to avoid underestimation of heritabilities. The analysis of genetic parameters performed in this study indicates thatOCandOCDin fetlock,OCandOCDin hock,OCandOCDin stifle joints,POFs of the hindlimbs andDOFs may be treated as different traits.
A systems biology view of blood vessel growth and remodelling
Authors: Logsdon Elizabeth A. , Finley Stacey D. , Popel Aleksander S. , Gabhann Feilim Mac
Published: November 2013

Blood travels throughout the body in an extensive network of vessels – arteries, veins and capillaries. This vascular network is not static, but instead dynamically remodels in response to stimuli from cells in the nearby tissue. In particular, the smallest vessels – arterioles, venules and capillaries – can be extended, expanded or pruned, in response to exercise, ischaemic events, pharmacological interventions, or other physiological and pathophysiological events. In this review, we describe the multi‐step morphogenic process of angiogenesis – the sprouting of new blood vessels – and the stability of vascular networksin vivo. In particular, we review the known interactions between endothelial cells and the various blood cells and plasma components they convey. We describe progress that has been made in applying computational modelling, quantitative biology and high‐throughput experimentation to the angiogenesis process.
Cervical cancer screening: a prospective cohort study of the effects of historical patient compliance and a population‐based informatics prompted reminder on screening rates
Authors: MacLaughlin Kathy L. , Swanson Kristi M. , Naessens James M. , Angstman Kurt B. , Chaudhry Rajeev
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of historical screening compliance with the effectiveness of patient reminder letters on cervical cancer screening rates.

Method

Using population‐based informatics systems, women with no cervical cancer screening in the prior 3 years were identified in two primary care clinics, Mayo Family Clinic Northeast (NE; n = 1613) and Northwest (NW; n = 1088). Patients were divided into two compliance groups: overdue/unknown screening status at study start or previously compliant. The NE Clinic sent reminder letters over a 6 months window to patients eligible for screening at the study start or during the study that were also identified as employees/dependents (E/D). There were 795 intervention (NE Clinic E/D patients) and 1906 control subjects. Using an intent‐to‐treat analysis, differences in screening rates were assessed.

Results

A higher unadjusted screening rate was observed for the E/D group than the non‐E/D group at both sites (32.7 versus 18.2% at NW, P < 0.001; 39.0 versus 14.7% at NE, P < 0.001). For the historically compliant group, unadjusted screening rates were higher for those who received letters (E/D subjects at NE) versus those who did not (E/D subjects at NW; 56.1 versus 44.5%, P = 0.01). No difference was observed between E/D subjects at NE (received letters) and NW (no letters) for the overdue/unknown group (27.4 versus 25.9%, P = 0.62). There was no difference in screening rates for non‐E/D subjects at NE versus at NW (none of whom received letters) for both the compliant (24.2 versus 30.6%, P = 0.18) and the overdue/unknown groups (11.9 versus 13.0%, P = 0.59). Multivariate logistic regression models showed a significant overall effect of E/D status (P = 0.006), compliance group (P < 0.001), and the interaction between clinic site and E/D status (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Among insured women, reminder letters appear to improve cervical cancer screening rates for those with a history of screening compliance. Reminder letters appear insufficient to motivate women if screening is overdue. Further investigation of the cohort of women overdue for screening is needed to develop interventions to successfully target this group.
Securitization and Capital Structure in Nonfinancial Firms: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: LEMMON MICHAEL , LIU LAURA XIAOLEI , MAO MIKE QINGHAO , NINI GREG
Published: November 2013

Contrary to recent accounts of off‐balance‐sheet securitization by financial firms, we show that asset securitization by nonfinancial firms provides a valuable form of financing for shareholders without harming debtholders. Using data from firms’ SEC filings, we find that securitization is attractive to firms in the middle of the credit quality distribution, which are the firms with the most to gain. Upon initiation, firms experience positive abnormal stock returns and zero abnormal bond returns, and largely use the securitization proceeds to repay existing debt. Securitization minimizes financing costs by reducing expected bankruptcy costs and providing access to segmented credit markets.
Habitat use patterns of the invasive red lionfish Pterois volitans: a comparison between mangrove and reef systems in San Salvador, Bahamas
Authors: Pimiento Catalina , Nifong James C. , Hunter Margaret E. , Monaco Eric , Silliman Brian R.
Published: November 2013

The Indo‐Pacific red lionfish Pterois volitans is widespread both in its native and its non‐native habitats. The rapid invasion of this top predator has had a marked negative effect on fish populations in the Western Atlantic and the Caribbean. It is now well documented that lionfish are invading many tropical and sub‐tropical habitats. However, there are fewer data available on the change in lionfish abundance over time and the variation of body size and diet across habitats. A recent study in San Salvador, Bahamas, found body size differences between individuals from mangrove and reef systems. That study further suggested that ontogenetic investigation of habitat use patterns could help clarify whether lionfish are using the mangrove areas of San Salvador as nurseries. The aim of the present study is to determine temporal trends in lionfish relative abundance in mangrove and reef systems in San Salvador, and to further assess whether there is evidence suggesting an ontogenetic shift from mangroves to reef areas. Accordingly, we collected lionfish from mangrove and reef habitats and calculated catch per unit effort (a proxy for relative abundance), compared body size distributions across these two systems, and employed a combination of stable isotope, stomach content, and genetic analyses of prey, to evaluate differences in lionfish trophic interactions and habitat use patterns. Our results show that populations may have increased in San Salvador during the last 4 years, and that there is a strong similarity in body size between habitats, stark differences in prey items, and no apparent overlap in the use of habitat and/or food resources. These results suggest that there is not evidence an for ontogenetic shift from mangroves to reefs, and support other studies that propose lionfish are opportunistic forages with little movement across habitats.
CO2 enrichment at treeline: help or hindrance for trees on the edge?
Authors: MARSHALL JOHN D.
Published: November 2013

This article comments on: Lack of photosynthetic or stomatal regulation after 9 years of elevated [CO2] and 4 years of soil warming in two conifer species at the alpine treeline
Biometry, keratometry, and calculation of intraocular lens power for the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Authors: Kuhn Sonia E. , Hendrix Diane V. H. , Jones Michael P. , Ward Daniel A. , Baine Katherine H. , Franklin Stephen R.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To document intraocular measurements and predict intraocular lens (IOL) power specific to the bald eagle.

Animals studied

Eleven adult, captive bald eagles.

Procedures

Axial globe length (AGL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), crystalline lens thickness (CLT), and the distance from the cornea to the posterior lens capsule (CPLC) were measured in eight adult bald eagles usingB‐mode with vectorA‐mode ultrasound. Keratometry was done on four eagles. Two estimates for postoperative anterior chamber depth (PACD) were obtained from four aphakic eyes from three eagles by measuring from the apex of the anterior cornea to the center of an imaginary line that would connect the remaining edges of the anterior lens capsule across the capsulorhexis (PACD1) and from the apex of the anterior cornea to halfway between the anterior and posterior lens capsule (PACD2).IOLstrength was predicted using theColenbrander,Binkhorst, andFyodorov theoretical formulas.

Results

Mean ± SDbiometry for phakic eyes wasAGL = 26.57 ± 0.45 mm,ACD = 4.45 ± 0.18 mm,CLT = 5.49 ± 0.14 mm, andCPLC = 10.00 ± 0.33 mm. Mean predictedPACD1 was 6.1 ± 0.66 mm, andPACD2 was 6.4 ± 0.70 mm. Mean horizontal and vertical corneal refractive power was 39.91 ± 0.43 diopters (D) and 40.02 ± 0.08 D, respectively. CalculatedIOLpower ranged from +16.4 to 17.4 D.

Conclusions

Calculations using ultrasonographic biometry, keratometry, and theoreticalIOLformulas suggest that the strength of anIOLnecessary to return an aphakic bald eagle to emmetropia is between +16.4 and +17.4 D.
Differences in ocular parameters between diurnal and nocturnal raptors
Authors: Beckwith‐Cohen Billie , Horowitz Igal , Bdolah‐Abram Tali , Lublin Avishai , Ofri Ron
Published: November 2013

Objective

To establish and compare normal ocular parameters between and within diurnal and nocturnal raptor groups.

Animals studied

Eighty‐eight ophthalmically normal raptors of six nocturnal and 11 diurnal species were studied.

Procedure

Tear production was measured using Schirmer tear test (STT) and phenol red thread test (PRTT), and applanation tonometry was conducted. Ultrasonographic measurements of axial length (AL), mediolateral axis (ML), vitreous body (VB), and pecten length (PL) were recorded, and conjunctival cultures were obtained.

Results

A weak correlation (R = 0.312,P = 0.006) was found betweenPRTTandSTT. Tear production was significantly lower in nocturnal species (P < 0.001), but no difference was observed in intraocular pressure (IOP).VBandPLwere significantly longer in diurnals (P < 0.001 andP = 0.021, respectively), and no significant difference was observed inALandML. When comparing results within these groups, there was a significant difference between most species for all parameters exceptIOP. Fifty‐one percent of the examined raptors were positive for mycology or bacteriology, either on culture orPCR. The most common infectious agent isolated wasStaphylococcusspp.

Conclusions

Phenol red thread test andSTTare both valid methods to measure tear production; however, a separate baseline must be determined for each species using these methods, as the results of one method cannot be extrapolated to the other. Due to significant differences observed within diurnal and nocturnal species, it appears that a more intricate division should be used when comparing these parameters for raptors, and the classification of diurnal or nocturnal holds little significance in the baseline of these data.
On Topology of Flow in a Turbine Cascade
Authors: Nandan Kumar Krishna , Govardhan M.
Published: November 2013

The present study focuses on the study of topological properties of flow in a turbine cascade. Critical-point theory is used to explain the flow phenomenon. Examination and analysis of skin-friction line patterns on three-dimensional bodies such as turbine cascade, compressor cascade, cylinder, etc. enables enhanced understanding of the three-dimensional flow. Topology of flow means types of critical points formed, their interconnection, and relation between numbers of different types of critical points. Present work focuses on rules with regard to the topological consistency of a flow field. It consists of two parts, one is the connectivity of different critical points, and another is deriving the relation between the number of nodal and saddle points of a tangent vector field. Relation between the number of nodal and saddle points is derived for flows such as a turbine cascade with and without tip clearance, turbine cascade with the end wall fence, flow over a three-dimensional obstacle, etc. Relevant mathematical background necessary for derivation is discussed. The results derived for the turbine cascade is independent of the end wall contouring, leading edge modification, trailing edge modification, and blade shape. The derived relations also hold for a compressor cascade. Flow visualization based on CFD calculations is presented for the turbine cascade with and without an end wall fence.
Initial diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in a 56-year-old man with non-healing forearm lesion
Authors: Zapata Heidi J , Villanueva Merceditas , Shenoi Sheela
Published: November 2013

A 56-year-old Hispanic man with no significant medical problems presented with a 2-month history of a non-healing right forearm lesion that progressed despite several courses of empiric antibiotics. The patient underwent incision and drainage. Warthin-Starry stain with immunohistochemistry testing diagnosed bacillary angiomatosis secondary toBartonella quintana.Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with HIV, with a CD4 count of 68 cells/mm3, and a HIV viral load of 47, 914 copies/mL. The patient was treated with doxycycline and started on antiretroviral therapy. The lesion has resolved and he has had no recurrence after 16 months of treatment.
Stability of mine development intersections — a probabilistic analysis approach
Authors: Abdellah Wael , Mitri Hani S. , Thibodeau Denis , Moreau-Verlaan Lindsay
Published: November 2013

Mine developments, such as haulage drifts, cross-cuts, and intersections, are the only way to access valuable ore from mining zones; they link mine developments with the nearest ore access points. Thus, they must remain stable throughout their service life or production plan. Mine development instability can cause production delay, loss of reserves, as well as damage to equipment and injury to miners. This paper presents a stepwise methodology to assess the stability of mine development intersections with respect to the mine production plan. A case study, the #1 Shear East orebody at Vale Garson Mine in Sudbury, Ontario, is presented. A three-dimensional, elastoplastic, finite difference model (FLAC 3D) is created to simulate the development of an intersection situated 1.5 km below ground surface. The unsatisfactory performance of the intersection is evaluated in terms of strength-to-stress ratio with respect to mining sequence. A failure criterion is defined by a minimum strength-to-stress ratio of 1.4, and is used for mine developments (temporary openings). The intersection stability is evaluated at various mining stages and the modified “point-estimate method” (PEM) of (2n2 + 1) is then invoked to study the probability of drift instability at the intersection. The results are presented and categorized with respect to probability, instability, and mining stage.