bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of an External Transtelephonic Loop Recorder for Automated Detection of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Velthuis Bob Oude , Bos Jorieke , Kraaier Karin , Stevenhagen Jeroen , van Opstal Jurren M. , van der Palen Job , Scholten Marcoen F.
Published: September 2013

Background

Although atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly encountered arrhythmia, some of the properties make its detection challenging. In daily practice, underdiagnosis can lead to less effective treatment in prevention of stroke. Based on data from studies on treatment of AF, more intensive follow‐up strategies, including 7‐day Holter recording, 30‐day event recording, and even implantable cardiac monitoring devices, are suggested. The study purpose is to evaluate the performance of a continuous single‐channel loop recorder with automatic AF detection and transtelephonic electrocardiogram (ECG) transmission capabilities.

Methods and Results

A consecutive cohort of 153 patients admitted to the stroke unit with a presumptive diagnosis of ischemic cerebrovascular accident was screened for AF. Twenty‐four‐hour rhythm observation was performed using a single‐channel external loop recorder (ELR) configured for automated AF detection. A total of 45 patients with a known history of AF, AF on the admission ECG, or incomplete registrations were excluded. Extensive additional frequency‐based settings were used to establish a reference registration. In total, 2923 recordings were transmitted. We evaluated all events, of which 1190 were designated by the device as AF. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV for identifying AF using the ELR were, respectively, 93%, 51%, 5%, and 99%.

Conclusions

In this ELR validation study, the dedicated AF detection algorithm showed to be highly sensitive but not specific for AF. Applicability of an ELR might be limited for efficacious detection of AF, as manual verification is mandatory for a vast amount of recordings.
Electrocardiographic Reference Values for a Population of Older Adults in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Dewhurst Matthew J. , Di Marco Luigi Y. , Dewhurst Felicity , Adams Philip C. , Murray Alan , Orega Golda P. , Mwita Julius C. , Walker Richard W. , Langley Philip
Published: September 2013

Background/Objectives

Older adults in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) are at greatest risk of an impending noncommunicable diseases epidemic, of which cardiac disease is the most prevalent contributor. Thus, it is essential to establish electrocardiographic reference values for a population that is likely to differ genetically and environmentally from others where reference values are established.

Methods

Two thousand two hundred thirty‐two apparently healthy community‐based participants without known cardiac disease aged 70+ in rural Tanzania underwent 12‐lead electrocardiography. Electrocardiograms were digitally analyzed and gender‐specific reference values for P duration (PD), P amplitude (PAMP), P area (PAREA), P terminal negative force (V1) (PTNF), PR interval, QRS duration (QRSD), QT/QTc, R amplitude (II, V5) (RAMP) LVH index (LVHI), R axis and R/S ratio (V1) reported, following univariate analysis of covariance using a multiple linear regression model, adjusting for age, systolic blood pressure (SBP), body mass index (BMI), and RR interval.

Results

Data from 1824 subjects were suitable for analysis. Adjusted mean values for men/women were: PD 115/110 ms, PAMP (avg) 123/114 μV, PAMP (II) 203/190 μV, PAREA (avg) 5.3/4.6 mV*s, PAREA (II) 9.3/8.1mV*s, PTNF 1.7/1.4 mV*s, PR 158/152 ms, QRSD 89/84 ms, QT 370/375 ms, QTc 421/427 ms, RAMP (II) 805/854 μV, (V5) 2022/1742 μV, LVHI 3.0/2.8 mV (Sokolow‐Lyon), 1.293/1.146 mV (Cornell), R axis 51/49°, R/S 0.2/0.2. Excluding PTNF, R axis and R/S ratio, all gender differences were significant (P < 0.001 apart from LVHI [Sokolow‐Lyon; P < 0.005)] and RAMP (II) [P < 0.05]) following adjustment for age, SBP, BMI, and RR interval.

Conclusions

Our description of comprehensive electrocardiographic parameters establishes reference values in this genetically and environmentally diverse SSA population thereby allowing identification of “outliers” with potential cardiac disease.
Use of Continuous ECG for Improvements in Assessing the Standing Response as a Positive Control for QT Prolongation
Authors: Fossa Anthony A. , Zhou Meijian , Brennan Nuala , Round Patrick , Ford John
Published: September 2013

Background

Standing invoked change in QT interval has been identified as a promising autonomic maneuver for the assessment of QT/QTc prolongation in patients with underlying heart abnormalities or as a positive control in healthy volunteers for drug studies. Criticism for its more widespread use is the high variability in reported results and the need for a more standardized methodology with defined normal ranges.

Methods

Forty healthy male subjects underwent continuous ECG collection on the day before dosing in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized, single ascending dose trial. A brisk supine to standing (3 minutes) response was conducted at three time points. Results were grouped by treatment cohort or assessed as a pooled group at each time point. Maximum time and median change from baseline (ΔTmaxQTcF, ΔQTcF) were calculated for each individual over sequential 30‐second periods staggered by 5 seconds.

Results

Maximum ΔQTcF at all time points and in all groups was significant (i.e., the lower bound of 90% CI was > 5 milliseconds) which is the ICH E14 regulatory requirement for a positive control. Variability of the time to maximum response was also reduced 9‐fold by the third time period.

Conclusions

Standing invoked ΔQTcF can be utilized to validate the sensitivity of a study for assessment of the QT interval effect of drugs in early development. The methodology may be used to further improve its diagnostic use of long QT syndromes by reducing the variability and allowing adequate definition of normal limits.
Number of P‐Wave Fragmentations on P‐SAECG Correlates with Infiltrated Atrial Fat
Authors: Murthy Sindhoora , Rizzi Patricia , Mewton Nathan , Strauss David G. , Liu Chia Y. , Volpe Gustavo Jardim , Marchlinski Francis E. , Spooner Peter , Berger Ronald D. , Kellman Peter , Lima Joao A.C. , Tereshchenko Larisa G.
Published: September 2013

Background

Although atrial fibrillation (AF) triggers are known, the underlying AF substrate is less well understood. The goal of our study was to explore correlations between electrophysiological and structural characteristics of atria in patients with paroxysmal AF and individuals at AF risk.

Methods

Patients in sinus rhythm (N = 90; age 57 ± 10 year; 55 men [63.2%]) with structural heart disease and paroxysmal AF (n = 12 [13%]), or with AF risk factors and LVEF > 35% (n = 78), underwent SAECG and cardiac magnetic resonance study. Interatrial and epicardial fat was analyzed with a Dark‐blood DIR‐prepared Fat‐Water‐separated sequence in the horizontal longitudinal axis. All local P‐wave extrema were identified on SAECG leads during sinus rhythm. A P‐wave fragmentation (Pf) was defined as an absolute difference between adjacent extrema which was above three standard deviations of noise, and was normalized by the duration of the P wave in the corresponding lead.

Results

The Pf was greater on the filtered than on the unfiltered P‐SAECG signal (13.1 ± 3.8 vs. 3.4 ± 1.2; P < 0.0001). Pf was the greatest on the Y lead (13.0 ± 3.5 on Y lead vs. 12.1 ± 3.4 on Z lead; P = 0.003. Pf on Z lead correlated with interatrial fat index (r = 0.544; P = 0.001). Epicardial fat significantly correlated with body mass index (BMI; r = 0.302; P = 0.015). After adjustment for BMI, left atrium (LA) size, epicardial fat, and interatrial septum width, interatrial fat independently associated with the Pf on Z lead (β‐coefficient 0.009 [95%CI 0.0003–0.019]; P = 0.043).

Conclusions

Infiltrated atrial fat correlates with discontinuous conduction on posterior LA wall and represents AF early substrate.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Proximity to K‐Channel Genes Are Associated with Decreased Longitudinal QTc Variance
Authors: Mints Yuliya , Zipunnikov Vadim , Khurram Irfan , Calkins Hugh , Nazarian Saman
Published: September 2013

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common form of cardiac arrhythmia. Despite significant progress in identification of predisposing factors, the pathophysiology of AF remains to be elucidated. Previous studies have reported that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in potassium‐channel genes associate with AF and the instantaneous corrected QT interval (QTc). The purpose of this study was to examine the association between SNPs in proximity to KCNQ1, KCNH2, KCNE2, and KCNJ2 and longitudinal QTc variations in patients with AF.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 800 electrocardiograms from 93 patients with AF. All patients were Caucasian, with an average age of 61.2 years, and 72% were male. Of all patients, 37% had persistent AF, and 63% had paroxysmal AF. Following DNA extraction from blood, SNPs at the AF‐associated loci KCNQ1, KCNH2, KCNE2, and KCNJ2 were genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY. Using a linear regression model and adapting a resampling inference, a decrease in longitudinal QTc variance was found to associate with SNPs near KCNH2 (rs10240738) and KCNJ2 (rs8079702) when adjusted for patient age, gender, AF type, and average QTc. On average, patients with these SNPs had a shorter QTc interval. In addition, we fitted a multilevel mixed effects regression model accounting for subject level heterogeneity and found no longitudinal association between presence of SNPs near K‐channel genes and changes in QTc.

Conclusion

Polymorphisms near specific potassium‐channel genes in AF patients are associated with decreased longitudinal QTc variance and a shorter average QTc. These results support the hypothesis that effects on myocardial repolarization may mediate the association of these SNPs and AF.
Personalisation of adult social care: self‐directed support and the choice and control agenda
Authors: Kendall Sophie , Cameron Ailsa
Published: September 2013

Accessible summary

This study explores the impact differing ideas about personalisation has on the way in which self‐directed support operates, particularly in the light of cuts to social service budgets.

Six participants from a local authority social care transformation team, five from a user‐led organisation and two national experts were interviewed.

The findings suggest that whilst generally a positive process, in some cases, self‐directed support has become confusing, and personal budget holders have had less say over how their outcomes are met.

The research is useful for people with learning disabilities as it provides an insight into what is happening in local authorities and the impact of the cuts on self‐directed support.

In 2007, ‘self‐directed support’ was introduced in adult social care in England to establish choice and control – in the assessment process itself and over service provision – for all service users. The personalisation agenda is underpinned by a range of ideologies, particularly a civil rights empowerment approach and neoliberal market discourses. This research sought to explore how tensions between these discourses are reflected in the operation of self‐directed support, particularly in the light of the changing political and economic climate. The small‐scale study involved semi‐structured interviews with 13 participants: six professionals from a local authority social care transformation team, five from a user‐led organisation and two national experts. The findings suggest that whilst the choice and control agenda may be consistent with market discourses, it is not compatible with neoliberal aspirations of cost‐cutting. To maintain trust and provide as much opportunity for choice and control as possible, the adjustments being made to the personalisation agenda in the light of the current budgetary pressures need to be made explicit to service users.
Should we rely on the Kenward–Roger approximation when using linear mixed models if the groups have different distributions?
Authors: Arnau Jaume , Bendayan Rebecca , Blanca María J. , Bono Roser
Published: September 2013

The study explores the robustness to violations of normality and sphericity of linear mixed models when they are used with the Kenward–Roger procedure (KR) in split‐plot designs in which the groups have different distributions and sample sizes are small. The focus is on examining the effect of skewness and kurtosis. To this end, a Monte Carlo simulation study was carried out, involving a split‐plot design with three levels of the between‐subjects grouping factor and four levels of the within‐subjects factor. The results show that: (1) the violation of the sphericity assumption did not affect KR robustness when the assumption of normality was not fulfilled; (2) the robustness of the KR procedure decreased as skewness in the distributions increased, there being no strong effect of kurtosis; and (3) the type of pairing between kurtosis and group size was shown to be a relevant variable to consider when using this procedure, especially when pairing is positive (i.e., when the largest group is associated with the largest value of the kurtosis coefficient and the smallest group with its smallest value). The KR procedure can be a good option for analysing repeated‐measures data when the groups have different distributions, provided the total sample sizes are 45 or larger and the data are not highly or extremely skewed.
Double staining with crystal violet and methylene blue is appropriate for colonic endocytoscopy: An in vivo prospective pilot study
Authors: Ichimasa Katsuro , Kudo Shin‐ei , Mori Yuichi , Wakamura Kunihiko , Ikehara Nobunao , Kutsukawa Makoto , Takeda Kenichi , Misawa Masashi , Kudo Toyoki , Miyachi Hideyuki , Yamamura Fuyuhiko , Ohkoshi Shogo , Hamatani Shigeharu , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: September 2013

Background and Aim

Endocytoscopy (EC) at ultra‐high magnification enables in vivo visualization of cellular atypia of gastrointestinal mucosae. Clear images are essential for precise diagnosis by EC. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the optimal staining method for EC in the colon.

Methods

Thirty prospectively enrolled patients were allocated 1:1:1 to three distinct staining methods: 0.05% crystal violet (CV) alone, 1% methylene blue (MB) alone, or CV + MB (CM double). Normal rectal mucosae were stained with each dye and videos of EC images were recorded. Visibility of nuclei and gland formation after staining were evaluated as ‘recognizable’ or ‘not recognizable’. Time for each parameter to become ‘recognizable’ was measured, and the average times for the three staining regimens were compared.

Results

MB alone and CM double staining resulted in ‘recognizable’ (102 ± 27 vs 89 ± 22 s, P = 0.263) nuclei within comparable periods of time, whereas CV alone was unable to identify nuclei. Gland formation became ‘recognizable’ sooner after CM double staining than after MB alone (61 ± 16 vs 108 ± 24 s, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Double staining with CV and MB, which rapidly provided recognizable images of both nuclei and gland formation, is an appropriate staining regimen for colonic EC.
Promoting function and participation to improve living a life with cerebral palsy
Authors: Msall Michael E
Published: September 2013

This paper is on the review by Novak et al. on pages 885–910 of this issue
Double Orifice Mitral Valve in Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Choudhury Partha P. , Chaturvedi Vivek
Published: September 2013

Mini‐Abstract

A 55‐year‐old female, presented to our outpatient department with complaints of dyspnea on exertion, NYHA grade II for 7 years, which had progressed to NYHA Grade III in the past 6 months. An echocardiogram done showed severe mitral stenosis with mitral valve fused in the middle to create an appearance of 2 separate valves (complete bridge type) with 2 separate turbulent jets of flow across these valves. No other congenital anomaly was seen. Due to presence of severe subvalvular disease, she was sent for elective mitral valve replacement. This case demonstrates that a careful analysis of the subvalvular apparatus of the mitral valve is needed before making a decision for definitive treatment of this condition.
Effects of Pergolide Mesylate on Plasma Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Concentration in Horses with Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction
Authors: Rendle D.I. , Taylor E. , Duz M. , Parkin T.D. , Copas V.E.N. , Durham A.E.
Published: September 2013

Aims

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is a common degenerative neuropathy of horses associated with ageing. Pergolide mesylate (pergolide) is the only licensed treatment for PPID in the UK; however, published evidence of its efficacy is limited to small case series and anecdotal reports. This study evaluated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) responses in horses treated with pergolide and investigated factors that may influence response to treatment.

Methods

A retrospective review of submissions to The Liphook Equine Hospital Laboratory was performed from January 2007 to December 2012 and cases in which ACTH concentration was measured before and after instigation of pergolide treatment were identified. Data were analysed using Rv.2.15 software (R Development Core Team). Improvement was defined as a reduction of ACTH concentration of ≥75%, or a return of ACTH concentration to within seasonally adjusted reference intervals.

Results

A total of 2122 cases satisfied the inclusion criteria. Improvement was identified in 54.8% of horses at the first follow‐up assessment; however, ACTH concentration returned to within reference intervals in only 28%. Equids with a higher ACTH concentration pretreatment were more likely to improve (odds ratio [OR] 1.01, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.00–1.02; P = 0.027), but less likely to return to within the reference interval (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.96–0.98; P<0.001). Older equids were significantly less likely to improve (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.46–0.67; P<0.001). Improvement was more likely after a cumulative dose of 50 mg (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.10–2.29; P = 0.013) and duration of treatment was positively associated with treatment response (P = 0.039). A daily dose >0.5 μg/kg bwt was less likely to be associated with a reduction in ACTH concentration (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77–0.96; P = 0.009). Native breeds, mini and draught horses were more likely to return to the reference range than other breeds (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.24–2.07; P<0.001). Neither gender nor season were associated with response to treatment.

Conclusions and practical significance

Pergolide is an effective means of reducing ACTH concentration in equids with PPID.

Ethical animal research

Not required by this Congress: retrospective clinical study. Sources of funding: None. Competing interests: Rendle and Durham have acted as paid speakers and consultants for Boehringer Ingelheim, manufacturers of Prascend, the licensed equine pergolide product.
On the slope of the fatigue resistance curve for laser stake‐welded T‐joints
Authors: Frank Darko , Remes Heikki , Romanoff Jani
Published: September 2013

The paper investigates the influence of highly localised stress distribution around the notch tips of the laser stake‐welded T‐joints to the slope of the fatigue resistance curve. The study considers experimental data of eight series involving joints under tension or bending loads. Various boundary conditions and plate thicknesses are considered. The stress distribution in the singularity‐dominated zone ahead of the notch tips is investigated by means of the finite element analysis. The aim is to relatively distinguish the stress distribution from one case to another. The growth rate of the elastic singular stress with respect to the distance from the tip is described by the dimensionless gradient. This gradient is equal to the slope of the linear stress‐distance function when presented in double‐logarithmic scale. The slope of the fatigue resistance curve varies approximately from 4 to 8. It is observed that the change of the slope can be closely associated with the gradient of the maximum principal stress evaluated in the plane that is orthogonal to the crack path. The orthogonal plane corresponds to the maximum principal stress direction. In contrast, there is a large scatter in the relation between the slope and the gradient evaluated in the commonly assumed crack plane. The study shows that the dimensionless gradient exhibits sensitivity towards plate thicknesses, local weld geometry and the loading condition.
Effects of Marine Overwash for Atoll Aquifers: Environmental and Human Factors
Authors: Bailey Ryan T. , Jenson John W.
Published: September 2013

Inundation of atoll islands by marine overwash is a serious threat to fresh groundwater, which can be a critical emergency water resource after artificial storage or other water resource infrastructure has been exhausted or destroyed. In contrast to drought, which slowly exhausts water supplies and often can be forecasted in time, overwash can occur with little warning and can ruin both rain catchment storage and groundwater reserves. In this study, a SUTRA‐based model is applied to estimate how groundwater contamination by overwash and subsequent recovery of fresh groundwater are influenced by geologic factors (aquifer hydraulic conductivity, dispersivity, and the presence or absence of a reef flat plate), the seasonal timing of the event (wet vs. dry), and the presence of hand‐dug wells that penetrate the reef flat plate. Actual tidal and rainfall data from regions in the western Pacific are applied to simulated 30‐month recovery periods for hypothetical islands with properties and conditions characteristic of the western Pacific. For all scenarios, results indicate that 12 to 16 months are required to achieve 60% recovery of fresh groundwater. However, the time required to restore useful quantities of groundwater to acceptable salt concentration at depths typical of hand‐dug wells is only 3 to 6 months. Of particular interest is the influence of the reef flat plate, which acts as a barrier to infiltrating seawater, thus preserving a pocket of confined freshwater during an overwash event and the recovery, which could probably be utilized if the necessary tools and equipment are on hand.
Factor VIII concentrate infusion in patients with haemophilia results in decreased von Willebrand factor and ADAMTS‐13 activity
Authors: van Bladel E. R. , Tuinenburg A. , Roest M. , de Groot P. G. , Schutgens R. E. G.
Published: September 2013

The effects of coagulation factor concentrate infusion on restoring secondary haemostasis in patients with haemophilia are obvious. It is not known whether coagulation factor concentrate infusion affects primary haemostasis or induces an acute inflammatory response. In this study, the influence of a factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate bolus infusion on platelet activation and responsiveness, endothelial activation, and inflammation in adult patients with severe haemophilia A was assessed. VWF showed a mild, but significant decrease 15 min after FVIII infusion (85.02 IU dL−1) vs. before infusion (92.04 IU dL−1; P = 0.017), while ADAMTS‐13 levels also show a mild but significant decrease from 66.1 ng mL−1 before infusion, to 53.9 ng mL−1 (P = 0.012) 15 min after and 50.8 ng mL−1 (P = 0.050) 60 min after infusion. Platelet P‐selectin expression decreased 15 min (33.3 AU) and 60 min (38.7 AU) after infusion compared to before infusion (41.3 AU; P = 0.018 and 0.036). In conclusion, a single infusion of a high dose FVIII concentrate in haemophilia A patients may influence primary haemostasis by decreasing VWF, ADAMTS‐13 and the number of circulating activated platelets. These effects possibly occur as a consequence of binding of the infused FVIII to VWF, influencing its processing. When treating severe haemophilia A patients with coagulation concentrate infusion, one should realize this does not merely correct FVIII levels but also may influence primary haemostasis.
Exclusion of deer affects responses of birds to woodland regeneration in winter and summer
Authors: Holt Chas A. , Fuller Robert J. , Dolman Paul M.
Published: September 2013

Using an exclosure experiment in managed woodland in eastern England, we examined species and guild responses to vegetation growth and its modification by deer herbivory, contrasting winter and the breeding season over 4 years. Species and guild responses, in terms of seasonal presence recorded by multiple point counts, were examined using generalized linear mixed models. Several guilds or migrant species responded positively to deer exclusion and none responded negatively. The shrub‐layer foraging guild was recorded less frequently in older and browsed vegetation, in both winter and spring. Exclusion of deer also increased the occurrence of ground‐foraging species in both seasons, although these species showed no strong response to vegetation age. The canopy‐foraging guild was unaffected by deer exclusion or vegetation age in either season. There was seasonal variation in the responses of some individual resident species, including a significantly lower occurrence of Eurasian Wren Troglodytes troglodytes and European Robin Erithacus rubecula in browsed vegetation in winter, but no effect of browsing on those species in spring. Ordinations of bird assemblage compositions also revealed seasonal differences in response to gradients of vegetation structure generated by canopy‐closure and exclusion of deer. Positive impacts of deer exclusion in winter are probably linked to reduced thermal cover and predator protection afforded by browsed vegetation, whereas species that responded positively in spring were also dependent on a dense understorey for nesting. The effects on birds of vegetation development and its modification by herbivores extend beyond breeding assemblages, with different mechanisms implicated and different species affected in winter.
The effect of TRPM7 suppression on the proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Cui L. , Xu S. M. , Ma D. D. , Wu B. L.
Published: September 2013

Aim

To investigate the role of the Ca2+–Mg2+ ion channel TRPM7 in the proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs).

Methodology

Immunohistochemistry was used to localize expression of TRPM7 in human dental pulp tissues and in cultured hDPSCs. Isolated hDPSCs were infected with recombinant lentiviruses expressing short hairpin RNA (shRNA) specific for TRPM7, or control shRNA, in order to suppress TRPM7 mRNA expression and investigate its functional role. The proliferation of the shRNA‐infected hDPSCs was evaluated using both an MTT assay to measure viable cell numbers and cell cycle analysis. Cell migration was assessed using a transwell assay. The dynamic mRNA expression of TRPM7 during osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs and the effect of shRNA specific for TRPM7 on hDPSC osteogenic differentiation were evaluated by real‐time PCR.

Results

TRPM7 expression was widespread in human dental pulp tissue and was detected mainly in the cytomembrane and cytoplasm of hDPSCs. Suppression of TRPM7 inhibited both the proliferation and the migratory capacity of hDPSCs. TRPM7 mRNA expression was elevated during osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. TRPM7‐specific shRNA inhibited osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs, with downregulated mRNA expression of the osteogenic markers alkaline phosphatase (ALP), dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), bone sialoprotein (BSP), runt‐related transcription factor (RUNX2) and osterix (OSX).

Conclusions

TRPM7 was involved in the regulation of hDPSC proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation and may play a role in the dental pulp repair process.
Nursing and the nursing workplace in Queensland, 2001–2010: What the nurses think
Authors: Eley Robert , Francis Karen , Hegney Desley
Published: September 2013

The purpose of the study was to inform policy for reform in nursing. A survey mailed to members of the Queensland Nurses' Union four times between 2001 and 2010 elicited views on their employment and working conditions, professional development and career opportunities. Results across years and sectors of nursing consistently showed dissatisfaction in many aspects of employment, particularly by nurses working in aged care. However, views on staffing numbers, skill mix, workload, work stress, pay and staff morale all showed significant improvements over the decade. For example in 2001, 48.8% of nurses believed that their pay was poor, whereas in 2010, this had reduced to 35.2%. Furthermore, there was a significant rise throughout the decade in the opinion of the value of nursing as a good career. In light of the need to address nurse workforce shortages, the trends are encouraging; however, more improvements are required in order to support recruitment and retention.
Rationale, Design, and Baseline Features of a Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Effects of Statin for the Secondary Prevention of Stroke: The Japan Statin Treatment against Recurrent Stroke (J-STARS)
Authors: Nagai Yoji , Kohriyama Tatsuo , Origasa Hideki , Minematsu Kazuo , Yokota Chiaki , Uchiyama Shinichiro , Ibayashi Setsuro , Terayama Yasuo , Takagi Makoto , Kitagawa Kazuo , Nomura Eiichi , Hosomi Naohisa , Ohtsuki Toshiho , Yamawaki Takemori , Matsubara Yoshihiro , Nakamura Masakazu , Yamasaki Yoshimitsu , Mori Etsuro , Fukushima Masanori , Kobayashi Shotai , Shinohara Yukito , Yamaguchi Takenori , Matsumoto Masayasu ,   J-STARS Investigators
Published: September 2013

Background

Although statin therapy is beneficial for preventing first strokes, the benefit for recurrent stroke and its subtypes remains unknown in Asian populations. The aim of this study is to examine the role of pravastatin in the secondary prevention of stroke in Japanese patients.

Methods

This is a multicenter, randomized, open-label, parallel group study of patients with noncardioembolic ischemic stroke (atherothrombotic infarction, lacunar infarction, and infarction of undetermined etiology). All patients were diagnosed with hyperlipidemia and with a total cholesterol level between 180 and 240 mg/dl at enrollment. Patients in the treatment group receive 10 mg/day of pravastatin, and those in the control group receive no statin treatment. The primary end-point is the recurrence of stroke, including transient ischemic attack. The secondary end-points include the onset of respective stroke sub-types and functional outcomes related to stroke. The patients were enrolled for five-years and will be followed up for five-years.

Results

A total of 1578 eligible patients (age: 66·2 years, men: 68·8%), including 64·2% with lacunar infarction, 25·4% with atherothrombotic infarction, and 10·4% with infarction of undetermined etiology were included in this study. Lipid levels were generally well controlled (total cholesterol: 210·0 mg/dl, low density lipoprotein cholesterol: 129·5 mg/dl) at baseline. In addition, the disability of patients was relatively mild, and cognitive function was preserved in the majority of patients.

Conclusion

This article reports the rationale, design, and baseline features of a randomized controlled trial to assess the effects of statin for the secondary prevention of stroke. Follow-ups of patients are in progress and will end in 2014.
Vessel transformation in chronic wounds under topical negative pressure therapy: an immunohistochemical analysis
Authors: Malsiner Carmen CM , Schmitz Marweh , Horch Raymund E , Keller Andrea K , Leffler Mareike
Published: September 2013

The underlying physiological mechanism of topical negative pressure (TNP) therapy is not yet completely understood. This prospective clinical study aims to clarify a potential influence of TNP therapy on vessel proliferation and hypoxia in chronic wounds. TNP was applied on chronic wounds of 16 patients (−125 mmHg) to prepare them for a plastic‐surgical reconstruction using free or pedicled flaps. Tissue biopsies were taken from the wound edge and wound bed at different time points. All samples were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, hypoxia‐induced factor‐1α and endothelial cell markers (CD31 and CD34) for the immunohistological analysis of inflammation, hypoxia and vessel proliferation. Between day 5 and day 8 of treatment, a considerable increase in blood vessel density could be observed, reaching a maximum of approximately 200% in contrast to the vessel density prior to treatment. In addition, the number of hypoxic and inflammatory cells was found to be increased at particular time points. This study demonstrates a stimulating effect on vessel proliferation under TNP treatment. TNP appears to support (neo‐) angiogenesis and transformation of chronic non‐healing wounds in a physiological wound healing process when combined with surgical debridement. This effect underlines the positive influence of TNP in the treatment of chronic wounds as shown by various clinical reports.
Biomechanical comparison of four technique for pelvic flexure enterotomy closure in horses
Authors: Gandini Marco , Iotti Bryan N. , Giusto Gessica
Published: September 2013

Objective

To compare 4 techniques for pelvic flexure enterotomy closure in horses.

Study Design

Ex‐vivo study.

Sample Population

Cadaveric ascending colon specimens (n = 48 horses).

Methods

Pelvic flexure enterotomies of different lengths (5 cm, 10 cm) were performed and closed with 1 of 4 techniques: handsewn 2 layer (HS2); handsewn 1 layer (HS1); skin staples (SKS); or TA90 stapling device (TA90). Time to close each enterotomy, bursting pressure, luminal reduction, and cost were calculated and compared.

Results

HS2 was significantly more time consuming to perform in the 5 cm group whereas in the 10 cm group, only the HS1 and SKS were faster than the other techniques. Luminal reduction was not different between techniques in either group. HS2 resulted in consistently higher bursting pressure compared with SKS and TA90 in the 5 cm group and compared to all other techniques in the 10 cm group.

Conclusion

The TA90 technique had the lowest bursting pressure and highest cost. The HS2 technique was strongest.
Inheritance of ectopic ureters in Entlebucher Mountain Dogs
Authors: Fritsche R. , Dolf G. , Schelling C. , Hungerbuehler S. O. , Hagen R. , Reichler I. M.
Published: September 2013

To test the hypothesis of a heritable base of ectopic ureters (EU) in Entlebucher Mountain Dogs (EMD) and to elucidate associated risk factors and mode of inheritance of the disease, 565 EMD were clinically investigated and population genetic analyses performed. Based on the location of the most caudal termination of the ureteral openings, 552 EMD were classified into three phenotype groups trigone, intravesically and extravesically ectopic based on results of abdominal sonography, urethra‐cystoscopy and/or contrast‐enhanced computed tomography. One‐third (32.9%) of the phenotyped animals had normal terminations of both ureters in the bladder trigone, 47.3% had at least one intravesicular ectopic termination and 19.8% had at least one extravesicular ectopic termination. Multivariate mixed logistic regression revealed gender as a risk factor associated with EU as males were more often affected than females. Complex segregation analysis indicated a hereditary basis for EU in EMD and the involvement of a major gene in the occurrence of the extravesicular EU phenotype.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐1 promoter ‐1607 1G/2G polymorphism and chronic periodontitis susceptibility: a meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Li Wenyang , Xiao Lin , Hu Jing
Published: September 2013

Aim

Matrix metalloproteinase‐1 promoter ‐1607 1G/2G (rs1799750) polymorphism have been shown to confer genetic susceptibility to chronic periodontitis (CP), but the results are inconsistent.

Materials and Methods

A meta‐analysis and systematic review was performed to accomplish a more precise estimation of the relationship.

Results

Pooled estimates revealed that there was no significant association between this polymorphism and CP risk in Caucasian and Asian populations. In addition, it was reported by three Brazilian studies that no significant association was found for this polymorphism with CP risk in a Brazilian mixed population. Besides, there was no significant association of this polymorphism with mild to moderate and severe CP risk in both Caucasian and Asian populations. Moreover, both non‐smokers and smokers did not have a significant association between this polymorphism and susceptibility to CP in Caucasian population.

Conclusions

Matrix metalloproteinase‐1 promoter −1607 1G/2G (rs1799750) polymorphism may have no effect on the disease susceptibility of CP in Caucasian, Asian and Brazilian mixed populations. Besides, this polymorphism may not play a direct role in severity of CP among both Caucasian and Asian populations, and between this polymorphism and smoking there may be no interactions to be associated with CP risk in Caucasian population.
No association between sperm competition and sperm length variation across dung flies (Scathophagidae)
Authors: Sharma M. D. , Minder A. M. , Hosken D. J.
Published: September 2013

Sperm length is extremely variable across species, but a general explanation for this variation is lacking. However, when the risk of sperm competition is high, sperm length is predicted to be less variable within species, and there is some evidence for this in birds and social insects. Here, we examined intraspecific variation in sperm length, both within and between males, and its potential associations with sperm competition risk and variation in female reproductive tract morphology across dung flies. We used two measures of variation in sperm size, and testis size was employed as our index of sperm competition risk. We found no evidence of associations between sperm length variation and sperm competition or female reproductive tract variation. These results suggest that variation in sperm competition risk may not always be associated with variation in sperm morphology, and the cause(s) of sperm length variation in dung flies remains unclear.
Effect of juvenile hormone on senescence in males with terminal investment
Authors: González‐Tokman D. , González‐Santoyo I. , Munguía‐Steyer R. , Córdoba‐Aguilar A.
Published: September 2013

Senescence, a decline in survival and reproductive prospects with age, is controlled by hormones. In insects, juvenile hormone (JH) is involved in senescence with captive individuals, but its effect under natural conditions is unknown. We have addressed this gap by increasing JH levels in young and old wild males of the damselfly Hetaerina americana. We assessed survival in males that were treated with a JH analogue (methoprene), which is known to promote sexual activity, and an immune challenge, which is known to promote terminal investment in reproduction in the studied species. We replicated the same procedure in captivity (to control for environmental variation), where males were deprived of any activity or food. We expected old males to show the lowest survival after being treated with JH and immune‐challenged, because the effect of terminal investment on senescence would be exacerbated by JH. However, this should be the case for wild animals, but not for captive animals, as the effects of JH and immune challenge should lead to an increase in high energetic‐demanding activities only occurring in the wild. Old animals died sooner compared with young animals in both the wild and captivity, confirming that males are subject to senescence. In wild but not captive animals, JH decreased survival in young males and increased it in old males, confirming that JH is sensitive to the environment when shaping animal senescence. Immune challenge had no effect on survival, suggesting no effect of terminal investment on senescence. Additionally, contrary to the expected effects of terminal investment, with an immune challenge, recapture rates increased in young males and decreased in old males. Our results show that male senescence in the wild is mediated by JH and that terminal investment does not cause senescence. One explanation is that animals undergoing senescence and terminal investment modify their feeding behaviour to compensate for their physiological state.
Species distribution models contribute to determine the effect of climate and interspecific interactions in moving hybrid zones
Authors: Engler J. O. , Rödder D. , Elle O. , Hochkirch A. , Secondi J.
Published: September 2013

Climate is a major factor delimiting species’ distributions. However, biotic interactions may also be prominent in shaping geographical ranges, especially for parapatric species forming hybrid zones. Determining the relative effect of each factor and their interaction of the contact zone location has been difficult due to the lack of broad scale environmental data. Recent developments in species distribution modelling (SDM) now allow disentangling the relative contributions of climate and species’ interactions in hybrid zones and their responses to future climate change. We investigated the moving hybrid zone between the breeding ranges of two parapatric passerines in Europe. We conductedSDMs representing the climatic conditions during the breeding season. Our results show a large mismatch between the realized and potential distributions of the two species, suggesting that interspecific interactions, not climate, account for the present location of the contact zone. TheSDMscenarios show that the southerly distributed species,Hippolais polyglotta, might lose large parts of its southern distribution under climate change, but a similar gain of novel habitat along the hybrid zone seems unlikely, because interactions with the other species (H. icterina) constrain its range expansion. Thus, whenever biotic interactions limit range expansion, species may become ‘trapped’ if range loss due to climate change is faster than the movement of the contact zone. An increasing number of moving hybrid zones are being reported, but the proximate causes of movement often remain unclear. In a global context of climate change, we call for more interest in their interactions with climate change.
Electromagnetic Radiation‐Based Dry Blanching of Red Bell Peppers: A Comparative Study
Authors: Jeevitha G.C. , Hebbar H. Umesh , Raghavarao K.S.M.S.
Published: September 2013

Retention of water‐soluble nutrients, prevention of solid loss and elimination of waste water generation are some of the advantages of dry blanching. Dry blanching of red bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) slices using infrared (IR) and microwave (MW) radiations was attempted and its performance was compared with conventional water and steam blanching methods. Processing conditions (time and temperature) were standardized on the basis of degree of enzyme inactivation (peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase). Effect of blanching methods on retention of micronutrients such as ascorbic acid, β‐carotene and protein, besides product shrinkage, structure and texture (shearing force) were analyzed. Water and steam blanching were found to need lower processing time (1.0 and 1.5 min, respectively) compared with IR (6.0 min) and MW blanching (3.0 min). However, MW‐blanched samples retained higher amounts of ascorbic acid (94.7%). Dry blanching with IR (150C) and MW (17.5 W/g) resulted in higher retention of β‐carotene (103.2 and 118.6%, respectively) compared with water (60.3%) and steam blanching (88.3%). Dry blanching resulted in moisture loss (1–6%) and shrinkage, perhaps resulting in higher shearing force observed in dry blanched slices. Scanning electron micrographs indicated that method of blanching has a role on extent of effect on cell structure.

Practical Applications

Red bell pepper is a rich source of ascorbic acid and β‐carotene. This study explored the possibilities of dry blanching red bell pepper using infrared and microwave radiation as a potential alternative to water and steam blanching. The dry blanching is expected to retain higher amount of nutrients, reduce solid loss and eliminate effluent generation besides being convenient to operate.
Diverse Roles of ERECTA Family Genes in Plant Development
Authors: Shpak Elena D.
Published: September 2013

Multiple receptor‐like kinases (RLKs) enable intercellular communication that coordinates growth and development of plant tissues. ERECTA family receptors (ERfs) are an ancient family of leucine‐rich repeat RLKs that in Arabidopsis consists of three genes: ERECTA, ERL1, and ERL2. ERfs sense secreted cysteine‐rich peptides from the EPF/EPFL family and transmit the signal through a MAP kinase cascade. This review discusses the functions of ERfs in stomata development, in regulation of longitudinal growth of aboveground organs, during reproductive development, and in the shoot apical meristem. In addition the role of ERECTA in plant responses to biotic and abiotic factors is examined.

Elena D. Shpak

(Corresponding author)
Exchange Rate Policy and Sovereign Bond Spreads in Developing Countries
Authors: JAHJAH SAMIR , WEI BIN , YUE VIVIAN ZHANWEI
Published: September 2013

This paper analyzes how exchange rate policy affects the issuance and pricing of sovereign bonds for developing countries. We find that countries with less flexible exchange rate regimes pay higher spreads and are less likely to issue bonds. Changing a free‐floating regime to a fixed regime decreases the likelihood of bond issuance by 5.5% and increases the spread by 88 basis points on average. Countries with real overvaluation have higher spreads and higher bond issuance probabilities. The effects of real overvaluation on sovereign bonds tend to be magnified for countries with fixed exchange rate regimes.
Optimal Monetary and Fiscal Policy with a Zero Bound on Nominal Interest Rates
Authors: SCHMIDT SEBASTIAN
Published: September 2013

I characterize optimal monetary and fiscal policy in a stochastic New Keynesian model when nominal interest rates may occasionally hit the zero lower bound. The benevolent policymaker controls the short‐term nominal interest rate and the level of government spending. Under discretionary policy, accounting for fiscal stabilization policy eliminates to a large extent the welfare losses associated with the presence of the zero bound. Under commitment, the gains associated with the use of the fiscal policy tool remain modest, even though fiscal stabilization policy is part of the optimal policy mix.
On the Asymmetric U‐Shaped Relationship between Inflation, Inflation Uncertainty, and Relative Price Skewness in the UK
Authors: CHAUDHURI KAUSIK , GREENWOOD‐NIMMO MATTHEW , KIM MINJOO , SHIN YONGCHEOL
Published: September 2013

We investigate the asymmetric relationships between aggregate inflation and the second and third moments of the cross‐sectional distribution of relative prices using a modified Calvo pricing model with regime‐dependent price rigidities. Calibration experiments reveal that the inflation‐standard deviation and inflation‐skewness relationships exhibit U‐shaped asymmetries around the historical mean inflation rate. UK sectoral data support our results. We conclude that monetary policy should target an inflation rate proximate to the (common) minima of these nonlinear relationships and that core inflation measures should not be used for policy purposes as they exclude much of the information contained in the higher moments.