bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cross‐Cultural and Interdisciplinary Collaboration in a Joint Design Studio
Authors: Kim Mi Jeong , Ju Seo Ryeung , Lee Lina
Published: February 2015

A design studio is a critical venue for design students, as they are educated to develop design thinking and other skills through studio courses. This article introduces a design studio project in which Korean and Malaysian students worked jointly for one semester to design affordable urban housing. The Korean students were interior design majors and the Malaysian students were architecture majors; thus it was thought that the students' areas of expertise were likely to differ. It was also anticipated that the students would display cultural differences in terms of housing and planning practices. The motive for starting the joint design studio was the idea that a cross‐cultural collaborative working setting could redefine students' thinking styles and stimulate students to obtain non‐routine perspectives on the design of buildings and spaces. Through observation and interviews, we explored how students tackled affordable housing problems within the context of cross‐cultural and interdisciplinary design education. Collaborative learning in a joint studio situation supplemented students' expertise, re‐orienting approaches to design and opening up a holistic approach to the design issues of affordability, sustainability and community. Overall, the practical learning in the joint studio project validated the importance of exploring alternative solutions based on varied levels of information, and input of those from different educational and cultural backgrounds. The cross‐cultural and interdisciplinary collaboration allowed for a previously unavailable enhancement of design education by encouraging students to obtain divergent thinking for innovative design ideas.
Safe Spaces, Support, Social Capital: A Critical Analysis of Artists Working with Vulnerable Young People in Educational Contexts
Authors: Sellman Edward
Published: February 2015

This article provides a critical and thematic analysis of three research projects involving artists working with vulnerable young people in educational contexts. It argues that artists create safe spaces in contrast to traditional educational activities but it will also raise questions about what constitutes such a space for participants. It will then show that skilled artists often mediate dichotomous pedagogical positions, characterised by competency and performance. It will employ the metaphor of a trellis to illustrate how artists provide flexible structure and support whilst allowing freedom and growth. Finally, it will discuss the social impact of the arts through the lens of social capital theory, highlighting the utility of the approach whilst also indicating areas for critical refinement.
We Must Find the Courage to Change
Authors: Lambert Douglas M. , Enz Matias G.
Published: February 2015

The Thought‐Leader Series of five articles in the March 2014 issue of the Journal of Business Logistics made it clear that major changes are required in both Logistics and Supply Chain Management programs and indeed in business schools. The articles provided further evidence of how ill‐advised metrics in the hands of fools not only result in a misuse of financial resources but also squander “the efforts of some of the world's best minds” (Economist 2013a). We address the problems that these “Thought‐Leader” pieces reveal, briefly review the criticism of business schools, and describe how the metrics used to evaluate performance are driving the wrong behavior. We offer recommendations for change including: stop competing based on flawed ranking systems; focus on providing students with a quality cross‐functional education; encourage faculty members to conduct problem‐driven, big‐idea research that impacts management practice; and change the incentive system for faculty and administrators. Faculty members in Logistics and Supply Chain Management have a unique opportunity to make substantial contributions due to the boundary‐spanning nature of these fields and the traditional emphasis on applied research. We should not ignore these strengths. Implementing our recommendations will not be easy but we must find the courage to change.
Major Complications and Mortality Within 30 Days of an Electrophysiological Procedure at an Academic Medical Center: Implications for Developing National Standards
Authors: HUSSAIN SARAH K. , EDDY MEGHAN M. , MOORMAN LIZA , MALHOTRA ROHIT , DARBY ANDREW E. , BILCHICK KENNETH , MASON PAMELA , MANGRUM MICHAEL J. , DIMARCO JOHN P. , FERGUSON JOHN D.
Published: February 2015

Major Complications Following EP Procedures

Background

Despite growing attention to performance and quality measures, national standards for reporting of outcomes after all electrophysiology (EP) procedures have not yet been developed. We sought to characterize the incidence and timing of adverse events up to 30 days after EP procedures at a tertiary academic medical center.

Methods and Results

We prospectively followed all patients undergoing EP procedures between January 2010 and September 2012. All were followed for 30 days postprocedure either in clinic or by telephone. Major complications were defined as events related to the procedure that led to prolongation of hospital stay or readmission, required additional procedural intervention, or resulted in death or significant injury. These were further categorized as intraprocedure, postprocedure, or postdischarge events. Seven EP physicians collectively adjudicated whether complications were directly related to the procedure. A total of 3,213 procedures were performed. Major complications occurred in 2.2% of patients; 49% of these events occurred after discharge. Death occurred in 0.6% of patients; 73% of these deaths were found to be secondary to worsening of the patient's underlying comorbid conditions and unrelated to the procedure.

Conclusions

When considering national standards for reporting outcomes of all EP procedures, continued follow‐up after discharge is important. In our cohort, half of major complications occurring within 30 days occurred after discharge. In addition, three‐quarters of deaths within 30 days were not directly related to the procedure and caution should be used in using all‐cause mortality as an outcome measure for EP procedures.
Influence of Zoledronic Acid on Atrial Electrophysiological Parameters and Electrocardiographic Measurements
Authors: TISDALE JAMES E. , ALLEN MATTHEW R. , OVERHOLSER BRIAN R. , JAYNES HEATHER A. , KOVACS RICHARD J.
Published: February 2015

Zoledronic Acid Alters Atrial Electrophysiology

Introduction

Our objective was to determine effects of zoledronic acid (ZA) on atrial electrophysiological parameters and electrocardiographic measurements.

Methods and Results

Ex vivo perfusion study: Isolated guinea pig hearts were perfused with modified Krebs‐Henseleit (K‐H) buffer with or without ZA 0.07 mg/kg/L (each n = 6). In ZA‐perfused hearts, atrial action potential at 90% repolarization (APD90) decreased more from baseline than in controls (−23.2% ± −5.1% vs. −2.1% ± −8.1%, P < 0 .0001), as did APD30 (−28.8% ± −3.8% vs. −2.1% ± −2.1%, P < 0.0001). In vivo dose‐response study: Guinea pigs underwent intraperitoneal injections every 2 weeks in 1 of 4 groups (each n = 8): ZA 0.007 mg/kg (low‐dose), ZA 0.07 mg/kg (medium‐dose), ZA 0.7 mg/kg (high‐dose), or placebo. Hearts were excised at 8 weeks and perfused with modified K‐H. Atrial effective refractory period (ERP) was lower with medium‐ and high‐dose ZA versus placebo (P = 0.004). Atrial APD30 was lower with high‐dose ZA versus placebo, low and medium doses (P < 0.001). Canine ECG study: Mature female beagles received intravenous ZA 0.067 mg/kg or saline (placebo; each n = 6) every 2 weeks for 12 weeks. P wave dispersion was greater in the ZA group (7.7 ± 3.7 vs. 3.4 ± 2.6 ms, P = 0.04). There were no significant differences in P wave index, maximum or minimum P wave duration, or PR interval.

Conclusion

ZA shortens left atrial APD and ERP and increases P wave dispersion.
Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index Is Not Associated With Magnetic Resonance Imaging Markers of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in Lacunar Stroke Patients
Authors: Klarenbeek Pim , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , Staals Julie
Published: February 2015

Ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) is associated with microvascular damage in other organs, but the association with microvascular brain damage is unknown. The association of AASI with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers of cerebral small vessel disease in 143 patients with lacunar stroke was investigated. We performed 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and scored the presence of lacunes, white matter hyperintensities, perivascular spaces, and cerebral microbleeds on brain MRI. In logistic regression analyses, AASI was associated with white matter hyperintensities, but, after adjustment for age and sex, this association lost significance. AASI was not associated with lacunes, microbleeds, or perivascular spaces. Systolic and diastolic 24‐hour blood pressure values were associated with lacunes, perivascular spaces, and microbleeds independent of age and sex. Despite its significance and growing interest as a possible prognostic and therapeutic target in (micro)vascular diseases, AASI seems to have no added value over standard 24‐hour blood pressure in cerebral small vessel disease.
Lin28a protects against cardiac ischaemia/reperfusion injury in diabetic mice through the insulin‐PI3K‐mTOR pathway
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Sun Dongdong , Li Shuang , Pan Xietian , Zhang Xiaotian , Zhu Di , Li Congye , Zhang Rongqing , Gao Erhe , Wang Haichang
Published: February 2015

The insulin‐PI3K‐mTOR pathway exhibits a variety of cardiovascular activities including protection against I/R injury. Lin28a enhanced glucose uptake and insulin‐sensitivity via insulin‐PI3K‐mTOR signalling pathway. However, the role of lin28a on experimental cardiac I/R injury in diabetic mice are not well understood. Diabetic mice underwent 30 min. of ischaemia followed by 3 hrs of reperfusion. Animals were randomized to be treated with lentivirus carrying lin28a siRNA (siLin28a) or lin28a cDNA (Lin28a) 72 hrs before coronary artery ligation. Myocardial infarct size (IS), cardiac function, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and mitochondria morphology in diabetic mice who underwent cardiac I/R injury were compared between groups. The target proteins of lin28a were examined by western blot analysis. Lin28a overexpression significantly reduced myocardial IS, improved LV ejection fraction (LVEF), decreased myocardial apoptotic index and alleviated mitochondria cristae destruction in diabetic mice underwent cardiac I/R injury. Lin28a knockdown exacerbated cardiac I/R injury as demonstrated by increased IS, decreased LVEF, increased apoptotic index and aggravated mitochondria cristae destruction. Interestingly, pre‐treatment with rapamycin abolished the beneficial effects of lin28a overexpression. Lin28a overexpression increased, while Lin28a knockdown decreased the expression of IGF1R, p‐Akt, p‐mTOR and p‐p70s6k after cardiac I/R injury in diabetic mice. Rapamycin pre‐treatment abolished the effects of increased p‐mTOR and p‐p70s6k expression exerted by lin28a overexpression. This study indicates that lin28a overexpression reduces IS, improves cardiac function, decreases cardiomyocyte apoptosis index and alleviates cardiomyocyte mitochondria impairment after cardiac I/R injury in diabetic mice. The mechanism responsible for the effects of lin28a is associated with the insulin‐PI3K‐mTOR dependent pathway.
Bone‐forming capacity of adult human nasal chondrocytes
Authors: Pippenger Benjamin E , Ventura Manuela , Pelttari Karoliina , Feliciano Sandra , Jaquiery Claude , Scherberich Arnaud , Walboomers X Frank , Barbero Andrea , Martin Ivan
Published: February 2015

Nasal chondrocytes (NC) derive from the same multipotent embryological segment that gives rise to the majority of the maxillofacial bone and have been reported to differentiate into osteoblast‐like cells in vitro. In this study, we assessed the capacity of adult human NC, appropriately primed towards hypertrophic or osteoblastic differentiation, to form bone tissue in vivo. Hypertrophic induction of NC‐based micromass pellets formed mineralized cartilaginous tissues rich in type X collagen, but upon implantation into subcutaneous pockets of nude mice remained avascular and reverted to stable hyaline‐cartilage. In the same ectopic environment, NC embedded into ceramic scaffolds and primed with osteogenic medium only sporadically formed intramembranous bone tissue. A clonal study could not demonstrate that the low bone formation efficiency was related to a possibly small proportion of cells competent to become fully functional osteoblasts. We next tested whether the cues present in an orthotopic environment could induce a more efficient direct osteoblastic transformation of NC. Using a nude rat calvarial defect model, we demonstrated that (i) NC directly participated in frank bone formation and (ii) the efficiency of survival and bone formation by NC was significantly higher than that of reference osteogenic cells, namely bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells. This study provides a proof‐of‐principle that NC have the plasticity to convert into bone cells and thereby represent an easily available cell source to be further investigated for craniofacial bone regeneration.
Replication of the association of GLT6D1 with aggressive periodontitis in a Sudanese population
Authors: Hashim Nada T. , Linden Gerard J. , Ibrahim Muntasir E. , Gismalla Bakri G. , Lundy Fionnuala T. , Hughes Francis J. , El Karim Ikhlas A.
Published: February 2015

Background

Susceptibility to aggressive periodontitis (AgP) is influenced by genetic as well as environmental factors. Studies linking gene variants to AgP have been mainly centred in developed countries with limited data from Africa.

Aim

To investigate whether previously reported candidate gene associations with AgP could be replicated in a population from Sudan.

Methods

The investigation was a case–control design. Cases with AgP (n = 132) and controls (n = 136) were identified from patients attending the Periodontal Department in Khartoum Dental Hospital. Genotyping was performed using the Sequenom MassARRAY iPLEX platform. Analysis focused on gene variants with a minor allele frequency (MAF) > 25% in the Sudanese subjects that had previously been reported to be associated with AgP.

Results

One candidate gene rs1537415 (GLT6D1) was significantly associated with AgP, OR = 1.50 (95% CI 1.04–2.17), p = 0.0295 (increasing to p = 0.09 after correction for multiple testing). The association strengthened to OR = 1.56 (95% CI 1.15–2.16), p = 0.0042 when the controls were supplemented with data from the Hap map for the Yoruba in Ibadan (n = 147) and remained significant (p = 0.013) after correction for multiple testing.

Conclusion

The study independently replicated the finding that rs1537415, a variant in glycosyl transferase gene GLT6D1, is associated with AgP and provided the first report of genetic associations with AgP in a Sudanese population.
Quantitative genetic properties of four measures of deformity in yellowtail kingfish Seriola lalandi Valenciennes, 1833
Authors: Nguyen N H , Whatmore P , Miller A , Knibb W
Published: February 2015

The main aim of this study was to estimate the heritability for four measures of deformity and their genetic associations with growth (body weight and length), carcass (fillet weight and yield) and flesh‐quality (fillet fat content) traits in yellowtail kingfish Seriola lalandi. The observed major deformities included lower jaw, nasal erosion, deformed operculum and skinny fish on 480 individuals from 22 families at Clean Seas Tuna Ltd. They were typically recorded as binary traits (presence or absence) and were analysed separately by both threshold generalized models and standard animal mixed models. Consistency of the models was evaluated by calculating simple Pearson correlation of breeding values of full‐sib families for jaw deformity. Genetic and phenotypic correlations among traits were estimated using a multitrait linear mixed model in ASReml. Both threshold and linear mixed model analysis showed that there is additive genetic variation in the four measures of deformity, with the estimates of heritability obtained from the former (threshold) models on liability scale ranging from 0.14 to 0.66 (SE 0.32–0.56) and from the latter (linear animal and sire) models on original (observed) scale, 0.01–0.23 (SE 0.03–0.16). When the estimates on the underlying liability were transformed to the observed scale (0, 1), they were generally consistent between threshold and linear mixed models. Phenotypic correlations among deformity traits were weak (close to zero). The genetic correlations among deformity traits were not significantly different from zero. Body weight and fillet carcass showed significant positive genetic correlations with jaw deformity (0.75 and 0.95, respectively). Genetic correlation between body weight and operculum was negative (−0.51, P < 0.05). The genetic correlations' estimates of body and carcass traits with other deformity were not significant due to their relatively high standard errors. Our results showed that there are prospects for genetic selection to improve deformity in yellowtail kingfish and that measures of deformity should be included in the recording scheme, breeding objectives and selection index in practical selective breeding programmes due to the antagonistic genetic correlations of deformed jaws with body and carcass performance.
Steady Shear Flow Behavior and Thixotropy of Wheat Starch Gel: Impact of Chemical Modification, Concentration and Saliva Addition
Authors: Yousefi A.R. , Razavi S.M.A.
Published: February 2015

The rheological properties of native wheat starch (NWS), cross‐linked wheat starch (CLWS) and hydroxypropylated wheat starch (HPWS) gels at two concentrations (8 and 12%) and in the presence and absence of saliva at 37C were investigated. More decrease in viscosity was observed for the HPWS (83.33%) gel samples at simulated mouth conditions (SMCs) compared to the NWS (32.05%) and CLWS (23.88%) gel samples. In the absence of saliva, the Herschel–Bulkley and Sisko models were the best ones to describe viscous flow behavior of all starch gels. The highest thixotropy extent was obtained for the HPWS (1.98–9.26) while no statistically significant difference was observed for that between the NWS and CLWS gel samples (P > 0.05). The first‐order stress decay model predicted the closest data in the SMC. The results suggested that chemical modification such as hydroxypropylation and cross‐linking can be used to manipulate or modify the rheological behavior of starch in the mouth conditions.

Practical Applications

Because of many nutritional, technological and textural advantages of starch in food and pharmaceutical systems, it is receiving much more attention. Investigation of the changes in such bioactive carbohydrates in gastrointestinal tract has recently been considered. Study of the rheological parameters is one of the ways to find the influence of each digestion process on the structural properties of starch samples. In this work, steady shear flow behavior and thixotropy of wheat starch gel affected by the type of wheat starch (native, cross‐linked and hydroxypropylated), concentration and saliva addition (SMCs) were studied. Investigation of rheological properties in a SMC allows a better understanding of food structure in the mastication condition, which can be used to develop a food product with special mouthfeel or for special consumers like people with dysphagia.
HepatitisBvirus mutation may play a role in hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence: A systematic review and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Zhou Hua‐ying , Luo Yue , Chen Wen‐dong , Gong Guo‐zhong
Published: February 2015

Background and Aims

A number of studies have confirmed that antiviral therapy with nucleotide analogs (NAs) can improve the prognosis of hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative therapy. However, what factors affected the prognosis ofHBV‐HCCafter removal of the primary tumor and inhibition ofHBVreplication? A meta‐regression analysis was conducted to explore the prognostic factor for this subgroup of patients.

Methods

MEDLINE,EMBASE,Web ofScience, andCochrane library were searched fromJanuary 1995 toFebruary 2014 for clinical trials evaluating the effect ofNAson the prognosis ofHBV‐HCCafter curative therapy. Data were extracted for host, viral, and intervention information. Single‐arm meta‐analysis was performed to assess overall survival (OS) rates andHCCrecurrence. Meta‐regression analysis was carried out to explore risk factors for 1‐yearOSrate andHCCrecurrence forHBV‐HCCpatients after curative therapy and antiviral therapy.

Results

Fourteen observational studies with 1284 patients met the inclusion criteria. Influential factors for prognosis ofHCCwere mainly baseline HBeAg positivity, cirrhotic stage, advanced Tumor‐Node‐Metastasis (TNM) stage, macrovascular invasion, and antiviral agent type. The 1‐yearOSrate decreased by more than four times (coefficient −4.45,P < 0.001) and the 1‐yearHCCrecurrence increased by more than one time (coefficient 1.20,P = 0.003) when lamivudine was chosen forHCCafter curative therapy, relative to entecavir forHCC.

Conclusions

HBV mutation may play a role inHCCrecurrence. Entecavir or tenofovir, a high genetic barrier to resistance, should be recommended forHBV‐HCCpatients.
Dysfunction of liver regeneration in aged liver after partial hepatectomy
Authors: Enkhbold Chinbold , Morine Yuji , Utsunomiya Tohru , Imura Satoru , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Arakawa Yusuke , Saito Yu , Yamada Shinichiro , Ishikawa Daichi , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: February 2015

Background and Aim

A remarkable feature of the liver is its regenerative capacity following partial hepatectomy. However, the regenerative capacity of many organs and tissues loses its natural ability to divide with aging. In this study, we investigated the association of aging with endoplasmic reticulum stress, the cell cycle, autophagy, and apoptosis‐related genes during liver regeneration after hepatectomy.

Methods

Balb/c 4‐week and 40‐week‐old male mice were subjected to 70% hepatectomy. Animals were sacrificed at 24, 48, and 72 h after hepatectomy. Immunohistochemical stainings for proliferating cell nuclear antigen, LC3, Atg5, and caspase‐3 were used to quantify protein expression. Real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction was used to detect p16, CHOP, LC3, Atg5, hepatocyte growth factor, cMet, cyclin D1, cyclin A2, and caspase‐3 expression.

Results

After hepatectomy, old group showed a lower survival rate and significantly lower expression of hepatocyte growth factor, cMet, cyclin D1, cyclin A2, proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling index, and SMP30 compared with young group. The liver weight/body weight ratio was significantly lower at 48 h and 72 h after hepatectomy and was accompanied by markedly elevated levels of the liver cell injury markers, LC3 and caspase‐3. Immunohistochemical results showed that LC3, Atg5, and caspase‐3 protein expression were higher in old group than in young group.

Conclusion

These results revealed that impaired liver regeneration was due to aging, which was expressed by decreased cell cycle and increased autophagy and apoptosis. Therefore, understanding the molecular basis for aged liver regeneration might provide a new therapeutic option for old patients.
The Use of Impella 2.5 in Severe Refractory Cardiogenic Shock Complicating an Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: CASASSUS FREDERIC , CORRE JEROME , LEROUX LIONEL , CHEVALEREAU PIERRE , FRESSELINAT AURELIE , SEGUY BENJAMIN , CALDERON JOACHIM , COSTE PIERRE , OUATTARA ALEXANDRE , ROQUES XAVIER , BARANDON LAURENT
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To investigate the outcome of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by refractory cardiogenic shock (CS) who underwent mechanical circulatory support with Impella 2.5.

Background

AMI complicated by CS remains a highly fatal condition. A potent and minimally invasive left ventricular assist device might improve patient outcomes.

Methods

We analyzed the procedural characteristics and outcomes of 22 consecutive patients who underwent, between July 2008 and December 2012, a percutaneous coronary intervention and Impella 2.5 support for AMI complicated by CS refractory to first‐line therapy with inotropes and/or Intra‐aortic balloon pump.

Results

In this analysis, patients were relatively young with a mean age of 57.9 ± 11.6 year old and 59.1% were male. The majority of patients (77.3%) were admitted in CS and 40.9% sustained cardiac arrest prior to admission. Hemodynamics improved significantly upon initiation of support, end‐organ and tissue perfusion improved subsequently demonstrated by a significant decrease in lactate levels from 6.37 ± 5.3 mmol/L to 2.41 ± 2.1 mmo/L, (P =  0.008) after 2 days of support. Thirteen (59.1%) patients were successfully weaned‐off Impella 2.5 and 4 (18.2%) were transitioned to another device. We observed a functional recovery of the left ventricle when compared to baseline (43 ± 10% vs. 27 ± 9%, P < 0.0001). The survival rate at 6 months and 1 year was 59.1% and 54.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

Impella 2.5 was initiated as a last resort therapy to support very sick patients with refractory CS after failed conventional therapy. The use of the device yielded favorable short and mid‐term survival results with recovery being the most frequently observed outcome. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:41–50)
Incidence and Predictors of Late Complete Heart Block After Alcohol Septal Ablation Treatment of Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: SCHULLER JOSEPH L. , ZIPSE MATTHEW M. , KRANTZ MORI J. , BLAKER BRIAN , SALCEDO ERNESTO , GROVES BERTRON M. , MESSENGER JOHN C. , BEATY BRENDA , SAUER WILLIAM H.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

This study was designed to identify the incidence of late complete heart block (CHB) first identified at least 48 hours post alcohol septal ablation (ASA).

Background

Septal reduction with ASA is a therapeutic option for patients with symptomatic hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HCM). CHB, resulting from the septal infarct, is a known complication with a reported incidence of 9–22%. The incidence of CHB more than 48 hours post‐procedure is unknown.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent ASA were analyzed and clinical characteristics associated with late CHB were assessed. Late CHB was defined as first identification of CHB more than 48 hours after ASA.

Results

From 2002–2013, 145 subjects underwent 168 ASA procedures and were followed for a mean of 3.2 +/− 2.3 years. The incidence of late CHB was 8.9% (15/168 ASA procedures). Heart block occurred from 48 hours to 3‐years post‐procedure. In a multivariable model, patients with any CHB were more likely to have had multiple ASA procedures (OR 4.14; 95% CI: 1.24, 13.9; P < 0.05) and high resting and provoked left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient assessed by catheterization (OR per 10 mmHg gradient 1.14; 95% CI: 1.0, 1.20; P < 0.05). After multivariable adjustment, only a high provokable LVOT gradient remained an independent predictor of late CHB (OR per 10 mmHg gradient 1.14 [95% CI 1.02–1.29]).

Conclusions

Late CHB is a common complication of ASA for treatment of symptomatic HCM. Post‐discharge electrocardiographic surveillance for atrioventricular conduction disease should be considered after ASA, especially for those with a high provokable LVOT gradient. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:90–97)
Effectiveness of MitraClip Therapy in Patients with Refractory Heart Failure
Authors: ADAMO MARIANNA , BARBANTI MARCO , CURELLO SALVATORE , FIORINA CLAUDIA , CHIARI ERMANNA , CHIZZOLA GIULIANO , CAPODANNO DAVIDE , TAMBURINO CORRADO , METRA MARCO , ETTORI FEDERICA
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To assess outcomes for MitraClip therapy in patients with refractory heart failure (HF) and mitral regurgitation (MR) ≥3+.

Background

The beneficial role of Mitraclip also in patients with severe HF has been reported.

Methods

Out of 45 patients undergoing MitraClip implantation at our institute, 16 were on refractory HF defined as diuretics and/or inotropics infusion and/or IABP dependence (group A) or labile haemodynamic balance (group B).

Results

Patients were aged 69 ± 13 years and 75% were males. Group A (8 patients) had a mean hospitalization length before MitraClip procedure of 5333 days. Group B (8 patients) had a mean rate of hospitalization, in the last 50 days before procedure, of 254 days. Acute procedural success was observed in 94% of patients. All but one patients of group A were quickly weaned from pharmacologic and/or mechanical supports within 5 ± 3 days from procedure and discharged at 20±10 days. All patients of group B were discharged after 10±8 days from MitraClip. At 1 year: a) cumulative survival rate was 78%; b) all patients were in NYHA functional class ≤ II; c) residual MR ≤ 2 was observed in 90%; d) systolic pulmonary arterial pressure was significantly reduced compared to the baseline (from 5410 to 398; p = 0,008); e) significant reduction of cumulative HF hospitalization days in the post‐procedure year (10 days) compared to the pre‐implantation year (280 days; p = 0.023) was observed.

Conclusions

In patients with refractory HF and MR ≥3+, MitraClip implantation resulted in acute and persistent clinical benefit and net reduction of HF re‐hospitalization. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:61–68)
Trajectories of body mass index amongst children who develop type 2 diabetes as adults
Authors: Eriksson J. G. , Kajantie E. , Lampl M. , Osmond C.
Published: February 2015

Objective

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a heterogeneous disorder. The aim of this study was to examine the trajectories of childhood growth associated with T2D.

Design and subjects

A total of 13 345 individuals born in Helsinki, Finland between 1934 and 1944 were included in the study. The participants' growth had been recorded in detail during childhood, and 11.7% (n = 1558) had been diagnosed with T2D. We divided the cohort around the median body mass index (BMI) at 11 years. Body composition and glucose tolerance were assessed in a clinical subsample (n = 2003) in adulthood.

Results

Two pathways of growth were associated with T2D. Both began with low weight and BMI at birth. In one, persistent low BMI through infancy was followed by a rapid increase in BMI in childhood. Amongst individuals with a BMI at 11 years above the median value, the odds ratio for T2D associated with a one z‐score increase in BMI between 2 and 11 years was 1.31 (95% confidence interval 1.21–1.42, P < 0.001). In the other pathway, low BMI at birth, accompanied by short length at birth, was followed by low BMI in childhood. Most women who developed diabetes followed this trajectory; they developed T2D at a lower BMI and lower fat percentage than women with a BMI above the median at 11 years of age.

Conclusions

Two pathways of early growth trigger T2D. Low fat deposition leading to thinness at birth and during infancy results in fat acquisition during childhood. Reduced linear growth leading to short length at birth is associated with lower body fat percentage in adulthood but increased risk of developing diabetes.
Onyx‐HD 500 Embolization of a Traumatic Internal Carotid Artery Pseudoaneurysm after Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Patel Akshal S. , Horton Tristram G. , Kalapos Paul , Cockroft Kevin M.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Traumatic intracranial pseudoaneurysms present a challenge for treatment. Traditionally these lesions have required a deconstructive approach consisting of vessel sacrifice since their fragile nature often makes direct microsurgical repair or coil embolization hazardous. As a high‐viscosity liquid embolic agent that results in immediate, vessel sparing aneurysm occlusion, Onyx‐HD 500 represents a uniquely efficacious tool for this clinical situation.

CASE SUMMARY

We report the case of a 56‐year‐old right‐handed gentleman who suffered a vascular injury to the ICA during revision transsphenoidal surgery for a recurrent pituitary macroadenoma. The patient was initially treated with nasal packing, but after recurrent episodes of epistaxis and a CT angiogram demonstrating a large traumatic ICA pseudoaneurysm, the patient was referred for invasive treatment. Given the presumed fragility of the lesion, embolization with Onyx‐HD 500 was chosen in order to safely achieve immediate aneurysm occlusion without the need for vessel sacrifice. After an early recurrence due to incomplete initial embolization, the patient went on to complete occlusion without further hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates the utility of a high‐viscosity liquid embolic agent in providing immediate protection from rehemorrhage by occluding a large ruptured pseudoaneurysm of the proximal intracranial ICA, while sparing the parent artery.
Tongue resting pressure of the tongue anchorage pad in different body positions: a pilot study
Authors: Zeng J. , Xu K. , Gao X. , Xu T.
Published: February 2015

We designed a modified transpalatal arch (tongue anchorage pad, TAP) to help control the vertical dimension. This study aimed to evaluate its efficiency by measuring the tongue resting pressure at different anteroposterior positions of the TAP in the upright and supine positions and to investigate the effect of changes in body position. Our study recruited 17 volunteers with individual normal occlusion (4 males, 13 females, age 22–33 years). An individualised TAP was designed for each subject. With a miniature sensor (FSS1500NS) installed in the device, we measured the pressure at the level of the distal second premolar (PM2), the first molar (M1) and the second molar (M2) in both the upright and supine positions. Nonparametric analysis was applied with the level of significance set at 0·05. In the upright position, tongue pressures obtained at PM2, M1 and M2 were 183·94, 130·81 and 113·07 Pa, respectively, with the maximum value detected at PM2 (P = 0·001). While in the supine position, pressures of 187·03, 156·87 and 201·69 Pa were detected at the same sites, with significantly higher values for M1 (P = 0·002) and M2 (P = 0·004). Tongue resting pressure decreases from the anterior aspect to the posterior aspect in the upright position. In the supine position, the pressure is consistent across the midline with pressure enhancement at M1 and M2. As many questions remain about this appliance and appropriate intruding force, further clinical and basic studies are required prior to its clinical implementation.
An evaluation of salt screening methodologies
Authors: Fernández Casares Ana , Nap W Mieke , Ten Figás Glòria , Huizenga Pieter , Groot Richard , Hoffmann Marcel
Published: February 2015

Objectives

In this study, the advantages and disadvantages of three salt screening methodologies have been explored, and recommendations are put forward as to when each method is most appropriate.

Methods

Three salt screening methodologies have been investigated: the in-situ salt screen, the saturated solution or rational screen approach, and the cooling-evaporative or high-throughput method. Two Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) with significant differences in aqueous solubility have been chosen for this study, namely aripiprazole and desvenlafaxine (see Figure 1).

Key findings

The in-situ salt formation screen appears to be a good method for early stage salt selection based on aqueous solubility, although this approach does not work for all APIs, as demonstrated in the comparison between aripiprazole and desvenlafaxine. The saturated solution method or rational approach demonstrated a valuable overview of the different salts that can be formed in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The cooling-evaporative screening method involved a complete examination of salt formation, including indication of polymorphism of the salts produced.

Conclusions

The three salt formation approaches are methods that deliver crystalline salts. The choice of salt screen approach depends on the physical properties of the drug substance, development stage and objective of the screen.
The Future of Logistics in Emerging Markets—Fuzzy Clustering Scenarios Grounded in Institutional and Factor‐Market Rivalry Theory
Authors: Hirschinger Micha , Spickermann Alexander , Hartmann Evi , von der Gracht Heiko , Darkow Inga‐Lena
Published: February 2015

Transportation and logistics are increasingly relevant to the rapid economic growth of emerging economies. Decision makers in the transportation and logistics industry require a comprehensive understanding of the institutional business environment and factor markets in emerging economy countries to formulate accurate supply chain strategies for the future. Although extensive studies on prospective scenarios in emerging economies are available, research has largely neglected the future evolution of transportation and logistics. This study addresses this gap by applying a multiple method research approach and relying on institutional theory and factor‐market rivalry theory to create scenarios of the development of transportation and logistics in emerging economy countries by 2030. We do so by collecting qualitative and quantitative data through a Delphi survey and applying fuzzy clustering to group the results into meaningful and interpretable scenarios. Our results suggest that emerging economies will take advantage of free trade zones to consolidate their position in the international market and encourage investment. Consequently, logistics will experience rapid growth and value‐added services will expand, propelling new players from developing economies onto the international stage. Our findings also suggest that the logistics service industry in emerging economy countries will undergo a significant consolidation process, leading to the possibility of factor‐market rivalry among shippers. This suggests that shippers' social networks and personal contacts will increase in importance in the future.
The Role of Ego Network Structure in Facilitating Ego Network Innovations
Authors: Carnovale Steven , Yeniyurt Sengun
Published: February 2015

A great deal of research on innovation implicitly relies upon the network in which a firm is embedded to explain its innovative capabilities. Interestingly, however, most research examines innovation at the firm level, rather than at the network level. Thus, there is a significant gap in the literature regarding the effects of network structure on innovation within a firm's network. In this research, we contribute to the literature of supply chain innovations by developing and testing theoretically derived hypotheses regarding the effect of network structure on innovation output and distribution, as measured by the aggregate count and variance in the distribution of patents of the ego network in which a firm exists. Utilizing a manufacturing joint venture network dataset, we identify effects of various ego network constructs such as betweenness, density, brokerage, and weakness on ego network innovation. We find support for the idea that innovation in a supply chain is highly dependent upon the network structure of the interfirm relationships. Thus, it is not just what you know or how well you individually innovate, but also how well the firm can leverage its supply network connections that engender superior innovation outcomes.
Associations between children's intelligence and academic achievement: the role of sleep
Authors: Erath Stephen A. , Tu Kelly M. , Buckhalt Joseph A. , El‐Sheikh Mona
Published: February 2015

Sleep problems (long wake episodes, low sleep efficiency) were examined as moderators of the relation between children's intelligence and academic achievement. The sample was comprised of 280 children (55% boys; 63% European Americans, 37% African Americans; mean age = 10.40 years, SD = 0.65). Sleep was assessed during seven consecutive nights of actigraphy. Children's performance on standardized tests of intelligence (Brief Intellectual Ability index of the Woodcock–Johnson III) and academic achievement (Alabama Reading and Math Test) were obtained. Age, sex, ethnicity, income‐to‐needs ratio, single parent status, standardized body mass index, chronic illness and pubertal development were controlled in analyses. Higher intelligence was strongly associated with higher academic achievement across a wide range of sleep quality. However, the association between intelligence and academic achievement was slightly attenuated among children with more long wake episodes or lower sleep efficiency compared with children with higher‐quality sleep.
Impact of skin capsular distance on the performance of controlled attenuation parameter in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Shen Feng , Zheng Rui‐Dan , Shi Jun‐Ping , Mi Yu‐Qiang , Chen Guo‐Feng , Hu Xiqi , Liu Yong‐Gang , Wang Xiao‐Ying , Pan Qin , Chen Guang‐Yu , Chen Jian‐Neng , Xu Liang , Zhang Rui‐Nan , Xu Lei‐Ming , Fan Jian‐Gao
Published: February 2015

Background & Aims

Controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) is a non‐invasive method for evaluating hepatic steatosis. However, larger skin capsular distance (SCD) can affect the accuracy. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of SCD on the diagnostic performance of CAP and liver stiffness measurement (LSM).

Methods

Of 101 patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and 280 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who underwent liver biopsy were prospectively recruited. CAP, LSM and SCD were performed using FibroScan with M probe. The areas under receiver operating characteristics curves (AUROCs) were calculated to determine the diagnostic efficacy. The optimal thresholds were defined by the maximum Youden index.

Results

SCD (B 30.34, P < 0.001) and hepatic steatosis (B 23.04, P < 0.001) were independently associated with CAP by multivariate analysis. The AUROCs were slightly higher for SCD <25 mm compared to those for SCD ≥25 mm for steatosis ≥5% (0.88 vs. 0.81), >33% (0.90 vs. 0.85) and >66% (0.84 vs. 0.72). For SCD <25 mm, the optimal CAP cut‐offs for differentiating steatosis ≥5%, >33% and >66% were 255.0 dB/m, 283.5 dB/m and 293.5 dB/m. However, cut‐offs were elevated by approximately 60–70 dB/m for SCD ≥25 mm. When stratified by fibrosis grade, LSM was significantly affected by SCD ≥25 mm for advanced fibrosis (≥F3) in NAFLD, but not in CHB.

Conclusion

CAP is a promising tool for detecting and quantifying hepatic steatosis. SCD ≥25 mm may cause overestimation of steatosis. Similarly, SCD ≥25 mm affects the detection of advanced fibrosis by LSM in NAFLD patients.
Adding multiple micronutrient powders to a homestead food production programme yields marginally significant benefit on anaemia reduction among young children inNepal
Authors: Osei Akoto K. , Pandey Pooja , Spiro David , Adhikari Debendra , Haselow Nancy , De Morais Caroline , Davis Dale
Published: February 2015

Anaemia affects 46% of preschool‐aged children inNepal. A cluster‐randomised study was conducted in ruralNepal to test whether providing micronutrient powders (MNP) in addition to enhanced homestead food production (EHFP) programme, consisting of home gardens, poultry and nutrition education, could lead to a higher reduction in anaemia compared with providing onlyEHFP. This sub‐study enrolled 335 children aged 6–9 months into one of three groups: (1)EHFP + MNP; (2)EHFP; or (3) control. TheEHFP + MNPgroup received 60 sachets ofMNPfor flexible consumption at the start and 6 months later for a total supplementation period of 11 months. TheMNPcontained 15 micronutrients including iron (10 mg encapsulated ferrous fumarate). Haemoglobin and anthropometry were measured at baseline and post‐MNPsupplementation. Mean ± SEhaemoglobin concentration increased significantly in all groups, with a slightly higher but non‐significant increase in theEHFP + MNPandEHFPcompared with control (difference‐in‐differences: 4.1 g L−1forEHFP + MNPvs. control; 3.6 g L−1forEHFPvs. control; 0.5 g L−1forEHFP + MNPvs.EHFP). Anaemia decreased at a slightly higher magnitude in theEHFP + MNP[51.5 percentage points (PP)] than theEHFP(48.6PP) and control (39.6PP), with adjusted odds ratios (95%CI) at post‐supplementation of 0.52 (0.25–1.12) forEHFP + MNPand 0.69 (0.35–1.36) forEHFP, compared with control. There was no impact on child growth. CombiningEHFPandMNPprogrammes yielded a marginally significant reduction in anaemia among children.
Differential proteomic responses of selectively bred and wild‐type Sydney rock oyster populations exposed to elevated CO2
Authors: Thompson E. L. , O'Connor W. , Parker L. , Ross P. , Raftos D. A
Published: February 2015

Previous work suggests that larvae from Sydney rock oysters that have been selectively bred for fast growth and disease resistance are more resilient to the impacts of ocean acidification than nonselected, wild‐type oysters. In this study, we used proteomics to investigate the molecular differences between oyster populations in adult Sydney rock oysters and to identify whether these form the basis for observations seen in larvae. Adult oysters from a selective breeding line (B2) and nonselected wild types (WT) were exposed for 4 weeks to elevated pCO2 (856 μatm) before their proteomes were compared to those of oysters held under ambient conditions (375 μatm pCO2). Exposure to elevated pCO2 resulted in substantial changes in the proteomes of oysters from both the selectively bred and wild‐type populations. When biological functions were assigned, these differential proteins fell into five broad, potentially interrelated categories of subcellular functions, in both oyster populations. These functional categories were energy production, cellular stress responses, the cytoskeleton, protein synthesis and cell signalling. In the wild‐type population, proteins were predominantly upregulated. However, unexpectedly, these cellular systems were downregulated in the selectively bred oyster population, indicating cellular dysfunction. We argue that this reflects a trade‐off, whereby an adaptive capacity for enhanced mitochondrial energy production in the selectively bred population may help to protect larvae from the effects of elevated CO2, whilst being deleterious to adult oysters.
Apparent vector‐mediated parent‐to‐offspring transmission in an avian malaria‐like parasite
Authors: Chakarov Nayden , Linke Burkhard , Boerner Martina , Goesmann Alexander , Krüger Oliver , Hoffman Joseph I.
Published: February 2015

Parasite transmission strategies strongly impact host–parasite co‐evolution and virulence. However, studies of vector‐borne parasites such as avian malaria have neglected the potential effects of host relatedness on the exchange of parasites. To test whether extended parental care in the presence of vectors increases the probability of transmission from parents to offspring, we used high‐throughput sequencing to develop microsatellites for malaria‐like Leucocytozoon parasites of a wild raptor population. We show that host siblings carry genetically more similar parasites than unrelated chicks both within and across years. Moreover, chicks of mothers of the same plumage morph carried more similar parasites than nestlings whose mothers were of different morphs, consistent with matrilineal transmission of morph‐specific parasite strains. Ours is the first evidence of an association between host relatedness and parasite genetic similarity, consistent with vector‐mediated parent‐to‐offspring transmission. The conditions for such ‘quasi‐vertical’ transmission may be common and could suppress the evolution of pathogen virulence.