bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amniotic fluid embolism: incidence, risk factors, and impact on perinatal outcome
Authors: Kramer MS , Rouleau J , Liu S , Bartholomew S , Joseph KS ,   for the Maternal Health Study Group of the Canadian Perinatal Surveillance System
Published: April 2012

Please cite this paper as: Kramer M, Rouleau J, Liu S, Bartholomew S, Joseph K for the Maternal Health Study Group of the Canadian Perinatal Surveillance System. Amniotic fluid embolism: incidence, risk factors, and impact on perinatal outcome. BJOG 2012;119:874–879.

Objective  To extend our previous work on AFE in Canada by including stricter criteria for case identification and by examining risks for stillbirth, neonatal mortality and serious maternal and neonatal morbidity.

Design  Population‐based cohort study.

Setting  Canada.

Population or sample  In all, 4 508 462 hospital deliveries from fiscal year 1991/92 to 2008/09.

Methods  To reduce false‐positive diagnoses, we restricted our analysis to AFE cases with cardiac arrest, shock or severe hypertension, respiratory distress, mechanical ventilation, coma, seizure, or coagulation disorder. Linkage of maternal and neonatal records, available since 2001/02, enabled us to examine the effects of AFE on neonatal outcomes. Detailed demographic and clinical data facilitated control for a broad array of potential confounding variables.

Main outcome measures  Amniotic fluid embolism, in‐hospital neonatal death, asphyxia, mechanical ventilation, bacterial sepsis, seizure, nonimmune haemolytic or traumatic jaundice and length of hospital stay.

Results  A total of 292 AFE cases were identified, of which only 120 (40%) were confirmed after applying our additional diagnostic criteria, yielding an AFE incidence of 2.5 per 100 000 deliveries. Of the 120 confirmed cases, 33 (27%) were fatal. Significant modifiable risk factors included medical induction, caesarean delivery, instrumental vaginal delivery, and uterine or cervical trauma. Amniotic fluid embolism was associated with significantly increased risks of stillbirth and neonatal asphyxia, mechanical ventilation, sepsis, seizures and prolonged length of hospital stay.

Conclusions  Amniotic fluid embolism remains a rare but serious obstetric outcome, with several important modifiable risk factors and major implications for maternal, fetal and neonatal health.
Mismatches between breeding success and habitat preferences in Hen Harriers Circus cyaneus breeding in forested landscapes
Authors: WILSON MARK W. , O’DONOGHUE BARRY , O’MAHONY BARRY , CULLEN CHRIS , O’DONOGHUE TIM , OLIVER GEOFF , RYAN BARRY , TROAKE PAUL , IRWIN SANDRA , KELLY THOMAS C. , ROTELLA JAY J. , O’HALLORAN JOHN
Published: April 2012

During the past century, the upland breeding areas of Hen Harriers in Ireland have been extensively afforested. There is no evidence that this species avoids breeding in heavily forested landscapes and, indeed, young commercial forests in their second rotation are often selected as nest‐sites. However, Hen Harriers have coexisted with these forested areas for only a few decades and it is possible that such landscapes are suboptimal. We examined the relationship between breeding success and habitat using a dataset spanning three years and four study areas in the south and west of Ireland. We assessed whether nest success and fledged brood size were related to habitat type, both at the nest‐site and in the surrounding landscape. Neither measure of breeding productivity was related to total forest cover or to percentage cover of closed canopy forest in the landscape. However, in a subset of areas, high cover of second‐rotation pre‐thicket (young forests planted on land from which a first rotation has already been harvested) in the surrounding landscape was associated with low levels of breeding success. This may be due to factors related to predation, disturbance or prey availability. The fact that second‐rotation pre‐thicket is a preferred habitat for nesting in Ireland suggests that Hen Harriers may be making suboptimal decisions in the landscapes available to them.
Physical activation of biochar and its meaning for soil fertility and nutrient leaching – a greenhouse experiment
Authors: Borchard N. , Wolf A. , Laabs V. , Aeckersberg R. , Scherer H. W. , Moeller A. , Amelung W.
Published: April 2012

The slow alteration of the surface of charred biomass (biochar) over time may contribute to an improved nutrient retention and thus fertility of tropical soils. Here, we investigated soils from temperate climates and investigated whether a technical steam activation of biochar could accelerate its positive effects on nutrient retention and uptake by plants relative to nonactivated biochar. To this aim, we performed microcosm experiments with sandy or silty soil, mixed with 2.0, 7.5 and 15.0 g/kg soil of fine (<2 mm) or coarse‐sized (2–10 mm) biochar from beech wood (Fagus sp.). After initial fertilizer (NPK), ashes and excess nutrients were leached with water, and the microcosms were planted for 142 days with Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum ssp. italicum). Thereafter, leachate, soil and plant samples were analysed for their nutrient contents. The results showed that biochar additions of ≤15 g/kg soil left elevated contents of available P and N in the surface soil but reduced their uptake into the plants. As a result, total biomass production was unchanged. Different particle size and application amounts influenced these findings only marginally. Nitrate leaching was enhanced in the sandy soil (+41% for nitrate, but reduced in the silty soil −17%) and P was immobilized. Hence, the fertility of the temperate soils under study was only marginally affected by pure biochar amendments. Steam activation, however, almost doubled the positive effects of biochars in all instances, thus being an interesting option for future biochar applications.
The impact of information acquisition on EU performance judgements
Authors: ELENBAAS MATTHIJS , DE VREESE CLAES H. , BOOMGAARDEN HAJO G. , SCHUCK ANDREAS R.T.
Published: April 2012

Public evaluations of EU performance are not only critical indicators of the EU's output legitimacy, but also shape future support for European integration. For citizens to monitor the political performance of the EU they need relevant facts, yet it is anything but clear that gains in information about EU performance causechangein judgements about such performance. Drawing on two‐wave panel data, this article examines whether acquiring information following a real‐world EU decision‐making event alters citizens' judgements about the utilitarian and democratic performance of the EU. It also examines how this effect differs for people with different levels of general political information. It is found that citizens who acquired performance‐relevant information became more approving of the EU's utilitarian performance but did not change their judgements about its democratic performance. Also, individuals with moderate levels of general political information were affected most strongly by new facts about performance. The implications of these findings for EU‐level representative democracy are considered.
Dissent in Iberia: The ideal points of justices on the Spanish and Portuguese Constitutional Tribunals
Authors: HANRETTY CHRIS
Published: April 2012

In this article, the non‐unanimous decisions of the Portuguese and Spanish Constitutional Tribunals for the periods 1989–2009 and 2000–2009 are analysed. It is shown that judicial dissent can be predicted moderately well on the basis of judicial ideal points along a single dimension. This dimension is equivalent to the left–right cleavage in both Portugal and Spain. The characteristics of the recovered dimension are demonstrated by analysing both the properties of the cases and the properties of the justices who decided them.
Motivating the European voter: Parties, issues and campaigns in European Parliament elections
Authors: HOBOLT SARA B. , SPOON JAE‐JAE
Published: April 2012

Voters behave differently in European Parliament (EP) elections compared to national elections because less is at stake in these ‘second‐order’ elections. While this explains the primary characteristic of EP elections, it has often led to a conflation of distinct motivations for changing behaviour – namely sincere and protest voting. By distinguishing these motivations, this article addresses the question of when and why voters alter their behaviour in EP elections. In addition, it argues that the degree of politicisation of the EU in the domestic debate shapes the extent to which voters rely on EU, rather than national, considerations. These propositions are tested in a multilevel analysis in 27 countries in the 2009 EP elections. The findings have important implications for understanding why voters change their behaviour between different types of elections.
Management of Patients with Drug‐Induced Atrioventricular Block
Authors: OSMONOV DAMIRBEK , ERDINLER IZZET , OZCAN KAZIM SERHAN , ALTAY SERVET , TURKKAN CEYHAN , YILDIRIM ERSIN , HASDEMIR HAKAN , ALPER AHMET TAHA , CAKMAK NAZMIYE , SATILMIS SECKIN , GURKAN KADIR
Published: April 2012

Objective:

To identify the frequency of atrioventricular (AV) conduction improvement after discontinuation of the culprit drug in patients with AV block.

Background:

AV blockers are considered as reversible causes of AV block that do not require pacemaker (PM) implantation. However, controversial reports declared that a major part of these drug‐induced AV blocks are persistent or recurrent.

Methods:

Of 668 consecutive patients with symptomatic type II second‐ or third‐degree AV block, 2:1 AV block, atrial fibrillation, and bradyarrhythmia, 108 patients (62 patients enrolled prospectively) using AV blockers without myocardial infarction, electrolyte abnormalities, digitalis toxicity, and vasovagal syncope were enrolled into the present study. The level of AV block (AV‐nodal or infranodal) was defined according to electrocardiographic characteristics.

Results:

The most frequent culprit medications were β‐blockers followed by digoxin. Drug discontinuation was followed by resolution of AV block in 72% of cases, whereas spontaneous resolution of AV block occurred in only 6.6% of patients who had AV block in the absence of medications. However, 27% of patients with improved AV conduction experienced a recurrence of AV block despite discontinuation of the culprit drug. Twenty‐one of 24 carvedilol‐induced AV blocks resolved after discontinuation of the drug and never recurred, whereas 24 of 36 metoprolol‐induced AV blocks persisted or recurred. A digoxin‐induced AV block usually improved (28 of 39) after withdrawal of the drug. Roughly half of the patients with drug‐induced AV block underwent permanent PM implantation.

Conclusion:

Drug‐induced AV block is a serious disease that requires a permanent PM for almost half of the patients.
(PACE 2012;XX:1–7)
Direct Coagulation Casting of Positively Charged Alumina Suspension by Controlled Release of High Valence Counter Ions from Calcium Phosphate
Authors: Xu Jie , Wen Ning , Qi Fei , Li Hexin , Yang Jinlong
Published: April 2012

The idea of controlled release of high valence counter ions was used in direct coagulation casting of ceramics. Calcium phosphate was used as the high valence counter ions source. Influence of the content of calcium phosphate on the viscosity of the suspension with positive charge on particles and the properties of green body were investigated. The results show that the content of calcium phosphate which leads to coagulation of suspension is 0.15–0.2 wt%. The pH changes from acidic regime to basic regime after calcium phosphate addition. Hydrochloric acid is consumed and CaHPO4, Ca(H2PO4)2, and CaCl2 are generated. The electrical double layer of alumina particles is strongly compressed by Ca2+ ions, leading to rapid increase of viscosity. Also, the pH value at high temperature approaches to isoelectric point of alumina and contributes to the instability of suspension. The optimum coagulated temperature is 60°C with coagulation time of 135 min. The compressive strength of green body is up to 2.8 MPa.
Microwave‐Assisted Rapid Synthesis of ZnO Hexagonal Quasi‐Hourglasses
Authors: Chen Wei , Yu Dandan , Ruan Hong , Li Danzhen , Hu Yin , Chen Yibin , He Yunhui , Fu Xianzhi , Shao Yu
Published: April 2012

To controllably construct ZnO‐base heterostructures, unique ZnO hexagonal quasi‐hourglasses have been synthesized by a microwave‐assisted hydrothermal approach. The phase purity and the morphologies of as‐prepared samples have been determined by using X‐ray powder diffractometer, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. We have rationally discussed the growth and reaction mechanism and revealed the morphological evolution of ZnO hexagonal quasi‐hourglasses. Dodecylamine, as well as the initial concentration of zinc source, the reaction temperature and time, play an important part in the synthesis of ZnO hexagonal quasi‐hourglasses. Between ZnO and Zn5(OH)8(NO3)2, a reversible reaction seldom reported occurs in a circular manner as the reaction proceeds continuously. The presence of ZnO multipods in the products and the controllable synthesis of half of ZnO hexagonal quasi‐hourglass betoken a possibility to synthesize ZnO hierarchical architectures, even ZnO‐base heterostructures by using this kind of ZnO building blocks.
Qualitative bone CT as a tool to assess vascularization in irradiated bone: an animal study
Authors: Lethaus Bernd , Poort Lucas , Yamauchi Kensuke , Kloss‐Brandstätter Anita , Boeckmann Roland , Kessler Peter
Published: April 2012

Objective

The purpose of this paper was to find a correlation between laser doppler flowmetry (LDF) and the bone mineral density quotient (BMDQ) to evaluate irradiated bone quality preoperatively.

Materials and methods

Premolars and molars were extracted from six minipigs. After a three‐month healing period, three animals received irradiation at a total dose of 24 Gy. Three months after irradiation, quantitative computed tomography was performed using a calibration bone phantom to determine the 120‐position BMDQ in the alveolar bone. A drill template was created to define the exact location for measurement. LDF was then recorded after osteotomy of the residual alveolar ridge. The correlation between the BMDQ and LDF was investigated.

Results

There was a linear negative correlation between LDF and BMDQ in non‐irradiated bone (r = −0.435, P = 0.001) and less pronounced also in irradiated bone (r = −0.309, P = 0.017).

In both non‐irradiated and irradiated bone, we found distinct differences between the maxilla and mandible with respect to BMDQ. However, a clear difference in mandibular and maxillary vascularity was only seen in non‐irradiated bone.

Conclusion

In non‐irradiated bone, LDF and BMDQ were inversely correlated. In irradiated bone, the BMDQ alone is not an adequate preoperative tool for evaluating bone quality because it was not correlated with bone perfusion.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid presenting as periauricular cystic nodules: a series of four cases
Authors: Lehmer Larisa M. , Ragsdale Bruce D. , Crawford Richard I. , Bukachevsky Roman , Hannah Lauren A.
Published: April 2012

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is a relatively common neoplasm of the major and minor salivary glands that can secondarily involve skin. In the vicinity of the ear lobe, mimicry of a benign cyst, both clinically and histopathologically is a diagnostic pitfall to avoid. The clinical manifestations, diagnostic histopathology, and clinical course of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland presenting as a clinically benign periauricular cystic nodule in four patients ranging in age from 11 to 63 years, are analyzed in the present report. Illustrating the challenge of accurate diagnosis, three of the four cases were initially misinterpreted on biopsy as benign cystic lesions. Multiple biopsies displayed foamy histiocytes around mucinous extravasations into dermis that mimicked ruptured epithelial cysts in two cases before malignancy was ascertained. This series demonstrates the need to include parotid tumor in the differential diagnosis of odd periauricular cyst‐like expansions and adenosquamous proliferations. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma in particular can explain indolent, infra‐auricular ‘mucinous cysts'. Familiarity with this syndrome should arouse suspicion of parotid carcinoma when a ‘cyst’ or nodule is located near the earlobe. Delay in diagnosis results in larger surgical procedures than are otherwise necessary.
Fleeing towards death – leech‐induced behavioural defences increase freshwater snail susceptibility to predatory fish
Authors: Ahlgren Johan , Brönmark Christer
Published: April 2012

Prey species are often exposed to multiple predators, which presents several difficulties to prey species. This is especially true when the response to one predator influences the prey’s susceptibility to other predators. Predator‐induced defences have evolved in a wide range of prey species, and experiments involving predators with different hunting strategies allow researchers to evaluate how prey respond to multiple threats. Freshwater snails are known to respond to a variety of predators with both morphological and behavioural defences. Here we studied how freshwater snails Radix balthica responded behaviourally to fish and leech predators, both separately and together. Our aim was to explore whether conflicting predator‐induced responses existed and, if so, what effect they had on snail survival when both predatory fish and leeches were present. We found that although R. balthica increased refuge use when exposed to predatory fish, they decreased refuge use when exposed to predatory leeches. When both predators were present, snails showed a stronger response towards leech than fish and responded by leaving the refuge. This response made the snails more susceptible to fish predation, which increased snail mortality when exposed to both fish and leech compared to fish only. We show that predators that have a relatively low predation rate can substantially increase mortality rates by indirect effects. By forcing snails out of refuges such as rock and macrophyte habitats, leeches can indirectly increase predation from molluscivorous fish and may thus affect snail densities.
Lipopolysaccharide induces rapid loss of follicular dendritic cell‐secreted protein in the junctional epithelium
Authors: Oshiro A. , Iseki S. , Miyauchi M. , Terashima T. , Kawaguchi Y. , Ikeda Y. , Shinomura T.
Published: April 2012

Oshiro A, Iseki S, Miyauchi M, Terashima T, Kawaguchi Y, Ikeda Y, Shinomura T. Lipopolysaccharide induces rapid loss of follicular dendritic cell‐secreted protein in the junctional epithelium. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 689–694. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  We have previously reported that mRNA encoding follicular dendritic cell‐secreted protein (FDC‐SP) is expressed specifically in the junctional epithelium at the gingival crevice. Other tissues, such as tonsil, prostate gland and trachea, also express high levels of FDC‐SP. These tissues participate in a range of functions closely related to innate immunity. Therefore, it is hypothesized that FDC‐SP plays a crucial role in close association with the host defense system within the gingival crevice. Accordingly, the main aim of this study was to investigate the expression and localization of FDC‐SP in and around the junctional epithelium and to observe the dynamic changes of FDC‐SP in experimental inflammation.

Material and Methods:  We examined, immunohistochemically, the expression of FDC‐SP in the junctional epithelium using a specific antibody raised in rabbit after immunization with a synthetic peptide derived from the hydrophilic region of FDC‐SP. Experimental inflammation was induced in the upper molars of Wistar rats by applying bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 5 mg/mL in sterile saline) for 1 h.

Results:  We confirmed that FDC‐SP is present in the junctional epithelium in a pattern that is consistent with the expression of FDC‐SP mRNA. Of special interest is that no FDC‐SP was detectable in the junctional epithelium 3 h after transient topical treatment with LPS.

Conclusion:  The presence of FDC‐SP in the junctional epithelium and its loss after LPS treatment strongly support our hypothesis of FDC‐SP playing a crucial role in close association with the host defense system within the gingival crevice.
Distinct localization of T cell Agrin during antigen presentation – evidence for the expression of Agrin receptor(s) in antigen‐presenting cells
Authors: Kabouridis Panagiotis S. , Pimentel Tatiana A. , Brancaleone Vincenzo , D’Acquisto Fulvio , Oliani Sonia M. , Perretti Mauro , Jury Elizabeth C.
Published: April 2012

Agrin is over‐expressed by activated and autoimmune T cells, and synergizes with the T cell receptor (TCR) to augment cell activation. In the present study, we show that Agrin accumulates to distinct areas of the plasma membrane and that cell activation causes its redistribution. During antigen presentation, Agrin primarily accumulates to the periphery of the mature immunological synapse, mostly in lamellipodia‐like protrusions that wrap around the antigen‐presenting cell and, conversely, anti‐Agrin sera induced a significant redistribution of TCR at the plasma membrane. We also provide evidence for the expression of Agrin receptors in peripheral blood monocytes, dendritic cells and a fraction of B cells. Interestingly, interferon‐α treatment, which induces the expression of Agrin in T cells, also augmented Agrin binding to monocytes. Stimulation of monocytes with recombinant Agrin induced the clustering of surface receptors, including major histocompatibility complex class II, activation of intracellular signalling cascades, as well as enhanced dsRNA‐induced expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α. Collectively, these results confirm the location of Agrin at the immunological synapse between T cells and antigen‐presenting cells and justify further characterization of its receptors in the immune system.
Management of sunitinib adverse events in renal cell carcinoma patients: The Asian experience
Authors: ZHOU Aiping
Published: April 2012

Sunitinib is the gold standard of care for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, demonstrating an overall survival benefit of over 2 years in a pivotal phase 3 trial of 750 patients. While sunitinib is generally well tolerated with most adverse events, manifesting as mild to moderate in severity and manageability, it has a distinctive adverse event profile that benefits from careful monitoring during treatment. As sunitinib gains widespread use across the globe, best practices are being developed for specific patient groups. This review will focus on the current clinical trial data in Asian populations and on the mechanism, incidence and management of selected sunitinib‐related adverse events, including hand‐foot syndrome, hypertension, proteinuria, cardiac toxicities, myelosupression, fatigue/asthenia, hypothyroidism, diarrhea and hepatotoxicity. Taken together, the developing body of literature reviewed here demonstrates that sunitinib is well tolerated in Asian patients and provides efficacy that is similar, if not superior, to other patient groups. Asian patients, like all patients, should begin treatment of sunitinib at 50 mg on Schedule 4/2 (4 weeks on treatment/2 weeks off). Prophylactic measures, good communication between patient and health‐care providers, and early, aggressive intervention at the development of adverse events can limit the dose reductions required and maximize both patients' response to treatment and their quality of life.
No association between transmembrane protein‐tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C (PTPRC) exon A 77C>G transversion and liver transplant rejection
Authors: Thude H. , Schipler A. D. , Treszl A. , Sterneck M. , Nashan B.
Published: April 2012

This study was carried out to evaluate the association between 77C>G transversion (rs17612648) in exon A of the PTPRC gene and liver transplant rejection. No significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies of the 77C>G transversion were detected between recipients without rejection (n = 106) and recipients with rejection (n = 104). In conclusion, there was no evidence for the contribution of the 77C>G transversion in susceptibility to liver transplant rejection in a Caucasian population.
QUALITY OF FISH SAUCE PRODUCTS FROM RECYCLED BY‐PRODUCTS FROM FISH GEL ANDKAMABOKOPROCESSING
Authors: TAKANO T. , SHOZEN K. , SATOMI M. , TAIRA W. , ABE H. , FUNATSU Y.
Published: April 2012

In order to make effective reuse ofkamabokoprocessing wastes and to minimize the amount of waste disposal, the production of two kinds of fish sauces was tried on a small industrial scale from the wastes with or without the addition of the meat of deepsea smelt (Glossanodon semifasciatus). They were fermented for 6 months at room temperature using salt andkojimold. As a control, a fish sauce was also produced only from the deepsea smelt meat. The recovery of fish sauce from the initial mashed mixture ranged between 75 and 79%, depending on the ingredients in the three fish sauce products. The total nitrogen content of the waste sauce and the mixed sauce was lower than that of the control. The levels of the original additives tokamabokoproducts,β‐carotene and sorbic acid, were very low in these fish sauces. The taste‐active components of the waste sauce and mixed sauces were lower than those of the control. Sensory evaluation revealed that the former two waste sauces were less bitter and higher in saltiness than the control. However, no difference was found in umami taste between these products. These findings suggest that the wastes fromkamabokoprocessing factories could be reused as fish sauce for food condiments.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Recent development in the food industry in Japan has enabled the surimi‐based products to be mass produced and standardized even in the fish gel,kamabokotrade. However, a serious problem has arisen in the development ofkamabokoprocessing through the discharge of the wastes, i.e., nonstandard products or fragments, fromkamabokoprocessing factories. It is clear that the waste fromkamabokoprocessing factories is transformed effectively into fish sauce by using soy saucekojimold. As a result, the amount of the discharged wastes fromkamabokofactories are able to be minimized because the liquefaction ratio of the fish sauce mushes (moromi) from the wastes after fermentation was high and the products have a high umami taste and agreeable soy sauce‐like flavor.
Six‐minute walk distance and work relationship with incremental treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise test in COPD
Authors: Poersch Karla , Berton Danilo C. , Canterle Daversom Bordin , Castilho Juliano , Lopes André L. , Martins Jocelito , Oliveira Alvaro R. , Teixeira Paulo José Zimermann
Published: April 2012

Introduction:  Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is increasingly used to evaluate the overall impact of the illness on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While laboratory tests of exercise performance are costly, the 6‐min walk test (6‐MWT) can be more easily performed. Although the main outcome commonly used in this field test is the distance walked in 6 min (6‐MWD), this measure does not account for differences in body weight. Previous studies showed a good correlation between the work performed during the 6‐MWT with incremental cycling CPET, an exercise modality more associated with quadriceps fatigability and with lower peak oxygen consumption than incremental walking tests.

Objective:  Evaluate the correlation between the 6‐MWD and its derivative body weight–walking distance product, an estimation of the work performed during the 6‐MWT, with peak from a treadmill CPET.

Methods:  Thirty COPD patients [forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) =  39 ± 13%; peak predicted] performed CPET to the limit of tolerance on a treadmill and 6‐MWT, 48 h apart.6‐MWD and work were correlated to resting and exercise functional variables.

Results:  The work of walking during the 6‐MWT provided greater associations with peak than observed with 6‐MWD. This was the case for FEV1, forced vital capacity, inspiratory capacity, lung diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide, peak , carbon dioxide output, minute ventilation and double product (r = 0.57, r = 0.57, r = 0.73, r = 0.7, r = 0.75, r = 0.65, r = 0.51 and r = 0.4, respectively; all P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  A better association was found between the work estimated from the 6‐MWT and peak achieved during CPET, in this case with a treadmill, than the 6‐MWD alone.

Please cite this paper as: Poersch K, Berton DC, Canterle DB, Castilho J, Lopes AL, Martins J, Oliveira AR and Teixeira PJZ. Six‐minute walk distance and work relationship with incremental treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise test in COPD. Clin Respir J 2013; 7: 145–152.
Comparison of blood dynamics of anticancer drugs (cisplatin, mitomycin C, epirubicin) in treatment groups of hepatic arterial infusion, hepatic arterial infusion with lipiodol and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization with lipiodol plus gelatin sponge particles in a swine model
Authors: Ikoma Akira , Kawai Nobuyuki , Sato Morio , Minamiguchi Hiroki , Nakai Motoki , Nakata Kouhei , Tanaka Takami , Sonomura Tetsuo
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To compare the blood dynamics of anticancer drugs (cisplatin, mitomycin, epirubicin) and the negative effect on normal liver tissue among the following procedures: hepatic arterial infusion (HAI), HAI with lipiodol (Lp‐HAI) and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with Lp plus particles (Lp‐TACE).

Methods:  Nine swine were divided into three groups: (i) HAI group animals were infused with 5 mg/mL cisplatin, 1 mg/mL mitomycin and 4 mg/mL epirubicin in 0.1 mL/kg contrast medium; (ii) Lp‐HAI group animals, with the same doses in 0.1 mL emulsified fluid (0.05 mL/kg, Lp); and (iii) Lp‐TACE group animals, with the same doses in 0.1 mL emulsified fluid plus gelatin sponge particles. Outflow ratio (area under plasma concentration curve [AUC0–60] / total infused dose of anticancer drug) and necrosis volume ratio (necrosis volume / total slice volume × 100) were explored.

Results:  Outflow ratios (AUC0–60/mg) of cisplatin, mitomycin and epirubicin, and the necrosis volume ratio (%) of the livers, were 2.30, 6.91, 0.97 and 0, respectively, in the HAI group; 1.71, 5.43, 0.79 and 1.37, respectively, in the Lp‐HAI group; and 1.23, 3.37, 0.47 and 20.88, respectively, in the Lp‐TACE group. The significantly lowest outflow ratio for each anticancer drug (P = 0.05/3) and the significantly highest necrosis volume ratio (P = 0.05/3) were found in Lp‐TACE, followed by Lp‐HAI and HAI.

Conclusion:  Although the necrosis volume ratio of the liver was tolerable, Lp‐TACE caused the greatest delay in outflow ratio for each cancer drug and the greatest negative effect to liver in a swine model.
Diagnostic Frequency, Response to Therapy, and Long‐Term Prognosis among Horses and Ponies with Pituitary Par Intermedia Dysfunction, 1993–2004
Authors: Rohrbach B.W. , Stafford J.R. , Clermont R.S.W. , Reed S.M. , Schott H.C. , Andrews F.M.
Published: April 2012

Background

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is common in older horses.

Objectives

To determine diagnosis frequency, prognostic factors, long‐term survival, and owner satisfaction with treatment.

Animals

Medical records from horses diagnosed withPPID, 1993–2004.

Methods

A retrospective cohort design with data collected from the Veterinary Medical Data Base (VMDB) and a cohort of 3VTHs. Proportional accessions, annual incidence, and demographics were compared for all accessions. During the same period, a subset of medical records (n = 44) was extracted and owners (n = 34) contacted to obtain long‐term follow‐up information.

Results

Diagnoses ofPPIDwere reported for 217 horses that presented toVTHs and were reported to theVMDB. Proportional diagnosis increased from 0.25/1,000 in 1993 to 3.72/1,000 in 2002. For 44 horses included in the follow‐up study, the most commons signs were hirsutism (84%) and laminitis (50%). Of 34 horse owners contacted, the average time from onset of signs to diagnosis was 180 days. Improvement in ≥ 1 signs, 2 months after diagnosis, was reported by 9/22 (41%) of horse owners. Clinical signs and clinicopathologic data were not associated with survival, and 50% of horses were alive 4.6 years after diagnosis. Cause of death among horses (15/20; 85%) was euthanasia, and 11/15 (73%) were euthanized because of conditions associated withPPID. Most horse owners (28/29; 97%) said they would treat a second horse forPPID.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

PPIDwas diagnosed with increasing frequency, and 50% of horses survived 4.5 years after diagnosis. Owners were satisfied with their horses' quality of life and would treat a second horse if diagnosed.
Muscle sympathetic response to arousal predicts neurovascular reactivity during mental stress
Authors: Donadio V. , Liguori R. , Elam M. , Karlsson T. , Giannoccaro M. P. , Pegenius G. , Giambattistelli F. , Wallin B. G.
Published: April 2012

Key points

Mental stress (MS) is often initiated by a sensory or cognitive stimulus, which induces a brief arousal reaction followed by a longer stress phase. Both phases induce blood pressure (BP) increases whereas effects on muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) vary: in approximately 50% of healthy subjects (responders) arousal induces a brief MSNA reduction, which is absent in the remaining 50% (non‐responders).

We now report a link between the arousal response and neurovascular effects of MS in healthy males.

Our data show that during MS, responders to arousal exhibited a significant decrease of MSNA and a lesser BP increase compared to non‐responders. The whole material displayed a positive correlation between MSNA responses induced by arousal and MS. In addition, arousal induced MSNA changes correlated positively with BP changes during MS.

We conclude that the MSNA response to arousal predicts MSNA and BP responses to MS.
Dephosphorylation Drives Psuedopod Dynamics
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: April 2012

The phosphorylation status of SCAR/WAVE drives pseudopod dynamics in chemotaxing cells.
Thoroughly MODern Yeast
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: April 2012

Conversion of a soluble prion protein to an aggregated state generates heritable resistance to antifungal drugs.
Morphine’s Inflammatory Receptor
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: April 2012

Morphine binds to and stimulates the TLR4-MD-2 complex to trigger neuroinflammatory responses.
Pharmacokinetic Comparison of a Single Oral Dose of Polymorph Form I versus Form V Capsules of the Antiorthopoxvirus Compound ST-246 in Human Volunteers
Authors: Chinsangaram Jarasvech , Honeychurch Kady M. , Tyavanagimatt Shanthakumar R. , Bolken Tove' C. , Jordan Robert , Jones Kevin F. , Marbury Thomas , Lichtenstein Israel , Pickens Margaret , Corrado Michael , Landis Patrick , Clarke Jean M. , Frimm Annie M. , Hruby Dennis E.
Published: April 2012

ST-246, a novel compound that inhibits egress of orthopoxvirus from mammalian cells, is being tested as a treatment for pathogenic orthopoxvirus infections in humans. This phase I, double-blind, randomized, crossover, exploratory study was conducted to compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) of a single daily 400-mg oral dose of ST-246 polymorph form I versus polymorph form V administered to fed, healthy human volunteers. Both forms appeared to be well tolerated, with no serious adverse events. The order of administration of the two forms had no effect on the results of the PK analyses. Form I and form V both exhibited comparable plasma concentration versus time profiles, but complete bioequivalence between the two forms was not found. Maximum drug concentration (
C
max
) met the bioequivalence criteria, as the 90% confidence interval (CI) was 80.6 to 96.9%. However, the area under the concentration-time curve from time zero to time
t
(AUC

0-
t

) and AUC
0-∞
did not meet the bioequivalence criteria (CIs of 67.8 to 91.0% and 73.9 to 104.7%, respectively). The extent of absorption of form I, as defined by AUC
0-∞
, was 11.7% lower than that of form V. Since ST-246 form I is more thermostable than form V, form I was selected for further development and use in all future studies.
Prominence of an O75 Clonal Group (Clonal Complex 14) among Non-ST131 Fluoroquinolone-Resistant Escherichia coli Causing Extraintestinal Infections in Humans and Dogs in Australia
Authors: Platell Joanne L. , Trott Darren J. , Johnson James R. , Heisig Peter , Heisig Anke , Clabots Connie R. , Johnston Brian , Cobbold Rowland N.
Published: April 2012

Fluoroquinolone (FQ)-resistant extraintestinal pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(FQ
r
ExPEC) strains from phylogenetic group B2 are undergoing epidemic spread. Isolates belonging to phylogenetic group B2 are generally more virulent than other
E. coli
isolates; therefore, resistance to FQs among group B2 isolates is concerning. Although clonal expansion of sequence type 131 (ST131) is a major factor, the contribution of additional clonal groups has not been quantified. Group B2 FQ
r
ExPEC isolates from humans (
n
= 250) and dogs (
n
= 12) in Australia were screened for ST131, a recently recognized and rapidly emerging multidrug-resistant and virulent clonal group that is important in both human and companion animal medicine. Non-ST131 isolates underwent virulence genotyping, PCR-based O typing, partial multilocus sequence typing (MLST), pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), and FQ resistance mechanism analysis. Of 49 non-ST131 isolates (45 human, 4 canine), 49% (24 human, 2 canine) represented O-type O75 and exhibited conserved virulence genotypes (F10
papA
allele,
iha
,
fimH
,
sat
,
vat
,
fyuA
,
iutA
,
kpsM
II,
usp
,
ompT
,
malX
, K1/K5 capsule) and MLST allele profiles corresponding with clonal complex CC14. Two clusters, each containing canine and human isolates, were identified by PFGE (differentiated by K1 and K5 capsules). Australian FQ
r
O75 isolates exhibited commonality with an historical FQ-susceptible O75 urosepsis isolate (also CC14). The isolation from humans and dogs of highly similar FQ
r
derivatives of the classic O75:K1/K5 (CC14) ExPEC lineage suggests recent acquisition of FQ resistance and potential cross-host-species transfer. This lineage should be targeted with ST131 in future epidemiological investigations of FQ
r
ExPEC.
Intrapulmonary Distribution and Pharmacokinetics of Laninamivir, a Neuraminidase Inhibitor, after a Single Inhaled Administration of Its Prodrug, Laninamivir Octanoate, in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Ishizuka Hitoshi , Toyama Kaoru , Yoshiba Satoshi , Okabe Hiromi , Furuie Hidetoshi
Published: April 2012

A single inhaled dose of laninamivir octanoate (LO), a long-acting neuraminidase inhibitor, exhibits efficacy in treating both adult and pediatric patients with influenza virus infection. The intrapulmonary pharmacokinetics (PK) of LO and laninamivir, a pharmacologically active metabolite, were investigated by a single-center, open-label study of healthy adult volunteers. Subgroups of five subjects each underwent bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) 4, 8, 24, 48, 72, 168, and 240 h following a single inhaled administration of LO (40 mg). Plasma, BAL fluid, and alveolar macrophages (AM) were analyzed to determine LO and laninamivir concentrations, using validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry methods. The concentrations in epithelial lining fluid (ELF) and AM from the first and subsequent BAL fluid samples were determined separately to explore the drug distribution in airways. Mean laninamivir concentrations in ELF, calculated using the first BAL fluids and BAL fluids collected 4 h after inhaled administration, were 8.57 and 2.40 μg/ml, respectively. The laninamivir concentration in ELF decreased with a longer half-life than that in plasma, and it exceeded the 50% inhibitory concentrations for viral neuraminidases at all time points examined for 240 h after the inhalation. Laninamivir exposure in ELF from the first BAL samples was 3.2 times higher than that in ELF from the subsequent BAL fluid samples. ELF concentration profiles of laninamivir support its long-lasting effect for treatment of patients with influenza virus infection by a single inhaled administration.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Rearranged Porcine Circovirus Type 2
Authors: Wen Libin , He Kongwang , Ni Yanxiu , Zhang Xuehan , Li Bin , Wang Xiaomin , Guo Rong li , Yu Zhengyu , Mao Aihua , Zhou Junming , Lv Lixin , Jiang Jieyuan
Published: April 2012

We first report here the genome sequences of 4 rearranged porcine circovirus type 2 strains, JSTZ, ZJQDH1, ZJQDH2, and JSHM, isolated from porcine sera in China. The complete circular genomes of these isolates are 578, 483, 574, and 772 nucleotides in length, respectively. They are predicted to be defective interfering particles of porcine circovirus type 2. The findings will help us to understand molecular evolution of porcine circovirus type 2 and the relationship between porcine circovirus type 2 and diseases.
Complete Genome Sequences of a Korean Virulent Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus and Its Attenuated Counterpart
Authors: Park Seong-Jun , Kim Hye-Kwon , Song Dae-Sub , An Dong-Jun , Park Bong-Kyun
Published: April 2012

A virulent porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) strain, DR13, was obtained from suckling pigs suspected of having porcine epidemic diarrhea in 1999 in Korea, and its attenuated counterpart was derived from virulent strain DR13 by serial propagation in Vero cells. This report describes the first complete genome sequences of virulent PEDV and its attenuated counterpart, which will provide important insights into the molecular basis of the attenuation of PEDV.
Pollination activity affects selection on floral longevity in the autumnal-flowering plant, Narcissus serotinus L.
Authors: Marques Isabel , Draper David
Published: April 2012

Flower longevity, the period of time that a flower remains open, is a crucial factor in plant reproductive fitness. Though longevity varies substantially among angiosperm species, longer flower longevities may be a selective advantage under unpredictable or scarce pollination activity. This study examined this hypothesis in Narcissus serotinus L. (Amaryllidaceae), a small Mediterranean geophyte that blooms during the autumnal rainy season. Field experiments performed in three natural populations through 3 consecutive years shows that N. serotinus has the ability to expand flower longevity when pollination has not occurred. Flowers that were open longer to pollination have higher reproductive fitness than younger flowers. As N. serotinus flowers age, there was a shift in pollination patterns since flower visits by butterflies became scarcer and are replaced by one small pollen beetle. Given that there was evidence of pollen limitation and that this species produces one single flower, we suggest that extended flower longevity is selected because it assures pollination success under scarce insect visits.
Reproductive investment at stem and genet levels in male and female plants of the clonal dioecious shrub Ilex leucoclada (Aquifoliaceae)
Authors: Torimaru Takeshi , Tomaru  Nobuhiro
Published: April 2012

The sexual dimorphism of reproductive investment (measured as dry mass of reproductive tissues) at stem and whole plant (i.e., genet) levels in a dioecious clonal shrub, Ilex leucoclada (Maxim.) Makino., was examined over 2 consecutive years. Five patches in which different genets had already been distinguished using molecular markers in a previous study were selected, and the stem length, numbers of flowers and fruits, and sex of each stem were recorded. Fresh inflorescences and fruits were randomly sampled to estimate the reproductive investment of each stem. The male plants invested more resources in flowering at both the stem and genet levels than female plants, but females invested more resources than males when fruit masses were considered in addition to flower masses. The degrees of sexual dimorphism in reproductive investment at the stem and genet levels were similar, for both flowering alone and flowering plus fruiting. However, the reproductive investment was more restricted to large stems in female genets than in males. Inter-year fluctuations in reproductive investment were greater for females than males at both levels. These results suggest that patterns of reproductive investment should be examined simultaneously at multiple modular levels to obtain a thorough understanding of gender-associated variations in clonal plants.
Allelopathic effect of Salix caprea litter on late successional plants at different substrates of post-mining sites: pot experiment studies
Authors: Mudrák Ondřej , Frouz Jan
Published: April 2012

The willow Salix caprea L. is a common colonizer of post-mining sites including those in the Sokolov coal mining district (Czech Republic) where this study was conducted. In one bioassay and two pot experiments, we investigated the effect of S. caprea litter on three plant species ( Arrhenatherum elatius (L.) P. Beauv. ex J. Presl & C. Presl, Plantago lanceolata L., and Lotus corniculatus L.) that commonly grow in late successional stages on these sites. In a sandy soil, leachate from fresh S. caprea litter reduced the number of germinated individuals (experiment 1) and shoot and root growth (experiment 2). In the clayey substrate originally unaffected by the S. caprea (experiment 3) leachate suppressed germination of all three species, but no reduction of biomass (both aboveground and belowground) was observed. Biomass was enhanced, however, in substrate that was naturally enriched with S. caprea litter (i.e., substrate collected on the same locality as previously mentioned substrate but beneath the S. caprea shrubs). Salix caprea therefore can suppress the establishment of new plants that arrive as seeds, but this suppression may only occur with seeds that directly contact the litter. When S. caprea litter is incorporated into the substrate, it can considerably improve substrate quality and the growth of successional plants.
BEHAVIOR PATTERNS IN MULTIPARAMETRIC DYNAMICAL SYSTEMS: LORENZ MODEL
Authors: BARRIO ROBERTO , BLESA FERNANDO , SERRANO SERGIO
Published: April 2012

In experimental and theoretical studies of Dynamical Systems, there are usually several parameters that govern the models. Thus, a detailed study of the global parametric phase space is not easy and normally unachievable. In this paper, we show that a careful selection of one straight line (or other 1D manifold) permits us to obtain a global idea of the evolution of the system in some circumstances. We illustrate this fact with the paradigmatic example of the Lorenz model, based on a global study, changing all three parameters. Besides, searching in other regions, for all the detected behavior patterns in one straight line, we have been able to see that missing topological structures of the chaotic attractors may be found on the chaotic-saddles.
HOPF BIFURCATION IN AN AGE-DEPENDENT POPULATION MODEL WITH DELAYED BIRTH PROCESS
Authors: BI PING , FU XIANLONG
Published: April 2012

This paper is devoted to the study of an age-dependent population system with Riker type birth function. The time lag factor is considered for the birth process. We investigate some dynamical properties of the equation by using C0-semigroup theory, through which we obtain some conditions of asymptotical stability and Hopf bifurcation occurring at positive steady state for the system.
A COMPRESSED SENSING FRAMEWORK OF FREQUENCY-SPARSE SIGNALS THROUGH CHAOTIC SYSTEM
Authors: LIU ZHONG , CHEN SHENGYAO , XI FENG
Published: April 2012

This paper proposes a compressed sensing (CS) framework for the acquisition and reconstruction of frequency-sparse signals with chaotic dynamical systems. The sparse signal acts as an excitation term of a discrete-time chaotic system and the compressed measurement is obtained by downsampling the system output. The reconstruction is realized through the estimation of the excitation coefficients with the principle of impulsive chaos synchronization. The l1-norm regularized nonlinear least squares is used to find the estimation. The proposed framework is easily implementable and creates secure measurements. The Hénon map is used as an example to illustrate the principle and the performance.