bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anthropogenic‐based regional‐scale factors most consistently explain plot‐level exotic diversity in grasslands
Authors: MacDougall Andrew S. , Bennett Joseph R. , Firn Jennifer , Seabloom Eric W. , Borer Elizabeth T. , Lind Eric M. , Orrock John L. , Harpole W. Stanley , Hautier Yann , Adler Peter B. , Cleland Elsa , Davies Kendi , Melbourne Brett , Prober Suzanne M. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Fay Philip A. , Jin Virginia L. , Kendig Amy , La Pierre Kimberly J. , Moore Joslin , Morgan John , Stevens Carly J.
Published: March 2014

Aim

Evidence linking the accumulation of exotic species to the suppression of native diversity is equivocal, often relying on data from studies that have used different methods. Plot‐level studies often attribute inverse relationships between native and exotic diversity to competition, but regional abiotic filters, including anthropogenic influences, can produce similar patterns. We seek to test these alternatives using identical scale‐dependent sampling protocols in multiple grasslands on two continents.

Location

Thirty‐two grassland sites in North America and Australia.

Methods

We use multiscale observational data, collected identically in grain and extent at each site, to test the association of local and regional factors with the plot‐level richness and abundance of native and exotic plants. Sites captured environmental and anthropogenic gradients including land‐use intensity, human population density, light and soil resources, climate and elevation. Site selection occurred independently of exotic diversity, meaning that the numbers of exotic species varied randomly thereby reducing potential biases if only highly invaded sites were chosen.

Results

Regional factors associated directly or indirectly with human activity had the strongest associations with plot‐level diversity. These regional drivers had divergent effects: urban‐based economic activity was associated with high exotic : native diversity ratios; climate‐ and landscape‐based indicators of lower human population density were associated with low exotic : native ratios. Negative correlations between plot‐level native and exotic diversity, a potential signature of competitive interactions, were not prevalent; this result did not change along gradients of productivity or heterogeneity.

Main conclusion

We show that plot‐level diversity of native and exotic plants are more consistently associated with regional‐scale factors relating to urbanization and climate suitability than measures indicative of competition. These findings clarify the long‐standing difficulty in resolving drivers of exotic diversity using single‐factor mechanisms, suggesting that multiple interacting anthropogenic‐based processes best explain the accumulation of exotic diversity in modern landscapes.
Association of blood pressure with all‐cause mortality and stroke in Japanese hemodialysis patients: The Japan dialysis outcomes and practice pattern study
Authors: Inaba Masaaki , Karaboyas Angelo , Akiba Takashi , Akizawa Tadao , Saito Akira , Fukuhara Shunichi , Combe Christian , Robinson Bruce M.
Published: March 2014

The association of low blood pressure (BP) with high mortality is a characteristic for hemodialysis patients. This analysis clarifies the association of BP with mortality and stroke in Japanese hemodialysis (HD) patients and examines the association separately for patients with and without antihypertensive medication (BP meds). We analyzed 9134 patients from Japan in phases 1–4 (1999–2011) of the Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS), a prospective cohort study of in‐center HD patients. The association of patient systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure with all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality was assessed using adjusted Cox regression. A U‐shaped association between BP and all‐cause mortality was observed, with lowest mortality for baseline SBP 140–159 mmHg and DBP 65–74 mmHg. Both SBP and DBP were positively and monotonically associated with stroke‐related death: hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) was 1.24 (1.01–1.53) per 20 mmHg higher SBP and 1.23 (1.05–1.44) per 10 mmHg higher DBP. No evidence of interaction was found between SBP and use of BP meds regarding all‐cause mortality (P for interaction = 0.97); the association between SBP and stroke‐related death was slightly stronger among patients not on BP meds than patients on BP meds (P for interaction = 0.09). In Japanese HD patients, both low and high BP are associated with all‐cause mortality. This analysis also documents a positive and monotonic association of BP with stroke‐related deaths. Although our analysis indicates that the prescription of BP meds to hypertensive patients might protect against stroke‐related death, additional study is warranted.
Sperm protamine deficiency correlates with spermDNAdamage inBos indicusbulls
Authors: Fortes M. R. S. , Satake N. , Corbet D. H. , Corbet N. J. , Burns B. M. , Moore S. S. , Boe‐Hansen G. B.
Published: March 2014

The primary purpose of spermatozoa is to deliver the paternalDNAto the oocyte at fertilization. During the complex events of fertilization, if the spermatozoon penetrating the oocyte contains compromised or damaged sperm chromatin, the subsequent progression of embryogenesis and foetal development may be affected. Variation in spermDNAdamage and protamine content in ejaculated spermatozoa was reported in the cattle, with potential consequences to bull fertility. Protamines are sperm‐specific nuclear proteins that are essential to packaging of the condensed paternal genome in spermatozoa. SpermDNAdamage is thought to be repaired during the process of protamination. This study investigates the potential correlation between sperm protamine content, spermDNAdamage and the subsequent relationships between sperm chromatin and commonly measured reproductive phenotypes.Bos indicussperm samples (n = 133) were assessed by two flow cytometric methods: the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) and an optimized sperm protamine deficiency assay (SPDA). To verify theSPDAassay for bovine sperm protamine content, samples collected from testis, caput and cauda epididymidis were analyzed. As expected, mature spermatozoa in the cauda epididymidis had higher protamine content when compared with sperm samples from testis and caput epididymidis (p < 0.01). TheDNAfragmentation index (DFI), determined bySCSA, was positively correlated (r = 0.33 ± 0.08,p < 0.05) with the percentage of spermatozoa that showed low protamine content usingSPDA. Also,DFIwas negatively correlated (r = −0.21 ± 0.09,p < 0.05) with the percentage of spermatozoa with high protamine content. Larger scrotal circumference contributes to higher sperm protamine content and lower content of spermDNAdamage (p < 0.05). In conclusion, sperm protamine content and spermDNAdamage are closely associated. Protamine deficiency is likely to be one of the contributing factors toDNAinstability and damage, which can affect bull fertility.
Reduction of Foodborne Pathogens and Aflatoxins in Doenjang Samples Using Defined Meju
Authors: Park Hae‐Kyong , Shukla Shruti , Lee Jong Suk , Kim Jong‐Kyu , Kim Myunghee
Published: March 2014

This study was focused on the production of Doenjang samples using a combination of microbial strains such as Aspergillus oryzae J, Mucor racemosus 15, M. racemosus 42 and Bacillus subtilis TKSP 24 as starter cultures. Doenjang samples were examined for the presence of foodborne pathogens and total aflatoxin. As a result, coliforms were not present in any of the tested samples. Although preliminary colony count test on MYP agar media presumed the presence of B. cereus in all three tested Doenjang samples, confirmatory test using analytical profile test identification kit confirmed that there was no presence of B. cereus in laboratory made Doenjang samples. Also other foodborne pathogens including Staphylococus aureus, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella spp. were not detected among the tested Doenjang samples. The amount of total aflatoxin detection in all the tested Doenjang samples was found below the limit of quantitation (<5 ppb).

Practical Application

Nowadays fermented food products (Doenjang) have gained vital importance because of their various health beneficial properties. Determination of hazardous components and foodborne pathogenic bacteria in fermented food products is very important in securing food safety and in providing consumers safe and nutritive food products. Detection of foodborne pathogens and aflatoxin levels can be a remarkable approach to determine the nutritive value and toxicological limit of food products. Hence, it is anticipated that use of Meju as starter culture might have potent industrial application to produce better quality fermented products with reduced microbial load and low level of aflatoxin content in order to secure the safety of fermented food products.
Comparison of microwave ablation and surgical resection for treatment of hepatocellular carcinomas conforming to Milan criteria
Authors: Shi Jingxiang , Sun Quan , Wang Yijun , Jing Xiang , Ding Jianmin , Yuan Qiang , Ren Chaoyi , Shan Shigang , Wang Yandong , Du Zhi
Published: March 2014

Background and Aim

To compare the efficacy of microwave ablation (MWA) and surgical resection (RES) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) conforming to Milan criteria.

Methods

Two hundred twenty‐four patients met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. One hundred and seventeen patients received MWA, and 107 patients underwent RES. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS).

Results

The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year OS rates were 94%, 70%, 52% for the MWA group and 94%, 72%, 60% for the RES group (P = 0.513). The corresponding DFS rates for the two groups were 77%, 38%, 18% and 85%, 57%, 31% (P = 0.005). In subgroup analyses of patients with solitary HCC ≤ 3 cm, there were no significant differences in OS rates and DFS rates between the two groups (P = 0.577 and P = 0.140). For patients with solitary HCC 3 to 5 cm, there was no significant differences in OS rates between the two groups (P = 0.820), the DFS rates was significantly higher in the RES group than in the MWA group (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

MWA results in lower DFS rates than RES for HCC conforming to Milan criteria. However, the OS rates are comparable between the two therapies. For solitary HCC ≤ 3 cm, MWA is as effective as RES.
Hemoglobin combined with triglyceride and ferritin in predicting non‐alcoholic fatty liver
Authors: Jiang Youzhao , Zeng Jun , Chen Bing
Published: March 2014

Background and Aim

The red blood cells (RBC) count is closely associated with insulin resistance (IR), which is origin of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aimed to investigate the correlation of RBC indices with NAFLD.

Methods

A total of 977 cases including 446 NAFLD patients and 531 controls were enrolled and examined for biochemical and metabolic indices. RBC, hematocrit (HCT), hemoglobin (HGB), insulin, and ferritin were detected. The IR indicator latest homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance and fatty liver index were calculated. The correlation analysis was assessed by Spearman's rank test. Receiver operating characteristic was used to evaluate diagnostic performance. After quartile classification of RBC indices, logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the odds ratios (OR) of NAFLD.

Results

RBC, HCT, and HGB levels were obviously higher in NAFLD group. RBC, HCT, and HGB showed significant positive correlation with homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance and NAFLD. Multivariate analysis revealed HGB, ferritin, and triglyceride (TG) as independent parameters associated with NAFLD. The predictive value after combination of HGB with ferritin and TG was equal to fatty liver index. After adjustment for age,body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, TG, low‐density lipoprotein, high‐density lipoprotein and smoking, comparing the groups with the highest and lowest HGB, HCT, and RBC, the OR (95% confidence intervals) of NAFLD were 2.369 (1.279–4.368) (P < 0.05), 1.504 (0.819–2.713) (P > 0.05), and 2.332 (0.823–2.550) (P > 0.05) in men. In women, the OR were 2.541 (1.118–5.771), 3.578 (1.464–8.748), and 3.215 (1.387–7.455) (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that HGB combined with TG and ferritin may serve as the indicator of predicting NAFLD.
Antibacterial resistance in sub‐Saharan Africa: an underestimated emergency
Authors: Kariuki Samuel , Dougan Gordon
Published: March 2014

Antibacterial resistance–associated infections are known to increase morbidity, mortality, and cost of treatment, and to potentially put others in the community at higher risk of infections. In high‐income countries, where the burden of infectious diseases is relatively modest, resistance to first‐line antibacterial agents is usually overcome by use of second‐ and third‐line agents. However, in developing countries where the burden of infectious diseases is high, patients with antibacterial‐resistant infections may be unable to obtain or afford effective second‐line treatments. In sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), the situation is aggravated by poor hygiene, unreliable water supplies, civil conflicts, and increasing numbers of immunocompromised people, such as those with HIV, which facilitate both the evolution of resistant pathogens and their rapid spread in the community. Because of limited capacity for disease detection and surveillance, the burden of illnesses due to treatable bacterial infections, their specific etiologies, and the awareness of antibacterial resistance are less well established in most of SSA, and therefore the ability to mitigate their consequences is significantly limited.
Linked and Situated: Grounded Knowledge
Authors: Ashwood Loka , Harden Noelle , Bell Michael M. , Bland William
Published: March 2014

Local knowledge registers prominently in scholarly efforts to resolve environmental problems, ushering in widespread use of participatory practices of deliberation. Without the incorporation of local knowledge, many scholars contend that environmental science and planning remain beholden to the unbridled reign of the expert, and the daunting complexity of environmental problems remains seemingly impossible to penetrate. Following in this vein of work, we formed our participatory research project on nonpoint water pollution in two watersheds around four action clusters. On the local side, we included a cluster of farmers and farmland owners and a cluster of general community members. On the expert side, we included a cluster of researchers and another of government officials. However, we found in our research that the development of democratic deliberation depended more on whether participants situated and linked their knowledge than whether it was local or expert in origin. We suggest grounded knowledge, situating one's experiences in a way that enables participants to actively link with other knowledge, as a concept useful for scholars to better understand which ways of knowing enable deliberation in the participatory processes.
Experimental Investigation of Effect of Different Types of Surfactants and Jet Height on Cooling of a Hot Steel Plate
Authors: Ravikumar Satya V. , Jha Jay M. , Mohapatra Soumya S. , Pal Surjya K. , Chakraborty Sudipto
Published: March 2014

Heat transfer studies of a hot AISI 304 stainless steel plate by water jet impingement with different concentrations of three different types of surfactants have been investigated. The study involves a square plate of 100 mm × 100 mm surface area and 6 mm thickness with three subsurface thermocouples positioned at various locations inside the plate. The influence of jet height has been studied by varying the distance between the nozzle and plate from 200 mm to 600 mm. The results show that the heat transfer rate is found to increase with the jet height up to 400 mm and thereafter decreases due to capillary instability of liquid jet. Based on the maximum surface heat flux obtained for a particular nozzle height of 400 mm and an initial surface temperature of 900 °C, further experiments have been carried out with different types of surfactants. The types of surfactants used in the experimental study are anionic surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulphate, SDS), cationic surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB) and nonionic surfactant (Polyoxyethylene 20 sorbitan monolaurate, Tween 20). During cooling, the transient temperature data measured by thermocouples have been analyzed by inverse heat conduction procedure to calculate surface heat flux and surface temperatures. The increase in surface heat flux has been observed with increasing concentration of surfactants and it has been found to be limited to a particular concentration of surfactant after which further increase in concentration leads to decrease in heat flux. Use of surfactant added water minimizes the surface tension and promotes better spreadability of coolant on the test specimen by reducing the solid–liquid contact angle. The maximum heat transfer rate has been found by using nonionic surfactant additive which can primarily be attributed to its lesser foam formability nature.
Automatic Combustion Phase Calibration With Extremum Seeking Approach
Authors: Corti Enrico , Forte Claudio , Mancini Giorgio , Moro Davide
Published: March 2014

One of the most effective factors influencing performance, efficiency, and pollutant emissions of internal combustion engines is the combustion phasing: in gasoline engines electronic control units (ECUs) manage the spark advance (SA) in order to set the optimal combustion phase. Combustion control is assuming a crucial role in reducing engine tailpipe emissions and maximizing performance. The number of actuations influencing the combustion is increasing, and as a consequence, the calibration of control parameters is becoming challenging. One of the most effective factors influencing performance and efficiency is the combustion phasing: for gasoline engines, control variables such as SA, air-to-fuel ratio (AFR), variable valve timing (VVT), and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) are mostly used to set the combustion phasing. The optimal control setting can be chosen according to a target function (cost or merit function), taking into account performance indicators, such as indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP), brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC), pollutant emissions, or other indexes inherent to reliability issues, such as exhaust gas temperature or knock intensity. Many different approaches can be used to reach the best calibration settings: design of experiment (DOE) is a common option when many parameters influence the results, but other methodologies are in use: some of them are based on the knowledge of the controlled system behavior by means of models that are identified during the calibration process. The paper proposes the use of a different concept, based on the extremum seeking approach. The main idea consists in changing the values of each control parameter at the same time, identifying its effect on the monitored target function, and allowing to shift automatically the control setting towards the optimum solution throughout the calibration procedure. An original technique for the recognition of control parameters variations effect on the target function is introduced, based on spectral analysis. The methodology has been applied to data referring to different engines and operating conditions, using IMEP, exhaust temperature, and knock intensity for the definition of the target function and using SA and AFR as control variables. The approach proved to be efficient in reaching the optimum control setting, showing that the optimal setting can be achieved rapidly and consistently.
Complete Genome Sequence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus Environmental Strain UCM-V493
Authors: Kalburge S. S. , Polson S. W. , Boyd Crotty K. , Katz L. , Turnsek M. , Tarr C. L. , Martinez-Urtaza J. , Boyd E. F.
Published: March 2014

Vibrio parahaemolyticus
is the leading bacterial cause of seafood-related gastroenteritis in the world. Here, we report the complete genome sequence and annotation of an environmental strain of
V. parahaemolyticus
, UCM-V493, with the aim of understanding the differences between the clinical and environmental isolates of the bacteria. We also make some preliminary sequence comparisons with the clinical strain RIMD2210633.
Hereditary anterior megalophthalmos with posterior vitreoretinopathy: a surgical challenge
Authors: Rao Aparna , Videkar Chetan
Published: March 2014

Anterior megalophthalmos is an inherited condition characterised by enlargement of the anterior segment with associated glaucoma and vitreoretinopathy. These associations make surgical management very challenging. A 12-year-old boy, diagnosed and operated elsewhere for congenital glaucoma in both eyes, presented with raised intraocular pressure. Investigations revealed enlarged corneal diameter, increased anterior chamber depth with thick, clear cornea and no Haab striae while fundus evaluation revealed posteriorly dislocated cataractous lens with total rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in both eyes. The surgical challenges in management are highlighted in this case where appropriate investigations can aid in the selection of appropriate surgeries with good visual outcome.
Failure of aneurysm occlusion by flow diverter: a role for surgical bypass and parent artery occlusion
Authors: Mattingly Thomas , Van Adel Brian , Dyer Erin , Lopez-Ojeda Pablo , Pelz David M , Lownie Stephen P , Marotta Thomas , Boulton Melfort
Published: March 2014

Flow diverters represent a paradigm shift in the treatment of aneurysms. However, unusual and poorly understood complications are being reported. We present a case of a giant internal carotid artery terminus aneurysm treated with flow diversion that progressively and symptomatically enlarged despite a reduction in the filling portion. Complete occlusion of the aneurysm and reduction in mass effect occurred through superficial temporal artery– middle cerebral artery bypass and parent artery occlusion. Incomplete aneurysm occlusion following flow diversion has been reported, but mechanisms and predisposing factors are speculative and definitive solutions have not been described. This case illustrates a potential solution.
Exercise- and hypoxia-induced blood flow through intrapulmonary arteriovenous anastomoses is reduced in older adults
Authors: Cameron Norris H. , Mangum Tyler S. , Duke Joseph W. , Straley Taylor B. , Hawn Jerold A. , Goodman Randy D. , Lovering Andrew T.
Published: March 2014

Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (Ppa) during exercise is significantly higher in individuals aged ≥50 yr compared with their younger counterparts, but the reasons for this are unknown. Blood flow through intrapulmonary arteriovenous anastomoses (IPAVA) can be detected during exercise or while breathing hypoxic gas mixtures using saline contrast echocardiography in almost all healthy young individuals. It has been previously hypothesized that a lower degree of exercise-induced blood flow through IPAVA is associated with high Ppa during exercise. This association may suggest that individuals who are known to have high Ppa during exercise, such as those ≥50 yr of age, may have lower blood flow through IPAVA, but the presence and degree of exercise-induced blood flow through IPAVA has not been specifically studied in older populations. Using transthoracic saline contrast echocardiography, we investigated the potential effects of age on exercise-induced blood flow through IPAVA in a cross-section of subjects aged 19–72 yr. To verify our findings, we assessed the effects of age on hypoxia-induced blood flow through IPAVA. Age groups were ≤41 yr (younger, n = 16) and ≥50 yr (older, n = 14). Qualitatively measured exercise- and hypoxia-induced blood flow through IPAVA was significantly lower in older individuals compared with younger controls. Older individuals also had significantly higher pulmonary arterial systolic pressure and total pulmonary resistance (TPR) during exercise. Low blood flow through IPAVA was independently associated with high TPR. The reasons for the age-related decrease in blood flow through IPAVA are unknown.
FDA Perspective on Companion Diagnostics: An Evolving Paradigm
Authors: Mansfield Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2014

Therapeutic products are now being developed that target particular molecular lesions found in various types of cancers. The ability to correctly identify patients whose cancers have targetable lesions generally depends on a well-validated diagnostic test. Development and use of diagnostic tests together with therapies in clinical trials yields the information necessary to make a regulatory determination that both products are safe and effective, likely have clinical utility when used together, and reach the market for patient benefit. This model, called co-development, has been developed relatively recently, and is being put to use in numerous cancer therapeutic development programs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has articulated a policy that requires the coapproval of a diagnostic with a therapeutic product when the diagnostic is essential to the safe and effective use of the therapeutic product. At the same time, FDA has implemented a number of processes to manage the model without slowing the approval of the co-developed products. New diagnostic technologies, together with a rapid uptick in interest in targeted drugs, will challenge the still-evolving regulatory paradigm, but will likely result in some simplified approaches presenting new challenges in determining safety and effectiveness, but all with the promise of greater benefit to patients with cancer.

See all articles in this CCR Focus section, “The Precision Medicine Conundrum: Approaches to Companion Diagnostic Co-development.”

Clin Cancer Res; 20(6); 1453–7. ©2014 AACR.
Induction of M2 Regulatory Macrophages through the β2-Adrenergic Receptor with Protection during Endotoxemia and Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Grailer Jamison J. , Haggadone Mikel D. , Sarma J. Vidya , Zetoune Firas S. , Ward Peter A.
Published: March 2014

The main drivers of acute inflammation are macrophages, which are known to have receptors for catecholamines. Based on their function, macrophages are broadly categorized as having either M1 (proinflammatory) or M2 phenotypes (anti-inflammatory). In this study, we investigated catecholamine-induced alterations in the phenotype of activated macrophages. In the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), mouse peritoneal macrophages acquired an M1 phenotype. However, the copresence of LPS and either epinephrine or norepinephrine resulted in a strong M2 phenotype including high levels of arginase-1 and interleukin-10, and a reduced expression of M1 markers. Furthermore, epinephrine enhanced macrophage phagocytosis and promoted type 2 T-cell responses in vitro, which are known features of M2 macrophages. Analysis of M2 subtype-specific markers indicated that LPS and catecholamine-cotreated macrophages were not alternatively activated but were rather of the regulatory macrophage subtype. Interestingly, catecholamines signaled through the β2-adrenergic receptor but not the canonical cAMP/protein kinase A signaling pathway. Instead, the M2 pathway required an intact phosphoinositol 3-kinase pathway. Blockade of the β2-adrenergic receptor reduced survival and enhanced injury in mouse models of endotoxemia and LPS-induced acute lung injury, respectively. These results demonstrate a role for the β2-adrenergic receptor in promoting the M2 macrophage phenotype.
Non-Axial View of the Varicella-Zoster Virus Portal Protein Reveals Conserved Crown, Wing and Clip Architecture
Authors: Visalli Robert J. , Howard Alexander J.
Published: March 2014

Background: Herpesviridae encode a family of protein homologues that function as the ‘port of entry' for insertion of the viral DNA into preformed capsids during encapsidation. Methods: Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of recombinant varicella-zoster virus pORF54 was performed. Results: Results suggest that pORF54 forms higher-order structures with itself. Enriched fractions analyzed by TEM revealed non-axial oriented portals with defined central channels and distinguishable crown, wing and clip regions. Conclusion: These morphological features are consistent with those previously reported for other herpesvirus and bacteriophage portal proteins.
Plasma–Parathyroid Hormone Is Associated With Subclinical and Clinical Atherosclerotic Disease in 2 Community-Based Cohorts
Authors: Hagström Emil , Michaëlsson Karl , Melhus Håkan , Hansen Thomas , Ahlström Håkan , Johansson Lars , Ingelsson Erik , Sundström Johan , Lind Lars , Ärnlöv Johan
Published: March 2014

Objective—

Cardiovascular risk factors have different impact on different arterial territories. Diseases with elevated circulating parathyroid hormone (PTH) such as primary hyperparathyroidism and chronic renal failure have been shown to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, predominantly heart or cerebrovascular diseases. However, data on the associations between circulating PTH and peripheral atherosclerosis are limited.

Approach and Results—

Two prospective, community-based studies were used. In 306 men and women, who were 70 years old, from the Prospective investigation of the vasculature in Uppsala seniors (PIVUS) study, cross-sectional relations between PTH and atherosclerotic burden assessed by whole-body magnetic resonance angiography were investigated. In 998 men, who were 71 years old, from the Uppsala longitudinal study of adult men (ULSAM) study, the association between PTH concentration and risk of subsequent nonfatal atherosclerotic disease (excluding coronary or cerebrovascular disease) was investigated. Adjusting for established vascular risk factors, PTH was associated with burden of atherosclerosis (increase in total atherosclerotic score per SD PTH increase: 0.04, 0.003–0.08;
P
=0.03) in the PIVUS study. During follow-up in the ULSAM study (median 16.7 years), 89 men were diagnosed with nonfatal atherosclerotic disease. In Cox-regression analyses adjusting for established vascular risk factors and mineral metabolism, higher PTH was associated with an increased risk of nonfatal atherosclerotic disease (hazard ratio for 1 SD increase of PTH: 1.55, 1.33–1.88;
P
<0.0001). Results were similar when including fatal atherosclerotic disease in the outcome.

Conclusions—

In 2 independent community-based cohorts, PTH was associated to the degree of atherosclerosis and risk of clinically overt atherosclerotic disease, respectively. Our data confirm and extend previous studies supporting a role for PTH in the development of atherosclerotic disease.
Prophylactic Lead Extraction at Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Generator Change
Authors: Mendenhall G. Stuart , Saba Samir
Published: March 2014

Background—

Current implantable cardiac devices have a finite battery life of ≈3 to 7 years for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. It is current practice to reuse all properly functioning intravascular leads. We tested the hypothesis that a strategy of prophylactic lead removal at the time of device change would be superior under some conditions to the current practice of lead reuse.

Methods and Results—

Using currently available data and a Monte Carlo microsimulation trial, we calculated the risks of leaving an indwelling lead until extraction is indicated because of malfunction versus an aggressive management strategy of prophylactic serial extraction at time of generator change. With a serial lead exchange strategy of leads at generator change, there is reduced overall extraction-related mortality because of fewer late complications attributable to extraction of leads with high dwell time because of infection, recall, or subsequent lead failure. This finding is limited to young patients or those with high expected indwell time of lead. This trend reverses for leads with <40 years expected dwell time. Sensitivity analysis shows high dependence on extraction performance and device longevity. In all cases, serial extraction would be expected to lead to increased adverse events related to the more complex procedure.

Conclusions—

A strategy of serial lead extraction, given best available current parameters, yields a lower procedural mortality risk in the long-term management of indwelling implantable cardioverter-defibrillator leads in young patients (>40-year estimated dwell time) driven by high aggregate anticipated risk of lifetime lead complication.
A new troglobitic species of Coarazuphium Gnaspini, Vanin & Godoy (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Zuphiini) from a cave in Paraná State, Southern Brazil
Authors: BENÁ DANIELA DE CASSIA , VANIN SERGIO ANTONIO
Published: March 2014

A new troglobitic species of the Zuphiini genus Coarazuphium, C. ricardoi new species, is described on the basis of specimens collected inside the "Gruta do Varzeão" cave, in Paraná State. This is the first species of Coarazuphium described from Southern Brazil. The new species is compared with three other troglobitic species of the genus that are microphthalmous and have the elytral apical margins truncate (C. pains Álvares & Ferreira, C. tapiguassu Pellegrini & Ferreira and C. whiteheadi Ball & Shpeley). The most recent published keys for species identification of Coarazuphium are updated to include the new species.
Quantifying Contributions of the Cricopharyngeus to Upper Esophageal Sphincter Pressure Changes by Means of Intramuscular Electromyography and High-Resolution Manometry
Authors: Jones Corinne A. , Hammer Michael J. , Hoffman Matthew R. , McCulloch Timothy M.
Published: March 2014

Objectives:

We sought to determine whether the association between cricopharyngeus muscle activity and upper esophageal sphincter pressure may change in a task-dependent fashion. We hypothesized that more automated tasks related to swallow or airway protection would yield a stronger association than would more volitional tasks related to tidal breathing or voice production.

Methods:

Six healthy adult subjects underwent simultaneous intramuscular electromyography of the cricopharyngeus muscle and high-resolution manometry of the upper esophageal sphincter. Correlation coefficients were calculated to characterize the association between the time-linked series.

Results:

Cricopharyngeus muscle activity was most strongly associated with upper esophageal sphincter pressure during swallow and effortful exhalation tasks (r = 0.77 and 0.79, respectively; P < .01). The association was also less variable during swallow and effortful exhalation.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest a greater coupling for the more automatic tasks, and may suggest less coupling and more flexibility for the more volitional, voice-related tasks. These findings support the important role of central patterning for respiratory- and swallow-related tasks.
Health Care Management in India
Authors: Khan Mohd Iqbal , Banerji Amit
Published: March 2014

Objectives:

The objective of this research is to study the developments in Indian health care sector and will torch upon the rising demand of health care sector in India. The study will evolve the concept of globalization, development of information technology, medical tourism, role of urbanization, growth of health care insurance sector, affordability of health care in India and the role played by major private health care firms in India.

Study design:

Descriptive design.

Methods:

Data used here is secondary data, and collection of data is done from different health care surveys in India, health care websites, journals, newspapers, health magazines and conferences.

Results:

Rising demand of health care in India. India is one among the leading developing countries in health care as the demand of this sector is expected to reach US$ 100 billion by 2015 from the current US$ 65 billion, growing at around 20 per cent a year, according to rating agency Fitch, and the major factors driving the growth in the sector include increasing population, growing lifestyle related health issues, cheaper costs for treatment, thrust in medical tourism, improving health insurance penetration, increasing disposable income, government initiatives and focus on Public–Private Partnership (PPP) models.

Conclusion:

With rising health care demand in India, private sector hospitals and health care firms started to come with the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by giving subsidized rates and rural coverage concepts in India, so that the poor people can afford for the necessary treatment, as 32.7 per cent of the total Indian people fall below the international poverty line of US$ 1.25 per day (PPP) while 68.7 per cent live on less than US$ 2 per day ( http://www.wikipedia.org ). Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) stated in 2010, that eight Indian states have more poor people than 26 poorest African nations combined which totals to more than 410 million poor in the poorest African countries.
An outbreak of serogroup C (ST-11) meningococcal disease in Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Chacon-Cruz Enrique , Espinosa-De Los Monteros Luz Elena , Navarro-Alvarez Samuel , Aranda-Lozano Jose Luis , Volker-Soberanes Maria Luisa , Rivas-Landeros Rosa Maria , Alvelais-Arzamendi Ariadna Annete , Vazquez Julio Alberto
Published: March 2014

Background

Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) has been reported to be endemic in children from Tijuana, Mexico and the risk of an outbreak was always a threat.

Objectives

To describe all clinical, epidemiological and microbiological features of a meningococcal outbreak that occurred in Tijuana, Mexico.

Methods

All cases with IMD were admitted at different emergency departments within the city and diagnosed by culture and agglutination tests. Further restriction fragment length polymorphism pulse field gel electrophoresis (RFLP–PFGE) and multi locus sequence typing (MLST) were performed. All clinical and epidemiological characteristics and interventions were evaluated, as well as risk factors associated with mortality.

Results

From 30 January 2013 to 30 March 2013 there were 19 cases of IMD all caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C. The median age was 16 years (2–47), with higher frequency among individuals at least 13 years old (73.7%). At admission, meningitis was the main clinical presentation (94.7%), followed by purpura (78.9%), septic shock (42.1%) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC, 36.8%). Overall mortality was seven (36.8%). Variables associated with higher mortality were, at admission, presence of septic shock, DIC and thrombocytopenia less than 70,000. All 19 cases had no identifiable site or cluster as the source of the outbreak. RFLP-PFGE showed a discriminatory power for only one profile on all N. meningitidis strains analyzed and a clone ST-11 was identified in all strains. Public health interventions were continuous case reporting of all suspected cases of IMD, an increase in active surveillance in all hospitals, training of medical and laboratory personnel, massive and rapid chemoprophylaxis to all close contacts as indicated, and promotion of good health habits.

Conclusions

An outbreak with high mortality of IMD occurred in Tijuana, Mexico. This event and evidence of endemicity should encourage health authorities to evaluate meningococcal vaccination in the region.
Energy efficiency analysis of relay-assisted cellular networks
Authors: Yu Huan , Li Yunzhou , Kountouris Marios , Xu Xibin , Wang Jing
Published: March 2014

To meet the demand for higher throughput, improved coverage and enhanced reliability, future wireless cellular networks face significant technical challenges. One promising solution is to place relay stations between transmitters and receivers in the cellular network. Meanwhile, as energy consumption reduction has been an important concern for the wireless industry, energy-efficient communications is of prime interest for future networks. In this paper, we study whether and how relays can improve the energy efficiency of cellular networks. Specifically, the energy efficiency of relay-assisted cellular networks is analyzed using tools of stochastic geometry. We first derive the coverage probability for the macro base station (MBS) to user (UE), the MBS to relay station (RS), and the RS to UE links, and then we model the power consumption at the MBS and RS. Based on the analytical model and expressions, the energy efficiency of relay-assisted cellular networks is then evaluated and is shown to be strictly quasi-concave on the transmit power for MBS to UE link or the RS to UE link. Numerical results show that the energy efficiency first improves while it hits a ceiling as the MBS density increases.
Screening for Depressed Mood in Patients With Cancer Using the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory: Investigation of a Practical Approach for the Oncologist
Authors: Jones Desiree , Vichaya Elisabeth G. , Cleeland Charles S. , Cohen Lorenzo , Thekdi Seema M. , Wang Xin Shelley , Fisch Michael J.
Published: March 2014

The MDASI “sadness” item has modest sensitivity and high negative predictive value and can serve as a useful initial screen for depressed mood, an approach that may improve the efficiency and acceptability of depression screening for both clinicians and patients.
Defective skeletogenesis and oversized otoliths in fish early stages in a changing ocean
Authors: Pimentel Marta S. , Faleiro Filipa , Dionísio Gisela , Repolho Tiago , Pousão Pedro , Machado Jorge , Rosa Rui
Published: March 2014

Early life stages of many marine organisms are being challenged by rising seawater temperature and CO2 concentrations, but their physiological responses to these environmental changes still remain unclear. In the present study, we show that future predictions of ocean warming (+4°C) and acidification (ΔpH = 0.5 units) may compromise the development of early life stages of a highly commercial teleost fish, Solea senegalensis. Exposure to future conditions caused a decline in hatching success and larval survival. Growth, metabolic rates and thermal tolerance increased with temperature but decreased under acidified conditions. Hypercapnia and warming amplified the incidence of deformities by 31.5% (including severe deformities such as lordosis, scoliosis and kyphosis), while promoting the occurrence of oversized otoliths (109.3% increase). Smaller larvae with greater skeletal deformities and larger otoliths may face major ecophysiological challenges, which might potentiate substantial declines in adult fish populations, putting in jeopardy the species fitness under a changing ocean.
Phosphorus allocation in surface soil of two drained peatland forests following wood and peat ash application – why effective adsorption on low sorptive soils?
Authors: Nieminen Mika , Moilanen Mikko , Piirainen Sirpa
Published: March 2014

Fertilization of drained peatland forests with wood ash and different commercial phosphorus fertilizers (calcium phosphates) generally give similar stand growth responses. However, it has been shown that use of calcium phosphate fertilizers generally lead to highly increased P release to recipient water courses. On the other hand, no corresponding release has been reported after ash fertilization. Soil samples from the surface peats from a nutrient poor and a fertile drained peatland site were collected before and 1â4 years after application of five different types of ash products. The changes over time in the different chemical forms of P in the substrate were studied. The results indicated that the reason for the low liability to leaching of ash fertilizers was that significant amounts of P are adsorbed by Al and Fe during weathering of the ash fertilizers. However, further studies are needed to clarify whether the adsorption of P occurs with the Al and Fe of the ash or the native Al and Fe compounds present in soil before ash fertilization.
Modelling percentile based basal area weighted diameter distribution
Authors: Kangas Annika , Mehtätalo Lauri , Maltamo Matti
Published: March 2014

In percentile method, percentiles of the diameter distribution are predicted with a system of models. The continuous empirical diameter distribution function is then obtained by interpolating between the predicted values of percentiles. In Finland, the distribution is typically modelled as a basal-area weighted distribution, which is transformed to a traditional density function for applications. In earlier studies it has been noted that when calculated from the basal-area weighted diameter distribution, the density function is decreasing in most stands, especially for Norway spruce. This behaviour is not supported by the data. In this paper, we investigate the reasons for the unsatisfactory performance and present possible solutions for the problem. Besides the predicted percentiles, the problems are due to implicit assumptions of diameter distribution in the system. The effect of these assumptions can be somewhat lessened with simple ad-hoc methods, like increasing new percentiles to the system. This approach does not, however, utilize all the available information in the estimation, namely the analytical relationships between basal area, stem number and diameter. Accounting for these, gives further possibilities for improving the results. The results show, however, that in order to achieve further improvements, it would be recommendable to make the implicit assumptions more realistic. Furthermore, height variation within stands seems to have an important contribution to the uncertainty of some forest characteristics, especially in the case of sawnwood volume.
The impact of over-exploitation on the genetic structure of Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) populations determined by RAPD markers
Authors: Lise Yildiray , Kaya Zeki , Isik Fikret , Sabuncu Rumi , Kandemir Irfan , Önde Sertaç
Published: March 2014

To determine the possible impact of over-exploitation on the genetic structure of Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) populations, three natural and three over-exploited (human degraded) populations of the species in the Mediterranean region of Turkey were investigated with Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). With the 80 RAPD primers tested, 12 of them yielded 137 polymorphic RAPD fragments. Four of the studied populations maintained unique fragments. The mean proportion of polymorphic fragments for all populations ranged from 89.8 to 98.9% and there were no significant differences between natural (94.8%) vs. over-exploited populations (92.7%). The estimated heterozygosity values suggested that Turkish red pine maintains high levels of genetic diversity (range 0.24â0.28) though studied populations and grouped ones as natural (H =â0.28) vs. over-exploited (0.27) did not differ significantly. The mean F value indicated that the large portion of the total genetic diversity was within populations (93%), but this value was lower in the natural populations (92%) than in the over-exploited ones (94%). In over-exploited populations, excess of homozygosity was observed (about 6% higher) as compared to natural populations, indicating impacts of inbreeding in P. brutia.eST