bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustained increase in platelet aggregation after the cessation of clopidogrel
Authors: Djukanovic Nina , Todorovic Zoran , Zamaklar‐Trifunovic Danijela , Protic Dragana , Dzudovic Boris , Ostojic Miodrag , Obradovic Slobodan
Published: October 2015

This study shows that the abrupt cessation of one‐year clopidogrel treatment was not associated with thrombotic events in a prospective, multicentre study that enrolled 200 patients subjected to coronary stent implantation and treated with aspirin + clopidogrel 1 year after the stent placement. The aim of the study was to investigate the causes of a sustained increase of platelet aggregability, considering that the values of platelet aggregation stimulated with ADP + PGE1 (ADPHS values) significantly increased 10–90 days after the cessation of clopidogrel. Values of platelet aggregation induced by thrombin receptor activating peptide (TRAP values) and arachidonic acid (ASPI values) were divided into quartiles on the basis of ADPHS values 10 days after stopping clopidogrel (ADPHS10). There was a significant difference between TRAP values divided into quartiles according to ADPHS10, 10, 45 and 90 days after stopping clopidogrel (P < 0.001, all), and ASPI values across the same quartiles 10 and 45 days after the cessation of clopidogrel (P = 0.028 and 0.003). The results of the study indicate that patients with early pronounced rebound phenomena to clopidogrel termination have a long‐term (at least 90 days) increased platelet aggregation to other agonists such as thrombin‐related activated protein and arachidonic acid, suggesting the complex mutual relationship of various factors/agonists influencing the function of platelets.
The life cycle of the emerald ash borer Agrilus planipennis in European Russia and comparisons with its life cycles in Asia and North America
Authors: Orlova‐Bienkowskaja Marina J. , Bieńkowski Andrzej O.
Published: October 2015

Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), native to Asia, is a destructive invasive pest of ash Fraxinus spp. in U.S.A., Canada and European Russia. It is spreading quickly and will probably soon be detected in other European countries.

Information about the life cycle of the pest is needed for detection and survey efforts, development of control options and predicting the potential range in Europe. The life cycle has been studied in North America and Asia, although it has not previously been studied in European Russia.

The number of larval instars and the duration of development of A. planipennis in European Russia were determined. Distributions of width of epistome and length of urogomphi indicated four larval instars. The number of excretory ducts and the presence of ledges did not provide a clear differentiation between instars. Development in most of the specimens took 2 years.

Generation time is flexible. In warmer regions (Tianjin), most individuals finish development in 1 year, whereas, in colder regions (Moscow, Changchun, Harbin), it takes 2 years. In intermediate climatic regions (Michigan), the ratio of 1 : 2‐year life cycles depends on additional factors. The flexibility of the life cycle allows A. planipennis to establish in regions with different climates.
Macroscopic digestive tract anatomy of two small antelopes, the blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) and the Arabian sand gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa marica)
Authors: Sauer Cathrine , Bertelsen Mads F. , Hammer Sven , Lund Peter , Weisbjerg Martin R. , Clauss Marcus
Published: October 2015

The digestive tract anatomy of 14 blackbucks (Antilope cervicapra) and seven Arabian sand gazelles (Gazella subgutturosa marica) was quantified by dimensions, area and weight. Data from the two small‐sized antilopinae were evaluated against a larger comparative data set from other ruminants classified as having either a ‘cattle‐type’ or ‘moose‐type’ digestive system. The digestive anatomy of the blackbuck resembled that of ‘cattle‐type’ ruminants, which corresponds to their feeding ecology and previous studies of solute and particle retention time; however, a surprising exception was the remarkably small omasum in this species, which makes the blackbuck stand out from the general rule of a relatively large omasum in grazing ruminants. Sand gazelles had morphological features that corresponded more to the ‘moose type’ or an intermediate position, although previous studies of solute and particle retention time had led to the expectation of a more ‘cattle‐type’ anatomy. The results show that outliers to general morphological trends exist, that findings on physiology and anatomy do not always match completely and that differences in the digestive morphology among ruminant species are more difficult to demonstrate at the lower end of the body mass range.
Development of a Tissue‐Engineered Lymphatic Graft Using Nanocomposite Polymer for the Treatment of Secondary Lymphedema
Authors: Kanapathy Muholan , Kalaskar Deepak , Mosahebi Afshin , Seifalian Alexander M.
Published: October 2015

Damage of the lymphatic vessels, commonly due to surgical resection for cancer treatment, leads to secondary lymphedema. Tissue engineering approach offers a possible solution to reconstruct this damage with the use of lymphatic graft to re‐establish the lymphatic flow, hence preventing lymphedema. The aim of this study is to develop a tissue‐engineered lymphatic graft using nanocomposite polymer and human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLECs). A nanocomposite polymer, the polyhedral oligomeric silsequioxane‐poly(carbonate‐urea)urethane (POSS‐PCU), which has enhanced mechanical, chemical, and physical characteristics, was used to develop the lymphatic graft. POSS‐PCU has been used clinically for the world's first synthetic trachea, lacrimal duct, and is currently undergoing clinical trial for coronary artery bypass graft. Two designs and fabrication methods were used to manufacture the conduits. The fabrication method, the mechanical and physical properties, as well as the hydraulic conductivity were tested. This is followed by in vitro cell culture analysis to test the cytocompatibility of HDLEC with the polymer surface. Using the casted extrusion method, the nanocomposite lymphatic graft demonstrates desirable mechanical property and hydraulic conductivity to re‐establish the lymphatic flow. The conduit has high tensile strength (casted: 74.86 ± 5.74 MPa vs. coagulated: 31.33 ± 3.71 MPa; P < 0.001), favorable kink resistance, and excellent suture retention property (casted vs. coagulated, P < 0.05). Cytocompatibility study showed that the POSS‐PCU scaffold supports the attachment and growth of HDLECs. This study demonstrates the feasibility of developing a tissue‐engineered lymphatic graft using the nanocomposite polymer. It displays excellent mechanical property and cytocompatibility to HDLECs, offering much promise for clinical applications and as a new treatment option for secondary lymphedema.
Null Hypothesis Significance Testing Does Not Show Equivalence
Authors: Barchard Kimberly A.
Published: October 2015

Null hypothesis significance testing (NHST) allows researchers to find differences between groups, such as differences between men and women, Blacks and Whites, or heterosexual and same‐sex couples. In contrast, this article will show that NHST is mathematically incapable of allowing researchers to conclude that two groups are the same. Because of this, NHST leads to a research literature that emphasizes differences between groups and ignores similarities. To examine similarities between groups, either Bayesian statistics or confidence intervals should be used. Thus, Frost and Gola (2015) should have used one of these approaches when examining similarities between heterosexual and same‐sex couples.
Future‐directed thinking in first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Goodby Emmeline , MacLeod Andrew K.
Published: October 2015

Objectives

This study employed the Future Thinking Task (MacLeod et al., 2005, Br. J. Clin. Psychol., 44, 495) to investigate whether future‐directed thinking in first‐episode psychosis is significantly different from that of matched controls, and to identify its correlates in this patient group.

Design

Cross‐sectional, mixed‐model, case–control design.

Method

Participants were 30 patients with first‐episode psychosis and 27 matched controls. The Future Thinking Task was used to assess future‐directed thinking in both groups. Anxiety and depression were also measured as well as self‐report measures of hopelessness, suicide ideation and a measure of negative symptoms.

Results

Individuals with psychosis were impaired in future‐directed thinking in both positive and negative domains, particularly with respect to the coming year. Increased self‐reported hopelessness was associated with reduced positive future thinking and increased negative future thinking. Increased positive future thinking was also associated with reduced severity of negative symptoms, whilst negative future thinking was associated with suicide ideation.

Conclusions

Individuals with first‐episode psychosis show a reduction in positive future thinking in line with that seen in other clinical groups, but this is accompanied by an unexpected reduction in negative future thinking. The findings suggest a general disengagement with the future in this group that may affect recovery and functioning.

Practitioner points

Individuals with first‐episode psychosis may benefit from interventions to help them engage with their future, in particular in the mid‐range, up to 1 year.

The Future Thinking Task may be a helpful addition to the assessment of suicide risk in those with first‐episode psychosis.

Decreased positive future thinking was associated with increased severity of negative symptoms, indicating a potential new treatment angle for this resistant aspect of psychosis.

The cross‐sectional design of this study does not allow for conclusions about the causal relationship between psychosis and future‐directed thinking.

This study investigated future‐directed thinking in individuals with a range of psychotic illnesses employing a trans‐diagnostic approach; therefore, conclusions cannot be drawn about the nature of future‐directed thinking in individual psychotic disorders.
Free factor XIII activation peptide (fAP‐FXIII) is a regulator of factor XIII activity via factor XIII‐B
Authors: Dodt Johannes , Pasternack Ralf , Seitz Rainer , Volkers Peter
Published: October 2015

In a factor XIIIa (FXIIIa) generation assay with recombinant FXIII‐A2 (rFXIII‐A2) free FXIII activation peptide (fAP‐FXII) prolonged the time to peak (TTP) but did not affect the area under the curve (AUC) or concentration at peak (CP). Addition of recombinant factorXIII‐B2 (rFXIII‐B2) restored the characteristics of the FXIIIa generation parameters (AUC, TTP and CP) to those observed for plasma FXIII (FXIII‐A2B2). FXIII‐A2B2 reconstituted from rFXIII‐A2 and rFXIII‐B2 showed a similar effect on AUC, TTP and CP in the presence of fAP‐FXII as observed for plasma FXIII‐A2B2, indicating a role for FXIII‐B in this observation. An effect of fAP‐FXIII on thrombin, the proteolytic activator of FXIII, was excluded by thrombin generation assays and clotting experiments. In a purified system, fAP‐FXIII did not interfere with the FXIIIa activity development of thrombin‐cleaved rFXIII‐A2 (rFXIII‐A2′) also excluding direct inhibition of FXIIIa. However, FXIIIa activity development of FXIII‐A2′B2 was inhibited in a concentration‐dependent manner by fAP‐FXIII, indicating that an interaction between AP‐FXIII and FXIII‐B2 contributes to the overall stability of FXIII‐A2′B2. In addition to its well‐known role, FXIII‐B also contributes to FXIII‐A2B2 stability or dissociation depending on fAP‐FXIII and calcium concentrations.
Mortality and cardiovascular disease outcomes among 740 patients with new‐onset Type 2 diabetes detected by screening or clinically diagnosed in general practice
Authors: Jansson S. P. O. , Andersson D. K. G. , Svärdsudd K.
Published: October 2015

Aim

Screening for Type 2 diabetes among people at high risk is recommended by many organizations. The aim of this study was to analyse all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes in patients with Type 2 diabetes detected by screening or diagnosed clinically.

Methods

A diabetes register was established at the primary healthcare centre in Laxå, Sweden beginning in 1972. The register was based on data from clinical records with information on medical treatment and laboratory data, as well as all‐cause mortality, CVD, myocardial infarction and stroke events from national registers until 31 December 2013. A total of 740 patients with new‐onset Type 2 diabetes were registered between 1972 and 2001. In addition, an opportunistic diabetes‐screening programme involving people aged 35–79 years started in 1983 and was repeated onwards in 5–year cycles.

Results

Baseline characteristics showed a significantly higher CVD risk, mainly depending on more prevalent CVD events in the screened compared with the clinically detected group (propensity score 0.59 vs. 0.46, P < 0.0001). After mean follow‐up periods of 12.9 and 13.6 years for screening detected vs. clinically detected patients, respectively, hazard ratios were as follows: all‐cause mortality, 0.99 (P = 0.89); CVD, 1.17 (P = 0.10); myocardial infarction, 1.08 (P = 0.49); and stroke, 1.03 (P = 0.83).

Conclusions

No reduction in total mortality or CVD outcomes was found in patients with Type 2 diabetes that was detected by screening compared with those diagnosed clinically.
DID TARP DISTORT COMPETITION AMONG SOUND UNSUPPORTED BANKS?
Authors: Koetter Michael , Noth Felix
Published: October 2015

This study investigates if the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) distorted price competition in U.S. banking. Political indicators reveal bailout expectations after 2009, manifested as beliefs about the predicted probability of receiving equity support relative to failing during the TARP disbursement period. In addition, the TARP affected the competitive conduct of unsupported banks after the program stopped in the fourth quarter of 2009. Loan rates were higher, and the risk premium required by depositors was lower for banks with higher bailout expectations. The interest margins of unsupported banks increased in the immediate aftermath of the TARP disbursement but not after 2010. No effects emerged for loan or deposit growth, which suggests that protected banks did not increase their market shares at the expense of less protected banks. (JEL G21, G28, L51)
An acute outbreak of equine dysautonomia (equine grass sickness) in a group of eight Przewalski's horses (Equus ferus [caballus] przewalskii)
Authors: Girling S. J. , Fraser M. A. , Richardson D. , Harley J. , Ireland J. L. , Naylor A. , Milne E.
Published: October 2015

Equine grass sickness (EGS) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting grazing equids of which a single case of the chronic clinical presentation has previously been reported in a Przewalski's horse (Equus ferus [caballus] przewalskii). A group of 8 Przewalski's horses were moved to a new enclosure, recently vacated by a group of 4 Eastern kiang (Equus kiang holdereri) that showed no evidence of disease. After 23 days the first Przewalski's horse showed clinical signs of acute EGS including flank sweating, belly kicking, rapid loss of body condition, cessation of faecal passage, nasogastric reflux and mouthing water. It was subjected to euthanasia within 48 h due to lack of therapeutic response. Within 24 h of this first case developing clinical signs, a further 5 Przewalski's horses showed similar clinical signs of acute EGS and were subjected to euthanasia. Post mortem examinations confirmed acute EGS, with all animals demonstrating typical chromatolysis, cytoplasmic hypereosinophilia, cellular swelling, vacuolation, pyknosis and loss of nuclei in approximately 90% of neurones in the cranial cervical and cranial mesenteric ganglia and myenteric and submucosal plexi of the ileum. Two Przewalski's horses within the group showed no clinical signs of disease. No single pathogen was identified as the causal agent, but the epidemiological pattern of the outbreak was typical for that previously reported for acute EGS in domestic equids. All affected animals and the 2 surviving Przewalski's horses had low antibody titres to Clostridium botulinum type C. This is the first report of acute EGS in a herd of Przewalski's horses.
The paradox of diarrhoeal disease and small colon obstruction
Authors: Blikslager A. T.
Published: October 2015

The interesting finding of stenosis in a case series of 3 foals that initially presented with diarrhoeal disease is suggestive of an inflammatory and fibrotic event that is more frequently reported in people with inflammatory bowel disease. In man, stenosis is believed to occur because of inflammation and excessive production of scar tissue in the absence of a normal reparative response. However, this is typically a chronic process, whereas in the foals, stenosis occurred within weeks to months. Other diseases of horses, particularly right dorsal colitis and small colon impaction preceded by diarrhoeal disease, have some similarities to the focal disease described for foals. Collectively, equine studies are increasingly pointing toward complex interactions in the intestinal tract between the mucosa, the microbiome, management factors such as diet, and reparative responses to inflammatory insult.
State Policy? Traditional Gender Stereotypes? Relative Contributions of Factors Affecting Positive Work–Family Interface for Working Mothers in Korea
Authors: Won Sook‐Yeon
Published: October 2015

This study explores the gap between policy rhetoric and the reality faced by Korean working mothers, by addressing the following question; whether and to what extent do policy measures for work–family balance contribute to positive work–family interface for working mothers? Although the Korean government has advocated a positive relation between state policy and satisfaction with work–family balance, this is not necessarily the case in practice. To this end, this study focuses on the relative contribution of policy measures to achieve work–family balance reported by working mothers, in relative to traditional gender stereotypes based on Confucian culture as well as working conditions. An empirical analysis with 1,082 Korean working mothers shows interesting findings. First of all, the contribution of policy towards the reported satisfaction in work–family balance is not supported, while the set of traditional gender stereotypes is found to be a negative contributor. Husbands’ psychological support for their wives’ employment, which seems to strengthen the impact of traditional gender stereotypes, follows. The implications of the findings are discussed in depth, by considering the relationships between policy outcomes and traditional gender stereotypes in Korea.
National needs assessment of patients treated at the United States Federally‐Funded Hemophilia Treatment Centers
Authors: Butler R. B. , Cheadle A. , Aschman D. J. , Riske B. , Senter S. , McLaughlin K. M. , Young G. , Ahuja S. , Forsberg A. D.
Published: October 2015

Aim

The National Hemophilia Program Coordinating Center, with the U.S. Regional Hemophilia Network conducted a national needs assessment of U.S. Hemophilia Treatment Center (HTC) patients. The objectives were to determine: (i) To what extent do patients report that they receive needed services and education; (ii) How well do the services provided meet their needs; and (iii) What are the patients’ perspectives about their care.

Methods

A survey was mailed to active patients of 129 HTCs. Respondents completed the anonymous surveys on line or returned them by mail. Questions focused on management and information, access and barriers to care, coping, resources, and transition.

Results

Of 24 308 questionnaires mailed, 4004 (16.5%) were returned. Most respondents reported very few gaps in needed services or information and reported that services and information met their needs. Over 90% agreed or strongly agreed that care was patient‐centred and rated HTC care as important or very important. Identified gaps included dietary advice, genetic testing, information on ageing, sexual health and basic needs resources. Minority respondents reported more barriers.

Conclusion

This survey is the largest assessment of the HTC population. Respondents reported that the services and information provided by the HTCs met their needs. Quality improvement opportunities include transition and services related to ageing and sexual health. Further investigation of barriers to care for minorities is underway. Results will help develop national priorities to better serve all patients in the US. HTCs.
Grape juice concentrate (G8000®) intake mitigates testicular morphological and ultrastructural damage following cadmium intoxication
Authors: Lamas Celina A. , Gollücke Andrea P.B. , Dolder Heidi
Published: October 2015

Cadmium is a well‐known testicular toxicant, and parts of the world population are exposed chronically by inhalation or by food and water intake. Grape products have been highlighted as important sources of bioactive compounds, having anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant and metal chelating properties. Since maintenance of tissue morphology is essential for testicular sperm development and hence male fertility, we analysed the protective effect of grape juice concentrate (GJC) (G8000®) consumption on testicular morphology in rats exposed to cadmium. Thus, four groups of male Wistar rats (n = 6 per group), 50 days old, ingested either water or G8000® (2 g/kg/day) until they had completed one spermatogenic cycle in adult life (136 days old). Cadmium (1.2 mg / kg) was injected intraperitoneally when the animals were 80 days old into one of the water and one of the G8000 groups; intraperitoneal saline was used as a control in the other two groups. Animals anaesthetised and exsanguinated at 136 days and then perfused with Karnovsky's fixative and then the testes were collected for morphological analysis. We describe evident disruption of testicular morphology by cadmium, with alteration in tissue component proportions, reduced Leydig cells volume and initial signs of an inflammatory process. Ultrastructural analysis showed greater damage, suggesting spermatogenesis disruption. G8000® ingestion allowed tissue architecture to be re‐established, as was corroborated by our stereological and morphometric findings. Animals from the group where G8000® had been administered together with cadmium revealed a significant reduction in macrophages and blood vessel volume, suggesting diminished inflammation, when compared to animals that received only cadmium. Moreover, smaller number of ultrastructural alterations was noted, revealing fewer areas of degeneration and disorganized interstitium. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that GJC consumption prevented the spermatogenic disruption promoted by cadmium, and thus could be a promising form of therapy against male infertility.
Altered expression of CKs 14/20 is an early event in a rat model of multistep bladder carcinogenesis
Authors: Gil da Costa Rui M. , Oliveira Paula A. , Vasconcelos‐Nóbrega Carmen , Arantes‐Rodrigues Regina , Pinto‐Leite Rosário , Colaço Aura A. , de la Cruz Luis F. , Lopes Carlos
Published: October 2015

Cytokeratins (CKs) 14 and 20 are promising markers for diagnosing urothelial lesions and for studying their prognosis and histogenesis. This work aimed to study the immunohistochemical staining patterns of CK14/20 during multistep carcinogenesis leading to papillary bladder cancer in a rat model. Thirty female Fischer 344 rats were divided into three groups: group 1 (control); group 2, which received N‐butyl‐N‐(4‐hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine (BBN) for 20 weeks plus 1 week without treatment; and group 3, which received BBN for 20 weeks plus 8 weeks without treatment. Bladder lesions were classified histologically. CK14 and CK20 immunostaining was assessed according to its distribution and intensity. In control animals, 0–25% of basal cells and umbrella cells stained positive for CK14 and CK20 respectively. On groups 2 and 3, nodular hyperplastic lesions showed normal CK20 and moderately increased CK14 staining (26–50% of cells). Dysplasia, squamous metaplasia, papilloma, papillary tumours of low malignant potential and low‐ and high‐grade papillary carcinomas showed increased CK14 and CK20 immunostaining in all epithelial layers. Altered CK14 and CK20 expression is an early event in urothelial carcinogenesis and is present in a wide spectrum of urothelial superficial neoplastic and preneoplastic lesions.
Free Viewing Gaze Behavior in Infants and Adults
Authors: Franchak John M. , Heeger David J. , Hasson Uri , Adolph Karen E.
Published: October 2015

The current study investigated age differences in free viewing gaze behavior. Adults and 6‐, 9‐, 12‐, and 24‐month‐old infants watched a 60‐sec Sesame Street video clip while their eye movements were recorded. Adults displayed high intersubject consistency in eye movements; they tended to fixate the same places at the same. Infants showed weaker consistency between observers and intersubject consistency increased with age. Across age groups, the influence of both bottom‐up features (fixating visually salient areas) and top‐down features (looking at faces) increased. Moreover, individual differences in fixating bottom‐up and top‐down features predicted whether infants’ eye movements were consistent with those of adults, even when controlling for age. However, this relation was moderated by the number of faces available in the scene, suggesting that the development of adult‐like viewing involves learning when to prioritize looking at bottom‐up and top‐down features.
Perception of risk for older people living with a mental illness: Balancing uncertainty
Authors: Clancy Leonie , Happell Brenda , Moxham Lorna
Published: October 2015

Risk is commonly defined as a negative threat which needs to be controlled and mitigated; as a concept, it takes high priority in contemporary mental health services. Health‐care organizations and clinicians are now required to use levels of risk as a benchmark for clinical decision‐making. However, perceptions of risk change according to the lens through which it is viewed. A qualitative, exploratory research study was undertaken in an aged persons’ mental health programme in Victoria, Australia, to explore the notion of risk from the multiple perspectives of service providers and consumers. Data were obtained through in‐depth interviews, and analysis was based on the framework of Ritchie and Spencer. Balancing uncertainty emerged as a major theme, and comprised two subthemes: (i) complexity of risk from the perspective of providers of services; and (ii) complexity of safety from the perspectives of recipients of services. These differences emphasize a significant disjuncture between perceptions of risk and the potential for the individual needs and concerns of consumers to be subsumed under broader organizational issues. The uncertainty this tension highlights suggests the need to reconceptualize risk, incorporating the views and experiences of all stakeholders, particularly consumers and carers, to enhance recovery‐oriented services and facilitate consumer participation within mental health services.
Hierarchical Organization of TiO2 Nanostructures in Low‐Temperature Solution Processes
Authors: Shim Jong Hyun , Cho Junghyun
Published: October 2015

Nanostructured TiO2 thin films were prepared via a low‐temperature solution processing. We have previously calculated the degree of supersaturation (s) for TiO2 precursor solution to systematically tailor the development of TiO2 nanostructures in the range of s = 70–200. In this article, we focused more on a lower supersaturation regime (s < 70), from which we were able to obtain various shapes and sizes of nanostructures of TiO2 thin films. A film consisting of “rutile” phase nanoblades was observed when the degree of supersaturation was s = 15–70. To further lower the supersaturation (s < 15), hydrothermal processing had to be used, for which a film consisting of “rutile” phase nanorods was obtained. The resulting thin films were evaluated for band gap energies and dielectric properties. The band gap energy for those rutile thin films decreased from 3.22 to 2.99 eV when the supersaturation was lowered from s = 70 to 15. The dielectric constant (k) of the rutile film processed from s = 50 showed the best performance with k~50 at 1 MHz.
Numerical Modeling of Cooling Stage of Glass Molding Process Assisted by CFD and Measurement of Residual Birefringence
Authors: Dora Pallicity Tarkes , Ramesh Krishnamurthi , Mahajan Puneet , Vengadesan Sankaranarayanan
Published: October 2015

Process parameters of Precision Glass Molding (PGM) are often sought by Finite Element (FE) simulation. Mechanical as well as thermal boundary conditions (BCs) are necessary for FE simulation in which mechanical BCs are usually known or easily determinable. However, most of the thermal BCs are generally assumed in the FE simulation as they cannot be measured directly. The focus of this article is to propose a novel method for evaluating the thermal BC of glass–N2 gas. FE simulations as well as thermal cycling experiments are carried out for a glass disk specimen for three different cooling rates. CFD analysis of N2 flow in the PGM machine is performed to understand the heat extraction mechanism. Based on this, adhoc values for equivalent heat transfer coefficient (heqv) are obtained by lumped system analysis. A novel methodology is then proposed for obtaining accurate heqv values by measurement of integrated residual birefringence in glass using digital photoelasticity. FE simulation is repeated for different values of heqv until the integrated birefringence based on simulation matches with that of the experiment. For the same cooling rates, two aspherical glass lenses are molded and their residual birefringence is measured and compared with the glass disk specimen.
Effect of the Cubic Phase Distribution on Ultrafine WC–10Co–0.5Cr–xTa Cemented Carbide
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Weibin , Peng Yingbiao , Du Yong
Published: October 2015

The (Ta, W)C cubic phase distribution plays a key role in the microstructure and mechanical properties of ultrafine WC–Co–Cr3C2–TaC cemented carbides. By integration of thermodynamic calculations and key experiments, the influence of the cubic phase distribution in ultrafine WC–10Co–0.5Cr–xTa cemented carbides was systematically investigated. A series of ultrafine grained cemented carbides were designed and fabricated through ball‐milling and vacuum sintering at 1410°C for 1 h. The microstructure was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) was used to measure the orientation and size of cubic phase segregation. The results indicate that the cubic phase in the microstructure distributes more heterogeneously in the range of 0.2 to 0.7 wt% Ta addition, but finally the isolated cubic phase is homogeneously distributed with a Ta content from 0.7 to 1 wt%. Combining the thermodynamic calculation with the experiment, the mechanism for the microstructure evolution has been revealed. The mechanical properties of alloys substantially depend on the cubic phase distribution in the microstructure. A synergetic correlation between the transverse rupture strength (TRS) and Rockwell hardness was observed. The homogeneity of cubic phase can be designed and controlled effectively via the present approach.
First geolocator tracks of Swedish red‐necked phalaropes reveal the Scandinavia‐Arabian Sea connection
Authors: van Bemmelen Rob S. A. , Hungar Johannes , Tulp Ingrid , Klaassen Raymond H. G.
Published: October 2015

We studied migration and wintering patterns of a wader with a pelagic lifestyle during the non‐breeding period, the red‐necked phalarope Phalaropus lobatus. Using light‐level geolocation, we obtained three full annual tracks and one autumn migration track of male red‐necked phalaropes caught during breeding in Scandinavia. These tracks confirmed expectations that individuals from the Scandinavian population winter in the Arabian Sea. Migration was accomplished in two to four migration leaps, staging for a few days in the Gulf of Finland (autumn) or the southern Baltic Sea (spring) and for up to a month in or near the Black and Caspian Sea (autumn and spring). In addition, travel speeds suggested that only the flights between the Baltic and Black/Caspian Sea are non‐stop, and thus the birds seem to make additional short stops during the other flights. Stopover time in the Black/Caspian Sea is only 8–10 d in spring but up to 36 d in autumn, which is longer than expected if only used for pre‐migratory fattening to cover the ca 2000 km to the Gulf of Oman. After entering the Arabian Sea via the Gulf of Oman, birds dispersed over the entire presumed winter range. Winter movements appear to correspond to the spatio‐temporal patterns in primary production linked to seasonally changing monsoon winds. These are not only the first tracks of Scandinavian red‐necked phalaropes, but also the first seabird tracks in the Arabian Sea, one of the most productive and dynamic marine areas on the planet.
Costly Self‐Insurance of Rights Offerings
Authors: Duong Truong X. , Singh Rajdeep , Tan Eng‐Joo
Published: October 2015

We study how the underwriting decision of an equity rights offering is affected by the risk of offering failure. Firms can reduce failure risk by getting underwriting or by self‐insuring through subscription price discounts and subscription precommitments. Self‐insurance is generally regarded to be relatively costless, but we provide evidence from Singapore that is consistent with the existence of implicit costs. In particular, the existence of self‐insurance costs implies that firms with better projects will have larger discounts and that firms with higher ownership concentration will have more precommitments. Hence, our results support costly self‐insurance against issue failure as a factor in explaining the rights issue paradox.
Impact of Periprocedural Colchicine on Postprocedural Management in Patients Undergoing a Left Atrial Appendage Ligation Using LARIAT
Authors: GUNDA SAMPATH , REDDY MADHU , NATH JAYANT , NAGARAJ HOSAKOTE , ATOUI MOUSTAPHA , RASEKH ABDI , ELLIS CHRISTOPHER R. , BADHWAR NITISH , LEE RANDALL J. , DI BIASE LUIGI , MANSOUR MOUSSA , RUSKIN JEREMY N. , NATALE ANDREA , EARNEST MATTHEW , LAKKIREDDY DHANUNJAYA R.
Published: October 2015

Periprocedural Colchicine for Epicardial Access Procedures

Introduction

Left atrial appendage (LAA) can be effectively and safely excluded using a novel percutaneous LARIAT ligation system. However, due to pericardial catheter manipulation and LAA ligation and subsequent necrosis, postprocedural course is complicated by pericarditis. We intended to evaluate the preprocedural use of colchicine on the incidence of postprocedural pericardial complications.

Methods and Results

In this multicenter observational study, we included all consecutive patients who underwent LARIAT procedure at the participating centers. Many patients received periprocedural colchicine at the discretion of the physician. We compared the postprocedural outcomes of patients who received prophylactic periprocedural colchicine (colchicine group) with those who did not receive colchicine (standard group). A total of 344 consecutive patients, 243 in the “colchicine group” and 101 in the “standard group,” were included. The mean age, median CHADS2VASc score, and HASBLED scores were 70 ± 11 years, 3 ± 1.7, and 3 ± 1.1, respectively. There were no significant differences in major baseline characteristics between the two groups. Severe pericarditis was significantly lower in the “colchicine group” compared to the “standard group” (10 [4%] vs. 16 [16%] P<0.0001). The colchicine group, compared to the standard group, had lesser pericardial drain output (186 ± 84 mL vs. 351 ± 83, P<0.001), shorter pericardial drain duration (16 ± 4 vs. 23 ± 19 hours, P<0.04), and similar incidence of delayed pericardial effusion (4 [1.6%] to 3 [3%], P = 0.42) when compared to the standard group.

Conclusion

Use of colchicine periprocedurally was associated with significant reduction in postprocedural pericarditis and associated complications.
Mas receptor mediates cardioprotection of angiotensin‐(1‐7) against Angiotensin II‐induced cardiomyocyte autophagy and cardiac remodelling through inhibition of oxidative stress
Authors: Lin Li , Liu Xuebo , Xu Jianfeng , Weng Liqing , Ren Jun , Ge Junbo , Zou Yunzeng
Published: October 2015

Angiotensin II (Ang II) plays an important role in the onset and development of cardiac remodelling associated with changes of autophagy. Angiotensin1‐7 [Ang‐(1‐7)] is a newly established bioactive peptide of renin–angiotensin system, which has been shown to counteract the deleterious effects of Ang II. However, the precise impact of Ang‐(1‐7) on Ang II‐induced cardiomyocyte autophagy remained essentially elusive. The aim of the present study was to examine if Ang‐(1‐7) inhibits Ang II‐induced autophagy and the underlying mechanism involved. Cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were exposed to Ang II for 48 hrs while mice were infused with Ang II for 4 weeks to induce models of cardiac hypertrophy in vitro and in vivo. LC3b‐II and p62, markers of autophagy, expression were significantly elevated in cardiomyocytes, suggesting the presence of autophagy accompanying cardiac hypertrophy in response to Ang II treatment. Besides, Ang II induced oxidative stress, manifesting as an increase in malondialdehyde production and a decrease in superoxide dismutase activity. Ang‐(1‐7) significantly retarded hypertrophy, autophagy and oxidative stress in the heart. Furthermore, a role of Mas receptor in Ang‐(1‐7)‐mediated action was assessed using A779 peptide, a selective Mas receptor antagonist. The beneficial responses of Ang‐(1‐7) on cardiac remodelling, autophagy and oxidative stress were mitigated by A779. Taken together, these result indicated that Mas receptor mediates cardioprotection of angiotensin‐(1‐7) against Ang II‐induced cardiomyocyte autophagy and cardiac remodelling through inhibition of oxidative stress.
Prospective comparison of three risk scoring systems in non‐variceal and variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Thanapirom Kessarin , Ridtitid Wiriyaporn , Rerknimitr Rungsun , Thungsuk Rattikorn , Noophun Phadet , Wongjitrat Chatchawan , Luangjaru Somchai , Vedkijkul Padet , Lertkupinit Comson , Poonsab Swangphong , Ratanachu‐ek Thawee , Hansomburana Piyathida , Pornthisarn Bubpha , Thongbai Thirada , Mahachai Varocha , Treeprasertsuk Sombat
Published: October 2015

Background and Aim:

Data regarding the efficacy of the Glasgow Blatchford score (GBS), full Rockall score (FRS) and pre‐endoscopic Rockall scores (PRS) in comparing non‐variceal and variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) are limited. Our aim was to determine the performance of these three risk scores in predicting the need for treatment, mortality, and re‐bleeding among patients with non‐variceal and variceal UGIB.

Methods:

During January, 2010 and September, 2011, patients with UGIB from 11 hospitals were prospectively enrolled. The GBS, FRS, and PRS were calculated. Discriminative ability for each score was assessed using the receiver operated characteristics curve (ROC) analysis.

Results:

A total of 981 patients presented with acute UGIB, 225 patients (22.9%) had variceal UGIB. The areas under the ROC (AUC) of the GBS, FRS, and PRS for predicting the need for treatment were 0.77, 0.69, and 0.61 in non‐variceal versus 0.66, 0.66, and 0.59 in variceal UGIB. The AUC for predicting mortality and re‐bleeding during admission were 0.66, 0.80, and 0.76 in non‐variceal versus 0.63, 0.57, and 0.63 in variceal UGIB. AUC score was not statistically significant for predicting need for therapy and clinical outcome in variceal UGIB. The GBS ≤ 2 and FRS ≤ 1 identified low‐risk non‐variceal UGIB patients for death and re‐bleeding during hospitalization.

Conclusion:

In contrast to non‐variceal UGIB, the GBS, FRS, and PRS were not precise scores for assessing the need for therapy, mortality, and re‐bleeding during admission in variceal UGIB.
Partial and No Recovery from Delirium in Older Hospitalized Adults: Frequency and Baseline Risk Factors
Authors: Cole Martin G. , Bailey Robert , Bonnycastle Michael , McCusker Jane , Fung Shek , Ciampi Antonio , Belzile Eric , Bai Chun
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To determine the frequency and baseline risk factors for partial and no recovery from delirium in older hospitalized adults.

Design

Cohort study with assessment of recovery status approximately 1 and 3 months after enrollment.

Setting

University‐affiliated, primary, acute‐care hospital.

Participants

Medical or surgical inpatients aged 65 and older with delirium (N = 278).

Measurements

The Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Confusion Assessment Method (CAM), Delirium Index (DI), and activities of daily living (ADLs) were completed at enrollment and each follow‐up. Primary outcome categories were full recovery (absence of CAM core symptoms of delirium), partial recovery (presence of ≥1 CAM core symptoms but not meeting criteria for delirium), no recovery (met CAM criteria for delirium), or death. Secondary outcomes were changes in MMSE, DI, and ADL scores between the baseline and last assessment. Potential risk factors included many clinical and laboratory variables.

Results

In participants with dementia, frequencies of full, partial, and no recovery and death at first follow‐up were 6.3%, 11.3%, 74.6%, and 7.7%, respectively; in participants without dementia, frequencies were 14.3%, 17%, 50.9%, and 17.9%, respectively. In participants with dementia, frequencies at the second follow‐up were 7.9%, 15.1%, 57.6%, and 19.4%, respectively; in participants without dementia, frequencies were 19.2%, 20.2%, 31.7%, and 28.8%, respectively. Frequencies were similar in participants with prevalent and incident delirium and in medical and surgical participants. The DI, MMSE, and ADL scores of many participants with partial and no recovery improved. Independent baseline risk factors for delirium persistence were chart diagnosis of dementia (odds ratio (OR) = 2.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.38, 4.56), presence of any malignancy (OR = 5.79, 95% CI = 1.51, 22.19), and greater severity of delirium (OR =9.39, 95% CI = 3.95, 22.35).

Conclusion

Delirium in many older hospitalized adults appears to be much more protracted than previously thought, especially in those with dementia, although delirium symptoms, cognition, and function improved in many participants with partial and no recovery. It may be important to monitor the longer‐term course of delirium in older hospitalized adults and develop strategies to ensure full recovery.
From filaments to function: The role of the plant actin cytoskeleton in pathogen perception, signaling and immunity
Authors: Porter Katie , Day Brad
Published: October 2015

The eukaryotic actin cytoskeleton is required for numerous cellular processes, including cell shape, development and movement, gene expression and signal transduction, and response to biotic and abiotic stress. In recent years, research in both plants and animal systems have described a function for actin as the ideal surveillance platform, linking the function and activity of primary physiological processes to the immune system. In this review, we will highlight recent advances that have defined the regulation and breadth of function of the actin cytoskeleton as a network required for defense signaling following pathogen infection. Coupled with an overview of recent work demonstrating specific targeting of the plant actin cytoskeleton by a diversity of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses, we will highlight the importance of actin as a key signaling hub in plants, one that mediates surveillance of cellular homeostasis and the activation of specific signaling responses following pathogen perception. Based on the studies highlighted herein, we propose a working model that posits changes in actin filament organization is in and of itself a highly specific signal, which induces, regulates and physically directs stimulus‐specific signaling processes, most importantly, those associated with response to pathogens.
Service user involvement in preregistration general nurse education: a systematic review
Authors: Scammell Janet , Heaslip Vanessa , Crowley Emma
Published: October 2015

Aims and objectives

A systematic review of published studies on service user involvement in undergraduate, preregistration general nursing education (excluding mental health‐specific programmes). The objective is to examine how students are exposed to engagement with service users.

Background

The requirement of service user involvement in all nurse education is policy expectation of health professional education providers, in response to the increased public and political expectations. Previous literature reviews have focused solely on mental health.

Design

Systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines; timeframe 1997–2014; published in English.

Methods

Search of CINAHL, Cochrane Review, Education Research Complete, Internurse, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, Scopus, SocINDEX and Web of Science yielded 229 citations; 11 studies met the review eligibility criteria.

Results

Seven studies used qualitative methodology, two quantitative and two mixed methods. Studies from the United Kingdom dominated (n = 9), the remainder from South Africa and Turkey. The results are described using four themes: benefits and limitations of service user involvement; nursing student selection; education delivery; practice‐based learning and assessment. Most studies were small scale; nine had less than 30 participants. Overall the evidence suggests that student, lecturers and service users valued service user involvement in nurse education, to provide an authentic insight into the illness experience. Logistical considerations around support and student cohort size emerged.

Conclusions

This is the first systematic review to focus on service user involvement in general nurse education. It reveals that service user involvement commenced later and is more limited in general programmes as compared to equivalent mental health education provision. Most of the evidence focuses on perceptions of the value of involvement. Further research is required to more clearly establish impact on learning and clinical practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Service user involvement in nurse education is valued by stakeholders but preparation and support for those involved, including mentors is underestimated.
Bacillus subtilis QST 713 Confers Protection to Tomato Plants Against Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato and Induces Plant Defence‐related Genes
Authors: Fousia Sotiria , Paplomatas Epaminondas J. , Tjamos Sotirios E.
Published: October 2015

Bacterial speck, caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst), is an economically important disease of tomato, resulting in yield loss of marketable fruit. Management of bacterial speck is a challenge in commercial production fields due to the limited efficacy of current disease management strategies, as the pathogen acquires resistance to antibiotics and fixed copper bactericides and host resistance has not proven durable. Therefore, it is essential to develop alternative disease management strategies, like biological control. In this study, the efficacy of the commercially available biocontrol agent Bacillus subtilis QST 713 along with copper hydroxide was tested against Pst under greenhouse conditions. QST 713 reduced significantly disease severity and incidence compared to control and the copper hydroxide treatment; subsequently, the Pst population was lower in the QST 713‐treated plants compared to control. In parallel, QST 713 and copper hydroxide increased plant height compared to control and mock plants. Furthermore, the quantitative PCR analysis of PR1a, PR1b and Pin2 expression suggests a positive role for Pin2 in the plant protective activity of QST 713, as Pin2 expression was significantly higher in the QST 713‐treated plants challenged with Pst compared to the control Pst‐inoculated plants.