bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Screw Type and Distribution on the Torsional Stability of 3.5 mm String of Pearls Locking Plate Constructs
Authors: Demianiuk Ryan M. , Benamou Jérôme , Rutherford Scott , Beckett Clifford , Ness Malcolm G. , Déjardin Loïc M.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effects of screw type (mono‐ [M] versus bicortical [B]), number, and position on torsional stability of String of Pearls (SOP) locking plate constructs.

Study Design

In vitro mechanical study.

Methods

SOP plates (n = 32) were applied to bone models and divided into 8 groups named according to screw type (M or B) and position in each fragment relative to the fracture gap starting at the outermost plate hole. Positive and negative controls were MMM and BBB, respectively. Specimens were non‐destructively tested in torsion. Compliance and angular deformation were statistically compared (P < .002).

Results

The MMM construct was most compliant (P < .001). Compliance decreased in groups with a single bicortical screw (P < .001). Compared to the MMM group, torsional compliance decreased in constructs where a single monocortical screw was replaced with a bicortical screw (P < .001). Compared with a centrally positioned bicortical screw, constructs with a bicortical screw in either outer‐ or innermost position were 15% and 23% less compliant, respectively (P < .001). Addition of a second bicortical screw/fragment further decreased compliance (P < .001). No significant difference was found between groups with 2 bicortical screws. The BBB construct was least compliant (P < .001). Group responses for angular deformation followed the same pattern of significance recorded for compliance.

Conclusions

A minimum of 1 bicortical screw/fragment should be used to increase torsional stability of 3.5 mm SOP constructs. Positioning this screw at the inner‐ or outermost positions relative to the fracture is preferred, with the innermost position providing the greatest improvement in stability. Should further torsional stability be desired, increasing the number of bicortical screws is recommended. Clinically, these results may assist with preoperative planning of various fracture patterns.
Occurrence of Incisional Complications After Closure of Equine Celiotomies With USP 7 Polydioxanone
Authors: Anderson Stacy L. , Devick Ian , Bracamonte Jose L. , Hendrick Steve , Barber Spencer M. , Carmalt James L. , Wilson David G.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To report the occurrence of, and risk factors associated with, incisional complications of equine ventral median celiotomies closed with USP 7 polydioxanone (7PD).

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Sample Population

Horses (n = 73; 75 celiotomies).

Methods

Medical records (2000–2010) were retrieved and reviewed for horses that had a ventral celiotomy closed with 7PD and survived ≥14 days. Follow‐up (>1 year) was obtained from the medical record, owner, or referring veterinarian. Independent variables were selected based on risk factors identified in previous studies, perceived clinical relevance, and if there were adequate data recorded in the medical record. Statistical analysis, including multivariable logistic regression with a forward‐building model process, was performed to evaluate variables associated with incisional complications.

Results

One or more incisional complication(s) occurred in 19 celiotomies (25.3%) during hospitalization or after discharge including: drainage (25.3%), infection (12.0%), and partial dehiscence (5.3%). Two of 63 horses (3.2%) available for follow‐up developed an incisional hernia. Variables associated with incisional complications after multivariate analysis included: number of days hospitalized, surgery time, postoperative colic, and postoperative fever.

Conclusion

Overall occurrence of incisional herniation after closure of ventral celiotomies with 7PD was low.
T‐Wave Area Predicts Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients with Left Bundle Branch Block
Authors: ENGELS ELIEN B. , VÉGH ESZTER M. , VAN DEURSEN CAROLINE J.M. , VERNOOY KEVIN , SINGH JAGMEET P. , PRINZEN FRITS W.
Published: September 2014

T‐Wave Predicts CRT Response in LBBB Patients

Introduction

Chronic heart failure patients with a left ventricular (LV) conduction delay, mostly due to left bundle branch block (LBBB), generally derive benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, 30–50% of patients do not show a clear response to CRT. We investigated whether T‐wave analysis of the ECG can improve patient selection.

Methods and Results

The study population comprised 244 CRT recipients with baseline 12‐lead electrocardiogram recordings. Echocardiographic response after 6‐month CRT was defined as a ≥5% increase in LV ejection fraction (LVEF). Vectorcardiograms (VCGs) were constructed from the measured 12‐lead ECGs using an adapted Kors algorithm on digitized ECGs. Logistic regression models indicated repolarization variables as good predictors of CRT response. The VCG‐derived T‐wave area predicted CRT response (odds ratio [OR] per 10 μVs increase 1.172 [P < 0.001]) even better than QRS‐wave area (OR = 1.116 [P = 0.001]). T‐wave area had especially predictive value in the LBBB patient group (OR = 2.77 in LBBB vs. 1.09 in non‐LBBB). This predictive value persisted after adjustment of multiple covariates, such as gender, ischemia, age, hypertension, coronary artery bypass graft, and the usage of diuretics and β‐blockers. In LBBB patients, the increase in LVEF was 6.1 ± 9.7% and 11.3 ± 9.1% in patients with T‐wave area below and above the median value, respectively (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In patients with LBBB morphology of the QRS complex, a larger baseline T‐wave area is an important independent predictor of LVEF increase following CRT.
Ventricular Tachycardia Originating from the Septal Papillary Muscle of the Right Ventricle: Electrocardiographic and Electrophysiological Characteristics
Authors: SANTORO FRANCESCO , DI BIASE LUIGI , HRANITZKY PATRICK , SANCHEZ JAVIER E. , SANTANGELI PASQUALE , PERINI ALESSANDRO PAOLETTI , BURKHARDT JOHN DAVID , NATALE ANDREA
Published: September 2014

RV Septal Papillary Muscle VT

Introduction

Premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) and ventricular tachycardia (VT) arising from papillary muscles of both ventricles have recently been described. There is a lack of data on VT originating from the right ventricular papillary (RV PAP) muscles. There have been no prior studies focused on the electrocardiogram (ECG) features and ablation of PVC/VT arising from the septal papillary muscle of the right ventricle.

Methods

Among 155 consecutive patients with normal structural heart who underwent catheter ablation of PVC/VT, 8 patients with PVC/VT from the septal RV PAP muscle were identified. The site of origin of the arrhythmias was identified through activation/pace mapping and intracardiac echocardiography. All patients underwent radiofrequency ablation of the arrhythmia.

Results

Data on 8 consecutive patients (2 men, age 42 ± 13 years old) were collected. All patients had a preserved ejection fraction (60 ± 4%). Septal RV PAP arrhythmias had a left superior axis and negative concordance or late R‐wave transition in precordial leads.

PVCs were spontaneous in 5 cases, were induced by isoprotenerol in 2 cases and by isoproterenol plus phenylephrine in another one. PVCs were never induced with calcium bolus and only rarely with burst pacing. Adenosine never terminated VT or suppressed the VT/PVCs.

Radiofrequency, fluoroscopic, and procedural time were, respectively, 10.3 ± 3, 36.4 ±11.3, and 76.3 ± 27.5 minutes. During a mean follow‐up of 8 ± 4 months, mean PVC burden was reduced from 14 ± 3% preablation to 0.1 ± 0.2% postablation.

Conclusion

PVCs and VT originating from septal RV papillary muscle could have a typical ECG pattern due to the site of the muscle involved. Radiofrequency ablation of this anatomic area is feasible and effective.
Lower Glomerular Filtration Rate Is Associated With Higher Systemic Vascular Resistance in Patients Without Prevalent Kidney Disease
Authors: Vääräniemi Kati , Koskela Jenni , Tahvanainen Anna , Tikkakoski Antti , Wilenius Matias , Kähönen Mika , Kööbi Tiit , Niemelä Onni , Mustonen Jukka , Pörsti Ilkka
Published: September 2014

The authors examined the association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration creatinine‐cystatin C equation, and hemodynamics in 556 normotensive or never‐treated hypertensive patients without kidney disease (mean age, 46 years). Hemodynamic variables were recorded using pulse wave analysis and whole‐body impedance cardiography. The mean eGFR was 98 mL/min/1.73 m2 (range, 64–145 mL/min/1.73 m2 and one third of the patients had values below 92, while none had proteinuria. In linear regression analyses adjusted for differences in age, weight:height ratio, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and sex, significant associations were found between lower eGFR and higher systolic (P=.001) and diastolic blood pressure (P<.001) and higher systemic vascular resistance (P=.001). There was no association between eGFR and cardiac output or extracellular volume. In the absence of clinical kidney disease, lower eGFR was associated with higher blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance. Therefore, early impairment in kidney function may be involved in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension.
New posology of potassium iodide for the treatment of cutaneous sporotrichosis: study of efficacy and safety in 102 patients
Authors: Macedo P.M. , Lopes‐Bezerra L.M. , Bernardes‐Engemann A.R. , Orofino‐Costa R.
Published: September 2014

Background

The first therapeutic choice for the treatment of cutaneous sporotrichosis is oral itraconazole; however, the increase in cases of zoonotic transmission outbreak necessitates a search for effective and safe treatment alternatives.

Objective

To evaluate a new potassium iodide (KI) posology as an alternative for the treatment of limited cutaneous forms of sporotrichosis.

Methods

One hundred and two patients with sporotrichosis diagnosed by isolation of Sporothrix sp. were included and were divided into 2 groups that received different doses of KI: group A received the conventional dose, and group B received the reduced dose. The cure criteria were based on clinical and serological data.

Results

Seventy‐nine patients (77.4%) reached clinical cure: 70.6% and 84.3% of groups A and B respectively. Sixteen patients (15.6%) were lost during follow‐up, and seven changed drug therapy: five in group A and two in group B. The incidence of adverse events was similar for both groups (64.7%): predominantly metallic taste (44%), followed by mild gastrointestinal intolerance and acneiform eruption (10.7% each). No serious adverse events occurred, and there were no recurrences. Analysis of the results showed no statistically significant difference between groups (P = 0.9255). The improvement in serologic titres was significant in both treatment groups.

Conclusion

Through statistical analysis, the usual posology was not shown to be superior to the one proposed in this study. Serology for sporotrichosis may be used as a valuable tool in the clinical monitoring of these patients.
Composition of Soil Testate Amoebae Communities: Their Structure and Modifications in the Temperate Rain Forests of New Zealand and Tasmania
Authors: Bamforth Stuart S.
Published: September 2014

A study of the temperate rain forests of New Zealand and Tasmania showed that their soil testate amoebae communities are composed of five groups of taxa: (1) seven taxa characteristic of wet acidic soils and Sphagnum peatlands (i.e., Amphitemidae, Apodera, Alcodera, Certesella, Cyphoderia, Placocista); (2) a group of 16 species of predatory Nebelids and Heleopera spp., characteristic of Sphagnum and rainforests; (3) a group of 17 species of litter and soil Euglypha, excluding the smallest ones; (4) a diverse population of other morphotypes common in other biomes; and (5) a population of small euryoecious taxa – Cryptodifflugia and Pseudodifflugia spp., Euglypha rotunda, E. laevis, Corythion and Trinema spp. This fifth group, with other r‐selected protists (e.g., colpodid ciliates) appears in all habitats. Soil testate communities of other rainforests are composed of the same five groups and are distinguished by the first three assemblages. The fourth and fifth groups, often supplemented with a few Euglypha species, comprise the soil testate amoebae of other biomes. Nebelids and Heleopera, incorporating prey idiosomes into their shells, add an additional link to the role of Euglyphids in the silica cycle. Three Gondwanan Nebelid genera, Apodera, Alcodera, and Certesella were frequently observed, and the discovery of Alcodera cockayni in Tasmania extends its recorded distribution in the Southern Hemisphere.
The effects of sustained aerobic swimming on osmoregulatory pathways in Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts
Authors: Esbaugh A. J. , Kristensen T. , Takle H. , Grosell M.
Published: September 2014

Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts were exposed to one of the four different aerobic exercise regimens for 10 weeks followed by a 1 week final smoltification period in fresh water and a subsequent eight‐day seawater transfer period. Samples of gill and intestinal tissue were taken at each time point and gene expression was used to assess the effects of exercise training on both branchial and intestinal osmoregulatory pathways. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed that exercise training up‐regulated the expression of seawater relevant genes in the gills of S. salar smolts, including Na+, K+ ATPase (nka) subunit α1b, the Na+, K+, 2 Cl− co‐transporter (nkcc1) and cftr channel. These findings suggest that aerobic exercise stimulates expression of seawater ion transport pathways that may act to shift the seawater transfer window for S. salar smolts. Aerobic exercise also appeared to stimulate freshwater ion uptake mechanisms probably associated with an osmorespiratory compromise related to increased exercise. No differences were observed in plasma Na+ and Cl− concentrations as a consequence of exercise treatment, but plasma Na+ was lower during the final smoltification period in all treatments. No effects of exercise were observed for intestinal nkcc2, nor the Mg2+ transporters slc41a2 and transient receptor protein M7 (trpm7); however, expression of both Mg2+ transporters was affected by salinity transfer suggesting a dynamic role in Mg2+ homeostasis in fishes.
Bilateral tubal and intrauterine pregnancies diagnosed at laparoscopy
Authors: Fukuda Takanori , Inoue Hiromi , Toyama Yuina , Ichida Tomoyuki , Uzawa Yoshie , Monma Mika , Kusaka Tsuyoshi , Kohata Yutaka
Published: September 2014

A 32‐year‐old woman had bilateral tubal and intrauterine pregnancies after hyperovulation with clomiphene citrate and subsequent artificial insemination with husband's semen. Laparoscopic surgery revealed bilateral tubal pregnancies. Salpingectomy was performed on the left tube and linear salpingotomy was performed on the right tube. The postoperative course was uneventful. The patient delivered a healthy girl vaginally at 39 weeks' gestation. Only eight cases with bilateral and intrauterine pregnancy have been reported. The live birth rate of bilateral tubal pregnancy and intrauterine pregnancy is 60% (6/10), which is similar to that of heterotopic pregnancy. Laparoscopic surgery is effective for confirming the diagnosis and treating heterotopic pregnancy.
First two cases of primary carcinoma of the vagina successfully treated with concurrent weekly carboplatin plus paclitaxel, external beam radiotherapy and high‐dose‐rate interstitial brachytherapy: A case report and published work review
Authors: Mabuchi Seiji , Kawano Mahiru , Isohashi Fumiaki , Kuroda Hiromasa , Sasano Tomoyuki , Kimura Tadashi
Published: September 2014

Vaginal carcinoma is rare, accounting for only 2% of all gynecological malignancies. Due to a lack of prospective randomized studies, the role of concurrent chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of primary vaginal carcinoma remains unclear. We report the first two cases of primary vaginal carcinoma successfully treated with a regimen involving concurrent weekly carboplatin plus paclitaxel, external beam radiotherapy and high‐dose‐rate interstitial brachytherapy. These cases strongly indicate that definitive chemoradiation involving carboplatin plus paclitaxel may be a reasonable treatment for primary vaginal carcinoma.
Early second trimester retinol‐binding protein‐4 values in cases with or without gestational diabetes mellitus risk factors: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yarci Gursoy Asli , Aynaoglu Gulsah , Caglar Gamze Sinem , Soylemez Feride
Published: September 2014

Aim

Retinol‐binding protein‐4 (RBP‐4) has been correlated with different degrees of insulin resistance including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Presence of risk factors for GDM is an indication for early screening. We studied RBP‐4 values in the early second trimester of pregnancy in pregnant subjects with or without GDM risk factors and compared the results by routine GDM screening methodology.

Methods

Seventy‐nine patients with at least one GDM risk factor and 46 patients without any GDM risk factors were enrolled in the cross‐sectional study as risk and control groups, respectively. In the early second trimester, RBP‐4 values were measured, in addition to fasting plasma glucose and 50‐g glucose challenge test in all subjects.

Results

The RBP‐4 values in 16–18th weeks of pregnancy were not significantly different between risk and control groups (95.3 ± 20.1 vs 103.1 ± 24.4 μg/mL, respectively; P = 0.055) although fasting plasma glucose levels and 50‐g glucose challenge test results were higher in the risk group than the control group (75.3 vs 69.3 mg/dL and 112.4 vs 97.5 mg/dL, respectively; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Presence of GDM risk factors does not have an impact on early second trimester RBP‐4 values in pregnant subjects.
Detection and pharmacokinetics of salbutamol in thoroughbred racehorses following inhaled administration
Authors: Wieder M. E. , Paine S. W. , Hincks P. R. , Pearce C. M. , Scarth J. , Hillyer L.
Published: September 2014

Salbutamol sulphate (Ventolin Evohaler) was administrated via the inhalation route to six horses at a dose of 0.5 mg every 4 h during the day for 2 days (total dose 4 mg). Urine and blood samples were taken up to 92 h postadministration. Hydrolyzed plasma and urine were extracted using solid phase extraction (SPE). A sensitive tandem mass spectrometric method was developed in this study, achieving a lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) for salbutamol of 10 pg/mL in plasma and urine. The parent drug was identified using UPLC‐MS/MS. Most of the determined salbutamol plasma concentrations, post last administration, lie below the LLOQ of the method and so cannot be used for plasma PK analysis. Urine PK analysis suggests a half‐life consistent with the pharmacological effect duration. An estimate of the urine average concentration at steady‐state was collected by averaging the concentration measurements in the dosing period from −12 to 0 h relative to the last administered dose. The value was averaged across the six horses and used to estimate an effective urine concentration as a marker of effective lung concentration. The value estimated was 9.6 ng/mL and from this a number of detection times were calculated using a range of safety factors.
Investments, Financing Constraints and Buyouts: the Effect of Private Equity Investors on the Sensitivity of Investments to Cash Flow
Authors: Ughetto Elisa
Published: September 2014

The paper examines the relationship between investments and cash flows for a panel of 206 low‐ and medium technology firms located in the UK, France, Italy and Spain, 108 of which underwent a buyout between 1997 and 2004. The results highlight that the sensitivity of investments to cash flows is increased when a buyout occurs, while investment levels do not seem to be affected after a buyout. However, differential effects emerge when considering the framework conditions in which investee firms operate and the typology and characteristics of investing funds.
Was Adam Smith Right? Evidence of Compensating Differential in CEO Pay
Authors: HomRoy Swarnodeep
Published: September 2014

This paper estimates the compensating differential in CEO pay for the increasing risk of dismissal using contracted severance pay eligibility of the CEO as the main instrument. US CEOs receive a 3 per cent premium in pay for each percentage point increase in the risk of dismissal. In pointing to the dismissal risk as a determinant of CEO pay, these findings contribute to the debate on the recent growth in CEO pay and the potential impacts of governance reforms.
The standard centrifuge method accurately measures vulnerability curves of long‐vesselled olive stems
Authors: Hacke Uwe G. , Venturas Martin D. , MacKinnon Evan D. , Jacobsen Anna L. , Sperry John S. , Pratt R. Brandon
Published: September 2014

The standard centrifuge method has been frequently used to measure vulnerability to xylem cavitation. This method has recently been questioned. It was hypothesized that open vessels lead to exponential vulnerability curves, which were thought to be indicative of measurement artifact.

We tested this hypothesis in stems of olive (Olea europea) because its long vessels were recently claimed to produce a centrifuge artifact. We evaluated three predictions that followed from the open vessel artifact hypothesis: shorter stems, with more open vessels, would be more vulnerable than longer stems; standard centrifuge‐based curves would be more vulnerable than dehydration‐based curves; and open vessels would cause an exponential shape of centrifuge‐based curves.

Experimental evidence did not support these predictions. Centrifuge curves did not vary when the proportion of open vessels was altered. Centrifuge and dehydration curves were similar. At highly negative xylem pressure, centrifuge‐based curves slightly overestimated vulnerability compared to the dehydration curve. This divergence was eliminated by centrifuging each stem only once.

The standard centrifuge method produced accurate curves of samples containing open vessels, supporting the validity of this technique and confirming its utility in understanding plant hydraulics. Seven recommendations for avoiding artefacts and standardizing vulnerability curve methodology are provided.
Delivery of anesthesia and complications for children with Fraser syndrome: a review of 125 anesthetics
Authors: Mathers Jonathan D. , Breen Thomas M. , Smith Jonathan H.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To perform a retrospective, anesthesia case note review of patients with Fraser syndrome.

Aim

To identify the perioperative and postoperative anesthetic management and complications in this patient group.

Background

Fraser syndrome is a rare, autosomal recessively inherited disorder characterized by cryptophthalmos, cutaneous syndactyly, and ambiguous genitalia. It also has variable association with cardiac, laryngeal, tracheal, and gastrointestinal abnormalities. Children with Fraser syndrome present for a variety of surgical and radiological procedures, and there are a number of single case reports in the literature.

Methods

A retrospective case note review was undertaken on 10 children with Fraser syndrome who presented to our institution over a 30‐year period. Analysis of the medical notes and general anesthetic records was undertaken, and the conduct of anesthesia, spectrum of disease, genetic markers, and perioperative complications were recorded. There were a total of 125 procedures performed under general anesthesia during this period.

Results

There were a total of ten anesthetic complications in the review, all related to management of the airway. There were two accidental extubations, five recorded incidents of airway obstruction (which were relieved with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)) and one posttracheostomy airway bleed. One child was a difficult intubation requiring an ID 2.5 mm oral endotracheal tube (ETT), and one child was an impossible intubation that required an emergency tracheostomy to secure the airway.

Conclusions

There was a low incidence of complications with this group of patients. However, there is a relatively high incidence of difficult or impossible tracheal intubation (20%) due to glottic stenosis and one patient required an emergency tracheostomy despite no previous clinical evidence of airway narrowing.
The Impact of Nurses on Neglected Tropical Disease Management
Authors: Blood‐Siegfried Jane , Zeantoe G. Clinton , Evans Lauren J. , Bondo John , Forstner James R. , Wood Kathryn
Published: September 2014

Although Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are largely endemic in the developing nations of Africa, Asia, and South and Central America, they are reemerging with increasing frequency in developed countries. Their diagnosis, treatment, and control are an increasing public health concern that requires a different awareness by health care providers. Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are chronic infectious diseases which disproportionately burden poor, rural, and marginalized populations with significant mortality and high morbidity (disability, disfigurement, impaired childhood growth and cognitive development, increased vulnerability to coinfection) that reinforces their poverty. What can we learn from the nurses in developing countries already battling NTD's that could be useful in the developed world? This article provides an overview of distribution, pathophysiology, symptoms, and management of 13 NTDs, with particular attention to the role of nurses in delivering cost‐effective integrated interventions. Case studies of schistosomiasis, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis address recognition and treatment of infected individuals in developed nations where NTD infection is limited primarily to immigrants and travelers.
Efficacy of photodynamic therapy with laser pretreatment for actinic keratosis and photorejuvenation as evaluated by fluorescent imaging
Authors: Kim Bo‐Kyung , Lee Noo Ri , Park Sang‐Yeon , Eom Minseob , Choi Eung Ho
Published: September 2014

Background

The Methylaminolevulinate‐photodynamic therapy (MAL‐PDT) has been reported to be effective in treating actinic keratosis (AK). Fluorescent images taken after topical MAL application have been used to diagnose cancerous lesions.

Objectives

We evaluated therapeutic efficacy of MAL‐PDT for multiple AK and defined value of fluorescent images in evaluating treatment response. We also investigated photorejuvenation effects of PDT.

Methods

Ten patients with multiple AK were enrolled. We did histological confirmation of the lesion by biopsy. After 3 h of MAL cream occlusion, red light was illuminated with 37 J/cm2 on 0, 4, 16, and 20 weeks. At each visit, lesions were counted by inspection and fluorescent images were taken under ultraviolet A light. We repeated skin biopsy in 16 weeks.

Results

All patients showed significant improvement after three sessions of PDT. The average remission rate was 85.96%. Overall, patients showed significant improvement in photoaging such as erythema, coarse wrinkles, and skin roughness. Histological examination also showed improvement. There was meaningful agreement between lesion count by fluorescent imaging and inspection (coefficient = 0.9).

Conclusions

PDT was found to be effective, well‐tolerated, cosmetically acceptable for AK treatment and photorejuvenation, both clinically and histologically. In addition, fluorescent images taken after MAL application aided in evaluation of treatment response as well as diagnosis.
Trade and Unemployment Revisited: Do Institutions Matter?
Authors: Capuano Stella , Schmerer Hans‐Jörg
Published: September 2014

This paper revisits the trade to unemployment nexus for Germany based on the estimation of a model featuring heterogeneous firms and search unemployment. We structurally estimate parameters that match the key moments of the German labour market. Our estimation and calibration are based on a single plant‐level data source, that is, the IAB establishment and worker panel. The calibration shows that trade liberalisation reduces unemployment in the long run. In our counter‐factual policy simulations, we focus on the effect of labour market policies on the trade and unemployment nexus and we explore how the magnitude of the effects differs under different bargaining regimes. Labour market institutions have stronger effects under collective bargaining. Compared with trade or the bargaining power of unions, the effect of unemployment benefits on unemployment turns out to be rather modest.
An Integrative Review of Communication Between Parents and Nurses of Hospitalized Technology‐Dependent Children
Authors: Giambra Barbara K. , Stiffler Deborah , Broome Marion E.
Published: September 2014

Background

With advances in health care, the population of children who are technology‐dependent is increasing and, therefore, the need for nurses to understand how best to engage in communication with the parents of these children is critical. Shared communication between the parents of hospitalized technology‐dependent children and their nurses is essential to provide optimal care for the child. The components and behaviors of the parent‐nurse communication process that improve mutual understanding of optimal care for the child had not previously been examined.

Research Question

Among parents of hospitalized technology‐dependent children and their nurses, what communication behaviors, components, concepts, or processes improve mutual understanding of optimal care for the child?

Methods

An integrative review of both qualitative and quantitative studies was conducted. Key words including communication, hospitalized, nurse, parent, pediatric, and technology‐dependent were used to search databases such as Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health and Medline for years 2000–2014. The data regarding the process of parent‐nurse communication were extracted as they related to the mutual understanding of optimal care for the child. The data were grouped into themes and compared across studies, designs, populations, and settings.

Results

Six articles were identified that provided information regarding the processes of shared communication among the parents of hospitalized technology‐dependent children and their nurses. Providing clear information, involving parents in care decisions, trust and respect for each other's expertise, caring attitudes, advocacy, and role negotiation were all found to be important factors in shared parent‐nurse communication.

Linking Evidence to Action

The results of this integrative review inform our understanding of the parent‐nurse communication process. The findings provide nurses with an understanding of strategies to better engage in respectful, engaging, and intentional communication with parents of hospitalized technology‐dependent children and improve patient outcomes.
Modelling and Analysis of miRNA Regulation
Authors: Nikolov Svetoslav Ganchev
Published: September 2014

MiRNA regulation is involved in many important biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis and metabolism. Computational predictions of miRNA targets suggest that up 30 % of human proteins coding genes may be regulated by miRNAs. This makes miRNAs one of the most abundant classes of regulatory genes in humans. In the present paper we develop a time delay model of a feedback system regulated via miRNA. The model resulted in three DDEs with three discrete time delays. Since this system is a classical case study, covering several essential features of miRNA and genetic regulatory mechanisms, general conclusions about design principles and role of time delays in the stability of gene circuits can be suggested. The basic view that time delays are a key factor in the dynamic behaviour of the system was confirmed by the analytical calculations and numerical simulations.
Exponentially Accurate Rayleigh–Ritz Method for Fractional Variational Problems
Authors: Mao Zhi , Xiao Aiguo , Wang Dongling , Yu Zuguo , Shi Long
Published: September 2014

A high accurate Rayleigh–Ritz method is developed for solving fractional variational problems (FVPs). The Jacobi poly-fractonomials proposed by Zayernouri and Karniadakis (2013, “Fractional Sturm–Liouville Eigen-Problems: Theory and Numerical Approximation,” J. Comput. Phys., 252(1), pp. 495–517.) are chosen as basis functions to approximate the true solutions, and the Rayleigh–Ritz technique is used to reduce FVPs to a system of algebraic equations. This method leads to exponential decay of the errors, which is superior to the existing methods in the literature. The fractional variational errors are discussed. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the exponential convergence of the method.
The Influence of Interaction Technology on the Learning of Assembly Tasks Using Virtual Reality
Authors: Vélaz Yaiza , Rodríguez Arce Jorge , Gutiérrez Teresa , Lozano-Rodero Alberto , Suescun Angel
Published: September 2014

This paper focuses on the use of virtual reality (VR) systems for teaching industrial assembly tasks and studies the influence of the interaction technology on the learning process. The experiment conducted follows a between-subjects design with 60 participants distributed in five groups. Four groups were trained on the target assembly task with a VR system, but each group used a different interaction technology: mouse-based, Phantom Omni® haptic, and two configurations of the Markerless Motion Capture (Mmocap) system (with 2D or 3D tracking of hands). The fifth group was trained with a video tutorial. A post-training test carried out the day after evaluated performance in the real task. The experiment studies the efficiency and effectiveness of each interaction technology for learning the task, taking in consideration both quantitative measures (such as training time, real task performance, evolution from the virtual task to real one), and qualitative data (user feedback from a questionnaire). Results show that there were no significant differences in the final performance among the five groups. However, users trained under mouse and 2D-tracking Mmocap systems took significantly less training time than the rest of the virtual modalities. This brings out two main outcomes: (1) the perception of collisions using haptics does not increase the learning transfer of procedural tasks demanding low motor skills and (2) Mmocap-based interactions can be valid for training this kind of tasks.
Large Scale Finite Element Analysis Via Assembly-Free Deflated Conjugate Gradient
Authors: Yadav Praveen , Suresh Krishnan
Published: September 2014

Large-scale finite element analysis (FEA) with millions of degrees of freedom (DOF) is becoming commonplace in solid mechanics. The primary computational bottleneck in such problems is the solution of large linear systems of equations. In this paper, we propose an assembly-free version of the deflated conjugate gradient (DCG) for solving such equations, where neither the stiffness matrix nor the deflation matrix is assembled. While assembly-free FEA is a well-known concept, the novelty pursued in this paper is the use of assembly-free deflation. The resulting implementation is particularly well suited for large-scale problems and can be easily ported to multicore central processing unit (CPU) and graphics-programmable unit (GPU) architectures. For demonstration, we show that one can solve a 50 × 106 degree of freedom system on a single GPU card, equipped with 3 GB of memory. The second contribution is an extension of the “rigid-body agglomeration” concept used in DCG to a “curvature-sensitive agglomeration.” The latter exploits classic plate and beam theories for efficient deflation of highly ill-conditioned problems arising from thin structures.
Synthesis and optimization of fluorescent poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide)-coated surfaces by atom transfer radical polymerization for cell culture and detachment
Authors: Cooperstein Marta A. , Bluestein Blake M. , Canavan Heather E.
Published: September 2014

Although there are many stimulus-responsive polymers, poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (pNIPAM) is of special interest due to the phase change it undergoes in a physiologically relevant temperature range that leads to the release of cells and proteins. The nondestructive release of cells opens up a wide range of applications, including the use of pNIPAM for cell sheet and tissue engineering. In this work, pNIPAM surfaces were generated that can be distinguished from the extracellular matrix. A polymerization technique was adapted that was previously used by Mendez, and the existing protocol was optimized for the culture of mammalian cells. The resulting surfaces were characterized with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and goniometry. The developed pNIPAM surfaces were further adapted by incorporation of 5-acrylamidofluorescein to generate fluorescent pNIPAM-coated surfaces. Both types of surfaces (fluorescent and nonfluorescent) sustained cellular attachment and produced cellular detachment of ∼90%, and are therefore suitable for the generation of cell sheets for engineered tissues and other purposes. These surfaces will be useful tools for experiments investigating cellular detachment from pNIPAM and the pNIPAM/cell interface.
Effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound on biocompatibility and cellular uptake of chitosan-tripolyphosphate nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Junyi , Liu Gaojun , Qin Yi-Xian , Meng Yizhi
Published: September 2014

Using low molecular weight chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) prepared by an ionic gelation method, the authors report the effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (US) on cell viability and nanoparticle uptake in cultured murine preosteoblasts. Particle size and zeta potential are measured using dynamic light scattering, and cell viability is evaluated using the of [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt; MTS] assay. Results show that 30 min delivery of CNPs at 0.5 mg/mL is able to prevent loss of cell viability due to either serum starvation or subsequent exposure to US (1 W/cm2 or 2 W/cm2, up to 1 min). Additionally, flow cytometry data suggest that there is a close association between cellular membrane integrity and the presence of CNPs when US at 2 W/cm2 is administered.
Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Therapy on Performance Recovery
Authors: Manimmanakorn Nuttaset , Ross Jenny J. , Manimmanakorn Apiwan , Lucas Samuel J.E. , Hamlin Michael J.
Published: September 2014

Purpose:

To compare whole-body vibration (WBV) with traditional recovery protocols after a high-intensity training bout.

Methods:

In a randomized crossover study, 16 athletes performed 6 × 30-s Wingate sprints before completing either an active recovery (10 min of cycling and stretching) or WBV for 10 min in a series of exercises on a vibration platform. Muscle hemodynamics (assessed via near-infrared spectroscopy) were measured before and during exercise and into the 10-min recovery period. Blood lactate concentration, vertical jump, quadriceps strength, flexibility, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), muscle soreness, and performance during a single 30-s Wingate test were assessed at baseline and 30 and 60 min postexercise. A subset of participants (n = 6) completed a 3rd identical trial (1 wk later) using a passive 10-min recovery period (sitting).

Results:

There were no clear effects between the recovery protocols for blood lactate concentration, quadriceps strength, jump height, flexibility, RPE, muscle soreness, or single Wingate performance across all measured recovery time points. However, the WBV recovery protocol substantially increased the tissue-oxygenation index compared with the active (11.2% ± 2.4% [mean ± 95% CI], effect size [ES] = 3.1, and –7.3% ± 4.1%, ES = –2.1 for the 10 min postexercise and postrecovery, respectively) and passive recovery conditions (4.1% ± 2.2%, ES = 1.3, 10 min postexercise only).

Conclusion:

Although WBV during recovery increased muscle oxygenation, it had little effect in improving subsequent performance compared with a normal active recovery.
Hog1: 20 years of discovery and impact
Authors: Brewster Jay L. , Gustin Michael C.
Published: September 2014

The yeast osmotic stress signaling network has provided fundamental insight into eukaryotic stress signaling and environmental adaptation.
Immune Cells and Bugs Make a Sugary Coat
Authors: Mueller Kristen L.
Published: September 2014

Glycosylation of gut epithelial cells requires gut microbes, innate lymphoid cells, and cytokines.
Tumor clone dynamics in lethal prostate cancer
Authors: Carreira Suzanne , Romanel Alessandro , Goodall Jane , Grist Emily , Ferraldeschi Roberta , Miranda Susana , Prandi Davide , Lorente David , Frenel Jean-Sebastien , Pezaro Carmel , Omlin Aurelius , Rodrigues Daniel Nava , Flohr Penelope , Tunariu Nina , S. de Bono Johann , Demichelis Francesca , Attard Gerhardt
Published: September 2014

Independent clones with distinct genomic patterns show complex dynamics over the lethal course of prostate cancer, with gradual emergence of drug-resistant clones.
Author response to comment on “The placenta harbors a unique microbiome”
Authors: Aagaard Kjersti M.
Published: September 2014

Placental samples contain very small volumes of blood, and blood-borne bacteria are not likely to be detected in microbiome analysis.
Sumo Wrestling Atherosclerosis
Authors: Erbay Ebru
Published: September 2014

Therapeutic targeting of nuclear receptor SUMOylation may alter the course of atherosclerosis.
A Cytokine a Day Keeps Diabetes Away
Authors: Serezani Henrique
Published: September 2014

The cytokine interleukin-37 inhibits chronic inflammation and improves insulin sensitivity in obese mice and humans.
Pilot investigation of the oxygen demands and metabolic cost of incremental shuttle walking and treadmill walking in patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Almodhy M , Beneke R , Cardoso F , Taylor M J D , Sandercock G R H
Published: September 2014

Objective

To determine if the metabolic cost of the incremental shuttle-walking test protocol is the same as treadmill walking or predicted values of walking-speed equations.

Setting

Primary care (community-based cardiac rehabilitation).

Participants

Eight Caucasian cardiac rehabilitation patients (7 males) with a mean age of 67±5.2 years.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Oxygen consumption, metabolic power and energy cost of walking during treadmill and shuttle walking performed in a balanced order with 1 week between trials.

Results

Average overall energy cost per metre was higher during treadmill walking (3.22±0.55 J kg/m) than during shuttle walking (3.00±0.41 J kg/m). There were significant post hoc effects at 0.67 m/s (p<0.004) and 0.84 m/s (p<0.001), where the energy cost of treadmill walking was significantly higher than that of shuttle walking. This pattern was reversed at walking speeds 1.52 m/s (p<0.042) and 1.69 m/s (p<0.007) where shuttle walking had a greater energy cost per metre than treadmill walking. At all walking speeds, the energy cost of shuttle walking was higher than that predicted using the American College of Sports Medicine walking equations.

Conclusions

The energetic demands of shuttle walking were fundamentally different from those of treadmill walking and should not be directly compared. We warn against estimating the metabolic cost of the incremental shuttle-walking test using the current walking-speed equations.
Monitoring air pollution effects on children for supporting public health policy: the protocol of the prospective cohort MAPEC study
Authors: Feretti D , Ceretti E , De Donno A , Moretti M , Carducci A , Bonetta S , Marrese M R , Bonetti A , Covolo L , Bagordo F , Villarini M , Verani M , Schilirò T , Limina R M , Grassi T , Monarca S , Casini B , Carraro E , Zani C , Mazzoleni G , Levaggi R , Gelatti U ,   the MAPEC_LIFE Study Group
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Genotoxic biomarkers have been studied largely in adult population, but few studies so far have investigated them in children exposed to air pollution. Children are a high-risk group as regards the health effects of air pollution and some studies suggest that early exposure during childhood can play an important role in the development of chronic diseases in adulthood. The objective of the project is to evaluate the associations between the concentration of urban air pollutants and biomarkers of early biological effect in children, and to propose a model for estimating the global risk of early biological effects due to air pollutants and other factors in children.

Methods and analysis

Two biomarkers of early biological effects, DNA damage by the comet assay and the micronuclei (MN) test, will be investigated in oral mucosa cells of 6–8-year-old children. Concurrently, some toxic airborne pollutants (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and nitro-PAH) and in vitro air mutagenicity and toxicity in ultra-fine air particulates (PM0.5) will be evaluated. Furthermore, demographic and socioeconomic variables, other sources of exposures to air pollutants and lifestyle variables will be assessed by a structured questionnaire. The associations between sociodemographic, environmental and other exposure variables and biomarkers of early biological effect using univariate and multivariate models will be analysed. A tentative model for calculating the global absolute risk of having early biological effects caused by air pollution and other variables will be proposed.

Ethics and dissemination

The project has been approved by the Ethics Committees of the local Health Authorities. The results will be communicated to local Public Health Agencies, for supporting educational programmes and health policy strategies. LIFE+2012 Environment Policy and Governance. LIFE12 ENV/IT/000614.
Mycotic encephalitis in a grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) pup associated with Rhizomucor pusillus infection
Authors: Barnett James , Riley Paul , Cooper Tamara , Linton Christopher , Wessels Mark
Published: September 2014

A three‐month‐old grey seal (Halichoerus grypus), admitted to a rehabilitation facility with severe gingivitis and minor trauma, developed neurological signs 36 hours after arrival, including loss of swallowing reflex, muscle tremors and a poor response to stimuli. The animal was euthanased due to the poor prognosis. Initial gross postmortem findings were unremarkable, but coronal slicing of the brain found a focal extensive area of red/brown discolouration within the right thalamic region. On histological examination, subacute, neutrophilic and histiocytic, leucocytoclastic, necrotising cerebral vasculitis, encephalitis and meningitis was present, with intralesional fungal hyphae with morphology suggestive of a zygomycete. PCR sequences of fungal DNA purified from digested paraffin sections of the brain matched best those for Rhizomucor pusillus (99 per cent homology) demonstrating the value of this technique in speciating fungi. This is believed to be the first published case of CNS infection in a pinniped with a zygomycete fungus.