bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of heritable determinants of blood and brain serotonin homeostasis using recombinant inbred mice
Authors: Ye R. , Carneiro A. M. D. , Airey D. , Sanders‐Bush E. , Williams R. W. , Lu L. , Wang J. , Zhang B. , Blakely R. D.
Published: October 2013

The biogenic amine serotonin (5‐HT, 5‐hydroxytryptamine) exerts powerful, modulatory control over multiple physiological functions in the brain and periphery, ranging from mood and appetite to vasoconstriction and gastrointestinal motility. In order to gain insight into shared and distinct molecular and phenotypic networks linked to variations in 5‐HT homeostasis, we capitalized on the stable genetic variation present in recombinant inbred mouse strains. This family of strains, all derived from crosses between C57BL/6J and DBA/2J (BXD) parents, represents a unique, community resource with approximately 40 years of assembled phenotype data that can be exploited to explore and test causal relationships in silico. We determined levels of 5‐HT and 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid from whole blood, midbrain and thalamus/hypothalamus (diencephalon) of 38 BXD lines and both sexes. All 5‐HT measures proved highly heritable in each region, although both gender and region significantly impacted between‐strain correlations. Our studies identified both expected and novel biochemical, anatomical and behavioral phenotypes linked to 5‐HT traits, as well as distinct quantitative trait loci. Analyses of these loci nominate a group of genes likely to contribute to gender‐ and region‐specific capacities for 5‐HT signaling. Analysis of midbrain mRNA variations across strains revealed overlapping gene expression networks linked to 5‐HT synthesis and metabolism. Altogether, our studies provide a rich profile of genomic, molecular and phenotypic networks that can be queried for novel relationships contributing risk for disorders linked to perturbed 5‐HT signaling.
Drought footprint on European ecosystems between 1999 and 2010 assessed by remotely sensed vegetation phenology and productivity
Authors: Ivits Eva , Horion Stephanie , Fensholt Rasmus , Cherlet Michael
Published: October 2013

Drought affects more people than any other natural disaster but there is little understanding of how ecosystems react to droughts. This study jointly analyzed spatio‐temporal changes of drought patterns with vegetation phenology and productivity changes between 1999 and 2010 in major European bioclimatic zones. The Standardized Precipitation and Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) was used as drought indicator whereas changes in growing season length and vegetation productivity were assessed using remote sensing time‐series of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Drought spatio‐temporal variability was analyzed using a Principal Component Analysis, leading to the identification of four major drought events between 1999 and 2010 in Europe. Correspondence Analysis showed that at the continental scale the productivity and phenology reacted differently to the identified drought events depending on ecosystem and land cover. Northern and Mediterranean ecosystems proved to be more resilient to droughts in terms of vegetation phenology and productivity developments. Western Atlantic regions and Eastern Europe showed strong agglomerations of decreased productivity and shorter vegetation growing season length, indicating that these ecosystems did not buffer the effects of drought well. In a climate change perspective, increase in drought frequency or intensity may result in larger impacts over these ecosystems, thus management and adaptation strategies should be strengthened in these areas of concerns.
Quantifying the global warming potential of CO2 emissions from wood fuels
Authors: Holtsmark Bjart
Published: October 2013

Recent studies have introduced the metric GWPbio, an indicator of the potential global warming impact of CO2 emissions from biofuels. When a time horizon of 100 years was applied, the studies found the GWPbio of bioenergy from slow‐growing forests to be significantly lower than the traditionally calculated GWP of CO2 from fossil fuels. This result means that bioenergy is an attractive energy source from a climate mitigation perspective. The present paper provides an improved method for quantifying GWPbio. The method is based on a model of a forest stand that includes basic dynamics and interactions of the forest's multiple carbon pools, including harvest residues, other dead organic matter, and soil carbon. Moreover, the baseline scenario (with no harvest) takes into account that a mature stand will usually continue to capture carbon if not harvested. With these methodological adjustments, the resulting GWPbio estimates are found to be two to three times as high as the estimates of GWPbio found in other studies, and also significantly higher than the GWP of fossil CO2, when a 100‐year time horizon is applied. Hence, the climate impact per unit of CO2 emitted seems to be even higher for the combustion of slow‐growing biomass than for the combustion of fossil carbon in a 100‐year time frame.
Accidental aspiration of foreign bodies in dental practice: clinical management and prevention
Authors: Cossellu Gianguido , Farronato Giampietro , Carrassi Antonio , Angiero Francesca
Published: October 2013

Objective

Foreign body aspiration is a possible complication of dental treatment that may result in a life‐threatening situation. The foreign body is often spontaneously ejected from the airway, but in other cases, surgical intervention is needed. Prevention, diagnostic procedures, treatment and complications are discussed.

Materials and methods

Three cases of aspiration of dental instruments are described: the piece was localised in the right main bronchus in two cases and in the left main bronchus in one case.

Results

All three cases underwent surgery (resection and bronchoscopy); in one case, the surgical attempt failed, and the foreign body was not located by radiography; it was assumed to have been expelled spontaneously.

Conclusion

The management of dental materials and instruments requires particular care, especially if the patient is supine or semi‐recumbent. The dentist must be able to manage emergency situations in which patients accidentally inspire or swallow dental instruments or materials during treatment. Preventive techniques must be put in place because these incidents are preventable if the correct precautions are taken.
Serum atrial natriuretic peptide level inversely associates with metabolic syndrome in older adults
Authors: Wang Ji‐Hung , Lee Chung‐Jen , Hsieh Jen‐Che , Chen Yu‐Chih , Hsu Bang‐Gee
Published: October 2013

Aim

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a potent lipolytic agent that acts in adipose tissue. Low levels of ANP might lead to reduced lipolysis and excessive weight gain, which could be one of the biological alterations that contribute to the development of obesity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between metabolic syndrome and fasting serum ANP concentrations in older adults.

Methods

Fasting blood samples were obtained from 90 older adults. Metabolic syndrome and its components were defined using diagnostic criteria from the International Diabetes Federation.

Results

A total of 40 older adults (44.4%) had metabolic syndrome. Fasting ANP level was negatively correlated with metabolic syndrome (P = 0.015). Univariate linear regression analysis showed that high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.001) was positively correlated with serum logANP levels, whereas waist circumference (P = 0.001) and body fat mass (P = 0.002) were negatively correlated with fasting serum logANP levels. Multivariate forward stepwise linear regression analysis of the significant variables showed that high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (β = 0.419, R2= 0.268, P < 0.001) and body fat mass (β = −0.396, R2 = 0.154, P = 0.002) were independent predictors of fasting serum logANP levels in geriatric persons.

Conclusions

Serum ANP levels were reduced in geriatric persons affected by metabolic syndrome. Body fat mass and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were independent predictors of fasting serum ANP levels in older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 640–646.
A New Operational Paradigm for Small‐Scale ASR in Saline Aquifers
Authors: van Ginkel Marloes , Olsthoorn Theo N. , Bakker Mark
Published: October 2013

A new operational paradigm is presented for small‐scale aquifer storage and recovery systems (ASR) in saline aquifers. Regular ASR is often not feasible for small‐scale storage in saline aquifers because fresh water floats to the top of the aquifer where it is unrecoverable. In the new paradigm, fresh water storage is combined with salt water extraction from below the fresh water cone. The salt water extraction counteracts the buoyancy due to the density difference between fresh water and salt water, thus preventing the fresh water from floating up. The proposed approach is applied to assess the feasibility of ASR for the seasonal storage of fresh water produced by desalination plants in tourist resorts along the Egyptian Red Sea coast. In these situations, the continuous extraction of salt water can be used for desalination purposes. An analytical Dupuit solution is presented for the steady flow of salt water toward a well with a volume of fresh water floating on top of the cone of depression. The required salt water discharge for the storage of a given volume of fresh water can be computed with the analytical solution. Numerical modeling is applied to determine how the stored fresh water can be recovered. Three recovery approaches are examined. Fresh water recovery rates on the order of 70% are achievable when salt water is extracted in high volumes, subsurface impermeable barriers are constructed at a distance from the well, or several fresh water recovery drains are used. The effect of ambient flow and interruptions of salt water pumping on the recovery efficiency are reported.
Using Domestic Well Records to Determine Fractured Bedrock Watersheds and Recharge Rates
Authors: Metcalf Meredith J. , Robbins Gary A.
Published: October 2013

This study presents an approach for delineating groundwater basins and estimating rates of recharge to fractured crystalline bedrock. It entailed the use of completion report data (boring logs) from 2500 domestic wells in bedrock from the Coventry Quadrangle, which is located in northeastern Connecticut and characterized by metamorphic gneiss and schist. Completion report data were digitized and imported into ArcGIS® for data analysis. The data were processed to delineate groundwater drainage basins for the fractured rock based on flow conditions and to estimate groundwater recharge to the bedrock. Results indicate that drainage basins derived from surface topography, in general, may not correspond with bedrock drainage basins due to scale. Estimates of recharge to the bedrock for the study area indicate that only a small fraction of the precipitation or the amount of water that enters the overburden recharges the rock. The approach presented here can be a useful method for water resource‐related assessments that involve fractured rock aquifers.
Detection of high levels of Survivin–immunoglobulin M immune complex in sera from hepatitis C virus infected patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Matteucci Claudia , Sorrentino Roberta , Bellis Lia , Ettorre Giuseppe Maria , Svicher Valentina , Santoro Roberto , Vennarecci Giovanni , Biasiolo Alessandra , Pontisso Patrizia , Scacciatelli Daria , Beneduce Luca , Sarrecchia Cesare , Casalino Paolo , Bernardini Sergio , Pierimarchi Pasquale , Garaci Enrico , Puoti Claudio , Rasi Guido
Published: October 2013

Aim

The identification and surveillance of patients with liver dysfunctions and the discovering of new disease biomarkers are needed in the clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate on Survivin–immunoglobulin (Ig)M immune complex (IC) as a potential biomarker of chronic liver diseases.

Methods

Serum levels of Survivin–IgM were measured using an enzyme‐linked immunoassay that had been standardized and validated in our laboratory in 262 individuals, including healthy subjects and patients with chronic viral hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Results

Survivin–IgM IC was lower in healthy subjects (median, 99.39 AU/mL) than in patients with chronic viral hepatitis (median, 148.03 AU/mL; P = 0.002) or with cirrhosis (median, 371.00 AU/mL; P < 0.001). Among patients with cirrhosis, those with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection showed the highest level of Survivin–IgM IC (median, 633.71 AU/mL; P < 0.001). The receiver–operator curve analysis revealed that Survivin–IgM accurately distinguishes HCV correlated cirrhosis from chronic viral hepatitis (area under the curve [AUC], 0.738; sensitivity, 74.5%; specificity, 70.7%). A multivariate logistic regression model, including Survivin–IgM IC, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and AST/alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio increased the prediction accuracy for the identification of the cirrhotic HCV patients (AUC, 0.818; sensitivity, 87.2%; specificity, 65.9%). Conversely, Survivin–IgM IC significantly decreased in HCC patients (median, 165.72 AU/mL; P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that Survivin–IgM immune complex may be used as a potential biomarker for liver damage, particularly for the identification of the HCV‐related cirrhotic population.
Case reports of portal vein thrombosis and bile duct stenosis after stereotactic body radiation therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Takahashi Shigeo , Kimura Tomoki , Kenjo Masahiro , Nishibuchi Ikuno , Takahashi Ippei , Takeuchi Yuki , Doi Yoshiko , Kaneyasu Yuko , Murakami Yuji , Honda Yoji , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki , Nagata Yasushi
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate portal vein and bile duct toxicity after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We retrospectively reviewed 63 patients who were administrated SBRT once for HCC. The prescribed doses were from 48 Gy in four fractions to 60 Gy in eight fractions. Portal vein thrombosis and bile duct stenosis were evaluated. The dose received by 2% of the volume (D2) of the portal vein and bile duct was calculated. Portal vein thrombosis was observed in three patients (4.8%). Common points of these patients were Child–Pugh class B and D2 of the portal vein 40 Gy or more (BED3 ≥200 Gy). Bile duct stenosis was observed in one patient (1.6%). The patient had a history of cholangiocarcinoma and left hepatic lobectomy. Portal vein thrombosis may be necessary to be considered when SBRT for HCC is administrated to patients in higher Child–Pugh class with higher D2 of the portal vein.
Can research development bursaries for patient and public involvement have a positive impact on grant applications? A UK‐based, small‐scale service evaluation
Authors: Walker Dawn‐Marie , Pandya‐Wood Raksha
Published: October 2013

Background

Increasingly, research grant awarding bodies are regarding involvement at all stages of research, including prior to funding, as good practice. However, it is unclear how researchers should pay for this. Therefore, a pre‐funding bursary scheme was designed. Up to £500 could be requested for involvement to develop a grant application for which user involvement is a key requisite for the funding body concerned. As the bursary scheme had run for 2 years, an evaluation was conducted to ascertain whether the scheme was effective for incorporating early involvement and in developing the grant proposal.

Results

Twelve applications were made of which all were funded. The mean amount requested was £432.91; with the mean amount awarded £308.72. The involvement activities conducted all used qualitative methodology. Feedback regarding the bursaries was positive: enabling refinement of the research question and design; developing dialogue between the service users and the researchers; and helping with team building, with service users sometimes becoming co‐applicants or members of the steering groups. The bursaries provided a learning opportunity – about involvement for the researchers and about research for the service users. The ultimate aim of the scheme was to enhance the research grant. Regarding this, the involvement paid for by the bursary meant that applicants could complete the involvement sections with in‐depth information and clarity.

Conclusion

For a relatively small financial outlay, appropriate involvement was made possible at an important part of the research process which is usually neglected due to lack of funding. Recommendations for implementation made.
The reasons behind variation in Gleason grading of prostatic biopsies: areas of agreement and misconception among 266 European pathologists
Authors: Berney Daniel M , Algaba Ferran , Camparo Philippe , Compérat Eva , Griffiths David , Kristiansen Glen , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , Montironi Rodolfo , Varma Murali , Egevad Lars
Published: October 2013

Aims

The Gleason scoring system underwent revision at the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) conference in 2005. It is not known how uropathologists have interpreted its recommendations.

Method and results

A web‐based survey to European Network of Uropathology members received replies from 266 pathologists in 22 countries. Eighty‐nine per cent claimed to follow ISUP recommendations. Key areas of disagreement included the following. Smoothly rounded cribriform glands were assigned Gleason pattern (GP) 3 by 51% and GP 4 by 49%. Necrosis was diagnosed as GP 5 by 62%. Any amount of secondary pattern of higher grade in needle biopsies was included in the Gleason score by 58%. Tertiary GP of higher grade on needle biopsies was included in the Gleason score by only 58%. If biopsy cores were embedded separately, only 56% would give a Gleason score for each core/slide examined; 68% would give a concluding Gleason score and the most common method was a global Gleason score (77%). Among those who blocked multiple biopsy cores together, 46% would only give an overall Gleason score for the case.

Conclusion

Misinterpretation of ISUP 2005 is widespread, and may explain the variation in Gleason scoring seen. Clarity and uniformity in teaching ISUP 2005 recommendations is necessary.
An overview of chemical straightening of human hair: technical aspects, potential risks to hair fibre and health and legal issues
Authors: Miranda‐Vilela A. L. , Botelho A. J. , Muehlmann L. A.
Published: October 2013

Synopsis

Personal image, as it relates to external beauty, has attracted much attention from the cosmetic industry, and capillary aesthetics is a leader in consumption in this area. There is a great diversity of products targeting both the treatment and beautification of hair. Among them, hair straighteners stand out with a high demand by costumers aiming at beauty, social acceptance and ease of daily hair maintenance. However, this kind of treatment affects the chemical structure of keratin and of the hair fibre, bringing up some safety concerns. Moreover, the development of hair is a dynamic and cyclic process, where the duration of growth cycles depends not only on where hair grows, but also on issues such as the individual's age, dietary habits and hormonal factors. Thus, although hair fibres are composed of dead epidermal cells, when they emerge from the scalp, there is a huge variation in natural wave and the response to hair cosmetics. Although it is possible to give the hair a cosmetically favourable appearance through the use of cosmetic products, for good results in any hair treatment, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of the process. Important information, such as the composition and structure of the hair fibres, and the composition of products and techniques available for hair straightening, must be taken into account so that the straightening process can be designed appropriately, avoiding undesirable side effects for hair fibre and for health. This review aims to address the morphology, chemical composition and molecular structure of hair fibres, as well as the products and techniques used for chemical hair relaxing, their potential risk to hair fibre and to health and the legal aspects of their use.
Electrical Resistance of SiC Fiber Reinforced SiC/Si Matrix Composites at Room Temperature during Tensile Testing
Authors: Morscher Gregory N. , Baker Christopher , Smith Craig
Published: October 2013

The implementation of Ceramic Matrix Composites necessitates the understanding of stress‐dependent damage evolution. Toward this goal, two liquid silicon infiltrated SiCf reinforced SiC composites were tensile tested with electrical resistance (ER) monitoring as well as acoustic emission to quantify matrix cracking. ER was modeled using a combination of resistors in series and parallel to model transverse matrix cracks and fiber/matrix segments between matrix cracks. It is shown that resistance change is sensitive to transverse matrix crack formation and stress‐dependent debonding length. The model appears to be accurate up to the stress for matrix crack saturation.
Genetic characterization of CCL3, CCL4 and CCL5 in leporid genera Oryctolagus,Sylvilagus and Lepus
Authors: de Matos A. Lemos , Lanning D. K. , Esteves P. J.
Published: October 2013

The genetic diversity of C‐C motif chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) ligands CCL3, CCL4 and CCL5 in the leporid genera Oryctolagus, Sylvilagus and Lepus was studied. Our results demonstrate that the three CCR5 chemokine ligands are under strong purifying selection as a result of possible functional binding constraints.
Soft coagulation in partial nephrectomy without renorrhaphy: Feasibility of a new technique and early outcomes
Authors: Ota Tomonori , Komori Hiroka , Rii Jyunryo , Ochi Atsuhiko , Suzuki Koichiro , Shiga Naoki , Nishiyama Hiroyuki
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To study the feasibility of a new partial nephrectomy technique using soft coagulation without renorrhaphy.

Methods

Open partial nephrectomy using soft coagulation without renorrhaphy was carried out on 39 consecutive patients with renal tumors. The renal artery was clamped in the initial 23 cases (59%), whereas 16 surgeries (41%) were carried out without clamping. The resected surface of the kidney was coagulated solely by soft coagulation without renorrhaphy. Suturing was used only when the urinary collecting system was opened. The surgical results and perioperative complications were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

The mean age of patients was 63.1 years. The mean tumor size was 28.2 mm (range 10–56 mm). The mean RENAL nephrometry score was 8.03 (range 4–10). The mean cold ischemic time (in clamped cases) was 25 min. The mean operative time was 193 min (range 113–310 min), and the mean estimated total blood loss was 172 mL (range 20–530 mL) in all cases. All operations were uneventful, and none required blood transfusion or conversion to nephrectomy. Postoperative complications, such as hemorrhage, urinary fistula formation and requirement of hemodialysis, were not observed. All patients had negative surgical margins, and were free of disease recurrence during the follow‐up period (3–49 months). Overall, a remarkable decrease in renal function was not evident at the end of the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

This new technique using soft coagulation appears to be safe and feasible for partial nephrectomy.
Mothers and Grandmothers on the Move: Labour Mobility and the Household Strategies of Moldovan and Ukrainian Migrant Women in Italy
Authors: Marchetti Sabrina , Venturini Alessandra
Published: October 2013

This article contributes to the understanding of the westward migration of Eastern European women, by comparing Moldovan and Ukrainian women in Italy – the most popular destination for both groups – where they are mainly employed as domestic workers and home carers. Focusing on the differences in their trajectories in this labour sector, we discuss the significance of their age at emigration and their role within their families of origin. These have an impact not only on their mobility patterns, but also on their choices of employment and general socio‐cultural integration in the host country.
A comprehensive note on “Lot‐sizing decisions for deteriorating items with two warehouses under an order‐size‐dependent trade credit”
Authors: Chen Sheng‐Chih , Chang Chun‐Tao , Teng Jinn‐Tsair
Published: October 2013

To reduce inventory and increase sales, the supplier frequently offers the retailer a permissible delay in payments if the retailer orders more than or equal to a predetermined quantity. In 2012, Liao et al. proposed an economic order quantity model for a retailer with two warehouses when the supplier offers a permissible delay linked to order quantity. In this paper, we attempt to overcome some shortcomings of their mathematical model. Then, we apply some existing theoretical results in fractional convex programs to prove that the annual total variable cost is pseudoconvex. Hence, the optimal solution exists uniquely, which simplifies the search for the global minimum solution to a local minimum solution. Finally, we run a couple of numerical examples to illustrate the problem and compare the optimal solutions between theirs and ours.
Abdominal surgical site infections: a prospective study of determinant factors in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Muchuweti David , Jönsson Kent UG
Published: October 2013

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are reported in lower frequencies in the developed countries than in the developing world. A prospective evaluation of risk factors in 285 patients undergoing abdominal surgery procedures in Zimbabwe was therefore undertaken. Overall infection rate was 26%. The age group 30–39 years had the highest number of dirty wounds and the highest rate of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Multivariate regression analysis showed a correlation between wound class and SSI (P < 0·05). This was also noted for American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (P < 0·05). HIV‐infected patients had 52% SSIs and non‐infected patients had 26% (P < 0·05). Patients receiving blood transfusion had 51% SSIs and those not transfused had 17% (P < 0·01). Patients receiving pre‐ and intra‐operative prophylactic antibiotics had 18% SSIs and those receiving postoperative administration had 37% (P < 0·01). Treatment ranged from dressings only in 11% to surgical intervention in 30% resulting in prolongation of median hospital stay from 8 to 18 days (P < 0·001). Mortality was 7%. High wound class, high ASA score, blood transfusion, HIV infection and delayed use of prophylactic antibiotics were risk factors for SSIs, resulting in surgical interventions, prolonged hospital stay and mortality.
Inactivation of koi‐herpesvirus in water using bacteria isolated from carp intestines and carp habitats
Authors: Yoshida N , Sasaki R‐k , Kasai H , Yoshimizu M
Published: October 2013

Since its first outbreak in Japan in 2003, koi‐herpesvirus (KHV) remains a challenge to the carp Cyprinus carpio L. breeding industry. In this study, inactivation of KHV in water from carp habitats (carp habitat water) was investigated with the aim of developing a model for rapidly inactivating the pathogen in aquaculture effluent. Experiments with live fish showed that, in carp habitat water, KHV lost its infectivity within 3 days. Indications were that inactivation of KHV was caused by the antagonistic activity of bacteria (anti‐KHV bacteria) in the water from carp habitats. Carp habitat water and the intestinal contents of carp were therefore screened for anti‐KHV bacteria. Of 581 bacterial isolates, 23 showed anti‐KHV activity. An effluent treatment model for the disinfection of KHV in aquaculture effluent water using anti‐KHV bacteria was developed and evaluated. The model showed a decrease in cumulative mortality and in the number of KHV genome copies in kidney tissue of fish injected with treated effluent compared with a positive control. It is thought that anti‐KHV bacteria isolated from the intestinal contents of carp and from carp habitat water can be used to control KHV outbreaks.
Simultaneous Compared With Sequential Blood Pressure Measurement Results in Smaller Inter‐Arm Blood Pressure Differences
Authors: van der Hoeven Niels V. , Lodestijn Sophie , Nanninga Stephanie , van Montfrans Gert A. , van den Born Bert‐Jan H.
Published: October 2013

There are currently few recommendations on how to assess inter‐arm blood pressure (BP) differences. The authors compared simultaneous with sequential measurement on mean BP, inter‐arm BP differences, and within‐visit reproducibility in 240 patients stratified according to age (<50 or ≥60 years) and BP (<140/90 mm Hg or ≥140/90 mm Hg). Three simultaneous and three sequential BP measurements were taken in each patient. Starting measurement type and starting arm for sequential measurements were randomized. Mean BP and inter‐arm BP differences of the first pair and reproducibility of inter‐arm BP differences of the first and second pair were compared between both methods. Mean systolic BP was 1.3±7.5 mm Hg lower during sequential compared with simultaneous measurement (P<.01). However, the first sequential measurement was on average higher than the second, suggesting an order effect. Absolute systolic inter‐arm BP differences were smaller on simultaneous (6.2±6.7/3.3±3.5 mm Hg) compared with sequential BP measurement (7.8±7.3/4.6±5.6 mm Hg, P<.01 for both). Within‐visit reproducibility was identical (both r=0.60). Simultaneous measurement of BP at both arms reduces order effects and results in smaller inter‐arm BP differences, thereby potentially reducing unnecessary referral and diagnostic procedures.
Ribosomal Gene Polymorphism in Small Genomes: Analysis of Different 16S rRNA Sequences Expressed in the Honeybee Parasite Nosema ceranae (Microsporidia)
Authors: Sagastume Soledad , Martín‐Hernández Raquel , Higes Mariano , Henriques‐Gil Nuno
Published: October 2013

To date, few organisms have been shown to possess variable ribosomal RNA, otherwise considered a classic example of uniformity by concerted evolution. The polymorphism for the 16S rRNA in Nosema ceranae analysed here is striking as Microsporidia are intracellular parasites which have suffered a strong reduction in their genomes and cellular organization. Moreover, N. ceranae infects the honeybee Apis mellifera, and has been associated with the colony‐loss phenomenon during the last decade. The variants of 16S rRNA include single nucleotide substitutions, one base insertion‐deletion, plus a tetranucleotide indel. We show that different gene variants are expressed. The polymorphic sites tend to be located in particular regions of the rRNA molecule, and the comparison to the Escherichia coli 16S rRNA secondary structure indicates that most variations probably do not preclude ribosomal activity. The fact that the polymorphisms in such a minimal organism as N. ceranae are maintained in samples collected worldwide suggest that the existence of differently expressed rRNA may play an adaptive role in the microsporidian.
The association between dietary patterns and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Alhazmi A. , Stojanovski E. , McEvoy M. , Garg M. L.
Published: October 2013

Background

Observational studies suggest that dietary pattern intake plays an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes. A meta‐analysis was performed of existing cohort studies on the association between dietary patterns and the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Pertinent studies were identified by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PROQUEST, MEDNAR and the Joanna Briggs Institute Library of Systematic Reviews, as well as the reference lists of all identified studies up to September 2012. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to pool relative risk (RR) estimates from individual studies to assess the relationship between dietary pattern intake and the risk of type 2 diabetes. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using I2 and sensitivity analyses were conducted. Publication bias was evaluated by visual inspection of funnel plots and was formally assessed using Egger's test.

Results

There were fifteen cohort studies that met the inclusion criteria. There was evidence of a reduction in the risk of type 2 diabetes in the highest adherence compared to the lowest adherence to healthy dietary patterns [RR = 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.74–0.86, P < 0.005]. An increase in the risk of type 2 diabetes was evident for the highest adherence compared to the lowest adherence to unhealthy dietary patterns (RR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.33–1.57, P < 0.005).

Conclusions

The results of this systematic review and meta‐analysis indicate that dietary patterns may be associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Novel techniques of preparing TEM samples for characterization of irradiation damage
Authors: ZHANG H. K. , LONG F. , YAO Z. , DAYMOND M.R.
Published: October 2013

Focus ion beam preparation of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) samples has become increasingly popular due to the relative ease of extraction of TEM foils from specific locations within a larger sample. However the sputtering damage induced by Ga ion bombardment in focus ion beam means that traditional electropolishing may be a preferable method. First, we describe a special electropolishing method for the preparation of irregular TEM samples from ex‐service nuclear reactor components, spring‐shaped spacers. This method has also been used to prepare samples from a nonirradiated component for a TEM in situ heavy ion irradiation study. Because the specimen size is small (0.7 × 0.7 × 3 mm), a sandwich installation is adopted to obtain high quality polishing. Second, we describe some modifications to a conventional TEM cross‐section sample preparation method that employs Ni electroplating. There are limitations to this method when preparing cross‐section samples from either (1) metals which are difficult to activate for electroplating, or (2) a heavy ion irradiated foil with a very shallow damage layer close to the surface, which may be affected by the electroplating process. As a consequence, a novel technique for preparing cross‐section samples was developed and is described.
Newborn Transition
Authors: Graves Barbara W. , Haley Mary Mumford
Published: October 2013

The transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life is a complex adaptation. Although, in a sense, the entire time in utero is in preparation for this transition, there are many specific anatomic and physiologic changes that take place in the weeks and days leading up to labor that facilitate a healthy transition. Some, including increasing pulmonary vasculature and blood flow, are part of an ongoing process of maturation. Others, such as a reversal in the lung from secreting fluid to absorbing fluid and the secretion of pulmonary surfactant, are associated with the hormonal milieu that occurs when spontaneous labor is impending. Interventions such as elective cesarean birth or induction of labor may interfere with this preparation for birth. Postnatal interventions such as immediate clamping of the umbilical cord and oropharyngeal suction may also compromise the normal process of newborn transition. This article reviews the physiology of the fetal to newborn transition and explores interventions that may facilitate or hinder the optimal process.
Dynamin‐2 in nervous system disorders
Authors: González‐Jamett Arlek M. , Haro‐Acuña Valentina , Momboisse Fanny , Caviedes Pablo , Bevilacqua Jorge A. , Cárdenas Ana M.
Published: October 2013

Dynamin‐2 is a pleiotropic GTPase whose best‐known function is related to membrane scission during vesicle budding from the plasma or Golgi membranes. In the nervous system, dynamin‐2 participates in synaptic vesicle recycling, post‐synaptic receptor internalization, neurosecretion, and neuronal process extension. Some of these functions are shared with the other two dynamin isoforms. However, the involvement of dynamin‐2 in neurological illnesses points to a critical function of this isoform in the nervous system. In this regard, mutations in the dynamin‐2 gene results in two congenital neuromuscular disorders. One of them, Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease, affects myelination and peripheral nerve conduction, whereas the other, Centronuclear Myopathy, is characterized by a progressive and generalized atrophy of skeletal muscles, yet it is also associated with abnormalities in the nervous system. Furthermore, single nucleotide polymorphisms located in the dynamin‐2 gene have been associated with sporadic Alzheimer's disease. In the present review, we discuss the pathogenic mechanisms implicated in these neurological disorders.

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Nursing practice in stroke rehabilitation: systematic review and meta‐ethnography
Authors: Clarke David J
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To identify and synthesise the available research evidence in order to generate an explanatory framework for nursing practice in stroke rehabilitation.

Background

Although nurses are the largest professional group working with stroke survivors, there is limited understanding of nursing practice in stroke units. In particular, there is currently very little evidence in respect of nurses' involvement in poststroke rehabilitation.

Design

Meta‐ethnography.

Method

A systematic review was undertaken. The review question was: ‘What is the nature of nursing practice in the care and rehabilitation of inpatient stroke survivors?’ Searches of 12 electronic databases identified 14,655 publications, and after screening, 778 remained; 137 papers were obtained and 54 retained for mapping. Sixteen qualitative studies were included in the meta‐ethnography.

Results

Nurses' involvement in poststroke rehabilitation was limited. Contextual factors impacted on nurses' perceptions and practice. Nurses' integration of rehabilitation skills was perceived to be contingent on adequate nurse staffing levels and management of demands on nurses' time. Team working practices and use of the built environment indicated separation of nursing and therapy work. Physical care and monitoring were prioritised. Stroke‐specific education and training was evident, but not consistent in content or approach. Stroke survivors and families needed help to understand nurses' role in rehabilitation.

Conclusion

The review provides compelling evidence that there is an need to re‐examine the role of nurses in contributing to poststroke rehabilitation, including clarifying when this process can safely begin and specifying the techniques that can be integrated in nurses' practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Integrating stroke‐specific rehabilitation skills in nurses' practice could contribute substantially to improving outcomes for stroke survivors. The explanatory framework developed from the review findings identifies issues which will need to be addressed in order to maximise nurses' contribution to the rehabilitation of stroke survivors.
Fever in children – a concept analysis
Authors: Purssell Edward
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To undertake a concept analysis to clarify the meaning of the term ‘fever’ in children and to identify models of fever‐related belief that may help in understanding the response of parents and professionals to fever in children.

Background

This concept analysis was undertaken because the approach to the treatment of fever varies widely and in particular that there is often a difference between what parents want for their children, official guidelines and what professionals do in practice.

Design

Concept analysis.

Methods

The study used a modified evolutionary method of concept analysis. The analysis was based on data from medical, nursing, popular and biological literature and used an iterative process to clarify the term.

Results

Fever has a number of distinct uses based on its meaning and history; these include its use to indicate an illness itself, as a beneficial symptom associated with disease, and a diagnostic sign. Three models of fever‐related practice emerged from the analysis, these being a phobic‐fearful approach that drives routine treatment, a scientific approach that sees fever as a potentially adaptive and beneficial response and a scientific but pragmatic approach that recognises potential benefit but results in treatment anyway. These different uses, which are often not clarified, go some way to explaining the different approaches to its treatment.

Conclusions

When parents, clinicians, physiologists and guideline writers discuss fever, they attribute different meanings to it, which may go some way to explaining the dissonance between theory and practice. In the absence of new knowledge, the emphasis of practitioners should therefore be on their safe use.

Relevance to practice

When discussing the meaning and treatment of fever, it is important to understand what is meant in different circumstances. The models of fever‐related beliefs outlined here may go some way to helping this process.
Towards the development of a gender‐sensitive measure of women's mental health
Authors: Wang Yu‐Ming , Johnson Joy , Shu Bih‐Ching , Li Shih‐Ming
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To develop a gender‐sensitive measure of women's mental health and to evaluate the measure's psychometric properties.

Background

Mental health problems are a leading global burden of disease, and gender differences in the prevalence of these problems are well documented. Improving mental health is as important as resolving mental health problems. Although many mental health scales have been developed, few measure women's positive mental health from a gender perspective.

Design

Instrument development and psychometric evaluation were used.

Methods

First, a new mental health scale (Women's Mental Health Scale) grounded in women's subjective experiences was formulated from the narratives of four female focus groups (n = 23). The new scale was evaluated using principal component analysis and internal consistency reliability in a sample of female participants (n = 106). Next, the Women's Mental Health Scale, the Chinese version of Beck Depression Inventory‐II and Social Adjustment Scale Self‐Report were used in a survey of female undergraduate students (n = 163) for examining the concurrent criterion‐related validity. Finally, gender differences were examined by assessing the discriminated validity of the Women's Mental Health Scale in a sample of male and female undergraduate students (n = 357). All participants were recruited from communities and universities in middle and south Taiwan.

Results

A 50‐item Women's Mental Health Scale with four concepts of self, interpersonal, family and social domains was developed. It revealed that the Women's Mental Health Scale had acceptable psychometric properties. There was a significant negative correlation between scores of the Women's Mental Health Scale and the Chinese version of Beck Depression Inventory‐II and a significant positive correlation between scores of the Women's Mental Health Scale and Social Adjustment Scale Self‐Report. There were significant gender differences in the family domain and social domain. Women reported greater mental health in the family domain and social domain than men.

Conclusions

The Women's Mental Health Scale is a promising gender‐sensitive tool to measure women's mental health.

Relevance to clinical practice

The Women's Mental Health Scale appears to be a gender‐sensitive measure to assess the positive mental health potentials among women population.
Elimination of the antimicrobial action of the organoarsenical cancer therapeutic, 4-(N-(S-glutathionylacetyl)amino) phenylarsonous acid, before finished product sterility testing
Authors: Dick Lindsay J , Gray Andrew , Ram Asha , Hume Aileen , Parris Caroline , Hogg Philip J , Elliott Moira A , Ford Steven J , Halbert Gavin W
Published: October 2013

Objectives

Arsenical compounds have been used therapeutically for over 2000 years finding particular relevance as antimicrobials. After being replaced by more selective and consequently less toxic antibiotics in the last century, arsenicals have recently made a resurgence as anticancer drugs (specifically arsenic trioxide and its derivatives). Arsenical parenteral formulations require post-manufacture sterility testing; however, their intrinsic antimicrobial activity must be neutralised before testing to eliminate the possibility of false (no-growth) test results.

Methods

A range of thiol-containing compounds was screened to establish a suitable deactivation agent for the novel organoarsenical compound, 4-(N-(S-glutathionylacetyl)amino) phenylarsonous acid (GSAO). Dimercatopropanol (DMP) was found to successful deactivate GSAO and was validated according to pharmacopoeial sterility test guidelines (specifically the method suitability test/sterility validation test).

Key findings

DMP is an effective way of deactivating GSAO before sterility testing and can be used for pharmacopoeial sterility tests. Our results affirm previous research highlighting the sensitivity of Staphylococcus aureus to arsenical compounds

Conclusions

A method of deactivating the arsenical drug GSAO before the post-manufacture sterility test was established and validated. DMP is a commonly used chelator/deactivation agent so this work may have implications for other inorganic therapeutic agents.
The RNA‐seq approach to discriminate gene expression profiles in response to melatonin on cucumber lateral root formation
Authors: Zhang Na , Zhang Hai‐Jun , Zhao Bing , Sun Qian‐Qian , Cao Yun‐Yun , Li Ren , Wu Xin‐Xin , Weeda Sarah , Li Li , Ren Shuxin , Reiter Russel J. , Guo Yang‐Dong
Published: October 2013

Cucumber is a model cucurbitaceous plant with a known genome sequence which is important for studying molecular mechanisms of root development. In this study, RNA sequencing was employed to explore the mechanism of melatonin‐induced lateral root formation in cucumber under salt stress. Three groups of seeds were examined, that is, seeds primed without melatonin (CK), seeds primed in a solution containing 10 or 500 μmol/L melatonin (M10 and M500, respectively). These seeds were then germinated in NaCl solution. The RNA‐seq analysis generated 16,866,670 sequence reads aligned with 17,920 genes, which provided abundant data for the analysis of lateral root formation. A total of 17,552, 17,450, and 17,393 genes were identified from roots of the three treatments (CK, M10 and M500, respectively). The expression of 121 genes was significantly up‐regulated, and 196 genes were significantly down‐regulated in M500 which showed an obvious increase on the number of lateral roots. These genes were significantly enriched in 57 KEGG pathways and 16 GO terms (M500 versus CK). Based on their expression pattern, peroxidase‐related genes were selected as the candidates to be involved in the melatonin response. Several transcription factor families might play important roles in lateral root formation processes. A number of genes related to cell wall formation, carbohydrate metabolic processes, oxidation/reduction processes, and catalytic activity also showed different expression patterns as a result of melatonin treatments. This RNA‐sequencing study will enable the scientific community to better define the molecular processes that affect lateral root formation in response to melatonin treatment.
Language Production and Reception: A Processability Theory Study
Authors: Spinner Patti
Published: October 2013

Pienemann's Processability Theory (PT) predicts an order of emergence of morphosyntactic elements in second language (L2) production data. This research investigates whether the same order of emergence can be detected in L2 reception data, specifically, data from a timed audio grammaticality judgment task (GJT). The results from three related studies are reported. Overall, evidence from two groups of learners of English as an L2 who took an audio GJT does not demonstrate the order of emergence predicted by PT. However, results from a production task followed the predicted order. These findings suggest that the processing routines in PT are operative during production only, raising questions about PT and the interconnectedness of the productive and receptive systems.