bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Association Study of Primary Dentition Pit-and-Fissure and Smooth Surface Caries
Authors: Zeng Z. , Feingold E. , Wang X. , Weeks D.E. , Lee M. , Cuenco K.T. , Broffitt B. , Weyant R.J. , Crout R. , McNeil D.W. , Levy S.M. , Marazita M.L. , Shaffer J.R.
Published: February 2014

Dental caries continues to be the most common chronic disease in children today. Despite the substantial involvement of genetics in the process of caries development, the specific genes contributing to dental caries remain largely unknown. We performed separate genome-wide association studies of smooth and pit-and-fissure tooth surface caries experience in the primary dentitions of self-reported white children in two samples from Iowa and rural Appalachia. In total, 1,006 children (ages 3-12 years) were included for smooth surface analysis, and 979 children (ages 4-14 years) for pit-and-fissure surface analysis. Associations were tested for more than 1.2 million single nucleotide polymorphisms, either genotyped or imputed. We detected genome-wide significant signals in KPNA4 (p value = 2.0E-9), and suggestive signals in ITGAL (p value = 2.1E-7) and PLUNC family genes (p value = 2.0E-6), thus nominating these novel loci as putative caries susceptibility genes. We also replicated associations observed in previous studies for MPPED2 (p value = 6.9E-6), AJAP1 (p value = 1.6E-6) and RPS6KA2 (p value = 7.3E-6). Replication of these associations in additional samples, as well as experimental studies to determine the biological functions of associated genetic variants, are warranted. Ultimately, efforts such as this may lead to a better understanding of caries etiology, and could eventually facilitate the development of new interventions and preventive measures.
A Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Analysis of Carious Dentin from Transparent Zone to Normal Zone
Authors: Liu Y. , Yao X. , Liu Y.W. , Wang Y.
Published: February 2014

It is well known that caries invasion leads to the differentiation of dentin into zones with altered composition, collagen integrity and mineral identity. However, understanding of these changes from the fundamental perspective of molecular structure has been lacking so far. In light of this, the present work aims to utilize Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to directly extract molecular information regarding collagen's and hydroxyapatite's structural changes as dentin transitions from the transparent zone (TZ) into the normal zone (NZ). Unembedded ultrathin dentin films were sectioned from carious teeth, and an FTIR imaging system was used to obtain spatially resolved FTIR spectra. According to the mineral-to-matrix ratio image generated from large-area low-spectral-resolution scan, the TZ, the NZ and the intermediate subtransparent zone (STZ) were identified. High-spectral-resolution spectra were taken from each zone and subsequently examined with regard to mineral content, carbonate distribution, collagen denaturation and carbonate substitution patterns. The integrity of collagen's triple helical structure was also evaluated based on spectra collected from demineralized dentin films of selected teeth. The results support the argument that STZ is the real sclerotic layer, and they corroborate the established knowledge that collagen in TZ is hardly altered and therefore should be reserved for reparative purposes. Moreover, the close resemblance between the STZ and the NZ in terms of carbonate content, and that between the STZ and the TZ in terms of being A-type carbonate-rich, suggest that the mineral that initially occludes dentin tubules is hydroxyapatite newly generated from odontoblastic activities, which is then transformed into whitlockite in the demineralization/remineralization process as caries progresses.
Aktueller Stand der Modelle gesunder menschlicher Haut: Können Histon-Deacetylase-Inhibitoren die derzeitigen Ersatzmodelle verbessern?
Authors: Lemper M. , Snykers S. , Vanhaecke T. , De Paepe K. , Rogiers V.
Published: February 2014

Histon-Deacetylase-Inhibitoren (HDACi), eine relativ neue Gruppe epigenetischer Wirkstoffe, werden wegen ihrer antiproliferativen und differenzierungsstimulierenden Effekte in vitro und in vivo in verschiedenen Tumorzelllinien als leistungsstarke Chemotherapeutika untersucht. Über ihre Wirkungen auf normale Zellen ist nur wenig bekannt. Erkenntnisse zur Physiologie des gesunden Gewebes sind erforderlich, um die Gewebepathologie zu verstehen und mögliche Effekte neuer chemischer Entitäten auf die Gewebehomöostase zu beurteilen. Daher beschäftigt sich diese Übersichtsarbeit mit den Effekten von HDACi auf primäre Hautzellkulturen gesunder menschlicher Haut und dreidimensionale Epidermismodelle. Allgemein wirken HDACi sowohl auf die epidermale Morphologie als auch auf den Differenzierungsprozess der menschlichen Haut. Letzteres zeigt sich durch Zellzyklusarrest, Desorganisation der Basalschicht, Verdünnung des Stratum spinosum und Verdickung des Stratum corneum, Reorganisation des Zytoskeletts und vermehrte Bildung von «cornified envelopes». Diese Übersichtsarbeit macht deutlich, dass obwohl nur eine begrenzte Zahl an Berichten existiert, diese Moleküle ein interessantes Instrument für die Entwicklung und Untersuchung neuer menschlicher Hautmodelle sein können.
Blood Pressure Load Does Not Add to Ambulatory Blood Pressure Level for Cardiovascular Risk Stratification
Authors: Li Yan , Thijs Lutgarde , Boggia José , Asayama Kei , Hansen Tine W. , Kikuya Masahiro , Björklund-Bodegård Kristina , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Jeppesen Jørgen , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Dolan Eamon , Kuznetsova Tatiana , Stolarz-Skrzypek Katarzyna , Tikhonoff Valérie , Malyutina Sofia , Casiglia Edoardo , Nikitin Yuri , Lind Lars , Sandoya Edgardo , Kawecka-Jaszcz Kalina , Filipovský Jan , Imai Yutaka , Ibsen Hans , O’Brien Eoin , Wang Jiguang , Staessen Jan A.
Published: February 2014

Experts proposed blood pressure (BP) load derived from 24-hour ambulatory BP recordings as a more accurate predictor of outcome than level, in particular in normotensive people. We analyzed 8711 subjects (mean age, 54.8 years; 47.0% women) randomly recruited from 10 populations. We expressed BP load as percentage (%) of systolic/diastolic readings ≥135/≥85 mm Hg and ≥120/≥70 mm Hg during day and night, respectively, or as the area under the BP curve (mm Hg×h) using the same ceiling values. During a period of 10.7 years (median), 1284 participants died and 1109 experienced a fatal or nonfatal cardiovascular end point. In multivariable-adjusted models, the risk of cardiovascular complications gradually increased across deciles of BP level and load (
P
<0.001), but BP load did not substantially refine risk prediction based on 24-hour systolic or diastolic BP level (generalized
R

2

statistic ≤0.294%; net reclassification improvement ≤0.28%; integrated discrimination improvement ≤0.001%). Systolic/diastolic BP load of 40.0/42.3% or 91.8/73.6 mm Hg×h conferred a 10-year risk of a composite cardiovascular end point similar to a 24-hour systolic/diastolic BP of 130/80 mm Hg. In analyses dichotomized according to these thresholds, increased BP load did not refine risk prediction in the whole study population (
R

2

≤0.051) or in untreated participants with 24-hour ambulatory normotension (
R

2

≤0.034). In conclusion, BP load does not improve risk stratification based on 24-hour BP level. This also applies to subjects with normal 24-hour BP for whom BP load was proposed to be particularly useful in risk stratification.
Comparative Effectiveness of Olmesartan and Other Angiotensin Receptor Blockers in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Padwal Raj , Lin Mu , Etminan Mahyar , Eurich Dean T.
Published: February 2014

Olmesartan has been linked with increased risk of cardiovascular mortality and sprue-like enteropathy. We compared outcomes between olmesartan and other angiotensin receptor blockers in a large clinical registry of patients with diabetes mellitus. A retrospective cohort analysis using nationwide US-integrated insurance and laboratory claims was performed in 45 185 incident diabetic angiotensin receptor blocker users, including 10 370 (23%) olmesartan users. Hazard ratios were computed using time-dependant Cox models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory data, drug use, healthcare utilization, and the propensity to receive olmesartan. Blood pressure data were unavailable. Subjects were followed up for 116 721 patient-years. The primary end point was all-cause hospitalization or all-cause mortality and occurred in 10 915 (24%) patients. Average age was 54.3±9.6 years, 52% were men, 17% had cardiovascular disease, and 10% chronic kidney disease. Compared with other angiotensin receptor blockers, the adjusted hazard for olmesartan was 0.99 (95% confidence interval, 0.94–1.05) for all-cause hospitalization and mortality; 0.90 (0.62–1.30) for all-cause mortality; 0.99 (0.94–1.05) for all-cause hospital admission; 0.88 (0.78–1.00) for cardiovascular disease–related admission, and 1.09 (0.98–1.20) for gastrointestinal disease–related hospitalization in the overall cohort. Olmesartan use was associated with an adjusted hazard for the primary outcome of 1.11 (0.99–1.24) in subjects with history of cardiovascular disease and 1.21 (1.04–1.41) in subjects with chronic kidney disease. In conclusion, there is no robust signal for harm with olmesartan use. Risk may be increased in kidney disease; thus, given the widespread availability of alternate agents, olmesartan should be used with caution in this subgroup pending further study.
Romans 8.29–30 and the Question of the Ordo Salutis
Authors: Fesko J.V.
Published: February 2014

‭This essay addresses recent criticisms of the doctrine of the ordo salutis (order of salvation) in early modern Reformed theology by (1) surveying recent criticisms, (2) explaining early modern Reformed expressions of the ordo salutis, particularly as they employ the concept of the sorites, a Greco-Roman form of rhetorical argument found in the apostle Paul’s letters, but especially Rom 8.29–30, (3) arguing for the validity and correctness of the early modern exegesis and exposition of Rom 8.29–30, (4) exploring the systematic-theological implications of Paul’s use of a sorites in Rom 8.29–30.‬
The Aseity of God as a Material Evangelical Concern
Authors: Holmes Christopher R.J.
Published: February 2014

‭An evangelical doctrine of God is concerned with not only the unfolding of the logic of God’s free grace but also the antecedent conditions whereby God is said to be gracious. In this article I demonstrate the extent to which for Karl Barth grace demands a “backward reference,” indeed the immanent processions of the Son and Spirit as the basis for their missions. Accordingly, I advance the notion that the question of antecedence—the “whence”—represents not simply a formal but rather a material concern, a concern which the Reformed appreciate. I unfold this contention with respect some New Testament texts and in relation to two doctrines, namely the doctrine of the divine attributes and that of the hypostatic union.‬
A Review of Darrell L. Bock and Robert L. Webb (eds.), Key Events in the Life of the Historical Jesus
Authors: Charlesworth James H.
Published: February 2014

What are the key moments in Jesus’ life? The book edited by Professors Bock and Webb contains the insightful reflections of the IBR Jesus Group. Before evaluating this collective endeavor, one should first compile a list of what one imagines are the key events in Jesus’ life and what methodology helps one make the decisions. Then, perhaps one might benefit by comparing one’s own list with the perspectives of Matthew, Mar, Luke, John, and even the IBR Jesus Group. Most likely, one will admire the Evangelists and the modern scholars’ research.
Performing ‘The Duty of Discontent’ in Dialogue with Christian Strecker: A Plea for Cross-Cultural Historical Jesus Research
Authors: Craffert Pieter F.
Published: February 2014

This article is a response to the critical evaluation by Christian Strecker of my book, The Life of a Galilean Shaman: Jesus of Nazareth in Anthropological- Historical Perspective (Eugene, OR: Cascade, 2008; hereafter LGS). Anthropological historiography is set as an alternative framework to historical criticism for the discussion about Jesus as an historical figure. The dialogue with Strecker follows the three main categories of his evaluation; namely, the feasibility of a new historiographical paradigm for historical Jesus research, the shamanic complex as a cross-cultural analytical model and the testing of the shamanic hypothesis against the Gospel traditions.
Astragalus wulingensis (Leguminosae), a new species from Hunan China
Authors: Li Jiaxiang , Yu Xunlin
Published: February 2014

A new species of Astragalus Linn. (Leguminosae) from Wuling Mountain of Hunan province, China, Astragalus wulingensis Jia X. Li & X. L. Yu sp. nov. is described, illustrated, and compared with its close relatives. It belongs to section Lotidium Bunge, subgen. Astragalus Bunge. The new species is endemic to Wuling Mountain in NW Hunan Province and has limited populations and vulnerable habitat. Astragalus wulingensis is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR B2c) according to IUCN Red List criteria.
Two new combinations in the genus Bornmuellera (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Resetnik Ivana , Schneeweiss Gerald M , Liber Zlatko
Published: February 2014

The genus Bornmuellera Haussknecht (1897: 71) encompasses seven species distributed from the south-western Balkan Peninsula to Anatolia (Warwick et al. 2006). The original description of the genus encompassed only one species, B. tymphaea (Hausskn.) Haussknecht (1897: 72) which he previously described within Vesicaria Adanson (1763: 420). Haussknecht characterized the genus with non-saccate decidous sepals, white flowers with obtuse petals, filaments with appendages at the base, sessile subglobose glabrous fruits and two seeds in each loculi. The other taxa known at the time, B. cappadocica (Willdenow 1800: 452) Cullen & T.R. Dudley in Dudley & Cullen (1965: 228), B. glabrescens (Boiss. & Balansa in Boissier 1856: 32) Cullen & T.R. Dudley in Dudley & Cullen (1965: 228) and B. baldaccii (Degen 1896: 413) Heywood (1964: 61), were left classified in either Ptilotrichum Meyer (1831: 64, e.g., Degen 1896, Boissier 1867) or Vesicaria (Boissier 1856). Later, Heywood (1964) and subsequently Dudley & Cullen (1965) taxonomically re-defined the genus, whose new circumscription was followed by succeeding authors (Hartvig 2002, Warwick et al. 2006).
Systematic review of the firefly genus Amydetes Illiger, 1807
(Coleoptera: Lampyridae), with description of 13 new species
Authors: DA SILVEIRA LUIZ FELIPE LIMA , MERMUDES JOSÉ RICARDO M.
Published: February 2014

A systematic review of Amydetes Illiger, 1807, based on examination of the type-material. We fix A. fastigiata Illiger, 1807 as the type-species of the genus; redescribe the genus and six out of eight species; describe 13 new species; and provide illustrations and a key to species. We place A. vigorsi Westwood, 1830 syn. n. and A. gorhami Kuntzen, 1912 syn. n. in synonymy with A. fastigiata; A. suturalis Pic, 1925 syn. n. and A. brasiliensis Pic, 1925 in synonymy with A. apicalis; and A. flavicollis Olivier, 1888 syn. n. in synonymy with A. lucioloides Olivier, 1888. We report the first record of Amydetes from Venezuela and Argentina, and establish more precise distributions of the studied species. We describe the circadian period of A. apicalis (diurnal), A. fastigiata and Amydetes bellorum sp. nov. (nocturnal) and discuss the circadian diversity of the genus. Fronto-clypeus, antenna, labrum, maxillary palpomere, prothorax, mesosternum, lanterns, abdominal segment VIII and terminalia were structures that provided important characters for delimitation and diagnosis of the species.
New genus of the tribe Diestramimini (Orthoptera: Rhaphidophoridae) from Thailand
Authors: Storozhenko Sergey Yu. , Dawwrueng Pattarawich
Published: February 2014

Mimadiestra gen. nov. (type species: M. biloba sp. nov.) is described from Thailand. Megadiestramima Storozhenko et Gorochov, 1992 and Leodiestramima Storozhenko, 2009, stat. nov. are considered as separate genera, therefore, three new combinations are proposed: Leodiestramima exculta (Gorochov, 1998), comb. nov., L. lecta (Gorochov, 1998), comb. nov., L. orlovi (Gorochov, 1994), comb. nov. A key to genera of the tribe Diestramimini is given.
Two new species of the genus Gonioctena Chevrolat (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae) from Sichuan, China
Authors: CHO HEE-WOOK , BOROWIEC LECH
Published: February 2014

Two new species of Gonioctena Chevrolat, G. sichuana sp. n. and G. metallica sp. n., are described from Sichuan Province, China. Diagnostic characters and illustrations are provided. Ovoviviparity is recorded in G. metallica sp. n.
On the Appropriate Social Responsibilities of Successful Entrepreneurs
Authors: Baumol William J.
Published: February 2014

This article offers proposed guidelines intended to protect the public interest in relationship to the advocated social responsibilities of successful entrepreneurs. The author argues that the most effective approach, then, is not preaching about obligations but, rather, establishing financial incentives for doing well by doing good. One example is the U.S. patent system. Another is a redesigned tax system that uses imposts to make socially damaging activities expensive, while reducing the financial burden on virtuous behavior.
Enhancing performance of geographically distributed teams through targeted use of information and communication technologies
Authors: Malhotra Arvind , Majchrzak Ann
Published: February 2014

Increasingly, geographically dispersed teams are relying exclusively on sophisticated information and communication technologies (ICTs) to coordinate their knowledge. Current research argues that the reliance on the technology (versus face-to-face) for communication may inhibit geographically distributed team performance. In contrast, we argue that previous research associates negative performance effects with the level or degree of exclusive reliance on ICT without regard to the specific form or ways in which team members use ICT. We hypothesize that teams will be more successful when they use ICT to specifically facilitate the situational awareness needs created by their teams’ composition and task. We studied 54 geographically dispersed teams that all relied exclusively on ICT (with minimal to no face-to-face interactions) for coordination in order to control for the effect of the level of reliance on ICTs. Our multi-source/multi-method study demonstrates that the form of use can have a positive association with team performance even in teams relying exclusively on ICT depending on the team composition and nature of task being performed. Our findings suggest that, instead of assuming that technology reliance negatively impacts team performance, researchers studying distributed teams should separate the level of reliance (degree of use) from form of reliance (type of use) on ICT.
Equal pay bargaining in the UK local government sector
Authors: Oliver Liz , Stuart Mark , Tomlinson Jennifer
Published: February 2014

This article explores recent developments in equal pay bargaining in the UK local government sector. It situates equal pay bargaining against the implementation of a new single status agreement designed to promote equality at work and the supporting regulatory lever of the Gender Equality Duty. The implementation of single status has been fraught with tensions, despite the government’s encouragement for an integrative approach by employers and unions. In simple terms, the cost of equal pay settlements has constrained and stalled implementation. Yet the bargaining environment has also become more complex, with a proliferation of strikes over equal pay claims and increased recourse to litigation. While recent legal judgments pose potential challenges for how unions represent members, bargaining within the sector over equal pay claims is likely to become increasingly litigious.
Buprenorphine does not impact the inflammatory response in haemophilia A mice with experimentally-induced haemarthrosis
Authors: Groth MP , Kristensen AT , Øvlisen KA , Tranholm M
Published: February 2014

Haemarthrosis is the most common clinical manifestation of haemophilia and is responsible for significant morbidity in haemophilic patients. The murine experimentally-induced knee bleeding model is an important model in haemophilia research but it is currently unknown if the use of analgesia in this model might impact on the inflammatory response. The aim was to investigate the inflammatory response after a needle induced knee bleed in haemophilia A mice treated with buprenorphine or saline. One hundred and sixty mice were randomized into two groups to blindly receive buprenorphine or saline. All the mice were anaesthetized and knee injury was induced by inserting a 30 G needle into the right knee joint. At t = 6, 24, 48 and 72 h, 20 mice from each group were terminated and the following parameters were assessed: change in body weight and joint diameter, visual bleeding score (VBS), white blood counts, haematocrit, platelet concentrations, haemoglobin, plasma haptoglobin and plasma and synovial fluid levels of 23 cytokines. Twenty mice were terminated at t = 0 receiving no injury or treatment to provide baseline measures. Twenty-one cytokines in plasma and 22 cytokines in synovial fluid, joint diameter change, VBS and blood parameters were not significantly altered by the administration of buprenorphine. Slight alterations of plasma haptoglobin at t = 48 h, body weight, plasma and synovial eotaxin and plasma G-CSF were found in buprenorphine-treated mice. We demonstrated that buprenorphine does not overall impact on the inflammatory response, and the use of buprenorphine in the knee bleeding model in haemophilic mice should be continued.
Cohort Effect on the Coming Out Experiences of Bisexual Men
Authors: McCormack Mark , Anderson Eric , Adams Adrian
Published: February 2014

This article examines bisexual men’s experiences of coming out across three age cohorts, and documents generational differences in the reception from friends and family regarding this disclosure. Drawing on in-depth interviews with an ethnically diverse sample of 60 openly bisexual men from the United States, we find that the oldest cohort encountered the most stereotypical views and prejudiced behaviour, while those of the youngest cohort expressed predominantly positive coming out stories. We attribute the cohort differences in these experiences to a decrease in cultural homophobia, alongside changes in the social organisation of masculinities.
Selectivity, spatial autocorrelation and the valuation of transit accessibility
Authors: Diao Mi
Published: February 2014

Capturing the increase in land value attributable to transit accessibility has become an increasingly examined alternative to fund the transit system, one which demands reliable estimates of the impact of transport improvement on property values. In the context of value capture, this study presents a new method to value transit accessibility. We integrate the Heckman selection model and spatial econometric techniques to account for two issues that are often overlooked in the conventional hedonic price analysis: sample selection and spatial autocorrelation. The modelling framework is applied to the city of Boston to assess the impact of the subway system on single-family property values and gauge the potential for value capture. We find that failing to correct for sample selection and spatial autocorrelation results in significant bias in valuing transit accessibility. This bias might distort estimates of the value-added effect of transit infrastructure investment and misguide policy design for value-capture programmes.
A control-oriented semi-physical model for a direct expansion air conditioning system
Authors: Xiangguo Xu , Shiming Deng , Xiaohong Han , Xuejun Zhang
Published: February 2014

It is always a challenge to develop appropriate mathematical model for a direct expansion (DX) air conditioning (A/C) system, whose operational parameters are highly coupled and behave non-linearly. Different modeling approaches have their own merits. However, none of the currently available modeling approaches can solely satisfy the requirement, in terms of accuracy and sensitivity, for simultaneous control of air temperature and humidity using a DX A/C system, without any inadequacies. On the other hand, when developing a model for the purpose of controller development rather than investigating complete system characteristics, the focus would be on several key components, and the modeling for other components that are relatively less important may be simplified. Therefore, it is possible to utilize different modeling approaches for different physical processes to develop a novel control-oriented hybrid model, named as semi-physical model (SPM). In this paper, rationales for using different modeling approaches for different physical processes of a DX A/C system are firstly discussed, followed by the development and validation of the SPM. The development of a SPM-based controller for the simultaneous control of air temperature and humidity is also briefly introduced, and its control perform acts as additional evidence for validating the SPM.

Practical application: This paper presents a hybrid modeling method, which combines the complementary merits of various modeling approaches and avoid the inadequacies of them based on the analysis of the requirement of controller development. Such a new control-oriented hybrid modeling method can be applied to not only simultaneous temperature and humidity control using a variable-speed DX A/C system but also other control applications where control loops are coupled and system operational characteristics are complicated.
Qualitative research interviews
Authors: Rossetto Kelly R.
Published: February 2014

This essay explores a question crucial to the role of qualitative researchers: Is there therapeutic value in the research interview process? I use interviewees’ responses to participating in in-depth interviews, along with a discussion of theoretical and empirical research, to build and evidence an argument that the qualitative research interview (QRI) process can be therapeutic and should be acknowledged as such. Challenges to researchers and ideas for strengthening the value of QRIs are discussed.
The relationship between the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and the coronary collateral circulation in patients with chronic total occlusion
Authors: Kalkan ME , Şahin M , Kalkan AK , Güler A , Taş MH , Bulut M , Demir S , Acar RD , Arslantaş U , Öztürkeri B , Güler Y , Akçakoyun M
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

Previous studies showed the association between the major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and both higher neutrophil and lower lymphocyte counts. We aimed to investigate whether there is an association between the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) value and the development of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) in patients with coronary chronic total occlusion (CTO).

Methods:

A total of 274 patients with CTO were included in this study. Patients were then classified according to their Rentrop collateral grades as either poor (Rentrop grades 0-1) or good (Rentrop grades 2-3). Clinical information and analyses of blood samples were obtained from a review of the patients’ charts.

Results:

Although there was no difference between the two groups with regard to cardiovascular risk profiles, the NLR values were significantly higher in the patients who had poorly developed CCC (2.6 ± 0.5 vs 2.2 ± 0.4, p<0.001). NLR, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), white blood cell count (WBC), age, diabetes, fasting glucose levels and body mass index were found to have univariate association with poorly developed CCC (p<0.1). In a multivariate logistic regression model, NLR (odds ratio 1.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.37–2.74; p<0.001), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and WBC were found to be the independent predictors of poor CCC. In receiver operator characteristic curve analysis, the optimal cut-off value of NLR to predict poor CCC was found as 2.17, with 77% sensitivity and 65% specificity.

Conclusion:

NLR, as a novel cardiovascular risk marker, is an important, simple and inexpensive method which can be used by the cardiologist as a screening inflammation tool to estimate the development of CCC in patients with CTO.
Impella 5.0 microaxial pump as a right ventricular assist device after surgical treatment of posterior post-infarction ventricular septal defect
Authors: Peltan J , Oses P , Calderon J , Casassus F , Barandon L
Published: February 2014

The Impella Recover LP 5.0® is an aortic transvalvular microaxial pump designed to unload the left ventricle and to ensure a systemic flow in severe left ventricular dysfunction.

We propose a new suggestion for the Impella 5.0 as a temporary right ventricular assist device after the surgical treatment of a posterior post-infarction ventricular septal defect.
The production of vasoconstriction-induced residual NO modulates perfusion pressure in rat mesenteric vascular bed
Authors: Seçilmiş MA , Özü ÖY , Kıroğlu OE , Şingirik E , Büyükafşar K
Published: February 2014

In the presence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors, the contribution of residual NO to endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by chemical agonists acetylcholine and bradykinin has been documented in resistance vessels. However, the contribution of residual NO to the vasodilatation in response to pressure and fluid shear stress is not well understood. In this study, to demonstrate the activity of residual NO, we applied a NO scavenger, hydroxocobalamin (HCX), on the phenylephrine-induced increase in perfusion pressure in the presence of NOS inhibitors, Nω-nitro-L-arginine (L-NA) or Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in the rat perfused mesenteric bed. The perfusion pressure was increased by phenylephrine (1-2 µM), an α1-adrenoceptor agonist. This increase was augmented by the addition of L-NA or L-NAME. In the presence of any NOS inhibitors, the application of hydroxocobalamin (100 µM) further increased the perfusion pressure. The removal of endothelium by saponin (50 mg/L) and the use of a non-selective protein kinase inhibitor, staurosporine (5 nM), and a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, erbstatin A (30 µM), but not a calmodulin inhibitor, calmidazolium (0.5 µM), inhibited the additional pressor responses induced by L-NA or L-NAME and a combination of either of them with hydroxocobalamine. These findings show that there could be a NOS inhibitor-resistant residual NO production in response to pressure in the rat mesenteric vascular bed. This residual NO production may be associated with the activation of tyrosine kinase and protein kinases, but not calmodulin. Finally, this pressure-induced residual NO exerts a modulatory role against vasoconstriction induced by phenylephrine.
Effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention in reducing emotional distress in informal caregivers of hip fracture patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Martín-Martín Lydia M , Valenza-Demet Gerald , Ariza-Vega Patrocinio , Valenza Carmen , Castellote-Caballero Yolanda , Jiménez-Moleón José Juan
Published: February 2014

Objective:

To examine the effectiveness of an occupational therapy intervention program in reducing emotional distress in informal caregivers of hip fracture patients.

Design:

Single-blind randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

A public Trauma and Rehabilitation Hospital in Granada, Spain.

Participants:

A total of 186 caregivers and their care recipients with hip fracture (93 in each group) were allocated to an intervention group or a control group using a block system.

Intervention:

An occupational therapy intervention during patient hospitalization focused on patient handling by caregivers and ergonomic treatment for both.

Main measures:

The Goldberg General Health Questionnaire was used to measure emotional distress and psychological well-being. The Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to measure caregiver affective illness.

Results:

Among informal caregivers, emotional distress decreased to a greater extent in the intervention group than in the control group from the first assessment to the six-month follow-up (intervention group: 4.16 (SD 4.57) to 2.81 (SD 2.93); control group: 4.61 (SD 4.57) to 4.24 (SD 4.30)), showing significant differences at the first, third and sixth month. As regards anxiety levels, significant differences were only found at the third month (1.54 (SD 2.09) vs. 2.35 (SD 2.53) in the intervention and control groups, respectively ( p < 0.05)), although the intervention group always showed lower levels from the first month. Although depression levels decreased in both groups, the decrease was also greater in the intervention group.

Conclusion:

Occupational therapy training for caregivers of hip fracture patients helps to significantly reduce emotional distress, anxiety and depression in caregivers.
Increasing anticholinergic burden and delirium in palliative care inpatients
Authors: Zimmerman Kristin M , Salow Marci , Skarf L Michal , Kostas Tia , Paquin Allison , Simone Mark J , Rudolph James
Published: February 2014

Background:

Delirium may complicate the hospital course and adversely impact remaining quality of life for palliative care inpatients. Medications with anticholinergic properties have been linked to delirium within elderly populations via serum anticholinergic assays.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to determine whether increasing anticholinergic burden, as measured using a clinical assessment tool, is associated with an increase in delirium among palliative care inpatients.

Design:

This study was completed as a retrospective, case-control study.

Setting/participants:

Veterans admitted to the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and consulted to the palliative care service were considered for inclusion. Increase in anticholinergic burden from admission through hospital day 14 was assessed using the Anticholinergic Risk Scale. Presence of delirium was determined by use of a validated chart review instrument.

Results:

A total of 217 patients were analyzed, with a mean age of 72.9 (±12.8) years. The overall delirium rate was 31% ( n = 67). Patients with an increase in Anticholinergic Risk Scale ( n = 72 (33%)) were 40% more likely to experience delirium (odds ratio = 1.44, 95% confidence interval = 1.07–1.94) compared to those without increase ( n = 145 (67%)). After adjustment for age, brain metastasis, intensive care unit admission, illness severity, opiate use, and admission Anticholinergic Risk Scale using multivariable modeling, delirium risk remained significantly higher in patients with an Anticholinergic Risk Scale increase compared to those without increase (adjusted odds ratio = 1.43, 95% confidence interval = 1.04–1.94).

Conclusion:

An increase in Anticholinergic Risk Scale from admission was associated with delirium in palliative care inpatients. While additional study is needed, anticholinergic burden should be increased cautiously in palliative inpatients, and those with increases should be closely followed for delirium.
Mechatronic design of an integrated robotic hand
Authors: Quigley Morgan , Salisbury Curt , Ng Andrew Y. , Salisbury J. Kenneth
Published: February 2014

Historically, robotic hand research has tended to focus on two areas: severely underactuated hands, and high-degree-of-freedom fully actuated hands. Comparatively little research has been done in between those spaces. Furthermore, despite the large number of robotic hand designs that have been proposed in the past few decades, very few robot hands are available for purchase on the commercial market. In this paper, we present a hand designed for minimalistic dexterous manipulation, in which every stage of the design process also considered its manufacturing cost. We discuss the various trade-offs made in the design. Finally, we present the results of experiments in which the robotic hand was affixed to a manipulator arm and teleoperated to grasp and manipulate a variety of objects.
Rethink, Reform, Reenter
Authors: Keena Linda , Simmons Chris
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this article was to present a description and first-stage evaluation of the impact of the Ice House Entrepreneurship Program on the learning experience of participating prerelease inmates at a Mississippi maximum-security prison and their perception of the transfer of skills learned in program into securing employment upon reentry. The Ice House Entrepreneurship Program is a 12-week program facilitated by volunteer university professors to inmates in a prerelease unit of a maximum-security prison in Mississippi. Participants’ perspectives were examined through content analysis of inmates’ answers to program Reflection and Response Assignments and interviews. The analyses were conducted according to the constant comparative method. Findings reveal the emergent of eight life-lessons and suggest that this is a promising approach to prison programming for prerelease inmates. This study discusses three approaches to better prepare inmates for a mindset change. The rethink, reform, and reenter approaches help break the traditional cycle of release, reoffend, and return.
Are ethical investments good?
Authors: Chow Gariet WS , Durand Robert B , Koh SzeKee
Published: February 2014

Our study considers whether ethical investments are also good investments. In contrast with previous studies, we utilize long-run event study methodology to examine abnormal returns associated with firms being included in, and dropped from, the MSCI KLD400 Social Index (MSCI KLD400). We find that there are positive and statistically significant long-run abnormal returns for firms being included in the MSCI KLD400. These abnormal returns are associated with higher shareholdings by institutional investors (who are subject to higher public scrutiny), higher analyst coverage and higher growth opportunities.
Safety of Propofol as an Induction Agent for Urgent Endotracheal Intubation in the Medical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Koenig Seth J. , Lakticova Viera , Narasimhan Mangala , Doelken Peter , Mayo Paul H.
Published: February 2014

Purpose:

Propofol is known to provide excellent intubation conditions without the use of neuromuscular blocking agents. However, propofol has adverse effects that may limit its use in the critically ill patients, particularly in the hemodynamically unstable patient. We report on the safety and efficacy of propofol for use as an agent for urgent endotracheal intubation (UEI) in the critically ill patients.

Methods:

We reviewed the outcomes of 472 consecutive UEIs performed by a medical intensive care unit (ICU) team at a tertiary care hospital from November 2008 through November 2012. Outcome data were collected prospectively as part of an ongoing quality improvement project.

Results:

Propofol was used as the sole sedative agent in 409 (87%) of the 472 patients. In 18 (4%) of the 472 patients, other agents (midazolam, lorazepam, or etomidate) were used in addition to propofol. Of the 472, 10 (2%) intubations were performed with a sedative agent other than propofol, and 35 (7%) of the 472 intubations were performed without any sedating agent. Endotracheal tube insertion was successful in all 472 patients. Complications of UEI in those patients who received propofol were as follows: desaturation (Sao2 < 80%) 30 (7%) of the 427, hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 70 mm Hg) 19 (4%) of the 427, difficult intubation (>2 attempts) 44 (10%) of the 427, esophageal intubation 24 (6%) of the 427, aspiration 6 (1%) of the 427, and oropharyngeal injury 4 (1%) of the 427. There were no deaths. Average dose of propofol was 99 mg (standard deviation 7.39) per person.

Conclusions:

Our results compare favorably with the complication rate of UEI reported in the critical care and anesthesiology literature and indicate that propofol is a useful agent for airway management in the ICU.
Modern non-pollen palynomorphs sedimentation along an elevational gradient in the south-central Pyrenees (southwestern Europe) as a tool for Holocene paleoecological reconstruction
Authors: López-Vila Julià , Montoya Encarni , Cañellas-Boltà Núria , Rull Valentí
Published: February 2014

Non-pollen palynomorphs (NPPs) are microfossils other than pollen and spores from plants found within samples prepared for pollen analyses. Their utility as paleoecological indicators is rapidly growing because of their potential to complement palynological reconstructions of past communities and environments. The study of modern NPP sedimentation patterns using surface samples from different substrates, vegetation types, and environmental conditions is needed to characterize the main environmental and anthropogenic factors involved in establishing ecological gradients. Here, we analyze modern NPP distribution along an elevational transect from the south-central Pyrenees. We use these data to test the potential influence of elevation, vegetation type, sampling sites, and human disturbance on modern NPP distribution and to obtain a NPP modern-analog model, which will enhance further paleoecological interpretations. Our study used the same surface samples obtained in a previous modern-analog palynological study, along an elevational transect from 870 to 2600 m a.s.l. We identified 55 NPPs, including 13 unidentified morphotypes that were described and depicted. Individual NPP analysis and multivariate statistical methods showed that altitude plays a significant role in the NPP distribution along the transect, but other factors such as soil moisture, landscape openness, and grazing intensity also influenced the composition of NPP assemblages. Our results also recognized some characteristic NPP assemblages linked to elevational vegetation belts and individual NPP morphotypes related with specific microhabitats, both with potential paleoecological indicator capacity. This work is a first step to improve the knowledge of the NPP’s indicator value in the study area.
The evaluation of cord blood interleukin-1β levels in normal and caesarean deliveries
Authors: Gedikbaşi A , Salihoğlu Ö , Çankaya A , Arica V , Akkuş CH , Hatipoğlu S , Yaşar L
Published: February 2014

Objective:

The aim of this prospective study was to establish the cord blood interleukin 1β (IL-1β) levels and asphyxia enzymes in term newborns and their relationship between delivery modes. We investigated whether cord blood level of IL-1β could be used as a reliable marker for detecting hypoxic stress and to determine the optimal cut-off level for IL-1β.

Methods:

The study was designed prospectively. Cord blood samples were obtained at the time of delivery from 75 noninfected full-term neonates for the purpose of measuring cord blood levels of IL-1β. Women were classified into three groups according to the mode of delivery (20 vaginal delivery, 29 urgent caesarean section (with foetal distress) and 26 elective caesarean section). All cases were followed-up by hospitalization. Umbilical cord sampling was carried out for IL-1β, umbilical artery gas parameters and other asphyxia enzymes at the time of delivery. Cord blood IL-1β was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The perinatal outcomes of the cases were recorded after birth. Demographic characteristics, neonatal outcomes and laboratory findings were compared in all the three groups.

Results:

IL-1β levels showed statistically significant difference between groups ( p < 0.01). The relationship was found between IL-1β cord blood levels and the mode of delivery. IL-1β levels of urgent caesarean section group were significantly higher than elective caesarean section and normal delivery group ( p:0.001 and p:0.001, respectively). Normal delivery levels were significantly higher than the elective caesarean group ( p:0.001).

Conclusion:

Urgent section (foetal distress) and vaginal delivery (labour) were each associated with elevated IL-1β cord blood levels in noninfected full-term neonates, while only elective caesarean section was associated with decreased IL-1β levels. For the evaluation of newborns at high risk for perinatal hypoxic stress, cord blood IL-1β levels may lead the way. On the other hand, the mode of delivery may be associated with the effects on the immune system. Further investigations with larger patient groups are required to confirm our results.
Confidence intervals for intraclass correlation coefficients in variance components models
Authors: Demetrashvili Nino , Wit Ernst C , van den Heuvel Edwin R
Published: February 2014

Confidence intervals for intraclass correlation coefficients in agreement studies with continuous outcomes are model-specific and no generic approach exists. This paper provides two generic approaches for intraclass correlation coefficients of the form [Formula: see text]. The first approach uses Satterthwaite’s approximation and an F-distribution. The second approach uses the first and second moments of the intraclass correlation coefficient estimate in combination with a Beta distribution. Both approaches are based on the restricted maximum likelihood estimates for the variance components involved. Simulation studies are conducted to examine the coverage probabilities of the confidence intervals for agreement studies with a mix of small sample sizes. Two different three-way variance components models and balanced and unbalanced one-way random effects models are investigated. The proposed approaches are compared with other approaches developed for these specific models. The approach based on the F-distribution provides acceptable coverage probabilities, but the approach based on the Beta distribution results in accurate coverages for most settings in both balanced and unbalanced designs. A real agreement study is provided to illustrate the approaches.
The effect of corrugated skins on aerodynamic performance
Authors: Xia Yuying , Bilgen Onur , Friswell Michael I
Published: February 2014

Corrugated skins provide a good solution to morphing wings due to their highly anisotropic behavior. If the low stiffness corrugation plane is aligned in the chordwise direction, the airfoil shape change is possible. In contrast to the traditional smooth skin of an airfoil, a corrugated skin influences both the local and global aerodynamics of a wing. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a corrugated skin on the global aerodynamics of an airfoil, particularly lift and drag characteristics. First, the aerodynamic analysis of a NACA 0012 airfoil with a smooth profile is conducted, both in the wind tunnel and by computational fluid dynamics, at different Reynolds numbers and compared to the data in the literature. The lift and drag coefficients at different angles of attack, between −10° and 10°, are considered. Next, two NACA 0012 airfoils with different sized corrugated profiles are investigated both experimentally and by numerical simulation. The effects of corrugation size and Reynolds number are analyzed and quantified relatively to the standard NACA0012 airfoil with a smooth skin. Preliminary numerical results are validated using the experimental data.