bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pivotal factors interfering in 24‐hour blood pressure fluctuation and arterial stiffness in a community of Chinese elderly hypertensive patients
Authors: Zang Xiao‐Ying , Zhang Hua , Cheng Shu‐Ling , Gao Ya‐Jie , Cao Yong‐Jun , Zhao Yue , Mårtensson Jan
Published: May 2012

Aims and objectives.  To explore which sociodemographic and clinical factors could interfere in the parameters of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and determine the affecting factors of Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index.

Background.  Although the clinical relevance of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index have been studied, the explanation of their role and related interfering factors remains controversial in patients with different disease or age, etc.

Design.  Cross‐sectional study.

Methods.  The study was carried out between October 2008–October 2009. A convenience sample of hypertensive patients over 60 years old was recruited in China. Twenty‐four hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was carried out on the non‐dominant arm using an oscillometric device.

Results.  (1) All 95 patients completed the study and their ages ranged from 60–76 years. (2) There were statistical differences for certain parameters of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring between different characteristics of patients. Financial status was an important factor interfering in patients’ BP fluctuation, especially daytime and 24 hours systolic pressure. The higher body mass index the patients had, the higher the pressure was. (3) Multiple variants logistic analysis of Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index showed statistical differences only in coefficient variation of 24‐hour diastolic pressure and daytime systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions.  There are more factors that interfered with systolic pressure and diastolic pressure during the day than nigh. Patients who have less nocturnal dipping may have a higher night time systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. The coefficient of variation of 24 hours diastolic pressure and daytime systolic pressure contribute more to Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index which should arouse practitioners’ attention.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring should be used as a routine procedure, as well as Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index calculated for older hypertensive patients. The findings may be used to guide community health providers to pay more attention to the factors that may influence BP fluctuation and Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index according to individual’s characteristics.
Assessment of body fluid status in hemodialysis patients using the body composition monitor measurement technique
Authors: Mamat Rafidah , Kong Norella CT , Ba’in Arbai’yah , Shah Shamsul A , Cader Rizna , Wong Vincent , Mohd Rozita , Abdul Gafor Abdul Halim , Ismail Rahimah
Published: May 2012

Aims and objectives.  The main objective of the study was to correlate the target dry weight in haemodialysis (HD) patients as assessed clinically by nephrologists to those measured by the Body Composition Monitor (BCM – Fresenius) machine. The second objective was to compare pre and postdialysis changes of extracellular fluid and clinical parameters.

Background.  Clinical assessment of target dry weight in HD patients remains problematic. Inaccurate dry weight resulted in hypovolaemic or overhydration states. The BCM (Fresenius) utilises bioimpedance technology for body fluid monitoring and has been extensively validated.

Design.  This was a prospective cross‐sectional study on consecutive patients who underwent HD and gave informed consent.

Methods.  The target dry weights of these patients were first assessed by their attending nephrologists and appropriate ultrafiltration prescribed. Their body fluid statuses were then measured with the BCM before and after HD treatment.

Results.  Eighty HD patients (37 men, 43 women) with a mean age of 55 ± 13 years and a mean duration on HD of 71 ± 56 months were studied. The dry weight measured by BCM significantly correlated with dry weight assessed by the nephrologists. The mean dry weight was higher when assessed by the nephrologists compared to that by BCM. Only systolic blood pressure and not other components of blood pressure reduced after HD treatments.

Conclusion.  The BCM is a rapid and easy‐to‐use tool that can help HD nursing staffs to adjust patients’ dry weights between nephrologists’ reviews thus optimising HD therapy and patient outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice.  We propose that experienced HD nursing staff be trained in the use of the BCM or other simple bioimpedance machines to help monitor patient overhydration and approximate dry weight in consultation with the nephrologists responsible for the care of these patients so as to obviate excessive residual overhydration between nephrology reviews.
Genetic assessment of population structure and connectivity in the threatened Mediterranean coral Astroides calycularis (Scleractinia, Dendrophylliidae) at different spatial scales
Authors: CASADO‐AMEZÚA P. , GOFFREDO S. , TEMPLADO J. , MACHORDOM A.
Published: May 2012

Understanding dispersal patterns, population structure and connectivity among populations is helpful in the management and conservation of threatened species. Molecular markers are useful tools as indirect estimators of these characteristics. In this study, we assess the population genetic structure of the orange coral Astroides calycularis in the Alboran Sea at local and regional scale, and at three localities outside of this basin. Bayesian clustering methods, traditional F‐statistics and Dest statistics were used to determine the patterns of genetic structure. Likelihood and coalescence approaches were used to infer migration patterns and effective population sizes. The results obtained reveal a high level of connectivity among localities separated by as much as 1 km and moderate levels of genetic differentiation among more distant localities, somewhat corresponding with a stepping‐stone model of gene flow and connectivity. These data suggest that connectivity among populations of this coral is mainly driven by the biology of the species, with low dispersal abilities; in addition, hydrodynamic processes, oceanographic fronts and the distribution of rocky substrate along the coastline may influence larval dispersal.
Induction of jasmonate signalling regulators MaMYC2s and their physical interactions with MaICE1 in methyl jasmonate‐induced chilling tolerance in banana fruit
Authors: ZHAO MING‐LEI , WANG JUN‐NING , SHAN WEI , FAN JIA‐GENG , KUANG JIAN‐FEI , WU KE‐QIANG , LI XUE‐PING , CHEN WEI‐XIN , HE FANG‐YUAN , CHEN JIAN‐YE , LU WANG‐JIN
Published: May 2012

MYC2, a basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor, is a key regulator in the activation of jasmonate (JA) response. However, the molecular details of MYC2 involving in methyl jasmonate (MeJA)‐induced chilling tolerance of fruit remain largely unclear. In the present work, two MYC2 genes, MaMYC2a and MaMYC2b, and one homolog of the inducer of the C‐repeat‐binding factor (CBF) gene, MaICE1 were isolated and characterized from banana fruit. MaMYC2s and MaICE1 were found to be all localized in the nucleus. In addition, the proline‐rich domain (PRD) and the acidic domain (AD) in the N‐terminus were important for the transcriptional activation of MaMYC2 in yeast cells. Unlike MaICE1's constitutive expression, MaMYC2a and MaMYC2b were induced rapidly following MeJA treatment during cold storage. Moreover, protein–protein interaction analysis confirmed that MaMYC2s interacted with MaICE1. The expression of ICE‐CBF cold‐responsive pathway genes including MaCBF1, MaCBF2, MaCOR1, MaKIN2, MaRD2 and MaRD5 was also significantly induced by MeJA. Taken together, our work provides strong evidence that MaMYC2 is involved in MeJA‐induced chilling tolerance in banana fruit through physically interacting and likely functionally coordinating with MaICE1, revealing a novel mechanism for ICE1 in response to cold stress as well as during development of induced chilling tolerance.
Consumer perspectives about weight management services in a community pharmacy setting in NSW, Australia
Authors: Um Irene S. , Armour Carol , Krass Ines , Gill Timothy , Chaar Betty B.
Published: May 2012

Background  Obesity is a public health challenge faced worldwide. Community pharmacists may be well placed to manage Australia’s obesity problem owing to their training, accessibility and trustworthiness. However, determining consumers’ needs is vital to the development of any new services or the evaluation of existing services.

Objective  To explore Australian consumers’ perspectives regarding weight management services in the community pharmacy setting, including their past experiences and willingness to pay for a specific pharmacy‐based service.

Design  An online cross‐sectional consumer survey was distributed through a marketing research company. The survey instrument comprised open‐ended and closed questions exploring consumers’ experiences of and preferences for weight management services in pharmacy. It also included an attitudinal measure, the Consumer Attitude to Pharmacy Weight Management Services (CAPWMS) scale.

Setting and participants  A total of 403 consumers from New South Wales, Australia, completed the survey.

Results  The majority of respondents had previously not sought a pharmacist’s advice regarding weight management. Those who had previously consulted a pharmacist were more willing to pay for and support pharmacy‐based services in the future. Most consumers considered pharmacists’ motivations to provide advice related to gaining profit from selling a product and expressed concerns about the perceived conflicts of interest. Participants also perceived pharmacists as lacking expertise and time.

Conclusion  Although Australian consumers were willing to seek pharmacists’ advice about weight management, they perceived several barriers to the provision of weight management services in community pharmacy. If barriers are addressed, community pharmacies could be a viable and accessible setting to manage obesity.
High serum levels of free cortisol indicate severity of cirrhosis in hemodynamically stable patients
Authors: Thevenot Thierry , Dorin Richard , Monnet Elisabeth , Qualls Clifford R , Sapin Remy , Grandclement Emilie , Borot Sophie , Sheppard Frances , Weil Delphine , Degand Thibault , Di Martino Vincent , Kazlauskaite Rasa
Published: May 2012

Background and Aim:  We investigated: (i) the association between severity of cirrhosis and serum levels of free cortisol (SFC) and total cortisol (STC), measured before and 30 min after (T30) the low‐dose 1‐µg short synacthen test (LD‐SST); and (ii) the prognostic value of SFC and STC.

Methods:  Consecutive, hemodynamically stable, cirrhotic patients (34 Child–Pugh class A, 29B, and 32C) underwent the LD‐SST. Patients were followed for at least 12 months to assess non‐transplant‐related mortality.

Results:  Child–Pugh class C patients had significantly higher basal levels of SFC than Child–Pugh class A or B patients. Prevalence of suspected adrenal dysfunction ranged between 7.4% (T0 STC < 138 nmol/L) and 49.4% (change in STC < 250 nmol/L) according to the threshold used. In receiver–operator curve analysis, the area‐under‐the‐curve values were 0.67 for T30 SFC (0.51–0.79), 0.81 for Child–Pugh score (0.70–0.88), and 0.79 for albumin level (0.63–0.88). During the follow‐up period, 16 patients with high T30 SFC (≥ 78.9 nmol/L) (26.2%) and one patient with low T30 SFC (< 78.9 nmol/L) (3.4%) died (P = 0.027 for high vs low T30 SFC, log–rank test). Albeit not statistically significant, the risk of death for patients with T30 SFC ≥ 78.9 nmol/L was fivefold higher than for patients with lower levels after adjusting for cirrhosis severity and level of albumin.

Conclusions:  One‐year, non‐transplant‐related mortality is high among patients with T30 levels of SFC ≥ 78.9 nmol/L (26.2%). These findings might result from latent inflammatory stress in hemodynamically stable cirrhotic patients, detected by adrenal testing.
Effect of intravenous proton pump inhibitor regimens and timing of endoscopy on clinical outcomes of peptic ulcer bleeding
Authors: Liu Na , Liu Lili , Zhang HongBo , Gyawali Prakash Chandra , Zhang Dexin , Yao Liping , Yang Yan , Wu KaiChun , Ding Jie , Fan DaiMing
Published: May 2012

Background and Aim:  The most effective schedule of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) administration and the optimal timing of endoscopy in acute peptic ulcer bleeding remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to determine the most efficient PPI regimen and optimal timing of endoscopy.

Methods:  Consecutive patients with suspected bleeding peptic ulcers were enrolled and randomized to receive either a standard regimen or a high‐dose intensive intravenous regimen. Only patients with bleeding peptic ulcers diagnosed at initial endoscopy continued the study. High‐risk patients received endoscopic hemostasis. The primary outcome measure of recurrent bleeding was compared between the two dosage regimens and between early and late endoscopy. Secondary outcome measures compared included need for endoscopic treatment, blood transfusion, hospital stay, surgery and mortality.

Results:  A total of 875 patients completed the study. Recurrent bleeding occurred in 11.0% in the standard regimen group, statistically higher than that in the intensive regimen group (6.4%, P = 0.02). Mean units of blood transfused and duration of hospital stay were also higher in the standard regimen group (P < 0.001 for each compared to intensive regimen group). However, no significant differences were noted between the two groups in the need for endoscopic hemostasis, need for surgery, and mortality. Recurrence of bleeding was similar between the early and late endoscopy groups. Units of blood transfused and length of hospital stay were both significantly reduced with early endoscopy.

Conclusion:  High‐dose PPI infusion is more efficacious in reducing rebleeding rate, blood transfusion requirements and hospital stay. Early endoscopy is safe and more effective than late endoscopy.
IS DISHONESTY CONTAGIOUS?
Authors: ROBERT INNES , ARNAB MITRA
Published: May 2012

When an individual believes that peers are predominantly untruthful in a given situation, is he/she more likely to be untruthful in that situation? We study this question in deception experiments patterned after Gneezy [Gneezy U. “Deception: The Role of Consequences.” American Economic Review, 95, 2005, 384–94] and conducted in Arizona, California, and India. We find evidence that dishonesty is indeed contagious.(JELD03)
Theories, evidence and intuitions about infants’ attributions of goals: a reply to commentaries by Bíró and Kuhlmeier & Robson and Luo & Choi
Authors: Hernik Mikolaj , Southgate Victoria
Published: May 2012

This reply article is to be published alongside: Hernik, M., & Southgate, V. (2012). Nine‐months‐old infants do not need to know what the agent prefers in order to reason about its goals: on the role of preference and persistence in infants’ goal‐attribution. Developmental Science. doi/10.1111/j.1467‐7687.2012.01151.x
Are European social safety nets tight enough? Coverage and adequacy of Minimum Income schemes in 14 EU countries
Authors: Figari Francesco , Matsaganis Manos , Sutherland Holly
Published: May 2012

Figari F, Matsaganis M, Sutherland H. Are European social safety nets tight enough? Coverage and adequacy of Minimum Income schemes in 14 EU countries

This study explored and compared the effectiveness of Minimum Income (MI) schemes for persons of working age in the European Union (EU). Using the European microsimulation model EUROMOD, we estimated indicators of coverage and adequacy of MI schemes in 14 EU countries. In terms of coverage, we found that in several countries, some individuals are ineligible for MI even when they fall below a poverty line set at 40 per cent of median income. With respect to adequacy, we show that in certain countries, a large fraction of those entitled to MI remain at very low levels of income even when MI benefit is added. Overall, our findings suggest that MI schemes in Europe remain divergent, and that their clustering may be more complex than has hitherto been allowed for.

Key Practitioner Message:•The ability of European welfare states to fight poverty is a key policy question, especially at times of crisis;•Adequacy and coverage of Minimum Income schemes are crucial aspects of the answer;•Microsimulation allows us to separate the effectiveness of MI schemes ‘by design’, from issues of benefit administration, targeting errors and so forth.
Calcyon, a mammalian specific NEEP21 family member, interacts with adaptor protein complex 3 (AP‐3) and regulates targeting of AP‐3 cargoes
Authors: Muthusamy Nagendran , Faundez Victor , Bergson Clare
Published: May 2012

Calcyon is a neural enriched, single transmembrane protein that interacts with clathrin light chain and stimulates clathrin assembly and clathrin‐mediated endocytosis. A similar property is shared by the heterotetrameric adaptor protein (AP) complexes AP‐1, AP‐2, and AP‐3 which recruit cargoes for insertion into clathrin coated transport vesicles. Here we report that AP medium (μ) subunits interact with a YXXØ‐type tyrosine motif located at residues 133–136 in the cytoplasmic domain of calcyon. Site specific mutagenesis of the critical tyrosine and bulky hydrophobic residues tyrosine 133 and methionine 136 preferentially abrogated binding of the ubiquitous and neuronal isoforms of μ3, and also impacted μ1 and μ2 binding to a lesser degree. The relevance of these interactions was explored in vivo using mice harboring null alleles of calcyon. As seen in the mutagenesis studies, calcyon deletion in mice preferentially altered the subcellular distribution of AP‐3 suggesting that calcyon could regulate membrane‐bound pools of AP‐3 and AP‐3 function. To test this hypothesis, we focused on the hilar region of hippocampus, where levels of calcyon, AP‐3, and AP‐3 cargoes are abundant. We analyzed brain cryosections from control and calcyon null mice for zinc transporter 3 (ZnT3), and phosphatidylinositol‐4‐kinase type II alpha (PI4KIIα), two well‐defined AP‐3 cargoes. Confocal microscopy indicated that ZnT3 and PI4KIIα are significantly reduced in the hippocampal mossy fibers of calcyon knock‐out brain, a phenotype previously described in AP‐3 deficiencies. Altogether, our data suggest that calcyon directly interacts with μ3A and μ3B, and regulates the subcellular distribution of AP‐3 and the targeting of AP‐3 cargoes.
RADIOCARBON DATING OF MESOLITHIC OPEN‐AIR SITES IN THE COVERSAND AREA OF THE NORTH‐WEST EUROPEAN PLAIN: PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS
Authors: CROMBÉ PH. , ROBINSON E. , VAN STRYDONCK M. , BOUDIN M.
Published: May 2012

This paper discusses the problems with sampling materials and sampled contexts in the framework of radiocarbon dating of Mesolithic sites situated in generally dry, acid and bioturbated coversand deposits within north‐western Europe. The case studies presented all relate to the coversand regions of northern Belgium and the Netherlands, two areas for which very large sets of radiocarbon dates performed on different organic components are currently available. The study points out that charred hazelnut shells from surface hearths and charcoal from hearth pits guarantee the most secure dating results, while the dating of calcined bones and food crusts from Final Mesolithic pottery so far remains problematic.
Pharmacological comparison of novel synthetic fenamate analogues with econazole and 2‐APB on the inhibition of TRPM2 channels
Authors: Chen Gui‐Lan , Zeng Bo , Eastmond Sarah , Elsenussi Sandra E , Boa Andrew N , Xu Shang‐Zhong
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Fenamate analogues, econazole and 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2‐APB) are inhibitors of transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) channels and are used as research tools. However, these compounds have different chemical structures and therapeutic applications. Here we have investigated the pharmacological profile of TRPM2 channels by application of newly synthesized fenamate analogues and the existing channel blockers.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Human TRPM2 channels in tetracycline‐regulated pcDNA4/TO vectors were transfected into HEK293 T‐REx cells and the expression was induced by tetracycline. Whole cell currents were recorded by patch‐clamp techniques. Ca2+ influx or release was monitored by fluorometry.

KEY RESULTS Flufenamic acid (FFA), mefenamic acid (MFA) and niflumic acid (NFA) concentration‐dependently inhibited TRPM2 current with potency order FFA > MFA = NFA. Modification of the 2‐phenylamino ring by substitution of the trifluoromethyl group in FFA with –CH3, –F, –CF3, –OCH3, –OCH2CH3, –COOH, and –NO2 at various positions, reduced channel blocking potency. The conservative substitution of 3‐CF3 in FFA by –CH3 (3‐MFA), however, gave the most potent fenamate analogue with an IC50 of 76 µM, comparable to that of FFA, but unlike FFA, had no effect on Ca2+ release. 3‐MFA and FFA inhibited the channel intracellularly. Econazole and 2‐APB showed non‐selectivity by altering cytosolic Ca2+ movement. Econazole also evoked a non‐selective current.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The fenamate analogue 3‐MFA was more selective than other TRPM2 channel blockers. FFA, 2‐APB and econazole should be used with caution as TRPM2 channel blockers, as these compounds can interfere with intracellular Ca2+ movement.
Competence and Governance in Strategic Collaboration: The Differential Effect of Network Structure on the Creation of Core and Noncore Technology
Authors: Vanhaverbeke Wim , Gilsing Victor , Duysters Geert
Published: May 2012

Whereas most of the literature on the benefits of alliances for learning and innovation has taken on a competence perspective, this paper provides an alternative integrated framework based on both a competence and governance point of view. The former focuses on the role of knowledge flows as means to access new knowledge, whereas the latter is centered around the core concepts of opportunism and freeridership in knowledge exchange situations. Although it has generally been acknowledged that competence‐based benefits of collaboration may come at a price of elevated risks due to knowledge spillovers and freeridership, such a governance view remains understudied. This paper explains how a firm's alliance network structure affects benefits as well as risks of collaboration in the context of the creation of core and noncore technology. In the case of core technology, firms attach more value to reducing governance‐based risks relative to obtaining competence‐based benefits. The opposite is found when firms develop noncore technology. This paper contributes to the existing literature by going beyond the common idea that competence and governance perspectives are either complementary or competing. Instead, this study shows that for technology‐based collaboration, they can both apply at the same time, implying a trade‐off in some cases and offering synergy in other cases.

Based on an empirical test in three different industries (pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and automotive), there is support for most of our hypotheses. Direct ties have an invertedU‐shaped effect on both core and noncore technology, and the effect is relatively stronger for the former. The results furthermore show that indirect ties play a positive role in noncore technology development and that this effect is not hampered by the number of direct ties a firm has. In contrast, indirect ties seem to hamper core competence development when companies have a lot of direct ties. Finally, firms are found to benefit from nonredundancy in their alliance network in their efforts to strengthen their core technology. The joint effect of these three network characteristics leads to optimal results for core and noncore technologies under quite different alliance network structures. This poses a problem for the ambidexterity of companies, when they simultaneously try to strengthen core and noncore technologies.
Antecedents and Contingent Effects of Organizational Adaptive Capability on Firm Product Innovativeness
Authors: Akgün Ali E. , Keskin Halit , Byrne John
Published: May 2012

Organizational adaptive capability is a broad term and was studied from different perspectives, such as market, technology, and management system, in the management literature. However, the simultaneous effects of these different perspectives and their related adaptive capability constructs on a firm's product innovativeness have yet to be addressed. Additionally, an empirical study of the influence of informal structural dimensions, such as loose coupling, multiplexity, and redundancy, on the organizational adaptive capability, as antecedents, is also missing in the technology and innovation management (TIM) literature. By studying 153 firms, we found that (1) market‐, technology‐, and management system‐related adaptive capability constructs simultaneously and positively impact firm product innovativeness; (2) under the loose coupling construct, autonomous behaviors of departments positively impact technology and management system adaptive capability, loose management style influences market and management system adaptive capability, and uneven/slow information travel in organizations negatively affects technology and management system adaptive capability; (3) multiplexity positively influences all organizational adaptive capability constructs; and (4) under the redundancy construct, information distribution redundancy has an “∩” shape relationship with technology adaptive capability. We also demonstrated that the impact of informal structural constructs on adaptive capability is contingent upon environmental turbulence, e.g., rapid or unanticipated changes in market and technology. We found that the influence of loose management style on technology adaptive capability decreases with increased rate of market turbulence, and the effect of resource slack, as a part of the redundancy construct, on technology adaptive capability changes quadratically, an “∩” shaped curve, with an increased rate of market turbulence. We further found that the effect of the autonomous behaviors of departments on market adaptive capability increases with an increased level of technology turbulence. The role of resource slack on the market adaptive capability was also found to change quadratically, an “∩” shaped curve, with an increased rate of technology turbulence. Interestingly, the impact of the information distribution redundancy on market adaptive capability changes nonlinearly, a “U” shaped curve, with an increased rate of technology turbulence. Further, we showed that the influence of organizational technology adaptive capability on product innovativeness increases with increased level of technology turbulence. This study concludes with several theoretical and managerial implications.
Showing Up Channels for Postinfarct Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation
Authors: CHILLOU CHRISTIAN DE , MAGNIN‐POULL ISABELLE , ANDRONACHE MARIUS , SACHER FREDERIC , GROBEN LAURENT , ABDELAAL AHMED , MURESAN LUCIAN , JARMOUNI SOUMAYA , SCHWARTZ JEROME , JAÏS PIERRE , ALIOT ETIENNE
Published: May 2012

The number of scar‐related ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation procedures is increasing worldwide. This is certainly due to the ever growing number of patients implanted with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator in whom an ablation procedure may be required to better control the ventricular arrhythmia burden, but is also likely related to our better understanding of the arrhythmias mechanisms as well as the improvement of the mapping techniques during the last 15 years. Most VTs, especially those arising after myocardial infarction, depend on a critical isthmus. Defining precisely the critical isthmus of postinfarct VT may be challenging, particularly when the arrhythmia is poorly tolerated. In the literature, there are extensive data concerning the value of conventional electrophysiological techniques, especially entrainment mapping in association with postpacing interval measurements, regarding the identification of postinfarct VT isthmuses. There are, however, other—sometimes emerging—approaches to image critical postinfarct VT channels. We have summarized these, reviewing data from the published literature as well as our own experience.
(PACE 2012;00:1–8)
Stress Cardiomyopathy (Tako‐Tsubo) Associated with Sustained Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: HASDEMIR CAN , VURAN OZCAN , YUKSEL ALPER , YAVUZGIL OGUZ
Published: May 2012

We present a case of 38‐year‐old woman with stress cardiomyopathy presenting to the emergency department with a 1‐week history of recurrent syncope due to sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia.
Use of analgesic drugs and risk of ovarian cancer: results from a Danish case–control study
Authors: AMMUNDSEN HENRIETTE B. , FABER METTE T. , JENSEN ALLAN , HØGDALL ESTRID , BLAAKÆR JAN , HØGDALL CLAUS , KJÆR SUSANNE K.
Published: May 2012

Objective. The role of analgesic drug use in development of ovarian cancer is not fully understood. We examined the association between analgesic use and risk of ovarian cancer. In addition, we examined whether the association differed according to histological types. Design. Population‐based case–control study. Setting. Denmark in the period 1995–1999. Population. We included 756 women with epithelial ovarian cancer and 1564 randomly selected control women aged 35–79 years. Methods. Information on analgesic drug use was collected from personal interviews. Analgesic drugs were divided into the following categories: any analgesics; aspirin; non‐aspirin non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs; paracetamol; and other analgesic drugs. The association between analgesic drug use and ovarian cancer risk was analysed using multiple logistic regression models. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Main outcome measures. Epithelial ovarian cancer. Results. Women with a regular use of any analgesics (OR = 0.79; 95% CI 0.62 − 1.01) or aspirin (OR = 0.68; 95% CI 0.46 − 1.02) had a decreased risk of ovarian cancer, although not statistically significant. Regular use of non‐aspirin non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, paracetamol or other analgesics did not decrease ovarian cancer risk. Use of any analgesics (OR = 0.72; 95% CI 0.53–0.98) or aspirin (OR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.36–1.00) resulted in a statistically significant decreased risk of serous ovarian cancer but not mucinous or other ovarian tumors. Conclusion. In accordance with most previous studies, our results indicate a possible inverse association between analgesic use, particularly aspirin, and ovarian cancer risk.
Crestal remodelling and osseointegration at surface‐modified commercially pure titanium and titanium alloy implants in a canine model
Authors: Lee Jaebum , Hurson Steve , Tadros Hatem , Schüpbach Peter , Susin Cristiano , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: May 2012

Background

Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloys exhibit enhanced mechanical properties and corrosion resistance and may represent an improvement to present commercially pure (CP) titanium oral implant technology.

Objectives

To evaluate crestal remodelling and osseointegration at CP titanium compared with Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy oral implants using a canine model.

Methods

Two threaded anodized CP titanium and two Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy anodized oral implants (ø4.5 × 6.1 mm) were placed into each jaw quadrant in the edentulated posterior mandible in six adult male Hound Labrador mongrel dogs. Abutments were placed onto the implants, and the mucogingival flaps were adapted and sutured for transmucosal wound healing. Block biopsies were collected for histometric analysis following an 8‐week healing interval.

Results

Healing was uneventful. Bone density outside and within the root of the threads averaged (±SE) 49.0 ± 4.5% and 38.7 ± 5.1% for CP titanium implants and 43.2 ± 3.6% and 34.2 ± 4.8% for Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy implants. Mean osseointegration reached 68.0 ± 4.4% and 62.8 ± 2.5% for CP titanium and Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy implants, respectively. Although crestal resorption at lingual sites averaged 0.2 ± 0.1 mm for both technologies, crestal resorption at buccal sites averaged 0.9 ± 0.2 and 1.0 ± 0.6 mm for CP titanium and Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy implants, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between implant technologies for any parameter assessed. Notably, advanced/advancing buccal crestal resorption exposing the implant threads was observed in 50% of the implants (four of six animals) regardless of implant technology; osteoclastic resorption still observed at 8 weeks following implant placement.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of study, anodized Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy implants may represent a feasible alternative to benchmark anodized CP titanium implants. Remodelling of the buccal crestal plate resulting in advanced bone loss appears a major impediment to oral implant osseointegration and possibly, in extension, implant maintenance.
Temperature indirectly affects benthic microalgal diversity by altering effects of top–down but not bottom–up control
Authors: Werner Franziska Julie , Matthiessen Birte
Published: May 2012

Understanding the ecological mechanisms that underlie species diversity decline in response to environmental change has become an urgent objective in current ecological research. Not only direct (lethal) effects on single species but also indirect effects altering biotic interactions between species within and across trophic levels comprise the driving force of ecosystem change. In an experimental marine benthic microalgae–grazer system we tested for indirect effects of moderate temperature change on algal diversity by manipulation of temperature, nutrient supply and grazer density. In our model system warming did not exert indirect effects on microalgal diversity via effects on resource competition. However, moderate warming strengthened consumer control and thereby indirectly affected algal community structure which ultimately resulted in decreased diversity. Only in low temperature and low nutrient regimes did the antagonizing mechanisms of bottom–up and top–down regulation establish a balancing effect on algal diversity within 29 days (corresponding to 15–29 algae generations). Effects of thermal habitat change did not appear before 9–18 algae generations, which points to the relevance of longer‐term experiments and ecological monitoring in order to separate transient biotic responses and subtle changes of community dynamics in consequence to global change.
Native and non‐native grasses generate common types of plant–soil feedbacks by altering soil nutrients and microbial communities
Authors: Perkins Lora B. , Nowak Robert S.
Published: May 2012

Soil conditioning occurs when plants alter features of their soil environment. When these alterations affect subsequent plant growth, it is a plant soil feedback. Plant–soil feedbacks are an important and understudied aspect of aboveground–belowground linkages in plant ecology that influence plant coexistence, invasion and restoration. Here, we examine plant–soil feedback dynamics of seven co‐occurring native and non‐native grass species to address the questions of how plants modify their soil environment, do those modifications inhibit or favor their own species relative to other species, and do non‐natives exhibit different plant–soil feedback dynamics than natives. We used a two‐phase design, wherein a first generation of plants was grown to induce species‐specific changes in the soil and a second generation of plants was used as a bioassay to determine the effects of those changes. We also used path‐analysis to examine the potential chain of effects of the first generation on soil nutrients and soil microbial composition and on bioassay plant performance. Our findings show species‐specific (rather than consistent within groups of natives and non‐natives) soil conditioning effects on both soil nutrients and the soil microbial community by plants. Additionally, native species produced plant–soil feedback types that benefit other species more than themselves and non‐native invasive species tended to produce plant–soil feedback types that benefit themselves more than other species. These results, coupled with previous field observations, support hypotheses that plant–soil feedbacks may be a mechanism by which some non‐native species increase their invasive potential and plant–soil feedbacks may influence the vulnerability of a site to invasion.
A review of the molecular aspects of melatonin’s anti‐inflammatory actions: recent insights and new perspectives
Authors: Mauriz José L. , Collado Pilar S. , Veneroso Christiano , Reiter Russel J. , González‐Gallego Javier
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Melatonin is a highly evolutionary conserved endogenous molecule that is mainly produced by the pineal gland, but also by other nonendocrine organs, of most mammals including man. In the recent years, a variety of anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects have been observed when melatonin is applied exogenously under both in vivo and in vitro conditions. A number of studies suggest that this indole may exert its anti‐inflammatory effects through the regulation of different molecular pathways. It has been documented that melatonin inhibits the expression of the isoforms of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase and limits the production of excessive amounts of nitric oxide, prostanoids, and leukotrienes, as well as other mediators of the inflammatory process such as cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. Melatonin’s anti‐inflammatory effects are related to the modulation of a number of transcription factors such as nuclear factor kappa B, hypoxia‐inducible factor, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2, and others. Melatonin’s effects on the DNA‐binding capacity of transcription factors may be regulated through the inhibition of protein kinases involved in signal transduction, such as mitogen‐activated protein kinases. This review summarizes recent research data focusing on the modulation of the expression of different inflammatory mediators by melatonin and the effects on cell signaling pathways responsible for the indole’s anti‐inflammatory activity. Although there are a numerous published reports that have analyzed melatonin’s anti‐inflammatory properties, further studies are necessary to elucidate its complex regulatory mechanisms in different cellular types and tissues.
Melatonin promotes water‐stress tolerance, lateral root formation, and seed germination in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Zhang Na , Zhao Bing , Zhang Hai‐Jun , Weeda Sarah , Yang Chen , Yang Zi‐Cai , Ren Shuxin , Guo Yang‐Dong
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  A comprehensive investigation was carried out to determine the changes that occurred in water‐stressed cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in response to melatonin treatment. We examined the potential roles of melatonin during seed germination and root generation and measured its effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, antioxidant enzyme activities, and photosynthesis. Melatonin alleviated polyethylene glycol induced inhibition of seed germination, with 100 μm melatonin‐treated seeds showing the greatest germination rate. Melatonin stimulated root generation and vitality and increased the root:shoot ratio; therefore, melatonin may have an effect on strengthening cucumber roots. Melatonin treatment significantly reduced chlorophyll degradation. Seedlings treated with 100 μm melatonin clearly showed a higher photosynthetic rate, thus reversing the effect of water stress. Furthermore, the ultrastructure of chloroplasts in water‐stressed cucumber leaves was maintained after melatonin treatment. The antioxidant levels and activities of the ROS scavenging enzymes, i.e., superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, were also increased by melatonin. These results suggest that the adverse effects of water stress can be minimized by the application of melatonin.
Block periodization of high‐intensity aerobic intervals provides superior training effects in trained cyclists
Authors: Rønnestad B. R. , Hansen J. , Ellefsen S.
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of two different methods of organizing endurance training in trained cyclists. One group of cyclists performed block periodization, wherein the first week constituted five sessions of high‐intensity aerobic training (HIT), followed by 3 weeks of one weekly HIT session and focus on low‐intensity training (LIT) (BP; n = 10, VO2max = 62 ± 2 mL/kg/min). Another group of cyclists performed a more traditional organization, with 4 weeks of two weekly HIT sessions interspersed with LIT (TRAD; n = 9, VO2max = 63 ± 2 mL/kg/min). Similar volumes of both HIT and LIT was performed in the two groups. While BP increased VO2max, peak power output (Wmax) and power output at 2 mmol/L [la−] by 4.6 ± 3.7%, 2.1 ± 2.8%, and 10 ± 12%, respectively (P < 0.05), no changes occurred in TRAD. BP showed relative improvements in VO2max compared with TRAD (P < 0.05). Mean effect size (ES) of the relative improvement in VO2max, Wmax, and power output at 2 mmol/L [la−] revealed large to moderate effects of BP training compared with TRAD training (ES = 1.34, ES = 0.85, and ES = 0.71, respectively). The present study suggests that block periodization of training provides superior adaptations to traditional organization during a 4‐week endurance training period, despite similar training volume and intensity.
Conformation‐specific Display of 4E10 and 2F5 Epitopes on Self‐assembling Protein Nanoparticles as a Potential HIV Vaccine
Authors: Wahome Newton , Pfeiffer Tanya , Ambiel Ina , Yang Yongkun , Keppler Oliver T. , Bosch Valerie , Burkhard Peter
Published: May 2012

The self‐assembling protein nanoparticle (SAPN) is an antigen‐presenting system that has been shown to be suitable for use as a vaccine platform. The SAPN scaffold is based on the principles of icosahedral symmetry, beginning from a monomeric chain that self‐assembles into an ordered oligomeric state. The monomeric chain contains two covalently linked α‐helical coiled‐coil domains, an N‐terminal de novo‐designed pentameric tryptophan zipper and a C‐terminal de novo‐designed trimeric leucine zipper, which assemble along the internal symmetry axes of an icosahedron. In this study, we incorporated the membrane proximal external region (MPER) of HIV‐1 gp41 from HXB2 into the N‐terminal pentamer, referred to as MPER‐SAPN, attempting to reproduce the α‐helical state of the 4E10 epitope while maintaining a structurally less‐constrained 2F5 epitope. Sprague–Dawley rats were immunized with MPER‐SAPNs, and their sera were analyzed for induced humoral anti‐HIV‐1 responses. We show that high membrane proximal external region‐specific titers can be raised via the repetitive antigen display of MPER on the SAPN without the need for adjuvant. However, none of the sera displayed a detectable neutralizing activity against HIV‐1. Thus, 4E10‐ and 2F5‐like neutralizing antibodies could not be elicited by MPER conformationally restrained in the SAPN context.
Natural Environments, Obesity, and Physical Activity in Nonmetropolitan Areas of the United States
Authors: Michimi Akihiko , Wimberly Michael C.
Published: May 2012

Purpose: To assess the associations of the natural environment with obesity and physical activity in nonmetropolitan areas of the United States among representative samples by using 2 indices of outdoor activity potential (OAP) at the county level.

Methods: We used the data from 457,820 and 473,296 noninstitutionalized adults aged over 18 years for obesity and physical activity, respectively, from the 2000‐2006 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The OAP indices were (1) a recreational opportunity index based on 24 variables related to outdoor physical activity, such as the number of facilities available for walking, biking, hiking, and swimming derived from the 1997 National Outdoor Recreation Supply Information System; and (2) a natural amenities index which was based on physical and social environmental characteristics, such as climate, topographic relief, land cover, and tourism. We fitted logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations to control for county level intracorrelation and tested each index separately to assess its relationship with obesity and physical activity.

Findings: Recreational opportunities were higher in areas with greater natural amenities. After controlling for individual‐level socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, the prevalence of obesity decreased and propensity for physical activity increased with increasing levels of both recreational opportunities and natural amenities.

Conclusions: Multiple indices of OAP based on characteristics of the built, natural and social environments were associated with decreased obesity and increased physical activity in nonmetropolitan areas. Public health interventions should consider the opportunities and limitations offered by the natural environment for promoting physical activity and reducing obesity in rural areas.
Watershed Regressions for Pesticides (warp) Models for Predicting Atrazine Concentrations in Corn Belt Streams1
Authors: Stone Wesley W. , Gilliom Robert J.
Published: May 2012

Stone, Wesley W. and Robert J. Gilliom, 2012. Watershed Regressions for Pesticides (WARP) Models for Predicting Atrazine Concentrations in Corn Belt Streams. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(5): 970‐986. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2012.00661.x

Abstract:  Watershed Regressions for Pesticides (WARP) models, previously developed for atrazine at the national scale, are improved for application to the United States (U.S.) Corn Belt region by developing region‐specific models that include watershed characteristics that are influential in predicting atrazine concentration statistics within the Corn Belt. WARP models for the Corn Belt (WARP‐CB) were developed for annual maximum moving‐average (14‐, 21‐, 30‐, 60‐, and 90‐day durations) and annual 95th‐percentile atrazine concentrations in streams of the Corn Belt region. The WARP‐CB models accounted for 53 to 62% of the variability in the various concentration statistics among the model‐development sites. Model predictions were within a factor of 5 of the observed concentration statistic for over 90% of the model‐development sites. The WARP‐CB residuals and uncertainty are lower than those of the National WARP model for the same sites. Although atrazine‐use intensity is the most important explanatory variable in the National WARP models, it is not a significant variable in the WARP‐CB models. The WARP‐CB models provide improved predictions for Corn Belt streams draining watersheds with atrazine‐use intensities of 17 kg/km2 of watershed area or greater.