bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interatrial Dyssynchrony May Contribute to Heart Failure Symptoms in Patients with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Sanchis Laura , Vannini Luca , Gabrielli Luigi , Duchateau Nicolas , Falces Carles , Andrea Rut , Bijnens Bart , Sitges Marta
Published: March 2015

Purpose

Heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) is the most prevalent type of HF in nonhospitalized patients, but its pathophysiology remains poorly understood. The aim of our study was to assess the existence of interatrial dyssynchrony (IAD), a potentially treatable condition, in the development of HF symptoms.

Methods

Consecutive patients with new onset of shortening of breath, referred for suspected HF, were screened. In all cases, a transthoracic echocardiography, ECG, and determination of plasma BNP level were performed at initial consultation. Patients were diagnosed according to current guidelines. Patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction were excluded. Later, the time from P‐wave onset on the ECG to peak negative strain (atrial contraction) was determined using speckle tracking echocardiography; the time difference between both atria (ms) was used as an index of IAD.

Results

Sixty‐six patients were included. Mean age was 74 ± 8 years (74% female, 77% hypertensive). HFPEF patients (n = 32) showed an increased IAD as compared to subjects with non‐HF (n = 34; interatrial time difference 72.7 ± 27 vs. 28 ± 7 ms, P < 0.001). IAD showed a significant correlation with BNP levels, diastolic pattern, and echocardiographic parameters indicative of elevated LV filling pressures. LA function assessed by LA strain rate was not significantly different between HPPEF patients with and without IAD > 60 ms.

Conclusions

We showed that IAD was present at initial stages of symptomatic HFPEF. It might be an important mechanism involved in the development of symptoms in HFPEF and a potential target amenable to be treated with device therapy.
Preference for ethanol in feeding and oviposition in temperate and tropical populations of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Zhu Jing , Fry James D.
Published: March 2015

The natural habitat of Drosophila melanogaster Meigen (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is fermenting fruits, which can be rich in ethanol. For unknown reasons, temperate populations of this cosmopolitan species have higher ethanol resistance than tropical populations. To determine whether this difference is accompanied by a parallel difference in preference for ethanol, we compared two European and two tropical African populations in feeding and oviposition preference for ethanol‐supplemented medium. Although females of all populations laid significantly more eggs on medium with ethanol than on control medium, preference of European females for ethanol increased as ethanol concentration increased from 2 to 6%, whereas that of African females decreased. In feeding tests, African females preferred control medium over medium with 4% ethanol, whereas European females showed no preference. Males of all populations strongly preferred control medium. The combination of preference for ethanol in oviposition, and avoidance or neutrality in feeding, gives evidence that adults choose breeding sites with ethanol for the benefit of larvae, rather than for their own benefit. The stronger oviposition preference for ethanol of temperate than tropical females suggests that this benefit may be more important in temperate populations. Two possible benefits of ethanol for which there is some experimental evidence are cryoprotection and protection against natural enemies.
The auditory cortex and tinnitus – a review of animal and human studies
Authors: Eggermont Jos J.
Published: March 2015

Tinnitus is the sound heard in the absence of physical sound sources external or internal to the body. Tinnitus never occurs in isolation; it typically develops after hearing loss, and not infrequently for losses at the higher frequencies not tested in clinical audiology. Furthermore, tinnitus is often accompanied by hyperacusis, i.e. increased loudness sensitivity, which may reflect the central gain change in the auditory system that occurs after hearing loss. I will first review the electrophysiological findings in the thalamus and cortex pertaining to animal research into tinnitus. This will comprise the changes in tonotopic maps, spontaneous firing rates and changes in pairwise neural cross‐correlation induced by tinnitus‐inducing agents that are commonly used in animal experiments. These are systemic application of sodium salicylate, and noise exposure at levels ranging from those that do not cause a hearing loss, to those that only cause a temporary threshold shift, to those that cause a permanent hearing loss. Following this, I will review neuroimaging and electrophysiological findings in the auditory cortex in humans with tinnitus. The neural substrates of tinnitus derived from animal data do not apply universally, as neither hearing loss nor hyperacusis appear to be necessary conditions for tinnitus to occur in humans. Finally, I will relate the findings in humans to the predictions from animal models of tinnitus. These comparisons indicate that neural correlates of tinnitus can be studied successfully both at the level of animal models and in humans.
Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging evidence for altered structural remodeling of the temporal lobe in West syndrome
Authors: Fosi Tangunu , Chu Carlton , Chong Wui Khean , Clark Chris , Scott Rod C. , Boyd Stewart , De Haan Michelle , Neville Brian
Published: March 2015

Objective

To explore the structure–function relation of the temporal lobe in newly diagnosed West syndrome of unknown cause (uWS).

Methods

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (three‐dimensional [3D] structural MRI and diffusion tensor imaging [DTI]) was analyzed using voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) and tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS) in 22 patients and healthy age‐matched controls. The electrophysiologic responsiveness of the temporal lobe was measured using the N100 auditory event‐related potential (aERP) to a repeated 1,000 Hz tone. Neurocognitive function was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Second Edition (BSID‐II). Tests followed first‐line treatment with vigabatrin (17 patients) or high‐dose oral prednisolone (5 patients).

Results

Total temporal lobe volume was similar in patients and controls. Patients had a smaller temporal stem (TS) (p < 0.0001) and planum temporale (PT) (p = 0.029) bilaterally. TS width asymmetry with a larger right‐sided width in controls was absent in patients (p = 0.033). PT asymmetry was present in both groups, being larger on the right (p = 0.048). VBM gray matter volume was increased at the left temporal lobe (superior and middle temporal gyri, the peri‐rhinal cortex, and medial temporal lobe) (p < 0.005, family wise error‐corrected). VBM gray matter volume correlated with the duration of infantile spasms (Pearson's r = −0.630, p = 0.009). DTI metrics did not differ between patients and controls on TBSS. Mean BSID‐II scores were lower (p < 0.001) and auditory N100 ERP attenuated less in patients than in controls (p = 0.002).

Significance

The functional networking and white matter development of the temporal lobe are impaired following infantile spasms. Treatment may promote structural plasticity within the temporal lobe following infantile spasms, manifest as increased gray matter volume on VBM. It remains to be investigated further whether this predicts patients' long‐term cognitive difficulties.
Initial locomotor sensitivity to cocaine varies widely among inbred mouse strains
Authors: Wiltshire T. , Ervin R. B. , Duan H. , Bogue M. A. , Zamboni W. C. , Cook S. , Chung W. , Zou F. , Tarantino L. M.
Published: March 2015

Initial sensitivity to psychostimulants can predict subsequent use and abuse in humans. Acute locomotor activation in response to psychostimulants is commonly used as an animal model of initial drug sensitivity and has been shown to have a substantial genetic component. Identifying the specific genetic differences that lead to phenotypic differences in initial drug sensitivity can advance our understanding of the processes that lead to addiction. Phenotyping inbred mouse strain panels are frequently used as a first step for studying the genetic architecture of complex traits. We assessed locomotor activation following a single, acute 20 mg/kg dose of cocaine (COC) in males from 45 inbred mouse strains and observed significant phenotypic variation across strains indicating a substantial genetic component. We also measured levels of COC, the active metabolite, norcocaine and the major inactive metabolite, benzoylecgonine, in plasma and brain in the same set of inbred strains. Pharmacokinetic (PK) and behavioral data were significantly correlated, but at a level that indicates that PK alone does not account for the behavioral differences observed across strains. Phenotypic data from this reference population of inbred strains can be utilized in studies aimed at examining the role of psychostimulant‐induced locomotor activation on drug reward and reinforcement and to test theories about addiction processes. Moreover, these data serve as a starting point for identifying genes that alter sensitivity to the locomotor stimulatory effects of COC.
New Ways of Using Well Construction Reports for Hydrostratigraphic Analyses
Authors: Dunkle Kallina M. , Anderson Mary P. , Hart David
Published: March 2015

Hydrostratigraphic models require subsurface data. Those data can be gleaned from Well Construction Reports (WCRs) if the reports are properly reviewed and processed. In the United States, WCRs or similar documents are generally required to be submitted to a state agency. The quality of those reports varies considerably and depends on the water well contractor's level of geologic knowledge. Nevertheless, these types of reports are usually the largest available subsurface data set. We present two examples from Wisconsin, each of which had approximately 2000 WCRs, to demonstrate a variety of new applications of WCRs including obtaining information about the depositional environment; selecting sites to perform surface geophysical measurements; and creating three‐dimensional hydrostratigraphic models for groundwater modeling.
Supplementing factual information with patient narratives in the cancer screening context: a qualitative study of acceptability and preferences
Authors: Bennett Kirsty F. , von Wagner Christian , Robb Kathryn A.
Published: March 2015

Objective

To explore people's responses to narrative information in the context of colorectal cancer screening.

Design

Nineteen in‐depth interviews were conducted with men and women (aged 45–59). Participants were given two types of colorectal screening information to read: factual and narrative. Participants gave their views on both types of information. Data were analysed using Framework Analysis.

Results

The most frequent responses to the narrative information were that they were reassuring, made colorectal screening more vivid, participants could relate to the people in the stories and they liked the range of narratives presented. Despite the narrative information being seen as more persuasive by some, this was not regarded as manipulative or negative. Both types of information were seen as equally credible. Participants felt a combination of facts and narratives would be useful when considering an offer of colorectal cancer screening.

Conclusion

Overall, participants were positive about the addition of narrative information to the currently provided factual information about colorectal cancer screening. Supplementing existing factual information with narrative information may provide participants with a more complete understanding of participation in colorectal cancer screening when considering an offer to be screened.
Separation of angiotensin I‐converting enzyme inhibitory peptides from bovine connective tissue and their stability towards temperature, pH and digestive enzymes
Authors: Fu Yu , Young Jette F. , Dalsgaard Trine K. , Therkildsen Margrethe
Published: March 2015

Bovine collagen was isolated from connective tissue, a by‐product in the meat processing industry and characterised by SDS‐PAGE. Alcalase and papain were employed to generate collagen hydrolysates with different degree of hydrolysis (DH). In vitro angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities were evaluated and the two most potent hydrolysates from each enzyme were separated by two‐step purification. Both alcalase‐catalysed and papain‐catalysed hydrolysates exhibited strong ACE inhibitory capacities with IC50 values of 0.17 and 0.35 mg mL−1, respectively. Purification by ion‐exchange chromatography and gel filtration chromatography revealed higher ACE inhibitory activities in one fraction from each enzyme with IC50 values of 3.95 and 7.29 μg mL−1. These peptide fractions were characterised as 6‐12 amino acid residues by MALDI‐TOF/MS. The peptides retained their activity (>90%) after exposure to processing temperature and pH and in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion. The present results demonstrated that collagen peptides can be utilised for developing high value‐added ingredients, for example ACE inhibitory peptides.
Pharmacological Treatment and Prevention of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: A Review of Potential Interventions
Authors: Bath Philip M. , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: March 2015

Small vessel disease encompasses lacunar stroke, white matter hyperintensities, lacunes and microbleeds. It causes a quarter of all ischemic strokes, is the commonest cause of vascular dementia, and the cause is incompletely understood. Vascular prophylaxis, as appropriate for large artery disease and cardioembolism, includes antithrombotics, and blood pressure and lipid lowering; however, these strategies may not be effective for small vessel disease, or are already used routinely so precluding further detailed study. Further, intensive anti-platelet therapy is known to be hazardous in small vessel disease through enhanced bleeding. Whether acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which delay the progression of Alzheimer's dementia, are relevant in small vessel disease remains unclear. Potential prophylactic and treatment strategies might be those that target brain microvascular endothelium and the blood brain barrier, microvascular function and neuroinflammation. Potential interventions include endothelin antagonists, neuro-trophins, nitric oxide donors and phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma agonists, and prostacyclin mimics and phosphodiesterase 3 inhibitors. Several drugs that have relevant properties are licensed for other disorders, offering the possibility of drug repurposing. Others are in development. Since influencing multiple targets may be most effective, using multiple agents and/or those that have multiple effects may be preferable. We focus on potential small vessel disease mechanistic targets, summarize drugs that have relevant actions, and review data available from randomized trials on their actions and on the available evidence for their use in lacunar stroke.
In Vitro Modulation of Activation Antigens on Human Lymphocytes by β‐Estradiol
Authors: KOMLOS L. , ZAHAVI Z. , DICKER D. , LURIA D. , SALMAN H. , ZAHAVI I.
Published: March 2015

PROBLEM: The possible in vitro immunomodulating effect of β‐estradiol on phytohemagglutinin‐stimulated human lymphocyte cultures was studied.

METHOD OF STUDY: Lymphocyte cultures from 12 healthy men and women aged 25–35 years were set up for 12 hr in the presence and in the absence of β‐estradiol, and the expression of the activation markers CD25, CD69, and CD71 was examined by flow cytometric analysis with specific fluorescent conjugated antibodies.

RESULTS: Although the number of cases is small, in 10 of 12 cases in the presence of β‐estradiol in two different concentrations, a significantly decreased expression of CD69 could be observed. A slight decrease could also be observed for the Interleukin‐2 receptor expression; however, the difference, in the presence or absence of β‐estradiol, was not significant. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that in vitro addition of β‐estradiol can inhibit, to a certain degree, specific activation markers on phytohemagglutinin‐stimulated lymphocytes from young men and women. The present study could not define the role of sex differences because of the small number of samples. A comparison between men and women at various ages in a greater number of cases, as well as studies on activation markers after treatments with estrogens, would be useful.
Induction of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis by Transvaginal Pituitary Transplantation in Mice with and without Natural Killer Cell Activity
Authors: KOUJYO TSUNEMARO , HATAKEYAMA SHIGETSUGU , YAMADA HIDETO , IWABUCHI KAZUYA , KAJINO KIICHI , OGASAWARA KAZUMASA , ONOE KAZUNORI , FUJIMOTO SEIICHIRO
Published: March 2015

PROBLEM: The aims of this study were to establish a mouse model of endometriosis and adenomyosis and to elucidate the necessity of reduced natural killer (NK)‐cell and T‐cell activities in the establishment of endometriosis and adenomyosis.

METHOD OF STUDY: Pituitary glands, submandibular glands, or hypothalami were transvaginally inoculated into the uteri of syngeneic female mice. Twenty weeks later, the recipient mice were sacrificed and examined.

RESULTS: Cysts, adhesion of the uteri to surrounding tissues, and adenomyosis had formed in the uteri of 7 (29.2%), 14 (58.3%), and 22 (91.7%) mice, respectively, out of 24 BALB/c mice after the transplantation of pituitary glands. Similar findings were obtained by experiments with C3H/He and C57BL/6 mice. In NK‐cell‐deficient C57BL/6‐bgJ and T‐cell‐deficient BALB/c nu/nu mice, an increase in the formation of cysts, adhesion, and adenomyosis was not observed.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that transvaginal pituitary transplantation specifically induces cysts, adhesion, and adenomyosis. Reduced NK‐cell activities may not be necessary in the primary development of endometriosis and adenomyosis.
Epiphytic lichen diversity along elevational gradients: biological traits reveal a complex response to water and energy
Authors: Nascimbene Juri , Marini Lorenzo
Published: March 2015

Aim

Patterns of epiphytic lichen diversity along elevational gradients covering the range of Norway spruce forests were analysed. The roles of water and energy variables in shaping the observed species–elevation relationship were tested, as well as how growth form and photobiont type distribution varied along the gradient.

Location

South Tyrol, northern Italy.

Methods

Eight sites were selected spanning the elevational range of spruce forests (900–1900 m a.s.l.) and the regional rainfall gradient. At each site, a pair of forest stands (one mature even‐aged and one multilayered) was selected at three elevation steps. Epiphytic lichens were surveyed according to European guidelines for lichen diversity monitoring. Explanatory variables indicative of both forest structure and climate were included in the models.

Results

A positive relationship was found between number of species and elevation. This reflected the physiological response of epiphytic lichens to the main climatic factors, trait selection being the mechanism that determined the response at community level. Nonlinear species–temperature and trait–temperature relationships predicted that major changes may be expected in the intermediate part of the gradient. Lichens with a Trentepohlia algal partner were more frequent at lower elevations and proved to be sensitive to environmental factors indicative of forest structure. Lichen growth forms had contrasting patterns related to temperature, crustose species richness being enhanced by increasing values, and alectorioid and foliose lichens by decreasing values. Alectorioid lichens were also negatively influenced by rainfall.

Main conclusions

In a climate change scenario, lichen diversity in alpine regions will probably not benefit from an increase in air temperature in the same way as flowering plants. Monitoring variations in the proportions of growth form and photobiont type may represent a tool for detecting the effects of climate change on lichen species.
Attention bias and anxiety in young children exposed to family violence
Authors: Briggs‐Gowan Margaret J. , Pollak Seth D. , Grasso Damion , Voss Joel , Mian Nicholas D. , Zobel Elvira , McCarthy Kimberly J. , Wakschlag Lauren S. , Pine Daniel S.
Published: March 2015

Background

Attention bias toward threat is associated with anxiety in older youth and adults and has been linked with violence exposure. Attention bias may moderate the relationship between violence exposure and anxiety in young children. Capitalizing on measurement advances, this study examines these relationships at a younger age than previously possible.

Methods

Young children (mean age 4.7, ±0.8) from a cross‐sectional sample oversampled for violence exposure (N = 218) completed the dot‐probe task to assess their attention biases. Observed fear/anxiety was characterized with a novel observational paradigm, the Anxiety Dimensional Observation Scale. Mother‐reported symptoms were assessed with the Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment and Trauma Symptom Checklist for Young Children. Violence exposure was characterized with dimensional scores reflecting probability of membership in two classes derived via latent class analysis from the Conflict Tactics Scales: Abuse and Harsh Parenting.

Results

Family violence predicted greater child anxiety and trauma symptoms. Attention bias moderated the relationship between violence and anxiety.

Conclusions

Attention bias toward threat may strengthen the effects of family violence on the development of anxiety, with potentially cascading effects across childhood. Such associations may be most readily detected when using observational measures of childhood anxiety.
Pharmacist Calls to Older Adults with Cognitive Difficulties After Discharge in a Tertiary Veterans Administration Medical Center: A Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Paquin Allison M. , Salow Marci , Rudolph James L.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of the Pharmacological Intervention in Late Life (PILL) Service, which provides pharmacist telephone follow‐up after discharge of older adults from the hospital, on postdischarge acute care utilization.

Design

Retrospective, secondary data analysis of a quality improvement project from 2010 to 2012.

Setting

Tertiary Veterans Affairs hospital.

Participants

Participants were inpatients aged 65 and older with delirium risk or prescribed a dementia medication (N = 501, mean age 79.5 ± 8.0; 98% male).

Measurements

PILL Service pharmacist telephone follow‐up included a medication review and reconciliation within 5 days after hospital discharge. The time of the pharmacist call was examined in relation to the outcomes of emergency and urgent care encounters, readmissions, and mortality within 60 days.

Results

The average number of discharge medications was 14.8 ± 5.7 with 2.8 ± 2.2 medication changes and 1.4 ± 1.8 discrepancies between medication order and instruction. After adjustment for age, number of medication changes, and number of discrepancies, every additional 5 minutes of pharmacist call was associated with a 15% reduction in 60‐day readmission (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.85, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.75–0.97) but was not associated with emergency or urgent care encounters (adjusted OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.91–1.17) or mortality (adjusted OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.58–1.20).

Conclusion

Pharmacist‐led medication review, reconciliation, and telephone calls after hospital discharge were associated with fewer 60‐day hospital readmissions in this quality improvement program.
Anticholinergic Medications and Risk of Community‐Acquired Pneumonia in Elderly Adults: A Population‐Based Case–Control Study
Authors: Paul Kathleen J. , Walker Rod L. , Dublin Sascha
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To determine whether use of anticholinergics is associated with risk of community‐acquired pneumonia in older adults.

Design

Population‐based case–control study.

Setting

An integrated healthcare delivery system in Washington State.

Participants

Data from a nested case–control study of community‐dwelling immunocompetent adults aged 65 to 94 were analyzed. Pneumonia cases (n = 1,039) were ascertained according to International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, codes from 2000 to 2003 and validated using chart review. Controls (n = 2,022) were matched 2:1 to cases according to age, sex, and year.

Measurements

Anticholinergic medication exposure was ascertained using prescription data; acute use was defined as one or more prescription fills 90 days or less before the index date (date of pneumonia diagnosis), past use was defined as one or more prescription fills within the prior year but none within 90 days, and chronic use was defined as three or more prescription fills within the prior year. The reference group was those with no fills in the prior year. Conditional logistic regression was used to analyze the association between anticholinergic use and pneumonia, adjusted for comorbidities.

Results

Acute use of anticholinergics was observed in 59% of cases and 35% of controls (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.08–3.13) and past use in 17% of cases and 23% of controls (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.92–1.53). Chronic use of anticholinergics was observed in 53% of cases and 36% of controls (aOR 2.07, 95% CI = 1.68–2.54). Results were not different for high‐ and low‐potency anticholinergic medications.

Conclusion

In older adults, anticholinergic medication use is associated with pneumonia risk, adding to substantial evidence suggesting that these medications are high risk.
The Diversity of Mechanisms Influenced by Transthyretin in Neurobiology: Development, Disease and Endocrine Disruption
Authors: Alshehri B. , D'Souza D. G. , Lee J. Y. , Petratos S. , Richardson S. J.
Published: March 2015

Transthyretin (TTR) is a protein that binds and distributes thyroid hormones (THs).TTRsynthesised in the liver is secreted into the bloodstream and distributesTHs around the body, whereasTTRsynthesised in the choroid plexus is involved in movement of thyroxine from the blood into the cerebrospinal fluid and the distribution ofTHs in the brain. This is important because an adequate amount ofTHis required for normal development of the brain. Nevertheless, there has been heated debate on the role ofTTRsynthesised by the choroid plexus during the past 20 years. We present both sides of the debate and how they can be reconciled by the discovery ofTHtransporters. New roles forTTRhave been suggested, including the promotion of neuroregeneration, protection against neurodegeneration, and involvement in schizophrenia, behaviour, memory and learning. Recently,TTRsynthesis was revealed in neurones and peripheral Schwann cells. Thus, the synthesis ofTTRin thecentral nervous system (CNS)is more extensive than previously considered and bolsters the hypothesis thatTTRmay play wide roles in neurobiological function. Given the high conservation ofTTRstructure, function and tissue specificity and timing of gene expression, this implies thatTTRhas a fundamental role, during development and in the adult, across vertebrates. An alarming number of ‘unnatural’ chemicals can bind toTTR, thus potentially interfering with its functions in the brain. One role ofTTRis delivery ofTHs throughout the CNS. ReducedTHavailability during brain development results in a reducedIQ. The combination of the newly discovered sites ofTTRsynthesis in theCNS, the increasing number of neurological diseases being associated withTTR, the newly discovered functions ofTTRand the awareness of the chemicals that can interfere withTTRbiology render this a timely review onTTRin neurobiology.
Using the GORE® Septal Occluder (GSO) in Challenging Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Anatomies
Authors: GEIS NICOLAS A. , PLEGER SVEN T. , KATUS HUGO A. , HARDT STEFAN E.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

We assessed efficacy and safety of the Gore® Septal Occluder (GSO) for patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure focusing on patients with challenging septal anatomies.

Background

In times of controversial discussion whether percutaneous PFO closure is superior to medical therapy for the prevention of recurrent embolic events after cryptogenic stroke, patient selection should mainly focus on individuals with an increased likelihood that the ischaemic event is related to the PFO. In this context, specific septal anatomies—such as the presence of an atrial septal aneurysm as well as long PFO tunnel anatomy—have been associated with a higher rate of cerebrovascular accidents.

Methods

The GSO was used for PFO closure in 41 patients presenting with either atrial septal aneurysm (ASA; 27/41; 65.9%) or long PFO tunnel (> 10 mm; 32/41; 78%). Seven of these patients even presented with a tunnel length ≥ 20 mm (7/41; 17.1%). Eighteen patients had both, long‐tunnel anatomy and ASA (18/41; 43.9%).

Results

The GSO was successfully implanted in all cases. No procedural complications occurred and all patients were discharged the day after the procedure. Short‐term follow‐up, including TEE examination, in all patients was performed 37.6 ± 9.0 days after the procedure. Mid‐term follow‐up was performed after 192.7 ± 45.3 days. Later complications occurred in 7.3% (2 new onset atrial fibrillation, 1 device thrombus). Only 3 patients (7.3%) had more than trace residual shunts at 6‐weeks follow‐up. At 6‐months follow‐up, the complete closure rate was 95.1% (39/41).

Conclusions

The Gore® Septal Occluder is an efficient device for patent foramen ovale closure in challenging anatomies, including long‐tunnel PFOs and atrial septal aneurysms.
Erectile Dysfunction as a Marker for Cardiovascular Disease Diagnosis and Intervention: A Cost Analysis
Authors: Pastuszak Alexander W. , Hyman Daniel A. , Yadav Naveen , Godoy Guilherme , Lipshultz Larry I. , Araujo Andre B. , Khera Mohit
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We examine the costs of screening men with ED for CVD risk factors and the cost savings of treating these at risk men.

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the effect of screening men presenting with ED for CVD risk factors and to determine the cost effectiveness of this screening protocol.

Methods

The known incidence and prevalence of ED and CVD, the rate of undiagnosed CVD, and the effects of CVD treatment were used to model the change in prevalence of acute CVD events and ED as a function of the number of men with ED and CVD. The cost savings associated with reduction in acute cardiovascular (CV) events and ED prevalence was estimated over 20 years.

Main Outcome Measures

Acute CVD event rate reduction and associated cost savings were modeled over 20 years.

Results

The relative risk of ED in men with CVD is 1.47 and the coprevalence of both ED and CVD was estimated at 1,991,520 men. Approximately 44% of men with CVD risk factors are unaware of their risk. If all men presenting with ED were screened for CVD, 5.8 million men with previously unknown CVD risk factors would be identified over 20 years, costing $2.7 billion to screen. Assuming a 20% decrease in CV events as a result of screening and treatment, 1.1 million cardiovascular events would be avoided, saving $21.3 billion over 20 years. Similarly, 1.1 million cases of ED would be treated, saving $9.7 billion. Together, the reduction in acute CVD and ED treatment cost would save $28.5 billion over 20 years.

Conclusions

Screening for CVD in men presenting with ED can be a cost-effective intervention for secondary prevention of both CVD and, over the longer term, ED.
Infrequent dream recall associated with low performance but high overnight improvement on mirror‐tracing
Authors: Dumel Gaëlle , Carr Michelle , Marquis Louis‐Philippe , Blanchette‐Carrière Cloé , Paquette Tyna , Nielsen Tore
Published: March 2015

Although sleep facilitates learning and memory, the roles of dreaming and habitual levels of recalling dreams remain unknown. This study examined if performance and overnight improvement on a rapid eye movement sleep‐sensitive visuomotor task is associated differentially with habitually high or low dream recall frequency. As a relation between dream production and visuospatial skills has been demonstrated previously, one possibility is that frequency of dream recall will be linked to performance on visuomotor tasks such as the Mirror Tracing Task. We expected that habitually low dream recallers would perform more poorly on the Mirror Tracing Task than would high recallers and would show less task improvement following a night of sleep. Fifteen low and 20 high dream recallers slept one night each in the laboratory and performed the Mirror Tracing Task before and after sleep. Low recallers had overall worse baseline performance but a greater evening‐to‐morning improvement than did high recallers. Greater improvements in completion time in low recallers were associated with Stage 2 rather than rapid eye movement sleep. Findings support the separate notions that dreaming is related to visuomotor processes and that different levels of visuomotor skill engage different sleep‐ and dream‐related consolidation mechanisms.
Population structure and dispersal of the coral‐excavating sponge Cliona delitrix
Authors: Chaves‐Fonnegra Andia , Feldheim Kevin A. , Secord Jesse , Lopez Jose V.
Published: March 2015

Some excavating sponges of the genus Cliona compete with live reef corals, often killing and bioeroding entire colonies. Important aspects affecting distribution of these species, such as dispersal capability and population structure, remain largely unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine levels of genetic connectivity and dispersal of Cliona delitrix across the Greater Caribbean (Caribbean Sea, Bahamas and Florida), to understand current patterns and possible future trends in their distribution and effects on coral reefs. Using ten species‐specific microsatellite markers, we found high levels of genetic differentiation between six genetically distinct populations: one in the Atlantic (Florida‐Bahamas), one specific to Florida and four in the South Caribbean Sea. In Florida, two independent breeding populations are likely separated by depth. Gene flow and ecological dispersal occur among other populations in the Florida reef tract, and between some Florida locations and the Bahamas. Similarly, gene flow occurs between populations in the South Caribbean Sea, but appears restricted between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic (Florida‐Bahamas). Dispersal of C. delitrix was farther than expected for a marine sponge and favoured in areas where currents are strong enough to transport sponge eggs or larvae over longer distances. Our results support the influence of ocean current patterns on genetic connectivity, and constitute a baseline to monitor future C. delitrix trends under climate change.
Travel Time Reliability Estimation Model Using Observed Link Flows in a Road Network
Authors: Uchida* Kenetsu
Published: March 2015

This article formulates a model that calculates travel time reliability in a road network. The sources of uncertainty addressed by the model are traffic capacity and travel demand. Because travel time reliability estimation problem, in general, is formulated as a path‐based problem, path enumeration can be required in advance. Thus, the path travel time reliability can depend on a path set enumerated in advance. For the purpose of determining the unique travel time reliability, a model that estimates stochastic path flows by using observed link flows is then presented. This method does not require predefined path set. However, this method is similar to the standard maximum likelihood (ML) estimation method, the method presented in this study is easier to be solved because the number of unknown parameters is much smaller than that of the standard ML estimation method. Numerical experiments using two networks are carried out to demonstrate the model presented in this article.
Dual stator dynamics in the Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 flagellar motor
Authors: Paulick Anja , Delalez Nicolas J. , Brenzinger Susanne , Steel Bradley C. , Berry Richard M. , Armitage Judith P. , Thormann Kai M.
Published: March 2015

The bacterial flagellar motor is an intricate nanomachine which converts ion gradients into rotational movement. Torque is created by ion‐dependent stator complexes which surround the rotor in a ring. Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 expresses two distinct types of stator units: the Na+‐dependent PomA4B2 and the H+‐dependent MotA4B2. Here, we have explored the stator unit dynamics in the MR‐1 flagellar system by using mCherry‐labeled PomAB and MotAB units. We observed a total of between 7 and 11 stator units in each flagellar motor. Both types of stator units exchanged between motors and a pool of stator complexes in the membrane, and the exchange rate of MotAB, but not of PomAB, units was dependent on the environmental Na+‐levels. In 200 mM Na+, the numbers of PomAB and MotAB units in wild‐type motors was determined to be about 7:2 (PomAB:MotAB), shifting to about 6:5 without Na+. Significantly, the average swimming speed of MR‐1 cells at low Na+ conditions was increased in the presence of MotAB. These data strongly indicate that the S. oneidensis flagellar motors simultaneously use H+ and Na+ driven stators in a configuration governed by MotAB incorporation efficiency in response to environmental Na+ levels.
Form and Process in Morton Feldman's Spring of Chosroes
Authors: Paynter Terrence
Published: March 2015

Morton Feldman's Spring of Chosroes is named after a legendary Persian garden carpet. Although it is assumed that the asymmetrical geometric designs of garden carpets inspired the design of the piece, this article is primarily concerned with musical form and process. The music segments into discrete units, which I call modules, that are affiliated by coincident structural features and developmental relationships. The interconnected modules, particularly those that share aspects of pitch, rhythm and register, articulate the work's form. The formal plan is ABA′: section A′ engages the modular structure of section A, and parallelisms in section B create palindromic relationships. Two sets of modules, each of which is connected by developmental processes, make up large‐scale frameworks that reflect the ternary sectional structure and the palindromic design of section B. The music is structurally weighted towards its two central modules, each of which bisects a set of palindromically related modules and, together, the piece as a whole. Organic and inorganic processes unite all levels of form, connecting local and large‐scale structures. Effects of disconnectedness are shown to be surface phenomena arising from the interaction of disparate, ordered structures.
Kant and Kierkegaard on Inwardness and Moral Luck
Authors: Lockhart Jennifer Ryan
Published: March 2015

The traditional understanding of Kant and Kierkegaard is that their views on the good will and inwardness, respectively, commit them to denying moral luck in an attempt to isolate an omnipotent moral subject from involvement with the external world. This leaves them vulnerable to the criticism that their ethical thought unrealistically insulates morality from anything that happens in the world. On the interpretation offered here, inwardness and the good will are not contrasted with worldly happenings, but are instead a matter of worldly happenings that exhibit a particular temporal structure. Kant and Kierkegaard should not be understood as denying moral luck.
A case of cord capillary hemangioma of the spleen: A recently proven true neoplasm
Authors: Tajima Shogo , Koda Kenji
Published: March 2015

Cord capillary hemangioma (CCH) of the spleen is an extremely rare lesion. Once classified under splenic hamartoma, CCH is now differentiated from hamartoma, as its clonality has recently been proven. Herein, we present the case of an incidentally found CCH, measuring 6 × 5.5 × 5 cm, in a 45‐year‐old man. He underwent splenectomy and has been recurrence‐free for 8 years. Macroscopically, the cut surface of the mass showed a central stellate scar with peripheral interspersed reddish areas of variable sizes and intervening fibrous bands. Microscopically, the mass was well demarcated from the splenic tissue. The macroscopic reddish areas were found to correspond to nodules of various sizes, which were predominantly composed of CD34‐expressing capillaries without the presence of CD8‐expressing sinuses. The relative proportion of these two types of vessels distinguishes CCH from sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation (SANT), as SANT shows the apparent presence of CD8‐expressing sinuses. In longstanding cases of SANT, sinuses might become ambiguous and the differences between CCH and SANT might become subtle. Nonetheless, immunohistochemistry should be performed when these conditions are suspected, since accurate distinction is usually achieved as a result.
Architectural and biochemical changes in embryonic tissues of maize under cadmium toxicity
Authors: Wahid A. , Khaliq S.
Published: March 2015

Heavy metals greatly alter plant morphology and architecture, however detailed mechanisms of such changes are not fully explored. Two experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of cadmium (CdCl2·2.5H2O) on some germination, morphological, biochemical and histological characteristics of developing embryonic tissue of maize. In the first experiment, maize seeds were germinated in increasing levels of CdCl2 (200–2000 μm) in sand and measurements were taken of changes in germination and seedling development attributes. Based on these parameters, 1000 μM CdCl2 was chosen for detailed biochemical and histological measurements. In the second experiment, seeds were germinated in Petri dishes and supplied with 0 (control) or 1000 μM CdCl2 (Cd‐treated). Radicle, plumule, coleoptile and coleorhiza were measured for biochemical and histological changes. The highest amount of Cd was in the coleorhiza and radicle. Free proline, soluble sugars, anthocyanin, soluble phenolics, ascorbic acid, H2O2 and MDA were significantly higher in coleorhizae, followed by the coleoptile, radicle and plumule. Although the radicle and coleorhiza were relatively poor targets of Cd than the other tissues, Cd stress reduced cortical cell size and vascular tissues, and deformed xylem and phloem parenchyma in all plant parts. In conclusion, the main reason for reduced germination was the influence of Cd on architecture of the coleorhiza and coleoptile, which was the result of oxidative stress and other physiological changes taking place in these tissues.
Adaptive Management for Oil and Gas Development on Public Lands: An Innovative Approach to Resource Protection, or Symbolic Placation of Public Interests?
Authors: Wurtzebach Zachary
Published: March 2015

Energy development on public lands in the intermountain west is often contentious due to concerns over detrimental impacts to wildlife. To mitigate harm to ungulates and other species, federal agencies often utilize adaptive management, a structured decision‐making framework predicated on “learning while doing.” But in the context of recent energy development, does adaptive management represent an innovative approach to conservation, or is it a largely symbolic policy used to contain the scope of conflict? This article, rooted in the agenda‐setting literature, applies Sarah Pralle's (2006) framework to strategies of conflict containment used by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and industry in three contentious energy development projects in Wyoming. The findings indicate that the BLM's use of adaptive management can be understood as a strategy for conflict containment, rather than as a substantive policy change in public lands oil and gas development.
Learning Economics: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Boylan Michael
Published: March 2015

This essay supports Etzioni's (2015) “The Moral Effects of Economic Teaching” by conceptually analyzing the way that classical economics depicts the worldview of humankind and the methodology of its presentation to students and the general public. The essay concludes (with Etzioni) that this combination can create a morally corrupting paradigm for the student in search of truth.
Strategies for safe living among lung transplant recipients: a single‐center survey
Authors: Jain A. , Humar A. , Lien D. , Weinkauf J. , Kumar D.
Published: March 2015

Background

Lung transplant (LT) recipients are at high risk for infection owing to lifelong immunosuppression and direct communication of the graft with the environment. Guidelines have been established for safe‐living strategies after transplantation. We conducted a survey of LT patients to determine compliance with these strategies.

Methods

Adult LT outpatients completed a survey consisting of questions on a 5‐point Likert scale with the following categories: hand washing, gardening, respiratory infections, food and water safety, animal contact, travel, and occupation.

Results

A total of 194 LT recipients completed the survey (age 54.4 ± 13.3 years; time post transplant 4.76 ± 3.5 years). Regular hand washing was practiced usually or always by 87.6%. Of those who worked with soil/gardened, 70/99 (70.7%) never wore a mask and 15.7% never wore gloves. Pet ownership was common (52%), but most patients used specific precautions during handling. Over one‐third of patients continued employment after transplant but, of these, 56% had modified their occupation often because of perceived infectious risks. Most patients were fully compliant with influenza vaccination (92.3%). Patients <40 years of age were less likely to wear long‐sleeved clothing in mosquito season (P = 0.002), more likely to handle pet feces (P = 0.005), and less likely to wear a mask with sick contacts (P = 0.021).

Conclusions

We provide important insight into safe‐living practices following lung transplantation and identify specific areas and subgroups of patients that could be targeted for enhanced education, with potential significant clinical benefit.