bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fusion‐Optimized Intervals (FOI): A New Method to Achieve the Narrowest QRS for Optimization of the AV and VV Intervals in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: ARBELO ELENA , TOLOSANA JOSÉ MARÍA , TRUCCO EMILCE , PENELA DIEGO , BORRÀS ROGER , DOLTRA ADELINA , ANDREU DAVID , ACEÑA MARTA , BERRUEZO ANTONIO , SITGES MARTA , MANSOUR FADI , CASTEL ÁNGELES , MATAS MARIONA , BRUGADA JOSEP , MONT LLUÍS
Published: November 2013

QRS‐Based Optimization of Cardiac Resynchronization

Background

Optimization of atrioventricular (AV) and interventricular (VV) intervals may improve cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) response but is a complex task. Fusion with intrinsic conduction may increase the benefit of CRT. The aim was to describe fusion‐optimized intervals (FOI), a new method of optimizing CRT based on QRS duration.

Methods and Results

Seventy‐six consecutive patients with preserved AV conduction who received CRT were prospectively included. The AV interval was optimized by searching the narrowest QRS obtained within the fusion band during left ventricular (LV) pacing. The VV interval was then adjusted, comparing QRS duration in simultaneous biventricular, LV preexcitation (−30 milliseconds), right ventricular (RV) preexcitation (−30 milliseconds) and LV‐only pacing. A substudy in 31 patients evaluated the invasive LV +dP/dtmax.

The best fusion‐optimized AV interval was 136 ± 30 milliseconds during atrial sensing and 192 ± 35 milliseconds during atrial pacing. The best QRS was obtained with simultaneous biventricular pacing in 28 patients (37%), LV preexcitation in 22 (29%), LV‐only in 20 (26%), and RV preexcitation in 6 (8%). Baseline QRS was shortened more by FOI (59 ± 19 milliseconds) than by nominal settings (40 ± 21 milliseconds; P < 0.001). Sixty‐five patients (86%) showed >10% shortening of the baseline QRS with FOI; none prolonged the QRS duration by FOI compared to nominal settings. All echocardiographic asynchrony parameters were corrected by FOI. Baseline +dP/dtmax improvement was greater in FOI (127 ± 95 mmHg/seconds) than in nominal settings (102 ± 71 mmHg/seconds; P = 0.05).

Conclusion

The FOI method is feasible, further reduces QRS duration, and improves acute hemodynamic response compared to nominal programming of CRT.
A Novel Biomarker‐Based Approach for the Detection of Asymptomatic Brain Injury During Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: SRAMKO MAREK , PEICHL PETR , WICHTERLE DAN , TINTERA JAROSLAV , MAXIAN RADOSLAV , WEICHET JIRI , KNESPLOVA LENKA , FRANEKOVA JANKA , PASNISINOVA SILVIA , KAUTZNER JOSEF
Published: November 2013

Background

Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI) is a widely used method for studying of asymptomatic brain injury during catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, this technique lacks sensitivity for subtle or diffuse brain lesions. We investigated whether detection of the ablation‐related brain injury can improve by assessment of a biomarker of brain damage—protein S100B.

Methods and Results

DW‐MRI and assessment of S100B were performed in 58 patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of paroxysmal or persistent AF 1 day before and after the procedure. We observed no symptomatic neurological complications. S100B levels increased after ablation above the upper reference limit of 105 ng/L in 3 patients. One of them developed a new ischemic lesion on the DW‐MRI. No acute lesions emerged on DW‐MRI in the patients with normal postablation S100B levels.

Conclusion

Serial assessment of serum protein S100B may improve detection of asymptomatic acute brain injury in patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of AF. In our study, the incidence of these events was 1.7% when evaluated only by DW‐MRI, but the incidence increased to 5% after employing the more sensitive biomarker‐based approach.
Clinical appraisal of the recently proposed Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B subclassification by survival analysis
Authors: Ha Yeonjung , Shim Ju Hyun , Kim Seon‐Ok , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young‐Suk , Lee Han Chu
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

To evaluate the usefulness of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B subclassification (B1–B4) proposed by Bolondi et al. in subjects with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with transarterial chemoembolization according to the current Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer policy.

Methods

A total of 466 Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B patients initially treated with transarterial chemoembolization were included. The subclassification system was tested and modified on the basis of correlation with survival outcomes, which were examined by Kaplan–Meier method and log–rank test.

Results

There were 101 (21.7%), 232 (49.8%), 35 (7.5%), and 98 (21.0%) patients in B1, B2, B3, and B4, respectively. There was a significant difference in median survival time between B1 and B2 (41.0 vs 22.1 months, P ≤ 0.001), and B2 and B3 (22.1 vs 14.1 months, P = 0.004), but not between B3 and B4 (14.1 vs 17.2 months, P = 0.48). We, therefore, developed a modified subclassification, in which B3 subclass was merged with B4 as BIII, and BI and BII corresponded to B1 and B2. The median survival times differed between all three modified subclasses (41.0 vs 22.1 vs 16.6 months, P ≤ 0.001), and multivariate Cox analysis revealed that the modified Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B subclasses independently predicted overall survival (hazard ratios, 1.92 and 2.78 for BII and BIII vs BI; P < 0.001 for each).

Conclusions

The modified subclassification, which divides the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B stage into three substages, would be an effective tool for stratifying this heterogeneous population and facilitating per‐subclass‐based treatment options.
Characterization of a novel DUF1618 gene family in rice
Authors: Wang Lan , Shen Rongxin , Chen Le‐Tian , Liu Yao‐Guang
Published: November 2013

Domain of unknown function (DUF) proteins represent a number of gene families that encode functionally uncharacterized proteins in eukaryotes. For example, DUF1618 family members in plants possess a 56–199‐amino acid conserved domain and this family has not been described previously. Here, we report the characterization of 121 DUF1618 genes identified in the rice genome. Based on phylogenetic analysis, the rice DUF1618 family was divided into two major groups, each group consisting of two clades. Most DUF1618 genes with close phylogenetic relationships are located in gene clusters on the chromosomes, indicating that gene duplications increased the number of DUF1618 genes. A search for DUF1618 genes in genomic and/or expressed sequence tag databases for 35 other plant species showed that DUF1618 genes are only present in several monocot plants, suggesting that DUF1618 is a new gene family that originated after the dicot–monocot divergence. Based on public microarray databases, most rice DUF1618 genes are expressed at relatively low levels. Further experimental analysis showed that the transcriptional levels of some DUF1618 genes varied in different cultivars, and some responded to stress and hormone conditions, suggesting their important roles for development and fitness in rice (Oryza sativa L.).
Diversity characterization and association analysis of agronomic traits in a Chinese peanut (Arachis hypogaeaL.) mini‐core collection
Authors: Jiang Huifang , Huang Li , Ren Xiaoping , Chen Yuning , Zhou Xiaojing , Xia Youlin , Huang Jiaquan , Lei Yong , Yan Liying , Wan Liyun , Liao Boshou
Published: November 2013

Association mapping is a powerful approach for exploring the molecular basis of phenotypic variations in plants. A peanut (Arachis hypogaeaL.) mini‐core collection in China comprising 298 accessions was genotyped using 109 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, which identified 554 SSR alleles and phenotyped for 15 agronomic traits in three different environments, exhibiting abundant genetic and phenotypic diversity within the panel. A model‐based structure analysis assigned all accessions to three groups. Most of the accessions had the relative kinship of less than 0.05, indicating that there were no or weak relationships between accessions of the mini‐core collection. For 15 agronomic traits in the peanut panel, generally theQ + Kmodel exhibited the best performance to eliminate the false associated positives compared to theQmodel and the general linear model‐simple model. In total, 89 SSR alleles were identified to be associated with 15 agronomic traits of three environments by theQ + Kmodel‐based association analysis. Of these, eight alleles were repeatedly detected in two or three environments, and 15 alleles were commonly detected to be associated with multiple agronomic traits. Simple sequence repeat allelic effects confirmed significant differences between different genotypes of these repeatedly detected markers. Our results demonstrate the great potential of integrating the association analysis and marker‐assisted breeding by utilizing the peanut mini‐core collection.
Why mosaic? Gene expression profiling of African cassava mosaic virus‐infected cassava reveals the effect of chlorophyll degradation on symptom development
Authors: Liu Jiao , Yang Jun , Bi Huiping , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2013

Cassava mosaic disease, caused by cassava begomoviruses, is the most serious disease for cassava in Africa. However, the pathogenesis of this disease is poorly understood. We employed high throughput digital gene expression profiling based on the Illumina Solexa sequencing technology to investigate the global transcriptional response of cassava to African cassava mosaic virus infection. We found that 3,210 genes were differentially expressed in virus‐infected cassava leaves. Gene ontology term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis indicated that genes implicated in photosynthesis were most affected, consistent with the chlorotic symptoms observed in infected leaves. The upregulation of chlorophyll degradation genes, including the genes encoding chlorophyllase, pheophytinase, and pheophorbide a oxygenase, and downregulation of genes encoding the major apoproteins in light‐harvesting complex II were confirmed by qRT‐PCR. These findings, together with the reduction of chlorophyll b content and fewer grana stacks in the infected leaf cells, reveal that the degradation of chlorophyll plays an important role in African cassava mosaic virus symptom development. This study will provide a road map for future investigations into viral pathogenesis.
Neuroprotective and symptomatic effects of targeting group IIImGlu receptors in neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Williams Claire J. , Dexter David T.
Published: November 2013

Neurodegenerative disorders possess common pathological mechanisms, such as protein aggregation, inflammation, oxidative stress (OS) and excitotoxicity, raising the possibility of shared therapeutic targets. As a result of the selective cellular and regional expression of group III metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors, drugs targeting such receptors have demonstrated both neuroprotective properties and symptomatic improvements in several models of neurodegeneration. In recent years, the discovery and development of subtype‐selective ligands for the group IIImGlu receptors has gained pace, allowing further research into the functions of these receptors and revealing their roles in health and disease. Activation of this class of receptors results in neuroprotection, with a variety of underlying mechanisms implicated. Group IIImGlu receptor stimulation prevents excitotoxicity by inhibiting glutamate release from neurons and microglia and increasing glutamate uptake by astrocytes. It also attenuates the neuroinflammatory response by reducing glial reactivity and encourages neurotrophic phenotypes. This article will review the current literature with regard to the neuroprotective and symptomatic effects of group IIImGlu receptor activation and discuss their promise as therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disease.

image

We review the neuroprotective and symptomatic effects of targeting group III mGlu receptors in neurodegenerative disease: Excess extracellular glutamate causes overactivation of NMDA receptors resulting in excitotoxicity. Externalization of phosphatidylserine stimulates phagocytosis of neurons by activated microglia, which contribute to damage through glutamate and pro‐inflammatory factor release. Reactive astrocytes produce cytotoxic factors enhancing neuronal cell death. Activation of group III mGlu receptors by glutamate and/or mGlu receptor ligands results in inhibition of glutamate release from presynaptic terminals and microglia, reducing excitotoxicity. Astrocytic glutamate uptake is increased and microglia produce neurotrophic factors.
INEQUALITY AND HAPPINESS
Authors: Ferrer‐i‐Carbonell Ada , Ramos Xavier
Published: November 2013

In recent years there has been an accumulation of empirical evidence suggesting that individuals dislike inequality. The literature has built upon estimating the degree of this dislike as well as its causes. The use of self‐reported measures of satisfaction or well‐being as a proxy for utility has been one of the empirical strategies used to this end. In this survey, we review the papers that estimate or examine the relationship between inequality and self‐reported happiness to conclude that inequality correlates negatively with happiness in Western societies. Some of the surveyed papers identify particular sources of heterogeneity on preferences over inequality. The evidence for non‐Western societies is more mixed and less reliable. Notwithstanding that, trust in the institutions seems to play an important role in shaping the relationship between income inequality and subjective well‐being. We conclude with suggestions for further research.
Monitoring Persistent Platelet Reactivity in Patients with Unprotected Left Main Stenting
Authors: DILLINGER JEAN‐GUILLAUME , SIDERIS GEORGIOS , KCHAOU IHEB , BAL DIT SOLLIER CLAIRE , MANZO SILBERMAN STEPHANE , VOICU SEBASTIAN , MAGKOUTIS NIKOLAOS , LOGEART DAMIEN , DROUET LUDOVIC , HENRY PATRICK ,   for the ALMA (Angioplasty of Left Main – lAriboisiere) study
Published: November 2013

Objective

This study sought to determine the rate and potential clinical impact of persistent platelet reactivity (PPR) in unprotected left main (ULMD) stenting.

Background

PPR under aspirin or thienopyridines is associated with acute events after angioplasty.

Methods

We prospectively included 125 patients referred for ULMD stenting. For the first 64 patients (ALMA‐1), angioplasty was performed under aspirin and clopidogrel without platelet reactivity assessment. For the last 61 patients (ALMA‐2), platelet reactivity was assessed before angioplasty: in patients with aspirin‐related PPR, aspirin twice daily was given and in those with clopidogrel‐related PPR, clopidogrel double dose or prasugrel was used.

Results

Overall, patients' mean age was 69 ± 13 years, 37% were diabetic, and 37% had non‐ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Patients' characteristics were similar in both studies with isolated left main in 14% and associated with 1‐, 2‐, or 3‐vessel disease in 23%, 36%, and 27%, respectively. Mean SYNTAX score was 23 ± 9. Procedural characteristics were similar using provisional T stenting in 69%, T stenting in 27%, and other techniques in 4%. In ALMA‐2, 28% patients had PPR for aspirin, 29% for clopidogrel, and 8% for both. Aspirin twice daily was given in 28% of patients, clopidogrel double dose in 26%, and prasugrel in 31%. The rate of 1‐year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was lower in ALMA‐2 versus ALMA‐1 (8.2% vs. 20.8%; P = 0.04) as a composite end‐point of cardiovascular death or stent thrombosis (0.0% vs. 8.3%; P = 0.02).

Conclusion

PPR under aspirin and thienopyridines is frequent in ULMD stenting and could be related to subsequent major events.
Consensus statement on the diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up of patients with primary adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Husebye E. S. , Allolio B. , Arlt W. , Badenhoop K. , Bensing S. , Betterle C. , Falorni A. , Gan E. H. , Hulting A.‐L. , Kasperlik‐Zaluska A. , Kämpe O. , Løvås K. , Meyer G. , Pearce S. H.
Published: November 2013

Primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI), or Addison's disease, is a rare, potentially deadly, but treatable disease. Most cases of PAI are caused by autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex. Consequently, patients with PAI are at higher risk of developing other autoimmune diseases. The diagnosis of PAI is often delayed by many months, and most patients present with symptoms of acute adrenal insufficiency. Because PAI is rare, even medical specialists in this therapeutic area rarely manage more than a few patients. Currently, the procedures for diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up of this rare disease vary greatly within Europe. The common autoimmune form of PAI is characterized by the presence of 21‐hydroxylase autoantibodies; other causes should be sought if no autoantibodies are detected. Acute adrenal crisis is a life‐threatening condition that requires immediate treatment. Standard replacement therapy consists of multiple daily doses of hydrocortisone or cortisone acetate combined with fludrocortisone. Annual follow‐up by an endocrinologist is recommended with the focus on optimization of replacement therapy and detection of new autoimmune diseases. Patient education to enable self‐adjustment of dosages of replacement therapy and crisis prevention is particularly important in this disease. The authors of this document have collaborated within an EU project (Euadrenal) to study the pathogenesis, describe the natural course and improve the treatment for Addison's disease. Based on a synthesis of this research, the available literature, and the views and experiences of the consortium's investigators and key experts, we now attempt to provide a European Expert Consensus Statement for diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up.
The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI): Linguistic Validation of the Italian Version
Authors: Filocamo Maria Teresa , Serati Maurizio , Li Marzi Vincenzo , Costantini Elisabetta , Milanesi Martina , Pietropaolo Amelia , Polledro Patrizio , Gentile Barbara , Maruccia Serena , Fornia Samanta , Lauri Irene , Alei Rosanna , Arcangeli Paola , Sighinolfi Maria Chiara , Manassero Francesca , Andretta Elena , Palazzetti Anna , Bertelli Elena , Del Popolo Giulio , Villari Donata
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Although several new measurements for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) have recently been developed, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) remains the gold standard for screening and one of the most widely used questionnaires. The Italian translation of the FSFI has been used in several studies conducted in Italy, but a linguistic validation of the Italian version does not exist.

Aim

The aim of this study was to perform a linguistic validation of the Italian version of the FSFI.

Methods

A multicenter cross-sectional study conducted in 14 urological and gynecological clinics, uniformly distributed over Italian territory. We performed all steps necessary to determine the reliability and the test–retest reliability of the Italian version of the FSFI. The study population was a convenience sample of 409 Italian women.

Main Outcome Measures

The reliability of the questionnaire was calculated using Cronbach's alpha, which was considered weak, moderate, or high if its value was found less than 0.6, between 0.6 and 0.8, or equal to or greater than 0.8, respectively. The test–retest reliability was assessed for all women in the sample by calculating Pearson's concordance correlation coefficient for each domain and for the total score, both at baseline and after 15 days (r range between −1.00 to +1.00, where +1.00 indicates the strongest positive association).

Results

Cronbach's alpha coefficents for total and domain score were sufficiently high, ranging from 0.92 to 0.97 for the total sample. The test–retest procedure revealed that the concordance correlation coefficient was very high both for FSFI-I total score (Pearson's P = 0.93) and for each domain (Pearson's P always >0.92).

Conclusion

For the first time in the literature, our study has produced a validated and reliable Italian version of the FSFI questionnaire. Consequently, the Italian FSFI can be used as a reliable tool for preliminary screening for female sexual dysfunction for Italian women.
Psychological distress in mothers of children admitted to a nutritional rehabilitation unit in Malawi – a comparison with other paediatric wards
Authors: Colman Sarah , Stewart Robert C , MacArthur Christine , Kennedy Neil , Tomenson Barbara , Creed Francis
Published: November 2013

In a previous study we found a very high prevalence of psychological distress in mothers of children admitted to a nutritional rehabilitation unit (NRU) in Malawi, Africa. The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence and severity of maternal distress within the NRU with that in other paediatric wards. Given the known association between poor maternal psychological well‐being and child undernutrition in low‐ and middle‐income countries, we hypothesised that distress would be higher among NRU mothers. Mothers of consecutive paediatric inpatients in a NRU, a high‐dependency (and research) unit and an oncology ward were assessed for psychological distress using the Self‐Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ). Two hundred sixty‐eight mothers were interviewed (90.3% of eligible). The prevalence of SRQ score ≥8 was 35/150 {23.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) 16.8– 30.9%]} on the NRU, 13/84 [15.5% (95% CI 8.5–25.0%)] on the high‐dependency unit and 7/34 [20.6% (95% CI 8.7–37.9%)] on the oncology ward (χ2 = 2.04, P = 0.36). In linear regression analysis, the correlates of higher SRQ score were child diarrhoea on admission, child diagnosed with tuberculosis, and maternal experience of abuse by partner; child height‐for‐age z‐score fell only just outside significance (P = 0.05). In summary, we found no evidence of greater maternal distress among the mothers of severely malnourished children within the NRU compared with mothers of paediatric inpatients with other severe illnesses. However, in support of previous research findings, we found some evidence that poor maternal psychological well‐being is associated with child stunting and diarrhoea.
The Aurora B kinase in Trypanosoma brucei undergoes post‐translational modifications and is targeted to various subcellular locations through binding to TbCPC1
Authors: Hu Huiqing , Yu Zhonglian , Liu Yi , Wang Tao , Wei Ying , Li Ziyin
Published: November 2013

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) in animals, consisting of Aurora B kinase and three evolutionarily conserved proteins, plays crucial roles in mitosis and cytokinesis. However, Trypanosoma brucei expresses an unusual CPC consisting of an Aurora‐like kinase, TbAUK1, and two kinetoplastid‐specific proteins, TbCPC1 and TbCPC2. Despite their essential functions, little is known about the regulation of TbAUK1 and the roles of TbCPC1 and TbCPC2. Here, we investigate the effect of post‐translational modification on the activity and spatiotemporal control of TbAUK1, and demonstrate that phosphorylation of two conserved threonine residues in the activation loop of the kinase domain contributes to TbAUK1 activation and function. TbAUK1 is SUMOylated in vivo, and mutation of the SUMO‐conjugation site compromises TbAUK1 function. Degradation of TbAUK1 requires two destruction boxes and is mediated by the anaphase‐promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), whereas degradation of TbCPC1 and TbCPC2 is not dependent on the predicted destruction boxes and is APC/C‐independent. Moreover, we determine the domains in CPC subunits that mediate the pairwise interactions, and show that disruption of the interaction impairs the localization of TbAUK1 and TbCPC2 but not TbCPC1. Our results demonstrate the requirement of post‐translational modifications for TbAUK1 function and a crucial role of TbCPC1 in mediating TbAUK1 localization.
Study of stem cell marker nestin and its correlation with vascular endothelial growth factor and microvascular density in ependymomas
Authors: Nambirajan Aruna , Sharma Mehar C. , Gupta Rakesh Kumar , Suri Vaishali , Singh Manmohan , Sarkar Chitra
Published: November 2013

Background

Ependymomas are relatively rare glial tumours, whose pathogenesis is not well elucidated. They are enigmatic tumours that show site‐specific differences in their biological behaviour. Recent studies have hypothesized that ependymoma cancer stem cells (CSCs) are derived from radial glia and express stem cell markers such as nestin, which is associated with a poor prognosis. CSCs reside in ‘vascular niches’, where endothelial cells and molecular signals like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) play an important role in their survival. Studies analysing VEGF expression in ependymomas showed that ependymal vascular proliferation is less sensitive to induction by VEGF, questioning the possible beneficial effect of anti‐VEGF therapy in ependymomas. We aimed to study nestin and VEGF immunoexpression in ependymomas, correlate them with clinicopathological parameters and reveal a role for VEGF in ependymomas that extends beyond the context of tumour angiogenesis.

Methods

We analysed 126 cases of ependymomas of different grades and locations for nestin and VEGF immunoexpression. Endothelial cells were labelled with CD34. Vascular patterns and microvascular density was determined.

Results

Nestin and VEGF expression in tumour cells were more frequent in supratentorial tumours [89% (33/37) and 65% (24/37) respectively], and were associated with a significantly poor progression‐free survival (PFS). VEGF expression did not reveal any correlation with necrosis or bizarre vascular patterns.

Conclusions

Supratentorial location is an independent predictor of a poor PFS. Significant coexpression of nestin and VEGF suggests that latter possibly augments stem cell survival. Thus, anti‐VEGF therapy may be a good option in future for nestin immunopositive ependymomas.
Reexpansion pulmonary edema: review of pediatric cases
Authors: Kira Shinichiro
Published: November 2013

Reexpansion pulmonary edema (RPE) is an increased permeability pulmonary edema that usually occurs in the reexpanded lung after several days of lung collapse. This condition is recognized to occur more frequently in patients under the age of 40 years, but there has been no detailed analysis of reported pediatric cases of RPE to date. For this review, PubMed literature searches were performed using the following terms: ‘re(‐)expansion pulmonary (o)edema’ AND (‘child’ OR ‘children’ OR ‘infant’ OR ‘boy’ OR ‘girl’ OR ‘adolescent’). The 22 pediatric cases of RPE identified were included in this review. RPE was reported in almost the entire pediatric age range, and as in adult cases, the severity ranged from subclinical to lethal. No specific treatment for RPE was identified, and treatment was administered according to the clinical features of each patient. Of the 22 reported cases, 10 occurred during the perioperative period, but were not related to any specific surgical procedures or anesthetic techniques, or to the duration of lung collapse. Pediatric anesthesiologists should be aware that pediatric RPE can occur after reexpansion of any collapsed lung and that some invasive therapies can be useful in severe cases.
Retrospective Analysis of the Relationship Between Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis and Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Alexopoulos Alex , Kakourou Talia , Orfanou Irene , Xaidara Athina , Chrousos George
Published: November 2013

A growing number of dermatologists dispute the existence of infantile seborrheic dermatitis (ISD) as an independent clinical entity. Therefore the aim of the present study was to estimate the epidemiologic features of ISD in a defined population of Greek children, assess its course, and identify associations, if any, with other common dermatoses of childhood. Children from the region of Athens who were examined and diagnosed with typical clinical features of ISD between 1997 and 2011 were included in the study. The relevant data were collected retrospectively from their medical records using a standardized form. Eighty‐seven children were enrolled (50 boys, 37 girls; mean age 3.1 mos at the time of ISD diagnosis). The main body areas affected were the scalp and face for the majority of the children (78/87), whereas the trunk and limbs were less frequently involved (9/87). In all cases, erythema and scaling of affected patients were mild to moderate. Forty‐nine of the 87 children were followed up over a period of 5 years. Thirty children in this group developed features of atopic dermatitis (AD) at a later stage, according to the UK diagnostic criteria of AD, and 23 of these children were diagnosed with AD, at an average time interval of 6.4 months from ISD onset, and seven presented with clinical features of AD at the time of ISD diagnosis. The remaining 19 children in the follow‐up group progressed without developing any other chronic skin disease, and all recovered within 6 months of its onset. Thirty‐eight had no further follow‐up after their initial ISD diagnosis. In spite of the lack of information on the disease course for the last group, assuming they all recovered, the prevalence of AD (34.4%) in our ISD sample was significantly higher than the prevalence of AD (10.7%) in the general population for the same age group, as shown in a previous study performed in the municipality of Athens (p < 0.001). A significant number of children were found to develop AD shortly after their ISD diagnosis. This finding demonstrates a strong association in the clinical course between the two diseases or indicates that the two diseases may be in the same clinical spectrum. Further epidemiologic studies must be conducted to assess the significance of this finding.
Evaluation of Wound Care Options in Patients with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Costly Necessity
Authors: Kirkorian Anna Yasmine , Weitz Nicole A. , Tlougan Brook , Morel Kimberly D.
Published: November 2013

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a genetic disorder in which mutations in collagen VII, the main component of the anchoring fibril, lead to skin fragility and to the development of acute and chronic wounds. Wound care and dressing changes are an important part of the daily lives of individuals with RDEB. Ideal wound care should improve wound healing, minimize pain, and improve quality of life. The objective of the current study was to review wound care options that might be used in a patient with RDEB and calculate the cost of these various options based on publicly available pricing of wound care products. There is a wide range of costs for wound care options in patients with RDEB. For example, a 1‐day supply of dressing for a neonate boy with RDEB ranges from $10.64 for the least expensive option to $127.54 for the most expensive option. Wound care in patients with severe, generalized RDEB has not only a significant economic effect, but also directly affects quality of life in this patient population. Although randomized controlled trials evaluating different wound care products in patients with RDEB are lacking, small studies and expert opinion support the use of specialized nonadherent dressings that minimize skin trauma and promote wound healing. Until there is a cure, prospective studies are needed to assess pain, quality of life, and wound healing associated with the use of specialized wound care products for this life‐altering condition.
Vibrational communication and mating behaviour of Dichelops melacanthus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) recorded from loudspeaker membranes and plants
Authors: BLASSIOLI‐MORAES MARIA C. , MAGALHÃES DIEGO M. , ČOKL ANDREJ , LAUMANN RAÚL A. , DA SILVA JOSEANE P. , SILVA CLEONOR C. A. , BORGES MIGUEL
Published: November 2013

Vibrational communication is important for successful mating in various stink bugs species. The vibrational signals from males and females of Dichelops melacanthus Dallas (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) are recorded from a nonresonant substrate (i.e. a loudspeaker membrane) to characterize the temporal and spectral properties of these vibrational signals, as well as on a resonant substrate (i.e. bean plants) to obtain information about how these signals are altered when they are transmitted through the plants. On the loudspeaker membrane, D. melacanthus males and females emit only one male or one female song, respectively. However, when the insects are placed on bean leaves, a more complex repertoire is recorded, with three different songs for each sex. The first female and male songs appear to have calling functions and the third male and female songs are emitted during courtship. The second female and male songs are emitted after the first song, although their functions in mating behaviour are not clear. The identified repertoire is similar to those of other Neotropical stink bugs, starting with songs 1 and 2 and developing into song 3. Frequency modulation is observed in the female songs recorded from the loudspeaker membrane and the plants. The signals recorded from plants present higher harmonic peaks compared with the signals recorded from the loudspeaker membrane. The presence of species and sex‐specific songs during mating confirms the important role of vibrational communication in mate location and recognition. The temporal and spectral characteristic signals are influenced by the substrate used to record the songs emitted by D. melacanthus.
‘To serve us in that behalf when our pleasure is to call for them’: performing boys in Renaissance England
Authors: Mamujee Shehzana
Published: November 2013

This essay argues for the recognition of a culture of child performance that flourished throughout Renaissance England, and foregrounds the social contexts from which the quasi‐professional boy player emerged at the end of the sixteenth century. Examining the academic and religious provenance of child acting in the period and the ubiquity of boys as performers in numerous semi‐dramatic royal and civic pageants, this article reveals that the boy's role in Renaissance theatre begins with the non‐professional performative culture to which he is integral, and stretches far beyond his presence as the transvestite boy‐heroine on an all‐male stage.

The examination of the boy's theatrical roles is further contextualized in relation to moralistic, prescriptive literature on the family, which conceptualizes the child as the property of his parents. The discussion emphasizes the cultural perceptions of subordination, economic import and ownership tied in with child development, in order to make visible the link between the child's role in the theatre and his status in the family. The Renaissance boy actor served as a commodified entity which typified a social and economic structure in which children in general played a vital part.
Tendon structural adaptations to load exercise are inhibited by anabolic androgenic steroids
Authors: Marqueti R. C. , Paulino M. G. , Fernandes M. N. , de Oliveira E. M. , Selistre‐de‐Araujo H. S.
Published: November 2013

The present study investigated the structural changes in the rat calcaneal tendon (CT), superficial flexor tendon (SFT), and deep flexor tendon (DFT) in response to jump exercises and anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS). Animals were divided into four groups: sedentary, trained, AAS‐treated sedentary rats, and AAS‐treated trained animals. Training increased the volume density (Vv%) of blood vessels in all regions of the CT and DFT, cell Vv% in the peritendinous sheath of the proximal and distal regions of the SFT and proximal region of DFT, and cell Vv% in the tendon proper of the proximal and distal regions of the SFT and DFT. The combination of AAS and load exercises showed little increased blood vessel Vv% at the proximal region of the CT, intermediate region of the SFT, and all regions of the DFT as opposed to an increase in adipose cell Vv% in the CT proximal region. The AAS reduced the levels of hydroxyproline in the proximal region of the DFT and in the distal region of the STF. In conclusion, exercise promoted benefits to the adaptation of the tendons to overload. These effects were absent when load exercise was combined with AAS. The abusive consumption of AAS contributes to tendon inertness and rigidity, and increases the potential risk of injury.
The influence of physical activity during youth on structural and functional properties of the Achilles tendon
Authors: Lenskjold A. , Kongsgaard M. , Larsen J. O. , Nielsen R. H. , Kovanen V. , Aagaard P. , Kjaer M. , Magnusson S. P.
Published: November 2013

Achilles tendinopathy is a highly prevalent sports injury. Animal studies show a growth response in tendons in response to loading in the immature phase but not after puberty maturation. The aim of this investigation was to examine the structural and material properties in long distance runners who were either physically active (HAY) or inactive (LAY) in young age. Twelve men in HAY group and eight men in LAY group participated. Structural, functional, and biochemical properties of Achilles tendon were estimated from magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound video recordings, mechanical tests, and tendon biopsies, respectively. There was no difference between the groups with respect to tendon cross‐sectional area or tendon free length. There was no difference between the groups with respect to maximal force or mechanical properties. The collagen content, enzymatic and nonenzymatic cross‐link density did not differ between the groups, nor did collagen fibril density, diameter, and area. There was a correlation between age and pentosidine/collagen within the groups [(HAY: P < 0.05 and r2 = 0.47) and (LAY: P < 0.05 and r2 = 0.52)]. The data suggest that high or low activity during youth did not appreciably influence the mechanical, structural, or biochemical properties of the Achilles tendon in adult long distance runners.
Quantifying the impact of former glaciation on catchment‐wide denudation rates derived from cosmogenic 10Be
Authors: Glotzbach Christoph , Röttjer Markus , Hampel Andrea , Hetzel Ralf , Kubik Peter W.
Published: November 2013

Glacial denudation can significantly perturb terrestrial cosmogenic nuclide depth profiles and, if this is not corrected for, derived apparent denudation rates will overestimate the actual denudation rates. Here we determine how much 10Be‐derived denudation rates – calculated under the assumption of steady state – deviate from actual denudation rates as a function of three parameters: (1) the total amount of glacial denudation, (2) the post‐glacial denudation rate and (3) the time elapsed since deglaciation. We provide correction lines for the full parameter space explored (glacial denudation: 0.01–100 m; post‐glacial denudation rate: 1–1000 mm/ka; deglaciation: 1–100 ka before present), to evaluate and, if necessary, correct denudation rates for the impact of glacial denudation. Applied to 10Be‐derived catchment‐averaged denudation rates for formerly glaciated catchments in the Black Forest, Germany, we find that uncorrected denudation rates overestimate actual rates by up to a factor of three.
The Condition of the Working Class: Representation and Praxis
Authors: Wayne Mike , O'Neill Deirdre
Published: November 2013

This essay reflects critically on the political context, production process, ideas, and strategies of our feature‐length documentary film The Condition of the Working Class. It explores why we were inspired by Friedrich Engels' 1844 book of the same name and how that book connects with the contemporary neoliberal capitalist project that has dominated the political scene internationally for several decades. We conceptualize our film as a constellation, in the manner of Walter Benjamin, between the 1840s and the contemporary moment. The essay explores the production process of the film, which involved setting up and working in conjunction with a theatrical project. The essay reflects on the theatrical work of John McGrath and its connections with our own work. In the final section of the essay, the authors consider the finished film in more detail, analyzing how the film focused on the process of theatrical production and contextualized that process within wider spatial and temporal frames. The film and the theater project explore the possibility of reconstituting in a microcosm a working class collective subject that has been atomized and demonized by 30 years of neoliberal policy, which in the context of the present economic crisis seeks to drive its project even further.
Determination of Cyanuric Acid by Electrochemical Cyclic Voltammetry Method Using CuGeO3 Nanowires as Modified Electrode Materials
Authors: Pei L. Z. , Xie Y. K. , Pei Y. Q. , Cai Z. Y. , Fan C. G.
Published: November 2013

A simple electrochemical method for the determination of cyanuric acid (CA) has been developed based on a CuGeO3 nanowire modified glassy carbon electrode. The dense CuGeO3 nanowire film can be formed on the surface of the glassy carbon electrode. The roles of scan rate, CA concentration, and electrolytes with different pH values on the electrochemical responses of CA have also been analyzed. The intensities of two anodic peaks vary linearly with the increase of the scan rate from 25 to 200 mVs−1. The intensity of the electrochemical CV peak increases with the increase of the acidity of the electrolytes. The two anodic peak currents are linear with the CA concentration in the range of 0.005–2 mM. The linear correlation coefficient is 0.984 and 0.980 for the cyclic voltammogram peaks (cvp) cvp1 and cvp2, respectively. The detection limit is 4.3 μM and 2.1 μM for cvp1 and cvp2, respectively. The proposed electrochemical method is convenient and effective sensing of CA.
Global Performance Index System for Kinematic Optimization of Robotic Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Pu , Yao Zhenqiang , Du Zhengchun
Published: November 2013

Correct evaluation of robot performance has been a problem in the field of robotics. Many scholars have proposed a variety of performance indices, such as manipulability, condition number, and minimum singular value, to describe quantitatively the kinematic performance of a robotic mechanism. However, two questions remain: (1) how to describe the kinematic performance completely for the design of a robotic mechanism, and (2) how to comprehensively describe the global performance distribution characteristics in the workspace. This paper presents a global performance index system for kinematic optimization of a robotic mechanism based on Jacobian matrix, manipulability ellipsoid, and descriptive statistics theory that can comprehensively describe the kinematic performance and the performance distribution characteristics in a robot's workspace. First, the Jacobian matrix, a linear mapping from the joint space to the task space of a robotic mechanism, is analyzed, and the kinematic transmission ability indices and the kinematic transmission accuracy index are determined. Second, four indices, including global average value, global volatility, global skewness, and global kurtosis, are presented to describe the global performance index's distribution in the workspace. Third, the global performance index system is established to evaluate a robot's global kinematic performance based on the above analysis. Finally, a two-degrees of freedom (DOF) robotic mechanism is designed based on the global performance index system as a case, analysis of which shows that the final mechanism has good kinematic performance in the workspace. This demonstrates that the global performance index system proposed in this paper can be useful for the evaluation of the kinematic performance and kinematic optimization of a robotic mechanism.
Design and Test Results of a Ultra High Loaded Single Stage High Pressure Turbine
Authors: Hura Harjit S. , Carson Scott , Saeidi Rob , Shin Hyoun-Woo , Giel Paul
Published: November 2013

This paper describes the engine and rig design, and test results of an ultra-highly loaded single stage high pressure turbine. In service aviation single stage HPTs typically operate at a total-to-total pressure ratio of less than 4.0. At higher pressure ratios or energy extraction the nozzle and blade both have regions of supersonic flow and shock structures which, if not mitigated, can result in a large loss in efficiency both in the turbine itself and due to interaction with the downstream component which may be a turbine center frame or a low pressure turbine. Extending the viability of the single stage HPT to higher pressure ratios is attractive as it enables a compact engine with less weight, and lower initial and maintenance costs as compared to a two stage HPT.

The present work was performed as part of the NASA UEET (Ultra-Efficient Engine Technology) program from 2002 through 2005. The goal of the program was to design and rig test a cooled single stage HPT with a pressure ratio of 5.5 with an efficiency at least two points higher than the state of the art. Preliminary design tools and a design of experiments approach were used to design the flow path. Stage loading and through-flow were set at appropriate levels based on prior experience on high pressure ratio single stage turbines. Appropriate choices of blade aspect ratio, count, and reaction were made based on comparison with similar HPT designs. A low shock blading design approach was used to minimize the shock strength in the blade during design iterations. CFD calculations were made to assess performance.

The HPT aerodynamics and cooling design was replicated and tested in a high speed rig at design point and off-design conditions. The turbine met or exceeded the expected performance level based on both steady state and radial/circumferential traverse data. High frequency dynamic total pressure measurements were made to understand the presence of unsteadiness that persists in the exhaust of a transonic turbine.
Study of an Impingement Cooling Jet Array for Turbine Blade Cooling With Single and Double Exit Cases
Authors: Keenan Michael , Amano Ryo S. , Ou Shichuan
Published: November 2013

A study was conducted on convective heat transfer of a 55 impingement jet array (5×11) with a constant heat flux boundary condition. A spatial variation in a time-averaged Nusselt number, as well as a spanwise time-averaged Nusselt number, are presented for jet Reynolds numbers of 4,000, 8,000, 12,000, and 15,000 for jet to target standoff distances of z/D = 3, 4 and 5. For each of these configurations the exit flow was varied to include both a single exit and a double exit configuration. In all cases, the computed Nusselt number correlates well with the experimentally measured results. The local and spanwise averaged Nusselt number distributions are presented as a function of the jet Reynolds number. Several complex heat transfer and flow phenomena were clarified through extensive computational investigation by using CFD analyses.