bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stoichiometric regulation of phytoplankton toxins
Authors: Van de Waal Dedmer B. , Smith Val H. , Declerck Steven A. J. , Stam Eva C. M. , Elser James J.
Published: April 2014

Ecological Stoichiometry theory predicts that the production, elemental structure and cellular content of biomolecules should depend on the relative availability of resources and the elemental composition of their producer organism. We review the extent to which carbon‐ and nitrogen‐rich phytoplankton toxins are regulated by nutrient limitation and cellular stoichiometry. Consistent with theory, we show that nitrogen limitation causes a reduction in the cellular quota of nitrogen‐rich toxins, while phosphorus limitation causes an increase in the most nitrogen‐rich paralytic shellfish poisoning toxin. In addition, we show that the cellular content of nitrogen‐rich toxins increases with increasing cellular N : P ratios. Also consistent with theory, limitation by either nitrogen or phosphorus promotes the C‐rich toxin cell quota or toxicity of phytoplankton cells. These observed relationships may assist in predicting and managing toxin‐producing phytoplankton blooms. Such a stoichiometric regulation of toxins is likely not restricted to phytoplankton, and may well apply to carbon‐ and nitrogen‐rich secondary metabolites produced by bacteria, fungi and plants.
Increased endothelial activation in recently symptomatic versus asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis and in cerebral microembolic‐signal‐negative patient subgroups
Authors: Kinsella J. A. , Tobin W. O. , Kavanagh G. F. , O'Donnell J. S. , McGrath R. T. , Tierney S. , Feeley T. M. , Egan B. , O'Neill D. , Collins R. D. , Coughlan T. , Harbison J. A. , Doherty C. P. , Madhavan P. , Moore D. J. , O'Neill S. M. , Colgan M.‐P. , Saqqur M. , Murphy R. P. , Moran N. , Hamilton G. , McCabe D. J. H.
Published: April 2014

Background and purpose

von Willebrand factor propeptide (VWF:Ag II) is potentially a more sensitive marker of acute endothelial activation than von Willebrand factor antigen (VWF:Ag). These biomarkers have not been simultaneously assessed in asymptomatic versus symptomatic carotid stenosis patients. The relationship between endothelial activation and cerebral microembolic signals (MESs) detected on transcranial Doppler ultrasound is unknown.

Methods

In this multicentre observational analytical study, plasma VWF:Ag and VWF:Ag II levels in patients with ≥50% asymptomatic carotid stenosis were compared with those from patients with ≥50% symptomatic carotid stenosis in the ‘early’ (≤4 weeks) and ‘late’ (≥3 months) phases after transient ischaemic attack or ischaemic stroke. Endothelial activation was also longitudinally assessed in symptomatic patients during follow‐up. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound monitoring classified patients as MES‐positive or MES‐negative.

Results

Data from 31 asymptomatic patients were compared with those from 46 early symptomatic and 35 late phase symptomatic carotid stenosis patients, 23 of whom had undergone carotid intervention. VWF:Ag II levels were higher in early (12.8 μg/ml; P < 0.001), late (10.6 μg/ml; P = 0.01) and late post‐intervention (10.6 μg/ml; P = 0.038) symptomatic patients than asymptomatic patients (8.9 μg/ml). VWF:Ag levels decreased in symptomatic patients followed up from the early to late phase after symptom onset (P = 0.048). Early symptomatic MES‐negative patients had higher VWF: Ag II levels (13.3 vs. 9.0 μg/ml; P < 0.001) than asymptomatic MES‐negative patients.

Conclusions

Endothelial activation is enhanced in symptomatic versus asymptomatic carotid stenosis patients, in early symptomatic versus asymptomatic MES‐negative patients, and decreases over time in symptomatic patients. VWF:Ag II levels are a more sensitive marker of endothelial activation than VWF:Ag levels in carotid stenosis. The potential value of endothelial biomarkers and concurrent cerebral MES detection at predicting stroke risk in carotid stenosis warrants further study.
Geographies of Pilgrimage: Meaningful Movements and Embodied Mobilities
Authors: Scriven Richard
Published: April 2014

This article argues for the importance of geographic engagements with pilgrimage and its analysis through the lenses, considerations and sympathies of the mobilities turn. Pilgrimage is being increasingly recognised as a multifaceted sociocultural spatial practice that plays a significant role in the lives of millions of people and in numerous sites across the world. The geographies of mobilities' emphasis on movement and practices in shaping the world enable the formation of new understandings of pilgrimage. This article builds on the links being forged between the study of pilgrimage and the mobility field, by showing how pilgrimage, as an activity that is focused on performances in specific places, can be analysed as an embodied mobility. Pilgrimage is explored as a meaningful journey in which the performance entwines the outer physical and inner spiritual/emotion journey in a process that defines and shapes the people and places involved.
Work, Bodies and Boundaries: Talking Sexual Harassment in the New Economy
Authors: Brunner Laura K. , Dever Maryanne
Published: April 2014

This article examines sexual harassment in the context of the new economy and highlights the manner in which the changing nature of work — and in particular the acknowledged rise of sexualized ‘body work’ — troubles conventional understandings of what constitutes sexual harassment in the workplace and the means to address it. Using data from a small‐scale qualitative study of service workers and professional employees, we explore the ways in which those definitions of sexual harassment now fail to match participants' accounts of their working lives. We examine sexual harassment in the context of the rise of service roles that require forms of increasingly sexualized ‘body work’ from employees, increased demands for workers to ‘self‐manage’, and new flexible modes of employment that blur the boundaries between being ‘on’ and ‘off’ the job. We conclude that these ‘new’ modes of work may provide the conditions for the revival of ‘old’ stories which limit the capacity of individuals to recognize and label behaviours as ‘sexual harassment’.
‘It is English and there is no Alternative’: Intersectionality, Language and Social/Organizational Differentiation of Polish Migrants in the UK
Authors: Johansson Marjana , Śliwa Martyna
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we employ an intersectional approach to explore language as a process of social and organizational differentiation of Polish migrant workers in the UK. In addition to intersectionality, our conceptual framework is informed by a sociolinguistic perspective on globalization, which accounts for the social differentiation produced by language in transnational contexts. Empirically, the paper is based on a qualitative study employing life history interviews. Our findings show that for a migrant worker, the ability to negotiate access to employment and other key institutional settings depends to a large extent on her or his linguistic abilities. However, as we demonstrate, it is necessary to account for the intersections of language and other processes such as gender, class and nationality to understand how the social and organizational positions as experienced by the participants are shaped by broader processes and practices of differentiation. Our study contributes to the extant literature on intersectionality by specifically considering the intersection of language with other categories, and by relating intersectionality to contemporary debates on migration.
Popular Culture and Workplace Gendering among Varieties of Capitalism: Working Women and their Representation in Japanese Manga
Authors: Matanle Peter , Ishiguro Kuniko , McCann Leo
Published: April 2014

Female empowerment is a prerequisite for a just and sustainable developed society. Being the most developed non‐western country,Japan offers an instructive window onto concerns about gender worldwide. Although overall gender equality is advancing inJapan, difficulties remain, especially in achieving equality in the workplace. We draw on theories of ontological commitment and the psychology of fiction to critically analyse the role of popular culture — in this case manga — in the reproduction of gender inequality in theJapanese workplace. We present examples of four of the most popular mainstream manga aimed at working men and women inJapan and show how women are depicted. We argue that the hyper‐mediated fictional realism of representative tropes generates an ontological commitment to characters and narratives among consumers that reinforces the reproduction of a culturally exceptionalist national political economic space, one of whose essential defining characteristics is a gendered workplace. Our research suggests important implications for researching the relationship between culture, in all its forms, and spatial variation in persistent institutional biases among varieties of capitalism.
Preparation of High‐Strength Ti3AlC2 by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Li Cuiwei , Zhai Hongxiang , Wang Changan
Published: April 2014

Ti3AlC2 bulk materials with high mechanical properties have been fabricated by spark plasma sintering using Ti3AlC2 powders as starting material. Effects of sintering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti3AlC2 were investigated. Nearly full‐dense Ti3AlC2 samples could be obtained after sintering the powders in the 1300–1400°C temperature range for 3 min under a pressure of 20 MPa. The as‐prepared Ti3AlC2 samples have finer grains, which results in higher mechanical properties. The Ti3AlC2 samples prepared at 1350°C show a higher hardness of 3.84 ± 0.06 GPa and flexural strength of 746.8 ± 6 MPa.
Investigation and analysis of the caring attitude and behaviour of nurses in Shanghai, China
Authors: Jiang Li Li , Ruan Hong , Xiang Xian Jing , Jia Qi
Published: April 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate and analyse the caring attitude and behaviour of clinical nurses in terms of importance, competency and feasibility. The study used a survey design. Data were collected between January and June 2010. Two hundred and sixty clinical nurses were recruited. The caring attitude and behaviour of the nurses were assessed by using a translated version of the original Caring Nurse–Patient Interaction Scale—Short Scale. The subjects considered operative caring behaviour to be more important than expressive caring behaviour. The nurses felt more competent to practise operative caring behaviour in the clinic, and reported that such care was more feasible. The competency scores were positively correlated with age and work seniority. The feasibility scores for the clinical care dimension were positively correlated with age and work seniority. Nurses with a higher positional title had higher competency and feasibility scores. The results suggest that a rich life experience, accumulation of work experience and better competency might promote caring behaviour in nurses.
Sub-Cortical Infarcts and the Risk of Falls in Older People: Combined Results of TASCOG and Sydney MAS Studies
Authors: Callisaya Michele L. , Srikanth Velandai K. , Lord Stephen R. , Close Jacqueline C. , Brodaty Henry , Sachdev Perminder S. , Phan Thanh , Beare Richard , Trollor Julian , Wen Wei , Zheng Jacqueline J. , Delbaere Kim
Published: April 2014

Background

White matter hyperintensities increase the risk of multiple falls in older people, but the effect of sub-cortical infarcts is unknown.

Aims

By pooling data from two Australian population-based studies, we aimed to investigate the association between subcortical infarcts and multiple falls and whether this relationship, and that of white matter hyperintensities, is mediated or modified by cognitive or sensorimotor factors.

Methods

Participants underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive and sensorimotor assessments. Falls were prospectively measured over 12 months. Subcortical infarcts were detected visually. Total white matter hyperintensity volume was quantified using automated segmentation methods. Generalized linear models were used to examine if sub-cortical infarcts and white matter hyperintensities predicted falls.

Results

The mean age of the sample ( n = 655) was 74·5 (standard deviation 6·7) years, 336 (51·3%) males. Overall, 114 (17·4%) had multiple falls. The majority had no sub-cortical infarcts ( n = 491, 75·0%), while 90 had one (13·7%), 41 had two (6·3%), and 33 had more than or equal to three sub-cortical infarcts (5·0%). The risk of multiple falls was elevated in people with more than or equal to three sub-cortical infarcts (adjusted relative risk 1·89, 95% confidence interval 1·03, 3·46) and in the highest quarter of white matter hyperintensity volume (adjusted relative risk 1·46, 95% confidence interval 1·00, 2·13). The effect of sub-cortical infarcts on falls was amplified by poorer vision ( P = 0·03). The effect of white matter hyperintensities was amplified by poorer vision ( P = 0·008), proprioception ( P = 0·03), and muscle strength ( P = 0·008). There was no modifying effect of cognitive function.

Conclusions

Increasing burdens of sub-cortical infarcts and white matter hyperintensities are associated with a risk of falling. Interventions targeting sensorimotor factors along with strategies to prevent sub-cortical infarcts and white matter hyperintensities may reduce the risk of falls.
Cytoreductive nephrectomy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma: A population‐based analysis of perioperative outcomes according to clinical stage
Authors: Takagi Toshio , Sugihara Toru , Yasunaga Hideo , Horiguchi Hiromasa , Fushimi Kiyohide , Kondo Tsunenori , Homma Yukio , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To investigate the perioperative outcomes of cytoreductive nephrectomy according to clinical T stage, and to analyze factors affecting these outcomes.

Methods

The Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database from 2007 to 2012 was used to evaluate perioperative outcomes including in‐hospital mortality, complications, blood transfusion, anesthesia time, postoperative length of stay and total cost in patients who underwent cytoreductive nephrectomy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma, according to clinical T stage. Multivariable regression analyses including sex, age, clinical N stage, hospital volume, type of hospital, Charlson Comorbidity Index and clinical T stage were carried out to identify outcome predictors.

Results

The present study enrolled 1074 patients including 270 with T1, 215 with T2, 479 with T3 and 110 with T4. Age, sex and Charlson Comorbidity Index were not significantly different among the four stages. A low clinical T stage was associated with minimally‐invasive surgery (P < 0.001). The blood transfusion rate, anesthesia time, postoperative length of stay and total cost increased significantly with increasing clinical T stage (all P < 0.001). Multivariable regression analyses showed that increasing clinical T stage was significantly associated with unfavorable perioperative outcomes except in‐hospital mortality (T4/T1: postoperative complications OR 2.34; blood transfusion OR 5.27; anesthesia time +14%; postoperative length of stay +13.2%; total cost +13.4%; all P < 0.05). Clinical N stage was the only significant predictive factor for in‐hospital mortality (N1/N0: OR 3.34, P = 0.004; N2/N0: OR 3.48, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Clinical T stage is significantly associated with perioperative outcomes, other than in‐hospital mortality, in patients with metastatic renal call carcinoma undergoing cytoreductive nephrectomy. Clinical N stage is significantly associated with in‐hospital mortality.
Prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in normal rectal flora of patients undergoing transrectal ultrasonography‐guided prostate biopsy in Korea
Authors: Lee Jea Whan , Park Seung Chol , Kim Myung Ki , Cheon Min Woo , Kim Ga Young , Cho Ji‐Hyun
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in the normal rectal flora of patients undergoing transrectal ultrasonography‐guided prostate biopsy in Korea.

Methods

Between May 2010 and October 2010, rectal swabs were cultured from patients before transrectal ultrasonography‐guided prostate biopsy in three tertiary referral centers of Jeonbuk Province, Korea. Rectal swabs were collected using cotton‐tipped culture swabs in a standard collection system immediately before prostate biopsy. The swabs were cultured on eosin methylene blue and McConkey agar at 37°C. Antimicrobial sensitivity tests were carried out according to National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards guidelines.

Results

Of the 160 patients who had a rectal swab taken before prostate biopsy, microorganisms were isolated in 125 patients. Escherichia coli was isolated from the rectal swabs of 95 patients. The mean age was 68.1 years, the median serum prostate specific antigen was 5.6 ng/mL and the mean prostate volume measured by transrectal ultrasonography was 43.8 mL. Of the E. coli, 33.7%, 29.1%, 26.7%, 23.3%, 12.8%, 9.3%, 5.8%, 1.2% and 0% were resistant to ampicillin, piperacillin, levofloxacin, trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole, gentamicin, cephalothin, cefotaxim, amikacin and meropenem, respectively.

Conclusions

There is a high level of resistance to ciprofloxacin and ampicillin, and a very low level of resistance to amikacin in the E. coli in the bowel flora. The prevalence of resistance to ciprofloxacin in Korea is significantly higher than that reported in Western countries.
Relationship between plasma melatonin levels and the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors treatment on premature ejaculation
Authors: Kirecci Sinan Levent , Simsek Abdulmuttalip , Gurbuz Zafer Gokhan , Mimaroglu Saban , Yuksel Alpaslan , Vural Pervin , Degirmencioglu Suzan
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To examine the relationship between premature ejaculation and plasma melatonin levels, and assess the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treating premature ejaculation.

Methods

A total of 60 men with lifelong premature ejaculation and 40 healthy male controls were included in the present study. For each participant, a medical history was obtained, a physical examination was carried out, and intravaginal ejaculation latency time and melatonin levels were measured. Premature ejaculation patients were randomly categorized into three treatment groups: group 1 received fluoxetine (20 mg/day), group 2 received paroxetine (20 mg/day) and group 3 received sertraline (50 mg/day).

Results

The mean baseline plasma melatonin levels in men with premature ejaculation were significantly lower than in the healthy controls (5.34 vs 14.84 pg/mL). After 4 weeks of treatment, the mean intravaginal ejaculation latency time scores for all of the premature ejaculation treatment groups showed a significant improvement from the baseline values. The plasma melatonin levels were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) from baseline (5.34 pg/mL) to 9.50 pg/mL, 10.24 pg/mL or 13.30 pg/mL for groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings show that premature ejaculation is associated with decreased plasma melatonin levels. After treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, an increased plasma melatonin level can retard ejaculation, presumably by both central and peripheral mechanisms. This is the first study to evaluate the possible role of serotoninergic interactions on the melatoninergic system in premature ejaculation.
The importance of regulatory T‐cell heterogeneity in maintaining self‐tolerance
Authors: Yuan Xiaomei , Cheng Guoyan , Malek Thomas R.
Published: April 2014

CD4+ Forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3)+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are the major cell type that mediates dominant tolerance in the periphery. Over the past decade, extensive study of Tregs has revealed that these cells express substantial heterogeneity to maintain tolerance and regulate immune responses. Tregs possess heterogeneity with respect to their origin and processes for development, functional activity, migratory pattern, and activation status. Some of the same environmental cues and molecular pathways utilized to generate specialized T‐effector cells are also integrated by Tregs to colocalize and fine‐tune suppressive mechanisms to optimally regulate and restrain distinctive self and antigen‐specific T‐cell responses. Here, we review our current understanding and significance of Treg heterogeneity in maintaining peripheral immune tolerance. We also highlight recent work from our laboratory that has studied the extent phenotypically distinct Treg subsets are related to each other and expand in an ordered fashion to give rise to highly activated short‐lived Klrg1+ suppressor cells to optimize immune regulation and maintain homeostasis of the Treg compartment.
Homeostasis and function of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in vivo: lessons from TCR‐transgenic Tregs
Authors: Attridge Kesley , Walker Lucy S. K.
Published: April 2014

The identification of CD25 and subsequently Forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3) as markers for regulatory T cells (Tregs) has revolutionized our ability to explore this population experimentally. In a similar vein, our understanding of antigen‐specific Treg responses in vivo owes much to the fortuitous generation of T‐cell receptor (TCR)‐transgenic Tregs. This has permitted tracking of Tregs with a defined specificity in vivo, facilitating analysis of how encounter with cognate antigen shapes Treg homeostasis and function. Here, we review the key lessons learned from a decade of analysis of TCR‐transgenic Tregs and set this in the broader context of general progress in the field. Use of TCR‐transgenic Tregs has led to an appreciation that Tregs are a highly dynamic proliferative population in vivo, rather than an anergic population as they were initially portrayed. It is now clear that Treg homeostasis is positively regulated by encounter with self‐antigen expressed on peripheral tissues, which is likely to be relevant to the phenomenon of peripheral repertoire reshaping that has been described for Tregs and the observation that the Treg TCR specificities vary by anatomical location. Substantial evidence has also accumulated to support the role of CD28 costimulation and interleukin‐2 in Treg homeostasis. The availability of TCR‐transgenic Tregs has enabled analysis of Treg populations that are sufficient or deficient in particular genes, without the comparison being confounded by repertoire alterations. This approach has yielded insights into genes required for Treg function in vivo, with particular progress being made on the role of ctla‐4 in this context. As the prospect of manipulating Treg populations in the clinic becomes reality, a full appreciation of the rules governing their homeostasis will prove increasingly important.
Regulatory T cells in autoimmune neuroinflammation
Authors: Kleinewietfeld Markus , Hafler David A.
Published: April 2014

Regulatory T cells are the central element for the maintenance of peripheral tolerance. Several subtypes of regulatory T (Treg) cells have been described, and most of them belong to the CD4+ T‐helper (Th) cell lineage. These specific subtypes can be discriminated according to phenotype and function. Forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3)‐expressing natural Treg cells (Tregs) and IL‐10‐producing, T‐regulatory type 1 cells (Tr1) are the best‐studied types of CD4+ regulatory T cells in humans and experimental animal models. It was shown that they play a crucial role during autoimmune neuroinflammation. Both cells types seem to be particularly important for multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, we discuss the role of CD4+ regulatory T cells in autoimmune neuroinflammation with an emphasis on Tregs and Tr1 cells in MS.
Once a Treg, always a Treg?
Authors: Sawant Deepali V. , Vignali Dario A. A.
Published: April 2014

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) prevail as a specialized cell lineage that has a central role in the dominant control of immunological tolerance and maintenance of immune homeostasis. Thymus‐derived Tregs (tTregs) and their peripherally induced counterparts (pTregs) are imprinted with unique Forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3)‐dependent and independent transcriptional and epigenetic characteristics that bestows on them the ability to suppress disparate immunological and non‐immunological challenges. Thus, unidirectional commitment and the predominant stability of this regulatory lineage is essential for their unwavering and robust suppressor function and has clinical implications for the use of Tregs as cellular therapy for various immune pathologies. However, recent studies have revealed considerable heterogeneity or plasticity in the Treg lineage, acquisition of alternative effector or hybrid fates, and promotion rather than suppression of inflammation in extreme contexts. In addition, the absolute stability of Tregs under all circumstances has been questioned. Since these observations challenge the safety and efficacy of human Treg therapy, the issue of Treg stability versus plasticity continues to be enthusiastically debated. In this review, we assess our current understanding of the defining features of Foxp3+ Tregs, the intrinsic and extrinsic cues that guide development and commitment to the Treg lineage, and the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity that shapes the plasticity and stability of this critical regulatory population in inflammatory contexts.
B10 cell regulation of health and disease
Authors: Candando Kathleen M. , Lykken Jacquelyn M. , Tedder Thomas F.
Published: April 2014

While B cells are traditionally regarded as promoters of the immune response via antibody secretion and pro‐inflammatory cytokine production, recent studies have also confirmed an important role for B‐cell‐mediated negative regulation of immunity. Tremendous advances in the characterization of the mechanisms by which regulatory B cells function has led to the identification of a novel subset of regulatory B cells known as B10 cells, which regulate immune responses through the production of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐10 (IL‐10). B10 cells are best defined by their functional ability to produce IL‐10, as they are not confined to any particular phenotypic subset. B10 cells function in an antigen‐specific manner that requires cognate interactions with T cells in vivo to regulate immune responses and have been demonstrated to be potent regulators of allergic and autoimmune disease, cancer, infection, and transplant rejection. Importantly, the recent discovery of human B10 cells has accelerated this field to the forefront of clinical research where the possibility of harnessing the regulatory potential of B10 cells for treatment of aberrant immune responses and diseases may become feasible.
Inland flights of young red‐eyed vireos Vireo olivaceus in relation to survival and habitat in a coastal stopover landscape
Authors: Woodworth Bradley K. , Francis Charles M. , Taylor Philip D.
Published: April 2014

Inland dispersal of migrating land birds away from the coast, often opposite to the direction of migration, occurs frequently. Many of these movements may involve migrants seeking improved stopover conditions farther inland, but direct study of inland flights and of the ecological factors influencing their occurrence is limited. We used an automated telemetry array and ground‐tracking to assess flight behaviours, survival, and habitat use of young red‐eyed vireos Vireo olivaceus during fall migration at a coastal island and an inland stopover site in southwest Nova Scotia. We recorded inland flights for 41% (11/27) of individuals that departed the island. At least 25% of 16 individuals tagged at the inland site also relocated within the landscape prior to continuing migration, but due to the higher proportion of ambiguous flights at the inland site (44%) compared to the island (15%), we could not be sure if actual proportions of relocations differed between sites. Mortality on the island (at least 10 of 39 individuals) was significantly higher than at the inland site (0 of 16 individuals). At mainland sites near the coast where we found 6 of 11 individuals after they relocated away from the island, mortality remained high (2/6). Lack of deciduous canopy cover may have contributed to the high mortality on the island, but coastal mainland sites had a relatively high amount of deciduous canopy cover, similar to at the inland site where there was no mortality. Although coastal stopover sites may be important for migrating songbirds, especially before or after making a large water crossing, our results show that mortality can be much higher, and habitat poorer, at the coast compared to farther inland. Therefore, relocating inland may be an adaptive strategy for individuals that initially settle at the coast and that need to rest and refuel before they continue migration.
Tachycardiomyopathy Complicated by Focal Atrial Tachycardia: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Long‐Term Outcome
Authors: JU WEIZHU , YANG BING , LI MINGFANG , ZHANG FENGXIANG , CHEN HONGWU , GU KAI , YU JINBO , CAO KEJIANG , CHEN MINGLONG
Published: April 2014

AT‐Induced Cardiomyopathy

Objective

Focal atrial tachycardias (ATs) are known to have the potential to develop tachycardiomyopathy (TCM). The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence, risk factors, and long‐term outcome of TCM patients complicated by focal ATs.

Methods and Results

A total of 237 patients undergoing electrophysiological studies were enrolled, among which 216 patients were diagnosed as focal ATs. In total, 18 patients (8.3%, 13 males) were identified to have TCM. The TCM patients were younger (29.8 ± 20.1 vs. 45.9 ± 17.3; P < 0.000) and were more frequently males (13/18 vs. 80/198; P = 0.014). The ATs were more likely to be persistent (11/18 vs. 32/198; P < 0.001). There was no difference between the 2 groups in terms of the tachycardia cycle length (392 milliseconds vs. 380 milliseconds; P = 0.56) and heart rate (144 bpm vs. 156 bpm; P = 0.15). The persistence and incidence of symptoms and prevalence of structural heart disease were comparable between the groups. In a multivariable analysis, the younger age and persistent nature were independently associated with TCM. In a 56 ± 21‐month follow‐up, all TCM patients had improved left ventricle ejection fraction after successful catheter ablation or medical therapy (43.9 ± 5.8% vs. 61.1 ± 3.5%; P ＜ 0.05). However, 1 patient suffered sudden cardiac death due to unauthorized withdrawal of the drug and progressive heart failure.

Conclusions

The incidence of TCM in focal ATs patients was 8.3%. Younger age and persistent nature were the independent risk factors of TCM. Most TCM patients had a benign outcome; however, long‐term risk of sudden death does exist.
Anatomical Classification of Left Atrial Appendages in Specimens Applicable to CT Imaging Techniques for Implantation of Amplatzer Cardiac Plug
Authors: LÓPEZ‐MÍNGUEZ JOSÉ R. , GONZÁLEZ‐FERNÁNDEZ REYES , FERNÁNDEZ‐VEGAS CONCEPCIÓN , MILLÁN‐NUÑEZ VICTORIA , FUENTES‐CAÑAMERO MARÍA E. , NOGALES‐ASENSIO JUAN M. , DONCEL‐VECINO JAVIER , ELDUAYEN‐GRAGERA JAVIER , HO SIEW Y. , SÁNCHEZ‐QUINTANA DAMIÁN
Published: April 2014

3‐D Imaging Classification of LAA

Background

Certain anatomical characteristics of the left atrial appendage (LAA) are associated with complexity in the implantation of occluder devices.

Objective

The aim was to define characteristics measurable by three‐dimensional imaging that would predict complexities both in the implantation procedure and the selection of the appropriate device size.

Methods

An anatomical study was performed of 50 postmortem hearts, of which 15 had a history of atrial fibrillation, and of 30 consecutive patients undergoing LAA occlusion with the Amplatzer cardiac plug (ACP). The specimens were classified according to variables that can be visualized using computerized tomography (CT). The CT scans of 30 consecutive patients were classified according to the level of the LAA ostium, the left lateral ridge (LLR), the LAA limbus and distance from LAA to the mitral annulus before undergoing LAA occlusion, and the results were correlated.

Results

Three types of LAA orifice were defined: type I, with a usually higher, anterior LAA ostium, a short, flattened and wide LLR and almost nonexistent limbus; type II, presenting a long, pointed and narrow LLR, and a longer, more defined limbus; type III, with a lower LAA ostium, close to the left atrium floor and the mitral annulus, a marked separation from the left pulmonary vein orifices and a limbus of intermediate length.

Conclusion

LAA with lower ostia are more difficult to occlude. Types II and III have very prominent LLRs with longer limbi, which may increase the difficulty of inserting the guide and making measurements for selection of the right ACP size.
Frequency of Bilateral Hypertrophic Olivary Degeneration in a Large Retrospective Cohort
Authors: Carr Carrie M. , Hunt Christopher H. , Kaufmann Timothy J. , Kotsenas Amy L. , Krecke Karl N. , Wood Christopher P.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hypertrophic olivary degeneration (HOD) is an uncommon type of transneuronal degeneration. Case reports and case series described in the literature provide a foundation of our current knowledge of HOD. These reports have described HOD most frequently to be unilateral and occurring in association with lesions in the dentato‐rubro‐olivary pathway. Our purpose was to evaluate the rate of bilateral versus unilateral HOD in a large case series.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to identify patients in which the phrase “hypertrophic olivary degeneration” occurred in the radiology report. A diagnosis of HOD was confirmed on imaging if there was focal hyperintensity on T2‐weighted images confined to either or both inferior olivary nuclei.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients had findings consistent with HOD. Of these, 76% had findings bilaterally. In 44%, a lesion could not be identified to explain HOD. Bilateral HOD was common in both lesional and nonlesional group, though more common in the nonlesional group.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that HOD is frequently bilateral. In slightly over 50% of patients with HOD, a lesion can be identified. In just under 50% patients with HOD, a lesion could not be identified and in these cases HOD was present bilaterally in the majority.
The Associations Between Park Environments and Park Use in Southern US Communities
Authors: Banda Jorge A. , Wilcox Sara , Colabianchi Natalie , Hooker Steven P. , Kaczynski Andrew T. , Hussey James
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To document park use and park and neighborhood environment characteristics in rural communities, and to examine the relationship between park characteristics and park use.

Methods

The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities measured use in 42 target areas across 6 community parks in May 2010 and October 2010. Direct observation instruments were used to assess park and neighborhood environment characteristics. Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between the condition, number of amenities, and number of incivilities in a target area with target area use.

Findings

Ninety‐seven people were observed across all parks during May 2010 data collection and 116 people during October 2010 data collection. Low park quality index scores and unfavorable neighborhood environment characteristics were observed. There was a significant positive association between number of incivilities in a target area and target area use (OR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.09‐3.38; P = .03).

Conclusions

The number of people observed using the parks in this study was low, and it was considerably less than the number observed in other studies. The objective park and neighborhood environment characteristics documented in this study provide a more comprehensive understanding of parks than other studies. Further examining the complex relationship between park and neighborhood environment characteristics and park use is important, as it can inform park administrators and city planners of characteristics that are best able to attract visitors.
The present and future disease burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with today's treatment paradigm
Authors: Razavi H. , Waked I. , Sarrazin C. , Myers R. P. , Idilman R. , Calinas F. , Vogel W. , Mendes Correa M. C. , Hézode C. , Lázaro P. , Akarca U. , Aleman S. , Balık İ. , Berg T. , Bihl F. , Bilodeau M. , Blasco A. J. , Brandão Mello C. E. , Bruggmann P. , Buti M. , Calleja J. L. , Cheinquer H. , Christensen P. B. , Clausen M. , Coelho H. S. M. , Cramp M. E. , Dore G. J. , Doss W. , Duberg A. S. , El‐Sayed M. H. , Ergör G. , Esmat G. , Falconer K. , Félix J. , Ferraz M. L. G. , Ferreira P. R. , Frankova S. , García‐Samaniego J. , Gerstoft J. , Giria J. A. , Gonçales F. L. , Gower E. , Gschwantler M. , Guimarães Pessôa M. , Hindman S. J. , Hofer H. , Husa P. , Kåberg M. , Kaita K. D. E. , Kautz A. , Kaymakoglu S. , Krajden M. , Krarup H. , Laleman W. , Lavanchy D. , Marinho R. T. , Marotta P. , Mauss S. , Moreno C. , Murphy K. , Negro F. , Nemecek V. , Örmeci N. , Øvrehus A. L. H. , Parkes J. , Pasini K. , Peltekian K. M. , Ramji A. , Reis N. , Roberts S. K. , Rosenberg W. M. , Roudot‐Thoraval F. , Ryder S. D. , Sarmento‐Castro R. , Semela D. , Sherman M. , Shiha G. E. , Sievert W. , Sperl J. , Stärkel P. , Stauber R. E. , Thompson A. J. , Urbanek P. , Van Damme P. , van Thiel I. , Van Vlierberghe H. , Vandijck D. , Wedemeyer H. , Weis N. , Wiegand J. , Yosry A. , Zekry A. , Cornberg M. , Müllhaupt B. , Estes C.
Published: April 2014

The disease burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is expected to increase as the infected population ages. A modelling approach was used to estimate the total number of viremic infections, diagnosed, treated and new infections in 2013. In addition, the model was used to estimate the change in the total number of HCV infections, the disease progression and mortality in 2013–2030. Finally, expert panel consensus was used to capture current treatment practices in each country. Using today's treatment paradigm, the total number of HCV infections is projected to decline or remain flat in all countries studied. However, in the same time period, the number of individuals with late‐stage liver disease is projected to increase. This study concluded that the current treatment rate and efficacy are not sufficient to manage the disease burden of HCV. Thus, alternative strategies are required to keep the number of HCV individuals with advanced liver disease and liver‐related deaths from increasing.
Strategies to manage hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease burden
Authors: Wedemeyer H. , Duberg A. S. , Buti M. , Rosenberg W. M. , Frankova S. , Esmat G. , Örmeci N. , Van Vlierberghe H. , Gschwantler M. , Akarca U. , Aleman S. , Balık İ. , Berg T. , Bihl F. , Bilodeau M. , Blasco A. J. , Brandão Mello C. E. , Bruggmann P. , Calinas F. , Calleja J. L. , Cheinquer H. , Christensen P. B. , Clausen M. , Coelho H. S. M. , Cornberg M. , Cramp M. E. , Dore G. J. , Doss W. , El‐Sayed M. H. , Ergör G. , Estes C. , Falconer K. , Félix J. , Ferraz M. L. G. , Ferreira P. R. , García‐Samaniego J. , Gerstoft J. , Giria J. A. , Gonçales F. L. , Guimarães Pessôa M. , Hézode C. , Hindman S. J. , Hofer H. , Husa P. , Idilman R. , Kåberg M. , Kaita K. D. E. , Kautz A. , Kaymakoglu S. , Krajden M. , Krarup H. , Laleman W. , Lavanchy D. , Lázaro P. , Marinho R. T. , Marotta P. , Mauss S. , Mendes Correa M. C. , Moreno C. , Müllhaupt B. , Myers R. P. , Nemecek V. , Øvrehus A. L. H. , Parkes J. , Peltekian K. M. , Ramji A. , Razavi H. , Reis N. , Roberts S. K. , Roudot‐Thoraval F. , Ryder S. D. , Sarmento‐Castro R. , Sarrazin C. , Semela D. , Sherman M. , Shiha G. E. , Sperl J. , Stärkel P. , Stauber R. E. , Thompson A. J. , Urbanek P. , Van Damme P. , van Thiel I. , Vandijck D. , Vogel W. , Waked I. , Weis N. , Wiegand J. , Yosry A. , Zekry A. , Negro F. , Sievert W. , Gower E.
Published: April 2014

The number of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections is projected to decline while those with advanced liver disease will increase. A modeling approach was used to forecast two treatment scenarios: (i) the impact of increased treatment efficacy while keeping the number of treated patients constant and (ii) increasing efficacy and treatment rate. This analysis suggests that successful diagnosis and treatment of a small proportion of patients can contribute significantly to the reduction of disease burden in the countries studied. The largest reduction in HCV‐related morbidity and mortality occurs when increased treatment is combined with higher efficacy therapies, generally in combination with increased diagnosis. With a treatment rate of approximately 10%, this analysis suggests it is possible to achieve elimination of HCV (defined as a >90% decline in total infections by 2030). However, for most countries presented, this will require a 3–5 fold increase in diagnosis and/or treatment. Thus, building the public health and clinical provider capacity for improved diagnosis and treatment will be critical.
Hepatitis C disease burden and strategies to manage the burden (Guest Editors Mark Thursz, Gregory Dore and John Ward)
Authors: Dore G. J. , Ward J. , Thursz M.
Published: April 2014

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection leads to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The recent Global Burden of Disease project estimated that in 2010 among 170 million people living with chronic HCV, an estimated 483 100 people died from HCV‐related liver failure or HCC. The last two decades has seen progressive improvements in treatment of HCV infection with the most recent therapies offering simple, tolerable, short‐duration therapy with extremely high efficacy. The development of public health strategies addressing emerging epidemics requires sound epidemiological data. This study covers epidemiological data collection, detailed expert opinion input and country‐specific mathematical modelling of the HCV epidemic and potential impact of improved HCV treatment strategies in 16 countries. The analysis demonstrates that the HCV epidemics vary considerably in terms of age distribution of the infected population across countries. In addition, the burden of advanced liver disease varies widely. This burden is dependent upon factors including chronic HCV prevalence, age distribution (and duration of infection) of those infected, prevalence of cofactors for disease progression (particularly heavy alcohol intake) and uptake and success of therapeutic intervention. Introduction of new therapies with assumed sustained virological response (SVR) rate of >90% will have a modest impact on projected advanced liver disease burden. A combination of enhanced treatment efficacy and improved treatment uptake will have a greater impact on population‐level disease burden. However public health advocacy and both public and private sector investment in the HCV response are required to demonstrate significant reduction in HCV disease burden.
Is There Still a Wage Penalty for Being Overeducated But Well‐matched in Skills? A Panel Data Analysis of aSwiss Graduate Cohort
Authors: Pecoraro Marco
Published: April 2014

Using two periods' panel data from theSwissGraduateSurvey, this study examines the incidence, persistence and wage effects of overeducation. An alternative measure of overeducation that accounts for graduate heterogeneity in perceived skills mismatch is used. This analysis differs from previous panel data studies in that two estimation methods are applied to control for unobserved ability. Results indicate that graduates who are overeducated and mismatched in skills are the most penalized in terms of earnings. This evidence is still valid when unobserved ability is accounted for, whereas the pay penalty is no more significant for graduates who are overeducated but matched in skills. This result is robust to different definitions of perceived skills mismatch and is consistent with the notion that apparent overeducation reflects a lack of unobserved attributes, such as ability.
Influence of drift and admixture on population structure of American black bears (Ursus americanus) in the Central Interior Highlands, USA, 50 years after translocation
Authors: Puckett Emily E. , Kristensen Thea V. , Wilton Clay M. , Lyda Sara B. , Noyce Karen V. , Holahan Paula M. , Leslie David M. , Beringer Jeff , Belant Jerrold L. , White Don , Eggert Lori S.
Published: April 2014

Bottlenecks, founder events, and genetic drift often result in decreased genetic diversity and increased population differentiation. These events may follow abundance declines due to natural or anthropogenic perturbations, where translocations may be an effective conservation strategy to increase population size. American black bears (Ursus americanus) were nearly extirpated from the Central Interior Highlands, USA by 1920. In an effort to restore bears, 254 individuals were translocated from Minnesota, USA, and Manitoba, Canada, into the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains from 1958 to 1968. Using 15 microsatellites and mitochondrial haplotypes, we observed contemporary genetic diversity and differentiation between the source and supplemented populations. We inferred four genetic clusters: Source, Ouachitas, Ozarks, and a cluster in Missouri where no individuals were translocated. Coalescent models using approximate Bayesian computation identified an admixture model as having the highest posterior probability (0.942) over models where the translocation was unsuccessful or acted as a founder event. Nuclear genetic diversity was highest in the source (AR = 9.11) and significantly lower in the translocated populations (AR = 7.07–7.34; P = 0.004). The Missouri cluster had the lowest genetic diversity (AR = 5.48) and served as a natural experiment showing the utility of translocations to increase genetic diversity following demographic bottlenecks. Differentiation was greater between the two admixed populations than either compared to the source, suggesting that genetic drift acted strongly over the eight generations since the translocation. The Ouachitas and Missouri were previously hypothesized to be remnant lineages. We observed a pretranslocation remnant signature in Missouri but not in the Ouachitas.
Temporospatial fate of bacteria and immune effector expression in house flies fed GFP‐Escherichia coliO157:H7
Authors: FLEMING A. , KUMAR H. V. , JOYNER C. , REYNOLDS A. , NAYDUCH D.
Published: April 2014

The house fly Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae) harbours and transmits a variety of human enteropathogens including Escherichia coli (Enterobacteriales: Enterobacteriaceae) O157:H7. Interactions between ingested bacteria and the fly gut directly impact bacterial persistence, survival and ultimately fly vector competence. We assessed the temporospatial fate of green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐expressing E. coli O157:H7 (GFP‐ECO157) in house flies along with fly antimicrobial responses up to 12 h post‐ingestion. In flies fed GFP‐ECO157, culture and microscopy revealed a steady decrease in bacterial load over 12 h, which is likely to be attributable to the combined effects of immobilization within the peritrophic matrix, lysis and peristaltic excretion. However, flies can putatively transmit this pathogen in excreta because intact bacteria were observed in the crop and rectum. Quantitative reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and lysozyme gene expression showed minimal upregulation in both the gut and carcass of house flies fed GFP‐ECO157. However, these genes were upregulated in fly heads and salivary glands, and effector proteins were detected in the gut in some flies. Collectively, these data indicate that house flies can serve as reservoirs of E. coli O157:H7 for up to 12 h, and factors in addition to AMPs and lysozyme may contribute to bacteria destruction in the gut.