bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction: Modern Imaging in Biology and Medicine: Papers from the Seventh Omaha Imaging Symposium, April 2011
Authors: Hallworth Richard , Nichols Michael G.
Published: July 2012

The ability to see, or visualize, a phenomenon is an essential tool of modern biological research. Our ability to create static and dynamic images has grown exponentially in the 25 or so years since confocal microscopy became readily available. The ingenious and energetic application of insights from optical physics to biological imaging in recent years has brought us far-reaching extensions of simple imaging, including nonlinear (or multiphoton) excitation, total internal reflection imaging, and even single molecule counting techniques. The annual Omaha Imaging Symposium has since 2003 brought together experts in advanced biological imaging techniques for a one-day exposition of how these techniques help move biological science forward. The seventh iteration of the series was held Friday, April 8, 2011, at the Harper Student Life Center of Creighton University, in Omaha, Nebraska. This special section of Microscopy and Micronanalysis consists of papers from speakers at the symposium.
Scene through the Press: Rock Music and Underground Papers in London, 1966–73
Authors: BRATUS ALESSANDRO
Published: July 2012

In the years around 1968 London was home to a sizeable community of writers, musicians, artists, and political activists whose countercultural attitudes are expressed in the publications of the ‘alternative’ or ‘underground’ press – magazines such asInternational Times,OZ,INK,Friends(laterFrendz),Time Out,Gandalf's Garden,The Black Dwarf, andThe Hustler. That most of them had at least some pages devoted to music reflected the crucial role of rock in particular in summing up the community's aspirations, focused less on political or social than on cultural transformation. This article seeks to chart in these underground publications the changing attitudes towards music and its revolutionary potential. Initially the alternative press portrayed popular music as sharing with avant-garde tendencies a basic equation between new creative means and their would-be disruptive effects on society as a whole. However, there soon arose contradictions between the radical social potential of music and its growing commercialization, contradictions stemming not only from the co-optation of rock by market forces and record companies but also from the underground's own lack of a coherent ideological agenda. Paradoxically, it was precisely when popular music began to be considered a form of ‘high’ culture – just as the alternative press advocated – that its perceived effectiveness as part of the revolutionary, countercultural project began to diminish.
Can Postdischarge Follow-Up Contacts Prevent Suicide and Suicidal Behavior?
Authors: Luxton David D. , June Jennifer D. , Comtois Katherine Anne
Published: July 2012

Background: The time period following discharge from inpatient psychiatry and emergency department (ED) treatment is one of heightened risk for repeat suicide attempts for patients. Evidence reported in the literature shows that follow-up contacts might reduce suicide risk, although there has not been a comprehensive and critical review of the evidence to date. Aims: To evaluate evidence for the effectiveness of suicide prevention interventions that involve follow-up contacts with patients. Methods: Published empirical studies of follow-up interventions with suicidal behaviors (suicide, attempts, and ideation) as outcomes were searched. Study populations were inpatient psychiatric or ED patients being discharged to home. Contact modalities included phone, postal letter, postcards, in-person, and technology-based methods (e-mail and texting). Results: Eight original studies, two follow-up studies, and one secondary analysis study met inclusion criteria. Five studies showed a statistically significant reduction in suicidal behavior. Four studies showed mixed results with trends toward a preventative effect and two studies did not show a preventative effect. Conclusions: Repeated follow-up contacts appear to reduce suicidal behavior. More research is needed, however, especially randomized controlled trials, to determine what specific factors might make follow-up contact modalities or methods more effective than others.
Seismic velocity variations along the rupture zone of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, California
Authors: Lin G. , Thurber C. H.
Published: July 2012

We revisit the rupture zone of the 1989 Mw6.9 Loma Prieta earthquake, central California, by developing high‐resolution three‐dimensional (3‐D)Vp and Vp/Vs models. We apply the simul2000 inversion method and algorithm to a set of “composite” events, which have greater number of picks per event and reduced random picking errors compared with traditional master events. Our final P‐wave velocity model generally agrees with previous studies, showing a high velocity body of above 6.7 km/s in the southeast rupture zone of the main shock. The 3‐DVp/Vs model, however, has different features, with low Vp/Vs in the upper crust and high Vp/Vs anomalies in deeper layers of the rupture zone. We interpret the low Vp/Vs at shallow depths to be granitic rocks, whereas at greater depths the areas of higher Vp/Vs(around 1.725–1.75) presumably are mafic rocks. The resulting 3‐D velocity model was used to improve absolute locations for all local events between 1984 and 2010 in our study area. We then applied a similar event cluster analysis, waveform cross‐correlation, and differential time relocation methods to improve relative event location accuracy. Over 88% of the seismicity falls into similar event clusters. A dramatic sharpening of seismicity patterns is obtained after using these methods. The medians of the relative location uncertainties calculated by using the bootstrap approach are 5 m for horizontal and 8 m for vertical. Differential times from cross‐correlation are used to estimatein situnear‐sourceVp/Vsratio within each event cluster. The high‐resolutionVp/Vs method confirms the trend of the velocity variations from the tomographic results, although absolute values are slightly different.
On secular changes of correlation between geomagnetic indices and variations in solar activity
Authors: Le Mouël Jean‐Louis , Blanter Elena , Shnirman Mikhail , Courtillot Vincent
Published: July 2012

Geomagnetic indices can be divided in two families, sometimes called “mean” and “range” families, which reflect different interactions between solar and terrestrial processes on time scales ranging from hourly to secular and longer. We are interested here in trying to evaluate secular change in the correlations between these indices and variations in solar activity as indicators of secular changes in solar behavior. We use on one hand daily values of geomagnetic indices Dst and ζ (members of the “mean” family), and Ap and aa (members of the “range” family), and on the other hand solar indices WN (sunspot number), F10.7 (radio flux), interplanetary magnetic field B and solar wind speed v over the period 1955–2005. We calculate correlations between pairs of geomagnetic indices, between pairs of solar indices (including the composite Bv2), and between pairs consisting in a geomagnetic vs a solar index, all averaged over one to eleven years. The relationship between geomagnetic indices depends on the evolution of solar activity; strong losses of correlation occur during the declining phase of solar cycle 20 and in solar cycle 23. We confirm the strong correlation between aa and Bv2 and to a lesser extent between Dst and B. On the other hand, correlations between aa or Dst and v are non‐stationary and display strong increases between 1975 and 2000. Some geomagnetic indices can be used as proxies for the behavior of solar wind indices for times when these were not available. We discuss possible physical origins of sub‐decadal to secular evolutions of correlations and their relation with the character of solar activity (correlation of DP2 substorms and main storm occurrence, generation of toroidal field of a new cycle during descending phase of old cycle and prediction of next cycle, and also links with coupling of nonlinear oscillators and abrupt regime changes).
Bias correction of the ENSEMBLES high resolution climate change projections for use by impact models: Analysis of the climate change signal
Authors: Dosio A. , Paruolo P. , Rojas R.
Published: July 2012

A statistical bias correction technique is applied to twelve high‐resolution climate change simulations of temperature and precipitation over Europe, under the SRES A1B scenario, produced for the EU project ENSEMBLES. The bias correction technique is based on a transfer function, estimated on current climate, which affects the whole Probability Distribution Function (PDF) of variables, and which is assumed constant between the current and future climate. The impact of bias correction on 21st Century projections, their inter‐model variability, and the climate change signal is investigated, with focus being on discrepancies between the original and the bias‐corrected results. As assessing the impact of climate change is significantly dependent on the frequency of extreme events, we also analyze the evolution of the shape of the PDFs, and extreme events indices. Results show that the ensemble mean climate change signal and its inter‐model variability are generally conserved. However, the impact of the bias correction varies amongst regions, seasons and models, and differences up to 0.5°C for the summer temperature climate change signal are found in Southern Europe. Finally the bias correction is found to influence the probability of extreme events like extremely hot or frost days, which also impacts the climate change signal.
Nitric oxide inhibits the ATPase activity of the chaperone-like AAA+ ATPase CDC48, a target for S-nitrosylation in cryptogein signalling in tobacco cells
Authors: Astier Jéremy , Besson-Bard Angélique , Lamotte Olivier , Bertoldo Jean , Bourque Stéphane , Terenzi Hernán , Wendehenne David
Published: July 2012

NO has important physiological functions in plants, including the adaptative response to pathogen attack. We previously demonstrated that cryptogein, an elicitor of defence reaction produced by the oomycete Phytophthora cryptogea, triggers NO synthesis in tobacco. To decipher the role of NO in tobacco cells elicited by cryptogein, in the present study we performed a proteomic approach in order to identify proteins undergoing S-nitrosylation. We provided evidence that cryptogein induced the S-nitrosylation of several proteins and identified 11 candidates, including CDC48 (cell division cycle 48), a member of the AAA+ ATPase (ATPase associated with various cellular activities) family. In vitro, NtCDC48 (Nicotiana tabacum CDC48) was shown to be poly-S-nitrosylated by NO donors and we could identify Cys110, Cys526 and Cys664 as a targets for S-nitrosylation. Cys526 is located in the Walker A motif of the D2 domain, that is involved in ATP binding and was previously reported to be regulated by oxidative modification in Drosophila. We investigated the consequence of NtCDC48 S-nitrosylation and found that NO abolished NtCDC48 ATPase activity and induced slight conformation changes in the vicinity of Cys526. Similarly, substitution of Cys526 by an alanine residue had an impact on NtCDC48 activity. More generally, the present study identified CDC48 as a new candidate for S-nitrosylation in plants facing biotic stress and further supports the importance of Cys526 in the regulation of CDC48 by oxidative/nitrosative agents.
Naturally evolved G protein-coupled receptors adopt metastable conformations
Authors: Chen Kuang-Yui Michael , Zhou Fuguo , Fryszczyn Bartlomiej G. , Barth Patrick
Published: July 2012

A wide range of membrane receptors signal through conformational changes, and the resulting protein conformational flexibility often hinders their structural studies. Because the determinants of membrane receptor conformational stability are still poorly understood, identifying a minimal set of perturbations stabilizing a membrane protein in a given conformation remains a major challenge in membrane protein structure determination. We present a novel approach integrating bioinformatics, computational design and experimental techniques that identifies and stabilizes metastable receptor regions. When applied to the beta1-adrenergic receptor, the method generated 13 novel receptor variants stabilized in the intended inactive state among which two exhibit an apparent thermostability higher than WT and M23 (a receptor variant previously stabilized by extensive scanning mutagenesis) by more than 30 °C and 11 °C, respectively. Targeted regions involve nonconserved unsatisfied polar residues or exhibit significant packing defects, features found in all class A G protein-coupled receptor structures. These findings suggest that natural G protein-coupled receptor sequences have evolved to be conformationally metastable through the design of suboptimal polar and van der Waals tertiary interactions. Given sufficiently accurate structural models, our approach should prove useful for designing stabilized variants of many uncharacterized membrane receptors.
Quantum oscillations in YBa
2
Cu
3
O
6+δ
from period-8
d
-density wave order
Authors: Eun Jonghyoun , Wang Zhiqiang , Chakravarty Sudip
Published: July 2012

We consider quantum oscillation experiments in YBa
2
Cu
3
O
6+δ
from the perspective of Fermi surface reconstruction using an exact transfer matrix method and the Pichard–Landauer formula for the conductivity. The specific density wave order responsible for reconstruction is a period-8
d
-density wave in which the current density is unidirectionally modulated, which is also naturally accompanied by a period-4 charge order, consistent with recent nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. This scenario leads to a natural explanation as to why only oscillations from a single electron pocket of a frequency of about 500 T is observed, and a hole pocket of roughly twice the frequency as dictated by the twofold commensurate order and the Luttinger sum rule is not observed. In contrast period-8
d
-density wave leads to a hole pocket of roughly half the frequency of the electron pocket. The observation of this slower frequency will require higher, but not unrealistic, magnetic fields than those commonly employed. There is already some suggestion of the slower frequency in a measurement in fields as high as 85 T.
EuGene: maximizing synthetic gene design for heterologous expression
Authors: Gaspar Paulo , Oliveira José Luís , Frommlet Jörg , Santos Manuel A.S. , Moura Gabriela
Published: July 2012

Summary: Numerous software applications exist to deal with synthetic gene design, granting the field of heterologous expression a significant support. However, their dispersion requires the access to different tools and online services in order to complete one single project. Analyzing codon usage, calculating codon adaptation index (CAI), aligning orthologs and optimizing genes are just a few examples. A software application, EuGene, was developed for the optimization of multiple gene synthetic design algorithms. In a seamless automatic form, EuGene calculates or retrieves genome data on codon usage (relative synonymous codon usage and CAI), codon context (CPS and codon pair bias), GC content, hidden stop codons, repetitions, deleterious sites, protein primary, secondary and tertiary structures, gene orthologs, species housekeeping genes, performs alignments and identifies genes and genomes. The main function of EuGene is analyzing and redesigning gene sequences using multi-objective optimization techniques that maximize the coding features of the resulting sequence.

Availability: EuGene is freely available for non-commercial use, at http://bioinformatics.ua.pt/eugene

Contact:  paulogaspar@ua.pt
Metabolic Basis for Thyroid Hormone Liver Preconditioning: Upregulation of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling
Authors: Videla Luis A. , Fernández Virginia , Cornejo Pamela , Vargas Romina
Published: July 2012

The liver is a major organ responsible for most functions of cellular metabolism and a mediator between dietary and endogenous sources of energy for extrahepatic tissues. In this context, adenosine-monophosphate- (AMP-) activated protein kinase (AMPK) constitutes an intrahepatic energy sensor regulating physiological energy dynamics by limiting anabolism and stimulating catabolism, thus increasing ATP availability. This is achieved by mechanisms involving direct allosteric activation and reversible phosphorylation of AMPK, in response to signals such as energy status, serum insulin/glucagon ratio, nutritional stresses, pharmacological and natural compounds, and oxidative stress status. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) lead to cellular AMPK activation and downstream signaling under several experimental conditions. Thyroid hormone (L-3,3′,5-triiodothyronine, T3) administration, a condition that enhances liver ROS generation, triggers the redox upregulation of cytoprotective proteins affording preconditioning against ischemia-reperfusion (IR) liver injury. Data discussed in this work suggest that T3-induced liver activation of AMPK may be of importance in the promotion of metabolic processes favouring energy supply for the induction and operation of preconditioning mechanisms. These include antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, repair or resynthesis of altered biomolecules, induction of the homeostatic acute-phase response, and stimulation of liver cell proliferation, which are required to cope with the damaging processes set in by IR.
Serum Bone Resorption Markers after Parathyroidectomy for Renal Hyperparathyroidism: Correlation Analyses for the Cross-Linked N-telopeptide of Collagen I and Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase
Authors: Hung Kuo-Chin , Huang Chung-Yu , Liu Chuan-Chieh , Wu Chih-Jen , Chen Shao-Yuan , Chu Pauling , Wu Chia-Chao , Lo Lan , Diang Liang-Kuang , Lu Kuo-Cheng
Published: July 2012

Patients on long-term dialysis may develop secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) with increased serum concentrations of bone resorption markers such as the cross-linked N-telopeptide of type I collagen (NTX) and type-5b tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). When SHPT proves refractory to treatment, parathyroidectomy (PTX) may be needed. Renal patients on maintenance HD who received PTX for refractory SHPT (n=23) or who did not develop refractory SHPT (control subjects;n=25) were followed prospectively for 4 weeks. Serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), NTX, TRAP, and bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) concentrations were measured serially and correlation analyses were performed. iPTH values decreased rapidly and dramatically. BAP values increased progressively with peak increases observed at 2 weeks after surgery. NTX and TRAP values decreased concurrently and progressively through 4 weeks following PTX. A significant correlation between TRAP and NTX values was observed before PTX but not at 4 weeks after PTX. Additionally, the fractional changes in serum TRAP were larger than those in serum NTX at all times examined after PTX. Serum iPTH, TRAP, and NTX values declined rapidly following PTX for SHPT. Serum TRAP values declined to greater degrees than serum NTX values throughout the 4-week period following PTX.
A two-dimensional coordination polymer containing a two-dimensional zinc–carboxylate layer constructed from helical chains: poly[(μ4-benzene-1,2-dicarboxylato)zinc(II)]
Authors: Xiong Wei-Lu , Liu Qing-Yan , Zhang Na , Wang Leng
Published: July 2012

The title compound, [Zn(C8H4O4)]n, consists of one ZnIIcation and one benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate dianion (BDC2−) as the building unit. The ZnIIcation is four-coordinated by four carboxylate O atoms from four dianionic BDC2−ligands in a distorted tetrahedral geometry. The ZnIIcations are linked by the BDC2−ligands to generate a structure featuring two-dimensional zinc–carboxylate layers containing left- and right-handed helical chains. The two-dimensional layers are stacked along theadirection. The thermal stability of the title compound has been studied.
Relationship between waist circumference and supine abdominal height measured at different anatomical sites and cardiometabolic risk factors in older women
Authors: de Almeida Paula H. A. , de Cássia Lanes Ribeiro R. , de Lima Rosado L. E. F. P. , Abranches M. V. , do Carmo Castro Franceschini S.
Published: July 2012

How to cite this article
 de Almeida Paula H.A., de Cássia Lanes Ribeiro R., de Lima Rosado L.E.F.P., Abranches M.V. & do Carmo Castro Franceschini S. (2012) Relationship between waist circumference and supine abdominal height measured at different anatomical sites and cardiometabolic risk factors in older women. J Hum Nutr Diet.

Objectives:  To measure waist circumference (WC) and supine abdominal height (SAH) at different anatomic sites and to assess the relationship with cardiometabolic risk factors in women aged >60 years.

Methods:  The present study included 113 women from Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The evaluations comprised anthropometric, biochemical and haemodynamic measurements. Different anatomical sites were used to measure WC: (i) the midpoint between the last rib and iliac crest; (ii) umbilical level; (iii) immediately above the iliac crests; and (iv) the narrowest point between the last rib and the iliac crest. Measurements were also taken at different anatomic sites for SAH: (i) the midpoint between the iliac crests; (ii) umbilical level; (iii) higher abdominal diameter; and (iv) the narrowest point between the last rib and the iliac crest.

Results:  It was found that 35.4% of women were overweight, and the area (SE) body mass index was 25.8 (4.2) kg/m2. WC at the umbilical level [area (SE) area under the curve (AUC) = 0.694 (0.079)] and SAH at the midpoint between the iliac crests [AUC = 0.747 (0.076)] showed the largest areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (P < 0.05) with respect to the identification of cardiometabolic risk factors associated with the metabolic syndrome (MS) where, of the two measures, SAH showed the greatest predictive potential.

Conclusions:  The results obtained in the present study suggest that, for the assessment of older women, the umbilical level and the midpoint between the iliac crests should used to measure WC and SAH, respectively. SAH showed the greatest predictive power for cardiometabolic risk factors associated with the MS in older women.
Increased Expression of Transthyretin in Leptin‐Deficient ob/ob Mice is not Causative for Their Major Phenotypic Abnormalities
Authors: Rendenbach C. , Ganswindt S. , Seitz S. , Barvencik F. , Huebner A. K. , Baranowsky A. , Streichert T. , Niemeier A. , Heeren J. , Amling M. , Bartelt A. , Schinke T.
Published: July 2012

The hormone leptin is a critical regulator of adipogenesis and energy metabolism. Similarly, leptin‐deficient ob/ob mice display various metabolic abnormalities, including not only obesity and insulin resistance, but also hypogonadism and high bone mass. By genome‐wide expression analysis using hypothalamus RNA from wild‐type and ob/ob mice, we observed the increased expression of the gene for transthyretin (Ttr) in the latter, as confirmed by quantitative real‐time‐polymerase chain reaction. Because Ttr encodes a carrier protein for retinol transport, and because we further found increased retinol levels in the serum of ob/ob mice, we investigated whether the additional absence of Ttr would influence the ob/ob phenotype. It was found that Ttr‐deficient ob/ob mice were indistinguishable from ob/ob littermates in terms of body weight, as well as serum glucose, insulin and cholesterol levels. Although all of these parameters were identical to wild‐type controls in Ttr‐deficient mice, we found that the sole deletion of Ttr caused a significant increase of trabecular bone mass, bone marrow adiposity and mean adipocyte area in white adipose tissue. Interestingly, all these latter parameters were highest in Ttr‐deficient ob/ob mice, and only in these mice did we observe a full penetrance of liver steatosis at 24 weeks of age. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the increased expression of Ttr in ob/ob mice does not cause (but rather attenuates) their phenotypic abnormalities.
Novel, panzootic and hybrid genotypes of amphibian chytridiomycosis associated with the bullfrog trade
Authors: SCHLOEGEL LISA M. , TOLEDO LUÍS FELIPE , LONGCORE JOYCE E. , GREENSPAN SASHA E. , VIEIRA CONRADO AUGUSTO , LEE MARIA , ZHAO SERENA , WANGEN CATHERINE , FERREIRA CLAUDIA MARIS , HIPOLITO MÁRCIO , DAVIES ANGELA J. , CUOMO CHRISTINA A. , DASZAK PETER , JAMES TIMOTHY Y.
Published: July 2012

Global amphibian declines are linked with the presence of specific, highly virulent genotypes of the emerging fungal disease chytridiomycosis caused byBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) known as the global panzootic lineage (Bd‐GPL). The global trade in amphibians for human consumption is suspected to have facilitated emergence of the disease, but evidence to support this is largely lacking. Here, we investigated the role theLithobates catesbeianus(North American bullfrog) trade in spreadingBdgenotypes by comparing strains associated withL. catesbeianusto a global panel using 36 sequenced loci from multiple chromosomal regions. Most bullfrogs were infected withBd‐GPL genotypes, but we also detected novel, highly divergentBdgenotypes (Bd‐Brazil) from a live bullfrog in a US market and from native Brazilian anurans in the Atlantic Forest where bullfrogs are widely farmed. Sexual reproduction was also detected for the first time inBdin the form of a hybrid genotype between theBd‐GPL andBd‐Brazil lineages in the Atlantic Forest. Despite the demonstration that ribosomal RNA types inBdfail to undergo concerted evolution (over 20 sequence types may be found in a single strain), theBd‐GPL andBd‐Brazil lineages form largely separate clusters of related internal transcribed spacer (ITS) RNA sequences. Using ITS sequences, we then demonstrate the presence ofBd‐Brazil in Japan, primarily on invasiveL. catesbeianus. The finding thatBdis capable of sexual reproduction between panzootic and endemic genotypes emphasizes the risk of international wildlife trade as a source of additionalBdepizootics owing to hybridization.
Indication for endoscopic treatment of ulcerative early gastric cancer according to depth of ulcer and morphological change
Authors: Lee Jae Ik , Kim Ji Hyun , Kim Jong Han , Choi Byoung Jin , Song Young Jin , Choi Sang Bun , Bae Young Seok , Lee Sang Heon , Jee Sam Ryong , Kang Mi Seon , Seol Sang Young
Published: July 2012

Background and Aim

This study was conducted to determine the clinicopathologic factors affecting the stage of ulcerative early gastric cancer (EGC), focusing on the relationships between cancer stage and degree of endoscopic ulcer depth and morphologic changes.

Methods

Medical records of 183 cases of ulcerative EGC who had received endoscopic examination two or more times with a minimum interval of one week, and who underwent either curative surgery or endoscopic treatment were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Change in ulcer morphology at follow‐up endoscopy was observed in 84 cases (45.9%) with improvement and exacerbation of ulcer in 65 (35.5%) and 19 (13.8%) cases, respectively. The presence of type III ulcer (P < 0.01), and endoscopic findings suggesting submucosal cancer invasion (tumorous bank, fusion of converging folds, hardness or decreased flexibility) (P < 0.01), and incomplete ulcer healing (P = 0.036) were independently associated with a higher incidence of submucosal cancer invasion. The incidence of lymph node metastasis was 14.1%, and undifferentiated histology and presence of lymphovascular invasion were significantly associated with a higher incidence of lymph node metastasis (P = 0.018 and P = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusions

Endoscopic resection with curative intent may be an acceptable option for EGC combined with endoscopic ulcer or ulcer scar, but should be restricted to cases showing significant improvement in the size and depth of ulcer at follow‐up endoscopy, and which are not accompanied with deep ulcer more than the thickness of adjacent mucosal surface and prominent surrounding mucosal fold change. In addition, histologic criteria should meet the conditions of differentiated intramucosal cancer without lymphovascular invasion.
Impact of hospital‐acquired Clostridium difficile
Authors: Lipp Michael J , Nero Damion C , Callahan Mark A
Published: July 2012

Background and Aim

To investigate the impact of hospital‐acquired Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) on hospital costs and patient length of stay.

Methods

Data from the 2007–2008 New York State Department of Health's Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database was analyzed using regression analysis and descriptive statistics.

Results

After analysis of 4 853 800 patient discharges, the incidence rate of hospital‐acquired CDI was 0.8 cases per 1000 discharges. The estimated marginal cost associated with each hospital infection was approximately $29 000. The estimated annual cost of CDI in New York State was approximately $55 million with nearly 23 000 additional hospital days.

Conclusions

The development of hospital‐acquired CDI is associated with a significant increase in hospital costs and patient length of stay. Extrapolation of these estimates to all US hospitals suggests this condition represents a major burden to the US healthcare system. Our findings may help hospitals understand the impact of these infections, as well as potential implications if deemed preventable by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and/or private payers. Additionally, this information may benefit hospitals or health care systems transitioning to alternative payment models, such as episode‐based payments or accountable care. Healthcare providers and hospitals would benefit from better understanding the impact and frequency of these infections in order to best target preventive strategies.
Combined platelet count with sCD163 and genetic variants optimizes esophageal varices prediction in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Yang Ying‐Ying , Hou Ming‐Chih , Lin Ming‐Wei , Chen Ping‐Hsien , Liao Wei‐Chih , Chu Chi‐Jen , Lin Han‐Chieh
Published: July 2012

Background and Aim

Endoscopic screening for esophageal varices (EVs) is expensive and invasive. Besides traditional noninvasive markers, we explore additional candidate markers including portal hypertension serum marker‐soluble CD136 (sCD163) and genetic variants of splanchnic vasodilatation and revascularization pathways for prediction of EVs in cirrhotic patients.

Methods

A total of 951 cirrhotic patients without history of variceal bleeding and an independent validation cirrhotic cohort were enrolled to evaluate the association between the presence of EVs and patients' clinical and genetic characteristics.

Results

Cirrhotic patients with EVs had higher serum sCD163 and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) level, which was positively correlated with the number of risk alleles of HO‐1 (S, A), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF [G, T]) and VEGF receptor‐2 (VEGFR2 [Ile]) genes, than those without EVs. Multivariate analysis showed that EVs in cirrhotic patients was predicted by low platelet count, high sCD163 level, splenomegaly, HO‐1 AS and the VEGF GT risk haplotypes. Additive effects in relation to predict EVs were observed in the simultaneous presence of HO‐1 AS and VEGF GT risk haplotypes. Combining low platelet count with high sCD163/risk haplotypes significantly increased the predictability of EVs. Furthermore, cirrhotic patients carrying both HO‐1 AS and VEGF GT risk haplotypes had lower probability of being free of EVs bleeding compared to patients without above risk haplotypes.

Conclusions

This study suggested that high sCD163 levels and genetic risk variants are additional markers that can be combined with low platelet count to optimize assessment of EVs and bleeding in cirrhotic patients.
Transposon tagging in diploid strawberry
Authors: Veilleux Richard E. , Mills Kerri P. , Baxter Aaron J. , Upham Kendall T. , Ferguson Tammy J. , Holt Sarah Hudson , Lu Nan , Ruiz‐Rojas Juan J. , Pantazis Christopher J. , Davis Cherish M. , Lindsay Robert C. , Powell Frankie L. , Dan Yinghui , Dickerman Allan W. , Oosumi Teruko , Shulaev Vladimir
Published: July 2012

Fragaria vesca was transformed with a transposon tagging construct harbouring amino terminally deleted maize transposase and EGFP (Ac element), NPTII, CaMV 35S promoter (P35S) driving transposase and mannopine synthase promoter (Pmas) driving EGFP (Ds element). Of 180 primary transgenics, 48 were potential launch pads, 72 were multiple insertions or chimaeras, and 60 exhibited somatic transposition. T1 progeny of 32 putative launch pads were screened by multiplex PCR for transposition. Evidence of germ‐line transposition occurred in 13 putative launch pads; however, the transposition frequency was too low in three for efficient recovery of transposants. The transposition frequency in the remaining launch pads ranged from 16% to 40%. After self‐pollination of the T0 launch pads, putative transposants in the T1 generation were identified by multiplex PCR. Sequencing of hiTAIL‐PCR products derived from nested primers within the Ds end sequences (either P35S at the left border or the inverted repeat at the right border) of T1 plants revealed transposition of the Ds element to distant sites in the strawberry genome. From more than 2400 T1 plants screened, 103 unique transposants have been identified, among which 17 were somatic transpositions observed in the T0 generation. Ds insertion sites were dispersed among various gene elements [exons (15%), introns (23%), promoters (30%), 3′ UTRs (17%) as well as intergenically (15%)]. Three‐primer (one on either side of the Ds insertion and one within the Ds T‐DNA) PCR could be used to identify homozygous T2 transposon‐tagged plants. The mutant collection has been catalogued in an on‐line database.
Theory of Mind Performance in Children Correlates With Functional Specialization of a Brain Region for Thinking About Thoughts
Authors: Gweon Hyowon , Dodell‐Feder David , Bedny Marina , Saxe Rebecca
Published: July 2012

Thinking about other people’s thoughts recruits a specific group of brain regions, including the temporo‐parietal junctions (TPJ), precuneus (PC), and medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC). The same brain regions were recruited when children (N = 20, 5–11 years) and adults (N = 8) listened to descriptions of characters’ mental states, compared to descriptions of physical events. Between ages 5 and 11 years, responses in the bilateral TPJ became increasingly specific to stories describing mental states as opposed to people’s appearance and social relationships. Functional activity in the right TPJ was related to children’s performance on a high level theory of mind task. These findings provide insights into the origin of neural mechanisms of theory of mind, and how behavioral and neural changes can be related in development.
The vascular architecture of the supravaginal and vaginal parts of the human uterine cervix: a study using corrosion casting and scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Bereza Tomasz , Tomaszewski Krzysztof Andrzej , Bałajewicz‐Nowak Marta , Mizia Ewa , Pasternak Artur , Walocha Jerzy
Published: July 2012

The aim of this study was to visualize and describe the vascular architecture of the vaginal and supravaginal parts of the human uterine cervix. Uteri collected at autopsy (n = 42) were perfused via the afferent vessels with fixative followed by Mercox resin. After polymerization of the resin, corrosion was performed. The obtained vascular casts of the cervix, visualizing all vessels including capillaries, were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Both in the vaginal and supravaginal parts of the cervix, four distinct vascular zones were distinguished – the outer zone containing large arteries and veins, the arteriole and venule zone, the endocervical mucosal capillaries zone and the pericanalar zone containing small veins and capillaries. In the pericanalar zone ran small veins, responsible for draining the mucosal capillaries. Both in the muscular layer, as well as in the pericanalar zone, arterioles and venules passed close to each other, often adjoining. This study introduces the idea of two systems responsible for draining blood from the mucosal capillaries. It is also the first to suggest the possible existence of a countercurrent transport between adjoining veins and arteries.
Familial PRRT2 mutation with heterogeneous paroxysmal disorders including paroxysmal torticollis and hemiplegic migraine
Authors: DALE RUSSELL C , GARDINER ALICE , ANTONY JAYNE , HOULDEN HENRY
Published: July 2012

PRRT2 is the gene recently associated with paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD), benign familial infantile epilepsy, and choreoathetosis infantile convulsions. We report four family members with PRRT2 mutations who had heterogeneous paroxysmal disorders. The index patient had transient infantile paroxysmal torticollis, then benign infantile epilepsy that responded to carbamazepine. The index patient’s father had PKD and migraine with aphasia, and his two brothers had hemiplegic migraine with onset in childhood. All four family members had the same PRRT2 c.649dupC mutation. We conclude that heterogeneous paroxysmal disorders are associated with PRRT2 mutations and include paroxysmal torticollis and hemiplegic migraine. We propose that PRRT2 is a new gene for hemiplegic migraine.
An examination of the relationship between motor coordination and executive functions in adolescents
Authors: RIGOLI DANIELA , PIEK JAN P , KANE ROBERT , OOSTERLAAN JAAP
Published: July 2012

Aim  Research suggests important links between motor coordination and executive functions. The current study examined whether motor coordination predicts working memory, inhibition, and switching performance, extending previous research by accounting for attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomatology and other confounding factors, in an adolescent normative sample.

Method  Ninety‐three adolescents (38 females, 55 males) aged 12 to 16 years (mean age 4y 2mo, SD 1y 1mo) were assessed on the Movement Assessment Battery for Children‐2 (MABC‐2), Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children‐IV, N‐back task, the inhibition subtest from the NEPSY‐II: A Developmental Neuropsychological Assessment, second edition, and the parent‐rated Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD Symptoms and Normal Behaviour Questionnaire.

Results  The MABC‐2 total score accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in visuospatial working memory (p=0.041) but not for verbal working memory. The MABC‐2 aiming and catching component, however, was found to account for unique variance in both verbal (p=0.019) and visuospatial working memory (p=0.016). The MABC‐2 total score was found to account for a significant proportion of the variance in inhibition total completion time (p=0.017). Finally, balance skills accounted for unique variance in a NEPSY‐II inhibition total errors variable (p=0.020).

Interpretation  The results provide support for an overlap between motor coordination and executive functions, which has important practical implications. The study also suggests shared mechanisms underpinning the relationship between these areas, including possible cerebellar involvement.
Studies on the interaction of ‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate from green tea with bovine β‐lactoglobulin by spectroscopic methods and docking
Authors: WU XULI , DEY RAJA , WU HUI , LIU ZHIGANG , HE QINGQING , ZENG XIAOJUAN
Published: July 2012

The binding interaction between‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) and bovine β‐lactoglobulin (βLG) was thoroughly studied by fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD) and protein–ligand docking. Fluorescence data revealed that the fluorescence quenching of βLG by EGCG was the result of the formation of a complex of βLG–EGCG. The binding constants and thermodynamic parameters at two different temperatures and the binding force were determined. The binding interaction between EGCG and βLG was mainly hydrophobic and the complex was stabilised by hydrogen bonding. The results suggested that βLG in complex with EGCG changes its native conformation. Furthermore, preheat treatment (90 °C, 120 °C) and emulsifier (sucrose fatty acid ester) all boosted the binding constants (Ka) and the binding site values (n) of the βLG‐EGCG complex. This study provided important insight into the mechanism of binding interactions of green tea flavonoids with milk protein.
The large sample size fallacy
Authors: Lantz Björn
Published: July 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 487–492

The large sample size fallacy

Background:  Significance in the statistical sense has little to do with significance in the common practical sense. Statistical significance is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for practical significance. Hence, results that are extremely statistically significant may be highly nonsignificant in practice. The degree of practical significance is generally determined by the size of the observed effect, not the p‐value. The results of studies based on large samples are often characterized by extreme statistical significance despite small or even trivial effect sizes. Interpreting such results as significant in practice without further analysis is referred to as the large sample size fallacy in this article.

Aim:  The aim of this article is to explore the relevance of the large sample size fallacy in contemporary nursing research.

Results:  Relatively few nursing articles display explicit measures of observed effect sizes or include a qualitative discussion of observed effect sizes. Statistical significance is often treated as an end in itself.

Conclusion:  Effect sizes should generally be calculated and presented along with p‐values for statistically significant results, and observed effect sizes should be discussed qualitatively through direct and explicit comparisons with the effects in related literature.
An ambiguous relationship – a qualitative meta‐synthesis of hospitalized somatic patients’ experience of interaction with fellow patients
Authors: Larsen Lene S. , Larsen Birte H. , Birkelund Regner
Published: July 2012

Aim:  The aim of this study was to provide a clear view of the existing knowledge regarding patients’ significance to fellow patients during hospitalization.

Method:  Sandelowski and Barroso’s approach to qualitative meta‐synthesis was selected and systematically used for collecting and assessing findings from qualitative studies. Data consisted of seven qualitative studies published as one book, four scientific articles and two doctoral theses from Scotland, UK, Norway and Denmark. The analysis and synthesis were conducted with inspiration from both Sandelowski and Barroso and Ian Dey’s approach to qualitative data analysis.

Results:  The qualitative meta‐synthesis resulted in the heading An Ambiguous Relationship under which three core categories illustrate the hospitalized patients’ different interaction roles. The core categories were as follows: (i) the fellow patient experienced as an enforced companion, (ii) the fellow patient experienced as an expert on illness and hospital life and (iii) the fellow patient experienced as a care provider. Each core category was elaborated through several subcategories. Social interaction among hospitalized patients embedded elements of both enforced and volunteered participation. Typically, the social interaction was experienced as giving and was referred to in positive terms but recurrently, the opposite was experienced too. The ambiguity of the relationship clearly emerged in all of the synthesized themes presented in this article.

Implications for practice:  Hospitalized patients experienced interaction with fellow patients to be of great significance. We suggest that knowledge of patients’ interaction is to be included in the nursing education and that nurses reflect on how this knowledge may be implemented as a part of caring in nursing.
Haemostatic and inflammatory responses to blood flow‐restricted exercise in patients with ischaemic heart disease: a pilot study
Authors: Madarame Haruhiko , Kurano Miwa , Fukumura Kazuya , Fukuda Taira , Nakajima Toshiaki
Published: July 2012

Low‐intensity resistance exercise can effectively induce muscle hypertrophy and increases in strength when combined with moderate blood flow restriction (BFR). As this type of exercise does not require lifting heavy weights, it might be a feasible method of cardiac rehabilitation, in which resistance exercise has been recommended to be included. Although previous studies with healthy subjects showed relative safety of BFR exercise, we cannot exclude the possibility of unfavourable effects in patients with cardiovascular disease. We therefore aimed to investigate haemostatic and inflammatory responses to BFR exercise in patients with ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Nine stable patients with IHD who were not taking anticoagulant drugs performed four sets of knee extension exercise at an intensity of 20% one‐repetition maximum (1RM) either with or without BFR. Blood samples were taken before, immediately after and 1 h after the exercise session and analysed for noradrenaline, D‐dimer, fibrinogen/fibrin degradation products (FDP) and high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hsCRP). Plasma noradrenaline concentration increased after the exercise, and the increase was significantly larger after the exercise with BFR than without BFR. On the other hand, increases in concentrations of plasma D‐dimer and serum hsCRP were independent of the condition. However, increases in D‐dimer and hsCRP were no longer observed after plasma volume correction, suggesting that hemoconcentration was responsible for these increases. Plasma FDP concentration did not change after the exercise. These results suggest that applying BFR during low‐intensity resistance exercise does not affect exercise‐induced haemostatic and inflammatory responses in stable IHD patients.
Hope for the Future in Mitigating Climate Change? On Statistically Modeling Self‐Sacrifice in the Face of Global Warming
Authors: Liu James H. , Sibley Chris G.
Published: July 2012

Two sets of concerns were expressed in commentary about Liu & Sibley's (2012) article on self‐sacrifice in the face of global warming. Statistical issues can be addressed with a better understanding of Multilevel Random Coefficient Models. We hold that in accord with the theory of planned behavior, it is more likely that beliefs about the importance of global warming predict intentions for willingness to make sacrifices rather than the reverse, and that given this presumed causal direction, the strength of this effect is moderated by cross‐national differences on the human development index. Conceptually, we agree that measuring pro‐environmental action in accord with self‐interest and/or requiring greater effort but not self‐sacrifice would provide a more complete picture.