bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Ablation in Females: Insight from the MAGIC‐AF Trial
Authors: SINGH SHELDON M. , D'AVILA ANDRE , ARYANA ARASH , KIM YOUNG‐HOON , MANGRUM J. MICHAEL , MICHAUD GREGORY F. , DUKKIPATI SRINIVAS R. , HEIST E. KEVIN , BARRETT CONOR D. , THORPE KEVIN E. , REDDY VIVEK Y. 
Published: July 2016

Gender and Persistent AFIntroductionAtrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is less frequently performed in women when compared to men. There are conflicting data on the safety and efficacy of AF ablation in women. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes in a contemporary cohort of men and women undergoing persistent AF ablation procedures.Methods and ResultsA total of 182 men and 53 women undergoing a first‐ever persistent AF catheter ablation procedure in The Modified Ablation Guided by Ibutilide Use in Chronic Atrial Fibrillation (MAGIC‐AF) trial were evaluated. Clinical and procedural characteristics were compared between each gender. The primary efficacy endpoint was the 1‐year single procedure freedom from atrial arrhythmia off anti‐arrhythmic drugs. Women undergoing catheter ablation procedures were older than men (P < 0.001). The duration of AF and associated co‐morbidities were similar between both genders. Single procedure drug‐free atrial arrhythmia recurrence occurred in 53% of the cohort with no difference based on gender (men = 54%, women = 53%; P = 1.0). Procedural (P = 0.04), fluoroscopic (P = 0.02), and ablation times (P = 0.003) were shorter in women compared to men. Periprocedural complications and postablation improvement in quality of life were similar between men and women.ConclusionWomen undergoing a first‐ever persistent AF ablation procedure were older but had similar clinical outcomes and complications when compared with men.
The tale of the shrinking weapon: seasonal changes in nutrition affect weapon size and sexual dimorphism, but not contemporary evolution
Authors: Miller C. W. , McDonald G. C. , Moore A. J. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractSexually selected traits are often highly variable in size within populations due to their close link with the physical condition of individuals. Nutrition has a large impact on physical condition, and thus, any seasonal changes in nutritional quality are predicted to alter the average size of sexually selected traits as well as the degree of sexual dimorphism in populations. However, although traits affected by mate choice are well studied, we have a surprising lack of knowledge of how natural variation in nutrition affects the expression of sexually selected weapons and sexual dimorphism. Further, few studies explicitly test for differences in the heritability and mean‐scaled evolvability of sexually selected traits across conditions. We studied Narnia femorata (Hemiptera: Coreidae), an insect where males use their hind legs as weapons and the femurs are enlarged, to understand the extent to which weapon expression, sexual dimorphism and evolvability change across the actual range of nutrition available in the wild. We found that insects raised on a poor diet (cactus without fruit) are nearly monomorphic, whereas those raised on a high‐quality diet (cactus with ripe fruit) are distinctly sexually dimorphic via the expression of large hind leg weapons in males. Contrary to our expectations, we found little evidence of a potential for evolutionary change for any trait measured. Thus, although we show weapons are highly condition dependent, and changes in weapon expression and dimorphism could alter evolutionary dynamics, our populations are unlikely to experience further evolutionary changes under current conditions.
Reliability of parent report measures of sleep in children with Down syndrome
Authors: Esbensen A. J. , Hoffman E. K. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBackgroundBehavioural sleep disturbances are common among children with Down syndrome (DS). However, tools used to detect and evaluate behavioural sleep disturbances were developed for typically developing children and have not been evaluated for use among children with DS. The current study evaluates the psychometric properties of three measures of behavioural sleep disturbances that are currently being used with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including children with DS.MethodCaregivers of 30 children with DS rated their child's sleep with the Behavioral Evaluation of Disorders of Sleep (BEDS), Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) and Sleep Disturbances Scale for Children (SDSC). Caregivers also provided information on sleep diagnoses and completed a 7‐night sleep and behaviour diary.ResultsThe study investigated the rate of detecting sleep problems, internal consistency, and convergent and concurrent validity of the BEDS, CSHQ and SDSC. Children with DS were reported to exhibit behavioural sleep disturbances at different rates depending on the measure used; 0% BEDS, 79.3% CSHQ and 17.2% SDSC. Internal consistency was comparable for all three measures for their total scores. However, when evaluating the internal consistency of subscale scores, those on the CSHQ and SDSC performed more strongly. The subscales of the CSHQ performed best when evaluating convergent and concurrent validity, with the SDSC subscales performing moderately well.ConclusionThe study findings suggest that, among children with DS, the CSHQ and its subscales performed in a psychometrically sound and theoretically appropriate manner in relation to other measures of sleep, medical history of sleep problems, and daily reports of sleep and associated behaviours. The SDSC performed moderately well. When evaluating behavioural sleep disturbances among children with DS, the CSHQ is recommended based on its stronger psychometric properties.
The Learning Curve for Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair With MitraClip
Authors: Eleid Mackram F. , Reeder Guy S. , Malouf Joseph F. , Lennon Ryan J. , Pislaru Sorin V. , Nkomo Vuyisille T. , Rihal Charanjit S. 
Published: July 2016

ObjectivesThis study sought to assess the learning curve for TMVR for treatment of primary mitral regurgitation (MR).BackgroundData are lacking regarding the technical experience required to achieve optimal clinical outcomes with transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) using the edge‐to‐edge MitraClip technique.MethodsWe examined the sequential experience of the first 75 patients (age 80 ± 9 years; 77% male) who underwent TMVR at our institution. A sequence number of each patient was assigned as a continuous variable and in tertiles for analysis.ResultsTMVR with MitraClip was successful in 97% with an average procedural time of 106 ± 39 minutes. The 30‐day rate of major adverse cardiovascular events was 7%. With increased case experience, there were decreases in procedural time, fluoroscopy time, length of hospital stay, and major adverse cardiovascular events. Procedural success, residual mitral regurgitation and NYHA functional classification at 30‐day follow‐up remained unchanged throughout the experience.ConclusionsThe learning curve for TMVR with MitraClip for treatment of primary MR is characterized by a sequential reduction in procedure time, fluoroscopy time, procedural complications, and hospital length of stay at a tertiary academic medical center. Thirty‐day procedural results are favorable and similar during the initial learning period.
Anticipated Emotions About Unintended Pregnancy in Relationship Context: Are Latinas Really Happier?
Authors: Aiken Abigail R. A. , Trussell James 
Published: July 2016

AbstractThis study examined differences in women's anticipated emotional orientations toward unintended pregnancy by relationship status and race and ethnicity. Data from a prospective survey of 437 women aged 18 to 44 years who intended no more children for at least 2 years were analyzed along with 27 in‐depth interviews among a diverse subsample. Cohabiting women and women in romantic relationships not living together were less likely to profess happiness (odds ratio = 0.42, p < .05, odds ratio = 0.25, p < .01, respectively), even when partners' intentions and feelings were controlled. The most prominent factor underlying negative feelings was partners' anticipated lack of engagement with the emotional, physical, and financial toll of unintended childbearing. Contrary to conventional wisdom regarding the “Hispanic paradox,” foreign‐born and U.S.‐born Latinas were no more likely to profess happiness than non‐Hispanic Whites or Blacks. Moreover, foreign‐born Latinas whose survey responses indicated happiness often revealed highly negative feelings at in‐depth interview, citing pressure to conform to sociocultural norms surrounding motherhood and abortion.
The Effect of Glatiramer Acetate on Spinal Cord Volume in Relapsing‐Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Singhal Tarun , Tauhid Shahamat , Hurwitz Shelley , Neema Mohit , Bakshi Rohit 
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDSpinal cord atrophy occurs early in the multiple sclerosis (MS) disease course, is closely related to physical disability, and is a putative neuroprotective therapeutic outcome measure.OBJECTIVEThis pilot study explored glatiramer acetate (GA)’s effect on spinal cord volume in patients with relapsing‐remitting MS (RRMS).METHODSFifteen patients receiving daily subcutaneous GA were prospectively followed. At baseline, age was 43.6 ± 7.4 years, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was 1.4 ± 1.5, timed 25‐foot walk (T25FW) was 4.7 ± 1.1 seconds, and time on GA was 2.1 ± 3.1 years. Healthy controls (n = 10) with similar age and sex to the patients were also enrolled. The spinal cord was imaged at baseline and one year later with 3T magnetic resonance imaging. An active surface method measured the C1–C7 spinal cord volume from which we calculated the normalized area.RESULTSThe spinal cord area showed no significant change in the MS group over one year (P = .19). Furthermore, the change in the spinal cord area did not differ significantly between the MS and control groups over one year (P = .26). In the MS group, the EDSS score (P = .44) and T25FW (P = .92) did not change significantly on‐study.CONCLUSIONIn this pilot study of RRMS, GA therapy was not associated with any ongoing spinal cord atrophy or any difference in the one‐year rate of spinal cord area change versus healthy controls. These results paralleled the lack of clinical worsening and may reflect a treatment effect of GA. Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
Relative bioavailability of coenzyme Q10 formulation for paediatric individualized therapy
Authors: Martinefski Manuela , Samassa Paula , Buontempo Fabian , Höcht Christian , Lucangioli Silvia , Tripodi Valeria 
Published: July 2016

Abstract

Objectives
Conduct a preliminary comparison of the bioavailability between two formulations: commercial grade coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) powder (solid formulation) and a new oil-in-water liquid emulsion and their effect on other antioxidants.

Methods
Six healthy individuals participated in a randomized, crossover, open, consecutive design, with a 2-week washout period. Pharmacokinetic parameters were assessed after a single and multiple intakes of 250 mg CoQ10 given daily for 1 week.

Key Findings
The differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters of maximum plasma concentration, area under the curve between 0–360 and 0–4 h, elimination half-life were statistically significant with a relative bioavailability of 489% increase over solid CoQ10 formulation. A multiple dose supplementation increased plasma CoQ10 levels in both formulations, liquid emulsion performing better (2.4- vs 3.9-fold for solid and liquid formulation, respectively) without modifications on other antioxidants. Furthermore, the plasma CoQ10 at 7th day was statistically different between formulations (P &lt; 0.05).

Conclusions
The results obtained showed that liquid emulsion improves the bioavailability of CoQ10 respect to solid form which not only facilitates the individualized administration for the child but in turn could increase the therapeutic efficacy, which should be confirmed by further studies.
Associations between respiratory signs and abnormalities reported in thoracic CT scans of cats
Authors: Lamb C. R. , Jones I. D. 
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVESTo estimate the prevalence of subclinical abnormalities reported in thoracic (CT) scans of cats and to investigate associations between respiratory signs and CT signs.METHODSRetrospective review of signalment, indications, respiratory signs and reported CT findings in a series of cats. Associations between patient variables, respiratory signs and CT signs were analysed using multi‐variable regression methods.RESULTSRecords of 352 consecutive cats were reviewed. Abnormalities affecting thoracic structures were reported in CT scans of 138/179 (77%) cats that did not have respiratory signs; the most prevalent CT findings were pulmonary collapse (41%), evidence of bronchial disease (24%) and space‐occupying lesions (21%). Dyspnoea, cough and tachypnoea were associated with space‐occupying lesions. Dyspnoea was also associated with pulmonary consolidation and atelectasis. Increasing body weight was associated with pulmonary atelectasis and increasing age was associated with evidence of bronchial disease.CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCEAbnormalities were commonly detected in thoracic CT scans of cats that did not show respiratory signs. The most prevalent abnormality – pulmonary atelectasis – is probably a temporary effect of sedation or anaesthesia. A high prevalence of subclinical abnormalities and limited correlations between clinical signs and CT findings will complicate diagnosis.
Taking Action to Reduce Waste: Quantifying Impacts of Model Use in a Multiorganizational Sustainability Negotiation
Authors: Czaika Ellen , Selin Noelle E. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractWe use a role‐play simulation to examine how using quantitative models influences the process and outcome of sustainability negotiations. Our experimental approach involved 74 teams of five parties negotiating the details of a pilot test to compost and/or recycle used paper coffee cups. Approximately half of these negotiation teams were given a quantitative model—a life cycle assessment (LCA). We measured both negotiation process and outcome variables, in particular identifying favorable agreements—the mutually exclusive set of agreements that either minimized carbon dioxide emissions or maximized the parties’ collective earned value. We found that most teams used a quantitative model; nearly half of those cocreated their own while negotiating. In our sample, teams that used a model, even those cocreating the model while negotiating, reached agreement more quickly than teams not using a model. Teams that cocreated the LCA reached a higher number of favorable agreements. We observed two dominant manners of model use: using the model to test alternatives while developing an agreement and verifying that a tentative agreement would sufficiently reduce carbon dioxide emissions. We conclude that using a quantitative model during a sustainability negotiation can help to increase the chances of obtaining a favorable agreement without lengthening the negotiation duration.
Rye B chromosomes encode a functional Argonaute‐like protein with in vitro slicer activities similar to its A chromosome paralog
Authors: Ma Wei , Gabriel Tobias Sebastian , Martis Mihaela Maria , Gursinsky Torsten , Schubert Veit , Vrána Jan , Doležel Jaroslav , Grundlach Heidrun , Altschmied Lothar , Scholz Uwe , Himmelbach Axel , Behrens Sven‐Erik , Banaei‐Moghaddam Ali Mohammad , Houben Andreas 
Published: July 2016

Summary

B chromosomes (Bs) are supernumerary, dispensable parts of the nuclear genome, which appear in many different species of eukaryote. So far, Bs have been considered to be genetically inert elements without any functional genes.

Our comparative transcriptome analysis and the detection of active RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) in the proximity of B chromatin demonstrate that the Bs of rye (Secale cereale) contribute to the transcriptome. In total, 1954 and 1218 B‐derived transcripts with an open reading frame were expressed in generative and vegetative tissues, respectively. In addition to B‐derived transposable element transcripts, a high percentage of short transcripts without detectable similarity to known proteins and gene fragments from A chromosomes (As) were found, suggesting an ongoing gene erosion process.

In vitro analysis of the A‐ and B‐encoded AGO4B protein variants demonstrated that both possess RNA slicer activity. These data demonstrate unambiguously the presence of a functional AGO4B gene on Bs and that these Bs carry both functional protein coding genes and pseudogene copies.

Thus, B‐encoded genes may provide an additional level of gene control and complexity in combination with their related A‐located genes. Hence, physiological effects, associated with the presence of Bs, may partly be explained by the activity of B‐located (pseudo)genes.
Ectopic expression of NnPER1, a Nelumbo nucifera 1‐cysteine peroxiredoxin antioxidant, enhances seed longevity and stress tolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Hu‐hui , Chu Pu , Zhou Yu‐liang , Ding Yu , Li Yin , Liu Jun , Jiang Li‐wen , Huang Shang‐zhi 
Published: July 2016

SummarySeed longevity, the maintenance of viability during storage, is a major factor for conservation of genetic resources and biodiversity. Seed longevity is an important trait of agriculture crop and is impaired by reactive oxygen species (ROS) during seed desiccation, storage and germination (C. R. Biol., 331, 2008 and 796). Seeds possess a wide range of systems (protection, detoxification, repair) allowing them to survive during storage and to preserve a high germination ability. In many plants, 1‐cys peroxiredoxin (1‐Cys Prx, also named PER1) is a seed‐specific antioxidant which eliminates ROS with cysteine residues. Here we identified and characterized a seed‐specific PER1 protein from seeds of sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.). Purified NnPER1 protein protects DNA against the cleavage by ROS in the mixed‐function oxidation system. The transcription and protein accumulation of NnPER1 increased during seed desiccation and imbibition and under abiotic stress treatment. Ectopic expression of NnPER1 in Arabidopsis enhanced the seed germination ability after controlled deterioration treatment (CDT), indicating that NnPER1 improves seed longevity of transgenic plants. Consistent with the function of NnPER1 on detoxifying ROS, we found that the level of ROS release and lipid peroxidation was strikingly lower in transgenic seeds compared to wild‐type with or without CDT. Furthermore, transgenic Arabidopsis seeds ectopic‐expressing NnPER1 displayed enhanced tolerance to high temperature and abscisic acid (ABA), indicating that NnPER1 may participate in the thermotolerance and ABA signaling pathway.
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER MODEL FOR THE LIBYAN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION INDUSTRY
Authors: Hassan Ali , Jamaluddin Md. Yusoff , Queiri Abdelbaset 
Published: July 2016

This paper surveys the existing Technology transfer (TT) models developed across different industries. The aim is to develop and empirically test a model that describes the TT process of embracing foreign advanced technology by ICT and ICT-based SME projects in Libya. The developed model defines the following factors (enablers) that influence the ITT process, which is TT government support initiatives, transferor characteristics, transferee characteristics, TT environment, learning centers, and their respective sub-factors (variables). The outcome (achievements) factors are identified and explained through their relevant sub-factors. To verify the model and investigate the interrelations between the model’s factors a questionnaire survey was conducted in Libyan ICT projects where the TT process was involved. Statistical analysis methods were used to analyze the data collected. The respondents indicated that transferee’s characteristics were the most important factor with the highest impact that will result in an effective TT process. Moreover, the results showed that most factors chosen for this study are relevant towards an effective TT process. Economic development was perceived to be the most meaningful outcome of a successful TT process, followed by knowledge improvement, the firm’s performance, and development as well as the survival of ICT-based SMEs. This paper is a part of an ongoing study to develop ITT model for the Libyan ICT industry.
CONTROL OF A COUPLED TANK SYSTEM USING PI CONTROLLER WITH ADVANCED CONTROL METHODS
Authors: Nai Ho Ling , Abdul Wahab Norhaliza , A. Shehu Ibrahim , Alhassan A. , Albool I. , Ibnihajar N. , Othman B. M. , Zainal M. S. , Ibrahim M. J. , Rasol M. S. 
Published: July 2016

The liquid level control in tanks and flow control between cascaded or coupled tanks are the basic control problems exist in process industries nowadays. Liquids are to be pumped, stored or mixed in tanks for various types of chemical processes and all these require essential control and regulation of flow and liquid level. In this paper, different types of tuning methods are proposed for Proportional-Integral (PI) controller and are further improved with integration of Advanced Process Control (APC) method such as feedforward and gain scheduling to essentially control the liquid level in Tank 2 of a coupled tank system. The MATLAB/Simulink tools are used to design PI controller using pole-placement, Ciancone, Cohen Coon and modified Ziegler-Nichols tuning method with Cohen Coon tuning method found to have a better performance. Advanced process control such as feedforward-plus-PI, Gain Scheduling (GS) based PI, Internal Model Control (IMC) based PI, feedforward-plus-GS-based PI and feedforward-plus-IMC-based PI controllers are further tested as improvement version to further compare the significance of the advanced process control outcomes hence GS-PI, improved GI-base PI-plus FF found to have better performance. The GS method is built over five operating points to approximate the system’s nonlinearity and is eventually combined with feedforward control to yield a much better performance.