bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New Universal Strain Software Accurately Assesses Cardiac Systolic and Diastolic Function Using Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Kolias Theodore J. , Hagan Peter G. , Chetcuti Stanley J. , Eberhart Diane L. , Kline Nicole M. , Lucas Sean D. , Hamilton James D. 
Published: January 2014

BackgroundWe have developed new universal strain software (USS) that can be used to perform speckle tracking of any Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) image, regardless of the ultrasound system used to obtain it.MethodsFifty patients prospectively underwent echocardiography immediately prior to cardiac catheterization. Biplane peak global longitudinal strain (GLS), peak systolic longitudinal strain rate (SSR), peak early diastolic longitudinal strain rate (DSR), and peak early diastolic circumferential strain rate (DCSR) were determined using conventional strain software (CSS) that uses raw data, and using the new USS applied to DICOM images.ResultsUniversal strain software correlated with CSS for GLS (r = 0.78, P < 0.001), SSR (r = 0.78, P < 0.001), DSR (r = 0.54, P < 0.001), and DCSR (r = 0.43, P = 0.019). GLS and SSR using USS correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (r = −0.67 and −0.71, respectively) as well as using CSS (r = −0.66 and −0.71). Patients with diastolic dysfunction had significantly lower DSR (0.61 vs. 0.87/sec, P = 0.02) and DCSR (0.89 vs. 1.23/sec, P = 0.03), and less negative GLS (−10.8 vs. −16.1%, P = 0.002) using USS in all patients, as well as among those with LVEF ≥ 50%. Receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) analysis for detection of diastolic dysfunction revealed a sensitivity and specificity of 82% and 83% for DCSR < 1.09/sec (area under the curve [AUC = 0.80]) and 85% and 83% for GLS > −13.7% (AUC = 0.84) using USS.ConclusionUniversal strain software can be used to accurately assess LV systolic and diastolic function using speckle tracking echocardiography.
A reduction in Ptprq associated with specific features of the deafness phenotype of the miR‐96 mutant mouse diminuendo
Authors: Chen Jing , Johnson Stuart L. , Lewis Morag A. , Hilton Jennifer M. , Huma Andreea , Marcotti Walter , Steel Karen P. 
Published: January 2014

AbstractmiR‐96 is a microRNA, a non‐coding RNA gene which regulates a wide array of downstream genes. The miR‐96 mouse mutant diminuendo exhibits deafness and arrested hair cell functional and morphological differentiation. We have previously shown that several genes are markedly downregulated in the diminuendo organ of Corti; one of these is Ptprq, a gene known to be important for maturation and maintenance of hair cells. In order to study the contribution that downregulation of Ptprq makes to the diminuendo phenotype, we carried out microarrays, scanning electron microscopy and single hair cell electrophysiology to compare diminuendo mutants (heterozygous and homozygous) with mice homozygous for a functional null allele of Ptprq. In terms of both morphology and electrophysiology, the auditory phenotype of mice lacking Ptprq resembles that of diminuendo heterozygotes, while diminuendo homozygotes are more severely affected. A comparison of transcriptomes indicates there is a broad similarity between diminuendo homozygotes and Ptprq‐null mice. The reduction in Ptprq observed in diminuendo mice appears to be a major contributor to the morphological, transcriptional and electrophysiological phenotype, but does not account for the complete diminuendo phenotype.
Review of cold water pollution in the Murray–Darling Basin and the impacts on fish communities
Authors: Lugg Allan , Copeland Craig 
Published: January 2014

SummaryThe release of water from deep below the surface of large dams causes significant disturbance to water temperature regimes in downstream river channels with consequent impacts upon aquatic biota and river health. The Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) has a large number of dams, which are known to cause cold water pollution (CWP) in the downstream reaches of the impounded rivers. This study reviews the situation with regard to CWP in the MDB including the location, magnitude and extent of temperature suppression, the impacts upon fish, constraints and progress towards ameliorating the problem.
Holocene vertebrate fossils aid the management and restoration of Australian ecosystems
Authors: McDowell Matthew C. 
Published: January 2014

SummaryEuropean‐settlement‐related impacts over the past 200 years pose many challenges for the conservation and restoration of Australia's ecosystems. Landscape modification, associated habitat loss and the introduction of exotic species have caused the extinction and mainland extirpation of numerous vertebrates. This process happened so quickly that many species became locally or functionally extinct before their presence was documented. A growing body of research on Holocene fossil accumulations is providing insights into the composition and biogeography of Australian ecosystems prior to European settlement. This review explores the similarities between palaeo‐ and neo‐ecology and how Holocene (last 10,000 years) assemblages can be used by neo‐ecologists, conservation managers and policy makers to identify and fill gaps in knowledge and contribute to the management and restoration of Australia's degraded ecosystems.
Thirty years of vegetation dynamics in response to a fluctuating rabbit population on sub‐Antarctic Macquarie Island
Authors: Whinam Jennie , Fitzgerald Nicholas , Visoiu Micah , Copson Geof 
Published: January 2014

SummaryAustralia's sub‐Antarctic Macquarie Island is presently undergoing one of the most ambitious vertebrate pest eradication programmes ever undertaken. The anticipated success of this programme will release the island's tundra‐like vegetation from well over a century of grazing and disturbance from House Mouse (Mus musculus), Ship Rat (Rattus rattus) and most significantly European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). This study describes results from 30 years of vegetation quadrat monitoring (prior to the most recent and comprehensive pest eradication programme) when lower level pest animal control programmes were underway. Plant species were assigned to one of five distinct functional plant groups: Indigenous short‐lived perennials, Introduced short‐lived perennials, Indigenous perennials rarely grazed by rabbits, Indigenous perennials occasionally grazed by rabbits and Indigenous long‐lived perennials heavily grazed by rabbits, with one species, Agrostis magellanica, analysed as a sixth monospecific group. Results from monthly rabbit counts were used to compare changes in abundance of these six groups under different rabbit populations. It was found that there were three distinct phases of rabbit activity during the study period, indicated by (i) an initial very high count year in 1980–1981, followed by (ii) 20 years of low counts ending in 2001–2002 after which (iii) counts rose to medium/high until the commencement of the eradication programme in 2010–2011. Vegetation composition and progression were distinct for these three rabbit count phases. The first four of the plant functional groups decreased under lower count periods and increased in cover under higher rabbit count periods. Agrostis magellanica appears to respond primarily to interspecies competition and is disadvantaged under extended periods of low rabbit numbers. Indigenous long‐lived perennials heavily grazed by rabbits, which includes the large tussocks and megaherbs, is inversely related to rabbit numbers. During the study period, there has also been an overall decline in plant species richness with average species count per quadrat falling by between 0.6 and 2.7 taxa. This study attempts to address the observed vegetation change from this long‐term monitoring, to discuss other potential contributing factors and to use the results to predict likely future vegetation changes after eradication of vertebrate pests.
Camera trap surveys to evaluate pest animal control operations
Authors: Bengsen Andrew , Robinson Rhett , Chaffey Cameron , Gavenlock Jason , Hornsby Vanessa , Hurst Rob , Fosdick Mark 
Published: January 2014

SummaryMany camera trap surveys aiming to detect the effects of management actions on pest animal populations are not as useful as they could be, because they do not produce informative results. We used mixed effects models, signed ranks tests and occupancy models to examine changes in the activity and occurrence of European red fox (Vulpes vulpes L.) in areas subjected to repeated fox management operations. In agricultural land, mixed effects models identified a decline in fox activity after baiting in 1 year, but not the next. Occupancy models revealed a decrease in fox occurrence in a National Park following control operations. These methods, combined with appropriate survey designs, could greatly enhance the value of many pest animal surveys conducted by management agencies.
Relationship between the MDS‐UPDRS domains and the health‐related quality of life of Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Martínez‐Martín P. , Rodríguez‐Blázquez C. , Forjaz M. J. , Álvarez‐Sánchez M. , Arakaki T. , Bergareche‐Yarza A. , Chade A. , Garretto N. , Gershanik O. , Kurtis M. M. , Martínez‐Castrillo J. C. , Mendoza‐Rodríguez A. , Moore H. P. , Rodríguez‐Violante M. , Singer C. , Tilley B. C. , Huang J. , Stebbins G. T. , Goetz C. G. 
Published: January 2014

Background and purposeThe Movement Disorder Society sponsored version of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS) is a comprehensive instrument for assessing Parkinson's disease (PD). The present study was aimed at determining the relationships between MDS‐UPDRS components and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) evaluations in PD patients.MethodsAn international, multicenter, cross‐sectional study was carried out of 435 PD patients assessed with the MDS‐UPDRS, Hoehn and Yahr (HY), Clinical Impression Severity for PD, EQ‐5D and PD Questionnaire − eight items (PDQ‐8). Spearman's rank correlation coefficients, exploratory factor analysis and multiple linear regression models (dependent variables EQ‐5D and PDQ‐8) were performed.ResultsThe participants’ age was 66.71 ± 10.32 years (51.5% men). PD duration was 8.52 ± 6.14, and median HY was 2 (range 1–5). The correlation between the EQ‐5D index and the MDS‐UPDRS ranged from −0.46 (Part IV) to −0.72 (Part II) and for the PDQ‐8 index from 0.47 (Part III) to 0.74 (Part II). In multiple regression models with the MDS‐UPDRS domains as independent variables, the main determinant for both the EQ‐5D index and the PDQ‐8 was Part II followed by Part I. After factorial grouping of the cardinal PD manifestations embedded in the MDS‐UPDRS Parts III and IV for inclusion into multiple regression models, a factor formed by M‐EDL, nM‐EDL and fluctuations was the main determinant for both the EQ‐5D and PDQ‐8 indexes.ConclusionsThe MDS‐UPDRS component most tightly related with the HRQoL measures was a combination of motor and non‐motor experiences of daily living.
LDL receptor/lipoprotein recognition: endosomal weakening of ApoB and ApoE binding to the convex face of the LR5 repeat
Authors: Martínez‐Oliván Juan , Arias‐Moreno Xabier , Velazquez‐Campoy Adrián , Millet Oscar , Sancho Javier 
Published: January 2014

The molecular mechanism of lipoprotein binding by the low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDLR) is poorly understood, one reason being that structures of lipoprotein–receptor complexes are not available. LDLR uses calcium‐binding repeats (LRs) to interact with apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein E (ApoB and ApoE). We have used NMR and SPR to characterize the complexes formed by LR5 and three peptides encompassing the putative binding regions of ApoB (site A and site B) and ApoE. The three peptides bind at the hydrophilic convex face of LR5, forming complexes that are weakened at low [Ca2+] and low pH. Thus, endosomal conditions favour dissociation of LDLR/lipoprotein complexes regardless of whether active displacement of bound lipoproteins by the β‐propeller in LDLR takes place. The multiple ApoE copies in β very low density lipoproteins (β‐VLDLs), and the presence of two competent binding sites (A and B) in LDLs, suggest that LDLR chelates lipoproteins and enhances complex affinity by using more than one LR.
In‐center hemodialysis attendance: Patient perceptions of risks, barriers, and recommendations
Authors: Chenitz Kara B. , Fernando Michael , Shea Judy A. 
Published: January 2014

AbstractMissed hemodialysis treatments lead to increased morbidity and mortality in the end‐stage renal disease population. Little is known about why patients have difficulty attending their scheduled in‐center dialysis treatments. Semistructured interviews with 15 adherent and 15 nonadherent hemodialysis patients were conducted to determine patients' attitudes about dialysis, health beliefs and risk perception regarding missed treatments, barriers and facilitators to hemodialysis attendance, and recommendations to improve the system to facilitate dialysis attendance. Average time on dialysis was 2.5 years for the nonadherent group and 7.3 years in the adherent group. In both groups, patients felt that dialysis is life‐saving and a necessity. A substantial number of patients in both groups understood that missing hemodialysis treatments is dangerous and several patients could clearly communicate the risk of skipping. The most common barriers to hemodialysis were inadequate or unreliable transportation (mentioned in both groups) and a lack of motivation to get to dialysis or that dialysis is not a priority (typically mentioned by the nonadherent group). Facilitators to hemodialysis attendance included explanations from the health care team regarding the risk of skipping and relationships with other dialysis patients. Patient recommendations to improve dialysis attendance included continued education about the risk of poor attendance and more accessible transportation. Patients did not feel that home dialysis would improve adherence. Hemodialysis patients must adhere to a complex and burdensome regimen. Through the elucidation of barriers and facilitators to hemodialysis attendance and through specific patient recommendations, at least three interventions may be further investigated to improve hemodialysis attendance: Improvement of the transportation system, education and supportive encouragement from the health care team, and peer support mentorship.
Apple pomace as a potential ingredient for the development of new functional foods
Authors: Reis Sofia F. , Rai Dilip K. , Abu‐Ghannam Nissreen 
Published: January 2014

SummaryExtruded snacks and baked scones were formulated with increasing levels (0–30%) of apple pomace (AP). The incorporation of up to 20% of AP in extruded snacks and in baked scones does not change significantly (P < 0.05) the proximate composition of the final products, except for the content of starch of baked scones. At this level of incorporation, the fibre content, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and β‐carotene/linoleic acid system) increased when compared to the products to which no AP was added. Chlorogenic acid and quercetin were the major phenolic compounds found in the products. Loss of phenolic compounds during heat treatment occurred; however, the DPPH radical scavenging activity of final products was not affected.
Effect of hot air, vacuum and infrared drying methods on quality of rose hip (Rosa rubiginosa) leathers
Authors: Quintero Ruiz Natalia A. , Demarchi Silvana M. , Giner Sergio A. 
Published: January 2014

SummaryFor the development of fruit leathers, a formulation containing rose hip pulp, sucrose and citric acid was used as initial material for the drying process. Three dehydration techniques were tested: forced hot air, infrared and vacuum, all carried out at 60 and 70 °C. All methods led to flexible, translucent fruit leathers at both temperatures. Colour and water activity were not affected by the dehydration method nor by the temperatures tested. Nutritional parameters such as antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and content of phenolic substances were measured. The best retention was achieved with vacuum drying at 60 °C being of 57.5% and 25.1%, respectively. ESEM observations were conducted to assess the effect of drying methods and conditions on microstructure of leathers. Various extents of sucrose crystallisation were inferred from surface images. Cross‐sectional micrographs showed that the size of pores was affected by the drying technique but not by temperature in the range studied.
Physical properties of cassava starch–carnauba wax emulsion films as affected by component proportions
Authors: Santos Talita M. , Pinto Alaídes M. B. , de Oliveira Ana Vitória , Ribeiro Hálisson L. , Caceres Carlos Alberto , Ito Edson N. , Azeredo Henriette M. C. 
Published: January 2014

SummaryProperties of glycerol‐plasticised cassava starch–carnauba wax emulsion films were studied as functions of carnauba wax/starch (CW/S) ratios. Increases in CW concentrations improved elongation, but impaired tensile strength and elastic modulus, suggesting a plasticising effect by CW and/or the emulsifier. CW reduced water solubility of the films and decreased their water vapour permeability (WVP) up to CW/S ratios of 0.15–0.20, probably because of the decreased water solubility. Higher CW concentrations resulted in increased WVP, possibly due to starch matrix loosening. The opacity imparted by high CW concentrations in films could compromise some applications. The Tg of starch and the expected CW effects on it were not evidenced by DSC thermograms, but CW seems to have affected starch crystallisation, maybe by forming complexes with amylose and/or amylopectin.
Effects of temperature, pH and light on the stability of aloin A and characterisation of its major degradation products
Authors: Ding Wen‐Jing , Wu Xiao‐Fang , Zhong Jia‐Sheng , Wan Jin‐Zhi 
Published: January 2014

SummaryThis study explored the stability and degradation products of aloin A under varying pH, temperature and light conditions usually encountered in processing. The stability of aloin A was significantly affected by temperature and pH. The content of aloin A decreased by more than 90% within 12 h at 50 °C and within 6 h at 70 °C, respectively. A significant decrease in stability was also observed at higher pHs. At pH 8.0, less than 2% of aloin A remained within 12 h. However, aloin A exhibited good stability at acidic pH levels with 94% remaining at pH 2.0 for 14 days. Light exerted no influence on the stability during the experimental period (14 days). Aloe‐emodin, elgonica‐dimers A and B were characterised as major degradation products of aloin A at pH 5.0 or below, and elgonica‐dimers were mainly formed at 4 °C as well. 10‐hydroxyaloins A and B were found under any condition except at pH 2.0 and 3.0, and they were mainly formed under high temperature, neutral‐basic and any light conditions.
CHADS2 Score/CHA2DS2-VASc Score and Major Artery Occlusion in Cardioembolic Stroke Patients with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Deguchi Ichiro , Hayashi Takeshi , Ohe Yasuko , Kato Yuji , Fukuoka Takuya , Maruyama Hajime , Horiuchi Yohsuke , Sano Hiroyasu , Nagamine Yuito , Tanahashi Norio 
Published: January 2014

Objective The associations between the CHADS2 score/ CHA2DS2-VASc score, and the presence of cerebral vessel occlusion on admission were examined in cardioembolic stroke patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Methods The subjects were 546 consecutive patients hospitalized between April 2007 and December 2012 with onset of cardioembolic stroke associated with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation within 24 h. The associations between the CHADS2 score/CHA2DS2-VASc score and the presence of occluded cerebral vessels on magnetic resonance angiography were evaluated retrospectively. Occluded cerebral vessels were classified into the internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery (M1, M2), basilar artery, and other (anterior cerebral artery [A1], posterior cerebral artery [P1], vertebral artery). Results Major artery occlusion was seen in 52% of patients with CHADS2 score 0, 52% of patients with score 1, 57% with score 2, 75% with score 3, and 75% with score ≥4. As for the CHA2DS2-VASc score, major artery occlusion was seen in 62% of patients with score 0, 49% with score 1, 53% with score 2, 53% with score 3, 65% with score 4, 71% with score 5, and 82% with score ≥6. The incidence of concurrent major arterial occlusion increased as both scores rose. When classified by occluded blood vessel, the incidence of concurrent internal carotid artery occlusion increased as both the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores increased. Conclusion As the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASs scores increased, the incidence of concurrent major arterial occlusion, particularly internal carotid artery occlusion, increased in patients with cardioembolic stroke associated with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
Intraoperative ultrasonography with a surgeon‐manipulated microtransducer during robotic radical prostatectomy
Authors: Shoji Sunao , Aron Monish , de Castro Abreu Andre Luis , Leslie Scott , Ahmadi Hamed , Desai Mihir M , Gill Inderbir S , Ukimura Osamu 
Published: January 2014

AbstractIntraoperative transrectal ultrasonography during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy has been reported to lead to a reduction in surgical margin rates. However, the use of a surgeon‐controlled ultrasound probe that allows for precise manipulation and direct interpretation of the image by a console surgeon has yet to be studied. The aim of the present study was to show initial feasibility using the microtransducer with 9‐mm scan length controlled by the console surgeon during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy in 10 patients. The transducer is designed as a drop‐in probe with a flexible cord for insertion through a laparoscopic port, and is controlled by a robotic arm with the ultrasonographic image shown as a console Tile‐pro display. Intraoperative localization of the biopsy‐proven cancerous hypoechoic lesion was feasible in four out of four cases. The microtransducer facilitated identification of the bladder neck as well as the appropriate level of neurovascular bundle release. Negative surgical margin was achieved in all 10 cases (100%), even though five of 10 patients (50%) had extraprostatic (pT3) disease. Recovery of erectile function and continence was encouraging. In conclusion, intraoperative ultrasound navigation using a drop‐type microtransducer is a novel technique that could enhance the incremental value of the standard information.