36 monocyte subpopulations counts and associations with global longitudinal strain in st-elevation myocardial infarction patients with normal ejection fraction

Introduction - Monocytes, with 3 different subsets, are implicated in the initiation and progression of the atherosclerotic plaque contributing to plaque instability and rupture. Mon1 are the “classical” monocytes with inflammatory action, whilst Mon3 are considered reparative with fibroblast deposition ability. The function of the newly described Mon2 subset is yet to be fully described. In PCI era, fewer patients have globally reduced left ventricular ejection fraction post infarction, hence the importance of studying regional wall motion abnormalities and deformation at segmental levels using longitudinal strain. Little is known of the role for the 3 monocyte subpopulations in determining global strain in ST elevation myocardial infarction patients (STEMI). Conclusion In patients with normal or mildly impaired EF post infarction, higher counts of Mon1 and Mon2 are correlated with GLS within 7 days and at 6 months of remodelling post infarction. Adverse clinical outcomes in patients with reduced convalescent GLS were predicted with Mon1 and Mon2 suggestive of an inflammatory role for the newly identified Mon2 subpopulation. These results imply an important role for monocytes in myocardial healing when assessed by subclinical ventricular function indices. Methodology - STEMI patients (n = 101, mean age 64 ± 13 years; 69% male) treated with percutaneous revascularisation were recruited within 24 h post-infarction. Peripheral blood monocyte subpopulations were enumerated and characterised using flow cytometry after staining for CD14, CD16 and CCR2. Phenotypically, monocyte subpopulations are defined as: CD14++CD16-CCR2+ (Mon1), CD14++CD16+CCR2+ (Mon2) and CD14+CD16++CCR2- (Mon3). Phagocytic activity of monocytes was measured using flow cytometry and Ecoli commercial kit. Transthoracic 2D echocardiography was performed within 7 days and at 6 months post infarct to assess global longitudinal strain (GLS) via speckle tracking. MACE was defined as recurrent acute coronary syndrome and death. Results - STEMI patients with EF ≥50% by Simpson’s biplane (n = 52) had GLS assessed. Using multivariate regression analysis higher counts of Mon1 and Mon 2 and phagocytic activity of Mon2 were significantly associated with GLS (after adjusting for age, time to hospital presentation, and peak troponin levels) (Table 1). At 6 months, the convalescent GLS remained associated with higher counts of Mon1, Mon 2. At one year follow up, using multivariate Cox regression analysis, Mon1 and Mon2 counts were an independent predictor of MACE in patients with a reduced GLS (n = 21)

Shifting N and P limitation along a north-south gradient of mangrove estuaries in South Florida

A multivariate statistical analysis was applied to a 10 year, multiparameter data set in an effort to describe the spatial dependence and inherent variation of water quality patterns in the mangrove estuaries of Ten Thousand Islands – Whitewater Bay area. Principal component analysis (PCA) of 16 water quality parameters collected monthly resulted in five groupings, which explained 72.5% of the variance of the original variables. The “Organic” component (PCI) was composed of alkaline phosphatase activity, total organic nitrogen, and total organic carbon; the “Dissolved Inorganic N” component (PCII) contained NO 3 − , NO 2 − , and NH 4 + ; the “Phytoplankton” component (PCIII) was made up of total phosphorus, chlorophyll a, and turbidity; dissolved oxygen and temperature were inversely related (PCIV); and salinity and soluble reactive phosphorus made up PCV. A cluster analysis of the mean and SD of PC scores resulted in the spatial aggregation of the 47 fixed stations into six classes having similar water quality, which we defined as: Mangrove Rivers, Whitewater Bay, Gulf Islands, Coot Bay, Blackwater River, and Inland Waterway. Marked differences in physical, chemical, and biological characteristics among classes were illustrated by this technique. Comparison of medians and variability of parameters among classes allowed large scale generalizations as to underlying differences in water quality in these regions. A strong south to north gradient in estuaries from high N - low P to low N - high P was ascribed to marked differences in landuse, freshwater input, geomorphology, and sedimentary geology along this tract. The ecological significance of this gradient discussed along with potential effects of future restoration plans.

The effects of age, ethnicity, sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, masculinity, and relationship with the partner on the quality of life of men with prostate cancer

Prostate cancer, the leading cause of cancer in men, has positive survival rates and constitutes a challenge to men with its side effects. Studies have addressed the bivaritate relationships between prostate cancer treatment side effects masculinity, partner relationship, and quality of life (QOL). However, few studies have highlighted the relationships among prostate cancer treatment side effects (i.e., sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence), masculinity, and relationship with the partner together on QOL in men. Most studies were conducted with predominately Caucasian sample of men. Miami is a unique multiethnic setting that hosts Cuban, Columbian, Venezuelan, Haitian, other Latin American and Caribbean communities that were not represented in previous literature. The purpose of this study was to examine relative contributions of age, ethnicity, sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, masculinity, and perception of the relationship with the partner on the quality of life in men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Data were collected using self administered questionnaires measuring demographic variables, sexual and urinary functioning (UCLA PCI), masculinity (CMNI), partner relationship (DAS), and QOL (SF-36). A total of 117 partnered heterosexual men diagnosed with prostate cancer were recruited from four urology clinics in Miami, Florida. Men were 67.47 (SD = 8.42) years old and identified themselves to be of Hispanic origin (54.3 %, n = 63). Findings demonstrated that there was a significant moderate negative relationship between urinary and sexual functioning of men. There was a significant strong negative association between men's perceived relationship with partner and masculinity. There was a weak negative relationship between the partner relationship and QOL. Hierarchal multiple regression showed that the partner relationship (β = -.25, t (91) = -2.28, p = .03) significantly contributed overall to QOL. These findings highlight the importance of the relationship satisfaction in the QOL of men with prostate cancer. Nursing interventions to enhance QOL for these men should consider strengthening the relationship and involving the female partner as an active participant.^

Impact of age on access site-related outcomes in 469,983 percutaneous coronary intervention procedures : Insights from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society

© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Impact of age on access site-related outcomes in 469,983 percutaneous coronary intervention procedures : Insights from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society

© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Mercury and selenium binding biomolecules in terrestrial mammals (Cervus elaphus and Sus scrofa) from a mercury exposed area

Acknowledgements The authors are grateful to Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha (PCC-05-004-2, PAI06-0094, PCI-08-0096, PEII09-0032-5329) and the Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (CTQ2013-48411-P) for financial support. M.J. Patiño Ropero acknowledges the Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha for her PhD. fellowship.

Implication des PPARgamma dans l'effet cardioprotecteur des endocannabinoïdes et du préconditionnement ischémique

Mémoire numérisé par la Direction des bibliothèques de l'Université de Montréal.

Implication des PPARgamma dans l'effet cardioprotecteur des endocannabinoïdes et du préconditionnement ischémique

Mémoire numérisé par la Direction des bibliothèques de l'Université de Montréal.

TIC, clase social y género : La constitución de desigualdades sociales y digitales en las juventudes argentinas

En el presente trabajo presentaremos conclusiones preliminares de una investigación en curso que aborda el vínculo entre las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) y las desigualdades sociales a partir de la apropiación de las TIC desarrollada por jóvenes en el contexto de implementación del Programa Conectar Igualdad (PCI). El propósito de esta ponencia es comprender el modo en que la clase social y el género se relacionan e intervienen en la constitución de las desigualdades digitales. Para alcanzar este objetivo, se compararon las trayectorias de acceso y apropiación de las TIC de jóvenes de sectores medios - altos y sectores populares urbanos del Gran La Plata, a partir del análisis de los datos obtenidos de la aplicación de un cuestionario a jóvenes beneficiarios del PCI. Los principales hallazgos son en términos de acceso, desarrollo de habilidades y tipos de uso de las TIC. Por un lado, se evidencia un impacto positivo del PCI en los sectores populares ya que posibilita el acceso a las TIC desde el hogar, teniendo especial incidencia en las jóvenes que al contar con una netbook propia ya no asisten a cibercafés, ámbitos percibidos como preferentemente masculinos. A su vez, en los sectores populares se advierten brechas digitales de género, ya que las jóvenes suelen estar encargadas de tareas hogareñas (cuidado de hermanos y sobrinos, limpieza, cocina) dedicando gran parte de su tiempo a éstas, en detrimento de momentos de esparcimiento con la computadora. En cambio, las jóvenes de sectores medios y altos, presentan historias personales y familiares caracterizadas por un acceso a las TIC y a otros dispositivos tecnológicos variado y extendido en el tiempo. Éste tipo de acceso, pareciera haber posibilitado prácticas de sociabilidad y de comunicación en donde la computadora, Internet y los teléfonos celulares son elementos "naturales" de la vida cotidiana

Digital and Social Inequalities : A Qualitative Assessment of the Impact of the Connecting Equality Program on Argentinean Youth

This paper focuses on the ties between social and digital inequalities among Argentinean youth. It uses a qualitative approach to explore different aspects of the everyday lives of adolescents, such as sociability, leisure time and family use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), in order to assess the impact of the Connecting Equality Program (Programa Conectar Igualdad, PCI) on reducing digital inequalities and fostering social inclusion. What were the existing conditions of access for students and their families when the PCI was first implemented? What influence does the implementation of the PCI have on the individual, family and scholastic appropriation of ICTs? How does the use of computers and the Internet vary among youth? Has this large-scale incorporation of netbooks in schools, and especially homes and free time changed it in any way? Does the appropriation of ICTs through student participation in the PCI contribute to material and symbolic social inclusion? In order to answer these questions, we compare the processes of ICT appropriation among lower and middle class adolescents, focusing on the distinctive uses and meanings assigned to computers and the Internet by boys and girls in their daily lives. For this purpose we analyze data collected through semi-structured interviews in two schools in Greater La Plata, Argentina during 2012. The main findings show that in terms of access, skills and types of use, the implementation of the PCI has had a positive impact among lower class youth, guaranteeing access to their first computers and promoting the sharing of knowledge and digital skills with family members. Moreover, evidence of more diverse and intense use of ICTs among lower class students reveals the development of digital skills related to educational activities. Finally, in terms of sociability, having a personal netbook enables access to information and cultural goods which are very significant in generating ties and strengthening identities and social integration

Digital and Social Inequalities : A Qualitative Assessment of the Impact of the Connecting Equality Program on Argentinean Youth

This paper focuses on the ties between social and digital inequalities among Argentinean youth. It uses a qualitative approach to explore different aspects of the everyday lives of adolescents, such as sociability, leisure time and family use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), in order to assess the impact of the Connecting Equality Program (Programa Conectar Igualdad, PCI) on reducing digital inequalities and fostering social inclusion. What were the existing conditions of access for students and their families when the PCI was first implemented? What influence does the implementation of the PCI have on the individual, family and scholastic appropriation of ICTs? How does the use of computers and the Internet vary among youth? Has this large-scale incorporation of netbooks in schools, and especially homes and free time changed it in any way? Does the appropriation of ICTs through student participation in the PCI contribute to material and symbolic social inclusion? In order to answer these questions, we compare the processes of ICT appropriation among lower and middle class adolescents, focusing on the distinctive uses and meanings assigned to computers and the Internet by boys and girls in their daily lives. For this purpose we analyze data collected through semi-structured interviews in two schools in Greater La Plata, Argentina during 2012. The main findings show that in terms of access, skills and types of use, the implementation of the PCI has had a positive impact among lower class youth, guaranteeing access to their first computers and promoting the sharing of knowledge and digital skills with family members. Moreover, evidence of more diverse and intense use of ICTs among lower class students reveals the development of digital skills related to educational activities. Finally, in terms of sociability, having a personal netbook enables access to information and cultural goods which are very significant in generating ties and strengthening identities and social integration

TIC, clase social y género : La constitución de desigualdades sociales y digitales en las juventudes argentinas

En el presente trabajo presentaremos conclusiones preliminares de una investigación en curso que aborda el vínculo entre las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) y las desigualdades sociales a partir de la apropiación de las TIC desarrollada por jóvenes en el contexto de implementación del Programa Conectar Igualdad (PCI). El propósito de esta ponencia es comprender el modo en que la clase social y el género se relacionan e intervienen en la constitución de las desigualdades digitales. Para alcanzar este objetivo, se compararon las trayectorias de acceso y apropiación de las TIC de jóvenes de sectores medios - altos y sectores populares urbanos del Gran La Plata, a partir del análisis de los datos obtenidos de la aplicación de un cuestionario a jóvenes beneficiarios del PCI. Los principales hallazgos son en términos de acceso, desarrollo de habilidades y tipos de uso de las TIC. Por un lado, se evidencia un impacto positivo del PCI en los sectores populares ya que posibilita el acceso a las TIC desde el hogar, teniendo especial incidencia en las jóvenes que al contar con una netbook propia ya no asisten a cibercafés, ámbitos percibidos como preferentemente masculinos. A su vez, en los sectores populares se advierten brechas digitales de género, ya que las jóvenes suelen estar encargadas de tareas hogareñas (cuidado de hermanos y sobrinos, limpieza, cocina) dedicando gran parte de su tiempo a éstas, en detrimento de momentos de esparcimiento con la computadora. En cambio, las jóvenes de sectores medios y altos, presentan historias personales y familiares caracterizadas por un acceso a las TIC y a otros dispositivos tecnológicos variado y extendido en el tiempo. Éste tipo de acceso, pareciera haber posibilitado prácticas de sociabilidad y de comunicación en donde la computadora, Internet y los teléfonos celulares son elementos "naturales" de la vida cotidiana

Massive inclusion of digital technologies in schools : Argentinian young adolescents? appropriation of computers and the Internet in popular and middle classes

Since the implementation of the Programa Conectar Igualdad (PCI) (Connecting Equality Program) in 2010 in Argentina, numerous Social Science specialists started to research how massive ICT introduction in schools would radically affect teaching and learning processes, knowledge building and youth behaviour. Nevertheless, there is still not much empirical evidence showing the ways in which these technologies are appropriated. This situation discloses the need of placing research questions locally situated with regard to those potential changes. What existing access methods does PCI encounter? And how does its implementation participate in the design of personal and family heterogeneous trajectories of ICTs appropriation? How do the students themselves perceive the infl uence of PCI on their own technologic abilities and competence? How do knowledge and aptitudes associated to new digital media articulate with the knowledge manners promoted by the school format and institutionalism? How does the massive introduction of netbooks affect the interaction among different school actors (students-teachers)? What happens in other sociability and socialization spaces, such as the house and cybercafé?

Digital and Social Inequalities : A Qualitative Assessment of the Impact of the Connecting Equality Program on Argentinean Youth

This paper focuses on the ties between social and digital inequalities among Argentinean youth. It uses a qualitative approach to explore different aspects of the everyday lives of adolescents, such as sociability, leisure time and family use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), in order to assess the impact of the Connecting Equality Program (Programa Conectar Igualdad, PCI) on reducing digital inequalities and fostering social inclusion. What were the existing conditions of access for students and their families when the PCI was first implemented? What influence does the implementation of the PCI have on the individual, family and scholastic appropriation of ICTs? How does the use of computers and the Internet vary among youth? Has this large-scale incorporation of netbooks in schools, and especially homes and free time changed it in any way? Does the appropriation of ICTs through student participation in the PCI contribute to material and symbolic social inclusion? In order to answer these questions, we compare the processes of ICT appropriation among lower and middle class adolescents, focusing on the distinctive uses and meanings assigned to computers and the Internet by boys and girls in their daily lives. For this purpose we analyze data collected through semi-structured interviews in two schools in Greater La Plata, Argentina during 2012. The main findings show that in terms of access, skills and types of use, the implementation of the PCI has had a positive impact among lower class youth, guaranteeing access to their first computers and promoting the sharing of knowledge and digital skills with family members. Moreover, evidence of more diverse and intense use of ICTs among lower class students reveals the development of digital skills related to educational activities. Finally, in terms of sociability, having a personal netbook enables access to information and cultural goods which are very significant in generating ties and strengthening identities and social integration

TIC, clase social y género : La constitución de desigualdades sociales y digitales en las juventudes argentinas

En el presente trabajo presentaremos conclusiones preliminares de una investigación en curso que aborda el vínculo entre las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) y las desigualdades sociales a partir de la apropiación de las TIC desarrollada por jóvenes en el contexto de implementación del Programa Conectar Igualdad (PCI). El propósito de esta ponencia es comprender el modo en que la clase social y el género se relacionan e intervienen en la constitución de las desigualdades digitales. Para alcanzar este objetivo, se compararon las trayectorias de acceso y apropiación de las TIC de jóvenes de sectores medios - altos y sectores populares urbanos del Gran La Plata, a partir del análisis de los datos obtenidos de la aplicación de un cuestionario a jóvenes beneficiarios del PCI. Los principales hallazgos son en términos de acceso, desarrollo de habilidades y tipos de uso de las TIC. Por un lado, se evidencia un impacto positivo del PCI en los sectores populares ya que posibilita el acceso a las TIC desde el hogar, teniendo especial incidencia en las jóvenes que al contar con una netbook propia ya no asisten a cibercafés, ámbitos percibidos como preferentemente masculinos. A su vez, en los sectores populares se advierten brechas digitales de género, ya que las jóvenes suelen estar encargadas de tareas hogareñas (cuidado de hermanos y sobrinos, limpieza, cocina) dedicando gran parte de su tiempo a éstas, en detrimento de momentos de esparcimiento con la computadora. En cambio, las jóvenes de sectores medios y altos, presentan historias personales y familiares caracterizadas por un acceso a las TIC y a otros dispositivos tecnológicos variado y extendido en el tiempo. Éste tipo de acceso, pareciera haber posibilitado prácticas de sociabilidad y de comunicación en donde la computadora, Internet y los teléfonos celulares son elementos "naturales" de la vida cotidiana