bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTER‐ AND INTRAFRACTION MOTION FOR STEREOTACTIC RADIOSURGERY IN DOGS AND CATS USING A MODIFIED BRAINLAB FRAMELESS STEREOTACTIC MASK SYSTEM
Authors: Dieterich Sonja , Zwingenberger Allison , Hansen Katherine , Pfeiffer Isabella , Théon Alain , Kent Michael S.
Published: June 2015

Precise and accurate patient positioning is necessary when doing stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) to ensure adequate dosing to the tumor and sparing of normal tissues. This prospective cross‐sectional study aimed to assess feasibility of a commercially available modified frameless SRS positioning system for use in veterinary radiotherapy patients with brain tumors. Fifty‐one dogs and 12 cats were enrolled. Baseline and verification CT images were acquired. The verification CT images from 32 dogs and five cats had sufficient images for fusion to baseline CT images. A rigid box‐based fusion was performed to determine interfraction motion. Forty‐eight dogs and 11 cats were assessed for intrafraction motion by cine CT. Seventy percent of dogs and 60% of cats had interfraction 3D vector translational shifts >1 mm, with mean values of 1.9 mm in dogs, and 1.8 mm in cats. In dogs muscle wasting was weakly correlated with translational shifts. The maximum angular interfraction motion observed was 6.3° (roll), 3.5° (pitch), and 3.3° (yaw). There was no correlation between angular interfraction motion and weight, brachycephaly, or muscle wasting. Fifty‐seven percent of dogs and 50% of cats had respiration‐related intrafraction motion. Of these, 4.5% of dogs and 10% of cats had intrafraction motion >1 mm. This study demonstrates the modified Brainlab system is feasible for SRS in dogs and cats. The smaller cranial size and difference in anatomy increases setup uncertainty in some animals beyond limits usually accepted in SRS. Image‐guided positioning is recommended to achieve clinically acceptable setup accuracy (<1 mm) for SRS.
A case study to estimate the applicability of secondary structures of SSU‐rRNA gene in taxonomy and phylogenetic analyses of ciliates
Authors: Wang Pu , Gao Feng , Huang Jie , Strüder‐Kypke Michaela , Yi Zhenzhen
Published: June 2015

Phylogenetic studies of ciliates are mainly based on the primary structure information of the nuclear genes. Some regions of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU‐rRNA) gene have distinctive secondary structures, which have demonstrated value as phylogenetic/taxonomic characters. In the current work, we predict the secondary structures of four variable regions (V2, V4, V7 and V9) in the SSU‐rRNA gene of 45 urostylids. Structure comparisons indicate that the V4 region is the most effective in revealing interspecific relationships, while the V9 region appears suitable at the family level or higher. The V2 region also offers some taxonomic information, but is too conserved to reflect phylogenetic relationships at the family or lower level, at least for urostylids. The V7 region is the least informative. We constructed several phylogenetic trees, based on the primary sequence alignment and based on an improved alignment according to the secondary structures. The results suggest that including secondary structure information in phylogenetic analyses provides additional insights into phylogenetic relationships. Using urostylid ciliates as an example, we show that secondary structure information results in a better understanding of their relationships, for example generic relationships within the family Pseudokeronopsidae.
Phylogeny of the reptilian Eimeria: are Choleoeimeria and Acroeimeria valid generic names?
Authors: Megía‐Palma Rodrigo , Martínez Javier , Acevedo Iván , Martín José , García‐Roa Roberto , Ortega Jesús , Peso‐Fernández Marcos , Albaladejo Gonzalo , Cooper Robert D. , Paranjpe Dhanashree A. , Sinervo Barry R. , Merino Santiago
Published: June 2015

Reptiles are the animals with the most described coccidian species among all vertebrates. However, the co‐evolutionary relationships in this host–parasite system have been scarcely studied. Paperna & Landsberg (South African Journal of Zoology, 24, 1989, 345) proposed the independent evolutionary origin of the Eimeria‐like species isolated from reptiles based on morphological and developmental characteristics of their oocysts. Accordingly, they suggested the reclassification of these parasites in two new genera, Choleoeimeria and Acroeimeria. The validity of the genera proposed to classify reptilian Eimeria species remained unresolved due to the lack of species genetically characterized. In this study, we included 18S rRNA gene sequences from seven Eimeria‐like species isolated from five different lizard host families. The phylogenetic analyses confirmed the independent evolutionary origin of the Eimeria‐like species infecting lizards. Within this group, most species were placed into two monophyletic clades. One of them included the species with ellipsoidal oocysts (i.e. Choleoeimeria‐like oocysts), whereas the species with more spheroidal oocysts (i.e. Acroeimeria‐like oocysts) were included in the second one. This result supports the taxonomic validity of the genera Acroeimeria and Choleoeimeria.
Short‐term monocular deprivation alters early components of visual evoked potentials
Authors: Lunghi Claudia , Berchicci Marika , Morrone M. Concetta , Di Russo Francesco
Published: June 2015

Key points

Short‐term monocular deprivation in adult humans produces a perceptual boost of the deprived eye reflecting homeostatic plasticity.

Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) to transient stimuli change after 150 min of monocular deprivation in adult humans.

The amplitude of the C1 component of the VEP at a latency of about 100 ms increases for the deprived eye and decreases for the non‐deprived eye after deprivation, the two effects being highly negatively correlated.

Similarly, the evoked alpha rhythm increases after deprivation for the deprived eye and decreases for the non‐deprived eye.

The data demonstrate that primary visual cortex excitability is altered by a short period of monocular deprivation, reflecting homeostatic plasticity.

Very little is known about plasticity in the adult visual cortex. In recent years psychophysical studies have shown that short‐term monocular deprivation alters visual perception in adult humans. Specifically, after 150 min of monocular deprivation the deprived eye strongly dominates the dynamics of binocular rivalry, reflecting homeostatic plasticity. Here we investigate the neural mechanisms underlying this form of short‐term visual cortical plasticity by measuring visual evoked potentials (VEPs) on the scalp of adult humans during monocular stimulation before and after 150 min of monocular deprivation. We found that monocular deprivation had opposite effects on the amplitude of the earliest component of the VEP (C1) for the deprived and non‐deprived eye stimulation. C1 amplitude increased (+66%) for the deprived eye, while it decreased (−29%) for the non‐deprived eye. Source localization analysis confirmed that the C1 originates in the primary visual cortex. We further report that following monocular deprivation, the amplitude of the peak of the evoked alpha spectrum increased on average by 23% for the deprived eye and decreased on average by 10% for the non‐deprived eye, indicating a change in cortical excitability. These results indicate that a brief period of monocular deprivation alters interocular balance in the primary visual cortex of adult humans by both boosting the activity of the deprived eye and reducing the activity of the non‐deprived eye. This indicates a high level of residual homeostatic plasticity in the adult human primary visual cortex, probably mediated by a change in cortical excitability.
Teacher Compliance and Accuracy in State Assessment of Student Motor Skill Performance
Authors: Hall Tina J. , Hicklin Lori K. , French Karen E.
Published: June 2015

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate teacher compliance with state mandated assessment protocols and teacher accuracy in assessing student motor skill performance.

Method:

Middle school teachers (N = 116) submitted eighth grade student motor skill performance data from 318 physical education classes to a trained monitoring committee to evaluate compliance and data accuracy.

Results:

Eighty-four percent of the data sets met the requirements for acceptance and compliance by the monitoring committee. Accurate assessment of students proved more difficult for teachers when discriminating four performance levels within a rubric (M = 67.17%, SD = 19.79) than simply discerning between competent and incompetent motor skill performance (M = 93.92%, SD = 7.42). Teachers who attended data collection training sessions and curriculum inservice training submitted more compliant and accurate student performance data.

Discussion:

Teacher training is instrumental in the successful use of testing protocols and for discriminating levels within student skill competency. Training should be a part of any district or state mandated assessment program.
A protein fold switch joins the circadian oscillator to clock output in cyanobacteria
Authors: Chang Yong-Gang , Cohen Susan E. , Phong Connie , Myers William K. , Kim Yong-Ick , Tseng Roger , Lin Jenny , Zhang Li , Boyd Joseph S. , Lee Yvonne , Kang Shannon , Lee David , Li Sheng , Britt R. David , Rust Michael J. , Golden Susan S. , LiWang Andy
Published: June 2015

Biochemical basis of a 24-hour clock

Circadian clocks keep organisms in synch with such daily cycles as illumination, activity, and food availability. The circadian clock in cyanobacteria has the necessary 24-hour period despite its three component proteins having biochemical activities that occur on a much faster time scale. Abe
et al.
focused on the cyanobacterial clock component KaiC, an adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) that can autophosphorylate and autodephosphorylate. The slow ATPase activity of KaiC, which is linked to a peptide isomerisation, provided the slow kinetics that set the speed of the 24-hour clock. Chang
et al.
found that another clock component, KaiB, also has slow changes in its protein conformation that help to set the oscillation period of the clock and its signaling output.

Science
, this issue pp.
312
and
324
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Genetically Distinct Variants of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus in the Eastern Region of Thailand
Authors: Cheun-Arom Thaniwan , Temeeyasen Gun , Srijangwad Anchalee , Tripipat Thitima , Sangmalee Suphattra , Vui Dam Thi , Chuanasa Taksina , Tantituvanont Angkana , Nilubol Dachrit
Published: June 2015

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) has continued to cause sporadic outbreaks in Thailand since 2007. Previously, PEDV in Thailand was a new variant containing an insertion and deletion in the spike gene. Herein, full-length genome sequences are reported for two variants of PEDV isolates from pigs displaying diarrhea in Thailand.
Draft Genome Sequences of Ciliovirus and Brinovirus from San Francisco Wastewater
Authors: Greninger Alexander L. , DeRisi Joseph L.
Published: June 2015

We report the draft genome sequences of ciliovirus and brinovirus, two members of a likely new family of RNA viruses assembled from San Francisco wastewater. Based on sequence alignments and a nonuniversal genetic code, we believe these to be the first described RNA viruses of ciliates; however, more work is necessary to confirm their host.
Complete Genome Sequence of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica, Isolated from a T-Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Patient
Authors: Sun Guiqin , Wang Lei , Bao Celimuge , Li Tiansheng , Ma Lili , Chen Li
Published: June 2015

An
Elizabethkingia meningoseptica
infection was detected at the end stage of a patient with T-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The complete genome of this isolated strain, FMS-007, was generated in one contig with a total size of 3,938,967 bp. A preliminary screening indicated that the genome contains drug resistance genes to aminoglycosides and β-lactams. A clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated proteins (CRISPR/Cas) system with 16 direct repeats and 15 spacers was identified.
Complete Genome Sequence of Leptospira interrogans Serovar Bratislava, Strain PigK151
Authors: Alt David P. , Wilson-Welder Jennifer H. , Bayles Darrell O. , Cameron Caroline , Adler Ben , Bulach Dieter M. , Seemann Torsten , Lehane Michael J. , Haines Lee R. , Darby Alistair C. , Hall Neil , Radford Alan D. , Zuerner Richard L.
Published: June 2015

Leptospira interrogansserovar Bratislava infection occurs in multiple domestic and wildlife species and is associated with poor reproductive performance in swine and horses. We present the complete genome assembly of strain PigK151 comprising two chromosomes, CI (4.457 Mbp) and CII (358 kbp).
Complete Genome Sequence of Edwardsiella tarda Isolate FL95-01, Recovered from Channel Catfish
Authors: Reichley Stephen R. , Waldbieser Geoffrey C. , Tekedar Hasan C. , Lawrence Mark L. , Griffin Matt J.
Published: June 2015

Edwardsiella tarda
is a Gram-negative facultative anaerobe that has been isolated from fish, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals, including humans. This is a report of the complete and annotated genome of isolate FL95-01, recovered from channel catfish (
Ictalurus punctatus
).
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Toxigenic Corynebacterium ulcerans Strains
Authors: Domingo Marc-Christian , Fournier Eric , Massé Cynthia , Charest Hugues , Bernard Kathryn , Côté Jean-Charles , Tremblay Cécile
Published: June 2015

Here, we present the draft genome sequences of two toxigenicCorynebacterium ulceransstrains isolated from two different patients: one from a blood sample and the other from a scar exudate following surgery. Although these two strains harbor the diphtheria toxin genetox, no full prophage sequences were found in the flanking regions.
Draft Genome Sequence of Streptacidiphilus oryzae TH49
T
, an Acidophilic Actinobacterium Isolated from Soil
Authors: Kim Yu Ri , Park Sewook , Kim Tae-Su , Kim Min-Kyeong , Han Ji-Hye , Joung Yochan , Kim Seung Bum
Published: June 2015

The draft genome sequence of
Streptacidiphilus oryzae
strain TH49
T
, an acidophilic actinobacterium, was obtained. The draft is composed of six scaffolds totaling 7.8 Mbp, and it contains 6,829 protein-coding genes and 91 RNA genes. Genes related to respiratory nitrate reduction, siderophore production, and biosynthesis of other secondary metabolites were identified.
Candida albicans
Biofilm Development and Its Genetic Control
Authors: Desai Jigar V. , Mitchell Aaron P.
Published: June 2015

The fungus
Candida albicans
is a major source of device-associated infection because of its capacity for biofilm formation. It is part of the natural mucosal flora and thus has access to available niches that can lead to infection. In this chapter we discuss the major properties of
C. albicans
biofilms and the insight that has been gleaned from their genetic determinants. Our specific areas of focus include biofilm structure and development, cell morphology and biofilm formation, biofilm-associated gene expression, the cell surface and adherence, the extracellular matrix, biofilm metabolism, and biofilm drug resistance.
Biofilm Formation by
Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Martinez Luis R. , Casadevall Arturo
Published: June 2015

The fungus
Cryptococcus neoformans
possesses a polysaccharide capsule and can form biofilms on medical devices. The increasing use of ventriculoperitoneal shunts to manage intracranial hypertension associated with cryptococcal meningoencephalitis highlights the importance of investigating the biofilm-forming properties of this organism. Like other microbe-forming biofilms,
C. neoformans
biofilms are resistant to antimicrobial agents and host defense mechanisms, causing significant morbidity and mortality. This chapter discusses the recent advances in the understanding of cryptococcal biofilms, including the role of its polysaccharide capsule in adherence, gene expression, and quorum sensing in biofilm formation. We describe novel strategies for the prevention or eradication of cryptococcal colonization of medical prosthetic devices. Finally, we provide fresh thoughts on the diverse but interesting directions of research in this field that may result in new insights into
C. neoformans
biology.
The Biology of the
Escherichia coli
Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Hufnagel David A. , Depas William H. , Chapman Matthew R.
Published: June 2015

Escherichia coli
is one of the world’s best-characterized organisms, because it has been extensively studied for over a century. However, most of this work has focused on
E. coli
grown under laboratory conditions that do not faithfully simulate its natural environments. Therefore, the historical perspectives on
E. coli
physiology and life cycle are somewhat skewed toward experimental systems that feature
E. coli
growing logarithmically in a test tube. Typically a commensal bacterium,
E. coli
resides in the lower intestines of a slew of animals. Outside of the lower intestine,
E. coli
can adapt and survive in a very different set of environmental conditions. Biofilm formation allows
E. coli
to survive, and even thrive, in environments that do not support the growth of planktonic populations.
E. coli
can form biofilms virtually everywhere: in the bladder during a urinary tract infection, on in-dwelling medical devices, and outside of the host on plants and in the soil. The
E. coli
extracellular matrix (ECM), primarily composed of the protein polymer named curli and the polysaccharide cellulose, promotes adherence to organic and inorganic surfaces and resistance to desiccation, the host immune system, and other antimicrobials. The pathways that govern
E. coli
biofilm formation, cellulose production, and curli biogenesis will be discussed in this article, which concludes with insights into the future of
E. coli
biofilm research and potential therapies.
Regulating the Intersection of Metabolism and Pathogenesis in Gram-positive Bacteria
Authors: Richardson† Anthony R. , Somerville† Greg A. , Sonenshein† Abraham L.
Published: June 2015

Pathogenic bacteria must contend with immune systems that actively restrict the availability of nutrients and cofactors, and create a hostile growth environment. To deal with these hostile environments, pathogenic bacteria have evolved or acquired virulence determinants that aid in the acquisition of nutrients. This connection between pathogenesis and nutrition may explain why regulators of metabolism in nonpathogenic bacteria are used by pathogenic bacteria to regulate both metabolism and virulence. Such coordinated regulation is presumably advantageous because it conserves carbon and energy by aligning synthesis of virulence determinants with the nutritional environment. In Gram-positive bacterial pathogens, at least three metabolite-responsive global regulators, CcpA, CodY, and Rex, have been shown to coordinate the expression of metabolism and virulence genes. In this chapter, we discuss how environmental challenges alter metabolism, the regulators that respond to this altered metabolism, and how these regulators influence the host-pathogen interaction.
Commensal and Pathogenic
Escherichia coli
Metabolism in the Gut
Authors: Conway Tyrrell , Cohen Paul S.
Published: June 2015

E. coli
is a ubiquitous member of the intestinal microbiome. This organism resides in a biofilm comprised of a complex microbial community within the mucus layer where it must compete for the limiting nutrients that it needs to grow fast enough to stably colonize. In this article we discuss the nutritional basis of intestinal colonization. Beginning with basic ecological principles we describe what is known about the metabolism that makes
E. coli
such a remarkably successful member of the intestinal microbiota. To obtain the simple sugars and amino acids that it requires,
E. coli
depends on degradation of complex glycoproteins by strict anaerobes. Despite having essentially the same core genome and hence the same metabolism when grown in the laboratory, different
E. coli
strains display considerable catabolic diversity when colonized in mice. To explain why some
E. coli
mutants do not grow as well on mucus in vitro as their wild type parents yet are better colonizers, we postulate that each one resides in a distinct “Restaurant” where it is served different nutrients because it interacts physically and metabolically with different species of anaerobes. Since enteric pathogens that fail to compete successfully for nutrients cannot colonize, a basic understanding of the nutritional basis of intestinal colonization will inform efforts to develop prebiotics and probiotics to combat infection.
Glycolysis for Microbiome Generation
Authors: Wolfe Alan J.
Published: June 2015

For a generation of microbiologists who study pathogenesis in the context of the human microbiome, understanding the diversity of bacterial metabolism is essential. In this chapter, I briefly describe how and why I became, and remain, interested in metabolism. I then will describe and compare some of the strategies used by bacteria to consume sugars as one example of metabolic diversity. I will end with a plea to embrace metabolism in the endeavor to understand pathogenesis.
Interactions ofVibriospp. with Zooplankton
Authors: Erken Martina , Lutz Carla , McDougald Diane
Published: June 2015

Members of the genusVibrioare known to interact with phyto- and zooplankton in aquatic environments. These interactions have been proven to protect the bacterium from various environmental stresses, serve as a nutrient source, facilitate exchange of DNA, and to serve as vectors of disease transmission. This review highlights the impact ofVibrio-zooplankton interactions at the ecosystem scale and the importance of studies focusing on a wide range ofVibrio-zooplankton interactions. The current knowledge on chitin utilization (i.e., chemotaxis, attachment, and degradation) and the role of these factors in attachment to nonchitinous zooplankton is also presented.
Influence of Environmental Factors onVibriospp. in Coastal Ecosystems
Authors: Johnson Crystal N.
Published: June 2015

Various studies have examined the relationships between vibrios and the environmental conditions surrounding them. However, very few reviews have compiled these studies into cohesive points. This may be due to the fact that these studies examine different environmental parameters, use different sampling, detection, and enumeration methodologies, and occur in diverse geographic locations. The current article is one approach to compile these studies into a cohesive work that assesses the importance of environmental determinants on the abundance of vibrios in coastal ecosystems.
The epidemiology of Kawasaki disease: a global update
Authors: Singh Surjit , Vignesh Pandiarajan , Burgner David
Published: June 2015

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a childhood vasculitis and the most frequent cause of paediatric acquired heart disease in North America, Europe and Japan. It is increasingly recognised in rapidly industrialising countries such as China and India where it may replace rheumatic heart disease as the most common cause of acquired heart disease in children. We review the current global epidemiology of KD and discuss some public health implications.
Prevalence and associated harm of engagement in self-asphyxial behaviours (‘choking game’) in young people: a systematic review
Authors: Busse H , Harrop T , Gunnell D , Kipping R
Published: June 2015

Objective

To assess the prevalence of engagement in self-asphyxial (risk-taking) behaviour (SAB) (‘choking game’) and associated morbidity and mortality in children and young people up to age 20.

Design

Systematic literature review.

Search strategy

Electronic database search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, BIOSIS citation index and the Cochrane register with no language or date limits applied. References of key papers were reviewed, and experts were contacted to identify additional relevant papers.

Eligibility criteria

Systematic reviews, cross-sectional, cohort and case–control studies, and case reports examining SAB with regard to individuals aged 0–20 years, without explicitly stated autoerotic, suicidal or self-harm intentions were included.

Results

Thirty-six relevant studies were identified, and SAB was reported in 10 countries. In North America, France and Colombia, awareness of SAB ranged from 36% to 91% across studies/settings, and the median lifetime prevalence of engagement in SAB was 7.4%. Six studies identified the potential for SAB to be associated with engagement in other risk behaviours. Ninety-nine fatal cases were reported. Of the 24 cases described in detail, most occurred when individuals engaged in SAB alone and used a ligature.

Conclusions

The current evidence on SAB among young people is limited, and stems predominantly from North America and France. Awareness of SAB among young people is high, and engagement varies by setting. Further research is needed to understand the level of risk and harm associated with SAB, and to determine the appropriate public health response.
Silent broken heart (Can shortness of breath be the only presentation of myocardial infarction?)
Authors: Waleed Mohammad , Sachpekidis Vasileios , Bragadeesh Thanjavur , Clark Andrew L
Published: June 2015

A 55-year-old previously healthy man was referred to our cardiology outpatient department (by the respiratory team) due to shortness of breath that started 2–3 months prior. He suddenly became breathless after changing a car wheel with no other associated symptoms. Specifically, he denied ever having had chest pain. His breathlessness got gradually worse preventing him from performing simple everyday activities, such as climbing stairs, and a couple of weeks before presentation, the patient noticed ankle oedema. He was an ex-smoker and drank 3–4 units of alcohol daily. There was a family history of hypertension. He worked as a contract manager in the construction industry. After clinical examination, a transthoracic echocardiogram was performed and the patient was admitted for further investigations. Clinical examination and investigation confirmed missed myocardial infarction with a complication of ventricular aneurysm. The patient was referred to cardiothoracic surgeons for surgical correction of the defect.
Is self-monitoring an effective option for people receiving long-term vitamin K antagonist therapy? A systematic review and economic evaluation
Authors: Sharma Pawana , Scotland Graham , Cruickshank Moira , Tassie Emma , Fraser Cynthia , Burton Christopher , Croal Bernard , Ramsay Craig R , Brazzelli Miriam
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of self-monitoring of coagulation status in people receiving long-term vitamin K antagonist therapy compared with standard clinic care.

Design

Systematic review of current evidence and economic modelling.

Data sources

Major electronic databases were searched up to May 2013. The economic model parameters were derived from the clinical effectiveness review, routine sources of cost data and advice from clinical experts.

Study eligibility criteria

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing self-monitoring versus standard clinical care in people with different clinical conditions. Self-monitoring included both self-management (patients conducted the tests and adjusted their treatment according to an algorithm) and self-testing (patients conducted the tests, but received treatment recommendations from a clinician). Various point-of-care coagulometers were considered.

Results

26 RCTs (8763 participants) were included. Both self-management and self-testing were as safe as standard care in terms of major bleeding events (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.45, p=0.690, and RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.23, p=0.92, respectively). Self-management was associated with fewer thromboembolic events (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.69, p≤0.001) and with a borderline significant reduction in all-cause mortality (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.01, p=0.06) than standard care. Self-testing resulted in a modest increase in time in therapeutic range compared with standard care (weighted mean difference, WMD 4.4%, 95% CI 1.71 to 7.18, p=0.02). Total health and social care costs over 10 years were £7324 with standard care and £7326 with self-monitoring (estimated quality adjusted life year, QALY gain was 0.028). Self-monitoring was found to have ∼80% probability of being cost-effective compared with standard care applying a ceiling willingness-to-pay threshold of £20 000 per QALY gained. Within the base case model, applying the pooled relative effect of thromboembolic events, self-management alone was highly cost-effective while self-testing was not.

Conclusions

Self-monitoring appears to be a safe and cost-effective option.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO CRD42013004944.
SSRI use and risk of fractures among perimenopausal women without mental disorders
Authors: Sheu Yi-han , Lanteigne Amy , Stürmer Til , Pate Virginia , Azrael Deborah , Miller Matthew
Published: June 2015

Background

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were recently approved by the FDA to treat vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. No prior study has directly examined whether fracture risk is increased among perimenopausal women who initiate SSRIs or among a population of women without mental disorders more generally.

Methods

Female patients without mental illness, aged 40–64 years, who initiated SSRIs were compared with a cohort who initiated H2 antagonists (H2As) or proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) in 1998–2010, using data from a claims database. Standardised mortality ratio weighting was applied using the propensity score odds of treatment to adapt the distribution of characteristics among patients starting H2A/PPIs to the distribution among SSRI initiators. Poisson regression estimated risk differences and Cox proportional hazards regression the RR of fractures among new users of SSRIs versus H2A/PPIs. Primary analyses allowed for a 6-month lag period (ie, exposure begins 6 months after initiation) to account for a hypothesised delay in the onset of any clinically meaningful effect of SSRIs on bone mineral density.

Results

Fracture rates were higher among the 137 031 SSRI initiators compared with the 236 294 H2A/PPI initiators, with HRs (SSRI vs H2A/PPI) over 1, 2 and 5 years of 1.76 (95% CI 1.33 to 2.32), 1.73 (95% CI 1.33 to 2.24) and 1.67 (95% CI 1.30 to 2.14), respectively.

Conclusions

SSRIs appear to increase fracture risk among middle-aged women without psychiatric disorders, an effect sustained over time, suggesting that shorter duration of treatment may decrease fracture risk. Future efforts should examine whether this association pertains at lower doses.
The influence of chronic health problems and work-related factors on loss of paid employment among older workers
Authors: Leijten Fenna R M , de Wind Astrid , van den Heuvel Swenne G , Ybema Jan Fekke , van der Beek Allard J , Robroek Suzan J W , Burdorf Alex
Published: June 2015

Background

With an ageing society and increasing retirement ages, it is important to understand how employability can be promoted in older workers with health problems. The current study aimed to determine whether (1) different chronic health problems predict transitions from paid employment to disability benefits, unemployment and early retirement, and (2) how work-related factors modify these associations.

Methods

Self-report questionnaire data was used from the Dutch longitudinal Study on Transitions in Employment, Ability and Motivation with 3 years of follow-up (2010–2013), among employees aged 45–64 years (N=8149). The influence of baseline chronic health problems and work-related factors on transitions from paid employment to disability benefits, unemployment and early retirement during follow-up was estimated in a competing risks proportional hazards model. Relative excess risk of transitions due to the interaction between chronic health problems and work-related factors was assessed.

Results

Severe headache, diabetes mellitus and musculoskeletal, respiratory, digestive and psychological health problems predicted an increased risk of disability benefits (HR range 1.78–2.79). Circulatory (HR=1.35) and psychological health problems (HR=2.58) predicted unemployment, and musculoskeletal (HR=1.23) and psychological health problems (HR=1.57) predicted early retirement. Work-related factors did not modify the influence of health problems on unemployment or early retirement. Psychosocial work-related factors, especially autonomy, modified the influence of health problems on disability benefits. Specifically, among workers with health problems, higher autonomy, higher support and lower psychological job demands reduced the risk of disability benefits by 82%, 49%, and 11%, respectively.

Conclusions

All health problems affected disability benefits to a similar extent, but psychological health problems especially predicted unemployment and early retirement. For older workers with health problems, promoting an optimal work environment has the potential to contribute to sustainable employment.
Endovascular treatment of unruptured ophthalmic artery aneurysms: clinical usefulness of the balloon occlusion test in predicting vision outcomes after coil embolization
Authors: Kim Byungjun , Jeon Pyoung , Kim Keonha , Yang Narae , Kim Sungtae , Kim Hyungjin , Byun Hongsik , Jo Kyung-Il
Published: June 2015

Background

Endovascular coil embolization for ophthalmic artery (OphA) aneurysms has the latent risk of occlusion of the OphA during the procedure, which can lead to loss of vision. We report clinical and angiographic results of endovascular treatment of OphA aneurysms together with the efficacy of the balloon occlusion test (BOT).

Methods

From August 2005 to December 2013, 31 consecutive patients with 33 OphA aneurysms were treated in our institution. The patients were classified into two groups according to the location of the OphA within the aneurysmal sac. The BOT was performed in 28 patients using a hypercompliant balloon before endovascular coiling. Collateral circulation between the external carotid artery and the OphA was examined and visual function tests were performed before and after treatment. Patient demographics, angiographic and clinical outcomes were reviewed.

Results

Among the 28 patients who underwent the BOT, intact collateral circulation was demonstrated in 26 (92.9%) patients and complete occlusion of the OphA was obtained in three patients after coiling. Retrograde filling of the OphA with choroidoretinal blush was observed on post-procedural angiography and no specific visual symptoms were reported during the follow-up period. Complete embolization was achieved in 30 lesions (96.8%) and only five patients (16.1%) had minor recanalization.

Conclusions

Endovascular treatment of OphA aneurysms can be performed safely and effectively in conjunction with BOT. The BOT may give useful information to predict visual outcome in patients whose OphA is likely to be threatened by the coiling procedure and to determine the optimal treatment strategy.
Effect of certolizumab pegol over 96 weeks in patients with psoriatic arthritis with and without prior antitumour necrosis factor exposure
Authors: Mease P , Deodhar A , Fleischmann R , Wollenhaupt J , Gladman D , Leszczyński P , Vitek P , Turkiewicz A , Khraishi M , FitzGerald O , Landewé R , de Longueville M , Hoepken B , Peterson L , van der Heijde D
Published: June 2015

Objective

Previous reports of RAPID-PsA (NCT01087788) demonstrated efficacy and safety of certolizumab pegol (CZP) over 24 weeks in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), including patients with prior antitumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy. We report efficacy and safety data from a 96-week data cut of RAPID-PsA.

Methods

RAPID-PsA was placebo-controlled to week 24, dose-blind to week 48 and open-label to week 216. We present efficacy data including American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) responses, HAQ-DI, pain, minimal disease activity (MDA), modified total Sharp score (mTSS) and ACR responses in patients with/without prior anti-TNF exposure, in addition to safety data.

Results

Of 409 patients randomised, 273 received CZP from week 0. 54 (19.8%) CZP patients had prior anti-TNF exposure. Of patients randomised to CZP, 91% completed week 24, 87% week 48 and 80% week 96. ACR responses were maintained to week 96: 60% of patients achieved ACR20 at week 24, and 64% at week 96. Improvements were observed with both CZP dose regimens. ACR20 responses were similar in patients with (week 24: 59%; week 96: 63%) and without (week 24: 60%; week 96: 64%) prior anti-TNF exposure. Placebo patients switching to CZP displayed rapid clinical improvements, maintained to week 96. In patients with ≥3% baseline skin involvement (60.8% week 0 CZP patients), PASI responses were maintained to week 96. No progression of structural damage was observed over the 96-week period. In the Safety Set (n=393), adverse events occurred in 345 patients (87.8%) and serious adverse events in 67 (17.0%), including 6 fatal events.

Conclusions

CZP efficacy was maintained to week 96 with both dose regimens and in patients with/without prior anti-TNF exposure. The safety profile was in line with that previously reported from RAPID-PsA, with no new safety signals observed with increased exposure.

Trial registration number

NCT01087788.
Alfaxalone‐butorphanol‐dexmedetomidine anaesthesia in striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) undergoing skin biopsy: two cases
Authors: d'Ovidio Dario , Noviello Emilio , Nocerino Maurizio , Adami Chiara
Published: June 2015

Skunks are becoming increasingly popular as pets. As such, they often undergo a variety of surgical procedures. Two pet skunks undergoing a dermatological examination, including skin biopsy, were anaesthetised with a combination of dexmedetomidine (0.02 mg/kg), butorphanol (0.3 mg/kg), and alfaxalone (4 mg/kg), all administered intramuscularly. Anaesthesia was characterised by rapid onset, absence of detectable side effects and fast recovery after atipamezole administration. Biopsies and toe‐pinch did not elicit cardiorespiratory responses, nor did it result in movements or lightening of the anaesthetic depth. Both skunks recovered uneventfully, and showed normal appetite and regular defecation within eight hours following surgery. However, both the animals experienced mild hypothermia at recovery. The dexmedetomidine‐alfaxalone‐butorphanol combination produced satisfactory anaesthesia in the two skunks, object of this report. This anaesthetic protocol may be used in this species to provide immobility, myorelaxation, unconsciousness and analgesia during skin biopsy or other minor surgical procedures.
Ensuring animal welfare is at the heart of research
Authors: Bradbury Guen
Published: June 2015

Guen Bradbury is an anaesthetist in a critical care facility that provides anaesthetic and technical support for medical research on large animals in studies that aim to help critically ill human patients
von Laue’s theorem and its applications
Authors: Wang Changbiao
Published: June 2015

von Laue’s theorem, as well as its generalized form, is strictly proved in detail for its sufficient and necessary condition (SNC). This SNC version of Laue’s theorem is used to analyze the infinitely extended electrostatic field produced by a charged metal sphere in free space, and the static field confined in a finite region of space. It is shown in general that the total (Abraham=Minkowski) electromagnetic momentum and energy for the electrostatic field cannot constitute a Lorentz four-vector. A derivative von Laue’s theorem, which provides a criterion for a Lorentz invariant, is also presented.
Study of viscosity on the fission dynamics of the excited nuclei 228U produced in 19F + 209Bi reactions
Authors: Eslamizadeh H.
Published: June 2015

A two-dimensional (2D) dynamical model based on Langevin equations was applied to study the fission dynamics of the compound nuclei 228 U produced in 19 F + 209 Bi reactions at intermediate excitation energies. The distance between the centers of masses of the future fission fragments was used as the first dimension and the projection of the total spin of the compound nucleus onto the symmetry axis, K, was considered as the second dimension in Langevin dynamical calculations. The magnitude of post-saddle friction strength was inferred by fitting measured data on the average pre-scission neutron multiplicity for 228 U . It was shown that the results of calculations are in good agreement with the experimental data by using values of the post-saddle friction equal to 6–8 × 1021 s -1.
Role of rift transection and punctuated subsidence in the development of the North Falkland Basin
Authors: Lohr Tina , Underhill John R.
Published: June 2015

The results of well-constrained seismic interpretation and new mapping of three-dimensional (3D) seismic data volumes demonstrates that the North Falkland Basin consists of two superimposed failed rift basins: a Late Jurassic NW–SE-striking Southern Rift Basin (SRB); and an Early Cretaceous north–south-striking Northern Rift Basin (NRB).

The SRB is best developed in coastal waters of the Falkland Islands, where it comprises a series of extensional sub-basins that are transected by faults belonging to the more substantive NRB. Regional interpretation demonstrates that the NRB consists of a southward-tapering, asymmetric extensional basin containing a thick (in excess of 10 km) sequence of sediments. Its syn-rift subsidence history was controlled by a major west-dipping normal fault array comprising several fault segment precursors, which, together with corresponding antithetic faults, effectively subdivides the hanging wall into a series of sub-basins throughout its length.

The NRB initially developed in a fluvial and later lacustrine environment before becoming predominantly marine in the Tertiary. A prograding delta system filled the basin from the north during the early post-rift phase. Contemporaneously, sediment was shed off the segmented basin-bounding fault via long-established feeder drainage systems through breached relay ramps into the depocentre. The resultant sediment dispersal led to deposition of numerous lacustrine turbidites that created the Sea Lion fans and its affiliates, the location of which mimics, and is thus interpreted to have been controlled by, the underlying syn-rift sub-basins.

Post-rift subsidence was punctuated by an important, but short-lived, phase of basin inversion during the Aptian that created a large, broad and gentle north–south-striking anticline that runs along the central basin axis. Whilst the episode of basin inversion arrested subsidence, it did not inhibit petroleum prospectivity. The syn-rift lacustrine source intervals did subsequently pass through the critical moment in the Cretaceous leading to hydrocarbon maturation and the migration of waxy oil, a process that continues to the present day.
Simulation studies of circular muscle contraction, longitudinal muscle shortening, and their coordination in esophageal transport
Authors: Kou Wenjun , Pandolfino John E. , Kahrilas Peter J. , Patankar Neelesh A.
Published: June 2015

On the basis of a fully coupled active musculomechanical model for esophageal transport, we aimed to find the roles of circular muscle (CM) contraction and longitudinal muscle (LM) shortening in esophageal transport, and the influence of their coordination. Two groups of studies were conducted using a computational model. In the first group, bolus transport with only CM contraction, only LM shortening, or both was simulated. Overall features and detailed information on pressure and the cross-sectional area (CSA) of mucosal and the two muscle layers were analyzed. In the second group, bolus transport with varying delay in CM contraction or LM shortening was simulated. The effect of delay on esophageal transport was studied. For cases showing abnormal transport, pressure and CSA were further analyzed. CM contraction by itself was sufficient to transport bolus, but LM shortening by itself was not. CM contraction decreased the CSA and the radius of the muscle layer locally, but LM shortening increased the CSA. Synchronized CM contraction and LM shortening led to overlapping of muscle CSA and pressure peaks. Advancing LM shortening adversely influenced bolus transport, whereas lagging LM shortening was irrelevant to bolus transport. In conclusion, CM contraction generates high squeezing pressure, which plays a primary role in esophageal transport. LM shortening increases muscle CSA, which helps to strengthen CM contraction. Advancing LM shortening decreases esophageal distensibility in the bolus region. Lagging LM shortening no longer helps esophageal transport. Synchronized CM contraction and LM shortening seems to be most effective for esophageal transport.
Electrical neuromodulation at acupoint ST36 normalizes impaired colonic motility induced by rectal distension in dogs
Authors: Jin Haifeng , Liu Jiemin , Foreman Robert D. , Chen Jiande D. Z. , Yin Jieyun
Published: June 2015

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been shown to improve impaired gastric motility and slow waves in both humans and animals. However, its effects on colonic motility have rarely been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of EA on impaired colonic motility induced by rectal distension (RD)in dogs. Colon contractions and transit were measured in various sessions with and without EA in hound dogs chronically placed with a colonic cannula. Colonic contractile activity was assessed by motility index (MI). Autonomic functions were determined by the spectral analysis of the heart rate variability derived from the electrocardiogram. It was found 1) RD suppressed colonic motility by 40.5% (10.8 ± 0.9 with RD vs. 6.4 ± 0.8 at baseline, P < 0.002). EA at ST36 normalized colonic contractions suppressed by RD (12.9 ± 2.8, P < 0.002 vs. RD and P = 0.1 vs. control). 2) Administration of atropine blocked the ameliorating effect of EA on colon motility. 3) RD also delayed colonic transit (65.0 ± 2.0% with RD vs. 86.0 ± 1.9% without RD, P < 0.001) that was restored with EA (84.0 ± 1.9%, P = 0.178 vs. control). 4) EA increased vagal activity suppressed by RD (0.37 ± 0.07 with RD + EA vs. 0.09 ± 0.03 with RD without EA, P < 0.001). In conclusion, RD inhibits colonic contractions and delays colonic transit in dogs; EA at ST36 restores the RD-induced impairment in both colonic contraction and transit by enhancing vagal activity and mediated via the cholinergic pathway.
Acute Renal Failure Induced by Chinese Herbal Medication in Nigeria
Authors: Akpan Effiong Ekong , Ekrikpo Udeme E.
Published: June 2015

Traditional herbal medicine is a global phenomenon especially in the resource poor economy where only the very rich can access orthodox care. These herbal products are associated with complications such as acute renal failure and liver damage with a high incidence of mortalities and morbidities. Acute renal failure from the use of herbal remedies is said to account for about 30–35% of all cases of acute renal failure in Africa. Most of the herbal medications are not usually identified, but some common preparation often used in Nigeria includes “holy water” green water leaves, bark ofMangifera indica(mango), shoot ofAnacardium occidentale(cashew),Carica papaya(paw-paw) leaves, lime water,Solanum erianthum(Potato tree), andAzadirachta indica(Neem) trees. We report a rare case of a young man who developed acute renal failure two days after ingestion of Chinese herb for “body cleansing” and general wellbeing. He had 4 sessions of haemodialysis and recovered kidney function fully after 18 days of admission.