bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal associations between micronutrient consumption and leukocyte telomere length
Authors: Lee J.‐Y. , Shin C. , Baik I.
Published: August 2016

Background

There are few studies on the association between nutrient intake and telomere length, which may reflect cumulative oxidative stress and indicate biological ageing. In the present study, we evaluated longitudinal associations between the consumption of micronutrients, including antioxidant nutrients and B vitamins involved in one‐carbon transfer pathways, and leukocyte telomere length (LTL).

Methods

The study included 1958 middle‐aged and older Korean men and women (age range at baseline: 40–69 years) from a population‐based cohort. We collected dietary information at baseline using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (June 2001 to January 2003) and assessed the consumption of micronutrients, including vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9 (folate), C and E, as well as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc. We measured LTL using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction at the 10‐year follow‐up examination (February 2011 to November 2012).

Results

In the multiple regression model adjusted for potential confounders, LTL was positively associated with the consumption of vitamin C (P < 0.05), folate (P = 0.05) and potassium (P = 0.05) in all participants. In the age‐stratified analysis, the association between the consumption of vitamin C (P < 0.01), folate (P < 0.05) and potassium (P < 0.05) with LTL was significant only among participants aged <50 years.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the earlier consumption of vitamin C, folate and potassium, which are abundant in fruits and vegetables, can delay biological ageing in middle‐aged and older adults.
Is population flow an unintended consequence of alcohol management plans?
Authors: Usher Kim , Woods Cindy , Lynch Paul , Pointing Shane Boris , Budden Lea , Barker Ruth , Catchpoole Jesani , Clough Alan
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to gauge whether, and to what extent, population flow occurred as a result of the implementation of alcohol management plans in Indigenous communities.

Background

Alcohol management plans involving carriage limits and dry places were introduced into 15 Queensland Indigenous communities between 2002–2004. Controls on alcohol availability were further tightened between 2008–2010, seeing the closure of eight mainly remote community taverns/canteens.

Design

A retrospective observational study was undertaken using data from the Queensland Injury Surveillance Unit.

Methods

Population flow was measured by changing patterns of alcohol‐related injuries in a mining region near dry Indigenous communities following the introduction of alcohol management plans and a control mining region distant from Indigenous communities with alcohol management plans. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Logistic regression was used for the comparison of the characteristics between the emergency department presentations. The rates of alcohol‐related injury presentations per 1000/population were calculated and age‐standardised to the Australian population.

Results

Between the five‐year periods 2003–2007 and 2008–2012, alcohol‐related injury presentations to the Mount Isa emergency department trebled from an age‐adjusted average annual rate of 9·5/1000 in the region's population to 27·1/1000 population. In the control region, alcohol‐related emergency department injury presentations did not increase to the same degree with age‐adjusted average annual rates of 1·42/1000 and 2·21/1000, respectively.

Conclusions

The 10‐year pattern of emergency department presentations for alcohol‐related injuries increased significantly in the Mount Isa region compared with the control region. Further research should investigate the impacts of population flow related to Indigenous community alcohol management plans.

Relevance to clinical practice

Although initiatives such as alcohol management plans have been implemented to reduce alcohol use and related consequences in Indigenous communities, there needs to be a greater consideration of the impact of these policies in nearby towns in the future.
Sodium in feline nutrition
Authors: Nguyen P. , Reynolds B. , Zentek J. , Paßlack N. , Leray V.
Published: August 2016

High sodium levels in cat food have been controversial for a long time. Nonetheless, high sodium levels are used to enhance water intake and urine volume, with the main objective of reducing the risk of urolithiasis. This article is a review of current evidence of the putative risks and benefits of high dietary sodium levels. Its secondary aim is to report a possible safe upper limit (SUL) for sodium intake. The first part of the manuscript is dedicated to sodium physiology, with a focus on the mechanisms of sodium homeostasis. In this respect, there is only few information regarding possible interactions with other minerals. Next, the authors address how sodium intake affects sodium balance; knowledge of these effects is critical to establish recommendations for sodium feed content. The authors then review the consequences of changes in sodium intake on feline health, including urolithiasis, blood pressure changes, cardiovascular alterations and kidney disease. According to recent, long‐term studies, there is no evidence of any deleterious effect of dietary sodium levels as high as 740 mg/MJ metabolizable energy, which can therefore be considered the SUL based on current knowledge.
Chronic periodontitis can affect the levels of potential oral cancer salivary mRNA biomarkers
Authors: Cheng Y.‐S. L. , Jordan L. , Chen H.‐S. , Kang D. , Oxford L. , Plemons J. , Parks H. , Rees T.
Published: August 2016

Background and Objective

More than 100 salivary constituents have been found to show levels significantly different in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) from those found in healthy controls, and therefore have been suggested to be potential salivary biomarkers for OSCC detection. However, many of these potential OSCC salivary biomarkers are also involved in chronic inflammation, and whether the levels of these biomarkers could be affected by the presence of chronic periodontitis was not known. The objective of this pilot study was therefore to measure the levels of seven previously reported potential OSCC salivary mRNA biomarkers in patients with chronic periodontitis and compare them to levels found in patients with OSCC and healthy controls. The seven salivary mRNAs were interleukin (IL)‐8, IL‐1β, dual specificity phosphatase 1, H3 histone family 3A, ornithine decarboxylase antizyme 1, S100 calcium‐binding protein P (S100P) and spermidine/spermine N1‐acetyltransferase 1.

Material and Methods

Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected from a total of 105 human subjects from the following four study groups: OSCC; CPNS (chronic periodontitis, moderate to severe degree, non‐smokers); CPS (chronic periodontitis, moderate to severe degree, smokers); and healthy controls. Levels of each mRNA in patient groups (OSCC or chronic periodontitis) relative to the healthy controls were determined by a pre‐amplification reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction approach with nested gene‐specific primers. Results were recorded and analyzed by the Bio‐Rad CFX96 Real‐Time System. Mean fold changes between each pair of patient vs. control groups were analyzed by the Mann–Whitney U‐test with Bonferroni corrections.

Results

Only S100P showed significantly higher levels in patients with OSCC compared to both patients with CPNS (p = 0.003) and CPS (p = 0.007). The difference in S100P levels between patients with OSCC and healthy controls was also marginally significant (p = 0.009). There was no significant difference in the levels of salivary IL‐8, IL‐1β and dual specificity phosphatase 1 mRNAs between patients with OSCC and patients with CPNS (p = 0.510, 0.058 and 0.078, respectively); no significant difference in levels of salivary ornithine decarboxylase antizyme 1 and spermine N1‐acetyltransferase mRNAs between patients with OSCC and patients with CPS (p = 0.318 and 0.764, respectively); and no significant difference in levels of the H3 histone family 3A mRNA between patients with OSCC and either CPS (p = 0.449) or healthy controls (p = 0.107).

Conclusions

Salivary S100P mRNA could be a reliable biomarker for OSCC detection, regardless of the presence of chronic periodontitis. The presence of chronic periodontitis could significantly affect the levels of the other six mRNAs, and negatively influence reliability for using them as biomarkers for oral cancer detection.
Black tea theaflavins attenuate Porphyromonas gingivalis virulence properties, modulate gingival keratinocyte tight junction integrity and exert anti‐inflammatory activity
Authors: Ben Lagha A. , Grenier D.
Published: August 2016

Background and Objective

Over the last 10 years, bioactive plant food compounds have received considerable attention in regard to their beneficial effects against periodontal disease. In this study, we investigated the effects of black tea theaflavins (TFs) on the virulence properties of Porphyromonas gingivalis and gingival keratinocyte tight junction integrity. In addition, the effects of black tea TFs on the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathway and proinflammatory cytokine/matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion by monocytes/macrophages were assessed.

Material and Methods

Virulence factor gene expression in P. gingivalis was investigated by quantitative real‐time PCR. A fluorescence assay was used to determine P. gingivalis adherence to, and invasion of, a gingival keratinocyte monolayer. Tight junction integrity of gingival keratinocytes was assessed by determination of transepithelial electrical resistance. Proinflammatory cytokine and MMP secretion by P. gingivalis‐stimulated macrophages was quantified by ELISA. The U937‐3xκB‐LUC monocyte cell line transfected with a luciferase reporter gene was used to monitor NF‐κB activation. Gelatin degradation was monitored using a fluorogenic assay.

Results

Black tea TFs dose‐dependently inhibited the expression of genes encoding the major virulence factors of P. gingivalis and attenuated its adherence to gingival keratinocytes. A treatment of gingival keratinocytes with black tea TFs significantly enhanced tight junction integrity and prevented P. gingivalis‐mediated tight junction damage as well as bacterial invasion. Black tea TFs reduced the secretion of interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐6, chemokine (C‐X‐C) ligand 8, MMP‐3, MMP‐8 and MMP‐9 by P. gingivalis‐stimulated macrophages and attenuated the P. gingivalis‐mediated activation of the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Lastly, black tea TFs inhibited gelatin degradation by MMP‐9.

Conclusion

This study provides clear evidence that black tea TFs represent promising multifunctional therapeutic agents for prevention and treatment of periodontal disease.
Health effects of ‘Juntos’, a conditional cash transfer programme in Peru
Authors: Pérez‐Lu José E. , Cárcamo Cesar , Nandi Arijit , Kaufman Jay S.
Published: August 2016

In some countries, conditional cash transfer (CCT) programmes show an impact on maternal and child health. Juntos, the CCT programme in Peru, has been evaluated several times operationally, but seldom for maternal and child health outcomes. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of Juntos on children under 6 years, pregnant women and mothers of children under 17 years. Outcomes evaluated included (1) anaemia in women and children; (2) acute malnutrition in children; (3) post‐partum complications in mothers; and (4) underweight and overweight in mothers. We identified Juntos eligible respondents from the Demographic and Health Surveys of Peru for years 2007 to 2013. Propensity score matching was used to identify comparable treatment and control groups, including eligible respondents enrolled in Juntos vs. those not enrolled in Juntos (individual‐level analysis), as well as eligible respondents living in Juntos districts vs. those not residing in Juntos districts (district‐level analysis). We then used generalized linear models to estimate prevalence ratios. Individual level analysis showed that Juntos reduced underweight in women (PR:0.39, 95%CI:0.18 – 0.85) and anaemia in children (PR:0.93, 95%CI:0.86 – 1.00). In the district level analysis, the programme was associated with a reduction of overweight in women (PR:0.94, 95%CI:0.90 – 0.98) and acute malnutrition in children (PR:0.49, 95%CI:0.32 – 0.73), but an increase in the prevalence of anaemia in children (PR:1.09, 95%CI:1.01 – 1.17). We found that Juntos had an effect on maternal and child health indicators, but further studies are required to overcome some limitations encountered here.
Computerized test versus personal interview as admission methods for graduate nursing studies: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hazut Koren , Romem Pnina , Malkin Smadar , Livshiz‐Riven Ilana
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to compare the predictive validity, economic efficiency, and faculty staff satisfaction of a computerized test versus a personal interview as admission methods for graduate nursing studies. A mixed method study was designed, including cross‐sectional and retrospective cohorts, interviews, and cost analysis. One hundred and thirty‐four students in the Master of Nursing program participated. The success of students in required core courses was similar in both admission method groups. The personal interview method was found to be a significant predictor of success, with cognitive variables the only significant contributors to the model. Higher satisfaction levels were reported with the computerized test compared with the personal interview method. The cost of the personal interview method, in annual hourly work, was 2.28 times higher than the computerized test. These findings may promote discussion regarding the cost benefit of the personal interview as an admission method for advanced academic studies in healthcare professions.
Using holistic interpretive synthesis to create practice‐relevant guidance for person‐centred fundamental care delivered by nurses
Authors: Feo Rebecca , Conroy Tiffany , Marshall Rhianon J. , Rasmussen Philippa , Wiechula Richard , Kitson Alison L
Published: August 2016

Nursing policy and healthcare reform are focusing on two, interconnected areas: person‐centred care and fundamental care. Each initiative emphasises a positive nurse–patient relationship. For these initiatives to work, nurses require guidance for how they can best develop and maintain relationships with their patients in practice. Although empirical evidence on the nurse–patient relationship is increasing, findings derived from this research are not readily or easily transferable to the complexities and diversities of nursing practice. This study describes a novel methodological approach, called holistic interpretive synthesis (HIS), for interpreting empirical research findings to create practice‐relevant recommendations for nurses. Using HIS, umbrella review findings on the nurse–patient relationship are interpreted through the lens of the Fundamentals of Care Framework. The recommendations for the nurse–patient relationship created through this approach can be used by nurses to establish, maintain and evaluate therapeutic relationships with patients to deliver person‐centred fundamental care. Future research should evaluate the validity and impact of these recommendations and test the feasibility of using HIS for other areas of nursing practice and further refine the approach.
Effect of Applying Force to Self‐Adhesive Electrodes on Transthoracic Impedance: Implications for Electrical Cardioversion
Authors: RAMIREZ F. DANIEL , FISET SANDRA L. , CLELAND MARK J. , ZAKUTNEY TIMOTHY J. , NERY PABLO B. , NAIR GIRISH M. , REDPATH CALUM J. , SADEK MOUHANNAD M. , BIRNIE DAVID H.
Published: August 2016

Background

Current guidelines disagree on the role for applying force to electrodes during electrical cardioversion (ECV) for atrial fibrillation, particularly when using self‐adhesive pads. We evaluated the impact of this practice on transthoracic impedance (TTI) with varying force and in individuals with differing body mass indices (BMI). We additionally assessed whether specific prompts could improve physicians’ ECV technique.

Methods

The study comprised three parts: (1) TTI was measured in 11 participants throughout the respiratory cycle and with variable force applied to self‐adhesive electrodes in anteroposterior (AP) and anterolateral (AL) configurations. (2) Three participants in different BMI classes then had TTI measured with prespecified incremental force applied. (3) Ten blinded cardiology trainees simulated ECV on one participant with and without prompting (guideline reminders and force analogies) while force applied and TTI were measured.

Results

The AP approach was associated with 13% lower TTI than AL (P < 0.001). Strongly negative correlations were observed between force applied and TTI in the AL position, irrespective of BMI (P ≤ 0.003). In all cases, 80% of the total reduction in TTI observed was achieved with 8 kg‐force (∼80 N). All prompts resulted in significantly greater force applied and modest reductions in TTI.

Conclusions

Applying force to self‐adhesive electrodes reduces TTI and should be considered as a means of improving ECV success. Numerically greater mean force applied with a “push‐up” force analogy suggests that “concrete” cues may be useful in improving ECV technique.
Social Justice: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Matwick Angela L. , Woodgate Roberta L.
Published: August 2016

Social justice is presented frequently as a core or shared value at the very foundation of nursing practice. Despite its acceptance as a core value, its use is varied and there has been inherent difficulty in establishing a definitive explanation for what is meant by social justice. As such, a clearly defined meaning for the concept of social justice does not exist in contemporary nursing literature. Following the method outlined by Walker and Avant, an analysis of the concept of social justice provides clarity to the meaning of social justice as it is used within the nursing profession, in academia, education, and practice.
Tacalcitol: a useful adjunct to narrow‐band ultraviolet‐B phototherapy in vitiligo
Authors: Sahu Priyadarshini , Jain Vijay Kumar , Aggarwal Kamal , Kaur Sarabjit , Dayal Surabhi
Published: August 2016

Background

Phototherapy especially narrow‐band UV‐B (NBUVB) has been considered as mainstay of therapy in nonsegmental vitiligo (generalized type). Topical tacalcitol has also been claimed to be effective, either as monotherapy or as combination therapy.

Purpose

Comparison of clinical efficacy and safety of NBUVB in combination with topical tacalcitol vs. NBUVB alone in vitiligo.

Material & methods

Thirty patients with symmetrical vitiliginous lesions were enrolled for 24 weeks. Patients were instructed to apply tacalcitol ointment on right side of body once daily. In addition, the whole body was irradiated with NBUVB thrice weekly. All the patients were examined, and lesional photography was done. Patients were also followed up for 6 months post‐treatment.

Results

Our study resulted in two key findings: (1) There was a statistically significant difference in mean percentage of repigmentation at 8, 16 and 24 weeks between combination therapy and NBUVB. (2) The mean cumulative dose and number of treatment sessions for initial repigmentation were significantly lower with combination therapy. No serious adverse effects were observed during the study period.

Conclusion

Topical tacalcitol potentiates efficacy of NBUVB as it enhances extent of pigmentation, decrease time to repigmentation and lowers the cumulative doses of NBUVB, thereby leading to greater patient satisfaction and improved compliance.
Induction of regulatory T cells by Opisthorchis viverrini
Authors: Kaewraemruaen C. , Sermswan R. W. , Wongratanacheewin S.
Published: August 2016

Opisthorchis viverrini causes public health problems in South‐East Asia. Recently, TGF‐β and IL‐10 have been reported to increase in O. viverrini‐infected hamsters but the sources of these cytokines are still unknown. In this study, the CD4+ T cells in infected hamsters were investigated. It was demonstrated that IL‐4+CD4+ T cells were significantly increased in hamster spleens and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) during chronic infection. Interestingly, IL‐10+CD4+ T cells were also discovered at a significant level while Treg (T regulatory)‐like TGF‐ β+CD4+ T cells were in MLNs of infected hamsters. Moreover, the CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cell response was significantly found both in spleens and MLNs in infected hamsters. The findings were then confirmed by development of T‐cell clones against crude somatic antigens (CSAg) in immunized BALB/c mice. Five clones named TCC21, TCC23, TCC35, TCC41 and TCC108 were established. The TCC21 was found to be the TGF‐β+CD4+ while TCC35, TCC41 and TCC108 were IL‐4+CD4+ and TCC23 was IFN‐γ+CD4+. This TGF‐β+CD4+ T clone showed an inhibitory function in vitro in mononuclear cell proliferation via TGF‐β‐mediated mechanisms. This study indicated that O. viverrini‐infected hamsters could induce TGF‐β+ CD4+ Treg‐like cells. The CSAg‐specific Tregs secreted high TGF‐β, and limited immune cell proliferation.
Supply Chain Strategies and International Tax Arbitrage
Authors: Shunko Masha , Do Hung T. , Tsay Andy A.
Published: August 2016

What motivates the geographic footprint of the supply chains that multinational firms (MNFs) deploy? Traditional research in the operations and supply chain management literature tends to recommend locations primarily based on differentials in production costs and the ramifications of physical distance ignoring the role of taxation. MNFs that strategically position parts of their supply chains in low‐tax locations can allocate the profits across the divisions to improve post‐tax profits. For the profit allocation to be defensible to tax authorities, the divisional operations must possess real decision authority and bear meaningful risks. Generally speaking, the greater the transfer of risk and control, the larger the allowable allocation of profit. These transfers may also create inefficiencies due to misalignment of business goals and attitudes toward risk. We model these trade‐offs in the context of placing in a low‐tax region a subsidiary that oversees product distribution (as a limited risk distributor commissionnaire, limited risk distributor, or fully fledged distributor). Our analysis demonstrates that the MNF's preferences regarding the operating structures are not necessarily an obvious ordering based on the amount of risk and decision authority transferred to the division in the low‐tax jurisdiction. We derive and analyze threshold values of the performance parameters that describe the main trade‐offs involved in selecting an operating structure. We find some of the optimal decisions to exhibit interesting non‐monotone behavior. For instance, profits can increase when the tax rate in the low‐tax jurisdiction increases. Numerical analysis shows that the Limited‐Risk Distributor structure is rarely optimal and quantifies when each alternative dominates it.
Endoscopic valve therapy for emphysema: Patient selection as the Holy Grail to success
Authors: Valipour Arschang
Published: August 2016

See article, page 1255
Closing the Small Open Economy Model: A Demographic Approach
Authors: Oxborrow David , Turnovsky Stephen J.
Published: August 2016

Closing the small open economy model has been a stumbling block in studying the dynamic evolution of such models. The typical procedure of equating the after‐tax return on traded bonds to the rate of time preference involves imposing an arbitrary and constraining knife‐edge condition. This paper replaces the infinitely lived representative agent framework with a plausible demographic structure. This yields a well‐behaved macrodynamic equilibrium without imposing any knife‐edge conditions. The equilibrium dynamics generated by the Rectangular survival function, characteristic of the Samuelson–Diamond model, closely track those corresponding to an empirically estimated survival function. However, the Blanchard survival function tracks the data poorly in terms of absolute levels, while the closeness of its relative dynamics (following a structural change) depends on the source of the structural change.
Statistical Clustering of Temporal Networks Through a Dynamic Stochastic Block Model
Authors: Matias Catherine , Miele Vincent
Published: August 2016

Statistical node clustering in discrete time dynamic networks is an emerging field that raises many challenges. Here, we explore statistical properties and frequentist inference in a model that combines a stochastic block model for its static part with independent Markov chains for the evolution of the nodes groups through time. We model binary data as well as weighted dynamic random graphs (with discrete or continuous edges values). Our approach, motivated by the importance of controlling for label switching issues across the different time steps, focuses on detecting groups characterized by a stable within-group connectivity behaviour. We study identifiability of the model parameters and propose an inference procedure based on a variational expectation–maximization algorithm as well as a model selection criterion to select the number of groups. We carefully discuss our initialization strategy which plays an important role in the method and we compare our procedure with existing procedures on synthetic data sets. We also illustrate our approach on dynamic contact networks: one of encounters between high school students and two others on animal interactions. An implementation of the method is available as an R package called dynsbm.
Predictive model for early math skills based on structural equations
Authors: Aragón Estíbaliz , Navarro José I. , Aguilar Manuel , Cerda Gamal , García‐Sedeño Manuel
Published: August 2016

Early math skills are determined by higher cognitive processes that are particularly important for acquiring and developing skills during a child's early education. Such processes could be a critical target for identifying students at risk for math learning difficulties. Few studies have considered the use of a structural equation method to rationalize these relations. Participating in this study were 207 preschool students ages 59 to 72 months, 108 boys and 99 girls. Performance with respect to early math skills, early literacy, general intelligence, working memory, and short‐term memory was assessed. A structural equation model explaining 64.3% of the variance in early math skills was applied. Early literacy exhibited the highest statistical significance (β = 0.443, p < 0.05), followed by intelligence (β = 0.286, p < 0.05), working memory (β = 0.220, p < 0.05), and short‐term memory (β = 0.213, p < 0.05). Correlations between the independent variables were also significant (p < 0.05). According to the results, cognitive variables should be included in remedial intervention programs.
Perspectives on the impact of storage duration on blood quality and transfusion outcomes
Authors: Roback J. D.
Published: August 2016

Background & Objectives

Red blood cells (RBCs) may be stored up to 42 days before transfusion, per US and EU standards. Although there is ample evidence that RBCs undergo deleterious changes during storage, studies assessing outcomes relative to storage time report conflicting findings. This study investigated RBC storage duration perspectives and practices among blood banking and transfusion professionals.

Materials & Methods

A survey was administered at the American Association of Blood Banking annual meeting in October 2014 (N = 69).

Results

On average, participants believed RBC storage should not exceed 34 days (median: 35; range: 1–52), and estimated that RBCs are typically stored 21 days before transfusion at their institutions (median: 20; range: 10–40). There was 97% agreement that minimizing/reversing changes during RBC storage may produce clinical benefits; however, 80% believed the research does not consistently demonstrate worse outcomes using older blood. Two‐thirds agreed that RBC storage duration is a major concern, but 81% agreed most institutions are not pursuing measures to shorten storage.

Conclusions

This study found that many transfusion professionals believe RBCs should be stored for fewer than the 42 days currently allowed and that further efforts are warranted to abrogate changes in stored RBCs. These findings suggest a need for increased awareness of potential consequences of extended RBC storage and for strategies to maximize transfusion benefits.
High‐Definition Video Telescope‐Assisted Ventral Slot Decompression Surgery for Cervical Intervertebral Disc Herniation in 30 Dogs
Authors: Rossetti Diego , Ragetly Guillaume R. , Poncet Cyrill M.
Published: August 2016

Objective

To describe the use of a video telescope operating monitor (VITOM™) for ventral slot decompression and to report its clinical applications using preoperative and postoperative computed tomography (CT) myelography.

Study Design

Prospective case series.

Animals

Consecutive dogs presented with cervical intervertebral disc disease requiring surgical decompression (n = 30).

Methods

Demographic data, preoperative neurological status, localization and lateralization of the compression, total operative time, surgical complications, ventral slot size and orientation, hospitalization time, and postoperative outcome were recorded. Preoperative and postoperative spinal cord area at the compression site and ratios of compressed to normal spinal cord area were calculated by CT myelography.

Results

French Bulldogs were the most common breed of dogs (n = 15; 50%) and neck pain was the most common neurological sign (n = 18; 60%). Postoperative CT myelography confirmed that spinal cord decompression, postoperative spinal cord area, and the ratios of compressed to normal spinal cord area improved significantly compared with preoperative measurements (P = .01). Sinus bleeding occurred in 20% of dogs. The mean ratios (± SD) of ventral slot length and width compared with vertebral body length and width were 0.21 ± 0.08 and 0.31 ± 0.07, respectively. The mean postoperative hospitalization time was 3.0 ± 0.6 days and all dogs showed clinical improvement and an excellent outcome.

Conclusion

The VITOM™ ventral slot decompression technique was fast and easy to perform. It allowed a minimally invasive approach with a small ventral slot while improving spinal cord visualization. The results of this study support the use of the VITOM™ technique in spinal veterinary surgery.
Assessing the relevance of littoral pedestals to chlorophyll a levels in a shallow lentic freshwater system
Authors: Utete Beaven , Tsamba Joshua
Published: August 2016

Pedestals or shoreline terraces, a disjuncture of the last flooding level with the adjacent littoral upland, can help in understanding the contribution of the shoreline to the productivity of the pelagic zones. We investigated littoral pedestal dynamics and assessed their ecological relevance to a water body, Manjirenji Dam in Zimbabwe, with marked and sharp drawdowns, in ten littoral sites by measuring chlorophyll a, water transparency, pedestal contour length and drawdown zone length once per month from August 2013 to April 2014. Chlorophyll a levels were not significantly correlated to the euphotic depth, pedestal contour length and the drawdown zone retraction length in Manjirenji Dam. Our results which are inconsistent with the hypothesis that drawdown zone and contour pedestal lengths are vital in predicting chlorophyll a concentration in the littoral zones of limnetic systems, suggest a need to explore other intricate limnological factors which may influence productivity in shallow reservoirs.
Use of a Dose–Response Model to Study Temporal Trends in Spatial Exposure to Coxiella burnetii: Analysis of a Multiyear Outbreak of Q Fever
Authors: Brooke R. J. , Teunis P. F. M. , Kretzschmar M. E. E. , Wielders C. C. H. , Schneeberger P. M. , Waller L. A.
Published: August 2016

The Netherlands underwent a large Q fever outbreak between 2007 and 2009. In this paper, we study spatial and temporal Coxiella burnetii exposure trends during this large outbreak as well as validate outcomes against other published studies and provide evidence to support hypotheses on the causes of the outbreak. To achieve this, we develop a framework using a dose–response model to translate acute Q fever case incidence into exposure estimates. More specifically, we incorporate a geostatistical model that accounts for spatial and temporal correlation of exposure estimates from a human Q fever dose–response model to quantify exposure trends during the outbreak. The 2051 cases, with the corresponding age, gender and residential addresses, reside in the region with the highest attack rates during the outbreak in the Netherlands between 2006 and 2009. We conclude that the multiyear outbreak in the Netherlands is caused by sustained release of infectious bacteria from the same sources, which suggests that earlier implementation of interventions may have prevented many of the cases. The model predicts the risk of infection and acute symptomatic Q fever from multiple exposure sources during a multiple‐year outbreak providing a robust, evidence‐based methodology to support decision‐making and intervention design.
Influence of On‐farm pig Salmonella status on Salmonella Shedding at Slaughter
Authors: Casanova‐Higes A. , Andrés‐Barranco S. , Mainar‐Jaime R. C.
Published: August 2016

The risk of Salmonella shedding among pigs at slaughter with regard to their previous on‐farm Salmonella status was assessed in a group of pigs from a farm from NE of Spain. A total of 202 pigs that had been serologically monitored monthly during the fattening period and from which mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) and faecal (SFEC) samples were collected at slaughter for Salmonella isolation were included. A repeated‐measures anova was used to assess the relationship between mean OD% values during the fattening period and sampling time and bacteriology on MLN and SFEC. Pigs were also grouped into four groups, that is pigs seronegative during the fattening period and Salmonella negative in MLN (group A; n = 69); pigs seronegative during the fattening period but Salmonella positive in MLN (B; n = 36); pigs seropositive at least once and Salmonella positive in MLN (C; n = 50); and pigs seropositive at least once but Salmonella negative in (D; n = 47). Pigs shedding at slaughter seroconverted much earlier and showed much higher mean OD% values than non‐shedders pigs. The proportion of Salmonella shedders in groups A and D was high and similar (26.1% and 29.8%, respectively), but significantly lower than that for groups B and C. The odds of shedding Salmonella for groups B and C were 4.8 (95% CI = 1.5–15.5) and 20.9 (3.7–118) times higher, respectively, when compared to A. It was concluded that a large proportion of Salmonella seronegative pigs may shed Salmonella at slaughter, which would be likely associated to previous exposure with contaminated environments (i.e. transport and lairage). For pigs already infected at farm, the likelihood of shedding Salmonella was much higher and may depend on whether the bacterium has colonized the MLN or not. The odds of shedding Salmonella spp. were always much higher for pigs in which Salmonella was isolated from MLN.
Negative regulation of NF-κB p65 activity by serine 536 phosphorylation
Authors: Pradère Jean-Philippe , Hernandez Céline , Koppe Christiane , Friedman Richard A. , Luedde Tom , Schwabe Robert F.
Published: August 2016

The kinase IKK fine-tunes inflammation by both activating and inhibiting signaling by the p65 subunit of NF-κB.
Papers of note in
Science
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: August 2016

This week’s articles describe the precise structures of the plant hormones gibberellin and jasmonic acid and present an atlas of maize development that integrates transcriptomic, proteomic, and phosphoproteomic data.
Modulation of the Substitution Pattern of 5-Aryl-2-Aminoimidazoles Allows Fine-Tuning of Their Antibiofilm Activity Spectrum and Toxicity
Authors: Peeters Elien , Hooyberghs Geert , Robijns Stijn , Waldrant Kai , De Weerdt Ami , Delattin Nicolas , Liebens Veerle , Kucharíková Soňa , Tournu Hélène , Verstraeten Natalie , Dovgan Barbara , Girandon Lenart , Fröhlich Mirjam , De Brucker Katrijn , Van Dijck Patrick , Michiels Jan , Cammue Bruno P. A. , Thevissen Karin , Vanderleyden Jozef , Van der Eycken Erik , Steenackers Hans P.
Published: August 2016

We previously synthesized several series of compounds, based on the 5-aryl-2-aminoimidazole scaffold, that showed activity preventing the formation of
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
biofilms. Here, we further studied the activity spectrum of a number of the most active
N
1- and 2
N
-substituted 5-aryl-2-aminoimidazoles against a broad panel of biofilms formed by monospecies and mixed species of bacteria and fungi. An
N
1-substituted compound showed very strong activity against the biofilms formed by Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and the fungus
Candida albicans
but was previously shown to be toxic against various eukaryotic cell lines. In contrast, 2
N
-substituted compounds were nontoxic and active against biofilms formed by Gram-negative bacteria and
C. albicans
but had reduced activity against biofilms formed by Gram-positive bacteria. In an attempt to develop nontoxic compounds with potent activity against biofilms formed by Gram-positive bacteria for application in antibiofilm coatings for medical implants, we synthesized novel compounds with substituents at both the
N
1 and 2
N
positions and tested these compounds for antibiofilm activity and toxicity. Interestingly, most of these
N
1-,2
N
-disubstituted 5-aryl-2-aminoimidazoles showed very strong activity against biofilms formed by Gram-positive bacteria and
C. albicans
in various setups with biofilms formed by monospecies and mixed species but lost activity against biofilms formed by Gram-negative bacteria. In light of application of these compounds as anti-infective coatings on orthopedic implants, toxicity against two bone cell lines and the functionality of these cells were tested. The
N
1-,2
N
-disubstituted 5-aryl-2-aminoimidazoles in general did not affect the viability of bone cells and even induced calcium deposition. This indicates that modulating the substitution pattern on positions
N
1 and 2
N
of the 5-aryl-2-aminoimidazole scaffold allows fine-tuning of both the antibiofilm activity spectrum and toxicity.
Open-Label Study of Absorption and Clearance of 1% Voriconazole Eye Drops
Authors: Neoh Chin Fen , Leung Lok , Chan Elsie , Al-Badriyeh Daoud , Fullinfaw Robert O. , Jhanji Vishal , Vajpayee Rasik B. , Davies Geoffrey E. , Stewart Kay , Kong David C. M.
Published: August 2016

Twenty participants undergoing elective cataract surgery received 1% voriconazole eye drops (1 drop per eye) either 20, 40, 60, or 80 min before surgery. Median voriconazole concentrations of 1.9 to 3.2 mg/liter in aqueous humor samples were attained over the first 80 min, which were higher than
in vitro
MIC
90
values for typical fungi that cause keratitis.
In Vitro
Bactericidal Activity of Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole Alone and in Combination with Colistin against Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Clinical Isolates
Authors: Nepka Martha , Perivolioti Efstathia , Kraniotaki Eleni , Politi Lida , Tsakris Athanasios , Pournaras Spyros
Published: August 2016

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole alone and combined with colistin was tested
in vitro
against six carbapenem-resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
(CRAB) clinical strains. After 24 h, at achievable serum concentrations, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole effectively killed all strains, while colistin killed only one strain. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole plus colistin rapidly killed all strains after 6 h and for up to 24 h. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, one of the few remaining antimicrobials that still has a degree of activity, particularly combined with colistin, might represent an effective therapy for severe CRAB infections.
Effect of Obesity on the Population Pharmacokinetics of Fluconazole in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Alobaid Abdulaziz S. , Wallis Steven C. , Jarrett Paul , Starr Therese , Stuart Janine , Lassig-Smith Melissa , Mejia Jenny Lisette Ordóñez , Roberts Michael S. , Sinnollareddy Mahipal G. , Roger Claire , Lipman Jeffrey , Roberts Jason A.
Published: August 2016

Our objective was to describe the population pharmacokinetics of fluconazole in a cohort of critically ill nonobese, obese, and morbidly obese patients. Critically ill patients prescribed fluconazole were recruited into three body mass index (BMI) cohorts, nonobese (18.5 to 29.9 kg/m2), obese (30.0 to 39.9 kg/m2), and morbidly obese (≥40 kg/m2). Serial fluconazole concentrations were determined using a validated chromatographic method. Population pharmacokinetic analysis and Monte Carlo dosing simulations were undertaken with Pmetrics. Twenty-one critically ill patients (11 male) were enrolled, including obese (n= 6) and morbidly obese (n= 4) patients. The patients mean ± standard deviation (SD) age, weight, and BMI were 54 ± 15 years, 90 ± 24 kg, and 31 ± 9 kg/m2, respectively. A two-compartment linear model described the data adequately. The mean ± SD population pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were clearance (CL) of 0.95 ± 0.48 liter/h, volume of distribution of the central compartment (Vc) of 15.10 ± 11.78 liter, intercompartmental clearance from the central to peripheral compartment of 5.41 ± 2.28 liter/h, and intercompartmental clearance from the peripheral to central compartment of 2.92 ± 4.95 liter/h. A fluconazole dose of 200 mg daily was insufficient to achieve an area under the concentration-time curve for the free, unbound drug fraction/MIC ratio of 100 for pathogens with MICs of ≥2 mg/liter in patients with BMI of >30 kg/m2. A fluconazole loading dose of 12 mg/kg and maintenance dose of 6 mg/kg/day achieved pharmacodynamic targets for higher MICs. A weight-based loading dose of 12 mg/kg followed by a daily maintenance dose of 6 mg/kg, according to renal function, is required in critically ill patients for pathogens with a MIC of 2 mg/liter.
Sequence Type 48 Escherichia coli Carrying the
bla
CTX-M-1
IncI1/ST3 Plasmid in Drinking Water in France
Authors: Madec Jean-Yves , Haenni Marisa , Ponsin Cécile , Kieffer Nicolas , Rion Emmanuelle , Gassilloud Benoit
Published: August 2016

Drinking water has rarely been recognized as a source of antimicrobial resistance for humans, and only in low-income countries. Here, a sequence type 48
Escherichia coli
isolate carrying the
bla
CTX-M-1
IncI1/ST3 plasmid was recovered from drinking water in France. This plasmid was similar to other
bla
CTX-M-1
IncI1/ST3 plasmids found previously in animals and humans. Our findings highlight the possible human transfer of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes through drinking water in high-income countries.
Inhibitory Interaction Potential of 22 Antituberculosis Drugs on Organic Anion and Cation Transporters of the SLC22A Family
Authors: Parvez M. Masud , Kaisar Nazia , Shin Ho Jung , Jung Jin Ah , Shin Jae-Gook
Published: August 2016

Twenty-two currently marketed antituberculosis drugs were comprehensively evaluated for their inhibitory effect on organic anionic transporter (OAT)- and organic cation transporter (OCT)-mediated uptake using stably transfected HEK293 cells
in vitro
. We observed moderate to strong inhibitory effects on OAT1- and OAT3-mediated
para
-aminohippurate (PAH) uptake and OCT1- and OCT2-mediated
N
-methyl-4-phenylpylidinium acetate (MPP
+
) uptake. Ciprofloxacin, linezolid,
para
-aminosalicylic acid (PAS), and rifampin were observed to have strong inhibitory effects, with the concentrations for a 50% inhibitory effect (IC
50
s) being 35.1, 31.1, 37.6, and 48.1 μM, respectively, for OAT1 and >100, 21.9, 24.6, and 30.2 μM, respectively, for OAT3. Similarly, pyrazinamide, rifabutin, and levofloxacin were observed to have inhibitory effects, with IC
50
values being 36.5, 42.7, and 30.3 μM, respectively, for OCT1 and with the IC
50
value for PAS being 94.2 μM for OCT2. In addition, we used zidovudine and metformin as clinically prescribed substrates of OATs and OCTs, respectively, and zidovudine and metformin uptake was also strongly inhibited by the antituberculosis drugs. Among the tested drugs, the highest drug-drug interaction (DDI) indexes were found for PAS, which were 9.3 to 13.9 for OAT1 and 12.0 to 17.7 for OAT3, and linezolid, which were 1.18 to 2.15 for OAT1 and 1.7 to 3.01 for OAT3. Similarly, the DDI indexes of pyrazinamide and levofloxacin were 0.57 and 0.30, respectively, for OCT1, and the DDI index of PAS was 3.8 for OCT2, suggesting a stronger possibility (DDI index value cutoff, >0.1) of
in vivo
DDIs. This is the first comprehensive report of the inhibitory potential of anti-TB drugs on OAT- and OCT-mediated uptake of prototype and clinically prescribed substrate drugs
in vitro
, providing an ability to predict DDIs between anti-TB drugs and other coprescribed drugs in clinical studies
in vivo
.
Early Bactericidal Activity of AZD5847 in Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Furin Jennifer J. , Du Bois Jeannine , van Brakel Elana , Chheng Phalkun , Venter Amour , Peloquin Charles A. , Alsultan Abdullah , Thiel Bonnie A. , Debanne Sara M. , Boom W. Henry , Diacon Andreas H. , Johnson John L.
Published: August 2016

AZD5847 is an oxazolidinone antibiotic with
in vitro
activity against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimycobacterial activity, safety, and pharmacokinetics of AZD5847 in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Groups of 15 treatment-naive, sputum smear-positive adults with pulmonary tuberculosis were randomly assigned to receive AZD5847 at one of four doses (500 mg once daily, 500 mg twice daily, 1,200 mg once daily, and 800 mg twice daily) or daily standard chemotherapy. The primary efficacy endpoint was the mean daily rate of change in the log
10
number of CFU of
M. tuberculosis
per milliliter of sputum, expressed as the change in log
10
number of CFU per milliliter of sputum per day. The mean 14-day activity of the combination of isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide (−0.163 log
10
CFU/ml sputum/day; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.193, −0.133 log
10
CFU/ml sputum/day) was consistent with that found in previous studies. AZD5847 at 500 mg twice daily significantly decreased the number of CFU on solid medium (−0.039; 95% CI, −0.069, −0.009;
P
= 0.0048). No bactericidal activity was detected at doses of AZD5847 of 500 mg once daily (mean early bactericidal activity [EBA], 0.02 [95% CI, −0.01, 0.05]), 1,200 mg once daily (mean EBA, 0.02 [95% CI, −0.01, 0.05]), and 800 mg twice daily (mean EBA, 0.02 [95% CI, −0.01, 0.05]). AZD5847 at doses of both 500 mg and 800 mg twice daily also showed an increase in the time to a positive culture in MGIT liquid culture medium. Two serious adverse events (grade 4 thrombocytopenia and grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia) occurred in patients receiving AZD5847 at higher doses. AZD5847 dosed twice daily kills tubercle bacilli in the sputum of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and has modest early bactericidal activity. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT01516203.)