bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequential filtering for dispersion tracking and sediment sound speed inversion
Authors: Aunsri Nattapol , Michalopoulou Zoi-Heleni
Published: November 2014

Dispersion curves in ocean environments are accurately estimated from received signals through the extraction of instantaneous modal frequencies and corresponding arrival times for long-range propagation. The ultimate goal is to estimate sediment sound speed using the extracted dispersion pattern. The approach extends work previously conducted in dispersion tracking with sequential filtering, improving on the latter technique. The sequential state-space method that is developed for the extraction of time-frequency information from specific time instances relies on a representation of those as a sum of elemental pulses, resulting from analysis of the received field. The method is tested on synthetic noisy data with different noise levels. After dispersion probability density functions are estimated via a particle filter, they are subsequently employed for sound speed inversion. Correct mode identification is a challenge impacting inversion; this is demonstrated through two examples and a way to remedy the problem is discussed.
A transmission-line model of back-cavity dynamics for in-plane pressure-differential microphones
Authors: Kim Donghwan , Kuntzman Michael L. , Hall Neal A.
Published: November 2014

Pressure-differential microphones inspired by the hearing mechanism of a special parasitoid fly have been described previously. The designs employ a beam structure that rotates about two pivots over an enclosed back volume. The back volume is only partially enclosed due to open slits around the perimeter of the beam. The open slits enable incoming sound waves to affect the pressure profile in the microphone's back volume. The goal of this work is to study the net moment applied to pressure-differential microphones by an incoming sound wave, which in-turn requires modeling the acoustic pressure distribution within the back volume. A lumped-element distributed transmission-line model of the back volume is introduced for this purpose. It is discovered that the net applied moment follows a low-pass filter behavior such that, at frequencies below a corner frequency depending on geometrical parameters of the design, the applied moment is unaffected by the open slits. This is in contrast to the high-pass filter behavior introduced by barometric pressure vents in conventional omnidirectional microphones. The model accurately predicts observed curvature in the frequency response of a prototype pressure-differential microphone 2 mm × 1 mm × 0.5 mm in size and employing piezoelectric readout.
Structural-change localization and monitoring through a perturbation-based inverse problem
Authors: Roux Philippe , Guéguen Philippe , Baillet Laurent , Hamze Alaa
Published: November 2014

Structural-change detection and characterization, or structural-health monitoring, is generally based on modal analysis, for detection, localization, and quantification of changes in structure. Classical methods combine both variations in frequencies and mode shapes, which require accurate and spatially distributed measurements. In this study, the detection and localization of a local perturbation are assessed by analysis of frequency changes (in the fundamental mode and overtones) that are combined with a perturbation-based linear inverse method and a deconvolution process. This perturbation method is applied first to a bending beam with the change considered as a local perturbation of the Young's modulus, using a one-dimensional finite-element model for modal analysis. Localization is successful, even for extended and multiple changes. In a second step, the method is numerically tested under ambient-noise vibration from the beam support with local changes that are shifted step by step along the beam. The frequency values are revealed using the random decrement technique that is applied to the time-evolving vibrations recorded by one sensor at the free extremity of the beam. Finally, the inversion method is experimentally demonstrated at the laboratory scale with data recorded at the free end of a Plexiglas beam attached to a metallic support.
Signal processing and tracking of arrivals in ocean acoustic tomography
Authors: Dzieciuch Matthew A.
Published: November 2014

The signal processing for ocean acoustic tomography experiments has been improved to account for the scattering of the individual arrivals. The scattering reduces signal coherence over time, bandwidth, and space. In the typical experiment, scattering is caused by the random internal-wave field and results in pulse spreading (over arrival-time and arrival-angle) and wander. The estimator-correlator is an effective procedure that improves the signal-to-noise ratio of travel-time estimates and also provides an estimate of signal coherence. The estimator-correlator smoothes the arrival pulse at the expense of resolution. After an arrival pulse has been measured, it must be associated with a model arrival, typically a ray arrival. For experiments with thousands of transmissions, this is a tedious task that is error-prone when done manually. An error metric that accounts for peak amplitude as well as travel-time and arrival-angle can be defined. The Viterbi algorithm can then be adapted to the task of automated peak tracking. Repeatable, consistent results are produced that are superior to a manual tracking procedure. The tracking can be adjusted by tuning the error metric in logical, quantifiable manner.
Effects of language experience and expectations on attention to consonants and tones in English and Mandarin Chinese
Authors: Lin Mengxi , Francis Alexander L.
Published: November 2014

Both long-term native language experience and immediate linguistic expectations can affect listeners' use of acoustic information when making a phonetic decision. In this study, a Garner selective attention task was used to investigate differences in attention to consonants and tones by American English-speaking listeners (N = 20) and Mandarin Chinese-speaking listeners hearing speech in either American English (N = 17) or Mandarin Chinese (N = 20). To minimize the effects of lexical differences and differences in the linguistic status of pitch across the two languages, stimuli and response conditions were selected such that all tokens constitute legitimate words in both languages and all responses required listeners to make decisions that were linguistically meaningful in their native language. Results showed that regardless of ambient language, Chinese listeners processed consonant and tone in a combined manner, consistent with previous research. In contrast, English listeners treated tones and consonants as perceptually separable. Results are discussed in terms of the role of sub-phonemic differences in acoustic cues across language, and the linguistic status of consonants and pitch contours in the two languages.
Statistical analysis of North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) signal trains in Cape Cod Bay, spring 2012
Authors: Urazghildiiev Ildar R.
Published: November 2014

Statistical characteristics of signal trains produced by North Atlantic right whales (NARW) during the winter and early spring in Cape Cod Bay, MA are described. Data analysis was based on four days of acoustic recordings that were obtained with synchronized hydrophones. Based on temporal and geographical clustering of detected signals, 7264 NARW sounds were identified and associated with 559 signal trains. The detected signals were assigned to four classes of narrowband tonal calls—upcalls, downcalls, complex, and high frequency, and two classes of wideband sounds—gunshots and complex. Empirical distributions of the number of signals in trains, total duration of trains, the positions of NARW, and signal classes are presented. Results indicate that 68.9% of all signal trains consisted of 10 or fewer signals. Low and high frequency tonals that lacked wideband sounds formed 69.1% of trains; 5.0% of trains lacked tonals. Trains consisting of only upcalls comprised 44.2% of all detected trains. Because 18.3% of trains contained no upcalls, using detectors that identify all signal classes would improve right whale detection.
Hormonal and Metabolic Responses to a Resistance Exercise Protocol in Lean Children, Obese Children, and Lean Adults
Authors: Rubin Daniela A. , Castner Diobel M. , Pham Hoang , Ng Jason , Adams Eric , Judelson Daniel A.
Published: November 2014

During childhood, varying exercise modalities are recommended to stimulate normal growth, development, and health. This project investigated hormonal and metabolic responses triggered by a resistance exercise protocol in lean children (age: 9.3 ± 1.4 y, body fat: 18.3 ± 4.9%), obese children (age: 9.6 ± 1.3 y, body fat: 40.3 ± 5.2%) and lean adults (age: 23.3 ± 2.4 y, body fat: 12.7 ± 2.9%). The protocol consisted of stepping onto a raised platform (height = 20% of stature) while wearing a weighted vest (resistance = 50% of lean body mass). Participants completed 6 sets of 10 repetitions per leg with a 1-min rest period between sets. Blood samples were obtained at rest preexercise, immediately postexercise and 2 times throughout the 1-hr recovery to analyze possible changes in hormones and metabolites. Children-adult differences included a larger exercise-induced norepinephrine increase in adults vs. children and a decrease in glucagon in children but not adults. Similarities between adults and children were observed for GH-IGF-1 axis responses. Metabolically, children presented with lower glycolytic and increased fat metabolism after exercise than adults did. Obesity in childhood negatively influenced GH, insulin, and glucose concentrations. While adults occasionally differed from children, amount of activated lean mass, not maturation, likely drove these dissimilarities.
Initial Screening of Children Treated With Second-Generation Antipsychotics Points to an Association Between Physical Activity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Cote Anita T. , Devlin Angela M. , Panagiotopoulos Constadina
Published: November 2014

Second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) medications, used to treat youth for a wide-range of mental health conditions, are associated with excessive weight gain and other comorbidities, placing these individuals at high risk for cardiovascular disease. Little is known about the effect of physical activity (PA) on cardiovascular risk in these children. Anthropometrics, fasting blood sample and self-report PA were obtained in 386 children diagnosed with mental health conditions (6–18 y). PA was classified as below (<60 min/day) or meets (>60 min/day) current recommended guidelines for daily PA in children. SGA-treated (n = 166) and SGA-naive (n = 220) were compared in the analysis. The SGA-treated children had higher (p < .05) BMI z-score, waist-to-height ratio, fasting glucose, and LDL-cholesterol than SGA-nai’ve children. Waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, HDL cholesterol, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR were significantly different by PA status. After adjusting for SGA-treatment duration, sex, age, and ethnicity, higher PA was associated with lower insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in SGA-treated (mean, 95% CI; below vs. meets: 2.10 [1.84, 2.37] vs. 1.59 [1.37, 1.81], p = .046) but not in SGA-naive (1.70 [1.47, 1.94] vs 1.55 [1.35, 1.75], p = .707) children. Upon initial screening, SGA-treated children that reported meeting the minimal recommendations for daily PA displayed lower measures of adiposity and improved insulin resistance.
Exercise, Hormones, and Skeletal Adaptations During Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Farr Joshua N. , Laddu Deepika R. , Going Scott B.
Published: November 2014

Although primarily considered a disorder of the elderly, emerging evidence suggests the antecedents of osteoporosis are established during childhood and adolescence. A complex interplay of genetic, environmental, hormonal and behavioral factors determines skeletal development, and a greater effort is needed to identify the most critical factors that establish peak bone strength. Indeed, knowledge of modifiable factors that determine skeletal development may permit optimization of skeletal health during growth and could potentially offset reductions in bone strength with aging. The peripubertal years represent a unique period when the skeleton is particularly responsive to loading exercises, and there is now overwhelming evidence that exercise can optimize skeletal development. While this is not controversial, the most effective exercise prescription and how much investment in this prescription is needed to significantly impact bone health continues to be debated. Despite considerable progress, these issues are not easy to address, and important questions remain unresolved. This review focuses on the key determinants of skeletal development, whether exercise during childhood and adolescence should be advocated as a safe and effective strategy for optimizing peak bone strength, and whether investment in exercise early in life protects against the development of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.
PIP4kγ is a substrate for mTORC1 that maintains basal mTORC1 signaling during starvation
Authors: Mackey Ashley M. , Sarkes Deborah A. , Bettencourt Ian , Asara John M. , Rameh Lucia E.
Published: November 2014

A feedback loop involving PIP4kγ and mTORC1 maintains basal mTORC1 activity under nutrient-deprived conditions.
Making Dendritic Arbors During Development
Authors: Hines Pamela J.
Published: November 2014

Presynaptic granule cell–derived signals drive competitive dendritic morphogenesis of Purkinje cells.
ALS and Parkinson’s Disease Meet at Mitophagy
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: November 2014

Mutations in parkin in Parkinson’s disease or optineurin in ALS impair the same pathway of recognition and clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria.
Reducing DNA Damage with Tyrosyl-tRNA Synthetase
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: November 2014

Tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase translocates to the nucleus in response to oxidative stress and enhances expression of genes that protect against DNA damage.
Genomic Epidemiology of the Haitian Cholera Outbreak: a Single Introduction Followed by Rapid, Extensive, and Continued Spread Characterized the Onset of the Epidemic
Authors: Eppinger Mark , Pearson Talima , Koenig Sara S. K. , Pearson Ofori , Hicks Nathan , Agrawal Sonia , Sanjar Fatemeh , Galens Kevin , Daugherty Sean , Crabtree Jonathan , Hendriksen Rene S. , Price Lance B. , Upadhyay Bishnu P. , Shakya Geeta , Fraser Claire M. , Ravel Jacques , Keim Paul S.
Published: November 2014

For centuries, cholera has been one of the most feared diseases. The causative agent
Vibrio cholerae
is a waterborne Gram-negative enteric pathogen eliciting a severe watery diarrheal disease. In October 2010, the seventh pandemic reached Haiti, a country that had not experienced cholera for more than a century. By using whole-genome sequence typing and mapping strategies of 116 serotype O1 strains from global sources, including 44 Haitian genomes, we present a detailed reconstructed evolutionary history of the seventh pandemic with a focus on the Haitian outbreak. We catalogued subtle genomic alterations at the nucleotide level in the genome core and architectural rearrangements from whole-genome map comparisons. Isolates closely related to the Haitian isolates caused several recent outbreaks in southern Asia. This study provides evidence for a single-source introduction of cholera from Nepal into Haiti followed by rapid, extensive, and continued clonal expansion. The phylogeographic patterns in both southern Asia and Haiti argue for the rapid dissemination of
V. cholerae
across the landscape necessitating real-time surveillance efforts to complement the whole-genome epidemiological analysis. As eradication efforts move forward, phylogeographic knowledge will be important for identifying persistent sources and monitoring success at regional levels. The results of molecular and epidemiological analyses of this outbreak suggest that an indigenous Haitian source of
V. cholerae
is unlikely and that an indigenous source has not contributed to the genomic evolution of this clade.

IMPORTANCE
In this genomic epidemiology study, we have applied high-resolution whole-genome-based sequence typing methodologies on a comprehensive set of genome sequences that have become available in the aftermath of the Haitian cholera epidemic. These sequence resources enabled us to reassess the degree of genomic heterogeneity within the
Vibrio cholerae
O1 serotype and to refine boundaries and evolutionary relationships. The established phylogenomic framework showed how outbreak isolates fit into the global phylogeographic patterns compared to a comprehensive globally and temporally diverse strain collection and provides strong molecular evidence that points to a nonindigenous source of the 2010 Haitian cholera outbreak and refines epidemiological standards used in outbreak investigations for outbreak inclusion/exclusion following the concept of genomic epidemiology. The generated phylogenomic data have major public health relevance in translating sequence-based information to assist in future diagnostic, epidemiological, surveillance, and forensic studies of cholera.
Evolution of Invasion in a Diverse Set of
Fusobacterium
Species
Authors: Manson McGuire Abigail , Cochrane Kyla , Griggs Allison D. , Haas Brian J. , Abeel Thomas , Zeng Qiandong , Nice Justin B. , MacDonald Hanlon , Birren Bruce W. , Berger Bryan W. , Allen-Vercoe Emma , Earl Ashlee M.
Published: November 2014

The diverse
Fusobacterium
genus contains species implicated in multiple clinical pathologies, including periodontal disease, preterm birth, and colorectal cancer. The lack of genetic tools for manipulating these organisms leaves us with little understanding of the genes responsible for adherence to and invasion of host cells. Actively invading
Fusobacterium
species can enter host cells independently, whereas passively invading species need additional factors, such as compromise of mucosal integrity or coinfection with other microbes. We applied whole-genome sequencing and comparative analysis to study the evolution of active and passive invasion strategies and to infer factors associated with active forms of host cell invasion. The evolution of active invasion appears to have followed an adaptive radiation in which two of the three fusobacterial lineages acquired new genes and underwent expansions of ancestral genes that enable active forms of host cell invasion. Compared to passive invaders, active invaders have much larger genomes, encode FadA-related adhesins, and possess twice as many genes encoding membrane-related proteins, including a large expansion of surface-associated proteins containing the MORN2 domain of unknown function. We predict a role for proteins containing MORN2 domains in adhesion and active invasion. In the largest and most comprehensive comparison of sequenced
Fusobacterium
species to date, we have generated a testable model for the molecular pathogenesis of
Fusobacterium
infection and illuminate new therapeutic or diagnostic strategies.

IMPORTANCE
Fusobacterium
species have recently been implicated in a broad spectrum of human pathologies, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, preterm birth, and colorectal cancer. Largely due to the genetic intractability of member species, the mechanisms by which
Fusobacterium
causes these pathologies are not well understood, although adherence to and active invasion of host cells appear important. We examined whole-genome sequence data from a diverse set of
Fusobacterium
species to identify genetic determinants of active forms of host cell invasion. Our analyses revealed that actively invading
Fusobacterium
species have larger genomes than passively invading species and possess a specific complement of genes—including a class of genes of unknown function that we predict evolved to enable host cell adherence and invasion. This study provides an important framework for future studies on the role of
Fusobacterium
in pathologies such as colorectal cancer.
Muscle strength measurements and functional outcome of an untreated complete distal rectus femoris muscle tear
Authors: Figved Wender , Grindem Hege , Aaberg Morten , Engebretsen Lars
Published: November 2014

A 46-year-old man sustained an injury to his right thigh while skiing. He sought medical advice after 6 weeks, presenting a palpable painful mass of his anterior proximal thigh but no functional deficit. An isolated complete distal intrasubstance tear of the rectus femoris muscle was diagnosed on ultrasound and MRI scans, and the patient received no medical treatment. Functional and dynamometer tests after 1 year showed high limb symmetry indexes and only slightly reduced values for peak torque and total work on the injured side. The patient had resumed skiing activities and reported slight pain after intense downhill skiing runs, but no functional limitations. MRI scans after 19 months showed increased retraction of the rectus femoris muscle. The natural history of an untreated complete distal rectus femoris muscle tear with no functional deficit may result in minimal disability.
Is the use of high frequency oscillatory ventilator beneficial in managing severe chest injury with massive air leak?
Authors: Dev Soni Kapil , Aggarwal Richa , Gupta Amit , Sharma Pawan
Published: November 2014

Severe thoracic trauma can be associated with immediate life-threatening injuries including major air leak syndrome that can lead to acute respiratory failure and refractory hypoxaemia. Such injuries invariably require thoracotomy following failure of conventional ventilation strategy and paucity of other non-operative interventions. We describe a case in which we used high frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) as a part of management of such injury and averted the need for thoracotomy.
Doubling back of Foley catheter in urethra in a tetraplegic patient: delayed recognition
Authors: Subramanian Vaidyanathan , Soni Bakul , Hughes Peter , Singh Gurpreet
Published: November 2014

A 51-year-old man with C-6 tetraplegia had ureteric calculi, developed ureteric stricture and required bilateral nephrostomy. Following change of the left nephrostomy, bloody urine was drained per nephrostomy. The urethral catheter was also changed; bloody drainage per urethral catheter was attributed to blood seeping from the left kidney. The length of the Foley catheter outside the penis appeared correct; therefore, it was presumed that the catheter had been introduced into the bladder. The following day, bladder washout could not be performed due to blockage of the catheter. CT of the kidneys and bladder revealed doubling back of the Foley catheter in the bulbar urethra with the balloon inflated in the urethra. The urethral catheter was removed and another catheter inserted satisfactorily by a senior doctor. From this experience we learned that a ‘Long Catheter Sign’ will not be positive if the catheter doubles back in the urethra. When in doubt, imaging studies should be performed immediately to check the position of the Foley catheter.
Negative urine pregnancy test in a molar pregnancy: is it possible?
Authors: Nigam Aruna , Kumari Archana , Gupta Nidhi
Published: November 2014

A urine pregnancy test is commonly used to detect pregnancy and is based on finding intact β-human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) molecules in the urine by an immunoassay system. However, the significantly large amount of β-hCG in molar pregnancy may paradoxically lead to a false-negative result due to a phenomenon known as the ‘high dose hook effect’. A case of molar pregnancy with negative urine pregnancy test but very high serum β-hCG is reported. Every obstetrician should be aware of this limitation in the presence of a high index of suspicion of gestational trophoblastic disease but negative urine pregnancy test.
Accelerometer-based measures in physical activity surveillance: current practices and issues
Authors: Pedišić Željko , Bauman Adrian
Published: November 2014

Objective

Self-reports of physical activity (PA) have been the mainstay of measurement in most non-communicable disease (NCD) surveillance systems. To these, other measures are added to summate to a comprehensive PA surveillance system. Recently, some national NCD surveillance systems have started using accelerometers as a measure of PA. The purpose of this paper was specifically to appraise the suitability and role of accelerometers for population-level PA surveillance.

Methods

A thorough literature search was conducted to examine aspects of the generalisability, reliability, validity, comprehensiveness and between-study comparability of accelerometer estimates, and to gauge the simplicity, cost-effectiveness, adaptability and sustainability of their use in NCD surveillance.

Conclusions

Accelerometer data collected in PA surveillance systems may not provide estimates that are generalisable to the target population. Accelerometer-based estimates have adequate reliability for PA surveillance, but there are still several issues associated with their validity. Accelerometer-based prevalence estimates are largely dependent on the investigators’ choice of intensity cut-off points. Maintaining standardised accelerometer data collections in long-term PA surveillance systems is difficult, which may cause discontinuity in time-trend data. The use of accelerometers does not necessarily produce useful between-study and international comparisons due to lack of standardisation of data collection and processing methods. To conclude, it appears that accelerometers still have limitations regarding generalisability, validity, comprehensiveness, simplicity, affordability, adaptability, between-study comparability and sustainability. Therefore, given the current evidence, it seems that the widespread adoption of accelerometers specifically for large-scale PA surveillance systems may be premature.
Association of the vitamin D binding protein polymorphisms with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Gaoshuai , Li Yuqian , Li Linlin , Yu Fei , Cui Lingling , Ba Yue , Li Wenjie , Wang Chongjian
Published: November 2014

Objective

Previous studies on the association between vitamin D binding protein (DBP) polymorphisms and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have produced conflicting results. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine whetherDBPpolymorphisms are associated with the risk of T2DM.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

All eligible studies were searched and acquired from the Cochrane, Pubmed, ISI, CNKI (Chinese) and Wanfang (Chinese) databases. ORs with corresponding 95% CIs were computed to estimate the association betweenDBPpolymorphisms and T2DM. In addition, heterogeneity test, meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were also conducted.

Results

Six studies, which included 1191 cases and 882 controls, met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that no significant associations were found between codon 416 and codon 420 polymorphisms in theDBPand the risk of T2DM in the overall analyses. In stratified analysis, significant associations between the codon 420 polymorphism and T2DM were found in Asians (allele Lys vs Thr: OR (95% CI) 1.49 (1.19 to 1.85), genotype Lys/Thr versus Thr/Thr: OR (95% CI) 1.80 (1.36 to 2.38), and Lys/Thr+Lys/Lys versus Thr/Thr: OR (95% CI) 1.81 (1.37 to 2.39), respectively) but not in Caucasians. For the codon 416, the significant association with T2DM was also detected in Asians (genotype Glu/Asp+Glu/Glu vs Asp/Asp: OR (95% CI) 1.36 (1.04 to 1.78)) but not in Caucasians.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis demonstrated that theDBPpolymorphism was moderately associated with increased susceptibility to T2DM in Asians, but a similar association was not found in Caucasians. It suggested that ethnicity might be the potential factor associated with heterogeneity.
A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of crew resource management training in acute care domains
Authors: O'Dea Angela , O'Connor Paul , Keogh Ivan
Published: November 2014

The healthcare industry has seen an increase in the adoption of team training, such as crew resource management (CRM), to improve teamwork and coordination within acute care medical teams. A meta-analysis was carried out in order to quantify the effects of CRM training on reactions, learning, behaviour and clinical care outcomes. Biases in the research evidence are identified and recommendations for training development and evaluation are presented. PUBMED, EMBASE and PsychInfo were systematically searched for all relevant papers. Peer reviewed papers published in English between January 1985 and September 2013, which present empirically based studies focusing on interventions to improve team effectiveness in acute health care domains, were included. A total of 20 CRM-type team training evaluation studies were found to fulfil the a priori criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Overall, CRM trained participants responded positively to CRM (mean score 4.25 out of a maximum of 5), the training had large effects on participants’ knowledge (d=1.05), a small effect on attitudes (d=0.22) and a large effect on behaviours (d=1.25). There was insufficient evidence to support an effect on clinical care outcomes or long term impacts. The findings support the premise that CRM training can positively impact teamwork in healthcare and provide estimates of the expected effects of training. However, there is a need for greater precision in outcome assessment, improved standardisation of methods and measures, and more robust research design. Stronger evidence of effectiveness will require multi-level, multicentre, multispecialty and longitudinal studies.
Cerebral coenurosis in a cat
Authors: Orioles Massimo , Beltran Elsa , Stewart Jennifer , Boufana Belgees , Holloway Andrew
Published: November 2014

A two‐year‐old female Birman cat presented with progressive abnormal behaviour, lethargy and circling towards the left. MRI demonstrated a large, solitary, intraxial expansile thin‐walled cyst, without surrounding oedema or enhancement, in the left frontoparietal region. Severe subfalcian, caudal transtentorial and foramen magnum herniation were present. The owners declined treatment and the cat was euthanased. Postmortem examination demonstrated a coenural cyst with multiple larval protoscolices molecularly confirmed asTaenia serialis. Recognition of characteristic MRI findings of feline cerebral coenurosis is necessary if antemortal diagnosis and management of this, to date, invariably fatal neurological condition is possible.
Effects of increased stocking density and heat stress on growth, performance, carcase characteristics and skeletal properties in turkeys
Authors: Jankowski J. , Mikulski D. , Tatara M. R. , Krupski W.
Published: November 2014

Effects of increased stocking density and heat stress on growth, feed conversion, carcase characteristics and skeletal system properties in turkeys were determined. One‐day‐old males (n=1674) were divided into two weight‐matched groups exposed to different environmental conditions. Controls were reared at a stocking density of 2.8 birds/m2 and at thermo‐neutral temperature (TnT group), while the experimental group was exposed to heat‐stress (HSID group) and reared at a stocking density of 3.4 birds/m2 and ambient temperature increased by 5°C. At 28 days of age, 27 birds from each group were sacrificed, while at 126 days of age, 54 birds from each group were slaughtered. Increased stocking density and ambient temperature during the first four weeks of life increased the body weight (BW) of turkeys and weight, length, volume, vertical internal and horizontal external diameters of the tibia in the HSID group compared with the TnT group (P<0.05). In turkeys older than four weeks, increased stocking density and ambient temperature significantly decreased daily feed intake, final BW and relative weight of drumstick muscle by 4.7 per cent, 4.0 per cent and 3.3 per cent, respectively (P<0.05). The weight, length, volume, vertical and horizontal diameters, cross‐sectional area, second moment of inertia, volumetric bone mineral density, maximum elastic strength and ultimate strength of bones were significantly lower in turkeys in the HSID group (P<0.05) at 126 days compared with turkeys in the TnT group at the same age. These results indicate that, up to four weeks of age, turkeys tolerate increased stocking density and heat stress better than birds between 5 and 18 weeks of age.
Efficacy of diclazuril and toltrazuril in the prevention of coccidiosis in dairy calves under field conditions
Authors: Zechner G. , Bauer C. , Jacobs J. , Goossens L. , Vertenten G. , Taylor M. A.
Published: November 2014

A blinded, controlled, randomised field study was undertaken on two commercial dairy farms in Germany to compare the efficacy of the anticoccidials, diclazuril and toltrazuril in the prevention of bovine coccidiosis. A total of 86 calves aged between five and six weeks were randomly allocated to two treatment and one untreated control groups. Calves were monitored for 78 days post‐treatment by clinical observation, bodyweight gain, faecal oocyst counts (FOCs) and coccidia species differentiation. Strategic treatments had no significant effect on bodyweight gains (P>0.05). Whilst the number of diarrhoea days was similar for all three groups from days 1 to 41, there was a significant difference in the number and percentage of diarrhoea days from day 42 with the diclazuril‐treated group showing only one diarrhoea day compared with 9 days (P=0.0195) and 18 days (P=0.0027) for the control and toltrazuril‐treated groups, respectively. FOCs in control calves fluctuated throughout the period of study indicating continued coccidia challenge. FOCs in the diclazuril‐treated calves declined to low levels post‐treatment, increasing to occasional counts >500 oocysts per gram of faeces (OPG) between days 27 and 42, but thereafter remained low. Calves treated with toltrazuril also showed low FOCs until day 40 but then showed several peaks of oocyst output >500 OPG coinciding with days of diarrhoea.
Working and volunteering overseas
Authors: Heaps Laura
Published: November 2014

Laura Heaps made the most of an opportunity to do a period of voluntary work in Africa, where she experienced a dramatic caseload, as well as gaining a valuable lesson in practicality and logistics
Making the best start in practice
Authors: Darvill Rob
Published: November 2014

On graduation, many new vets will begin their career in practice. Rob Darvill offers some advice on making the most of that all‐important first job
Working with a ‘buddy’
Authors: Lawless Kelly
Published: November 2014

Kelly Lawless gained a place on Medivet's new graduate support programme and was offered a job before she sat her finals. Two years on, she is still enjoying her first job
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Praill Andrew
Published: November 2014

Former practitioner Andrew Praill is president of the British Cattle Veterinary Association and a member of the BVA Board.
Postgraduate qualifications through distance learning
Authors:   Royal Veterinary College
Published: November 2014

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is offering vets the chance to ask questions about enhancing their career and gaining specialist knowledge through its distance learning programmesecord Careers aims to reflect the diverse range of career opportunities available to vets and related professionals. Suggestions for articles are welcome, and should be sent to vetcareerseditorial@bva‐edit.co.uk
Driving practice innovation
Authors:   RCVS Charitable Trust
Published: November 2014

The RCVS Charitable Trust aims to help vets and vet nurses provide the best possible care for animals. One of the ways it does this is by funding veterinary research and education projects. The trust has a scheme for vet nurses that aims to drive practice innovation
Starting practice on a firm footing
Authors: Summers Candice
Published: November 2014

Candice Summers joined Medivet's residency programme when she qualified and is now a partner in the company's Watford 24‐hour centre
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Endersby Sarah
Published: November 2014

Sarah Endersby is a veterinary adviser for Ceva Animal Health and was one of the company's team that recently completed the Three Peaks Challenge. Keeping fit is just one of her many interests
Returning to musical roots
Authors: Styes Helen
Published: November 2014

Helen Styles couldn't decide between studying music or veterinary medicine, and used the Tripos system at Cambridge to study music in the third year of her veterinary degree. She now uses skills honed in small animal practice in teaching violin, singing and piano
Teaching in higher education
Authors: Richards Isobel
Published: November 2014

Isobel Richards grew up in Camden, was a junior volunteer at London zoo and studied veterinary medicine at Cambridge. She is now teaching at a higher education college
On course
Authors: Humphries Dan , Ranson Kirsty
Published: November 2014

Vetskills, a new CPD programme from XLVets, used ‘working under pressure’ as the theme for a recent training day that included situational awareness and skid pan driving. Participants describe how they got on.
Pioneering research in practice
Authors: Hepburn Richard
Published: November 2014

Practitioner Richard Hepburn recently completed a Masters in gastric ulceration in horses, during which he identified what he believes is a new gastric condition. He is in his first year of a PhD to continue his studies
Ten minute chat
Authors: Burrows Colin
Published: November 2014

Colin Burrows qualified from London in 1969 and moved to the USA to take up an internship. He is vice‐president of the WSAVA, an organisation he has been involved with since the early 1990s. He takes over as president in Cape Town in September 2014.
Doing history
Authors: Woods Abigail
Published: November 2014

History is something often taken up in retirement, or pursued as a hobby, but for Abigail Woods it turned unexpectedly into an entirely new career
What makes a vet a researcher?
Authors: Hamstead Lauren
Published: November 2014

Last summer Lauren Hamstead took part in the Leadership Program for Veterinary Students at Cornell University in the USA, funded by a Wellcome Trust scholarship. The experience is designed for students who want to pursue a career in research, rather than general practice
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Stuart Noel
Published: November 2014

Noel Stuart was born on the Isle of Man and studied veterinary medicine in Dublin. After qualifying, he practised in the UK and Canada before settling in Helston, Cornwall. Having retired in 1994, he joined a creative writing group and he has written two books about his life.
Planning your CPD
Authors: Middleton Claire
Published: November 2014

Whether or not you're making resolutions, the start of a new year is traditionally time to think about the year ahead. Why not take stock of your continuing professional development (CPD) and get ahead with some planning, suggests RCVS communications officer Claire Millington
Polish up your media skills
Authors: Sajakow Nadin
Published: November 2014

The BVA holds regular one‐day media courses for vets who want to know how to present themselves and what they have to say to best advantage. BVA media officer Nadin Sajakow describes what the day involves
Mastering the business of practice
Authors: Samuelson Julian
Published: November 2014

As the managing director of a 14‐vet equine practice in Kent, Julian Samuelson felt that studying accounting, marketing and finance as part of a Masters degree would solve his lack of management training
Spatiotemporal variation of surface shortwave forcing from fire-induced albedo change in interior Alaska
Authors: Huang Shengli , Dahal Devendra , Liu Heping , Jin Suming , Young Claudia , Li Shuang , Liu Shuguang
Published: November 2014

The albedo change caused by fires and the subsequent succession is spatially heterogeneous, leading to the need to assess the spatiotemporal variation of surface shortwave forcing (SSF) as a component to quantify the climate impacts of high-latitude fires. We used an image reconstruction approach to compare postfire albedo with the albedo assuming that no fires had occurred. Combining the fire-caused albedo change from the 2001–2010 fires in interior Alaska and the monthly surface incoming solar radiation, we examined the spatiotemporal variation of SSF in the early successional stage of approximately 10 years. Our results showed that although postfire albedo generally increased in fall, winter, and spring, some burned areas could show an albedo decrease during these seasons. In summer, the albedo increased for several years and then declined again. The spring SSF distribution did not show a latitudinal decrease from south to north as previously reported. The results also indicated that although the SSF is usually largely negative in the early successional years, it may not be significant during the first postfire year. The annual 2005–2010 SSF for the 2004 fire scars was –1.30, –4.40, –3.31, –4.00, –3.42, and –2.47 W·m−2, respectively. The integrated annual SSF map showed significant spatial variation, with a mean of –3.15 W·m−2, a standard deviation of 3.26 watts per square metre (W·m−2), and 16% of burned areas having positive SSF. Our results suggest that boreal deciduous fires would be less positive for climate change than boreal evergreen fires. Future research is needed to comprehensively investigate the spatiotemporal radiative and nonradiative forcings to determine the effect of boreal fires on the climate.
Large band gaps in two-dimensional phononic crystals with self-similarity structure
Authors: Gao Nansha , Wu Jiu Hui , Yu Lie
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we study the band gaps (BGs) of two-dimensional (2D) phononic crystals (PCs) composed of self-similarity shape inclusions embedded in the homogenous matrix. The dispersion relations, transmission spectra, and displacement fields of eigenmodes of the proposed structures are calculated by use of finite element method. Due to the simultaneous mechanisms of the Bragg scattering, the structure can exhibit low-frequency BGs, which can be effectively shifted by changing the geometries and degree of the self-similarity structure. The BGs are significantly dependent upon the geometrical parameters and degree of the self-similarity structure. It is concluded that, the PCs with self-similarity structure, can modulate the location and width of BGs. But it must be pointed out, the shape of self-similarity inclusion exercises a great influence on the BGs. The study in this paper is relevant to the design of tuning BGs and isolators in the low-frequency range.
Cornual Heterotopic Pregnancy after Bilateral Salpingectomy and Uterine Septum Resection Resulting in Term Delivery of a Healthy Infant
Authors: Oral Serkan , Akpak Yaşam Kemal , Karaca Nilay , Babacan Ali , Savan Kadir
Published: November 2014

Heterotopic pregnancy is the simultaneous occurrence of two or more implantation sites. A 25-year-old infertile patient with a history of bilateral salpingectomy, uterine septum resection, and left cornual resection was diagnosed with heterotopic pregnancy in her secondin vitrofertilization trial. She attended our clinic when she was 7-week pregnant, complaining initially of severe abdominal pain. Findings associated with peritoneal irritation were positive during the physical examination. Transvaginal ultrasound revealed right cornual ectopic pregnancy with a live fetus in the middle of the uterine cavity. Also free fluid was noted in the pelvis. A diagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy with rupture of the cornual pregnancy was made. She underwent emergency laparoscopy with aspiration of the ruptured ectopic pregnancy, suturing to the entire visible cornual margins, and assurance of good haemostasis. Her recovery was uneventful and she continued receiving care in our obstetric unit. She delivered a healthy newborn by cesarean section at term.
Adsorption Studies of Lead by Enteromorpha Algae and Its Silicates Bonded Material
Authors: Hammud Hassan H. , El-Shaar Ali , Khamis Essam , Mansour El-Sayed
Published: November 2014

Lead adsorption by green Enteromorpha algae was studied. Adsorption capacity was 83.8 mg/g at pH 3.0 with algae (E) and 1433.5 mg/g for silicates modified algae (EM). FTIR and thermal analysis of algae materials were studied. Thomas and Yoon-Nelson column model were best for adsorbent (E) and algae after reflux (ER) and Yan model for (EM) with capacity 76.2, 71.1, and 982.5 mg/g, respectively. (ER) and (EM) show less swelling and better flow rate control than (E). Nonlinear methods are more appropriate technique. Error function calculations proved valuable for predicting the best adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and column models.
Identification and Validation of a New Male Sex-Specific ISSR Marker in Pointed Gourd (Trichosanthes dioicaRoxb.)
Authors: Adhikari Sinchan , Saha Soumen , Bandyopadhyay Tapas Kumar , Ghosh Parthadeb
Published: November 2014

The aim of the present study was to develop a genetic sex marker for the pointed gourd (Trichosanthes dioicaRoxb.) to allow gender determination at any stage in the life cycle. Screening of genomic DNA with intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers was used to discover sex-specific touch-down polymerase chain reaction (Td-PCR) amplification products. Using pooled DNA from male and female genotypes and 42 ISSR primers, a putative male specific marker (~550 bp) was identified. DNA marker specific to male is an indication of existence of nonepigenetic factors involved in gender development in pointed gourd. The ISSR technique has proved to be a reliable technique in gender determination of pointed gourd genotypes at the seedling phenophase. The sex marker developed here could also be used as a starting material towards sequence characterization of sex linked genes for better understanding the developmental as well as evolutionary pathways in sexual dimorphism.
Severe Heterotopic Ossification following Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Dodds Alexander L. , Keene Gregory C. R.
Published: November 2014

Although the incidence of minor heterotopic ossification is probably higher than what is usually expected, severe heterotopic ossification (HO) is an extremely rare event following total knee replacement surgery. We present the case of a 66-year-old woman who initially had achieved an excellent range of motion following bilateral uncemented rotating platform total knee replacement, before presenting with pain and loss of range of motion at 2 months after surgery. Severe HO was diagnosed on X-rays. Treatment consisted of nonoperative measures only, including physiotherapy with hydrotherapy and anti-inflammatories. She eventually regained her range of motion when seen at 8 months after operation. This case illustrates that nonoperative treatment without the use of radiotherapy or surgery can be used to safely resolve stiffness caused by HO after total knee replacement.