bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Differing, Aspects, and Leibniz's Law
Authors: Baxter Donald L.M.
Published: March 2017

I argue that an individual has aspects numerically identical with it and each other that nonetheless qualitatively differ from it and each other. This discernibility of identicals does not violate Leibniz's Law, however, which concerns only individuals and is silent about their aspects. They are not in its domain of quantification. To argue that there are aspects I will appeal to the internal conflicts of conscious beings. I do not mean to imply that aspects are confined to such cases, but the best way to start is to recognize them experientially. We can feel the conflicts within ourselves. In doing so we can feel some of our aspects. I will try to enhance our understanding of the concept of aspect by listing and formalizing some principles for its use. After that I will argue that all sorts of individual things have aspects, not just people who are conflicted.
Interference of a speB 5′ untranslated region partial deletion with mRNA degradation in Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Chen Z. , Mashburn‐Warren L. , Merritt J. , Federle M.J. , Kreth J.
Published: March 2017

The 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR) of an mRNA molecule embeds important determinants that modify its stability and translation efficiency. In Streptococcus pyogenes, a strict human pathogen, a gene encoding a secreted protease (speB) has a large 5′ UTR with unknown functions. Here we describe that a partial deletion of the speB 5′ UTR caused a general accumulation of mRNA in the stationary phase, and that the mRNA accumulation was due to retarded mRNA degradation. The phenotype was observed in several M serotypes harboring the partial deletion of the speB 5′ UTR. The phenotype was triggered by the production of the truncated speB 5′ UTR, but not by the disruption of the intact speB 5′ UTR. RNase Y, a major endoribonuclease, was previously shown to play a central role in bulk mRNA turnover in stationary phase. However, in contrast to our expectations, we observed a weaker interaction between the truncated speB 5′ UTR and RNase Y compared with the wild‐type, which suggests that other unidentified RNA degrading components are required for the pleiotropic effects observed from the speB UTR truncation. Our study demonstrates how S. pyogenes uses distinct mRNA degradation schemes in exponential and stationary growth phases.
Effect of ablation pattern on mechanical function in the atrium
Authors: Phung Thien‐Khoi N. , Moyer Christian B. , Norton Patrick T. , Ferguson John D. , Holmes Jeffrey W.
Published: March 2017

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is often treated with catheter ablation, which induces scar formation to isolate misfiring electrical signals in the left atrium. Successful ablation restores sinus rhythm at the cost of replacing viable myocardium with scar. The impact of ablation scar on mechanical function of the left atrium is poorly understood.

Objective

We used a computational model to simulate various ablation patterns and determine their effect on atrial global and regional mechanical function.

Methods

A coupled finite‐element and hemodynamic circuit model of the left atrium that represents the regional and global mechanics in paroxysmal AF patients was modified to simulate different ablation patterns: step‐wise pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), wide area circumferential ablation (WACA), and a posterior ablation developed by nContact, Inc (Morrisville, NC, USA). Atrial pressure‐volume relationships and regional wall motion were compared among the models.

Results

Ablation increased passive stiffness and decreased active work performed by the atrium. Active emptying volume decreased with increasing scar by up to 44% (11 mL) at a scar volume of 31%. At matched scar volumes, WACA decreased active emptying more severely than PVI and nContact. Similarly, wall motion was depressed most in the WACA model because WACA involved portions of the lateral wall with higher baseline motion.

Conclusion

Simulated ablation depressed atrial mechanical function to an extent that depended on both scar volume and location, primarily through reducing active emptying. Placing ablation scar in regions with high baseline motion resulted in greater depression of active function, while ablation of the posterior wall was less disruptive.
Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane Steroid Injection for Treating Chronic Abdominal Pain
Authors: Abd‐Elsayed Alaa , Malyuk David
Published: March 2017

Background

Historically, transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has been performed to treat acute abdominal pain that accompanies a variety of surgical procedures. This study represents an innovative approach in which the TAP block was performed on patients experiencing chronic abdominal pain who had failed other forms of pain management.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of the TAP block procedure in patients experiencing chronic abdominal pain.

Methods

In this retrospective chart review and data analysis, we reviewed the charts of 30 chronic abdominal pain patients previously treated with 45 TAP blocks after other forms of pain management had failed. We examined demographic data, surgical history, medication use, improvement following each block, and the side on which the procedure was performed. In unilateral blocks, 8 mL bupivacaine 0.25% mixed with 40 mg triamcinolone was injected. In bilateral blocks, 9 mL bupivacaine 0.25% and 40 mg triamcinolone were injected on each side. Analgesic efficacy was assessed via improvement in pain levels before and after the procedure was performed.

Results

Transversus abdominis plane block improved pain in 79.5% of the performed blocks. The percentage improvement was 54.7% ± 36.4% for an average of 84 ± 108 (0 to 490) days for the 44 procedures with complete data. There was significant reduction in the use of gabapentin before and after the procedure (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Transversus abdominis plane steroid injection can be a helpful in treating somatosensory chronic abdominal pain resistant to other therapeutic modalities.
Laminar crystal deposition in large vessels in a patient with crystalglobulinemia
Authors: Shintani‐Domoto Yukako , Shinozaki‐Ushiku Aya , Okuma Hidemi , Kurokawa Mineo , Fukayama Masashi
Published: March 2017

Crystalglobulinemia is an extremely rare complication of monoclonal gammopathy and is characterized by crystal thrombi within systemic organs. We herein report the first described case of crystalglobulinemia accompanied by laminar crystal deposition in the large vessels. A 44‐year‐old man presented with a history of numbness, pain, and swelling of the left leg in addition to visual impairment. Renal and skin biopsies revealed crystal thrombi within the capillary lumens. The patient was finally diagnosed with crystalglobulinemia associated with multiple myeloma. He was treated with hemodialysis and chemotherapy but died of the disease 15 months after admission. Autopsy demonstrated a huge amount of crystal deposition in the subintimal layer of the vascular wall throughout the thoracic to abdominal aorta. The characteristic deposition extended to the iliac arteries, common carotid arteries, and subclavian arteries but did not affect the bilateral renal arteries. Antemortem computed tomography demonstrated higher intensity in the wall of the abdominal aorta but not in the walls of the renal arteries, suggesting that a finding of high intensity on computed tomography could be a clinical marker of systemic crystal deposition.
The United States of America as Rechtsstaat: State and Administrative Law as Key to Understanding the Administrative State
Authors: Raadschelders Jos C. N.
Published: March 2017

Related Content: Balfour (PAR May/June 2017)

Related Content: Spicer (PAR May/June 2017)

Related Content: Bartels (PAR May/June 2017)

Related Content: Benavides (PAR May/June 2017)
Experimental Study of Shaft Resistance of Model Piles in Fluidized and Nonfluidized Fine Sand
Authors: de Brum Passini Larissa , Schnaid Fernando , Salgado Rodrigo
Published: March 2017

Torpedo piles installed by dynamic penetration have been used as anchors in the Brazilian offshore oil production infrastructure practice for two decades. Dynamic penetration aided by fluidization of the soil during pile penetration is now being contemplated as a method of installation that would allow deeper penetration. The two key design questions in connection with torpedo piles are how far they penetrate and what their pullout capacity is. In a companion paper, the authors addressed the first question, whereas in the present one the second question is attended through laboratory tests using model piles, essentially pipes simulating torpedo piles without wings. The model piles were installed in two different ways: by fluidization, which enabled the piles to sink by their own weight, and by monotonic jacking. Pullout tests were then performed on the model piles in both fluidized and nonfluidized sandy soils prepared at two initial relative densities. Results from the laboratory tests indicate that shaft uplift capacity of fluidized piles is essentially independent of the sand initial relative density. The measured values of the coefficient of lateral earth pressure (Ks) derived from the fluidized model tests are lower than those reported for other methods of pile installation, in some cases being lower than K0. Finally, the shaft resistance of fluidized piles increases after installation as the soil reconsolidates and particles rearrange.
Damping Effect on the Wave Propagation in Carbon Steel Pipelines Under Fluid Hammer Conditions
Authors: Pavlou Dimitrios G. , Ong Muk Chen
Published: March 2017

A sudden reduction of the fluid flow yields a pressure shock, which travels along the pipeline with a high-speed. Due to this transient loading, dynamic hoop stresses are developed that may cause catastrophic damages in pipeline integrity. The vibration of the pipe wall is affected by the flow parameters as well as by the elastic and damping characteristics of the material. Most of the studies on dynamic response of pipelines: (a) neglect the effect of the material damping and (b) are usually limited to harmonic pressure oscillations. The present work is an attempt to fill the above research gap. To achieve this target, an analytic solution of the governing motion equation of pipelines under moving pressure shock is derived. The proposed methodology takes into account both elastic and damping characteristics of the steel. With the aid of Laplace and Fourier integral transforms and generalized function properties, the solution is based on the transformation of the dynamic partial differential equation into an algebraic form. Analytical inversion of the transformed dynamic radial deflection variable is achieved, yielding the final solution. The proposed methodology is implemented in an engineering example; and the results are shown and discussed.
Growth of lead thin films on silicon and niobium substrates by sputtering technique
Authors: Gontad Francisco , Lorusso Antonella , Di Giulio Massimo , Eriksson Fredrik , Broitman Esteban , Perrone Alessio
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the authors report the growth of Pb thin films on both Si and Nb substrates by radio-frequency sputtering technique. Deposited films were characterized and tested to deduce the structure, the morphology, the nanomechanical properties, and also the quantum efficiency. Granular structures and large presence of voids were observed by scanning electron microscopy; moreover, the roughness and grain size of the film surface, investigated by surface probe microscopy, increased with the film thickness. Crystallographic orientation, studied by x-ray diffraction, showed the growth of polycrystalline Pb thin films and the presence of weak diffraction peaks related to penta-lead oxide (Pb5O8). The nanomechanical analysis reveals a film hardness with a value (∼1.5 GPa) well beyond the hardness of Pb bulk (0.04 GPa). Finally, twin Pb thin films deposited on Nb substrates were tested as photocathodes showing its great potentiality to be used in superconducting radio-frequency guns with a quantum efficiency of 5 × 10−5.
Raman spectroscopy enabled investigation of carbon nanotubes quality upon dispersion in aqueous environments
Authors: Wang Yang , Vasileva Dzhuliya , Zustiak Silviya P. , Kuljanishvili Irma
Published: March 2017

Dispersion of high quality carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in aqueous solutions is of central importance for their potential biological and biomedical applications. Although it is now possible to obtain highly dispersed CNT solutions by means of surfactant assisted processing, organic functionalization, and mechanical mixing, a concern remains about preservation of CNTs' quality during these dispersion procedures. In this report, the authors demonstrate that by employing Raman spectroscopy, one can study changes in CNTs' quality post-dispersion. Specifically, the authors focused on mechanical mixing via sonication and quantitatively determined the effects of various parameters such as surfactants, CNTs' geometry, sonication time, and sonication method on CNTs' quality post-sonication. While not addressed here, our method could be extended to monitor CNTs' quality as a function of other parameters that could potentially compromise their quality, such as chemical functionalization or doping.
Pitch shape modulates the time course of tone vs pitch-accent identification in Mandarin Chinese
Authors: Wu Zhaohong , Ortega-Llebaria Marta
Published: March 2017

In Mandarin Chinese pitch is used to express both lexical meanings via tones and sentence-level meanings via pitch-accents raising the question of which information is processed first. While research with meaningful sentence materials suggested a general processing advantage of tone over pitch-accents, research on pure tones and nonce speech in pre-attentive processing found that the f0-shape led to timing and site processing differences. The current study reconciles these results by exploring whether the tone advantage found in meaningful speech materials is modulated by the f0-shape by establishing via a gating paradigm the relative timing of tone and pitch-accent identification. Target words containing static (T1) and dynamic (T2, T4) tones were embedded into meaningful sentences and were divided into 50 ms gates which were added incrementally either from the left- or right-edge of the target word. Results showed that dynamic targets had either a tone or pitch-accent advantage contingent on the direction of gate processing. In contrast, for static T1 targets, tone and pitch-accent were identified simultaneously regardless of the direction of gate processing. Altogether, these results indicate that the f0-shape, as defined by pitch dimensions of f0 and pitch range, mediates the timing of tone and pitch-accent identification in meaningful speech supporting highly interactive models of speech perception.
The applied value of public investments in biomedical research
Authors: Li Danielle , Azoulay Pierre , Sampat Bhaven N.
Published: March 2017

For biomedical patents, basic research is just as valuable as applied research.
Draft Genome Sequence of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis Strain PA06 Isolated from a Subauricular Abscess in an Ovine Host
Authors: Marques Joana Montezano , de Moura Vitória Almeida Gonçalves , Lima Alyne Cristina Sodré , Paixão Carla Thais Moreira , Lobato Amália Raiana Fonseca , Alves Jorianne Thyeska Castro , Guaraldi Ana Luiza de Mattos , Folador Adriana Ribeiro Carneiro , Ramos Rommel T. J. , Silva Artur
Published: March 2017

We report here the draft genome sequence of
Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis
PA06, isolated from a subauricular abscess in an ovine host.
C. pseudotuberculosis
is a worldwide pathogen of small and large ruminants. The genome comprises 2,320,074 bp, with a G+C content of 52.2%, 2,195 coding sequences, 48 tRNAs, and three rRNAs.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Staphylococcus aureus Sequence Type 5 Isolates from California, USA
Authors: Hau Samantha J. , Bayles Darrell O. , Alt David P. , Nicholson Tracy L.
Published: March 2017

Staphylococcus aureus
causes a variety of human diseases ranging in severity. The pathogenicity of
S. aureus
can be partially attributed to the acquisition of mobile genetic elements. In this report, we provide two complete genome sequences from human clinical
S. aureus
isolates.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Genotype A2 Small Ruminant Lentiviruses Isolated from Infected U.S. Sheep
Authors: Workman Aspen M. , Dickey Aaron M. , Heaton Michael P. , Clawson Michael L. , Smith Timothy P. L.
Published: March 2017

Two distinct subgroups of genotype A2 small ruminant lentiviruses (SRLVs) have been identified in the United States that infect sheep with specific host transmembrane protein 154 (
TMEM154
) diplotypes. Here, we report the first two complete genome sequences of SRLV strains infecting U.S. sheep belonging to genotype A2, subgroups 1 and 2.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Root-Colonizing Fungus
Trichoderma harzianum
B97
Authors: Compant Stéphane , Gerbore Jonathan , Antonielli Livio , Brutel Aline , Schmoll Monika
Published: March 2017

Trichoderma harzianum
is one of the most beneficial microorganisms applied on diverse crops against biotic and abiotic stresses and acts also as a plant growth-promoting fungus. Here, we report the genome of
T. harzianum
B97, originating from a French agricultural soil and used as a biofertilizer that can tolerate abiotic stresses.
Developing a globally applicable evidence-informed competency framework to support capacity strengthening in clinical research
Authors: Julé Amélie , Furtado Tamzin , Boggs Liam , van Loggerenberg Francois , Ewing Victoria , Vahedi Manhaz , Launois Pascal , Lang Trudie
Published: March 2017

Capacity development for clinical research is held back by a lack of recognition for the skills acquired through involvement in clinical trials and in other varied types of global health research studies. Although some competency frameworks and associated recognised career pathways exist for different clinical research roles, they mostly apply to a single role or study setting. Our experience supports the need for an integrated approach, looking at the many roles in parallel and at all types of clinical research beyond trials. Here, we propose a single, flexible framework which is applicable to the full global health research team, and can be used for recognising staff by highlighting acquired skills and possible progression between various roles. It can also illuminate where capacity needs strengthening and contribute to raising research engagement. Through systematic analysis of existing competency frameworks and current job descriptions covering 11 distinct, broad clinical research roles, we identified and defined 50 key competencies required by the team as a whole and throughout the study life cycle. The competencies are relevant and adaptable to studies that differ in design, geographical location or disease, and fall in five main areas—(1) Ethics, Quality and Risk Management; (2) Study and Site Management; (3) Research Operations; (4) Scientific Thinking; and (5) Professional Skills. A pilot framework and implementation tools are now available online and in paper format. They have the potential to be a new mechanism for enabling research skills development and career progression for all staff engaged in clinical research globally.
Psychological and behavioural patterns of stigma among patients with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kato Asuka , Fujimaki Yuko , Fujimori Shin , Isogawa Akihiro , Onishi Yukiko , Suzuki Ryo , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Ueki Kohjiro , Kadowaki Takashi , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: March 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to test the psychological and behavioural patterns of stigma (self-esteem and social participation) and their relationship to self-stigma, patient activation for engaging in self-care and glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

2 tertiary-level hospitals and 2 secondary-level hospitals in Japan.

Participants

A consecutive sample of 209 outpatients with T2DM. Inclusion criteria were as follows: presence of T2DM, age 20–74 years, no diagnosis of dementia and/or psychosis, and no need for urgent medical procedures.

Outcome measures

Study measures included a self-administered questionnaire to assess the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES), the 3 subscales of 36-question Short Form Health Survey (SF-36; Social Function, Role Physical, Role Emotional), Self-Stigma Scale and Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13). Glycated haemoglobin was obtained from same day blood work. In our previous qualitative study, we found that psychological and behavioural patterns of stigma varied according to patients' levels of illness-related self-esteem as well as attitudes towards social participation. For quantitative consistency, we used the SES scale to measure self-esteem and the SF-36 subscales to measure social participation. We then divided participants into 4 groups by exhibited psychological and behavioural patterns: group A (high SES/high SF-36), group B (high SES/low SF-36), group C (low SES/high SF-36) and group D (low SES/low SF-36).

Results

Using analysis of covariance after controlling for age and sex, there was a significant difference in self-stigma levels between the four groups (F[3,203]=15.70, p<0.001). We observed the highest mean self-stigma levels in group D. Group D also had significantly lower PAM-13 scores than those of groups A (p<0.001) and B (p=0.02).

Conclusions

The psychological and behavioural pattern of group D was found to be associated with higher levels of self-stigma and poorer patient activation for self-care.
Meta-analysis of the effectiveness of psychological and medical treatments for binge-eating disorder (MetaBED): study protocol
Authors: Hilbert Anja , Petroff David , Herpertz Stephan , Kersting Anette , Pietrowsky Reinhard , Tuschen-Caffier Brunna , Vocks Silja , Schmidt Ricarda
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Binge-eating disorder (BED) was included as its own diagnostic entity in the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). An increasing number of treatment studies have been published, but an up-to-date comprehensive meta-analysis on diverse treatment approaches for BED is lacking. In an updated and extension of a previous meta-analysis, the goals of this study are to assess the short-term and long-term effectiveness of psychological and medical treatments for BED.

Methods and analysis

We will search bibliographic databases and study registries, including manual searches for studies published before January 2016. The search strategy will include terms relating to binge eating and diverse forms of psychological and medical interventions. Language will be restricted to English. The studies included will be treatment studies, that is, randomised-controlled trials, and non-randomised and non-controlled studies, for individuals with BED (DSM-IV or DSM-5), and studies that provided a pre-treatment and at least one post-treatment or follow-up assessment of binge eating. The primary outcomes will be the number of binge-eating episodes, abstinence from binge eating and diagnosis of BED at post-treatment and/or follow-up(s), and changes from pre-treatment to post-treatment and/or follow-up(s). Likewise, as secondary outcomes, eating disorder and general psychopathology, quality of life, and body weight will be analysed and adverse events and treatment drop-out will be examined. Study search, selection and data extraction, including risk of bias assessment, will be independently performed by 2 reviewers and consensus will be sought. Moderator analyses will be conducted, and equity aspects will be considered. Sensitivity analyses will be conducted to determine the robustness of the results.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this meta-analysis. Published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated electronically and in print, this meta-analysis will form the basis of the renewal of the German evidence-based S3 Guidelines of Diagnosis and Treatment of Eating Disorders, specifically BED.

Trial registration number

CRD42016043604.
Incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus with HIV infection in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Prioreschi A , Munthali R J , Soepnel L , Goldstein J A , Micklesfield L K , Aronoff D M , Norris S A
Published: March 2017

Objectives

This systematic review aims to investigate the incidence and prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in patients with HIV infection in African populations.

Setting

Only studies reporting data from Africa were included.

Participants

A systematic search was conducted using four databases for articles referring to HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy, and T2DM in Africa. Articles were excluded if they reported data on children, animals or type 1 diabetes exclusively.

Main outcome measures

Incidence of T2DM and prevalence of T2DM. Risk ratios were generated for pooled data using random effects models. Bias was assessed using an adapted Cochrane Collaboration bias assessment tool.

Results

Of 1056 references that were screened, only 20 were selected for inclusion. Seven reported the incidence of T2DM in patients with HIV infection, eight reported the prevalence of T2DM in HIV-infected versus uninfected individuals and five reported prevalence of T2DM in HIV-treated versus untreated patients. Incidence rates ranged from 4 to 59 per 1000 person years. Meta-analysis showed no significant differences between T2DM prevalence in HIV-infected individuals versus uninfected individuals (risk ratio (RR) =1.61, 95% CI 0.62 to 4.21, p=0.33), or between HIV-treated patients versus untreated patients (RR=1.38, 95% CI 0.66 to 2.87, p=0.39), and heterogeneity was high in both meta-analyses (I2=87% and 52%, respectively).

Conclusions

Meta-analysis showed no association between T2DM prevalence and HIV infection or antiretroviral therapy; however, these results are limited by the high heterogeneity of the included studies and moderate-to-high risk of bias, as well as, the small number of studies included. There is a need for well-designed prospective longitudinal studies with larger population sizes to better assess incidence and prevalence of T2DM in African patients with HIV. Furthermore, screening for T2DM using gold standard methods in this population is necessary.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO42016038689.
The incidence of delirium after cardiac surgery in the elderly: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liao Yulin , Flaherty Joseph H , Yue Jirong , Wang Yanyan , Deng Chuanyao , Chen Ling
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Delirium is one of the most common complications after cardiac surgery in the elderly. Future studies aimed at preventing postoperative delirium will need an accurate estimate of incidence. However, there are no available systematic reviews on the incidence, and reports of incidence of postoperative delirium after a cardiac operation vary widely with significant heterogeneity. Therefore, we aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the most accurate incidence possible of postoperative delirium in individuals aged >65 years after cardiac surgery.

Methods and analyses

We will undertake a comprehensive literature search among PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO and CINAHL, from their inception to January 2017. Prospective cohort and cross sectional studies that described the incidence of delirium will be eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome will be the incidence of delirium. Risk of bias and methodological quality for the included studies will be assessed using a risk of bias tool for prevalence studies and the Cochrane guidelines. Heterogeneity of the estimates across studies will be assessed. Incidence data will be pooled by selective or emergency surgery. This systematic review will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

Ethics and dissemination

This proposed systematic review and meta-analysis is based on published data, and thus there is no requirement for ethics approval. The study will provide an up to date and accurate incidence of postoperative delirium among the older population after cardiac surgery, which is necessary for future research in this area. The findings of this study will be presented at conferences and disseminated through publication in a peer reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

CRD42016047773.
State of reporting of primary biomedical research: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Li Guowei , Mbuagbaw Lawrence , Samaan Zainab , Jin Yanling , Nwosu Ikunna , Levine Mitchell A H , Adachi Jonathan D , Thabane Lehana
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Incomplete or inconsistent reporting remains a major concern in the biomedical literature. Incomplete or inconsistent reporting may yield the published findings unreliable, irreproducible or sometimes misleading. In this study based on evidence from systematic reviews and surveys that have evaluated the reporting issues in primary biomedical studies, we aim to conduct a scoping review with focuses on (1) the state-of-the-art extent of adherence to the emerging reporting guidelines in primary biomedical research, (2) the inconsistency between protocols or registrations and full reports and (3) the disagreement between abstracts and full-text articles.

Methods and analyses

We will use a comprehensive search strategy to retrieve all available and eligible systematic reviews and surveys in the literature. We will search the following electronic databases: Web of Science, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), MEDLINE and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). Our outcomes are levels of adherence to reporting guidelines, levels of consistency between protocols or registrations and full reports and the agreement between abstracts and full reports, all of which will be expressed as percentages, quality scores or categorised rating (such as high, medium and low). No pooled analyses will be performed quantitatively given the heterogeneity of the included systematic reviews and surveys. Likewise, factors associated with improved completeness and consistency of reporting will be summarised qualitatively. The quality of the included systematic reviews will be evaluated using AMSTAR (a measurement tool to assess systematic reviews).

Ethics and dissemination

All findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and relevant conferences. These results may advance our understanding of the extent of incomplete and inconsistent reporting, factors related to improved completeness and consistency of reporting and potential recommendations for various stakeholders in the biomedical community.
Hospital admissions for respiratory system diseases in adults with intellectual disabilities in Southeast London: a register-based cohort study
Authors: Chang Chin-Kuo , Chen Chih-Yin , Broadbent Mathew , Stewart Robert , O'Hara Jean
Published: March 2017

Background

Intellectual disability (ID) carries a high impact on need for care, health status and premature mortality. Respiratory system diseases contribute a major part of mortality among people with ID, but remain underinvestigated as consequent morbidities.

Methods

Anonymised electronic mental health records from the South London and Maudsley Trust (SLaM) were linked to national acute medical care data. Using retrospective cohort and matched case–control study designs, adults with ID receiving SLaM care between 1 January 2008 and 31 March 2013 were identified and compared with local catchment residents for respiratory system disease admissions. Standardised admission ratios (SARs) were first calculated, followed by a comparison of duration of hospitalisation with respiratory system disease between people with ID and age-matched and gender-matched random counterparts modelled using linear regression. Finally, the risk of readmission for respiratory system disease was analysed using the Cox models.

Results

For the 3138 adults with ID identified in SLaM, the SAR for respiratory system disease admissions was 4.02 (95% CI 3.79 to 4.26). Compared with adults without ID, duration of hospitalisation was significantly longer by 2.34 days (95% CI 0.03 to 4.64) and respiratory system disease readmission was significantly elevated (HR=1.35; 95% CI 1.17 to 1.56) after confounding adjustment.

Conclusions

Respiratory system disease admissions in adults with ID are more frequent, of longer duration and have a higher likelihood of recurring. Development and evaluation of potential interventions to the preventable causes of respiratory diseases should be prioritised.
Three-year outcomes after acute kidney injury: results of a prospective parallel group cohort study
Authors: Horne Kerry L , Packington Rebecca , Monaghan John , Reilly Timothy , Selby Nicholas M
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Using a prospective study design, we aimed to characterise the effect of acute kidney injury (AKI) on long-term changes in renal function in a general hospital population.

Participants

Hospitalised patients with AKI (exposed) and hospitalised patients without AKI (non-exposed), recruited at 3 months after hospital admission.

Design

Prospective, matched parallel group cohort study, in which renal function and proteinuria were measured at 3 months, 1 year and 3 years.

Setting

Single UK centre.

Clinical end points

Clinical end points at 3 years were comparison of the following variables between exposed and non-exposed groups: renal function, prevalence of proteinuria and albuminuria and chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression/development at each time point. CKD progression was defined as a decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of ≥25% associated with a decline in eGFR stage.

Results

300 exposed and non-exposed patients were successfully matched 1:1 for age and baseline renal function; 70% of the exposed group had AKI stage 1. During follow-up, the AKI group had lower eGFR than non-exposed patients at each time point. At 3 years, the mean eGFR was 60.7±21 mL/min/1.73 m2in the AKI group compared with 68.4±21 mL/min/1.73 m2in the non-exposed group, p=0.003. CKD development or progression at 3 years occurred in 30 (24.6%) of the AKI group compared with 10 (7.5%) of the non-exposed group, p<0.001. Albuminuria was more common in the AKI group, and increased with AKI severity. Factors independently associated with CKD development/progression after AKI were non-recovery at 90 days, male gender, diabetes and recurrent AKI.

Conclusions

AKI is associated with deterioration in renal function to 3 years, even in an unselected population with predominantly AKI stage 1. Non-recovery from AKI is an important factor determining long-term outcome.
Impact of maternal antibodies and infant gut microbiota on the immunogenicity of rotavirus vaccines in African, Indian and European infants: protocol for a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sindhu Kuladaipalayam Natarajan C , Cunliffe Nigel , Peak Matthew , Turner Mark , Darby Alistair , Grassly Nicholas , Gordon Melita , Dube Queen , Babji Sudhir , Praharaj Ira , Verghese Valsan , Iturriza-Gómara Miren , Kang Gagandeep
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Gastroenteritis is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among young children living in resource-poor settings, majority of which is attributed to rotavirus. Rotavirus vaccination can therefore have a significant impact on infant mortality. However, rotavirus vaccine efficacy in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia is significantly lower than in high-income countries. Maternally derived antibodies, infant gut microbiota and concomitant oral polio vaccination have been proposed as potential reasons for poor vaccine performance in low-income settings. The overall aim of this study is to compare the role of maternally derived antibodies and infant gut microbiota in determining immune response to rotavirus vaccine in high-income and low-income settings, using the same vaccine and a similar study protocol.

Methods and analysis

The study is an observational cohort in three countries—Malawi, India and UK. Mothers will be enrolled in third trimester of pregnancy and followed up, along with infants after delivery, until the infant completes two doses of oral rotavirus vaccine (along with routine immunisation). The levels of prevaccination maternally derived rotavirus-specific antibodies (IgG) will be correlated with infant seroconversion and antibody titres, 4 weeks after the second dose of rotavirus vaccine. Both within-country and between-country comparisons of gut microbiome will be carried out between children who seroconvert and those who do not. The impact of oral polio vaccine coadministration on rotavirus vaccine response will be studied in Indian infants.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approvals have been obtained from Integrated Research Application System (IRAS, NHS ethics) in UK, College of Medicine Research and Ethics Committee (COMREC) in Malawi and Institutional Review Board (IRB), Christian Medical College, Vellore in India. Participant recruitment and follow-up is ongoing at all three sites. Analysis of data, followed by publication of the results, is expected in 2018.
Malocclusion in cats and dogs
Authors: Perry Andrew
Published: March 2017

A malocclusion is a discrepancy of alignment in opposing dental arches or an abnormal relationship between teeth when the mouth is closed. These discrepancies may be congenital, developmental or acquired. This article discusses the development of malocclusions and their associated consequences, describes ideal occlusion and reviews classification of malocclusions. It also discusses the most common malocclusions seen in cats and dogs, and describes potential treatments.
Diagnosis and control of Salmonella Dublin in dairy herds
Authors: Henderson Katrina , Mason Colin
Published: March 2017

Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Dublin (Salmonella Dublin) infection has a significant impact on productivity and welfare in infected cattle herds, as well as having zoonotic potential. This article focuses on the impact of Salmonella Dublin on the health and welfare of dairy cattle, and discusses important aspects of the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis and control of Salmonella Dublin.
Comments on the dilemma in the March issue: When the client cannot pay
Authors: McCulloch Steven
Published: March 2017

In the dilemma discussed in the March issue of In Practice, you worked in a clinic owned by a charity that provided subsidised treatment. A 10‐year‐old bitch presents with a suspected closed pyometra. The owner cannot pay for the treatment, even at the charity's prices. While discussing the case, an EMS student offers to pay if they can keep the dog. What should you do? (IP, March 2017, vol 39, pp 142‐143). Peter Fordyce suggested that there were two options if the bitch's owner could not meet the costs of treatment: transferring the legal responsibilty of the bitch to a new owner, or euthanasia. Both of these may not be palatable to the owner. Before discussing the student's offer, it might be better to explore if the charity is in a position to take over ownership of the bitch, fund the treatment and rehome it. If it is not, then the student's offer could be discussed with tact. If there are no options for rehoming and no options for payment of the treatment, euthanasia would be the only way to relieve the dog's suffering.
A model for estimating amplification effects on seismic hazards and scenario ground motions in southern Ontario
Authors: Braganza Sebastian , Atkinson Gail M.
Published: March 2017

Site amplification effects in southern Ontario are highly variable and strongly influence felt effects and damage potential. Site parameters such as shear-wave velocity in the top 30 metres of soil (VS30), traditionally used to estimate site amplification, are not well known in this region. Thus, regional maps of shaking potential and seismic hazard are often overgeneralized. In this study, a site amplification model based on peak frequency (fpeak) is compared to one based on VS30, as given by the 2015 National Building Code of Canada (NBCC). Earthquakes and scenario events are used to estimate ground motions and shaking intensities. It is shown that both models generally predict similar felt intensities but show significant differences in their predicted amplification of ground motions as a function of frequency. The results of this study support the use of fpeakas a site response variable for estimating amplification effects in southern Ontario.
A duality theorem for weak multiplier Hopf algebra actions
Authors: Zhou Nan , Wang Shuanhong
Published: March 2017

The main purpose of this paper is to unify the theory of actions of Hopf algebras, weak Hopf algebras and multiplier Hopf algebras to one of actions of weak multiplier Hopf algebras introduced by Van Daele and Wang. Using such developed actions, we will define the notion of a module algebra over weak multiplier Hopf algebras and construct their smash products. The main result is the duality theorem for actions and their dual actions on the smash product of weak multiplier Hopf algebras. As an application, we recover the main results found in the literature for weak Hopf algebras, multiplier Hopf algebras and groupoids.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for the Optimal Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Ong Madeleine , Peng Jie , Jin Xingliang , Qu Xianqin
Published: March 2017

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex heterogeneous disorder characterized by androgen excess and ovulatory dysfunction; it is now known to be closely linked to metabolic syndrome. Recent research suggests that insulin resistance plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PCOS which may lead to the excessive production of androgens by ovarian theca cells. Currently there is no single drug that can treat both the reproductive and metabolic complications of the disorder. Existing pharmaceutical agents such as hormonal therapies have been associated with side effects and are not appropriate for PCOS women with infertility. Additionally, insulin sensitizing agents useful for treating the metabolic abnormalities in PCOS have limited efficacy for treating reproductive aspects of the disorder. Chinese herbal medicines have a long history of treating gynaecological problems and infertility and therefore may be a novel approach to the treatment of PCOS. Current research demonstrates that the compounds isolated from herbs have shown beneficial effects for PCOS and when combined in an herbal formula can target both reproductive and metabolic defects simultaneously. Therefore, further investigation into Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of PCOS is warranted.
Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Mammary Gland Hyperplasia
Authors: Li Xiaoliang , Xin Ping , Wang Changfu , Wang Zhibin , Wang Qiuhong , Kuang Haixue
Published: March 2017

Mammary gland hyperplasia (MGH) occurs with high frequency among middle-aged women and is closely related to breast cancer. The treatment of this disease has become a research hotspot. Many patients with MGH are worried about the potential side effects of the synthetic drugs they are on. Thus, they seek alternative therapy, such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In recent years, along with the Chinese herbs and its active ingredients, TCM compounds have been widely accepted and implemented in the treatment of MGH, whose mechanism hitherto is not completely clear. In this paper, we elaborate the mechanism of TCM in the treatment of MGH from the perspectives of sexual hormone levels, the expression of ER and PR, hemorheology, free radical activity and lipid peroxidation, VEGF and BFGF, cell proliferation activities, anti-apoptosis gene BcL-2, promoting apoptosis gene Bax, ERK, and tumor suppressor gene. In conclusion, TCM appears to be promising for MGH treatment. This paper will provide an overview of the mechanism of TCM in the treatment of MGH. In the near term, a better understanding of TCM will be achieved through comprehensive studies of its molecular mechanism.
Prunella vulgarisAttenuates Diabetic Renal Injury by Suppressing Glomerular Fibrosis and Inflammation
Authors: Namgung Seung , Yoon Jung Joo , Yoon Chi-Su , Han Byung Hyuk , Choi Eun Sik , Oh Hyuncheol , Kim Youn-Chul , Lee Yun Jung , Kang Dae Gill , Lee Ho Sub
Published: March 2017

Diabetic nephropathy is both the most common complication and the leading cause of mortality associated with diabetes. Prunella vulgaris, a well-known traditional medicinal plant, is used for the cure of abscess, scrofula, hypertension and urinary diseases. This study confirmed whether an aqueous extract of Prunella vulgaris (APV) suppresses renal inflammation and fibrosis. In human mesangial cell (HMC), pretreatment of APV attenuated 25[Formula: see text]mM HG-induced suppressed TGF-[Formula: see text] and Smad-2/4 expression; it increased the expression level of Smad-7. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and collagen IV, fibrosis biomarkers, were significantly decreased by APV. APV suppressed inflammatory factors such as intracellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). APV inhibited activation and translocation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-[Formula: see text]B) in HG-stimulated HMCs. Moreover, APV significantly improved HG-induced ROS in a dose-dependent manner. In diabetic rat models, APV significantly decreased blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and ameliorated plasma creatinine (PCr). APV reduced the PAS positivity staining intensity and basement membrane thickening in glomeruli of diabetic rats. Fibrosis related proteins such as collagen IV and TGF-[Formula: see text]1 were also inhibited by APV. These results suggest that APV has a significant protective effect against diabetic renal dysfunction including inflammation and fibrosis through disruption of the TGF-[Formula: see text]/Smad signaling. Therefore, APV may be useful in potential therapies that target glomerulonephritis and glomerulosclerosis, which lead to diabetic nephropathy.
Protective Effect of Cymbopogon citratus Essential Oil in Experimental Model of Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Uchida Nancy Sayuri , Silva-Filho Saulo Euclides , Aguiar Rafael Pazinatto , Wiirzler Luiz Alexandre Marques , Cardia Gabriel Fernando Esteves , Cavalcante Heitor Augusto Otaviano , Silva-Comar Francielli Maria de Souza , Becker Tânia Cristina Alexandrino , Silva Expedito Leite , Bersani-Amado Ciomar Aparecida , Cuman Roberto Kenji Nakamura
Published: March 2017

To investigate the hepatoprotective effect of Cymbopogon citratus or lemongrass essential oil (LGO), it was used in an animal model of acute liver injury induced by acetaminophen (APAP). Swiss mice were pretreated with LGO (125, 250 and 500[Formula: see text]mg/kg) and SLM (standard drug, 200[Formula: see text]mg/kg) for a duration of seven days, followed by the induction of hepatotoxicity of APAP (single dose, 250[Formula: see text]mg/kg). The liver function markers alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase were determined to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of the LGO. The livers were used to determine myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, nitric oxide (NO) production and histological analysis. The effect of LGO on leukocyte migration was evaluated in vitro. Anti-oxidant activity was performed by assessing the free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in vitro. LGO pretreatment decreased significantly the levels of ALT, AST and ALP compared with APAP group. MPO activity and NO production were decreased. The histopathological analysis showed an improved of hepatic lesions in mice after LGO pretreatment. LGO inhibited neutrophil migration and exhibited anti-oxidant activity. Our results suggest that LGO has protective activity against liver toxicity induced by paracetamol.