bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the hydrogen implantation power density on ion cutting of Ge
Authors: Ruan Yujiao , Lin Wang , Chen Songyan , Li Cheng , Lai Hongkai , Huang Wei , Li Jun
Published: August 2013

In this work, surface morphologies, strain status, and defect evolution were investigated for Ge wafers after hydrogen implantation with different implantation power densities. Hydrogen implantation generates strain in the Ge lattice at lower implantation power densities, and this strain is crucial for a successful ion cut. At higher implantation power densities, the strain is relaxed and mosaic structures are seen in the as-implanted samples, where platelet defects grow, propagate, and coalesce owing to the self-annealing effect during hydrogen implantation. This defect evolution behavior results in either no blistering or formation of discrete blisters after annealing of the implanted Ge samples, rather than the desired ion cut.
A system for EPID‐based real‐time treatment delivery verification during dynamic IMRT treatment
Authors: Fuangrod Todsaporn , Woodruff Henry C. , van Uytven Eric , McCurdy Boyd M. C. , Kuncic Zdenka , O'Connor Daryl J. , Greer Peter B.
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

To design and develop a real‐time electronic portal imaging device (EPID)‐based delivery verification system for dynamic intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) which enables detection of gross treatment delivery errors before delivery of substantial radiation to the patient.

Methods:

The system utilizes a comprehensive physics‐based model to generate a series of predicted transit EPID image frames as a reference dataset and compares these to measured EPID frames acquired during treatment. The two datasets are using MLC aperture comparison and cumulative signal checking techniques. The system operation in real‐time was simulated offline using previously acquired images for 19 IMRT patient deliveries with both frame‐by‐frame comparison and cumulative frame comparison. Simulated error case studies were used to demonstrate the system sensitivity and performance.

Results:

The accuracy of the synchronization method was shown to agree within two control points which corresponds to approximately ∼1% of the total MU to be delivered for dynamic IMRT. The system achieved mean real‐time gamma results for frame‐by‐frame analysis of 86.6% and 89.0% for 3%, 3 mm and 4%, 4 mm criteria, respectively, and 97.9% and 98.6% for cumulative gamma analysis. The system can detect a 10% MU error using 3%, 3 mm criteria within approximately 10 s. The EPID‐based real‐time delivery verification system successfully detected simulated gross errors introduced into patient plan deliveries in near real‐time (within 0.1 s).

Conclusions:

A real‐time radiation delivery verification system for dynamic IMRT has been demonstrated that is designed to prevent major mistreatments in modern radiation therapy.
SGK196 Is a Glycosylation-Specific
O
-Mannose Kinase Required for Dystroglycan Function
Authors: Yoshida-Moriguchi Takako , Willer Tobias , Anderson Mary E. , Venzke David , Whyte Tamieka , Muntoni Francesco , Lee Hane , Nelson Stanley F. , Yu Liping , Campbell Kevin P.
Published: August 2013

Dissecting Dystrophies

Defects in α-dystroglycan lead to various congenital muscular dystrophies, and its ability to bind to extracellular matrix (ECM) is dependent on formation of a specific O-linked sugar structure. Previous efforts to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying α-dystroglycan's ability to bind to the ECM led to the identification of a phosphorylated
O
-mannosyl trisaccharide on α-dystroglycan and to the demonstration that addition of this residue is a prerequisite for formation of the ligand-binding motif. However, the biosynthetic pathway that leads to production of the phosphorylated
O
-mannosyl glycan has not been delineated.

Yoshida-Moriguchi
et al.

(p.
896
, published online 8 August) elucidate the functions of three genes recently found to cause dystroglycan-related disorders and explain the defects in the production of the phosphorylated
O
-mannosyl glycan that underlie the pathologies of patients with the relevant mutations.
Draft Genome Sequence of
d
-Branched-Chain Amino Acid Producer Lactobacillus otakiensis JCM 15040
T
, Isolated from a Traditional Japanese Pickle
Authors: Doi Katsumi , Mori Kazuki , Mutaguchi Yuta , Tashiro Kosuke , Fujino Yasuhiro , Ohmori Taketo , Kuhara Satoru , Ohshima Toshihisa
Published: August 2013

Lactobacillus otakiensis
strain JCM 15040
T
was isolated from an unsalted pickling solution used in the production of sunki, a traditional Japanese pickle. Here, we prepared a draft genome sequence for this strain consisting of 40 contigs containing a total of 2,347,132 bp, 2,310 predicted coding sequences, and a G+C content of 42.4%.
Complete Genome Sequences of Novel Reassortant H1N2 Swine Influenza Viruses Isolated from Pigs in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Pascua Philippe Noriel Q. , Lim Gyo-Jin , Kwon Hyeok-il , Kim Young-il , Kim Eun-Ha , Park Su-Jin , Kim Se Mi , Decano Arun G. , Choi Eun-Ji , Jeon Hae-Young , Kim Chul-Joong , Choi Young-Ki
Published: August 2013

Novel reassortant swine H1N2 influenza viruses were isolated from pigs in a commercial slaughterhouse in the Republic of Korea. Genome sequence analyses revealed that these isolates contain segments from Eurasian avian-like swine (hemagglutinin [HA]), Korean swine H1N2 (neuraminidase [NA]), and North American H3N2pM-like (remaining genes) viruses. Further characterization is needed to gauge the potential threats of these viruses to public health.
Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus massiliensis Strain S46, Isolated from the Surface of Healthy Human Skin
Authors: Srivastav Rajpal , Singh Ajit , Jangir Pramod Kumar , Kumari Chanchal , Muduli Suchismita , Sharma Rakesh
Published: August 2013

Staphylococcus massiliensis
strain S46 was isolated from the surface of healthy human skin. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
S. massiliensis
S46 (2,447,110 bp, with a G+C content of 36.3%).
Complete Genome Sequence of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Strain USA/Colorado/2013 from the United States
Authors: Marthaler Douglas , Jiang Yin , Otterson Tracy , Goyal Sagar , Rossow Kurt , Collins James
Published: August 2013

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is newly emerging in the United States. PEDV strain USA/Colorado/2013 (CO/13) was obtained from a 7-day-old piglet with severe diarrhea, and the complete genome was sequenced to further study the PEDV outbreak in the United States.
Identification of a Novel Circular DNA Virus in New Zealand Fur Seal (
Arctocephalus forsteri
) Fecal Matter
Authors: Sikorski Alyssa , Dayaram Anisha , Varsani Arvind
Published: August 2013

Fur seal feces-associated circular DNA virus (FSfaCV) is a novel virus isolated from the fecal matter of New Zealand fur seals. FSfaCV has two main open reading frames in its 2,925-nucleotide (nt) genome. The replication-associated protein (Rep) of FSfaCV has similarity to Rep-like sequences in the
Giardia intestinalis
genome.
Discovery of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Hypovirulence-Associated Virus-1 in Urban River Sediments of Heathcote and Styx Rivers in Christchurch City, New Zealand
Authors: Kraberger Simona , Stainton Daisy , Dayaram Anisha , Zawar-Reza Peyman , Gomez Christopher , Harding Jon S. , Varsani Arvind
Published: August 2013

In samples of benthic and bank river sediments of two urban rivers in Christchurch city (New Zealand), we identified and recovered isolates of
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
hypovirulence-associated virus-1 (SsHADV-1), a fungus-infecting circular single-stranded DNA virus. This is the first report of SsHADV-1 outside of China and in environmental samples.
Whole-Genome Sequence of the Purple Photosynthetic Bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum Strain W4
Authors: Masuda Shinji , Hori Koichi , Maruyama Fumito , Ren Shukun , Sugimoto Saori , Yamamoto Nozomi , Mori Hiroshi , Yamada Takuji , Sato Shusei , Tabata Satoshi , Ohta Hiroyuki , Kurokawa Ken
Published: August 2013

We report the draft genome sequence of the purple photosynthetic bacterium
Rhodovulum sulfidophilum
. The photosynthesis gene cluster comprises two segments—a unique feature among photosynthesis gene clusters of purple bacteria. The genome information will be useful for further analysis of bacterial photosynthesis.
Draft Genome Sequence of Streptomyces rapamycinicus Strain NRRL 5491, the Producer of the Immunosuppressant Rapamycin
Authors: Baranasic Damir , Gacesa Ranko , Starcevic Antonio , Zucko Jurica , Blažič Marko , Horvat Marinka , Gjuračić Krešimir , Fujs Štefan , Hranueli Daslav , Kosec Gregor , Cullum John , Petković Hrvoje
Published: August 2013

Streptomyces rapamycinicus
strain NRRL 5491 produces the important drug rapamycin. It has a large genome of 12.7 Mb, of which over 3 Mb consists of 48 secondary metabolite biosynthesis clusters.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas plecoglossicida Strain NB2011, the Causative Agent of White Nodules in Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea)
Authors: Mao Zhijuan , Li Meifang , Chen Jigang
Published: August 2013

We describe the draft genome sequence ofPseudomonas plecoglossicidastrain NB2011, the causative agent of white nodules in cultured large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) in China. The draft genome sequence of the bacterium consists of 5.41 million bp, with a G+C content of 62.8%. A total of 4,952 genes were identified.
Draft Genome Sequence of Strain SA_ST125_MupR of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus ST125, a Major Clone in Spain
Authors: Barrado Laura , Viedma Esther , Vindel Ana , Otero Joaquín R. , Chaves Fernando
Published: August 2013

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of a methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) strain with high-level mupirocin resistance (SA_ST125_MupR), isolated from a patient with recurrent bacteremia. This strain belonged to sequence type ST125, which was responsible for more than 50% of the health care-associated infections caused by MRSA in Spain.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Fast-Growing Marine Bacterium Vibrio natriegens Strain ATCC 14048
Authors: Wang Zheng , Lin Baochuan , Hervey W. Judson , Vora Gary J.
Published: August 2013

Vibrio natriegens
bacteria are Gram-negative aquatic microorganisms that are found primarily in coastal seawater and sediments and are perhaps best known for their high growth rates (generation time of <10 min). In this study, we report the first sequenced genome of this species, that of the type strain
Vibrio natriegens
ATCC 14048, a salt marsh mud isolate from Sapelo Island, GA.
Whole-Genome Sequence of a Novel Species, Mycobacterium yongonense DSM 45126
T
Authors: Kim Byoung-Jun , Kim Bo-Ram , Lee So-Young , Seok Seung-Hyeok , Kook Yoon-Hoh , Kim Bum-Joon
Published: August 2013

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
Mycobacterium yongonense
DSM 45126
T
, genetically closely related to the INT5 genotype of
M. intracellulare
.
Prevertebral paraspinal inflammation presenting with acute abdominal pain
Authors: Cho Junho , Kwon O Yu , Cho Byulnimhee , Kim Seung Whan
Published: August 2013

CT or MRI evaluation as a further diagnostic modality may be recommended in a patient showing vague clinical manifestation in the second order when patients present with subjective discomfort and simple and initial radiological modalities do not show any specific abnormal findings.
Atypical presentation of postoperative faecal peritonitis in an elderly patient
Authors: Brady Paul
Published: August 2013

A 90-year-old Caucasian man was admitted for an elective sigmoid colectomy having been recently diagnosed with colon cancer. He first presented following a 3-month history of per rectal bleeding. Flexible sigmoidoscopy demonstrated a 4 cm lesion in the proximal sigmoid colon. A biopsy confirmed adenocarcinoma. A CT colonoscopy demonstrated no further colonic lesions and staging CT demonstrated no evidence of metastasis. On postoperative day 7, patient had symptoms of nausea and vomiting. On examination, he had a tender right iliac fossa, sluggish bowel sounds but no evidence of guarding or rebound tenderness. He had no fever with a white cell count 5.8×109/L and C reactive protein 58 mg/L. Chest X-ray showed air under the diaphragm. CT abdomen and pelvis was performed on postoperative day 8 showing a moderate amount of abdominal free fluid and air beneath the anterior abdominal wall. Subsequent laparotomy revealed gangrenous anastomotic disruption and faecal peritonitis. Abdominal washout and terminal colostomy performed. Good postoperative recovery was seen.
Radiological diagnosis of a small bowel perforation secondary to toothpick ingestion
Authors: Mark David , Ferris Kathryn , Martel Gareth , Mulholland Keith
Published: August 2013

A 77-year-old edentulous man presented to the accident and emergency department with a sudden onset of sharp right-sided abdominal pain. The patient reported a change in his bowel habit with constipation over a 6 month period but did not report any significant choking event or ingestion of a foreign body in the preceding months. On examination the patient was maximally tender with guarding over McBurneys point. CT scan showed an abnormal segment of distal ileum with a 3 cm high attenuation focus which had penetrated the bowel wall. At laparotomy the patient was found to have a perforation of his distal ileum caused by an ingested toothpick. Patients wearing dental plates or dentures are at higher risk of toothpick ingestion due to impaired palatal sensation. CT scanning, in the appropriate setting, may aid diagnosis and lower operator risk of sharp related injury at the time of operation.
Bilateral cystoid macular oedema and cotton wool spots associated with Henoch-Schonlein purpura
Authors: Nicholson Luke , Mathews Divya
Published: August 2013

We report a case of a male patient having bilateral cystoid macular oedema and cotton wool spots associated with Henoch-Schonlein purpura. He presented with decreased vision bilaterally measuring 0.2 (6/9.5) on the right and 0.5 (6/19) on the left. He has chronic hypertension with blood pressure averaging 150/90. His blood pressure was raised at 180/110 and with treatment reduced to 164/99. There were no other signs of malignant hypertensive retinopathy. He was treated with oral prednisolone and noticed a significant improvement the following day. An objective measurement performed 2 days later was −0.10 (6/4.8) bilaterally with resolution of macular oedema.
London 2012 Paralympic swimming: passive drag and the classification system
Authors: Oh Yim-Taek , Burkett Brendan , Osborough Conor , Formosa Danielle , Payton Carl
Published: August 2013

Background

The key difference between the Olympic and Paralympic Games is the use of classification systems within Paralympic sports to provide a fair competition for athletes with a range of physical disabilities. In 2009, the International Paralympic Committee mandated the development of new, evidence-based classification systems. This study aims to assess objectively the swimming classification system by determining the relationship between passive drag and level of swimming-specific impairment, as defined by the current swimming class.

Methods

Data were collected on participants at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. The passive drag force of 113 swimmers (classes 3–14) was measured using an electro-mechanical towing device and load cell. Swimmers were towed on the surface of a swimming pool at 1.5 m/s while holding their most streamlined position.

Results

Passive drag ranged from 24.9 to 82.8 N; the normalised drag (drag/mass) ranged from 0.45 to 1.86 N/kg. Significant negative associations were found between drag and the swimming class (τ=−0.41, p<0.01) and normalised drag and the swimming class (τ=−0.60, p<0.01). The mean difference in drag between adjacent classes was inconsistent, ranging from 0 N (6 vs 7) to 11.9 N (5 vs 6). Reciprocal Ponderal Index (a measure of slenderness) correlated moderately with normalised drag (rP=−0.40, p<0.01).

Conclusions

Although swimmers with the lowest swimming class experienced the highest passive drag and vice versa, the inconsistent difference in mean passive drag between adjacent classes indicates that the current classification system does not always differentiate clearly between swimming groups.
Public views on the donation and use of human biological samples in biomedical research: a mixed methods study
Authors: Lewis Celine , Clotworthy Margaret , Hilton Shona , Magee Caroline , Robertson Mark J , Stubbins Lesley J , Corfield Julie
Published: August 2013

Objective

A mixed methods study exploring the UK general public's willingness to donate human biosamples (HBSs) for biomedical research.

Setting

Cross-sectional focus groups followed by an online survey.

Participants

Twelve focus groups (81 participants) selectively sampled to reflect a range of demographic groups; 1110 survey responders recruited through a stratified sampling method with quotas set on sex, age, geographical location, socioeconomic group and ethnicity.

Main outcome measures

(1) Identify participants’ willingness to donate HBSs for biomedical research, (2) explore acceptability towards donating different types of HBSs in various settings and (3) explore preferences regarding use and access to HBSs.

Results

87% of survey participants thought donation of HBSs was important and 75% wanted to be asked to donate in general. Responders who self-reported having some or good knowledge of the medical research process were significantly more likely to want to donate (p<0.001). Reasons why focus group participants saw donation as important included: it was a good way of reciprocating for the medical treatment received; it was an important way of developing drugs and treatments; residual tissue would otherwise go to waste and they or their family members might benefit. The most controversial types of HBSs to donate included: brain post mortem (29% would donate), eyes post mortem (35%), embryos (44%), spare eggs (48%) and sperm (58%). Regarding the use of samples, there were concerns over animal research (34%), research conducted outside the UK (35%), and research conducted by pharmaceutical companies (56%), although education and discussion were found to alleviate such concerns.

Conclusions

There is a high level of public support and willingness to donate HBSs for biomedical research. Underlying concerns exist regarding the use of certain types of HBSs and conditions under which they are used. Improved education and more controlled forms of consent for sensitive samples may mitigate such concerns.
Quality and safety in transitional care of the elderly: the study protocol of a case study research design (phase 1)
Authors: Aase Karina , Laugaland Kristin Alstveit , Dyrstad Dagrunn Nåden , Storm Marianne
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Although international studies have documented that patients’ transitions between care providers are associated with the risk of adverse events and uncoordinated care, research directed towards the quality and safety of transitional care between primary and secondary health and care services, especially for the elderly receiving care from multiple healthcare providers due to complex health problems, is lacking. This study investigates how different aspects of transitional care can explain the quality and safety of elderly healthcare services in Norway. The overall aim of the study was to explore different aspects of transitional care of the elderly, in different contexts and how they might explain the quality and safety of care.

Methods and analysis

The study applies a case study design. Two cases are chosen: one city-based hospital and one rural hospital with associated nursing homes and home-based nursing services. Admission and discharge to/from hospital to/from nursing homes or home-based nursing services constitute the main focal areas of the study, including the patient, next-of-kin and the professional perspective. The qualitative methods employed include participant observation, individual interviews and document analysis. To ensure trustworthiness in the data analysis, we will apply analyst triangulation and member checks. A total impression of the data material will first be created in a systematic text condensation approach. Second, the qualitative data analysis will involve in-depth analyses of two specific themes: the risk perspective and the patient perspective in transitional care.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the Norwegian Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics. The study is based on informed written consent, and informants can withdraw from the study at any point in time. Interview and observation data material will be managed confidentially.

Results

It will be disseminated at research conferences, in peer-reviewed journals and through public presentations to people outside the academic community.
A Protocol for the Pharmacokinetics of Enteric Coated Mycophenolate Sodium in Lupus Nephritis (POEMSLUN): an open-label, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ranganathan Dwarakanathan , John George T , Healy Helen , Roberts Matthew J , Fassett Robert G , Lipman Jeffrey , Kubler Paul , Ungerer Jacobus , McWhinney Brett C , Lim Aaron , Purvey Megan , Reyaldeen Reza , Roberts Jason A
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Mycophenolate sodium, an enteric-coated tablet (EC-MPS), is as effective and safe as mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in preventing transplant rejection. EC-MPS and MMF improve the outcome of severe lupus nephritis (LN) and have fewer side effects than pulsed intravenous cyclophosphamide. Blood concentrations of mycophenolic acid (MPA), the active metabolite of EC-MPS, vary between participants despite fixed dosing. Interpatient variability has been studied in transplantation, but not well documented in LN. The relationship between MPA concentration and its clinical effect on LN has not been described.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, open-label, randomised controlled trial. –32 participants with LN who meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be randomised into two groups: one receiving a fixed dose of EC-MPS and the second, a dosing regimen that is titrated with therapeutic drug monitoring. Included participants will have blood sampled over a period of 8–12 h on three different occasions. Pharmacokinetic parameters will be calculated using non-compartmental methods.

Ethics and dissemination

The Human Research and Ethics Committee of the Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital have approved this study. The study is registered with Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry—ACTRN12611000798965 We planned to present the de-identified information at conferences and publish the results in medical journals.

Trial Registration

ACTRN12611000798965
The Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort: protocol for a cohort multiple randomised controlled trial (cmRCT) design to support trials of psychosocial and rehabilitation interventions in a rare disease context
Authors: Kwakkenbos Linda , Jewett Lisa R , Baron Murray , Bartlett Susan J , Furst Dan , Gottesman Karen , Khanna Dinesh , Malcarne Vanessa L , Mayes Maureen D , Mouthon Luc , Poiraudeau Serge , Sauve Maureen , Nielson Warren R , Poole Janet L , Assassi Shervin , Boutron Isabelle , Ells Carolyn , van den Ende Cornelia HM , Hudson Marie , Impens Ann , Körner Annett , Leite Catarina , Costa Maia Angela , Mendelson Cindy , Pope Janet , Steele Russell J , Suarez-Almazor Maria E , Ahmed Sara , Coronado-Montoya Stephanie , Delisle Vanessa C , Gholizadeh Shadi , Jang Yeona , Levis Brooke , Milette Katherine , Mills Sarah D , Razykov Ilya , Fox Rina S , Thombs Brett D
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Psychosocial and rehabilitation interventions are increasingly used to attenuate disability and improve health-related quality of life (HRQL) in chronic diseases, but are typically not available for patients with rare diseases. Conducting rigorous, adequately powered trials of these interventions for patients with rare diseases is difficult. The Scleroderma Patient-centered Intervention Network (SPIN) is an international collaboration of patient organisations, clinicians and researchers. The aim of SPIN is to develop a research infrastructure to test accessible, low-cost self-guided online interventions to reduce disability and improve HRQL for people living with the rare disease systemic sclerosis (SSc or scleroderma). Once tested, effective interventions will be made accessible through patient organisations partnering with SPIN.

Methods and analysis

SPIN will employ the cohort multiple randomised controlled trial (cmRCT) design, in which patients consent to participate in a cohort for ongoing data collection. The aim is to recruit 1500–2000 patients from centres across the world within a period of 5 years (2013–2018). Eligible participants are persons ≥18 years of age with a diagnosis of SSc. In addition to baseline medical data, participants will complete patient-reported outcome measures every 3 months. Upon enrolment in the cohort, patients will consent to be contacted in the future to participate in intervention research and to allow their data to be used for comparison purposes for interventions tested with other cohort participants. Once interventions are developed, patients from the cohort will be randomly selected and offered interventions as part of pragmatic RCTs. Outcomes from patients offered interventions will be compared with outcomes from trial-eligible patients who are not offered the interventions.

Ethics and dissemination

The use of the cmRCT design, the development of self-guided online interventions and partnerships with patient organisations will allow SPIN to develop, rigourously test and effectively disseminate psychosocial and rehabilitation interventions for people with SSc.
Caregivers’ confidence in performing child safety seat installations: what matters most?
Authors: Mirman Jessica H , Curry Allison E , Zonfrillo Mark R , Corregano Lauren M , Seifert Sara , Arbogast Kristy B
Published: August 2013

Background

Although effective when used correctly, child restraint systems (CRS) are commonly misused. Caregivers must make accurate judgements about the quality of their CRS installations, but there is little research on the psychological, technological, or contextual factors that might influence these judgements.

Methods

Seventy-five caregivers were observed installing a CRS into a vehicle and completed self-report surveys measuring risk appraisals, previous utilisation of CRS resources, task difficulty, and confidence that the CRS was installed correctly.

Results

Approximately 30% of caregivers installed the CRS inaccurately and insecurely, but reported that it was correctly installed. Predictors of confidence were ease of use (β=0.47) and exposure to CRS resources (β=−0.34). Installation errors and CRS security were unrelated to caregivers’ confidence.

Conclusions

An interdisciplinary approach is needed to understand factors influencing caregivers’ judgements about their installations, optimise channels to connect caregivers to CRS resources, and to design safety technologies in light of these findings.
Explaining the social patterning of lung function in adulthood at different ages: the roles of childhood precursors, health behaviours and environmental factors
Authors: Gray Linsay A , Leyland Alastair H , Benzeval Michaela , Watt Graham C M
Published: August 2013

Background

Lung function successfully predicts subsequent health. Although lung function is known to decline over age, little is known about changes in association with socioeconomic status (SES) throughout life, and whether explanatory factors for association vary with age or patterns for non smokers.

Methods

Analyses were based on data on 24 500 participants aged ≥18 years from the 1995, 1998 and 2003 Scottish Health Surveys who were invited to provide 1 s forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) lung measurements. Sex-stratified multiple linear regression assessed lung function–SES (occupational social class) associations and attenuation by covariates in three age groups (2003 data (n=7928)).

Results

The FEV1–SES patterns were clear (p<0.001) and constant over time. Relative to the least disadvantaged, FEV1in the most disadvantaged was lower by 0.28 L in men and 0.20 L in women under 40 years compared with differences of 0.51 L in men and 0.25 L in women over 64 years (pinteraction<0.001 men, pinteraction=0.004 women). The greatest attenuation of these results was seen by height, parental social class and smoking, especially among the under 65s. Second-hand smoke exposure and urban/rural residence had some impact among older groups. Adjusting for physical activity and weight had little effect generally. Similar patterns were seen for FVC and among never smokers.

Conclusions

We found cross-sectional evidence that SES disparity in lung function increases with age, especially for men. Our findings indicate that early-life factors may predict inequity during younger adulthood, with environmental factors becoming more important at older ages.
Economic analysis of the health impacts of housing improvement studies: a systematic review
Authors: Fenwick Elisabeth , Macdonald Catriona , Thomson Hilary
Published: August 2013

Background

Economic evaluation of public policies has been advocated but rarely performed. Studies from a systematic review of the health impacts of housing improvement included data on costs and some economic analysis. Examination of these data provides an opportunity to explore the difficulties and the potential for economic evaluation of housing.

Methods

Data were extracted from all studies included in the systematic review of housing improvement which had reported costs and economic analysis (n=29/45). The reported data were assessed for their suitability to economic evaluation. Where an economic analysis was reported the analysis was described according to pre-set definitions of various types of economic analysis used in the field of health economics.

Results

25 studies reported cost data on the intervention and/or benefits to the recipients. Of these, 11 studies reported data which was considered amenable to economic evaluation. A further four studies reported conducting an economic evaluation. Three of these studies presented a hybrid ‘balance sheet’ approach and indicated a net economic benefit associated with the intervention. One cost-effectiveness evaluation was identified but the data were unclearly reported; the cost-effectiveness plane suggested that the intervention was more costly and less effective than the status quo.

Conclusions

Future studies planning an economic evaluation need to (i) make best use of available data and (ii) ensure that all relevant data are collected. To facilitate this, economic evaluations should be planned alongside the intervention with input from health economists from the outset of the study. When undertaken appropriately, economic evaluation provides the potential to make significant contributions to housing policy.
Silent embolism after stent-assisted coiling of cerebral aneurysms: diffusion-weighted MRI study of 75 cases
Authors: Hahnemann M L , Ringelstein A , Sandalcioglu I E , Goericke S , Moenninghoff C , Wanke I , Forsting M , Sure U , Schlamann M
Published: August 2013

Purpose

New ischemic brain lesions are common findings after cerebral diagnostic angiography and endovascular therapy. Diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) can be used for detection of these lesions. The aim of the present study was to investigate the incidence of DWI lesions after stent-assisted coiling and the evaluation of possible risk factors.

Methods

The study included a total of 75 consecutive patients treated with stent-assisted coiling. Post-procedural DWI of the brain was performed to detect ischemic lesions. Demographic data, aneurysm characteristics and angiographic parameters were correlated with properties of DWI lesions.

Results

In post-procedural DWI, 48 of the 75 patients (64%) had 163 DWI lesions in a pattern consistent with embolic events. The number of patients with DWI lesions was significantly increased in older patients (≥55 years) and longer intervention times (≥120 min). The ischemic brain volume was significantly increased in older patients (≥55 years) as well as in patients who were implanted with a shorter stent (<20 mm).

Conclusions

Thromboembolic events are common after stent-assisted coiling with an incidence comparable to DWI studies after coiling alone. Despite several devices and low operator experience, stent-assisted coiling for intracranial aneurysms has a very low risk of permanent neurologic disability. Further studies are necessary to improve the safety of stent-assisted coiling for patients in conditions with increased risk potential (age, procedure time, stent length).
Wall shear stress association with rupture status in volume matched sidewall aneurysms
Authors: Lauric Alexandra , Hippelheuser James , Cohen Alex D , Kadasi Laith M , Malek Adel M
Published: August 2013

Objective

Flow induced tangential wall shear stress (WSS) is thought to be involved in aneurysm formation, growth, and rupture. Low WSS was previously associated with rupture, but definitive quantitative analyses remain scant as larger aneurysms are associated with lower WSS regardless of rupture status, and ruptured aneurysms are larger than unruptured aneurysms. Here, the intra-dome WSS was evaluated on 18 internal carotid artery aneurysms, volume matched as ruptured/unruptured pairs in order to remove the confounding effect of size dependence.

Methods

Computational fluid dynamic simulations were performed and WSS was evaluated at peak systole, end diastole, and as time averaged over the cardiac cycle. WSS logarithmic scaling was applied to refine value discrimination at extrema. Ruptured/unruptured lesions were statistically evaluated using pairwise t test analysis. The effect of size on WSS was evaluated in parametric models.

Results

In parametric data, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between volume and WSS values. In patient data, mean WSS was not statistically significant but low range WSS values were significantly lower for ruptured aneurysms, regardless of WSS evaluation (time averaged, peak systole, end diastole). Statistically, logarithmic WSS performed better than WSS, with minimum logarithmic WSS at end diastole being the best rupture status discriminator (p=0.001, area under the curve=0.98). Higher range and maximal WSS were not significantly significant.

Conclusions

Aneurysm size is a confounding factor to WSS rupture discrimination, and volume matched analysis is necessary for unbiased evaluation. While these results lend support to the hypothesis that lower WSS induces wall changes which may be associated with rupture, it raises questions regarding the extent of this association, which requires further exploration.
Impacts of sea otter (Enhydra lutris) predation on commercially important sea cucumbers (Parastichopus californicus) in southeast Alaska
Authors: Larson Sean D. , Hoyt Zachary N. , Eckert Ginny L. , Gill Verena A.
Published: August 2013

Sea cucumbers (Parastichopus californicus), which are an important commercial, subsistence, and ecological resource, are negatively affected by an expanding sea otter (Enhydra lutris) population in southeast Alaska. A few hundred sea otters were reintroduced into southeast Alaska in the late 1960s after their extirpation during the 18th and 19th century fur trade. In the ensuing decades after recolonization, the sea otter population grew exponentially in number and distribution, and sea cucumbers declined in density in areas with otters, suggesting an inverse relationship between sea otter numbers and sea cucumber density. We evaluated the interaction and effects of sea otters on sea cucumbers using sea otter foraging observations, sea otter population survey data, and sea cucumber density data. Our results indicate that sea cucumber density declined with and without sea otter presence and that the extent of the decline depends on the duration and magnitude of sea otter presence, with 100% decline in areas occupied by sea otters since 1994. Sea otter predation should be included in sea cucumber fishery management as a step toward ecosystem-based management.
Multiple factors in marine environments affecting lobster survival, development, and growth, with emphasis on alkylphenols: a perspective
Authors: Laufer Hans , Chen Ming , Baclaski Bryan , Bobbitt James M. , Stuart James D. , Zuo Yuegang , Jacobs Molly W.
Published: August 2013

A major die-off of the American lobster (Homarus americanus) population in Long Island Sound (LIS) occurred in 1999, involving multiple causes, including increases of temperatures, decreasing oxygen concentrations, and pollutants. Other possible affectors were stress to their immune system, microbial population changes, which may have induced shell disease, water acidification, and insecticides. We examined LIS alkylphenol pollution. Alkylphenols, alkylphenol ethoxylates, and bisphenol A (BPA) are produced in excessive amounts, with BPA estimated at 8 billion pounds per year (1 lb = 0.453 kg). Sixty percent of alkylphenols enter the marine environment and have estrogenic endocrine-disrupting effects on vertebrates. We found multiple effects of alkylphenols on lobsters, on larval survival, molting and postlarval molting, shell hardening, and interference in metamorphosis causing larval–juvenile intermediates. We also found evidence for a basic molecular mechanism of action for alkylphenols through juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysone receptors. Alkylphenols appear to have contributed to the decrease in the LIS lobster population. We recommend remediation, reducing, or eliminating alkylphenols from the marine environment to protect lobsters as well as other organisms.
Fishway passage bottleneck identification and prioritization: a case study of Pacific lamprey at Bonneville Dam
Authors: Keefer Matthew L. , Caudill Christopher C. , Clabough Tami S. , Jepson Michael A. , Johnson Eric L. , Peery Christopher A. , Higgs Megan D. , Moser Mary L.
Published: August 2013

Fishways designed for salmonids often restrict passage by non-salmonids, and effective tools are needed both to identify passage problems for nontarget species and to inform remediation planning. In this case study, we used migration histories from 2170 radio-tagged adult Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) to identify locations of poor passage (bottlenecks) at a large, multifishway dam. Over 10 years, 49% of tagged lamprey that entered fishways failed to pass the dam. Models accounting for repeated attempts by individual lamprey indicated successful passage strongly depended on attempted passage route. Success also varied with time of fishway entry, water temperature, and lamprey body size. Most failed passage attempts terminated in lower fishway segments, but extensive seasonal shifts in bottleneck locations were detected. Ranking metrics helped prioritize bottlenecks and identified sites where structural or operational modifications should improve lamprey passage. Our integration of spatially intensive monitoring with novel analytical techniques was critical to understanding the complex relationships among fishway features, environmental variation, and lamprey behavior. The prioritization framework can be applied to a wide range of fish passage assessments.
MODELING OF THE COMPACTION-INDUCED STRESSES IN NUMERICAL ANALYSES OF GRS WALLS
Authors: MIRMORADI S. H. , EHRLICH M.
Published: August 2013

This article presents a numerical approach for modeling of the compaction-induced stresses on the analyses of geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) walls. The modeling of the backfill compaction stresses was described and analyses were performed using this suggested procedure. Two distribution loads at the top and bottom of each soil layer were used to simulate the vertical induced stress due to backfill soil compaction. The suggested procedure was validated with the results of a wrapped-faced full-scale reinforced soil wall performed at the Geotechnical Laboratory of COPPE/UFRJ. The results of the simulation using this procedure were compared with another procedure reported in the literature. Parametric studies were carried out to verify the effect of compaction induced stress and surcharge loads on the behavior of GRS walls. Results show that the compaction procedure suggested in the present paper was able to properly represent the measured values of the summation of the maximum tension in the reinforcement and lateral movements. It was verified that the compaction procedure used in the literature overestimated the measured values, and this discrepancy increases with depth and also with compaction effort.
Durability and conservation of stone: coping with complexity
Authors: Viles H. A.
Published: August 2013

Natural stone of many types is used in a wide range of monuments and buildings dating from many periods and located in widely differing environmental conditions around the world. Thus, there is a great need for better understanding of the durability of stone, in terms of its resilience in the face of a wide range of deteriorative processes. Such knowledge will allow better conservation and management of both historic stonework and new build. This paper reviews the current challenges facing attempts to link studies of durability to conservation, and proposes a way forward. First, it outlines the current complexity of factors surrounding the use, deterioration and conservation of natural stone today, in the light of climatic change, globalization and sustainability. Second, it reviews three important issues surrounding durability; that is, the meaning of durability, how we measure durability, and the challenges for modelling and predicting durability. Third, it proposes a new approach to conceptualizing and assessing durability to make it more relevant and useful for practical conservation.
Thick-skin-dominated orogens; from initial inversion to full accretion: an introduction
Authors: Nemčok M. , Mora A. , Cosgrove J.
Published: August 2013

Fifty per cent of orogens have a thick-skin character, and have evolved from passive margin and intra-cratonic rift systems. One group of thick-skin provinces can be found at both pro- and retro-wedges of orogens associated with advancing subduction zones, that is, orogenic wedges whose advance vectors oppose the mantle flow. A second group can be found at pro-wedges of orogens associated with retreating subduction zones, that is, orogens whose advance vectors have the same direction as mantle flow. A third group is formed in intra-plate settings where mechanical strengthening is produced by internal shortening. Thick-skin province development is controlled by driving factors such as individual plate movement rates, overall convergence rates, orogen movement sense with respect to mantle flow, and pro-wedge v. retro-wedge location. These driving factors are themselves constrained by numerous internal and external factors. This introductory chapter focusses primarily on least-deformed case areas in order to understand the role of different factors in controlling the evolution of thick-skin tectonic provinces from the initial inversion stage to full accretion stage.
Potential and limits of combining studies of coarse- and fine-grained sediments for the coastal event history of a Caribbean carbonate environment
Authors: Scheffers Anja M. , Engel Max , May S. Matthias , Scheffers Sander R. , Joannes-Boyau Renaud , Hänssler Elke , Kennedy Katharina , Kelletat Dieter , Brückner Helmut , Vött Andreas , Schellmann Gerhard , Schäbitz Frank , Radtke Ulrich , Sommer Brigitte , Willershäuser Timo , Felis Thomas
Published: August 2013

The coastal deposits of Bonaire, Leeward Antilles, are among the most studied archives for extreme-wave events (EWEs) in the Caribbean. Here we present more than 400 electron spin resonance (ESR) and radiocarbon data on coarse-clast deposits from Bonaire’s eastern and western coasts. The chronological data are compared to the occurrence and age of fine-grained extreme-wave deposits detected in lagoons and floodplains. Both approaches are aimed at the identification of EWEs, the differentiation between extraordinary storms and tsunamis, improving reconstructions of the coastal evolution, and establishing a geochronological framework for the events. Although the combination of different methods and archives contributes to a better understanding of the interplay of coastal and archive-related processes, insufficient separation, superimposition or burying of coarse-clast deposits and restricted dating accuracy limit the use of both fine-grained and coarse-clast geoarchives to unravel decadal- to centennial-scale events. At several locations, distinct landforms are attributed to different coastal flooding events interpreted to be of tsunamigenic origin. Coastal landforms on the western coast have significantly been influenced by (sub)-recent hurricanes, indicating that formation of the coarse-clast deposits on the eastern coast is likely to be related to past events of higher energy.

Supplementary material:

The entire dataset of ESR and
14
C dating results used in this paper is available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18637
.
A multicenter study to standardize reporting and analyses of fluorescence-activated cell-sorted murine intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Magness Scott T. , Puthoff Brent J. , Crissey Mary Ann , Dunn James , Henning Susan J. , Houchen Courtney , Kaddis John S. , Kuo Calvin J. , Li Linheng , Lynch John , Martin Martin G. , May Randal , Niland Joyce C. , Olack Barbara , Qian Dajun , Stelzner Matthias , Swain John R. , Wang Fengchao , Wang Jiafang , Wang Xinwei , Yan Kelley , Yu Jian , Wong Melissa H.
Published: August 2013

Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) is an essential tool for studies requiring isolation of distinct intestinal epithelial cell populations. Inconsistent or lack of reporting of the critical parameters associated with FACS methodologies has complicated interpretation, comparison, and reproduction of important findings. To address this problem a comprehensive multicenter study was designed to develop guidelines that limit experimental and data reporting variability and provide a foundation for accurate comparison of data between studies. Common methodologies and data reporting protocols for tissue dissociation, cell yield, cell viability, FACS, and postsort purity were established. Seven centers tested the standardized methods by FACS-isolating a specific crypt-based epithelial population (EpCAM+/CD44+) from murine small intestine. Genetic biomarkers for stem/progenitor (Lgr5 and Atoh 1) and differentiated cell lineages (lysozyme, mucin2, chromogranin A, and sucrase isomaltase) were interrogated in target and control populations to assess intra- and intercenter variability. Wilcoxon's rank sum test on gene expression levels showed limited intracenter variability between biological replicates. Principal component analysis demonstrated significant intercenter reproducibility among four centers. Analysis of data collected by standardized cell isolation methods and data reporting requirements readily identified methodological problems, indicating that standard reporting parameters facilitate post hoc error identification. These results indicate that the complexity of FACS isolation of target intestinal epithelial populations can be highly reproducible between biological replicates and different institutions by adherence to common cell isolation methods and FACS gating strategies. This study can be considered a foundation for continued method development and a starting point for investigators that are developing cell isolation expertise to study physiology and pathophysiology of the intestinal epithelium.