bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stabilization of the CORA Based Leveling Osteotomy for Treatment of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Injury Using a Bone Plate Augmented With a Headless Compression Screw
Authors: Raske Matthew , Hulse Don , Beale Brian , Saunders W. Brian , Kishi Erin , Kunze Christopher
Published: July 2013

Objective

To report the effectiveness of a bone plate/headless compression screw (HCS) construct in preventing tibial plateau angle (TPA) shift postoperatively and to describe radiographic healing of the osteotomy.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 31).

Methods

Records of dogs diagnosed with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury treated with the center of rotation of angulation (CORA) based leveling osteotomy (CBLO) stabilized with a bone plate augmented with a HCS were reviewed. Breed, age, weight, and gender were recorded. Radiographs were reviewed for determination of preoperative tibial plateau angle (PreTPA), postoperative TPA (PostTPA), patellar tendon angle (PTA) postoperatively, and TPA at final evaluation (FinalTPA). Difference between PostTPA and FinalTPA was used to define any TPA shift. Radiographic healing at final evaluation was graded based on a 5‐point scale.

Results

Mean time to final recheck was 88 days (range 49–237 days) with mean ± SD PreTPA = 28.6 ± 4.8°; PostTPA = 9.2 ± 2.2°; FinalTPA = 9.7 ± 2.6°; and TPA Shift = 0.52 ± 1.61°. There was no significant difference between PostTPA and FinalTPA (P = .084, power > 0.80). Mean postoperative PTA was 89.9 ± 1.7°. There were 2 implant related complications; 1 HCS migration and 1 HCS failure.

Conclusion

Stabilization of the CBLO using a bone plate augmented with a HCS was effective in maintaining PostTPA and achieving satisfactory radiographic healing.
Foaling Rates After Surgical Repair of Ventral Cervical Lacerations Using a Trendelenburg Position in 18 Anesthetized Mares
Authors: Leary John Mark O' , Rodgerson Dwayne , Spirito Michael , Gomez Jorge
Published: July 2013

Objective

To (1) describe a surgical technique for repair of lacerations of the ventral aspect of the cervix in anesthetized mares in Trendelenburg position; and (2) report conception rates and foaling after repair.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Mares (n = 18).

Methods

Cervical lacerations were repaired in 2 layers with anesthetized mares in Trendelenburg position. The cervix was retracted caudally with stay‐sutures, and after excision of the healed margin of the laceration, the internal cervical mucosa and fibromuscular tissue were sutured in 1 layer with a continuous Lembert pattern. The external cervical mucosa was sutured using a simple‐continuous suture pattern. Number of foals produced by each mare before and after surgical repair was obtained from client/farm communication and from a commercial record keeping service.

Results

Mean repair time for 1 laceration was 22 minutes and for 2 lacerations was 29 minutes. Nine mares conceived and 7 had at least 1 live healthy foal.

Conclusion

Trendelenburg position allows for efficient repair of a ventrally located cervical laceration in anesthetized mares.
Inferring the ecology of willow warblers during their winter moult by sequential stable isotope analyses of remiges
Authors: Larson Keith W. , Liedvogel Miriam , Bensch Staffan , Åkesson Susanne , Wassenaar Leonard I. , Hobson Keith A.
Published: July 2013

We present a comparison of feather stable isotope (δ13C, δ15N) patterns representing the habitat and diet conditions for two subspecies of willow warblers Phylloscopus trochilus that breed in parapatry, but winter in different regions of sub‐Saharan Africa. Previous analyses have shown that on average winter moulted innermost primaries (P1) show subspecific differences in δ15N values, although individuals show substantial variation for both δ13C and δ15N within the subspecies. We examined whether corresponding variation in the timing of the winter moult, as reflected by consistent intra‐wing correlations for individual's δ13C and δ15N values, could explain some of the previously observed isotopic variation. Further, differential subspecific adaptations to winter precipitation patterns across Africa might result in a variable degree of site fidelity or itinerancy during moult. We found no consistent trend in isotopic values from innermost to outermost primaries, thus inter‐individual variation in the timing of moult does not explain the subspecific isotopic variation for P1. Patterns in wing feather δ13C and δ15N values indicated that 41% of the individuals from both subspecies shifted their diet or habitats during winter moult. Importantly, despite well‐documented itinerancy in willow warblers during the winter, 59% of the individuals had feather isotope values consistent with stable use of habitats or diets during winter moult. Repeatability analyses suggest that individuals of both subspecies initiate moult in similar habitats from year‐to‐year while feeding on isotopically similar diets.
Elemental Concentrations of Stream Sediments in Southern China
Authors: Zhizhong Cheng , Xuejing Xie , Hanjiang Pan , Rong Yang
Published: July 2013

Over 3 million samples were collected from southern China at a density of 1–2 stream sediment samples per square kilometre as part of the Regional Geochemistry National Reconnaissance (RGNR) programme of China initiated in the late 1970s. Approximately 5244 composite samples of stream sediments from twelve provinces of southern China were prepared from the original RGNR samples collected from a territory with an area of 2300000 km2 at a density of one composite sample per 1:50000 map sheet (about 400 km2). Seventy‐six elements were determined by the geoanalysis laboratory of Henan Province (platinum‐group elements) and by the Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration (IGGE) laboratory for the remainder. Internal quality and external quality control methods were applied to ensure that the analytical data were comparable. Statistics were used to derive the mean and background values and indicate the average concentrations of the seventy‐six elements. Comparisons were made against the mean values obtained from stream sediments, floodplain sediments, overall sediments and overall soils of the entire territory of China. The concentrations of Hg, Cd, rare earth elements and 24 other elements were higher than their background for the whole of China. In contrast, the concentration of Na2O, CaO, Ba and Sr were lower in the stream sediments in southern China than their whole China background.
Ostericum atropurpureum sp. nov. (Apiaceae) from Zhejiang, China
Authors: Xie Wen‐Yuan , Zhang Fen‐Yao , Chen Zheng‐Hai , Li Gen‐You , Xia Guo‐Hua
Published: July 2013

Ostericum atropurpureum G. Y. Li, G. H. Xia & W. Y. Xie (Apiaceae, Apioideae) from Zhejiang, China, is described and illustrated. It is closely related to O. huadongense Z. H. Pan & X. H. Li and O. sieboldii (Miquel) Nakai, but differs in having leaves with 1.5–9.0 cm long petiole, linear bracteoles 6–12 mm long, 5–9 rays, 7–14‐flowered umbellules, dark purple petals, broadly winged dorsal and lateral fruit ribs, 1.0–1.5 mm broad, 3–6 vittae in each furrow and 4–8 on the commissure.
Numerical analysis of morphology of natural hybrids between Carex hostiana and the members of Carex flava agg. (Cyperaceae)
Authors: Więcław Helena , Koopman Jacob
Published: July 2013

Uni‐variate and multi‐variate statistical methods, based on data taken from dried specimens, were used to determine the morphological variance of Carex hostiana 3 Carex flava agg. hybrids and to establish their parents among members of the C. flava complex. The following hybrids were found: C. demissa 3 hostiana [C. 3 fulva], C. hostiana 3 lepidocarpa [C. ×leutzii] and C. flava 3 hostiana [C. 3 xanthocarpa]. The least variable traits, namely beak length, utricle length, ratio of beak length to the overall utricle length, female spike width, and width of the lowest bract, proved to be the most useful in delimiting the hybrids. Carex flava 3 hostiana specimens usually have long utricles and beaks, wide male and female spikes, as well as wide bracts and leaf blades. Carex hostiana 3 lepidocarpa specimens are characterized by relatively short beaks (with low ratio of beak length to the overall utricle length) and narrow bracts. Common features of C. demissa 3 hostiana specimens, on the other hand, are male spikes with long peduncles, usually longly parted female spikes and a long beak compared to the overall utricle length.
Chromosomal diversity in two synchronopatric species of Hoffmannseggella (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Yamagishi‐Costa Júlia , Forni‐Martins Eliana Regina
Published: July 2013

Hoffmannseggella viridiflora Verola & Semir (Laeliinae, Orchidaceae) is a recently discovered species in the campos rupestres vegetation of the Espinhaço Range, MG, Brazil, in synchronopatry with H. bradei (Pabst) V. P. Castro & Chiron. Both morphological and phenological studies indicate that these species are closely related. To substantiate the differentiation of these two species we examined their chromosome numbers and morphologies. The two species had different chromosome numbers, with H. bradei having 2n = 40 and H. viridiflora having 2n = 44 chromosomes, an aneuploid number not previously documented in the genus. Meiotic behavioral studies undertaken with H. bradei revealed many abnormalities related to bivalent numbers and chromosome migration, suggesting that meiotic abnormalities could generate aneuploid gametes and perhaps aneuploid zygotes. Karyotype formulas and chromosome morphologies are quite different between the species, so H. viridiflora was not directly derived from H. bradei through simple chromosome additions. Complementary analyses are necessary to understand the process and species involved in the origin of H. viridiflora.
Isolation of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth: a dimensional concept analysis
Authors: Johnson Michael J. , Amella Elaine J.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To present the findings of a dimensional analysis of isolation in the context, and from the perspective, of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth.

Background

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth are often at greater risk for negative health outcomes compared with heterosexual youth. Isolation is one risk factor cited throughout the literature; however, the concept is complicated and has many uses and thus warrants clarification.

Design

Concept Analysis.

Data Sources

Sources comprise 35 English language research articles retrieved from CINAHL and EBSCOHost (1987–2012).

Methods

A dimensional concept analysis was undertaken to analyse how the concept, isolation, is socially constructed.

Results

This dimensional analysis revealed five socially constructed dimensions and four sub‐dimensions. These findings indicate that there is substantial variability in the concept of isolation. These differences and variations are most notably observed in the 20 articles (57%) that had more than one dimension. Although some of these articles were explicit with the different meanings and use of the concept, most of the papers had wide variability in the use and meaning of the concept.

Conclusion

The disproportionately greater physical and mental health disparities between lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender and heterosexual youth are a signal to conduct more research to clarify the concept of isolation, to develop instrumentation to identify at‐risk youth and to explore predictors and consequences of isolation. Nurses and others can lead the way in translating this knowledge into strategies that will improve the health and lives of these young people.
Measuring interpersonal continuity in high‐frequency home healthcare services
Authors: Gjevjon Edith R. , Eika Kari H , Romøren Tor Inge , Landmark Brynjar Fowels
Published: July 2013

Aim

To provide a method for assessing the degree of interpersonal continuity adapted to context and to measure and assess the degree of interpersonal continuity for long‐term recipients dependent on daily home health care.

Background

Interpersonal continuity is important to the quality of care for long‐term dependents. In high‐frequency home healthcare services where patients receive daily care from many nurses or other health personnel over time, interpersonal continuity may be difficult to attain.

Design

A cross‐sectional study with a descriptive design.

Methods

Information concerning 79 patients receiving long‐term frequent care was collected during four weeks in a maximum variation sample of Norwegian municipalities, from January 2009–May 2010. We measured interpersonal continuity objectively using indices of dispersion and the next‐day sequence of health personnel. For each measure, we computed the highest feasible level of continuity that could be attained in this home healthcare context given a standard shift plan. This level was then used as benchmark against which the actual level of continuity was assessed.

Results

Patients received on average 51 visits from a mean of 17 different carers during four weeks. The results revealed a low degree of interpersonal continuity in practice, far below what was feasible according to the benchmarks.

Conclusion

High‐frequency home health care was characterized by interpersonal discontinuity, but with potential for improvement. Objective measures of interpersonal continuity, when the benchmark is adapted to the context, are useful tools for planning and surveying continuity of care.
Parents' experiences with neonatal home care following initial care in the neonatal intensive care unit: a phenomenological hermeneutical interview study
Authors: Dellenmark‐Blom Michaela , Wigert Helena
Published: July 2013

Aim

A descriptive study of parents' experiences with neonatal home care following initial care in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Background

As survival rates improve among premature and critically ill infants with an increased risk of morbidity, parents' responsibilities for neonatal care grow in scope and degree under the banner of family‐centred care. Concurrent with medical advances, new questions arise about the role of parents and the experience of being provided neonatal care at home.

Design

An interview study with a phenomenological hermeneutic approach.

Methods

Parents from a Swedish neonatal (n = 22) home care setting were extensively interviewed within one year of discharge. Data were collected during 2011–2012.

Findings

The main theme of the findings is that parents experience neonatal home care as an inner emotional journey, from having a child to being a parent. This finding derives from three themes: the parents' experience of leaving the hospital milieu in favour of establishing independent parenthood, maturing as a parent and processing experiences during the period of neonatal intensive care.

Conclusions

This study suggests that neonatal home care is experienced as a care structure adjusted to incorporate parents' needs following discharge from a neonatal intensive care unit. Neonatal home care appears to bridge the gap between hospital and home, supporting the family's adaptation to life in the home setting. Parents become empowered to be primary caregivers, having nurse consultants serving the needs of the whole family. Neonatal home care may therefore be understood as the implementation of family‐centred care during the transition from NICU to home.
The changing face of aggression: the effect of personalized avatars in a violent video game on levels of aggressive behavior
Authors: Hollingdale Jack , Greitemeyer Tobias
Published: July 2013

Video game developments allow players to design their own personalized avatars. Previous research has shown that this capability increases levels of aggression within socially acceptable forms of violence. Using the general aggression model (GAM), the current study examined the effect of avatar personalization on behavioral aggression within a violent video game. Participants who played a violent video game and designed their own avatars were significantly more aggressive than those who played the same violent video game with a generic avatar, and were also more aggressive than those who played the nonviolent video game, regardless of whether or not they designed their own personalized characters. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Phylogeography of the supralittoral isopodLigia occidentalisaround the Point Conception marine biogeographical boundary
Authors: Eberl Renate , Mateos Mariana , Grosberg Richard K. , Santamaria Carlos A. , Hurtado Luis A.
Published: July 2013

Aim

The Point Conception (PC) biogeographical boundary is defined by a transition between cold northern and warm southern water masses, accompanied by shifts in numerous ecological and environmental parameters. While these factors can potentially contribute to the genetic differentiation of lineages whose distributions span this boundary, few organisms exhibit genetic signatures of restricted gene flow across this region. We examine the effects of thePCboundary and other potential dispersal barriers on phylogeographical patterns in the rocky supralittoral isopodLigia occidentalis. This isopod has a limited dispersal potential, its distribution spans thePCregion, and it exhibits high levels of allopatric genetic differentiation south ofPC.

Location

EasternPacific coastline between southernOregon and theBajaCaliforniaPeninsula.

Methods

We conducted a thorough sampling ofL. occidentalisfrom thePCarea to its northern range limit in southernOregon, and increased previous sampling coverage south ofPC. We obtained sequences of the mitochondrial genes cytochromecoxidase subunit I (COI) and 16SrDNAfor the new localities and combined them with a previously published data set, resulting in a total of 58 sampling locations. We also obtained sequences of the nuclear gene sodium–potassiumATPase α‐subunit (NaK). We conducted phylogenetic and population‐genetic analyses.

Results

The geographical limit between the two most divergent clades ofL. occidentalis(20–25% divergence forCOI) distributed between southernOregon and theBajaCaliforniaPeninsula occurs at thePCbiogeographical boundary. Levels of allopatric genetic divergences were greatly reduced north ofPC(≤ 3.0% divergence forCOI).

Main conclusions

The geographical limit between the two mainL. occidentalisclades inCalifornia largely reflects the changes in sea surface temperature that define thePCbiogeographical boundary. Reduced levels of genetic divergence amongL. occidentalislineages found north ofPCsuggest a recent expansion in the northern range of this isopod.
Electrocardiographic Predictors of Electroanatomic Scar Size in Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy: Implications for Arrhythmic Risk Stratification
Authors: ZORZI ALESSANDRO , MIGLIORE FEDERICO , ELMAGHAWRY MOHAMED , SILVANO MARIA , MARRA MARTINA PERAZZOLO , NIERO ALICE , NGUYEN KIM , RIGATO ILARIA , BAUCE BARBARA , BASSO CRISTINA , THIENE GAETANO , ILICETO SABINO , CORRADO DOMENICO
Published: July 2013

ECG Predictors of Electroanatomic Scar in ARVC

Introduction

The extent of right ventricular (RV) electroanatomic scar (EAS) detected by endocardial voltage mapping (EVM) is a powerful invasive predictor of arrhythmic outcome in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). Electrocardiogram (ECG) and signal‐averaged ECG are noninvasive tools of established clinical value for the diagnosis of electrical abnormalities in ARVC. This study was designed to assess the role of ECG and SAECG abnormalities for noninvasive estimation of the extent and regional distribution of RV‐EAS and prediction of scar‐related arrhythmic risk.

Methods and Results

The study population included 49 consecutive patients (38 males, median age 35 years) with a definite diagnosis of ARVC and an abnormal EVM by CARTO system. At univariate analysis, the presence of epsilon waves, the degree of RV dilation, the severity of RV dysfunction, and the extent of negative T waves correlated with RV‐EAS% area. Normal T‐waves were associated with a median RV‐EAS% area of 4.9% (4.5–6.4), negative T waves in V1–V3 of 22.0% (8.5–30.6), negative T waves in V1–V3 extending to lateral precordial leads (V4–V6) of 26.8% (11.5–35.2), and negative T waves in both precordial (V2–V6) and inferior leads of 30.2% (24.8–33.0) (P < 0.001). At multivariate analysis, the extent of negative T waves remained the only independent predictor of RV‐EAS% area (B = 4.4, 95%CI 1.3–7.4, P = 0.006) and correlated with the arrhythmic event‐rate during follow‐up (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

In patients with ARVC, the extent of negative T‐waves across 12‐lead ECG allows noninvasive estimation of the amount of RV‐EAS and prediction of EAS‐related arrhythmic risk.
Horizontal ridge augmentation of the atrophic anterior maxilla using rhBMP‐2/ACS or autogenous bone grafts: a proof‐of‐concept randomized clinical trial
Authors: de Freitas Rubens Moreno , Susin Cristiano , Spin‐Neto Rubens , Marcantonio Claudio , Wikesjö Ulf M. E. , Pereira Luís Antônio Violin Dias , Marcantonio Elcio
Published: July 2013

Aim

To compare the effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2) in an absorbable collagen sponge carrier (ACS) with autogenous bone graft for augmentation of the edentulous atrophic anterior maxilla.

Methods

Twenty‐four subjects were enrolled in a randomized, controlled, parallel‐group, open‐label clinical trial. Subjects either received rhBMP‐2/ACS (1.5 mg/ml) or particulated autogenous bone harvested from the mandibular retromolar region. A titanium‐mesh was used to provide space and wound stability. A guide was used to standardize clinical recordings using an analogue caliper. Alveolar ridge width was also assessed using cone‐beam computed tomography.

Results

rhBMP‐2/ACS yielded significantly greater radiographic horizontal bone gain compared with autogenous bone graft at immediate subcrestal levels (1.5 ± 0.7 versus 0.5 ± 0.9 mm; p = 0.01); non‐significant differences were observed at mid‐ (2.9 ± 0.8 versus 2.9 ± 0.9 mm; p = 0.98) and apical (1.7 ± 0.9 versus 1.8 ± 1.1 mm; p = 0.85) crestal levels. No significant differences in clinical horizontal bone gain were observed at 6 months between rhBMP‐2/ACS and autogenous bone graft (3.2 ± 0.9 mm versus 3.7 ± 1.4 mm; p = 0.31). Sixty‐two implants were placed after 6 month of healing with no significant differences between groups for number of implants, implant size, primary stability and survival.

Conclusions

rhBMP‐2/ACS appears a realistic alternative for augmentation of the edentulous atrophic anterior maxilla.
Sitagliptin added to voglibose monotherapy improves glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Tajima Naoko , Kadowaki Takashi , Okamoto Taro , Sato Asako , Okuyama Kotoba , Minamide Toshiomi , Arjona Ferreira Juan Camilo
Published: July 2013

Aims/Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a progressive disease that frequently requires patients to use more than one oral antihyperglycemic agent to achieve adequate glycemic control. The present multicenter, randomized study assessed the efficacy and safety of the addition of sitagliptin to ongoing voglibose monotherapy (0.2–0.3 mg three times daily) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had inadequate glycemic control (glycated hemoglobin ≥6.9% and <10.5%).

Materials and Methods

The present study had an initial 12‐week, double‐blind treatment period in which patients were randomized (1:1) to sitagliptin 50 mg/day (n = 70) or placebo (n = 63), followed by a 40‐week, open‐label treatment period during which all patients received sitagliptin 50 mg/day, that could have been increased to 100 mg/day for patients meeting predefined glycemic criteria.

Results

After 12 weeks, treatment with sitagliptin resulted in placebo‐subtracted mean changes from baseline in glycated hemoglobin (the primary end‐point), fasting plasma glucose and 2‐h postmeal glucose of –0.9%, –22.5 mg/dL and –51.3 mg/dL, respectively (all, P < 0.001). During the double‐blind period, adverse experiences were reported with similar frequency in both treatment groups, and the occurrences of hypoglycemia and gastrointestinal adverse experiences were low. In the open‐label period, sustained improvements in glycemic parameters were observed with sitagliptin treatment, and sitagliptin was generally well tolerated.

Conclusions

Sitagliptin added on to ongoing voglibose monotherapy provided significant improvements in glycemic parameters and was well tolerated in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had inadequate glycemic control. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrails.gov (no. NCT00837577).
An interspecific comparison between morphology and swimming performance in cyprinids
Authors: Yan G.‐J. , He X.‐K. , Cao Z.‐D. , Fu S.‐J.
Published: July 2013

Flow regimes are believed to be of major evolutionary significance in fish. The flow regimes inhabited by cyprinids vary extensively from still flow regimes to riptide flow regimes. To test (i) whether flow‐driven swimming performance and relevant morphological differentiation are present among fish species and (ii) whether evolutionary shifts between high‐flow and low‐flow habitats in cyprinids are associated with evolutionary trade‐offs in locomotor performance, we obtained data on both steady and unsteady swimming performance and external body shape for 19 species of cyprinids that typically occur in different flow regimes (still, intermediate and riptide). We also measured the routine energy expenditure (RMR) and maximum metabolic rate (MMR) and calculated the optimal swimming speed. Our results showed that fish species from riptide groups tend to have a higher critical swimming speed (Ucrit), maximum linear velocity (Vmax) and fineness ratio (FR) than fish from the other two groups. However, there was no correlation between the reconstructed changes in the steady and unsteady swimming performance of the 19 species. According to the phylogenetically independent contrast (PIC) method, the Ucrit was actively correlated with the MMR. These results indicated that selection will favour both higher steady and unsteady swimming performance and a more streamlined body shape in environments with high water velocities. The results suggested that steady swimming performance was more sensitive to the flow regime and that for this reason, changes in body shape resulted more from selective pressure on steady swimming performance than on unsteady swimming performance. No evolutionary trade‐off was observed between steady and unsteady swimming performance, although Ucrit and MMR were found to have coevolved. However, a further analysis within each typically occurring habitat group suggested that the trade‐off that may exist between steady and unsteady swimming performance may be concealed by the effect of habitat.
The direct effects of male killer infection on fitness of ladybird hosts (Coleoptera:Coccinellidae)
Authors: Elnagdy S. , Majerus M. E. N. , Gardener M. , Lawson Handley L.‐J.
Published: July 2013

Male killing bacteria are common in insects and are thought to persist in host populations primarily by indirect fitness benefits to infected females, whereas direct fitness effects are generally assumed to be neutral or deleterious. Here, we estimated the effect of male killer infection on direct fitness (number of eggs laid, as a measure of fecundity, together with survival) and other life‐history traits (development time and body size) in seven ladybird host/male killer combinations. Effects of male killers on fecundity ranged, as expected, from costly to neutral; however, we found evidence of reduced development time and increased survival and body size in infected strains. Greater body size inSpiroplasma‐infectedHarmonia axyridiscorresponded to greater ovariole number and therefore higherpotentialfecundity. To our knowledge, this is the first report of direct benefits of male killer infection after explicitly controlling for indirect fitness effects. Neutral or deleterious fitness effects of male killer infection should not therefore be automatically assumed.
Anguillids: conserving a global fisherya
Authors: Righton D. , Walker A. M.
Published: July 2013

Concern has increased in recent years over the sustainability of anguillid populations worldwide in the face of sustained consumer demand. This is as true of the more numerous tropical species as it is for the better known temperate species. There are, however, critical gaps in knowledge of anguillid biology and ecology, and these hold back measures designed to conserve and enhance anguillid populations, including aquaculture. Developing a more integrated understanding of anguillid biology, and resolving challenges faced by stakeholders and policy makers, is now more urgent than ever. World experts from Japan, the U.S.A., Canada, the European Union and New Zealand led a 3 day event where >200 scientists drawn from >30 countries across the globe converged to share their experience and expert knowledge of anguillids. The session covered the full range of issues affecting anguillid stocks across the globe, and also highlighted advances in the understanding of fundamental aspects of anguillid biology. Overall, 49 oral presentations and 68 posters were presented and, while these were dominated by Anguilla anguilla, Anguilla rostrata and Anguilla japonica, a further eight anguillid species were represented. What was experienced by all was the facilitation of a more integrated understanding of anguillid biology, and how this understanding can interface with the challenges faced by fishermen, consumers, engineers, producers and managers. The highlights are reviewed, important trends in anguillid stocks and research identified and the consensus for future science and management direction reported.
Effect of pancreatic juice cytology and/or endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy for pancreatic tumor
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuya , Takeda Yohei , Harada Kenichi , Horie Yasushi , Yashima Kazuo , Murawaki Yoshikazu
Published: July 2013

Background and Aim

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (EUS‐FNA) can now provide a cytopathological diagnosis of pancreatic malignancy with higher success rates. However, EUS‐FNA cannot be carried out for lesions of minimally invasive carcinoma because they cannot be detected by endoscopic ultrasonography, and in cases of intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma (IPMC) because of the potential for needle tract seeding. A recent study has shown that pancreatic juice cytology (PJC) is useful for diagnosing pancreatic cancer. This study's aim was to evaluate whether PJC strengthens the diagnostic power of EUS‐FNA for pancreatic masses.

Methods

A total of 161 patients, who were suspected to have a pancreatic mass on conventional ultrasound and/or computed tomography, was enrolled.

Results

EUS‐FNA was carried out in 121 cases, and PJC was performed in 83 cases. An adequate specimen was obtained for EUS‐FNA in 96.0% and for PJC in 98.9%. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 86.0%, 100%, 100%, 70.5%, and 89.5% for EUS‐FNA, and 71.4%, 100%, 100%, 84.4%, and 88.8% for PJC, respectively. EUS‐FNA and/or PJC for the diagnosis of pancreatic tumor had a sensitivity of 92.5%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, negative predictive value of 91.7%, and accuracy of 95.9%. The diagnostic accuracy of EUS‐FNA and/or PJC was significantly higher than that of EUS‐FNA alone or PJC alone.

Conclusion

PJC improved the diagnostic utility of EUS‐FNA for pancreatic tumor.
Radiotherapy for patients with unresectable advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with invasion to intrahepatic large vessels: Efficacy and outcomes
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiaki , Nakazawa Takahide , Komori Shouko , Hidaka Hisashi , Okuwaki Yusuke , Takada Juichi , Watanabe Masaaki , Shibuya Akitaka , Minamino Tsutomu , Yamamoto Hajime , Kokubu Shigehiro , Hayakawa Kazushige , Koizumi Wasaburo
Published: July 2013

Background and Aim

To examine the efficacy and outcomes of radiotherapy (RT) in patients who have hepatocellular carcinoma with invasion to intrahepatic large vessels (IHLVs).

Methods

Sixty‐seven patients who had advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with invasion to IHLVs received three‐dimensional conformal RT. IHLV invasion was associated with portal venous tumor thrombosis in 40 patients, tumor thrombosis involving the hepatic vein in 17, and both findings in 10. A daily radiation dose of 1.8–2 Gy was administered using 6 or 10 MV X‐rays to deliver a total dose of 30–56 Gy.

Results

The overall objective response rate (complete response plus partial response) was 45% (n = 30). The median survival time was 13.7 months in the responder group and 5.9 months in the nonresponder group. An objective response was observed in 28 (56%) of 50 patients with Child‐Pugh (C‐P) class A and in 2 (12%) of 17 patients with C‐P class B. Hepatic function of C‐P class A was an independent factor for both RT responder and overall survival on Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio = 9.5, 95% confidence interval = 1.97–46.2, P = 0.005; and hazard ratio = 0.39, 95% confidence interval = 0.2–0.77, P = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusion

RT is an effective treatment option without serious adverse events. RT should be considered for the patients with better hepatic function who have invasion to IHLVs.
Modification of risk, but not survival of esophageal cancer patients by esophageal cancer‐related gene 1 Arg290Gln polymorphism: A case–control study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Umar Meenakshi , Upadhyay Rohit , Kumar Shaleen , Ghoshal Uday Chand , Mittal Balraj
Published: July 2013

Background and Aim

Esophageal cancer‐related gene 1 (ECRG1) is a novel tumor suppressor gene known to affect matrix remodeling, cell growth, and differentiation. Previous studies in high incidence geographical regions of esophageal cancer (EC) have shown association of ECRG1 Arg290Gln polymorphism with risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC); however, role of this variant in low incidence region is missing. So, we aimed to evaluate association of ECRG1 Arg290Gln with susceptibility and prognosis of EC patients in low‐risk north Indian population.

Methods

The genotyping of ECRG1 Arg290Gln polymorphism was done in 310 incident EC cases (including 179 follow up cases) and 310 healthy controls through polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism. Statistical analysis applied were binary logistic regression for risk estimation and Kaplan–Meier/log‐rank test for survival analysis. Meta‐analysis of published studies, exploring role of ECRG1 polymorphism in ESCC risk, was carried out using MIX 2.0 software.

Results

ECRG1 Arg290Gln polymorphism significantly conferred 1.8‐fold increased risk of EC in dominant model (odds ratio = 1.78, 95% confidence interval = 1.27–2.49, P = 0.001). Stratification based on clinical phenotypes showed pronounced risk in cases with ESCC histopathology and middle/lower third tumor locations. No significant interaction with environmental risk factors was observed. Meta‐analysis also showed significant association of ECRG1 Arg290Gln polymorphism with risk of ESCC. Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression tests suggested that ECRG1 polymorphism did not modulate survival outcome of ESCC patients.

Conclusions

ECRG1 Arg290Gln polymorphism significantly affects the susceptibility but not the prognosis of ESCC patients in low‐risk north Indian population.
Clinical usefulness of intraductal ultrasonography for the management of acute biliary pancreatitis
Authors: Yoon La Young , Moon Jong Ho , Choi Hyun Jong , Kim Dong Choon , Seo Jung Yeon , Lee Tae Hoon , Cha Sang‐Woo , Cho Young Deok , Park Sang‐Heum , Kim Sun‐Joo
Published: July 2013

Background and Aim

Identifying a bile duct (BD) stone in patients with acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) is important for the management and prevention of recurrent attack of pancreatitis. However, small BD stones may not be detected on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the usefulness of intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) in patients suspected to have ABP but with no evidence of choledocholithiasis on ERCP.

Methods

A total 92 patients suspected with ABP without evidence of BD stones on imaging studies including ERCP were enrolled. Wire‐guided IDUS was performed during ERCP in all patients. Stones or sludge detected by IDUS were confirmed after endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) and extraction. If IDUS finding was negative, then we swept the BD with a balloon catheter and/or basket without EST. After endoscopic management, comparison between IDUS and endoscopic finding was carried out to determine the diagnostic accuracy of IDUS.

Results

Among the 92 patients, IDUS revealed BD stones in 33 (35.9%). All 33 patients' stones were confirmed by endoscopic visualization after EST and BD exploration. During the mean follow up of 24 months, recurrent pancreatitis did not occur in 90 of 92 patients (97.9%) with ABP after endoscopic treatment according to the IDUS findings.

Conclusions

IDUS improves diagnostic accuracy for the detection of clinically occult BD stones in patients suspicious ABP. IDUS‐guided endoscopic management for patients with ABP can avoid unnecessary EST and help prevent recurrent pancreatitis.
Predictors of in‐hospital mortality after acute variceal bleeding in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and concurrent main portal vein thrombosis
Authors: Han Ming‐Lun , Chen Chieh‐Chang , Kuo Shih‐Hao , Hsu Wen‐Feng , Liou Jyh‐Ming , Wu Ming‐Shiang , Wang Hsiu‐Po
Published: July 2013

Background and Aim

Risk factors for acute variceal bleeding in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and concurrent main portal vein thrombosis (PVT) remain unclear. We aimed to determine risk factors of in‐hospital mortality after acute variceal bleeding for HCC patients with concurrent main PVT.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 102 HCC patients (83% men and 17% women) with concurrent main PVT and acute variceal bleeding. All patients received emergent endoscopy to define the bleeding source. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis consisting of clinical, laboratory, and endoscopic parameters was performed to identify predictive factors for intrahospital mortality.

Results

Twenty‐eight (27.5%) patients died within admission. The median survival of all patients was 56 days. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analyses revealed Child‐Pugh score (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.29 for each point; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–1.50), active bleeding on index endoscopy (aHR: 7.50; 95% CI: 3.05–18.4), esophageal varices as the bleeder (compared with gastric varices, aHR: 14.3; 95% CI: 3.12–66.1), failure to control bleeding (aHR: 38.0; 95% CI: 7.44–194), and serum creatinine (aHR: 1.28 for each increase of 1 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.09–1.50) independently predicted in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusions

Hepatic reserve, active bleeding on index endoscopy, failure to control bleeding, esophageal varices as the bleeder when compared with gastric varices, and renal function were independent predictive factors for in‐hospital mortality in HCC patients with acute variceal bleeding and concurrent main PVT.
What is talked about? Community living staff experiences of talking with older people with intellectual disability about dying and death
Authors: Wiese M. , Stancliffe R. J. , Dew A. , Balandin S. , Howarth G.
Published: July 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to explore what community living staff talked about and did with people with intellectual disability (ID) to assist them to understand dying and death.

Method

Guided by grounded theory methodology, focus groups and one‐to‐one interviews were conducted with 22 staff who had talked about any topic relating to dying and death with their clients.

Results

There was little evidence that staff talked with, or did things with clients to assist understanding of the end of life, both prior to and after a death. Prior to death staff assisted clients in a limited way to understand about determining wishes in preparation for death, and what dying looks like by observance of its passage. Following a death staff offered limited assistance to clients to understand the immutability of death, and how the dead can be honoured with ritual, and remembered.

Conclusions

The findings have implications for why people with ID have only partial understanding of the end of life, the staff skills required to support clients’ understanding, and when conversations about the end of life should occur.
Temporal analysis of attentional processes in spontaneous interactions between people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities and their support workers
Authors: Neerinckx H. , Vos P. , Van Den Noortgate W. , Maes B.
Published: July 2013

Background

Few studies examined joint attention in interactions with people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD), although being an important component of high‐quality interaction. The purpose of this study is to describe initiating joint attention behaviour from people with PIMD and their support workers as well as the sequential relationship between initiating joint attention behaviour and attention episodes in spontaneous interactions.

Method

Video observations of 28 support worker–client dyads were coded using partial interval coding.

Results

Results show much variation across persons and dyads. Within the support worker–client dyad, there is not much joint attention but shared attention is frequently occurring. In general, people with PIMD are directing the attention of their interaction partner at low rates. The support workers are frequently directing the attention of the clients towards a topic of interest but not often through the tactile modality. The occurrence of an attention episode cannot be predicted on the basis of preceding initiating joint attention behaviour of the interaction partners.

Conclusion

This study presents directions for future research and implications for practice. It may increase support workers' knowledge of their own contributions, strengths and weaknesses in directing and maintaining attention within interactions with people with PIMD.
Critical role of calpain in spinal cord degeneration in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Samantaray Supriti , Knaryan Varduhi H. , Shields Donald C. , Banik Naren L.
Published: July 2013

While multiple molecular mechanisms contribute to midbrain nigrostriatal dopaminergic degeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD), the mechanism of damage in non‐dopaminergic sites within the central nervous system, including the spinal cord, is not well‐understood. Thus, to understand the comprehensive pathophysiology underlying this devastating disease, postmortem spinal cord tissue samples (cervical, thoracic, and lumbar segments) from patients with PD were analyzed compared to age‐matched normal subjects or Alzheimer's disease for selective molecular markers of neurodegeneration and inflammation. Distal axonal degeneration, relative abundance of both sensory and motor neuron death, selective loss of ChAT+ motoneurons, reactive astrogliosis, microgliosis, increased cycloxygenase‐2 (Cox‐2) expression, and infiltration of T cells were observed in spinal cord of PD patients compared to normal subjects. Biochemical analyses of spinal cord tissues revealed associated inflammatory and proteolytic events (elevated levels of Cox‐2, expression and activity of μ‐ and m‐calpain, degradation of axonal neurofilament protein, and concomitantly low levels of endogenous inhibitor – calpastatin) in spinal cord of PD patients. Thus, pathologically upregulated calpain activity in spinal cords of patients with PD may contribute to inflammatory response‐mediated neuronal death, leading to motor dysfunction.

image

We proposed calpain over‐activation and calpain‐calpastatin dysregulation driving in a cascade of inflammatory responses (microglial activation and T cell infiltration) and degenerative pathways culminating in axonal degeneration and neuronal death in spinal cord of Parkinson's disease patients. This may be one of the crucial mechanisms in the degenerative process.
Synaptodendritic recovery following HIV Tat exposure: Neurorestoration by phytoestrogens
Authors: Bertrand Sarah J. , Mactutus Charles F. , Aksenova Marina V. , Espensen‐Sturges Tori D. , Booze Rosemarie M.
Published: July 2013

HIV‐1 infects the brain and, despite antiretroviral therapy, many infected individuals suffer from HIV‐1‐associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). HAND is associated with dendritic simplification and synaptic loss. Prevention of synaptodendritic damage may ameliorate or forestall neurocognitive decline in latent HIV‐1 infections. The HIV‐1 transactivating protein (Tat) is produced during viral latency in the brain and may cause synaptodendritic damage. This study examined the integrity of the dendritic network after exposure to HIV‐1 Tat by labeling filamentous actin (F‐actin)‐rich structures (puncta) in primary neuronal cultures. After 24 h of treatment, HIV‐1 Tat was associated with the dendritic arbor and produced a significant reduction of F‐actin‐labeled dendritic puncta as well as loss of dendrites. Pre‐treatment with either of two plant‐derived phytoestrogen compounds (daidzein and liquiritigenin), significantly reduced synaptodendritic damage following HIV‐1 Tat treatment. In addition, 6 days after HIV‐1 Tat treatment, treatment with either daidzein, or liquiritigenin enhanced recovery, via the estrogen receptor, from HIV‐1 Tat‐induced synaptodendritic damage. These results suggest that either liquiritigenin or daidzein may not only attenuate acute synaptodendritic injury in HIV‐1 but may also promote recovery from synaptodendritic damage.

image

The HIV‐1 transactivating protein (Tat) is produced during viral latency in the brain. Treatment with either daidzein or liquiritigenin restored the loss of synaptic connectivity produced by HIV‐1 Tat. This neurorestoration was mediated by estrogen receptors (ER). These results suggest that plant‐derived phytoestrogens may promote recovery from HIV‐1‐induced synaptodendritic damage.