bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of early outcomes and quality of life after laparoscopic Heller's cardiomyotomy to peroral endoscopic myotomy for treatment of achalasia
Authors: Chan Shannon Melissa , Wu Justin Che Yuen , Teoh Anthony Yuen Bun , Yip Hon Chi , Ng Enders Kwok Wai , Lau James Yun Wong , Chiu Philip Wai Yan
Published: June 2015

Background and Aim

This retrospective cohort study compared clinical outcomes and quality of life after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) against laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) for treatment of achalasia.

Methods

Patient demographics, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, time to resume diet and analgesic requirement were recorded. Clinical outcomes including recurrence of dysphagia, need for reintervention, and occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were recorded.

Results

From 2001 to 2014, 33 patients underwent POEM whereas 23 patients received LHM. Patients LHM had with longer mean operative time (P = 0.02), more blood loss (P = 0.001) and higher requirement for analgesics (P = 0.009) than those treated by POEM. Hospital stay and time to resume diet were similar. Both POEM and LHM achieved similar dysphagia scores at postoperative 4 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Twenty‐six percent of LHM patients and 15.2% of POEM patients sustained gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after treatment (P = 0.311). Six patients required regular proton pump inhibitor three after POEM and three after LHM (P = 0.639). Thirteen percent of LHM patients sustained recurrent dysphagia and one required reintervention. There was no recurrence in the POEM group. Follow‐up duration (mean [SD]) for the LHM group was significantly longer (60 [42] months vs 6 [4] months; P = 0.001). There was also no difference in all four aspects of GERD‐related quality of life outcomes.

Conclusion

Compared to LHM, POEM achieved shorter operative time, less blood loss and pain. POEM is comparable to LHM for treatment of achalasia with similar incidence of GERD after the procedure.
Performance Pay and Workplace Injury: Panel Evidence
Authors: Artz Benjamin , Heywood John S.
Published: June 2015

Using panel survey data, we show cross‐sectional evidence of an elevated risk of workplace injury for those paid piece rates and bonuses. While consistent with Adam Smith's behavioural conjecture, this could simply reflect sorting across workers or firms. In response we successively control for a risk proxy, for worker fixed effects and for worker with employer match fixed effects. No previous examination has controlled for such fixed effects or examined US survey data. The estimates indicate that injury risk increases substantially when blue‐collar (manual) workers become paid by piece rates and bonuses.
TIA Caused by Contrast Echocardiography in Patient with Platypnea–Orthodeoxia
Authors: Loncar Goran , Payot Laurent , Dubois Mathieu
Published: June 2015

Platypnea–orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is a rare clinical disorder characterized by dyspnea caused by the upright position and relieved at recumbent position. Few cases of POS and stroke were reported in literature, and the association between stroke and POS with evidence of patent foramen ovale (PFO) is rare. Stroke may occur in patients with cardiac shunt who undergo contrast echocardiography. We present a patient with POS who experienced transitory ischemic attack (TIA) most likely caused by injection of agitated saline microbubbles during screen for PFO. No case report of TIA/stroke during contrast echocardiography in patients with POS has previously been published.
Anti‐CD19 chimeric antigen receptor‐modified T cells for B‐cell malignancies: a systematic review of efficacy and safety in clinical trials
Authors: Zhu Yangmin , Tan Youping , Ou Ruiming , Zhong Qi , Zheng Liling , Du Yuanyuan , Zhang Qing , Huang Jing
Published: June 2015

Objectives

Administration of anti‐CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐modified T cells for B‐cell malignancies has been remarkably effective in recent clinical trials. To investigate the critical parameters affecting efficacy and evaluated the safety of using CAR T cells targeting CD19 in B‐lineage malignancies. We performed a systematic review of reported phase I clinical trials using CAR T cells targeting CD19 in B‐lineage malignancies.

Methods

We searched Medline and Embase for studies on anti‐CD19 CAR‐modified T cells in patients with B‐cell malignancies in October 2014. Univariate analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier method, and a Cox regression model was used to determine the independent prognostic factors of progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

Six trials involving 50 patients were included in this review. After CAR T‐cell infusion, the overall response rate was 48% (complete responses in 24%). The 6‐month PFS and 1‐year PFS were 43% and 27%, respectively. Statistically significant factors favorably influencing PFS were conditioning chemotherapy (P < 0.001), B‐cell aplasia (P = 0.040), and durable persistence of CAR T cells (P = 0.013) in univariate analyses. After multivariate analysis, conditioning chemotherapy remained as an independent prognostic factor for PFS. The most common adverse events were fever, hypotension, rigor, fatigue, bacteremia, chill, dyspnea, and headache, but all were temporary and resolved.

Conclusion

Anti‐CD19 CAR‐modified T cells have shown therapeutic efficacy in patients with B‐lineage malignancies and were well tolerated in most patients. Conditioning chemotherapy is a prerequisite to improve the clinical outcome.
Leukemia diagnosis: today and tomorrow
Authors: Béné Marie C. , Grimwade David , Haferlach Claudia , Haferlach Torsten , Zini Gina ,   the European LeukemiaNet
Published: June 2015

The European LeukemiaNet (ELN) is composed of several work packages, four of them being directly involved in the various aspects of diagnosis. On the occasion of the annual ELN meeting of 2015 in Mannheim, these four work packages collectively examined the current situation and future prospects of cytomorphology, flow cytometry, cytogenetics, next‐generation sequencing, and minimal residual disease detection in the context of leukemia diagnosis and follow‐up. This document summarizes the outcome of this compendium.
Management of intermediate‐risk pulmonary embolism: uncertainties and challenges
Authors: Klok Frederikus Albertus , Meyer Guy , Konstantinides Stavros
Published: June 2015

Current guidelines on the treatment of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) recommend stratification of hemodynamically stable patients in ‘low risk’ and ‘intermediate risk’. Validated risk scores, cardiac biomarkers, and imaging of the right ventricle all help in distinguishing both patient categories. The relevance of this risk stratification lies in the determination of the most optimal treatment for the individual patient. In this clinical review, we will discuss how patients with ‘intermediate‐risk’ PE can be identified as well as recent advances in their therapeutic management. Based on a clinical case, we will highlight the indications for reperfusion therapy and the current experience with non‐vitamin K‐dependent oral anticoagulant (NOACs) in this specific patient's category.
Threat modulates neural responses to looming visual stimuli
Authors: Vagnoni Eleonora , Lourenco Stella F. , Longo Matthew R.
Published: June 2015

Objects on a collision course with an observer produce a specific pattern of optical expansion on the retina known as looming, which in theory exactly specifies the time‐to‐collision (TTC) of approaching objects. It was recently demonstrated that the affective content of looming stimuli influences perceived TTC, with threatening objects judged as approaching sooner than non‐threatening objects. Here, the neural mechanisms by which perceived threat modulates spatiotemporal perception were investigated. Participants judged the TTC of threatening (snakes, spiders) or non‐threatening (butterflies, rabbits) stimuli, which expanded in size at a rate indicating one of five TTCs. Visual‐evoked potentials (VEPs) and oscillatory neural responses measured with electroencephalography were analysed. The arrival time of threatening stimuli was underestimated compared with non‐threatening stimuli, though an interaction suggested that this underestimation was not constant across TTCs. Further, both speed of approach and threat modulated both VEPs and oscillatory responses. Speed of approach modulated the N1 parietal and oscillations in the beta band. Threat modulated several VEP components (P1, N1 frontal, N1 occipital, early posterior negativity and late positive potential) and oscillations in the alpha and high gamma band. The results for the high gamma band suggest an interaction between these two factors. Previous evidence suggests that looming stimuli activate sensorimotor areas, even in the absence of an intended action. The current results show that threat disrupts the synchronization over the sensorimotor areas that are likely activated by the presentation of a looming stimulus.
Mouse pups lacking collapsin response mediator protein 4 manifest impaired olfactory function and hyperactivity in the olfactory bulb
Authors: Tsutiya Atsuhiro , Nishihara Masugi , Goshima Yoshio , Ohtani‐Kaneko Ritsuko
Published: June 2015

Members of the collapsin response mediator protein (CRMP) family are reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of various neuronal disorders, including schizophrenia and autism. One of them, CRMP4, is reported to participate in aspects of neuronal development, such as axonal guidance and dendritic development. However, no physiological or behavioral phenotypes in Crmp4 knockout (Crmp4‐KO) mice have been identified, making it difficult to elucidate the in vivo roles of CRMP4. Focusing on the olfaction process because of the previous study showing strong expression of Crmp4 mRNA in the olfactory bulb (OB) during the early postnatal period, it was aimed to test the hypothesis that Crmp4‐KO pups would exhibit abnormal olfaction. Based on measurements of their ultrasonic vocalizations, impaired olfactory ability in Crmp4‐KO pups was found. In addition, c‐Fos expression, a marker of neuron activity, revealed hyperactivity in the OB of Crmp4‐KO pups compared with wild‐types following exposure to an odorant. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expression levels of glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1) and 2 (GluR2) were exaggerated in Crmp4‐KO pups relative to other excitatory and inhibitory receptors and transporters, raising the possibility that enhanced expression of these excitatory receptors contributes to the hyperactivity phenotype and impairs olfactory ability. This study provides evidence for an animal model for elucidating the roles of CRMP4 in the development of higher brain functions as well as for elucidating the developmental regulatory mechanisms controlling the activity of the neural circuitry.
Importance of gene dosage in controlling dendritic arbor formation during development
Authors: Copf Tijana
Published: June 2015

Proper dendrite morphology is crucial for normal nervous system functioning. While a number of genes have been implicated in dendrite morphogenesis in both invertebrates and mammals, it remains unclear how developing dendrites respond to changes in gene dosage and what type of patterns their responses may follow. To understand this, I review here evidence from the recent literature, focusing on the genetic studies performed in the Drosophila larval dendritic arborization class IV neuron, an excellent cell type to understand dendrite morphogenesis. I summarize how class IV arbors change morphology in response to developmental fluctuations in the expression levels of 47 genes, studied by means of genetic manipulations such as loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function, and for which sufficient information is available. I find that arbors can respond to changing gene dosage in several distinct ways, each characterized by a singular dose–response curve. Interestingly, in 72% of cases arbors are sensitive, and thus adjust their morphology, in response to both decreases and increases in the expression of a given gene, indicating that dendrite morphogenesis is a process particularly sensitive to gene dosage. By summarizing the parallels between Drosophila and mammals, I show that many Drosophila dendrite morphogenesis genes have orthologs in mammals, and that some of these are associated with mammalian dendrite outgrowth and human neurodevelopmental disorders. One notable disease‐related molecule is kinase Dyrk1A, thought to be a causative factor in Down syndrome. Both increases and decreases in Dyrk1A gene dosage lead to impaired dendrite morphogenesis, which may contribute to Down syndrome pathoetiology.
Decomposition kinetics and organic geochemistry of woody debris in a ferralsol in a humid tropical climate
Authors: Fujisaki K. , Perrin A.‐S. , Boussafir M. , Gogo S. , Sarrazin M. , Brossard M.
Published: June 2015

Large inputs of woody debris to soil can improve the soil. We examined the fate of woody debris buried in soil after fire‐free forest conversion to cropland inFrenchGuiana. We measured the mass loss of woody debris > 4 mm on five sampling dates for 4 years after deforestation. Composition of the organic matter of woody debris was analysed withRock‐Eval pyrolysis, which enabled us to distinguish a labile carbon pool (Clab) and a resistant carbon pool (Cres). Decomposition of woody debris followed a first‐order function with a half‐life of 17.6 months. During the decomposition of woody debris > 4 mm, theC:Nratio, hydrogen index (HI) and pyrolysed carbon below 400°C (R400) decreased, suggesting that decarboxylation and dehydrogenation of woody debris occurred. BothClabandCresstocks decreased with time, but the decrease inClabwas faster. There was little humification of the debris and no long‐term biogeochemical preservation of a woody debris fraction, which accords with the first‐order decay observed. We conclude that the benefits of ligno‐cellulosic inputs for soil organic carbon contents in a tropical humid climate occur during the first year following deforestation.

Résumé

Les apports massifs de débris de bois au sol peuvent améliorer le sol. Nous avons examiné sur un site enGuyane le devenir de débris de bois enfouis dans le sol, suite à la conversion sans brûlis de forêt en cultures. Nous avons mesuré le stock des débris de bois > 4 mm jusqu'à 4 années après déforestation. Les transformations de la matière organique des débris ont bois ont été analysées par la pyrolyseRock‐Eval, nous permettant de distinguer un compartiment de carbone labile (Clab) et un compartiment de carbone résistant (Cres) dans ces débris. La décomposition des débris de bois suit une décroissance exponentielle de premier ordre, avec une demi‐vie de 17,6 mois. Durant la décomposition des débris, le rapportC/N, l'indice d'hydrogène (HI) et le carbone pyrolysé avant 400°C (R400) diminuent, suggérant des processus de décarboxylation et déshydrogénation qui se mettent en place rapidement après l'enfouissement des débris. Les stocks deClabetCresdiminuent tous deux au cours du temps, avec une cinétique plus rapide pourClab. Ces résultats indiquent une faible polymérisation de la matière organique des débris, et une absence de préservation biogéochimique d'une partie des débris, en accord avec la décroissance exponentielle observée. Cette étude suggère que les bénéfices des amendements ligno‐cellulosiques pour la matière organique des sols sont de courte durée en milieu tropical humide.
Leaf economics and hydraulic traits are decoupled in five species‐rich tropical‐subtropical forests
Authors: Li Le , McCormack M. Luke , Ma Chengen , Kong Deliang , Zhang Qian , Chen Xiaoyong , Zeng Hui , Niinemets Ülo , Guo Dali
Published: June 2015

Leaf economics and hydraulic traits are critical to leaf photosynthesis, yet it is debated whether these two sets of traits vary in a fully coordinated manner or there is room for independent variation. Here, we tested the relationship between leaf economics traits, including leaf nitrogen concentration and leaf dry mass per area, and leaf hydraulic traits including stomatal density and vein density in five tropical‐subtropical forests. Surprisingly, these two suites of traits were statistically decoupled. This decoupling suggests that independent trait dimensions exist within a leaf, with leaf economics dimension corresponding to light capture and tissue longevity, and the hydraulic dimension to water‐use and leaf temperature maintenance. Clearly, leaf economics and hydraulic traits can vary independently, thus allowing for more possible plant trait combinations. Compared with a single trait dimension, multiple trait dimensions may better enable species adaptations to multifarious niche dimensions, promote diverse plant strategies and facilitate species coexistence.
Agreement between two inertial sensor gait analysis systems for lameness examinations in horses
Authors: Pfau T. , Boultbee H. , Davis H. , Walker A. , Rhodin M.
Published: June 2015

Gait analysis is gaining popularity for quantification of lameness and 2 commonly used inertial sensor systems assess trunk movement symmetry: can these be used interchangeably in multi‐centre studies? We compared head and pelvic movement symmetry between 2 inertial sensor gait analysis systems in 13 horses equipped simultaneously with the 2 systems. The first system quantified dorsoventral movement in the local reference frame (System A) and the second system global vertical movement (System B). Widths of limits of agreement were calculated employing a well established regression method dealing with systematically changing differences over the range of measured values. Widths of limits of agreement between Systems A and B were narrower for pelvic movement than head movement. For head movement, they ranged from 6.4 to 6.9 mm for in‐hand trot and from 7.3 to 9.7 mm on the lunge and for pelvic movement from 2.5 to 4.4 mm in‐hand and from 3.6 to 5.3 mm on the lunge. Widths of limits of agreement between the 2 investigated inertial sensor gait analysis systems are of comparable magnitude (some equivalent, some marginally higher) to the currently proposed thresholds of 6 mm for head and 3 mm for pelvic movement used in lameness investigations. Differences in measurements with 2 different systems (A and B) obtained from the same horse falling within the reported values should not be seen as a sign of a change in lameness.
Climatic and biotic extreme events moderate long‐term responses of above‐ and belowground sub‐Arctic heathland communities to climate change
Authors: Bokhorst Stef , Phoenix Gareth K. , Berg Matty P. , Callaghan Terry V. , Kirby‐Lambert Christopher , Bjerke Jarle W.
Published: June 2015

Climate change impacts are not uniform across the Arctic region because interacting factors causes large variations in local ecosystem change. Extreme climatic events and population cycles of herbivores occur simultaneously against a background of gradual climate warming trends and can redirect ecosystem change along routes that are difficult to predict. Here, we present the results from sub‐Arctic heath vegetation and its belowground micro‐arthropod community in response to the two main drivers of vegetation damage in this region: extreme winter warming events and subsequent outbreaks of the defoliating autumnal moth caterpillar (Epirrita autumnata). Evergreen dwarf shrub biomass decreased (30%) following extreme winter warming events and again by moth caterpillar grazing. Deciduous shrubs that were previously exposed to an extreme winter warming event were not affected by the moth caterpillar grazing, while those that were not exposed to warming events (control plots) showed reduced (23%) biomass from grazing. Cryptogam cover increased irrespective of grazing or winter warming events. Micro‐arthropods declined (46%) following winter warming but did not respond to changes in plant community. Extreme winter warming and caterpillar grazing suppressed the CO2 fluxes of the ecosystem. Evergreen dwarf shrubs are disadvantaged in a future sub‐Arctic with more stochastic climatic and biotic events. Given that summer warming may further benefit deciduous over evergreen shrubs, event and trend climate change may both act against evergreen shrubs and the ecosystem functions they provide. This is of particular concern given that Arctic heath vegetation is typically dominated by evergreen shrubs. Other components of the vegetation showed variable responses to abiotic and biotic events, and their interaction indicates that sub‐Arctic vegetation response to multiple pressures is not easy to predict from single‐factor responses. Therefore, while biotic and climatic events may have clear impacts, more work is needed to understand their net effect on Arctic ecosystems.
Knowledge of predator–prey interactions improves predictions of immigration and extinction in island biogeography
Authors: Cirtwill Alyssa R. , Stouffer Daniel B.
Published: June 2015

Aim

MacArthur and Wilson's original formulation of the theory of island biogeography (TIB) included the corollary hypothesis that species richness might affect immigration and extinction rates. Building on this, other researchers have suggested additional top‐down and bottom‐up effects. We compare these hypotheses to identify the strongest candidates for inclusion in a ‘trophic TIB’.

Location

Six mangrove islands in the Florida Keys, USA

Methods

We studied a classic island biogeography time series featuring lists of species observed on six mangrove islands during roughly 16 censuses each across 700 days. We first used this time series to determine the number of opportunities for species to immigrate to an island for the first time (n = 18,420), to go locally extinct (n = 1943) or to re‐immigrate to an island after having previously gone extinct (n = 1813). We then leveraged information on the predators and prey of those species to estimate the potential for top‐down and bottom‐up interactions during each census period. Finally, we constructed statistical models to test for species richness, top‐down, and bottom‐up effects on per‐species immigration and extinction probabilities and validated them by comparing each model with a similar model based on the classic TIB.

Results

We found that models including bottom‐up effects gave the greatest improvement over the classic TIB models. Extinction probability in particular decreased sharply for species with both basal resources and animal prey available. Species richness and top‐down effects had far weaker impacts on per‐species probabilities of immigration and extinction.

Main conclusions

Our findings suggest that incorporating information on the trophic structure of island communities – particularly the species‐specific availability of resources – can substantially alter predictions of extinction probabilities. Immigration probability, on the contrary, appeared largely stochastic. Incorporating trophic information into predictions of extinction rates therefore represents the most promising and best‐supported way to extend the TIB.
Open synovectomy of the ankle joint in young haemophiliacs: mid‐term to long‐ term results of a single‐centre series of 32 procedures
Authors: Mingo‐Robinet J. , Odent T. , Elie C. , Torchet M.‐F. , Glorion C. , Padovani J.‐P. , Rothschild C.
Published: June 2015

Introduction

In haemophiliacs, recurrent hemarthrosis and chronic synovitis lead to chronic arthropathy. Synovectomy is indicated when medical treatment fails. Few studies report the results of open synovectomy of the ankle in haemophiliacs with a small number of procedures and also a limited follow‐up.

Aim

The aim of this paper is to report the long‐term results of open surgical synovectomy of the tibio‐talar joint.

Methods

Thirty‐two open synovectomies were performed in 21 young haemophiliacs in the same haemophilia center using an antero‐lateral and postero‐medial approaches. The median follow‐up was 15.4 years. Clinical (Petrini scores) and radiological evaluations (Pettersson scores) were made preoperatively and at each multidisciplinary follow‐up visit. Wilcoxon and Spearman's tests were used for the statistical analysis.

Results

Preoperative median Petrini score was 6 (range 3–12), and improved at 2 and 5 years follow‐up (P = 0.0003 and P = 0.0001 respectively). At 10 and 15 years follow‐ups, median score remained below preoperative score (median 3.5, range 0–11). Ten ankles had a follow‐up of more than 20 years. Preoperative median Petterson score presented a slight but continuous worsening in the first 2 and 5 years of follow‐ups (P = 0.02, P = 0.003), but not correlation between clinical and radiological results was observed.

Conclusion

Our long‐term results support that clinical scores are improved even if radiological scores progress. Open synovectomy retards the progression of the arthropathy, but not stops it. Bleeding and pain are controlled and even if recurrence of bleedings is frequent, it is less severe, less painful and requiring less factors replacement.
Differential inflammatory response of dental pulp explants and fibroblasts to saliva
Authors: Cvikl B. , Lussi A. , Moritz A. , Sawada K. , Gruber R.
Published: June 2015

Aim

To investigate the inflammatory response of dental pulp fibroblasts and the respective explants to whole saliva.

Methodology

Explants from human and porcine dental pulp tissue and isolated dental pulp fibroblasts were used to investigate the inflammatory response to sterile saliva. Cytokine and chemokine expression was assessed by RT‐PCR. Western blot analysis and pharmacologic inhibitors were used to determine the involvement of signalling pathways.

Results

Dental pulp explants of human and porcine origin exposed to human saliva exhibited no major changes of IL‐6 and IL‐8 mRNA expression (P > 0.05). In contrast, isolated porcine and human dental pulp fibroblasts, when stimulated with human saliva, exhibited a vastly increased expression of IL‐6 and IL‐8 mRNA (P < 0.05). In pulp fibroblasts, saliva also increased the expression of other cytokines and chemokines via activation of NFkappaB, ERK and p38 signalling. Notably, a significantly reduced inflammatory response was elicited when pulp fibroblasts were transiently exposed to saliva.

Conclusions

Saliva has a potential impact on inflammation of dental pulp fibroblasts in vitro but not when cells are embedded in the intrinsic extracellular matrix of the explant tissue.
Longitudinal evaluation of 100% fruit juice consumption on BMI status in 2–5‐year‐old children
Authors: Shefferly A. , Scharf R. J. , DeBoer M. D.
Published: June 2015

Background

Obesity in childhood is related to multiple lifestyle factors. Our objective was to evaluate the relationship between consumption of 100% fruit juice and weight status over time among pre‐school children.

Methods

We used linear and logistic multivariable regression to evaluate body mass index (BMI) z‐score and overweight/obese status as a function of 100% fruit juice intake for 8950 children examined at ages 2, 4 and 5 years as part of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study–Birth Cohort, a representative sample of the United States.

Results

Cross‐sectional analysis at ages 4 and 5 years showed no difference in the prevalence of overweight and obesity between consistent juice drinkers and inconsistent/non‐drinkers. Longitudinal analysis found that children who drank 100% juice consistently at age 2 years had greater increases in BMI z‐score by age 4 years than infrequent/non‐drinkers (P < 0.0001), a difference driven by lesser increases in height z‐score (P = 0.0003) and slightly greater increases in weight z‐score (P = 0.0550) among consistent juice drinkers over the 2 to 4 year time period. Additionally, consistent juice drinkers at age 2 had higher odds of becoming overweight by age 4 (adjusted odds ratio 1.30; CI 1.06–1.60). These differences in growth parameters were not noted between ages 4 and 5 years.

Conclusions

Drinking 100% fruit juice regularly at age 2 is associated with higher odds of becoming overweight between 2 and 4 years. Paediatricians and parents can discourage excessive fruit juice consumption as part of a larger effort to avoid unhealthy gain in BMI in young children.
Sex‐specific daily spawning seaward migration of striped mullet Mugil cephalus in a coastal lagoon
Authors: Katselis G. , Koukou K. , Ramfos A. , Moutopoulos D. K.
Published: June 2015

The sex‐specific daily spawning seaward migration of striped mullet Mugil cephalus was analysed in Palaiopotamos Lagoon (western Greek coast, eastern Mediterranean Sea) in an 86 day time series. The data set included the daily number of M. cephalus catches in barrier traps, as well as a time series of some weather variables. The analysis revealed an important linkage of the daily migration rate as well as a sex‐specific response of the species to the lunar cycle and the short‐term fluctuation of weather variables. The daily migration pattern of females was more persistent than that of males, indicating a possible female leadership role during the spawning migration. Multiregression models described quite accurately the sex‐specific daily migration rates of the species, thus providing a potentially powerful tool regarding the lagoon fishery management of M. cephalus, especially in the context of climate change.
The web‐based accumulated rainfall amount monitoring system by X‐band MP radar
Authors: Nishio M. , Mori M.
Published: June 2015

Flood damage due to heavy rain is quite severe in Japan during the annual typhoon season, which causes death and serious destruction every year. Moreover, serious damage (flood damage and landslide disaster, etc.) by localised torrential rains and local heavy rains has increased in Japan in recent years. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan started the operation of an X‐band Multi‐Parameter (MP) radar system in February 2012, at 23 observation stations in Japan. Rainfall observations by the X‐band MP radar system are more detailed than by the past C‐band radar. However, now, applications of X‐band MP radar data are mostly only for displaying 1‐min rainfall images. The Japan Meteorological Agency is providing a standard of the rain situation (strength of rain), which shows hazard levels of the rainfall amount in 1 h. Those hazard levels of the accumulated rainfall amount are quite important to estimate disaster events. Thus, in the present study, an accumulated rainfall amount monitoring system is developed. The accumulated rainfall amount can be clearly shown on a PC monitor or a mobile terminal monitor. It takes up to 5 min to show the results on the web site after having observed rainfall in 1 h. It was shown that this is an effective system for local governments, etc. to monitor rainfall amount information, and to give flood warnings and evacuation orders to residents in the vicinity.
Association of claudin2 and PRSS1‐PRSS2 polymorphisms with idiopathic recurrent acute and chronic pancreatitis: A case–control study from India
Authors: Avanthi Steffie Urmila , Ravi Kanth Vishnubhotla Venkata , Agarwal Jaya , Lakhtakia Sundeep , Gangineni Karthik , Rao Guduru Venkat , Reddy Duvurr Nageshwar , Talukdar Rupjyoti
Published: June 2015

Background

Gene polymorphisms, including those recently described in the claudin2 gene, have been implicated in recurrent acute (RAP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP). In India, RAP and CP have been associated with SPINK1 polymorphism. In this study, we evaluated the association of claudin2 and PRSS1‐PRSS2 polymorphisms with idiopathic RAP and CP.

Methods

We included 101 prospectively followed patients with documented idiopathic RAP (IRAP) and 96 patients who presented with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis (ICP) without previous history of AP. Controls were 156 unrelated individuals undergoing master health check or with non‐specific symptoms. All the samples were genotyped for the SNPs rs7057398 in the claudin2 (CLDN2) gene and rs10273639 in the PRSS1 gene on Realtime polymerase chain reaction platform. Clinical data pertaining to patient and disease characteristics were recorded.

Results

Claudin2 and PRSS1 polymorphisms were seen in a significantly higher proportion of female patients (P = 0.01 and 0.039, respectively). Thirty‐three (32.7%) patients with IRAP developed features of early CP during follow‐up (mean [95% confidence interval, CI] duration of 11.3 [8.9–13.7] months). Female patients with claudin2 (rs7057398) CC genotype were at significantly higher risk for IRAP (odds ratio [OR] [95% CI] 6.75 [1.82–23.67]; P = 0.004) and progression from IRAP to CP (OR [95% CI] 7.05 [1.51–33.01]; P = 0.007). CT genotype of PRSS1 (rs10273639) was associated IRAP (OR [95% CI] 2.59 [1.1–6.13]; P = 0.030), and both CT and CC genotypes with ICP in women (OR [95% CI] 2.86 [1.12–7.31]; P = 0.033 and 3.73 [1.03–13.59]; P = 0.048, respectively).

Conclusion

In this study, we have demonstrated the association of claudin2 (rs7057398) polymorphism with IRAP and progression of IRAP to CP, and PRSS1 (rs10273639) polymorphism with IRAP and ICP.
Development of a comprehensive clinical performance assessment system for nursing students: A programmatic approach
Authors: Imanipour Masoomeh , Jalili Mohammad
Published: June 2015

Aim

Evaluation of achievement of learning objectives needs an accurate assessment program. Hence, nursing educators should move away from the use of individual assessment methods to apply a programmatic approach. The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive assessment system for nursing students in their critical care rotation based on a programmatic approach.

Methods

The population of this study was nursing students in their critical care course. The learning objectives of the course were determined using an expert panel and classified into three categories. Suitable assessment methods were identified for each category according to the consensus of experts. Then, the assessment tools were designed and the content validity was established using content validity ratio (CVR) and index (CVI). The reliability was determined by Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The satisfaction of the participants was investigated using a questionnaire.

Results

According to the findings, all items of the assessment system had a high CVR (P < 0.05) and CVI ranged 0.93–0.97. The alpha coefficient of the whole system was more than 0.90 and for subsystems ranged 0.72–0.96. The findings showed that 87.5% of the instructors and 89.47% of students believed that the new assessment system had a positive impact on learning. In addition, the majority of them were satisfied with the new assessment system.

Conclusion

A programmatic approach should be used for effective evaluation of clinical performance of nursing students in critical care settings because of high validity and reliability, multidimensionality, positive educational impact, and acceptability.
Mutational analysis of Greek patients with suspected hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP): a 15‐year experience
Authors: Karadima Georgia , Koutsis Georgios , Raftopoulou Maria , Karletidi Karolina‐Maria , Zambelis Thomas , Karandreas Nikolaos , Panas Marios
Published: June 2015

There has been limited information from population studies regarding the overall frequency of the common 1.5‐Mb 17p11.2 deletion and even scarcer data regarding the overall frequency of PMP22 micromutations in patients with a clinical suspicion of hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP). We have analysed 100 consecutive Greek patients referred for HNPP genetic testing over a 15‐year period to our Neurogenetics Unit in Athens, a reference centre for all regions of Greece. All patients were screened for the 1.5‐Mb deletion and a selected subgroup of deletion‐negative patients for PMP22 micromutations. Mutation‐positive and mutation‐negative patients were compared for various clinical parameters. In total, 54 mutation‐positive patients were identified. In index cases, the deletion frequency was 47.8%, and the PMP22 micromutation frequency was 2.2%. Within mutation‐positive patients, the common deletion represented 95.7% and PMP22 micromutations 4.3% of cases. Two previously reported PMP22 micromutations (c.364_365delCC and c.79‐2A>G) were detected. HNPP index cases had a 2.8–1 male‐to‐female ratio, similar to mutation‐negative patients. A typical phenotype (recurrent or isolated palsies) was present in 82.4% of symptomatic HNPP cases, significantly higher than mutation‐negative patients. Sensitivity of proposed electrophysiological diagnostic criteria for HNPP was calculated at 95.7% and specificity at 80.5%. In conclusion, the common HNPP deletion accounts for ∼50% and PMP22 micromutations for ∼2% of cases in a large consecutive cohort of patients with suspected HNPP. The mutational and phenotypic spectrum of HNPP is similar in the Greek population compared with other populations. Proposed electrophysiological diagnostic criteria perform satisfactorily in everyday clinical practice.
Antagonistic Potential of Bacillus pumilus L1 Against Root‐Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne arenaria
Authors: Lee Yong Seong , Kim Kil Yong
Published: June 2015

This study was conducted to estimate the potential of Bacillus pumilus L1 against root‐knot nematode, Meloidogyne arenaria, in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. B. pumilus L1 was found to produce both protease and chitinase. When various concentrations (1–10%) of the bacterial culture (BC) or 0.02–0.11 mg/ml of the crude enzymes produced by B. pumilus L1 were used to treat M. arenaria eggs and second‐stage juveniles (J2), inhibition of hatching and J2 mortality were significantly increased under in vitro conditions. In addition, the hatching inhibition and J2 mortality rate were improved with increasing concentrations of BC and the crude enzymes. Similarly, these effects also increased over time after treatment with BC. Moreover, the crude enzymes caused partial degradation of the eggshell and juvenile body when treated at 0.11 mg/ml. The pot experiment also demonstrated that the application of BC to potted soil caused significant reduction in the number of galls and egg masses in the plant roots and of the J2 population as compared to the untreated control 6 weeks after M. arenaria infestation. In addition, the simultaneous application of BC upon nematode inoculation proved more effective than application 2 days postinoculation with nematode. B. pumilus L1 inoculation (BC, BCs and BC2) also promoted tomato plant growth as compared to the controls (TW, Ne, GM and NeT). Thus, our results demonstrated the ability of B. pumilus L1 as a potential biocontrol agent against root‐knot nematode, with additional activity as a plant growth promoter for tomato.
Disease burden of chronic hepatitis C among immigrants in Canada
Authors: Chen W. , Krahn M.
Published: June 2015

Immigrants with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in Canada have doubled risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. To measure the burden of CHC among immigrants in Canada. A decision analytic model was developed to compare immigrants with CHC and age‐matched immigrants without CHC for survival years, quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) and medical costs per life year. Hepatitis C epidemiology among immigrants was based on hepatitis C prevalence in their home countries. A cohort of immigrant patients was retrospectively followed up to estimate fibrosis stage distribution, treatment patterns and prognosis of compensated cirrhosis. Other model variables were based on published sources. Base case analysis, one‐way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were performed to measure the burden of CHC and assess the impact of uncertainty associated with model variables on the burden of CHC. CHC could reduce survival by 9.6 years [95% credible interval (CI): 8.0–10.9 years], reduce QALYs by 9.5 years (95% CI: 6.0–13.8 years) and increase medical costs per life year by $1950 (95% CI: $1518 to $2486, 2006 Canadian dollars). Because nearly half of immigrants with CHC were not diagnosed until the development of cirrhosis, the burden of CHC was highly sensitive to the risks of liver‐related complications and mortality but insensitive to pegylated interferon plus ribavirin. The burden of CHC among immigrants in Canada is substantial mainly due to liver‐related complications and mortality. The delay in diagnosis was another important contributor to the burden of CHC among immigrants.
Endoscopic Balloon Dilation of Esophageal Strictures in 9 Horses
Authors: Prutton J.S.W. , Marks S.L. , Aleman M.
Published: June 2015

Background

Medical treatment of esophageal strictures in horses is limited and the use of balloon dilatation is described in few cases. Long‐term follow up after balloon dilatation and the use of intralesional corticosteroids has not been evaluated.

Objectives

To describe the use of endoscopic guided, esophageal balloon dilatation in horses for cervical and thoracic esophageal strictures and administration of intralesional corticosteroids at the time of dilatation.

Animals

Nine horses from the hospital population with benign esophageal strictures.

Methods

Retrospective study: Medical records were reviewed from horses presented to the William R. Pritchard, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at UC Davis from 2002 to 2013. Records were searched using the key words: equine, horse, balloon dilatation, bougienage, and esophageal stricture.

Results

Nine horses with esophageal strictures were treated with esophageal balloon dilatation. Five horses survived (survival at writing ranged from 2 to 11 years after discharge) and all nonsurvivors were <1 year of age and presented with concurrent problems or developed complications including megaesophagus, unresolved esophageal obstruction requiring esophagostomy, or severe aspiration pneumonia. Four horses were treated with intralesional corticosteroids with no adverse effects noted in the survivors (n = 3). Four horses available for long‐term follow up were alive at 2, 5, 6, and 11 years after presentation and 3 of these horses were being fed a hay‐based diet.

Conclusions

Resolution of esophageal strictures in the horse can be performed successfully, safely, and under standing sedation using balloon dilatation. Intralesional corticosteroids might reduce the incidence of recurrent strictures.
Pulse‐Administered Toceranib Phosphate Plus Lomustine for Treatment of Unresectable Mast Cell Tumors in Dogs
Authors: Burton J.H. , Venable R.O. , Vail D.M. , Williams L.E. , Clifford C.A. , Axiak‐Bechtel S.M. , Avery A.C. , Thamm D.H.
Published: June 2015

Background

Nonresectable mast cell tumors (MCT) in dogs remain a therapeutic challenge, and investigation of novel combination therapies is warranted. Intermittent administration of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) combined with cytotoxic chemotherapy may effectively chemosensitize canineMCTwhile decreasing cost and adverse effects associated with either agent administered as monotherapy.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The primary study objectives were to (1) identify the maximally tolerated dose (MTD), (2) determine the objective response rate (ORR) and (3) describe the adverse event profile of pulse‐administered toceranib phosphate (TOC) combined with lomustine.

Animals

Forty‐seven client‐owned dogs with measurableMCT.

Methods

Toceranib phosphate was givenPOon days 1, 3 and 5 of a 21‐day cycle at a target dosage of 2.75 mg/kg. Lomustine was givenPOon day 3 of each cycle at a starting dosage of 50 mg/m2. All dogs were concurrently treated with diphenhydramine, omeprazole, and prednisone.

Results

TheMTDof lomustine was established at 50 mg/m2when combined with pulse‐administeredTOC; the dose‐limiting toxicity was neutropenia. Forty‐one dogs treated at theMTDwere evaluable for outcome assessment. TheORRwas 46% (4 complete response, 15 partial response) and the overall median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 53 days (1 to >752 days). On multivariate analysis, variables significantly associated with improvedPFSincluded response to treatment, absence of metastasis, and no previous chemotherapy.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Combined treatment with pulse‐administeredTOCand lomustine generally is well tolerated and may be a reasonable treatment option for dogs with unresectable or metastaticMCT.
The formation of IIE iron meteorites investigated by the chondrule‐bearing Mont Dieu meteorite
Authors: Van Roosbroek N. , Debaille V. , Pittarello L. , Goderis S. , Humayun M. , Hecht L. , Jourdan F. , Spicuzza M. J. , Vanhaecke F. , Claeys Ph.
Published: June 2015

A 435 kg piece of the Mont Dieu iron meteorite (MD) contains cm‐sized silicate inclusions. Based on the concentration of Ni, Ga, Ge, and Ir (8.59 ± 0.32 wt%, 25.4 ± 0.9 ppm, 61 ± 2 ppm, 7.1 ± 0.4 ppm, respectively) in the metal host, this piece can be classified as a IIE nonmagmatic iron. The silicate inclusions possess a chondritic mineralogy and relict chondrules occur throughout the inclusions. Major element analysis, oxygen isotopic analysis (Δ17O = 0.71 ± 0.02‰), and mean Fa and Fs molar contents (Fa15.7 ± 0.4 and Fs14.4 ± 0.5) indicate that MD originated as an H chondrite. Because of strong similarities with Netschaëvo IIE, MD can be classified in the most primitive subgroup of the IIE sequence. 40Ar/39Ar ages of 4536 ± 59 Ma and 4494 ± 95 Ma obtained on pyroxene and plagioclase inclusions show that MD belongs to the old (~4.5 Ga) group of IIE iron meteorites and that it has not been perturbed by any subsequent heating event following its formation. The primitive character of MD sheds light on the nature of its formation process, its thermal history, and the evolution of its parent body.
Plasma‐derived C1‐INH for managing hereditary angioedema in pediatric patients: A systematic review
Authors: Craig Timothy J. , Schneider Lynda C. , MacGinnitie Andrew J.
Published: June 2015

Presently, medications approved for children with Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) are extremely limited. This is especially the case for children under 12 years of age. For this reason we reviewed and summarized the data on treatment of children with HAE. Available data indicate that plasma derived C1‐inhibitor is a safe, effective treatment option for HAE in pediatric patients, including those below 12 years of age. Other therapies are also appear safe for the under 12 year of age, but less data are available. Importantly, home‐based treatment of HAE in this age group appears to be safe and effective and can improve quality of life. These findings support current HAE consensus guidelines which strongly recommend the use of plasma derived C1‐inhibitor as a first‐line treatment in children and encourage home and self‐treatment.