bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender in Public Administration: Looking Back and Moving Forward
Authors: Carey Gemma , Dickinson Helen
Published: November 2015

In an online virtual issue, we explore the history of gender and feminism since AJPA. It is clear that two major silences exist in public administration concerning gender. The first is the place of women and gender equity within public service workforces. The second silence is the role that feminist theories could play in tackling contemporary public management challenges. We argue that there are particular contributions that feminist theories could make in relation to topics such as collaboration, boundary‐spanning and skill requirements for future public sector workers. In this editorial we therefore look backwards and forwards, examining how female public sector workers are defined within state bureaucracy, and what feminism can bring to the functioning of this bureaucracy in the future.
Pattern of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence following living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Zakaria Hazem M. , Shoreem Hany A. , Aziz Amr A. , Abou El‐Ella Khaled A. , Ibrahim Tarek M.
Published: November 2015

Aim

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a promising treatment option for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but tumour recurrence can affect long‐term survival. The aim of the present study was to identify the pattern of HCC recurrence after LDLT for early detection and management.

Patients and Methods

From April 2003 to October 2014, the record of 60 patients who underwent LDLT for HCC at the National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Egypt, were retrospectively reviewed. The clinicopathological data were analysed to determine factors associated with HCC recurrence and outcome.

Results

Seven patients (11.7 per cent) had HCC recurrence after LDLT. Pretransplant α‐fetoprotein (AFP) > 1000 ng/mL, tumour grade and microvascular invasion were the incriminated risk factors for recurrence. Three patients (42.8 per cent) had intrahepatic and extrahepatic recurrence (lung and bone), two patients (28.6 per cent) had only extrahepatic recurrence in bones and two patients (28.6 per cent) had only intrahepatic recurrence. Management was as follows: two patients (28.6 per cent) had surgical excision of intrahepatic recurrence and extrahepatic metastasis, two patients (28.6 per cent) underwent radiotherapy for bone metastasis, one patient (14.2 per cent) underwent intraoperative radiofrequency ablation for liver recurrence and two patients (28.6 per cent) received sorafenib as medical treatment. The mean time of recurrence was 19.7 months, and mean survival was 29 months.

Conclusion

The majority of HCC recurrences after LDLT are extrahepatic and occur mainly in the first 2 years; strict follow up is required during this period. A high level of pretransplant serum AFP and microvascular invasion are risk factors for tumour recurrence and should be taken into account when selecting candidates for LDLT.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people's attitudes to end‐of‐life decision‐making and advance care planning
Authors: Hughes Mark , Cartwright Colleen
Published: November 2015

Aim

To examine lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people's attitudes to advance care planning (ACP) options and alternative decision‐making at the end of life.

Method

Three hundred and five LGBT people completed an online or paper‐based questionnaire, comprising fixed‐choice questions and open‐ended questions.

Results

Most respondents, particularly those identifying as female or transgender, preferred a partner to be their alternative decision‐maker at the end of life should the need arise. Fifty‐two per cent of respondents had spoken to this person about their wishes. Regarding legal options enabling end‐of‐life decision‐making, 29% had an enduring power of attorney, 18% an enduring guardian and 12% an advance care directive.

Conclusion

Despite the significance of ACP for promoting the rights of LGBT people at the end of life, the take‐up of these options was nearly as low as for the general population. The potential for targeted strategies to increase the take‐up of ACP is identified.
Challenging cisgenderism in the ageing and aged care sector: Meeting the needs of older people of trans and/or non‐binary experience
Authors: Ansara Y. Gavriel
Published: November 2015

Recent Australian legislative and policy changes can benefit people of trans and/or non‐binary experience (e.g. men assigned female with stereotypically ‘female’ bodies, women assigned male with stereotypically ‘male’ bodies, and people who identify as genderqueer, agender [having no gender], bi‐gender [having two genders] or another gender option). These populations often experience cisgenderism, which previous research defined as ‘the ideology that invalidates people's own understanding of their genders and bodies’ [1–6]. Some documented forms of cisgenderism include pathologising (treating people's genders and bodies as disordered) and misgendering (disregarding people's own understanding and classifications of their genders and bodies) [1,2,7]. This system of classifying people's lived experiences of gender and body invalidation is called the cisgenderism framework [3,7]. Applying the cisgenderism framework in the ageing and aged care sector can enhance service providers' ability to meet the needs of older people of trans and/or non‐binary experience.
Endoscopic modalities for upper gastrointestinal leaks, fistulae and perforations
Authors: Talbot Michael , Yee Gary , Saxena Payal
Published: November 2015

Abstract

Background

Endotherapy techniques are a recent addition to the suite of non‐surgical and minimally invasive strategies to manage patients with perforations, leaks and fistulae. The emergency nature of these conditions and the heterogeneity of pathologies encountered create difficulties when trying to select appropriate tools in these complex situations. The purpose of this article is to review experience at a tertiary academic centre, describe the various endoscopic tools available and the situations where they can be considered for use.

Methods

Single‐centre series and review of the published literature.

Results

Of 64 patients, 57 were successfully treated using endoscopic therapy, with surgery used only to provide drainage and suture fully covered metal stents in place to prevent migration.

Discussion

Selection of an appropriate endotherapy or stent for a patient with an oesophago‐gastric perforation or fistula requires an understanding of the anatomy and physiology underlying the patient's presentation and an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the available methods. Standard surgical principles of drainage, avoidance of distal obstruction and nutrition remain central to successful outcomes. A combination of surgical and endoscopic treatments may reduce the number of required treatments and can provide the ability to anchor fully covered stents to prevent them from migrating.
Colorectal multidisciplinary meeting audit to determine patient benefit
Authors: Fernando Chris , Frizelle Frank , Wakeman Chris , Frampton Chris , Robinson Bridget
Published: November 2015

Background

New Zealand tumour standards require discussion of all cases of colorectal cancer in a multidisciplinary meeting (MDM), but supporting evidence is lacking. The aim was to determine which patients benefit from MDM discussion.

Methods

A retrospective and prospective audit was undertaken of all patients discussed in the Christchurch Hospital colorectal MDM over 12 months to November 2014, who were compared with contemporaneous patients not discussed and identified through Hospital discharge codes.

Results

In total, 641 patients were identified, with 459 (70%) discussed in the MDM, on average 7 years younger than not discussed. The proportion discussed by location was 39.2% colon, 63% rectosigmoid, 98% rectal, 96.6% anal. Discussed patients were more likely to have magnetic resonance imaging (68% cf 9.3%), fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scan (18% versus 2%) and chest computerized tomography scan (50% versus 26%). For colon cancer, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I and II, 91% of 68 non‐discussed patients went straight to surgery compared with 48% of 27 discussed in the MDM; for AJCC stage III uptake of adjuvant chemotherapy was the same whether discussed or not. An R0 resection was achieved for 91% of discussed patients, and 96% of not discussed. A clear referrer's plan, prospectively recorded in 94 patients, was changed after the MDM in 23%. Clinical staging was changed in 20 patients (4%), none with colon cancers.

Conclusions

Discussion in the MDM influenced management, but was unlikely to change management for AJCC stage I/II colon cancer, who could be spared mandatory review in the MDM and be discussed selectively as treating clinicians decide.
Computational Fluid Dynamics‐Based Design Optimization Method for Archimedes Screw Blood Pumps
Authors: Yu Hai , Janiga Gábor , Thévenin Dominique
Published: November 2015

An optimization method suitable for improving the performance of Archimedes screw axial rotary blood pumps is described in the present article. In order to achieve a more robust design and to save computational resources, this method combines the advantages of the established pump design theory with modern computer‐aided, computational fluid dynamics (CFD)‐based design optimization (CFD‐O) relying on evolutionary algorithms and computational fluid dynamics. The main purposes of this project are to: (i) integrate pump design theory within the already existing CFD‐based optimization; (ii) demonstrate that the resulting procedure is suitable for optimizing an Archimedes screw blood pump in terms of efficiency. Results obtained in this study demonstrate that the developed tool is able to meet both objectives. Finally, the resulting level of hemolysis can be numerically assessed for the optimal design, as hemolysis is an issue of overwhelming importance for blood pumps.
A New Absorbable Synthetic Substitute With Biomimetic Design for Dural Tissue Repair
Authors: Shi Zhidong , Xu Tao , Yuan Yuyu , Deng Kunxue , Liu Man , Ke Yiquan , Luo Chengyi , Yuan Tun , Ayyad Ali
Published: November 2015

Dural repair products are evolving from animal tissue–derived materials to synthetic materials as well as from inert to absorbable features; most of them lack functional and structural characteristics compared with the natural dura mater. In the present study, we evaluated the properties and tissue repair performance of a new dural repair product with biomimetic design. The biomimetic patch exhibits unique three‐dimensional nonwoven microfiber structure with good mechanical strength and biocompatibility. The animal study showed that the biomimetic patch and commercially synthetic material group presented new subdural regeneration at 90 days, with low level inflammatory response and minimal to no adhesion formation detected at each stage. In the biological material group, no new subdural regeneration was observed and severe adhesion between the implant and the cortex occurred at each stage. In clinical case study, there was no cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and all the postoperation observations were normal. The biomimetic structure and proper rate of degradation of the new absorbable dura substitute can guide the meaningful reconstruction of the dura mater, which may provide a novel approach for dural defect repair.
Pottery Provenance in the Eastern Mediterranean Using Lead Isotopes
Authors: Renson V. , Slane K. W. , Rautman M. L. , Kidd B. , Guthrie J. , Glascock M. D.
Published: November 2015

The lead isotope composition of 45 sherds of six different pottery wares from the Eastern Mediterranean and dating from the Late Hellenistic – Late Roman period is analysed and compared to data obtained on ceramics and clays from the Eastern Mediterranean. These sherds were previously analysed by neutron activation and the origin and relationship between the wares has been debated in the literature. The results show that lead isotopes support earlier hypotheses proposed based on NAA or answer questions left unanswered by NAA concerning the origin and relationships between these wares. The lead isotopic data complement the NAA and the results also confirm the effectiveness of lead isotope analysis in discriminating among different wares from production centres in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Psychological predictors of pain severity, pain interference, depression, and anxiety in rheumatoid arthritis patients with chronic pain
Authors: Ryan Seamus , McGuire Brian
Published: November 2015

Objectives

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and progressive autoimmune disorder with symptoms sometimes including chronic pain and depression. The current study aimed to explore some of the psychological variables which predict both pain‐related outcomes (pain severity and pain interference) and psychological outcomes (depression and anxiety) amongst patients with rheumatoid arthritis experiencing chronic pain. In particular, this study aimed to establish whether either self‐concealment, or the satisfaction of basic psychological needs (autonomy, relatedness, and competence), could explain a significant portion of the variance in pain outcomes and psychological outcomes amongst this patient group.

Design/Methods

Online questionnaires were completed by 317 rheumatoid arthritis patients with chronic pain, providing data across a number of predictor and outcome variables.

Results

Hierarchical multiple linear regressions indicated that the predictive models for each of the four outcome variables were significant, and had good levels of fit with the data. In terms of individual predictor variables, higher relatedness significantly predicted lower depression, and higher autonomy significantly predicted lower anxiety.

Conclusions

The model generated by this study may identify factors to be targeted by future interventions with the goal of reducing depression and anxiety amongst patients with rheumatoid arthritis experiencing chronic pain. The findings of this study have shown that the autonomy and the relatedness of patients with rheumatoid arthritis play important roles in promoting psychological well‐being. Targeted interventions could help to enhance the lives of patients despite the presence of chronic pain.

Statement of contribution

What is already known about the subject?

Amongst a sample of chronic pain patients who primarily had a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, it was found that higher levels of self‐concealment were associated with higher self‐reported pain levels and reduced well‐being (as measured by anxiety/depression), and these associations were mediated by patients’ needs for autonomy not being met (Uysal & Lu, Health Psychology, 2011, 30, 606).

What does this study add?

For the first time amongst a rheumatoid arthritis population experiencing chronic pain, we found that higher levels of relatedness significantly predicted lower depression.

For the first time amongst the same population, we found that higher levels of autonomy significantly predicted lower anxiety.
Multi‐set factor analysis by means of Parafac2
Authors: Stegeman Alwin , Lam Tam T. T.
Published: November 2015

We consider multi‐set data consisting of observations, k = 1,…, K (e.g., subject scores), on J variables in K different samples. We introduce a factor model for the J × J covariance matrices , k = 1,…, K, where the common part is modelled by Parafac2 and the unique variances , k = 1,…, K, are diagonal. The Parafac2 model implies a common loadings matrix that is rescaled for each k, and a common factor correlation matrix. We estimate the unique variances by minimum rank factor analysis on for each k. The factors can be chosen orthogonal or oblique. We present a novel algorithm to estimate the Parafac2 part and demonstrate its performance in a simulation study. Also, we fit our model to a data set in the literature. Our model is easy to estimate and interpret. The unique variances, the factor correlation matrix and the communalities are guaranteed to be proper, and a percentage of explained common variance can be computed for each k. Also, the Parafac2 part is rotationally unique under mild conditions.
2‐Hydoxyglutarate: D/Riving Pathology in gLiomaS
Authors: Wahl Daniel R. , Venneti Sriram
Published: November 2015

Common pathways and mechanisms can be found in both cancers and inborn errors of metabolism. 2‐Hydroxyglutarate (2‐HG) acidurias and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) 1/2 mutant tumors are examples of this phenomenon. 2‐HG can exist in two chiral forms, D(R)‐2‐HG and L(S)‐2‐HG, which are elevated in D‐ and L‐acidurias, respectively. D‐2‐HG was subsequently discovered to be synthesized in IDH 1/2 mutant tumors including ∼70% of intermediate‐grade gliomas and secondary glioblastomas (GBM). Recent studies have revealed that L‐2‐HG is generated in hypoxia in IDH wild‐type tumors. Both 2‐HG enantiomers have similar structures as α‐ketoglutarate (α‐KG) and can competitively inhibit α‐KG‐dependent enzymes. This inhibition modulates numerous cellular processes, including histone and DNA methylation, and can ultimately impact oncogenesis. D‐2‐HG can be detected in vivo in glioma patients and animal models using advanced imaging modalities. Finally, pharmacologic inhibitors of mutant IDH 1/2 attenuate the production of D‐2‐HG and show great promise as therapeutic agents.
Kidney transplantation in the Hispanic population
Authors: Matsuoka Lea , Alicuben Evan , Woo Karen , Cao Shu , Groshen Susan , Qazi Yasir , Smogorzewski Miroslaw , Selby Rick , Alexopoulos Sophoclis
Published: November 2015

Hispanic race and low socioeconomic status are established predictors of disparity in access to kidney transplantation. This single‐center retrospective review was undertaken to determine whether Hispanic race predicted kidney transplant outcomes. A total of 720 patients underwent kidney transplantation from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2013, including 398 Hispanic patients and 322 non‐Hispanic patients. Hispanic patients were significantly younger (p < 0.0001), on hemodialysis for longer (p = 0.0018), had a greater percentage with public insurance (p < 0.0001), more commonly had diabetes as the cause of end‐stage renal disease (p = 0.0167), and had a lower percentage of living donors (p = 0.0013) compared to non‐Hispanic patients. There was no difference in one‐, five‐, and 10‐yr graft (97%, 81%, and 61% vs. 95%, 76%, and 42% p = 0.18) or patient survival (98%, 90%, and 84% vs. 97%, 87%, and 69% p = 0.11) between the Hispanic and non‐Hispanic recipients. Multivariate analysis identified increased recipient age and kidney donor profile index to be predictive of lower graft survival and increasing recipient age to be predictive of lower patient survival. In the largest single‐center study on kidney transplantation outcomes in Hispanic patients, there is no difference in graft and recipient survival between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic kidney transplant patients, and in multivariate analysis, Hispanic race is not a risk factor for graft or patient survival.
Sensitization trends after renal allograft failure: the role of DQ eplet mismatches in becoming highly sensitized
Authors: Singh Pooja , Filippone Edward J. , Colombe Beth W. , Shah Ashesh P. , Zhan Tingting , Harach Mary , Gorn Chad , Frank Adam M.
Published: November 2015

Sensitization following renal allograft failure (AF) is highly variable. Some patients remain non‐sensitized (NS), while others become highly sensitized (HS). We studied 66 NS patients who experienced AF after initial kidney transplantation. Post‐failure, two main groups of NS panel reactive antibody (PRA) class I and II <10% and HS patients (PRA class I or II ≥80%) were identified. The impact of acute rejection (AR), immunosuppression withdrawal (ISW) at AF, allograft nephrectomy, graft intolerance syndrome (GIS), and both standard serologic and eplet‐based mismatches (MM) in inducing HS status after failure was examined. Late PRA testing post‐failure revealed 18 patients remained NS and 34 patients became HS. African American recipients, ISW at AF, DQB1 eplet MM, and presence of GIS were associated with becoming HS. Presence of total zero eplet MM, zero DQA1/B1 eplet MM, continuation of immunosuppression after failure, and a hyporesponsive immune status characterized by recurrent infections were features of NS patients. DQ eplet MM represents a significant risk for becoming HS after AF. Studies comparing ISW vs. continuation in re‐transplant candidates with high baseline DQ eplet MM burden should be performed. This may provide insights if sensitization post‐AF can be lessened.
Impact of non‐anastomotic biliary strictures after liver transplantation on healthcare consumption, use of ionizing radiation and infectious events
Authors: de Vries A. Boudewijn , Koornstra Jan J. , Lo Ten Foe Jerome R. , Porte Robert J. , van den Berg Aad P. , Blokzijl Hans , Verdonk Robert C.
Published: November 2015

Background

Non‐anastomotic biliary strictures (NAS) after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) have a negative influence on graft survival. Expert opinion suggests a negative effect of NAS on other important aspects of post‐transplant care, although its impact is largely unknown as data are scarce.

Methods

This retrospective single center study analyzed data on healthcare consumption, use of ionizing radiation, infectious complications and development of highly resistant microorganisms (HRMO) in adult patients with NAS. A comparison with a matched control group was made.

Results

Forty‐three liver recipients with NAS and 43 controls were included. Hospital admissions were higher in patients with NAS. Most common reason for admission was bacterial cholangitis (BC), with 70% of the patients having at least one episode compared to 9% in the control group. In patients with NAS, 67% received at least one ERCP compared to 21% in the control group (p = 0.001). This resulted in a larger yearly received radiation dose for patients with NAS (p = 0.001). Frequency of intravenous antibiotic therapy was higher (p = 0.001) for patients with NAS, consistently resulting in a higher number of cultures found with HRMO (p = 0.012).

Conclusion

NAS after OLT have a negative effect on post‐transplant care, increasing readmission rates, interventional procedures, exposure to ionizing radiation, use of antibiotics, and development of HRMO.
Predicting invasiveness of species in trade: climate match, trophic guild and fecundity influence establishment and impact of non‐native freshwater fishes
Authors: Howeth Jennifer G. , Gantz Crysta A. , Angermeier Paul L. , Frimpong Emmanuel A. , Hoff Michael H. , Keller Reuben P. , Mandrak Nicholas E. , Marchetti Michael P. , Olden Julian D. , Romagosa Christina M. , Lodge David M.
Published: November 2015

Aim

Impacts of non‐native species have motivated development of risk assessment tools for identifying introduced species likely to become invasive. Here, we develop trait‐based models for the establishment and impact stages of freshwater fish invasion, and use them to screen non‐native species common in international trade. We also determine which species in the aquarium, biological supply, live bait, live food and water garden trades are likely to become invasive. Results are compared to historical patterns of non‐native fish establishment to assess the relative importance over time of pathways in causing invasions.

Location

Laurentian Great Lakes region.

Methods

Trait‐based classification trees for the establishment and impact stages of invasion were developed from data on freshwater fish species that established or failed to establish in the Great Lakes. Fishes in trade were determined from import data from Canadian and United States regulatory agencies, assigned to specific trades and screened through the developed models.

Results

Climate match between a species’ native range and the Great Lakes region predicted establishment success with 75–81% accuracy. Trophic guild and fecundity predicted potential harmful impacts of established non‐native fishes with 75–83% accuracy. Screening outcomes suggest the water garden trade poses the greatest risk of introducing new invasive species, followed by the live food and aquarium trades. Analysis of historical patterns of introduction pathways demonstrates the increasing importance of these trades relative to other pathways. Comparisons among trades reveal that model predictions parallel historical patterns; all fishes previously introduced from the water garden trade have established. The live bait, biological supply, aquarium and live food trades have also contributed established non‐native fishes.

Main conclusions

Our models predict invasion risk of potential fish invaders to the Great Lakes region and could help managers prioritize efforts among species and pathways to minimize such risk. Similar approaches could be applied to other taxonomic groups and geographic regions.
Social Policy for Neoliberalism: The Bolsa Família Programme in Brazil
Authors: Saad‐Filho Alfredo
Published: November 2015

The Programa Bolsa Família (PBF) is one of the largest conditional cash transfer (CCT) programmes in the world. CCTs have been described as a ‘magic bullet’ for development, and PBF is widely regarded as an exemplary programme. Examination of its conceptual underpinnings, features, impact and limitations shows that PBF provides substantial income support to the poorest. However, PBF is also self‐limiting and it can offer only limited long‐term gains to the poor. More significant outcomes require the expansion of the scope of PBF and other social programmes towards the universalization and decommodification of social provision in Brazil.
Utility of Real Time 3D Echocardiography for the Assessment of Left Ventricular Mass in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Comparison with Cardiac Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Avegliano Gustavo P. , Costabel Juan P. , Asch Federico M. , Sciancalepore Agustina , Kuschnir Paola , Huguet Marina , Tobon‐Gomez Catalina , Frangi Alejandro F. , Ronderos Ricardo
Published: November 2015

Introduction and objectives

Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) have irregular ventricular shapes with small and sometimes obliterated cavities at end‐systole that affect the quantification of left ventricular mass (LVM) by conventional methods, such as M‐mode or two‐dimensional echocardiography. The goal of this study was to validate the use of real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) to quantify LVM using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) as a reference, in a large population of patients with different types of HCM.

Methods

Forty‐eight consecutive patients with HCM had a complete transthoracic examination and CMR performed within 7 days. LVM was calculated by M‐mode and RT3DE and compared to CMR that served as gold standard.

Results

Left ventricular mass calculated by RT3DE was 195 ± 41 g and 187 ± 49 g by CMR. The correlation between the two methods was moderate, with a Lin index of 0.63 and good linear correlation (r = 0.63, P < 0.0001). The correlation was high when RT3DE was of high or adequate image quality. The correlation between LVM by M‐mode and CMR was poor.

Conclusion

Three‐dimensional echocardiography is an accurate method for the quantification of LVM in patients with different subtypes of HCM that is in better agreement with CMR reference values than M‐mode measurements.
A noninterventional study evaluating the effectiveness and safety of lacosamide added to monotherapy in patients with epilepsy with partial‐onset seizures in daily clinical practice: The VITOBA study
Authors: Runge Uwe , Arnold Stephan , Brandt Christian , Reinhardt Fritjof , Kühn Frank , Isensee Kathleen , Ramirez Francisco , Dedeken Peter , Lauterbach Thomas , Noack‐Rink Matthias , Mayer Thomas
Published: November 2015

Objective

Evidence for the efficacy and safety of adjunctive lacosamide in the treatment of partial‐onset seizures (POS) was gained during placebo‐controlled clinical trials in patients with treatment‐resistant seizures who were taking one to three concomitant antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). The VITOBA study (NCT01098162) evaluated the effectiveness and tolerability of adjunctive lacosamide added to one baseline AED in real‐world clinical practice.

Methods

We conducted a 6‐month observational study at 112 sites across Germany. Adult patients (≥16 years) with POS received lacosamide adjunctive to only one baseline AED. Seizure frequency reduction at the end of the observation period was compared with a 3‐month retrospective baseline period.

Results

Five hundred seventy‐one patients received lacosamide at least once (Safety Set [SS]); 520 provided evaluable seizure records (Full Analysis Set [FAS]); and 499 took in‐label dosages of lacosamide (up to 400 mg) and were evaluated for effectiveness (modified FAS). Median baseline seizure frequency was 2.0 per 28 days: 47.1% of patients (235/499, mFAS) took a concomitant sodium channel–blocking (SCB) AED; 38.1% (190/499) had only one lifetime AED; and 18.4% (92/499) were aged ≥65 years (mFAS). At the final visit, 72.5% (358/494) of patients showed a ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency from baseline, 63.8% (315/494) showed a ≥75% reduction, and 45.5% (225/494) were seizure‐free. Seizure freedom rates were higher in patients aged ≥65 years (56.7%) compared with patients aged <65 years (43.1%), in patients with ≤5 years epilepsy duration (52.5%) versus >5 years duration (41.0%), and when added to first monotherapy (60.5%) rather than as a later therapy option. Treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were reported by 48.5% (277/571) of patients (SS), with a profile similar to that observed in pivotal trials; 466 of patients (81.6%, SS) continued lacosamide therapy after the trial.

Significance

These results suggest that lacosamide use, added to one concomitant AED, was effective at improving seizure control and was well tolerated in patients treated in routine clinical practice.
Development of antipeptide enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for determination of gelatin in confectionery products
Authors: Tukiran Nur Azira , Ismail Amin , Mustafa Shuhaimi , Hamid Muhajir
Published: November 2015

The gelatin sources have become a controversial issue with regard to religious and health concern. Thus, the aims of this study were to develop and evaluate the efficiency of polyclonal antibodies against peptide immunogen of collagen α2 (I) chain for determination of gelatin sources in confectionery products by competitive indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Collagen α2 (I) chain protein showed resistance against heat treatment and detectable in certain commercial products when analysed by sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). The established ELISA exhibited low cross‐reactivity to fish and chicken gelatin. The IC50 value was 0.39 μg mL−1, and the limit of detection (IC10) was 0.05 μg mL−1. There were no false‐positive results from forty‐eight commercially processed products. The present method is useful for determination of gelatin in confectionery products.
Potentiality of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens KFCC11574P isolated from Korean traditional doenjang as a starter in the production of functional soya bean paste
Authors: Hong Yeun , Jung Hyun‐Ji , Han Seon‐Kyeong , Kim Hae‐Yeong
Published: November 2015

Proteolytic activity, fibrinolytic activity and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)‐inhibitory activity, volatile compound profile, off‐flavour compound and sensory characteristics in soya bean paste made with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens KFCC11574P (KHG19) strain were compared with those in three different commercial soya bean paste samples. The KHG19 strain was isolated from doenjang, a traditional Korean soya bean paste, and the maximum dominance in soya bean paste prepared in this study was 68.8% after 2 months of ageing. Proteolytic and fibrinolytic activities in soya bean paste made with KHG19 strain (KHG19 soya bean paste) were higher than those in commercial soya bean pastes. The maximum proteolytic activity (2.47 cm2) was observed after 3 months of ageing, and the maximum relative fibrinolytic activity (236.98%) was appeared after 2 months of ageing. ACE‐inhibitory activity in KHG19 soya bean paste was similar to those in commercial samples. The volatile compound profile of KHG19 soya bean paste was closest to that of cheonggukjang according to the result from principal component analysis. The sensory score for off‐flavour character was significantly low in KHG19 soya bean paste (2.9) compare with the score (6.8) for Korean traditional doenjang. KHG19 strain can be used for the production of functional soya bean paste that would be affordable to global consumer.
Sword bean (Canavalia gladiata) as a source of antioxidant phenolics
Authors: Gan Ren‐You , Lui Wing‐Yee , Corke Harold
Published: November 2015

Sword beans (Canavalia gladiata) have been used as grain legumes and medicinal plants in China for thousands of years. To explore new natural antioxidant sources, the antioxidant capacity and phenolic composition in the soluble and bound fractions of three sword bean genotypes were evaluated in vitro. The red and black sword beans were found to have antioxidant capacity compared to the white sword bean, and this was attributed to their red and black bean coats, which possessed extremely high phenolic content. Gallic acid and its derivatives, such as methyl gallate, digalloyl hexoside and digallic acid, were the main phenolic compounds in the coats of red and black sword beans. Therefore, the red and black sword beans, especially their bean coats, are good sources of antioxidant phenolics and may have potential health benefits.
A review of contemporary patterns of endemism for shallow water reef fauna in the Red Sea
Authors: DiBattista Joseph D. , Roberts May B. , Bouwmeester Jessica , Bowen Brian W. , Coker Darren J. , Lozano‐Cortés Diego F. , Howard Choat J. , Gaither Michelle R. , Hobbs Jean‐Paul A. , Khalil Maha T. , Kochzius Marc , Myers Robert F. , Paulay Gustav , Robitzch Vanessa S. N. , Saenz‐Agudelo Pablo , Salas Eva , Sinclair‐Taylor Tane H. , Toonen Robert J. , Westneat Mark W. , Williams Suzanne T. , Berumen Michael L.
Published: November 2015

Aim

The Red Sea is characterised by a unique fauna and historical periods of desiccation, hypersalinity and intermittent isolation. The origin and contemporary composition of reef‐associated taxa in this region can illuminate biogeographical principles about vicariance and the establishment (or local extirpation) of existing species. Here we aim to: (1) outline the distribution of shallow water fauna between the Red Sea and adjacent regions, (2) explore mechanisms for maintaining these distributions and (3) propose hypotheses to test these mechanisms.

Location

Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean.

Methods

Updated checklists for scleractinian corals, fishes and non‐coral invertebrates were used to determine species richness in the Red Sea and the rest of the Arabian Peninsula and assess levels of endemism. Fine‐scale diversity and abundance of reef fishes within the Red Sea were explored using ecological survey data.

Results

Within the Red Sea, we recorded 346 zooxanthellate and azooxanthellate scleractinian coral species of which 19 are endemic (5.5%). Currently 635 species of polychaetes, 211 echinoderms and 79 ascidians have been documented, with endemism rates of 12.6%, 8.1% and 16.5% respectively. A preliminary compilation of 231 species of crustaceans and 137 species of molluscs include 10.0% and 6.6% endemism respectively. We documented 1071 shallow fish species, with 12.9% endemic in the entire Red Sea and 14.1% endemic in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Based on ecological survey data of endemic fishes, there were no major changes in species richness or abundance across 1100 km of Saudi Arabian coastline.

Main conclusions

The Red Sea biota appears resilient to major environmental fluctuations and is characterized by high rates of endemism with variable degrees of incursion into the Gulf of Aden. The nearby Omani and Arabian Gulfs also have variable environments and high levels of endemism, but these are not consistently distinct across taxa. The presence of physical barriers does not appear to explain species distributions, which are more likely determined by ecological plasticity and genetic diversity.
Oligarchic patterns in tropical forests: role of the spatial extent, environmental heterogeneity and diversity
Authors: Arellano Gabriel , Jørgensen Peter M. , Fuentes Alfredo F. , Loza M. Isabel , Torrez Vania , Macía Manuel J.
Published: November 2015

Aim

Oligarchic patterns can vary from weak (i.e. little difference between rare and common species) to strong (i.e. a set of dominant species is immediately evident). Our aim was to understand the relationships between the strength of the oligarchic patterns, diversities (alpha, beta and gamma), and five potential causes (elevational variability, soil heterogeneity, elevation, soil conditions and geographical extent).

Location

The Amazon–Andes transition in the Madidi region (Bolivia).

Methods

We established 398 plots of 0.1 ha each, containing 121,183 individual woody plants belonging to 2390 species. Then we defined 500 sub‐regions (= unique overlapping subsets of 50 plots from the pool of 398 plots) so they varied in extent from 220 to 17,700 km2 within the study area. We employed two independent path analyses to relate environmental characteristics and geographical extent of sub‐regions to (1) oligarchic strength and (2) alpha, beta and gamma diversities. We used generalized linear models to relate diversities to different measures of oligarchic strength.

Results

Oligarchies at larger extents were weaker, a trend strongly driven by the pure effect of area and, secondarily, by environmental heterogeneity. Oligarchies at higher elevations were weaker than expected, and oligarchies in acidic and nutrients‐poor soils were not stronger than those in less stressful soils. Trends in oligarchic strength were inversely correlated with those of gamma and beta diversity: weaker oligarchies were found in species‐rich and heterogeneous communities.

Main conclusions

Environmental heterogeneity and low landscape connectivity limit the strength of the oligarchic pattern. Although diversities (particularly beta diversity) and oligarchic strength are closely related, they are somewhat differently driven by external factors. In particular, oligarchic strength is more sensitive to spatial extent and less sensitive to environmental heterogeneity than beta diversity. Finally, the study of oligarchic patterns should consider a priori expectations based on species richness and turnover.
Successful Repeat Catheter Ablation of Recurrent Longstanding Persistent Atrial Fibrillation With Rotor Elimination as the Procedural Endpoint: A Case Series
Authors: SOMMER PHILIPP , KIRCHER SIMON , ROLF SASCHA , JOHN SILKE , ARYA ARASH , DINOV BORISLAV , RICHTER SERGIO , BOLLMANN ANDREAS , HINDRICKS GERHARD
Published: November 2015

Rotor Elimination as Endpoint for AF Ablations

Background

There remains a lack of consensus regarding the ideal ablation strategy for atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in patients with persistent or longstanding persistent AF. Given increasing evidence from clinical imaging studies that rotors sustain AF, rotor elimination may be a desirable procedural endpoint. However, there is no description to date of the clinical outcomes using rotor elimination during ablation as the procedural endpoint. Moreover, a series of studies question whether procedural AF termination is a desirable endpoint for ablation after many forms of AF ablation.

Methods and Results

We report a single‐center experience of rotor elimination during AF ablation using Focal Impulse and Rotor Mapping (FIRM), describing 20 consecutive patients with case descriptions of 3 patients with recurrent longstanding persistent AF after prior ablation. In all cases, endocardial mapping using a 64‐electrode basket catheter was performed to identify rotors, which were eliminated using radiofrequency catheter ablation. After it was verified that all identified rotors were eliminated, standard ablation consisting of PV isolation was performed. Notably, persistent AF terminated in only 1/20 (5%) patients. However, after a follow‐up of 6 months, single‐procedure freedom from AF was 80% (16/20 patients) with only 1 patient on antiarrhythmic drugs. All three patients in the highlighted series are AF free despite the lack of acute procedural AF termination.

Conclusions

Patients with persistent AF including those with unsuccessful prior ablation can be treated successfully by rotor targeted ablation, using the elimination of all rotors rather than acute AF termination as the procedural endpoint.
Photosensitive atopic dermatitis – a neglected subset: Clinical, laboratory, histological and photobiological workup
Authors: Ellenbogen E. , Wesselmann U. , Hofmann S.C. , Lehmann P.
Published: November 2015

Background

Photosensitive atopic dermatitis (PhAD) is a scarcely reported entity characterized clinically by a photodistributed rash in patients who fulfil the criteria for atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective study is to define significant clinical, laboratory and immunological parameters as well as photobiological features for diagnosing PhAD.

Methods

We conducted a single‐centre retrospective analysis of 17 patients with long‐standing AD who in the disease course suddenly developed photosensitivity. All patients with suspected PhAD treated in our department between 2009 and 2014 were included in the study. Diagnostic methods were immunological parameters, prick and patch testing, histology and phototesting procedures.

Results

Onset of photosensitivity was observed during spring, summer and during exposure to artificial UVR (Ultraviolet radiation) as part of the patients' treatment regimen. Symptoms appeared 31.5 months on average after AD diagnosis was established. Although the MED (Minimal erythematous dose) was normal compared to a control group, all patients tested with photoprovocation methods exhibited a positive reaction. Two types of reactions were observed: papular and eczematous reactions, both types having similar histology. The wavelength spectrum most commonly involved was UVA. The disease seems to affect women more often than men. Predilection sites included face, neck, exposed trunk areas and arms. Patients with PhAD had coexistent eczematous lesions in non‐sun‐exposed skin. IgE levels were elevated in 11/17 patients (65%), with a median value of 269 kU/L.

Conclusion

PhAD is an underreported subset of atopic dermatitis, which is rarely diagnosed. This study suggests that several features including atopic diathesis, eczematous lesions in UVR exposed body regions and positive photoprovocation reaction are suggestive of PhAD as the likely diagnosis. Typically, the atopic eczema starts without a sign of photosensitivity, however, in a subgroup of AD patients after a few months to years, a switch occurs leading to PhAD.
Comparative genomic study of arachnid immune systems indicates loss of beta‐1,3‐glucanase‐related proteins and the immune deficiency pathway
Authors: Bechsgaard J. , Vanthournout B. , Funch P. , Vestbo S. , Gibbs R. A. , Richards S. , Sanggaard K. W. , Enghild J. J. , Bilde T.
Published: November 2015

Analyses of arthropod genomes have shown that the genes in the different innate humoral immune responses are conserved. These genes encode proteins that are involved in immune signalling pathways that recognize pathogens and activate immune responses. These immune responses include phagocytosis, encapsulation of the pathogen and production of effector molecules for pathogen elimination. So far, most studies have focused on insects leaving other major arthropod groups largely unexplored. Here, we annotate the immune‐related genes of six arachnid genomes and present evidence for a conserved pattern of some immune genes, but also evolutionary changes in the arachnid immune system. Specifically, our results suggest that the family of recognition molecules of beta‐1,3‐glucanase‐related proteins (βGRPs) and the genes from the immune deficiency (IMD) signalling pathway have been lost in a common ancestor of arachnids. These findings are consistent with previous work suggesting that the humoral immune effector proteins are constitutively produced in arachnids in contrast to insects, where these have to be induced. Further functional studies are needed to verify this. We further show that the full haemolymph clotting cascade found in the horseshoe crab is retrieved in most arachnid genomes. Tetranychus lacks at least one major component, although it is possible that this cascade could still function through recruitment of a different protein. The gel‐forming protein in horseshoe crabs, coagulogen, was not recovered in any of the arachnid genomes; however, it is possible that the arachnid clot consists of a related protein, spätzle, that is present in all of the genomes.
Pharmacokinetics of florfenicol and behaviour of its metabolite florfenicol amine in orange‐spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) after oral administration
Authors: Feng J‐B , Huang D‐R , Zhong M , Liu P , Dong J‐D
Published: November 2015

Pharmacokinetics and elimination of florfenicol and florfenicol amine in grouper held in sea water at 23.3 ± 0.8 °C were studied using HPLC method after they were given a single peroral dose of florfenicol at 24 mg kg−1 body weight. Florfenicol was rapidly absorbed from intestine and distributed extensively to all the tissues examined. The maximum concentrations (Cmax, μg g−1 or μg mL−1) in plasma and tissues were observed at 2–6 h (the time to reach maximum concentration, Tmax) except for bile (Tmax = 24 h) and were in the order of intestine (52.02 ± 25.07) > bile (49.41 ± 28.16) > gill (45.12 ± 11.10) > plasma (28.28 ± 5.43) > liver (21.97 ± 12.08) > muscle (21.63 ± 6.12) > kidney (20.88 ± 11.28) > skin (19.10 ± 5.88). The drug distribution level was higher in plasma than in extravascular tissues except for bile, based on the ratios of the area under concentration–time curve between tissue and plasma (AUCtissue/plasma). The elimination of florfenicol was rapid in fish, and the corresponding half‐lives (T1/2β) in the order of magnitude were bile (13.92 h) > muscle or liver (12.31 h) > skin (11.77 h) > plasma (11.57) > gill (11.04 h) > intestine (10.55 h) > kidney (10.05 h). The delayed Tmax, lower Cmax and longer T1/2β for florfenicol amine compared with florfenicol were measured in grouper.
Cutaneous myxidiosis in European eel, Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758): histopathology, histochemistry and laminin immunohistochemistry
Authors: Manera M , Borreca C , Dezfuli B S
Published: November 2015

Histopathology, histochemistry and immunohistochemistry of the integument of European eel, Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758), infected by Myxidium sp. are reported. Skin samples from affected and unaffected eels were dissected, formalin fixed, paraffin embedded, sectioned and stained with H&E, Periodic acid–Schiff's staining method, Alcian Blue 8 GX pH 2.5/Periodic acid–Schiff's and McCallum‐Goodpasture's Gram stain. Moreover, immunohistochemistry was performed using a primary polyclonal laminin antibody. Histologically, cysts (diameter 2–3 mm) were observed mainly under the scale pockets, encircled by a thin collagen layer, lined by elongated, flattened fibroblasts and containing bipolar, PAS‐ and Gram‐positive spores with opposite polar capsules. The epidermis stretched by the underlying cyst appeared dysplastic, thinned with a significant reduction in mucous cells number. Only inconsistent and aspecific inflammatory reaction was noted around the cysts at the dermis/epidermis interface. Intense laminin‐like protein immunolabel was documented in the plasmodial ectoplasm and related to host anergia. This was the first report of laminin immunolabel in a member of the Myxozoa. Epidermal dysplasia represents likely an aspecific response against the underlying tensile force exerted by the developing parasite cyst, while fibroblast and collagen encapsulation denote a parasite‐driven host response protecting, rather than harming, the encircled parasite.