bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra low dose CT screen‐detected non‐malignant incidental findings in the Western Australian Asbestos Review Programme
Authors: Murray Conor P. , Wong Patrick M. , Teh Joelin , de Klerk Nick , Rosenow Tim , Alfonso Helman , Reid Alison , Franklin Peter , Musk A. W. (Bill) , Brims Fraser J. H.
Published: June 2016

Background and objective

Computed tomography (CT)‐based studies of asbestos‐exposed individuals report a high prevalence of lung cancer, but the utility of low dose CT (LDCT) to screen asbestos‐exposed populations is not established. We aimed to describe the prevalence of indeterminate pulmonary nodules and incidental findings on chest LDCT of asbestos‐exposed subjects in Western Australia.

Methods

A total of 906 subjects from the Western Australian Asbestos Review Programme underwent LDCT of the chest as part of regular annual review. An indeterminate (solid) nodule was defined as >50 mm3 and part‐solid/non‐solid nodules >5 mm. The presence of asbestos‐related diseases was recorded with a standardized report.

Results

Subjects were mostly (81%) men with a median age of 70 years. Fifty‐eight (6.5%) participants were current smokers, 511 (56.4%) ex‐smokers and 325 (36.4%) never‐smokers. One hundred and four indeterminate nodules were detected in 77 subjects (8.5%); of these, eight cases had confirmed lung cancer (0.88%). Eighty‐seven subjects (9.6%) had incidental findings that required further investigation, 42 (4.6%) from lower airways inflammation. The majority of nodules were solid, 4–6 mm and more common with age. Five hundred and eighty (64%) subjects had pleural plaques, and 364 (40.2%) had evidence of interstitial lung disease.

Conclusion

The prevalence of LDCT‐detected indeterminate lung nodules in 906 individuals with significant asbestos exposure was 8.5%, lower than many other CT studies. Clinically important incidental findings were found in 9.4%, predominantly related to lower respiratory tract inflammation. LDCT appears to effectively describe asbestos‐related diseases and is likely to be an acceptable modality to monitor asbestos‐exposed individuals.
(Un)Intentional Community: Power and Expert Knowledge in a Sustainable Lifestyle Community*
Authors: Sullivan Esther
Published: June 2016

This ethnography of a cohousing organization examines power and expert knowledge in a sustainable intentional community. Intentional communities are forming at a growing rate both internationally and in the United States. Cohousing communities are part of this growing trend of alternative communities that utilize participatory democracy as both their central decision‐making process and a core component of their alternative identity. This article analyzes the tensions that evolve as cohousers build a communal housing development in one of the fastest‐growing cities in the United States. I identify mechanisms through which the constraints of operating in the highly professionalized field of housing development transform participatory decision making. When group members try to minimize loss of time and capital while competing with experienced for‐profit developers, they establish leaders and cede power to those with greater technical expertise. Yet, they continue to model their commitment to consensus decision making despite emerging hierarchies among members. I describe how the use of expert knowledge restructures the conditions governing group interaction and explore what the group's oligarchic organizational practices mean for the study of contemporary collective community organizing.
Primary aragonite and high‐Mg calcite in the late Cambrian (Furongian). Potential evidence from marine carbonates in Oman
Authors: Neilson Joyce E. , Brasier Alexander T. , North Colin P.
Published: June 2016

Transient aragonite seas occurred in the early Cambrian but several models suggest the late Cambrian was a time of calcite seas. Here, evidence is presented from the Andam Group, Huqf High, Oman (Gondwana) that suggests a transient Furongian (late Cambrian) aragonite sea, characterized by the precipitation of aragonite and high‐Mg calcite ooids and aragonite isopachous, fibrous, cements. Stable carbon isotope data suggest that precipitation occurred just before and during the SPICE (Steptoean Positive Carbonate Isotope Excursion). Aragonite and high‐Mg calcite precipitation can be accounted for if mMg:Ca ratios were around 1.2 given the very high atmospheric CO2 at that time and if precipitation occurred in warm waters associated with the SPICE. This, together with reported occurrences of early Furongian aragonite ooids from various locations in North America (Laurentia), suggests that aragonite and high‐Mg calcite precipitation from seawater may have been more than just a local phenomenon.
Diarrhoea in children under five years of age in South Africa (1997–2014)
Authors: Awotiwon Oluwatoyin F. , Pillay‐van Wyk Victoria , Dhansay Ali , Day Candy , Bradshaw Debbie
Published: June 2016

Objective

To present evidence from available reliable published data on the prevalence, incidence and severity of diarrhoea in children aged under five years in South Africa.

Methods

We searched seven electronic databases. Two reviewers assessed the studies independently and extracted outcome data. The heterogeneity of the studies did not allow for a meta‐analysis.

Results

We found only one nationally representative study conducted in 1998 reporting a diarrhoea prevalence of 13% in children under five. Other studies were conducted in smaller settings across the country. Diarrhoea incidence was 10.13 per 1000 person years in children admitted to a tertiary hospital. Three studies reported severity of diarrhoea; however, they differed across study settings and time period.

Conclusion

The paucity of nationally representative prevalence data for SA necessitates more national surveys with standardised data‐collection methods to allow for more effective comparisons.
Metabolomic prediction of yield in hybrid rice
Authors: Xu Shizhong , Xu Yang , Gong Liang , Zhang Qifa
Published: June 2016

Rice (Oryza sativa) provides a staple food source for more than 50% of the world's population. An increase in yield can significantly contribute to global food security. Hybrid breeding can potentially help to meet this goal because hybrid rice often shows a considerable increase in yield when compared with pure‐bred cultivars. We recently developed a marker‐guided prediction method for hybrid yield and showed a substantial increase in yield through genomic hybrid breeding. We now have transcriptomic and metabolomic data as potential resources for prediction. Using six prediction methods, including least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP), stochastic search variable selection, partial least squares, and support vector machines using the radial basis function and polynomial kernel function, we found that the predictability of hybrid yield can be further increased using these omic data. LASSO and BLUP are the most efficient methods for yield prediction. For high heritability traits, genomic data remain the most efficient predictors. When metabolomic data are used, the predictability of hybrid yield is almost doubled compared with genomic prediction. Of the 21 945 potential hybrids derived from 210 recombinant inbred lines, selection of the top 10 hybrids predicted from metabolites would lead to a ~30% increase in yield. We hypothesize that each metabolite represents a biologically built‐in genetic network for yield; thus, using metabolites for prediction is equivalent to using information integrated from these hidden genetic networks for yield prediction.
The neoliberal culturalist nation: voices from Italy
Authors: Antonsich Marco
Published: June 2016

The impact of neoliberal globalisation on the nation‐state has been extensively studied in terms of politico‐economic restructuring and forms of governmentality and securitisation. While the former speaks of a process of de‐nationalisation, the latter brings about a re‐nationalisation process. In both cases, though, the focus has only been on one component of the nation‐state, that is, the state. The nation has either been treated as a given backdrop or merely ignored. This paper aims to bring the nation back as a way to better contextualise practices of socio‐spatial exclusion associated with one particular aspect of neoliberal globalisation, namely international migration. By analysing parliamentary debates in Italy between 1986 and 2014, the paper explores the intersections between neoliberalism and cultural essentialism as they conflate in what I call the ‘neoliberal culturalist nation’. This construct sheds light on the roles that a national culturalist imaginary plays in prompting and justifying governmental practices of securitisation, which in turn are implicated in the production of a vulnerable and expendable labour force. Moreover, it reveals how a neoliberal workfarist and individualised logic is functional to the ‘normalisation’ of the foreign immigrant, and the reproduction of the national titular group. My argument is that a national culturalist imaginary exists in a mutually reinforcing relation with, rather than in opposition to, neoliberalism. Far from keeping nation and state as ontologically distinct or theorising their decoupling, the paper points to a renewed spatial isomorphism between nation and state, which comes to epitomise the very process of current re‐nationalisation.
Hikui disease in nine koi carp (Cyprinus carpio): first description of a cutaneous perivascular wall tumour
Authors: Sirri Rubina , Pretto Tobia , Montesi Francesco , Berton Valeria , Mandrioli Luciana , Barbé Tim
Published: June 2016

Background

Hikui disease is a well known disfiguring disease of koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) primarily affecting fish with red pigmentation. It causes light orange to golden yellow, multifocal to coalescing raised patches, starting from the red cutaneous areas. Some cases respond to surgery or topical treatment, but recurrence is common.

Objectives

To describe the clinical and pathological presentation of Hikui disease and its cause.

Animals

Nine affected koi carp belonging to private hobbyists.

Methods

Eight fish underwent surgery or biopsy; one was euthanized. Tissues were submitted for histology, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Five fish showed typical lesions of Hikui disease, whereas four fish showed an atypical presentation characterized by focal or multifocal, oedematous, dark red cutaneous plaques or nodules. Histology showed unencapsulated, infiltrating and densely cellular neoplasms composed of spindle cells arranged in bundles, rows and whorls frequently centred on capillaries. Immunohistochemistry for smooth muscle actin labelled neoplastic cells in all cases. Ultrastructure showed neoplastic cells with slender cytoplasmic processes encircling the capillaries, a thin basal membrane and occasional plasmalemmal vesicles.

Conclusions and clinical importance

All of the data supported a neoplastic process producing perivascular wall tumours. Immunoreactivity to smooth muscle actin and the ultrastructural features were indicative of a pericyte origin (haemangiopericytoma). This is the first report dealing with Hikui disease that has achieved a conclusive diagnosis. The neoplastic nature of this condition suggests the potential usefulness of a surgical approach in the clinical management of less severe cases.
Erythropoietin to reduce allogeneic red blood cell transfusion in patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty
Authors: Voorn V. M. A. , van der Hout A. , So‐Osman C. , Vliet Vlieland T. P. M. , Nelissen R. G. H. H. , van den Akker‐van Marle M. E. , Dahan A. , Marang‐van de Mheen P. J. , van Bodegom‐Vos L.
Published: June 2016

Background and Objectives

To determine the value of erythropoietin in reducing allogeneic transfusions, it is important to assess the effects, safety and costs for individual indications. Previous studies neither compared the effects of erythropoietin between total hip and total knee arthroplasty, nor evaluated the safety or costs. We performed a meta‐analysis to assess the effects of erythropoietin in total hip and knee arthroplasty separately. Safety and costs were evaluated as secondary outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of erythropoietin in total hip and knee arthroplasty until April 2014. Study data were extracted using standardized forms and pooled using a random‐effects model. Strength of the evidence was evaluated using Cochrane's Collaboration's tool for risk of bias assessment.

Results

Seven studies were included (2439 patients). Erythropoietin significantly reduced exposure to allogeneic transfusion in both hip (RR 0·45; 95%CI 0·33–0·61) and knee (RR 0·38; 95%CI 0·27–0·53) arthroplasty, without differences between indications (P = 0·44). Mean number of transfused red blood cell units was significantly decreased in erythropoietin‐treated patients (mean difference −0·57; 95%CI −0·86 to −0·29)(unable to split). No differences in thromboembolic or adverse events were found. Only one study evaluated costs, so that no pooled cost‐effectiveness estimates could be given.

Conclusion

Erythropoietin is effective in both hip and knee arthroplasty and can be considered as safe. However, the decision to use erythropoietin on a routine base should be balanced against its costs, which may be relatively high.
Barriers and motivations to voluntary blood donation in sub‐Saharan African settings: a literature review
Authors: Burzynski E. S. , Nam S. L. , Le Voir R.
Published: June 2016

Background and Objectives

Voluntary blood donor recruitment and retention in sub‐Saharan Africa needs to be strengthened. To do this, an understanding of the factors underpinning people's willingness or refusal to donate is essential; yet there has been little attention to these in sub‐Saharan African contexts. This overview of studies explores attitudes of blood donors, non‐donors and potential donors towards voluntary blood donation in a range of sub‐Saharan African settings.

Materials and Methods

A structured literature search was conducted between January and May 2014 based on the Overseas Development Institute's evidence‐focused literature review methodology.

Results

The review identified 22 individual studies across ten countries in sub‐Saharan Africa. The main barriers to donation related to health concerns and fears and to a lack of knowledge; socio‐cultural and practical barriers were less dominant. Important motivating factors included saving a relative, friend or other person's life, and access to adequate information. Across the studies, respondents reported eagerness to receive a range of incentives besides money.

Conclusion

Multiple barriers and motivations to donation exist in sub‐Saharan Africa, many of which are common to developed countries. Variations between settings highlight the importance of context‐specific evidence to inform donor recruitment and retention strategies.
A retrospective study of cryopreserved umbilical cord as an adjunctive therapy to promote the healing of chronic, complex foot ulcers with underlying osteomyelitis
Authors: Caputo Wayne J. , Vaquero Carina , Monterosa Alexis , Monterosa Patricia , Johnson Edward , Beggs Donald , Fahoury George J.
Published: June 2016

Complex lower extremity ulcers with exposed bone, tendon, muscle, and/or joint capsule as well as multiple comorbidities including diabetes, ischemia, and underlying osteomyelitis are difficult to heal and associated with high morbidity and mortality and high rates of amputation. A retrospective review was performed to assess healing of 31 patients presenting with 33 complex foot ulcers with a confirmed histopathological diagnosis of osteomyelitis treated by the same surgeon at a single wound care center by the following treatment regimen: sharp debridement, resection of infected bone when necessary, open cortex, antibiotics, and application of cryopreserved umbilical cord (cUC). The average ulcer size was 15.6 ± 17.7 cm2 (0.4–73.95 cm2). Overall, 26 out of the 33 wounds achieved complete closure (78.8%). Five patients were lost to follow‐up and one patient expired during the course of treatment, not believed to be treatment related. Of the remaining 27 wounds in patients not lost to follow‐up, 26 achieved complete healing with an average time to healing of 16 weeks and an average of 1.24 applications of cUC. The results suggest that cUC used as an adjunctive tissue therapy in conjunction with surgical debridement, resection of infected bone, open cortex, and antibiotic treatment may be an effective overall treatment strategy to promote wound healing of complex foot ulcers associated with osteomyelitis. The preliminary results are encouraging and warrant further randomized control studies to determine whether cUC might help address such an unmet medical need.
Randomized controlled trial comparing the combination of a polymeric membrane dressing plus negative pressure wound therapy against negative pressure wound therapy alone: The WICVAC study
Authors: Skrinjar Edda , Duschek Nikolaus , Bayer Gottfried S. , Assadian Ojan , Koulas Spyridon , Hirsch Kornelia , Basic Jelena , Assadian Afshin
Published: June 2016

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is the treatment of choice for chronic wounds; yet, it is associated with considerable workload. Prompted by its nonadhesive and wound‐healing properties, this study investigated the effect of an additional polymeric membrane interface dressing (PMD; PolyMem WIC) in NPWT. From October 2011 to April 2013, 60 consecutive patients with chronic leg wounds or surgical site infections after revascularization of lower extremities were randomly allocated to either treatment with conventional NPWT (control arm) or NPWT with an additional PMD (intervention arm). The primary outcome was wound healing achieved within 30 days, the secondary endpoints included: number of days between dressing changes, wound‐related pain, cost efficiency, and occurrence of adverse events (ClinTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02399722). Forty‐seven patients completed follow‐up. No difference in wound healing was observed (p > 0.05) between both study arms. The additional PMD allowed significantly longer wearing times (days) between dressing changes (intervention: 8.8 ± 0.5, control: 4.8 ± 0.2; p < 0.001). Pain was slightly higher in patients randomized to NPWT alone (VAS score: 4.8 ± 2.9) compared to NPWT + PMD (VAS score: 3.0 ± 2.9, p = 0.063). No wound infections were observed. Costs were reduced by 34% per patient in the intervention arm. These results suggest that the combination of NPWT and an additional interface PMD is a safe and economic method for the treatment of chronic wounds, which requires significantly fewer dressing changes for a comparable wound healing.
Tautological rings of spaces of pointed genus two curves of compact type
Authors: Petersen Dan
Published: June 2016

We prove that the tautological ring of ${\mathcal{M}}_{2,n}^{\mathsf{ct}}$, the moduli space of $n$-pointed genus two curves of compact type, does not have Poincaré duality for any $n\geqslant 8$. This result is obtained via a more general study of the cohomology groups of ${\mathcal{M}}_{2,n}^{\mathsf{ct}}$. We explain how the cohomology can be decomposed into pieces corresponding to different local systems and how the tautological cohomology can be identified within this decomposition. Our results allow the computation of $H^{k}({\mathcal{M}}_{2,n}^{\mathsf{ct}})$ for any $k$ and $n$ considered both as $\mathbb{S}_{n}$-representation and as mixed Hodge structure/$\ell$-adic Galois representation considered up to semi-simplification. A consequence of our results is also that all even cohomology of $\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{2,n}$ is tautological for $n<20$, and that the tautological ring of $\overline{{\mathcal{M}}}_{2,n}$ fails to have Poincaré duality for all $n\geqslant 20$. This improves and simplifies results of the author and Orsola Tommasi.
Precursor dependent nucleation and growth of ruthenium films during chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Liao Wen , Ekerdt John G.
Published: June 2016

Nucleation and film growth characteristics are reported during chemical vapor deposition of Ru on SiO2 using triruthenium dodecacarbonyl [Ru3(CO)12] and ruthenium bis(di-t-butylacetamidinate) dicarbonyl [Ru(tBu-Me-amd)2(CO)2]. Films grown from Ru3(CO)12 follow the three dimensional (3D) Volmer–Weber growth mode. In contrast, films grown from Ru(tBu-Me-amd)2(CO)2 follow the pseudo-layer-by-layer growth mode with two dimensional wetting layer islands forming before 3D particle growth is observed on the islands. A relationship between free isolated hydroxyl [(Si-OH)i] group density and Ru nucleation density is found for Ru3(CO)12 and is associated with (Si-OH)i acting as the reaction sites for activation of Ru3(CO)12 and in turn generating an adjustable adatom concentration. Carbon monoxide and ammonia addition to the gas phase during film growth from Ru(tBu-Me-amd)2(CO)2 lead to smoother films by inducing surface reconstructions during the 3D phase of pseudo-layer-by-layer growth; these gases also lead to films with lower resistivity and lower crystalline character.
Biomaterials—Potential nucleation agents in blood and possible implications
Authors: Rohnke Marcus , Henss Anja
Published: June 2016

Blood, simulated body fluids, and many cell culture media are supersaturated solutions with respect to several calcium phosphates. Therefore biomaterials can act as nucleation agents and evoke heterogeneous nucleation of salts on the surface of immersed biomaterials. Depending on the field of application, this can be either beneficial or disadvantageous. Although nucleation from supersaturated solutions is an old and well-known scientific phenomenon it is not standard to test new developed materials with surface analytical methods for their ability to initiate nucleation in vitro. Therefore, this communication aims to review the mineralization effect and to emphasize the possible negative implications, especially to functionalized bone implants. Surface coatings with proteins, growth factors, and, etc., can become ineffective due to deposition of a dense calcium phosphate layer. In the case of drug loaded implants, drug release might be inhibited.
High aspect ratio and large area metallic nanogrids as transparent electrodes on optoelectronic devices
Authors: Pérez de San Román Etor , Prieto Iván , Chaudhuri Anabil , Neumann Alexander , Brueck Steven R. J. , Ripalda Jose M.
Published: June 2016

The authors demonstrate high aspect ratio and large area metallic nanogrids as transparent electrodes with reduced series resistance on GaAs based optoelectronic devices. The fabrication process uses ultraviolet photolithography techniques, pulsed reactive ion etching, and two metallization steps: a vapor deposited contact seed layer and a thickening step by electrodeposition. As a result, a threefold reduction in resistive power losses is achieved with a contact grid transmission comparable to state-of-the-art devices.
Evaluation of a tissue‐mimicking thermochromic phantom for radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Mikhail Andrew S. , Negussie Ayele H. , Graham Cole , Mathew Manoj , Wood Bradford J. , Partanen Ari
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

This work describes the characterization and evaluation of a tissue‐mimicking thermochromic phantom (TMTCP) for direct visualization and quantitative determination of temperatures during radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

Methods:

TMTCP material was prepared using polyacrylamide gel and thermochromic ink that permanently changes color from white to magenta when heated. Color vs temperature calibration was generated in matlab by extracting RGB color values from digital photographs of phantom standards heated in a water bath at 25–75 °C. RGB and temperature values were plotted prior to curve fitting in mathematica using logistic functions of form f(t) = a + b/(1 + e(c(t−d))), where a, b, c, and d are coefficients and t denotes temperature. To quantify temperatures based on TMTCP color, phantom samples were heated to temperatures blinded to the investigators, and two methods were evaluated: (1) visual comparison of sample color to the calibration series and (2) in silico analysis using the inverse of the logistic functions to convert sample photograph RGB values to absolute temperatures. For evaluation of TMTCP performance with RFA, temperatures in phantom samples and in a bovine liver were measured radially from an RF electrode during heating using fiber‐optic temperature probes. Heating and cooling rates as well as the area under the temperature vs time curves were compared. Finally, temperature isotherms were generated computationally based on color change in bisected phantoms following RFA and compared to temperature probe measurements.

Results:

TMTCP heating resulted in incremental, permanent color changes between 40 and 64 °C. Visual and computational temperature estimation methods were accurate to within 1.4 and 1.9 °C between 48 and 67 °C, respectively. Temperature estimates were most accurate between 52 and 62 °C, resulting in differences from actual temperatures of 0.6 and 1.6 °C for visual and computational methods, respectively. Temperature measurements during RFA using fiber‐optic probes matched closely with maximum temperatures predicted by color changes in the TMTCP. Heating rate and cooling rate, as well as the area under the temperature vs time curve were similar for TMTCP and ex vivo liver.

Conclusions:

The TMTCP formulated for use with RFA can be used to provide quantitative temperature information in mild hyperthermic (40–45 °C), subablative (45–50 °C), and ablative (>50 °C) temperature ranges. Accurate visual or computational estimates of absolute temperatures and ablation zone geometry can be made with high spatial resolution based on TMTCP color. As such, the TMTCP can be used to assess RFA heating characteristics in a controlled, predictable environment.
Analysis and modeling of infrasound from a four-stage rocket launch
Authors: Blom Philip , Marcillo Omar , Arrowsmith Stephen
Published: June 2016

Infrasound from a four-stage sounding rocket was recorded by several arrays within 100 km of the launch pad. Propagation modeling methods have been applied to the known trajectory to predict infrasonic signals at the ground in order to identify what information might be obtained from such observations. There is good agreement between modeled and observed back azimuths, and predicted arrival times for motor ignition signals match those observed. The signal due to the high-altitude stage ignition is found to be low amplitude, despite predictions of weak attenuation. This lack of signal is possibly due to inefficient aeroacoustic coupling in the rarefied upper atmosphere.
Sustainability and Recreational Sports Facilities: An Exploratory Study regarding Levels of Institutional Adoption
Authors: Stinnett Brad , Gibson Fred
Published: June 2016

Sustainability is a hot topic in higher education. Buzz words such as green and renewable have helped brand modern environmentalism. A greater emphasis on facility planning, development, and management is contributing to sustainability efforts. Collegiate recreational sports programs often include facilities that pose a challenge to the green movement, due to their size and operational requirements. To identify efforts within the collegiate recreational sports industry, this study focused on assessing the state of facility sustainability. The purpose of this study was to assess levels of institutional adoption related to sustainable initiatives at collegiate recreational sports facilities. This foundational study attempted to create some benchmark data for the collegiate recreation industry within the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). The Collegiate Recreational Sports Sustainability Survey was developed to assess the variables in the study and was sent to directors of NIRSA member institutions. This study used quantitative research methods and produced primarily descriptive research. This research produced a number of key findings: institutions that led in adoption levels per their respective category type were two-year public institutions, large enrollment institutions, institutions from NIRSA Region VI, and institutions that contain large collegiate recreational sports facilities. In addition, significant differences in adoption levels existed between four-year public and four-year private institutions, between large and small enrollment institutions, and between institutions that had large and small facilities. Implications from this study include providing benchmark data, creating advisory committees, and modeling NIRSA Region VI institutions. This study establishes a foundation for further research on sustainability efforts in collegiate recreational sports.
Complete Genome Sequence of a New Megavirus Family Member Isolated from an Inland Water Lake for the First Time in India
Authors: Chatterjee Anirvan , Ali Farhan , Bange Disha , Kondabagil Kiran
Published: June 2016

We report here the isolation and complete genome sequencing of a large double-stranded DNA virus,
Powai Lake megavirus,
for the first time from India. The isolation of a large DNA virus with genome size >1 Mb from India further attests to the prevalence of
Giant
viruses in different environmental niches.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Strains of Ehrlichia ruminantium, a Tick-Borne Pathogen of Ruminants, Isolated from Zimbabwe, The Gambia, and Ghana
Authors: Nakao Ryo , Jongejan Frans , Sugimoto Chihiro
Published: June 2016

The rickettsial bacterium
Ehrlichia ruminantium
is the causative pathogen of heartwater in ruminants. Here, we report the draft genome sequences of three strains of
E. ruminantium
, namely, the Crystal Springs strain from Zimbabwe, the Kerr Seringe strain from The Gambia, and the Sankat 430 strain from Ghana.
Complete Genome Sequence of Methylobacterium populi P-1M, Isolated from Pink-Pigmented Household Biofilm
Authors: Morohoshi Tomohiro , Ikeda Tsukasa
Published: June 2016

Methylobacterium populi
P-1M is isolated from the pink-pigmented household biofilm. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of P-1M, consisting of one chromosome of 5,705,640 bp and five plasmids of 64,864 bp, 59,879 bp, 42,569 bp, 41,417 bp, and 29,506 bp.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Hafnia alvei HUMV-5920, a Human Isolate
Authors: Lázaro-Díez María , Redondo-Salvo Santiago , Arboleya-Agudo Aroa , Ocejo-Vinyals Javier Gonzalo , Chapartegui-González Itziar , Ocampo-Sosa Alain A. , Acosta Felix , Martínez-Martínez Luis , Ramos-Vivas José
Published: June 2016

A clinical isolate of
Hafnia alvei
(strain HUMV-5920) was obtained from a urine sample from an adult patient. We report here its complete genome assembly using PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing, which resulted in a chromosome with 4.5 Mb and a circular contig of 87 kb. About 4,146 protein-coding genes are predicted from this assembly.
Genome Sequences of Two Tunisian Field Strains of Avian
Mycoplasma
,
M. meleagridis
and
M. gallinarum
Authors: Yacoub Elhem , Sirand-Pugnet Pascal , Barré Aurélien , Blanchard Alain , Hubert Christophe , Maurier Florence , Bouilhol Emmanuel , Ben Abdelmoumen Mardassi Boutheina
Published: June 2016

Mycoplasma meleagridis
and
Mycoplasma gallinarum
are bacteria that affect birds, but little is known about the genetic basis of their interaction with chickens and other poultry. Here, we sequenced the genomes of
M. meleagridis
strain MM_26B8_IPT and
M. gallinarum
strain Mgn_IPT, both isolated from chickens showing respiratory symptoms, poor growth, reduction in hatchability, and loss of production.
Complete Genome Sequence of Biofilm-Forming Strain Staphylococcus haemolyticus S167
Authors: Hong Jisoo , Kim Jonguk , Kim Byung-Yong , Park Jin-Woo , Ryu Jae-Gee , Roh Eunjung
Published: June 2016

Staphylococcus haemolyticus
S167 has the ability to produce biofilms in large quantities. Genomic analyses revealed information on the biofilm-related genes of
S. haemolyticus
S167. Detailed studies of biofilm formation at the molecular level could provide a foundation for biofilm control research.
Back to the gallstone: a mischievous cause of morbidity
Authors: Heron Paul , Manzelli Antonio
Published: June 2016

Laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LCs) are the gold standard treatment of symptomatic gallstone disease worldwide. However, with this technique comes the increased risk of retained spilled gallstones. We describe a case of a 77-year-old man who presented 2 months after undergoing a LC, with right upper quadrant pain. Abdominal ultrasound scan showed no significant complications, but he continued to have grumbling pains. These were investigated with an abdominal CT scan, prompting suspicion of a colorectal malignancy with pleural metastasis. However, on review by two different multidisciplinary teams, the final conclusion was probable residual gallstones with associated inflammation. This diagnosis was rather dramatically confirmed when the patient went on to expel gallstones percutaneously from his back and coughed out of his respiratory tract. This case highlights the importance of operative documentation of spilled gallstones, which can, in addition to more surprising consequences, mimic malignancy on investigation. This can lead to delay in correct management and cause undue patient distress.
Warfarin improves neuropathy in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
Authors: Henry Gomez Teny , Holkova Beata , Noreika Danielle , Del Fabbro Egidio
Published: June 2016

We report a case of a 60-year-old man who was referred to a palliative care clinic with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)-associated neuropathy, responding to a therapeutic trial of warfarin. Electromyography showed distal symmetric sensory axonal neuropathy. The patient reported having had improvement of his neuropathic symptoms while taking warfarin postoperatively for thromboprophylaxis 1 year prior, and recurrence of his symptoms after the warfarin was discontinued. The patient was rechallenged with a trial of warfarin, targeting an international normalised ratio of 1.5–2.0. His pain scores decreased from 5/10 to 3/10 at 1 month and symptom improvement was maintained through 24 months of follow-up. Warfarin had a remarkable impact on our patient's symptoms and quality of life. The mechanisms mediating the symptomatic benefit with warfarin are unclear; however, a placebo effect is unlikely. Further studies may help guide the use of warfarin for MGUS-associated neuropathy.
Implementing referral to an electronic alcohol brief advice website in primary healthcare: results from the ODHIN implementation trial
Authors: Bendtsen Preben , Müssener Ulrika , Karlsson Nadine , López-Pelayo Hugo , Palacio-Vieira Jorge , Colom Joan , Gual Antoni , Reynolds Jillian , Wallace Paul , Segura Lidia , Anderson Peter
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to explore whether the possibility of offering facilitated access to an alcohol electronic brief intervention (eBI) instead of delivering brief face-to-face advice increased the proportion of consulting adults who were screened and given brief advice.

Design

The study was a 12-week implementation study. Sixty primary healthcare units (PHCUs) in 5 jurisdictions (Catalonia, England, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden) were asked to screen adults who attended the PHCU for risky drinking.

Setting

A total of 120 primary healthcare centres from 5 jurisdictions in Europe.

Participants

746 individual providers (general practitioners, nurses or other professionals) participated in the study.

Primary outcome

Change in the proportion of patients screened and referred to eBI comparing a baseline 4-week preimplementation period with a 12-week implementation period.

Results

The possibility of referring patients to the eBI was not found to be associated with any increase in the proportion of patients screened. However, it was associated with an increase in the proportion of screen-positive patients receiving brief advice from 70% to 80% for the screen-positive sample as a whole (p<0.05), mainly driven by a significant increase in brief intervention rates in England from 87% to 96% (p<0.01). The study indicated that staff displayed a low level of engagement in this new technology. Staff continued to offer face-to-face advice to a larger proportion of patients (54%) than referral to eBI (38%). In addition, low engagement was seen among the referred patients; on average, 18% of the patients logged on to the website with a mean log-on rate across the different countries between 0.58% and 36.95%.

Conclusions

Referral to eBI takes nearly as much time as brief oral advice and might require more introduction and training before staff are comfortable with referring to eBI.

Trial registration number

NCT01501552; Post-results.
Factors and motivations associated with use of e-cigarette among primary care patients in a prospective cohort study:e-TAC study protocol
Authors: Kinouani Shérazade , Castéra Philippe , Laporte Catherine , Pétrègne François , Gay Bernard
Published: June 2016

Introduction

While the relationship between electronic cigarette use and smoking has often been studied, the association between electronic cigarette use and socioeconomic factors has received less attention. This is a study protocol aiming to describe the relationship between the consumption of psychoactive products (in particular: smoking) or some socioeconomic factors and the evolution of the use of electronic cigarette in primary healthcare over 1 year.

Methods and analysis

Electronic cigarette, Tobacco, Alcohol and Cannabis (e-TAC) is a prospective multisite cohort study, including 473 patients at baseline and carrying out in general practices in the Aquitaine area (France). The volunteer patients participated in the study regardless of their initial reason for consultation. They filled out a self-administered questionnaire at baseline and will also do so after 12 months by phone, email or letter. The study will focus on the factors that explain the experimentation with or the current use of the electronic cigarette, as well as factors associated with their evolutions over time using multivariate logistic regression modelling or Cox regression modelling.

Ethics and dissemination

This study received ethical approval from the University of Bordeaux Committee for the protection of persons. It was also approved by the National Commission for Data Processing and Freedoms. Findings will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and we will disseminate them by presentations at national or international conferences.

Trial registration number

RCB: 2015-A00778-41; Pre-results.
Efficacy of ketamine in refractory convulsive status epilepticus in children: a protocol for a sequential design, multicentre, randomised, controlled, open-label, non-profit trial (KETASER01)
Authors: Rosati Anna , Ilvento Lucrezia , L'Erario Manuela , De Masi Salvatore , Biggeri Annibale , Fabbro Giancarlo , Bianchi Roberto , Stoppa Francesca , Fusco Lucia , Pulitanò Silvia , Battaglia Domenica , Pettenazzo Andrea , Sartori Stefano , Biban Paolo , Fontana Elena , Cesaroni Elisabetta , Mora Donatella , Costa Paola , Meleleo Rosanna , Vittorini Roberta , Conio Alessandra , Wolfler Andrea , Mastrangelo Massimo , Mondardini Maria Cristina , Franzoni Emilio , McGreevy Kathleen S , Di Simone Lorena , Pugi Alessandra , Mirabile Lorenzo , Vigevano Federico , Guerrini Renzo
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Status epilepticus (SE) is a life-threatening neurological emergency. SE lasting longer than 120 min and not responding to first-line and second-line antiepileptic drugs is defined as ‘refractory’ (RCSE) and requires intensive care unit treatment. There is currently neither evidence nor consensus to guide either the optimal choice of therapy or treatment goals for RCSE, which is generally treated with coma induction using conventional anaesthetics (high dose midazolam, thiopental and/or propofol). Increasing evidence indicates that ketamine (KE), a strongN-methyl-d-aspartate glutamate receptor antagonist, may be effective in treating RCSE. We hypothesised that intravenous KE is more efficacious and safer than conventional anaesthetics in treating RCSE.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre, randomised, controlled, open-label, non-profit, sequentially designed study will be conducted to assess the efficacy of KE compared with conventional anaesthetics in the treatment of RCSE in children. 10 Italian centres/hospitals are involved in enrolling 57 patients aged 1 month to 18 years with RCSE. Primary outcome is the resolution of SE up to 24 hours after withdrawal of therapy and is updated for each patient treated according to the sequential method.

Ethics and dissemination

The study received ethical approval from the Tuscan Paediatric Ethics Committee (12/2015). The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT02431663; Pre-results.
Advance care planning in England: Is there an association with place of death? Secondary analysis of data from the National Survey of Bereaved People
Authors: Dixon Josie , King Derek , Knapp Martin
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To explore whether advance care planning is associated with place of death in England, as well as with sufficiency of support to care for a dying person at home, overall quality of care and pain management.

Methods

We undertook secondary analysis of data from the National Survey of Bereaved People, 2013, based on a stratified random sample of 49 607 people selected from 150 111 eligible registered deaths (n=22 661, 46% response rate). The indicator of advance care planning used was having expressed a preference for place of death and this being recorded by healthcare staff. Analysis was conducted using logistic regression models.

Results

Decedents with a recorded preference for place of death had significantly greater odds of dying at home rather than in hospital (OR 6.25; 99% CI 5.56 to 7.14) and in a care home rather than in hospital (OR 2.70; 99% CI 2.33 to 3.13). They also had significantly greater odds of receiving sufficient support to be cared for and to die at home, of receiving ‘outstanding’ or ‘excellent’ care, and of having pain relieved ‘completely, all the time’ while being cared for at home.

Conclusions

Advance care planning was found to be strongly associated with lower rates of hospital death and a range of quality outcomes. These findings provide support for the emphasis on advance care planning in end of life care policy in England, while also suggesting the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms underlying these relationships.
Lifestyle changes at middle age and mortality: a population-based prospective cohort study
Authors: Berstad Paula , Botteri Edoardo , Larsen Inger Kristin , Løberg Magnus , Kalager Mette , Holme Øyvind , Bretthauer Michael , Hoff Geir
Published: June 2016

Background

The effect of modifying lifestyle at middle age on mortality has been sparsely examined.

Methods

Men and women aged 50–54 years randomised to the control group (no intervention) in the population-based Norwegian Colorectal Cancer Prevention trial were asked to fill in lifestyle questionnaires in 2001 and 2004. Lifestyle scores were estimated ranging from 0 (poorest) to 4 (best) based on health recommendations (non-smoking, daily physical activity, body mass index <25.0 kg/m2and healthy diet). Outcomes were all-cause, cancer and cardiovascular mortality before 31 December 2013.

Results

Of the 6886 attainable individuals included in the study, 4211 (61%) responded to the baseline questionnaire in 2001. After a median follow-up of 12.3 years, 226 (5.4%) of the baseline questionnaire responders died; 110 (49%) from cancer and 32 (14%) from cardiovascular disease. For each increment in lifestyle score in 2001, a 21% lower all-cause mortality was observed (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.94, adjusted for age, sex, occupational working hours and chronic disease or pain during 3 years before enrolment). A one-point increase in lifestyle score from 2001 to 2004 was associated with a 38% reduction in all-cause mortality (adjusted HR 0.62, CI 0.45 to 0.84). The group reporting lifestyle change from score 0–1 (unfavourable) in 2001 to score 2–4 (favourable) in 2004 had 4.8 fewer deaths per 1000 person years, compared with the group maintaining an ‘unfavourable’ lifestyle (adjusted HR 0.31, CI 0.13 to 0.70 for all-cause mortality).

Conclusions

Favourable lifestyle changes at age 50–60 years may prevent early death.

Trial registration

NCT00119912; pre-results.
Influences in fertility decisions among HIV-infected individuals in Lilongwe, Malawi: a qualitative study
Authors: Haddad Lisa B , Hoagland Alexandra B , Andes Karen L , Samala Bernadette , Feldacker Caryl , Chikaphupha Kingsley , Tweya Hannock , Chiwoko Jane , Kachale Fannie , Jamieson Denise J , Phiri Sam
Published: June 2016

Background

The motivation to have a child may be complex with numerous influencing factors, particularly among individuals living with HIV. This study sought to understand factors influencing fertility decision-making for HIV-infected men and women in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Methods

Thirteen focus groups were conducted among HIV-infected individuals enrolled in antiretroviral treatment services.

Results

Participants identified a hierarchy of influences in fertility decisions including the importance of childbearing, patriarchal influence, family influences and concern regarding HIV transmission.

Conclusions

Addressing fertility conversations beyond the confines of a relationship may be important, as family plays a significant role in fertility choices. Childbearing remains a fundamental desire among many individuals with HIV; however, concerns regarding transmission risk need to be addressed with efforts made to overcome misconception and assist individuals in balancing what may be competing influences.
Efficacy and safety of warfarin in dialysis patients with atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nochaiwong Surapon , Ruengorn Chidchanok , Awiphan Rattanaporn , Dandecha Phongsak , Noppakun Kajohnsak , Phrommintikul Arintaya
Published: June 2016

Objective

To systematically review and meta-analyse the risk–benefit ratio of warfarin users compared with non-warfarin users in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), who are undergoing dialysis.

Methods

We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, grey literature, conference proceedings, trial registrations and also did handsearch. Cohort studies without language restrictions were included. Two investigators independently conducted a full abstraction of data, risk of bias and graded evidence. Effect estimates were pooled using random-effect models.

Main outcome measure

All-cause mortality, total stroke/thromboembolism and bleeding complications.

Results

14 studies included 37 349 dialysis patients with AF, of whom 12 529 (33.5%) were warfarin users. For all-cause mortality: adjusted HR=0.99 (95% CI 0.89 to 1.10; p=0.825), unadjusted risk ratio (RR)=1.00 (95% CI 0.96 to 1.04; p=0.847). For stroke/thromboembolism: adjusted HR=1.06 (95% CI 0.82 to 1.36; p=0.676), unadjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR)=1.23 (95% CI 0.94 to 1.61; p=0.133). For ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack, adjusted HR=0.91 (95% CI 0.57 to 1.45; p=0.698), unadjusted IRR=1.16 (95% CI 0.84 to 1.62; p=0.370). For haemorrhagic stroke, adjusted HR=1.60 (95% CI 0.91 to 2.81; p=0.100), unadjusted IRR=1.48 (95% CI 0.92 to 2.36; p=0.102). Major bleeding was increased among warfarin users; adjusted HR=1.35 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.64; p=0.003) and unadjusted IRR=1.22 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.40; p=0.003).

Conclusions

Among dialysis patients with AF, warfarin therapy was not associated with mortality and stroke/thromboembolism, but significantly increased the risk of major bleeding. More rigorous studies are essential to demonstrate the effect of warfarin for stroke prophylaxis in dialysis patients with AF.