bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overview of TJ-II experiments
Authors: Sánchez J. , Acedo M. , Alegre D. , Alonso A. , Alonso J. , Álvarez P. , Arévalo J. , Ascasíbar E. , Baciero A. , Baião D. , Barrera L. , Blanco E. , Botija J. , Bustos A. , de la Cal E. , Calvo I. , Cappa A. , Carralero D. , Carrasco R. , Carreras B.A. , Castejón F. , Castro R. , Catalán G. , Chmyga A.A. , Chamorro M. , Eliseev L. , Esteban L. , Estrada T. , Ferreira J.A. , Fontdecaba J.M. , García L. , García-Gómez R. , García-Regaña J.M. , García-Sánchez P. , Gómez-Iglesias A. , González S. , Guasp J. , Happel T. , Hernanz J. , Herranz J. , Hidalgo C. , Jiménez J.A. , Jiménez-Denche A. , Jiménez-Gómez R. , Kirpitchev I. , Komarov A.D. , Kozachok A.S. , Krupnik L. , Lapayese F. , Liniers M. , López-Bruna D. , López-Fraguas A. , López-Rázola J. , Madeira T. , Martín-Díaz F. , Martín-Hernández F. , Martín-Rojo A.B. , Martínez-Fernández J. , McCarthy K.J. , Medina F. , Medrano M. , Melón L. , Melnikov A.V. , Méndez P. , van Milligen B. , Mirones E. , Molinero A. , Navarro M. , Nedzelskiy I.S. , Ochando M. , Olivares J. , Oyarzábal E. , de Pablos J.L. , Pacios L. , Pastor I. , Pedrosa M.A. , de la Peña A. , Pereira A. , Petrov A. , Petrov S. , Portas A. , Rattá G. , Reynolds J.M. , Rincón E. , Ríos L. , Rodríguez C. , Rojo B. , Romero J.A. , Ros A. , Sánchez M. , Sánchez E. , Sánchez-Burillo G. , Sánchez-Sarabia E. , Sarksian K. , Sebastián J.A. , Silva C. , Solano E.R. , Soleto A. , Tabarés F. , Tafalla D. , Tera J. , Tolkachev A. , Vega J. , Velasco G. , Velasco J.L. , Weber M. , Wolfers G. , Zurro B.
Published: September 2011

This paper presents an overview of experimental results and progress made in investigating density control using Li-coating, transport and L–H transitions in TJ-II. The Li-coating changes drastically the plasma–wall interaction, decreasing the recycling, and enlarges substantially the operational range of the device delaying the appearance of radiative collapse that happens for higher densities, which permits confinement properties of much denser plasmas to be studied. Moreover, L–H mode transition has only been achieved after Li-coating in TJ-II. The effect of rational surfaces on heat transport is studied showing a decrease in heat diffusivity close to their position, and it is also seen that rational surfaces located in the edge make L–H transition easier. TJ-II findings provide a new guideline for understanding the trigger mechanism of the L–H transition pointing out the importance of low frequency fluctuating sheared E × B flows. The properties of fast-ion confinement are described as well as the effects of impurities on radiation profiles, showing two types of profiles the bell and the dome shape, the latter being more prone to radiative collapse.
Progress towards ignition on the National Ignition Facility
Authors: Lindl J.D. , Atherton L.J. , Amednt P.A. , Batha S. , Bell P. , Berger R.L. , Betti R. , Bleuel D.L. , Boehly T.R. , Bradley D.K. , Braun D.G. , Callahan D.A. , Celliers P.M. , Cerjan C.J. , Clark D.S. , Collins G.W. , Cook R.C. , Dewald E.L. , Divol L. , Dixit S.N. , Dzenitis E. , Edwards M.J. , Fair J.E. , Fortner R.J. , Frenje J.A. , Glebov V.Yu. , Glenzer S.H. , Grim G. , Haan S.W. , Hamza A.V. , Hammel B.A. , Harding D.R. , Hatchett S.P. , Haynam C.A. , Herrmann H.W. , Herrmann M.C. , Hicks D.G. , Hinkel D.E. , Ho D.D. , Hoffman N. , Huang H. , Izumi N. , Jacoby B. , Jones O.S. , Kalantar D.H. , Kauffman R. , Kilkenny J.D. , Kirkwood R.K. , Kline J.L. , Knauer J.P. , Koch J.A. , Kozioziemski B.J. , Kyrala G.A. , La Fortune K. , Landen O.L. , Larson D. , Lerche R. , Le Pape S. , London R. , MacGowan B.J. , MacKinnon A.J. , Malsbury T.N. , Mapoles E.R. , Marinak M.M. , McKenty P.W. , Meezan N. , Meyerhofer D.D. , Michel P. , Milovich J. , Moody J.D. , Moran M. , Moreno K.A. , Moses E.I. , Munro D.H. , Nikroo A. , Olson R.E. , Parham T. , Patterson R.W. , Peterson K. , Petrasso R. , Pollaine S.M. , Ralph J.E. , Regan S.P. , Robey H.F. , Rosen M.D. , Sacks R. , Salmonson J.D. , Sangster T.C. , Sepke S.M. , Schneider D.H. , Schneider M.B. , Shaw M. , Spears B.K. , Springer P.T. , Stoeckl C. , Suter L.J. , Thomas C.A. , Tommasini R. , Town R.P. , VanWonterghem B.M. , Vesey R. , Weber S.V. , Wegner P.J. , Widman K. , Widmayer C.C. , Wilke M. , Wilkens H.L. , Williams E.A. , Wilson D.C. , Young B.K.
Published: September 2011

The National Ignition Facility at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory was formally dedicated in May 2009. The hohlraum energetics campaign with all 192 beams began shortly thereafter and ran until early December 2009. These experiments explored hohlraum-operating regimes in preparation for experiments with layered cryogenic targets. The hohlraum energetic series culminated with an experiment that irradiated an ignition scale hohlraum with 1 MJ. The results demonstrated the ability to produce a 285 eV radiation environment in an ignition scale hohlraum while meeting ignition requirements for symmetry, backscatter and hot electron production. Complementary scaling experiments indicate that with ∼1.3 MJ, the capsule drive temperature will reach 300 eV, the point design temperature for the first ignition campaign. Preparation for cryo-layered implosions included installation of a variety of nuclear diagnostics, cryogenic layering target positioner, advanced optics and facility modifications needed for tritium operations and for routine operation at laser energy greater than 1.3 MJ. The first cyro-layered experiment was carried out on 29 September 2010. The main purpose of this shot was to demonstrate the ability to integrate all of the laser, target and diagnostic capability needed for a successful cryo-layered experiment. This paper discusses the ignition point design as well as findings and conclusions from the hohlraum energetics campaign carried out in 2009. It also provides a brief summary of the initial cryo-layered implosion.
Overview of toroidal momentum transport
Authors: Peeters A.G. , Angioni C. , Bortolon A. , Camenen Y. , Casson F.J. , Duval B. , Fiederspiel L. , Hornsby W.A. , Idomura Y. , Hein T. , Kluy N. , Mantica P. , Parra F.I. , Snodin A.P. , Szepesi G. , Strintzi D. , Tala T. , Tardini G. , de Vries P. , Weiland J.
Published: September 2011

Toroidal momentum transport mechanisms are reviewed and put in a broader perspective. The generation of a finite momentum flux is closely related to the breaking of symmetry (parity) along the field. The symmetry argument allows for the systematic identification of possible transport mechanisms. Those that appear to lowest order in the normalized Larmor radius (the diagonal part, Coriolis pinch, E × B shearing, particle flux, and up–down asymmetric equilibria) are reasonably well understood. At higher order, expected to be of importance in the plasma edge, the theory is still under development.
A pharmacological cocktail for arresting actin dynamics in living cells
Authors: Peng Grace E. , Wilson Sarah R. , Weiner Orion D.
Published: September 2011

The actin cytoskeleton is regulated by factors that influence polymer assembly, disassembly, and network rearrangement. Drugs that inhibit these events have been used to test the role of actin dynamics in a wide range of cellular processes. Previous methods of arresting actin rearrangements take minutes to act and work well in some contexts, but can lead to significant actin reorganization in cells with rapid actin dynamics, such as neutrophils. In this paper, we report a pharmacological cocktail that not only arrests actin dynamics but also preserves the structure of the existing actin network in neutrophil-like HL-60 cells, human fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells, and mouse NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells. Our cocktail induces an arrest of actin dynamics that initiates within seconds and persists for longer than 10 min, during which time cells maintain their responsivity to external stimuli. With this cocktail, we demonstrate that actin dynamics, and not simply morphological polarity or actin accumulation at the leading edge, are required for the spatial persistence of Rac activation in HL-60 cells. Our drug combination preserves the structure of the existing cytoskeleton while blocking actin assembly, disassembly, and rearrangement, and should prove useful for investigating the role of actin dynamics in a wide range of cellular signaling contexts.
The Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Infants and Children Older Than 3 Months of Age: Clinical Practice Guidelines by the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society and the Infectious Diseases Society of America
Authors: Bradley John S. , Byington Carrie L. , Shah Samir S. , Alverson Brian , Carter Edward R. , Harrison Christopher , Kaplan Sheldon L. , Mace Sharon E. , McCracken George H. , Moore Matthew R. , St Peter Shawn D. , Stockwell Jana A. , Swanson Jack T.
Published: September 2011

Evidenced-based guidelines for management of infants and children with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) were prepared by an expert panel comprising clinicians and investigators representing community pediatrics, public health, and the pediatric specialties of critical care, emergency medicine, hospital medicine, infectious diseases, pulmonology, and surgery. These guidelines are intended for use by primary care and subspecialty providers responsible for the management of otherwise healthy infants and children with CAP in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Site-of-care management, diagnosis, antimicrobial and adjunctive surgical therapy, and prevention are discussed. Areas that warrant future investigations are also highlighted.
Tumour susceptibility gene 101 and the vacuolar protein sorting pathway are required for the release of hepatitis E virions
Authors: Nagashima Shigeo , Takahashi Masaharu , Jirintai Suljid , Tanaka Toshinori , Nishizawa Tsutomu , Yasuda Jiro , Okamoto Hiroaki
Published: September 2011

We have previously demonstrated that an intact PSAP motif in the ORF3 protein is required for the formation and release of membrane-associated hepatitis E virus (HEV) particles with ORF3 proteins on their surface. In this study, we investigated the direct interaction between the ORF3 protein and tumour susceptibility gene 101 (Tsg101), a cellular factor involved in the budding of viruses containing the P(T/S)AP late-domain, in PLC/PRF/5 cells expressing the wild-type or PSAP-mutated ORF3 protein and Tsg101 by co-immunoprecipitation. Tsg101 bound to wild-type ORF3 protein, but not to the PSAP-inactive ORF3 protein. To examine whether HEV utilizes the multivesicular body (MVB) pathway to release the virus particles, we analysed the efficiency of virion release from cells upon introduction of small interfering RNA (siRNA) against Tsg101 or dominant-negative (DN) mutants of Vps4 (Vps4A and Vps4B). The relative levels of virus particles released from cells depleted of Tsg101 decreased to 6.4 % of those transfected with negative control siRNA. Similarly, virion egress was significantly reduced by the overexpression of DN forms (Vps4AEQ or Vps4BEQ). The relative levels of virus particles released from cells expressing Vps4AEQ and Vps4BEQ were 19.2 and 15.6 %, respectively, while the overexpression of wild-type Vps4A and Vps4B did not alter the levels of virus release. These results indicate that the ORF3 protein interacts with Tsg101 through the PSAP motifs in infected cells, and that Tsg101 and the enzymic activities of Vps4A and Vps4B are involved in HEV release, thus suggesting that HEV requires the MVB pathway for egress of virus particles.
Identification of a claudin‐4 and E‐cadherin score to predict prognosis in breast cancer
Authors: Szasz Attila M. , Nemeth Zsuzsanna , Gyorffy Balazs , Micsinai Mariann , Krenacs Tibor , Baranyai Zsolt , Harsanyi Laszlo , Kiss Andras , Schaff Zsuzsa , Tokes Anna‐Maria , Kulka Janina
Published: September 2011

The elevated expression of claudins (CLDN) and E‐cadherin (CDH‐1) was found to correlate with poor prognostic features. Our aim was to perform a comprehensive analysis to assess their potential to predict prognosis in breast cancer. The expression of CLDN‐1, ‐3–5, ‐7, ‐8, ‐10, ‐15, ‐18, and E‐cadherin at the mRNA level was evaluated in correlation with survival in datasets containing expression measurements of 1809 breast cancer patients. The breast cancer tissues of 197 patients were evaluated with tissue microarray technique and immunohistochemical method for CLDN‐1–5, ‐7, and E‐cadherin protein expression. An additional validation set of 387 patients was used to test the accuracy of the resulting prognostic score. Based on the bioinformatic screening of publicly‐available datasets, the metagene of CLDN‐3, ‐4, ‐7, and E‐cadherin was shown to have the most powerful predictive power in the survival analyses. An immunohistochemical protein profile consisting of CLDN‐2, ‐4, and E‐cadherin was able to predict outcome in the most effective manner in the training set. Combining the overlapping members of the above two methods resulted in the claudin‐4 and E‐cadherin score (CURIO), which was able to accurately predict relapse‐free survival in the validation cohort (P = 0.029). The multivariate analysis, including clinicopathological variables and the CURIO, showed that the latter kept its predictive power (P = 0.040). Furthermore, the CURIO was able to further refine prognosis, separating good versus poor prognosis subgroups in luminal A, luminal B, and triple‐negative breast cancer intrinsic subtypes. In breast cancer, the CURIO provides additional prognostic information besides the routinely utilized diagnostic approaches and factors. (Cancer Sci 2011; 102: 2248–2254)
Transition from first illicit drug use to first injection drug use among rural Appalachian drug users: a cross‐sectional comparison and retrospective survival analysis
Authors: Young April M. , Havens Jennifer R.
Published: September 2011

Aim  The study's objectives were to characterize initiation of injection drug use, examine the independent association of specific substance use with injection drug use and determine factors associated with rates of transition from first illicit drug use to first injection among a sample of rural Appalachian drug users.

Design  Interview‐administered questionnaires were administered to a sample of drug users recruited via respondent‐driven sampling.

Setting  Appalachian Kentucky.

Participants  Injection drug users (IDUs) (n = 394) and non‐IDUs (n = 109).

Measurements  Data were collected on substance use and years from age at initiation of illicit substance use to ‘event’ (initiation of injection or date of baseline interview for non‐IDUs). Logistic regression and Cox regression were used to identify factors associated with life‐time injection drug use and transition time to injection, respectively.

Findings  OxyContin® was involved in nearly as many initiations to injection (48%), as were stimulants, other prescription opioids and heroin combined; for participants who initiated with OxyContin®, the median time from which they began OxyContin® use to their first injection of OxyContin® was 3 years. Adjusting for demographics, five prescription drugs (benzodiazepines, illicit methadone, oxycodone, OxyContin® and other opiates) were associated with an increased hazard for transitioning from first illicit drug use to first injection drug use (each at P < 0.01).

Conclusions  In Appalachia, in the United States, the prescription opioid OxyContin® is widely used non‐medically and appears to show a particularly high risk of rapid transition to injection compared with the use of other illicit drugs.
Cessation assistance reported by smokers in 15 countries participating in the International Tobacco Control (ITC) policy evaluation surveys
Authors: Borland Ron , Li Lin , Driezen Pete , Wilson Nick , Hammond David , Thompson Mary E. , Fong Geoffrey T. , Mons Ute , Willemsen Marc C. , McNeill Ann , Thrasher James F. , Cummings K. Michael
Published: September 2011

Aims  To describe some of the variability across the world in levels of quit smoking attempts and use of various forms of cessation support.

Design  Use of the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project surveys of smokers, using the 2007 survey wave (or later, where necessary).

Settings  Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Ireland, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, United Kingdom, Uruguay and United States.

Participants  Samples of smokers from 15 countries.

Measurements  Self‐report on use of cessation aids and on visits to health professionals and provision of cessation advice during the visits.

Findings  Prevalence of quit attempts in the last year varied from less than 20% to more than 50% across countries. Similarly, smokers varied greatly in reporting visiting health professionals in the last year (<20% to over 70%), and among those who did, provision of advice to quit also varied greatly. There was also marked variability in the levels and types of help reported. Use of medication was generally more common than use of behavioural support, except where medications are not readily available.

Conclusions  There is wide variation across countries in rates of attempts to stop smoking and use of assistance with higher overall use of medication than behavioural support. There is also wide variation in the provision of brief advice to stop by health professionals.
Psychiatric comorbidity and the persistence of drug use disorders in the United States
Authors: Fenton Miriam C. , Keyes Katherine , Geier Timothy , Greenstein Eliana , Skodol Andrew , Krueger Bob , Grant Bridget F. , Hasin Deborah S.
Published: September 2011

Aims  DSM‐IV drug use disorders, a major public health problem, are highly comorbid with other psychiatric disorders, but little is known about the role of this comorbidity when studied prospectively in the general population. Our aims were to determine the role of comorbid psychopathology in the 3‐year persistence of drug use disorders.

Design and setting  Secondary data analysis using waves 1 (2001–02) and 2 (2005–05) of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions.

Participants  Respondents with current DSM‐IV drug use disorder at wave 1 who participated in wave 2 (n = 613).

Measurements  Alcohol Use Disorders and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule IV (AUDADIS‐IV) obtained DSM‐IV Axis I and II diagnoses. Persistent drug use disorder was defined as meeting full criteria for any drug use disorder between waves 1 and 2.

Findings  Drug use disorders persisted in 30.9% of respondents. No Axis I disorders predicted persistence. Antisocial [odds ratio (OR) = 2.75; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.27–5.99], borderline (OR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.06–3.45) and schizotypal (OR = 2.77; 95% CI: 1.42–5.39) personality disorders were significant predictors of persistent drug use disorders, controlling for demographics, psychiatric comorbidity, family history, treatment and number of drug use disorders. Deceitfulness and lack of remorse were the strongest antisocial criteria predictors of drug use disorder persistence, identity disturbance and self‐damaging impulsivity were the strongest borderline criteria predictors, and ideas of reference and social anxiety were the strongest schizotypal criteria predictors.

Conclusions  Antisocial, borderline and schizotypal personality disorders are specific predictors of drug use disorder persistence over a 3‐year period.
Population pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of escitalopram in overdose and the effect of activated charcoal
Authors: van Gorp Freek , Duffull Stephen , Hackett L. Peter , Isbister Geoffrey K.
Published: September 2011

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Escitalopram is a selective serotonin re‐uptake inhibitor and the S‐enantiomer of racemic citalopram. Previous studies have shown that the most clinically important effect of escitalopram overdose is QT prolongation with the associated risk of torsade de pointes. It remains unclear at what dose the risk of QT prolongation is important and whether decontamination will reduce this risk.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• Escitalopram overdose causes a dose‐related increase in the QT interval that lags the increase in drug concentration. In escitalopram overdose, single dose activated charcoal reduces the fraction absorbed and reduces the risk of QT interval prolongation.

AIMS To describe the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PKPD) of escitalopram in overdose and its effect on QT prolongation, including the effectiveness of single dose activated charcoal (SDAC).

METHODS The data set included 78 escitalopram overdose events (median dose, 140 mg [10–560 mg]). SDAC was administered 1.0 to 2.6 h after 12 overdoses (15%). A fully Bayesian analysis was undertaken in WinBUGS 1.4.3, first for a population pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis followed by a PKPD analysis. The developed PKPD model was used to predict the probability of having an abnormal QT as a surrogate for torsade de pointes.

RESULTS A one compartment model with first order input and first‐order elimination described the PK data, including uncertainty in dose and a baseline concentration for patients taking escitalopram therapeutically. SDAC reduced the fraction absorbed by 31% and reduced the individual predicted area under the curve adjusted for dose (AUCi/dose). The absolute QT interval was related to the observed heart rate with an estimated individual heart rate correction factor (α= 0.35). The heart rate corrected QT interval (QTc) was linearly dependent on predicted escitalopram concentration [slope = 87 ms/(mg l–1)], using a hypothetical effect‐compartment (half‐life of effect‐delay, 1.0h). Administration of SDAC significantly reduced QT prolongation and was shown to reduce the risk of having an abnormal QT by approximately 35% for escitalopram doses above 200 mg.

CONCLUSIONS There was a dose‐related lengthening of the QT interval that lagged the increase in drug concentration. SDAC resulted in a moderate reduction in fraction of escitalopram absorbed and reduced the risk of the QT interval being abnormal.
Recombinant DNA immunotherapy ameliorate established airway allergy in a IL‐10 dependent pathway
Authors: Fonseca D. M. , Wowk P. F. , Paula M. O. , Campos L. W. , Gembre A. F. , Turato W. M. , Ramos S. G. , Dias‐Baruffi M. , Barboza R. , Gomes E. , Silva C. L. , Russo M. , Bonato V. L. D.
Published: September 2011

Background

Previous studies have established that mycobacterial infections ameliorate allergic inflammation. However, a non‐infectious approach that controls allergic responses might represent a safer and more promising strategy. The 60–65 kDa heat shock protein (Hsp) family is endowed with anti‐inflammatory properties, but it is still unclear whether and how single mycobacterial Hsp control allergic disorders.

Objective

Therefore, in this study we determined whether the administration of Mycobacterial leprae Hsp65 expressed by recombinant a DNA plasmid could attenuate a previously established allergic response.

Methods

We used an experimental model of airway allergic inflammation to test the effects of immunotherapy with DNA encoding Hsp65. Allergic mice, previously sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin, were treated with tree intramuscular doses of recombinant DNA encoding Hsp65. After treatment, mice received a second allergen challenge and the allergic response was measured.

Results

We found that immunotherapy attenuated eosinophilia, pulmonary inflammation, Th2 cytokine and mucus production. Moreover, we showed that the inhibition of allergic response is dependent on IL‐10 production. Both Hsp65 and allergen‐specific IL‐10‐producing cells contributed to this effect. Cells transferred from DNA‐immunized mice to allergic mice migrated to allergic sites and down‐modulated the Th2 response.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our findings clearly show that immunotherapy with DNA encoding Hsp65 can attenuate an established Th2 allergic inflammation through an IL‐10‐dependent mechanism; moreover, the migration of allergen‐ and Hsp65‐specific cells to the allergic sites exerts a fundamental role. This work represents a novel contribution to the understanding of immune regulation by Hsp65 in allergic diseases.
Variation in productivity of a key snapper,Chrysophrys auratus, fishery related to recruitment and fleet dynamics
Authors: FOWLER A. J. , McGLENNON D.
Published: September 2011

Abstract Temporal variation in production of theChrysophrys auratus(Forster) fishery of Northern Spencer Gulf, South Australia, between 1984 and 2009 was investigated using commercial fishery statistics and estimates of age and size structures from market sampling. Fishery production was divisible into two periods, i.e. from 1984 to early 2000s and the middle to late 2000s. During the former, cycles in production were relatable to variable fishable biomass. Age structures that displayed considerable differences in age class strength reflected interannual variation in juvenile recruitment, which resulted in high variability in the strength of year classes entering the fishery. Periodic strong year classes were the major influence on fishable biomass as they passed through the population over numerous years. For the latter period, fishery statistics were conflicting as catches and effort were relatively low, whilst the estimates of catch per unit effort (CPUE) were consistently high. These statistics reflect a considerable change to the structure of the fishery that involved a reduction in number of fishers and fishing effort. The fishery statistics may indicate hyperstability, with CPUE estimates remaining high despite declining biomass because of the aggregative behaviour of the fish and the efficiency of remaining fishers.
Frequency‐domain acoustic‐elastic coupled waveform inversion using the Gauss‐Newton conjugate gradient method
Authors: Bae Ho Seuk , Pyun Sukjoon , Chung Wookeen , Kang Seung‐Goo , Shin Changsoo
Published: September 2011

We developed a frequency‐domain acoustic‐elastic coupled waveform inversion based on the Gauss‐Newton conjugate gradient method. Despite the use of a high‐performance computer system and a state‐of‐the‐art parallel computation algorithm, it remained computationally prohibitive to calculate the approximate Hessian explicitly for a large‐scale inverse problem. Therefore, we adopted the conjugate gradient least‐squares algorithm, which is frequently used for geophysical inverse problems, to implement the Gauss‐Newton method so that the approximate Hessian is calculated implicitly. Thus, there was no need to store the Hessian matrix. By simultaneously back‐propagating multi‐components consisting of the pressure and displacements, we could efficiently extract information on the subsurface structures. To verify our algorithm, we applied it to synthetic data sets generated from the Marmousi‐2 model and the modified SEG/EAGE salt model. We also extended our algorithm to the ocean‐bottom cable environment and verified it using ocean‐bottom cable data generated from the Marmousi‐2 model. With the assumption of a hard seafloor, we recovered both the P‐wave velocity of complicated subsurface structures as well as the S‐wave velocity. Although the inversion of the S‐wave velocity is not feasible for the high Poisson's ratios used to simulate a soft seafloor, several strategies exist to treat this problem. Our example using multi‐component data showed some promise in mitigating the soft seafloor effect. However, this issue still remains open.
The presence of post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms in adolescents three months after an 8·0 magnitude earthquake in southwest China
Authors: Zhang Weiqing , Jiang Xiaolian , Ho Kit‐wan , Wu Dongmei
Published: September 2011

Aims and objectives.  The aims of the study were to describe the post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms in adolescent survivors three months after Wenchuan 5·12 Earthquake and to explore its contributing or preventing factors.

Background.  Adolescents are more vulnerable to be affected by natural disasters because of their special growth stage. Post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms are common responses in adolescents after disasters, and its occurrence is related to some psychosocial factors.

Design.  The study used a cross‐sectional design in a large sample.

Methods.  A total of 1976 subjects aged 12–20 were evaluated at three months after the earthquake by using the Post‐traumatic stress disorder Checklist‐Civilian Version. The Internality, Powerful others and Chance scale and the Coping Styles Scale were also administered to the subjects at the same time.

Results.  The mean total score of Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist‐Civilian Chinese Version was 33·64 (SD 11·15; range of score 17–85). The boys with a higher level of initial exposure to the earthquake had lower symptoms scores than girls with a lower level of initial exposure. Chance locus of control and power other locus of control were the powerful risk factors of post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms, while the protective factors included withdrawing skill, internality locus of control, junior high grade and social supports.

Conclusions.  Post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms are prevalent psychiatric reactions in adolescents after earthquakes. Locus of control and coping strategy could play an important role in its occurrence and severity besides demographic factors, exposure characteristics and social support factors.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study reveals that adolescents are the vulnerable group for suffering psychological stress responses to catastrophic events. Healthcare professionals, especially school nurses, should pay more attention to adolescents after trauma. Prompt and effective intervention should be carried out to mitigate the impact of initial exposure and reduce the occurrence of post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
Establishment of Recombinant Hybrid‐IgG / IgA Immunoglobulin Specific for Shiga Toxin
Authors: Tobisawa Y. , Maruyama T. , Tanikawa T. , Nakanishi K. , Kurohane K. , Imai Y.
Published: September 2011

Shiga toxin 1 produced by enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli is an AB5 toxin that is involved in the life‐threatening haemolytic‐uraemic syndrome. The B subunits (Stx1B) are cell‐binding subunits. We previously established mouse hybridoma cell line producing IgA and IgG monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against Stx1B. Here, we cloned cDNAs encoding each of the heavy, light and joining (J) chains from the hybridoma cell lines by means of the 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) PCR method. Upon assignment of the variable regions of the heavy and light chains to known germline sequences, we found substantial somatic hypermutation in the complementarity‐determining regions in both the IgA and IgG mAbs. We also established a hybrid‐IgG/IgA heavy chain having variable regions of the IgG mAb by means of recombinant PCR methods. Upon transient expression of the hybrid‐IgG/IgA heavy, IgG‐associated light and J chains in COS‐1 cells, the translated dimeric hybrid‐IgG/IgA bound to immobilized Stx1B, as revealed on ELISA. The production of dimeric hybrid‐IgG/IgA was revealed on immunoblot analysis. The dimeric hybrid‐IgG/IgA inhibited the binding of digoxigenin‐conjugated Stx1B to natural ligands (CD77) displayed on Burkitt’s lymphoma cell line Ramos. These results indicate that the replacement of variable regions resulted in the production of more useful recombinant dimeric IgA against Stx1B.
Review: indications for ultrasound use in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Groen Reinou S. , Leow Jeffrey J. , Sadasivam Vijay , Kushner Adam L.
Published: September 2011

Objective  To determine the indications for using ultrasound, in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) and to assess whether its use alters clinical management.

Methods  Literature review. We conducted a Pubmed search on the clinical use of ultrasound in LMIC for articles published between January 2000 and December 2010, recording country of origin, speciality and whether ultrasound use led to a change in management.

Results  Fifty‐eight articles were identified from 32 countries and represented nine specialties. Ultrasound was most commonly used for assisting with the diagnosis of obstetrical conditions, followed by intra‐abdominal conditions such as liver abscesses and intussusceptions. Clinical management was altered in >30% of cases.

Conclusion  Ultrasound is a highly valuable diagnostic tool in LMICs and its use should be considered essential for all district medical facilities. The use could be applied more widely, eg., for tropical and non‐communicable diseases. Additional research is needed to further characterize the impact of task shifting on ultrasound use in LMICs.
Benefit of viral load testing for confirmation of immunological failure in HIV patients treated in rural Malawi
Authors: Kanapathipillai Rupa , McGuire Megan , Mogha Robert , Szumilin Elisabeth , Heinzelmann Annette , Pujades‐Rodríguez Mar
Published: September 2011

Objective  Viral load testing is used in the HIV programme of Chiradzulu, Malawi, to confirm the diagnosis of immunological failure to prevent unnecessary switching to second‐line therapy. Our objective was to quantify the benefit of this strategy for management of treatment failure in a large decentralized HIV programme in Africa.

Methods  Retrospective analysis of monitoring data from adults treated with first‐line antiretroviral regimens for >1 year and meeting the WHO immunological failure criteria in an HIV programme in rural Malawi. The positive predictive value of using immunological failure criteria to diagnose virological failure (viral load >5000 copies/ml) was estimated.

Results  Of the 227 patients with immunological failure (185 confirmed with a repeat CD4 measurement), 155 (68.2%) had confirmatory viral load testing. Forty‐four (28.4%) had viral load >5000 copies/ml and 57 (36.8%) >1000 copies/ml. Positive predictive value was 28.4% (95% CI 21.4–36.2%). Repeat CD4 count testing showed that 41% of patients initially diagnosed with immunological failure did no longer meet failure criteria.

Conclusions  Our results support the need for confirming all cases of immunological failure with viral load testing before switching to second‐line ART to optimize the use of resources in developing countries.
Predicted metabolizable energy density and amino acid profile of the crop contents of free‐living scarlet macaw chicks (Ara macao)
Authors: Cornejo J. , Dierenfeld E. S. , Bailey C. A. , Brightsmith D. J.
Published: September 2011

Hand rearing of neonates is a common practice for the propagation of psittacines. However, nutritional requirements for their growth and development are not well understood, and malnutrition is common. We analysed the amino acid (AA) profile of the crop contents of 19 free‐living scarlet macaw (Ara macao) chicks, 19–59 days old. Predicted metabolizable energy (PME) density was 16.9 MJ/kg DM and true protein (total AA protein) 8.3 g/MJ PME. Crude protein (CP) was 10.0 g/MJ PME, lower than the requirements of 0‐ to 12‐week‐old leghorn chicks but not different than the requirements of growing budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) and lovebirds (Agapornis spp.). The mean concentrations of leucine, isoleucine, threonine, lysine (Lys) and methionine on a PME basis were below the minimum requirements of 0‐ to 12–week‐old leghorn‐type chicks. The calculated PME density of the samples did not vary with age. However, there was a significant negative correlation between the average age of the chicks and the Lys concentration. We conclude that the lower CP and AA densities compared with poultry could result from a combination of (i) differences in the essential AA composition of the body tissues, (ii) adaptations that allow the birds to grow on low‐protein food sources and (iii) suboptimal nutrition of these free‐ranging chicks.
Effect of Different Egg Yolk‐Based Extenders on the Quality of Ovine Cauda Epididymal Spermatozoa during Storage at 4°C
Authors: Lone FA , Islam R , Khan MZ , Sofi KA
Published: September 2011

Contents

Cauda epididymal spermatozoa were obtained from testicles collected from abattoir(s). The pooled sperm samples were divided into four aliquots. Each aliquot was washed separately with the buffer of respective extender and finally extended with the four extenders viz. egg yolk–citrate (EYC), egg yolk–citrate–fructose (EYCF), Tris–citric acid–egg yolk–fructose (TCEYF) and egg yolk–Mcillvaine glucose (EYMG) and preserved at 4°C. The per cent sperm motility for EYC, EYCF, TCEYF and EYMG at 0 h was 50.83%, 56.67%, 75.00% and 31.67%, respectively, and at 72 h was 24.17% (EYC), 30.83% (EYCF), 51.67% (TCEYF) and 7.50% (EYMG). The corresponding figures for live sperm count at 0 h was 83.17%, 86.33%, 90.42% and 81.75% and at 72 h was 64.75%, 73.92%, 76.00% and 57.67%. The corresponding figures for mean per cent intact acrosome at 0 h was 95.33%, 95.50%, 90.92% and 97.25% and at 72 h was 86.17%, 83.92%, 77.58% and 86.33%. The sperm motility was significantly (p < 0.05) higher for TCEYF at different h of preservation from 0 h through 72 h. The sperm motility, live sperm count and per cent intact acrosome declined significantly (p < 0.05) with the advancement of storage time in all the four extenders. Our study concluded that TCEYF was best out of the extenders studied for preservation of cauda epididymal spermatozoa after double centrifugation and extension at 4°C up to 72 h of preservation. However, EYCF also has better potential for the preservation of cauda epididymal spermatozoa as viability was in close proximity and acrosomal integrity was higher compared with TCEYF extender.
Luteal Function and Follicular Growth Following Follicular Aspiration During the Peri‐Luteolysis Period in Bos indicus and Crossbred Cattle
Authors: Bisinotto RS , Ibiapina BT , Pontes EO , Bertan CM , Satrapa R , Barros CM , Binelli M
Published: September 2011

Contents

Follicular estradiol triggers luteolysis in cattle. Therefore, the control of follicle growth and steroidogenesis is expected to modulate luteal function and might be used as an anti‐luteolytic strategy to improve embryo survival. Objectives were to evaluate follicular dynamics, plasma concentrations of estradiol and luteal lifespan in Bos indicus and crossbred cows subjected to sequential follicular aspirations. From D13 to D25 of a synchronized cycle (ovulation = D1), Nelore or crossbred, non‐pregnant and non‐lactating cows were submitted to daily ultrasound‐guided aspiration of follicles >6 mm (n = 10) or to sham aspirations (n = 8). Diameter of the largest follicle on the day of luteolysis (7.4 ± 1.0 vs 9.7 ± 1.0 mm; mean ± SEM), number of days in which follicles >6 mm were present (2.3 ± 0.4 vs 4.6 ± 0.5 days) and daily mean diameter of the largest follicle between D15 and D19 (6.4 ± 0.2 vs 8.5 ± 0.3 mm) were smaller (p < 0.01) in the aspirated group compared with the control group, respectively. Aspiration tended to reduce (p < 0.10) plasma estradiol concentrations between D18 and D20 (2.95 ± 0.54 vs 4.30 ± 0.55 pg/ml). The luteal lifespan was similar (p > 0.10) between the groups (19.6 ± 0.4 days), whereas the oestrous cycle was longer (p < 0.01) in the aspirated group (31.4 ± 1.2 vs 21.2 ± 1.3 days). Hyperechogenic structures were present at the sites of aspiration and were associated with increase in concentration of progesterone between luteolysis and oestrus. It is concluded that follicular aspiration extended the oestrous cycle and decreased the average follicular diameter on the peri‐luteolysis period but failed to delay luteolysis.
Effect of dust storm events on daily emergency admissions for respiratory diseases
Authors: TAM WILSON W.S. , WONG TZE WAI , WONG ANDROMEDA H.S. , HUI DAVID S.C.
Published: September 2011

Background and objective:  The harmful effect of dust storm on lung health is controversial. This study aimed to assess any associations between dust storms and emergency hospital admissions due to respiratory disease in Hong Kong.

Methods:  Data on daily emergency admissions for respiratory diseases to major hospitals in Hong Kong, and indices of air pollutants and meteorological variables from January 1998 to December 2002 were obtained from several government departments. We identified five dust storm days during the study period. Independent t‐tests were used to compare the mean daily number of admissions on dust storm and non‐dust storm days. Case‐crossover analysis using the Poisson regression was used to examine the effects of PM10 to emergency hospital admissions due to respiratory diseases.

Results:  Significant increases in emergency hospital admission due to COPD were found 2 days after dust storm episode. The relative risk of PM10 for lag 2 days was 1.05 (95% CI: 1.01–1.09) per 10 µg/m3.

Conclusions:  Dust storms have an adverse effect on emergency hospital admission for COPD in Hong Kong. This also suggests the adverse effect of coarse particles on lung health.
Use of Cefoperazone/sulbactam in neonates
Authors: Ovali Fahri , Gursoy Tugba , Sari Ilkay , Divrikli Demet , Aktas Alev
Published: September 2011

Background:  Neonates are at high risk for nosocomial infections due to multidrug‐resistant pathogens. The use of β‐lactamase inhibitors in combination with β‐lactam antibiotics broadens the antimicrobial spectrum. Cefoperazone/sulbactam is used in children but there are limited data on its usage in neonates. The purpose of the present study was therefore to evaluate the use of cefoperazone/sulbactam in the treatment of neonatal infections caused by multidrug‐resistant pathogens.

Methods:  The records of neonates who were hospitalized and who received cefoperazone/sulbactam were reviewed.

Results:  There were 90 infants who received cefoperazone/sulbactam. A pathogen could be isolated in 41 (45.6%) of the infants. In total, 17.1% of isolated pathogens were resistant to cefoperazone/sulbactam. Side‐effects were seen in four of the infants. Two infants had cholestasis, one infant had neutropenia and one had superinfection with candida.

Conclusion:  Cefoperazone/sulbactam can be used in the treatment of nosocomial infections caused by multidrug‐resistant pathogens in neonates.
Arabinoxylans and inulin differentially modulate the mucosal and luminal gut microbiota and mucin‐degradation in humanized rats
Authors: Van den Abbeele Pieter , Gérard Philippe , Rabot Sylvie , Bruneau Aurélia , El Aidy Sahar , Derrien Muriel , Kleerebezem Michiel , Zoetendal Erwin G. , Smidt Hauke , Verstraete Willy , Van de Wiele Tom , Possemiers Sam
Published: September 2011

The endogenous gut microbiota affects the host in many ways. Prebiotics should favour beneficial intestinal microbes and thus improve host health. In this study, we investigated how a novel class of potential prebiotic long‐chain arabinoxylans (LC‐AX) and the well‐established prebiotic inulin (IN) modulate the gut microbiota of humanized rats. Six weeks after axenic rats were inoculated with a human faecal microbiota, their colonic microbiota was similar to this inoculum (∼ 70%), whereas their caecal microbiota was enriched with Verrucomicrobia and Firmicutes concomitant with lower abundance of Bacteroidetes. Moreover, different Bifidobacterium species colonized the lumen (B. adolescentis) and mucus (B. longum and B. bifidum). Both LC‐AX and IN increased SCFA levels and induced a shift from acetate towards health‐promoting propionate and butyrate respectively. By applying a high‐resolution phylogenetic micro‐array (HITChip) at the site of fermentation (caecum), IN and LC‐AX were shown to stimulate bacterial groups with known butyrate‐producers (Roseburia intestinalis, Eubacterium rectale, Anaerostipes caccae) and bifidobacteria (B. longum) respectively. Prebiotic administration also resulted in lower caecal abundances of the mucin‐degrading Akkermansia muciniphila and potentially more mucin production by the host. Both factors might explain the increased caecal mucin levels for LC‐AX (threefold) and IN (sixfold). These mucins were degraded along the colon, resulting in high faecal abundances of Akkermansia muciniphila for LC‐AX and especially IN‐treated rats. Finally, the microbial changes caused an adaptation period for the host with less weight gain, after which the host fine‐tuned the interaction with this altered microbiota. Our results demonstrate that next to IN, LC‐AX are promising prebiotic compounds by stimulating production of health‐promoting metabolites by specific microbes in the proximal regions. Further, prebiotic supplementation shifted mucin degradation to distal regions, where mucin‐degraders may produce beneficial metabolites (e.g. propionate by Akkermansia muciniphila), so that prebiotics may potentially improve gut health along the entire length of the intestine.
Factors predicting deviation from an enhanced recovery programme and delayed discharge after laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Boulind C. E. , Yeo M. , Burkill C. , Witt A. , James E. , Ewings P. , Kennedy R. H. , Francis N. K.
Published: September 2011

Aim  The study aimed to identify factors that predict postoperative deviation from an enhanced recovery programme (ERP) and/or delayed discharge following colorectal surgery.

Method  Data were prospectively collected from all patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal resection between January 2006 and December 2009. They included Physiological and Operative Severity Score for the enUmeration of Mortality and morbidity (POSSUM) variables, body mass index (BMI), sex, preoperative serum albumin, pathology, conversion from a laparoscopic to an open approach and postoperative length of hospital stay.

Results  There were 176 patients (90 women) of mean age 68 years. Fifteen (9%) operations were converted from laparoscopic to open. The remainder were completed laparoscopically. Fifty‐five (31%) deviated from the ERP, with most failing multiple elements. The most common reason was failure to mobilize, which often occurred in conjunction with paralytic ileus or analgesic failure. Factors independently predicting ERP deviation on multivariate analysis were pathology and intra‐operative complications. The median length of stay was 5 days. Sixty‐four (36%) patients had a prolonged length of stay that was predicted by age, number of procedures and ERP deviation.

Conclusion  Pathology and intra‐operative complications are independent predictors of ERP deviation. Prolonged length of stay can be predicted by age, multiple procedures and ERP deviation. Failure to mobilize should be considered as a red flag sign prompting further investigation following colorectal resection.
Hormone therapy for prostate cancer and the risk of stroke: a 5‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Chung Shiu‐Dong , Chen Yi‐Kuang , Wu Fang‐Jen , Lin Herng‐Ching
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Therapy (outcomes)

Level of Evidence 2c

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Numerous studies have consistently reported that long‐term use of ADT for PC may increase the risk of fractures, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases.

There was no significant difference in risk of stroke between ethnic Chinese PC patients who did and did not receive ADT.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the 5‐year risk of stroke among patients with prostate cancer (PC) receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in Taiwan, using a population‐based dataset.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective case–control study used data sourced from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database.

The study included 365 patients with PC; 64 (17.6%) received ADT for more than 1 month.

Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate the association between ADT and the risk of stroke during the subsequent 5‐year follow‐up period, after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation and hyperlipidaemia.

RESULTS

In the total sample of 365 patients with PC, 68 (18.6%) patients had strokes during the 5‐year follow‐up period. These included 11 patients with PC who received ADT (17.2% of all patients who received ADT) and 57 patients who did not receive ADT (18.9% of patients who did not receive ADT).

After adjusting for potential confounders, no significant difference in the hazard of stroke was found between patients with PC who did and did not receive ADT (hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.80–1.50).

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in the risk of stroke between ethnic Chinese patients with PC who did and did not receive ADT, after adjusting for potential confounders.