bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy of Low‐Level Laser Therapy for Shoulder Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Haslerud Sturla , Magnussen Liv Heide , Joensen Jon , Lopes‐Martins Rodrigo Alvaro Brandao , Bjordal Jan Magnus
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose

Low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) is proposed as a treatment for tendinopathies. This is the first systematic review focusing solely on LLLT treatment effects in shoulder tendinopathy.

Methods

A systematic review with meta‐analysis and primary outcome measures pain relief on 100‐mm visual analogue scale (VAS) and relative risk for global improvement. Two independent assessors rated the included studies according to the PEDro scale. Intervention quality assessments were performed of LLLT dosage and treatment procedures according to World Association for Laser Therapy guidelines. The included trials were sub‐grouped by intervention quality and use of other physiotherapy interventions.

Results

Seventeen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the inclusion criteria, and 13 RCTs were of high and 4 RCTs of moderate methodological quality. Significant and clinically important pain relief was found with weighted mean differences (WMD) over placebo, for LLLT as monotherapy at 20.41 mm (95% CI: 12.38 to 28.44) and as adjunct to exercise therapy at 16.00 mm (95% CI: 11.88 to 20.12). The WMD when LLLT was used in a multimodal physiotherapy treatment regime reached statistical significance over placebo at 12.80 (95% CI: 1.67–23.94) mm pain reduction on VAS. Relative risks for global improvement were statistically significant at 1.96 (95% CI: 1.25–3.08) and 1.51 (95% CI: 1.12–2.03), for laser as monotherapy or adjunctive in a physiotherapy regime, respectively. Secondary outcome measures of shoulder function were only significantly in favour of LLLT when used as monotherapy. Trials performed with inadequate laser doses were ineffective across all outcome measures.

Conclusion

This review shows that optimal LLLT can offer clinically relevant pain relief and initiate a more rapid course of improvement, both alone and in combination with physiotherapy interventions. Our findings challenge the conclusions in previous multimodal shoulder reviews of physiotherapy and their lack of intervention quality assessments. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cariprazine exerts antimanic properties and interferes with dopamine D2 receptor β‐arrestin interactions
Authors: Gao Yonglin , Peterson Sean , Masri Bernard , Hougland M. Tyler , Adham Nika , Gyertyán Istvan , Kiss Béla , Caron Marc G. , El‐Mallakh Rif S.
Published: December 2014

Activation of dopamine D2 receptors (D2R) modulates G protein/cAMP‐dependent signaling and also engages Akt‐GSK‐3 signaling through D2R/β‐arrestin 2 scaffolding of Akt and PP2A. This G protein‐independent pathway may be important in mediating the antimanic effects of mood stabilizers and antipsychotics. The mood stabilizer lithium influences behavior and Akt/GSK‐3 signaling in mice and many antipsychotics have been shown to more potently antagonize the activity of the β‐arrestin‐2 pathway relative to the G protein‐dependent pathway. Cariprazine, an antipsychotic with potent D3R/D2R partial agonist activity and preferential binding to D3R, was investigated for its effects on the mediators of D2R pathways in vitro and its efficacy in animal models of mania. Effects on G protein‐dependent activity were measured via inhibition of isoproterenol‐induced cAMP production; effects on D2R/β‐arrestin 2 signaling were determined using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET). Cariprazine was tested in vivo for antimanic‐like activity, using the ouabain‐induced hyperactivity model in rats. Cariprazine was more potent than aripiprazole in inhibiting isoproterenol‐induced cAMP although both compounds showed similar maximum efficacy. In assays of D2R/β‐arrestin 2‐dependent interactions, cariprazine showed very weak partial agonist activity, unless the levels of receptor kinase were increased; as an antagonist it showed similar potency to haloperidol and ~fivefold greater potency than aripiprazole. In an animal model of mania, cariprazine showed similar efficacy as lithium in attenuating the effects of ouabain‐induced hyperactivity. In summary, the differential effects of cariprazine on D2R G protein and β‐arrestin 2 mediators of signal transduction pathways could contribute to its potent antimanic‐like activity.
Multifunctional adamantane derivatives as new scaffolds for the multipresentation of bioactive peptides
Authors: Grillaud Maxime , Bianco Alberto
Published: December 2014

The remarkable structural and chemical properties of adamantane afford attractive opportunities to design various adamantane‐based scaffolds for biomedical applications. A wide range of mono‐functionalized adamantane compounds have already been investigated and reviewed, mostly as anti‐viral agents. The four bridgehead positions of adamantane provide many possibilities to design poly‐functional derivatives, and the recent conception of adamantane building blocks with multiple substituents has shown promising applications in several domains. In this review, we provide a detailed description of the different ways to synthesize multifunctional derivatives starting from adamantane molecule as the main core. We will then describe the interesting biological activity of the diverse multivalent scaffolds, focusing in particular on peptide‐based systems. The results reported here will certainly encourage the development of novel adamantane‐based structures for biological purposes. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Knudsen cell mass spectrometry using restricted molecular beam collimation. I. Optimization of the beam from the vaporizing surface
Authors: Nuta Ioana , Chatillon Christian
Published: December 2014

RATIONALE

This study analyzes molecular beam sampling by mass spectrometry by the Knudsen method using the so‐called " restricted collimation device" . This device, defined by the field and source apertures, was proposed in order to eliminate any additional contribution to the genuine molecular beam of surface vaporizations coming from the vicinity of the effusion orifice as usually detected by the ion source of a mass spectrometer.

METHODS

The molecular transmission of the " restricted collimation device" was calculated using a vaporization law under vacuum taking into account the real surface where the molecules are emitted, i.e., the sample evaporation surface in the Knudsen cell or the effusion orifice section, towards the ion source inlet by integration of elementary solid angles.

RESULTS

An optimum is observed depending on the pair of selected apertures that define the restricted collimation device, i.e., the field and source apertures. This optimum is different from that previously calculated when taking into account only the solid angle, as defined by the restricted collimation device.

CONCLUSIONS

This difference is attributed to the previously approximate assumption that optimizing the restricted collimation solid angle automatically optimizes the sampling of the effused beam included in the restricted collimation angle. Moreover, the location of the evaporating surface for molecules traveling through the collimation device towards the ionization chamber remains an important factor: the distance between the sample evaporation surface and the field aperture is of paramount importance as it changes the molecular transmission to the mass spectrometer or to any target collection device in the conventional Knudsen method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calcined bone provides a reliable substrate for strontium isotope ratios as shown by an enrichment experiment
Authors: Snoeck Christophe , Lee‐Thorp Julia , Schulting Rick , de Jong Jeroen , Debouge Wendy , Mattielli Nadine
Published: December 2014

RATIONALE

Strontium isotopes (87Sr/86Sr) are used in archaeological and forensic science as markers of residence or mobility because they reflect the local geological substrate. Currently, tooth enamel is considered to be the most reliable tissue, but it rarely survives heating so that in cremations only calcined bone fragments survive. We set out to test the proposition that calcined bone might prove resistant to diagenesis, given its relatively high crystallinity, as the ability to measure in vivo 87Sr/86Sr from calcined bone would greatly extend application to places and periods in which cremation was the dominant mortuary practice, or where unburned bone and enamel do not survive.

METHODS

Tooth enamel and calcined bone samples were exposed to a 87Sr‐spiked solution for up to 1 year. Samples were removed after various intervals, and attempts were made to remove the contamination using acetic acid washes and ultrasonication. 87Sr/86Sr was measured before and after pre‐treatment on a Nu Plasma multi‐collector induced coupled plasma mass spectrometer using NBS987 as a standard.

RESULTS

The strontium isotopic ratios of all samples immersed in the spiked solution were strongly modified showing that significant amounts of strontium had been adsorbed or incorporated. After pre‐treatment the enamel samples still contained significant amounts of 87Sr‐enriched contamination while the calcined bone fragments did not.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the artificial enrichment experiment demonstrate that calcined bone is more resistant to post‐mortem exchange than tooth enamel, and that in vivo strontium isotopic ratios are retained in calcined bone. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concise Reviews: Characteristics and Potential Applications of Human Dental Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Junjun , Yu Fang , Sun Yao , Jiang Beizhan , Zhang Wenjun , Yang Jianhua , Xu Guo-Tong , Liang Aibin , Liu Shangfeng
Published: December 2014

Recently, numerous types of human dental tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been isolated and characterized, including dental pulp stem cells, stem cells from exfoliated deciduous teeth, periodontal ligament stem cells, dental follicle progenitor cells, alveolar bone-derived MSCs, stem cells from apical papilla, tooth germ progenitor cells, and gingival MSCs. All these MSC-like cells exhibit self-renewal, multilineage differentiation potential, and immunomodulatory properties. Several studies have demonstrated the potential advantages of dental stem cell-based approaches for regenerative treatments and immunotherapies. This review outlines the properties of various dental MSC-like populations and the progress toward their use in regenerative therapy. Several dental stem cell banks worldwide are also introduced, with a view toward future clinical application. Stem Cells  2015;33:627–638
Strings vs. spins on the null orbifold
Authors: Kiran K. Surya , Krishnan Chethan , Saurabh Ayush , Simón Joan
Published: December 2014

Abstract

We study the null orbifold singularity in 2+1 d flat space higher spin theory as well as string theory. Using the Chern-Simons formulation of 2+1 d Einstein gravity, we first observe that despite the singular nature of this geometry, the eigenvalues of its Chern-Simons holonomy are trivial. Next, we construct a resolution of the singularity in higher spin theory: a Kundt spacetime with vanishing scalar curvature invariants. We also point out that the UV divergences previously observed in the 2-to-2 tachyon tree level string amplitude on the null orbifold do not arise in the α′ → ∞ limit. We find all the divergences of the amplitude and demonstrate that the ones remaining in the tensionless limit are physical IR-type divergences. We conclude with a discussion on the meaning and limitations of higher spin (cosmological) singularity resolution and its potential connection to string theory.
Evaluation of enzyme dose and dose‐frequency in ameliorating substrate accumulation in MPS IIIA Huntaway dog brain
Authors: King Barbara , Marshall Neil , Beard Helen , Hassiotis Sofia , Trim Paul J. , Snel Marten F. , Rozaklis Tina , Jolly Robert D. , Hopwood John J. , Hemsley Kim M.
Published: December 2014

Intracerebrospinal fluid (CSF) infusion of replacement enzyme is under evaluation for amelioration of disease‐related symptoms and biomarker changes in patients with the lysosomal storage disorder mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS IIIA; www.clinicaltrials.gov; NCT#01155778; #01299727). Determining the optimal dose/dose‐frequency is important, given the invasive method for chronically supplying recombinant protein to the brain, the main site of symptom generation. To examine these variables, we utilised MPS IIIA Huntaway dogs, providing recombinant human sulphamidase (rhSGSH) to young pre‐symptomatic dogs from an age when MPS IIIA dog brain exhibits significant accumulation of primary (heparan sulphate) and secondary (glycolipid) substrates. Enzyme was infused into CSF via the cisterna magna at one of two doses (3 mg or 15 mg/infusion), with the higher dose supplied at two different intervals; fortnightly or monthly. Euthanasia was carried out 24 h after the final injection. Dose‐ and frequency‐dependent reductions in heparan sulphate were observed in CSF and deeper layers of cerebral cortex. When we examined the amount of immunostaining of the general endo/lysosomal marker, LIMP‐2, or quantified activated microglia, the higher fortnightly dose resulted in superior outcomes in affected dogs. Secondary lesions such as accumulation of GM3 ganglioside and development of GAD‐reactive axonal spheroids were treated to a similar degree by both rhSGSH doses and dose frequencies. Our findings indicate that the lower fortnightly dose is sub‐optimal for ameliorating existing and preventing further development of disease‐related pathology in young MPS IIIA dog brain; however, increasing the dose fivefold but halving the frequency of administration enabled near normalisation of disease‐related biomarkers.
Seasonal pattern and induction cues of diel vertical migration of Chaoborus flavicans in Lake Fukami‐ike, Nagano, Japan
Authors: Nagano Mariko , Yagi Akihiko , Yoshida Takehito
Published: December 2014

Diel vertical migration (DVM), which is a well‐known behavior of planktonic organisms, is influenced by several factors, including predation, ultraviolet radiation, temperature, and food. The larvae of Chaoborus (Diptera) exhibit DVM in lakes and ponds. However, it is unclear whether the DVM of Chaoborus larvae changes seasonally and whether induction cues influence the seasonal pattern of DVM. In this study, we report that Chaoborus larvae showed DVM throughout the year in a eutrophic lake (Lake Fukami‐ike, Japan). Our laboratory experiment demonstrated that the larvae showed DVM in response to light change even when they were not exposed to fish kairomone at water temperatures typical of winter and summer in the studied lake. These results differed from those of previous studies on other Chaoborus populations showing that both fish kairomone and light change were necessary to induce DVM, which suggests variation in the induction cues among local populations. We suggest that for Chaoborus larvae in Lake Fukami‐ike, a seasonally continuous DVM induced solely by light change is adaptive to their particular habitat where the population is exposed to fish predation throughout the year.
Radiographic Anatomy of the Native Anterior Cruciate Ligament: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sullivan Jaron P. , Cook Shane , Gao Yubo , Wolf Brian R.
Published: December 2014

Background

In an attempt to improve the accuracy and reproducibility of tunnel positioning, radiographs are being analyzed in an attempt to recreate the native anatomy of the ACL. Understanding the native ACL radiographic anatomy is an essential prerequisite to understand the relevance of postoperative tunnel position.

Questions/Purposes

We performed a systematic review of the literature to delineate the radiographic location of the native ACL femoral and tibial footprints.

Methods

A search was performed in March 2014 in PubMed, the Cochrane Collaboration Library, and EMBASE to identify all studies that evaluated the native anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) anatomy on radiographs. Various measurement methods were used in each study, and averages were obtained of the data from studies with the same measurement methods.

Results

Fifteen papers were identified (which included data on 177 femora and 207 tibiae in total). Evaluation of the femoral footprint using the quadrant method on lateral knee radiographs showed that the average percent distance location of the anteromedial (AM) bundle and posterolateral (PL) bundle was 22.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 16.59–28.90) and 32.5% (95% CI 27.71–37.26) from the posterior condyle, respectively, and 23.2% (95% CI 19.52–26.94) and 50.0% (95% CI 46.16–53.76) from Blumensaat's line, respectively. Using the Amis and Jacob method, the tibial footprint on the lateral knee radiograph average percent distances was 35.1% (95% CI 34.46–35.72) for the center of the AM bundle and 47.3% (95% CI 41.69–52.95) for the center of the PL bundle of the ACL. The femoral and tibial ACL footprints on the anteroposterior (AP) views of the knee were not well delineated by these studies.

Conclusion

The information presented in this systematic review offers surgeons another important tool for accurate ACL footprint identification.
The Pitfalls of Parliamentarisation: Why the Procedure of Appointing the European Commission should be Changed
Authors: Decker Frank
Published: December 2014

After the European elections of 2014, the European Parliament managed to seize the power to select the Commission president from the EU heads of state and government. This democratic advance, however, is yet to find its counterpart in the subsequent process of selecting the other commissioners. For one thing, the entitlement to equal representation of all 28 member states hinders any reduction of the Commission to a more workable size. For another, because the right to nominate commissioners rests solely with the national governments, the composition of the Commission primarily reflects the partisan majorities of the Council rather than those of the Parliament, leading to a limited reflection of the president's mandate in the composition of the Commission. The following article examines how these problems could be resolved. It proposes a moderate amendment to the parity principle to reduce the Commission's size, a larger pool of candidates from which to select commissioners and the election of candidates by European citizens. The last proposal could even be implemented without any change to the treaties.
European Security: Stop Sleeping and Wake Up
Authors: Pabriks Artis
Published: December 2014

The twenty-first century has come with new security challenges, some of which are being played out very close to Europe's borders. One of the latest examples is Russia's growing aggression, which is challenging European political principles and core values. Russia appears to be testing the unity and strength of the Western world. For its part, Europe seems unable to wake up to the threat. But there is no time to lie back: our response must be immediate. Europe must acknowledge that it could face a military threat on its own territory–-war is not a ghost of the past but a present reality. Our goals should be the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory and ensuring that Ukraine has full control over its borders. Serious efforts should also be made to bolster EU security through closer cooperation with NATO and increased defence budgets.
The Maker Movement: A New Avenue for Competition in the EU
Authors: Howard Charles , Gerosa Andrea , Mejuto Maria Carrasco , Giannella Gregor
Published: December 2014

The growing popularity and increasing impact of the Maker Movement has the potential to modify long-established industrial design, manufacturing and funding processes on a global scale. Characterised by a renewed interest in entrepreneurial activity, Maker communities are becoming commonplace worldwide, shaped by rapid changes in technology and global interconnection. The Maker ethos of tinkering, experimenting, and creating platforms for learning and collaboration, while being crucial for new forms of innovation, raises key questions for EU policy and competiveness. If the EU is to capitalise on this emerging phenomenon and measure itself against both established economies (the US) and emerging economies (Asia and Central America), it must solidify its entrepreneurial advantage: that of the single market.
The relationship between academic assessment and psychological distress among medical students: a systematic review
Authors: Lyndon Mataroria P. , Strom Joanna M. , Hussain M. Alyami Hussain M. , Yu Tzu-Chieh , Wilson Nichola C. , Singh Primal P. , Lemanu Daniel P. , Yielder Jill , Hill Andrew G.
Published: December 2014

A systematic review was conducted to determine the relationship between academic assessment and medical student psychological distress with the aim of informing assessment practices. A systematic literature search of six electronic databases (Medline, Medline IN PROCESS, PubMed, EMBASE, Psychinfo, ERIC) from 1991 to May 2014 was completed. Articles focusing on academic assessment and its relation to stress or anxiety of medical students were included. From 3,986 potential titles, 82 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, and 23 studies met review inclusion criteria. Studies focused on assessment stress or anxiety, and assessment performance. Consistent among the studies was the finding that assessment invokes stress or anxiety, perhaps more so for female medical students. A relationship may exist between assessment stress or anxiety and impaired performance. Significant risks of bias were common in study methodologies. There is evidence to suggest academic assessment is associated with psychological distress among medical students. However, differences in the types of measures used by researchers limited our ability to draw conclusions about which methods of assessment invoke greater distress. More rigorous study designs and the use of standardized measures are required. Future research should consider differences in students’ perceived significance of assessments, the psychological effects of constant exposure to assessment, and the role of assessment in preparing students for clinical practice.
Fabry cardiomyopathy presenting with a high defibrillation threshold: A short case report
Authors: Kanda Takashi , Masuda Masaharu , Sunaga Akihiro , Fujita Masashi , Iida Osamu , Okamoto Shin , Ishihara Takayuki , Nanto Kiyonori , Shiraki Tatsuya , Sera Fusako , Uematsu Masaaki
Published: December 2014

Fabry disease is an X‐linked recessive glycosphingolipid storage disorder caused by a deficiency of lysosomal enzyme α‐galactosidase A. It is recognized that Fabry disease patients often have ventricular arrhythmias. Although the effectiveness of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) therapy in patients with ventricular fibrillation is established, there is little evidence regarding ICD therapy for Fabry disease. Here, we report the case of patient with Fabry disease who was treated with an ICD and presented with high defibrillation thresholds.
Severe pneumonia in mycophenolate mofetil combined with low‐dose corticosteroids‐treated patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: Wan Qi‐Jun , Hu Hao‐Fei , He Yong‐Cheng , Luan Shao‐Dong , Chen Hong‐Tao , Liu Hong‐Ping , Li Tong , Xu Yi , Xu Hui‐Li , Liao Ying
Published: December 2014

The tolerance of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF; Shanghai Roche, China) in Lee Classes III, IV, and V immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) remains unclear. This article reports nine cases of severe pneumonia (SP), including pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonia, and its risk factors in MMF plus low‐dose corticosteroid‐treated patients with Lee Classes III, IV, and V IgAN. Fifty‐three patients with IgAN were included in this single‐center study. The treatment regimen was MMF (1–1.5 g/d) plus low‐dose corticosteroids (0.5 mg/kg/d). SP was defined as diffuse bilateral lung infiltrate with respiratory failure. PCP was diagnosed by detecting the organisms in the sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage. CMV infection was diagnosed through serum screening for CMV‐IgG and IgM antibodies and CMV‐DNA testing by a real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay. The risk factors of SP were analyzed. Nine cases (16.9%) of SP occurred in this study. All SP developed at approximately the 10th–14th week after the initiation of the regimen: PCP was diagnosed in four cases and CMV infection in two cases. Renal function impairing was more serious in patients with SP than in those without SP, as evidenced by estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.019) and serum creatinine level (p = 0.016). Six of the nine SPs occurred in MMP plus low‐dose methylprednisolone group, which was statistically higher than that in the MMF plus low‐dose prednisone group (p = 0.000). The incidence of SP in this study was 16.9%. Chronically impaired renal function and the use of methylprednisolone may be the risk factors for SP.
Land, Power, And Dependency along the Gambia River, Late Eighteenth to Early Nineteenth Centuries
Authors: Sarr Assan
Published: December 2014

The role of power over people and over land is an important issue in West Africa, with important implications for relationships between commoners and elites. Along with conquest, slave raiding, marriage, and procreation, control over land has enhanced the ability of chiefs and other elites to gain control over people, thus increasing their production and reinforcing social hierarchy and centralization of power. This article utilizes oral evidence and European documentary sources to examine the importance of the concept of “wealth-in-people” for understanding the significance of land in African societies. By focusing on the Gambia region, where both paddy and upland rice farming were practiced in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, the article contributes empirical observations to support the argument that control over both land and people played a central role in the accumulation of wealth in many African societies.
The Life and Times of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux, AD 1091–1153
Authors: Morison James Cotter
Published: December 2014

This work, first published in 1863, relates the biography of a complex, visionary reformer from his birth in 1091 to his death in 1153, capturing in the process the major currents of twelfth-century politics, culture and faith. From the foundation of the Cistercian Abbey of Clairvaux to its rise as a centre of monastic austerity and devotion, the book traces Saint Bernard's participation in the seismic events of his day, including the creation of the Knights Templar, the rise of scholasticism and the preaching of the Second Crusade. Told in a lucid, anecdotal style by the Victorian essayist, biographer and political reformer James Cotter Morison (1832–88), whose friends included Matthew Arnold and Thomas Carlyle, this is an important work of Victorian medievalist criticism, capturing the spirit of its own age even as it evokes the spirit of another.
Feeding panicled tick-clover to growing goats reduces Haemonchus contortus infection without negative effects on growth
Authors: Cherry N.M. , Bullinger M. , Lambert B.D. , Muir J.P. , Whitney T.W. , Miller J.E. , Sawyer J.T.
Published: December 2014

In an effort to identify a forage legume with condensed tannins (CT) that reduce gastro-intestinal nematodes (GIN) in small ruminants without negative effects on nutrition, the following trial looked at the effects of two legumes containing CT on average daily gain (ADG) and faecal egg counts (FEC) in kid goats. Lespedeza cuneata (sericea lespedeza, SL) and Desmodium paniculatum (panicled tick-clover; PTC) were pelleted into isonitrogenous complete feeds containing 3.8% CT in a four week feeding trial. Compared to the alfalfa (Medicago sativa) control diet, SL decreased (P ≤ 0.05) feed efficiency and ADG while PTC had the same (P > 0.05) feed efficiency as alfalfa. The SL and PTC pelleted feeds increased (P = 0.006) daily feed intake by 4.5 kg and 3.7 kg, respectively, compared to alfalfa control, while kids consuming SL and PTC showed an average 44% reduction (P ≤ 0.05) in FEC compared to those fed alfalfa. The results showed that feeding PTC, an herbaceous, perennial legume native to much of North America, to goats may provide a natural means of reducing ruminant GIN while simultaneously providing a source of protein.
The morphodynamics of a swash event on an erodible beach
Authors: Zhu Fangfang , Dodd Nicholas
Published: December 2014

A high-accuracy numerical solution, coupling one-dimensional shallow water and bed-evolution equations, with, for the first time, a suspended sediment advection equation, thereby including bed and/or suspended load, is used to examine two swash events on an initially plane erodible beach: the event of Peregrine & Williams (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 440, 2001, pp. 391–399) and that of a solitary wave approaching the beach. Equations are solved by the method of characteristics, and the numerical model is verified. Full coupling of suspended load to beach change for Peregrine & Williams (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 440, 2001, pp. 391–399) yields only slightly altered swash flows, depending on beach mobility and sediment response time; a series of similar final beach change patterns results for different beach mobilities. Suspended- and bed-load transport have distinct morphodynamical signatures. For the solitary wave a backwash bore is created (Hibberd & Peregrine, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 95, 1979, pp. 323–345). This morphodynamical bore propagates offshore initially, and leads to the creation of a beach bed step (Larson & Sunamura, J. Sedimentary Petrology, vol. 63, 1993, pp. 495–500), primarily due to bed-load transport. Its height is directly related to bed-load mobility, and also depends strongly on the bed friction coefficient. The shock dynamics of this bed step is explained and illustrated. Bed- and suspended-load mobilities are quantified using field data, and an attempt is made to relate predictions to measurements of single swash events on a natural beach. Average predicted bed change magnitudes across the swash are of the order of 2 mm, with maximum bed changes of up to approximately 10 cm at the bed step.
Toroidal and poloidal energy in rotating Rayleigh–Bénard convection
Authors: Horn Susanne , Shishkina Olga
Published: December 2014

We consider rotating Rayleigh–Bénard convection of a fluid with a Prandtl number of $\mathit{Pr}=0.8$ in a cylindrical cell with an aspect ratio ${\it\Gamma}=1/2$. Direct numerical simulations (DNS) were performed for the Rayleigh number range $10^{5}\leqslant \mathit{Ra}\leqslant 10^{9}$ and the inverse Rossby number range $0\leqslant 1/\mathit{Ro}\leqslant 20$. We propose a method to capture regime transitions based on the decomposition of the velocity field into toroidal and poloidal parts. We identify four different regimes. First, a buoyancy-dominated regime occurring while the toroidal energy $e_{tor}$ is not affected by rotation and remains equal to that in the non-rotating case, $e_{tor}^{0}$. Second, a rotation-influenced regime, starting at rotation rates where $e_{tor}>e_{tor}^{0}$ and ending at a critical inverse Rossby number $1/\mathit{Ro}_{cr}$ that is determined by the balance of the toroidal and poloidal energy, $e_{tor}=e_{pol}$. Third, a rotation-dominated regime, where the toroidal energy $e_{tor}$ is larger than both $e_{pol}$ and $e_{tor}^{0}$. Fourth, a geostrophic regime for high rotation rates where the toroidal energy drops below the value for non-rotating convection.
LOST ON PENALTIES
Authors: O'Sullivan Janet
Published: December 2014

FREEDOM of contract is a fundamental principle of English law, but it is of course qualified by numerous protective regimes, some common law, most statutory nowadays, which protect vulnerable parties from untrammelled, unequal free bargaining. It is, quite rightly, exceptional for an experienced commercial party, negotiating at arm's length and with the benefit of specialist professional advice, to succeed in invoking such a regime to escape being bound by what he freely agreed. Yet, in Cavendish Square Holdings BV v Makdessi [2013] EWCA Civ 1539, this was precisely the controversial result.
RECOVERING MISAPPLIED CORPORATE ASSETS FROM REMOTER RECIPIENTS
Authors: Watterson Stephen
Published: December 2014

IN Relfo Ltd. (in liquidation) v Varsani [2014] EWCA Civ 360, the defendant (Bhimji Varsani) had received US$878,469.35 which allegedly represented £500,000 of Relfo's funds that its director (Gorecia) had improperly caused to be paid away, without authority and in breach of his duties as director. Relfo's liquidator subsequently sued the defendant to recover what it had lost. Though Relfo's proprietary claim failed, the Court of Appeal held, affirming Sales J.'s judgment, that Relfo had a personal claim for the sums received by the defendant on two bases: (1) a cause of action for knowing receipt; and (2) a cause of action in unjust enrichment. In so holding, the Court faced several questions of substantial wider significance.
RESULTING TRUSTS: A VICTORY FOR UNJUST ENRICHMENT?
Authors: Leow Rachel , Liau Timothy
Published: December 2014

WHEN do resulting trusts arise, and why? These questions were the subject of serious inquiry in the 1990s, following influential work by Peter Birks and Robert Chambers, which argued that resulting trusts arise to reverse unjust enrichment. The House of Lords in Westdeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale v Islington London Borough Council [1996] A.C. 669 remarked that the Birks/Chambers thesis was “avowedly experimental, written to test the temperature of the water”, but that “the temperature of the water must be regarded as decidedly cold”. Following Westdeutsche, the issue has received little consideration, although academic interest in the debate remains. The recent decision of the Singapore Court of Appeal in Chan Yuen Lan v See Fong Mun [2014] SGCA 36 considered this issue in detail and is therefore worth examining.
Embracing Defeat in Seoul: Rethinking Decolonization in Korea, 1945
Authors: Watt Lori
Published: December 2014

Revisiting the political and social history of Seoul, Korea, in 1945, this article assesses responses to Japanese defeat and the end of empire in the context of American military occupation. The arrival of the Americans forced Japanese and Koreans alike to rethink their positions in the world. Drawing on past colonial practices, Japanese residents used the immediate post-surrender moment to ponder their future prospects, recording those thoughts in a number of public and private sources. They negotiated the passage from a colonial to a post-imperial society, I argue, by embracing a consciousness of a defeated people while disregarding criticisms of colonial rule. This investigation seeks to interpret the immediate post-World War II moment in Seoul less as a founding moment of the Cold War and more as an important transition in the history of decolonization.
Predictors of Unfavourable Seizure Outcome in Patients with Epilepsy in Nepal
Authors: Lohani Subash , Devkota Upendra P. , Rajbhandari Hemav
Published: December 2014

Background:

Despite optimal medical therapy, a sizeable number of patients continue to have persistent seizures. We evaluated the association of pretreatment and treatment variables with unfavorable seizure outcome.

Methods:

Patients with follow-up over 12 years in the Nepal Epilepsy Association were evaluated. Patients having seizures for at least a year and already on polytherapy after failure of two monotherapy trials were considered having unfavourable outcome. Variables under study were: age, sex, duration and frequency of seizures prior to treatment, type of seizure, neurological status, Computed Tomography (CT) finding, and failure of first anti-epileptic drug (AED). Bivariate analysis was done with Chi-square and Fisher exact tests. Potential interaction between variables was studied with a logistic regression analysis.

Results:

Out of a total 529 consecutive patients, 490 were included in the study. Unfavorable seizure outcome was seen in 26.8% of patients. Among 284 patients who remained viable for analysis, bivariate analysis showed significant association of unfavorable outcome with frequency of seizure (p 0.01), abnormal neurological status (p 0.01) and failure of first AED (p 0.00), while no significant association was seen with age at onset (p 0.45), sex (p 0.47), duration of seizure (p 0.43), type of seizure (p 0.12), and presence of CT abnormality (p 0.46). The fitted regression model portended an unfavorable prognosis with failure of first AED and abnormal neurological status, however, failed to show significant association with frequency of seizure.

Conclusions:

Failure of first AED trial and associated neurological deficits are significant predictors of unfavorable seizure outcome.
Acquired Monocular Nystagmus as the Initial Presenting Sign of a Chiasmal Glioma
Authors: Jacob Francois Dominique , Ramaswamy Vijay , Goez Helly R.
Published: December 2014

A 15-month-old male presented with a one-day history of acute onset, continuous oscillating movement of his right eye. He had received his one-year immunizations four days prior and had a four-day history of a febrile viral respiratory tract infection. Pregnancy was unremarkable. He had severe iron deficiency anemia (MCV 66, Hb 65) and was developmentally delayed, as he was unable to stand independently and was non-verbal. His head circumference was 49 cm (95th percentile) and his weight was at the 25th percentile. On physical examination, continuous horizontal large amplitude pendular nystagmus of the right eye at a frequency of 3-4 Hz was observed. No nystagmus was observed in the left eye, even on funduscopic examination. The child could fixate targets in all four quadrants with both eyes independently, and could fixate and track small objects with both eyes independently suggesting no significant visual field defect or visual loss. Dilated funduscopic examination was normal, extra ocular movements were full, pupils were equal and reactive and there was no relative afferent pupillary defect. The remainder of the neurological examination was normal. There was no head bobbing or anomalous head position and no stigmata of neurofibromatosis type 1. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain (Figure) demonstrated a 2 cm x 1.6 cm x 1.2 cm suprasellar enhancing mass involving the optic chiasm, hypothalamus, mamillary bodies and superior pituitary stalk. There was no extension into the pituitary fossa or the optic nerves and no ventricular enlargement. A biopsy of the mass was obtained and revealed histology consistent with a low-grade pilocystic astrocytoma (World Health Organization (WHO) grade 1), consistent with a diagnosis of chiasmal glioma.
MicroRNA Signatures in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Shafi Gowhar , Aliya Nishat , Munshi Anjana
Published: December 2014

A class of small, non-coding transcripts called microRNAs (miRNAs) that play a major role in post-transcriptional gene regulation has recently emerged and become the focus of intense research. MicroRNAs are abundant in the nervous system, where they have key roles in development and are likely to be important mediators of plasticity. A highly conserved pathway of miRNA biogenesis is closely linked to the transport and translatability of mRNAs in neurons. MicroRNAs have been shown to modulate programmed cell death during development. Although there are nearly 750 known human miRNA sequences, each of only approximately 20-25 nucleotides in length that bind to multiple mRNA targets, the accurate prediction of miRNA targets seems to lie just beyond our grasp. Nevertheless, the identification of such targets promises to provide new insights into many facets of neuronal function. In this review, we briefly describe miRNA biogenesis and the principle approaches for studying the function of miRNAs and potential application of miRNAs as biomarkers, diagnostic targets, and potential therapeutic tools of human diseases in general and neurological disorders in particular.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Canadian Paediatric Neuromuscular Physicians Survey
Authors: McMillan Hugh J. , Campbell Craig , Mah Jean K.
Published: December 2014

Background:

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common form of muscular dystrophy in childhood.

Method:

To assess the current care of paediatric DMD patients in Canada, a questionnaire was mailed to 17 physicians who were members of the Canadian paediatric neuromuscular group. Areas of enquiry included; 1) multidisciplinary team composition; 2) means of DMD diagnosis; 3) corticosteroid use; surveillance and management for: 4) orthopaedic, 5) respiratory and 6) cardiac complications and 7) health maintenance (nutrition & immunizations).

Results:

Completed surveys were returned by 14/17 (82%) of physicians. Twelve respondents followed DMD patients. All centres had multidisciplinary teams, including respirology (11/12), child neurology or physiatry (11), physiotherapy (9), occupational therapy (9) and orthopaedic surgery (7). Deflazacort 0.9mg/kg/d was used at all centres, which was continued after loss of independent ambulation (11), along with routine calcium and vitamin D supplementation (10). Night splints were prescribed at all centres. Routine surveillance studies included pulmonary function testing (11), sleep studies (10), EKG/echocardiogram (10), bone density (DEXA) scans (10), spine radiography (9), and dietician referral (4).

Conclusion:

Paediatric DMD patients are receiving relatively consistent care in multidisciplinary clinics across Canada, in accordance with recommended guidelines for DMD.
Proteasome Inhibitor Lactacystin Induces Cholinergic Degeneration
Authors: Zhou Hai-Yan , Tan Yu-Yan , Wang Zhi-Quan , Wang Gang , Lu Guo-Qiang , Chen Sheng-Di
Published: December 2014

Objective:

Ubiquitin proteasome system dysfunction is believed to play an important role in the development of Parkinson's disease (PD), and almost all studies till now have mainly focused on the susceptibility of dopaminergic neurons to proteasome inhibition. However, in fact, there are many other types of neurons such as cholinergic ones involved in PD. In our present study, we attempt to figure out what effect the failure of ubiquitin proteasome function would execute on cholinergic cells in culture.

Methods:

We treated cholinergic cells in culture with various doses of lactacystin. Then MTT assay was used to evaluate the cellular viability and the Annexin V-PI method was used to detect apoptosis. Both cellular soluble and insoluble polyubiquitinated proteins were detected by western blot. Furthermore, the mitochondrial membrane potential was analyzed using JC-1 and the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined using the fluorescent probe CM-H2DCFDA.

Results:

We found that low doses of lactacystin were enough to induce significant apoptotic cell death, disturb the mitochondrial membrane potential, and cause oxidative stress. We also found that the amounts of polyubiquitinated proteins dramatically increased with high doses, although the loss of cells did not increase accordingly.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that cholinergic cells are sensitive to ubiquitin proteasome system dysfunction, which exerts its toxic effect by causing mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequent oxidative stress, not through polyubiquitinated proteins accumulation.
Utility of Transcranial Doppler in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Hunter Gary , Voll Chris , Rajput Michele
Published: December 2014

Introduction:

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) can be an elusive diagnosis, and poor visual outcomes may occur. Currently, the only means of accurately diagnosing and following these patients is with repeated lumbar puncture. Previous work has shown that transcranial doppler measurements of pulsatility correlate accurately with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). This study is designed to assess whether pulsatility index (PI) correlates with ICP in patients newly diagnosed with IIH.

Methods:

Seven patients with clinical suspicion of IIH were included in this study. Clinical suspicion was based on history of recurrent headaches and papilledema. All patients had otherwise normal examinations and imaging. Middle cerebral arteries were insonated to obtain average PI values. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was then withdrawn, and closing pressures were recorded. Pulsatility index values were then obtained again, within ten minutes after completing CSF withdrawal. PI values were correlated with ICP values, and pre and post CSF withdrawal values were compared.

Results:

All seven patients had elevated opening pressures (average 39 cm H2O, range 27-70). The average closing pressure after approximately 30 cc of CSF withdrawal was 11.9 cm H2O. The average PI before CSF withdrawal was 0.95, which dropped to 0.70 after CSF withdrawal (p = 0.02). The change in ICP was found to be correlated with a change in PI (p = 0.004).

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that PI may be useful for following patients with IIH non-invasively. Further study with larger groups and blinded assessments should be useful in better characterizing the accuracy of this technique.
Selection Bias Introduced by Neuropsychological Assessments
Authors: Olson Robert , Parkinson Maureen , McKenzie Michael
Published: December 2014

Objective:

Two prospective studies in patient with brain tumours were performed comparing the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The first assessed their feasibility and the second compared their diagnostic accuracy against a four-hour neuropsychological assessment (NPA). The introduction of the NPA decreased accrual and retention rates. We were therefore concerned regarding potential selection bias.

Methods:

Ninety-two patients were prospectively accrued and subsequently divided into three categories: a) no NPA required b) withdrew consent to NPA c) completed NPA. In order to quantify any potential bias introduced by the NPA, patient demographics and cognitive test scores were compared between the three groups.

Results:

There were significant differences in age (p<0.001), education (p=0.034), dexamethasone use (p=0.002), MMSE (p=0.005), and MoCA scores (p<0.001) across the different study groups. Furthermore, with increasing involvement of the NPA, patients' cognitive scores and educational status increased, while their age, dexamethasone use, and opioid use all decreased. Individuals who completed the NPA had higher MoCA scores than individuals who were not asked to complete the NPA (24.7 vs. 20.5; p < 0.001). In addition, this relationship held when restricting the analyses to individuals with brain metastases (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

In this study, the lengthy NPA chosen introduced a statistically and clinically significant source of selection bias. These results highlight the importance of selecting brief and well tolerated assessments when possible. However, researchers are challenged by weighing the improved selection bias associated with brief assessments at the cost of reduced diagnostic accuracy.