bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric asthma control in Asia: Phase 2 of the Asthma Insights and Reality in Asia‐Pacific (AIRIAP 2) survey
Authors: Wong G. W. K. , Kwon N. , Hong J. G. , Hsu J.‐Y. , Gunasekera K. D.
Published: February 2013

Background

We conducted Phase 2 of the Asthma Insights and Reality in the Asia‐Pacific (AIRIAP 2) survey in 2006 to determine the level of asthma control in this region and the validity of the Asthma Control Test™ (ACT) and childhood ACT (C‐ACT) in relation to asthma control.

Methods

Pediatric participants (0 to <16 years; N = 988) with diagnosed asthma and current asthma symptoms or taking anti‐asthma medications were recruited from 12 geographic areas in Asia. The survey consisted of the AIRIAP 2 questionnaire (asthma symptoms, use of urgent healthcare services and anti‐asthma medication) and the ACT or C‐ACT (English or Chinese translations only), both administered in the participant's preferred language. A symptom control index based on the Global Initiative for Asthma criteria (except lung function) was used to classify asthma control status.

Results

Most participants had inadequately controlled asthma (‘uncontrolled’ = 53.4%, 528/988; ‘partly controlled’ = 44.0%, 435/988). Only 2.5% (25/988) had ‘controlled’ asthma. Demand for urgent healthcare services (51.7%, 511/988) and use of short‐acting beta‐agonists (55.2%, 545/988) was high. The optimal ACT and C‐ACT cutoff score for detecting uncontrolled asthma (compared with controlled or partly controlled asthma) was determined to be ≤19 (receiver operating characteristic analysis) with good agreement between the ACT and C‐ACT and the symptom control index.

Conclusions

Findings from this survey show that asthma control is suboptimal in many children in the Asia‐Pacific region. Practical tools, such as the ACT or C‐ACT, may help clinicians assess asthma control and facilitate adjustment of asthma medication.
Management of prolonged post‐operative ileus: evidence‐based recommendations
Authors: Vather Ryash , Bissett Ian
Published: February 2013

Background

Prolonged post‐operative ileus (PPOI) occurs in up to 25% of patients following major elective abdominal surgery. It is associated with a higher risk of developing post‐operative complications, prolongs hospital stay and confers a significant financial load on health‐care institutions. Literature outlining best‐practice management strategies for PPOI is nebulous. The aim of this text was to review the literature and provide concise evidence‐based recommendations for its management.

Methods

A literature search through the Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar and Cochrane databases was performed from inception to July 2012 using a combination of keywords and MeSH terms. Review of the literature was followed by synthesis of concise recommendations for management accompanied by Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (either A, B or C).

Results

Recommendations for management include regular evaluation and correction of electrolytes (B); review of analgesic prescription with weaning of narcotics and substitution with regular paracetamol, regular non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs if not contraindicated, and regular or as‐required Tramadol (A); nasogastric decompression for those with nausea or vomiting as prominent features (C); isotonic dextrose‐saline crystalloid maintenance fluids administered within a restrictive regimen (B); balanced isotonic crystalloid replacement fluids containing supplemental potassium, in equivalent volume to losses (C); regular ambulation (C); parenteral nutrition if unable to tolerate an adequate oral intake for more than 7 days post‐operatively (A) and exclusion of precipitating pathology or alternate diagnoses if clinically suspected (C).

Conclusions

Recommendations have a variable and frequently inconsistent evidence base. Further research is required to validate many of the outlined recommendations and to investigate novel interventions that may be used to shorten duration of PPOI.
The effects of reducing the thermal index for bone from 1.0 to 0.5 and 0.1 on common obstetric pulsed wave Doppler measurements in the second half of pregnancy
Authors: Sande Ragnar K. , Matre Knut , Eide Geir E. , Kiserud Torvid
Published: February 2013

Objective

To test the hypothesis that clinically relevant vessels can be visualized and interrogated with Doppler recording during the second half of pregnancy at an output energy below the currently advocated limits without loss of information.

Design

Observational cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary fetal medicine center.

Sample

Based on a power calculation for equivalence studies, we recruited 65 pregnant women.

Methods

Ultrasound examination was performed at 18, 24 or 36 weeks of gestation. The umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, ductus venosus, and both uterine arteries were identified using color Doppler, and the blood velocities were measured using pulsed wave Doppler at a thermal index for bone (TIB) of 1.0. This procedure was repeated at TIB values of 0.5 and 0.1. The depth of Doppler recording was noted.

Main outcome measures

Visualization of the vessels by color Doppler at all power levels and any systematic changes or increased variance of the recorded parameters with decreasing power level.

Results

All vessels could be visualized by color Doppler and their flow velocities measured using pulsed wave Doppler in all participants and at all power levels. There were no systematic changes or increased parameter variance when reducing the power level, despite the insonation depth being significantly greater than in early pregnancy.

Conclusions

Reducing the ultrasound power from TIB 1.0 to 0.1 does not alter color Doppler visualization or pulsed wave Doppler measurements in the second half of pregnancy. The lower power level can be recommended as a starting point for clinical examinations throughout pregnancy.
Robot‐Assisted Thoracoscopic Hybrid Esophagectomy in the Semi‐Prone Position Under Pneumothorax
Authors: Ishikawa Norihiko , Kawaguchi Masahiko , Inaki Noriyuki , Moriyama Hideki , Shimada Masanari , Watanabe Go
Published: February 2013

We performed robot‐assisted thoracoscopic hybrid esophagectomy using the da Vinci Surgical System and demonstrated the potential benefit of this minimally invasive lymphadenectomy. Between April 2010 and October 2011, four patients with intrathoracic esophageal cancer underwent hybrid esophagectomy in the semi‐prone position using a 3‐arm standard da Vinci and a conventional thoracoscopic maneuver. All thoracoscopic procedures were completed using a robot‐assisted technique. Robot‐assisted thoracoscopic esophagectomy in the semi‐prone position is safe and technically feasible. A hybrid procedure that combined standard da Vinci with conventional thoracosopic maneuvers overcomes the difficulties associated with using a standard da Vinci.
Effects of simvastatin on pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and exercise capacity in bleomycin‐treated rats
Authors: Schroll S. , Lange T. J. , Arzt M. , Sebah D. , Nowrotek A. , Lehmann H. , Wensel R. , Pfeifer M. , Blumberg F. C.
Published: February 2013

Aim

Pulmonary fibrosis is often complicated by pulmonary hypertension. Statins reduce fibroblast activity in vitro and pulmonary hypertension in vivo. We investigated whether Simvastatin exerts beneficial effects on pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension in Bleomycin‐treated rats in vivo.

Methods

Rats were randomly assigned to controls, Bleomycin, Bleomycin plus Simvastatin from day 1 to 28 and Bleomycin plus Simvastatin from day 13 to 28. 28 days after Bleomycin instillation, right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), right ventricular mass (RV/(LV+S)), right ventricular and circulating brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were determined to assess pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary hydroxyproline content (HPC), pulmonary connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) transcription and lung compliance (LC) were analysed to characterize pulmonary fibrosis. Exercise capacity was determined by treadmill tests.

Results

Compared with controls, Bleomycin increased RVSP, RV/(LV+S), BNP levels, HPC and CTGF transcription and decreased LC significantly. Simvastatin administered from day 1 to 28 normalized all these parameters. Simvastatin administered from day 13 to 28 had no effect on HPC and LC, but reduced RV/(LV+S) significantly and induced a strong trend to lower RVSP and BNP levels. Exercise capacity was reduced by Bleomycin. Simvastatin significantly improved exercise intolerance in both treatment groups.

Conclusions

Simvastatin prevents the development of pulmonary fibrosis, but fails to attenuate already established pulmonary fibrosis. In contrast, it ameliorates pulmonary hypertension and thereby exercise capacity in the prevention and the treatment group regardless of its effects on pulmonary fibrosis. Whether statins are a treatment option in humans with pulmonary fibrosis needs to be investigated by further study.
Effect of acute environmental hypoxia on protein metabolism in human skeletal muscle
Authors: D'Hulst G. , Jamart C. , Van Thienen R. , Hespel P. , Francaux M. , Deldicque L.
Published: February 2013

Hypoxia‐induced muscle wasting has been observed in several environmental and pathological conditions. However, the molecular mechanisms behind this loss of muscle mass are far from being completely elucidated, certainly in vivo. When studying the regulation of muscle mass by environmental hypoxia, many confounding factors have to be taken into account, such as decreased protein ingestion, sleep deprivation or reduced physical activity, which make difficult to know whether hypoxia per se causes a reduction in muscle mass.

Aim

We hypothesized that acute exposure to normobaric hypoxia (11% O2) would repress the activation of the mTOR pathway usually observed after a meal and would activate the proteolytic pathways in skeletal muscle.

Methods

Fifteen subjects were exposed passively for 4 h to normoxic and hypoxic conditions in a random order after consumption of a light breakfast. A muscle biopsy and a blood sample were taken before, after 1 and 4 h of exposure.

Results

After 4 h, plasma insulin concentration and the phosphorylation state of PKB and S6K1 in skeletal muscle were higher in hypoxia than in normoxia (P < 0.05). At the same time, Redd1 mRNA level was upregulated (P < 0.05), whilst MAFbx mRNA decreased (P < 0.05) in hypoxia compared with normoxia. Proteasome, cathepsin L and calpain activities were not altered by environmental hypoxia.

Conclusion

Contrary to our hypothesis and despite an increase in the mRNA level of Redd1, an inhibitor of the mTORC1 pathway, short‐term acute environmental hypoxia induced a higher response of PKB and S6K1 to a meal, which may be due to increased plasma insulin concentration.
A Strategy for Bayesian Inference for Computationally Expensive Models with Application to the Estimation of Stem Cell Properties
Authors: Overstall Antony M. , Woods David C.
Published: February 2013

Bayesian inference is considered for statistical models that depend on the evaluation of a computationally expensive computer code or simulator. For such situations, the number of evaluations of the likelihood function, and hence of the unnormalized posterior probability density function, is determined by the available computational resource and may be extremely limited. We present a new example of such a simulator that describes the properties of human embryonic stem cells using data from optical trapping experiments. This application is used to motivate a novel strategy for Bayesian inference which exploits a Gaussian process approximation of the simulator and allows computationally efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo inference. The advantages of this strategy over previous methodology are that it is less reliant on the determination of tuning parameters and allows the application of model diagnostic procedures that require no additional evaluations of the simulator. We show the advantages of our method on synthetic examples and demonstrate its application on stem cell experiments.
Torrance, Mark et al ed (2012) Learning to write effectivelyBrill (Leiden, Netherlands) isbn 978‐1‐78052‐928‐8 431 pp €113.95 http://www.brill.com/learning‐write‐effectively‐current‐trends‐european‐research
Authors: Hartley James
Published: February 2013

The European Co‐operation in Science and Technology Research Network supported European research on learning to write effectively from 2008 to 2011. This book outlines the results—with eight editors presenting over ninety contributions from people in a dozen or more European countries. There are four sections: writing development; learning and teaching writing; document design; and tools for studying writing. Thus the coverage is broad, but thin. It's probably best to order this text for the library unless you are personally involved in research on writing.

James Hartley
A 9‐year experience of renal injury at an Australian level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Shoobridge Jennifer J. , Bultitude Matthew F. , Koukounaras Jim , Martin Katherine E. , Royce Peter L. , Corcoran Niall M.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To detail the 9‐year experience of renal trauma at a modern Level 1 trauma centre and report on patterns of injury, management and complications.

Patients and methods

We analysed 338 patients with renal injuries who presented to our institution over a 9‐year period.

Data on demographics, clinical presentation, management and complications were recorded.

Results

Males comprised 74.9% of patients with renal injuries and the highest incidence was amongst those aged 20–24 years.

Blunt injuries comprised 96.2% (n = 325) of all the renal injuries, with road trauma being the predominant mechanism accounting for 72.5% of injuries.

The distribution of injury grade was; 21.6% grade 1 (n = 73), 24.3% grade 2 (n = 82), 24.9% grade 3 (n = 84), 16.6% grade 4 (n = 56), and 12.7% grade 5 (n = 43).

Conservative management was successful in all grade 1 and 2 renal injuries, and 94.9%, 90.7% and 35.1% of grade 3, 4 and 5 injuries respectively.

All but one of the 13 patients with penetrating injuries were successfully managed conservatively.

Conclusions

Road trauma is the greatest cause of renal injury.

Most haemodynamically stable patients are successfully managed conservatively.
Prostate volume in male patients with spinal cord injury: a question of nerves?
Authors: Pannek Jürgen , Bartel Peter , Göcking Konrad , Frotzler Angela
Published: February 2013

Objective

To assess the influence of standardized complete surgical deafferentation of the lower urinary tract by sacral deafferentation (SDAF) and sacral anterior root stimulation (SARS) on prostate volume in men with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Patients and Methods

In a prospective study, the prostate volume of men with SCI who underwent SDAF/SARS was measured using transrectal ultrasonography.

The prostate volumes of these men were compared with those of men with complete SCI but who did not undergo SDAF/SARS, those of men with incomplete SCI, and those of a historical sample of able‐bodied men.

Results

The median [25th;75th percentile] prostate volume of men who underwent SDAF/SARS (20.0 [14.0; 29.0]) and of men with complete SCI who did not undergo SDAF/SARS (20.0 [16.5; 29.0]) was significantly smaller than in the reference group (25.0 [5.0; 84.0]).

The mean prostate volume was associated with age in the reference group (r = 0.185; P < 0.001) and in men with incomplete SCI (r = 0.284; P = 0.031), but not in men with complete SCI, irrespective of SDAF/SARS.

Conclusions

The prostate volume of men with complete SCI was significantly smaller than that of able‐bodied men.

Our data imply that sustained central innervation of the prostate plays an important role in prostate growth.
Panda politics
Authors: Collard Rosemary‐Claire
Published: February 2013

This article argues that China's agreement in 2012 to loan Canada two panda bears is emblematic of animals’ simultaneous material‐symbolic inclusion and exclusion in contemporary politics. Employing a material focus, this article draws a connection between the panda gift and the promise to which it is attached: a promise of material flows; of Chinese access to Canadian resources, especially; and controversially, tar sands oil. Common to geographical flows of both pandas and oil is a devaluation of nonhuman life. In one flow, two pandas cross the Pacific for a decade of captivity at the Toronto and Calgary Zoos, where visitors will pay to view the permanently visible pandas. In the other instance, oil will be shipped across the same ocean, oil whose production comes at great cost to wildlife, including caribou, birds, and fish, and whose spill at any point along its journey to China would devastate marine and terrestrial wildlife populations. Stark power imbalances between species are at the heart of both of these flows and their material consequences. This article argues that, in emphasizing what the pandas symbolize, the extent to which their own and others’ lives are materially affected is elided.
Dysregulated mineral metabolism in patients with acute kidney injury and risk of adverse outcomes
Authors: Leaf David E. , Waikar Sushrut S. , Wolf Myles , Cremers Serge , Bhan Ishir , Stern Leonard
Published: February 2013

Objective

Numerous studies have evaluated the prevalence and importance of vitamin D deficiency among patients with chronic kidney disease and end‐stage renal disease; however, little is known about vitamin D levels in acute kidney injury (AKI). We evaluated the association between vitamin D metabolites and clinical outcomes among patients with AKI.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Patients

A total of 30 participants with AKI and 30 controls from general hospital wards and intensive care units at a tertiary care hospital were recruited for the study.

Measurements

Plasma levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], 24R,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) were measured within 24 hours of AKI onset and 5 days later. Bioavailable 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels, defined as the sum of free‐ and albumin‐bound 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D, were estimated using equations.

Results

Compared to controls, participants with AKI had lower levels of 1,25(OH)2D [17 (10–22) vs 25 (15–35) pg/ml, P = 0·01], lower levels of VDBP [23 (15‐31) vs 29 (25–36) mg/dl, P = 0·003] and similar levels of bioavailable 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D at enrolment. Levels of bioavailable 25(OH)D were inversely associated with severity of sepsis in the overall sample (P < 0·001). Among participants with AKI, bioavailable 25(OH)D, but not other vitamin D metabolites, was significantly associated with mortality after adjusting for age and serum creatinine (adjusted odds ratio per 1 SD ln [bioavailable 25(OH)D] = 0·16, 95% confidence interval = 0·03–0·85).

Conclusions

Bioavailable 25(OH)D could have a role as a biomarker or mediator of adverse outcomes among patients with established AKI.
Time‐dependent expression of osteoblast marker genes in human primary cells cultured on microgrooved titanium substrata
Authors: Koo Ki‐Tae , Lee Suk W. , Lee Myung‐Hyun , Kim Kyung H. , Jung Su H. , Kang Yoon G.
Published: February 2013

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the influence of titanium surface‐etched microgrooves and ridges on the time‐dependent expression of osteoblast marker genes and proteins of human primary cells undergoing osteoblast differentiation.

Materials and methods

Fifteen‐, 30‐, and 60‐μm wide, and 3.5‐ and 10‐μm deep‐etched microgrooves and ridges were fabricated on titanium substrata using photolithography and subsequent acid etching, and were used as the experimental groups (E15/3.5,E30/10, andE60/10), whereas the smooth and acid‐etched titanium were used as the control (NE0 andE0). Time‐dependentmRNAand protein expression of typeIcollagen α1, alkaline phosphatase, runt‐related transcription factor 2, osterix, osteocalcin, osteopontin, bone sialoproteinII, and osteonectin after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of osteogenic culture was analyzed using quantitative real‐timePCR,RT‐PCR, western blotting, and protein quantitation. Student'st‐test, one‐way analysis of variance, andPearson's correlation analysis were used for statistics.

Results

Etched microgrooves and ridges induced significantly lower levels of typeIcollagen α1 gene expression at day 14, and an extreme increase in osteopontin gene expression at days 21 and 28 compared with smooth control. However, the expression levels of the other osteoblast marker genes and proteins analyzed in this study correspond with previously reported expression patterns of cells on variously modified titanium surfaces during osteoblast differentiation and bone formation.

Conclusion

This study indicates that etched microgrooves and ridges on titanium substrata induce both typical and unique time‐dependent expression patterns of the osteoblast marker genes and proteins analyzed in this study.
Treatment options for renal cell carcinoma in renal allografts: a case series from a single institution
Authors: Swords Darden C. , Al‐Geizawi Samer M. , Farney Alan C. , Rogers Jeffrey , Burkart John M. , Assimos Dean G. , Stratta Robert J.
Published: February 2013

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is more common in renal transplant and dialysis patients than the general population. However, RCC in transplanted kidneys is rare, and treatment has previously consisted of nephrectomy with a return to dialysis. There has been recent interest in nephron‐sparing procedures as a treatment option for RCC in allograft kidneys in an effort to retain allograft function. Four patients with RCC in allograft kidneys were treated with nephrectomy, partial nephrectomy, or radiofrequency ablation. All of the patients are without evidence of recurrence of RCC after treatment. We found nephron‐sparing procedures to be reasonable initial options in managing incidental RCCs diagnosed in functioning allografts to maintain an improved quality of life and avoid immediate dialysis compared with radical nephrectomy of a functioning allograft. However, in non‐functioning renal allografts, radical nephrectomy may allow for a higher chance of cure without the loss of transplant function. Consequently, radical nephrectomy should be utilized whenever the allograft is non‐functioning and the patient's surgical risk is not prohibitive.
How Does Country Risk Matter for Foreign Direct Investment?
Authors: Hayakawa Kazunobu , Kimura Fukunari , Lee Hyun‐Hoon
Published: February 2013

Using the overall FDI inflows for 89 countries during the period from 1985 to 2007, we empirically investigate the effects on inward FDI of various components of political and financial risk. We examine the effects of not only the level of these risks but also their changes over time. One of the major findings is that among the political and financial risks, only the political risk is adversely associated with FDI inflows. Specifically, not only the initially low level of political risk, but also a decrease in the level of political risk helps to bring a greater amount of FDI inflows. On the other hand, lower financial risk does not attract FDI inflows, especially to developing countries. Among the various components of political risk, in the sample of developing countries only, it is found that internal conflict, corruption, military in politics, and bureaucracy quality are inversely related to inward FDI flows.
Soil respiration of karst grasslands subjected to woody‐plant encroachment
Authors: Eler K. , Plestenjak G. , Ferlan M. , Čater M. , Simončič P. , Vodnik D.
Published: February 2013

The transition of grasslands to forests influences many ecosystem processes, including water and temperature regimes and the cycling of nutrients. Different components of the carbon biogeochemical cycle respond strongly to woody plant encroachment; as a consequence, the carbon balance of the invaded grasslands can change markedly. In our research, we studied the response of soil respiration (RS) to natural succession of calcareous grassland. We established two research sites, called grassland and invaded site, at each of which eddy flux measurement were also performed. Within these sites, triplicate plots were fenced for soil flux measurements. At the invaded site, measurements were performed for forest patches and grassy spaces separately. Soil respiration was strongly dependent on temperature and reached 8–12 µmol CO2 m−2 s−1 in mid‐summer; it was greater at the grassland than at the invaded site. RS dependence on temperature and soil water content was similar between the different vegetation covers (grassland, gaps and forest patches). At a reference temperature of 10°C, the average RS was 2.71 µmol CO2 m−2 s−1. The annual sums of RS were also similar between years and sites: 1345 ± 47 (2009) and 1150 ± 37 g C m−2 year−1 (2010) for grassland and 1324 ± 26 (2009) and 1268 ± 26 g C m−2 year−1 (2010) for the invaded site, which is at the upper range of the values reported in the literature. Cumulative RS peaked in July, with about 200 g C m−2. Large mid‐summer RS rates rely on strong biological activity supported by high, but non‐extreme soil temperatures and by regular summer precipitation. A coupling of photosynthesis and RS was revealed by a 24‐hour measurement, which showed asymmetrical clockwise hysteresis patterns.
Abnormal plasma neuroactive progestagen derivatives in ill, neonatal foals presented to the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Aleman M. , Pickles K. J. , Conley A. J. , Stanley S. , Haggett E. , Toth B. , Madigan J. E.
Published: February 2013

Reasons for performing the study

Increased levels of pregnanes have been reported in foals with neonatal maladjustment syndrome (NMS). These steroids may cross the blood–brain barrier and have depressive effects in the central nervous system leading to behavioural abnormalities and altered states of consciousness in affected foals.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the pregnane profile of foals withNMSand compare it with that of healthy controls and sick, non‐NMSfoals.

Study design

Prospective‐clinical study.

Methods

Thirty‐two foals with a clinical diagnosis ofNMS, 12 foals with other neonatal disorders and 10 healthy control foals were selected for the study. Heparinised blood samples were collected from each group of foals and pregnane and androgen concentrations determined using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry at 0, 24 and 48 h of age.

Results

Healthy foals showed a significant decrease in pregnane concentrations over the first 48 h of life (P<0.01). Foals withNMSand sick, non‐NMSfoals had significantly increased progesterone, pregnenolone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone and epitestosterone concentrations compared with healthy foals (P<0.05). Progesterone and pregnenolone concentrations of sick, non‐NMSfoals decreased significantly over 48 h (P<0.05), whereas concentrations inNMSfoals remained increased.

Conclusions and potential relevance

Pregnane concentrations of ill, neonatal foals remain increased following birth, reflecting a delayed, or interrupted, transition from intra‐ to extra‐uterine life. Serial progesterone and pregnenolone measurement may be useful in aiding diagnosis ofNMS.
Descriptive epidemiology and risk factors for eliminations fromFédérationEquestreInternationale endurance rides due to lameness and metabolic reasons (2008–2011)
Authors: Nagy A. , Murray J. K. , Dyson S. J.
Published: February 2013

Reasons for performing the study

There is limited information on international endurance rides and on risk factors for eliminations.

Objectives

To describe and compare the frequency of occurrence of elimination due to lameness and metabolic reasons fromFédérationEquestreInternationale (FEI) endurance rides (≥100 km) during 2008–2011 in all countries and to assess risk factors for elimination due to lameness and metabolic reasons.

Study design

Retrospective unmatched case–control study.

Methods

Data collected from theFEIwebsite included the following: the country where the ride was held; the year; the result for each horse–rider combination; the number of entries in each class; whether the class was restricted to young riders; and the winning speed. Descriptive data were summarised, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess risk factors for eliminations due to lameness and metabolic reasons.

Results

Between 2008 and 2011, there were 30,741 horse starts atFEIendurance rides of 100–160 km distance in 47 countries. Of all started horses, 30% were eliminated for lameness. Eliminations for metabolic reasons were recorded for 8.7% of all started horses. There was a large range of winning speeds amongst countries (10.2–29.5 km/h). Multivariable analysis revealed that the risk of elimination due to lameness was significantly associated with the country where the ride was held, the year, the distance of the ride and the number of entries. Elimination for metabolic reasons was significantly associated with the country where the ride was held, the year and the number of entries.

Conclusions

Differences existed among elimination rates atFEIendurance rides in different countries (2008–2011). Lameness was the most common reason for elimination globally.

Potential relevance

These results provide objective global data on endurance riding that can replace anecdotal information, which has been the base of opinions, decisions and regulations.

TheSummary is available inChinese – seeSupporting information.
The safety of massage therapy: an update of a systematic review
Authors: Posadzki Paul , Ernst Edzard
Published: February 2013

Objective

To update a systematic review evaluating the safety of massage therapy.

Methods

A literature search was carried out using four electronic databases for the period December 2001 to May 2012. All articles reporting adverse effects of massage therapy were retrieved. Adverse effects relating to atypical massage, aromatherapeutic massage oil or ice were excluded. No language restrictions were applied. Data were extracted and evaluated according to predefined criteria.

Results

Seventeen case reports and one case series were published since our previous review. The reported adverse effects comprised acute paraplegia and abdominal distension, bladder rupture, bilateral cerebellar infarction, cervical lymphocele, cervical cord injury, cervical internal carotid and vertebral dissection, chylothorax, haematuria, interosseous nerve palsy, myopathy, perinephric haemorrhage, rhabdomyolysis, severe headache, blurred vision, paraesthesia and focal motor seizures. In the majority of the reports, a cause–effect relationship was certain or almost certain. Serious adverse effects were most commonly associated with massage techniques applied to the neck area.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that massage may occasionally lead to moderately severe adverse effects.
Baseline demographics of a non‐native lake trout population and inferences for suppression from sensitivity‐elasticity analyses
Authors: Cox B. S. , Guy C. S. , Fredenberg W. A. , Rosenthal L. R.
Published: February 2013

Management agencies in several western states of the United States are implementing suppression programmes to control non‐native lake trout, Salvelinus namaycush (Walbaum), for the conservation of native species. This study was implemented to ascertain the population demographics of an expanding lake trout population and use those data to construct an age‐structured model to inform suppression efforts. Population projection matrices were used to model population growth and identify age or stage classes with the greatest influence on population growth. The size and age structure of lake trout sampled was skewed towards juveniles, indicating strong recruitment and a growing population. Matrix‐model simulations corroborated the observed size and age structure, as the lake trout population was predicted to grow exponentially (λ = 1.35, 95% CL: 1.25–1.43) with no suppression efforts. Elasticity analysis of matrix models indicated the relative contribution of survival rates to population growth among immature age classes was equal from age 0 to age at first maturity, but immature survival rates contributed more than adult survival and fertility rates. These results emphasise the importance of targeting juvenile lake trout for suppression efforts during exponential growth in recently established populations.
Thermal adaptation affects interactions between a range‐expanding and a native odonate species
Authors: SUHLING IDA , SUHLING FRANK
Published: February 2013

1. Increasing temperature and invading species may interact in their effects on communities. In this study, we investigated how rising temperatures alter larval interactions between a naturally range‐expanding dragonfly,Crocothemis erythraea, and a native northern European species,Leucorrhinia dubia. Initial studies revealed thatC. erythraeagrow up to 3.5 times faster thanL. dubiaat temperatures above 16 °C. As a result, we hypothesised that divergent temperature responses would lead to rapid size differences between coexisting larvae and, consequently, to asymmetric intraguild predation at higher ambient temperatures.

2. Mortality and growth rates were measured in interaction treatments (with both species present) and non‐interaction controls (one species present) at four different temperature regimes: at an ambient temperature representative of central Germany, where both species overlap in distribution, and at temperatures increased by 2, 4 and 6 °C.

3. The mortality ofC. erythraeadid not differ between treatment and control. In contrast, mortality ofL. dubiaremained similar over all temperatures in the controls, but increased with temperature in the presence of the other species and was significantly higher there than in the controls. We concluded thatL. dubiasuffered asymmetric intraguild predation, particularly at increased temperature. Reduced growth rate ofL. dubiain the interaction treatment at higher temperatures also suggested asymmetric competition for prey in the first phase of the experiment.

4. The results imply that the range expansion ofC. erythraeamay cause reduction in population size of syntopicL. dubiawhen temperature rises by more than 2 °C. The consequences for future range patterns, as well as other factors that may influence the interaction in nature, are discussed.
Feeding strategies and elemental composition in Ponto‐Caspian peracaridans from contrasting environments: can stoichiometric plasticity promote invasion success?
Authors: ARBAČIAUSKAS KĘSTUTIS , LESUTIENĖ JŪRATĖ , GASIŪNAITĖ ZITA R.
Published: February 2013

1. Ponto‐Caspian peracaridans, and mysids and amphipods in particular, are among the most successful aquatic invaders. However, species differ in the trophic‐status range of ecosystems they can invade while establishment rates and impacts can vary substantially between habitats. There is limited knowledge of the environmental factors and species characteristics that drive such variation in invasion success.

2. Here we test how trophic level and body stoichiometry vary among peracaridan species and in relation to body size. The amphipod Pontogammarus robustoides and the mysids Limnomysis benedeni and Paramysis lacustris were investigated in ecosystems differing considerably in productivity and nutrient supply, namely an N‐limited eutrophic lagoon and P‐limited mesotrophic lakes.

3. As revealed by stable isotope (15N/14N) analysis, herbivory was inferred to be the main feeding mode of L. benedeni. In contrast, the mysid P. lacustris and the amphipod P. robustoides displayed a higher propensity for predatory feeding at larger body sizes, a pattern that was more pronounced in the eutrophic lagoon than in the mesotrophic lakes.

4. Their mean stoichiometric composition (P. robustoides C:N:P 108:20:1, L. benedeni 92:21:1 and P. lacustris 93:22:1) demonstrates that these peracaridans are rich in nutrients, especially nitrogen. They all exhibited the same ontogenetic pattern of reduced stoichiometric regulation during juvenile stages and stricter homoeostasis at older stages.

5. The higher P content in juveniles of all peracaridan species from the lagoon indicates higher potential somatic and population growth rates than those in the mesotrophic lakes. Such a difference may explain the substantially faster rates of invader establishment observed in the lagoon in comparison with lakes of low trophy.

6. Due to differences in ontogenetic and habitat‐induced variation, the study species differed significantly in stoichiometric variability, which was lowest in L. benedeni and highest in P. robustoides. The ranges of species‐specific variation in stoichiometric ratios corresponded to the trophic (by chlorophyll a) and nutrient stoichiometry (N:P) ranges of lentic waters successfully invaded by these species in Lithuania.

7. Stoichiometric plasticity, which should be associated with flexibility of feeding strategy, may enhance the potential of peracaridan species to successfully invade habitats with differing trophy and nutrient supply. The optimal feeding strategy should be omnivory with a propensity for predatory feeding, which can be adjusted with respect to ontogenetic nutrient demands and resource availability. Invading species may have a stronger effect on the local biota in ecosystems with high P levels, which promote growth, and N limitation that should favour predation.
Biological assessment of European lakes: ecological rationale and human impacts
Authors: Brucet Sandra , Poikane Sandra , Lyche‐Solheim Anne , Birk Sebastian
Published: February 2013

Nearly one hundred biological methods are currently used to assess the ecological status of European lakes. Here, using information from a questionnaire, complemented with findings from the literature, we compared the use of different methods to assess the ecological status of lakes as well as the rationale for using different organism groups (phytoplankton, benthic diatoms, macrophytes, benthic invertebrates and fish) in monitoring programmes.

Reference conditions were estimated for about half of the methods using near‐natural reference sites, complemented with other approaches, such as historical data, modelling and expert judgment. About 40% of the methods used more subjective approaches to establish reference conditions (e.g. selecting near‐natural reference sites without any pressure criteria) or no information was available.

Methods using several measures (i.e. multimetric methods) were developed, with particular emphasis on measures based on sensitivity/tolerance and abundance. Different organisms showed different responses to similar levels of human impacts. Assessment methods based on phytoplankton showed the strongest response to eutrophication, with class boundaries mainly based on ecological rationale. By contrast, statistical distributions and expert judgment were frequently used in setting class boundaries in macrophyte, benthic invertebrates and fish methods. Methods were strongly biased towards detecting changes associated with eutrophication, with other pressures (e.g. hydromorphological alteration) seldom monitored.

Effective restoration measures and achieving good ecological status of European lakes will require assessment programmes based on a sound understanding of pressure–response relationships as well as the use of ecologically based approaches in establishing reference conditions and setting class boundaries.
Drivers of beta diversity of macroinvertebrate communities in tropical forest streams
Authors: AL‐SHAMI SALMAN A. , HEINO JANI , CHE SALMAH M. R. , ABU HASSAN A. , SUHAILA A. H. , MADRUS MADZIATUL R.
Published: February 2013

1. There has recently been increasing interest in patterns of beta diversity but we still lack a comprehensive understanding of these patterns in various regions (e.g. the tropics), ecosystems (e.g. streams) and organism groups (e.g. invertebrates).

2. Our aim was to investigate the patterns of beta diversity of stream macroinvertebrates in relation to key environmental (i.e. stream size, pH and habitat degradation) and geographical variables (i.e. latitude, longitude, altitude) in a tropical region. We surveyed a total of 8–10 riffle sites in each of 34 streams (altogether 337 riffle sites were sampled) in Peninsular Malaysia to examine variation in macroinvertebrate community composition at within‐stream and among‐stream scales.

3. Based on test of homogeneity of dispersion, we found that the streams studied differed significantly in within‐stream variation in community composition (i.e. among‐site variation of within stream beta diversity). The patterns were similar based on Bray–Curtis coefficient on abundance data, Sorensen coefficient on presence–absence data and Simpson coefficient on presence–absence data. We also found that within‐stream beta diversity was significantly related to stream size, pH and latitude, with each of these variables individually accounting for around 20% of the variation in beta diversity in simple regressions, while the total variation explained by the three significant variables amounted to around 50% in multiple regressions. By contrast, habitat degradation, longitude and altitude were not significantly related to beta diversity. We also found that the factor drainage basin accounted for much of the variation in beta diversity in general linear models, suppressing the effects of environmental variables.

4. We concluded that within‐stream beta diversity is mainly related to a combination of the identity of a drainage basin and stream environmental factors. Our findings provide important background for stream environmental assessment and conservation planning by emphasising that (i) macroinvertebrate communities within streams are not homogeneous, but show considerable beta diversity, (ii) streams differ in their degree of within‐stream beta diversity, (iii) stream size and water pH should be considered in applied contexts related to within‐stream beta diversity and (iv) historical effects may be different in different drainage basins and may affect present‐day patterns of within‐stream beta diversity.
Situated, Networked Environmentalisms: A Case for Environmental Theory from the South
Authors: Lawhon Mary
Published: February 2013

There has long been a notable difference between the environmentalism of the global North and South. Despite this and recent calls for the development of theory from the global South, research on environmentalism in the global South continues to largely employ Northern theory. While much of this seeks to inform and revise theory, and a case has been made for the articulation of an environmentalism of the poor, work in the South remains dominated by framings and questions articulated in the North. In this paper, I examine geographical research to make a case for also articulating situated environmentalisms which move beyond the generalization of Southern environmentalism to investigate how the environment is understood in specific contexts. Such environmentalisms should not be seen as developed in isolation but are recognized as products of intra‐ and international networked engagements. I explore this argument through the case of geographical research in South Africa. My review of the literature suggests that work in South Africa largely speaks to international environmental discourses and environmental management and governance theories. While this research productively engages with global academia and environmentalisms, it overlooks many significant questions and how the local context matters. I argue that this is not simply a case of South African exceptionalism, but instead, that there is a need to more broadly consider situated, networked environmentalism in both the global North and South.
‘Calling executives and clinicians to account’: user involvement in commissioning cancer services
Authors: Evans David H , Bacon Roger J , Greer Elizabeth , Stagg Angela M , Turton Pat
Published: February 2013

Background

English NHS guidance emphasizes the importance of involving users in commissioning cancer services. There has been considerable previous research on involving users in service improvement, but not on involvement in commissioning cancer services.

Objective

To identify how users were involved as local cancer service commissioning projects sought to implement good practice and what has been learned.

Design

Participatory evaluation with four qualitative case studies based on semi‐structured interviews with project stakeholders, observation and documentary analysis. Users were involved in every stage from design to analysis and reporting.

Setting and participants

Four English cancer network user involvement in commissioning projects, with 22 stakeholders interviewed.

Results

Thematic analysis identified nine themes: initial involvement, preparation for the role, ability to exercise voice, consistency and continuity, where decisions are made, closing the feedback loop, assessing impact, value of experience and diversity.

Discussion

Our findings on the impact of user involvement in commissioning cancer services are consistent with other findings on user involvement in service improvement, but highlight the specific issues for involvement in commissioning. Key points include the different perspectives users and professionals may have on the impact of user involvement in commissioning, the time necessary for meaningful involvement, the importance of involving users from the beginning and the value of senior management and PPI facilitator support and training.

Conclusions

Users can play an important role in commissioning cancer services, but their ability to do so is contingent on resources being available to support them.
Consumer views on a new holistic screening tool for supportive and palliative‐care needs: Sheffield Profile for Assessment and Referral for Care (SPARC): a survey of self‐help support groups in health care
Authors: Hughes Philippa , Ahmed Nisar , Winslow Michelle , Walters Stephen J , Collins Karen , Noble Bill
Published: February 2013

Background

Sheffield Profile for Assessment and Referral for Care (SPARC) was developed in response to concerns that palliative care may not be reaching all people who could benefit from it. Acceptability of the tool is an important step in developing its future use.

Aims

To elicit the views of a wide variety of members of consumer and self‐help support groups concerned with health care on the relevance, acceptability and the overall perception of using SPARC as an early holistic needs assessment tool in supportive and palliative care.

Methods

This study was conducted in South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire (UK). Ninety‐nine consumer and self‐help groups were identified from information in the public domain. Thirty‐eight groups participated. Packs containing study information and self‐complete postal questionnaires were distributed to groups, and they were asked to circulate these to their members. Completed questionnaires were returned in pre‐paid envelopes to the research team.

Results

135 questionnaires and feedback forms were returned. The majority of respondents found SPARC easy to understand (93% (120/129; 95% Confidence Interval 87% to 96%) and complete (94% (125/133; 95% CI: 88% to 97%). A minority, 12.2% (16/131), of respondents found questions on SPARC ‘too sensitive’.

Conclusions

Overall, respondents considered SPARC an acceptable and relevant tool for clinical assessment of supportive and palliative‐care needs. Whilst a small minority of people found SPARC difficult to understand (i.e. patients with cognitive impairments), most categories of service user found it relevant. Clinical studies are necessary to establish the clinical utility of SPARC.