bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Video Self-Modeling to Promote Social Initiations by 3-Year-Olds With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Buggey Tom
Published: June 2012

Video Self-Modeling (VSM) provides individuals the opportunity to view themselves performing a task beyond their present functioning level through the careful editing of videos. In this study, a single-case multiple-baseline design was used to determine whether VSM would facilitate social initiations across three young children ( M = 3 years 10 months) on the autism spectrum. Although VSM has been found to enhance skills in younger children with autism spectrum disorders, no changes in behavior were noted for the participants in this study. The relationship between age and VSM efficacy is discussed along with other factors that may influence VSM outcomes with young children.
Using Milieu Training to Promote Photograph Exchange for a Young Child With Autism
Authors: Ogletree Billy T. , Davis Patricia , Hambrecht Georgia , Phillips Ellen Wooten
Published: June 2012

A milieu teaching sequence was used to train photograph exchange as a method of requesting to a 7-year-old boy with autism. A multiple baseline design across four items (ball, puzzle, books, bubbles) was used to identify a functional relation between requesting and the milieu teaching sequence. Although performance during intervention was variable, possibly as a result of external factors such as fatigue and irritability, treatment effects were observed in three of four items trained. Results of maintenance probes collected 5 weeks after the study concluded may indicate variations in item salience. Findings were interpreted to support milieu training for this participant. Clinical implications and study limitations are discussed.
Homicide Booms and Busts
Authors: Goertzel Ted , Shohat Ekaterina , Kahn Tulio , Zanetic André , Bogoyavlenskiy Dmitriy
Published: June 2012

Homicide booms and busts are long-term phenomena that can best be studied with comparative historical methods. They cannot easily be explained by enduring socioeconomic inequalities because these persist during boom and bust periods alike. Historical changes that may help to lower homicide rates in the long run sometimes cause homicide booms in the short term. Modern policing methods have helped to end homicide booms without first resolving underlying social problems, but this may be possible only when the conditions are propitious.
Female Sexual Homicide Offenders
Authors: Chan Heng Choon (Oliver) , Frei Autumn
Published: June 2012

Limited information exists regarding the criminal phenomenon of female sexual homicide. Using FBI’s Supplemental Homicide Report (SHR) data spanning 32 years (1976-2007), 204 female sexual homicide offender cases (27 juveniles and 177 adult offenders) were examined. The offender and victim racial distributions were relatively equal. Similar to their male counterparts, female sexual murderers were more likely to target victims from the opposite gender, 75% of their victims were males. The majority of female sexual homicide offenders’ (SHO) victims were adults (78%) and someone with whom they shared a relationship (81%). Findings show that female SHOs killed intra-racially. Unlike most male sexual murderers, female offenders predominantly used firearms in their sex killings. The choice of murder weapon was primarily determined by the victim gender and age based on the differential of offender-victim physical strength. Interestingly, no intimate partner was murdered using personal weapons for two possibilities: physical strength differential and perhaps to avoid personalization of the killing process. Limitations of the data and future research directions are discussed.
Using the Propensity Score Method to Estimate Causal Effects
Authors: Li Mingxiang
Published: June 2012

Evidence-based management requires management scholars to draw causal inferences. Researchers generally rely on observational data sets and regression models where the independent variables have not been exogenously manipulated to estimate causal effects; however, using such models on observational data sets can produce a biased effect size of treatment intervention. This article introduces the propensity score method (PSM)—which has previously been widely employed in social science disciplines such as public health and economics—to the management field. This research reviews the PSM literature, develops a procedure for applying the PSM to estimate the causal effects of intervention, elaborates on the procedure using an empirical example, and discusses the potential application of the PSM in different management fields. The implementation of the PSM in the management field will increase researchers’ ability to draw causal inferences using observational data sets.
Non-accidental injuries found in necropsies of domestic cats: a review of 191 cases
Authors: de Siqueira Adriana , Cassiano Fabiana Cecília , Landi Marina Frota de Albuquerque , Marlet Elza Fernandes , Maiorka Paulo César
Published: June 2012

Animal cruelty is defined as a deliberate action that causes pain and suffering to an animal. In Brazil, legislation known as the Environmental Crimes Law states that cruelty toward all animal species is criminal in nature. From 644 domestic cats necropsied between January 1998 and December 2009, 191 (29.66%) presented lesions highly suggestive of animal cruelty. The main necroscopic finding was exogenous carbamate poisoning (75.39%) followed by blunt-force trauma (21.99%). Cats from 7 months to 2 years of age were the most affected (50.79%). In Brazil, violence is a public health problem and there is a high prevalence of domestic violence. Therefore, even if laws provide for animal welfare and protection, animals are common targets for violent acts. Within a context of social violence, cruelty toward animals is an important parameter to be considered, and the non-accidental lesions that were found are evidence of malicious actions.
The use of effective treatments: The case of an adolescent girl with anorexia nervosa in the context of a conversion disorder
Authors: Goldstein Mandy , Madden Sloane , Peters Lorna
Published: June 2012

The use of empirically supported treatment (EST) has been shown to enhance treatment outcome. The purpose of this case study was to suggest that ESTs further encourage effective reconceptualisation and the ongoing delivery of effective treatment, especially in the case of complex or atypical presentations or response to treatment. This report describes the case of an adolescent girl who underwent Maudsley family-based treatment for anorexia nervosa (AN) for a period of 12 months. Atypical response lead to an understanding of her presentation as representing a primary conversion disorder, within which AN symptoms were conceptualised as another somatic conversion of emotional distress. The report details her clinical presentation and management over the course of her illness. The case offers an important opportunity to explore the central role of the use of ESTs in guiding effective treatment delivery.
Mechanical properties of stent–graft materials
Authors: Santos Isa CT , Rodrigues Alexandra , Figueiredo Lígia , Rocha Luís A , Tavares João Manuel RS
Published: June 2012

An aneurysm is a localized blood-filled dilatation of an artery whose consequences can be deadly. One of its current treatments is endovascular aneurysm repair, a minimally invasive procedure in which an endoprosthesis, called a stent–graft, is placed transluminally to prevent wall rupture. Early stent–grafts were custom designed for the patient through the assembling of off-the-shelf components by the operating surgeon. However, nowadays, stent–grafts have become a commercial product. The existing endoprostheses differ in several aspects, such as shape design and materials, but they have in common a metallic scaffold with a polymeric covering membrane. This article aims to gather relevant information for those who wish to understand the principles of stent–grafts and even to develop new devices. Hence, a stent–graft classification based on different characteristics is presented and the desired features for an ideal device are pointed out. Additionally, the materials currently in use to fabricate this type of endoprosthesis are reviewed and new materials are suggested.
Honoring Identity Through Mealtimes in Chinese Canadian Immigrants
Authors: Lam Ivy T. Y. , Keller Heather H.
Published: June 2012

Mealtimes are opportunities for social interactions and expressions of individual and family identity, and serve as a microcosm of the broader lives of families living with dementia. The Eating Together study and its resulting Life Nourishment Theory (LNT) explicated the importance of mealtimes for honouring individual and family identities in the context of dementia. This sub-study examined a specific ethnocultural group with cultural food-ways and caring expectations, to determine if the concept of honouring identity needed to be modified or extended. Using active interview techniques, two Cantonese speaking researchers completed dyad/triad family and individual interviews with six Chinese Canadian immigrant families, recruited from two service providers in a large, urban, multicultural city. This sub-study provided insight into the challenges and rewards of mealtimes for Chinese immigrant families with dementia in the community and specifically provided further insights into the honouring identity concept. Although LNT and specifically the honouring identity concept was generally confirmed in this group, some culturally-specific themes were also identified. This work serves as a basis for future studies examining the meaning and experience of mealtimes in specific cultural groups living with dementia. Such work would confirm if the LNT can be applied to specific ethnocultural groups as well as the general population living with dementia.
Impact of Antiretroviral Therapy on Glycemia and Transaminase Levels in Patients Living with HIV/AIDS in Limbe, Cameroon
Authors: Ottop Francisca M. , Atashili Julius , Ndumbe Peter M.
Published: June 2012

This study aimed to determine the effect of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on glycemia and transaminase levels in HIV-infected patients in Limbe, Cameroon. A total of 200 ART-experienced patients and 30 ART-naive HIV-infected controls were recruited after submitting signed informed consent forms. The blood samples collected were screened for hepatitis B and C, and liver transaminases and random blood sugar (RBS) levels were determined spectrophotometrically. No significant correlation existed between the RBS and transaminase levels with either the duration of ART or the duration since HIV diagnosis. Although both groups of patients appeared to have similar transaminase and RBS levels, after controlling for confounders, patients on ART had significantly higher aspartate aminotransferase levels, significantly lower alanine aminotransferase levels, and slightly (but not significantly) lower glycemia levels (respective mean differences of 14.92 IU/L, P = .00; 11.95 IU/L, P = .00; and 7.60 mg/dL, P = .19). These changes need to be considered in monitoring patients on ART in this setting and other similar settings.
Use of Permacol in Parietal and General Surgery
Authors: Balayssac David , Poinas Anne Claire , Pereira Bruno , Pezet Denis
Published: June 2012

Background. The use of synthetic meshes on infected incisional hernias often fails and is therefore contraindicated. Biological meshes offer a novel solution. Among them, Permacol requires a bibliographic analysis of its efficacy and tolerance. Design. A bibliographic analysis was carried out on the efficacy and tolerance of Permacol in parietal and general surgery. Results. A total of 22 publications described the use of Permacol in digestive surgery. The advantages of Permacol would be usability in contaminated surgical fields, biocompatibility, no erosion of intestinal wall, and less risk of adhesions. The main drawback of Permacol is its high cost. Conclusion. Even so, Permacol can play an important part in the short-term management of complex or contaminated abdominal wall defects. The lack of long-term studies and the high cost of the implant call for a medical cost-effectiveness assessment to determine the indications for Permacol in parietal and general surgery.
The Utility of Recanalized Umbilical Vein Graft to the Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgeon
Authors: Rochon Caroline , Sheiner Patricia A. , Sharma Joyti , Rodriguez-Davalos Manuel I. , Savino John , Facciuto Marcelo E.
Published: June 2012

Background. The authors recently published their experience of recanalizing umbilical veins in deceased liver donors, with recanalized umbilical veins as vascular conduits for meso-Rex bypass procedures. They have since found recanalized umbilical veins to be an excellent, easy to harvest vascular conduit that can be used for multiple vascular procedures and repair. Here, they report their experience using this vessel for bypass and vascular reconstruction. Methods. They have recanalized umbilical veins and used them in a total of 5 Meso-Rex bypasses; 5 pancreaticoduodenectomies; 1 left hepatic trisegmentectomy with right portal vein (PV) resection and reconstruction; 1 right hepatectomy and 1 adrenalectomy, both with partial inferior vena cava (IVC) resection and reconstruction; 1 coronary-Rex bypass shunt for extrahepatic PV thrombosis; and 1 orthotopic liver transplantation with infrahepatic IVC anastomotic dehiscence patched with umbilical vein graft. Umbilical veins were dilated mechanically and used in situ for the meso-Rex bypass surgery; they were ligated in the space of Rex and then dilated ex vivo otherwise to be used as interposition grafts or a vein patch. Results. A total of 15 hepato-pancreato-biliary procedures were done using the recanalized umbilical vein as graft; 2 patients required thrombectomy postoperatively with reexploration, venotomy, thrombectomy with fogarty catheter, and venotomy closure. Conclusion. The umbilical vein graft is a fine vascular conduit and can serve many purposes in hepatobiliary surgery.
Analysis of the Anatomical Characteristics of the Pelvis in Koreans to Aid in Development of a NOTES Platform
Authors: Kim Min Ju , Kim Kwang Gi , Lee Jun Hwa , Son Jaebum , Jung Hyun Chul , Oh Jae Hwan , Sohn Dae Kyung
Published: June 2012

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive technique affording full-thickness resection of rectal tumors and can also be used as a platform for transrectal access to the peritoneal cavity for NOTES (natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery) procedures. The authors investigated the anatomical characteristics of the pelvis in Koreans to develop an ergonomically designed NOTES platform. A total of 256 patients (156 men and 100 women) who underwent pelvic magnetic resonance imaging for evaluating rectal neoplasms were enrolled for analysis. The authors retrospectively reviewed and calculated anatomical lengths and angles on pelvic magnetic resonance images and analyzed differences in pelvic anatomy in terms of patient gender, age, and body mass index. Various angulations were noted from the anal canal to the sacral promontory, attributable to the shape of the sacral bone. Minimal difference in pelvic anatomy was evident between men and women. In conclusions, the authors expect that their data will be useful in the development of ergonomic TEM-NOTES platforms.
Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via a Transaxillary Approach Is a Safe Procedure in Patients With Breast Augmentation
Authors: Lee Yong Sang , Hong Jong Won , Kim Bup Woo , Chung Woung Youn , Chang Hang-Seok , Park Cheong Soo
Published: June 2012

Introduction. Breast augmentation with implants is a common cosmetic procedure. Some endoscopic thyroid procedures can pose a risk of damage to the augmented breast. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of transaxillary gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy in patients with augmented breast. Materials and Methods. Between January 2009 and December 2010, 120 patients underwent endoscopic thyroidectomies. Of those, 6 patients had previously undergone breast augmentation. Augmented breasts were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively in terms of shape and stability. Results. All patients were female, and the mean age was 40.8 years. All patients received breast augmentation with silicone cohesive gel 2 to 10 years prior to thyroidectomy. Postoperatively, the authors found that there were no changes to the breasts in terms of anterior–posterior projections and internal angles. The augmented breasts remained stable. Conclusions. Endoscopic thyroidectomy via a transaxillary approach is safe and effective for patients who have undergone silicone breast implant augmentation.
A Catheter-Based Suture-Free Approach to Bilioenteric Anastomosis
Authors: Seal John B. , Stern Jordan R. , VanHa Thuong , Alverdy John C. , Testa Giuliano
Published: June 2012

Bilioenteric anastomoses are commonly performed during liver transplantation, reconstruction following tumor resection, and repair of bile duct injury. Ischemia plays an important role in both short- and long-term complications related to biliary anastomoses. The authors describe a catheter-based, suture-free approach to bilioenteric anastomosis that aims to reduce or eliminate tissue trauma and foreign material that contribute to anastomotic ischemia. The device uses a novel “umbrella” anchoring mechanism to approximate bowel to the transected bile duct over a percutaneously placed transhepatic catheter. The authors performed an open choledochojejunostomy using the device in 7 pigs. The anastomosis was assessed with cholangiography, gross inspection, and histology at the time of necropsy. The procedure was well tolerated, with no evidence of anastomotic leak in any of the study animals. This alternative catheter-based approach to bilioenteric anastomoses is safe and effective, offers potential advantages over traditional approaches, and can be easily adapted to a minimal access surgery.
Oophorectomy for Fertility Preservation via Reduced-Port Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Kikuchi Iwaho , Kagawa Noriko , Silber Sherman , Kuwayama Masashige , Takehara Yuji , Aono Fumihito , Kumakiri Jun , Kato Osamu , Takeda Satoru
Published: June 2012

Background. For fertility preservation of women patients scheduled to undergo chemotherapy or radiotherapy, unilateral oophorectomy was performed, and the ovary was cryopreserved. Methods. Two-port surgery was conducted in 3 patients, and single-port surgery using a single-incision laparoscopic surgery port in 3. An 18-G Cathelin needle equipped with a syringe was directly inserted transabdominally to reach the small follicle on the ovarian surface; then, follicular fluid was recovered by aspiration through the syringe as with in vitro fertilization procedures, and immature oocytes were collected from the resulting culture medium under microscopy and cryopreserved. Vitrification of the ovarian tissue was performed using the cryotissue method. Results. The operative time and estimated blood loss were 39.7 minutes (17-57) and 8.6 mL (2-20), and the numbers of ovarian cortical tissues and immature oocytes collected were 10.1 (5.5-15) and 16.3 (0-36), respectively. Conclusions. It is suggested that fertility preservation operations before chemotherapy or radiotherapy can be safely done using reduced-port surgery.
What Do Surgeons See
Authors: Atkins M. Stella , Tien Geoffrey , Khan Rana S.A. , Meneghetti Adam , Zheng Bin
Published: June 2012

Recording eye motions in surgical environments is challenging. This study describes the authors’ experiences with performing eye-tracking for improving surgery training, both in the laboratory and in the operating room (OR). Three different eye-trackers were used, each with different capabilities and requirements. For monitoring eye gaze shifts over the room scene in a simulated OR, a head-mounted system was used. The number of surgeons’ eye glances on the monitor displaying patient vital signs was successfully captured by this system. The resolution of the head-mounted eye-tracker was not sufficient to obtain the gaze coordinates in detail on the surgical display monitor. The authors then selected a high-resolution eye-tracker built in to a 17-inch computer monitor that is capable of recording gaze differences with resolution of 1° of visual angle. This system enables one to investigate surgeons’ eye–hand coordination on the surgical monitor in the laboratory environment. However, the limited effective tracking distance restricts the use of this system in the dynamic environment in the real OR. Another eye-tracker system was found with equally high level of resolution but with more flexibility on the tracking distance, as the eye-tracker camera was detached from the monitor. With this system, the surgeon’s gaze during 11 laparoscopic procedures in the OR was recorded successfully. There were many logistical challenges with unobtrusively integrating the eye-tracking equipment into the regular OR workflow and data processing issues in the form of image compatibility and data validation. The experiences and solutions to these challenges are discussed.
The transfer of English legislation to the Scottish context: Lessons from the implementation of the Football Banning Order in Scotland
Authors: Hamilton-Smith Niall , Hopkins Matt
Published: June 2012

This article compares the enactment of Football Banning Order legislation in Scotland to that in England and Wales. Football Banning Orders evolved in England and Wales through the 1990s into a particular form of hybrid legislation, culminating in the Football (Disorder) Act of 2000. The legislation was not introduced into Scotland until the Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Bill in 2006. By 2010, it appeared that orders were being under-utilized in Scotland. This raised questions as to whether there was less need for orders within the context of Scottish football, whether the legislation was either being poorly implemented or if imposing orders was being actively resisted. In focusing primarily on the utilization of the legislation by police on the ground, this article questions whether the football or policing contexts are markedly different in the two jurisdictions. We argue that one of the dominant explanations for the comparatively low use of orders in Scotland relates not to the content or interpretation of the particular legislation involved, but to broader differences in how criminal justice legislation is typically enacted.
Three-dimensional vision analysis to measure the release characteristics of elite bowlers in cricket
Authors: Cork Alexander , Justham Laura , West Andrew
Published: June 2012

Cricket is a sport played internationally in over 100 countries. Two teams face one another in a match, each taking it in turns to bat and field. In the fielding side, bowlers deliver the ball to the batsman who then responds by hitting the ball away. Batting and bowling are complex and dynamic skills which must be practised at length in training. However, due to the demanding nature of bowling, batsmen can train against a machine to face sufficient numbers of deliveries. An advanced training machine is under development at Loughborough University that is capable of delivering technically correct bowling deliveries in a repeatable manner. However, in order to monitor that the machine is generating accurate deliveries, a study to quantify the variability in the delivery parameters of bowlers has been undertaken, and the results are presented in this paper. Eight spin bowlers and ten pace bowlers have been studied. Each bowler was asked to deliver up to five balls, and the results have been analysed and presented. It has been found that the range of ball release speed varies from 17.5–35.0 m/s, the rate of spin imparted by the bowler varies from 11.44–231.22 rad/s, the launch angle of the ball varies from 9.7° above the horizontal to 19.2° below the horizontal and the launch position on the wicket varies from 1.97–2.38 m in height, ±1.95 m in width and 0.36–1.79 m from the bowler’s stumps.
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for myelofibrosis in the era of JAK inhibitors
Authors: Gupta Vikas , Hari Parameswaran , Hoffman Ronald
Published: June 2012

The discovery of JAK2617F mutation paved the way for the development of small molecule inhibitors of JAK1/2 resulting in first approved JAK1/2 inhibitor, ruxolitinib, for the treatment of patients with myelofibrosis (MF). Although JAK1/2 inhibitor therapy is effective in decreasing the burden of symptoms associated with splenomegaly and MF-related constitutional symptoms, it is neither curative nor effective in reducing the risk of leukemic transformation. Presently, allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is the only curative therapy for MF. A significant risk of regimen-related toxicities, graft failure, and GVHD are major barriers to the success of HCT in MF. Because of significant HCT-associated morbidity and mortality, divergent opinions regarding its appropriate role in this clinical situation have emerged. In this review, the risk-benefit ratios of modern drug therapy compared with HCT in MF patients are analyzed. A risk-adapted approach individualized to each patient's biologic characteristics and comorbidities is described, which is currently warranted in determining optimal treatment strategies for patients with MF. Inclusion of JAK1/2 inhibitor therapy in future transplant conditioning regimens may provide an opportunity to overcome some of these barriers, resulting in greater success with HCT for MF patients.
Translation validation of a new back pain screening questionnaire (the STarT Back Screening Tool) in French
Authors: Bruyère Olivier , Demoulin Maryline , Brereton Clara , Humblet Fabienne , Flynn Daniel , Hill Jonathan C , Maquet Didier , Van Beveren Julien , Reginster Jean-Yves , Crielaard Jean-Michel , Demoulin Christophe
Published: June 2012

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a major public health problem and the identification of individuals at risk of persistent LBP poses substantial challenges to clinical management. The STarT Back questionnaire is a validated nine-item patient self-report questionnaire that classifies patients with LBP at low, medium or high-risk of poor prognosis for persistent non-specific LBP. The objective of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the English version of the STarT Back questionnaire into French.

Methods

The translation was performed using best practice translation guidelines. The following phases were performed: contact with the STarT Back questionnaire developers, initial translations (English into French), synthesis, back translations, expert committee review, test of the pre-final version on 44 individuals with LBP, final version.

Results

The linguistic translation required minor semantic alterations. The participants interviewed indicated that all items of the questionnaire were globally clear and comprehensible. However, 6 subjects (14%) wondered if two questions were related to back pain or general health. After discussion within the expert committee and with the developer of the STarT Back tool, it was decided to modify the questionnaire and to add a reference to back pain in these two questions.

Conclusions

The French version of the STarT Back questionnaire has been shown to be comprehensible and adapted to the French speaking general population. Investigations are now required to test the psychometric properties (reliability, internal and external validity, responsiveness) of this translated version of the questionnaire.
Sharp bounds by the power mean for the generalized Heronian mean
Authors: Li Yong-Min , Long Bo-Yong , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: June 2012

In this article, we answer the question: For p, ω ∈ ℝ with ω > 0 and p(ω - 2) ≠ 0, what are the greatest value r
1 = r
1(p, ω) and the least value r
2 = r
2(p, ω) such that the double inequality

M

r

1

a
,
b

<

H

p
,
ω

a
,
b

<

M

r

2

a
,
b

holds for all a, b > 0 with a ≠ b? Here H

p,ω
(a, b) and M

r
(a, b) denote the generalized Heronian mean and r th power mean of two positive numbers a and b, respectively.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 26E60.
The role of lipooligosaccharide phosphorylcholine in colonization and pathogenesis of Histophilus somni in cattle
Authors: Elswaifi Shaadi F , Scarratt William K , Inzana Thomas J
Published: June 2012

Histophilus somni is a Gram-negative bacterium and member of the Pasteurellaceae that is responsible for respiratory disease and other systemic infections in cattle. One of the bacterium’s virulence factors is antigenic phase variation of its lipooligosaccharide (LOS). LOS antigenic variation may occur through variation in composition or structure of glycoses or their substitutions, such as phosphorylcholine (ChoP). However, the role of ChoP in the pathogenesis of H. somni disease has not been established. In Haemophilus influenzae ChoP on the LOS binds to platelet activating factor on epithelial cells, promoting bacterial colonization of the host upper respiratory tract. However, ChoP is not expressed in the blood as it also binds C-reactive protein, resulting in complement activation and killing of the bacteria. In order to simulate the susceptibility of calves with suppressed immunity due to stress or previous infection, calves were challenged with bovine herpes virus-1 or dexamethazone 3 days prior to challenge with H. somni. Following challenge, expression of ChoP on the LOS of 2 different H. somni strains was associated with colonization of the upper respiratory tract. In contrast, lack of ChoP expression was associated with bacteria recovered from systemic sites. Histopathology of cardiac tissue from myocarditis revealed lesions containing bacterial clusters that appeared similar to a biofilm. Furthermore, some respiratory cultures contained substantial numbers of Pasteurella multocida, which were not present on preculture screens. Subsequent biofilm experiments have shown that H. somni and P. multocida grow equally well together in a biofilm, suggesting a commensal relationship may exist between the two species. Our results also showed that ChoP contributed to, but was not required for, adhesion to respiratory epithelial cells. In conclusion, expression of ChoP on H. somni LOS contributed to colonization of the bacteria to the host upper respiratory tract, but phase variable loss of ChoP expression may help the bacteria survive systemically.
Improved strategy for phylogenetic analysis of classical swine fever virus based on full-length E2 encoding sequences
Authors: Postel Alexander , Schmeiser Stefanie , Bernau Jennifer , Meindl-Boehmer Alexandra , Pridotkas Gediminas , Dirbakova Zuzana , Mojzis Miroslav , Becher Paul
Published: June 2012

Molecular epidemiology has proven to be an essential tool in the control of classical swine fever (CSF) and its use has significantly increased during the past two decades. Phylogenetic analysis is a prerequisite for virus tracing and thus allows implementing more effective control measures. So far, fragments of the 5´NTR (150 nucleotides, nt) and the E2 gene (190 nt) have frequently been used for phylogenetic analyses. The short sequence lengths represent a limiting factor for differentiation of closely related isolates and also for confidence levels of proposed CSFV groups and subgroups. In this study, we used a set of 33 CSFV isolates in order to determine the nucleotide sequences of a 3508–3510 nt region within the 5´ terminal third of the viral genome. Including 22 additional sequences from GenBank database different regions of the genome, comprising the formerly used short 5´NTR and E2 fragments as well as the genomic regions encoding the individual viral proteins Npro, C, Erns, E1, and E2, were compared with respect to variability and suitability for phylogenetic analysis. Full-length E2 encoding sequences (1119 nt) proved to be most suitable for reliable and statistically significant phylogeny and analyses revealed results as good as obtained with the much longer entire 5´NTR-E2 sequences. This strategy is therefore recommended by the EU and OIE Reference Laboratory for CSF as it provides a solid and improved basis for CSFV molecular epidemiology. Finally, the power of this method is illustrated by the phylogenetic analysis of closely related CSFV isolates from a recent outbreak in Lithuania.
Web tools for large-scale 3D biological images and atlases
Authors: Husz Zsolt L , Burton Nicholas , Hill Bill , Milyaev Nestor , Baldock Richard A
Published: June 2012

Background

Large-scale volumetric biomedical image data of three or more dimensions are a significant challenge for distributed browsing and visualisation. Many images now exceed 10GB which for most users is too large to handle in terms of computer RAM and network bandwidth. This is aggravated when users need to access tens or hundreds of such images from an archive. Here we solve the problem for 2D section views through archive data delivering compressed tiled images enabling users to browse through very-large volume data in the context of a standard web-browser. The system provides an interactive visualisation for grey-level and colour 3D images including multiple image layers and spatial-data overlay.

Results

The standard Internet Imaging Protocol (IIP) has been extended to enable arbitrary 2D sectioning of 3D data as well a multi-layered images and indexed overlays. The extended protocol is termed IIP3D and we have implemented a matching server to deliver the protocol and a series of Ajax/Javascript client codes that will run in an Internet browser. We have tested the server software on a low-cost linux-based server for image volumes up to 135GB and 64 simultaneous users. The section views are delivered with response times independent of scale and orientation. The exemplar client provided multi-layer image views with user-controlled colour-filtering and overlays.

Conclusions

Interactive browsing of arbitrary sections through large biomedical-image volumes is made possible by use of an extended internet protocol and efficient server-based image tiling. The tools open the possibility of enabling fast access to large image archives without the requirement of whole image download and client computers with very large memory configurations. The system was demonstrated using a range of medical and biomedical image data extending up to 135GB for a single image volume.
Quartet decomposition server: a platform for analyzing phylogenetic trees
Authors: Mao Fenglou , Williams David , Zhaxybayeva Olga , Poptsova Maria , Lapierre Pascal , Gogarten J Peter , Xu Ying
Published: June 2012

Background

The frequent exchange of genetic material among prokaryotes means that extracting a majority or plurality phylogenetic signal from many gene families, and the identification of gene families that are in significant conflict with the plurality signal is a frequent task in comparative genomics, and especially in phylogenomic analyses. Decomposition of gene trees into embedded quartets (unrooted trees each with four taxa) is a convenient and statistically powerful technique to address this challenging problem. This approach was shown to be useful in several studies of completely sequenced microbial genomes.

Results

We present here a web server that takes a collection of gene phylogenies, decomposes them into quartets, generates a Quartet Spectrum, and draws a split network. Users are also provided with various data download options for further analyses. Each gene phylogeny is to be represented by an assessment of phylogenetic information content, such as sets of trees reconstructed from bootstrap replicates or sampled from a posterior distribution. The Quartet Decomposition server is accessible at http://quartets.uga.edu.

Conclusions

The Quartet Decomposition server presented here provides a convenient means to perform Quartet Decomposition analyses and will empower users to find statistically supported phylogenetic conflicts.
Cornelia de Lange syndrome with NIPBL mutation and mosaic Turner syndrome in the same individual
Authors: Wierzba Jolanta , Gil-Rodríguez María Concepción , Polucha Anna , Puisac Beatriz , Arnedo María , Teresa-Rodrigo María Esperanza , Winnicka Dorota , Hegardt Fausto G , Ramos Feliciano J , Limon Janusz , Pié Juan
Published: June 2012

Background

Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a dominantly inherited disorder characterized by facial dysmorphism, growth and cognitive impairment, limb malformations and multiple organ involvement. Mutations in NIPBL gene account for about 60% of patients with CdLS. This gene encodes a key regulator of the Cohesin complex, which controls sister chromatid segregation during both mitosis and meiosis. Turner syndrome (TS) results from the partial or complete absence of one of the X chromosomes, usually associated with congenital lymphedema, short stature, and gonadal dysgenesis.

Case presentation

Here we report a four-year-old female with CdLS due to a frameshift mutation in the NIPBL gene (c.1445_1448delGAGA), who also had a tissue-specific mosaic 45,X/46,XX karyotype. The patient showed a severe form of CdLS with craniofacial dysmorphism, pre- and post-natal growth delay, cardiovascular abnormalities, hirsutism and severe psychomotor retardation with behavioural problems. She also presented with minor clinical features consistent with TS, including peripheral lymphedema and webbed neck. The NIPBL mutation was present in the two tissues analysed from different embryonic origins (peripheral blood lymphocytes and oral mucosa epithelial cells). However, the percentage of cells with monosomy X was low and variable in tissues. These findings indicate that, ontogenically, the NIPBL mutation may have appeared before the mosaic monosomy X.

Conclusions

The coexistence in several patients of these two rare disorders raises the issue of whether there is indeed a cause-effect association. The detailed clinical descriptions indicate predominant CdLS phenotype, although additional TS manifestations may appear in adolescence.
Long-term impact of intrauterine fetal death on quality of life and depression: a case–control study
Authors: Gravensteen Ida Kathrine , Helgadottir Linda Bjørk , Jacobsen Eva-Marie , Sandset Per Morten , Ekeberg Øivind
Published: June 2012

Background

Intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) is a serious incidence that has been shown to impact mothers’ psychological well-being in the short-term. Long-term quality of life (QOL) and depression after IUFD is not known. This study aimed to determine the association between intrauterine fetal death and long-term QOL, well-being, and depression.

Methods

Analyses were performed on collected data among 106 women with a history of intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) and 262 women with live births, 5–18 years after the event. Univariable and multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to quantify the association between previous fetal death and long-term QOL, well-being and depression. QOL was assessed using the QOL Index (QLI), symptoms of depression using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and subjective well-being using the General Health Questionnaire 20 (GHQ-20).

Results

More of the cases had characteristics associated with lower socioeconomic status and did not rate their health as good as did the controls. The QLI health and functioning subscale score was slightly but significantly lower in the cases than in the controls (22.3. vs 23.5,P = .023). The CES-D depressed affect subscale score (2.0 vs 1.0,P = 0.004) and the CES-D global score (7.4 vs 5.0,P = .017) were higher in the cases. Subjective well-being did not differ between groups (20.6 vs 19.4,P = .094). After adjusting for demographic and health-related variables, IUFD was not associated with global QOL (P = .674), subjective well-being (P = .700), or global depression score (adjusted odds ratio = 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.37–1.57).

Conclusions

Women with previous IUFD, of which the majority have received short-term interventions, share the same level of long-term QOL, well-being and global depression as women with live births only, when adjusted for possible confounders.

Trial registration

The study was registered athttp://www.clinicaltrials.gov, with registration number NCT 00856076.
Cost-effectiveness of nurse-led self-help for recurrent depression in the primary care setting: design of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial
Authors: Biesheuvel-Leliefeld Karolien EM , Kersten Sandra MA , van der Horst Henriette E , van Schaik Anneke , Bockting Claudi LH , Bosmans Judith E , Smit Filip , van Marwijk Harm WJ
Published: June 2012

Background

Major Depressive Disorder is a leading cause of disability, tends to run a recurrent course and is associated with substantial economic costs due to increased healthcare utilization and productivity losses. Interventions aimed at the prevention of recurrences may reduce patients' suffering and costs. Besides antidepressants, several psychological treatments such as preventive cognitive therapy (PCT) are effective in the prevention of recurrences of depression. Yet, many patients find long-term use of antidepressants unattractive, do not want to engage in therapy sessions and in the primary care setting psychologists are often not available. Therefore, it is important to study whether PCT can be used in a nurse-led self-help format in primary care. This study sets out to test the hypothesis that usual care plus nurse-led self-help for recurrent depression in primary care is feasible, acceptable and cost-effective compared to usual care only.

Design

Patients are randomly assigned to ‘nurse-led self-help treatment plus usual care’ (134 participants) or ‘usual care’ (134 participants). Randomisation is stratified according to the number of previous episodes (2 or 3 previous episodes versus 4 or more). The primary clinical outcome is the cumulative recurrence rate of depression meeting DSM-IV criteria as assessed by the Structured-Clinical-Interview-for-DSM-IV- disorders at one year after completion of the intervention. Secondary clinical outcomes are quality of life, severity of depressive symptoms, co-morbid psychopathology and self-efficacy. As putative effect-moderators, demographic characteristics, number of previous episodes, type of treatment during previous episodes, age of onset, self-efficacy and symptoms of pain and fatigue are assessed. Cumulative recurrence rate ratios are obtained under a Poisson regression model. Number-needed-to-be-treated is calculated as the inverse of the risk-difference. The economic evaluation is conducted from a societal perspective, both as a cost-effectiveness analysis (costs per depression free survival year) and as a cost-utility analysis (costs per quality adjusted life-year).

Discussion

The purpose of this paper is to outline the rationale and design of a nurse-led, cognitive therapy based self-help aimed at preventing recurrence of depression in a primary care setting. Only few studies have focused on psychological self-help interventions aimed at the prevention of recurrences in primary care patients.

Trial registration

NTR3001 (http://www.trialregister.nl)
Risk factors for Mycoplasma genitalium infection among female sex workers: a cross-sectional study in two cities in southwest China
Authors: Xiang Zhi , Yin Yue-Ping , Shi Mei-Qin , Jiang Ning , Han Yan , Wang Hong-Chun , Zheng Bing-Jie , Liang Guo-Jun , Chen Xiang-Sheng
Published: June 2012

Background

Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) is one of the common causes of non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) in men and is associated with cervicitis, endometritis, and pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID) in women. The prevalence of MG infection has been reported to be high among female sex workers (FSWs) in many countries, but limited information is known among this population in China.

Methods

From July to September 2009, venue-based FSWs were recruited in two cities (Wuzhou and Hezhou) of Guangxi Autonomous Region in southwest China. Information of socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics was collected by a questionnaire-based interview. Cervical specimens were obtained for detection of MG using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting mgpA gene.

Results

The overall prevalence of MG infection among 810 FSWs was 13.2% (95% CI = 10.87%–15.52%). MG infection was significantly associated with less education (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.36, 95% CI = 1.15–4.87) consisting of junior high school or below, being single (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI = 1.42–3.62), migrant background (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.29–3.20), and absence of any STI symptoms in the previous year (AOR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.09–2.52).

Conclusions

MG infection was prevalent among FSWs in the study areas. This pattern of infection suggests that an increasing attention should be paid to MG screening and treatment in this high risk population.
Resting energy expenditure and carbohydrate oxidation are higher in elderly patients with COPD: a case control study
Authors: Ramires Bruna Rubi , de Oliveira Erick Prado , Pimentel Gustavo Duarte , McLellan Kátia Cristina Portero , Nakato Darlan Muller , Faganello Márcia Maria , Galhardo Maurício Longo , de Souza Venâncio Luciene
Published: June 2012

Background

Elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) usually have a compromised nutritional status which is an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality. To know the Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) and the substrate oxidation measurement is essential to prevent these complications. This study aimed to compare the REE, respiratory quotient (RQ) and body composition between patients with and without COPD.

Methods

This case–control study assessed 20 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease attending a pulmonary rehabilitation program. The group of subjects without COPD (control group) consisted of 20 elderly patients attending a university gym, patients of a private service and a public healthy care. Consumption of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) was determined by indirect calorimetry and used for calculating the resting energy expenditure and respiratory quotient. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were also measured. Percentage of body fat (%BF), lean mass (kg) and muscle mass (kg) were determined by bioimpedance. The fat free mass index (FFMI) and muscle mass index (MMI) were then calculated.

Results

The COPD group had lower BMI than control (p = 0.02). However, WC, % BF, FFMI and MM-I did not differ between the groups. The COPD group had greater RQ (p = 0.01), REE (p = 0.009) and carbohydrate oxidation (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Elderly patients with COPD had higher REE, RQ and carbohydrate oxidation than controls.