bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FATCA: implications for non-US funds: a general guide for determining the applicability of FATCA to non-USA funds
Authors: M. Garry Kristen , Gelencsér Etienne , M. O’Pray Eileen , King Naomi , B. Tate Jeffrey
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– To summarize the principal aspects of USA tax legislation commonly known as the “Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act” (“FATCA”) that may be relevant to non-USA investment funds.

Design/methodology/approach

– Reviews the potential application of FATCA to non-USA investment funds in a question-and-answer format and summarizes the key FATCA compliance obligations that may apply to such funds.

Findings

– FATCA presents a number of compliance and operational challenges for non-USA investment funds. Such funds should be aware of their status under FATCA and resulting compliance responsibilities to ensure that they are compliant with FATCA and thus not subject to USA withholding tax.

Originality/value

– Practical guidance from experienced tax and investment funds lawyers that summarizes a complex body of law in a concise format.
Benefits of exposure
Authors: Fox Robert
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This column aims to look at various aspects of search engine optimization (SEO) and the potential risks and rewards from exposing library-related content using techniques such as microdata and descriptive frameworks such as that outlined on schema.org.

Design/methodology/approach

– Regular column.

Findings

– This column explores concepts related to SEO and is speculative in nature.

Originality/value

– Academic libraries can greatly benefit from exploring the potential benefits of using SEO and microdata/microformats. The landscape for SEO has changed dramatically over the past decade, and the benefit to libraries who have in once sense seen themselves as competitors with the major search engines is significant.
Addressing sustainable challenges in China
Authors: Zhai Xiaolin , Reed Richard , Mills Anthony
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present an innovative approach to addressing increasing sustainable challenges facing China's built environment which are linked to a diverse range of factors including rapid economic and population growth. The research context includes mass urbanisation in and the Chinese construction industry's attitude towards adopting sustainable construction processes. The focus is placed on examining current on-site construction practices in China which have historically remained largely unchanged; this includes a high reliance on cheap labour accompanied by a substantial material waste. An alternative approach is to increase the uptake of off-site production in China's residential construction industry, however no previous studies have investigated the potential advantages and barriers of this alternative approach.

Design/methodology/approach

– In collaboration with an industry organisation a survey was completed by 110 construction professionals in China. The questionnaire referred to 21 individual factors relating to their perception about the current and potential future uptake of off-site production in construction processes in China.

Findings

– The results confirmed the existing level of off-site production in China's urban residential construction industry was relatively low. At present the cast-in-situ method was considered by stakeholders as the most effective approach. The findings also confirmed the benefits of off-site production are not fully understood by the housing construction industry in China. It is argued this knowledge gap reduces the Chinese construction industry's motivation levels when seeking to embrace the off-site production approach and adopt improved sustainable construction practices.

Originality/value

– This is an original study designed to address a gap in knowledge as there has been no previous research conducted into the use of off-site industrialised process in China. The results provide a valuable insight into the uptake of off-site production in the residential construction industry and will assist stakeholders and policymakers to increase the level of sustainability.
Exploration of building adaptations and retrofitting challenges in Ghana
Authors: Oppong R.A. , Masahudu M.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The Ghanaian banking industry has over the last 20 years witnessed tremendous growth to the extent that rural banks are now expanding their activities into urban centres. Hitherto, rural banks operated in rural and peri-urban areas in Ghana, but nowadays, there is an upsurge of rural banks activities in the urban centres of Ghana; and, they operate from rented premises, most of which are existing buildings in the urban areas. To meet the banking demands and the urban banking competitions such as the introduction of new technologies and regulations, the rural banks endeavour to expand (refurbish) the old/existing buildings with inherent adaptation and retrofitting challenges. Even though, adaptation and retrofit projects may not be popular in Ghana at large scales, this paper through combined methodology of constructive dialogue, case studies and condition survey approaches presents rural banks projects in Ghana as case studies of refurbishment and maintenance to “unearth” and resonate some key challenges of managing adaptation and retrofits in Ghana for future effective projects management solutions during their conception and execution. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Through combined methodology of constructive dialogue, case studies and condition survey approaches this paper presents rural banks projects in Ghana as case studies of refurbishment and maintenance to “unearth” and resonate some key challenges of adaptation and retrofit projects.

Findings

– The condition survey revealed unprecedented infrastructural drive by rural banks throughout Ghana and their desire to penetrate the urban areas as well. However, this drive unfortunately as it appeared, is not informed and carried out within the confines and dictates of existing legislations in Ghana. Again, it was found that adaptations and retrofitting will improve and integrate the rural banks in the urban economy through prudent project management practices.

Research limitations/implications

– Availability of local researches and literature on adaptations and retrofitting as project management practices in Ghana.

Practical implications

– Retrofitting and adaptation projects in Ghana is crucial for project management practices on low-impact building as Ghana faces energy challenges.

Social implications

– This research brings to bear realistic programme to build capacity of personnel to strategically integrate the rural banks into the central banking system of Ghana as well as project management practices through better and effective monitoring for social, ethical and equity impacts of their project managers.

Originality/value

– Apparently, adaptation and retrofit projects are not be popular in Ghana at large scales and this is the first time an academic paper of a kind has been written to guide and manage future adaptation and retrofit projects during their conception and execution as well as project management practices in general.
Musical Chiaroscuro in French Baroque Opera: The Case of Abbé Pellegrin's Tragédies en Musique
Authors: PINTIAUX BENJAMIN
Published: November 2014

The libretti of Simon‐Joseph Pellegrin's tragédies en musique are a perfect example of the use and functioning of musical clair‐obscur in French opera in the eighteenth century. They illustrate the way it shapes and structures them both from a micro and macro point of view, with a rich typology of arias as well as literary and musical patterns. The need for variety and contrast and the systematic alternation between different types of arias, lyrical forms, registers, scenes and genres help structure French opera of the Enlightenment.
Critical Appraisal of Emergency Medicine Education Research: The Best Publications of 2013
Authors: Farrell Susan E. , Kuhn Gloria J. , Coates Wendy C. , Shayne Phillip H. , Fisher Jonathan , Maggio Lauren A. , Lin Michelle
Published: November 2014

Objectives

The objective was to critically appraise and highlight methodologically superior medical education research articles published in 2013 whose outcomes are pertinent to teaching and education in emergency medicine (EM).

Methods

A search of the English‐language literature in 2013 querying Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), PsychINFO, PubMed, and Scopus identified 251 EM‐related studies using hypothesis‐testing or observational investigations of educational interventions. Two reviewers independently screened all of the publications and removed articles using established exclusion criteria. Six reviewers then independently scored the remaining 43 publications using either a qualitative a or quantitative scoring system, based on the research methodology of each article. Each scoring system consisted of nine criteria. Selected criteria were based on accepted educational review literature and chosen a priori. Both scoring systems used parallel scoring metrics and have been used previously within this annual review.

Results

Forty‐three medical education research papers (37 quantitative and six qualitative studies) met the a priori criteria for inclusion and were reviewed. Six quantitative and one qualitative study were scored and ranked most highly by the reviewers as exemplary and are summarized in this article.

Conclusions

This annual critical appraisal article aims to promote superior research in EM‐related education, by reviewing and highlighting seven of 43 major education research studies, meeting a priori criteria, and published in 2013. Common methodologic pitfalls in the 2013 papers are noted, and current trends in medical education research in EM are discussed.
Effect of Intubation for Gamma‐hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose on Emergency Department Length of Stay and Hospital Admission
Authors: Dietze Paul , Horyniak Danielle , Agius Paul , Munir Venita , Smit de Villiers , Johnston Jennifer , Fry Craig L. , Degenhardt Louisa
Published: November 2014

Objectives

The objective was to examine the effect of endotracheal intubation on emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) and admission rates for patients with gamma‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB) overdose.

Methods

A 3‐year retrospective electronic and paper audit of recreational drug presentations was carried out at two major inner‐city EDs in Melbourne, Australia. Different GHB overdose management strategies exist at the respective audit sites, namely: 1) all patients with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8 or less are intubated or 2) uncomplicated patients with GCS scores of 8 or less are managed without intubation (conservative management), unless further complications arise. This difference allows for comparison of the effects of intubation. All suspected GHB‐related cases (defined as cases where GHB or its analogs gamma‐butyrolactone or 1,4‐butanediol were recorded) in which altered consciousness state was noted as a presenting symptom at triage were selected from all recreational drug‐related presentations occurring between January 2008 and December 2010. The relationship between intubation and the primary outcome, ED LOS, was examined using robust regression after adjustment for potential confounders. The relationship between intubation and admission status (admission to hospital versus discharge) was also examined using logistic regression.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounders such as GCS score, intubation of GHB‐related cases in the ED was associated with an increase in mean LOS of 41% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 19% to 65%) and an increase in the odds of admission to hospital of 9.95 (95% CI = 2.36 to 41.88) at one hospital site, compared to conservative airway management.

Conclusions

Conservative airway management (no intubation) is associated with shorter ED LOS in cases of uncomplicated GHB‐related coma in the ED and may also be associated with lower admission rates for these patients.
National Institutes of Health Support for Individual Mentored Career Development Grants in Emergency Medicine
Authors: Brown Jeremy
Published: November 2014

Objectives

Individual mentored career (K) awards made by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are an important way for medical researchers to develop their research skills. This study determined the number of individual mentored (K) awards awarded to emergency medicine (EM) faculty over a 6‐year period and compared it with six other specialties.

Methods

The NIH database of both submitted and funded K01, K08, and K23 applications was queried and crossed with the departmental affiliation of the principal investigator. The results were further analyzed with data from the Association of American Medical Colleges to determine the relationship between the number of awards and the size of the teaching and research faculty.

Results

From 2008 to 2013, there were a total of 45 career development submissions from principal investigators affiliated with departments of EM. Of these, 27 (60%) were successful. This success rate is the third lowest of the seven specialties in this analysis. Emergency physicians submit relatively few grants compared to the size of their faculty, and the funding rate, $1,959 per EM resident, was the second lowest of the six specialties examined.

Conclusions

Although success rates are reasonable, EM investigators submit very few individual mentored career development applications. They should take greater advantage of this mechanism to further their research training.
Oscillatory haematopoiesis in adults with sickle cell disease treated with hydroxycarbamide
Authors: Baird John H. , Minniti Caterina P. , Lee Jung‐Min , Tian Xin , Wu Colin , Jackson Mary , Alam Shoaib , Taylor James G. , Kato Gregory J.
Published: November 2014

Hydroxycarbamide therapy has been associated with significant oscillations in peripheral blood counts from myeloid, lymphoid and erythroid lineages in patients with polycythaemia vera and chronic myeloid leukaemia. We retrospectively evaluated serial blood counts over an 8‐year period from 44 adult patients with sickle cell disease receiving hydroxycarbamide. Platelet counts, leucocyte counts, haemoglobin values and reticulocyte counts, apportioned by hydroxycarbamide status, were analysed using a Lomb‐Scargle periodogram algorithm. Significant periodicities were present in one or more counts in 38 patients receiving hydroxycarbamide for a mean duration of 4·81 years. Platelet and leucocyte counts oscillated in 56·8% and 52·3% of patients, respectively. These oscillations generally became detectable within days of initiating therapy. During hydroxycarbamide therapy, the predominant periods of oscillation were 27 ± 1 d for platelet counts and 15 ± 1 d for leucocyte counts. Despite an absolute decrease in leucocyte and platelet counts during hydroxycarbamide treatment, the amplitudes between nadirs and zeniths remained similar regardless of exposure. Our observations appear consistent with previously proposed models of cyclic haematopoiesis, and document that hydroxycarbamide‐induced oscillations in blood counts are innocuous phenomena not limited to myeloproliferative disorders as described previously. We speculate the known cell cycle inhibitory properties of hydroxycarbamide may accentuate otherwise latent constitutive oscillatory haematopoiesis.
Clinical issues in renal transplantation in the elderly
Authors: Hod Tammy , Goldfarb‐Rumyantzev Alexander S.
Published: November 2014

Kidney transplantation is the best renal replacement therapy option and is superior to dialysis in elderly end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Furthermore, the outcome of transplantation in the elderly is comparable to younger patients in terms of allograft survival. The exact nature of this phenomenon is not completely clear. As the elderly population continues to grow, it becomes more important to identify specific issues associated with kidney transplantation. In particular, elderly transplant recipients might have a lower chance of acute rejection as their immune systems seem to be less reactive. This might predispose elderly recipients to greater risk of post‐transplant infectious complications or malignancies. Furthermore, due to differences in pharmacokinetics, elderly recipients might require lower doses of immunosuppressive medication. As the main cause of graft failure in the elderly is death with a functioning graft and also considering the scarcity of donor organs, it might make sense to recommend transplanting elderly recipients with extended criteria donor kidneys. This approach would balance shorter patient survival compared to younger recipients. In conclusion, old age should not preclude ESRD patients from kidney transplantation. However, specific differences that have to do with immunosuppression and other aspects of managing elderly transplant recipients should be considered.
Primary subcutaneous myxoid liposarcoma: a clinicopathologic review of three cases with molecular confirmation and discussion of the differential diagnosis
Authors: Buehler Darya , Marburger Trent B. , Billings Steven D.
Published: November 2014

Background

Myxoid liposarcoma typically presents as a deep‐seated mass in the lower extremity of adults. Presentation as a primary subcutaneous tumor is rare. Here we discuss clinicopathologic characteristics of three such cases and their differential diagnosis to alert dermatopathologists to this unusual clinical presentation of a potentially aggressive entity.

Methods

Cases of myxoid liposarcoma were retrieved from archives and consultation files. Inclusion required location above the subcutaneous fascia with no evidence of a metastatic origin. Clinicopathologic features were retrospectively reviewed. Fluorescence in situ hybridization for DDIT3 (CHOP) gene rearrangement was performed on all cases.

Results

The tumors affected young adults (two males and one female, mean 36 years, range 32–40 years). No prior history of myxoid liposarcoma or deep soft tissue mass was identified. The tumors occurred in the foot, thigh and hand. All demonstrated multilobular architecture with abundant myxoid stroma, prominent branching capillary vascular network and lipoblastic differentiation. No dermal involvement was seen. Round cell features were identified in one case and represented <5% of the tumor. All patients remain disease‐free following local excision only at 6, 8 and 13 months.

Conclusions

Myxoid liposarcoma can rarely present as a primary subcutaneous mass and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous myxoid tumors in adults.
Distinct subsynaptic localization of type 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors at glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses in the rodent cerebellar cortex
Authors: Mansouri Mahnaz , Kasugai Yu , Fukazawa Yugo , Bertaso Federica , Raynaud Fabrice , Perroy Julie , Fagni Laurent , Kaufmann Walter A. , Watanabe Masahiko , Shigemoto Ryuichi , Ferraguti Francesco
Published: November 2014

Type 1 metabotropic glutamate (mGlu1) receptors play a pivotal role in different forms of synaptic plasticity in the cerebellar cortex, e.g. long‐term depression at glutamatergic synapses and rebound potentiation at GABAergic synapses. These various forms of plasticity might depend on the subsynaptic arrangement of the receptor in Purkinje cells that can be regulated by protein–protein interactions. This study investigated, by means of the freeze‐fracture replica immunogold labelling method, the subcellular localization of mGlu1 receptors in the rodent cerebellum and whether Homer proteins regulate their subsynaptic distribution. We observed a widespread extrasynaptic localization of mGlu1 receptors and confirmed their peri‐synaptic enrichment at glutamatergic synapses. Conversely, we detected mGlu1 receptors within the main body of GABAergic synapses onto Purkinje cell dendrites. Although Homer proteins are known to interact with the mGlu1 receptor C‐terminus, we could not detect Homer3, the most abundant Homer protein in the cerebellar cortex, at GABAergic synapses by pre‐embedding and post‐embedding immunoelectron microscopy. We then hypothesized a critical role for Homer proteins in the peri‐junctional localization of mGlu1 receptors at glutamatergic synapses. To disrupt Homer‐associated protein complexes, mice were tail‐vein injected with the membrane‐permeable dominant‐negative TAT‐Homer1a. Freeze‐fracture replica immunogold labelling analysis showed no significant alteration in the mGlu1 receptor distribution pattern at parallel fibre–Purkinje cell synapses, suggesting that other scaffolding proteins are involved in the peri‐synaptic confinement. The identification of interactors that regulate the subsynaptic localization of the mGlu1 receptor at neurochemically distinct synapses may offer new insight into its trafficking and intracellular signalling.
An open‐source automated platform for three‐dimensional visualization of subdural electrodes using CT‐MRI coregistration
Authors: Azarion Allan A. , Wu Jue , Pearce Allison , Krish Veena T. , Wagenaar Joost , Chen Weixuan , Zheng Yuanjie , Wang Hongzhi , Lucas Timothy H. , Litt Brian , Gee James C. , Davis Kathryn A.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Visualizing implanted subdural electrodes in three‐dimensional (3D) space can greatly aid in planning, executing, and validating resection in epilepsy surgery. Coregistration software is available, but cost, complexity, insufficient accuracy, or validation limit adoption. We present a fully automated open‐source application, based on a novel method using postimplant computerized tomography (CT) and postimplant magnetic resonance (MR) images, for accurately visualizing intracranial electrodes in 3D space.

Methods

CT‐MR rigid brain coregistration, MR nonrigid registration, and prior‐based segmentation were carried out on seven patients. Postimplant CT, postimplant MR, and an external labeled atlas were then aligned in the same space. The coregistration algorithm was validated by manually marking identical anatomic landmarks on the postimplant CT and postimplant MR images. Following coregistration, distances between the center of the landmark masks on the postimplant MR and the coregistered CT images were calculated for all subjects. Algorithms were implemented in open‐source software and translated into a “drag and drop” desktop application for Apple Mac OS X.

Results

Despite postoperative brain deformation, the method was able to automatically align intrasubject multimodal images and segment cortical subregions, so that all electrodes could be visualized on the parcellated brain. Manual marking of anatomic landmarks validated the coregistration algorithm with a mean misalignment distance of 2.87 mm (standard deviation 0.58 mm)between the landmarks. Software was easily used by operators without prior image processing experience.

Significance

We demonstrate an easy to use, novel platform for accurately visualizing subdural electrodes in 3D space on a parcellated brain. We rigorously validated this method using quantitative measures. The method is unique because it involves no preprocessing, is fully automated, and freely available worldwide. A desktop application, as well as the source code, are both available for download on the International Epilepsy Electrophysiology Portal (https://www.ieeg.org) for use and interactive refinement.
Template‐Free Synthesis of Hollow Porous Strontium Titanate Particles
Authors: Tzeng Wei‐Lung , Shih Shao‐Ju
Published: November 2014

Strontium titanate (SrTiO3) is a potential photocatalyst of H2 evolution for providing green energy. One of the main strategies for increasing the efficiency of H2 evolution is to increase the surface area of photocatalysts. In this study, spray pyrolysis was used because of its superior flexibility in morphological control. Three typical reactants, nitric acid, acetic acid, and citric acid, were added to Sr and Ti precursors to form various morphological SrTiO3 powders. The SrTiO3 powders were investigated by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, focused ion beam technique, and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method to determine the phase composition, surface morphology, geometry, inner structure, and specific surface area, respectively. Four main morphologies of SrTiO3 particles, namely, porous, concave porous, wrinkled spherical, and hollow porous structures, were obtained. Among these powders, SrTiO3 particles prepared with citric acid had the highest surface area (46.9 m2/g) because of their hollow porous structure. Finally, the formation mechanisms of these four distinct SrTiO3 morphologies are discussed.
Low‐Temperature Magnetic and Dielectric Anomalies in Rare‐Earth‐Substituted BiFeO3 Ceramics
Authors: Koval Vladimir , Skorvanek Ivan , Yan Haixue
Published: November 2014

In this work, we report on the magnetic and dielectric anomalies observed in dense Bi1–xRExFeO3 ceramics (RE = Dy, Tb; 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) at cryogenic temperatures. For compositions with a high content of rare‐earth ions, thermomagnetic experiments revealed a distinct anomaly in the magnetization curves at temperatures below 200 K. The temperature of the magnetic anomaly along with a thermal hysteresis was found to be dependent on the rare‐earth concentration and magnetic field strength. Low‐temperature dielectric measurements showed an anomalous relaxor‐like behavior of the relative permittivity and dielectric loss in highly doped ceramic samples. The anomalies in low‐temperature magnetization and dielectric response are suggested to result from the presence of GdFeO3‐like orthoferrite phase and/or bismuth rare‐earth‐mixed iron garnet impurities.
Ozone Effect on Fungi Proliferation and Genera Susceptibility of Treated Stored Dry Paddy Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Beber‐Rodrigues Menithen , Savi Geovana D. , Scussel Vildes M.
Published: November 2014

This work reports the ozone (O3) gas effects on stored dry paddy rice (Oryza sativa L.) mycoflora (fungi reduction/genera susceptibility/yeast) and humidity microorganism proliferation factors (moisture content [mc]/water activity [aw]. From the three O3 concentrations applied (10, 20 and 40 mg/L – groups I, II and III, respectively) on silos stored rice (n = 10), it was observed a rather high reduction on the total fungi load especially in group III from an initial count of 3.0 × 105 down to 1.4 × 102 cfu/mL. Regarding the samples naturally contaminated fungi genera isolated, they were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Acremonium, Alternaria and Aureobasidium (a yeast‐like fungi), as well as yeast, which were reduced after O3 treatment. Despite this, some strain gas susceptibility differences were observed as follows (decreasing order): Acremonium > Alternaria > Aureobasidium > Aspergillus > Penicillium. As expected, mc and aw reduced after gas treatment, which was proportional to the time of exposure and O3 gas stream flow rate applied on the rice stored samples. O3 treatment showed to be an effective green alternative tool to reduce paddy stored rice contamination and keep safety during storage.

Practical Applications

The O3 gas treatment showed to be an effective green alternative tool to avoid paddy stored rice fungi growth, especially toxigenic species responsible for mycotoxin formation in the paddy rice, and to keep safety during storage. Excess ozone is decomposed rapidly to O2, thus no food residue is left.
Disposition of ampicillin trihydrate in plasma, uterine tissue, lochial fluid, and milk of postpartum dairy cattle
Authors: Credille B. C. , Giguère S. , Vickroy T. W. , Fishman H. J. , Jones A. L. , Mason M. E. , DiPietro R. O. , Ensley D. T.
Published: November 2014

The objective of this study was to determine the disposition of ampicillin in plasma, uterine tissue, lochial fluid, and milk of postpartum dairy cattle. Ampicillin trihydrate was administered by intramuscular (i.m.) injection at a dose of 11 mg/kg of body weight every 24 h (n = 6, total of 3 doses) or every 12 h (n = 6, total of 5 doses) for 3 days. Concentrations of ampicillin were measured in plasma, uterine tissue, lochial fluid, and milk using HPLC with ultraviolet absorption. Quantifiable ampicillin concentrations were found in plasma, milk, and lochial fluid of all cattle within 30 min, 4 h, and 4 h of administration of ampicillin trihydrate, respectively. There was no significant effect of dosing interval (every 12 vs. every 24 h) and no significant interactions between dosing interval and sampling site on the pharmacokinetic variable measured or calculated. Median peak ampicillin concentration at steady‐state was significantly higher in lochial fluid (5.27 μg/mL after q 24 h dosing) than other body fluids or tissues and significantly higher in plasma (3.11 μg/mL) compared to milk (0.49 μg/mL) or endometrial tissue (1.55 μg/mL). Ampicillin trihydrate administered once daily by the i.m. route at the label dose of 11 mg/kg of body weight achieves therapeutic concentrations in the milk, lochial fluid, and endometrial tissue of healthy postpartum dairy cattle.
Control of hypertension and survival in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Iseki Kunitoshi
Published: November 2014

Hypertension is common in approximately 80% to 90% of patients at the start of dialysis therapy and is an established risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it should be controlled, even in the chronic dialysis population. Observational studies indicate a U‐shaped phenomenon, as the mortality rate is high among those with hypertension as well as those with hypotension. Among chronic dialysis patients, randomized controlled trials on the effect of anti‐hypertensive treatment are not conclusive, at least not as demonstrated by studies with a large sample size. Similar to other potentially effective drug therapies such as erythropoietin stimulating agent, statins, and uraemic toxin adsorbents, the benefit of anti‐hypertensive treatment remains to be demonstrated in dialysis patients. The blood pressure target level, however, is difficult to determine as evidence for the level of appropriate target is lacking. Currently, it should be determined individually, as the priority is to perform haemodialysis as prescribed. The target levels of blood pressure for chronic haemodialysis patients are not stated except in the Guidelines in the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy. In this guideline, systolic blood pressure between 140 to 159 mmHg is preferable among elderly patients with comorbid conditions. Rapid ultrafiltration, such as >600 mL/h, is to be avoided. Intra‐dialysis hypotension, muscle cramps, and other complaints during HD are preventable. Moreover, the nutritional status should be maintained within the normal range with adequate intake of protein and calories, but with salt restriction. Further studies are necessary for better management of hypertension in the dialysis population.
Optimal duration of allergen immunotherapy in children with dust mite respiratory allergy
Authors: Arroabarren Esozia , Tabar Ana I. , Echechipía Susana , Cambra Koldo , García Blanca E. , Alvarez‐Puebla Maria J.
Published: November 2014

Background

Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) discontinuation data in children remain scarce.

Objective

We sought for differences in the clinical efficacy of 3 vs. 5 yr of SCIT in children with dust mite respiratory allergy.

Methods

We performed a 5‐yr, phase IV prospective study. After the first year, the patients were randomized to 3 (IT3) or 5 yr of treatment (IT5). Efficacy was assessed at 3rd and 5th year by symptom and medication scores and visual analog scales (VAS). Skin tests with common allergens and in vitro assessments were also performed.

Results

Eighty‐one children (mean age: 9 yr) were randomly assigned to 3 (IT3: 41) or 5 yr (IT5: 40) of immunotherapy. After 3 years, rhinitis global scores decreased in IT3 (44%; p = 0.002) and in IT5 (50%; p = 0.001). Asthma global, symptom and medication scores decreased by 100% in IT3 (p = 0.001) and IT5 (p = 0.001). VAS scores also diminished significantly (IT3: 70%, p = 0.001; IT5: 62.5%; p = 0.001). At 5th year, global rhinitis scores were reduced an additional 30% in IT5 children. Comparisons between both groups did not show differences in rhinitis (p = 0.055), asthma global scores (p = 0.948) or VAS scores at 5th year. Twenty percent of IT5 (p = 0.002) and 7% of IT3 children (p = 0.705) developed new sensitizations. At 5th year, sIgG4 determinations decreased in IT3 without significant variations in IT5.

Conclusions

Three years of SCIT induced significant improvement in children with dust mite respiratory allergy, but a 5‐yr course added clinical improvement in rhinitis.
Toxoplasma gondii‐induced neuronal alterations
Authors: Parlog A. , Schlüter D. , Dunay I. R.
Published: November 2014

The zoonotic pathogen Toxoplasma gondii infects over 30% of the human population. The intracellular parasite can persist lifelong in the CNS within neurons modifying their function and structure, thus leading to specific behavioural changes of the host. In recent years, several in vitro studies and murine models have focused on the elucidation of these modifications. Furthermore, investigations of the human population have correlated Toxoplasma seropositivity with changes in neurological functions; however, the complex underlying mechanisms of the subtle behavioural alteration are still not fully understood. The parasites are able to induce direct modifications in the infected cells, for example by altering dopamine metabolism, by functionally silencing neurons as well as by hindering apoptosis. Moreover, indirect effects of the peripheral immune system and alterations of the immune status of the CNS, observed during chronic infection, might also contribute to changes in neuronal connectivity and synaptic plasticity. In this review, we will provide an overview and highlight recent advances, which describe changes in the neuronal function and morphology upon T. gondii infection.
Recent and Future Developments Related to “Gdp and Beyond”
Authors: Radermacher Walter J.
Published: November 2014

Progress of societies? Well‐being of citizens? Trans‐generational impact of policies? To answer such fundamental questions and much more, the European Commission published, in August 2009, its Communication on “GDP and Beyond: Measuring Progress in a Changing World.” Through a co‐operative project, co‐chaired by Eurostat and INSEE (France), the ESS acted decisively and established an action plan to be carried out by 2020 in the context of the European Statistical Programme. This plan which also builds on Eurostat's work on Sustainable Development Indicators. For most of these actions, work has either been accomplished or is in good progress. Further challenges lie ahead, including reconciling macro‐ and micro‐data sources on household economic resources and completing the indicators set on Quality‐of‐Life. The work will also contribute to the global efforts on the Sustainable Development Goals/post‐2015 development agenda.
Plan to protect Great Barrier Reef under fire
Authors: Normile Dennis , Dayton Leigh
Published: November 2014

Continuing degradation threatens reef's World Heritage Site status.
The other half of the universe?
Authors: Moseley S. H.
Published: November 2014

A large previously unknown population of stars inhabits intergalactic space

[Also see Report by

Zemcov
et al.

]
Graduates mean business
Authors: Stevens Mandy
Published: November 2014

Companion Care is developing its graduate programme, which aims to develop people who will become future partners of the business. Mandy Stevens, HR manager at the company, explains how the programme works
At the cutting edge
Authors: Williams John
Published: November 2014

John Williams started his veterinary career in general practice, honed his surgical skills in academia and now works in a referral practice
Helping people develop
Authors: Somerville Hamish
Published: November 2014

James Somerville, or Hamish as he is known, qualified as a vet, worked in industry and is now a business coach. He is based in Switzerland
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Orme Hannah
Published: November 2014

Theatre nurse Hannah Orme, along with her colleague, vet Maria Serrano Revuelta, were the first of three pairs of staff from YourVets Wythall to help the charity Vets Beyond Borders with a neutering programme for dogs in India
Giving something back
Authors: England Volunteering
Published: November 2014

Volunteers' Week is an annual campaign that takes place from June 1 to 7. It celebrates the contribution made by millions of volunteers across the UK and encourages more people to give something back to society
Once upon a time
Authors: Woodman Cathy
Published: November 2014

Whenever she is asked what she does for a living, Cathy Woodman describes herself as an author, a teacher and a vet
Scientific policy officer
Authors: Everitt Sally
Published: November 2014

Sally Everitt was appointed as the BSAVA's first scientific policy officer in 2011. She explains the ways in which she helps the association ensure that its advice is based on the current best evidence, as well as being useful and accessible to members
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Rhodes Andrea
Published: November 2014

Andrea Rhodes works in a small animal practice near Brighton on the Sussex coast. Through the charity Naturewatch she recently visited the Ukraine where she was involved in a small animal neutering scheme.
Hooked on research
Authors: Bryant Clare
Published: November 2014

Clare Bryant was recently appointed professor of innate immunity at Cambridge veterinary school, making her the first woman to become a professor in the department. Here, she explains how it came about
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Pedlar Ilse
Published: November 2014

Ilse Pedler writes poetry and was the first contributor to a newly published anthology of poems by vets and vet nurses. She works in mixed practice and has a diploma in homeopathy. She teaches Morris dancing in her spare time
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Johnathan Cracknell
Published: November 2014

Jonathan Cracknell is a zoological and wildlife vet with a strong interest in welfare and anaesthesia. He is Director of Animal Operations at Longleat Safari and Adventure Park; he also provides capacity and capability support for welfare charities internationally – from Europe to Indonesia. He has worked with a variety of species, but is best known for his work with bears in China and India, as well as his contributions to elephant infectious disease management, including elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus and tuberculosis.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Das Gupta Aungshuman
Published: November 2014

Aungshuman Das Gupta is a veterinary surgeon at a camel dairy farm in the United Arab Emirates, which exports camel milk products to the European Union. He has a Masters degree in veterinary epidemiology and public health from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC)
From practice to coaching
Authors: Crowe Carolyne
Published: November 2014

As an equine practitioner, Carolyne Crowe found that she was often being sought out for advice and problem solving, so she decided to change career; she took some coaching qualifications and now helps others get the most out of their lives and careers
Diary of a parliamentary intern
Authors: Jordan Hannah
Published: November 2014

After a whirlwind first week in Westminster, Hannah Jordan is getting to grips with the scope of the work of the House of Lords. She feels she has a lot to learn.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Oliver Denis
Published: November 2014

Denis Oliver qualified from Edinburgh vet school in 1942 and retired in June 2013 after spending 70 years in practice in Grantham. His last official duty was at the Shire Horse Show in March, when he presented the Oliver medal for the best shod horse.
From Portakabin to hospital
Authors: Page Gillian
Published: November 2014

Gillian Page qualified as a veterinary nurse from Berkshire College of Agriculture in 1988 and worked in a number of roles before she and her husband Tony bought a piece of land and started their own practice
Brooding on a career in avian medicine
Authors: McFarlane Una
Published: November 2014

Veterinary student Una Mcfarlane's interest in avian medicine stems from caring for her parents' backyard flock; although she is working towards a career with birds, she is not putting all her eggs in one basket just yet
Global knowledge for a global profession
Authors: Watson Elaine
Published: November 2014

In 2012, Elaine Watson moved from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh to take up the role of dean of the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine on the Caribbean island of St Kitts. Explaining how the school is developing to meet the challenges facing veterinary education, she argues that ‘going global’ is essential to the future of veterinary medicine
In‐house diploma training for veterinary nurses
Authors: Farrant Helen
Published: November 2014

Goddard Veterinary Group has set up its own college to help its student nurses achieve the diploma in veterinary nursing. As the first group settles in, Helen Farrant, the group's training manager, explains why it feels the effort is worthwhile
Online learning for all
Authors: Harris Gill
Published: November 2014

Revolutionary changes in education are being brought about by technology through MOOCs – massive open online courses – that offer anyone, anywhere, the opportunity to be taught by the best lecturers and the best universities. Gill Harris reports
Veterinary CPD across Europe: not yet a level playing field
Authors: Babington David
Published: November 2014

In the UK, undertaking CPD is considered to be a mandatory professional obligation. However, as David Babington, managing director of Improve International, explains, CPD requirements and standards vary across Europe
Instilling confidence in emergency medicine
Authors: Phillips Stef
Published: November 2014

Stef Phillips has known that her future lies in emergency medicine since starting at vet school. As president of the Royal Veterinary College's Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (SVECCS), she aims to ensure that students are comfortable working in an emergency setting
Bridging the gulf between academia and practice
Authors: Pirie Scott , Argyle David , Corcoran Brendan , Mellanby Richard , Handel Ian
Published: November 2014

Edinburgh vet school recently launched PALS – a Practice and Academia‐Linked Study network – to strengthen links between academics and practitioners. Scott Pirie, David Argyle, Brendan Corcoran, Richard Mellanby and Ian Handel explain how vets and animals should benefit
Working in pharmacovigilance
Authors: Davis Giles
Published: November 2014

Giles Davis heads the pharmacovigilance unit at the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, monitoring reports of adverse events in animals and humans
Helping animals in disaster zones
Authors: Murillo Juan Carlos
Published: November 2014

Juan Carlos Murillo is a disaster response manager with the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), and the charity's longest serving veterinary manager. He is always on the move
Making a business of CPD
Authors: Babington David
Published: November 2014

David Babington is managing director of Improve International. Here, he describes how he made CPD his business
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Stavisky Jenny
Published: November 2014

After qualifying, Jenny Stavisky worked in mixed practice before completing a PhD in epidemiology and virology. Now a clinical lecturer in shelter medicine at the University of Nottingham's Centre for Evidence‐Based Veterinary Medicine, she studies the health and welfare of unowned animals
WSAVA volunteer scheme for vets and nurses
Authors: Kenyon Dave
Published: November 2014

WSAVA Global Outreach is a new initiative that aims to help share the knowledge and experience of WSAVA members through veterinary volunteer schemes. Dave Kenyon, chairman of South African Veterinary Association's community veterinary clinics (SAVA‐CVC) project, invites vets and VNs to get involved and describes what they can expect
Postgraduate opportunities for cattle vets
Authors: Oultram Jo , McGowan Cathy
Published: November 2014

Changes to the modules studied within the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (Cattle) have been approved by the RCVS and the Quality and Standards Committee of the University of Liverpool. Module coordinator, Jo Oultram, and director of CPD, Cathy McGowan, explain what the changes mean
Shape your career from graduation to retirement
Authors: Reeve Sarah
Published: November 2014

This year's BVA Careers Fair – at the London Vet Show in November – is exclusively for Association members. BVA marketing officer, Sarah Reeve, gives an insight into the careers fair, which includes sessions for members at all stages of their career.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Prest Anna
Published: November 2014

Anna Prest works in veterinary marketing as a brand manager for Lintbells; she won the Young Marketeer Award at last year's Veterinary Marketing Association annual awards. She has worked in the animal health industry for seven years.
Introducing a new ‘middle tier’
Authors: Warman Christine
Published: November 2014

This autumn the RCVS will launch its advanced practitioner accreditation – a middle tier status between the initial veterinary degree and being a specialist. Christine Warman, head of education at the RCVS, explains why becoming an advanced practitioner will be more than just a status symbol
Learning to teach
Authors: Lehrbach Chris
Published: November 2014

As part of an ongoing development programme by XLEquine for its member practices, Chris Lehrbach recently completed a two‐day ‘train the trainer’ course with LANTRA. Here, he talks about the course and how he believes it will benefit him, his clients and his practice
Learning business
Authors: Hodges Elizabeth
Published: November 2014

The Veterinary Business Management Association aims to advance the profession through increasing business knowledge, creating networking opportunities and empowering veterinary students to achieve their personal and professional goals. Elizabeth Hodges started up Glasgow vet school's chapter
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Masters Jo
Published: November 2014

Jo Masters runs the logistics within the front office of Synergy Farm Health in Evershot, Dorset, as well as being responsible for HR within the business. She qualified as a veterinary nurse in 1991 and has worked as a veterinary nursing lecturer and practice manager. She is also the co‐author of a number of veterinary nursing textbooks, a senior veterinary nursing examiner and an honorary member of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA).
Root nodule bacteria fromClitoria ternateaL. are putative invasive nonrhizobial endophytes
Authors: Aeron Abhinav , Chauhan Puneet Singh , Dubey Ramesh Chand , Maheshwari Dinesh Kumar , Bajpai Vivek K.
Published: November 2014

In this study, bacteria (8 species and 5 genera) belonging to the classes Betaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Sphingobacteria were isolated from root nodules of the multipurpose legume Clitoria ternatea L. and identified on the basis of partial 16S rRNA sequencing. The root nodule bacteria were subjected to phenotypic clustering and diversity studies using biochemical kits, including Hi-Media Carbokit™, Enterobacteriaceae™ identification kit, ERIC–PCR, and 16S ARDRA. All the strains showed growth on Ashby’s N-free media over 7 generations, indicative of presumptive nitrogen fixation and further confirmed by amplification of the nifH gene. None of the strains showed the capability to renodulate the host plant, neither alone nor in combination with standard rhizobial strains, which was further confirmed by the absence of nodC bands in PCR assay. The results clearly indicate the common existence of nonrhizobial microflora inside the root nodules of legumes, which were thought to be colonized only by rhizobia and were responsible for N2fixation in leguminous crops. However, with the recent discovery of nodule endophytes from a variety of legumes, as also observed here, it can be assumed that symbiotic rhizobia are not all alone and that these invasive endophytes belonging to various bacterial genera are more than just opportunistic colonizers of specialized nodule niche.