bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rituximab, a new treatment for difficult‐to‐treat chronic erythema multiforme major? Five cases
Authors: Hirsch G. , Ingen‐Housz‐Oro S. , Fite C. , Valeyrie‐Allanore L. , Ortonne N. , Buffard V. , Verlinde‐Carvalho M. , Marinho E. , Martinet J. , Grootenboer‐Mignot S. , Descamps V. , Wolkenstein P. , Joly P. , Chosidow O.
Published: September 2015

Background

Erythema multiforme major (EMM) is an inflammatory disease affecting skin and mucosae, often triggered by infection withHerpes simplex virus. Some patients have a chronic disease associated with antidesmoplakin autoantibodies, but the pathophysiology remains to be elucidated. First‐line treatment is antiviral therapy. With treatment failure or in patients without herpes‐triggered disease, thalidomide is effective but has neurological side‐effects. Alternatives (dapsone, immunosuppressant agents) are not codified. For many patients, systemic steroids use is chronic. The immunosuppressant drug rituximab (RTX) may be effective.

Objectives

We report five cases of severe chronicEMMtreated with rituximab (RTX).

Methods

Five patients with severe chronicEMMfor 9–20 years receivedRTXafter failure or side‐effects of several treatments, especially antiviral therapy and thalidomide. All had chronic use of steroids. Four patients had antidesmoplakin autoantibodies.

Results

Four patients experienced complete or quasi‐complete remission ofEMMwith withdrawal of steroids and one patient partial remission, for 3–11 months. Disease relapsed in all patients, and three received a second cycle ofRTXwith shorter duration of efficacy. Two patients received a third cycle, one without efficacy.

Conclusion

The use ofRTXfor many autoimmune diseases, especially pemphigus, is increasing. ChronicEMM, especiallyEMMassociated to antidesmoplakin autoantibodies, is an inflammatory disease in which the role of B cells is not well understood. However, we report a favourable benefit ofRTXtreatment for months in five patients with severe disease.RTXcould be a therapeutic option in severe, difficult‐to‐treatEMM.
Eligibility criteria in systematic reviews published in prominent medical journals: a methodological review
Authors: McCrae Niall , Purssell Edward
Published: September 2015

Rationale and aim

Clear and logical eligibility criteria are fundamental to the design and conduct of a systematic review. This methodological review examined the quality of reporting and application of eligibility criteria in systematic reviews published in three leading medical journals.

Methods

All systematic reviews in the BMJ, JAMA and The Lancet in the years 2013 and 2014 were extracted. These were assessed using a refined version of a checklist previously designed by the authors.

Results

A total of 113 papers were eligible, of which 65 were in BMJ, 17 in The Lancet and 31 in JAMA. Although a generally high level of reporting was found, eligibility criteria were often problematic. In 67% of papers, eligibility was specified after the search sources or terms. Unjustified time restrictions were used in 21% of reviews, and unpublished or unspecified data in 27%. Inconsistency between journals was apparent in the requirements for systematic reviews.

Conclusions

The quality of reviews in these leading medical journals was high; however, there were issues that reduce the clarity and replicability of the review process. As well as providing a useful checklist, this methodological review informs the continued development of standards for systematic reviews.
A review of cellphone microscopy for disease detection
Authors: DENDERE R. , MYBURG N. , DOUGLAS T.S.
Published: September 2015

The expansion in global cellphone network coverage coupled with advances in cellphone imaging capabilities present an opportunity for the advancement of cellphone microscopy as a low‐cost alternative to conventional microscopy for disease detection in resource‐limited regions. The development of cellphone microscopy has also benefitted from the availability of low‐cost miniature microscope components such as low‐power light‐emitting diodes and ball lenses. As a result, researchers are developing hardware and software techniques that would enable such microscopes to produce high‐resolution, diagnostic‐quality images. This approach may lead to more widespread delivery of diagnostic services in resource‐limited areas where there is a shortage of the skilled labour required for conventional microscopy and where prevalence of infectious and other diseases is still high. In this paper, we review current techniques, clinical applications and challenges faced in the field of cellphone microscopy.
Preregistration student nurses' self‐reported preparedness for practice before and after the introduction of a capstone subject
Authors: Usher Kim , Mills Jane , West Caryn , Park Tanya , Woods Cindy
Published: September 2015

Aims and objectives

To assess changes in perceptions of confidence and preparedness for practice of preregistration nursing students before and after the introduction of a capstone subject, and factors associated with perceptions of preparedness.

Background

Preregistration nursing student ‘readiness’ or ‘preparedness’ for practice has been highlighted in the literature in recent years, along with employer concerns that university graduate nurses are not work ready. Few studies have examined Australian preregistration nursing students' perceptions of preparedness for clinical practice following their final clinical placement or assessed whether preregistration student nurses' perceptions of preparedness change as the result of undertaking a capstone subject.

Design

A capstone subject was introduced at a regional northern Australian university in 2013. Perceptions of preparedness were assessed in two different cohorts of final year nursing students; one of which undertook a capstone subject.

Methods

Two separate cohorts of third year nursing students were surveyed regarding their perceptions of preparedness for practice at the conclusion of their final 240 hour clinical placement. The 2012 cohort did not experience a capstone subject, whereas the 2013 cohort were the first nursing students to experience the new capstone subject.

Results

Both cohorts were uncomfortable performing invasive procedures and reported low levels of confidence in the area of professional identity. An overall trend of decreasing confidence as patient assignment size increased was observed for both cohorts, and higher confidence was associated with previous health care experience. Perceptions of preparedness for practice did not increase significantly following the introduction of a capstone subject.

Conclusions

Although Australian undergraduate nursing student report feeling prepared for practice there are areas of knowledge, skills and patient care in which confidence is low. The results of this study highlight the importance of experience in building confidence and competence.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study highlights that while final year nursing students report feeling prepared for practice there are areas where additional support can be provided. It is recommended that nurse educators and health care facilities tailor their programs to provide support focused on the areas highlighted by this study.
Feasibility and preliminary outcomes of fetoscopic laser photocoagulation for monochorionic twin gestation with selective intrauterine growth restriction accompanied by severe oligohydramnios
Authors: Ishii Keisuke , Nakata Masahiko , Wada Seiji , Murakoshi Takeshi , Sago Haruhiko
Published: September 2015

Aim

This study aimed to clarify the feasibility and perinatal outcomes of fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (FLP) for monochorionic twin gestation with selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) accompanied by both abnormal umbilical artery Doppler waveforms and isolated severe oligohydramnios of the sIUGR twin.

Methods

In this prospective clinical trial, which included 10 cases with absent or reversed end‐diastolic flow in the umbilical artery and severe oligohydramnios of the sIUGR twin, the main outcomes investigated were the feasibility of FLP and the rate of severe FLP‐related maternal complications. The survival rate and incidence of neurological abnormalities of the twins at 28 days of age were also evaluated.

Results

FLP was completed for all cases without major intraoperative maternal complications, although one case experienced threatened preterm labor requiring intensive treatment after the procedure. Three sIUGR and 10 larger twins were alive without neurological abnormalities at 28 days of age, while intrauterine fetal death occurred in the remaining seven sIUGR twins.

Conclusion

FLP for monochorionic twins with sIUGR, especially when accompanied by abnormal Doppler and severe oligohydramnios of the sIUGR twin, appears to be feasible and potentially beneficial for the larger twin, as well as for some sIUGR twins.
Frequency and Type of Prosthetic Complications Associated with Interim, Immediately Loaded Full‐Arch Prostheses: A 2‐Year Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Drago Carl
Published: September 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this report was to retrospectively evaluate implant and immediate full‐arch prosthesis survival rates over a 24‐month period; patients were consecutively treated with immediate occlusal loading. Dental arch, gender, and implant orientation (vertical vs. tilted) were also noted.

Materials and Methods

All Brånemark System implants (Nobel Active) and interim, all‐acrylic resin prostheses placed in patients following an All‐on‐Four™ protocol, in a single private practice were assessed by retrospective patient chart review. The amount of space provided surgically for implant restorative components and prostheses was determined from measurements of the vertical heights of the interim prostheses in the right/left anterior and posterior segments. These measurements were made in the laboratory. Interim prosthetic repairs (type, frequency, length of time from insertion) were analyzed by type, arch, gender, and implant orientation. Implant survival and insertion torque values were also measured. Inclusion criteria consisted of all Brånemark System implants placed with the All‐on‐Four protocol from September 1, 2011, until August 31, 2013. Specific dietary instructions were given for the first 7 days immediately postoperatively and for the weeks prior to insertion of the definitive prostheses.

Results

One hundred twenty‐nine patients, comprising 191 arches (766 implants) from September 1, 2011, until August 31, 2013, were included in the study. One patient experienced implant failure yielding an overall implant survival rate (SR) of 99.5% (762 of 766). Four hundred twenty‐six of 430 maxillary implants and 336 of 336 mandibular implants survived for SRs of 99.1% and 100%, respectively. Regarding implant orientation, 415 of 417 tilted implants (SR 99.5%) and 343 of 345 (CSR 95.6%) vertical implants were noted to be clinically stable. Interim, all‐acrylic resin prostheses were in place for a mean of 199.2 days; mandibular prostheses were in place for an average of 195.4 days; maxillary prostheses were in place for an average of 202.0 days. Thirty four of the 191 interim prostheses (17.8%) warranted at least one repair during the treatment period. The average overall implant insertion torque value was 60.74 Ncm; mandibular torque values averaged 63.08 Ncm; maxillary torque values averaged 59.00 Ncm.

Conclusions

The results from this study suggest that dental arch, gender, and implant orientation for implants placed and immediately restored with interim, all‐acrylic resin, full‐arch prostheses per the All‐on‐Four protocol did not have significant statistical or clinical effects on prosthetic complications of the interim prostheses or implant survival. Only one of the 129 patients experienced implant failures, indicating that the All‐on‐Four treatment protocol used in this study is a viable alternative to other protocols for rehabilitating edentulous patients.
The Use of Digital Impressions to Fabricate Tooth‐Supported Partial Removable Dental Prostheses: A Clinical Report
Authors: Mansour Mohamed , Sanchez Eliana , Machado Camilo
Published: September 2015

Impression making is a critical step in the fabrication of a partial removable dental prosthesis (RDP). A technique is described for making final impressions to fabricate partial RDPs for Kennedy class III patients using a computer‐aided design and computer‐assisted manufacturing digital impression system.
The antagonistic effect of Banana bunchy top virus multifunctional protein B4 against Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Zhuang Jun , Coates Christopher J. , Mao Qianzhuo , Wu Zujian , Xie Lianhui
Published: September 2015

The viral‐induced banana bunchy top disease and the fungal‐induced banana blight are two major causes of concern for industrial scale production of bananas. Banana blight is particularly troublesome, affecting ∼80% of crops worldwide. Strict guidelines and protocols are in place in order to ameliorate the effects of this devastating disease, yet little success has been achieved. From the data presented here, we have found that Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV)‐infected bananas are more resistant to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc). BBTV appears to be antagonistic towards Foc, thus improving the survivability of plants against blight. The BBTV suppressor of RNA silencing, namely protein B4, displays fungicidal properties in vitro. Furthermore, transgenic tomatoes expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐tagged protein B4 demonstrate enhanced resistance to F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol). Differential gene expression analysis indicates that increased numbers of photogenesis‐related gene transcripts are present in dark‐green leaves of B4‐GFP‐modified tomato plants relative to those found in WT plants. Conversely, the transcript abundance of immunity‐related genes is substantially lower in transgenic tomatoes compared with WT plants, suggesting that plant defences may be influenced by protein B4. This viral–fungal interaction provides new insights into microbial community dynamics within a single host and has potential commercial value for the breeding of transgenic resistance to Fusarium‐related blight/wilt.
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody negative pauci‐immune extracapillary glomerulonephritis
Authors: Villacorta Javier , Diaz‐Crespo Francisco , Acevedo Mercedes , Guerrero Carmen , Mollejo Manuela , Fernandez‐Juarez Gema
Published: September 2015

Aim

Pauci‐immune extracapillary glomerulonephritis (PEGN) is one of the most common causes of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and is usually associated with circulating anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs). However, a significant number of individuals with PEGN test negative for ANCA and this study aimed to analyze the characteristics of this subgroup of patients.

Methods

Patients from two centres who were diagnosed with PEGN between 1997 and 2014 were studied retrospectively. Clinicopathological characteristics and renal outcome were compared between patients presenting with pauci‐immune necrotizing extracapillary glomerulonephritis associated or not with the presence of circulating ANCA.

Results

Among the 114 patients with PEGN, 29 (25.4%) were ANCA negative. Compared with the 85 ANCA‐positive patients, ANCA‐negative patients were younger at the onset (54.8 ± 17.2 vs 62 ± 14.0 years; P < 0.05). The median level of urinary protein excretion was significantly higher among ANCA‐negative patients (3.1 vs 1 g/24 h; P < 0.001), whereas no differences were found in renal function and need for dialysis between ANCA‐negative and positive groups. Extrarenal involvement was present independently of ANCA status. Histological analysis showed that ANCA‐negative patients were more likely to have mesangial proliferation (P < 0.05). Renal and global survival were similar between ANCA‐negative and positive patients, and treatment response and relapse rates were comparable in both groups.

Conclusions

ANCA‐negative pauci‐immune extracapillary glomerulonephritis is not a rare condition and is part of a systemic vasculitis disease. Although ANCA‐negative patients have renal and histological characteristics that differ from ANCA‐positive patients, renal survival and treatment response in PEGN are independent of ANCA status.
Prevention of contrast‐induced nephropathy with single bolus erythropoietin in patients with diabetic kidney disease: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shema‐Didi Lilach , Kristal Batya , Eizenberg Sarit , Marzuq Nabil , Sussan Majdy , Feldman‐Idov Yulie , Ofir Pnina , Atar Shaul
Published: September 2015

Aim

Contrast‐induced‐nephropathy (CIN) is associated with poor outcomes, thus prevention of CIN may be of clinical value. Erythropoietin (EPO) has been shown to elicit tissue‐protective effects in experimental models and in clinical studies of acute kidney injury. We therefore evaluated its effectiveness for prevention of CIN after coronary angiography (CA) ± percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, controlled trial was carried out in 138 diabetic patients with eGFR <60mL/min who underwent non‐urgent CA ± PCI. Patients received normal saline and n‐acetyl cysteine before CA, with or without 50 000 U of EPO administered 30 min prior to CA. CIN was defined as an increase in serum creatinine of at least 0.5 mg/dL during the first 2 days after exposure to contrast media. Primary outcome was the incidence of CIN. Secondary outcomes were the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) of Cystatin C (CC) and Neutrophil‐gelatinase‐associated‐lipocalin (NGAL) for diagnosis of CIN.

Results

The observed incidence of CIN was 8.7%, significantly lower than the expected for such high‐risk population. The administration of EPO prior to CA did not reduce the incidence of CIN (9.7% vs. 7.6%, P = 0.65). CC and NGAL demonstrated a low sensitivity (16.6%) and low PPV (6.7 and 33.3%, respectively) for detecting CIN.

Conclusion

The administration of EPO prior to CA did not reduce the incidence of CIN. Additional prospective research with a larger sample size and in other patient categories is essential to further define the potential protective effect of EPO on prevention of CIN.
Interankle systolic blood pressure difference and renal outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Chen Szu‐Chia , Tsai Yi‐Chun , Huang Jiun‐Chi , Lee Su‐Chu , Chang Jer‐Ming , Hwang Shang‐Jyh , Chen Hung‐Chun
Published: September 2015

Aim

Interankle blood pressure (BP) difference has been associated with peripheral artery disease and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. However, the relationship between interankle BP difference and renal outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD) has never been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine whether interankle BP difference is associated with the rate of renal function decline and progression to renal end points in patients with stage 3–5 CKD.

Methods

We enrolled 144 patients with CKD from one regional hospital. The BP in four limbs was simultaneously measured using an ABI‐form device. The decline in renal function was evaluated using an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope. Rapid renal progression was defined as an eGFR slope < −3 mL/min per 1.73 m2 per year. The renal end points were defined as ≥ 25% decline in eGFR or commencement of dialysis during the follow‐up period.

Results

During a mean follow‐up period of 3.1 years, 90 patients (62.5%) reached renal end points. Multivariate analysis showed that an increased interankle systolic BP difference (per 5 mmHg) was associated with a worse eGFR slope (regression β, −0.292; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.482 to −0.102; P = 0.003), rapid renal progression (odds ratio, 1.189; 95% CI, 1.015–1.394; P = 0.032), and an increased risk of progression to renal end points (hazard ratio, 1.126; 95% CI, 1.052–1.204, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Interankle systolic BP difference was associated with rapid renal progression and progression to renal end points in patients with stage 3–5 CKD in our study.
Development and examination of the psychometric properties of the Learning Experience Scale in nursing
Authors: Takase Miyuki , Imai Takiko , Uemura Chizuru
Published: September 2015

This paper examines the psychometric properties of the Learning Experience Scale. A survey method was used to collect data from a total of 502 nurses. Data were analyzed by factor analysis and the known‐groups technique to examine the construct validity of the scale. In addition, internal consistency was evaluated by Cronbach's alpha, and stability was examined by test‐retest correlation. Factor analysis showed that the Learning Experience Scale consisted of five factors: learning from practice, others, training, feedback, and reflection. The scale also had the power to discriminate between nurses with high and low levels of nursing competence. The internal consistency and the stability of the scale were also acceptable. The Learning Experience Scale is a valid and reliable instrument, and helps organizations to effectively design learning interventions for nurses.
Naiveté is not forever: responses of a vulnerable native rodent to its long term alien predators
Authors: Carthey Alexandra J. R. , Banks Peter B.
Published: September 2015

Alien predators have wreaked havoc on isolated endemic and island fauna worldwide, a phenomenon generally attributed to prey naiveté, or a failure to display effective antipredator behaviour due to a lack of experience. While the failure to recognise and/or respond to a novel predator has devastating impacts in the short term after predators are introduced, few studies have asked whether medium to long term experience with alien predators enables native species to overcome their naiveté. In Australia, introduced dogs Canis lupus familiaris, foxes Vulpes vulpes and cats Felis catus have caused rapid extinctions and declines in small–medium sized native mammals since they were introduced ∼150 years ago. However, native wildlife have had ∼4000 years experience with another dog – the dingo Canis lupus dingo. Native bush rats Rattus fuscipes remain common despite predation from these predators. We predicted that prior experience with dingoes would mean that bush rats recognise and respond to dogs, but suspect that hundreds of years experience may not be enough for effective responses to cats and foxes. To test these predictions, we combined the giving‐up density (GUD) with analysis of remote camera footage to measure bush rat foraging and behavioural responses to body odour from dogs, foxes, cats and native spotted‐tail quolls Dasyurus maculatus. Bush rats responded strongly to dogs with increased GUDs, increased vigilance and decreased foraging. However, mixed responses to foxes and cats suggest that at least some individuals remain naïve towards these predators. Naiveté is not necessarily forever: alien predators devastate many native prey species, but others may learn or adapt to the new threat.
Plant defence responses to volatile alert signals are population‐specific
Authors: Moreira Xoaquín , Petry William K. , Hernández‐Cumplido Johnattan , Morelon Stéphanie , Benrey Betty
Published: September 2015

Herbivore‐induced volatiles are widespread in plants. They can serve as alert signals that enable neighbouring leaves and plants to pre‐emptively increase defences and avoid herbivory damage. However, our understanding of the factors mediating volatile organic compound (VOC) signal interpretation by receiver plants and the degree to which multiple herbivores affect VOC signals is still limited. Here we investigated whether plant responses to damage‐induced VOC signals were population specific. As a secondary goal, we tested for interference in signal production or reception when plants were subjected to multiple types of herbivore damage. We factorially crossed the population sources of paired Phaseolus lunatus plants (same versus different population sources) with a mechanical damage treatment to one member of the pair (i.e. the VOC emitter, damaged versus control), and we measured herbivore damage to the other plant (the VOC receiver) in the field. Prior to the experiment, both emitter and receiver plants were naturally colonized by aphids, enabling us to test the hypothesis that damage from sap‐feeding herbivores interferes with VOC communication by including emitter and receiver aphid abundances as covariates in our analyses. One week after mechanical leaf damage, we removed all the emitter plants from the field and conducted fortnightly surveys of leaf herbivory. We found evidence that receiver plants responded using population‐specific ‘dialects’ where only receivers from the same source population as the damaged emitters suffered less leaf damage upon exposure to the volatile signals. We also found that the abundance of aphids on both emitter and receiver plants did not alter this volatile signalling during both production and reception despite well‐documented defence crosstalk within individual plants that are simultaneously attacked by multiple herbivores. Overall, these results show that plant communication is highly sensitive to genetic relatedness between emitter and receiver plants and that communication is resilient to herbivore co‐infestation.
Opioid Prescribing Laws and Emergency Department Guidelines for Chronic Non‐Cancer Pain in Washington State
Authors: Skaer Tracy L. , Nwude Azuka C.
Published: September 2015

Rising mortality rates, increased opioid prescription abuse, and a perceived need to provide practitioners with structured guidance in opioid prescribing have prompted the Washington State Legislature to establish new legal standards of practice regarding chronic non‐cancer pain management. Clinicians are required to conduct a detailed physical examination and health history prior to treatment. Risk assessments for abuse and detailed periodic reviews of treatment are required at least every 6 months. Those considered “high risk” or who have significant psychiatric comorbidities will be required to sign and follow a written agreement or pain contract, obtain their pain prescriptions from a single provider, and submit to biological drug screening. Unless an exemption exists, patients prescribed > 120 mg of morphine‐equivalents daily, considered severe pain nonresponders, necessitating dosage escalation, diagnosed with multifaceted mental health‐related comorbidities, demonstrating diagnostic ambiguity, and/or requiring significant treatment individualization are referred to a pain specialist. Episodic care settings should refrain from supplying opioids to chronic pain patients whenever possible. The ER is for Emergencies coalition instituted the Seven Best Practices program throughout the state to reduce unnecessary visits, coordinate prescribing practice, reduce Medicaid expenditures, and improve overall patient care. The state reported approximately $33.65 million in savings in 2013 through the use of these practices and converting Medicaid participants from fee‐for‐service to managed care plans. Similar legislation to complement clinical practice guidelines is expected to be enacted in other states. It is vital that practitioners comprehend the new guidelines and make appropriate adjustments in their opioid prescribing habits.
Evaluation of the efficacy of animal‐assisted therapy based on the reality orientation therapy protocol in Alzheimer's disease patients: a pilot study
Authors: Menna Lucia Francesca , Santaniello Antonio , Gerardi Federica , Di Maggio Annamaria , Milan Graziella
Published: September 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of animal‐assisted therapy (AAT) in elderly patients affected by Alzheimer's disease based on the formal reality orientation therapy (ROT) protocol.

Methods

Our study was carried out at an Alzheimer's centre for 6 months. A homogeneous sample (age, Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)) of 50 patients was selected at random and successively. Patients were divided into three groups: (i) 20 patients received a course of AAT (AAT group) based on the ROT protocol; (ii) 20 patients were engaged exclusively in activities based on the ROT group; and (iii) 10 patients (control group) participated in no stimulations. MMSE and GDS were administered at time 0 (T0) and time 1 (T1) to all three groups. Differences within groups between T0 and T1 for GDS and MMSE scores were analyzed by Student's t‐test. Differences between group means were analyzed using an anova test with the Bonferroni‐Dunn test for post‐hoc comparisons.

Results

Both the AAT group and ROT group had improved GDS scores and showed a slight improvement in terms of mood. On the GDS, the AAT group improved from 11.5 (T0) to 9.5 (T1), and the ROT group improved from 11.6 (T0) to 10.5 (T1). At the same time, a slight improvement in cognitive function, as measured by the MMSE, was observed. In the AAT group, mean MMSE was 20.2 at T0 and 21.5 at T1, and in the ROT group, it was 19.9 at T0 and 20.0 at T1. In the control group, the average values of both the GDS and MMSE remained unchanged. The Bonferroni‐Dunn results showed statistically significant differences between groups, particularly between the AAT group and the other two (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Pet therapy interventions based on the formal ROT protocol were effective and, compared to the ROT, provided encouraging and statistically significant results.
Elevated corticospinal excitability in patellar tendinopathy compared with other anterior knee pain or no pain
Authors: Rio E. , Kidgell D. , Moseley G. L. , Cook J.
Published: September 2015

Anterior knee pain (AKP) is a frequent clinical presentation in jumping athletes and may be aggravated by sustained sitting, stair use, and loading of the quadriceps. Corticospinal activation of the quadriceps in athletes with AKP has not yet been investigated, but is important in guiding efficacious treatment. This cross‐sectional study assessed corticospinal excitability (CSE) of the quadriceps in jumping athletes using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Groups consisted of Control (no knee pain); patellar tendinopathy (PT) [localized inferior pole pain on single‐leg decline squat (SLDS)]; and other AKP (nonlocalized pain around the patella). SLDS (numerical score of pain 0–10), Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment Patellar tendon (VISA‐P), maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), active motor threshold (AMT), CSE, and Mmax were tested. Twenty nine athletes participated; control n = 8, PT n = 11, AKP n = 10. There were no group differences in age (P = 0.23), body mass index (P = 0.16), MVIC (P = 0.38) or weekly activity (P = 0.22). PT had elevated CSE compared with controls and other AKP (P < 0.001), but no differences were detected between AKP and controls (P = 0.47). CSE appears to be greater in PT than controls and other AKP. An improved understanding of the corticospinal responses in different sources of knee pain may direct better treatment approaches.
Norwegian Agro‐Food Attracting Private Equity Capital; Varieties of Capitalism – Varieties of Financialisation?
Authors: Klimek Bjørn , Bjørkhaug Hilde
Published: September 2015

Due to the (relatively) small scale of the Norwegian food industry, Private Equity capital is deeply involved in the structural development of the sector through acquisitions and takeovers. The Norwegian social‐democratic model of agriculture, with its attempts to maintain farming all over the country, struggles with comparative disadvantages in productivity and Private Equity capital is investing in direct competition with farmer co‐operatives. An outline of the socioeconomic characteristics of the Norwegian model as well as those of Private Equity illuminates why they both fit well together. Thus, we argue in this article that it is the Norwegian model of agriculture, with its non‐market based elements, that today attracts finance capital and discuss whether this involvement of finance capital can be considered as a process of financialisation. Findings based on analysis of case‐studies of Private Equity buyout in the agro‐food industry suggest that the economic motives of Private Equity takeovers are based on a combination of typical industry capitalism with investments in productivity and efficiency, rather than merely financialisation. Findings are interpreted in a variety of capitalism framework combining social theory on financialisation with business school theories on Private Equity transactions.
Public Policy and Calculative Practices of Risk: Making Matters of Concern and ‘Non‐Communicable’ Threats, from Farm to Fork
Authors: Lavau Stephanie
Published: September 2015

This article considers the ways in which calculative practices of risk assessment and management generate matters of concern for public health policy. Campylobacterosis has become the most frequently reported zoonotic disease in the EU, responsible each year for thousands of hospitalisations, several dozen deaths, and significant public health costs and productivity losses. Whilst receiving much attention as a risk to consumers of poultry, it receives little attention as an occupational risk for those working on poultry farms and in processing factories. Informed by ethnographic fieldwork, documentary analysis, and interviews on how biosecurity is practised in poultry production in the UK, I identify particular configurings of risk in the governance of food safety and occupational health and safety that preclude this as a matter of concern for public policy. I argue that calculative practices of risk assessment and management, whilst making some matters present as risks, simultaneously make others ‘non‐communicable'.
Nonprofit, For‐Profit, or Stand‐Alone? How Management Organizations Influence the Working Conditions in Charter Schools*
Authors: Roch Christine H. , Sai Na
Published: September 2015

Objective

We examine how the working conditions in charter schools managed by management organizations (MOs) compare to those that teachers experience in stand‐alone charter schools. We consider differences in the degree of autonomy within the schools, professional development, levels of administrative support, support from teachers and parents, and teachers’ work hours and levels of compensation.

Methods

Our data come from the 2011–2012 Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS). We estimate multilevel models using the hierarchical linear modeling software, while controlling for the composition of the teachers and school context.

Results

We find that teachers in charter schools managed by education MOs have lower levels of autonomy than teachers in other charter schools. They also receive lower levels of compensation than other charter school teachers.

Conclusion

For‐profit MOs appear to constrain the charter schools that they manage, limiting the ability of teachers to determine how students are taught within their classrooms.
Social circulation and consumption of breast cancer health information among Yamatji in Western Australia
Authors: Dembinsky Melanie
Published: September 2015

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, and other parts of the world, especially for women. Over the last few decades, more and more information has become available to the public about breast cancer. Throughout Yamatji country various formats for the dissemination of this information have been implemented, with varying degrees of success. Data collected as part of a doctoral research project on Yamatji breast cancer experiences shows that for information to be considered trustworthy and valid, it needs to be passed along social pathways that allow information ‘consumers’ to evaluate the information ‘provider’. Through this social circulation of health information, Yamatji actively engage and shape health information provision, as well as distribution. Likewise, by rejecting certain health information as untrustworthy, Yamatji assert agency in their self‐health management.
Herpes simplex virus 2 hepatitis in a lung transplant recipient: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Hirschi S. , Biondini D. , Ohana M. , Solis M. , D'Urso A. , Rosner V. , Kessler R.
Published: September 2015

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) hepatitis is a rare and serious complication in immunocompromised patients. We report the case of an HSV hepatitis occurring 4 years after lung transplantation in a cystic fibrosis patient. The presentation was nonspecific, mimicking acute cholecystitis; orogenital signs were absent. The diagnosis was made based on viral cultures performed during cholecystectomy and confirmed by blood quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Although the diagnosis and treatment were delayed, the patient fully recovered with acyclovir, reduced immunosuppression, and intravenous immunoglobulins. The diagnostic difficulties, prognostic factors, and treatments of this infection are discussed.
Characterization of the onboard imaging unit for the first clinical magnetic resonance image guided radiation therapy system
Authors: Hu Yanle , Rankine Leith , Green Olga L. , Kashani Rojano , Li H. Harold , Li Hua , Nana Roger , Rodriguez Vivian , Santanam Lakshmi , Shvartsman Shmaryu , Victoria James , Wooten H. Omar , Dempsey James F. , Mutic Sasa
Published: September 2015

Purpose:

To characterize the performance of the onboard imaging unit for the first clinical magnetic resonance image guided radiation therapy (MR‐IGRT) system.

Methods:

The imaging performance characterization included four components: ACR (the American College of Radiology) phantom test, spatial integrity, coil signal to noise ratio (SNR) and uniformity, and magnetic field homogeneity. The ACR phantom test was performed in accordance with the ACR phantom test guidance. The spatial integrity test was evaluated using a 40.8 × 40.8 × 40.8 cm3 spatial integrity phantom. MR and computed tomography (CT) images of the phantom were acquired and coregistered. Objects were identified around the surfaces of 20 and 35 cm diameters of spherical volume (DSVs) on both the MR and CT images. Geometric distortion was quantified using deviation in object location between the MR and CT images. The coil SNR test was performed according to the national electrical manufacturers association (NEMA) standards MS‐1 and MS‐9. The magnetic field homogeneity test was measured using field camera and spectral peak methods.

Results:

For the ACR tests, the slice position error was less than 0.10 cm, the slice thickness error was less than 0.05 cm, the resolved high‐contrast spatial resolution was 0.09 cm, the resolved low‐contrast spokes were more than 25, the image intensity uniformity was above 93%, and the percentage ghosting was less than 0.22%. All were within the ACR recommended specifications. The maximum geometric distortions within the 20 and 35 cm DSVs were 0.10 and 0.18 cm for high spatial resolution three‐dimensional images and 0.08 and 0.20 cm for high temporal resolution two dimensional cine images based on the distance‐to‐phantom‐center method. The average SNR was 12.0 for the body coil, 42.9 for the combined torso coil, and 44.0 for the combined head and neck coil. Magnetic field homogeneities at gantry angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° were 23.55, 20.43, 18.76, 19.11, and 22.22 ppm, respectively, using the field camera method over the 45 cm DSV.

Conclusions:

The onboard imaging unit of the first commercial MR‐IGRT system meets ACR, NEMA, and vendor specifications.
On the acoustoelasticity of polycrystalline materials
Authors: Kube Christopher M. , Arguelles Andrea , Turner Joseph A.
Published: September 2015

A linear relation between the strains and stresses of a crystallite within a polycrystal is used to homogenize the polycrystal's elastic properties. The homogenization parallels the self-consistent method that is used for estimating the polycrystal's linear elastic properties. Acoustoelasticity for a macroscopically isotropic polycrystal is then formulated using a homogenized constitutive equation with initial stress. Simple expressions are given for the phase velocities and polarization directions for a uniaxially stressed polycrystal. The present model is compared with the model of Man and Paroni [J. Elast. 45, 91–116 (1996)]. Strong anisotropy of the crystallite elastic constants causes the present model to differ noticeably from the model of Man and Paroni.
A biomimetic coupled circuit based microphone array for sound source localization
Authors: Xu Huping , Xu Xiangyuan , Jia Han , Guan Luyang , Bao Ming
Published: September 2015

An equivalent analog circuit is designed to mimic the coupled ears of the fly Ormia ochracea for sound source localization. This coupled circuit receives two signals with tiny phase difference from a space closed two-microphone array, and produces two signals with obvious intensity difference. The response sensitivity can be adjusted through the coupled circuit parameters. The directional characteristics of the coupled circuit have been demonstrated in the experiment. The miniature microphone array can localize the sound source with low computational burden by using the intensity difference. This system has significant advantages in various applications where the array size is limited.
Barriers to Physical Activity Following Rehabilitation: Perspectives of Older Adults with Chronic Disease
Authors: Desveaux Laura , Goldstein Roger , Mathur Sunita , Brooks Dina
Published: September 2015

Nonadherence to exercise is a main cause of reduced function for older adults with chronic disease following completion of rehabilitation. This quantitative study used a questionnaire to evaluate the barriers and facilitators to community-based exercise following rehabilitation, from the perspectives of older adults with chronic diseases and their healthcare professionals (HCPs). Questionnaires were administered one-on-one to 83 older adults and 35 HCPs. Those with chronic disease perceived cost (43%), travel time (43%), and physical symptoms (39%) as primary barriers to program participation, with similar perceptions across all chronic conditions. Access to a case manager (82%), a supported transition following rehabilitation (78%), and a condition-specific program (78%) were the primary facilitators. Significant between group differences were found between HCPs and older adults with chronic disease across all barriers (p < .001), with a greater number of HCPs perceiving barriers to exercise participation. There were no between-group differences in the perception of factors that facilitate participation in exercise.
An essential role for Gαi2in Smoothened-stimulated epithelial cell proliferation in the mammary gland
Authors: Villanueva Hugo , Visbal Adriana P. , Obeid Nadine F. , Ta Andrew Q. , Faruki Adeel A. , Wu Meng-Fen , Hilsenbeck Susan G. , Shaw Chad A. , Yu Peng , Plummer Nicholas W. , Birnbaumer Lutz , Lewis Michael T.
Published: September 2015

Gαi2mediates proliferation stimulated by Smoothened in the mammary gland.
Colistin Population Pharmacokinetics after Application of a Loading Dose of 9 MU Colistin Methanesulfonate in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Karaiskos Ilias , Friberg Lena E. , Pontikis Konstantinos , Ioannidis Konstantinos , Tsagkari Vasiliki , Galani Lamprini , Kostakou Eirini , Baziaka Fotini , Paskalis Charalambos , Koutsoukou Antonia , Giamarellou Helen
Published: September 2015

Colistin has been revived, in the era of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Gram-negative infections, as the last-resort treatment in critically ill patients. Recent studies focusing on the optimal dosing strategy of colistin have demonstrated the necessity of a loading dose at treatment initiation (D. Plachouras, M. Karvanen, L. E. Friberg, E. Papadomichelakis, A. Antoniadou, I. Tsangaris, I. Karaiskos, G. Poulakou, F. Kontopidou, A. Armaganidis, O. Cars, and H. Giamarellou, Antimicrob Agents Chemother 53:3430–3436, 2009,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/AAC.01361-08
; A. F. Mohamed, I. Karaiskos, D. Plachouras, M. Karvanen, K. Pontikis, B. Jansson, E. Papadomichelakis, A. Antoniadou, H. Giamarellou, A. Armaganidis, O. Cars, and L. E. Friberg, Antimicrob Agents Chemother 56:4241– 4249, 2012,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/AAC.06426-11
; S. M. Garonzik, J. Li, V. Thamlikitkul, D. L. Paterson, S. Shoham, J. Jacob, F. P. Silveira, A. Forrest, and R. L. Nation, Antimicrob Agents Chemother 55:3284–3294, 2011,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/AAC.01733-10
). In 19 critically ill patients with suspected or microbiologically documented infections caused by XDR Gram-negative strains, a loading dose of 9 MU colistin methanesulfonate (CMS) (∼270 mg colistin base activity) was administered with a maintenance dose of 4.5 MU every 12 h, commenced after 24 h. Patients on renal replacement were excluded. CMS infusion was given over 30 min or 1 h. Repeated blood sampling was performed after the loading dose and after the 5th or 6th dose. Colistin concentrations and measured CMS, determined after hydrolization to colistin and including the partially sulfomethylated derivatives, were determined with a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted in NONMEM with the new data combined with data from previous studies. Measured colistimethate concentrations were described by 4 compartments for distribution and removal of sulfomethyl groups, while colistin disposition followed a 1-compartment model. The average observed maximum colistin A plus B concentration was 2.65 mg/liter after the loading dose (maximum time was 8 h). A significantly higher availability of the measured A and B forms of colistimethate and colistin explained the higher-than-expected concentrations in the present study compared to those in previous studies. Creatinine clearance was a time-varying covariate of colistimethate clearance. The incidence of acute renal injury was 20%.
Antiviral Activity of Broad-Spectrum and Enterovirus-Specific Inhibitors against Clinical Isolates of Enterovirus D68
Authors: Sun Liang , Meijer Adam , Froeyen Mathy , Zhang Linlin , Thibaut Hendrik Jan , Baggen Jim , George Shyla , Vernachio John , van Kuppeveld Frank J. M. , Leyssen Pieter , Hilgenfeld Rolf , Neyts Johan , Delang Leen
Published: September 2015

We investigated the susceptibility of 10 enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) isolates (belonging to clusters A, B, and C) to (entero)virus inhibitors with different mechanisms of action. The 3C-protease inhibitors proved to be more efficient than enviroxime and pleconaril, which in turn were more effective than vapendavir and pirodavir. Favipiravir proved to be a weak inhibitor. Resistance to pleconaril maps to V69A in the VP1 protein, and resistance to rupintrivir maps to V104I in the 3C protease. A structural explanation of why both substitutions may cause resistance is provided.
Observed Antagonistic Effect of Linezolid on Daptomycin or Vancomycin Activity against Biofilm-Forming Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in an
In Vitro
Pharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Luther Megan K. , LaPlante Kerry L.
Published: September 2015

Pharmacodynamic activity in antibiotic combinations of daptomycin, vancomycin, and linezolid was investigated in a 48-h
in vitro
pharmacodynamic model. Using human-simulated free drug concentrations, activity against clinical biofilm-forming methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
isolates was evaluated. Linezolid antagonized vancomycin activity at 24 and 48 h. Linezolid antagonized daptomycin at 24 and 48 h depending on dose and strain. Adding daptomycin increased vancomycin activity at 48 h (
P
< 0.03). These results may be strain dependent and require further clinical investigation.