bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nervus-tibialis-Parese bei acht Milchkühen – symptomatische Therapie mithilfe eines Kunstharzverbands
Authors: Garz B.
Published: July 2018

Gegenstand und Ziel: In der kurativen Praxis werden immer wieder Kühe vorgestellt, die an einer Nervus-tibialis-Parese leiden. Nicht bei allen diesen Tieren kommt es nach einiger Zeit zur Spontanheilung. Unsere Untersuchungen sollten zeigen, ob die Stabilisierung der betroffenen Gliedmaße mit einem Kunstharzverband zur Regeneration beitragen kann. Material und Methoden: Im Rahmen der ambulanten Außenpraxis wurden acht Kühe mit einer ein- oder beidseitigen N.-tibialis- Parese vorgestellt. Die betroffene Gliedmaße (bei Tieren mit beidseitiger Parese nur die stärker beeinträchtigte Gliedmaße) wurde mit einem Kunstharzverband stabilisiert. Nach Korrektur der Gliedmaßenstellung wurde ein Watteverband von den Klauen bis unmittelbar distal des Tarsus angebracht. Dem schloss sich die Fixierung von Zehen und Metatarsus mittels Scotch-Cast-Binden in einer Achsenstellung von annähernd 180° an. Die Abnahme des Kunstharzverbands erfolgte nach 4 Wochen. Ergebnisse: Alle acht Kühe bewegten sich mit dem Verband zielstrebig und sicher. Sie belasteten die Gliedmaße gut. Nach Entfernung des Verbands zeigten sieben der acht Rinder eine physio - logische Belastung und Fußung der ehemals instabilen Gliedmaße. Schlussfolgerung und klinische Relevanz: Das Anlegen des Kunstharzverbands führte bei sieben der acht Kühe letztendlich zu einer vollständigen Wiederherstellung des physiologischen Gangbildes. Diese Form des Fixationsverbands ist demnach eine einfache und praktikable Therapiemaßnahme, die es dem Besitzer ermöglicht, das erkrankte Tier in der “normalen” Haltungsform ohne zusätzlichen Pflegeaufwand zu halten.
Laboratory diagnostics in the urine of young and pregnant ewes
Authors: Cetin Y. , Failing K. , Wehrend A. , Sendag S.
Published: July 2018

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify values for net acid base excretion (NABE) which are significant indicators of the acidbase equilibrium in pregnant and young ewes and to show its relationship with other parameters (base, acid, ammonium [NH4], base-acid quotient, sodium [Na], potassium [K], calcium [Ca]) in ovine urine. In contrast to dairy cows, data are rare on these parameters in ewes. Material and methods: A total of 99 animals were used in the study, consisting of 56 young (average of 5.6 ± 1.1 months) and 43 pregnant ewes (average of 35.2 ± 18.8 months). Measurement of fractional NABE in urine samples was carried out according to the method reported by Kutas. The pH value of the urine was measured with a laboratory pH meter. Na, K and total Ca were measured with a flame photometer. Results: For all values except Na significant differences occurred between urine samples of pregnant ewes and young ewes (p < 0.001). Base, acid, NH4, NABE, K and Ca values were significantly higher in the urine of the youngs than in pregnant ewes. In young ewes, a strong correlation was found between NABE and base values while a weak correlation could be observed between pH and base values. In pregnant ewes, strong NABE-base, NABE-K, K-acid and K-base correlations were found as well as weak NH4-base, NH4-NABE and NH4-K correlations. There was a strongly positive correlation between NABE and NH4 in pregnant ewes, while a weak negative correlation between those values was observed in young ewes. Conclusion: For the first time, we established values for NABE and certain other parameters in urine of pregnant ewes and young ewes. It was shown that the acid-base balance in pregnant ewes and young ewes can be evaluated by measuring NABE and certain trace elements in urine like in cattle.
Die Feminisierung der Tiermedizin und der Nachwuchsmangel in der Nutztierpraxis
Authors: Kostelnik K. , Lotz F. , Sötje L. , Heuwieser W.
Published: July 2018

Gegenstand: Im Studiengang Veterinärmedizin hat in den letzten 15 Jahren ein Wandel des Geschlechterverhältnisses stattgefunden. Im Wintersemester 2007/2008 waren 84,5% der Studierenden weiblich. Parallel zu dieser Entwicklung sinkt die Zahl der Absolventen/innen, die nach dem Studium in der Nutztierpraxis tätig werden wollen. Unter Tierärzten und in der Fachliteratur wurde lebhaft diskutiert, ob zwischen diesen Trends ein Zusammenhang besteht. Ziel der Studie war herauszufinden, ob männliche und weibliche Studierende die Wahl für ein Tätigkeitsfeld nach dem Studium aufgrund unterschiedlicher Motivationen und Interessen treffen. Material und Methoden: In einer gesamtdeutschen schriftlichen Befragung unter Studierenden der Veterinärmedizin sollten Einflüsse ermittelt werden, die auf die Wahl des Tätigkeitsfeldes gewirkt haben, in dem die Studierenden nach dem Studium planten, tätig zu werden. Alles in allem wurden 1498 Studierende befragt. Ergebnisse: Insgesamt ließen sich 1203 ausgefüllte Fragebögen im Hinblick auf das Geschlecht der Befragten, ihrer Herkunft und der gehaltenen Tiere auswerten. Die Rücklaufquote betrug 80,3%. Die gewonnenen Daten zeigen, dass männliche Studierende (23,4%) eher zu einer Karriere in der Nutztiermedizin tendieren als weibliche (12,0%). Außerdem entschieden sich Studierende aus einer ländlichen Gegend mit einer höheren Wahrscheinlichkeit für die Nutztierpraxis (55,6%) als Studierende mit einem städtischen Hintergrund (18,1%). Darüber hinaus weisen die Ergebnisse darauf hin, dass ein starker Zusammenhang besteht zwischen den Vorlieben der Studierenden für ein Tätigkeitsfeld und der Art der Tiere, die sie oder ihre Familien halten. Studierende, die Nutztiere ausschließlich oder zusammen mit Pferden und/oder Kleintieren gehalten hatten, bevorzugten eine Tätigkeit in der Nutztierpraxis. Schlussfolgerung: Die Resultate der Studie deuten an, dass für die Wahl des Tätigkeitsfeldes nach dem Studium die Herkunft, die gehaltenen Haustiere und das Geschlecht wichtige Einflussfaktoren darstellen.
Effekte einer präoperativen Applikation von Butafosfan und Cyano-cobalamin auf Rekonvaleszenz, klinisch-chemische Parameter, antioxidativen Stoffwechsel und postoperative Labmagenentleerung bei Kühen mit Dislocatio abomasi
Authors: Fürll M. , Gengenbach S. , Schmidt B. , Wittek Th.
Published: July 2018

Gegenstand und Ziel: Die Zielstellung bestand darin zu prüfen, ob durch die Medikation mit Butafosfan und Cyanocobalamin bei Kühen mit linksseitiger Labmagenverlagerung (LDA) eine verbesserte klinische Rekonvaleszenz, eine geringere Ausprägung der postoperativen Labmagenparalyse und positive Einflüsse auf den Energie- und Fettstoffwechsel sowie den antioxidativen Stoffwechsel erzielt werden können. Material und Methode: Insgesamt 30 Kühe mit LDA wurden alternierend der Versuchsgruppe bzw. der unbehandelten Kontrollgruppe zugewiesen.Tiere der Versuchsgruppe erhieltenvorderchirurgischen Rückverlagerung des Labmagens Catosal® (100 mg Butafosfan und 50 μg Cyanocobalamin pro ml) in einer Dosis von 5 ml/100 kg KM. Ergebnisse: Während bei den klinischen Parametern Puls- und Atemfrequenz sowie Körpertemperatur keine Einflüsse der Medikation bestanden, zeigten sich bei der Futteraufnahme, der Pansenmotilität und der Wiederkauaktivität signifikant positive Effekte, die besonders innerhalb der ersten 24 Stunden nach der Operation ausgeprägt waren. Ebenso ließen sich positive Auswirkungen auf die Konzentrationen von Bilirubin, ß-Hydroxybutyrat und freien Fettsäuren sowie auf die AST-Aktivitätfeststellen. Ein Einflussaufdie Labmagenentleerung und den antioxidativen Stoffwechsel warnicht nachweisbar. Schlussfolgerung und klinische Relevanz: Durch die Applikation von Catosal® kann bei Kühen mit linksseitiger Labmagenverlagerung nach der chirurgischen Behandlung eine klinisch relevante Verbesserung der Rekonvaleszenz und eine Stabilisierung des Energie- und Fettstoffwechsels erreicht werden. Deshalb ist die routinemäßige Anwendung bei Stoffwechselstörungen im Zusammenhang mit einer Labmagenverlagerung empfehlenswert.
Transfacet Screw Fixation for the Treatment of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis with Mild Instability: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Trungu Sokol , Pietrantonio Andrea , Forcato Stefano , Martino Luca , Raco Antonino , Tropeano Maria
Published: July 2018

Background Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) and low-grade degenerative spondylolisthesis are frequently associated with facet joint degeneration, considered the main cause of low back pain. Surgery is the treatment of choice in patients affected by LSS unresponsive to conservative treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcome of patients treated with posterior decompression and transfacet fixation for single-level LSS and facet joint degeneration.

Methods A total of 25 patients between May 2015 and June 2016 affected by radiologically demonstrated one-level LSS with facet joint degeneration and grade I spondylolisthesis were included in this prospective study. All the patients underwent laminectomy, foraminotomy, and one-level facet fixation (Facet-Link, Inc., Rockaway, New Jersey, United States). Pre- and postoperative clinical (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], Short Form-36 [SF-36]) and radiologic (radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography) data were collected and analyzed.

Results Mean follow-up was 12 months. The L4–L5 level was involved in 18 patients (72%) and L5–S1 in 7 patients (28%); the average operative time was 80 minutes (range: 65–148 minutes), and the mean blood loss was 160 mL (range: 90–200 mL). ODI and SF-36 showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) improvement at last follow-up.

Conclusions Transfacet fixation is a safe and effective treatment option in patients with single-level LSS, facet joint degeneration, and mild instability.
Imaging in Autoimmune Neurology
Authors: Linnoila Jenny
Published: July 2018

Autoimmune disorders are becoming increasingly recognized within the broader field of neurology. The discovery of multiple, novel, neutrally targeted autoantibodies over the past decade and their translation into commercially available testing, in particular, has aided in the more rapid diagnosis of these disorders. When considering imaging in autoimmune neurologic disorders, it is important, when possible, to visualize the autoimmune process itself, as well as to make sure that the patient does not have an associated malignancy driving the overall process. Positron emission tomographic scans can aid in the detection of small tumors with limited spread, as well as in the visualization of autoimmune processes affecting the brain and/or spinal cord. In autoimmune disorders of the central nervous system, imaging abnormalities can appear within the limbic system, extralimbic areas, and spinal cord. Such imaging abnormalities can serve as objective markers to follow over time to assess patients' responses to treatment. It is important to recognize that overlapping syndromes (for instance, both demyelinating and autoimmune or both infectious and autoimmune) exist and that inflammatory disorders can leave behind sequelae that can be recognized on subsequent imaging. Work is currently underway to develop more specific imaging techniques for autoimmune neurologic disorders.
Antibodies in Autoimmune Human Neurological Disease: Pathogenesis and Immunopathology
Authors: Williams Jon , Greenlee John , Carlson Noel
Published: July 2018

Immune-mediated processes represent a rapidly expanding categorical etiology for neurological disease manifestations spanning all subspecialties of neurology. Neural autoantibodies can be grossly divided into two main groups based on localization of the antigen: intracellular and cell membrane/synaptic antibodies. Antibodies reactive with neuronal membrane antigens have been identified in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of patients developing neurological disease either independent of or associated with cancer comorbidity, whereas antibodies directed against intracellular targets have a much higher rate of associated malignancy. Antibodies to neuronal membrane proteins such as the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor are considered directly pathogenic based on disease models. Similar evidence exists for far fewer autoantibodies directed against intracellular targets. Attempts to produce an antibody-mediated animal model of human paraneoplastic disease have been unsuccessful to date. In this article, we review antineural antibodies and their clinical associations, briefly discuss recently characterized entities, and present proposed mechanisms of antibody pathogenicity.
An Overview of Autoimmune and Paraneoplastic Encephalitides
Authors: Bradshaw Michael , Linnoila Jenny
Published: July 2018

The understanding of the manifestations, mechanisms, and management of autoimmune encephalitis has expanded dramatically in recent decades. Immune-mediated encephalitides are comparable in incidence and prevalence to infectious etiologies, and are associated with significant morbidity, especially when there is a delay in recognition and treatment. As such, clinicians from many specialties must develop a functional understanding of these disorders. Herein we provide an overview of the autoimmune and paraneoplastic encephalitides, including those associated with either intracellular or cell surface/synaptic neuronal autoantibodies. After briefly reviewing the current understanding of the pathobiology of autoimmune encephalitis, we combine a neuroanatomical approach with specific antibody syndromes to provide the reader with a clinically relevant review of these disorders. The clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of autoimmune encephalitis are reviewed, with an emphasis on clinical relevance. We also introduce updates in the field, including autoimmune encephalitis associated with novel cancer immunotherapies, infectious triggers of autoimmune encephalitis, and autoimmune encephalitis with demyelinating overlap syndromes.
Autoimmune Epilepsy: The Evolving Science of Neural Autoimmunity and Its Impact on Epilepsy Management
Authors: O'Toole Orna , Quek Amy
Published: July 2018

Autoimmune epilepsy is increasingly recognized as a distinct clinical entity, driven in large part by the recent discovery of neural autoantibodies in patients with isolated or predominant epilepsy presentations. Detection of neural autoantibodies in high-risk epilepsy patients supports an immune-mediated cause of seizures and, if applicable, directs the search for an underlying cancer when the paraneoplastic association of the associated antibody is compelling. Early diagnosis of autoimmune epilepsy is crucial, as prompt initiation of immunosuppressive treatment increases the likelihood of achieving either seizure freedom or a substantial reduction in seizure frequency. A practical clinical approach that incorporates risk scores to guide patient selection on the basis of clinical features, neural autoantibodies, and a treatment trial of immunotherapy is suggested. Elucidating an immunological basis of epilepsy provides neurologists with wider treatment options (incorporating immune-suppressive treatment), in addition to standard antiepileptic drugs, which often improves patient outcomes.
„Sonografische Blickdiagnosen“ – eine neue Rubrik der ZGN
Authors: Singer Dominique
Published: July 2018

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser,

mit der vorliegenden ersten Ausgabe des neuen Jahrgangs der Zeitschrift für Geburtshilfe und Neonatologie (ZGN) dürfen wir Ihnen einige redaktionelle Neuerungen vorstellen.
High-performance structure of a coil-shaped soft-actuator consisting of polymer threads and carbon nanotube yarns
Authors: Inoue Hirotaka , Yoshiyama Takayuki , Hada Masaki , Chujo Daiki , Saito Yoshitaka , Nishikawa Takeshi , Yamashita Yoshifumi , Takarada Wataru , Matsumoto Hidetoshi , Hayashi Yasuhiko
Published: July 2018

We fabricated thermally driven metal-free soft-actuators consisting of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) threads as the actuator and carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns as the heating source. The mechanical force, displacement, and response behavior of various structures of the coil-shaped soft-actuators were characterized. The actuation performance of the soft-actuators containing a homogeneous arrangement of PET threads and CNT yarns in their cross-sectional profile was the highest. The results of the calculations based on the heat diffusion equations indicated that inhomogeneous heat generation in the soft-actuator causes parts of the actuator to remain unheated and this interferes with the mechanical motions. Homogeneous thermal distribution in the soft-actuators, namely, the use of a multifilament structure, yields the highest performance in terms of the mechanical force and displacement.
Strain of M-plane GaN epitaxial layer grown on β-LiGaO2 (100) by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: You Shuo-Ting , Lo Ikai , Shih Huei-Jyun , Hang Hui-Chun , Chou Mitch M. C.
Published: July 2018

We have grown a high-quality single-phase M-plane GaN on β-LiGaO2 (100) by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The Hooke’s law for M-plane GaN was derived by a stress tenor transformation. From the analysis of M-plane GaN microstructure, the lattice strain of M-plane GaN along the [112¯0] and [0001] directions have been estimated. Based on the Hooke’s law, we calculated the ratio of anisotropic stress which was consistent with the ratio of thermal expansion-mismatch between GaN and LiGaO2 (100). We demonstrated that the thermal expansion mismatch was the major factor to degrade the quality of M-plane GaN on β-LiGaO2 (100).
Spatio-temporal causality provides data-specific optimization of information modeling
Authors: Majors J. H.
Published: July 2018

Defining causality not only by an arrow of time, but also by space, provides a new way to quantify information exchange between variables. The results offer improved modeling for a variety of data types.
Changing pattern of sexually transmissible infections and HIV diagnosed in public sexual health services compared with other locations in New South Wales, 2010–14
Authors: Bourne Christopher , Lam Meeyin , Selvey Christine , Guy Rebecca , Callander Denton
Published: July 2018

Background
In Australia, testing and treatment for HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs) is usually managed in general practice, while publicly funded sexual health clinics (PFSHC) attract people at higher risk for infection. The proportion of HIV and STI diagnoses in New South Wales (NSW) occurring in PFSHC stratified by priority population was investigated. Methods: From 2010 to 2014, NSW notification frequencies for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, infectious syphilis, and HIV were compared with the number of diagnoses in PFSHC. The annual proportion of diagnoses at PFSHC was calculated and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests assessed trends. Diagnoses from PFSHC were also organised by priority population, including gay and bisexual men (GBM), people living with HIV, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people who use injecting drugs, sex workers and young people. Results: The annual proportion of HIV and STIs diagnosed at PFSHC increased (all P < 0.001): chlamydia from 12% to 15%, gonorrhoea 23% to 38%, infectious syphilis 21% to 40% and HIV 22% to 30%. Overall, the majority of all infections diagnosed at PFSHC were among GBM, with the proportional distribution of chlamydia increasing from 32% to 46% among GBM (P < 0.001) and decreasing among young people (50% to 40%; P < 0.001). There were no other significant changes by population or infection at PFSHC. Conclusions: Increasing proportions of STI and HIV are being diagnosed at NSW PFSHC, mostly among GBM. PFSHC reorientation to priority populations continues to make a large and increasing contribution to STI and HIV control efforts in NSW.
Use of single-question screening for erectile dysfunction: a study of at-risk Asian men in primary health care
Authors: Lim Yan Zheng Daniel , Hong Wei Jie Nicholas , How Guo Yuan , Sayampanathan Andrew Arjun , Lim Sheng Hao Joshua , Lee Meng Kam Richard , Srilatha Balasubramanian , Adaikan P. Ganesan
Published: July 2018

This study assesses the validity of a single-question screener for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men at risk in comparison to a standard validated tool – the five-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). A total of 174 men with at least one risk factor for ED were studied, with 58.0% and 10.9% of the study respondents meeting the criteria for their erectile impairment by IIEF-5 and single-question screener respectively. Our results suggest that in spite of high feasibility, a simplified, single-question screener has low sensitivity in capturing ED prevalence, even in an at-risk population, within the Asian context.
MIZ1 regulates ECA1 to generate a slow, long-distance phloem-transmitted Ca2+signal essential for root water tracking inArabidopsis
Authors: Shkolnik Doron , Nuriel Roye , Bonza Maria Cristina , Costa Alex , Fromm Hillel
Published: July 2018

Significance

Plant roots grow toward water, a phenomenon termed hydrotropism. The nature of the root signal that governs hydrotropism is elusive and remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that, in response to water potential differences across the root tip, a slow, asymmetric long-distance Ca2+signal is transmitted via the phloem to the elongation zone, where it is asymmetrically distributed across the root to promote root curvature. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the hydrotropism-associated protein MIZ1 plays a role in generating the Ca2+signal by its direct binding to and inhibition of ECA1, an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+pump, which resembles the animal sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases (SERCAs). This study elucidates the mechanism underlying systemic Ca2+signaling in plant roots, which is essential for water tracking.
Schwann cell O-GlcNAcylation promotes peripheral nerve remyelination via attenuation of the AP-1 transcription factor JUN
Authors: Kim Sungsu , Maynard Jason C. , Strickland Amy , Burlingame Alma L. , Milbrandt Jeffrey
Published: July 2018

Significance

Schwann cells (SCs), the ensheathing glia of the peripheral nervous system, promote nerve repair/regeneration. Defects in these SC injury responses potentially contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy, the most prevalent form of peripheral neuropathy. Here, we show that O-GlcNAcylation, a posttranslational modification controlled by the metabolic state of the cell, influences SC injury responses and nerve repair. The transcription factor JUN, an essential regulator of the SC injury program, is O-GlcNAcylated at multiple sites, and loss of this modification leads to increased activity and ineffective repair SC function. These results demonstrate that O-GlcNAcylation regulates SC injury responses via modulation of JUN activity and broaden our understanding of how changes in metabolism, such as occur in diabetes, affect nerve repair.
Theoretical search for heterogeneously architected 2D structures
Authors: Yang Weizhu , Liu Qingchang , Gao Zongzhan , Yue Zhufeng , Xu Baoxing
Published: July 2018

Significance

The bottom-up assembly of deterministic structures by lattice cell structures for surpassing properties of individual components or their sums by orders of magnitude is of critical importance in materials by design. Here, we present a theoretical strategy in the search and design of heterogeneously architected 2D structures (HASs) by assembling arbitrarily shaped basic lattice structures and demonstrate that an extremely broad range of mechanical properties can be achieved. This strategy allows designing HASs through interface properties of close relevance to assembly patterns and bonding connections between basic lattice structures. Studies using extensive numerical experiments validate the robust, reliable, and lucrative strategy of searching and designing HASs and offer quantitative guidance in the discovery of emerging 2D superstructures.
Assessing L2 Listening
Authors: Ockey Gary J. , Wagner Elvis
Published: July 2018

This book is relevant for language testers, listening researchers, and oral proficiency teachers, in that it explores four broad themes related to the assessment of L2 listening ability: the use of authentic, real-world spoken texts; the effects of different speech varieties of listening inputs; the use of audio-visual texts; and assessing listening as part of an interactive speaking/listening construct. Each theme is introduced with a review of the relevant literature, and then is examined through either two or three empirical studies. The notion of authenticity underlies each of these four themes. By creating more authentic test tasks that are similar to real world language tasks, test developers can create listening assessments that not only more effectively assess test takers’ communicative competence, but can also have a positive washback effect on educational systems.
Bacillus subtilis highly efficient protein expression systems that are chromosomally integrated and controllable by glucose and rhamnose
Authors: Hirooka Kazutake , Tamano Ayaka
Published: July 2018

To achieve rhamnose-inducible efficient protein expression in Bacillus subtilis, we assembled the strong promoters of B. subtilis cdd and ylbP genes and the regulatory region (PrhaEW) of B. subtilis rhaEWRBMA operon, whose transcription is induced by rhamnose and repressed by glucose, to produce various hybrid constructs. These constructs were evaluated using B. subtilis strains carrying a fusion of each construct to the gene encoding a mutated green fluorescent protein in the chromosome. When these strains were cultivated in the presence of glucose or rhamnose, the strain carrying a fusion of a partial PrhaEW region, lacking the intrinsic Shine-Dalgarno (SD) sequence, and the ylbP SD sequence most strictly controlled the promoter activity depending on sugar species. Moreover, the strain carrying a fusion of the cdd core promoter and the ylbP SD sequence showed the highest promoter activity when it was cultivated in the presence of glucose until the late stationary phase.

Abbreviations: RNAP: RNA polymerase; cre: catabolite-responsive element; SD: Shine-Dalgarno; PAGE: polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; GFP: green fluorescent protein; OD600: optical density at 600 nm; LB: Luria-Bertani; a.u.: arbitrary unit; SDS: sodium dodecyl sulfate.
Minimal plane valuations
Authors: Galindo Carlos , Monserrat Francisco , Moyano-Fernández Julio-José
Published: July 2018

We consider the value

μ
^

(
ν
)
=

lim

m
→
∞

m

−
1

a
(
m
L
)

\hat {\mu } (\nu ) = \lim _{m \rightarrow \infty } m^{-1} a(mL)

, where

a
(
m
L
)

a(mL)

is the last value of the vanishing sequence of

H
0

(
m
L
)

H^0(mL)

along a divisorial or irrational valuation

ν
\nu

centered at

O

P

2

,
p

\mathcal {O}_{\mathbb {P}^2,p}

,

L
L

(respectively,

p
p

) being a line (respectively, a point) of the projective plane

P

2

\mathbb {P}^2

over an algebraically closed field. This value contains, for valuations, similar information as that given by Seshadri constants for points. It is always true that

μ
^

(
ν
)
≥

1

/

v
o
l

(
ν
)

\hat {\mu } (\nu ) \geq \sqrt {1 / \mathrm {vol}(\nu )}

and minimal valuations are those satisfying the equality. In this paper, we prove that the Greuel–Lossen-Shustin Conjecture implies a variation of the Nagata Conjecture involving minimal valuations (that extends the one stated in [Comm. Anal. Geom. 25 (2017), pp. 125–161] to the whole set of divisorial and irrational valuations of the projective plane) which also implies the original Nagata Conjecture. We also provide infinitely many families of minimal very general valuations with an arbitrary number of Puiseux exponents and an asymptotic result that can be considered as evidence in the direction of the above-mentioned conjecture.
Clinical Manifestations and Bacterial Genomic Analysis of Group A Streptococcus Strains That Cause Pediatric Toxic Shock Syndrome
Authors: Deniskin Roman , Shah Brittany , Muñoz Flor M , Flores Anthony R
Published: July 2018

We report here 18 cases of pediatric group A streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, associated clinical findings, and bacterial molecular genetic characteristics discovered through whole-genome sequencing. This comparative whole-genome sequencing revealed unique gene content (speK) and polymorphisms (dpiB) in emm87 group A Streptococcus, the relative contributions of which, in combination with the host response, in the development of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome remain to be elucidated.
International Trends in Cannabis Use
Authors: Anthony James C. , Alshaarawy Omayma , Lopez-Quintero Catalina
Published: July 2018

This chapter focuses on international trends. Mainly, the chapter provides estimates that illustrate generally stable recent trends in the frequency and occurrence of use in most countries for which survey data have been distributed, with some noteworthy exceptions to this stability. The chapter offers a first approximation of a global tour of cannabis smoking estimates and trends and covers evidence on the hypothesized possibility of a narrowing of the male–female difference in risk of becoming a cannabis user. The chapter closes with thoughts on an International Cannabis Products Safety Commission that is needed to keep track of trends and to investigate hypotheses about psychoses and other hazards attributed to consumer end-user ingestion of cannabis products.
Depression in Late Life
Authors: Fiske Amy , Hannum Alisa O’Riley
Published: July 2018

Abstract: The chapter focuses on the assessment of depression in older adults. Assessing depression in older adults presents unique challenges to clinicians for several reasons. First, depression may be underreported because clients and their families often assume depressive symptoms are normal in late adulthood. Second, depression can be difficult to differentially diagnose because of the prevalence of comorbid physical and cognitive problems. Finally, it may be difficult to diagnose depression in older adulthood because older adults often demonstrate presentations of the disorder that differ from typical presentations in other age groups. This chapter begins with a review of the nature of the disorder followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing depression in a clinically sensitive manner.
Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors
Authors: Millner Alexander J. , Nock Matthew K.
Published: July 2018

Abstract: Self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITB) are an enormous global public health problem. Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, and cross-national studies estimate that the prevalence of nonlethal SITBs ranges from 3% to 9%. This chapter focuses on the assessment of SITB in youth and adults. It begins with a review of the nature of the condition, which is followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) determining the presence and frequency of SITB, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing SITB in a clinically sensitive manner.
Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Blakey Shannon M. , Abramowitz Jonathan S.
Published: July 2018

Abstract: Obsessive–compulsive disorder is classified as an obsessive–compulsive and related disorder characterized by obsessions or compulsions. Obsessions are persistent intrusive thoughts, ideas, images, or doubts that are experienced as unacceptable, senseless, or bizarre. The intrusions also evoke subjective distress (e.g., anxiety, fear, and doubt) and are not simply everyday worries about work, relationships, or finances. This chapter focuses on the assessment of obsessive–compulsive disorder in adults. It begins with a review of the nature of the disorder, which is followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing obsessive–compulsive disorder in a clinically sensitive manner.
Introduction to Preadolescent Depression
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 1 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depressed Preadolescents discusses preadolescent depression. Marked interpersonal impairment has been associated with depression in preadolescents and appears to be one of the mechanisms for recurrent depression in adolescence and adulthood. Depressed preadolescents experience frequent negative interactions and more distant relationships with parents, as well as more problematic and fewer close peer relationships. Preadolescent depression not only interferes with normative social development at a formative period but also results in residual impairments in interpersonal functioning, which may increase their risk for recurrent depression into adolescence and adulthood. Effective interventions for depression in the preadolescent period that target family and interpersonal risk factors may reduce risk for depression recurrence in adolescence.
IPT and IPT-A
Authors: Dietz Laura J. , Weinberg Rebecca J. , Mufson Laura
Published: July 2018

Chapter 2 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the basic principles of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and of interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A), empirically supported interventions for depression in adults and adolescents. IPT is a structured, time-limited treatment for depression that identifies one of four interpersonal problem areas (i.e., grief, role transitions, role disputes, and interpersonal deficits) that may be related to an individual’s onset of symptoms. IPT seeks to reduce depression by helping patients improve their relationships with others through effective communication and interpersonal problem-solving. IPT-A is a developmental adaptation that is designed to treat adolescents, ages 12 to 18 years, with depression. Both models include three phases of treatment (initial, middle, and termination), as well as a large psych educational component and a focus on helping depressed patients acquire better communication and problem-solving skills.
Developmental Adaptations for FB-IPT for Depressed Preadolescents
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 3 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the basics of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT), which is a psychosocial intervention for treating depression in preadolescents (ages 7–12). Adapted from interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A), FB-IPT includes several developmental modifications, including systematically involving a parent weekly in treatment, presenting treatment strategies visually, teaching communication skills in age-appropriate language, and having the preteen experiment with initiating social interactions outside of sessions in order to improve her engagement intreatment and acquisition of new skills. FB-IPT identifies treatment targets for both preadolescents and parents and is easily modified to target younger children’s (ages 7–8) cognitive and verbal abilities.
Assessment of Preadolescent Depression
Authors: Dietz Laura J. , Weinberg Rebecca J. , Mufson Laura
Published: July 2018

Chapter 4 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents reviews techniques and strategies for the clinical assessment of depression in preadolescents. The therapist begins by setting a collaborative tone with preadolescent and parent to explain the goals and the format of the initial meeting. The therapist then meets with the preadolescent individually to assess symptoms of depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, and suicidality. The therapist explores the preteen’s relationships with friends and family, and school functioning to begin to develop an understanding of the interpersonal context of depressive symptoms. Next, the therapist meets with the parent individually to obtain his or her perspective on the child’s symptoms and to gather more information about relevant family circumstances and family history of depression or other psychiatric illnesses. The therapist concludes the clinical assessment by meeting with the preadolescent and the parents together to provide diagnostic impressions and develop a treatment and safety plan.
Session 1: Introducing FB-IPT and the Mood Thermometer
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 5 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the first session of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT). The therapist outlines the structure for the session and “checks-in” with the preteen and parent together to monitor depressive symptoms in the past week. When meeting with the preteen individually, the therapist introduces the mood thermometer, a strategy to help preadolescents identify changes in their mood that can be used to link their depression to different interpersonal events with family members and friends. The therapist ends the session providing the preadolescent and the parent with a framework for understanding depression as a medical illness. The therapist shares information about preadolescent depression and presents an overview of how FB-IPT will reduce depressive symptom in preteens.
Session 7: “Give to Get”
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 11 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the seventh session of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT), in which the therapist builds upon the foundations established in Session 6. The therapist actively teaches new communication skills to the preadolescent and parent and begins to explore how skills may fit into scenarios where the preadolescent needs to express a different point of view, opinion, or request and wants to avoid conflict. Dyadic role-plays with the “Give to Get” Tween Tip continue to help with adoption of these skills, and home practice assignments increase uptake. Therapist Tips for introducing the concept of perspective taking to younger preteens and helping preteens accept differences in perspective are also provided.
Session 8: “Make ‘I Feel’ Statements”
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 12 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the eighth session of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT), in which the therapist introduces the Tween Tip for how to “Make ‘I Feel’ Statements.” The therapist encourages the preadolescent and the parent to directly communicate feelings in response to situations related to the identified problem area. By expressing feelings, including softer feelings of sadness, worry, or disappointment, preadolescents can experience what it is like to let a parent or friend understand where she is coming from and possibly increase the support she experiences. Dyadic role-plays and home practice assignments increase uptake. Four Therapist Tips are provided.
The clinical implication of monoclonal gammopathies: monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and of renal significance
Authors: Batko Krzysztof , Malyszko Jolanta , Jurczyszyn Artur , Vesole David H , Gertz Morie A , Leleu Xavier , Suska Anna , Krzanowski Marcin , Sułowicz Władysław , Malyszko Jacek S , Krzanowska Katarzyna
Published: July 2018

Monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) has introduced a new perspective to several well-known disease entities impacting nephrology, haematology and pathology. Given the constantly changing disease spectrum of these entities, it is clinically imperative to establish diagnostic and treatment pathways supported by evidence-based medicine. MGRS is a disease of the kidney, secondary to plasma cell clonal proliferation or immune dysfunction, requiring therapeutic intervention to eradicate the offending clone. To fully understand the disease(s), it is prerequisite to determine the significance of the findings. The diagnostic work up should be extensive due to the wide heterogeneity of clinical presentation, ultimately necessitating kidney biopsy. Particular patient profiles such as AL amyloidosis, which may be diagnosed through biopsies of other tissues/organs, may be an exception. Treatment decisions should be formulated by multi-disciplinary consensus: nephrologists, haematologists and pathologists. The ultimate goal in managing MGRS is eradication of the offending plasma cell clone which requires targeted chemotherapy and, in eligible cases, haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We present a review of diagnostic procedures, treatment options and advances in the last few years in the management of MGRS in an effort to acquaint specialists with this new face of several older diseases.
Government Policy Experiments and Informed Consent
Authors: MacKay Douglas , Chakrabarti Averi
Published: July 2018

Governments are increasingly making use of field experiments to evaluate policy interventions in the spheres of education, public health and welfare. However, the research ethics literature is largely focused on the clinical context, leaving investigators, institutional review boards and government agencies with few resources to draw on to address the ethical questions they face regarding such experiments. In this article, we aim to help address this problem, investigating the conditions under which informed consent is required for ethical policy research conducted or authorized by government. We argue that investigators need not secure participants' informed consent when conducting government policy experiments if: (i) the government institution conducting or authorizing the experiment possesses a right to rule over the spheres of policy targeted by the research; and (ii) data collection does not involve the violation of participants' autonomy rights.
Unplanned Immediate Return to Operating Room After Spine Surgery
Authors: Chen Dennis Q. , Shimer Adam L. , Li Xudong , Hassanzadeh Hamid , Shen Francis H. , Singla Anuj
Published: July 2018

Study Design.

Retrospective analysis; single center data.

Objective.

The purpose of this study is to look at the utility and relevance of immediate postoperative radiographs in providing vital information leading to immediate revision after spine surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

Immediate postoperative radiographs are routinely obtained in the recovery room after spine surgery to verify the level, alignment of the spine, implant position, and the adequacy of the procedure. However, with the ability to utilize intraoperative fluoroscopy imaging for the same purpose, the requirement for immediate postoperative radiographs needs to be validated. The purpose of this study is to look at the utility and relevance of these postoperative radiographs in providing critical information that may warrant immediate intervention.

Methods.

Retrospective analysis of all spine surgeries (elective and emergent), performed at a single center from 2011 to 2016, was done and cases returning to operating room within 48 hours were identified. Indication of immediate revision was reviewed and utility of immediate postoperative radiographs in guiding immediate revision was analyzed.

Results.

A total of 1804 elective and urgent spinal surgeries were performed by seven surgeons. Twenty-two patients returned to operating room within 48 hours of their index procedures. Of these 22 cases, only two patients were noted to have positive findings on recovery room radiographs. The findings of suboptimal spinal alignment or failed instrumentation led to the immediate revision in both cases. Both cases involved instrumentation at cervicothoracic region and intraoperative imaging provided only limited visualization.

Conclusion.

Routine recovery room radiographs played a role in the decision to emergently return to the operating room in 0.10% (2/1804) cases at our institution. The potential benefit of immediate recovery room radiographs after spine surgery should be weighed against the added healthcare cost and patient discomfort associated with obtaining these radiographs routinely. Imaging may be delayed to a more elective time without any significant risk in majority of spine cases.

Level of Evidence: 3
Nivolumab Treatment for Cancers in the HIV-infected Population
Authors: Chang Elaine , Sabichi Anita L. , Kramer Jennifer R. , Hartman Christine , Royse Kathryn E. , White Donna L. , Patel Niraj R. , Richardson Peter , Yellapragada Sarvari V. , Garcia Jose M. , Chiao Elizabeth Y.
Published: July 2018

Nivolumab is a standard treatment option in several advanced malignancies, but safety and efficacy are still unknown in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. We describe a case series of people living with HIV (PLWH) receiving nivolumab in the Veterans Health Administration (VA) and report responses and toxicities. We identified all PLWH who received nivolumab at any VA facility since 2000 in the Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW), which provides nationwide research access to VA electronic medical records. We identified 16 HIV-infected nivolumab recipients. The median number of nivolumab doses received was 6 (range, 1–32). Changes in CD4 count during therapy were variable, with 70% (7/10) of patients experiencing increases. Half of PLWH were treated for non–small-cell lung cancer; 2 for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), 2 for renal cell carcinoma, and 4 for off-label cancers. For non–small-cell lung cancer, 7 patients had evaluable responses. Although 5 of 7 patients immediately progressed, 1 had a partial response and 1 had stable disease, which were both durable. Two of 16 (14%) PLWH had complete responses; both with HL (2/2 HL, 100%). The prevalence of immune-related adverse effects was 40% overall (6/15); 27% (4/15) had pneumonitis. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series reporting outcomes with nivolumab in PLWH. Outcomes were comparable with those seen in studies of HIV-uninfected patients, and particularly interesting for HL. The reason for the high proportions of immune-related adverse effects is unclear, but needs to be confirmed in larger studies.
Simultaneous Determination of Cefalexin, Cefazolin, Flucloxacillin, and Probenecid by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry for Total and Unbound Concentrations in Human Plasma
Authors: Zhang Mei , Moore Grant A. , Chin Paul K. L. , Everts Richard , Begg Evan J.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Pharmacokinetic studies and therapeutic drug monitoring of antibiotics require a simple, rapid, and reliable analytical method for monitoring the concentrations in plasma, including unbound concentrations for highly protein-bound drugs. The aim of the current work was to develop and validate a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous determination of total and unbound concentrations of 3 widely used β-lactam antibiotics (cefalexin, cefazolin, and flucloxacillin) and the often coadministered drug probenecid in human plasma, suitable for pharmacokinetic studies and for routine use in ordinary, busy hospital laboratories.

Methods:

Unbound drug was separated from bound drug by ultrafiltration. A simple 1-step protein precipitation was used for sample preparation. Cefalexin, cefazolin, flucloxacillin, probenecid, and their corresponding isotopically labeled internal standards were then resolved on a C18 (2) column. All the compounds were detected using electrospray ionization in the positive mode.

Results:

Standard curves were linear for all compounds over the concentration range of 0.2–100 mg/L (r > 0.99) for total drug in plasma and 0.01–10 mg/L (r > 0.99) for unbound drug in plasma ultrafiltrate. For both total and unbound drugs, bias was <±10%, and intra- and interday coefficients of variation (imprecision) were <10%. The limit of quantification was 0.2 mg/L for total plasma concentrations and 0.01 mg/L for plasma ultrafiltrate concentrations of all drugs.

Conclusions:

The method has proven to be simple, rapid, robust, and reliable and is currently being used in clinical pharmacokinetic studies and in the routine clinical service to enhance the effective use of the β-lactam antibiotics.