bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequence–structure relations of biopolymers
Authors: Barrett Christopher , Huang Fenix W , Reidys Christian M
Published: September 2016

Motivation

DNA data is transcribed into single-stranded RNA, which folds into specific molecular structures. In this paper we pose the question to what extent sequence- and structure-information correlate. We view this correlation as structural semantics of sequence data that allows for a different interpretation than conventional sequence alignment. Structural semantics could enable us to identify more general embedded ‘patterns’ in DNA and RNA sequences.

Results

We compute the partition function of sequences with respect to a fixed structure and connect this computation to the mutual information of a sequence–structure pair for RNA secondary structures. We present a Boltzmann sampler and obtain the a priori probability of specific sequence patterns. We present a detailed analysis for the three PDB-structures, 2JXV (hairpin), 2N3R (3-branch multi-loop) and 1EHZ (tRNA). We localize specific sequence patterns, contrast the energy spectrum of the Boltzmann sampled sequences versus those sequences that refold into the same structure and derive a criterion to identify native structures. We illustrate that there are multiple sequences in the partition function of a fixed structure, each having nearly the same mutual information, that are nevertheless poorly aligned. This indicates the possibility of the existence of relevant patterns embedded in the sequences that are not discoverable using alignments.

Availability and Implementation

The source code is freely available at http://staff.vbi.vt.edu/fenixh/Sampler.zip

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Simulation-based estimation of branching models for LTR retrotransposons
Authors: Moulin Serge , Seux Nicolas , Chrétien Stéphane , Guyeux Christophe , Lerat Emmanuelle
Published: September 2016

Motivation

LTR retrotransposons are mobile elements that are able, like retroviruses, to copy and move inside eukaryotic genomes. In the present work, we propose a branching model for studying the propagation of LTR retrotransposons in these genomes. This model allows us to take into account both the positions and the degradation level of LTR retrotransposons copies. In our model, the duplication rate is also allowed to vary with the degradation level.

Results

Various functions have been implemented in order to simulate their spread and visualization tools are proposed. Based on these simulation tools, we have developed a first method to evaluate the parameters of this propagation model. We applied this method to the study of the spread of the transposable elements ROO, GYPSY and DM412 on a chromosome of Drosophila melanogaster.

Availability and Implementation

Our proposal has been implemented using Python software. Source code is freely available on the web at https://github.com/SergeMOULIN/retrotransposons-spread.

Supplementary information

are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Information Research Department, Unattributable Propaganda, and Northern Ireland, 1971–1973: Promising Salvation but Ending in Failure?
Authors: Cormac Rory
Published: September 2016

This article examines the role of the Information Research Department (IRD) in Northern Ireland during the first half of the 1970s. After discussing British conceptualisations of propaganda, it offers a detailed account of IRD activity, including how a Foreign Office department came to be involved in operations on British soil; how IRD propaganda fitted into the broader British state apparatus in Northern Ireland; the activity in which the IRD was engaged—both in Northern Ireland and beyond; and some of the challenges it faced, which ultimately limited the campaign’s effectiveness. It argues that the IRD’s role was driven by decisions taken at the very top of government and took shape against a context of financial cuts, a deteriorating security situation in Northern Ireland, and a tradition of domestic propaganda in the UK. The IRD sought to advance four key themes: exploiting divisions within the IRA; undermining the IRA’s credibility amongst the population; linking the IRA to international terrorism; and portraying the IRA as communist.
Pisan Perspectives: The Carmen in victoriam and Holy War, c.1000–1150
Authors: Grant Alasdair C.
Published: September 2016

The Carmen in victoriam Pisanorum, a verse account of a successful Pisan and Genoese attack of 1087 on the Zīrid King Tamīm ibn al-Muʿizz ibn Bādīs of al-Mahdiyya and Zawīla, should be dated to 1087–95, making it a source of huge importance both for the maritime cities’ wars against the ‘Saracens’, and for the pre-First Crusade development of ideas of holy war. This study argues that the expedition was to a large degree motivated by local, economically charged adventurism in Pisa, but that it found itself under the leadership and intellectual domination of a close-knit, pro-Gregorian party. This party, based around Matilda of Canossa, Pope Victor III, Bishop Benedict of Modena and, most probably, the Pisan author of the Carmen himself, ensured that the attack was publicised as a great success for the Gregorian papacy, at this time in competition with Antipope Clement III. The attack also set a seal upon Pisa’s return from a pro-imperial to a pro-papal position. In publicising the victory, the poet expounded a highly developed discourse of holy war that, while representing his own party’s particular interests, is indicative of wider trends in the Mediterranean that developed over the course of the second half of the eleventh century, rather than appearing suddenly after 1095.
Seasonal shifts in the vertical distribution of fish in a shallow coastal area
Authors: Mustamäki Noora , Jokinen Henri , Scheinin Matias , Bonsdorff Erik , Mattila Johanna
Published: September 2016

Depth structures aquatic habitats, creating substantial differences in the species composition of underwater communities even at small intervals. Those communities also undergo considerable cyclic variation annually. In this study, we surveyed variation in the vertical distribution of fish in a shallow (20 m) coastal basin in the northern Baltic Sea during the ice-free period from May to October. The waters were strongly mixed throughout the season and only transient signs of stratification were observed. As production shifted towards higher trophic levels over summer, with sequential biomass peaks in zooplankton and juvenile fish, the vertical distribution of the entire fish assemblage became increasingly even. The results suggest that spatial resource partitioning can be strongly correlated with seasonal productivity cycles even in physically uniform environments with high connectivity. Further, the results stress the importance of sampling design (seasonal and vertical coverage) of fish studies in shallow coastal areas.
Proton beam therapy for liver metastases from gastric cancer
Authors: Fukumitsu Nobuyoshi , Okumura Toshiyuki , Takizawa Daichi , Numajiri Haruko , Ohnishi Kayoko , Mizumoto Masashi , Aihara Teruhito , Ishikawa Hitoshi , Tsuboi Koji , Sakurai Hideyuki
Published: September 2016

Liver metastases from gastric cancer (LMGC) is a non-curable, fatal disease with a 5-year survival rate of <10%. Although various local treatments have been applied, their clinical utility has not been established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and effectiveness of proton beam therapy (PBT) for the treatment of patients with LMGC. A total of nine patients (seven men, two women; aged 56–78 years) with LMGC who received PBT between 2002 and 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who had tumors confined to the liver were investigated, and patients who had extrahepatic tumors were excluded. Six of the patients had solitary tumors, and three patients had multiple tumors. The total irradiation dose was 64–77 Gy relative biological effectiveness (RBE), and three patients received concurrent chemotherapy. The overall and progression-free survival (OS and PFS) rates, local control (LC) rate, and adverse effects were investigated. All patients completed treatment without interruption, and late adverse effects of higher than Grade 3 were not observed. The OS rates at 1, 3 and 5 years were 100%, 78% and 56%, respectively (median, 5.5 years); the PFS rates were 67%, 40% and 40% (median, 2.6 years); and the LC rates were 89%, 71% and 71%. PBT was demonstrated to be a safe treatment, and the OS and PFS rates were not inferior to those for other types of local treatment. Therefore, PBT should be considered as an effective local treatment option for patients with LMGC.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Benedek David M. , Wynn Gary H.
Published: September 2016

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop after exposure to a traumatic event (or events) such as interpersonal violence, disasters, war, or terrorism. PTSD is characterized by specific symptoms organized into core clusters, including reexperience, hyperarousal, avoidance, and negative alterations in mood and cognition. Although these symptoms may resolve without any intervention, they may also progress to a chronic, debilitating state. The characteristics of the disorder as described, as are the incidence and prevalence of PTSD and subgroups that may be at greater risk. The fact that many persons exposed to traumatic events do not develop lasting symptoms of PTSD (or PTSD at all) is explained through a discussion of risk and protective factors. Last, brief reviews of diagnostic assessments and current noncomplementary/nonalternative treatments supported by practice guidelines and clinical consensus are described.
Family-Focused Interventions for PTSD
Authors: Cozza Stephen J.
Published: September 2016

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been shown to have a variety of negative health and mental health effects on those who are afflicted, as well as negative effects on relationships with intimate partners and close relatives. Families are likely to be impacted by the specific nature of the sustained trauma. For example, PTSD related to sexual trauma may be experienced solely by the victim, who is likely to be uniquely impacted by and “impactful” to intimate partners, close family, and friends in the victim’s life. In contrast, PTSD resulting from exposure to natural disasters or terrorism may affect numerous members of a family, particularly when multiple family members have been exposed to the same event or when homes, possessions, or neighborhoods have been broadly affected. Although specific circumstances may require tailored approaches to family intervention, different types of traumas also share commonalities related to their impact on interpersonal relationships, communication, and family functioning. Little is known about effective interventions for families affected by PTSD, regardless of circumstances.
Recreational Therapy for PTSD
Authors: Ramsawh Holly J. , Wynn Gary H.
Published: September 2016

There are currently several interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that meet the definition of “evidence-based therapies” as outlined by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), including several forms of exposure-based behavioral interventions and pharmacotherapies the IOM has determined are efficacious and first-line treatments for PTSD. Although exposure-based therapies are efficacious, not all patients respond adequately to treatment. In some cases, behavioral therapies have been associated with high refusal and attrition rates. Furthermore, evidence-based behavioral interventions are not yet widely available, because relatively few practitioners are trained adequately outside of academic institutions, and there are few trained professionals outside of urban centers. Even when evidence-based behavioral or pharmacological treatments are available, veterans sometimes avoid seeking these treatments because of perceived stigma about receiving traditional forms of mental health care either from traditional mental health care providers or in traditional mental health care environments. Despite large numbers of returning veterans being diagnosed with PTSD since the start of the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, there remains a large number of Americans who have limited access to evidence-based interventions for PTSD. Although efforts to expand access to these treatments should continue, there should also be an effort to investigate novel interventions for PTSD—particularly those that may require less training and/or may be associated with less stigma than conventional treatments.
The Use of Yoga-Based Interventions for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Pilecki Brian , Olden Megan , Peskin Melissa , Finkelstein-Fox Lucy , Difede JoAnn
Published: September 2016

This chapter discusses the use of yoga-based interventions for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It will first provide an overview of the empirical research on yoga and other mindfulness-based interventions for individuals with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Potential mechanisms of action in yoga interventions will be discussed, including mindfulness, breathing, positive emotions and social cohesion, meaning-making, spirituality, and cognitive restructuring. Although effective evidence-based interventions for PTSD such as exposure-based therapies are available, some individuals are reticent to engage in exposure therapy, have limited access to health care, or continue to experience symptoms after receiving treatment. Thus, yoga-based interventions have potential as an affordable, easily accessible alternative or complement to existing treatments. Although there is preliminary evidence supporting the use of yoga-based interventions, further research with sufficient sample sizes and rigorous research designs is needed.
Resilience Training as a Complementary Treatment for PTSD
Authors: Toblin Robin L. , Adler Amy B.
Published: September 2016

Resilience can be viewed as a process in which behaviors or attitudes can lead to a more positive outcome in the face of a traumatic stressor. Universal and targeted resilience training programs (e.g., primary and secondary prevention programs) can be adapted to complement evidence-based treatments (EBTs) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), tertiary interventions. Using a skill-focus for resilience may increase optimism and self-efficacy for individuals, and therefore, their engagement in the homework and self-examination required by EBTs. Resilience topics that seem especially fitting as an adjunct for treatment are (1) optimism, (2) relationship building, (3) cognitive skills, (4) energy management, (5) emotional regulation, and (6) PTG. The changes necessary for modifying content designed for a primary prevention audience, several group therapy considerations, and the timing of resilience training relative to EBTs are elucidated. Potential research areas are discussed.
Internet and Computer-Based Treatments for the Management of PTSD
Authors: Belsher Bradley E. , Evatt Daniel P. , Freed Michael C. , Engel Charles C.
Published: September 2016

A rapid expansion in the development of telehealth treatments has occurred during the past several decades, with a growing body of evidence supporting online therapies for behavioral health disorders. These online interventions have focused primarily on the treatment of depression, panic disorder, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder. More recently, and with the relative success of the previous Web-based treatments, several online treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have emerged. An overview of Internet and computer-based treatments (ICTs) for PTSD is presented, including a general discussion of computerized treatments followed by a review of specific ICTs that have been developed and tested for PTSD. Some of the critical issues surrounding ICTs are then explored, and an example of how online treatments can be incorporated into a larger care model is presented. The discussion ends with a brief description of the use of mobile health applications to augment treatment.
Mobile Apps to Improve Outreach, Engagement, Self-Management, and Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Hoffman Julia E. , Kuhn Eric , Owen Jason E. , Ruzek Josef I.
Published: September 2016

Within the past decade, the emergence and pervasiveness of mobile technology across all socioeconomic groups in most parts of the world has enabled myriad opportunities to engage trauma survivors in novel approaches to treatment, self-management, and symptom monitoring. While the World Wide Web has continued its explosive growth, the availability of mobile phones has kept pace. These sophisticated devices are always on and always accessible, enabling previously unheard-of opportunities for patient engagement, connection with providers and systems, objective measures of functioning and change, and innovative enhancements to evidence-based treatment tools. The potential for mobile technology to ease delivery of medical care has led to the release of hundreds of thousands of software and hardware applications (“apps”). The National Center for PTSD has been at the forefront of app development for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including PTSD Coach. Various publicly available, free apps are described.
Toward a More Comprehensive Approach to the Management of PTSD
Authors: Benedek David M. , Wynn Gary H.
Published: September 2016

In this volume, after a brief discussion of the phenomenology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the current guidelines and clinical consensus surrounding treatment, and the limitations of available treatment supported by sufficient evidence necessary to receive endorsement in practice guidelines, emerging treatments were described that demonstrate varying degrees of promise for relieving the suffering associated with PTSD. Both clinical experience and the most current practice guidelines support the notion that successful treatment requires a partnership between patient and provider, and a concerted effort by the clinician to “meet the patient where he or she is at” in terms of treatment approaches. Therefore, we hope the modalities described in this book encourage creative treatment approaches tailored to individual patient needs and desires based on a mutual understanding of the potential benefits and limitations of available alternatives.
Identifying Children with Low-Risk Head Injuries Who Do Not Require Computed Tomography
Authors: Hochman Michael E.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the headache section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of computed tomography (CT) scans for children with low-risk head injuries. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. This study derived and validated prediction rules that can accurately identify children at very low risk for ci-TBI; the authors provide several guidelines for applying these rules depending on the severity of predictive features, patient history, and clinician’s judgment. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Rule Out Subarachnoid Hemorrhage for Headache
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the headache section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of computed tomography (CT) to rule out a head bleed or subarachnoid hemorrhage among patients with acute headaches. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers reported that the criteria had high sensitivity and high negative predictive value for identifying subarachnoid hemorrhage among patients presenting to the emergency department with acute nontraumatic headache that reached maximal intensity within 1 hour and with normal neurologic examinations. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Quantitative CT Score in Predicting Outcome of Hyperacute Stroke
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the headache section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of quantitative computed tomography (CT) scores in predicting outcomes of hyperacute stroke. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that the ASPECTS CT score may provide an objective, simple method for helping predict which acute stroke patients are unlikely to recover despite immediate thrombolytic therapy. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Imaging Selection and Endovascular Treatment for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the headache section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the imaging selection and endovascular treatment for ischemic stroke. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers found that a favorable penumbral pattern by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging does not help identify patients who would benefit from endovascular therapy for acute stroke, and that embolectomy is not superior to standard care with regard to clinical and imaging outcomes for acute ischemic stroke. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Carotid Artery Stenosis Screening
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the headache section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of ultrasound for carotid artery stenosis screening in asymptomatic adults. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers reported that there is little evidence that the benefits of carotid endarterectomy, stenting, or intensification of medical therapy outweigh the risks among patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis; the low prevalence of the disease and known harms associated with intervention limit the benefits of screening. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Spinal Fractures
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the back pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of vertebroplasty for osteoporotic spinal fractures. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. For patients with pain from fractures of less than 1 year duration, vertebroplasty brings similar symptom and quality of life improvements as a simulated vertebroplasty. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Cervical Spine Imaging in Alert and Stable Trauma Patients
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the back pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study validating the Canadian C-spine rule for imaging the cervical spine in alert and stable trauma patients. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study shows that the Canadian C-Spine Rule may be able to identify a large group of alert and stable adult trauma patients for whom cervical spine imaging is unnecessary. It may also help to standardize the appropriate use of cervical spine imaging in the emergency department. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Low Back Pain
Authors: Hochman Michael E.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the back pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for low back pain. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers concluded that although spinal MRIs (compared with plain radiographs) are reassuring for patients with low back pain, they do not lead to improved functional outcomes; also, spinal MRIs detect anatomical abnormalities that would otherwise go undiscovered, possibly leading to spinal surgeries of uncertain value. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Abnormal MRI of the Lumbar Spine without Back Pain
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the back pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining incidental findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine in patients without back pain. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that many people without back pain have disk bulges or protrusions on imaging of the lumbar spine, but that these findings are frequently coincidental and should not necessarily lead to further tests or interventions. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Follow-Up MRI for Sciatica
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the back pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for patients with sciatica. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers concluded that the presence of disk herniation on MRI at 1-year follow-up after treatment for sciatica does not help distinguish between favorable and unfavorable clinical outcomes. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Computed Tomography for Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the chest pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of computed tomography (CT) for diagnosing pulmonary embolism. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers found that combined multidetector scanning has higher sensitivity than use of a single detection method, with high positive predictive value when scanning and clinical assessment concordance; when they do not, additional testing is indicated. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Diagnosing Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Hochman Michael E.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the chest pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that a simple protocol involving clinical criteria (the modified Wells criteria), D-dimer testing, and CT can safely and effectively exclude acute pulmonary embolism in patients who are clinically suspected of the condition. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Screening for Coronary Artery Disease in Asymptomatic Patients with Diabetes
Authors: Hochman Michael E.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the chest pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of computed tomography (CT) for screening asymptomatic patients with diabetes for coronary artery disease. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that screening stress tests in patients with type 2 diabetes are abnormal 22% of the time. However, detecting these abnormalities does not appear to aid in patient management. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Diagnostic Performance of CT Coronary Angiography
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the chest pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the diagnostic performance of computed tomography (CT) coronary angiography for patients with chest pain. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers found that CT angiography accurately detected present and severity of coronary artery disease in certain symptomatic patients, but does not yet replace conventional coronary angiography. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Coronary Artery Calcium Score and Risk Classification
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the chest pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of computed tomography (CT) coronary artery calcium score for cardiovascular risk stratification. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers report that adding coronary artery calcium score to traditional risk factors produces significant improvements in classification of patients for future risk of coronary heart disease events, especially for intermediate-risk individuals who stand to benefit the most from a risk stratification strategy. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the abdominal and pelvic pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of ultrasound for screening asymptomatic patients for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that screening for AAAs can decrease aneurysm-related mortality rates. However, since AAAs contribute to less than 3% of all deaths, screening provides no significant decrease in all-cause mortality. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Multidetector CT for Acute Appendicitis in Adults
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the abdominal and pelvic pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of multidetector computed tomography for diagnosing acute appendicitis in adults. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. This technique was shown to reduce rates of perforation and negative findings at appendectomy when incorporated into routine diagnostic algorithms, and can redirect management for patients with alternative diagnoses. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Uterine Artery Embolization for Fibroids
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the abdominal and pelvic pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of uterine artery embolization for patients with fibroids. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Women with symptomatic uterine fibroids undergoing uterine artery embolization were found to have similar quality of life measures 1 year posttreatment and faster recovery after uterine artery embolization versus surgery. However, benefits of noninvasive uterine artery embolization must be weighed against the need for reinterventions among a minority of patients with treatment failure. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Imaging-Guided Biopsy for Diagnosing Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lee Chirstoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the abdominal and pelvic pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of ultrasound and magnetic resonance fusion imaging-guided biopsy for diagnosing prostate cancer. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers found that this method of biopsy among men with suspected prostate cancer, compared to standard extended-sextant ultrasound-guided biopsy, is associated with higher detection of high-risk prostate cancer and lower detection of low-risk prostate cancer. In addition, targeted biopsy may significantly shift the distribution of risk in men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer toward more high-risk disease. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Decision Rules for Imaging Acute Ankle Injuries
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the bone, joint, and extremity pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of the Ottawa ankle rules for imaging acute ankle injuries. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that the refined and validated Ottawa Ankle Rules have the potential to reduce approximately 30% to 34% of all foot and ankle radiographs for acute injuries, with 100% sensitivity for reliably detecting foot and ankle fractures. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Decision Rule for Imaging Acute Knee Injuries
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the bone, joint, and extremity pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of the Ottawa knee rules for imaging acute knee injuries. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The Ottawa Knee Rule was found to be highly accurate, reliable, and acceptable to emergency physicians. Adherence to the decision rule has the potential to reduce unnecessary radiography in acute knee injury cases by 28%. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Decision Rules for Bone Densitometry Testing
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the bone, joint, and extremity pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of decision rules for bone densitometry testing to mitigate risks for fractures associated with osteoporosis. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers found that the Osteoporosis Risk Assessment Instrument and Simple Calculated Osteoporosis Risk Estimation decision rules performed the best for targeting dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry testing among high-risk patients. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
The Cochrane Review of Screening Mammography
Authors: Hochman Michael E.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the bone, joint, and extremity pain section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the use of Doppler ultrasound for diagnosing suspected lower extremity deep venous thrombosis. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. This study demonstrated that 2-point ultrasonography is equivalent to the whole-leg ultrasonography for diagnosing symptomatic deep venous thrombosis. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Breast Cancer Screening in Average-Risk Women
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the cancer screening and management section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key meta-analysis regarding the efficacy of mammography for breast cancer screening among younger and older average-risk women. This summary outlines study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Meta-analysis of available trial data demonstrates a 15% mortality reduction among women aged 39 to 49 years with routine screening mammography. This age group has the highest rates of additional imaging but lowest rates of benign biopsy. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the analysis, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Performance of Digital versus Screen-Film Mammography
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the cancer screening and management section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the efficacy of digital mammography versus screen-film mammography for breast cancer screening. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Digital mammography was found to have comparable diagnostic accuracy to screen-film mammography overall, but was more accurate than screen-film mammography among women over 50 years of age, women with dense breasts, and premenopausal or perimenopausal women. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Supplemental Ultrasound Screening for Women at Increased Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the cancer screening and management section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the efficacy of supplemental ultrasound screening for women at increased breast cancer risk. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study showed that adding a single screening ultrasound to screening mammography for women at increased risk of breast cancer results in increased detection of cancers, mostly invasive and node-negative. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Chest Radiograph Screening for Lung Cancer
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the cancer screening and management section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the efficacy of chest radiography for screening for lung cancer. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. Researchers reported that annual chest radiograph screening over a 4-year period did not decrease lung cancer mortality compared with usual care after 13 years of follow-up, and that chest x-rays are not an effective screening test for lung cancer. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
National CT Colonography Trial
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the cancer screening and management section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study examining the national trial on computed tomography (CT) colonography for colorectal cancer screening. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. In this trial, CT colonography identified 90% of participants with adenomas or cancers measuring 10 mm or more in size. Results provide more evidence for CT colonography as an effective screening tool among asymptomatic average-risk individuals, but CT colonography does have lower sensitivity for smaller colorectal lesions (6–9 mm). In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette and imaging example are included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
Cancer Risk from Pediatric CT
Authors: Lee Christoph I.
Published: September 2016

This chapter, found in the radiation exposure from medical imaging section of the book, provides a succinct synopsis of a key study estimating the potential radiation-induced cancer risk to pediatric patients undergoing computed tomography scans. This summary outlines the study methodology and design, major results, limitations and criticisms, related studies and additional information, and clinical implications. The study demonstrated that pediatric patients are at significantly increased lifetime radiation risks from CT compared to adults, and that every effort should be made to eliminate unnecessary radiation exposure among them. In addition to outlining the most salient features of the study, a clinical vignette is included in order to provide relevant clinical context.
The Hospice Companion
Authors: Fine Perry G.
Published: September 2016

The Hospice Companion is a guide to best practices in end-of-life care, informed by the most current evidence-based literature in the field. It is intended to be used “at the bedside” and during interdisciplinary team meetings to efficiently and effectively improve patient care and provide useful family and caregiver support. It should be thought of as a “decision support tool” to be used by all members of the hospice interdisciplinary team, including nurses, physicians, counselors, and social workers. This is the third edition of this clinical guide and it includes forty chapters allotted into three sections (General Processes; Personal, Social, and Environmental Processes; Clinical Processes and Symptom Management) plus five appendices. The symptom management chapters are arranged alphabetically, covering the gamut of common and highly burdensome problems encountered in caring for patients with far-advanced illness, from agitation and anxiety to xerostomia. Chapters are concise, averaging 1,000 to 1,500 words (the exception is the chapter on pain, in view of its complexity). Each is organized around the specific clinical issue of concern by defining the problem and its usual causes, findings, and differential diagnosis. This is followed by outlining salient features of assessment and management according to practical, psychosocial, biomedical, and spiritual categories. Each chapter concludes with a list of goals that should be defined in establishing a plan of care and what should be documented in the clinical record as well as a list of recommended readings from the contemporary literature.
Personal, Social, and Environmental Processes
Authors: Fine Perry G. , Kestenbaum Matthew
Published: September 2016

This chapter explores how domestic abuse, neglect, or exploitation interferes with end-of-life care. The chapter assesses abuse on both a physical and psychosocial basis. It also considers processes of care for the patient as victim and as abuser. Key components of assessment are outlined. Preventive and management approaches are elaborated in practical terms.
Ear, nose, and throat
Authors: Baldwin Andrew , Hjelde Nina , Goumalatsou Charlotte , Myers Gil
Published: September 2016

This chapter outlines ear, nose and throat diseases. It includes ENT examination, prevalence of ENT symptoms, the ear, audiology, painful ears, discharging ears, fluid in the middle ear, childhood deafness, cochlear implants, deafness in adults, tinnitus, acoustic neuroma, noise induced hearing loss, vertigo, rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps, the paranasal sinuses, nasal injury and foreign bodies, nosebleed (epistaxis), throat infections, stridor, acute airway obstruction, hoarseness, laryngeal nerve palsy, head and neck cancers, dysphagia, facial palsy, lumps in the neck, the salivary glands, dry mouth (xerostomia), and dentistry for doctors.
Anaesthesia
Authors: Baldwin Andrew , Hjelde Nina , Goumalatsou Charlotte , Myers Gil
Published: September 2016

This chapter describes anaesthesia, including pre-operative assessment (peri-operative medications, examination & tests, ASA classification (American Society of Anesthesiologists), premedication, sedation), equipment and anaesthetic agents (inhalational agents, the ideal IV anaesthetic agent, the ideal inhaled anaesthetic agent, commonly used iv anaesthetic agents, other IV anaesthetic agents, the autonomic system, neuromuscular blockers), and practical conduct of anaesthesia (induction, muscle relaxation, maintenance of anaesthesia, intubation technique, mechanical ventilation, some complications of anaesthesia, aspiration, rapid sequence induction (RSI), end of anaesthesia and recovery, local and regional anaesthesia, pain management, vegetative states).