bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lateral caudal axial pattern flap in 13 dogs
Authors: Montinaro Vincenzo , Massari Federico , Vezzoni Luca , Liptak Julius M. , Straw Rod C. , Allen Larie , Cavanaugh Ryan P. , Berg John , Doyle Ronan S. , Buracco Paolo , Romanelli Giorgio
Published: November 2014

Objective

To describe the frequency and extent of complications associated with lateral caudal axial pattern flaps used to cover large traumatic or excision skin defects on the dorsum, gluteal, and perineal region in 13 dogs.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Thirteen client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Medical records from 8 institutions were reviewed for dogs treated with a lateral caudal axial pattern flap, including cases in which the procedure was combined with other reconstructive techniques. The flap length relative to the tail length, location of tail skin incision, size and cause of the defect, and short‐ and long‐term complications were recorded.

Results

Thirteen dogs were included, 11 with tumors and 2 with traumatic skin loss. The mean estimated length of the flap relative to tail length was 51% (range 33–70%). Four dogs had wound complications. This included 2 dogs with minor postoperative wound complications (mild distal dehiscence) that did not require surgical revision and 2 dogs with major complications that required surgical revision. Two of these 4 dogs had distal flap necrosis, one was revised surgically and one was managed conservatively. In these 2 dogs, the flap length was estimated as 80% and 65% of the tail length, respectively. At 30 days, flaps in all dogs were completely healed. No long‐term complications were recorded in any dog. For some dogs, the reconstruction was not obvious, with only the change in hair direction and color noticeable.

Conclusion

Lateral caudal axial pattern flap is a reconstructive option for gluteal, dorsal, and perineal skin defects in dogs. Distal flap necrosis and dehiscence due to wound infection occurred in 4 dogs that required additional wound care but not always surgical revision.
Relaxor Ferroelectric BaTiO3–Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3 Ceramics for Energy Storage Application
Authors: Wang Tong , Jin Li , Li Chunchun , Hu Qingyuan , Wei Xiaoyong
Published: November 2014

Perovskite solid solution ceramics of (1 − x)BaTiO3–xBi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3 (BT–BMN) (x = 0.05–0.2) were synthesized by solid‐state reaction technique. The results show that the BMN addition could lower the sintering temperature of BT‐based ceramics. X‐ray diffraction results reveal a pure perovskite structure for all studied samples. Dielectric measurements exhibit a relaxor‐like characteristic for the BT–BMN ceramics, where broadened phase transition peaks change to a temperature‐stable permittivity plateau (from −50°C to 300°C) with increasing the BMN content (x = 0.2), and slim polarization–electric field hysteresis loops were observed in samples with x ≥ 0.1. The dielectric breakdown strength and electrical resistivity of BT–BMN ceramics show their maxima of 287.7 kV/cm and 1.53 × 1013 Ω cm at x = 0.15, and an energy density of about 1.13 J/cm3 is achieved in the sample of x = 0.1.
Toward an Automatic Parameterization System for the Classification of Persian Lemons Using Image‐Processing Techniques
Authors: Posada‐Gómez Rubén , Villanueva Daniel , González Israel , García Ángel , Aguilar‐Lasserre Alberto A. , Martínez‐Sibaja Albino
Published: November 2014

The technological innovation has made significant progress that has affected almost all industrial technology and computer science areas. In the agribusiness sector, and specifically on the production of the Persian lemon, the control of product quality is essential; for this purpose, detailed information about the morphology and color characteristics is required to obtain.

The aim of this paper is to present an automatic parameterization and classification system for agricultural engineering applications with easy operation, high mobility and innovative techniques based on digital image processing. This system is able to get the color and shape through the analysis of morphometric and colorimetric characteristics of Persian lemon in a preset scene. The classification system scans the surface of a lemon 360° through multistage architecture components. With this system, the authors evaluate the morphometric and colorimetric variations using statistical data of positioning in the RGB channels of an image.

Practical Applications

For the agricultural industry, it is very important to improve the quality of agricultural products. In this proposal, the authors present a system for the classification of Persian lemons through automatic parameterization and image‐processing techniques, generating products of highest quality and also facilitating energy savings for the industry. Moreover, the image‐processing‐based systems can also be used as a monitoring tool that facilitates visual inspection for the classification process, improving the final quality of the products and optimizing the manufacturing process.
Hepatic fat, not visceral fat, is associated with gallbladder polyps: A study of 2643 healthy subjects
Authors: Lim Seon Hee , Kim Donghee , Kang Jin Hwa , Song Ji Hyun , Yang Sun Young , Yim Jeong Yun , Chung Su Jin , Kim Joo Sung , Cho Sang‐Heon
Published: November 2014

Background and Aim

Gallbladder polyps (GBPs) appear to be strongly associated with obesity and metabolic disease. To date, the relationship between GBPs and fatty liver has not been adequately evaluated. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether GBPs are associated with fatty liver, which is an ectopic regional fat deposit, independent of visceral adipose tissue (VAT).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study using 2643 health checkup subjects (961 patients with GBP and 1682 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls) was conducted. The subjects underwent various laboratory tests, abdominal fat computed tomography (CT), and hepatic ultrasonography.

Results

The mean age of the subjects was 51.4 ± 8.3 years, and 74.1% were male. GBPs were significantly associated with fatty liver. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that GBPs were significantly associated with the presence of fatty liver (odds ratio [OR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.48), and adjusting for the homeostatic metabolic assessment index had little effect on this association (OR 1.23, 95% CI: 1.02–1.48). Additionally, GBPs remained significantly associated with the presence of fatty liver after adjustments for CT‐measured VAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue (OR 1.24, 95% CI: 1.03–1.50). The degree of fatty liver showed an independent (OR 1.37 95% CI: 1.03–1.80) and dose‐dependent relationship (moderate‐severe fatty liver: OR 1.55 95% CI: 1.07–2.23, P for trend = 0.014) with large GBPs (≥ 5 mm).

Conclusion

Fatty liver, an ectopic regional fat deposit, was found to be closely associated with GBPs independent of known metabolic risk factors, insulin resistance, and CT‐measured VAT, confirming a relevant clinical relationship between the two diseases.
Factors Influencing the Use of Intensive Procedures at the End of Life
Authors: Tschirhart Evan C. , Du Qingling , Kelley Amy S.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To examine individual and regional factors associated with the use of intensive medical procedures in the last 6 months of life.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a longitudinal nationally representative cohort of older adults.

Participants

HRS decedents aged 66 and older (N = 3,069).

Measurements

Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between individual and regional factors and receipt of five intensive procedures: intubation and mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy tube insertion, enteral and parenteral nutrition, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the last 6 months of life.

Results

Approximately 18% of subjects (n = 546) underwent at least one intensive procedure in the last 6 months of life. Characteristics significantly associated with lower odds of an intensive procedure included aged 85–94 (vs 65–74, adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.51–0.90), Alzheimer's disease (AOR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.54–0.94), cancer (AOR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.43–0.85), nursing home residence (AOR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.50–0.97), and having an advance directive (AOR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.57–0.89). In contrast, living in a region with higher hospital care intensity (AOR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.48–3.13) and black race (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.52–2.69) each doubled one's odds of undergoing an intensive procedure.

Conclusion

Individual characteristics and regional practice patterns are important determinants of intensive procedure use in the last 6 months of life. The effect of nonclinical factors highlights the need to better align treatments with individual preferences.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of three formulations of firocoxib in healthy horses
Authors: Holland B. , Fogle C. , Blikslager A. T. , Curling A. , Barlow B. M. , Schirmer J. , Davis J. L.
Published: November 2014

The objectives of this study were to compare the pharmacokinetics and COX selectivity of three commercially available formulations of firocoxib in the horse. Six healthy adult horses were administered a single dose of 57 mg intravenous, oral paste or oral tablet firocoxib in a three‐way, randomized, crossover design. Blood was collected at predetermined times for PGE2 and TXB2 concentrations, as well as plasma drug concentrations. Similar to other reports, firocoxib exhibited a long elimination half‐life (31.07 ± 10.64 h), a large volume of distribution (1.81 ± 0.59L/kg), and a slow clearance (42.61 ± 11.28 mL/h/kg). Comparison of the oral formulations revealed a higher Cmax, shorter Tmax, and greater AUC for the paste compared to the tablet. Bioavailability was 112% and 88% for the paste and tablet, respectively. Maximum inhibition of PGE2 was 83.76% for the I.V. formulation, 52.95% for the oral paste formulation, and 46.22% for the oral tablet formulation. Pharmacodynamic modeling suggests an IC50 of approximately 27 ng/mL and an IC80 of 108 ng/ mL for COX2 inhibition. Inhibition of TXB2 production was not detected. This study indicates a lack of bioequivalence between the oral formulations of firocoxib when administered as a single dose to healthy horses.
Hepatobiliary malignancies in Wilson disease
Authors: Pfeiffenberger Jan , Mogler Carolin , Gotthardt Daniel N. , Schulze‐Bergkamen Henning , Litwin Thomasz , Reuner Ulrike , Hefter Harald , Huster Dominik , Schemmer Peter , Członkowska Anna , Schirmacher Peter , Stremmel Wolfgang , Cassiman David , Weiss Karl Heinz
Published: November 2014

Backgrounds & Aims

Reports of hepatobiliary malignancies in Wilson disease are sparse. The aim of this study was to evaluate hepatobiliary malignancies in Wilson disease patients concerning the clinical course of tumour disease and pathological analysis of tumour tissue.

Methods

Multicenter cohort study of patients with confirmed diagnosis of Wilson disease treated at the Second Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland, the university hospitals Heidelberg, Duesseldorf and Dresden, Germany, and the Department of Hepatology, University Leuven, Belgium. Occurrence, treatment and outcome of hepatobiliary tumours were analysed retrospectively.

Results

Of a total of 1186 patients, fourteen developed hepatobiliary malignancies. Eight were hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and six were intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinomas (ICC). The prevalence of hepatobiliary malignancies in the cohort was 1.2% and the incidence was 0.28 per 1000 person years. Pathological analysis of tumour material showed no abnormal copper concentration.

Conclusions

The rate of hepatobiliary malignancies in Wilson disease is very low, even in cirrhotic patients. As a result of the relevant number of ICC in addition to HCC histological analysis through surgical resection or biopsy should be mandatory when a suspect liver lesion is detected. The influence of copper depletion from Wilson disease‐specific medical treatment on tumour activity remains to be elucidated.
Beyond species: why ecological interaction networks vary through space and time
Authors: Poisot Timothée , Stouffer Daniel B. , Gravel Dominique
Published: November 2014

Community ecology is tasked with the considerable challenge of predicting the structure, and properties, of emerging ecosystems. It requires the ability to understand how and why species interact, as this will allow the development of mechanism‐based predictive models, and as such to better characterize how ecological mechanisms act locally on the existence of inter‐specific interactions. Here we argue that the current conceptualization of species interaction networks is ill‐suited for this task. Instead, we propose that future research must start to account for the intrinsic variability of species interactions, then scale up from here onto complex networks. This can be accomplished simply by recognizing that there exists intra‐specific variability, in traits or properties related to the establishment of species interactions. By shifting the scale towards population‐based processes, we show that this new approach will improve our predictive ability and mechanistic understanding of how species interact over large spatial or temporal scales.

Synthesis

Although species interactions are the backbone of ecological communities, we have little insights on how (and why) they vary through space and time. In this article, we build on existing empirical literature to show that the same species may happen to interact in different ways when their local abundances vary, their trait distribution changes, or when the environment affects either of these factors. We discuss how these findings can be integrated in existing frameworks for the analysis and simulation of species interactions.
Signs of a vector's adaptive choice: on the evasion of infectious hosts and parasite‐induced mortality
Authors: Witsenburg Fardo , Schneider Franziska , Christe Philippe
Published: November 2014

Laboratory and field experiments have demonstrated in many cases that malaria vectors do not feed randomly, but show important preferences either for infected or non‐infected hosts. These preferences are likely in part shaped by the costs imposed by the parasites on both their vertebrate and dipteran hosts. However, the effect of changes in vector behaviour on actual parasite transmission remains a debated issue.

We used the natural associations between a malaria‐like parasitePolychromophilus murinus, the bat flyNycteribia kolenatiiand a vertebrate host the Daubenton's batMyotis daubentoniito test the vector's feeding preference based on the host's infection status using two different approaches: 1) controlled behavioural assays in the laboratory where bat flies could choose between a pair of hosts; 2) natural bat fly abundance data from wild‐caught bats, serving as an approximation of realised feeding preference of the bat flies.

Hosts with the fewest infectious stages of the parasite were most attractive to the bat flies that did switch in the behavioural assay. In line with the hypothesis of costs imposed by parasites on their vectors, bat flies carrying parasites had higher mortality. However, in wild populations, bat flies were found feeding more based on the bat's body condition, rather than its infection level. Though the absolute frequency of host switches performed by the bat flies during the assays was low, in the context of potential parasite transmission they were extremely high.

The decreased survival of infected bat flies suggests that the preference for less infected hosts is an adaptive trait. Nonetheless, other ecological processes ultimately determine the vector's biting rate and thus transmission. Inherent vector preferences therefore play only a marginal role in parasite transmission in the field. The ecological processes rather than preferences per se need to be identified for successful epidemiological predictions.
Past and Future Budget Classics: A Research Agenda
Authors: Rubin Irene
Published: November 2014

This article summarizes the content of four classic articles on budgeting that have appeared in Public Administration Review, outlines some of the major changes in budgeting that have occurred since those authors wrote, and, based on those changes, offers a research agenda for the next set of budget classics.
Resolution of anuric acute kidney injury in a dog with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome
Authors: Hoareau Guillaume L. , Epstein Steven E. , Palm Carrie , Ybarra Winnie , Jandrey Karl E. , Cowgill Larry D.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To describe the management and resolution of anuric acute kidney injury (AKI) in a dog with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) associated with gallbladder wall necrosis.

Case Summary

An 11‐year‐old neutered female spayed dog was referred for evaluation of anuria following cholecystectomy. Following surgery, the patient became anuric with no response to appropriate medical therapy. During the course of hospitalization, the patient developed MODS as evidenced by alteration in renal function, but also cardiovascular dysfunction, coagulation disorders, and hypoglycemia. Several hemodialysis treatments were performed and, along with intensive care, led to resolution of clinical signs and return of urine production.

New or Unique Information

This report describes resolution of anuria in a dog with AKI and MODS. In this clinical setting, despite a poor prognosis, survival and recovery of adequate renal function were possible with medical management that included hemodialysis.
Inverse Finite Element Modeling for Characterization of Local Elastic Properties in Image-Guided Failure Assessment of Human Trabecular Bone
Authors: Zwahlen Alexander , Christen David , Ruffoni Davide , Schneider Philipp , Schmölz Werner , Müller Ralph
Published: November 2014

The local interpretation of microfinite element (μFE) simulations plays a pivotal role for studying bone structure–function relationships such as failure processes and bone remodeling. In the past μFE simulations have been successfully validated on the apparent level, however, at the tissue level validations are sparse and less promising. Furthermore, intratrabecular heterogeneity of the material properties has been shown by experimental studies. We proposed an inverse μFE algorithm that iteratively changes the tissue level Young’s moduli such that the μFE simulation matches the experimental strain measurements. The algorithm is setup as a feedback loop where the modulus is iteratively adapted until the simulated strain matches the experimental strain. The experimental strain of human trabecular bone specimens was calculated from time-lapsed images that were gained by combining mechanical testing and synchrotron radiation microcomputed tomography (SRμCT). The inverse μFE algorithm was able to iterate the heterogeneous distribution of moduli such that the resulting μFE simulations matched artificially generated and experimentally measured strains.
Motor Coordination, Activity, and Fitness at 6 Years of Age Relative to Activity and Fitness at 10 Years of Age
Authors: de Souza Michele Caroline , de Chaves Raquel Nichele , Lopes Vitor Pires , Malina Robert M. , Garganta Rui , Seabra André , Maia José
Published: November 2014

Background:

Health benefits of physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF) are reasonably well established, but tracking studies of PA and PF in childhood have not ordinarily considered the role of motor coordination.

Objectives:

To compare the growth status, gross motor coordination (GMC), PA, and PF characteristics of children at 6 years of age relative to aerobic fitness (fit, unfit) and PA (active, sedentary) at 10 years.

Methods:

285 primary school children (142 girls, 143 boys) resident on the 4 main Azorean islands, Portugal, were measured annually (in the fall) from 6 to 10 years. ANOVA and t tests were computed with SPSS 17.

Results:

Children with either high aerobic fitness or with high level of PA at 10 years of age tended to have a more favorable profile at 6 years compared with those with low fitness or low activity, respectively. Children who were both fit and active at 10 years of age had a more favorable activity and fitness profile and had better GMC at 6 years compared with children who were unfit and sedentary.

Conclusions:

Results highlight the need to consider not only PA, but also PF and GMC in health promotion through the primary school years.
Neighborhood Environment and Physical Activity Among Older Women: Findings From the San Diego Cohort of the Women’s Health Initiative
Authors: Kerr Jacqueline , Norman Greg , Millstein Rachel , Adams Marc A. , Morgan Cindy , Langer Robert D. , Allison Matthew
Published: November 2014

Background:

Few studies of older adults have compared environmental correlates of walking and physical activity in women who may be more influenced by the environment. Environmental measures at different spatial levels have seldom been compared. Findings from previous studies are generally inconsistent.

Methods:

This study investigated the relationship between the built environment and physical activity in older women from the Women’s Health Initiative cohort in San Diego County (N = 5401). Built environment measures were created for 3 buffers around participants’ residential address. Linear regression analyses investigated the relationship between the built environment features and self-reported physical activity and walking.

Results:

Total walking was significantly positively associated with the walkability index (β = .050: half-mile buffer), recreation facility density (β = .036: 1-mile buffer), and distance to the coast (β = –.064; P-values < .05). Total physical activity was significantly negatively associated with distance to the coast and positively with recreation facility density (β = .036: 1-mile buffer; P < .05).

Conclusions:

Although effect sizes were small, we did find important relationships between walkability and walking in older adults, which supports recommendations for community design features to include age friendly elements. More intense physical activity may occur in recreational settings than neighborhood streets.
Menstrual Cycle Abnormalities in Healthy Women With Low Physical Activity: The North-Trøndelag Population-based Health Study
Authors: Gudmundsdottir Sigridur Lara , Flanders W. Dana , Augestad Liv Berit
Published: November 2014

Background:

Menstrual dysfunctions are often found in athletic women. This study evaluated the association between leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and menstrual function in healthy nonathletic women.

Methods:

During 1984–1986, a populationbased health survey (HUNT 1) was conducted in Nord-Trøndelag, Norway, with follow-up (HUNT 2) in 1995–1997. Women < 45 years old in HUNT 2 were included in the current study. LTPA was assessed by questionnaire in HUNT 1 and HUNT 2, and menstrual function by questionnaire in HUNT 2.

Results:

Adjusted odds ratios (OR’s) for long cycles were increased in women who reported < 1 hour of light LTPA (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0–2.0) and 1–2 hours (OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.0–1.8) per week compared with women with ≥ 3 hours/week. Adjusted OR for irregular cycles was decreased in women constantly in the lowest tertile of LTPA index in HUNT 1 and HUNT 2 (OR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2–0.9). Adjusted OR for prolonged bleeding was 2.6 (95% CI = 1.3–5.4) for women with < 1 hour/week of light LTPA and 2.3 (95% CI = 1.3–4.3) for women with 1–2 hours, compared with ≥ 3 hours/week.

Conclusions:

Very low physical activity may increase the risk of menstrual cycle disruptions. Moderate PA should be encouraged for optimum reproductive health.
What's killing the reindeer?
Authors: Kintisch Eli
Published: November 2014

Conservationists and herders in Norway differ about whether to blame predators or overpopulation.
A glimpse of cosmic dawn
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: November 2014

Astronomers are attempting to look back to when the first stars and galaxies lit up and changed the universe forever.
The Resistome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Relationship to Phenotypic Susceptibility
Authors: Kos Veronica N. , Déraspe Maxime , McLaughlin Robert E. , Whiteaker James D. , Roy Paul H. , Alm Richard A. , Corbeil Jacques , Gardner Humphrey
Published: November 2014

Many clinical isolates of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
cause infections that are difficult to eradicate due to their resistance to a wide variety of antibiotics. Key genetic determinants of resistance were identified through genome sequences of 390 clinical isolates of
P. aeruginosa
, obtained from diverse geographic locations collected between 2003 and 2012 and were related to microbiological susceptibility data for meropenem, levofloxacin, and amikacin. β-Lactamases and integron cassette arrangements were enriched in the established multidrug-resistant lineages of sequence types ST111 (predominantly O12) and ST235 (O11). This study demonstrates the utility of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in defining relevant resistance elements and highlights the diversity of resistance determinants within
P. aeruginosa
. This information is valuable in furthering the design of diagnostics and therapeutics for the treatment of
P. aeruginosa
infections.
Chromosome-Mediated Multidrug Resistance in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi
Authors: Chiou Chien-Shun , Alam Munirul , Kuo Jung-Che , Liu Yen-Yi , Wang Pei-Jen
Published: November 2014

A salmonella genomic island, designated SGI11, was found in 18 of 26 multidrug-resistant
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhi isolates from Bangladesh. SGI11 was an IS
1
composite transposon and carried 7 resistance genes that conferred resistance to 5 first-line antimicrobials. Eleven of the 18 SGI11-carrying
S
. Typhi isolates had developed resistance to high levels of ciprofloxacin.
Efficacy of Artemether-Lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine for Treatment of Uncomplicated Malaria in Children in Zaire and Uíge Provinces, Angola
Authors: Plucinski Mateusz M. , Talundzic Eldin , Morton Lindsay , Dimbu Pedro Rafael , Macaia Aleixo Panzo , Fortes Filomeno , Goldman Ira , Lucchi Naomi , Stennies Gail , MacArthur John R. , Udhayakumar Venkatachalam
Published: November 2014

The development of resistance to antimalarials is a major challenge for global malaria control. Artemisinin-based combination therapies, the newest class of antimalarials, are used worldwide but there have been reports of artemisinin resistance in Southeast Asia. In February through May 2013, we conducted open-label, nonrandomized therapeutic efficacy studies of artemether-lumefantrine (AL) and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) in Zaire and Uíge Provinces in northern Angola. The parasitological and clinical responses to treatment in children with uncomplicated
Plasmodium falciparum
monoinfection were measured over 28 days, and the main outcome was a PCR-corrected adequate clinical and parasitological response (ACPR) proportion on day 28. Parasites from treatment failures were analyzed for the presence of putative molecular markers of resistance to lumefantrine and artemisinins, including the recently identified mutations in the K13 propeller gene. In the 320 children finishing the study, 25 treatment failures were observed: 24 in the AL arms and 1 in the DP arm. The PCR-corrected ACPR proportions on day 28 for AL were 88% (95% confidence interval [CI], 78 to 95%) in Zaire and 97% (91 to 100%) in Uíge. For DP, the proportions were 100% (95 to 100%) in Zaire, and 100% (96 to 100%) in Uíge. None of the treatment failures had molecular evidence of artemisinin resistance. In contrast, 91% of AL late-treatment failures had markers associated with lumefantrine resistance on the day of failure. The absence of molecular markers for artemisinin resistance and the observed efficacies of both drug combinations suggest no evidence of artemisinin resistance in northern Angola. There is evidence of increased lumefantrine resistance in Zaire, which should continue to be monitored.
Artemisinins, New Miconazole Potentiators Resulting in Increased Activity against Candida albicans Biofilms
Authors: De Cremer Kaat , Lanckacker Ellen , Cools Tanne L. , Bax Marijke , De Brucker Katrijn , Cos Paul , Cammue Bruno P. A. , Thevissen Karin
Published: November 2014

Mucosal biofilm-related fungal infections are very common, and the incidence of recurrent oral and vulvovaginal candidiasis is significant. As resistance to azoles (the preferred treatment) is occurring, we aimed at identifying compounds that increase the activity of miconazole against
Candida albicans
biofilms. We screened 1,600 compounds of a drug-repositioning library in combination with a subinhibitory concentration of miconazole. Synergy between the best identified potentiators and miconazole was characterized by checkerboard analyses and fractional inhibitory concentration indices. Hexachlorophene, pyrvinium pamoate, and artesunate act synergistically with miconazole in affecting
C. albicans
biofilms. Synergy was most pronounced for artesunate and structural homologues thereof. No synergistic effect could be observed between artesunate and fluconazole, caspofungin, or amphotericin B. Our data reveal enhancement of the antibiofilm activity of miconazole by artesunate, pointing to potential combination therapy consisting of miconazole and artesunate to treat
C. albicans
biofilm-related infections.
Effectiveness of facilitated introduction of a standard operating procedure into routine processes in the operating theatre: a controlled interrupted time series
Authors: Morgan Lauren , New Steve , Robertson Eleanor , Collins Gary , Rivero-Arias Oliver , Catchpole Ken , Pickering Sharon P , Hadi Mohammed , Griffin Damian , McCulloch Peter
Published: November 2014

Background

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) should improve safety in the operating theatre, but controlled studies evaluating the effect of staff-led implementation are needed.

Methods

In a controlled interrupted time series, we evaluated three team process measures (compliance with WHO surgical safety checklist, non-technical skills and technical performance) and three clinical outcome measures (length of hospital stay, complications and readmissions) before and after a 3-month staff-led development of SOPs. Process measures were evaluated by direct observation, using Oxford Non-Technical Skills II for non-technical skills and the ‘glitch count’ for technical performance. All staff in two orthopaedic operating theatres were trained in the principles of SOPs and then assisted to develop standardised procedures. Staff in a control operating theatre underwent the same observations but received no training. The change in difference between active and control groups was compared before and after the intervention using repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results

We observed 50 operations before and 55 after the intervention and analysed clinical data on 1022 and 861 operations, respectively. The staff chose to structure their efforts around revising the ‘whiteboard’ which documented and prompted tasks, rather than directly addressing specific task problems. Although staff preferred and sustained the new system, we found no significant differences in process or outcome measures before/after intervention in the active versus the control group. There was a secular trend towards worse outcomes in the postintervention period, seen in both active and control theatres.

Conclusions

SOPs when developed and introduced by frontline staff do not necessarily improve operative processes or outcomes. The inherent tension in improvement work between giving staff ownership of improvement and maintaining control of direction needs to be managed, to ensure staff are engaged but invest energy in appropriate change.
From patient care assistant to area manager
Authors: Turner Denise
Published: November 2014

Denise Turner joined Medivet in 1999 as a trainee veterinary nurse and is now an area manager for the group
The role of an ASRU inspector
Authors: Chandler Kate
Published: November 2014

Kate Chandler is an inspector within the Animals in Science Regulation Unit of the Home Office. It is a role in which she uses her experience in clinical and research work on a daily basis. Here she explains how joining the Home Office was a major career change, and why it was the right decision for her
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Mason David
Published: November 2014

Vet David Mason and his four‐strong crew will be among thousands of sailors taking part in the Round the Island Race around the Isle of Wight on June 1. He will be raising money in aid of the BSAVA's charity PetSavers.
Raising concerns about a practice or colleague
Authors:   British Veterinary Association
Published: November 2014

As this year's crop of new graduates begin their first jobs in practice, the BVA offers some advice on how they might deal with any concerns about the way their practice or colleagues work
Interviews: preparation is the key
Authors: Powell Richard
Published: November 2014

Richard Powell runs a veterinary recruitment agency. Here, he discusses his own interview mistakes and explains how he helps student vets and vet nurses prepare to enter the workplace
Vets in the community
Authors: Pearce Laura
Published: November 2014

As a final‐year student at Nottingham veterinary school, Laura Pearce has been involved in an initiative called ‘vets in the community’, which provides veterinary care to the pets of local homeless and vulnerably housed people
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Simcock Emily
Published: November 2014

Emily Simcock spends most of her working life with cattle for St David's Farm Veterinary Practice in Exeter, but she also has an interest in bees. At this year's Devon county show she was invited to attend as the ‘bee vet’ by the Devon Beekeepers' Association. The aim was to provide information on bee health and diseases.
Students get a chance to learn how to lead
Authors: de Mestre Mandi
Published: November 2014

A training course that aims to develop leadership and professional skills among students studying towards a career in the veterinary profession was piloted in September. Mandi de Mestre, one of the organisers, explains what it's about
Diary of a parliamentary intern
Authors: Jordan Hannah
Published: November 2014

Hannah Jordan, parliamentary intern to Lord Trees, describes a busy time before the House rises at Christmas.
A future specialising in research
Authors: Milodowski Emily
Published: November 2014

Bristol vet student Emily Milodowski won the Kennel Club's first student inspiration award last year for a study on canine wound infection. Her prize has allowed her to continue her research and make plans for her future career; however, she is currently concentrating on passing her fourth‐year exams
Helping veterinary graduates navigate the PDP
Authors: Winter Agnes
Published: November 2014

Agnes Winter is one of four postgraduate deans who support recent veterinary graduates during their professional development phase (PDP). Here, she describes the difference that the PDP has made to the working life of recent graduates, some of the difficulties they encounter and how she can help
Diary of a parliamentary intern
Authors: Jordan Hannah
Published: November 2014

February saw a mixed bag of issues discussed in the House of Lords, as Hannah Jordan, parliamentary intern to Lord Trees, reports
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Muir Laura
Published: November 2014

Laura Muir is a Scottish middle distance runner. She won the 800 m at the UK Indoor Championships in Sheffield on February 9, which earned her a place at the World Indoor Championships in Poland this weekend. She is a third‐year vet student at Glasgow.
On course: cattle nutrition
Authors: Erian Lizzie
Published: November 2014

‘A veterinary view on cattle nutrition’ is an online webinar series that aims to provide vets with the expertise to devise holistic herd health plans to achieve optimum dairy herd management. Lizzie Erian reviews the course.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Bolitho Clare
Published: November 2014

Clare Bolitho is a vet at the St George's Veterinary Group in Wolverhampton. In 2011, she gave one of her kidneys to a stranger.
Adventures of a field assistant in the Amazon
Authors: Snow Renata
Published: November 2014

The current EMS system is, understandably, geared towards domestic animals, so vet students with an interest in wildlife often develop this independently. Fourth‐year vet student Renata Snow spent last summer trapping and tracking tamarins in the Amazon rainforest
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Brampton Mike
Published: November 2014

Mike Brampton is managing director of Thames Medical; he lectures at Nottingham veterinary school on blood pressure and anaesthesia application and monitoring techniques. During May and June he is cycling from Worthing to Stirling to raise money for Canine Partners by delivering CPD to veterinary practices along the way.
Diary of a parliamentary intern
Authors: Jordan Hannah
Published: November 2014

Hannah Jordan, parliamentary intern to Lord Trees, describes what's been happening in parliament since the Easter recess.
Working together: researching interprofessional education
Authors: Kinnison Tierney
Published: November 2014

As a research assistant, Tierney Kinnison worked on a variety of projects with the Royal Veterinary College's (RVC) LIVE team and is a core member of its haptics teaching team. She now is doing a PhD in interprofessional working and education
Farm animal forensics
Authors: Harwood David
Published: November 2014

David Harwood worked as a veterinary investigation officer (VIO) with the AHVLA for 30 years and is a trustee of the Animal Welfare Foundation. He recently spoke to students at Edinburgh vet school about what to do if they found themselves giving evidence in court cases involving farm animal welfare
Pros and cons of working for a charity
Authors: Grant David
Published: November 2014

David Grant, who was director of the RSPCA's Harmsworth Hospital for 25 years, discusses the pros and cons of working in the charity sector
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Baird Sarah
Published: November 2014

Isabelle Vets on the island of Guernsey was the first practice to pledge to raise money for Petsavers under the charity's 40th anniversary initiative asking practices to pledge to raise £200 annually. Sarah Baird was the vet who signed the practice up
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Boulton Simon
Published: November 2014

Simon Boulton recently celebrated a year as marketing manager with the animal health company Virbac, following three years with the company in product management. In November, he will celebrate the two‐year anniversary of the launch of Parvo‐Alert – a social media initiative to warn of cases of parvovirus by postcode area to raise awareness of the disease.
Being a vet is so much more than working with animals
Authors: Little Annika
Published: November 2014

Annika Little is a student at Glasgow vet school. Earlier this year she discovered that lambing is a fulfilling EMS experience; however, it was the family who welcomed her into their home that made her realise that being a vet is about working with people
First‐year student diary
Authors: Perrett Rosie
Published: November 2014

Now that her veterinary course is under way at Liverpool, Rosie Perrett has already begun learning fundamental clinical skills such as scrubbing up and bandaging.
On the Picard number of rationally quartic connected manifolds
Authors: Suzuki Taku
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we study structures of smooth complex projective polarized manifolds (X, H) of dimension n ≥ 2 which are rationally connected with respect to a family [Formula: see text] of H-degree four. Under the assumption [Formula: see text], we prove that, with two kinds of exceptions, the Picard number of X is at most four and X is covered by rational curves of H-degree one. In addition, we provide a classification in case n = 2.
A forest of linear fractional transformations
Authors: Nathanson Melvyn B.
Published: November 2014

The Calkin–Wilf tree is a rooted infinite binary tree whose vertices are the positive rational numbers. Each number occurs in the tree exactly once and in the form a/b, where a and b are relatively prime positive integers. For every 2 × 2 matrix with nonnegative integral coordinates and nonzero determinant, it is possible to construct an analogous tree with this root. If the root is the identity matrix, then the tree consists of all matrices with determinant 1, and this tree possesses the basic properties of the Calkin–Wilf tree of positive rational numbers. The set of all matrices with nonnegative integral coordinates and nonzero determinant decomposes into a forest of rooted infinite binary trees.
Ab initio investigations of structural and electronic properties of AlSc3
Authors: Galav K. L. , Joshi K. B.
Published: November 2014

In this paper, structural and electronic properties of L12 and D019- AlSc 3 are presented. Calculations are performed applying crystalline orbital program within the framework of density functional theory. The exchange and correlation are treated following the Perdew–Becke–Ernzerhof ansatz. Other Al – Sc intermetallic compounds and polymorphs of Al 3 Sc , Al 2 Sc and AlSc are also investigated. The total energy calculations are coupled with the Murnaghan equation of state to determine lattice constants and bulk moduli. The data for D019- AlSc 3 are provided while deduced structural parameters for other materials are compared with the available results. Current results are reasonably in agreement with the experimental data and other reported calculations. Electronic band structures of a few Al – Sc compounds are studied with a view to examine effect of Al concentration on the formation of bands and bonds in the Al – Sc system.
The Sex Differences of Morphology and Immunology of SIRS of Newborn Wistar Rats
Authors: Kosyreva A. M.
Published: November 2014

The sex differences of infection and inflammatory diseases particularly appear at reproductive age and depend on the sex hormone level, varied between male and female. There are a few sets of data about the sex differences of infection and inflammatory diseases course, including systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and sepsis, of newborns. The aim of our research was the estimation of morphological and immunological manifestation of SIRS of the newborn Wistar rats. Investigations were carried out on male and female two-day-old Wistar rats (10–12 g). SIRS was modeled by intraperitoneal injection of LPS (E. coli, O26: B6 strain, Sigma) in high dose—15 mg/kg. We did not find out any sex differences of the liver lesions severity between newborn males and females after LPS injection. The levels of endotoxin and estradiol in the serum, as the number of neutrophils in the intra-alveolar septa of the lungs, were higher in males than females with SIRS. Production of IL-2 and TNF-α by the spleen cells of males was higher than that in control group that reflects polarization predominantly on the Th1-type immune response. The secretion of IL-2, TNF-α, and IFN-γ by ConA activated spleen cells of females decreased that reflects the suppression of Th1-type immune response. We suppose that the LPS administration in the high dose causes the multidirectional reaction of the immune system of neonatal males and females Wistar rats.
A Case of Lemierre Syndrome Secondary to Otitis Media and Mastoiditis
Authors: Turan Aynur , Cam Harun , Dadali Yeliz , Korkmaz Serdar , Özdek Ali , Hekimoğlu Baki
Published: November 2014

Lemierre’s syndrome is a rare clinical condition that generally develops secondary to oropharyngeal infection caused byFusobacterium necrophorum, which is an anaerobic bacteria. A 62-year-old patient with diabetes mellitus presented with internal jugular vein and sigmoid sinus-transverse sinus thrombophlebitis, accompanying otitis media and mastoiditis that developed after an upper airway infection. Interestingly, there were air bubbles in both the internal jugular vein and transverse sinus. Vancomycin and meropenem were started and a right radical mastoidectomy was performed. The patient’s clinical picture completely resolved in 14 days. High mortality and morbidity may be prevented with a prompt diagnosis of Lemierre’s syndrome.
Rising Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusInfections in Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases
Authors: Thirumazhisi Sachithanandam Sangeetha
Published: November 2014

The increasing incidence of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusinfections (MRSA) in ENT diseases is becoming a big clinical concern. Here two patients are described who developed MRSA infections presented with unusual post-FESS epistaxis and postmastoidectomy perichondrial abscess and failed treatment with broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics. Following treatment with oral linezolid combined with local mupirocin dressing both patients fully recovered.
Asymptomatic Pellet Migration to the Heart: Report of a Case and Update on Proper Management
Authors: Galyfos George , Palogos Konstantinos , Kavouras Nikolaos
Published: November 2014

We report a case of a 42-year-old male patient who was transferred to our emergency department suffering from a gunshot wound in his left lateral thigh. The patient was haemodynamically stable, and the physical examination of the abdomen and thorax was unremarkable. There was no obvious exit point and there were no other injuries. The radiologic control of the left thigh showed an intact femur and multiple pellets within the adjacent soft tissues. Routine X-ray evaluation of the thorax revealed a small-sized round object of metal density—possibly a migrated pellet—in the proximity of the right heart atrium. Computed tomography imaging confirmed this finding and showed no other cardiac or mediastinal injury. Ultrasonography of the heart was unremarkable as well. The patient was managed conservatively for the discovered pellet, and remained asymptomatic throughout the entire hospital stay, and 6 months after the discharge. Pellet migration or embolism should be suspected in any gunshot victim without a corresponding exit wound or when the signs and symptoms do not correlate with the suspected course of the missile. Conservative management remains the first choice in asymptomatic patients, although close monitoring at first and regular observation after discharge are indicated.
CHEK2∗1100delC Mutation and Risk of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hale Victoria , Weischer Maren , Park Jong Y.
Published: November 2014

Although the causes of prostate cancer are largely unknown, previous studies support the role of genetic factors in the development of prostate cancer.CHEK2plays a critical role in DNA replication by responding to double-stranded breaks. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of the role of a genetic variant, 1100delC, ofCHEK2on prostate cancer risk and discuss the implication for potential translation of this knowledge into clinical practice. Currently, twelve articles that discussedCHEK2∗1100delC and its association with prostate cancer were identified. Of the twelve prostate cancer studies, five studies had independent data to draw conclusive evidence from. The pooled results of OR and 95% CI were 1.98 (1.23–3.18) for unselected cases and 3.39 (1.78–6.47) for familial cases, indicating thatCHEK2∗1100delC mutation is associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. Screening for CHEK2∗1100delC should be considered in men with a familial history of prostate cancer.