bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time Course and Clinical Implications of Development of Antibodies Against Adalimumab in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Steenholdt Casper , Frederiksen Madeline T. , Bendtzen Klaus , Ainsworth Mark A. , Thomsen Ole Ø. , Brynskov Jørn
Published: July 2015

Background:

Antibodies (Abs) against adalimumab (ADL) have been associated with low ADL levels and treatment failure.

Aim:

To characterize the temporal characteristics of anti-ADL Ab appearance and possible disappearance, and determine the clinical significance on drug efficacy and disease course.

Methods:

Cohort study including inflammatory bowel disease patients in whom anti-ADL Abs had been assessed by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and, in case of disappearance, by enzyme immunoassay, and functional reporter gene assay.

Results:

Anti-ADL Abs were evaluated in 133 serum samples from 72 patients. Seventeen patients (24%) tested positive after median of 194 days, interquartile range of 66 to 361. The proportion with anti-ADL Abs was 22% after 1 year, and 32% from 21 months onwards. Anti-ADL Abs generally persisted at repeat assessments during continued ADL therapy (n=8). Disappearance of anti-ADL Abs during therapy (n=3) was presumably caused by methodological biases due to detection of nonfunctional nonpersistent anti-ADL Abs by RIA, or false-negative measurement at reassessment by RIA and reporter gene assay. Anti-ADL Abs appeared pharmacologically active as judged by a median ADL concentration below limit of detection versus 7.4 μg/mL in anti-ADL Ab-negative samples (P<0.0001). Anti-ADL Abs associated with loss of response (odds ratio estimated 67, P<0.0001), and shorter treatment duration (P<0.0001).

Conclusions:

Abs against ADL appear in approximately one fourth of inflammatory bowel disease patients with decreasing frequency over time and usually within 1 year of therapy. Anti-ADL Abs generally persist during continued ADL therapy, and are associated with elimination of drug and treatment failure. Therefore, ADL cessation should be considered when anti-ADL Abs are detected and supported by clinical observations.
Calcitriol for Oral Mucositis Prevention in Patients With Fanconi Anemia Undergoing Hematopoietic SCT: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Hamidieh Amir Ali , Sherafatmand Mona , Mansouri Ava , Hadjibabaie Molouk , Ashouri Asieh , Jahangard-Rafsanjani Zahra , Gholami Kheirollah , Javadi Mohammad Reza , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir , Radfar Mania
Published: July 2015

Fanconi anemia is a rare inherited aplastic anemia, which is cured only by hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). One of the most debilitating complications of high-dose chemotherapy regimen before HSCT is oral mucositis (OM), which occurs frequently in this population. Vitamin D has identified immunoregulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant role. This study was designed to examine the efficacy of vitamin D in the prevention of OM in patients with Fanconi anemia undergoing allogenic HSCT. Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the study. They received either calcitriol (0.025 μg) or placebo capsule once daily, from the first day of chemotherapy schedule for 14 consecutive days. Incidence of OM was assessed as the primary outcome. Moreover, the association of baseline vitamin D level with OM was evaluated. In this study, calcitriol did not change OM incidence (P = 1) and severity (P = 0.54) significantly; however, a significant association of baseline vitamin D level with OM complete resolution was found (P = 0.03; hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.00–1.01). In conclusion, we did not find considerable benefits of calcitriol in the prevention of OM. However, further studies with bigger sample size and different calcitriol supplementation schedules are needed to confirm these findings.
Value of Low-Dose Dobutamine Stress Real-Time Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography in the Diagnosis of Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Jiang Li , Yao Hong , Sun Jiang-Hong , Shen Jing-Xia , Tian Ye , Liang Zhao-Guang
Published: July 2015

To investigate the value of low-dose dobutamine stress real-time myocardial contrast echocardiography (RT-MCE) in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease (CHD). A total of 65 hospitalized patients with suspected or confirmed CHD were detected by RT-MCE combined with low-dose dobutamine stress (0.84 mg/kg). Perfusion curves were quantitatively analyzed using QLAB software. Peak intensity (A), slope of curves (β), and perfusion (A × β) were also calculated. Based on the results of coronary angiography, patients were divided into no obvious stenosis group (<50%), mild stenosis group (50%–74%), moderate stenosis group (75%–89%), and severe stenosis group (≥90%). The A, β, and A × β values before and after low-dose dobutamine stress of each group were compared. In the basal state and after low-dose dobutamine stress, the A, β, and A × β values significantly decreased as the stenosis degree of the myocardial segments increased. The same variation tendency was also found in the A, β, and A × β reserve values, and there was significant difference in these reserve values between moderate and severe stenosis groups and no obvious stenosis and mild stenosis groups. Collateral circulation had marked effects on the values of myocardial perfusion parameters and their reserve values, especially in the segments with severe stenosis. Low-dose dobutamine stress RT-MCE can be a sensitive method for clinical diagnosis and risk assessment of CHD and may provide a basis for further treatment of CHD.
Nesiritide Therapy Is Associated With Better Clinical Outcomes Than Dobutamine Therapy in Heart Failure
Authors: Kong Ling-Ge , Wang Chun-Li , Zhao Dan , Wang Bo
Published: July 2015

To evaluate the therapeutic effects of dobutamine and nesiritide in the treatment of heart failure (HF), a meta-analysis of published studies was conducted. Computerized bibliographic databases in Chinese and English languages were carefully searched to identify the relevant literature. A total of 6 cohort studies were enrolled in current meta-analysis for statistical analyses. The effect of dobutamine and nesiritide in patients with HF was estimated by odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Our results revealed a significantly higher survival rate in nesiritide-treated patients, compared with those treated with dobutamine (OR = 1.97; 95% CI, 1.43–2.71; P < 0.001). In addition, a lower readmission rate was also associated with the nesiritide-treated group in comparison with the dobutamine-treated group (OR = 1.96; 95% CI, 1.39–2.78; P < 0.001). A stratified analysis revealed that the subgroup of patients with HF treated with nesiritide showed higher survival outcomes than those patients with HF treated with dobutamine when follow-up period was greater than 6 months (OR = 1.70; 95% CI, 1.21–2.38; P = 0.002) but not under 6 months (P > 0.05). This indicated that nesiritide treatment had longer term benefits as well. Interestingly, based on the reason for readmission, a subgroup analysis of the HF subgroup and the “all-cause” subgroup showed that higher readmission rates were associated with dobutamine treatment in both subgroups (HF: OR = 2.71; 95% CI, = 1.51–4.83; P = 0.001; all-cause: OR = 1.64; 95% CI, 1.06–2.53; P = 0.026; respectively). Our results suggest that nesiritide therapy is associated with a lower in-hospital mortality rates and decreased readmission rates compared with dobutamine treatment in patients with HF.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin–Induced Pulmonary Embolism: It Is Time to Act!
Authors: Bilal Jawad , Riaz Irbaz B. , Hill Jennifer L. , Zangeneh Tirdad T.
Published: July 2015

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common clinical problem affecting 600,000 patients per year in the United States. Although the diagnosis can be easily confirmed by imaging techniques, such as computed tomographic angiography of the chest, the identification of underlying mechanism leading to PE is important for appropriate duration of anticoagulation, and prevention of subsequent episodes. The differential diagnosis of underlying mechanism is broad and must include careful review of medication history. Drug-related thromboembolic disease can be easily missed and may have catastrophic consequences. The identification of the culprit drug is important for prevention of subsequent episodes and choosing appropriate duration of anticoagulation. We report a case of a middle-aged man who developed PE after administration of intravenous immunoglobulin.
Therapeutic Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide in Treating Delayed Encephalopathy After Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng , Wu Haibing , Zhao Yongfei , Zu Hengbing
Published: July 2015

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is one of the most common diseases induced by CO injury. More than a half of the survivors still likely to have cognitive dysfunction, which is delayed encephalopathy after acute CO poisoning. There is no other effective treatment for delayed encephalopathy after acute CO poisoning except hyperbaric oxygen. Hydrogen sulfide is a novel signal molecule for the central nervous system regulation and plays a role of neural protection in many diseases. H2S has the inhibitory effects on oxidative stress and apoptosis to protect against oxidative damage of nerve. A CO-poisoning rat model was established to detect the effect of H2S on delayed encephalopathy after acute CO poisoning. Spatial learning and memory was tested by Morris water maze. Nissl staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling assay were used to examine apoptosis induced by CO poisoning in the brain. Then, the protein levels of proinflammatory cytokines and the indicators of oxidative damage were measured. We found that H2S significantly improved cognitive function, reduced apoptosis and the inflammatory response, and decreased the oxidative damage induced by CO poisoning in rats. These results suggest that H2S may be a novel specific and effective treatment of delayed encephalopathy of CO poisoning.
Who Applies an Intervention to Influence Cultural Attributes in a Quality Improvement Collaborative?
Authors: Hsu Yea-Jen , Marsteller Jill A.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Organizational culture change has been recognized as one of the promising ways to reduce error and increase safety. However, it is still unclear what factors support health care teams implementing interventions aimed to influence the cultural attributes that bolster continuous quality improvement. This study aimed to identify factors related to teams' adoption of the Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Program (CUSP), an approach to improving patient safety culture among intensive care units (ICUs) participating in a bloodstream infection reduction collaborative.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 103 ICUs participating in the Keystone ICU project. We conducted logistic regressions to assess baseline factors associated with ICU teams’ use of CUSP. Predictors included safety climate scales (teamwork climate, safety climate, job satisfaction, stress recognition, perceptions of management, and working conditions) as measured by the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire, central line-associated bloodstream infection rates, bloodstream infection prevention intervention phase, ICU type, hospital bed size, and hospital teaching status.

Results

Intensive care units with lower perceived safety climate, greater stress recognition, higher perceptions of management, and better working conditions were more likely to adopt CUSP. Intensive care units that implemented the infection prevention interventions late were less likely to adopt CUSP. Mixed ICUs and ICUs in large hospitals were also less likely to use CUSP.

Conclusions

Staff-perceived safety climate, ICU type, and hospital size were related to ICUs’ implementation of CUSP. Better baseline safety climate or lower perceived organizational support reduced uptake. The findings can help hospital leaders and collaborative experts identify units that are less likely to implement cultural interventions.
Evaluation of the Accuracy of Computer-Guided Mandibular Fracture Reduction
Authors: el-Gengehi Mostafa , Seif Sameh A.
Published: July 2015

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the accuracy of computer-guided mandibular fracture reduction. A total of 24 patients with fractured mandible were included in the current study. A preoperative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was performed on all of the patients. Based on CBCT, three-dimensional reconstruction and virtual reduction of the mandibular fracture segments were done and a virtual bone borne surgical guide was designed and exported as Standard Tessellation Language file. A physical guide was then fabricated using a three-dimensional printing machine. Open reduction and internal fixation was done for all of the patients and the fracture segments were anatomically reduced with the aid of the custom-fabricated surgical guide. Postoperative CBCT was performed after 7 days and results of which were compared with the virtually reduced preoperative mandibular models. Comparison of values of lingula-sagittal plane, inferior border-sagittal plane, and anteroposterior measurements revealed no statistically significant differences between the virtual and the clinically reduced CBCT models. Based on the results of the current study, computer-based surgical guide aid in obtaining accurate anatomical reduction of the displaced mandibular fractured segments. Moreover, the computer-based surgical guides were found to be beneficial in reducing fractures of completely and partially edentulous mandibles.
Freehand Condyle-Positioning During Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Sander Anna Katharina , Martini Markus , Konermann Anna-Christin , Meyer Ulrich , Wenghoefer Matthias
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) position after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) of the mandible by the help of pre- and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.

Materials and Methods:

A collective of n = 78 patients was investigated between 2009 and 2011 before and after BSSO of the mandible in mono- or bimaxillary orthognathic surgery procedures. No intraoperative fixation of the condyles was administered. CBCT scans were performed in all patients before and immediately after surgery with the KaVo 3DeXam device in the position of terminal occlusion. Subsequently, all scans were analyzed by help of the eXam Vision program and the ImageJ image processing software. Alterations of the TMJs were quantified by determining pre- to postoperative differences of the intercondylar distance, the mandibular angle on both sides, and the condylar angles in the transversal plane.

Results:

The difference between pre- and postoperatively ascertained values was minimal (means: lateral condylar distance −0.17 mm; distance of condylar centers −0.32 mm; medial condylar distance −0.49 mm; left mandibular angle +1.06°; right mandibular angle +2.06°; condylar angles in relation to a reference line: left −2.93, right −0.75; angle of cutting +3.42). There is no apparent tendency toward a positional change in any of the 3 examined planes. Between bi- and monomaxillarily operated patients there was no difference either, except for the osteotomy plane.

Conclusions:

A 3-dimensional analysis of CBCT data of the TMJ seems to be appropriate to determine the condylar position pre- and postoperatively. Performed by an experienced orthognathic surgeon, BSSO of the mandible does not effectuate any relevant changes of the TMJ-position, thus making an intraoperative condyle-fixation unnecessary.
Optimal Viscosity and Particle Shape of Hyaluronic Acid Filler as a Scaffold for Human Fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Deok-Yeol , Namgoong Sik , Han Seung-Kyu , Won Chang-Hoon , Jeong Seong-Ho , Dhong Eun-Sang , Kim Woo-Kyung
Published: July 2015

The authors previously reported that cultured human fibroblasts suspended in a hyaluronic acid filler can produce human dermal matrices with extended in vivo stability in animal and clinical studies. The present study was undertaken to determine the optimal viscosity and particle shape of hyaluronic acid filler as a scaffold for cultured human dermal fibroblasts to enhance the maximal viability of injected cells. The fibroblasts were suspended in either 1 of 3 hyaluronic acid viscosities at 2 different particle shapes. The viscosities used in this study were low (600,000–800,000 centipoises), moderate (2,000,000–4,000,000 centipoises), and high (8,000,000–12,000,000 centipoises). The particle shape was evaluated by testing round and irregular shapes. The fibroblast mixed bioimplants were injected into the back of individual athymic nude mice. The levels of type I collagen were measured using fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS) and immunohistochemical staining at 16 weeks after the injections. Results of FACS demonstrated that the mean cell ratio with human collagens in the moderate viscosity group was greater than those of control, low, and high viscosity groups. An immunohistochemical study showed similar results. The moderate viscosity group demonstrated the highest positive staining of human collagens. However, there were no significant differences between groups of irregular and round shape particles. A hyaluronic acid bioimplant with moderate viscosity is superior to that with low or high viscosity in the viability for human fibroblasts. However, the particle shape does not influence the viability of the fibroblasts.
What Is the Best Way to Handle the Involutional Blepharoptosis Repair?
Authors: Wada Yoshitaka , Hashimoto Takahiro , Kakizaki Hirohiko , Isogai Noritaka , Asamura Shinichi
Published: July 2015

There are many different operations to correct involutional blepharoptosis (IB); however, the outcome of the corrective surgery is rather unpredictable, regardless of the procedure employed. A reasonably predictable outcome can be achieved with careful intraoperative evaluation of the condition, with measuring of the margin reflex distance-1 (MRD-1) in supine position of the patients. With these prepositions, we collected data that indicated that our approach can achieve a predictable outcome.

This was a prospective study of 21 consecutive patients (8 men and 13 women) involving 42 eyelids with IB. IB was defined as an MRD-1 of <2 mm. All 21 patients were informed of the purposes of the study, and underwent levator aponeurosis advancement. The MRD-1 was measured intraoperatively with the patients in a supine position and in the 3-month postoperative inspection with the patients in a sitting position. Statistical analyses using paired t-tests were performed.

From intraoperative measurement, mean MRD-1 values were 4.31 mm on the right side (range 3.0–4.5) and 4.29 mm on the left side (range 3.5–5.0). Three months after the operations, mean MRD-1 values were 3.07 mm on the right side (range 1.5–4.0) and 3.07 mm on the left side (range 2.0–4.0). Compared with the intraoperative MRD-1 measurements, those of the postoperatives were significantly 1.2 mm reduced (right: P < 0.01, left: P < 0.01).

The intraoperative measurement of MRD-1 without changing position of patients could result in successful outcome of the operation.
Effect of Modified Fujita Technique Uvulopalatoplasty on Oxidative DNA Damage Levels in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Bakan Ebubekir , Fidan Vural , Alp Hamit Hakan , Baygutalp Nurcan Kilic , Cokluk Erdem
Published: July 2015

Snoring is a social hindrance problem and it can cause life threatening problems. Because of this it must be taken seriously and must be treated. Although there are many ways for treating this problem, still uvulopalatopharngoplasty (UPPP) which is an accepted classical method maintains its importance. Antioxidant status in patients with snoring have been investigated. All studies investigated the effect of CPAP treatment on the level of antioxidant agents. In this study we have examined the effect of UPPP on the level of antioxidant agents in patients with snoring.
Split Cartilage Resection of Nasal Dome
Authors: Tuğrul Selahattin , Doğan Remzi , Koçak Ilker , Eren Sabri Baki , Ozturan Orhan
Published: July 2015

Objective:

In ptotic noses, it is rather difficult to achieve the intended functional and cosmetic result without modifying the alar cartilage and creating a new nasal tip. The split cartilage resection method was intended to create a new and permanent nasal tip to protect the physiologic and cosmetic appearance of the nose in the presence of long and ptotic nasal tip.

Method:

A total of 53 patients who had nasal tip ptosis were included in the study: 26 patients (Group 1) who underwent lateral crural overlap because of the alar cartilage problem and 27 patients (Group 2) who underwent dome split cartilage resection. After at least 1 year of follow-up, the pre- and postoperative measurements of patients indicating their rotations and projections in their computerized images were compared and acoustic rhinometry was performed to determine the nasal valve function.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the 2 groups with respect to the pre- and postoperative nasolabial angels, rotation angles, Goode index, and nasofacial angle. There were no significant differences between the nasal cavity volume values of the 2 groups; the volume increase in wide nasal cavity in Group 2 was higher. After the operation, the increase in minimum cross-sectional area values in Group 2 was significantly >1 in Group 1.

Conclusions:

The nasal tip split resection method is a method that can be implemented and should be kept in mind as a technique, which must be considered as an alternative method for noses with ptotic and long nasal tip disorder.
Optimization of Cranio-Orbital Remodeling
Authors: Isaac Kathryn V. , Koenemann Jochen , Fukasawa Ricardo , Qian David , Linhares Andre , Saber Nikoo R. , Drake James , Forrest Christopher R. , Phillips John H. , Nguyen Phuong D.
Published: July 2015

Cranio-orbital remodeling aims to correct the dysmorphic skull associated with craniosynostosis. Traditionally, the skull is reconstructed into a shape that is subjectively normal according to the surgeon's perception. We present a novel technique using a mathematical algorithm to define the optimal location for bony osteotomies and to objectively reshape the fronto-orbital bar into an ideal normal skull contour.

Using pre-operative computed tomography images, the abnormal skull contour at the frontal-orbital region was obtained for infants planned to undergo cranio-orbital remodeling. The ideal skull shape was derived from an age- and sex-matched normative skull library. For each patient, the mathematical technique of dynamic programming (DP) was applied to compare the abnormal and ideal skull shapes. The DP algorithm identifies the optimal location of osteotomy sites and calculates the objective difference in surface area remaining between the normative and dysmorphic skull shape for each solution applied. By selecting the optimal solution with minimal objective difference, the surgeon is guided to reproducibly recreate the normal skull contour with defined osteotomies.

The DP algorithm was applied in 13 cases of cranio-orbital remodeling. Five female and 8 male infants with a mean age of 11 months were treated for craniosynostosis classified as metopic (n = 7), unicoronal (n = 4), or bicoronal (n = 2). The mean OR time was 190.2 min (SD 33.6), mean estimated blood loss 244 cc (SD 147.6), and 10 infants required blood transfusions. Compared with a historical crania-orbital remodeling group treated without application of the algorithm, there was no significant difference in OR time, estimated blood loss, or transfusion rate.

This novel technique enables the craniofacial surgeon to objectively reshape the fronto-orbital bar and reproducibly reconstruct a skull shape resembling that of normal infants.
One-Stage Cleft Lip and Palate Repair in an Older Population
Authors: Guneren Ethem , Canter Halil Ibrahim , Yildiz Kemalettin , Kayan Resit Burak , Ozpur Mustafa Aykut , Baygol Emre Gonenc , Sagir Haci Omer , Kuzu Ismail Melih , Akman Onur , Arslan Serap
Published: July 2015

Background:

In underdeveloped countries one-stage definitive repair of cleft lip and palate is considered for late-presenting patients.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 25 patients with unoperated cleft lip and palate more than 2 years of age were enrolled in this study for one-stage simultaneous repair of cleft lip and palate. According to Veau-Wardill-Kilner push-back technique, 2 flap palatoplasties were performed for palatal repairs; all of the lips were repaired with the Millard II rotation-advancement technique.

Results:

The authors experienced no perioperative or postoperative life-threatening complications. With respect to the registered operation periods, longer times were required to perform these double operations, but this elongation is shorter than the sum of the periods if the 2 operations had been performed separately. Although the authors were unable to evaluate the late postoperative results because the authors could not follow-up the patients after they were discharged the day after surgery, the early results related to the success of the operation without any surgical complication were prone to meet the parents’ and patients’ expectations.

Discussion:

The authors presented their experiences with many volunteer cleft lip and palate trips to third world countries; however the structure of this article is not a new hypothesis and data based to support a scientific study, but observations are objective to get a conclusion. To perform one-stage definitive repair of the cleft lip and palate in late-presented patients was the reality that they had only 1 chance to undergo these operations. According to the terms and conditions of this challenging operation, one-stage simultaneous repair of cleft lip and palate is a more demanding and time-consuming procedure than is isolated cleft lip repair or cleft palate repair. Although technically challenging, single-stage repair of the whole deformity in late-presenting patients is a feasible, reliable, successful, and safe procedure in authors’ experience.
Morphometric Analysis of Styloid Process Using Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: Yilmaz Mehmet T. , Akin Duygu , Cicekcibasi Aynur E. , Kabakci Anil D.A. , Seker Muzaffer , Sakarya Mehmet E.
Published: July 2015

Styloid process (SP) is a cylindrical anatomical structure located at the anterior side of stylomastoid foramen. Normally, it is 20 to 25 mm in length and can vary with ageand sex. An elongated SP is an unusual source of craniofacial and cervical pain. In this study, the clinical role of morphometric data of SP was discussed.

In this study, 64-slice multidetector computed tomography images (Somatom Sensation 64, Siemens, Germany) from Radiology Department's archive of Necmettin Erbakan University were used. The examined images were collected from 100 patients (31 female and 69 male). Length of SP (SPL), SP width (SPW), distance between SP rooths (DBR), SP's angulation, and the distance between SP and internal carotid artery (SP-ICA) were measured.

Statistical differences were found regarding to the data of SPL, SPW, DBR, and SP-ICA left between sexes. No statistical significance was detected between right and left side SPL (paired t test; P = 0.989, P > 0.05). SP was observed as mostly type A1 (right %55, left %52). These parameters were also compared with those of previous studies.

The present study showed side and sex differences and types of SP. We believe that it was necessary to determine the normal range of values for different populations, and this knowledge will provide guidance to surgeons in the examination of this area.
Delayed Hypersensitive Process in Subacute Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Tao Zhiqiang , Ding Shenghong , Hu Maotong , Li Jianwei
Published: July 2015

The authors report 2 patients with subacute subdural hematoma (sASDH). An inflammatory process is known to be involved in the development of traumatic subdural effusion (TSE) evolving into chronic subdural hemorrhage (CSDH), but a similar event has not been previously described in acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) evolving into sASDH. In our cases, dexamethasone (DXM) and other conservative treatments were administered to our first patient with dramatic clinical outcome, and a postoperative pathologic examination of the neomembrane of the sASDH in the second patient was done, which showed marked inflammatory process with T-lymphocytes and neutrophils infiltration. The good response to DXM in the first patient and the definite laboratory result of the second patient and their radiologic presentations, as well as a review of relevant literature, suggest that a T-lymphocyte-mediated, delayed hypersensitive reaction triggered by undissolved blood clot may be the driving force of ASDH developing into sASDH, which starts after the seventh day, and peaked by the end of the second week of the clinical course.
Voluntary locomotor activity mitigates oxidative damage associated with isolation stress in the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster)
Authors: Fletcher Kelsey L. , Whitley Brittany N. , Treidel Lisa A. , Thompson David , Williams Annie , Noguera Jose C. , Stevenson Jennie R. , Haussmann Mark F.
Published: July 2015

Organismal performance directly depends on an individual's ability to cope with a wide array of physiological challenges. For social animals, social isolation is a stressor that has been shown to increase oxidative stress. Another physiological challenge, routine locomotor activity, has been found to decrease oxidative stress levels. Because we currently do not have a good understanding of how diverse physiological systems like stress and locomotion interact to affect oxidative balance, we studied this interaction in the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster). Voles were either pair housed or isolated and within the isolation group, voles either had access to a moving wheel or a stationary wheel. We found that chronic periodic isolation caused increased levels of oxidative stress. However, within the vole group that was able to run voluntarily, longer durations of locomotor activity were associated with less oxidative stress. Our work suggests that individuals who demonstrate increased locomotor activity may be better able to cope with the social stressor of isolation.
Tiarajudens eccentricusandAnomocephalus africanus, two bizarre anomodonts (Synapsida, Therapsida) with dental occlusion from the Permian of Gondwana
Authors: Cisneros Juan Carlos , Abdala Fernando , Jashashvili Tea , de Oliveira Bueno Ana , Dentzien-Dias Paula
Published: July 2015

Anomodontia was a highly successful tetrapod clade during the Permian and the Triassic. New morphological information regarding two bizarre basal anomodonts is provided and their palaeoecological significance is explored. The osteology of the recently discoveredTiarajudens eccentricusCisneroset al. 2011, from the Brazilian Permian, is described in detail. The taxon exhibits unusual postcranial features, including the presence of gastralia. Additional preparation and computed tomography scans of the holotype ofAnomocephalus africanusModestoet al. 1999 discovered in the Karoo Basin of South Africa allow a reappraisal of this genus.Anomocephalusis similar toTiarajudenswith regard to several traits, including a battery of large, transversally expanded, palatal teeth. Molariform teeth are present in the mandible of the African taxon, providing additional insight into the function of the earliest tooth-occlusion mechanism known in therapsids. At least two waves of tooth replacement can be recognized in the palate ofAnomocephalus. The outsized, blade-like caniniforms of the herbivorousTiarajudensallow several non-exclusive ecological interpretations, among which we favour intraspecific display or combat. This behaviour was an alternative to the head-butting practised by the contemporary dinocephalians. Combat specializations that are considered typical of Cenozoic herbivores likely evolved during the Middle Permian, at the time the first communities with diverse, abundant tetrapod herbivores were being assembled.
A two-phase flow model for three-dimensional breaking waves over complex topography
Authors: Xie Zhihua
Published: July 2015

A two-phase flow model has been developed to study three-dimensional breaking waves over complex topography, including the wave pre-breaking, overturning and post-breaking processes. The large-eddy simulation approach has been adopted in this study, where the model is based on the filtered Navier–Stokes equations with the Smagorinsky sub-grid model being used for the unresolved scales of turbulence. The governing equations have been discretized using the finite volume method, with the PISO algorithm being employed for the pressure–velocity coupling. The air–water interface has been captured using a volume of fluid method and the partial cell treatment has been implemented to deal with complex topography in the Cartesian grid. The model is first validated against available analytical solutions and experimental data for solitary wave propagation over constant water depth and three-dimensional breaking waves over a plane slope, respectively. Furthermore, the model is used to study three-dimensional overturning waves over three different bed topographies, with three-dimensional wave profiles and surface velocities being presented and discussed. The overturning jet, air entrainment and splash-up during wave breaking have been captured by the two-phase flow model, which demonstrates the capability of the model to simulate free surface flow and wave breaking problems over complex topography.
Coevolution of male and female reproductive traits drive cascading reinforcement inDrosophila yakuba
Authors: Comeault Aaron A. , Venkat Aarti , Matute Daniel R.
Published: July 2015

When the ranges of two hybridizing species overlap, individuals may ‘waste’ gametes on inviable or infertile hybrids. In these cases, selection against maladaptive hybridization can lead to the evolution of enhanced reproductive isolation in a process called reinforcement. On the slopes of the African island of São Tomé,Drosophila yakubaand its endemic sister speciesD. santomeahave a well-defined hybrid zone.Drosophila yakubafemales from within this zone show increased postmating-prezygotic isolation towardsD. santomeamales when compared withD. yakubafemales from allopatric populations. To understand why reinforced gametic isolation is confined to areas of secondary contact and has not spread throughout the entireD. yakubageographic range, we studied the costs of reinforcement inD. yakubausing a combination of natural collections and experimental evolution. We found thatD. yakubamales from sympatric populations sire fewer progeny than allopatric males when mated to allopatricD. yakubafemales. Our results suggest that the correlated evolution of male and female reproductive traits in sympatricD. yakubahave associated costs (i.e., reduced male fertility) that prevent the alleles responsible for enhanced isolation from spreading outside the hybrid zone.
Joint estimation of contamination, error and demography for nuclear DNA from ancient humans
Authors: Racimo Fernando , Renaud Gabriel , Slatkin Montgomery
Published: July 2015

When sequencing an ancient DNA sample from a hominin fossil, DNA from present-day humans involved in excavation and extraction will be sequenced along with the endogenous material. This type of contamination is problematic for downstream analyses as it will introduce a bias towards the population of the contaminating individual(s). Quantifying the extent of contamination is a crucial step as it allows researchers to account for possible biases that may arise in downstream genetic analyses. Here, we present an MCMC algorithm to co-estimate the contamination rate, sequencing error rate and demographic parameters – including drift times and admixture rates – for an ancient nuclear genome obtained from human remains, when the putative contaminating DNA comes from present-day humans. We assume we have a large panel representing the putative contaminant population (e.g. European, East Asian or African). The method is implemented in a C++ program called ’Demographic Inference with Contamination and Error’ (DICE). We applied it to simulations and genome data from ancient Neanderthals and modern humans. With reasonable levels of genome sequence coverage (> 3X), we find we can recover accurate estimates of all these parameters, even when the contamination rate is as high as 50%.
EC-PSI: Associating Enzyme Commission Numbers with Pfam Domains
Authors: Alborzi Seyed Ziaeddin , Devignes Marie-Dominique , Ritchie David W.
Published: July 2015

With the growing number of protein structures in the protein data bank (PDB), there is a need to annotate these structures at the domain level in order to relate protein structure to protein function. Thanks to the SIFTS database, many PDB chains are now cross-referenced with Pfam domains and enzyme commission (EC) numbers. However, these annotations do not include any explicit relationship between individual Pfam domains and EC numbers. This article presents a novel statistical training-based method called EC-PSI that can automatically infer high confidence associations between EC numbers and Pfam domains directly from EC-chain associations from SIFTS and from EC-sequence associations from the SwissProt, and TrEMBL databases. By collecting and integrating these existing EC-chain/sequence annotations, our approach is able to infer a total of 8,329 direct EC-Pfam associations with an overall F-measure of 0.819 with respect to the manually curated InterPro database, which we treat here as a “gold standard” reference dataset. Thus, compared to the 1,493 EC-Pfam associations in InterPro, our approach provides a way to find over six times as many high quality EC-Pfam associations completely automatically.
Prediction of torsional buckling behaviour of single-walled SiC nanotubes based on molecular mechanics
Authors: Ansari Reza , Mirnezhad Mahdi , Rouhi Hessam , Bazdid-Vahdati Majid
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– Based on the molecular mechanics approach, the purpose of this paper is to analytically investigate the torsional buckling behavior of single-walled silicon carbide nanotubes (SiCNTs) with different values of diameter and chiral angles.

Design/methodology/approach

– To this end, the mechanical properties and atomic structure of a silicon carbide (SiC) sheet are evaluated based on the density functional theory (DFT) within the framework of the generalized gradient approximation. After that force constants of the total potential energy are theoretically obtained through establishing a linkage between the viewpoints of the quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics. Explicit expressions are presented to obtain the critical buckling shear strain corresponding to different types of chirality. The present model is capable to calculate the torsional buckling behavior of SiCNTs related to various chiral angles. The critical buckling shear strain is obtained for various types of chirality and compared with each other.

Findings

– It is concluded that for all diameters, zigzag nanotubes are more stable than armchair ones. Besides it is found that the minimum critical buckling shear strain is for nanotubes with (n, n/2) chiral vector.

Originality/value

– Investigating the torsional buckling behavior of single-walled SiCNTs with different values of diameter and chiral angle. Obtaining the mechanical properties and atomic structure of the SiC sheet based on the DFT calculations. Establishing a linkage between the molecular mechanics and quantum mechanics and obtaining the force constants of the molecular mechanics. Presenting the closed-form expression to calculate the critical buckling shear strain of single-walled SiCNTs corresponding to various types of chirality.
The golden target: analyzing the tracking performance of leveraged gold ETFs
Authors: Leung Tim , Ward Brian
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to understand the tracking errors of leveraged exchange-traded funds (LETFs) on gold and demonstrate improved tracking performance by dynamic portfolios of gold futures.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author formulates and solves a constrained quadratic minimization problem to construct static replicating portfolios of both leveraged and unleveraged benchmarks in gold; a dynamic constant leveraged portfolio using gold futures is used to track the path of the leveraged gold benchmark.

Findings

– The results suggest that market-traded LETFs do not track a leveraged position in gold effectively over a long horizon, and the dynamic leveraged futures portfolio achieves lower tracking errors over multiple years.

Research limitations/implications

– The research informs us that investors should consider alternative portfolios with gold futures, rather than holding a leveraged gold exchange-traded funds to achieve a desired leveraged exposure in spot gold.

Originality/value

– The main contribution of the study is the use of gold futures to dynamically replicate a gold benchmark with any given leverage ratio and the detailed comparison of the tracking performance of LETFs versus optimal static and dynamic futures portfolios.
Oral health‐related knowledge, attitudes and self‐efficacy of Australian rural older adults
Authors: Mariño Rodrigo , Hopcraft Matthew , Ghanim Aghareed , Tham Rachel , Khew Chee‐Wah , Stevenson Christine
Published: July 2015

Objective

A cross‐sectional study was conducted involving older adults from social clubs within a regional local government area in the state of Victoria, Australia, to identify factors associated with knowledge, and attitudes about oral health, as well as perceived self‐efficacy.

Methods

Participants underwent an oral health interview, followed by a comprehensive oral clinical examination.

Results

A total of 225 older adults participated in this study. The mean age was 70.7 (range: 55–96) years. The majority was females (62.0%) and had incomplete secondary education or less (56.1%); 34.2% were fully edentulous. The mean oral health knowledge score was 24.7 (SD 3.8). None of the socio‐demographic and oral health variables yielded a significant effect on the knowledge score. The attitude score had a mean of 5.0 (SD 1.6). Four variables remained significant in the multivariate analysis [p < 0.0001]. A dentate female, with tertiary education, had better oral health attitudes. Higher oral health knowledge scores were associated with a better attitude. The overall self‐efficacy mean value was 83.1% (SD 10.6). Dental visits and oral health knowledge remained significant in the attitudes multivariate analysis [p < 0.01].

Conclusion

Findings indicate that there were some misconceptions in oral health among this group of older adults. These are important influences on the success/failure of an oral health programme. Oral health education is needed to increase older adults' oral health knowledge, in particular of oral cancer, and to some extent periodontal disease, and improves attitudes and oral health self‐efficacy. Oral health knowledge, attitudes and self‐efficacy were minimally explained by socio‐demographic and clinical variables.
Participation in online continuing education
Authors: Farrell Barbara , Ward Natalie , Jennings Brad , Jones Caitlin , Jorgenson Derek , Gubbels-Smith Ashley , Dolovich Lisa , Kennie Natalie
Published: July 2015

Objectives

The ADAPT (ADapting pharmacists' skills and Approaches to maximize Patients' drug Therapy effectiveness) e-learning programme requires weekly participation in module activities and facilitated discussion to support skill uptake. In this study, we sought to describe the extent and pattern of, satisfaction with and factors affecting participation in the initial programme offering and reasons for withdrawal.

Methods

Mixed methods – convergent parallel approach. Participation was examined in qualitative data from discussion boards, assignments and action plans. Learner estimations of time commitment and action plan submission rates were calculated. Surveys (Likert scale and open-ended questions) included mid-point and final, exit and participation surveys.

Key findings

Eleven of 86 learners withdrew, most due to time constraints (eight completed an exit survey; seven said they would take ADAPT again). Thirty-five of 75 remaining learners completed a participation survey. Although 50–60% of the remaining 75 learners actively continued participating, only 15/35 respondents felt satisfied with their own participation. Learners spent 3–5 h/week (average) on module activities. Factors challenging participation included difficulty with technology, managing time and group work. Factors facilitating participation included willingness to learn (content of high interest) and supportive work environment. Being informed of programme time scheduling in advance was identified as a way to enhance participation.

Conclusions

This study determined extent of learner participation in an online pharmacist continuing education programme and identified factors influencing participation. Interactions between learners and the online interface, content and with other learners are important considerations for designing online education programmes. Recommendations for programme changes were incorporated following this evaluation to facilitate participation.
Environmental conditions in favour of a hantavirus outbreak in 2015 in Germany?
Authors: Reil D. , Imholt C. , Drewes S. , Ulrich R. G. , Eccard J. A. , Jacob J.
Published: July 2015

Bank voles can harbour Puumala virus (PUUV) and vole populations usually peak in years after beech mast. A beech mast occurred in 2014 and a predictive model indicates high vole abundance in 2015. This pattern is similar to the years 2009/2011 when beech mast occurred, bank voles multiplied and human PUUV infections increased a year later. Given similar environmental conditions in 2014/2015, increased risk of human PUUV infections in 2015 is likely. Risk management measures are recommended.
Water Droplet With Carbon Particles Moving Through High-Temperature Gases
Authors: Volkov Roman S. , Piskunov Maxim V. , Kuznetsov Genii V. , Strizhak Pavel A.
Published: July 2015

An experimental investigation was carried out on the influence of solid inclusions (nonmetallic particles with sizes from a few tens to hundreds of micrometers) on water droplet evaporation during motion through high-temperature gases (more than 1000 K). Optical methods for diagnostics of two-phase (gas and vapor–liquid) flows (particle image velocimetry (PIV) and interferometric particle imaging (IPI)) were used. It was established that introducing foreign solid particles into the water droplets intensifies evaporation rate in high-temperature gas severalfold. Dependence of liquid evaporation on sizes and concentration of solid inclusion were obtained.