bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Ankle Arthroplasty for the Treatment of Symptomatic Nonunion Following Tibiotalar Fusion
Authors: Huntington William P. , Davis W. Hodges , Anderson Robert
Published: April 2016

Background. Nonunion of an ankle arthrodesis is associated with significant pain and morbidity. Revision arthrodesis presents greater short-term morbidity and long-term sequelae. 1-6 Recent reports have demonstrated the feasibility of converting a symptomatic nonunion of an ankle arthrodesis to a total ankle arthroplasty.7-9 The objective of the present study was to evaluate the short-term outcome associated with take down of symptomatic nonunions of ankle arthrodeses and conversion to a fixed bearing, intramedullary total ankle arthroplasty. Methods. Five patients with symptomatic, aseptic tibiotalar arthrodesis nonunions (average age, 62.2 years), who underwent conversion to a total ankle arthroplasty were retrospectively identified and assessed at a prospective office visit. Minimum follow-up was 12 months (average, 21.3 months). Clinical outcomes were assessed on the basis of the American Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score10 and the Foot Function Index.11,12 Radiographic analysis, patient satisfaction and pain levels were also evaluated. Results. The average post-operative AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 82.6, while the FFI was 28.2%. The average clinical range of motion was 35 degrees. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores averaged 31.1 out of 100. Four out of the five patients were very satisfied or satisfied. Radiographically, the tibial and talar components were stable in all patients without evidence of loosening, migration, or subsidence. There were no complications requiring additional procedures. Conclusions. Patients undergoing ankle arthrodesis that is complicated by an aseptic nonunion pose a difficult clinical problem. Conversion to a total ankle arthroplasty with a fixed bearing, intramedullary implant is a viable treatment option with reliable short-term results.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case series
Thromboprophylaxis in Ambulatory Trauma Patients With Foot and Ankle Fractures
Authors: Haque Syed , Bishnoi Amit , Khairandish Hamidreza , Menon Dipen
Published: April 2016

Lower-limb immobilization has been implicated as an etiological factor for venous thromboembolic events (VTEs). However, there is no patient-centered scoring system available for risk assessment in ambulatory trauma patients with temporary lower-limb immobilization. A patient questionnaire scoring system has been developed for ambulatory patients with foot and ankle fracture being managed nonoperatively as outpatients by temporary lower-limb immobilization. Patients are classed as either high or low risk for developing a VTE and offered low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) accordingly. This is a prospective study of 150 patients with a follow-up of 6 months. Only 3 patients developed VTEs: one was noncompliant with medicine, one was started on LMWH 2 days after getting a plaster cast, and the third was not started on LMWH in spite of family history of VTEs. This study showed that using this scoring system, LMWH can be used safely and effectively as a thromboprophylactic agent for ambulatory trauma patients requiring temporary lower-limb immobilization to manage foot and ankle fractures. It is a step toward developing a validated clinical prediction score to enable risk assessment in ambulatory trauma patients who are managed non-operatively with temporary lower limb immobilization.

Levels of Evidence: Prognostic, Level IV: Case series
Bulky accessory brachialis muscle with abnormal aponeurosis: A case report
Authors: Nelluri Venumadhav , Swamy Ravindra Shantakumar , Nayak Satheesha Badagabettu , Kumar Naveen , Patil Jyothsna
Published: April 2016

The brachialis muscle is one of the chief flexors of the upper arm, and its variation can affect the movements of the elbow joint. This case report presents a rare case of a large accessory brachialis muscle in the right arm that comes with an abnormal aponeurosis. The aponeurosis from the distal part of the aberrant muscle arches over the radial artery and is attached to the deep fascia of the right forearm. While rare, the presence of an accessory brachialis muscle coupled with the unusual aponeurosis can lead to compression of the radial artery, causing radial artery entrapment syndrome and creating potential difficulties in the catheterisation of the radial artery.
Commitment and probation work in England and Wales
Authors: Collins Stewart
Published: April 2016

Commitment is defined and distinguished from motivation and job satisfaction. Commitment is significant because it involves strong attachments and ties to working in probation. Clear benefits for workers and service users develop from commitment to probation work, associated with values, focus, effort, productivity, consistency, high retention and low turn-over rates. Professional and organizational, affective and continuance commitment are defined and considered in relation to probation work. The implications of commitment for the Transforming Rehabilitation agenda are discussed. Variables are explored such as experience, gender and location; also the role of participation and resistance. Finally, some ways to develop enhanced commitment to probation organizations are examined.
Customer Satisfaction of Power Distribution Companies
Authors: Kurtkoti Ashok Shripadrao
Published: April 2016

Electricity is one of the basic needs apart from food, clothing, and housing. Coverage, continuity, and sustainability are three dimensions of supply that need to be focused by distribution companies. It was observed that distribution companies like Scottish Power in UK, Vattenfall in Europe, and Tata Power in India have undertaken serious steps in improving customer satisfaction. This article compares efforts put by power utility companies in developed and underdeveloped countries, and highlights future needs and challenges faced with solutions for power sector in India.
A De Novo Mutation in MTND6 Causes Generalized Dystonia in 2 Unrelated Children
Authors: Kurt Yasemin Gulcan , Çoku Jorida , Akman H. Orhan , Naini Ali , Lu Jesheng , Engelstad Kristin , Hirano Michio , De Vivo Darryl C. , DiMauro Salvatore
Published: April 2016

Dystonia is often associated with the symmetrical basal ganglia lesions of Leigh syndrome. However, it has also been associated with mitochondrial ND mutations, with or without Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. The m.14459G>A mutation in ND6 causes dystonia with or without familial Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. We report heteroplasmic 14459G>A mutations in 2 unrelated children with nonmaternally inherited generalized dystonia and showing bilateral magnetic resonance imaging lesions in nucleus pallidus and putamen. Both children have reached their teenage years, and they are intellectually active, despite their motor problems.
Chromosome 12p Deletion Spanning the GRIN2B Gene Presenting With a Neurodevelopmental Phenotype
Authors: Mishra Navin , Kouzmitcheva Elizabeth , Orsino Angela , Minassian Berge A.
Published: April 2016

The GRIN2B (glutamate receptor, ionotropic, N-methyl-d-aspartate 2B) gene, located in the short arm of chromosome 12, encoding the NR2B subunit of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, has recently been recognized to play an important role in corticogenesis and brain plasticity. Deletions in the short arm of chromosome 12 are rare. Hemizygous loss of function of the GRIN2B gene results in developmental delay, whereas gain of function leads to epilepsy, and infantile spasms in particular. In addition, GRIN2B variants have been associated with autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Here the authors report a child with global developmental delay, autistic behavioural features, central hypotonia, dysmorphic features and isolated congenital anomalies of the fingers and toes, and a de novo heterozygous deletion in chromosome locus 12p13.2-p13.1, involving loss of several genes, including GRIN2B. This report and our review of the literature help clarify the distinct phenotypes associated with loss or gain of GRIN2B function.
MECP2 Duplications in Symptomatic Females
Authors: San Antonio-Arce Victoria , Fenollar-Cortés María , Oancea Ionescu Raluca , DeSantos-Moreno Teresa , Gallego-Merlo Jesús , Illana Cámara Francisco José , Cotarelo Pérez María Carmen
Published: April 2016

Xq28 microduplications including the MECP2 gene constitute a 100% penetrant X-linked syndrome in males caused by overexpression of normal MeCP2 protein. A small number of cases of affected females have been reported. This can be due to the location of the duplicated material into an autosome, but it can also be due to the location of the duplicated material into one of the X chromosomes and random or unfavorable skewed X chromosome inactivation, which is much more likely to occur but may be underdiagnosed because of the resulting broad phenotypic spectrum. In order to contribute to the phenotypic delineation of Xq28 microduplications including MECP2 in symptomatic females, the authors present clinical and molecular data on 3 patients illustrating the broad phenotypic spectrum. Our finding underlines the importance of quantitative analysis of MECP2 in females with intellectual disability and raises the question of the indication in females with borderline intellectual performances or learning difficulties.
Encephalopathy and Axonal Neuropathy Associated With Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection
Authors: Saker Ali , Athman Stephanie , Aldosari Mohammed , Frayha Husn
Published: April 2016

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection frequently presents as a self-limited process, however, severe cases and even fatalities have been reported. The authors present a case of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection associated with both encephalopathy and peripheral neuropathy that responded to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of Mycoplasma pneumoniae related to encephalitis and peripheral axonal neuropathy. To date, there is insufficient data on the effect of intravenous immunoglobulin on the course of mycoplasma-associated central nervous system/peripheral nervous system disease. While intravenous immunoglobulin has aided in a variety of autoimmune-mediated disorders, its efficacy in mycoplasma-mediated encephalitis treatment remains unclear. In this patient case, reversal of both central and peripheral nervous system symptoms after treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin suggested a possible therapeutic benefit.
Assessing Competitiveness in Emerging Asian Economies: Role of Governance and Infrastructure and Lessons for India
Authors: Mishra Aswini Kumar , Rao Ganesh , Monga Aashima , Vishwanath Bhargav
Published: April 2016

Many emerging Asian economies have developed great global competitiveness in the past two decades and play a crucial role in the world economy. This article uses a novel approach to assess the competitiveness of a nation based on factors such as governance, infrastructure and innovation along with labor and capital endowments. Based on the IMF’s classification of 11 emerging Asian economies, panel data analysis is conducted for the period 1996–2011 to identify important determinants of Outward FDI flows and Export of goods and services. The results are quite robust and offer valuable economic insights for policymakers and particularly in the context of India, there are several challenges in these two fronts—governance and infrastructure bottlenecks—that need to be overcome if it is to truly establish itself as a global manufacturing destination.
The Nature of Collaboration in Music Education
Authors: Apfelstadt Hilary
Published: April 2016

Educational partnerships in music education may take many forms. As the boundaries of music education expand, so partnerships may be extended to early childhood music programs in daycares and nursery schools, to intergenerational exchanges between elementary school students and geriatric patients, to internships in church music and music industry. Collaborative efforts may involve one methods class and its practicum, or an entire school system and a university music department. Whatever form or scope they take, educational partnerships must maintain the essential principles of collaboration: mutual involvement and commitment, shared goals, continuous communication, and realization of joint benefits. Partnerships between universities and schools are essential if we are to narrow the gap between theory and practice in teaching and prepare future educators adequately. The schools themselves will benefit immediately due to the infusion of ideas from the universities, and in the future, from access to a cadre of better-equipped teachers.
The systems biology format converter
Authors: Rodriguez Nicolas , Pettit Jean-Baptiste , Dalle Pezze Piero , Li Lu , Henry Arnaud , van Iersel Martijn P. , Jalowicki Gael , Kutmon Martina , Natarajan Kedar N. , Tolnay David , Stefan Melanie I. , Evelo Chris T. , Le Novère Nicolas
Published: April 2016

Background

Interoperability between formats is a recurring problem in systems biology research. Many tools have been developed to convert computational models from one format to another. However, they have been developed independently, resulting in redundancy of efforts and lack of synergy.

Results

Here we present the System Biology Format Converter (SBFC), which provide a generic framework to potentially convert any format into another. The framework currently includes several converters translating between the following formats: SBML, BioPAX, SBGN-ML, Matlab, Octave, XPP, GPML, Dot, MDL and APM. This software is written in Java and can be used as a standalone executable or web service.

Conclusions

The SBFC framework is an evolving software project. Existing converters can be used and improved, and new converters can be easily added, making SBFC useful to both modellers and developers. The source code and documentation of the framework are freely available from the project web site.
The surgical plane for lingual tonsillectomy: An anatomic study
Authors: Son Eugene L. , Underbrink Michael P. , Qiu Suimin , Resto Vicente A.
Published: April 2016

Background

The presence of a plane between the lingual tonsils and the underlying soft tissue has not been confirmed. The objective of this study is to ascertain the presence and the characteristics about this plane for surgical use.

Methods

Five cadaver heads were obtained for dissection of the lingual tonsils. Six permanent sections of previous tongue base biopsies were reviewed. Robot assisted lingual tonsillectomy was performed using the dissection technique from the cadaver dissection.

Results

In each of the 5 cadavers, an avascular plane was revealed deep to the lingual tonsils. Microscopic review of the tongue base biopsies revealed a clear demarcation between the lingual tonsils and the underlying minor salivary glands and muscle tissue. This area was relatively avascular. Using the technique described above, a lingual tonsillectomy using TORS was performed with similar findings from the cadaver dissections.

Conclusions

A surgical plane for lingual tonsillectomy exists and may prove to have a role with lingual tonsillectomy with TORS.
Absolute Benefit of Adjuvant Endocrine Therapies for Premenopausal Women With Hormone Receptor–Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2–Negative Early Breast Cancer: TEXT and SOFT Trials
Authors: Regan Meredith M. , Francis Prudence A. , Pagani Olivia , Fleming Gini F. , Walley Barbara A. , Viale Giuseppe , Colleoni Marco , Láng István , Gómez Henry L. , Tondini Carlo , Pinotti Graziella , Price Karen N. , Coates Alan S. , Goldhirsch Aron , Gelber Richard D.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Risk of recurrence is the primary consideration in breast cancer adjuvant therapy recommendations. The TEXT (Tamoxifen and Exemestane Trial) and SOFT (Suppression of Ovarian Function Trial) trials investigated adjuvant endocrine therapies for premenopausal women with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer, testing exemestane plus ovarian function suppression (OFS), tamoxifen plus OFS, and tamoxifen alone. We examined absolute treatment effect across a continuum of recurrence risk to individualize endocrine therapy decision making for premenopausal women with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) –negative disease.

Patients and Methods

The TEXT and SOFT hormone receptor–positive, HER2-negative analysis population included 4,891 women. The end point was breast cancer–free interval (BCFI), defined as time from random assignment to first occurrence of invasive locoregional, distant, or contralateral breast cancer. A continuous, composite measure of recurrence risk for each patient was determined from a Cox model incorporating age, nodal status, tumor size and grade, and estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and Ki-67 expression levels. Subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot methodology revealed differential treatment effects on 5-year BCFI according to composite risk.

Results

SOFT patients who remained premenopausal after chemotherapy experienced absolute improvement of 5% or more in 5-year BCFI with exemestane plus OFS versus tamoxifen plus OFS or tamoxifen alone, reaching 10% to 15% at intermediate to high composite risk; the benefit of tamoxifen plus OFS versus tamoxifen alone was apparent at the highest composite risk. The SOFT no-chemotherapy cohort—for whom composite risk was lowest on average—did well with all endocrine therapies. For TEXT patients, the benefit of exemestane plus OFS versus tamoxifen plus OFS in 5-year BCFI ranged from 5% to 15%; patients not receiving chemotherapy and with lowest composite risk did well with both treatments.

Conclusion

Premenopausal women with hormone receptor–positive, HER2-negative disease and high recurrence risk, as defined by clinicopathologic characteristics, may experience improvement of 10% to 15% in 5-year BCFI with exemestane plus OFS versus tamoxifen alone. An improvement of at least 5% may be achieved for women at intermediate risk, and improvement is minimal for those at lowest risk.
Phase I Study of LY2606368, a Checkpoint Kinase 1 Inhibitor, in Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Hong David , Infante Jeffrey , Janku Filip , Jones Suzanne , Nguyen Ly M. , Burris Howard A. , Naing Aung , Bauer Todd M. , Piha-Paul Sarina , Johnson Faye M. , Kurzrock Razelle , Golden Lisa , Hynes Scott , Lin Ji , Lin Aimee Bence , Bendell Johanna
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The primary objective was to determine safety, toxicity, and a recommended phase II dose regimen of LY2606368, an inhibitor of checkpoint kinase 1, as monotherapy.

Patients and Methods

This phase I, nonrandomized, open-label, dose-escalation trial used a 3 + 3 dose-escalation scheme and included patients with advanced solid tumors. Intravenous LY2606368 was dose escalated from 10 to 50 mg/m2 on schedule 1 (days 1 to 3 every 14 days) or from 40 to 130 mg/m2 on schedule 2 (day 1 every 14 days). Safety measures and pharmacokinetics were assessed, and pharmacodynamics were measured in blood, hair follicles, and circulating tumor cells.

Results

Forty-five patients were treated; seven experienced dose-limiting toxicities (all hematologic). The maximum-tolerated doses (MTDs) were 40 mg/m2 (schedule 1) and 105 mg/m2 (schedule 2). The most common related grade 3 or 4 treatment-emergent adverse events were neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and fatigue. Grade 4 neutropenia occurred in 73.3% of patients and was transient (typically < 5 days). Febrile neutropenia incidence was low (7%). The LY2606368 exposure over the first 72 hours (area under the curve from 0 to 72 hours) at the MTD for each schedule coincided with the exposure in mouse xenografts that resulted in maximal tumor responses. Minor intra- and intercycle accumulation of LY2606368 was observed at the MTDs for both schedules. Two patients (4.4%) had a partial response; one had squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the anus and one had SCC of the head and neck. Fifteen patients (33.3%) had a best overall response of stable disease (range, 1.2 to 6.7 months), six of whom had SCC.

Conclusion

An LY2606368 dose of 105 mg/m2 once every 14 days is being evaluated as the recommended phase II dose in dose-expansion cohorts for patients with SCC.
Afatinib Activity in Platinum-Refractory Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma in Patients With ERBB Alterations
Authors: Choudhury Noura J. , Campanile Alexa , Antic Tatjana , Yap Kai Lee , Fitzpatrick Carrie A. , Wade James L. , Karrison Theodore , Stadler Walter M. , Nakamura Yusuke , O’Donnell Peter H.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Somatic mutations and copy number variation in the ERBB family are frequent in urothelial carcinoma (UC) and may represent viable therapeutic targets. We studied whether afatinib (an oral, irreversible inhibitor of the ErbB family) has activity in UC and if specific ERBB molecular alterations are associated with clinical response.

Patients and Methods

In this phase II trial, patients with metastatic platinum-refractory UC received afatinib 40 mg/day continuously until progression or intolerance. The primary end point was 3-month progression-free survival (PFS3). Prespecified tumor analysis for alterations in EGFR, HER2, ERBB3, and ERBB4 was conducted.

Results

The first-stage enrollment goal of 23 patients was met. Patient demographic data included: 78% male, median age 67 years (range, 36 to 82 years), hemoglobin < 10 g/dL in 17%, liver metastases in 30%, median time from prior chemotherapy of 3.6 months, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≤ 1 in 100%. No unexpected toxicities were observed; two patients required dose reduction for grade 3 fatigue and rash. Overall, five of 23 patients (21.7%) met PFS3 (two partial response, three stable disease). Notably, among the 21 tumors analyzed, five of six patients (83.3%) with HER2 and/or ERBB3 alterations achieved PFS3 (PFS = 10.3, 7.0, 6.9, 6.3, and 5.0 months, respectively) versus none of 15 patients without alterations ( P < .001). Three of four patients with HER2 amplification and three of three patients with ERBB3 somatic mutations (G284R, V104M, and R103G) met PFS3. One patient with both HER2 amplification and ERBB3 mutation never progressed on therapy, but treatment was discontinued after 10.3 months as a result of depressed ejection fraction. The median time to progression/discontinuation was 6.6 months in patients with HER2/ERBB3 alterations versus 1.4 months in patients without alterations ( P < .001).

Conclusion

Afatinib demonstrated significant activity in patients with platinum-refractory UC with HER2 or ERBB3 alterations. The potential contribution of ERBB3 to afatinib sensitivity is novel. Afatinib deserves further investigation in molecularly selected UC.
Lineage specification in the mouse preimplantation embryo
Authors: Chazaud Claire , Yamanaka Yojiro
Published: April 2016

During mouse preimplantation embryo development, totipotent blastomeres generate the first three cell lineages of the embryo: trophectoderm, epiblast and primitive endoderm. In recent years, studies have shown that this process appears to be regulated by differences in cell-cell interactions, gene expression and the microenvironment of individual cells, rather than the active partitioning of maternal determinants. Precisely how these differences first emerge and how they dictate subsequent molecular and cellular behaviours are key questions in the field. As we review here, recent advances in live imaging, computational modelling and single-cell transcriptome analyses are providing new insights into these questions.
Stars from the darkest night: unlocking the neurogenic potential of astrocytes in different brain regions
Authors: Magnusson Jens P. , Frisén Jonas
Published: April 2016

In a few regions of the adult brain, specialized astrocytes act as neural stem cells capable of sustaining life-long neurogenesis. In other, typically non-neurogenic regions, some astrocytes have an intrinsic capacity to produce neurons when provoked by particular conditions but do not use this ability to replace neurons completely after injury or disease. Why do astrocytes display regional differences and why do they not use their neurogenic capacity for brain repair to a greater extent? In this Review, we discuss the neurogenic potential of astrocytes in different brain regions and ask what stimulates this potential in some regions but not in others. We discuss the transcriptional networks and environmental cues that govern cell identity, and consider how the activation of neurogenic properties in astrocytes can be understood as the de-repression of a latent neurogenic transcriptional program.
Mapping growth-factor-modulated Akt signaling dynamics
Authors: Gross Sean M. , Rotwein Peter
Published: April 2016

Growth factors alter cellular behavior through shared signaling cascades, raising the question of how specificity is achieved. Here, we have determined how growth factor actions are encoded into Akt signaling dynamics by real-time tracking of a fluorescent sensor. In individual cells, Akt activity was encoded in an analog pattern, with similar latencies (∼2 min) and half-maximal peak response times (range of 5–8 min). Yet, different growth factors promoted dose-dependent and heterogeneous changes in signaling dynamics. Insulin treatment caused sustained Akt activity, whereas EGF or PDGF-AA promoted transient signaling; PDGF-BB produced sustained responses at higher concentrations, but short-term effects at low doses, actions that were independent of the PDGF-α receptor. Transient responses to EGF were caused by negative feedback at the receptor level, as a second treatment yielded minimal responses, whereas parallel exposure to IGF-I caused full Akt activation. Small-molecule inhibitors reduced PDGF-BB signaling to transient responses, but only decreased the magnitude of IGF-I actions. Our observations reveal distinctions among growth factors that use shared components, and allow us to capture the consequences of receptor-specific regulatory mechanisms on Akt signaling.
Odor induced cAMP production in Drosophila melanogaster olfactory sensory neurons
Authors: Miazzi Fabio , Hansson Bill S. , Wicher Dieter
Published: April 2016

Insect odorant receptors are seven transmembrane domain proteins that form cation channels, whose functional properties such as the receptor sensitivity are subject of regulation by intracellular signaling cascades. Here we used the cAMP fluorescent indicator Epac1-camps to investigate the presence of an odor-induced cAMP production in olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) of Drosophila melanogaster. We show that stimulation of the receptor complex with an odor mixture or with the synthetic agonist VUAA1 induces a cAMP response. Moreover, we show that while the intracellular Ca2+ concentration influences the cAMP production, an OSN-specific receptor OrX is necessary to elicit cAMP responses in Ca2+-free conditions. These results provide direct evidence of a relationship between odorant receptor stimulation and cAMP production in olfactory sensory neurons in the fly antenna and show that this method can be used to further investigate the role that this second messenger plays in insect olfaction.
Programming of the hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal axis by maternal social status in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Jeffrey J. D. , Gilmour K. M.
Published: April 2016

The present study examined the effects of maternal social status, with subordinate status being a chronic stressor, on development and activity of the stress axis in zebrafish embryos and larvae. Female zebrafish were confined in pairs for 48 h to establish dominant/subordinate hierarchies; their offspring were reared to 144 hours post-fertilization (hpf) and sampled at five time points over development. No differences were detected in maternal cortisol contribution, which is thought to be an important programmer of offspring phenotype. However, once zebrafish offspring began to synthesize cortisol de novo (48 hpf), larvae of dominant females exhibited significantly lower baseline cortisol levels than offspring of subordinate females. These lower cortisol levels may reflect reduced hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal (HPI) axis activity, because corticotropin-releasing factor (crf) and cytochrome p450 side chain cleavage enzyme (p450scc) mRNA levels also were lower in larvae from dominant females. Moreover, baseline mRNA levels of HPI axis genes continued to be affected by maternal social status beyond 48 hpf. At 144 hpf, stress-induced cortisol levels were significantly lower in offspring of subordinate females. These results suggest programming of stress axis function in zebrafish offspring by maternal social status, emphasizing the importance of maternal environment and experience on offspring stress axis activity.
Modelling fish colour constancy, and the implications for vision and signalling in water
Authors: Wilkins Lucas , Marshall N. Justin , Johnsen Sönke , Osorio D.
Published: April 2016

Colour vision and colour signals are important to aquatic animals, but light scattering and absorption by water distorts spectral stimuli. To investigate the performance of colour vision in water, and to suggest how photoreceptor spectral sensitivities and body colours might evolve for visual communication, we model the effects of changes in viewing distance and depth on the appearance of fish colours for three teleosts: a barracuda, Syphraena helleri, which is dichromatic, and two damselfishes, Chromis verater and C. hanui, which are trichromatic. We assume that photoreceptors light-adapt to the background, thereby implementing the von Kries transformation, which can largely account for colour constancy in humans and other animals, including fish. This transformation does not however compensate for light scattering over variable viewing distances, which in less than a metre seriously impairs dichromatic colour vision, and makes judgement of colour saturation unreliable for trichromats. The von Kries transformation does substantially offset colour shifts caused by changing depth, so that from depths of 0 to 30m modelled colour changes (i.e. failures of colour constancy) are sometimes negligible. However, the magnitudes and directions of remaining changes are complex, depending upon the specific spectral sensitivities of the receptors and the reflectance spectra. This predicts that when judgement of colour is important, the spectra of signalling colours and photoreceptor spectral sensitivities should be evolutionarily linked, with the colours dependent on photoreceptor spectral sensitivities, and vice versa.
Echo-acoustic flow affects flight in bats
Authors: Kugler Kathrin , Greiter Wolfgang , Luksch Harald , Firzlaff Uwe , Wiegrebe Lutz
Published: April 2016

Flying animals need to react fast to rapid changes in their environment. Visually guided animals use optic flow, generated by their movement through structured environments. Nocturnal bats cannot make use of optic flow, but rely mostly on echolocation. Here we show that bats exploit echo-acoustic flow to negotiate flight through narrow passages. Specifically, bats' flight between lateral structures is significantly affected by the echo-acoustic salience of those structures, independent of their physical distance. This is true although echolocation, unlike vision, provides explicit distance cues. Moreover, the bats reduced the echolocation sound levels in stronger flow, likely to compensate for the increased summary target strength of the lateral reflectors. However, bats did not reduce flight velocity under stronger echo-acoustic flow. Our results demonstrate that sensory flow is a ubiquitous principle for flight guidance, independent of the fundamentally different peripheral representation of flow across the senses of vision and echolocation.
Detecting variable responses within fMRI time-series of volumes-of-interest using repeated measures ANOVA
Authors: Macey Paul M. , Schluter Philip J. , Macey Katherine E. , Harper Ronald M.
Published: April 2016

We present an approach to analyzing fMRI timetrends from volumes-of-interest (VOI) within and between subject groups using repeated measures analysis of variance (RMANOVA), which allows temporal patterns to be examined without an a priori model of expected timing or pattern of response. The method serves as a complement to whole-brain voxel-based analyses, and is useful for detecting complex responses within pre-determined brain regions, or as a post-hoc analysis of regions of interest identified by whole-brain assessments. We illustrate an implementation of the technique in the statistical software package SAS. VOI timetrends are extracted from conventionally preprocessed fMRI images. A timetrend of average signal intensity across the VOI during the scanning period is calculated for each subject. The values are scaled relative to baseline periods, imported into SAS, and the procedure PROC MIXED implements the RMANOVA. The ensuing results allow determination of significant overall effects, and time-point specific within- and between-group responses relative to baseline. We illustrate the technique using fMRI data from two groups of subjects who underwent a respiratory challenge. RMANOVA allows insight into the timing of responses and response differences between groups, and so is suited to fMRI paradigms eliciting complex response patterns.
ADVANCE OF AN ECONOMIC SYSTEM DEPENDING ON THE CHARACTER OF A REGIONAL TRANSPORT SPACE (NORTH-WESTERN MACROREGION EXAMPLE)
Authors: Рослякова Наталья , Roslyakova Natalya
Published: April 2016

The article examines the main types of elements on which transport system can be organized. The author analyses how different elements which determines the nature of the transport system, the degree, the direction of influence on the regional economy.

On the example of the Northwestern Federal District the author identifies different types of transport system elements and examines their impact on the regional economy.
ECONOMETRIC MODELLING OF THE PASSENGER THROUGHPUT OF RUSSIAN CIVIL AVIATION
Authors: Горидько Нина , Goridko Nina , Соломина Татьяна , Solomina Tatyana
Published: April 2016

The article is devoted to dynamics analysis and regression

modelling of the civil aviation passenger throughput. There has

been analyzed a relation between the passenger throughput and

two independent variables: average income per capita and cost of

economy class cabin flight per 1000 km. The authors drew substantial

conclusions on the character of the relation between the dependent

and explanatory variables, dynamics of air-passenger operations

as well as the factors affecting the passenger throughput

value. Based on constructed regression models a short-term forecast

of explanatory variables and passenger throughput value has

been made.
Simple cut elimination proof for hybrid logic
Authors: Indrzejczak Andrzej
Published: April 2016

In the paper we present a relatively simple proof of cut elimination theorem for variety of hybrid logics in the language with satisfaction operators and universal modality. The proof is based on the strategy introduced originally in the framework of hypersequent calculi but it works well also for standard sequent calculi. Sequent calculus examined in the paper works on so called satisfaction formulae and cover all logics adequate with respect to classes of frames defined by so called geometric conditions.
A Polyhedral Description of Kernels
Authors: Chen Qin , Chen Xujin , Zang Wenan
Published: April 2016

Let G be a digraph and let π(G) be the linear system consisting of nonnegativity, stability, and domination inequalities. We call G kernel ideal if π(H) defines an integral polytope for each induced subgraph H of G, and we call G kernel Mengerian if π(H) is totally dual integral (TDI) for each induced subgraph H of G. In this paper we show that a digraph is kernel ideal iff it is kernel Mengerian iff it contains none of three forbidden structures; our characterization yields a polynomial-time algorithm for the minimum weighted kernel problem on kernel ideal digraphs. We also prove that it is NP-hard to find a kernel of minimum size even in a planar bipartite digraph with maximum degree at most three.
Carotenoids: From Plants to Food Industry
Authors: Zakynthinos G , Varzakas T
Published: April 2016

Carotenoids have been studied for their ability to prevent chronic disease due to the free radical theory of aging in chronic disease etiology. β-carotene, lycopene, zeaxanthine and others carotenoids have antioxidant properties, but the antioxidant capability is variable depending on the in vitro system used The physiology, structure and biochemistry is well described.
Moreover, sources of carotenoids and health effects along with bioavailability-absorption and metabolism, of carotenoids are well addressed. The effect of carotenoids on biotechnology and the food industry is significantly attributed.
Finally, carotenoids as fortified substances in foods and special aspects about carotenenoids as health promoters are well presented along with a glance of carotenoids economics.
Chlorophyll Determination in Green Pepper Using two Different Extraction Methods
Authors: Manolopoulou E , Varzakas Th , Petsalaki A
Published: April 2016

The aim of this paper is the comparison of the classic Arnon method with the DMSO method regarding the determination of chlorophyll content in California Wonder peppers stored for 25 days at 5, 10 and 20°C. The results suggest that the factors affecting chlorophyll degradation are temperature and storage time, as well as their interaction. There is a linear relationship between changes in chlorophyll content and storage temperature. The statistical analysis indicates that the two chlorophyll extraction methods considerably differ, as the chlorophyll contents obtained through the Arnon method were, in all cases, lower than those obtained through DMSO. It has to be stressed that the results greatly depend on both the selected solvent and the chlorophyll extraction method.
Perceptions of people living with Parkinson's disease: a qualitative study in Iran
Authors: Soleimani Mohammad Ali , Bastani Farideh , Negarandeh Reza , Greysen Ryan
Published: April 2016

Aim:

This study explores the primary concerns and perceptions of patients living with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Method:

This was an exploratory qualitative study. A purposive sample of 17 patients with PD who were attending a hospital outpatients' neurology clinic in Iran were recruited. Study data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using the conventional qualitative content analysis approach.

Findings:

We identified the ‘fear of becoming disabled’ as a primary concern in these patients. This concern affected the physical, emotional, mental, and social aspects of their lives. The ‘fear of becoming disabled’ fell into four categories, including progressive physical disability, mental alteration, decreasing social connectedness, and self-change.

Conclusion:

The study results showed that older adults with PD face a number of challenges in self-care. In addition, the ‘fear of becoming disabled’ was the main concern of patients with PD, particularly in late stages of the disease.
Mentoring students: exploring and managing incivil behaviour in community nursing placements
Authors: Carr Jacqui , Pitt Margaret , Perrell Elizabeth , Recchia Natasha
Published: April 2016

Students who demonstrate quiet incivility can be challenging and disrupt the learning that takes place in the community setting. Recognising incivility and acting to address this behaviour with students is difficult because the behaviour is not overt or obvious to others. The most important component in attempting to manage incivility is exploring the behaviour with the student to identify the potential cause, and negotiate a strategy to improve it. It is acknowledged that the behaviour may be due to personal, academic, or professional issues. If issues are not addressed, care activity and learning are affected, and this can result in failure to achieve in practice.
Managing chronic oedema and venous disease with made-to-order garments
Authors: Todd Marie , Elwell Rebecca , Pritchard Emma
Published: April 2016

Selecting the most appropriate compression garments is vital in the long-term management of venous disease and chronic oedema. The range of styles has improved greatly over the years and many garments are available on the UK Drug Tariff. Practitioners now have a wide range of options to choose from including the type of fabric, colour, compression class, and style of garment. These options increase the pratitioner's ability to select the most suitable garments and combine clinical and aesthetic needs, with the ultimate aim of improving compliance. The focus of this article is to highlight the aims and qualities of the various types of compression garments available, discuss the rationale for prescribing choice, and describe the benefits of Haddenham's Veni made-to-order compression leg garments in the management of chronic oedema and venous disease. Three case studies will demonstrate the effectiveness of the Veni made-to-order range of compression garments.
Specialist approaches to managing lipoedema
Authors: Fetzer Amy
Published: April 2016

While there is no proven cure for lipoedema, early detection is key as specialist treatments, complemented by self-management techniques, can improve symptoms and prevent progression. There is no universal approach as the correct treatment or treatments will depend on each patient's particular circumstances; however, when chosen early and appropriately, interventions can provide huge benefits. The most common treatments in the management of lipoedema include compression, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), tumescent liposuction, intermittent pneumatic compression therapy (IPC), kinesio taping, deep oscillation therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Life through a different lens
Authors: Ellwood Fiona
Published: April 2016

Do you have a sense of being ‘stuck’, not knowing where to turn? Sometimes we just need to refocus, think outside the box or perhaps look at things through someone else's eyes…
What's in a name?
Authors: Fowler John
Published: April 2016

In the first in a new series exploring the importance and relevance of leadership, John Fowler considers leadership versus management
The bare necessities: delivering first aid in the Calais ‘Jungle’
Authors: Quaile Alistair
Published: April 2016

Since April 2015, the number of refugees and migrants living in the Calais ‘Jungle’ has increased from 1 500 to over 7 000, yet it has still not been awarded validated refugee camp status. Alistair Quaile visited the camp and talked to some of the health professionals who have volunteered to provide basic health care to its inhabitants
The spherical nucleic acids mRNA detection paradox
Authors: Mason David , Carolan Gemma , Held Marie , Comenge Joan , Cowman Sophie , Lévy Raphaël
Published: April 2016

From the 1950s onwards, our understanding of the formation and intracellular trafficking of membrane vesicles was informed by experiments in which cells were exposed to gold nanoparticles and their uptake and localisation, studied by electron microscopy. In the last decade, building on progress in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles and their controlled functionalisation with a large variety of biomolecules (DNA, peptides, polysaccharides), new applications have been proposed, including the imaging and sensing of intracellular events. Yet, as already demonstrated in the 1950s, uptake of nanoparticles results in confinement within an intracellular vesicle which in principle should preclude sensing of cytosolic events. To study this apparent paradox, we focus on a commercially available nanoparticle probe that detects mRNA through the release of a fluorescently-labelled oligonucleotide (unquenching the fluorescence) in the presence of the target mRNA. Using electron, fluorescence and photothermal microscopy, we show that the probes remain in endocytic compartments and that they do not report on mRNA level. We suggest that the validation of any nanoparticle-based probes for intracellular sensing should include a quantitative and thorough demonstration that the probes can reach the cytosolic compartment.
Retrograde Transcatheter Closure of Mitral Paravalvular Leak through a Mechanical Aortic Valve Prosthesis: 2 Successful Cases
Authors: Zhou Daxin , Pan Wenzhi , Guan Lihua , Qian Juying , Ge Junbo
Published: April 2016

The presence of a mechanical aortic valve prosthesis has been considered a contraindication to retrograde percutaneous closure of mitral paravalvular leaks, because passing a catheter through the mechanical aortic valve can affect the function of a mechanical valve and thereby lead to severe hemodynamic deterioration. We report what we believe are the first 2 cases of retrograde transcatheter closure of mitral paravalvular leaks through a mechanical aortic valve prosthesis without transseptal or transapical puncture. Our experience shows that retrograde transcatheter closure of mitral paravalvular leaks in this manner can be an optional approach for transcatheter closure of such leaks, especially when a transapical or transseptal puncture approach is not feasible. This technique might also be applied to other transcatheter procedures in which there is a need to pass a catheter through a mechanical aortic valve prosthesis.
No Electromagnetic Interference Occurred in a Patient with a HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System and a Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator
Authors: Raman Ajay Sundara , Shabari Farshad Raissi , Kar Biswajit , Loyalka Pranav , Hariharan Ramesh
Published: April 2016

The use of subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillators is a novel option for preventing arrhythmia-mediated cardiac death in patients who are at risk of endovascular-device infection or in whom venous access is difficult. However, the potential for electromagnetic interference between subcutaneous defibrillators and left ventricular assist devices is largely unknown. We report the case of a 24-year-old man in whom we observed no electromagnetic interference between a subcutaneous implanted cardioverter-defibrillator and a HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System, at 3 different pump speeds. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such findings in this circumstance.
Normal Pregnancy and Birth Despite Ruptured Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm: Another Case for the Record
Authors: Chen Xiangjuan , Yang Weiyu , Zhang Wenmiao , Zhu Haiyan
Published: April 2016

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm is a rare cardiac abnormality. Ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysms in pregnancy are of course rarer still. We present a case in which an aneurysm ruptured into the right ventricular outflow tract during pregnancy.

In 2012, a 26-year-old Chinese woman, in the 18th week of pregnancy and with no apparent evidence of cardiac problems, was diagnosed with atrioventricular septal defects and a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm that had ruptured into her right ventricular outflow tract. After an uncomplicated full-term pregnancy, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy by cesarean section. Fifty days postpartum, the patient underwent surgical repair of the ruptured aneurysm and other cardiac defects. Her surgical outcome was good. As of May 2013, the patient and her baby were healthy.

Ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm in pregnancy can be asymptomatic, and women with such a rupture can have a normal full-term pregnancy and give birth to healthy babies. Cesarean section is preferable for pregnant women with ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm because the hemodynamic changes associated with labor can aggravate the aneurysm. Surgical repair should be performed as soon as the patient's condition allows.