bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards local progression estimation of pulmonary emphysema using CT
Authors: Staring M. , Bakker M. E. , Stolk J. , Shamonin D. P. , Reiber J. H. C. , Stoel B. C.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

Whole lung densitometry on chest CT images is an accepted method for measuring tissue destruction in patients with pulmonary emphysema in clinical trials. Progression measurement is required for evaluation of change in health condition and the effect of drug treatment. Information about the location of emphysema progression within the lung may be important for the correct interpretation of drug efficacy, or for determining a treatment plan. The purpose of this study is therefore to develop and validate methods that enable the local measurement of lung density changes, which requires proper modeling of the effect of respiration on density.

Methods:

Four methods, all based on registration of baseline and follow‐up chest CT scans, are compared. The first naïve method subtracts registered images. The second employs the so‐called dry sponge model, where volume correction is performed using the determinant of the Jacobian of the transformation. The third and the fourth introduce a novel adaptation of the dry sponge model that circumvents its constant‐mass assumption, which is shown to be invalid. The latter two methods require a third CT scan at a different inspiration level to estimate the patient‐specific density‐volume slope, where one method employs a global and the other a local slope. The methods were validated on CT scans of a phantom mimicking the lung, where mass and volume could be controlled. In addition, validation was performed on data of 21 patients with pulmonary emphysema.

Results:

The image registration method was optimized leaving a registration error below half the slice increment (median 1.0 mm). The phantom study showed that the locally adapted slope model most accurately measured local progression. The systematic error in estimating progression, as measured on the phantom data, was below 2 gr/l for a 70 ml (6%) volume difference, and 5 gr/l for a 210 ml (19%) difference, if volume correction was applied. On the patient data an underlying linearity assumption relating lung volume change with density change was shown to hold (fitR2 = 0.94), and globalized versions of the local models are consistent with global results (R2 of 0.865 and 0.882 for the two adapted slope models, respectively).

Conclusions:

In conclusion, image matching and subsequent analysis of differences according to the proposed lung models (i) has good local registration accuracy on patient data, (ii) effectively eliminates a dependency on inspiration level at acquisition time, (iii) accurately predicts progression in phantom data, and (iv) is reasonably consistent with global results in patient data. It is therefore a potential future tool for assessing local emphysema progression in drug evaluation trials and in clinical practice.
Improving the energy response of external beam therapy (EBT) GafChromicTM dosimetry films at low energies (≤100 keV)
Authors: Bekerat H. , Devic S. , DeBlois F. , Singh K. , Sarfehnia A. , Seuntjens J. , Shih Shelley , Yu Xiang , Lewis D.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

Purpose of this work is to investigate the effects of varying the active layer composition of external beam therapy (EBT) GafChromicTM films on the energy dependence of the film, as well as try to develop a new prototype with more uniform energy response at low photon energies (⩽100 keV).

Methods:

First, the overall energy response (SAD, W(Q)) of different commercial EBT type film models that represent the three different generations produced to date, i.e., EBT, EBT2, and EBT3, was investigated. Pieces of each film model were irradiated to a fixed dose of 2 Gy to water for a wide range of beam qualities and the corresponding SAD, W(Q) was measured using a flatbed document scanner. Furthermore, the DOSRZnrc Monte Carlo code was used to determine the absorbed dose to water energy dependence of the film, f(Q). Moreover, the intrinsic energy dependence, kbq(Q), for each film model was evaluated using the corresponding SAD, W(Q) and f(Q). In the second part of this study, the authors investigated the effects of changing the chemical composition of the active layer on SAD, W(Q). Finally, based on these results, the film manufacturer fabricated several film prototypes and the authors evaluated their SAD, W(Q).

Results:

The commercial EBT film model shows an under response at all energies below 100 keV reaching 39% ± 4% at about 20 keV. The commercial EBT2 and EBT3 film models show an under response of about 27% ± 4% at 20 keV and an over response of about 16% ± 4% at 40 keV.SAD, W(Q) of the three commercial film models at low energies show strong correlation with the corresponding f−1(Q) curves. The commercial EBT3 model with 4% Cl in the active layer shows under response of 22% ± 4% at 20 keV and 6% ± 4% at about 40 keV. However, increasing the mass percent of chlorine makes the film more hygroscopic which may affect the stability of the filmˈs readout. The EBT3 film prototype with 7.5% Si shows a significant improvement in the energy response at very low energies compared to the commercial EBT3 films with 4% Cl. It shows under response of 15% ± 5% at about 20 keV to 2% ± 5% at about 40 keV. However, according to the manufacturer, the addition of 7.5% Si as SiO2 adversely affected the viscosity of the active fluid and therefore affected the potential use in commercial machine coating. The latest commercial EBT3 film model with 7% Al as Al2O3 shows an overall improvement in SAD, W(Q) compared to previous commercial EBT3 films. It shows under response at all energies <100 keV, varying from 20% ± 4% at 20 keV to 6% ± 4% at 40 keV.

Conclusions:

The energy response of films in the energy range <100 keV can be improved by adjusting the active layer chemical composition. Removing bromine eliminated the over response at about 40 keV. The under response at energies ≤30 keV is improved by adding 7% Al to the active layer in the latest commercial EBT3 film models.
Determination of prescription dose for Cs‐131 permanent implants using the BED formalism including resensitization correction
Authors: Luo Wei , Molloy Janelle , Aryal Prakash , Feddock Jonathan , Randall Marcus
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

The current widely used biological equivalent dose (BED) formalism for permanent implants is based on the linear‐quadratic model that includes cell repair and repopulation but not resensitization (redistribution and reoxygenation). The authors propose a BED formalism that includes all the four biological effects (4Rs), and the authors propose how it can be used to calculate appropriate prescription doses for permanent implants with Cs‐131.

Methods:

A resensitization correction was added to the BED calculation for permanent implants to account for 4Rs. Using the same BED, the prescription doses with Au‐198, I‐125, and Pd‐103 were converted to the isoeffective Cs‐131 prescription doses. The conversion factor F, ratio of the Cs‐131 dose to the equivalent dose with the other reference isotope (Fr: with resensitization, Fn: without resensitization), was thus derived and used for actual prescription. Different values of biological parameters such as α, β, and relative biological effectiveness for different types of tumors were used for the calculation.

Results:

Prescription doses with I‐125, Pd‐103, and Au‐198 ranging from 10 to 160 Gy were converted into prescription doses with Cs‐131. The difference in dose conversion factors with (Fr) and without (Fn) resensitization was significant but varied with different isotopes and different types of tumors. The conversion factors also varied with different doses. For I‐125, the average values of Fr/Fn were 0.51/0.46, for fast growing tumors, and 0.88/0.77 for slow growing tumors. For Pd‐103, the average values of Fr/Fn were 1.25/1.15 for fast growing tumors, and 1.28/1.22 for slow growing tumors. For Au‐198, the average values of Fr/Fn were 1.08/1.25 for fast growing tumors, and 1.00/1.06 for slow growing tumors. Using the biological parameters for the HeLa/C4‐I cells, the averaged value of Fr was 1.07/1.11 (rounded to 1.1), and the averaged value of Fn was 1.75/1.18. Fr of 1.1 has been applied to gynecological cancer implants with expected acute reactions and outcomes as expected based on extensive experience with permanent implants. The calculation also gave the average Cs‐131 dose of 126 Gy converted from the I‐125 dose of 144 Gy for prostate implants.

Conclusions:

Inclusion of an allowance for resensitization led to significant dose corrections for Cs‐131 permanent implants, and should be applied to prescription dose calculation. The adjustment of the Cs‐131 prescription doses with resensitization correction for gynecological permanent implants was consistent with clinical experience and observations. However, the Cs‐131 prescription doses converted from other implant doses can be further adjusted based on new experimental results, clinical observations, and clinical outcomes.
High energy x‐ray phase contrast CT using glancing‐angle grating interferometers
Authors: Sarapata A. , Stayman J. W. , Finkenthal M. , Siewerdsen J. H. , Pfeiffer F. , Stutman D.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

The authors present initial progress toward a clinically compatible x‐ray phase contrast CT system, using glancing‐angle x‐ray grating interferometry to provide high contrast soft tissue images at estimated by computer simulation dose levels comparable to conventional absorption based CT.

Methods:

DPC‐CT scans of a joint phantom and of soft tissues were performed in order to answer several important questions from a clinical setup point of view. A comparison between high and low fringe visibility systems is presented. The standard phase stepping method was compared with sliding window interlaced scanning. Using estimated dose values obtained with a Monte‐Carlo code the authors studied the dependence of the phase image contrast on exposure time and dose.

Results:

Using a glancing angle interferometer at high x‐ray energy (∼45 keV mean value) in combination with a conventional x‐ray tube the authors achieved fringe visibility values of nearly 50%, never reported before. High fringe visibility is shown to be an indispensable parameter for a potential clinical scanner. Sliding window interlaced scanning proved to have higher SNRs and CNRs in a region of interest and to also be a crucial part of a low dose CT system. DPC‐CT images of a soft tissue phantom at exposures in the range typical for absorption based CT of musculoskeletal extremities were obtained. Assuming a human knee as the CT target, good soft tissue phase contrast could be obtained at an estimated absorbed dose level around 8 mGy, similar to conventional CT.

Conclusions:

DPC‐CT with glancing‐angle interferometers provides improved soft tissue contrast over absorption CT even at clinically compatible dose levels (estimated by a Monte‐Carlo computer simulation). Further steps in image processing, data reconstruction, and spectral matching could make the technique fully clinically compatible. Nevertheless, due to its increased scan time and complexity the technique should be thought of not as replacing, but as complimentary to conventional CT, to be used in specific applications.
Monte Carlo based beam model using a photon MLC for modulated electron radiotherapy
Authors: Henzen D. , Manser P. , Frei D. , Volken W. , Neuenschwander H. , Born E. J. , Vetterli D. , Chatelain C. , Stampanoni M. F. M. , Fix M. K.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

Modulated electron radiotherapy (MERT) promises sparing of organs at risk for certain tumor sites. Any implementation of MERT treatment planning requires an accurate beam model. The aim of this work is the development of a beam model which reconstructs electron fields shaped using the Millennium photon multileaf collimator (MLC) (Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA) for a Varian linear accelerator (linac).

Methods:

This beam model is divided into an analytical part (two photon and two electron sources) and a Monte Carlo (MC) transport through the MLC. For dose calculation purposes the beam model has been coupled with a macro MC dose calculation algorithm. The commissioning process requires a set of measurements and precalculated MC input. The beam model has been commissioned at a source to surface distance of 70 cm for a Clinac 23EX (Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA) and a TrueBeam linac (Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA). For validation purposes, measured and calculated depth dose curves and dose profiles are compared for four different MLC shaped electron fields and all available energies. Furthermore, a measured two‐dimensional dose distribution for patched segments consisting of three 18 MeV segments, three 12 MeV segments, and a 9 MeV segment is compared with corresponding dose calculations. Finally, measured and calculated two‐dimensional dose distributions are compared for a circular segment encompassed with a C‐shaped segment.

Results:

For 15 × 34, 5 × 5, and 2 × 2 cm2fields differences between water phantom measurements and calculations using the beam model coupled with the macro MC dose calculation algorithm are generally within 2% of the maximal dose value or 2 mm distance to agreement (DTA) for all electron beam energies. For a more complex MLC pattern, differences between measurements and calculations are generally within 3% of the maximal dose value or 3 mm DTA for all electron beam energies. For the two‐dimensional dose comparisons, the differences between calculations and measurements are generally within 2% of the maximal dose value or 2 mm DTA.

Conclusions

: The results of the dose comparisons suggest that the developed beam model is suitable to accurately reconstruct photon MLC shaped electron beams for a Clinac 23EX and a TrueBeam linac. Hence, in future work the beam model will be utilized to investigate the possibilities of MERT using the photon MLC to shape electron beams.
The design and fabrication of two portal vein flow phantoms by different methods
Authors: Yunker Bryan E. , Dodd Gerald D. , Chen S. James , Chang Samuel , Lanning Craig J. , Scherzinger Ann L. , Shandas Robin , Feng Yusheng , Hunter Kendall S.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

This study outlines the design and fabrication techniques for two portal vein flow phantoms.

Methods:

A materials study was performed as a precursor to this phantom fabrication effort and the desired material properties are restated for continuity. A three‐dimensional portal vein pattern was created from the Visual Human database. The portal vein pattern was used to fabricate two flow phantoms by different methods with identical interior surface geometry using computer aided design software tools and rapid prototyping techniques. One portal flow phantom was fabricated within a solid block of clear silicone for use on a table with Ultrasound or within medical imaging systems such as MRI, CT, PET, or SPECT. The other portal flow phantom was fabricated as a thin walled tubular latex structure for use in water tanks with Ultrasound imaging. Both phantoms were evaluated for usability and durability.

Results:

Both phantoms were fabricated successfully and passed durability criteria for flow testing in the next project phase.

Conclusions:

The fabrication methods and materials employed for the study yielded durable portal vein phantoms.
Importance of Standardized DXA Protocol for Assessing Physique Changes in Athletes
Authors: Nana Alisa , Slater Gary J. , Hopkins Will G. , Halson Shona L. , Martin David T. , West Nicholas P. , Burke Louise M.
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

The implications of undertaking DXA scans using best practice protocols (subjects fasted and rested) or a less precise but more practical protocol in assessing chronic changes in body composition following training and a specialized recovery technique were investigated.

Methods:

Twenty-one male cyclists completed an overload training program, in which they were randomized to four sessions per week of either cold water immersion therapy or control groups. Whole-body DXA scans were undertaken with best practice protocol (Best) or random activity protocol (Random) at baseline, after 3 weeks of overload training, and after a 2-week taper. Magnitudes of changes in total, lean and fat mass from baseline-overload, overload-taper and baseline-taper were assessed by standardization (Δmean/SD).

Results:

The standard deviations of change scores for total and fat-free soft tissue mass (FFST) from Random scans (2–3%) were approximately double those observed in the Best (1–2%), owing to extra random errors associated with Random scans at baseline. There was little difference in change scores for fat mass. The effect of cold water immersion therapy on baseline-taper changes in FFST was possibly harmful (-0.7%; 90% confidence limits ±1.2%) with Best scans but unclear with Random scans (0.9%; ±2.0%). Both protocols gave similar possibly harmful effects of cold water immersion therapy on changes in fat mass (6.9%; ±13.5% and 5.5%; ±14.3%, respectively).

Conclusions:

An interesting effect of cold water immersion therapy on training-induced changes in body composition might have been missed with a less precise scanning protocol. DXA scans should be undertaken with Best.
Doubling of Muscle Carnosine Concentration Does Not Improve Laboratory 1-Hr Cycling Time-Trial Performance
Authors: Chung Weiliang , Baguet Audrey , Bex Tine , Bishop David J. , Derave Wim
Published: January 2014

Muscle carnosine loading through chronic oral beta-alanine supplementation has been shown to be effective for short-duration, high-intensity exercise. This randomized, placebo-controlled study explored whether the ergogenic effect of beta-alanine supplementation is also present for longer duration exercise. Subjects (27 well-trained cyclists/triathletes) were supplemented with either beta-alanine or placebo (6.4 g/day) for 6 weeks. Time to completion and physiological variables for a 1-hr cycling time-trial were compared between preand postsupplementation. Muscle carnosine concentration was also assessed via proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy before and after supplementation. Following beta-alanine supplementation, muscle carnosine concentration was increased by 143 ± 151% (mean ± SD; p < .001) in the gastrocnemius and 161 ± 56% (p < .001) in the soleus. Postsupplementation time trial performance was significantly slower in the placebo group (60.6 ± 4.4–63.0 ± 5.4 min; p < .01) and trended toward a slower performance following beta-alanine supplementation (59.8 ± 2.8–61.7 ± 3.0 min; p = .069). We found an increase in lactate/proton concentration ratio following beta-alanine supplementation during the time-trial (209.0 ± 44.0 (beta-alanine) vs. 161.9 ± 54.4 (placebo); p < .05), indicating that a similar lactate concentration was accompanied by a lower degree of systemic acidosis, even though this acidosis was quite moderate (pH ranging from 7.30 to 7.40). In conclusion, chronic beta-alanine supplementation in well-trained cyclists had a very pronounced effect on muscle carnosine concentration and a moderate attenuating effect on the acidosis associated with lactate accumulation, yet without affecting 1-h time-trial performance under laboratory conditions.
Distribution of ESCRT Machinery at HIV Assembly Sites Reveals Virus Scaffolding of ESCRT Subunits
Authors: Van Engelenburg Schuyler B. , Shtengel Gleb , Sengupta Prabuddha , Waki Kayoko , Jarnik Michal , Ablan Sherimay D. , Freed Eric O. , Hess Harald F. , Lippincott-Schwartz Jennifer
Published: January 2014

Viral ESCRT

The ESCRT (Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport) protein complex plays a role in budding into multivesicular bodies, cytokinesis, and HIV budding, but the details of how the ESCRTs facilitate viral budding are unclear. Now, using high-resolution light and electron microscopical imaging techniques,

Van Engelenburg
et al.

(p.
653
, published online 16 January) dissect the role for ESCRT proteins in HIV budding. The findings suggest that the ESCRT machinery required for the scission of HIV particles from infected cells is located within the core of the virus particle and not, as might have been expected based on previous work, on the cellular side of the membrane scission event involved in viral budding.
Genome Sequence of the
Sulfitobacter
sp. Strain 2047-Infecting Lytic Phage ΦCB2047-B
Authors: Ankrah Nana Y. D. , Budinoff Charles R. , Wilson William H. , Wilhelm Steven W. , Buchan Alison
Published: January 2014

We announce the complete genome sequence of a lytic podovirus, ΦCB2047-B, which infects the bacterium
Sulfitobacter
sp. strain 2047, a member of the
Roseobacter
clade. Genome analysis revealed ΦCB2047-B to be an N4-like phage, with its genome having high nucleotide similarity to other N4-like roseophage genomes.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Bioelectricity-Generating and Dye-Decolorizing Bacterium Proteus hauseri Strain ZMd44
Authors: Wang Nan , Ng I-Son , Chen Po Ting , Li Yuzhe , Chen Yi-Chung , Chen Bor-Yann , Lu Yinghua
Published: January 2014

Proteus hauseri
ZMd44 (CGMCC 6746), as a crucial biodecolorizing, bioelectricity-generating, and copper-resistant bacterium, is distinguished from the urinary pathogens
Proteus penneri
and
Proteus mirabilis
. To further investigate the genetic functions of this strain, the genome sequence and annotation of its open reading frames, which consist of 3,875,927 bp (G+C content, 38.12%), are presented here.
Full-Genome Sequences of Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 Viruses Isolated from Finnish Patients from 2009 to 2013
Authors: Lakspere Triin , Tynell Janne , Kaloinen Minttu , Vanlede Maarten , Parsons Alun , Ikonen Niina , Kallio-Kokko Hannimari , Kantele Anu , Mattila Pirkko , Almusa Henrikki , Julkunen Ilkka , Kainov Denis , Kakkola Laura
Published: January 2014

Here we report full-length sequencing of the first large set of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus genomes isolated in Finland between the years 2009 and 2013 and discuss the advantages and needs of influenza virus sequencing efforts.
Draft Genome Sequences of Type Strain Sediminibacterium salmoneum NJ-44 and
Sediminibacterium
sp. Strain C3, a Novel Strain Isolated from Activated Sludge
Authors: Ayarza Joaquín M. , Figuerola Eva L. M. , Erijman Leonardo
Published: January 2014

The genus
Sediminibacterium
comprises species present in diverse natural and engineered environments. Here, we report for the first time the genome sequences of the type strain
Sediminibacterium salmoneum
NJ-44 (NBRC 103935) and
Sediminibacterium
sp. strain C3 (BNM541), isolated from activated sludge, a valuable model for the study of substrate-dependent autoaggregation.
A Circo-Like Virus Isolated from Penaeus monodon Shrimps
Authors: Pham Hanh T. , Yu Qian , Boisvert Maude , Van Hanh T. , Bergoin Max , Tijssen Peter
Published: January 2014

A virus with a circular Rep-encoding single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) (CRESS-DNA) genome (PmCV-1) was isolated from
Penaeus monodon
shrimps in Vietnam. The gene structure of the 1,777-nucleotide (nt) genome was similar to that of circoviruses and cycloviruses, but the nucleic acid and protein sequence identities to these viruses were very low.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Frankia
sp. Strain CcI6, a Salt-Tolerant Nitrogen-Fixing Actinobacterium Isolated from the Root Nodule of
Casuarina cunninghamiana
Authors: Mansour Samira R. , Oshone Rediet , Hurst Sheldon G. , Morris Krystalynne , Thomas W. Kelley , Tisa Louis S.
Published: January 2014

Members of the actinomycete genus
Frankia
form a nitrogen-fixing symbiosis with 8 different families of actinorhizal plants. We report a 5.57-Mbp draft genome sequence for
Frankia
sp. strain CcI6, a salt-tolerant nitrogen-fixing actinobacterium isolated from root nodules of
Casurina cunninghamiana
grown in Egyptian soils
.
Massive consolidation: a rare manifestation of paediatric Scrub typhus
Authors: Manickam Kumar , Sunderkumar Satheeshkumar , Chinnaraj Sridharan , Sivathanu Shobhana
Published: January 2014

Despite resurgence in the number of Scrub typhus cases, it still poses a diagnostic challenge as there is no prototype presentation. We report a case of a child with Scrub typhus who developed a massive consolidation. Despite such an extensive consolidation, respiratory symptoms such as cough and breathlessness were inconspicuous thereby posing a diagnostic dilemma. Upon serological confirmation, doxycycline therapy was initiated with a rapid and complete resolution of the pneumonia, both clinically and radiologically. The case is being reported to highlight this unusual presentation of Scrub typhus in children.
A mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm caused byListeria monocytogenesin a patient with HIV infection
Authors: Gunst Jesper Damsgaard , Jensen-Fangel Søren
Published: January 2014

A 65-year-old man with HIV infection presented with acute severe abdominal pain radiating to the back. A CT scan revealed an infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm, and an aortobifemoral bypass was undertaken. Subsequently, tissue specimens from the aortic wall grewListeria monocytogenes. The patient received 8 weeks of intravenous antibiotic treatment followed by oral sulfotrim as secondary prophylaxis and made an uneventful recovery.
Retinal tissue in mature cystic teratoma of ovary presenting with full-term pregnancy
Authors: Khan Nazoora , Sen Ray Prasenjit , Hakim Seema , Ziyauddin Farah
Published: January 2014

Mature cystic teratomas are benign ovarian neoplasms which account for around 95% of all ovarian germ cell tumours and contain tissues derived from two or three embryonic germ layers. These tumours are frequently diagnosed in women of reproductive age group and can result in fetomaternal distress if concurrent pregnancy occurs. The authors describe a case of successful natural pregnancy in a 30-year-old woman with coexisting mature cystic teratoma of ovary that culminated in viable childbirth at term. Subsequent histopathological examination of the tumour revealed a mature teratoma composed predominantly of ectodermal elements along with retinal tissues—a rare finding that prompted this case report.
Rupture of the infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) following an endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) due to an isolated type II endoleak
Authors: Kaczynski Jakub , Jaber Basel , Woolgar Justin
Published: January 2014

We present a case of an elderly man with the persisting type II endoleak following endovascular aneurysm repair. In a view of the multiple comorbidities, the patient was denied an open elective repair. However, when presented with a ruptured aneurismal sac, he underwent an emergency open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Overall, the patient has made a good postoperative recovery.
Physical activity and risk of gastric cancer: a meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Abioye Ajibola Ibraheem , Odesanya Majeed Olaniyi , Abioye Asanat Iyabode , Ibrahim Nasiru Akanmu
Published: January 2014

Background

Studies evaluating the relationship of physical activity and stomach cancer risk have yielded inconsistent and largely inconclusive results. We therefore conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies that assessed the relationship between physical activity and risk of gastric cancer.

Methods

Following a standard protocol, we searched medical literature databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Google Scholar) from inception to July 2012, and conducted a random effects meta-analysis.

Results

Seven prospective cohorts and four case–control studies of physical activity and gastric cancer risk, with 1 535 006 people and 7944 cases of gastric cancer were included. We found a modest protective association between sufficient physical activity and gastric cancer risk (relative risk: 0.81 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.96); I2=68.5%) in the prospective studies and (relative risk: 0.78 (95% CI 0.66 to 0.91); I2=0%) in case–control studies. The association appeared weaker in smokers than in non-smokers (p heterogeneity=0.035). The association may also be weaker for gastric cardia cancer relative to the distal non-cardia subtypes. Physical activity type (recreational or occupational), intake of alcohol, total energy intake, consumption of fruits and vegetables and infection withHelicobacter pylorihad no influence on the association. The effect measure from cohort studies (relative risk: 0.82 (95% CI 0.70 to 0.97); I2=61.7%) and case–control studies (relative risk: 0.83 (95% CI 0.66 to 1.04); I2=49.8%) did not differ materially at higher physical activity levels.

Conclusions

We conclude that a regular physical activity may be protective against stomach cancer risk.
Strong propensity for HIV transmission among men who have sex with men in Vietnam: behavioural data and sexual network modelling
Authors: Bengtsson Linus , Lu Xin , Liljeros Fredrik , Thanh Hoang Huy , Thorson Anna
Published: January 2014

Objectives

Survey data from men who have sex with men (MSM) in Asian cities indicate ongoing and drastic increases in HIV prevalence. It is unknown which behavioural factors are most important in driving these epidemics. We aimed to analyse detailed sexual behaviour data among MSM in Vietnam and to model HIV transmission using improved assumptions on sexual network structure.

Setting

Vietnam.

Participants

Internet-using men who had ever had sex (any type) with a man, aged ≥18 years and living in Vietnam. The study was cross-sectional, population-based and performed in 2012, using online respondent-driven sampling. The Internet-based survey instrument was completed by 982 participants, of which 857 were eligible. Questions included sociodemography and retrospective sexual behaviour, including number of unprotected anal sex (UAS) acts per partner.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Estimated basic reproductive number over 3 months as a function of transmission risk per UAS act; frequency distributions of number of UAS partners and UAS acts during last 3 months.

Results

36% (CI 32% to 42%) reported UAS at least once during the last 3 months. 36% (CI 32% to 41%) had ever taken an HIV test and received the result. UAS partner numbers and number of UAS acts were both highly skewed and positively correlated. Using a weighted configuration model, taking into account partner numbers, frequency of UAS and their correlations, we estimated the basic reproductive number (R0) over 3 months. The results indicated rapid transmission over a wide range of values of per-act transmissibility.

Conclusions

Men with multiple partners had unexpectedly high UAS frequency per partner, paired with low HIV testing rates. The study highlights the importance of collecting data on frequency of UAS acts and indicates the need to rapidly scale-up HIV prevention services and testing opportunities for MSM in Vietnam.
Organised colorectal cancer screening in Lampang Province, Thailand: preliminary results from a pilot implementation programme
Authors: Khuhaprema Thiravud , Sangrajrang Suleeporn , Lalitwongsa Somkiat , Chokvanitphong Vanida , Raunroadroong Tawarat , Ratanachu-ek Tawee , Muwonge Richard , Lucas Eric , Wild Christopher , Sankaranarayanan Rengaswamy
Published: January 2014

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third-most and fifth-most common cancer in men and women, in Thailand. The increasing CRC incidence and mortality can be reduced by screening and treating adenomas and early cancers. A pilot CRC screening programme using immunochemical faecal occult blood testing (iFOBT) and colonoscopy for test-positives were implemented through the routine Government Health Services in Lampang Province, to inform the acceptability, feasibility and scaling-up of screening in Thailand. This report describes the implementation, coverage and performance indicators of this project.

Design

A target population aged 50–65 years was informed about and invited face to face to undergo CRC screening by community health workers (HWs). The HWs provided faecal sample collection kits and participants brought their samples to one of the primary health units or community hospitals where nurses performed iFOBT. iFOBT-positive persons were referred for colonoscopy at the Lampang cancer hospital, and endoscopic polypectomy/biopsies were performed according to the colonoscopic findings. Those with confirmed CRC received appropriate treatment.

Results

Of the 127 301 target population, 62.9% were screened using iFOBT between April 2011 and November 2012. Participation was higher among women (67.8%) than men (57.8%) and lower in 50–54 year-old persons than in 60–65-year-olds. Of those screened, 873 (1.1%) were found positive; positivity was higher in men (1.2%) than in women (1.0%). To date 627 (72.0%) iFOBT-positive persons have had colonoscopy in which 3.7% had CRC and 30.6% had adenomas.

Conclusions

The successful implementation of the pilot CRC screening with satisfactory process measures indicate the feasibility of scaling-up organised CRC screening through existing health services in Thailand.
Analysis of variation in charges and prices paid for vaginal and caesarean section births: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hsia Renee Y , Akosa Antwi Yaa , Weber Ellerie
Published: January 2014

Objective

To examine the between-hospital variation of charges and discounted prices for uncomplicated vaginal and caesarean section deliveries, and to determine the institutional and market-level characteristics that influence adjusted charges.

Design, setting and participants

Using data from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD), we conducted a cross-sectional study of all privately insured patients admitted to California hospitals in 2011 for uncomplicated vaginal delivery (diagnosis-related group (DRG) 775) or uncomplicated caesarean section (DRG 766).

Outcome measures

Hospital charges and discounted prices adjusted for each patient's clinical and demographic characteristics.

Results

We analysed 76 766 vaginal deliveries and 32 660 caesarean sections in California in 2011. After adjusting for patient demographic and clinical characteristics, we found that the average California woman could be charged as little as US$3296 or as much as US$37 227 for a vaginal delivery, and US$8312–US$70 908 for a caesarean section depending on which hospital she was admitted to. The discounted prices were, on an average, 37% of the charges. We found that hospitals in markets with middling competition had significantly lower adjusted charges for vaginal deliveries, while hospitals with higher wage indices and casemixes, as well as for-profit hospitals, had higher adjusted charges. Hospitals in markets with higher uninsurance rates charged significantly less for caesarean sections, while for-profit hospitals and hospitals with higher wage indices charged more. However, the institutional and market-level factors included in our models explained only 35–36% of the between-hospital variation in charges.

Conclusions

These results indicate that charges and discounted prices for two common, relatively homogeneous diagnosis groups—uncomplicated vaginal delivery and caesarean section—vary widely between hospitals and are not well explained by observable patient or hospital characteristics.
The practice of palliative care from the perspective of patients and carers
Authors: Sampson Cathy , Finlay Ilora , Byrne Anthony , Snow Veronica , Nelson Annmarie
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The meaning that patients and carers attribute to their experience of palliative care is fundamental to the provision, practice and evaluation of optimal care. This analysis aims to establish contemporary key practices and priorities from the perspective of patients and carers.

Methods

Thematic analysis was applied to 594 anonymised free text responses from patients and carers documenting their experiences of palliative care.

Results

The emotional experience of care is the most significant aspect documented by patients and carers. It refers to the process of care in key domains of respect, renewal, refuge and restorative care. Patients and carers described care as either enabling or directly provided. The emotional experience of care was not confined to psychosocial need and constituted a core practice drawing on professional expertise and interpersonal skills, some of which may be taken for granted by staff themselves.

Conclusions

The emotional experience of care is examined as a practice rather than a topic, acknowledging that patients and carers documented the performance of care and the resulting impact in a variety of situations. The emotional experience of care comprises key aspects of contextual care facilitating autonomy and connectedness. It is embedded in relationships mediated by communication and tenor of care. The perspective of patients and carers places the emotional experience of palliative care centrally. This has implications for future service evaluation and the incorporation of this skill-based outcome alongside more traditional outcome measures such as the amelioration of physical symptoms.
Reptile haematology and biochemistry
Authors: Eatwell Kevin , Hedley Joanna , Barron Ronnie
Published: January 2014

Interpreting haematology and biochemistry results from reptiles is notoriously difficult, due at least in part to the lack of data for many species and the wide variation in reference ranges for others. This article describes sampling techniques in reptilian species and discusses what different parameters mean in terms of physiological status and the indication of particular diseases.
Are dietary interventions effective at increasing fruit and vegetable consumption among overweight children? A systematic review
Authors: Bourke Michael , Whittaker Paula J , Verma Arpana
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Childhood obesity is now a global epidemic and the incidence continues to increase. Dietary interventions and nutritional education are possible options to manage childhood obesity. However, restrictive diets can result in negative outcomes, and therefore it may be more apt to encourage children to consume more fruit and vegetables and thereby develop a healthier positive attitude towards food.

Method

A systematic review of literature of interventions to increase fruit and/or vegetable consumption in overweight or obese children and adolescents was conducted, applying a free-text strategy with a set of search terms.

Results

A total of five studies describing seven interventions published in international peer-reviewed journals and meeting the review's eligibility criteria were identified. All five studies examined family-focused interventions to increase daily fruit and vegetable consumption measured either by child self-report or parent report. Only one intervention reported a lasting statistically significant increased consumption of fruit and vegetables.

Conclusions

This review highlights that in order to tackle obesity narrow interventions focusing on single aspects of behaviour are unlikely to achieve long-term change. Successful public health interventions tackling childhood obesity will need to take a holistic approach and target behaviour change in multiple aspects of children's lifestyles and their surroundings, including nutritional education, parental support and physical activity.
Efficacy of early Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae vaccination against mixed respiratory disease in older fattening pigs
Authors: Del Pozo Sacristán R. , Sierens A. , Marchioro S. B. , Vangroenweghe F. , Jourquin J. , Labarque G. , Haesebrouck F. , Maes D.
Published: January 2014

The present field study investigated the efficacy of early Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae vaccination in a farrow‐to‐finish pig herd with respiratory disease late in the fattening period due to combined infections with M hyopneumoniae and viral pathogens. Five hundred and forty piglets were randomly divided into three groups of 180 piglets each: two groups were vaccinated (Stellamune Once) at either 7 (V1) or 21 days of age (V2), and a third group was left non‐vaccinated (NV). The three treatment groups were housed in different pens within the same compartment during the nursery period, and were housed in different but identical compartments during the fattening period. The efficacy was evaluated using performance and pneumonia lesions. The average daily weight gain during the fattening period was 19 (V1) and 18 g/day (V2) higher in both vaccinated groups when compared with the NV group. However, the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The prevalence of pneumonia was significantly lower in both vaccinated groups (V1: 71.5 and V2: 67.1 per cent) when compared with the NV group (80.2 per cent) (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two vaccination groups. In conclusion, in the present herd with respiratory disease during the second half of the fattening period caused by M hyopneumoniae and viral infections, prevalence of pneumonia lesions were significantly reduced and growth losses numerically (not statistically significant) decreased by both vaccination schedules.
The RCVS codes of conduct: what's in a word?
Authors: McCulloch Steven , Reiss Michael , Jinman Peter , Wathes Christopher
Published: January 2014

In 2012, the RCVS introduced a new Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Surgeons, replacing the Guide to Professional Conduct which had existed until then. Is a common Code relevant for the veterinarian's many roles? There's more to think about here than just the change of name, writeSteven McCulloch, Michael Reiss, Peter JinmanandChristopher Wathes
Thermoelastic damping of the axisymmetric vibration of laminated trilayered circular plate resonators
Authors: Sun Yuxin , Jiang Yan , Yang Jialing
Published: January 2014

Thermoelastic damping is a critical loss mechanism in micromachined resonators used for sensing and communication applications. In this paper, thermoelastic damping of the axisymmetric vibration of laminated circular plate resonators will be discussed. Based on the classical laminated plate theory assumptions, the governing equations of coupled thermoelastic problems are established for axisymmetric out-of-plane vibration of trilayered circular plate with fully clamped boundary conditions. The analytical expression for thermoelastic damping is obtained and the accuracy is verified through comparison with FEM results. Then the effect of material selection and the volume fraction of the covering layers are numerically evaluated. Finally, the thermoelastic damping for different vibration modes is also evaluated.
On the interaction between two point electric charges
Authors: Frolov Alexei M.
Published: January 2014

The general formula for the interaction potential between two point electric charges that contains the lowest order corrections to the vacuum polarization is derived and investigated. Analytical derivation of this formula is based on the closed analytical expression for the Uehling potential obtained earlier. Our analytical formula has the correct asymtotic behaviour at small and large distances between two interacting electric charges. We also discuss a number of problems that are of great interest in applications, such as, vacuum polarization corrections to the Coulomb scattering and cusp value between two electrically charged particles. An original algebraic procedure developed in this study allows one to determine consecutive corrections for vacuum polarization for Coulomb systems.
Silicon versus the rest
Authors: Robertson John
Published: January 2014

We review the material properties that allowed amorphous silicon to become the dominant large area semiconductor and then point out how amorphous oxide semiconductors could displace a-Si in thin film transistors, and how phase change materials, such as GeSbTe alloys, have provided an optical storage technology and will provide a nonvolatile electrical storage technology based on their unique properties.
Deposition and characterization of AlN thin films obtained by radio frequency reactive magnetron sputtering
Authors: Pelegrini M.V. , Alvarado M.A. , Alayo M.I. , Pereyra I.
Published: January 2014

Aluminum nitride (AlN) thin films were deposited by reactive radio frequency magnetron sputtering from pure aluminum target, onto Si (100), ultra dense flat carbon, and quartz. Series of samples were obtained varying the Ar and N2 gaseous mixture. The characterizations performed were Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, visible optical absorption, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, and residual stress measurements by Stoney’s equation. In this paper we report on the Ar/N2 ratio needed to produce preferential (002) AlN growth. Correlations between X-ray diffraction and FTIR are made for highly oriented (002) AlN films.
Direct surface relief pattering of azo-polymers films via holographic recording
Authors: Aleksejeva Jelena , Reinfelde Mara , Teteris Janis
Published: January 2014

In this work surface relief direct formation during holographic recording in poly (Disperse Red 1 – methacrylate) films was studied. In this material azo-dye Disperse Red 1 is covalently attached to the main polymeric chain making lateral mass transport in the film caused by a presence of light electric field direction modulation very fast and effective. Surface relief grating formation process was induced by 532 nm laser. Read-out was performed by 660 nm diode laser. Diffraction efficiencies kinetics dependence on polarization state of reading and recording beams was studied. Surface relief depth on the films was measured by AFM. Deep surface relief gratings were obtained in Poly (Disperse Red 1 – methacrylate). Films relief can exceed the initial thickness of the sample more than three times. Fabrication of such surface relief gratings is fast and easy. They can find their application in data storage, electro-optical devices, telecommunication.
Investigation of multiwalled carbon nanotube interconnection geometry and electrical characteristics of an CNT-filled aluminum microgap
Authors: Di Giacomo Raffaele , Adami Renata , Speranza Vito , Barone Carlo , Pagano Sergio , Sabatino Paolo , Carapella Giovanni , Wegner Helmut , Boit Christian , De Girolamo Del Mauro Anna , Neitzert Heinz-Christoph
Published: January 2014

In recent years a very large amount of data has been collected regarding devices formed by multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in polymer matrix as well as single nanotubes. Conversely, very little investigation exists of nanotube networks composed of a small number of MWCNTs. A detailed investigation of the long time stability, adhesion to the surface, and topological structure of the interconnections between MWCNTs is reported here. Three different microscopy techniques, focused ion beam (FIB), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and atomic force microscope (AFM), were used to investigate the interconnection of MWCNTs deposited by electrophoresis on a thermally oxidized silicon wafer with aluminum microgap structures. SEM, AFM, and FIB imaging revealed an interesting interconnection morphology between the drop casted MWCNTs. In particular it was found that in some cases the MWCNTs were connected to each other in a geometry similar to a twisted structure. Furthermore a good stability of the sample in time has been found, proving a strong adhesion of the nanotubes to the oxide surface. Despite the fact that electrical contacts with aluminum to carbon nanotube - based devices are in general not very reliable, using the dielectrophoresis deposition technique with an adequate subsequent annealing procedure, long-term stable temperature sensors with carbon nanotube networks in the aluminum contact microgap were realized. Their temperature dependence can be explained by modeling the internanotube contact resistance.