bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pop, Power and Politics: Kiwi FM and the ‘Third Way’ in New Zealand
Authors: Mollgaard Matthew
Published: April 2016

In 2005 a major multi-national media company launched a New Zealand radio network that played only New Zealand music - Kiwi FM. Within a year it was clear that the experiment had failed, with the network attracting only negligible audience ratings and unsustainable commercial revenue. It was at this point that the New Zealand government stepped in, granting the network free broadcasting spectrum and significant funding in return for the ongoing promotion of New Zealand music. How this happened provides a fascinating insight into ‘third way’ approaches to the creative industries, and in particular, local music as a cultural, political and economic commodity. This article explores Kiwi FM as it moved from being a commercial enterprise to a government partner from behind the scenes, using previously unseen documents and interviews with key players in order to interrogate the utility of ‘third way’ approaches to promoting and supporting the creative industries.
Editorial: New Zealand Mediascapes
Authors: Fisher Kevin , Farnsworth John
Published: April 2016

Editorial: New Zealand Mediascapes
Graeme Turner. 2016. Re-Inventing the Media. London and New York: Routledge.
Authors: Mesikämmen Emma
Published: April 2016

Graeme Turner
Vowel-dependent variation in Cantonese /s/ from an individual-difference perspective
Authors: Yu Alan C. L.
Published: April 2016

Individual variation is ubiquitous in the acoustic realization of human speech; however, little is known about the nature of individual differences in coarticulation. Through an in-depth case study of the temporal dynamics of vocalic influences on the acoustic realization of Cantonese /s/, this study demonstrates that coarticulatory effects may vary by the sex and self-reported autistic-like traits of the individual. These findings have significant implications for research in phonetics, phonology, and sound change.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three
Bacillus
Species from South African Marine Sponges
Authors: van Zyl Leonardo Joaquim , Matobole Relebohile , Augustin Nsole Biteghe Fleury , Klein Timothy , Kirby Bronwyn , Trindade Marla
Published: April 2016

The rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria has spurred efforts to identify novel compounds with antimicrobial activity. This brief report describes the genome sequence of three
Bacillus
species isolates from South African marine sponges, which produce compounds with antimicrobial activity. A search for secondary metabolite clusters revealed several secondary metabolite pathways in these genomes, which may hold promise as novel antibiotics.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Vampire Bat Rabies Virus from French Guiana
Authors: Lavergne Anne , Darcissac Edith , Bourhy Hervé , Tirera Sourakhata , de Thoisy Benoît , Lacoste Vincent
Published: April 2016

A rabies virus was detected in a common vampire bat (
Desmodus rotundus
) in French Guiana. Its genomic sequence was obtained and found to be closely related to other hematophagous bat-related viruses that widely circulate in the northern Amazon region. This virus is named AT6.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Tepidibacillus decaturensis
Strain Z9, an Anaerobic, Moderately Thermophilic, and Heterotrophic Bacterium from the Deep Subsurface of the Illinois Basin, USA
Authors: Dong Yiran , Chang Yun-Juan , Sanford Robert A. , Fouke Bruce W.
Published: April 2016

The genome of the moderately thermophilic and halotolerant bacterium
Tepidibacillus decaturensis
strain Z9 was sequenced. The draft genome comprises three scaffolds, for a total of 2.95 Mb. As the first sequenced genome within the genus
Tepidibacillus
, 2,895 protein-coding genes, 52 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA operons were predicted.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Zymomonas mobilis
ZM481 (ATCC 31823)
Authors: Zhao Ning , Pan Yongxu , Liu Hongguang , Cheng Zhen
Published: April 2016

Zymomonas mobilis
ZM481 (ATCC 31823) is an ethanol-tolerant strain that can produce the highest level of ethanol in
Z. mobilis
from glucose in the shortest time. Here, we report a draft genome sequence of ZM481, which can help us understand the genes related to the ethanol tolerance of this strain.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Agrobacterium
sp. Strain R89-1, a Morphine Alkaloid-Biotransforming Bacterium
Authors: Zahradník Jiří , Kyslíková Eva , Kyslík Pavel
Published: April 2016

Agrobacterium
sp. strain R89-1 isolated from composted wastes of
Papaver somniferum
can effectively biotransform codeine/morphine into 14-OH-derivatives. Here, we present a 4.7-Mb assembly of the R89-1 strain genome. The draft shows that the strain R89-1 represents a distinct phylogenetic lineage within the genus
Agrobacterium.
Genome Sequences for a Cluster of Human Isolates of
Listeria monocytogenes
Identified in South Africa in 2015
Authors: Smith Anthony M. , Naicker Preneshni , Bamford Colleen , Shuping Liliwe , McCarthy Kerrigan M. , Sooka Arvinda , Smouse Shannon L. , Tau Nomsa , Keddy Karen H.
Published: April 2016

Listeria monocytogenes
is a Gram-positive bacterium with a ubiquitous presence in the environment. There is growing concern about the increasing prevalence of
L. monocytogenes
associated with food-borne outbreaks. Here we report genome sequences for a cluster of human isolates of
L. monocytogenes
identified in South Africa in 2015.
Complete Genome Sequence of KPC-3- and CTX-M-15-Producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Sequence Type 307
Authors: Villa Laura , Feudi Claudia , Fortini Daniela , Iacono Michele , Bonura Celestino , Endimiani Andrea , Mammina Caterina , Carattoli Alessandra
Published: April 2016

Klebsiella pneumoniae
sequence type (ST) 307, carrying
bla
KPC-3
,
bla
CTX-M-15
,
bla
OXA-1
,
aac(6′)-Ib-cr
, and
qnrB
1 genes, is replacing the predominant hyperepidemic ST258 clone in Italy. Whole-genome and complete plasmid sequencing of one ST307 strain was performed and new features were identified.
Complete Genome Sequence of Methanogenic Archaeon ISO4-G1, a Member of the
Methanomassiliicoccales
, Isolated from a Sheep Rumen
Authors: Kelly William J. , Li Dong , Lambie Suzanne C. , Jeyanathan Jeyamalar , Cox Faith , Li Yang , Attwood Graeme T. , Altermann Eric , Leahy Sinead C.
Published: April 2016

Methanogenic archaeon ISO4-G1 is a methylotrophic methanogen belonging to the order
Methanomassiliicoccales
that was isolated from a sheep rumen. Its genome has been sequenced to provide information on the genetic diversity of rumen methanogens in order to develop technologies for ruminant methane mitigation.
The Genome Sequence of
Alcaligenes faecalis
NBIB-017 Contains Genes with Potentially High Activities against
Erwinia carotovora
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Huang Daye , Wu Jinping , Yu Cui , Zhou Ronghua , Liu Cuijun , Zhang Wei , Yao Jingwu , Cheng Meng , Guo Suxia
Published: April 2016

Alcaligenes faecalis
NBIB-017, a Gram-negative bacterium, was isolated from soil in China. Here, we provide the complete genome sequence of this bacterium, which possesses a high number of genes encoding antibacterial factors, including proteins and small molecular peptides.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Rumen Methanogen
Methanobrevibacter olleyae
YLM1
Authors: Kelly William J. , Li Dong , Lambie Suzanne C. , Cox Faith , Attwood Graeme T. , Altermann Eric , Leahy Sinead C.
Published: April 2016

Methanobrevibacter olleyae
YLM1 is a hydrogenotrophic methanogen, isolated from the rumen of a lamb. Its genome has been sequenced to provide information on the genomic diversity of rumen methanogens and support the development of approaches to reduce methane formation by ruminants.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Macrolide-Resistant
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Strain C267 in China
Authors: Li Shaoli , Sun Hongmei , Liu Fei , Zhao Hanqing , Zhu Baoli , Lv Na
Published: April 2016

Macrolide-resistant
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
strains can cause severe
M. pneumoniae
pneumonia in children. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of the macrolide-resistant
M. pneumoniae
strain C267, deposited in GenBank under accession number CP014267, which provides new insights for other potential macrolide-resistant mechanisms in
M. pneumoniae
clinical isolates in China.
Complete Genome Sequence of an
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 Strain Isolated from a Super-Shedder Steer
Authors: Teng Lin , Ginn Amber , Jeon Soojin , Kang Minyoung , Jeong KwangCheol Casey
Published: April 2016

We report here the complete genome sequence of
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 strain JEONG-1266 isolated from a super- shedder steer in northwest Florida. Cattle are considered a primary reservoir of
E. coli
O157:H7, and those cattle that excrete this pathogen in their feces at levels ≥10
4
 CFU/g are known as super-shedders.
Draft Genome Sequence of an
Escherichia coli
O8:H19 Sequence Type 708 Strain Isolated from a Holstein Dairy Cow with Metritis
Authors: Ginn Amber , Ma Zhengxin , Galvao Klibs N. , Jeong KwangCheol Casey
Published: April 2016

We present here the genome sequence of
Escherichia coli
O8:H19 strain KCJ852, belonging to multilocus sequence type (MLST) 708, isolated from the uterus of a cow with a bovine postpartum uterine infection known as metritis. Genomic investigation of KCJ852 will help us understand its virulence potential.
Permanent Draft Genome Sequence for
Frankia
sp. Strain CeD, a Nitrogen-Fixing Actinobacterium Isolated from the Root Nodules of
Casuarina equistifolia
Grown in Senegal
Authors: Ngom Mariama , Oshone Rediet , Hurst Sheldon G. , Abebe-Akele Feseha , Simpson Stephen , Morris Krystalynne , Sy Mame Ourèye , Champion Antony , Thomas W. Kelley , Tisa Louis S.
Published: April 2016

Frankia
strain CeD is a member of
Frankia
lineage Ib that is able to reinfect plants of the
Casuarina
families. Here, we report a 5.0-Mbp draft genome sequence with a G+C content of 70.1% and 3,847 candidate protein-encoding genes.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three European Laboratory Derivatives from Enterohemorrhagic
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 Strain EDL933, Including Two Plasmids
Authors: Fellner Lea , Huptas Christopher , Simon Svenja , Mühlig Anna , Scherer Siegfried , Neuhaus Klaus
Published: April 2016

Escherichia coli
O157:H7 EDL933, isolated in 1982 in the United States, was the first enterohemorrhagic
E. coli
(EHEC) strain sequenced. Unfortunately, European labs can no longer receive the original strain. We checked three European EDL933 derivatives and found major genetic deviations (deletions, inversions) in two strains. All EDL933 strains contain the cryptic EHEC-plasmid, not reported before.
Alopecia areata and narcolepsy: a tale of obscure autoimmunity
Authors: Nigam Gaurav , Pathak Charu , Riaz Muhammad
Published: April 2016

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune dermatological disorder characterised by loss of hair in one or more discrete patches over the scalp. It has been linked to multiple disorders having an autoimmune origin. Like many autoimmune disorders it tends to be more common in females. To date, only five cases have been reported where alopecia has been associated with narcolepsy. Male gender is less commonly affected by alopecia areata. No case of alopecia areata in males has been associated with narcolepsy to the best of our knowledge. The current case represents the first ever-reported case of alopecia areata in a male patient with narcolepsy type 1. This coexistence is most likely the manifestation of a common underlying pathoimmunological mechanism that has not been completely understood, rather than a random association.
Inflammatory breast cancer in a previously treated case of breast cancer: a diagnostic dilemma for the clinician
Authors: Ravind Rahul , Kumar Priyadarshini Venkatram , Prabaharan Sasikala
Published: April 2016

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a relatively rare and aggressive subtype, accounting for nearly 2.5% of all diagnosed breast cancers worldwide. It is usually characterised by an acute onset, rapid clinical progression, poor prognosis and micrometastasis at the time of presentation. Prompt recognition of clinical symptoms and identification of warning signs are vital in diagnosing and appropriately treating a patient with IBC.
Mesenteric Meckel's diverticulum: an unusual cause of small bowel intussusception
Authors: Abbas Syed Hussain , Akbari Khalid , Mason John , Booth Michael
Published: April 2016

Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is the commonest congenital anomaly of the small intestine, affecting 1–4% of the population. Cardinal features emphasise an antimesenteric location two feet proximal to the ileocaecal valve, with a separate mesenteric blood supply and involvement of all layers of the small intestine. However, reports of MD arising from the mesenteric border of the small intestine are rare in the surgical literature. This report examines the case of a 45-year-old woman presenting with a 6-month history of episodic central abdominal pain and microcytic anaemia who underwent an elective diagnostic laparoscopy as initial CT findings were inconclusive. Intraoperatively, she was found to have small bowel intussusception approximately 40 cm proximal to the ileocaecal valve. Macroscopic examination of the resected small bowel segment revealed a mesenteric outpouching that was confirmed as mesenteric MD on histopathological analysis. Postoperatively, the patient recovered with no surgical complications and full symptom resolution.
Health Auctions: a Valuation Experiment (HAVE) study protocol
Authors: Kularatna Sanjeewa , Petrie Dennis , Scuffham Paul A , Byrnes Joshua
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Quality-adjusted life years are derived using health state utility weights which adjust for the relative value of living in each health state compared with living in perfect health. Various techniques are used to estimate health state utility weights including time-trade-off and standard gamble. These methods have exhibited limitations in terms of complexity, validity and reliability. A new composite approach using experimental auctions to value health states is introduced in this protocol.

Methods and analysis

A pilot study will test the feasibility and validity of using experimental auctions to value health states in monetary terms. A convenient sample (n=150) from a population of university staff and students will be invited to participate in 30 auction sets with a group of 5 people in each set. The 9 health states auctioned in each auction set will come from the commonly used EQ-5D-3L instrument. At most participants purchase 2 health states, and the participant who acquires the 2 ‘best’ health states on average will keep the amount of money they do not spend in acquiring those health states. The value (highest bid and average bid) of each of the 24 health states will be compared across auctions to test for reliability across auction groups and across auctioneers. A test retest will be conducted for 10% of the sample to assess reliability of responses for health states auctions. Feasibility of conducting experimental auctions to value health states will also be examined. The validity of estimated health states values will be compared with published utility estimates from other methods. This pilot study will explore the feasibility, reliability and validity in using experimental auction for valuing health states.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical clearance was obtained from Griffith University ethics committee. The results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and major international conferences.
Weekend versus weekday transplant surgery and outcomes after kidney transplantation in the USA: a retrospective national database analysis
Authors: Baid-Agrawal Seema , Martus Peter , Feldman Harold , Kramer Holly
Published: April 2016

Objective

To determine whether kidney transplants performed during a weekend had worse outcomes than those performed during weekdays.

Design

Retrospective national database study.

Setting

United Network for Organ Sharing database of the USA.

Participants

136 715 adult recipients of deceased donor single organ kidney transplants in the USA between 4/1994 and 9/2010.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcomes were patient survival and death-censored and overall allograft survival. Secondary outcomes included initial length of hospital stay after transplantation, delayed allograft function, acute rejection within the first year of transplant, and patient and allograft survival at 1 month and at 1 year after transplantation. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the impact of weekend kidney transplant surgery on primary and secondary outcomes, adjusting for multiple covariates.

Results

Among the 136 715 kidney recipients, 72.5% underwent transplantation during a regular weekday (Monday–Friday) and 27.5% during a weekend (Saturday–Sunday). No significant association was noted between weekend transplant status and patient survival, death-censored allograft survival or overall allograft survival in the adjusted analyses (HR 1.01 (95% CI 0.92 to 1.04), 1.012 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.034), 1.012 (95% CI 0.984 to 1.04), respectively). In addition, no significant association was noted between weekend transplant status and the secondary outcomes of patient and graft survival at 1 month and 1 year, delayed allograft function or acute rejection within the first year. Results remained consistent across all definitions of weekend status.

Conclusions

The outcomes for deceased donor kidney transplantation in the USA are not affected by the day of surgery. The operationalisation of deceased donor kidney transplantation may provide a model for other surgeries or emergency procedures that occur over the weekend, and may help reduce length of hospital stay and improve outcomes.
Community characteristics associated with where urgent care centers are located: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Le Sidney T , Hsia Renee Y
Published: April 2016

Objectives

To determine the community characteristics associated with non-hospital-based urgent care centres wherever they are located.

Design

National cross-sectional study evaluating the association between non-hospital-based urgent care centers, and their demographic characteristics in a community, using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regressions.

Setting

Communities in the USA with non-hospital-based urgent care centers, as identified using a 2014 national database from the Urgent Care Association of America.

Participants

31 022 communities encompassing 6898 urgent care centers across the USA.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Presence of a non-hospital-based urgent care center within a community.

Results

Communities with non-hospital-based urgent care centers are urban (75.7% with vs 22.2% without; p<0.001 across rural urban commuting area levels), and are located in areas with higher income levels (38.6% in highest quartile with vs 22.3% without; p<0.001 across quartiles) and higher levels of private insurance (29.6% in highest quartile with vs 23.9% without; p<0.001 across quartiles).

Conclusions

While the growth of the urgent care industry may have other promising implications, policymakers should recognise that it may exacerbate disparities in access to acute care faced by poorer, uninsured patients, and may also have financial implications for providers that are providing overlapping services, such as emergency departments and primary care practices.
Hospital case volume and outcomes for proximal femoral fractures in the USA: an observational study
Authors: Metcalfe David , Salim Ali , Olufajo Olubode , Gabbe Belinda , Zogg Cheryl , Harris Mitchel B , Perry Daniel C , Costa Matthew L
Published: April 2016

Objective

To explore whether older adults with isolated hip fractures benefit from treatment in high-volume hospitals.

Design

Population-based observational study.

Setting

All acute hospitals in California, USA.

Participants

All individuals aged ≥65 that underwent an operation for an isolated hip fracture in California between 2007 and 2011. Patients transferred between hospitals were excluded.

Primary and secondary outcomes

Quality indicators (time to surgery) and patient outcomes (length of stay, in-hospital mortality, unplanned 30-day readmission, and selected complications).

Results

91 401 individuals satisfied the inclusion criteria. Time to operation and length of stay were significantly prolonged in low-volume hospitals, by 1.96 (95% CI 1.20 to 2.73) and 0.70 (0.38 to 1.03) days, respectively. However, there were no differences in clinical outcomes, including in-hospital mortality, 30-day re-admission, and rates of pneumonia, pressure ulcers, and venous thromboembolism.

Conclusions

These data suggest that there is no patient safety imperative to limit hip fracture care to high-volume hospitals.
Improving Trainees' Experience During The Implementation Of Out Of Hours' Rotas
Authors: Garrett Gareth , Cheema Maheera
Published: April 2016

During clinical induction for psychiatry at Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, doctors covering out of hours rotas are expected to attend a meeting to finalise on call duties. The meeting aims to support doctors to utilise leave whilst ensuring patient safety. The meeting has being cited as being a negative experience for doctors. Attendees were asked to complete a questionnaire before and after the introduction of a new policy that would prepare doctors adequately and ensure the meeting runs smoothly. Post intervention, there was an improvement in the experience and satisfaction of doctors who attended.
Developing a patient information leaflet to improve information offered to patients undergoing appendicectomy
Authors: Smith Radford , cross Katie
Published: April 2016

An appendicectomy is one of the most common operations performed in North Devon District Hospital (NDDH) with over 200 carried out between 2013 to 2014. Despite this, a patient information leaflet (PIL) about appendicectomy is unavailable, which is compromising standards of care and uncompliant with Trust policy.

This project aimed to establish levels of written information offered to patients undergoing an appendicectomy, develop a PIL, and assess its impact on the provision of written information using Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) methodology. Case notes of patients operated on between January 2013 to October 2014 were randomly sampled at baseline. The primary outcome measure was whether written information was offered, retrospectively determined by reviewing the medical record. A PIL was then designed following a standard protocol, published on NDDH's website and distributed onto surgical wards. Posters were displayed in staff rooms to encourage use of the PIL for PDSA cycle 1. An article further promoting the PIL was written for the wards monthly newsletter and a local presentation was delivered for PDSA cycle 2. Patients views about the PIL were assessed prospectively using a questionnaire. The primary outcome was measured at 10 weeks following PDSA cycle 1 and at 5 months following PDSA cycle 2.

17% (5/30) of patients were offered written information at baseline. Following PDSA cycle 1, this rose substantially to 53% (8/15) but rates fell to 46% (7/15) following PDSA cycle 2. 89% of patients (8/9) surveyed agreed or strongly agreed that the PIL was helpful.

This project indicates that provision of written information is poor despite it being highly valued by patients. The first ever Trust appendicectomy PIL has been established which substantially improved provision of written information after 10 weeks. However, continued education of staff is essential to embed good practice over the long term.
Monitoring thiopurine metabolites in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: González-Lama Yago , Gisbert Javier P
Published: April 2016

Thiopurines (azathioprine and mercaptopurine) are one of the immunosuppressive mainstays for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. In spite of its widespread use, thiopurine metabolism is still not fully understood, and a significant proportion of patients suffer toxicity or lack of efficacy. Different enzymatic pathways with individual variations constitute a pharmacogenetic model that seems to be suitable for monitoring and therapeutic intervention. This review is focused on current concepts and recent research that may help clinicians to rationally optimise thiopurine treatment in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
MED12 protein expression in breast fibroepithelial lesions: correlation with mutation status and oestrogen receptor expression
Authors: Tan Wai Jin , Chan Jason Yongsheng , Thike Aye Aye , Lim Jeffrey Chun Tatt , Md Nasir Nur Diyana , Tan Jane Sie Yong , Koh Valerie Cui Yun , Lim Weng Khong , Tan Jing , Ng Cedric Chuan Yong , Rajasegaran Vikneswari , Nagarajan Sanjanaa , Bay Boon Huat , Teh Bin Tean , Tan Puay Hoon
Published: April 2016

Aims

Recent reports have identified recurrentMED12somatic mutations in fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumours. The frequency and type of somatic mutations were noted to be similar to those of uterine leiomyomas. We aimed to investigate protein expression of MED12, correlating it toMED12mutational status and expression of oestrogen receptors (ER).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed on a total of 232 fibroepithelial lesions (100 fibroadenomas, 132 phyllodes tumours) diagnosed at the Department of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital using MED12, ERα and ERβ antibodies. Expressions were evaluated in both stroma and epithelium, and correlated withMED12mutational status.

Results

MED12mutation was significantly associated with high MED12 protein expression (H-score >150) in the stroma (p=0.029), but not in the epithelium. It was not associated with ERα and ERβ protein expression in both stroma and epithelium. MED12 protein expression was significantly correlated with ERα in epithelial (p=0.007) and ERβ in stromal (p=0.049) components. MED12 was not significantly different between fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumours. Epithelial expression of ERα was significantly higher in fibroadenomas (p<0.001) than in phyllodes tumours. Conversely, both epithelial and stromal expression of ERβ was significantly higher in phyllodes tumours (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Positive associations observed between MED12 and ERα, ERβ immunohistochemical expression suggest a biological interplay between the proteins. The lack of significant association ofMED12mutation with ER protein expression indicates a need to further explore the functional impact ofMED12mutations on the ER signalling pathway in breast fibroepithelial lesions.
Analysis of radiation doses incurred during diagnostic cerebral angiography after the implementation of dose reduction strategies
Authors: Schneider Tanja , Wyse Emily , Pearl Monica S
Published: April 2016

Background

One goal of increasing awareness of radiation dose is to encourage personal and technical modifications in order to reduce the radiation exposure of patients and staff.

Objective

To analyze the radiation doses incurred during diagnostic cerebral angiography and the angiographic techniques practiced over a 4-year period, in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of implementing radiation dose reduction strategies.

Methods

A retrospective review of the first 50 consecutive adult and pediatric patients undergoing diagnostic cerebral angiography each year from 2010 to 2013 was performed. Angiograms and procedure examination protocols were reviewed for patient age, gender, diagnosis, angiography techniques, fluoroscopy time, reference point air kerma (Ka,rin mGy), and kerma-area product (PKA in μGym2).

Results

From January 2010 to June 2013, a total of 231 diagnostic cerebral angiograms were reviewed (200 adults, 31 children). Adult patients were aged from 19 to 94 years and included 77 men and 123 women. Pediatric patients were aged from 2 to 18 years and comprised 11 boys and 20 girls. Median Ka,rand PKA significantly decreased from 2010 to 2013 in adults (1867 mGy; 21 231 µGym2vs 653 mGy; 7860 µGym2) and children (644 mGy; 6495 µGym2vs138 mGy; 1465 µGym2), (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Increased awareness and implementation of dose reduction strategies resulted in decreased radiation doses for diagnostic cerebral angiography both in adult and pediatric patients. The use of lower and variable digital subtraction angiography frame rates and tailored examinations contributed significantly to the reduced radiation doses observed during diagnostic cerebral angiography.
Combined proximal balloon occlusion and distal aspiration: a new approach to prevent distal embolization during neurothrombectomy
Authors: Stampfl Sibylle , Pfaff Johannes , Herweh Christian , Pham Mirko , Schieber Simon , Ringleb Peter A , Bendszus Martin , Möhlenbruch Markus A
Published: April 2016

Background and purpose

Embolization of thrombus fragments in a new vascular territory is a potential adverse event in neurothrombectomy. This study was performed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a novel approach combining proximal balloon occlusion and distal aspiration to prevent distal thrombembolic complications.

Methods

Patients with ischemic stroke meeting the following inclusion criteria were eligible: occlusion in the anterior circulation, neurothrombectomy using a balloon catheter for proximal flow arrest, and an intermediate catheter for distal aspiration. Pre- and post-interventional Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) scores were assessed. Clinical presentation at admission and discharge and after 3 months was also evaluated and complications (particularly new thrombembolic events) were recorded.

Results

We retrospectively identified 31 patients from our prospectively collected stroke database who met the inclusion criteria. In all patients the initial TICI was 0. A TICI score of ≥2b was achieved in 96.8%. No new thrombembolic complications occurred. The median NIH Stroke Scale score was 19 at admission and 4.5 at discharge. After 3 months, 51.6% of the patients had a favorable clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2) and 19.3% had died.

Conclusions

A combination of proximal internal carotid artery occlusion using a balloon catheter and distal aspiration through an intermediate catheter represents a safe and efficient adjunct to mechanical thrombectomy with stent retrievers. In our patient cohort, no new thrombembolic complications were detected.
Use of the 2.8 French Progreat microcatheter in diagnostic cerebral angiography
Authors: Griauzde Julius , Gemmete Joseph J , Shastri Ravi , Pandey Aditya S , Chaudhary Neeraj
Published: April 2016

Background

Tortuous vascular anatomy poses a significant challenge to performing diagnostic cerebral angiography.

Objective

To report a new cerebral angiography technique for overcoming tortuous aortic and supra-aortic anatomy using a 2.8 French (F) Progreat microcatheter (0.028 inch (internal diameter) (Terumo; Somerset, New Jersey, USA) to obtain a diagnostic cerebral angiogram.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of consecutive cases undergoing diagnostic cerebral angiography at our institution between 1 January 2013 and 30 November 2015 in which a 2.8F Progreat microcatheter was used. Clinical and operative notes were reviewed and correlated with imaging. Radiologic imaging, including CT, MRI, and digital subtraction angiography, was reviewed. Neurologic, systemic, and local complications were recorded on the basis of clinical follow-up results after each angiographic examination. Events that occurred within 24 h of the angiography were considered to be complications of the procedure.

Results

Initial attempts at catheterization of the target vessel with various 4F and 5F catheters were unsuccessful owing to tortuosity, atherosclerotic disease, or occlusion of the catheter in the target vessel. Microcatheterization of the target vessel was successful in 59/62 (95%) target vessels. A diagnostic cerebral angiogram with a power injection was obtained in 59 (100%) of the successfully catheterized vessels. In one case, angiography proceeded to aneurysm coiling after over-the-wire exchange. In two cases, angiography proceeded to mechanical thrombectomy after over-the-wire exchange. No procedural complications were seen.

Conclusions

The 2.8F Progreat microcatheter can be used to obtain a diagnostic cerebral angiogram in patients with anatomic challenges limiting catheterization by standard techniques.
Capture-induced physiological stress and postrelease mortality for Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) from a recreational fishery
Authors: Tracey Sean R. , Hartmann Klaas , Leef Melanie , McAllister Jaime
Published: April 2016

Southern bluefin tuna (SBT; Thunnus maccoyii) are a popular component of the recreational large pelagic game fishery in Australia. The fishery is managed using individual fisher catch limits. Fifty-nine pop-up archival transmitting (PAT) tags were attached to individual SBT to estimate postrelease survival (PRS) rates. Fish caught on lures configured with J-hooks (n = 44) and those caught on circle hooks (n = 8) had similar PRS rates and were combined to increase sample size, revealing a PRS estimate of 83.0% (95% CI: 75.9%–90.7%, n = 54). The PRS estimate of fish caught on lures with treble hooks was much lower, 60% (95% CI: 20%–100%, n = 5). By sampling blood from 233 fish, including 56 of the PAT-tagged individuals, we show that angling duration is related to an elevation of lactate, cortisol, and osmolarity in blood plasma, indicative of increased physiological stress. Physical damage related to hooking location, angling duration, biochemical indicators of physiological stress, and handling duration were not identified as significant factors leading to postrelease mortality. The results quantify a previously unaccounted source of mortality for SBT.
Herding Linked Data: Semantic Search and Navigation Among Scholarly Datasets
Authors: Koutsomitropoulos Dimitrios A. , Solomou Georgia D. , Kalou Aikaterini K.
Published: April 2016

Linked Data seem to play a seminal role in the establishment of the Semantic Web as the next-generation Web. This is even more important for digital object collections and educational institutions that aim not only at promoting and disseminating their content but also at aiding its discoverability and contextualization. In this paper we show how repository metadata can be exposed as Linked Data, thus enhancing their machine understandability and contributing to the LOD cloud. We use a popular digital repository system, namely DSpace, as our deployment platform. Without requiring additional annotations that would harden the curation task, educational resources are semantically enhanced by reusing and transforming existing metadata values. Our effort comes complete with an updated UI that allows for reasoning-based search and navigation between linked resources within and outside the scope of the digital repository. Therefore ontological descriptions of resources can now be accessed from within the repository’s core context, linked from outside datasets, link to external datasets and get discovered by semantic search.
Computational Annotations: SCDL-NL as a Structured Annotation Language
Authors: Wang Shu , Sheu Phillip C.-Y.
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we categorize “semantics” into “taxonomical semantics”, “syntactical semantics” and “formal semantics”. We propose a declarative meta-language SCDL-NL as the foundation of a general annotation language in which “taxonomical and syntactical semantic” information of a sentence can be clearly defined. Since pure natural language is too complicated to be used as a general annotation language, the annotation language imposes some restrictions on the English grammar so that it can be easily translated into SCDL-NL to facilitate information retrieval.
New data on the tectonic evolution of the Khoy region, NW Iran
Authors: Avagyan Ara , Shahidi Alireza , Sosson Marc , Sahakyan Lilit , Galoyan Ghazar , Muller Carla , Vardanyan Sargis , Firouzi Khalil Bahar , Bosch Delphine , Danelian Taniel , Asatryan Gayane , Mkrtchyan Mushegh , Shokri Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2016

The Khoy region (NW Iran) is important in the clarification of the structural framework of the alpine belt between the Taurides, the Lesser Caucasus and the NW Iran belt. The area is well-known for these ophiolitic units. We present here new stratigraphic and structural data that can be used to reconstruct the tectonic evolution of this region and then try to establish connections between these belts. According to new dates from nannoplankton assemblages, the obducted ophiolite of the Khoy complex was thrust over a sheared Campanian olistostrome and lenses of amphibolite are included within the contact. The obduction event is also marked by erosion of the ophiolitic unit and the deposition of conglomerates, shales, sandstones and siltstones. Poorly extended Paleocene detrital deposits cover the Campanian–Maastrichtian rocks. The Eocene formations characterize a basin filled with volcanogenic and sedimentary layers. The Middle and Upper Eocene series unconformably overlie the ophiolites and their cover of Campanian–Maastrichtian and Paleocene deposits. This corresponds to a syn-orogenic basin formed after the collision between Eurasia and the Taurides–Anatolides–South Armenian microplate. The Oligocene–Miocene Qom Formation with basal conglomerates unconformably covers all the earlier formations, including the Palaeozoic formations, indicating intense shortening before its deposition. Compressional deformation continued and is manifested by numerous folds, mainly west-dipping thrusts and reverse faults cutting the Qom Formation, and by recent NW–SE dextral strike-slip faults. This illustrates the continuous shortening and uplift (with intense erosion) resulting from the advanced stage of the collision between Arabia and Eurasia. The structural location of the tectonic units suggests that the Khoy Gondwana-related basement was part of the South Armenian Block and that the Khoy allochthonous ophiolites were obducted on it from the Amasia–Stepanavan–Sevan–Hakari suture zone.
Training-specific functional, neural, and hypertrophic adaptations to explosive- vs. sustained-contraction strength training
Authors: Balshaw Thomas G. , Massey Garry J. , Maden-Wilkinson Thomas M. , Tillin Neale A. , Folland Jonathan P.
Published: April 2016

Training specificity is considered important for strength training, although the functional and underpinning physiological adaptations to different types of training, including brief explosive contractions, are poorly understood. This study compared the effects of 12 wk of explosive-contraction (ECT, n = 13) vs. sustained-contraction (SCT, n = 16) strength training vs. control ( n = 14) on the functional, neural, hypertrophic, and intrinsic contractile characteristics of healthy young men. Training involved 40 isometric knee extension repetitions (3 times/wk): contracting as fast and hard as possible for ∼1 s (ECT) or gradually increasing to 75% of maximum voluntary torque (MVT) before holding for 3 s (SCT). Torque and electromyography during maximum and explosive contractions, torque during evoked octet contractions, and total quadriceps muscle volume (QUADSVOL) were quantified pre and post training. MVT increased more after SCT than ECT [23 vs. 17%; effect size (ES) = 0.69], with similar increases in neural drive, but greater QUADSVOL changes after SCT (8.1 vs. 2.6%; ES = 0.74). ECT improved explosive torque at all time points (17–34%; 0.54 ≤ ES ≤ 0.76) because of increased neural drive (17–28%), whereas only late-phase explosive torque (150 ms, 12%; ES = 1.48) and corresponding neural drive (18%) increased after SCT. Changes in evoked torque indicated slowing of the contractile properties of the muscle-tendon unit after both training interventions. These results showed training-specific functional changes that appeared to be due to distinct neural and hypertrophic adaptations. ECT produced a wider range of functional adaptations than SCT, and given the lesser demands of ECT, this type of training provides a highly efficient means of increasing function.
GABA‐A Receptor Modulation and Anticonvulsant, Anxiolytic, and Antidepressant Activities of Constituents from Artemisia indica Linn
Authors: Khan Imran , Karim Nasiara , Ahmad Waqar , Abdelhalim Abeer , Chebib Mary
Published: April 2016

Artemisia indica, also known as “Mugwort,” has been widely used in traditional medicines. However, few studies have investigated the effects of nonvolatile components of Artemisia indica on central nervous system’s function. Fractionation of Artemisia indica led to the isolation of carnosol, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid which were evaluated for their effects on GABA‐A receptors in electrophysiological studies in Xenopus oocytes and were subsequently investigated in mouse models of acute toxicity, convulsions (pentylenetetrazole induced seizures), depression (tail suspension and forced swim tests), and anxiety (elevated plus maze and light/dark box paradigms). Carnosol, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid were found to be positive modulators of α1β2γ2L GABA‐A receptors and the modulation was antagonized by flumazenil. Carnosol, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid were found to be devoid of any signs of acute toxicity (50–200 mg/kg) but elicited anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and anxiolytic activities. Thus carnosol, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid demonstrated CNS activity in mouse models of anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and anxiolysis. The anxiolytic activity of all three compounds was ameliorated by flumazenil suggesting a mode of action via the benzodiazepine binding site of GABA‐A receptors.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of 3-(Substituted)-2-(4-oxo-2-phenylquinazolin-3(4H)-ylamino)quinazolin-4(3H)-one
Authors: Appani Ramgopal , Bhukya Baburao , Gangarapu Kiran
Published: April 2016

A series of novel 3-(substituted)-2-(substituted quinazolinylamino)quinazolin-4(3H)-ones were synthesized by the reaction of 3-(substituted)-2-hydrazino-quinazoline-4(3H)-ones with 2-phenyl-3,1-benzoxazin-4-one. The starting materials 3-(substituted)-2-hydrazino-quinazolin-4(3H)-ones were synthesized from various primary amines by a multistep synthesis. All the title compounds were tested for their antibacterial activity using ciprofloxacin as reference standard. Compounds 3-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(4-oxo-2-phenylquinazolin-3(4H)-ylamino)quinazolin-4(3H)-one (9a) and 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-(4-oxo-2-phenylquinazolin-3(4H)-ylamino)quinazolin-4(3H)-one (9h) emerged as the most active compounds of the series. These compounds have shown most potent antibacterial activity against the tested organisms ofProteus vulgarisandBacillus subtilishaving zone of inhibition values of 1.1 cm and 1.4 cm for compound9a1.2 cm and 1.0 cm for compound9h, respectively.
Urban Impedance Computing Based on Check-In Records
Authors: Yu Zhiyong , Chen Yuzhong , Zheng Songpan , Shen Yao , Yu Zhiwen , Pascual Jordan
Published: April 2016

Urban impedance is an important consideration in assessments of transportation and land-use systems. This work leverages check-in records obtained from mobile social networks to build a fine-grained but inexpensive urban impedance model. Check-in records and road networks are collected and used to calculate and adjust the various parameters of the model, including path length, number and angle of turns, number and direction of junctions, and population density. Check-in records can filter functional locations and supply the time factor, thereby providing excellent advantages over traditional models that do not employ this data type. The proposed model is more accurate than traditional impedance models, as verified by experiments using Sina Weibo data in Tianjin City.
Seismic Behavior of Posttensioned Concrete Bridge Piers with External Viscoelastic Dampers
Authors: Guo Anxin , Gao Huixing
Published: April 2016

This paper investigates the seismic performance of posttensioned concrete piers with external viscoelastic dampers to improve the energy dissipation capacity of this type of structure. An installation scheme for viscoelastic dampers on bridge piers is proposed, and the mechanical models of the damper are analyzed according to the installation scheme. By attaching the viscoelastic dampers to the posttensioned bridge piers, the analytical model of the hybrid system is established using the OpenSees finite element analysis package. Cyclic behavior and time history analyses are conducted on a posttensioned bridge with and without viscoelastic dampers using the established finite element model. The analysis results indicate that the viscoelastic dampers can effectively improve the seismic performance of the bridge structures with posttensioned piers.
Coordinated Precoding for D2D Communications Underlay Uplink MIMO Cellular Networks
Authors: Fang Bing , Qian Zuping , Zhong Wei , Shao Wei , Xue Hong
Published: April 2016

We study the coordinated precoding problem for device-to-device (D2D) communications underlay multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) cellular networks. The system model considered here constitutes multiple D2D user pairs attempting to share the uplink radio resources of a cellular network. We first formulate the coordinated precoding problem for the D2D user pairs as a sum-rate maximization (SRM) problem, which is subject to a total interference power constraint imposed to protect the base station (BS) and individual transmit power budgets available for each D2D user pair. Since the formulated SRM problem is nonconvex in general, we reformulate it as a difference convex- (DC-) type programming problem, which can be iteratively solved by employing the famous successive convex approximation (SCA) method. Moreover, a proximal-point-based regularization approach is also pursued here to ensure the convergence of the proposed algorithm. Interestingly, the centralized precoding algorithm can also lend itself to a distributed implementation. By introducing a price-based interference management mechanism, we reformulate the coordinated precoding problem as a Stackelberg game. Then, a distributed precoding algorithm is developed based on the concept of Stackelberg equilibrium (SE). Finally, numerical simulations are also provided to demonstrate the proposed algorithms. Results show that our algorithms can converge fast to a satisfactory solution with guaranteed convergence.
Utilizing Autologous Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells andβ-Tricalcium Phosphate Scaffold in Human Bone Defects: A Prospective, Controlled Feasibility Trial
Authors: Šponer Pavel , Filip Stanislav , Kučera Tomáš , Brtková Jindra , Urban Karel , Palička Vladimír , Kočí Zuzana , Syka Michael , Bezrouk Aleš , Syková Eva
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this prospective controlled study was to compare healing quality following the implantation of ultraporousβ-tricalcium phosphate, containing either expanded autologous mesenchymal stromal cells (trial group, 9 patients) orβ-tricalcium phosphate alone (control group, 9 patients), into femoral defects during revision total hip arthroplasty. Both groups were assessed using the Harris Hip Score, radiography, and DEXA scanning at 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. A significant difference in the bone defect healing was observed between both groups of patients (P<0.05). In the trial group, trabecular remodeling was found in all nine patients and in the control group, in 1 patient only. Whereas, over the 12-month follow-up period, no significant difference was observed between both groups of patients in terms of the resorption ofβ-tricalcium phosphate, the significant differences were documented in the presence of radiolucency and bone trabeculation through the defect (P<0.05). Using autologous mesenchymal stromal cells combined with aβ-tricalcium phosphate scaffold is a feasible, safe, and effective approach for management of bone defects with compromised microenvironment. The clinical trial was registered at the EU Clinical Trials Register before patient recruitment has begun (EudraCT number2012-005599-33).