bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of positron emission tomography/CT and bremsstrahlung imaging following Y‐90 radiation synovectomy
Authors: Barber Thomas W. , Yap Kenneth S. K. , Cherk Martin H. , Powell Anne , Kalff Victor 
Published: March 2013

AbstractIntroductionThe aim of this study is to compare the results of positron emission tomography (PET)/CT with bremsstrahlung imaging following Y‐90 radiation synovectomy.MethodsAll patients referred to our institution for Y‐90 radiation synovectomy between July 2011 and February 2012 underwent both PET/CT and bremsstrahlung planar (± single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or SPECT/CT) imaging at 4 or 24 h following administration of Y‐90 silicate colloid. PET image acquisition was performed for between 15 and 20 min. In patients who underwent SPECT, side‐by‐side comparison with PET was performed and image quality/resolution scored using a five‐point scale. The distribution pattern of Y‐90 on PET and bremsstrahlung imaging was compared with the intra‐ or extra‐articular location of Y‐90 activity on fused PET/CT.ResultsThirteen joints (11 knees and two ankles) were imaged with both PET/CT and planar bremsstrahlung imaging with 12 joints also imaged with bremsstrahlung SPECT. Of the 12 joints imaged with SPECT, PET image quality/resolution was superior in 11 and inferior in one. PET demonstrated a concordant distribution pattern compared with bremsstrahlung imaging in all scans, with the pattern classified as diffuse in 12 and predominantly focal in one. In all 12 diffuse scans, PET/CT confirmed the Y‐90 activity to be located intra‐articularly. In the one predominantly focal scan, the fused PET/CT images localised the Y‐90 activity to mostly lie in the extra‐articular space of the knee.ConclusionPET/CT can provide superior image quality compared with bremsstrahlung imaging and may enable reliable detection of extra‐articular Y‐90 activity when there are focal patterns on planar bremsstrahlung imaging.
phyloGenerator: an automated phylogeny generation tool for ecologists
Authors: Pearse William D. , Purvis Andy 
Published: March 2013

SummaryEcologists increasingly wish to use phylogenies, but are hampered by the technical challenge of phylogeny estimation.We present phyloGenerator, an open‐source, stand‐alone Python program, that makes use of pre‐existing sequence data and taxonomic information to largely automate the estimation of phylogenies.phyloGenerator allows nonspecialists to quickly and easily produce robust, repeatable, and defensible phylogenies without requiring an extensive knowledge of phylogenetics. Experienced phylogeneticists may also find it useful as a tool to conduct exploratory analyses.phyloGenerator performs a number of ‘sanity checks’ on users' output, but users should still check their outputs carefully; we give some advice on how to do so.By linking a number of tools in a common framework, phyloGenerator is a step towards an open, reproducible phylogenetic workflow.Bundled downloads for Windows and Mac OSX, along with the source code and an install script for Linux, can be found athttp://willpearse.github.io/phyloGenerator(note the capital ‘G’).
Effects of age on minimum effective volume of local anesthetic for ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block
Authors: PAVIČIĆ ŠARIĆ JADRANKA , VIDJAK VINKO , TOMULIĆ KATARINA , ZENKO JELENA 
Published: March 2013

BackgroundInvolutional changes of peripheral nervous system occur with aging. The aim of the study was to determine the minimum effective volume of local anesthetic required to offer an effective ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block in 50% of middle‐aged (< 50 years) and elderly (> 65 years) patients. We hypothesized reduced minimum effective volume of local anesthetic in elderly patients.MethodsMiddle‐aged (n = 22) and elderly (n = 22) patients undergoing upper limb surgery received an ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Structural analysis of the brachial plexus in supraclavicular region was obtained by measuring the cross‐sectional area. The prospective, observer‐blinded study method is a previously validated step‐up/step‐down sequence model where the local anesthetic volume for the next patient is determined by the outcome of the previous block. The starting volume was 30 ml (50 : 50 mixture, 0.5%wt/vol levobupivacaine, 2%wt/vol lidocaine). The minimum effective volume of local anesthetic was determined using Dixon and Masey method.ResultsThe minimum effective local anesthetic volume significantly differed between middle‐aged and elderly [23.0 ml, 95% confidence interval (CI) 13.7–32.3 vs. 11.9 ml, 95% CI 9.3–14.6; 95% CI of the difference 1.6–20.6, P = 0.027]. The cross‐sectional area of brachial plexus was 0.95 ± 0.15 in middle‐aged and 0.51 ± 0.06 cm2 in elderly patients (P < 0.001).ConclusionsWithin the present study, we report a reduced minimum effective anesthetic volume for ultrasound‐guided supraclavicular block in elderly patients. Additionally, smaller cross‐sectional surface area of brachial plexus in the supraclavicular region was observed.
Using molecular markers for pedigree reconstruction of the greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) in the absence of parental information
Authors: Rodriguez‐Barreto D. , Consuegra S. , Jerez S. , Cejas J. R. , Martín V. , Lorenzo A. 
Published: March 2013

SummaryEnsuring appropriate levels of genetic diversity in captive populations is essential to avoid inbreeding and loss of rare alleles by genetic drift. Pedigree reconstruction and parentage analysis in the absence of parental genotypes can be a challenging task that relies in the assignment of sibship relationships among the offspring. Here, we used eight highly variable microsatellite markers and three different assignment methods to reconstruct the most likely genotypes of a parental group of wild Seriola dumerili fish based on the genotypes of six cohorts of their offspring, to assess their relative contributions to the offspring. We found that a combination of the four most variable microsatellites was enough to identify the number of parents and their contribution to the offspring, suggesting that the variability of the markers can be more critical than the number of markers. Estimated effective population sizes were lower than the number of breeders and variable among years. The results suggest unequal parental contribution that should be accounted for breeding programs in the future.
Expanding Western Definitions of Shamanism: A Conversation with Stephan Beyer, Stanley Krippner, and Hillary S. Webb
Authors: Webb Hillary S. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractWhere has the Western attraction to the study and practice of shamanic techniques brought us? Where might it take us? In what ways have our Western biases and philosophical underpinnings influenced and changed how shamanism is practiced, both in the West and in the traditional cultures out of which they emerged? Is it time to stop using the umbrella term “shamanism” to refer to such diverse cross‐cultural practices? What are our responsibilities, both as researchers and as spiritual seekers? In this conversation, researcher‐authors Stephan Beyer, Stanley Krippner, and Hillary S. Webb discuss their work in field and consider some of the ramifications of the Western world's intellectual and spiritual fascination with shamanic practices. Special attention is paid to the language used to describe these techniques and their practitioners, the developing relationship between researchers and cultural participants, and the ethical implications of merging what are often very distinct worldviews.
Triceps Split and Snip approach to the elbow: surgical technique and biomechanical evaluation
Authors: Poon Peter C. , Foliaki Supileo , Young Simon W. , Eisenhauer David 
Published: March 2013

AbstractBackgroundA number of posterior approaches to the elbow have been described, which vary in the quality of the exposure and morbidity to the triceps mechanism. We describe an adapted technique, the Triceps Split and Snip, which may offer improved surgical exposure during posterior approach to the elbow. We aimed to compare the strength of the triceps repair in this approach to a more traditional approach described by Bryan and Morrey.MethodsSixteen pairs of cadaveric elbows were randomized by surgical group and operative side. The Triceps Split and Snip and Bryan‐Morrey approaches were each performed on eight specimens, followed by repair of the triceps; the contralateral elbow served as the control. The specimens were then mounted on a material testing system and a constant velocity elongation was applied.ResultsThe mean load to failure for the Bryan‐Morrey group was 421N (range 349–536N). While the Triceps Split and Snip group was 388N (range 267–550N). The percentage ultimate strength loss was 40% for both groups. No significant difference was found in comparing the mean load to failure between the Triceps Split and Snip approach and the Bryan‐Morrey approach.ConclusionsThe Triceps Split and Snip approach is a technically simple approach to perform and repair, and provides excellent exposure of the elbow and distal humerus. The tensile strength of the triceps repair following this approach is equivalent to that of the Bryan‐Morrey approach.
Medical student participation in a surgical outpatient clinic: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Azher Hinna , Lay Jennifer , Stupart Douglas A. , Guest Glenn D. , Watters David A. K. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractBackgroundTo determine the patient, doctor and student perceptions with different styles of student participation in a surgical outpatient clinic.MethodsA randomized controlled trial was conducted in surgical outpatients. Participants included patients scheduled to see one of four specialist general surgeons, the surgeons themselves and third‐year medical students undertaking their general surgery rotation at the Geelong Hospital. A total of 151 consultations were randomized to one of three consultation styles between August 2011 and August 2012. (i) ‘No Student’, consultation without a student being present, (ii) ‘Student with Doctor’, consultation where the student accompanied the doctor throughout the consultation and (iii) ‘Student before Doctor’, consultation where the student interviewed the patient before the doctor and examined the patient in the doctor's presence. Participants' perceptions and experience of each of the consultations was assessed in the form of written questionnaires.ResultsThere was no difference in overall patient satisfaction with different styles of student participation (P = 0.080). Students showed a clear preference for the ‘Student before Doctor’ consultation style (P = 0.023). There were no differences in consultation outcomes from the doctor's perspective (P = 0.88), except time (P < 0.0001).ConclusionThis study supports a style of consultation where students are actively involved in patient care as it has no adverse effects on patient satisfaction and it is the preferred participation style from the student's perspective. Doctors do not feel that active student involvement interferes with their ability to deliver healthcare except that it prolongs consultation time.
Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Docking Studies of (S)‐Phenylalanine Derivatives with a 2‐Cyanopyrrolidine Moiety as Potent Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Authors: Liu Yang , Wu Yizhe , Wu Haoshu , Tang Li , Wu Peng , Liu Tao , Hu Yongzhou 
Published: March 2013

A novel series of (S)‐phenylalanine derivatives with a 2‐cyanopyrrolidine moiety were designed and synthesized through a rational drug design strategy. Biological evaluation revealed that most tested compounds were potent dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors; among them, the cyclopropyl‐substituted phenylalanine derivative 11h displayed the most potent DPP‐4 inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.247 μm. In addition, molecular docking analysis of the representative compounds 11h, 11k, and 15a were performed, which not only revealed the impact of binding modes on DPP‐4 inhibitory activity but also provided additional methodological values for design and optimization.
Diet‐induced weight loss in obese children with asthma: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jensen M. E. , Gibson P. G. , Collins C. E. , Hilton J. M. , Wood L. G. 
Published: March 2013

SummaryBackgroundObesity is highly prevalent in asthmatic children and associated with worse clinical outcomes. Energy restriction to induce weight loss in asthmatic children has not been investigated in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).ObjectiveTo assess if (1) weight loss can be achieved in obese asthmatic children using a dietary intervention; and (2) changes in asthma outcomes occur following diet‐induced weight loss.MethodsIn a 10‐week pilot RCT, obese asthmatic children, aged 8–17 years, were randomized to a wait‐list control (WLC) (n = 15) or dietary‐intervention group (DIG) (n = 13). Lung function, Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score, and sputum and systemic inflammation were assessed at baseline and post‐intervention. (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12610000955011).ResultsBody mass index (BMI) z‐score reduced significantly in the DIG vs. the WLC (−0.2 [−0.4, −0.1] vs. 0.0 [−0.1, 0.0], P = 0.014). Expiratory reserve volume (ERV) increased significantly within the DIG, but not compared to the WLC (0.7 [0.0, 1.0] L vs. 0.3 [0.0, 0.8] L, P = 0.355). ACQ improved significantly in the DIG, compared to the WLC (−0.4 [−0.7, 0.0] vs. 0.1 [0.0, 0.6], P = 0.004). Airway and systemic inflammation did not change within the DIG. In comparison, C‐Reactive Protein (CRP) increased significantly in the WLC (−0.4 [−0.5, 0.4] vs. 0.7 [−0.1, 1.9], P = 0.037). Change (∆) in BMI z‐score correlated with ∆CRP (r = 0.47, P = 0.012) and ∆exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) (r = 0.46, P = 0.034), and ∆ACQ was associated with ∆CRP (r = 0.43, P = 0.029).Conclusion and Clinical RelevanceDietary intervention can induce acute weight loss in obese asthmatic children with subsequent improvements in static lung function and asthma control. Systemic and airway inflammation did not change following weight loss. However, changes in BMI z‐score were associated with changes in airway and systemic inflammation and this requires further investigation in a larger RCT. This is the first weight loss RCT conducted in obese asthmatic children. Diet‐induced weight loss can achieve significant improvements in clinical outcomes for obese children with asthma.
Increased IL‐17A secreting CD4+ T cells, serum IL‐17 levels and exhaled nitric oxide are correlated with childhood asthma severity
Authors: Chien J.‐W. , Lin C.‐Y. , Yang K. D. , Lin C.‐H. , Kao J.‐K. , Tsai Y.‐G. 
Published: March 2013

SummaryBackgroundMeasuring fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a simple and non‐invasive method for assessing airway inflammation. IL‐17 plays an important role in T cell‐dependent inflammatory response that occurs in allergic asthma, it could act as a potent activator of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) to amplify FeNO levels.ObjectivesTo evaluate the differences in the CD4+IL‐17A+ T cell counts, serum IL‐17 levels, and FeNO levels in children with mild intermittent to moderate to severe persistent asthma classified by using the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA).MethodsOne hundred and twenty asthmatic children divided into the mild intermittent (n = 42), mild persistent (n = 42), and moderate to severe persistent (n = 36) groups, and 20 healthy controls were recruited for the study. Information obtained at visits included the assessment of asthma severity according to GINA guidelines and C‐ACT, lung function parameters, FeNO levels, CD4+IL‐17A+ T cells counts from PBMCs, iNOS production by sputum cells and serum IL‐17 levels.ResultsSerum IL‐17 and FeNO levels were significantly higher in mild to severe persistent asthmatic patients than in intermittent asthmatics or healthy controls (P < 0.05). The percentage of CD4+IL‐17A+ T cells was higher in moderate to severe persistent asthmatics than in mild asthmatics (P < 0.01). Moderate to severe asthmatics (n = 5) exhibited greater iNOS production in sputum cells than mild cases (n = 5). Decreased iNOS expression in sputum cells was noted in all subjects after IL‐17 neutralizing antibody (P < 0.05). Serum IL‐17 levels were positively correlated with FeNO (rho = 0.74; P < 0.01), negatively correlated with C‐ACT (rho = −0.63; P < 0.01) in asthmatics.Conclusion and Clinical RelevanceCD4+ IL‐17A+ T cells counts and serum IL‐17 levels in conjunction with augmented FeNO levels are systemic markers of childhood asthma, using these markers, prediction and potential therapeutics for persistent asthmatics may be developed.
Understanding the Role of Representations of Human–Leopard Conflict in Mumbai through Media‐Content Analysis
Authors: BHATIA SALONI , ATHREYA VIDYA , GRENYER RICHARD , MACDONALD DAVID W. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractAttempts to minimize the effects of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) on conservation goals require an understanding of the mechanisms by which such conflicts are caused and sustained. This necessitates looking beyond the natural sciences to the human dimensions of wildlife management. Public dissemination of information regarding HWC occurs largely through the mass media. We conducted a content analysis of print media articles on human–leopard conflict in Mumbai, India. We sought to understand the framing of HWC and the changes in media coverage over a 10‐year period (2001–2011) during which a large number of attacks on people prior to 2005 were followed by a program of trapping and relocation. After 2005, when there was a decrease in the level of conflict, the tone of English‐language media reports changed. The perpetrator framing was over 5 times more likely before 2005, whereas a neutral framing was twice as likely after 2005. English‐language and non‐English‐language print media differed significantly in their framing of HWC and in the kinds of solutions advocated. Our results also suggest the print mass media in Mumbai could be an influential conduit for content that diminishes HWC. These media outlets seem attentive to human–leopard conflict, capable of correcting erroneous perceptions and facilitating mitigation and effective management. We believe better contact and mutual understanding between conservation professionals and the mass media could be an important component of managing HWC. We further suggest that in such interactions conservation professionals need to be aware of cultural and linguistic differences in reporting within the country.Entendiendo el Papel de las Representaciones del Conflicto Humano–Leopardo en Mumbai A Través del Análisis de Contenido de Medios
Equivalency of Galápagos Giant Tortoises Used as Ecological Replacement Species to Restore Ecosystem Functions
Authors: HUNTER ELIZABETH A. , GIBBS JAMES P. , CAYOT LINDA J. , TAPIA WASHINGTON 
Published: March 2013

AbstractLoss of key plant–animal interactions (e.g., disturbance, seed dispersal, and herbivory) due to extinctions of large herbivores has diminished ecosystem functioning nearly worldwide. Mitigating for the ecological consequences of large herbivore losses through the use of ecological replacements to fill extinct species’ niches and thereby replicate missing ecological functions has been proposed. It is unknown how different morphologically and ecologically a replacement can be from the extinct species and still provide similar functions. We studied niche equivalency between 2 phenotypes of Galápagos giant tortoises (domed and saddlebacked) that were translocated to Pinta Island in the Galápagos Archipelago as ecological replacements for the extinct saddlebacked giant tortoise (Chelonoidis abingdonii). Thirty‐nine adult, nonreproductive tortoises were introduced to Pinta Island in May 2010, and we observed tortoise resource use in relation to phenotype during the first year following release. Domed tortoises settled in higher, moister elevations than saddlebacked tortoises, which favored lower elevation arid zones. The areas where the tortoises settled are consistent with the ecological conditions each phenotype occupies in its native range. Saddlebacked tortoises selected areas with high densities of the arboreal prickly pear cactus (Opuntia galapageia) and mostly foraged on the cactus, which likely relied on the extinct saddlebacked Pinta tortoise for seed dispersal. In contrast, domed tortoises did not select areas with cactus and therefore would not provide the same seed‐dispersal functions for the cactus as the introduced or the original, now extinct, saddlebacked tortoises. Interchangeability of extant megaherbivores as replacements for extinct forms therefore should be scrutinized given the lack of equivalency we observed in closely related forms of giant tortoises. Our results also demonstrate the value of trial introductions of sterilized individuals to test niche equivalency among candidate analog species.Equivalencia de Tortugas Gigantes de las Galápagos Utilizadas como Especie de Reemplazo Ecológico para Restaurar las Funciones de los Ecosistemas
Edge‐Effect Interactions in Fragmented and Patchy Landscapes
Authors: PORENSKY LAUREN M. , YOUNG TRUMAN P. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractEcological edges are increasingly recognized as drivers of landscape patterns and ecosystem processes. In fragmented and patchy landscapes (e.g., a fragmented forest or a savanna with scattered termite mounds), edges can become so numerous that their effects pervade the entire landscape. Results of recent studies in such landscapes show that edge effects can be altered by the presence or proximity of other nearby edges. We considered the theoretical significance of edge‐effect interactions, illustrated various landscape configurations that support them and reviewed existing research on this topic. Results of studies from a variety of locations and ecosystem types show that edge‐effect interactions can have significant consequences for ecosystems and conservation, including higher tree mortality rates in tropical rainforest fragments, reduced bird densities in grassland fragments, and bush encroachment and reduced wildlife densities in a tropical savanna. To clarify this underappreciated concept and synthesize existing work, we devised a conceptual framework for edge‐effect interactions. We first worked to reduce terminological confusion by clarifying differences among terms such as edge intersection and edge interaction. For cases in which nearby edge effects interact, we proposed three possible forms of interaction: strengthening (presence of a second edge causes stronger edge effects), weakening (presence of a second edge causes weaker edge effects), and emergent (edge effects change completely in the presence of a second edge). By clarifying terms and concepts, this framework enables more precise descriptions of edge‐effect interactions and facilitates comparisons of results among disparate study systems and response variables. A better understanding of edge‐effect interactions will pave the way for more appropriate modeling, conservation, and management in complex landscapes.Interacciones del Efecto de Borde en Paisajes Fragmentados