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Objective: To investigate the incidence and predisposing factors leading to the development of corneal ulcers and the loss of a palpebral reflex in hospitalised canine and feline patients with tick paralysis (TP). Animals studied: A total of 102 dogs and 100 cats retrospectively were assessed from previously hospitalised patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on 102 different canine and 100 different feline patients who were hospitalised for TP from October 2020–January 2022. Patient data were collected, and logistic regression was conducted to determine factors affecting the palpebral reflex and the development of corneal ulcers. Results: Corneal ulcers occurred in 23/102 (22.5%) dogs during hospitalisation and were strongly associated with an incomplete palpebral reflex ipsilaterally during hospitalisation (P < 0.001), hospitalisation ≥3 days (P = 0.004), mechanical ventilation ≥3 days (P = 0.015) or a tick location cranial to C1 (P = 0.003). An incomplete palpebral reflex during hospitalisation was observed in 29/102 (28.4%) dogs and was significantly associated with decreasing patient weight (P = 0.018), increasing days hospitalised (P = 0.001), having a tick found cranial to C1 (P = 0.004), highest recorded GP grade (P = 0.01), highest recorded RP grade (P = 0.005), use of amoxycillin‐clavulanic acid during hospitalisation (P = 0.002) and use of piperacillin/tazobactam during hospitalisation (P = 0.003). There was a significant association between the loss of a complete palpebral reflex and mortality during hospitalisation in dogs (OR = 4.5, P = 0.029). Corneal ulcers occurred in 10/100 (10.0%) cats during hospitalisation, and was significantly more likely to occur to an eye if an incomplete palpebral reflex was observed ipsilaterally during hospitalisation (OR = 20.1, P < 0.0001) and with increasing patient age (P = 0.019). The absence of a complete palpebral reflex during hospitalisation was observed in 18/10 (18.0%) cats and was significantly associated with increasing days hospitalised (P = 0.034). There was no significant association between the loss of a complete palpebral reflex and mortality during hospitalisation in cats. Conclusions: The frequency of corneal ulcers and loss of palpebral reflexes were significant in dogs and cats hospitalised by TP, with many factors contributing to the risk of these developing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We often use the plus/minus Selmer groups to study Iwasawa theory for elliptic curves with good supersingular reduction at p. But, if the plus/minus local conditions are not co-free, it can be difficult to use them effectively. In this paper, we introduce some technical improvements so that we can use the plus/minus Selmer groups even when the plus/minus local conditions are not co-free. In particular, we show that the plus/minus Selmer groups have no proper submodule of finite index and also they satisfy algebraic functional equations even when the said local conditions are not co-free, thus improve our previous results [B. Kim, The algebraic functional equation of an elliptic curve at supersingular primes, Math. Res. Lett. 15(1) (2008) 83–94; The plus/minus Selmer groups for supersingular primes, J. Aust. Math. Soc. 95(2) (2013) 189–200]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overnutrition or undernutrition during all or part of the reproductive cycle predisposes sows to metabolic consequences and poor reproductive health which contributes to a decrease in sow longevity and an increase in perinatal mortality. This represents not only an economic problem for the pig industry but also results in poor animal welfare. To maximise profitability and increase sustainability in pig production, it is pivotal to provide researchers and practitioners with synthesised information about the repercussions of maternal obesity or malnutrition on reproductive health and perinatal outcomes, and to pinpoint currently available nutritional managements to keep sows' body condition in an optimal range. Thus, the present review summarises recent work on the consequences of maternal malnutrition and highlights new findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the impact of nutritional interventions on the outcomes of children with short bowel syndrome (SBS). This was a retrospective descriptive observational review where data were obtained from the patient's medical records. Children with SBS between the ages of 0 and 24 months who obtained this diagnosis between January 2005 and December 2015 at a tertiary paediatric hospital in Cape Town were investigated. There were 46 patients (62% male, 38% female) included in the study. The median duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) support was one month (0.6, 2.2 months), after which 83% of patients were weaned from PN. Enteral nutrition was commenced in 96% of patients, with the majority (n = 36; 82%) starting on day six (±6; range 1–29 days) postoperatively and 80% of patients attaining full feeds at median 1.2 months (0.2, 36 months). Patients displayed a mean weight and length gain of 15 g/day (±4; range 19–92 g) and 2 cm/month (±1.4; range 0.25–4 cm) respectively. The main complications were PN-associated cholestasis (n = 17), fat malabsorption (n = 13) and vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency (n = 5). This study showed that early initiation of PN support was attained, and that most patients were able to achieve enteral autonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Available evidence shows conflicting results regarding the association between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs)/preeclampsia (PE) and small for gestational age (SGA) and birthweight discordance (BWD). This retrospective study of 2131 twin pregnancies aimed to evaluate the association of HDPs/PE with the presence of SGA and BWD. The eligible pregnancies were categorized into four study groups: concordant pairs without SGA fetuses, discordant pairs without SGA fetuses, concordant pairs with SGA fetuses, and discordant pairs with SGA fetuses. We applied binary logistic regression models to compare the incidence of HDPs/PE and multinomial logit regression models to evaluate the severity of PE between the study groups. The models were adjusted for potential confounders. Increases in HDPs were observed in concordant (aOR, 2.33; 95% CI: 1.46–3.73) and discordant (aOR, 3.50; 95% CI: 2.26–5.43) pregnancies with SGA fetuses but not in discordant pregnancies without SGA fetuses (aOR, 1.42; 95% CI: 0.81–2.49); increases in PE were also found in concordant (aOR, 1.87; 95% CI: 1.08–3.23) and discordant (aOR, 3.75; 95% CI: 2.36–5.96) pregnancies with SGA fetuses but not in discordant pregnancies without SGA fetuses (aOR, 1.34; 95% CI: 0.71–2.52). Discordant pregnancies with SGA fetuses were associated with severe PE (aRRR, 3.48; 95% CI: 1.79–6.77), whereas concordant pregnancies with SGA fetuses were associated with only mild PE (aRRR, 2.54; 95% CI: 1.33–4.88). Our results suggest that SGA is associated with the development of HDP/PE, while discordant growth is associated with the severity of PE. These associations need to be further investigated using estimated fetal weight (EFW). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 2019/2020 Australian bushfires were the largest bushfire event in modern Australian history. While actions to mitigate risk to homes from bushfires are well reported, there is very little research reported on the impacts of bushfires on livestock. With an increasing incidence of bushfires predicted, there is an urgent need to identify how farmers can best protect their livestock. Objectives: Compare bushfire affected farms with and without injured livestock to identify associations between risk factors and bushfire injury. Infer management approaches that can be used to reduce bushfire injury in livestock. Method: A case‐control study using a structured interview questionnaire, delivered in late 2020 to cattle and sheep farmers in south‐eastern Australia (New South Wales and Victoria) whose farmland was burnt in the 2019/2020 Australian bushfires. Case farms were farms with bushfires injured or killed livestock. Control farms were farms that had no bushfire injured livestock but that still had fire present on the farm. Interview responses were summarised and information theoretical approaches were used to identify potential risk factors for livestock bushfire injury and protective actions that could inform future fire‐preparation recommendations. Results and discussion: Of 46 farms in the case‐control study, 21 (46%) reported bushfire injured or killed livestock. Apparent protective factors identified included: preparation (having a bushfire plan and more than two farm bushfire fighting units), backburning and receiving assistance from fire authorities. Combined beef and sheep grazing enterprises appeared to have an increased risk of bushfire injury to livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the reinforcement degree investigation of two types of rockwool fibers (F1 and F2), in nitrile rubber composites. The micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) 3D images showed that both fibers were well-dispersed in the NBR matrix, without a preferential orientation. The micro-CT analysis also allowed quantifying volume fraction, inter-fiber distance, and aspect ratio. Those morphometric parameters were used for supporting the composites rheological behavior assessment. Changes in the elastic modulus and phase angle followed the same trend of the inter-fiber distance values, regardless the type of fiber. Both volume fraction and aspect ratio data from the micro-CT analysis were used to predict theoretical values of elastic modulus using the Guth-Gold and modified Guth-Gold equations, and the results obtained were compared to the rheological experimental data. This analysis was helpful to better understand the rockwool fibers reinforcement degree differences in the production of the nitrile rubber composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suppose an elliptic curve E / Q has good supersingular reduction at a prime p , and satisfies 1 + p − # E (Z / p Z) = 0 , which is always true if p is supersingular and p > 3 by the Hasse inequality. Expanding Kobayashi's plus/minus-local points over the cyclotomic Z p -extension of Q p , where π is any element in C p with positive p -adic valuation, we construct doubly indexed plus/minus local points over Q p (π p n − m , μ p n ) (which we will call local Iwasawa Kummer extensions) as n , m vary. Then, we explore various possible plus/minus Selmer groups over Z p -extensions of number fields over which p is ramified, or doubly indexed plus/minus Selmer groups over Iwasawa Kummer extensions, and study or speculate their properties using the above plus/minus local points. Finally, again using the above points, we study the following: Suppose k is a ramified quadratic extension of Q p. We find a bound of [ E (m k (μ p n )) : E + (m k (μ p n )) + E − (m k (μ p n )) ] as n varies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a topical domain, robotic surgery is a fast moving area of both research and innovation, but there seems to be a dearth of information about training and curricula. Looking at training and future practice for robotic surgery, the authors examine the current situation but also consider potential future directions in terms of mandatory curricula (for multiple specialties) and assessment of competence. The article also covers some general areas of implementation and learning curves for new technologies. An international consensus on robotic surgical training is required to guarantee regulated uptake of this expanding area of innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Missile-related blood lead elevations and toxicity are well documented in the literature but reports on its associated risk factor(s) are few. Objective: To determine if bone fracture(s) contribute to an elevated lead blood level. Method: This is a prospective study of subjects with retained pellets in the craniomaxillofacial region following gunshot injuries who met the inclusion criteria. Blood samples were collected from the test subjects and their corresponding control subjects via venipuncture. Collected blood samples were used for blood lead measurement by the wet method of the atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Using appropriate statistical tests, p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total number of 48 subjects were studied. The mean blood lead levels (BLLs) of the study population were 6.88 ± 1.17 µg/dl while that of the control group was 1.52 ± 0.87 µg/dl and the mean difference was statistically significant (p = 0.03). The mean and standard deviation of BLL of subjects with fractures were 4.77 ± 0.9, 5.08 ± 1.0, and 5.22 ± 1.0 µg/dl at days 3, 21, and 42 postinjury, respectively, while for those without bone fractures were 3.07 ± 1.4, 3.70 ± 0.8, and 4.33 ± 1.7 µg/dl. The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.04). Conclusion: Subjects with bone fractures were found to have higher BLLs than those without bone fractures, where pellets were retained in their bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper lighting plays a critical role in enabling miners to detect hazards when operating a roof bolter, one of the most dangerous mining machines to operate; however, there has not been any lighting research to address the walk-thru type of roof bolter commonly used today. To address this, the Saturn light was designed to directly address walk-thru roof bolter safety by improving trip hazard illumination. The visual performances of 30 participants that comprised three age groups were quantified by measuring each participant's visual performance in detecting trip objects positioned on the two floor locations within the machine's interior working space. The lighting conditions were the existing compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and the Saturn LED area light developed by NIOSH researchers. Three intensities of the Saturn lights were used, 100%, 75%, and 50%, all of which resulted in better visual performance, and up to a 48% reduction in average trip detection time compared to the CFL. For the Saturn trip object miss rates were <0.5% for all age groups in contrast to the CFL, which ranged between 32.5% for the youngest group and 50.4% for the oldest group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting exocrine glands leading to mouth and eyes dryness. The extent to which epigenetic DNA methylation changes are responsible for an X‐chromosome dose effect has yet to be determined. Our objectives were to (i) describe how epigenetic DNA methylation changes could explain an X‐chromosome dose effect in SS for women with normal 46,XX genotype and (ii) determine the relevant relationships to this dose effect, between X‐linked genes, genes controlling X‐chromosome inactivation (XCI) and genes encoding associated transcription factors, all of which are differentially expressed and/or differentially methylated in the salivary glands of patients with SS. We identified 58 upregulated X‐chromosome genes, including 22 genes previously shown to escape XCI, based on the analysis of SS patient salivary gland GEO2R gene expression datasets. Moreover, we found XIST and its cis regulators RLIM, FTX, and CHIC1, and polycomb repressor genes of the PRC1/2 complexes to be upregulated. Many of the X‐chromosome genes implicated in SS pathogenesis can be regulated by transcription factors which we found to be overexpressed and/or differentially methylated in patients with SS. Determination of the mechanisms underlying methylation‐dependent gene expression and impaired XCI is needed to further elucidate the etiopathogenesis of SS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Humoral responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination are greatly impaired in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients on fingolimod. Effects of repeated vaccination and infections on long-term responses are unclear. Methods: Prospective study in 60 MS patients on fingolimod measuring humoral responses after up to four vaccinations and 8 months after fourth vaccination. Results: Anti-WH1 antibody titers increased with each additional vaccination. At long-term follow-up titers increased further and most patients developed new humoral responses against the BA.1 omicron variant. Conclusion: Repeated SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations boost humoral immunity and, probably together with SARS-CoV-2 infections, induce humoral responses on the long-term in almost all patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Glycemia, measured in the ear vein, is negatively correlated with farrowing duration. • The fasting period negatively affect sows' glycemia. • Glycemia tend to rise in sows that star to farrow with low glycemia. Monitoring and maintaining adequate glycemia is pivotal to an optimal farrowing process benefiting sows and newborn piglets. The present observational study was performed to (1) evaluate if the peripheral glycemia (measured on ear vein) of sows at the onset of farrowing is related to farrowing traits and to (2) identify and quantify factors associated with peripheral glycemia and the interactions with farrowing kinetics. To this end, datasets with farm characteristics and sow farrowing data from four different farms were used. All sows were closely monitored during farrowing starting from the birth of the first piglet to the expulsion of the placenta. Farrowing duration (FD) was defined as the time elapsed between the birth of the first-born and the last-born piglet in the litter. Fasting period, defined as the time from the last meal until onset of farrowing, was recorded. Glycemia was assessed with a portable glucometer. The measurement was performed immediately after the birth of the first piglets, considered as the initial glycemia (IGly) and at the end of farrowing, considered as the final glycemia (FGly). The data were screened for correlations. Traits that were correlated with the glycemia at p < 0.2 were included in a multivariate regression model. The use of oxytocin, manual assistance, and IGly were negatively associated with farrowing duration (p < 0.05), whereas total piglets born and parity were positively associated to farrowing duration (p < 0.05). Fasting period was negatively associated with IGly (p < 0.05). Further, sows were classified based on their IGly in three groups according to quartile distribution. High group: initial glycemia ≥ 4.72mMol/L; Intermediate group: initial glycemia ≥ 4mMol/L and ≤ 4.71mMol/L; Low group: initial glycemia ≤ 3.99mMol/L. Sows in categories of high and intermediate IGly did not show a significant difference (p > 0.05) in their average FGly (5.06 ± 0.13 mMol/L and 4.64 ± 0.12 mMol/L, respectively). IGly can be used as a tool to identify sows more prone to prolonged FD. The results demonstrate that glucose metabolism varies with farrowing traits and is dependent on the glycemia at the onset of farrowing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the case of a 19-year-old man who suffered a penetrating injury to the brain with a large-calibre steel industrial prybar approximately 1 m long and 2.5 cm wide that was retained in his cranium. The management of this type of injury is discussed, based on our experience with penetrating brain injuries with large-calibre retained objects, from initial presentation to surgical removal of the object to post-operative care. Additionally, given the similarities of the injuries suffered by our patient with those of Phineas Gage, we discuss the extensive lessons learned in treating this type of large-calibre injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of our study is to investigate the effects of home exercise program on balance, postural control, coordination and functional strengthening in parkinsonian patients. Methods: The study was consisted of idiopathic Parkinson's disease patients, who were not given any exercise training previously. The program including stretching, strengthening, coordination and balance exercises was structured according to the severity of disease. The patients were taught the exercises by a physiotherapist and in addition, were given an illustrated annotated leaflet for home program. Patients were asked to perform the exercises 2 times a day, with 10 times repetitions, for 12 weeks. The static and dynamic balance capacities (Berg Balance Scale-BBS, functional reach test), timed performance capacity (timed up&go test, sit to stand test) of the patients were evaluated before the exercise training. The stage of the disease was evaluated using Modified Hoehn-Yahr Parkinson's Disease Staging, also the severity of the disease was assessed using the United Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor score and the activities of daily living were measured using the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living Scale. All assessments were repeated following the 12-week exercise program. Results: The mean age of the parkinsonian patients, who completed the exercise program, was 68.34±8.92 year (51-88) and the mean duration of disease was 4.94±4.25 (1-20) year. A significant increase in the scores of BBS, functional reach test (both forward and backward), and a significant decrease in the score of single timed chair-rise test were observed following the home exercise program. A significant improvement was observed in the scores of the Schwab England Activities of Daily Living Scale (p<0.05). Conclusion: Home exercises enhance the balance abilities and provide improvement on activities of daily living of Parkinson's disease patients. Therefore, besides the medical treatment, exercise programs should be included in the treatment of Parkinson's patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a new methodology to conceive a thinning scheme based on the parallel deletion of P-simple points. This scheme needs neither a preliminary labelling nor an extended neighborhood, in the opposite of the already proposed thinning algorithms based on P-simple points. Moreover, from an existent thinning algorithm A, we construct another thinning algorithm A′, such that A′ deletes at least all the points removed by A, while preserving the same end points. In fact, we propose a 12-subiteration thinning algorithm which deletes at least the points removed by the one proposed by Pala´gyi and Kuba (Graphical Models Image Process. 61 (1999) 199). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris) is an adaptable European amphibian occupying a range of habitats from low to high elevation within its native range. The Italian subspeciesI. a. apuana, illegally introduced to New Zealand, has established geographically close to habitats of Archey’s frog (Leiopelma archeyi) and Hochstetter’s frog (L. hochstetteri). The newt’s introductions in Europe suggest competitive impacts on local amphibians were not severe, although as a disease and parasite vector its impact may have been underestimated in the past. The most identifiable risk to native frog populations in New Zealand is introduction of new diseases or parasites, although the newt may have wider ecological impact should it substantially invade native frog habitats. Alpine newts need eradicating from New Zealand as soon as possible, while the status of captive-held fire-bellied newts (Cynopsspp.) also requires review, given their disease risk and their potential for release into the wild. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article discusses a study conducted to evaluate factors affecting mortality in acute arterial mesenteric ischemia in 73 patients with an initial diagnosis of the disease in the Ankara Numune Teaching Hospital between January 2008 and December 2013. It discusses factors including red cell distribution width, gamma glutamyl transpeptidase and anti-coagulant affecting mortality in arterial acute mesenteric ischemia and how their management could help prevent mortality due to the disease.

Increasing our knowledge of the costs and benefits associated with commensal interactions is necessary both for a better understanding of how ecological communities are structured and for determining conservation actions. We investigated the concomitant use of a burrow by a nesting seabird, the fairy prion (Pachyptila turtur), and a medium-sized predatory reptile, the tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus). Arrival time of fairy prions at the burrow each night was found to be delayed by the presence of a tuatara at the burrow. Use of the burrow by tuatara almost halved the time fairy prions spent at the burrow with their chick. The effect of this cohabitation on each species can be expected to change over both space and time, i.e. with changes in population densities and season. Hence it is possible that in newly established colonies of birds with low numbers in the presence of tuatara, tuatara predation may have a deleterious impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is among the most feared causes of maternal morbidity worldwide, and yet few prospective data are available to inform best practice. PAS is rare enough that rigorous study in a single center is difficult, but common enough that most obstetric hospitals now encounter PAS. Management and outcomes vary strikingly between hospitals and best practice, regrettably, is guided more by expert consensus than by level I evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two ultrasound survey methods were used to determine the presence and activity patterns of New Zealand long-tailed bats (Chalinolobus tuberculatus) in the city of Hamilton. First, 13 monthly surveys conducted at 18 green spaces found C. tuberculatus in only one urban forest reserve, Hammond Bush, where they were found consistently throughout the year. Bat activity was strongly related to temperature. Second, twice-yearly citywide surveys conducted over 2 years determined the distribution and habitat associations of C. tuberculatus. Bats were found only in the southern part of the city and were strongly associated with the Waikato River. Bat activity was negatively correlated with housing and street light density and positively correlated with topographical complexity. In Hamilton, topographical complexity indicates the presence of gullies. Gullies probably provide foraging and roosting opportunities and connect the river to distant forest patches. These results suggest that urban habitats can be useful for bats if gullies can link these to distant habitat fragments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in vegetation structure and composition between 1968 and 2013 were assessed on a small rock stack adjoining Slipper Island/Whakahau, located off the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. The rock stack, an example of what is an historically rare New Zealand ecosystem, consists of a steep-sided column of fissured andesite with a gently sloped crowning summit (c. 80 m2) that reaches c. 20 m asl. Significant vegetation change occurred in the 45 years between visits, including the arrival of new species (14), predominantly exotic herbs and grasses (7), but most significantly the pioneering native treesMetrosideros excelsaandPittosporum crassifolium. Total vegetation cover frequency on the summit had increased (from 63% to 77%), with a shift from dominance of herbs and grasses to shrubs with incipient forest development. The rock lilyArthropodium bifurcatum(recognised as a distinct form ofArthropodium cirratumin the 1968 survey) had been lost and the light-demanding creeping shrubPimelea urvilleanaconfined to seaward facing ledges. Dominance byM.excelsais expected to increase leading to canopy closure and further compositional changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We review the biology and ecology ofMetrosideros excelsa(Myrtaceae), an endemic angiosperm evergreen tree.Metrosideros excelsabelongs to a conspicuous and widely distributed Pacific Basin genus, with centres of diversity in both New Zealand and New Caledonia.Metrosideros excelsais an iconic tree species that forms a significant component of northern New Zealand's exposed coastal headland and cliff vegetation. Where conditions are more favourable,M. excelsaforms tall coastal forest, ranging from simple young high-density stands to diverse mature forest. Inland,M. excelsastands are confined to the margins of lakes and rivers on the Central Volcanic Plateau, where some may originate from early Māori plantings.Metrosideros excelsais reliant on stochastic disturbance events (e.g. landslides, volcanic eruptions) to create open sites necessary for regeneration. Mass flowering (December–January), followed by abundant production of wind-dispersed seed maximises chance colonisation of such sites. Since human settlement in New Zealand, the distribution ofM. excelsaforest has declined by c. 90% and the southern limit of the species has retreated north. Natural regeneration on the mainland is limited by the infrequency of large-scale disturbances and increased anthropogenic and herbivore pressures. Consequently,M. excelsaforest has become rare and localised on the mainland; monitoring and active management are fundamental to the species' long-term conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses how abatacept, a fusion protein, helps to induce clinical improvement in patients suffering from systemic sclerosis an autoimmune disease. It mentions the use of abatacept given as a conventional therapy to four patients which showed the reduction in the modified Rodnan skin score. It proposes that after showing improvements in patients, abatacept constitutes as potential drug for use therapy of systemic sclerosis.

Tephra eruptions have significant long-lasting impacts on vegetation, and potentially explain extant vegetation patterns in volcanic landscapes. We quantified the effects of the AD 1655 Burrell Lapilli deposit, Mt Taranaki, on treeline vegetation. Where lapilli depth was 25–40 cm, a succession close to primary was initiated. Where lapilli depth was 5–25 cm, the canopy was opened, but some vegetation survived. Total tree basal area remains lower in affected vegetation (158 cf. 206 m2ha−1), whereas total tree density is higher where a moderate disturbance stimulated regeneration (8433 cf. 6656 stems ha−1).Griselinia littoralisandPodocarpus cunninghamiidominate treeline vegetation (c. 51 and 39 m2ha−1, respectively) within the lapilli distribution. Where disturbance was moderate, a cohort ofLibocedrus bidwilliiwas also initiated.Weinmannia racemosais absent from treeline vegetation within the lapilli distribution, despite being a dominant component elsewhere (basal area 48 m2ha−1). Compositional patterns result from interspecific differences in morphology and resilience, as well as light, substrate and temperature tolerance. Light-demanding, cold-tolerant taxa were able to take advantage of the newly created open sites, whereas shade-tolerant, less hardy species lost their competitive advantage at the treeline elevation. The successional trajectory of the treeline vegetation has been set back and altered, and there is no evidence of convergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aldehydes produced from carbohydrates by oxidation or acid hydrolysis may be visualized by application of aqueous thiosemicarbazide followed by Schmorl's ferricyanide reduction. The thiosemicarbazide reacts with the aldehydes by its hydrazine group, while its thiocarbamyl group remains active. The thiocarbamyl moiety is a strong reducing group that converts ferricyanide to ferrocyanide in Schmorl's reaction. The ferrocyanide is trapped immediately by the ferric salt, which deposits Prussian blue at the site of the aldehydes thereby demonstrating the location of the original substance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological features of a collection of unknown-age wild kiwi (Apteryx mantelli) embryos from early development to point of hatch are described. Using these features, we assign developmental stages to each embryo and compare the progress of development to similar-staged ostrich (Struthio camelus) and chicken (Gallus gallus) embryos. Two ageing schemes for the kiwi embryos are developed by comparing measurements of their hindlimb segments, bills and crown–rump lengths with those of ostrich and chicken embryos at various stages of development. One of the 20 kiwi embryos was of known age. Both the ostrich model and the chicken model gave identical predictions for the marker and four other embryos. Developmental timing of some features differed between all three species, most markedly in the bill, with growth in the kiwi bill being relatively faster to achieve its larger relative and absolute size at hatch. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ecological compensation is widely used, and often criticised, for promulgating poor outcomes for biodiversity. There is a lack of systematic research on ecological compensation and, to date, limited research globally into the perspectives of the various stakeholders involved. We undertook 116 semi-structured interviews with practitioners working with ecological compensation in New Zealand. Participants consider that benefits to biodiversity are the chief attraction of ecological compensation (49.2% of all responses), with the disadvantages mainly relating to the difficulties of practical implementation of the concept. Our results also show that 96.5% of participants support the concept fully or to a limited extent and most (83%) participants consider that it contributes to sustainable management, with significant support (87.9%) for a statutory approach. Formal statutory guidance at a national level in New Zealand, and an increased focus upon follow-up and monitoring, is considered likely to generate more robust exchanges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess whether the risk of vulvodynia is associated with previous use of oral contraceptives ( OCs). Design Longitudinal population-based study. Setting Four counties in south-east Michigan, USA. Population A population-based sample of women, aged 18 years and older, enrolled using random-digit dialling. Methods Enrolled women completed surveys that included information on demographic characteristics, health status, current symptoms, past and present OC use, and a validated screen for vulvodynia. The temporal relationship between OC use and subsequent symptoms of vulvodynia was assessed using Cox regression, with OC exposure modelled as a time-varying covariate. Main outcome measure Vulvodynia, as determined by validated screen. Results Women aged <50 years who provided data on OC use, completed all questions required for the vulvodynia screen, and had first sexual intercourse prior to the onset of vulvodynia symptoms were eligible ( n = 906). Of these, 71.2% ( n = 645) had used OCs. The vulvodynia screen was positive in 8.2% ( n = 74) for current vulvodynia and in 20.8% ( n = 188) for past vulvodynia. Although crude cross-tabulation suggested that women with current or past vulvodynia were less likely to have been exposed to OCs prior to the onset of pain (60.7%), compared with those without this disorder (69.3%), the Cox regression analysis identified no association between vulvodynia and previous OC use ( HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.81-1.43, P = 0.60). This null finding persisted after controlling for ethnicity, marital status, educational level, duration of use, and age at first OC use. Conclusion For women aged <50 years of age, OC use did not increase the risk of subsequent vulvodynia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: : Our aim is to better characterize the impact of sedation and its interruption on continuously monitored heart rate variability and respiratory rate variability in critically ill patients. We aim to explore whether sedation reduces heart rate variability and respiratory rate variability in critically ill patients and whether the extent of reduction depends on degree of organ dysfunction. DESIGN: : Prospective observational pilot study. SETTING: : Intensive care unit in tertiary care teaching hospital. PATIENTS: : Thirty-three critically ill adult patients experiencing respiratory and/or cardiac failure. INTERVENTIONS: : Electrocardiogram and end-tidal capnography waveform capture were initiated from admission or intubation, respectively, and continued to intensive care unit discharge or a maximum of 14 d. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: : All patient days with a sedation interruption (defined as cessation of a continuous infusion of sedation agent) were identified. Mean heart rate variability and respiratory rate variability were computed over two periods: 4 hrs directly prior to the sedation interruption, and the duration of sedation interruption (median: 1 hr 45 mins, interquartile range: 4 hrs 15 mins or max 4 hrs). Severity of organ dysfunction was assessed through multiple organ dysfunction syndrome scores, and sedative agents were recorded for each sedation interruption. Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome levels were defined as low (0-2), medium (3-4), and high (> 4). Variability before and during sedation interruption was compared and analyzed across multiple organ dysfunction syndrome levels and sedative types. Our results suggest that both heart rate variability and respiratory rate variability increased during sedation interruption (p < 0.05 for coefficient of variation). Patients with low and medium multiple organ dysfunction syndrome experienced greater increase in heart rate variability during sedation interruption (p < 0.05 for coefficient of variation), compared to patients with high multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, who failed to mount a significant increase in heart rate variability when sedation was stopped. Similarly, sedation interruption led to increased respiratory rate variability for low multiple organ dysfunction syndrome patients (p < 0.05 for SD), but in contrast, a further deterioration in respiratory rate variability occurred in the high multiple organ dysfunction syndrome patients. All trends persisted when controlling for sedative agents. CONCLUSIONS: : Interruption of sedation allows for uncovering a greater restoration of heart rate variability and respiratory rate variability in patients with low organ failure. The further reduction in respiratory variability during the elimination of sedation in patients with high multiple organ dysfunction syndrome suggests a differential response and benefit from sedation interruption, and merits further investigation. As reduced variability correlates with severity of illness, and need for sedation depends on organ failure, variability monitoring may offer a dynamic measure of a variable response to the benefit, timing, and duration of sedation interruption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is essential for driving plasticity during development, but is an unintentional behaviour of cells during cancer progression. The EMT-associated reprogramming of cells not only suggests that fundamental changes may occur to several regulatory networks but also that an intimate interplay exists between them. Disturbance of a controlled epithelial balance is triggered by altering several layers of regulation, including the transcriptional and translational machinery, expression of non-coding RNAs, alternative splicing and protein stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Description: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and a group of governmental and private sector partners developed these evidence-based recommendations to increase the proportion of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected persons who know their status and are linked to appropriate care and treatment. The recommendations also address brief alcohol screening, as alcohol accelerates progression of liver disease among HCV-infected individuals. These recommendations augment CDC's 1998 and 1999 recommendations based on risk and medical indications and are not meant to replace those recommendations.Methods: These recommendations are based on systematic reviews of evidence published from 1995 through February 2012 in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Sociological Abstracts, and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects. Selected studies included cross-sectional and cohort studies that addressed either prevalence of hepatitis C in the United States or clinical outcomes (for example, hepatocellular carcinoma and serious adverse events) among treated patients and systematic reviews of trials that assessed effectiveness of brief screening interventions for alcohol consumption. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework was used to assess quality of the evidence. RECOMMENDATION 1: Adults born during 1945-1965 should receive 1-time testing for HCV without prior ascertainment of HCV risk. (Grade: strong recommendation; moderate-quality evidence). RECOMMENDATION 2: All persons with identified HCV infection should receive a brief alcohol screening and intervention as clinically indicated, followed by referral to appropriate care and treatment services for HCV infection and related conditions (Grade: strong recommendation; moderate-quality evidence). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Embryonic diapause is an evolutionary strategy by which a reversible arrest in embryo development occurs. In its two forms, facultative and obligate, it assures that offspring are born when optimal maternal and environmental conditions are present to ensure maximal survival. We have explored obligate delayed implantation in the mink ( Neovison vison) over four decades: first by evaluation of the environmental regulation, then by determination of the pituitary factors that maintain diapause and provoke implantation followed by exploration of the ovarian contribution to the process. As the uterine environment is the proximal regulator of diapause, we employed a strategy of global gene analysis to discover differentially expressed pathways during embryo arrest and reactivation. These trials revealed that the synthesis of polyamines was increased in the uterus with reactivation of the embryo in vivo. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that the polyamine, putrescine, was capable of inducing escape of the embryo from obligate diapause, providing strong evidence that the paucity of polyamines induces developmental arrest, and reactivation is coupled to renewed uterine and/or embryonic synthesis of these polycations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Tracheostomy remains one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in adults with acute respiratory failure and identifies a patient cohort which is among the most resource-intensive to provide care. The objective of this concise definitive review is the synthesis of current knowledge regarding tracheostomy practice in this context.Data Source: Peer-reviewed, English language publications pertaining to tracheostomy indications, timing, technique, and management.Results: Contemporary literature concerning tracheostomy use predominately focuses on two aspects: procedure timing and technical considerations. Three recent, large, randomized controlled trials failed to demonstrate an effect of "early" tracheostomy on mortality, infectious complications, intensive care unit, or hospital length of stay. Relative to continued translaryngeal intubation, tracheostomy was associated with less sedation use and earlier mobility. An accumulating body of literature suggests that, relative to conventional surgical methods, percutaneous dilational techniques are advantageous with respect to cost and complication profile. Literature addressing management following tracheostomy placement consists largely of single institution, nonrandomized reports, limiting the ability to formulate specific recommendations regarding this aspect of care.Conclusions: In patients who otherwise lack indication for surgical airway, clinicians should defer tracheostomy placement for at least 2 wks following the onset of acute respiratory failure to insure need for ongoing ventilatory support. Subpopulations of patients (e.g., those with acute neurological injury or stroke) may benefit from earlier tracheostomy. Percutaneous dilational tracheostomy should be considered the preferred technique for this intervention in the appropriately selected individual. Future investigations should include efforts to optimize post-tracheostomy management and to quantify tracheostomy effects on patient-centric outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2010–2011 Canterbury earthquake sequence occurred near the southeastern margin of Neogene deformation associated with the Australia–Pacific plate boundary. Basement comprises indurated rocks of the Torlesse Composite Terrane, of Permian to Early Cretaceous age, overlain by 1–2 km of less-indurated Cretaceous–Neogene rocks and unconsolidated Quaternary sediments. Proximity to the subduction interface between Gondwana and the paleo-Pacific Ocean produced a Mesozoic-age structural grain in the basement rocks, aligned broadly east–west in the Canterbury to Chatham Rise areas. These structures provided an inherited weakness that was likely reactivated by present-day stress. Mid- to Late Cretaceous extension, marked by localised fault-bounded grabens, was followed by deposition of a Late Cretaceous to Paleogene passive-margin transgressive sedimentary sheet and minor intraplate basaltic volcanics. Mid-Cenozoic inception of the modern Australia–Pacific plate boundary heralded deposition of a regressive succession of Neogene sediments and further episodes of volcanism, most notably constructing the Late Miocene Banks Peninsula intraplate volcanoes. The east- to northeast-striking faults associated with the Darfield and Christchurch earthquakes are probably aligned with the Mesozoic structural grain within the Torlesse basement rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Biological pacing performed solely via HCN2 gene transfer in vivo results in relatively slow idioventricular rates and only moderate autonomic responsiveness. We induced biological pacing using the Ca(2+)-stimulated adenylyl cyclase AC1 gene expressed alone or in combination with HCN2 and compared outcomes with those with single-gene HCN2 transfer.Methods and Results: We implanted adenoviral HCN2, AC1, or HCN2/AC1 constructs into the left bundle branches of atrioventricular-blocked dogs. During steady-state gene expression (days 5-7), differences between AC1, HCN2/AC1, and HCN2 alone were evident in basal beating rate, escape time, and dependence on electronic backup pacing. In HCN2, AC1, and HCN2/AC1, these parameters were as follows: basal beating rate: 50±1.5, 60±5.0, and 129±28.9 bpm (P<0.05 for HCN2/AC1 versus HCN2 or AC1 alone), respectively; escape time: 2.4±0.2, 1.3±0.2, and 1.1±.0.4 seconds (P<0.05 for AC1 and HCN2/AC1 versus HCN2); and percent electronic beats: 34±8%, 2±1%, and 6±2% (P<0.05 for AC1 and HCN2/AC1 versus HCN2). Instantaneous (SD1) and long-term (SD2) heart rate variability and circadian rhythm analyzed via 24-hour Holter recordings showed a shift toward greater sensitivity to parasympathetic modulation in animals injected with AC1 and a high degree of sympathetic modulation in animals injected with HCN2/AC1.Conclusion: AC1 or HCN2/AC1 overexpression in left bundle branches provides highly efficient biological pacing and greater sensitivity to autonomic modulation than HCN2 alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the relationship among the presence of vulvodynia, fibromyalgia, interstitial cystitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.Methods: Validated questionnaire-based screening tests for the four pain conditions were completed by women with and without vulvodynia who were participating in the Michigan Woman to Woman Health Study, a longitudinal population-based survey in southeastern Michigan. Weighted population-based estimates of the prevalence and characteristics of participants with these chronic comorbid pain conditions were calculated using regression analyses.Results: Of 1,940 women who completed the survey containing all four screening tests, 1,890 (97.4%) answered all screening questions and were included. The prevalences of the screening-based diagnoses ranged from 7.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.2-9.0) for interstitial cystitis, 8.7% (95% CI 7.3-10.4) for vulvodynia, 9.4% (95% CI 8.1-11.0) for irritable bowel syndrome, to 11.8% (95% CI 10.1-13.7) for fibromyalgia with 27.1% screening positive for multiple conditions. The presence of vulvodynia was associated with the presence of each of the other comorbid pain conditions (P<.001, odds ratio 2.3-3.3). Demographic risk factors for each condition varied. Increasing age was not associated with greater numbers of comorbid conditions, and only low socioeconomic status was associated with having multiple comorbid conditions concurrently.Conclusion: Chronic pain conditions are common, and a subgroup of women with vulvodynia is more likely than those without vulvodynia to have one or more of the three other chronic pain conditions evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A great deal is now known about the protein components of tight junctions and adherens junctions, as well as how these are assembled. Less is known about the molecular framework of gap junctions, but these also have membrane specializations and are subject to regulation of their assembly and turnover. Thus, it is reasonable to consider that these three types of junctions may share macromolecular commonalities. Indeed, the tight junction scaffolding protein zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1) is also present at adherens and gap junctions, including neuronal gap junctions. On the basis of these earlier observations, we more recently found that two additional proteins, AF6 and MUPP1, known to be associated with ZO-1 at tight and adherens junctions, are also components of neuronal gap junctions in rodent brain and directly interact with connexin36 (Cx36) that forms these junctions. Here, we show by immunofluorescence labeling that the cytoskeletal-associated protein cingulin, commonly found at tight junctions, is also localized at neuronal gap junctions throughout the central nervous system. In consideration of known functions related to ZO-1, AF6, MUPP1, and cingulin, our results provide a context in which to examine functional relationships between these proteins at Cx36-containing electrical synapses in brain--specifically, how they may contribute to regulation of transmission at these synapses, and how they may govern gap junction channel assembly and/or disassembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive review of the morphology, anatomy, taxonomy, chemistry and ecology of the endemic New Zealand facultative shrub epiphyte Pittosporum cornifolium (Pittosporaceae) is presented. Strong habitat specificity restricts this species to lowland forest and coastal habitats, which are widely yet discontinuously distributed north of latitude 42°15′S. Pittosporum cornifolium is typically associated with old growth forest systems and low nutrient substrates, with low mean daily temperatures in the coldest month (<0.6 °C) and high mean October vapour pressure deficits (>0.5 kPa) apparently restricting its distribution. Significant morphological variability is evident in leaves and flowers, especially with respect to plants from the Poor Knights Islands. Genetic analyses of five mainland populations and individuals representing Poor Knights Islands populations revealed relatively low genetic diversity at the population level which is likely to be the result of geographic isolation. Molecular phylogenetic studies suggest a New Caledonian origin for the species with close affinities to both P. pimeleoides subspecies. Several lines of evidence suggest recognition of the Poor Knights Islands entity as a new taxon. However, analysis of additional morphological, reproductive and molecular data across the full geographic range will be required to confirm current inferences. Although populations have declined, P. cornifolium is not currently threatened, however, it should be considered for reintroduction to sites in districts where its range has been severely reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]