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Background: Neurocognitive functioning is an integral phenotype of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome relating to severity of psychopathology and outcomes. A neurocognitive battery that could be administered remotely to assess multiple cognitive domains would be especially beneficial to research on rare genetic variants, where in‐person assessment can be unavailable or burdensome. The current study compares in‐person and remote assessments of the Penn computerised neurocognitive battery (CNB). Methods: Participants (mean age = 17.82, SD = 6.94 years; 48% female) completed the CNB either in‐person at a laboratory (n = 222) or remotely (n = 162). Results: Results show that accuracy of CNB performance was equivalent across the two testing locations, while slight differences in speed were detected in 3 of the 11 tasks. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the CNB can be used in remote settings to assess multiple neurocognitive domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Translocation is becoming an increasingly important approach to threatened species conservation. Coupled with the knowledge that maximizing genetic diversity aids population establishment, the growing use of translocations can place unsustainable harvesting pressure on critical and vulnerable source populations. However, adaptive, genetically informed modelling tools such as Population Viability Analysis (PVA) can be used to predict translocation outcomes and optimize harvesting strategies. In this study, we use PVAs for the frequently translocated greater stick‐nest rat (Leporillus conditor) to demonstrate the value of admixing founder populations for translocation, even when one source population is deemed genetically depauperate. This approach not only maximizes genetic diversity in the translocated population but reduces harvesting pressure on critical populations. Further, we show that admixed harvesting ratios can be skewed significantly towards the genetically depauperate population in order to further protect the critical population while still producing favourable outcomes, providing adequate founder numbers are used. As many threatened species are limited to fragmented and bottlenecked populations, these results are broadly applicable to the science of reintroduction biology, and demonstrate the value of PVAs for preliminary translocation planning and species management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Unhealthy diets are a leading contributor to obesity, disability and death worldwide. One factor cited as contributing to rises in obesity rates is the pervasive and ubiquitous marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages (F&Bs) across a variety of mediums, such as sport sponsorship at both professional and amateur levels. Despite increased academic attention on the detrimental impacts of sport sponsorship within the obesogenic environment, this has not been matched by legislative action. One explanation may be the way that F&B corporations' sport sponsorship is framed within policy debates. Framing is the deliberate ways in which (often contested) issues are presented in communication. This paper examines how sport sponsorship by F&B corporations is framed through media reports.Methods: This study employed a mixed methods content and framing analysis. First, we conducted a quantitative newsprint content analysis (n = 234). This then informed and directed a thematic framing analysis of a sub-set of articles (n = 54) that specifically associated sport sponsorship by F&B corporations with obesity and childhood obesity.Results: The findings suggest that two competing frames are evident within newspaper coverage: 1) public health and 2) industry. The public health frame rejects the sponsorship of sport by High in Fat Sugar and Salt (HFSS) product corporations in particular, calling for such sponsorship to be restricted or banned. The industry frame characterises sponsorship of sport as a form of corporate social responsibility, positioning industry as good moral actors and part of the solution to childhood and adult obesity. These frames are evident across other Unhealthy Commodity Industries (UCIs) policy debates. However, the prominence of industry actors within the sample is potentially indicative of their discursive power within this space, particularly with their emphasis on the financial maintenance of sport as well as encouraging physical activity, contributing to the lack of regulatory development of sport sponsorship by F&B corporations.Conclusions: The findings of this study are particularly useful for public health organisations who seek regulatory change, as it may provide further insight into countering industry framing practices, raising the salience of regulation of sport sponsorship and thus increasing the likelihood of regulatory development that seeks to improve population health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 82.2 m-thick sequence of basaltic rocks was recovered from a deep-sea core on the eastern flank of the Naturaliste Plateau, offshore southwestern Australia during International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 369. The basaltic rocks were cored at the base of IODP Site U1513 and represent the acoustic basement of the Mentelle Basin. The recovered materials consist of subaerial to shallow-water basalt flows interbedded with volcaniclastic beds and cross-cutting dolerite dykes, all of which have been altered to some degree. Existing paleomagnetic data obtained from the overlying sedimentary sequences indicate that the basaltic sequence cored at Site U1513 was deposited before chron M10Nn.1n (which could be as young as 130.9 Ma or as old as 134.2 Ma, depending on the time scale used). Here, we present the results of 40Ar/39Ar step-heating experiments conducted on whole-rock samples of two basalt flows and six dolerite dykes to provide greater certainty of the timing of magmatism and subsequent alteration. Each sample was also characterised using optical and scanning electron microscopy together with X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. The dolerite dykes are the only rocks that were sampled that record a remnant estimate of the primary cooling age of the magmatic event at ca 134 Ma. This magmatism was contemporaneous with rifting that preceded the break-up of Greater India from Australia/Antarctica and is potentially associated with the Greater Kerguelen large igneous province. The basalt flows record younger apparent ages (between 118 and 110 Ma) that cannot represent extrusive ages given their stratigraphic context, as well as older ages obtained from cross-cutting dykes. We interpret the younger apparent ages to reflect a phase of hydrothermal alteration that reset the argon isotopic system. A tectonic reconstruction, which shows the distribution of magmatism associated with the Greater Kerguelen large igneous province, indicates that the earliest phases of magmatism occurred within an ellipse with a NW–SE-oriented long axis. The reconstruction also shows that the Naturaliste Plateau was approximately 500 km from a known source of magmatism at ca 115 Ma. This distance is within the radius of a mantle plume head and indicates that hydrothermal and/or magmatic activity responsible for resetting the argon isotopic system of the dated basalt flows may have been associated with a mantle plume or was otherwise driven by a local source of magmatism that remained active during the Aptian (126.3–113.0 Ma). 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates Naturaliste Plateau magmatism occurred between 141.3 and 130.9 Ma. The basaltic rocks potentially record a phase of hydrothermal alteration at ca 118–110 Ma. Greater Kerguelen large igneous province magmatism occurred within an ellipse with a NW–SE oriented long axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The world has suffered immeasurably during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Increased distress and mental and medical health concerns are collateral consequences to the disease itself. The Genes to Mental Health (G2MH) Network consortium sought to understand how individuals affected by the rare copy number variations of 22q11.2 deletion and duplication syndrome, associated with neurodevelopmental/neuropsychiatric conditions, were coping. The article focuses on worry and disruptions in medical care caused by the pandemic. Methods: The University of Pennsylvania COVID‐19 Stressor List and care disruption questions were circulated by 22 advocacy groups in English and 11 other languages. Results: A total of 512 people from 23 countries completed the survey; most were caregivers of affected individuals. Worry about family members acquiring COVID‐19 had the highest average endorsed worry, whilst currently having COVID‐19 had the lowest rated worry. Total COVID‐19 worries were higher in individuals completing the survey towards the end of the study (later pandemic wave); 36% (n = 186) of the sample reported a significant effect on health due to care interruption during the pandemic; 44% of individuals (n = 111) receiving care for their genetic syndrome in a hospital setting reported delaying appointments due to COVID‐19 fears; 12% (n = 59) of the sample reported disruptions to treatments; and of those reporting no current disruptions, 59% (n = 269) worried about future disruptions if the pandemic continued. Higher levels of care disruptions were related to higher COVID‐19 worries (Ps < 0.005). Minimal differences by respondent type or copy number variation type emerged. Conclusions: Widespread medical care disruptions and pandemic‐related worries were reported by individuals with 22q11.2 syndrome and their family members. Reported worries were broadly consistent with research results from prior reports in the general population. The long‐term effects of COVID‐19 worries, interruptions to care and hospital avoidance require further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delirium is a common condition affecting hospital inpatients, including those having surgery and on the intensive care unit. Delirium is also common in patients with COVID-19 in hospital settings, and the occurrence is higher than expected for similar infections. The short-term outcomes of those with COVID-19 delirium are similar to that of classical delirium and include increased length of stay and increased mortality. Management of delirium in COVID-19 in the context of a global pandemic is limited by the severity of the syndrome and compounded by the environmental constraints. Practical management includes effective screening, early identification and appropriate treatment aimed at minimising complications and timely escalation decisions. The pandemic has played out on the national stage and the effect of delirium on patients, relatives and healthcare workers remains unknown but evidence from the previous SARS outbreak suggests there may be long-lasting psychological damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delirium is a common condition affecting hospital inpatients, including those having surgery and on the intensive care unit. Delirium is also common in patients with COVID-19 in hospital settings, and the occurrence is higher than expected for similar infections. The short-term outcomes of those with COVID-19 delirium are similar to that of classical delirium and include increased length of stay and increased mortality. Management of delirium in COVID-19 in the context of a global pandemic is limited by the severity of the syndrome and compounded by the environmental constraints. Practical management includes effective screening, early identification and appropriate treatment aimed at minimising complications and timely escalation decisions. The pandemic has played out on the national stage and the effect of delirium on patients, relatives and healthcare workers remains unknown but evidence from the previous SARS outbreak suggests there may be long-lasting psychological damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of the 2019 coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) in the United States is unprecedented, with unknown implications for the autism community. We surveyed 3502 parents/caregivers of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) enrolled in Simons Powering Autism Research for Knowledge (SPARK) and found that most individuals with ASD experienced significant, ongoing disruptions to therapies. While some services were adapted to telehealth format, most participants were not receiving such services at follow-up, and those who were reported minimal benefit. Children under age five had the most severely disrupted services and lowest reported benefit of telehealth adaptation. Caregivers also reported worsening ASD symptoms and moderate family distress. Strategies to support the ASD community should be immediately developed and implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study investigated the association between child abuse [child neglect (CN), emotional (CEA) and physical abuse (CPA)] and early puberty with special regard to sex-specific effects concerning child and parental perpetrator. Methods: Data assessment took place within the framework of the LIFE Child Depression study, a longitudinal study on the development of depressive symptoms and disorders between child- and adulthood in Leipzig, Germany. A sample of 709 children (8–14 years) was recruited from the general population and via psychiatric hospitals. Data on pubertal status were assessed using an instrument for self-assessment of tanner stages (scales of physical pubertal development). Information on menarche was provided by parents. The Parent–Child Conflict Tactics Scales (CTS-PC) served for data on child abuse. Results: Regarding physical puberty markers, significant correlations were found, especially with child neglect (CN) and child emotional abuse (CEA). Regression analyses, controlling for Body-Mass-Index (BMI) and Socioeconomic Status (SES), revealed that children affected by child neglect perpetrated by mother (CNm) and child emotional abuse (CEA) parent-non-specifically enter puberty significantly earlier. Sex-specific analyses identified child neglect perpetrated by mother (CNm) to be associated with early puberty in girls and child emotional abuse perpetrated by father (CEAf) with early puberty in boys. Concerning the onset of menstruation, there was a significant positive correlation between early menarche and parent-specific and non-specific child neglect (CN), as well as between early menarche and child emotional abuse perpetrated by the mother (CEAm). In regression models that controlled for Body-Mass-Index (BMI) and Socioeconomic Status (SES) no significant associations were maintained. Child physical abuse (CPA) was not associated with early puberty. Conclusion: Results outlined child neglect (CN) and child emotional abuse (CEA) to be sex- and perpetrator-specific risk factors for early pubertal development. Knowledge of sex- and perpetrator-specific effects could help clinicians to specify their diagnostic process and to define differential prevention and treatment goals for children with experiences of CN and CEA. Further research on the sex-specific impact of parental CN and CEA on girls' and boys' puberty is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As some of the oldest differentiated materials in our solar system, angrite meteorites can provide unique insights into the earliest stages of planetary evolution. However, the timing of planetary mixing, as evidenced by oxygen isotope variations in the quenched angrites, and the extent of magmatism on the angrite parent body (APB) remain poorly understood. Here, we report on microstructurally guided in situ geochemical and Pb–Pb isotopic measurements on angrites aimed at better understanding of the timing and nature of magmatic processes, as well as impact events, on the APB. The quenched angrite Northwest Africa (NWA) 12320 yielded a Pb–Pb date of 4571.2 ± 9.4 Ma, which we interpret as corresponding to the timing of planetary mixing. The only known shocked quenched angrite, NWA 7203, also yielded an ancient Pb–Pb date of 4562.9 ± 9.3 Ma, which is identical to the Pb–Pb date of 4563.6 ± 7.9 Ma obtained for the texturally intermediate angrite NWA 10463. Pb–Pb analyses in phosphates in the dunitic angrite NWA 8535 yielded a much younger date of 4514 ± 30 Ma, representing the youngest Pb–Pb date ever recorded for an angrite. Based on the evidence from the lack of shock deformation, olivine major and trace element compositions, and no apparent contamination in the oxygen isotope composition of NWA 8535, our findings are consistent with prolonged magmatism on the APB. This finding is consistent with a large size for the APB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is shown to cause substantial morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality in infants and older adults. Population-level modeling of RSV allows to estimate the full burden of disease and the potential epidemiological impact of novel prophylactics. Methods We modeled the RSV epidemiology in the United States across all ages using a deterministic compartmental transmission model. Population-level symptomatic RSV acute respiratory tract infection (ARI) cases were projected across different natural history scenarios with and without vaccination of adults aged ≥60 years. The impact of vaccine efficacy against ARIs, infectiousness and vaccine coverage on ARI incidence were assessed. The impact on medical attendance, hospitalization, complications, death, and other outcomes was also derived. Results Without a vaccine, we project 17.5–22.6 million symptomatic RSV ARI cases annually in adults aged ≥18 years in the US, with 3.6–4.8 million/year occurring in adults aged ≥60 years. Modeling indicates that up to 2.0 million symptomatic RSV-ARI cases could be prevented annually in ≥60-year-olds with a hypothetical vaccine (70% vaccine efficacy against symptomatic ARI and 60% vaccine coverage) and that up to 0.69 million/year could be prevented in the nonvaccinated population, assuming 50% vaccine impact on infectiousness. Conclusions The model provides estimated burden of RSV in the US across all age groups, with substantial burden projected specifically in older adults. Vaccination of adults aged ≥60 years could significantly reduce the burden of disease in this population, with additional indirect effect in adults aged <60 years due to reduced transmissibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constraining the timing and intensity of Solar System bombardment is critical to understanding planetary formation, evolution and habitability. However, the identification and dating of shockmetamorphic events in the mafic igneous lithologies that dominate planetary materials remains highly challenging, particularly at relatively modest shock pressures. The accessory mineral baddeleyite (monoclinic-ZrO2) is common in these mafic crustal rocks, though the microstructural response of this mineral to shock loading is currently unconstrained. Here we show that baddeleyite yields a predictable sequence of microstructures in the shock pressure range of 5 to ~20 GPa, based on analysis of mafic rocks collected along a well-constrained shock-pressure gradient in the crystalline bedrock of the Sudbury impact structure, Canada. High-resolution electron backscatter diffraction mapping of baddeleyite grains exposed to <20 GPa of shock loading reveals a range of microstructures, including complex orthogonally related crystalline subgrains, amorphous domains, and crystal plastic deformation. Evidence that the observed microstructures are principally controlled by the transition to, and subsequent reversion from, the high-pressure (experimentally constrained to >5 GPa) orthorhombic-ZrO2 polymorph is provided by phase-heritage reconstruction using relationships between reverted monoclinic orientations. Baddeleyite is a sensitive shock barometer and chronometer over low pressure ranges that can augment ongoing studies into the intensity of Solar System bombardment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apnoeic oxygenation during intubation is used to prevent desaturation during intubation. The aim of this review was to assess whether apnoeic oxygenation during endotracheal intubation reduced the incidence of hypoxaemia. Five major databases were systematically searched for all relevant studies published up to May 2016. All study designs with a control group and a group receiving apnoeic oxygenation were included in this review. These studies were then assessed for level of evidence and risk of bias. The data were then analysed using a meta-analysis. Eleven studies (six high quality randomised controlled trials, four low quality level two studies and one low quality level three study) were found. In the meta-analysis there was strong evidence for benefit of apnoeic oxygenation in terms of improved SpO2 in elective surgical patients, obese patients and those undergoing emergency intubation without respiratory failure. However, no significant benefit was found in patients with respiratory failure. This is the first meta-analysis to be performed on apnoeic oxygenation during intubation. Apnoeic oxygenation provides significant benefit in terms of improving SpO2 for the majority of intubations, although there appears to be no benefit in patients whose indication for intubation is respiratory failure. Apnoeic oxygenation ought to be considered for integration into intubation protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buprenorphine appears to have a ceiling effect on respiratory depression, but not analgesia in healthy young patients. However, the efficacy and side-effects of buprenorphine in the setting of acute pain are poorly characterized. The aim of this study was to characterize the analgesic efficacy and adverse effects of buprenorphine compared with morphine in the acute pain setting. A systematic review of five databases was performed. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing buprenorphine with morphine in acute pain management were included. Studies performed outside of the hospital setting were excluded. The a priori primary outcomes included pain, respiratory depression, and sedation. Secondary outcomes included requirement for rescue analgesia, time to rescue analgesia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, hypotension, and pruritus. Twenty-eight RCTs with 2210 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was no difference in pain [visual analogue scale weighted mean difference (WMD)=-0.29; 95% confidence interval (CI)=-0.62 to 0.03; I2=99%; P=0.07], incidence of respiratory depression [odds ratio (OR)=2.07; 95% CI=0.78-5.51; I2=30%; P=0.14], or sedation (OR=1.44; 95% CI=0.76-2.74; I2=23%; P=0.26). There was only one secondary outcome with an overall significant difference; buprenorphine use was associated with significantly less pruritus (OR=0.31; 95% CI=0.12-0.84; I2=6%; P=0.02). Whilst a theoretical ceiling effect may exist with respect to buprenorphine and respiratory depression, in a clinical setting, it can still cause significant adverse effects on respiratory function. However, given that buprenorphine is an equally efficacious analgesic agent, it is a useful alternative opioid because of its ease of administration and reduced incidence of pruritus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing interest in considering the effects of air pollution on ecosystem services supply in order to enhance cost-benefit analyses of air pollution policies. This paper presents a generic, conceptual approach that can be used to link atmospheric deposition of air pollutants to ecosystem services supply and societal benefits. The approach is applied in a case study in the Telemark county of Norway. First, we examine the potential effects of four European air quality policy scenarios on N deposition in the ecosystems of this county. Second, we analyse the subsequent impacts on the supply of three ecosystem services: carbon sequestration, timber production and biodiversity. Changes in the supply of the first two services are analysed in both physical and monetary units, biodiversity effects are only analysed in physical terms. The scenarios derive from work conducted in the context of the European National Emissions Ceilings Directive. In the 2010 base case the benefits of carbon sequestration are estimated at 13 million euro per year and the value of timber harvesting at 2.9 million euro per year. Under the examined policy scenarios aiming to reduce nitrogen emissions the societal benefits resulting from these two ecosystem services in Telemark are found to be reduced; the scenarios have little effect on terrestrial biodiversity. Such results cannot be scaled up, individual ecosystem services respond differently to changes in air pollution depending upon type of pollutant, type of ecosystem, type of service, and the magnitude of change. The paper further presents an analysis of the uncertainties that need to be considered in linking air pollution and ecosystem services including those in deposition rates, ecosystem responses, human responses and in the values of ecosystem services. Our conceptual approach is also useful for larger scale analysis of air pollution effects on ecosystem services, for example at national or potentially European scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adherence and non-adherence to a gluten-free diet ( GFD) may impact negatively on health-related quality of life ( HRQoL). Understanding the factors that influence compliance could help inform management and also guide support. With a particular focus on adolescence, this narrative review critiques current literature on the burdens associated with following a GFD and the factors associated with adherence. Studies highlight a variety of burdens faced by individuals with coeliac disease, including the cost, access and availability of gluten-free ( GF) foods, as well as the dilemmas experienced when eating out, travelling and socialising with friends. A number of studies report that adolescents face stigmatisation and feel isolated in social situations and at school. Additional burdens that are highlighted are a lack of knowledge regarding CD and GFD difficulties in interpreting food labels, as well as dissatisfaction with the organoleptic properties of GF foods. Factors associated with poor adherence in adolescence include older age, an absence of immediate symptoms, difficulties eating out and poor palatability of GF foods. Conversely, better emotional support and stronger organisation skills have been associated with superior adherence. Significant associations have been reported between HRQoL measures and adherence, although the findings are inconsistent. Limitations in research methodologies exist and data are restricted to just a few countries. Further research specific to adolescence is required to identify independent predictors of adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The development of laser-assisted atom probe tomography (APT) has allowed for the analysis of non-conductive materials, including mineral specimens [1]. The ability for APT to generate 3D chemical reconstructions from < 100 nm crystallographic domains at high spatial (± 0.1 nm) and mass (1000 FWHM) resolution has provided fundamental insights into the mobility of radiogenic isotopes [2], volatile (Cl) fractionation and loss [3], and the distribution of H2O in nominally anhydrous olivine [4]. Recently, the technique has been applied to meteoritic and returned lunar samples, constraining the chemical artifacts induced by space weathering within lunar regolith [5] and quantifying Pb mobility and clustering in shocked zircon [2]. Here, we explore the ongoing applications of APT to lunar samples and highlight the importance of the technique going forward in unravelling nanoscale variations which are fundamentally linked with kilometre scale recent and ancient mechanisms on the Moon. Samples: A range of lunar samples have been analysed using APT, with an aim of targeting various isotopic or compositional signatures within a suite of mineral species. Northwest Africa (NWA) 3163 is a brecciated lunar meteorite, while Apollo samples 60500 (soil) and 78236 (shock deformed norite) represent samples returned by the Apollo missions. A range of mineral specimen were targeted within the samples (baddeleyite (ZrO2), anorthite (CaAl2Si2O8), and apatite (Ca5(PO4)3(Cl,OH,F))) to measure bulk chemistry and trace element abundances and target radiogenic (Pb) and volatile (Cl, F, OH) isotopic reservoirs within isolated nanodomains. Results: NWA 3163: A baddeleyite grain within a feldspathic clast in NWA 3163 contains two discrete microstructural domains: a polysynthetically twinned core (∼90°/<401>) and a uniquely oriented rim domain interpreted to represent overgrowth during a later metamorphic event. Targeted analysis of these domains yields resolvable Th and Pb isotopic signatures by APT, allowing the generation of Th-Pb ages from each microstructural domain. The core, which appears to retain igneous microstructure, records a 232Th/208Pb age of 4328 ± 309 (2σ) Ma. The < 2 μm wide overprinting rim yields a 232Th/208Pb age of 2175 ± 143 Ma (2σ). In combination, APT has allowed for robust isotopic dating of both the oldest and youngest events in NWA 3163 within a single baddeleyite grain less than 5 μm in total length [6]. Apollo 78236: An apatite grain within the highly shocked Mg-suite norite 78236 reveals various microstructural domains, including crystal plastically deformed crystalline areas and quasi-amorphous domains. Dating of the apatite and merrillite populations by SIMS reveal a discordant array of U-Pb ages between 4210 ± 14 Ma (upper intercept) and 504 ± 24 Ma (lower intercept) [7]. APT analysis of the quasi-amorphous apatite domains reveals polygonal grains separated by Mg-decorated subgrain boundaries which act as diffusion pathways to allow radiogenic isotope loss at lower temperatures than solid state diffusion through the crystal lattice. Correlative APT analysis is thus critical to accurately interpreting in-situ isotopic and chemical datasets, here placing empirical constraints on a young (500 Ma) lunar impact crater while also providing evidence for an ancient (4.2 Ga) formation age, interpreted to reflect formation of the Serinitatis basin [7]. Apollo 60500: An individual feldspar grain was targeted from the lunar soil. Initial data reveal the homogenous distribution of Al, Ca, Si, and trace elements throughout the 300 nm long microtip specimen. Species of isotopic importance, such as Ar, Pb, Sr, Rb and Sm, could not be confidently measured within the mass spectrum due to mass overlaps with complex AlSiO species and compounds, in agreement with previous APT measurements of feldspar [8]. Work is ongoing to constrain the influence of solar wind implantation within the surficial regions of the sample. Discussion: APT is a rapidly emerging tool in the geological and planetary sciences, holding great promise in answering large planetary scale questions with (sub) nanometre scale measurements [e.g., 6]. The minimally destructive nature of the technique (consuming less material than a typical LA-ICP-MS or SIMS spot) coupled with the potentially all-encompassing scientific yield (measuring the entire mass spectrum, with no mass bias or fractionation effects) is particularly critical for returned samples, where small amounts of material (from grams to single grains) are only available [7-9]. Future and ongoing sample return missions to the Moon, such as Chang'e 5, would benefit greatly from the inclusion of atom probe tomography in planned workflows of returned samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) is resected in approximately 88 % of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgeries. The aim of this review is to investigate the impact of the IPFP resection on clinical outcomes post-TKA.Materials and Methods: A systematic search of five major databases for all relevant articles published until May, 2015 was conducted. Studies comparing the effect of IPFP resection and preservation on outcomes post-TKA were included. Each study was then assessed individually for level of evidence and risk of bias. Studies were then grouped into post-operative outcomes and given a level of evidence ranking based on the collective strength of evidence.Results: The systematic review identified ten studies suitable for inclusion, with a total of 10,163 patients. Within these ten studies, six post-operative outcomes were identified; knee pain, vascularisation of the patella, range of motion (ROM), patella tendon length/patella infera, wound complications and patient satisfaction. Moderate evidence increased knee pain with IPFP resection post-TKA was found. Conflicting evidence was found for patella vascularisation and patellar tendon length post-TKA. Moderate evidence for no difference in ROM was found. One low quality study was found for wound complications and patient satisfaction.Conclusions: This systematic review is limited by the lack of level one randomised controlled trials (RCTs). There is however moderate level evidence that IPFP resection increases post-operative knee pain. Further level one RCTs are required to produce evidence-based guidelines regarding IPFP resection. Systematic Review Level of Evidence: 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To monitor altered mesenteric tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) before and after blood transfusion. METHODS: We placed a 4-wavelength NIRS sensor (FORE-SIGHT, CASMED, Branford, CT USA) on the right lower abdominal quadrant prior to transfusion and measured StO2 for up to 48 hours post transfusion. Pulse oximetry (SpO2) data was collected simultaneously, with fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE) and the [SpO2-StO2] difference calculated to normalize for hypoxic episodes. All data was combined and averaged in 30 minute windows for events before, during, and post transfusion to determine long term trends and analyzed using Repeated Measures ANOVA. 24 infants were enrolled in this study with 36 hours of data collected for 23 subjects and 48 hours for 16 subjects. RESULTS: We found no significant differences in any of the parameters when compared pre and post transfusion values at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 hours post transfusion. For the 16 subjects monitored to 48 hours, there was a significant decrease in FTOE and near significant increase in StO2 and reciprocal decrease in [SpO2 - StO2] at 48 hours post transfusion. CONCLUSIONS: There are several plausible mechanisms that may explain the relationship between necrotizing enterocolitis and PRBC transfusion; however, mesenteric tissue oxygen saturation changes did not clearly show that ischemia or re-perfusion injury to be one of the potential mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Examinations of corporate power demonstrate how Unhealthy Commodity Industries (UCIs) exert influence on the public and policymakers. For example, the High in Fat Sugar and Salt (HFSS) product industry exploit online environments to market their products to young people as a form of discursive power, and regulating this marketing can limit the power of those industries and is recognised as an important policy response. Here we address the gap in consideration of stakeholders’ views of regulation of online advertising of HFSS products to young people to limit industry power. Methods: We undertook primary analysis of 8 focus groups of parents, 11 stakeholder interviews and secondary analysis of 15 focus groups of young people (aged 12 and 15 years-of-age) in various community settings, with 5 individual interviews over the telephone. Focus group participants were recruited from a range of socioeconomic areas following the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation quintiles. Stakeholders were recruited from civil society organisations, government bodies and industry. Analysis employed Fuchs and Lederer’s (2007) framework on instrumental, structural and discursive power. Results: Stakeholders’ views on the power of HFSS product industry appeared to predicate their views on regulation as an appropriate policy response. The majority of participants viewed regulation as a means to increase young people’s and parents’ autonomy over young people’s diets by addressing the problematic power dynamic with industry at a policy level, yet concern remained about the adverse impact of regulation on individual autonomy Conclusions: Power is an important consideration when examining acceptability of To increase public support for regulation, it may be beneficial to emphasise the empowering effects of policy proposals. Advocates should shift their framing of regulation from focusing on restricting industry, to focusing on empowering the public. Key messages: Views on power appear important when considering public acceptability of regulatory policy. Understanding views on power may improve public health messaging on policy interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is highly prevalent in hypertensive patients, particularly those with drug resistance. Evidence from animal experiments, epidemiologic studies and clinical trials strongly suggest a causal link. Mechanistic studies argue for increased sympathetic neural activity and endothelial dysfunction. However, disturbances in fluid volume regulation and distribution may also be involved in the pathogenesis of these two conditions. Several studies have shown a high prevalence of OSA in fluid-retaining states including hypertension, a direct relationship between the severity of OSA and the volume of fluid displaced from the legs to the neck during sleep, and a decrease in upper airway cross-sectional area in response to graded lower body positive pressure. Treatments targeting fluid retention and redistribution, including diuretics, mineralocorticoid antagonists, exercise, and possibly renal denervation lower blood pressure and reduce the apnoea-hypopnoea index, a measure of OSA severity. From these observations, it has been postulated that during the daytime, excess fluid collects in the lower extremities due to gravity, and on lying down overnight is redistributed rostrally to the neck, where it may narrow the upper airway and increase its collapsibility, predisposing to OSA when pharyngeal dilator muscle activity decreases during sleep. This article discusses the associations between OSA and hypertension and reviews the evidence for fluid accumulation and its nocturnal rostral redistribution in the pathogenesis of OSA in hypertensive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a formalism to solve the Bethe-Goldstone scattering equation without the use of partial wave expansion which is alternative to the one we developed in a previous work. The present approach is more suitable for the calculation of in-medium nucleon-nucleon cross sections, which are the focal point of this paper. The impact of removing the spherical approximation on the angle and energy dependence of, particularly, in-medium proton-proton and proton-neutron differential cross sections is discussed along with its potential implication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Treatments to reduce fracture rates in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta are limited. Sclerostin antibody, developed for treating osteoporosis, has not been explored in adults with OI. This study demonstrates that treatment of adult OI mice respond favorably to sclerostin antibody therapy despite retention of the OI-causing defect. Introduction: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heritable collagen-related bone dysplasia, characterized by brittle bones with increased fracture risk. Although OI fracture risk is greatest before puberty, adults with OI remain at risk of fracture. Antiresorptive bisphosphonates are commonly used to treat adult OI, but have shown mixed efficacy. New treatments which consistently improve bone mass throughout the skeleton may improve patient outcomes. Neutralizing antibodies to sclerostin (Scl-Ab) are a novel anabolic therapy that have shown efficacy in preclinical studies by stimulating bone formation via the canonical wnt signaling pathway. The purpose of this study was to evaluate Scl-Ab in an adult 6 month old Brtl/+ model of OI that harbors a typical heterozygous OI-causing Gly > Cys substitution on Col1a1. Methods: Six-month-old WT and Brtl/+ mice were treated with Scl-Ab (25 mg/kg, 2×/week) or Veh for 5 weeks. OCN and TRACP5b serum assays, dynamic histomorphometry, microCT and mechanical testing were performed. Results: Adult Brtl/+ mice demonstrated a strong anabolic response to Scl-Ab with increased serum osteocalcin and bone formation rate. This anabolic response led to improved trabecular and cortical bone mass in the femur. Mechanical testing revealed Scl-Ab increased Brtl/+ femoral stiffness and strength. Conclusion: Scl-Ab was successfully anabolic in an adult Brtl/+ model of OI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-level coastal boulder field at Whalers Way, southern Eyre Peninsula, South Australia, occurs at elevations of 20–30 m above present sea-level on a gently seaward-sloping, karst-weathered calcrete-capped structural bench, formed on the Upper Pleistocene Bridgewater Formation and underlying Carnot Gneisses (Archean–Paleoproterozoic Sleaford Complex). More than 1000 ex situ boulders, cobbles and pebbles of gneiss and mafic igneous rocks, as well as fragments of calcrete, occur within the boulder field and cover an area >6000 m2. All the crystalline rock clasts are derived locally from bedrock outcrops along the adjacent coastline, where metasedimentary granulite-facies of the Carnot Gneisses crop out along shore platforms and their backing cliffs, close to present sea-level. The boulder field is younger than Marine Isotope Sub-Stage 5a (MIS 5a; ca 80 ka) based on amino acid racemisation 'whole-rock' analyses of calcarenite of the Bridgewater Formation, which forms the calcrete bench on which the boulder field rests. The boulder field wraps around the western extremity of cliff-top dunes dated at 18–17 ka by optically stimulated luminescence, implying that the boulder deposit post-dates the formation of the cliff-top dunes. Given that the clasts in the boulder field show minimal weathering rinds, sea-level during the Last Glacial Maximum was some 125 m lower than present and that between 80 and 7 ka ago, sea-level never attained present levels within the region, emplacement of the boulder field by a high-energy wave event in the Holocene highstand, following the 7000 years BP culmination of post-Glacial sea-level rise, is suggested. Storm waves, rather than a tsunami, most likely explain the emplacement of the boulder field. Amino acid racemisation and optically stimulated luminescence dating suggest a Holocene age younger than 7000 years for a high-level (20–30 m above present sea-level) coastal boulder field at Whalers Way, Eyre Peninsula, southern Australia. Gravity-influenced sedimentation, tectonic uplift and glacial action (relict Permian or Cretaceous glacigene sediment) fail to explain the origin of the enigmatic boulder deposit. The boulder deposit formed by storm waves, rather than a tsunami origin, following the 7000 year BP culmination of post-Glacial sea-level rise and onset of the Holocene sea-level highstand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a method for solving the nucleon-nucleon scattering equation without the use of a partial wave expansion of the scattering amplitude. After verifying the accuracy of the numerical solutions, we proceed to apply the method to the in-medium scattering equation (the Bethe-Goldstone equation) in three dimensions. A focal point is a study of Pauli blocking effects calculated in the (angle-dependent) three-dimensional formalism as compared to the usual spherical approximation. We discuss our results and their implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous work on oxygen isotopic compositions of hematite samples by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) has yielded large oxygen isotopic variability (>3 ‰) within individual samples. Deconvolving instrumental effects from geological variation is of vital importance in correctly interpreting in situ SIMS δ18O isotope compositions recorded in hematite. Here, we demonstrate that the excess scatter in δ18O values acquired with SIMS results from a combination of true sample variability and crystallographically-induced instrument mass fractionation. The natural and crystallographically-induced isotopic variability of hematite was investigated by a combination of SIMS, laser fluorination, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) elemental mapping, and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). We used the Sensitive High Resolution Ion Microprobe – Stable Isotopes (SHRIMP-SI) on a museum-quality hematite specimen from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and orientation-induced analytical fractionation was found to contribute up to 5 ‰ to the observed SIMS δ18O isotopic scatter. Laser ablation ICP-MS elemental mapping of crystallographically uniform single hematite crystals revealed distinct chemical zonation patterns that indicate several discrete stages of crystal growth. Crystal zoning additionally coincides with abrupt shifts in δ18O ranging ca. 11 ‰ for a single crystallographic orientation. These results highlight an intimate link between crystal growth mechanism and isotopic evolution of the mineralizing fluid, showing the need for high spatial resolution analysis before the isotopic composition of hematite can be used to infer conditions of mineral precipitation and solution compositions. The results also demonstrate that an understanding of both crystallographic orientation and crystallochemical variability are needed to obviate problems previously encountered in oxygen isotope analysis of hematite by ion microprobe. • Typical hematite ion microprobe analysis yields large scatter in oxygen isotopes. • Orientation-induced bias calculated for hematite axes and oblique directions. • Bias corrections permit isotopic composition estimation of mineralizing fluids. • Multiple isotopic/chemical domains observed in single hematite crystals. • Multi-method approach allows quantification of individual isotopic/chemical domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate MRI imaging appearances of nodular fasciitis in a pathologic-proven series of 29 patients. Materials and methods: Review of the orthopedic oncology and pathology databases yielded 51 cases of histologically proven nodular fasciitis. MR imaging was available in 29 patients. Three musculoskeletal radiologists retrospectively reviewed all cases in consensus. Imaging features evaluated included location in the body, size, compartmental localization, relationship to fascia, signal characteristics, enhancement pattern, transcompartmental extension, and osseous and intra-articular involvement. Results: There were 15 male and 14 female patients. Mean age was 33 years (range, 16-59 years). Lesions ranged in size from 1.6 to 9 cm with 84 % of lesions measuring less than 4 cm. Twenty-three lesions were located in the upper arm or shoulder girdle. Nine lesions were subcutaneous in location, nine were intra-muscular, and 11 were inter-muscular. Lesions were consistently ovoid in shape with broad fascial contact. They exhibited internal homogenous low T1 and heterogeneous intermediate T2 signal with surrounding edema and slightly inhomogeneous enhancement. Twelve lesions exhibited central non-enhancing areas. Trans-compartmental spread was demonstrated in nine lesions. Osseous changes were seen in five cases and included extrinsic cortical saucerization, medullary edema, and transcortical osseous invasion. Two lesions demonstrated intra-articular extension. Conclusions: MR imaging features of nodular fasciitis are generally non-specific and can be mistaken for a soft tissue sarcoma. This series, the largest MRI series of musculoskeletal cases in the literature, confirms the predilection of nodular fasciitis for the upper extremity in young adults but also demonstrates that aggressive imaging features such as transcompartmental spread, and osseous and intra-articular involvement may be seen in association with this benign soft tissue lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The location of major Cu-Au deposits on the island of New Guinea are considered to be controlled by a series of transfer faults that strike N-S to NE-SW, perpendicular to the long axis of the island. The premise is that these faults dilate perpendicular to the regional stress field, forming conduits for metalliferous bearing fluids and gas to deposit. However, the data on which this idea was first proposed was often not presented, or when it was, is of poor quality or low resolution. We therefore present a review of the existing structural interpretations and compare these with several recently published geophysical datasets (gravity, magnetics and seismic tomography) to determine if the Cu-Au controlling transfer faults could be observed. These data were used to produce a new lineament map of New Guinea. A comparison of the lineaments with the location of major Cu-Au deposits indicates there is a link between the arc-normal structures and mineralization. However, it is only those deposits that are less than 4.5 million years old that could be associated with these structures. Gravity and seismic tomography data indicate that some of these structures could penetrate deep levels of the lithosphere, providing some support to the earlier idea that the arc-normal transfer faults act as conduits for the younger mineral deposits of New Guinea. The gravity data can also be used to infer the location of igneous intrusions at depth, which could have brought metal-bearing fluids and gases closer to the Earth's surface. These regions might be of interest for future exploration campaigns, particularly those areas that are crosscut by deep, vertical faults. However, new exploration models are needed to explain the location of the deposits that are older than 5 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A Phase I study to assess the single and multipledose pharmacokinetics (PKs) and safety and tolerability of oromucosally administered Δ-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/cannabidiol (CBD) spray, an endocannabinoid system modulator, in healthy male subjects. Methods: Subjects received either single doses of THC/CBD spray as multiple sprays [2 (5.4 mg THC and 5.0 mg CBD), 4 (10.8 mg THC and 10.0 mg CBD) or 8 (21.6 mg THC and 20.0 mg CBD) daily sprays] or multiple doses of THC/CBD spray (2, 4 or 8 sprays once daily) for nine consecutive days, following fasting for a minimum of 10 h overnight prior to each dosing. Plasma samples were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for CBD, THC, and its primary metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC, and various PK parameters were investigated. Results: Δ-Tetrahydrocannabinol and CBD were rapidly absorbed following single-dose administration. With increasing single and multiple doses of THC/CBD spray, the mean peak plasma concentration (C) increased for all analytes. There was evidence of dose-proportionality in the single but not the multiple dosing data sets. The bioavailability of THC was greater than CBD at single and multiple doses, and there was no evidence of accumulation for any analyte with multiple dosing. Inter-subject variability ranged from moderate to high for all PK parameters in this study. The time to peak plasma concentration (T) was longest for all analytes in the eight spray group, but was similar in the two and four spray groups. THC/CBD spray was well-tolerated in this study and no serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions: The mean C values (<12 ng/mL) recorded in this study were well below those reported in patients who smoked/inhaled cannabis, which is reassuring since elevated C values are linked to significant psychoactivity. There was also no evidence of accumulation on repeated dosing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the effect of food on the single-dose bioavailability of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/cannabidiol (CBD) spray, an endocannabinoid system modulator, when administered to healthy male subjects. Methods: Twelve subjects took part in this fed-fasted cross-over study and received a single dose of THC/CBD spray (4 sprays = 10.8 mg THC + 10 mg CBD) in the fasted then fed state (or vice versa) with a 3-day wash-out period between treatments. Plasma samples were collected at designated time-points for analysis of CBD, THC, and its active metabolite, 11-hydroxy delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC). Results: Statistically significant increases in the mean area under the curve (AUC) and mean maximum plasma drug concentration (C) were observed in subjects during fed conditions. Mean AUC and C were one to three-fold higher for THC and 11-OH-THC, and five and three-fold higher for CBD respectively during fed conditions. A large inter-subject variability in exposure from the same dose was observed, particularly for THC. The C for THC in fed versus fasted subjects was higher in 7 subjects (4.80-14.91 ng/ml) and lower in 5 subjects (2.81-3.51 ng/ml) compared with the mean C of 3.98 ng/ml (range 0.97-9.34 ng/ml) observed in the fasted state. Increases in mean AUC, AUC, and C for THC, CBD, and 11-OH-THC in the fed state were within the range of inter-subject variability, which was considerable. Food also appeared to delay the time to peak concentration (T) of all analytes by approximately 2-2.5 h. Only mild adverse events were reported. Conclusions: The THC/CBD spray was well tolerated in male subjects at a single dose of four sprays. The large inter-subject variability in exposure suggests that the changes observed are unlikely to be clinically relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A search area of a crime scene to recover trans-dermal artefacts (here, earrings) was conducted using 12 pig carcasses, of various sizes, with pierced ears; 6 were buried and 6 deposited on the surface in a wooded area. After 28 months, the remains were excavated and recovered, and the final location of the earrings recorded. The furthest recorded earring from its associated surface remains was 119 cm. In the buried remains, on three occasions earrings were found located 6 cm below the recorded base of the grave. Formal recommendations for the search area of a crime scene have been established as 120 cm radius from the originally located remains, whether surface deposition or burial, and confirmation of excavation below the assumed floor of the grave in burials is essential, at least to 10 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rats exposed to the odor of a predator or to the elevated plus maze express fear behaviors without a prior exposure to either stimulus. The expression of innate fear provides for an ideal model of anxiety which can aid in the elucidation of brain circuits involved in anxiety-related behaviors. The current experiments compared activation of neuropeptide-containing neuronal populations in the amygdala of rats exposed to either the elevated plus maze (EPM; 5min) versus home cage controls, or predator ferret odor versus butyric acid, or no odor (30min). Sections of the brains were prepared for dual-labeled immunohistochemistry and counts of c-Fos co-localized with somatostatin (SOM) or neuropeptide Y (NPY) were made in the basolateral (BLA), central (CEA), medial (MEA) nuclei of the amygdala. Ferret odor and butyric acid exposure significantly decreased the percentage of SOM‐positive neurons also immunoreactive for c-Fos in the anterior BLA compared to controls, whereas EPM exposure yielded a significant increase in the activation of SOM-positive neurons versus home cage controls. In the CEA, ferret odor and butyric exposure significantly decreased the percentage of SOM-positive neurons also immunoreactive for c-Fos compared to no-odor controls whereas EPM exposure yielded no change versus controls. In the MEA, both ferret odor exposure and EPM exposure resulted in increased SOM co-localized with c-Fos compared to control groups whereas NPY co-localized with c-Fos occurred following ferret odor exposure, but not EPM exposure. These results indicate that phenotypically distinct neuronal populations of the amygdala are differentially activated following exposure to different anxiogenic stimuli. These studies further elucidate the fundamental neurocircuitry of anxiety and could possibly explain the differential behavioral effects of predator versus novelty-induced stress. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This research develops and demonstrates a Hierarchical Production Planning System Simulator (HPPSS) for the analysis of feedback-and-control mechanisms between linear programming models at two levels within a Hierarchical Production Planning (HPP) system. This work focuses on planning levels dealing with tactical decisions. Three areas distinguish it from prior research. First, the HPPSS allows explicit examination of the effects of different information exchanges between the levels of a hierarchical model. Second, the HPPSS allows examination of the problems for which a given feedback-and-control mechanism performs well. Finally, the HPPSS allows the effects of a rolling horizon implementation on the hierarchical models of the production planning problem to be investigated. The significance is that a more thorough understanding of the costs and benefits of various mechanisms for information exchange between the levels of hierarchical models of planning problems over time will lead to improved hierarchical decision-making techniques that may influence organizational design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mismatch negativity and the P300 have been investigated as electrophysiological indices of behavioral auditory discrimination of duration. Using an oddball paradigm, responses were evoked to stimuli that had been behaviorally demonstrated to be either perceptible or imperceptible. The results indicated P300 events were present with the perceptible contrast but absent for the imperceptible contrast with all participants, while mismatch negativities were present in approximately 80 and 20% of participants to the perceptible and imperceptible contrasts, respectively. The present study extended the findings by applying the same paradigm to the discrimination of spectral and amplitude contrasts. 10 young adults with normal hearing were participants. Assuming that auditory assessment should involve representation and processing in all acoustic domains (i.e., temporal/duration, spectral/frequency, and amplitude/intensity), the effects seen with temporal contrasts were predicted to be similar for spectral and amplitude contrasts. The findings generally illustrated that the P300 was more accurate than the mismatch negativity in reflecting behavioral discrimination. Together, these studies challenge the use of mismatch negativity as an electrophysiological correlate for behavioral discrimination of auditory perceptible contrasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) must cope with the ongoing stress of treatment management, so it is important to identify the most adaptive coping strategies. Previous studies, however, have typically measured broad categories of coping (e.g. approach/avoidance) and few used instruments specifically designed for this population. This article aimed to use a developmentally sensitive coping measure to explore how the use of specific coping strategies impacts resilience (i.e. quality of life, competence and metabolic control) in adolescents with T1D. Thirty adolescents with T1D between the ages of 10 and 16 and their mothers completed questionnaires on adolescents' coping strategy use, competence and quality of life. Clinical data (i.e. HbA1c) were obtained from adolescents' medical records. Greater use of primary control coping strategies (e.g. problem solving, emotional expression) was associated with higher competence scores, better quality of life and better metabolic control. Secondary control coping strategies (e.g. acceptance, distraction) were related to higher social competence, better quality of life and better metabolic control. Finally, the use of disengagement coping strategies (e.g. withdrawal or denial) was linked with lower competence and poorer metabolic control. The results of this study support the use of developmentally sensitive coping measures by researchers and clinicians to determine the most effective coping strategies for adolescents with T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anecdotal evidence points to genetic variation in resistance of cattle to infection with Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (BTB), and published experimental evidence in deer and cattle suggests significant genetic variation in resistance and reactivity to diagnostic tests. However, such genetic variation has not been properly quantified in the United Kingdom dairy cattle population; it is possible that it exists and may be a factor influencing the occurrence of BTB. Using models based on the outcome of the process of diagnosis (ultimate fate models) and on the outcome of a single stage of diagnosis (continuation ratio models, herd test-date models), this study shows that there is heritable variation in individual cow susceptibility to BTB, and that selection for milk yield is unlikely to have contributed to the current epidemic. Results demonstrate that genetics could play an important role in controlling BTB by reducing both the incidence and the severity of herd breakdowns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives – Reduced habituation of visual evoked potentials (VEP) has been reported in migraine. We aimed to study if preattack excitability changes were related to check size using a paired longitudinal design. Materials and Methods – Magnocellular and parvocellular functions were studied with monocular 31´ and 62´ checks in 33 adult migraine patients without aura (MwoA), 8 with aura (MA) and 31 controls. VEP was recorded in four blocks of 50 stimuli. N1P1 and P1N2 amplitudes were measured. Sessions were classified as preattack or interictal. Results – MA patients had significantly higher P1N2 and N1P1 amplitude than the controls and MwoA. VEP amplitude habituation was not found in controls. Migraine patients had significantly higher P1N2 amplitude before the attack compared with a paired interictal recording for large checks. Conclusions – Cortical excitability is high in MA. Headache severity affects visual excitability. Increased P1N2 VEP amplitude before the attack suggests a cyclic decreased intracortical inhibition in extrastriate magnocellular pathways in migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4) blocks the Wnt signalling pathway by competitively binding Wnt ligands (frizzled receptors). This pathway is important during development and oncogenesis. It is, however, complex with a large number of interacting proteins, isoforms and receptors. The Wnt signalling pathway has a role in human placental development and implantation, particularly in the trophoblast. Humans and macaque monkeys exhibit a similar remodelling of the decidual spiral arteries. The expression of sFRP4 in human and macaque placentas at different gestational ages have been examined with immunohistochemistry, in-situ hybridization, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting. This study demonstrates that sFRP4 is expressed predominantly in the villous syncytiotrophoblast and the invasive intermediate cytotrophoblast, and in the amnion. These observational studies suggest that sFRP4 has a role in placental development and implantation, and may be an important factor in the development of the decidual fibrinoid zone, and in trophoblast apoptosis and a band of apoptosis in the underlying decidua deep into the trophoblast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The removal of non-metallic inclusions from a steel melt to the upper slag phase involves the movement of buoyant particles from a lower, less viscous phase (steel) to an upper, more viscous phase (slag). The film that forms ahead of the impinging inclusion must drain and rupture for particle capture by the slag. This deformation and drainage process has been modeled for a Newtonian fluid using no-slip boundary conditions at all surfaces and a pressure balance across the liquid–liquid interface for the given interfacial shape. Computer implementation of this model shows that particles of 5μm in radius can be delayed up to two seconds by the resultant drag, with delays of a tenth of a second for 100μm particles. Decreasing the interfacial tension between the lower and upper phases [corresponding to the presence of sulfur (of activity 0.7) at the steel–slag interface] can increase this time by 1 or 2%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We present a method for the simultaneous estimation of the basic reproductive number, R0, and the serial interval for infectious disease epidemics, using readily available surveillance data. These estimates can be obtained in real time to inform an appropriate public health response to the outbreak. We show how this methodology, in its most simple case, is related to a branching process and describe similarities between the two that allow us to draw parallels which enable us to understand some of the theoretical properties of our estimators. We provide simulation results that illustrate the efficacy of the method for estimating R0 and the serial interval in real time. Finally, we implement our proposed method with data from three infectious disease outbreaks. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIMS: To determine whether patients undergoing radiotherapy would choose to attend appointments for a course of treatment scheduled outside the normal working day and working week. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey of radiotherapy outpatients was conducted on two single days in late 2005 and early 2006. There were four departments in the first cohort and five in the second cohort. Departments were selected from across the UK and were chosen to reflect both city centre and out of town locations. Six of the nine departments were working extended hours at the time of the survey. The second cohort received a modified questionnaire that included two additional questions relating to appointments at weekends. RESULTS: In total, 471 and 332 questionnaires were returned by the first and second cohorts, respectively. For all age groups, 9.00 am to 12.00 pm was the most preferred time for treatment. Outside the normal working day, the 8.00-9.00 am interval was the most selected, being chosen by 23.4% of respondents. Overall, 32.8% (n=260) of respondents would attend a reasonable appointment time outside the normal working day and 10.7% (n=85) were unsure. On Saturdays, 39.3% (n=130) would attend and 11.5% (n=38) were unsure. For Sundays, 31.1% (n=103) would attend and 10.9% (n=36) were unsure. CONCLUSIONS: There is sufficient support from patients for attendance outside the normal working day to ensure appointment slots would not go unfilled during a moderate extension to the working day. However, the percentage of patients that would attend varied between departments. This demonstrates the need for local evaluation of patient preference before the introduction of extended working hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aims: To determine whether patients undergoing radiotherapy would choose to attend appointments for a course of treatment scheduled outside the normal working day and working week. Materials and methods: A survey of radiotherapy outpatients was conducted on two single days in late 2005 and early 2006. There were four departments in the first cohort and five in the second cohort. Departments were selected from across the UK and were chosen to reflect both city centre and out of town locations. Six of the nine departments were working extended hours at the time of the survey. The second cohort received a modified questionnaire that included two additional questions relating to appointments at weekends. Results: In total, 471 and 332 questionnaires were returned by the first and second cohorts, respectively. For all age groups, 9.00 am to 12.00 pm was the most preferred time for treatment. Outside the normal working day, the 8.00–9.00 am interval was the most selected, being chosen by 23.4% of respondents. Overall, 32.8% (n =260) of respondents would attend a reasonable appointment time outside the normal working day and 10.7% (n =85) were unsure. On Saturdays, 39.3% (n =130) would attend and 11.5% (n =38) were unsure. For Sundays, 31.1% (n =103) would attend and 10.9% (n =36) were unsure. Conclusions: There is sufficient support from patients for attendance outside the normal working day to ensure appointment slots would not go unfilled during a moderate extension to the working day. However, the percentage of patients that would attend varied between departments. This demonstrates the need for local evaluation of patient preference before the introduction of extended working hours. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aims: To analyse extended hours working patterns within UK cancer centres and to assess alternatives to the normal 9.00am to 5.00pm working day. Materials and methods: Questionnaires were sent to 62 radiotherapy managers in June and July 2005 to survey where extended hours working had been implemented, the objectives for using a longer working day and how departments organised their service issues, including staffing levels, costs and patients. This was followed by visits to six departments that were working extended hours. A second questionnaire sent to 60 radiotherapy physics managers in September 2005 requested information for the hours of daily, monthly and annual megavoltage machine servicing and quality assurance (QA). A third questionnaire was distributed to all radiotherapy outpatients from four departments who attended on a single day of survey in 2005. It looked at patient preference for treatment hours. Results: In total, 57 (92%) radiotherapy managers responded. Thirty-one departments (55%) were working extended hours, 22 (39%) had short-term experience and three (5%) departments had no experience. Increasing capacity to reduce waiting lists was the main reason for working extended hours. The additional hours were predominantly worked by radiographers, with little or no support from the other department disciplines. The servicing and QA spreadsheet was returned by 53% (n =32) of physicists. The average amount of servicing and Quality Assurance (QA) work being scheduled out of hours in each department was 35% (0–100%). The patient questionnaire was completed by 470 patients. When asked if patients would want to come to a reasonable appointment time outside of the normal working day, 29% (n =136) said ‘yes’ and 12% (n =55) were unsure. Conclusion: It was concluded that two shifts covering an 11.5h working day is a robust alternative to the normal working day, taking into consideration efficient use of radiographers and patient preference for out of hours appointments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The association between apolipoproteins and neurodegeneration is unclear. The authors examined the association of dementia with serum levels of apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) alone and in combination with the apolipoprotein E genotype (ApoE). Subjects were Japanese-American men in Hawaii followed since 1965 in the Honolulu Heart Program cohort and the Honolulu-Asia Aging Study. Lipid levels were assessed in 1980-1982. Dementia was diagnosed in 1991-1993, 1994-1996, and 1997-1999 by using a multistep procedure and international guidelines. The sample consisted of 929 men (107 dementia cases). The relation between ApoA-I and dementia was examined by using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, education, and cardiovascular risk factors. Compared with men in the lowest quartile, men in the highest quartile of ApoA-I concentration had a significantly lower risk of dementia (hazard ratio = 0.25, 95% confidence interval: 0.08, 0.78). Compared with men with both risk factors, those with a high ApoA-I concentration and no ApoE epsilon4 had a significantly lower risk of dementia (hazard ratio = 0.21, 95% confidence interval: 0.08, 0.52). Previous work has demonstrated an inverse relation between ApoA-I and cardiovascular disease, and the authors extended these findings to the risk of dementia. These results raise the possibility that different lipoprotein components of cholesterol may be differentially associated with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human placenta is responsible for the exchange of nutrients, gas and wastes through the trophoblast maternal-fetal barrier. which is formed by the fusion of villous cytotrophoblasts to form the continuous muhinucleated syncytiotrophoblast separating the maternal and fetal circulations. Caspase-14 is a seemingly non-apoptotic caspase involved in keratimxzyte differentiation and cornification. It is proposed that caspase-14 has a conserved role in cellular differentiation and a role in differentiation and fusion in the trophoblast. The human choriocarcinoma BeWo cell line was treated with staurosporine and forskolin to induce apoptosis and differentiation respectively. Staurosporine initiated apoptosis within 3 h of treatment, while apoptosis was completed following 6 h treatment. Caspase-14 gene and protein expression was unchanged throughout this process. During BeWo differentiation, caspase-14 mRNA was elevated after 48 h forskolin treatment, while its protein was increased after 24 h. Therefore, caspase-14 is up-regulated during trophoblast differentiation, as represented by the BeWo cell line. Moreover, caspase-14 may interact with other signalling molecules to facilitate differentiation. This new data confirms the potential for the BeWo cell line in the functional dissection of this unusual caspase and its prospective role in trophoblast differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]