Serum concentration trends and apparent half-lives of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Australian firefighters

BACKGROUND

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are persistent manmade compounds used in aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). The extensive use of AFFF has led to widespread environmental PFAS contamination and exposures of firefighters.

OBJECTIVES

To determine PFAS blood serum concentration trends and apparent serum half-lives in firefighters after the replacement of AFFF.

METHODS

Current and former employees of an Australian corporation providing firefighting services, where AFFF formulations had been used since the 1980s up until 2010, were recruited in 2018-2019 to participate in this study. Special focus was put on re-recruiting participants who had provided blood samples five years prior (2013-2014). Participants were asked to provide a blood sample and fill in a questionnaire. Serum samples were analysed for 40 different PFASs using HP LC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

A total of 799 participants provided blood samples in 2018-2019. Of these, 130 previously provided blood serum in 2013-2014. In 2018-2019, mean (arithmetic) serum concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS, 27 ng/mL), perfluoroheptane sulfonate (PFHpS, 1.7 ng/mL) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS, 14 ng/mL) were higher than the levels in the general Australian population. Serum concentrations were associated with the use of PFOS/PFHxS based AFFF. Participants who commenced service after the replacement of this foam had serum concentrations similar to those in the general population. Mean (arithmetic) individual apparent half-lives were estimated to be 5.0 years (perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)), 7.8 years (PFHxS), 7.4 years (PFHpS) and 6.5 years (PFOS).

CONCLUSION

This study shows how workplace interventions such as replacement of AFFF can benefit employees at risk of occupational exposure.

Scintillation light detection in the 6-m drift-length ProtoDUNE Dual Phase liquid argon TPC

DUNE is a dual-site experiment for long-baseline neutrino oscillation studies, neutrino astrophysics and nucleon decay searches. ProtoDUNE Dual Phase (DP) is a 6  ×  6  ×  6 m 3 liquid argon time-projection-chamber (LArTPC) that recorded cosmic-muon data at the CERN Neutrino Platform in 2019-2020 as a prototype of the DUNE Far Detector. Charged particles propagating through the LArTPC produce ionization and scintillation light. The scintillation light signal in these detectors can provide the trigger for non-beam events. In addition, it adds precise timing capabilities and improves the calorimetry measurements. In ProtoDUNE-DP, scintillation and electroluminescence light produced by cosmic muons in the LArTPC is collected by photomultiplier tubes placed up to 7 m away from the ionizing track. In this paper, the ProtoDUNE-DP photon detection system performance is evaluated with a particular focus on the different wavelength shifters, such as PEN and TPB, and the use of Xe-doped LAr, considering its future use in giant LArTPCs. The scintillation light production and propagation processes are analyzed and a comparison of simulation to data is performed, improving understanding of the liquid argon properties.

Search for an Excess of Electron Neutrino Interactions in MicroBooNE Using Multiple Final-State Topologies

We present a measurement of ν_{e} interactions from the Fermilab Booster Neutrino Beam using the MicroBooNE liquid argon time projection chamber to address the nature of the excess of low energy interactions observed by the MiniBooNE Collaboration. Three independent ν_{e} searches are performed across multiple single electron final states, including an exclusive search for two-body scattering events with a single proton, a semi-inclusive search for pionless events, and a fully inclusive search for events containing all hadronic final states. With differing signal topologies, statistics, backgrounds, reconstruction algorithms, and analysis approaches, the results are found to be either consistent with or modestly lower than the nominal ν_{e} rate expectations from the Booster Neutrino Beam and no excess of ν_{e} events is observed.

Transforming the journey together: Baseline findings from a longitudinal, co-designed study on psychiatry trainee experiences of training and wellbeing

OBJECTIVE

Junior doctors have high rates of burnout resulting in downstream impacts on patient care. The aim of this study is to capture cross-sectional data on a cohort of psychiatry trainees. These data will be used to inform a wider project investigating psychiatry trainee mental health and wellbeing.

METHOD

This paper reports on the 2019 baseline data of psychiatry trainees enrolled in a formal education course at the University of Sydney, Australia. The data were collected with an online survey using a range of validated mental health and wellbeing scales. This descriptive study involved psychiatry trainees as co-designers.

RESULTS

Our research findings are in keeping with the existing literature on the poor mental health and wellbeing of doctors with significantly higher levels of anxiety and exhaustion found in female trainees and carers. Despite this, the cohort had high scores on the flourishing scale.

CONCLUSIONS

Concern around the wellbeing of junior doctors in Australia appears justified. We need to move beyond focussing on individual action to systems-based approaches to improving wellbeing and ongoing sustainability of the psychiatry trainee workforce in NSW.

First Measurement of Energy-Dependent Inclusive Muon Neutrino Charged-Current Cross Sections on Argon with the MicroBooNE Detector

We report a measurement of the energy-dependent total charged-current cross section σ(E_{ν}) for inclusive muon neutrinos scattering on argon, as well as measurements of flux-averaged differential cross sections as a function of muon energy and hadronic energy transfer (ν). Data corresponding to 5.3×10^{19} protons on target of exposure were collected using the MicroBooNE liquid argon time projection chamber located in the Fermilab booster neutrino beam with a mean neutrino energy of approximately 0.8 GeV. The mapping between the true neutrino energy E_{ν} and reconstructed neutrino energy E_{ν}^{rec} and between the energy transfer ν and reconstructed hadronic energy E_{had}^{rec} are validated by comparing the data and Monte Carlo (MC) predictions. In particular, the modeling of the missing hadronic energy and its associated uncertainties are verified by a new method that compares the E_{had}^{rec} distributions between data and a MC prediction after constraining the reconstructed muon kinematic distributions, energy, and polar angle to those of data. The success of this validation gives confidence that the missing energy in the MicroBooNE detector is well modeled and underpins first-time measurements of both the total cross section σ(E_{ν}) and the differential cross section dσ/dν on argon.

Search for Neutrino-Induced Neutral-Current Δ Radiative Decay in MicroBooNE and a First Test of the MiniBooNE Low Energy Excess under a Single-Photon Hypothesis

We report results from a search for neutrino-induced neutral current (NC) resonant Δ(1232) baryon production followed by Δ radiative decay, with a ⟨0.8⟩  GeV neutrino beam. Data corresponding to MicroBooNE's first three years of operations (6.80×10^{20} protons on target) are used to select single-photon events with one or zero protons and without charged leptons in the final state (1γ1p and 1γ0p, respectively). The background is constrained via an in situ high-purity measurement of NC π^{0} events, made possible via dedicated 2γ1p and 2γ0p selections. A total of 16 and 153 events are observed for the 1γ1p and 1γ0p selections, respectively, compared to a constrained background prediction of 20.5±3.65(syst) and 145.1±13.8(syst) events. The data lead to a bound on an anomalous enhancement of the normalization of NC Δ radiative decay of less than 2.3 times the predicted nominal rate for this process at the 90% confidence level (C.L.). The measurement disfavors a candidate photon interpretation of the MiniBooNE low-energy excess as a factor of 3.18 times the nominal NC Δ radiative decay rate at the 94.8% C.L., in favor of the nominal prediction, and represents a greater than 50-fold improvement over the world's best limit on single-photon production in NC interactions in the sub-GeV neutrino energy range.

Search for a Higgs Portal Scalar Decaying to Electron-Positron Pairs in the MicroBooNE Detector

We present a search for the decays of a neutral scalar boson produced by kaons decaying at rest, in the context of the Higgs portal model, using the MicroBooNE detector. We analyze data triggered in time with the Fermilab NuMI neutrino beam spill, with an exposure of 1.93×10^{20} protons on target. We look for monoenergetic scalars that come from the direction of the NuMI hadron absorber, at a distance of 100 m from the detector, and decay to electron-positron pairs. We observe one candidate event, with a standard model background prediction of 1.9±0.8. We set an upper limit on the scalar-Higgs mixing angle of θ<(3.3-4.6)×10^{-4} at the 95% confidence level for scalar boson masses in the range (100-200)  MeV/c^{2}. We exclude, at the 95% confidence level, the remaining model parameters required to explain the central value of a possible excess of K_{L}^{0}→π^{0}νν[over ¯] decays reported by the KOTO collaboration. We also provide a model-independent limit on a new boson X produced in K→πX decays and decaying to e^{+}e^{-}.

Prospects for beyond the Standard Model physics searches at the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment: DUNE Collaboration

The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) will be a powerful tool for a variety of physics topics. The high-intensity proton beams provide a large neutrino flux, sampled by a near detector system consisting of a combination of capable precision detectors, and by the massive far detector system located deep underground. This configuration sets up DUNE as a machine for discovery, as it enables opportunities not only to perform precision neutrino measurements that may uncover deviations from the present three-flavor mixing paradigm, but also to discover new particles and unveil new interactions and symmetries beyond those predicted in the Standard Model (SM). Of the many potential beyond the Standard Model (BSM) topics DUNE will probe, this paper presents a selection of studies quantifying DUNE's sensitivities to sterile neutrino mixing, heavy neutral leptons, non-standard interactions, CPT symmetry violation, Lorentz invariance violation, neutrino trident production, dark matter from both beam induced and cosmogenic sources, baryon number violation, and other new physics topics that complement those at high-energy colliders and significantly extend the present reach.

Synthesis and evaluation of 3'-[18F]fluorothymidine-5'-squaryl as a bioisostere of 3'-[18F]fluorothymidine-5'-monophosphate

The squaryl moiety has emerged as an important phosphate bioisostere with reportedly greater cell permeability. It has been used in the synthesis of several therapeutic drug molecules including nucleoside and nucleotide analogues but is yet to be evaluated in the context of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. We have designed, synthesised and evaluated 3'-[18F]fluorothymidine-5'-squaryl ([18F]SqFLT) as a bioisostere to 3'-[18F]fluorothymidine-5'-monophosphate ([18F]FLTMP) for imaging thymidylate kinase (TMPK) activity. The overall radiochemical yield (RCY) was 6.7 ± 2.5% and radiochemical purity (RCP) was >90%. Biological evaluation in vitro showed low tracer uptake (<0.3% ID mg-1) but significantly discriminated between wildtype HCT116 and CRISPR/Cas9 generated TMPK knockdown HCT116shTMPK-. Evaluation of [18F]SqFLT in HCT116 and HCT116shTMPK- xenograft mouse models showed statistically significant differences in tumour uptake, but lacked an effective tissue retention mechanism, making the radiotracer in its current form unsuitable for PET imaging of proliferation.

First Measurement of Differential Charged Current Quasielasticlike ν_{μ}-Argon Scattering Cross Sections with the MicroBooNE Detector

We report on the first measurement of flux-integrated single differential cross sections for charged-current (CC) muon neutrino (ν_{μ}) scattering on argon with a muon and a proton in the final state, ^{40}Ar (ν_{μ},μp)X. The measurement was carried out using the Booster Neutrino Beam at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory and the MicroBooNE liquid argon time projection chamber detector with an exposure of 4.59×10^{19} protons on target. Events are selected to enhance the contribution of CC quasielastic (CCQE) interactions. The data are reported in terms of a total cross section as well as single differential cross sections in final state muon and proton kinematics. We measure the integrated per-nucleus CCQE-like cross section (i.e., for interactions leading to a muon, one proton, and no pions above detection threshold) of (4.93±0.76_{stat}±1.29_{sys})×10^{-38}  cm^{2}, in good agreement with theoretical calculations. The single differential cross sections are also in overall good agreement with theoretical predictions, except at very forward muon scattering angles that correspond to low-momentum-transfer events.

The use of finger foods in care settings: an integrative review

BACKGROUND

Reduced food intake is prevalent in people in residential and hospital care settings. Little is known about the use of finger foods (i.e. foods eaten without cutlery) with respect to increasing feeding independence and food intake. The Social Care Institute for Excellence (Malnutrition Task Force: State of the Nation, 2017) recommends the use of finger foods to enable mealtime independence and to prevent loss of dignity and embarrassment when eating in front of others. The aim of this review is to identify and evaluate the existing literature regarding the use and effectiveness of finger foods among adults in health and social care settings.

METHODS

An integrative review methodology was used. A systematic search of electronic databases for published empirical research was undertaken in October 2018. Following screening of titles and abstracts, the full texts of publications, which investigated outcomes associated with the provision of finger foods in adult care settings, were retrieved and assessed for inclusion. Two independent investigators conducted data extraction and quality assessment using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklists. Thematic analysis was used to summarise the findings.

RESULTS

Six studies met the inclusion criteria. Four themes were identified: Finger food menu implementation; Importance of a team approach; Effect on nutrition; and Influence on wellbeing. Study designs were poorly reported, with small sample sizes.

CONCLUSIONS

There is some evidence that the provision of finger foods may positively affect patient outcomes in long-term care settings. There is a paucity of research evaluating the use of a finger food menu in acute care settings, including economic evaluation. Future high quality trials are required.

First Measurement of Inclusive Muon Neutrino Charged Current Differential Cross Sections on Argon at E_{ν}∼0.8 GeV with the MicroBooNE Detector

We report the first measurement of the double-differential and total muon neutrino charged current inclusive cross sections on argon at a mean neutrino energy of 0.8 GeV. Data were collected using the MicroBooNE liquid argon time projection chamber located in the Fermilab Booster neutrino beam and correspond to 1.6×10^{20} protons on target of exposure. The measured differential cross sections are presented as a function of muon momentum, using multiple Coulomb scattering as a momentum measurement technique, and the muon angle with respect to the beam direction. We compare the measured cross sections to multiple neutrino event generators and find better agreement with those containing more complete treatment of quasielastic scattering processes at low Q^{2}. The total flux integrated cross section is measured to be 0.693±0.010(stat)±0.165(syst)×10^{-38}  cm^{2}.

Adapting implementation strategies: a case study of how to support implementation of healthy canteen policies

OBJECTIVES

Although evidence-based interventions (EBIs) and effective strategies to implement them exist, they cannot be used by policy makers and practitioners if they do not align with end users' needs. As such, adaptations to EBIs and implementation approaches are likely to occur to increase 'fit' with end users' capacity. This article describes an approach undertaken by a population health service delivery unit in one Australian state to develop an adapted implementation strategy to support the implementation of the mandatory healthy canteen policy (EBI) to all schools located in the service delivery region.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a case study of adapting an intervention to improve implementation of the healthy canteen policy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This is a six-step pragmatic, empirically driven approach. The steps include (i) adapt, where appropriate, the EBI to facilitate implementation; (ii) identify end users' capacity for implementation; (iii) identify opportunities to adapt the implementation interventions while preserving meaningful intervention impact; (iv) undertake program adaptation; (v) develop training and resources to support delivery of implementation strategies and; (vi) evaluate the adapted intervention. This article describes the application of these steps by the authors to develop an adapted support strategy consistent with end users' needs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides some guidance on how to adapt implementation support approaches particularly when EBIs cannot be adapted. Future empirical research providing guidance on making practical adaptation decisions are needed.

The Pandora multi-algorithm approach to automated pattern recognition of cosmic-ray muon and neutrino events in the MicroBooNE detector

The development and operation of liquid-argon time-projection chambers for neutrino physics has created a need for new approaches to pattern recognition in order to fully exploit the imaging capabilities offered by this technology. Whereas the human brain can excel at identifying features in the recorded events, it is a significant challenge to develop an automated, algorithmic solution. The Pandora Software Development Kit provides functionality to aid the design and implementation of pattern-recognition algorithms. It promotes the use of a multi-algorithm approach to pattern recognition, in which individual algorithms each address a specific task in a particular topology. Many tens of algorithms then carefully build up a picture of the event and, together, provide a robust automated pattern-recognition solution. This paper describes details of the chain of over one hundred Pandora algorithms and tools used to reconstruct cosmic-ray muon and neutrino events in the MicroBooNE detector. Metrics that assess the current pattern-recognition performance are presented for simulated MicroBooNE events, using a selection of final-state event topologies.

Workplace mental health training for managers and its effect on sick leave in employees: a cluster randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Mental illness is one of the most rapidly increasing causes of long-term sickness absence, despite improved rates of detection and development of more effective interventions. However, mental health training for managers might help improve occupational outcomes for people with mental health problems. We aimed to investigate the effect of mental health training on managers' knowledge, attitudes, confidence, and behaviour towards employees with mental health problems, and its effect on employee sickness absence.

METHODS

We did a cluster randomised controlled trial of manager mental health training within a large Australian fire and rescue service, with a 6-month follow-up. Managers (clusters) at the level of duty commander or equivalent were randomly assigned (1:1) using an online random sequence generator to either a 4-h face-to-face RESPECT mental health training programme or a deferred training control group. Researchers, managers, and employees were not masked to the outcome of randomisation. Firefighters and station officers supervised by each manager were included in the study via their anonymised sickness absence records. The primary outcome measure was change in sickness absence among those supervised by each of the managers. We analysed rates of work-related sick leave and standard sick leave seperately, with rate being defined as sickness absence hours divided by the sum of hours of sickness absence and hours of attendance. This trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12613001156774).

FINDINGS

128 managers were recruited between Feb 18, 2014, and May 17, 2014. 46 (71%) of 65 managers allocated to the intervention group received the intervention, and 42 (67%) of 63 managers allocated to the control group were entered in the deferred training group. Managers and their employees were followed up and reassessed at 6 months after randomisation. 25 managers (1233 employees) in the intervention group and 19 managers (733 employees) in the control group provided data for the primary analysis. During the 6-month follow-up, the mean rate of work-related sick leave decreased by 0·28 percentage points (pp) from a pre-training mean of 1·56% (SE 0·23) in the intervention group and increased by 0·28 pp from 0·95% (0·20) in the control group (p=0·049), corresponding to a reduction of 6·45 h per employee per 6 months. The mean percentage of standard sick leave increased by 0·48 pp from 4·97% (0·22) in the intervention group and by 0·31 pp from 5·27% (0·21) in the control group (p=0·169).

INTERPRETATION

A 4-h manager mental health training programme could lead to a significant reduction in work-related sickness absence, with an associated return on investment of £9.98 for each pound spent on such training. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and test their applicability in other work settings.

FUNDING

NSW Health and Employers Mutual Ltd.

Perceived needs for support among care home staff providing end of life care for people with dementia: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the current exploratory study was to investigate the impact on care home staff when working with people with dementia at the end of life and to explore how they cope with this aspect of their work. With UK policy encouraging death in the place of residence, rather than hospital, more people with dementia are dying in care homes.

METHOD

A qualitative approach was employed; 20 care home staff working in five English care homes were interviewed. Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data.

RESULTS

Care home staff found the external demands on them and difficulties associated with interacting with people with dementia sometimes challenging, stressful and anxiety-provoking, particularly as residents approached end of life. Emotional aspects of caring for dying residents were sometimes heightened by close attachments with residents and their families. Staff were able to recognise these unmet needs and identified a need for further training and emotional support to manage these stressors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed rich and complex understandings of the practice dimensions of caring for people with dementia at the end of life and the impact these have on staff. There is a need to develop effective psychosocial interventions that focus on emotional support for care home staff. There will be challenges in providing this in employment settings that are generally low paid, low status, have high turnover and are reliant on temporary or migrant staff, where training is not rewarded, mandatory or culturally valued. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Positional interchanges influence the physical and technical match performance variables of elite soccer players

Positional variation in match performance is well established in elite soccer but no information exists on players switching positions. This study investigated the influence of elite players interchanging from one position to another on physical and technical match performance. Data were collected from multiple English Premier League (EPL) seasons using a computerised tracking system. After adhering to stringent inclusion criteria, players were examined across several interchanges: central-defender to fullback (CD-FB, n = 11, 312 observations), central-midfielder to wide-midfielder (CM-WM, n = 7, 171 observations), wide-midfielder to central-midfielder (WM-CM, n = 7, 197 observations) and attacker to wide-midfielder (AT-WM, n = 4, 81 observations). Players interchanging from CD-FB covered markedly more high-intensity running and sprinting distance (effect size [ES]: -1.56 and -1.26), lost more possessions but made more final third entries (ES: -1.23 and -1.55). Interchanging from CM-WM and WM-CM resulted in trivial to moderate differences in both physical (ES: -0.14-0.59 and -0.21-0.39) and technical performances (ES: -0.48-0.64 and -0.36-0.54). Players interchanging from AT-WM demonstrated a moderate difference in high-intensity running without possession (ES: -0.98) and moderate-to-large differences in the number of clearances, tackles and possessions won (ES: -0.77, -1.16 and -1.41). The data demonstrate that the physical and technical demands vary greatly from one interchange to another but utility players seem able to adapt to these positional switches.

Challenges in hemophilia care in Australia and New Zealand

BACKGROUND

Health and life expectancy for people with hemophilia have improved significantly in recent years, but we face new challenges, especially in the context of resource-constrained health services.

AIM

This paper aims to highlight such challenges and propose practical solutions.

METHODS

Nine hemophilia specialists from Australia and New Zealand reached consensus on areas of greatest need for improvement in hemophilia care in these countries, based on clinical experience and published data, and agreed on how to address these.

RESULTS

Demography, optimizing treatment and assessing treatment success were identified as broad areas of challenge which included: comorbidities in ageing patients; transitioning from pediatric to adult care; equity of care for remote populations; weight-based dosing in obese patients; tailoring prophylaxis; accurate diagnosis of acute joint pain; managing chronic arthropathy; providing psychosocial support; consistency in definitions and assessment; and quantifiable outcome measures. Practice points included increased cross-specialty coordination and including psychologists and rheumatologists as part of comprehensive care teams; close collaboration between pediatric and adult centers to facilitate transition of care; systems such as telehealth that ensure continuity of care for remote populations; using pharmacokinetic data to tailor therapy; rapid and accurate diagnosis of acute joint pain; using data from bleeding registries to assess treatment effects and help with service planning; and ensuring consistency through benchmarking and standardization of HTCs.

SUMMARY

Achieving treatment equity, optimal outcomes and cost savings may be possible through investing in national governance structures, expanding the comprehensive model of care and implementing innovative solutions tailored to local needs.

Recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein for the prevention and treatment of bleeding in children with severe hemophilia A

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic factor replacement, which prevents hemarthroses and thereby reduces the musculoskeletal disease burden in children with hemophilia A, requires frequent intravenous infusions (three to four times weekly).

OBJECTIVE

Kids A-LONG was a phase 3 open-label study evaluating the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of a longer-acting factor, recombinant factor VIII Fc fusion protein (rFVIIIFc), in previously treated children with severe hemophilia A (endogenous FVIII level of < 1 IU dL(-1) [< 1%]).

METHODS

The study enrolled 71 subjects. The starting rFVIIIFc regimen was twice-weekly prophylaxis (Day 1, 25 IU kg(-1) ; Day 4, 50 IU kg(-1) ); dose (≤ 80 IU kg(-1) ) and dosing interval (≥ 2 days) were adjusted as needed. A subset of subjects had sequential pharmacokinetic evaluations of FVIII and rFVIIIFc. The primary endpoint was development of inhibitors (neutralizing antibodies). Secondary endpoints included pharmacokinetics, annualized bleeding rate (ABR), and number of infusions required to control a bleed.

RESULTS

No subject developed an inhibitor to rFVIIIFc. Adverse events were typical of a pediatric hemophilic population. The rFVIIIFc half-life was prolonged relative to that of FVIII, consistent with observations in adults and adolescents. The median ABR was 1.96 overall, and 0.00 for spontaneous bleeds; 46.4% of subjects reported no bleeding episodes on study. Ninety-three per cent of bleeding episodes were controlled with one to two infusions. The median average weekly rFVIIIFc prophylactic dose was 88.11 IU kg(-1) . At study end, 62 of 69 subjects (90%) were infusing twice weekly. Among subjects who had been previously receiving FVIII prophylaxis, 74% reduced their dosing frequency with rFVIIIFc.

CONCLUSION

Twice-weekly infusions with rFVIIIFc were well tolerated and yielded low bleeding rates in children with severe hemophilia A.

Safe duration of postoperative monitoring for malignant hyperthermia patients administered non-triggering anaesthesia: an update

The postoperative care of malignant hyperthermia (MH) patients is subject to international variation, with a paucity of data in the literature to guide management. Over a series of three studies, our aim was to evaluate whether MH-susceptible patients (and relatives who had not yet been investigated), who had received a non-triggering anaesthetic, could be managed in the same way as the standard surgical population. Following a retrospective study, 206 anaesthetics were administered in a prospective second study to MH-susceptible/related individuals who were monitored for a minimum of one hour in the post anaesthesia care unit and a further 90 minutes in a step-down facility. No problems relating to MH were encountered. The postoperative monitoring time was subsequently changed and, in a third study, patients were managed no differently from standard surgical patients. One hundred and twenty-five anaesthetics were administered with no evidence of problems. This data shows that standard postoperative monitoring times are safe and appropriate in MH-susceptible patients.

The evolution of physical and technical performance parameters in the English Premier League

This study examined the evolution of physical and technical soccer performance across a 7-season period in the English Premier League. Match performance observations (n=14 700) were analysed for emergent trends. Total distance covered during a match was ~2% lower in 2006-07 compared to 2012-13. Across 7 seasons, high-intensity running distance and actions increased by ~30% (890±299 vs. 1 151±337 m, p<0.001; ES: 0.82) and ~50% (118±36 vs. 176±46, p<0.001; ES: 1.41), respectively. Sprint distance and number of sprints increased by ~35% (232±114 vs. 350±139 m, p<0.001; ES: 0.93) and ~85% (31±14 vs. 57±20, p<0.001; ES: 1.46), respectively. Mean sprint distance was shorter in 2012-13 compared to 2006-07 (5.9±0.8 vs. 6.9±1.3 m, p<0.001; ES: 0.91), with the proportion of explosive sprints increasing (34±11 vs. 47±9%, p<0.001; ES: 1.31). Players performed more passes (35±17 vs. 25±13, p<0.001; ES: 0.66) and successful passes (83±10% vs. 76±13%, p<0.001; ES: 0.60) in 2012-13 compared to 2006-07. Whereas the number of short and medium passes increased across time (p<0.001; ES>0.6), the number of long passes varied little (p<0.001; ES: 0.11). This data demonstrates evolution of physical and technical parameters in the English Premier League, and could be used to aid talent identification, training and conditioning preparation.

Surgery for children with Crohn's disease: indications, complications and outcome

BACKGROUND

Outcome data for surgery in paediatric Crohn's disease are limited. We report 10 years' experience at a regional paediatric gastroenterology centre.

METHODS

Children undergoing surgery for Crohn's disease (January 2002-December 2012) were identified from an onsite patient register. Patients were followed until transition to adult services. Data were obtained from medical records and are expressed as median (range).

RESULTS

Sixty-nine children, aged 13.8 years (6.3-17.0) at diagnosis, were included. 42 were male (61%). Follow-up was 1.8 years (27 days-6 years). Surgery followed diagnosis by 9 months (0 days-7 years). 52 children (75%) received thiopurines and 5 (7%) anti-TNF (tumour necrosis factor) therapy preoperatively. 58 (84%) underwent intra-abdominal surgery (40 right hemicolectomy, 8 stoma formation, 2 subtotal colectomy, 2 small bowel resection, 6 other) and 10 (14%) underwent surgery for perianal disease. The commonest indications for intra-abdominal surgery were stricturing disease 35 (60%) and unresponsive luminal disease 13 (22%). There were 13 (22%) early, and 5 (8.6%) late, complications following intra-abdominal surgery. Nine children had disease relapse, five required further surgery. Height SD scores (SDS) did not increase between diagnosis; -0.5 (-3.4-2.1) and most recent follow up; -0.4 (-3.0-1.1). Body Mass Index (BMI) SDS increased from -1.0 (-6.3-1.5) to -0.3 (-3.3-2.0) (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery was associated with a 22% early complication rate and a 15% risk of relapse. 21% of patients required a second unplanned intra-abdominal procedure. Surgical intervention was associated with an increase in BMI SDS, but not in height SDS.

Mulga snake (Pseudechis australis) envenoming: a spectrum of myotoxicity, anticoagulant coagulopathy, haemolysis and the role of early antivenom therapy - Australian Snakebite Project (ASP-19)

CONTEXT

Mulga snakes (Pseudechis australis) are venomous snakes with a wide distribution in Australia. Objective. The objective of this study was to describe mulga snake envenoming and the response of envenoming to antivenom therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Definite mulga bites, based on expert identification or venom-specific enzyme immunoassay, were recruited from the Australian Snakebite Project. Demographics, information about the bite, clinical effects, laboratory investigations and antivenom treatment are recorded for all patients. Blood samples are collected to measure the serum venom concentrations pre- and post-antivenom therapy using enzyme immunoassay.

RESULTS

There were 17 patients with definite mulga snake bites. The median age was 37 years (6-70 years); 16 were male and six were snake handlers. Thirteen patients had systemic envenoming with non-specific systemic symptoms (11), anticoagulant coagulopathy (10), myotoxicity (7) and haemolysis (6). Antivenom was given to ten patients; the median dose was one vial (range, one-three vials). Three patients had systemic hypersensitivity reactions post-antivenom. Antivenom reversed the coagulopathy in all cases. Antivenom appeared to prevent myotoxicity in three patients with high venom concentrations, given antivenom within 2 h of the bite. Median peak venom concentration in 12 envenomed patients with samples was 29 ng/mL (range, 0.6-624 ng/mL). There was a good correlation between venom concentrations and the area under the curve of the creatine kinase for patients receiving antivenom after 2 h. Higher venom concentrations were also associated with coagulopathy and haemolysis. Venom was not detected after antivenom administration except in one patient who had a venom concentration of 8.3 ng/ml after one vial of antivenom, but immediate reversal of the coagulopathy.

DISCUSSION

Mulga snake envenoming is characterised by myotoxicity, anticoagulant coagulopathy and haemolysis, and has a spectrum of toxicity that is venom dose dependant. This study supports a dose of one vial of antivenom, given as soon as a systemic envenoming is identified, rather than waiting for the development of myotoxicity.

Obatoclax induces Atg7-dependent autophagy independent of beclin-1 and BAX/BAK

Direct pharmacological targeting of the anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) family is an attractive therapeutic strategy for treating cancer. Obatoclax is a pan-BCL-2 family inhibitor currently in clinical development. Here we show that, although obatoclax can induce mitochondrial apoptosis dependent on BCL-2 associated x protein/BCL-2 antagonist killer (BAX/BAK) consistent with its on-target pharmacodynamics, simultaneous silencing of both BAX and BAK did not abolish acute toxicity or loss of clonogenicity. This is despite complete inhibition of apoptosis. Obatoclax dramatically reduced viability without inducing loss of plasma membrane integrity. This was associated with rapid processing of light chain-3 (LC3) and reduction of S6 kinase phosphorylation, consistent with autophagy. Dramatic ultrastructural vacuolation, not typical of autophagy, was also induced. Silencing of beclin-1 failed to prevent LC3 processing, whereas knockout of autophagy-related (Atg)7 abolished LC3 processing but failed to prevent obatoclax-induced loss of clonogenicity or ultrastructural changes. siRNA silencing of Atg7 in BAX/BAK knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts did not prevent obatoclax-induced loss of viability. Cells selected for obatoclax resistance evaded apoptosis independent of changes in BCL-2 family expression and displayed reduced LC3 processing. In summary, obatoclax exhibits BAX- and BAK-dependent and -independent mechanisms of toxicity and activation of autophagy. Mechanisms other than autophagy and apoptosis are blocked in obatoclax resistant cells and contribute significantly to obatoclax's anticancer efficacy.

Sub-maximal and maximal Yo-Yo intermittent endurance test level 2: heart rate response, reproducibility and application to elite soccer

The aims of this study were to (1) determine the reproducibility of sub-maximal and maximal versions of the Yo-Yo intermittent endurance test level 2 (Yo-Yo IE2 test), (2) assess the relationship between the Yo-Yo IE2 test and match performance and (3) quantify the sensitivity of the Yo-Yo IE2 test to detect test-retest changes and discriminate between performance for different playing standards and positions in elite soccer. Elite (n = 148) and sub-elite male (n = 14) soccer players carried out the Yo-Yo IE2 test on several occasions over consecutive seasons. Test-retest coefficient of variation (CV) in Yo-Yo IE2 test performance and heart rate after 6 min were 3.9% (n = 37) and 1.4% (n = 32), respectively. Elite male senior and youth U19 players Yo-Yo IE2 performances were better (P < 0.01) than elite youth U16s and sub-elite players (2,603 ± 451 and 2,534 ± 549 vs. 1,855 ± 535 vs. 1,749 ± 382 m). The intra- and inter-season CV for Yo-Yo IE2 test performance were 4.2 and 5.6%, respectively. A correlation was observed (P < 0.05) between Yo-Yo IE2 test performance and the total (r = 0.74) and high-intensity (r = 0.58) running distance covered in a match. A correlation was also evident (P < 0.01) between Yo-Yo IE2 test heart rate after 6 min expressed in percentage of maximal heart rate and the peak values for high-intensity running performed by midfielders in 5-min (r = -0.71), 15-min (r = -0.75) and 45-min periods (r = -0.77). The present data demonstrate that the Yo-Yo IE2 test is reproducible and can be used to determine the capacity of elite soccer players to perform intense intermittent exercise. Furthermore, the Yo-Yo IE2 test was shown to be a sensitive tool that not only relates to match performance but can also differentiate between intermittent exercise performance of players in various standards, stages of the season and playing positions.