Exploring the roles of compassion and post-traumatic stress disorder on global distress after sexual trauma

OBJECTIVES

Recovery from sexual trauma can be complex and multi-faceted. Most current psychological treatment protocols for trauma use a cognitive model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, sexual trauma may include specific complexities beyond that of a cognitive model of PTSD, such as relational factors. The distress experienced after sexual abuse may involve variables not exclusive to a PTSD model. Compassion focused therapy (CFT) is an approach that incorporates evolutionary, relational and social perspectives. This study explored the relationships between variables associated with CFT, PTSD and distress in survivors of sexual abuse to determine the role of CFT-related variables.

METHODS

155 adults who had experienced sexual abuse or any unwanted sexual experience at any point in their lives completed online questionnaires pertaining to various CFT variables (self-compassion, receiving compassion from others, having a fear of compassion from others, having a fear of compassion from the self, shame and self-criticism) and questionnaires measuring global distress as the outcome of sexual abuse and PTSD symptoms.

RESULTS

An exploratory model involving CFT-related variables explained significantly more of the variance (4.4%) in global distress than PTSD symptomology alone. Self-criticism was found to be the variable with significant contribution.

CONCLUSIONS

That CFT treatments, targeting self-criticism, should be developed alongside the standard cognitive model of PTSD based treatments for survivors of sexual abuse was supported. Future research may explore experimental designs utilizing CFT in this population, as well as further investigations on the roles of these specific CFT variables.

Compassion focused therapy for self-stigma and shame in autism: a single case pre-experimental study

Introduction

Exposure to public stigma can lead to the internalization of autism-related stigma (i.e., self-stigma), associated with negative health, occupational and social outcomes. Importantly, self-stigma is linked to shame and social isolation. Although elevated self-stigma has been reported in autistic adults, to the best of our knowledge, interventions designed to target this issue are lacking. Compassion is an effective way to reduce the emotional correlates of self-stigma (i.e., shame) and their impacts on mental health. However, no study has investigated whether compassion focused therapy (CFT) can effectively reduce self-stigma in autistic adults. The present study aims at investigating whether and how self-compassion improvement following CFT may reduce self-stigma and shame in an autistic individual.

Methods

A single case pre-experimental design (SCED) was used with weekly repeated measures during four phases: (i) pure baseline without any intervention (A), (ii) case conceptualization (A'), (iii) intervention (B) where CFT was delivered, (iv) follow-up without intervention (FU). The participant is a 46-year-old autistic man with high self-stigma and shame. Self-report measures of self-compassion and self-stigma and a daily idiographic measure of shame were used.

Results

There was a large increase in self-compassion between pure baseline (A) and the intervention phase (A'B) (Tau-U = 0.99), maintained at follow-up. Similarly, there was a moderate decrease of self-stigma (Tau-U = 0.32). In contrast, when we compared the whole baseline phase AA' (i.e., considering the conceptualisation phase as baseline) to the intervention (B), there was no change in self-stigma (Tau-U = -0.09). There was no change in self-stigma between the intervention (B) and follow-up (Tau-U = -0.19). There was a moderate decrease in daily shame reports between the baseline (AA') and the intervention (B) (Tau-U = 0.31) and a moderate decrease between the pure baseline (A) and intervention phase (A'B) (Tau-U = 0.51).

Conclusion

CFT was feasible for this autistic client and our results show that CFT led to the improvement of self-compassion. Changes on self-stigma measures were moderate. Self-stigma may need more time to change. Because self-stigma is involved in poorer social functioning and mental health in autistic adults, our results are promising and suggesting conducting more large-scale studies on CFT in autistic adults.

Seroprevalence of brucellosis in communal and smallholder cattle farming in North West Province, South Africa

Brucellosis is an important bacterial zoonosis responsible for considerable economic losses in livestock and health-related burden worldwide. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of brucellosis in communal and smallholder cattle farming in four districts of the North West province of South Africa (Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Ngaka Modiri Molema, Bojanala platinum and Dr Kenneth Kaunda districts). Seven hundred and seventy blood samples from farmed animals (n = 378) and abattoir-slaughtered animals (n = 392) were collected. In addition, milk samples (n = 22) were collected from lactating farmed cows. Rose Bengal test (RBT), complement fixation test (CFT) and milk ring test (MRT) were used to detect antibodies against Brucella species. The RBT showed a seroprevalence of 2% at 95% confidence interval (CI: 1.35-3.35), CFT confirmed an overall seroprevalence of 1.95% (95% CI: 1.14-3.12) for all four districts sampled. Although the seroprevalence of brucellosis was found to be low, the possibility of undetected cases of the disease could not be ruled out. Overall, the findings of this study confirmed that brucellosis is endemic in the surveyed areas of the North West province of South Africa.Contribution: The outcome of this study will contribute to the National Brucellosis Project organised by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (2016-2026) to assist in the effective implementation of the disease control measures with a view to prevent further outbreaks in the country's cattle population.

Effects of cognitive load and different exercise intensities on perceived effort in sedentary university students: a follow up of the Cubo Fitness Test validation

Work and intellectually fatiguing environments can significantly influence the health of individuals, which is strictly bound to motor efficiency. In particular, desk workers and university students may have a sedentary lifestyle and a condition of mental fatigue caused by daily routine, which could impair motor efficiency. The assessment is a starting point for enhancing awareness of the individual's psychophysical condition through the perception of one's body motor efficiency, motivating to move towards improvement. This way, a submaximal test based on perceived exertion was developed (Cubo Fitness Test, CFT) and validated in previous studies. Hence, two further studies were employed to enhance the consistency and accuracy of this instrument in different conditions. The first study investigated the internal responsiveness of CFT, evaluating if mental fatigue could affect motor efficiency. The second study investigated which perceived intensity (weak, moderate, strong, or absolute maximum) could be more reliable for applying the CFT (as previous research focused the investigation only on moderate intensity). In the first investigation, participants assessed two stimuli (mental fatigue induced with a Stroop color-word task and a neutral condition based on the vision of a documentary) lasting 60 min each. The quality of psychophysical recovery (total quality recovery) and the mood state (Italian Mood State questionnaire) were evaluated before the stimuli. After the fatiguing or the neutral task, the mood state was newly assessed, together with the evaluation of the workload's characteristics (Nasa TLX) and the CFT motor efficiency. In the second investigation, participants had to perform CFT twice for each at different intensities of Borg's Scale of perceived exertion. Researchers successfully requested to fill out the NASA TLX questionnaire regarding the perceived workload characteristics of CFT, and the reliability of each intensity was assessed. Results seem to enhance the consistency and the accuracy of the instrument. Indeed, findings evidenced that CFT is not influenced by mental fatigue conditions typical of the intellectual work of desk workers and university students for which this test was specifically conceived. Moreover, moderate and strong perceived intensity are the most adequate conditions to assess motor efficiency in these populations.

Current concepts of natural course and in management of medial epicondylitis: a clinical overview

Medial epicondylitis (ME), called "golfer's elbow", is not frequent or serious disease but can cause symptoms that are bothersome in everyday life. Therefore knowledge about this condition may improve diagnostic-therapeutic process. In this article detailed information concerning pathophysiology and symptomatology of ME was described. Great attention was paid to issues related to the diagnosis of the disease both in terms of differentiation with other elbow disorders as well as examination techniques. Finally, current therapeutic options were presented in detail and their efficacy was discussed based on the available data.

Comparative evaluation of RBPT, I-ELISA, and CFT for the diagnosis of brucellosis and PCR detection of Brucella species from Ethiopian sheep, goats, and cattle sera

BACKGROUND

Brucellosis is an economically devastating animal disease and has public health concern. Serological methods such as Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), Complement Fixation Test (CFT), and Indirect-Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (I-ELISA) have been used to detect brucellosis. However, there is limited comparative evaluation studies and lack of molecular confirmation of the causative agents in the study areas. The study was aimed to compare RBPT, I-ELISA, CFT, and confirmation using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). A total of 2317 sera samples were collected from brucellosis-affected areas of Ethiopia with no vaccination history. All sera were subjected to comparative serological assays. Post-cross tabulation, sensitivity, and specificity were determined using Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve analysis software. PCR was performed on 54 seropositive samples using genus- and species-specific primers.

RESULTS

Among the 2317 sera tested for comparative serological assays, 189 (8.16%) were positive for RBPT, 191 (8.24%) for I-ELISA, and 48 (2.07%) for CFT. Sensitivity to RBPT was 100% (95%) in shoats and 74% (95%) in cattle. Specificity on RBPT was 98.69% (95%), 99.28% (95%), 100% (95%) in sheep, goats, and cattle, respectively. CFT sensitivity was 4 (95%) in sheep, 9.65 (95%) goats, and 72 (95%) cattle. Specificity on CFT was 100% (95%) for sheep, goats, and cattle. A 223bp Brucella genus-specific and 156bp B. abortus species-specific detected. However, B. melitensis not detected.

CONCLUSION

In this study, I-ELISA was the most sensitive and specific test. RBPT detected all Brucellosis-infected sheep and goats; nevertheless, it showed false positive in sheep and goats and false negative in cattle. The presence of B. abortus in small and large ruminants was confirmed by PCR. This is the first report of B. abortus detection in small ruminant in Ethiopia. B.abortus detected in non-preferred hosts. The findings suggest further study on molecular epidemiology of Brucella species.

Evaluation of a Lateral Flow Immunochromatography Assay (LFIA) for Diagnosis and Surveillance of Brucellosis in French Alpine Ibex (Capra ibex)

France has been officially free of bovine brucellosis since 2005. Nevertheless, in 2012, as the source of two human cases, a bovine outbreak due to B. melitensis biovar 3 was confirmed in the French Alpine Bargy massif, due to a spillover from wild, protected Alpine ibex (Capra ibex). In order to reduce high Brucella prevalence in the local ibex population, successive management strategies have been implemented. Lateral flow immunochromatography assay (LFIA) was thus identified as a promising on-site screening test, allowing for a rapid diagnosis far from the laboratory. This study compared a commercial LFIA for brucellosis diagnosis with the WOAH-recommended tests for small ruminants (i.e., Rose Bengal test (RBT), Complement fixation test, (CFT) and Indirect ELISA, (iELISA)). LFIA showed the same analytical sensitivity as iELISA on successive dilutions of the International Standard anti-Brucella melitensis Serum (ISaBmS) and the EU Goat Brucella Standard Serum (EUGBSS). Selectivity was estimated at 100% when vaccinated ibex sera were analyzed. When used on samples from naturally infected ibex, LFIA showed high concordance, as well as relative sensitivity and specificity (>97.25%) in comparison with RBT and CFT. This work shows high reliability and ensures a better standardization of LFIA testing for wild ruminants.

An Epidemiological Study of Brucellosis in Different Animal Species from the Al-Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia

Brucellosis is a zoonotic bacterial illness that affects humans and a variety of domestic animals, especially ruminants. It is mostly transmitted through the consumption of contaminated drinks, foods, undercooked meat, or unpasteurized milk or contact with infected animals. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of brucellosis in camels, sheep, and goat herds in the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, using commonly used diagnostic serological procedures such as the Rose Bengal test (RBT), complement fixation test (CFT), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The seroprevalence of brucellosis in camels, sheep, and goats was determined in the selected areas using a cross-sectional study design and a total of 690 farm animals of both sexes of different ages from the three animal species (274 camels, 227 sheep, and 189 goats). According to RBT results, 65 sera were positive for brucellosis, including 15 (5.47%) for camels, 32 (14.09%) for sheep, and 18 (9.50%) for goats. CFT and c-ELISA were performed as confirmatory tests on positive samples resulting from RBT. With c-ELISA, 60 serum samples were confirmed positive, in 14 (5.10%), 30 (13.21%), and 16 (8.46%) camels, sheep, and goats, respectively. There were 59 serum samples confirmed as positive for CFT, including 14 (5.11%), 29 (12.77%), and 16 (8.46%) for camels, sheep, and goats, respectively. Overall, the highest seroprevalence of brucellosis was found in sheep while the least was found in camels from the three tests (RBT, c-ELISA, and CFT). The highest seroprevalence of brucellosis was found in sheep while the least seroprevalence was found in camels. There was also a higher seroprevalence of brucellosis among female animals than males as well as among old animals than young animals. The study, thus, demonstrates brucellosis seroprevalence among farm animals (camels, sheep, and goats) and the significance of intervention measures against brucellosis incidence in both humans and animals through the creation of public awareness and other relevant policy measures such as livestock vaccination, effective hygiene management, and adequate quarantine or serological analysis for newly introduced animals.

Defining compassion: A Delphi study of compassion therapists' experiences when introducing patients to the term 'compassion'

OBJECTIVES

Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) is shown to be an effective psychological intervention; however, patients can experience resistance to CFT due to preconceptions regarding the term 'compassion'. This study aims to obtain guidance from therapists in how to overcome these resistances DESIGN: This is the first study using the Delphi methodology to ask CFT therapists about how their patients understanding of the term compassion might act as a barrier to engaging with an otherwise beneficial therapy.

METHODS

Two rounds of interview questions were posed to 15 expert CFT therapists.

RESULTS

The results provide verification that there is resistance to CFT due to preconceptions around 'compassion', specifically its association with 'pity', 'weakness' and low-rank social positions. Further, this appears to be pronounced in patients who value competitiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

The results have practical implications such as the need for therapists to acknowledge the potential for resistance and the need for experiential strategies and illustrative examples of compassion to facilitate successful engagement with CFT.

Seroprevalence of Brucella Infection in Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) of Bavaria, Germany, 2019 to 2021 and Associated Genome Analysis of Five B. suis Biovar 2 Isolates

Brucella species are highly pathogenic zoonotic agents and are found in vertebrates all over the world. To date, Germany is officially declared free from brucellosis and continuous surveillance is currently limited to farm ruminants. However, porcine brucellosis, mostly caused by B. suis biovar 2, is still found in wild boars and hares. In the present study, a three-year monitoring program was conducted focusing on the wild boar population in the state of Bavaria. Serologic screening of 11,956 animals and a direct pathogen detection approach, including a subset of 681 tissue samples, was carried out. The serologic incidence was 17.9%, which is in approximate accordance with previously published results from various European countries. Applying comparative whole genome analysis, five isolated B. suis biovar 2 strains from Bavaria could be assigned to three known European genetic lineages. One isolate was closely related to another strain recovered in Germany in 2006. Concluding, porcine brucellosis is endemic in Bavaria and the wild boar population represents a reservoir for genetically distinct B. suis biovar 2 strains. However, the transmission risk of swine brucellosis to humans and farm animals is still regarded as minor due to low zoonotic potential, awareness, and biosafety measures.

Elastoplastic Analysis of Circular Steel Tube of CFT Stub Columns under Axial Compression

Composite action between the components of the concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) is complex and it is difficult to accurately obtain the experimental relationship between the steel tube and the core concrete of CFT columns. The triaxially stressed core concrete has been studied by hydrostatic test in past research, while little research has been focused on the mechanical behavior of steel tube of CFT columns. It is difficult to obtain the experimental constitutive relationship of the steel tube of CFT columns to reflect the real-time influence of biaxial stress state and local buckling of steel plate on the steel tube. To clarify the mechanical behavior of the steel tube of CFT columns, this paper proposed an elastoplastic analytical method considering biaxial stress state and local buckling of steel tube to obtain the stress-strain curve of the steel tube. This method applied the Hook's law and the plasticity theory to interpret the information conveyed by the measured vertical and hoop strain histories of the steel tube. To verify its effectiveness, 11 circular concrete-filled steel tube stub columns were fabricated and tested under axial compression. Superposition results of the axial load-strain of steel tube and core concrete were compared against the experimental curves. The widely used Sakino-Sun model of the confined concrete was adopted to calculate the axial load-strain curve of the core concrete. Satisfactory agreements between the calculated and experimental results confirmed the rationality of the proposed method in tracing the constitutive relation of the biaxially stressed steel tube even after the occurrence of the local buckling. The obtained stress-strain relationship is critical for establishment of mathematical constitutive model and finite element model of steel tube.

In vivo Illustration of Altered Dopaminergic and GABAergic Systems in Early Parkinson's Disease

Background

Changes in γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) function are noted in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) who have some non-motor impairments. However, dopamine-related GABA function and GABA-related cognitive changes are still unclear.

Methods

Thirteen drug-naive early-stage PD patients underwent a series of PET scans with [¹¹C]flumazenil(FMZ) and [¹¹C]CFT. The [¹¹C]FMZ binding potential (BP_ND) derived from a Logan plot analysis was compared between PD patients and age-matched controls. The [¹¹C]CFT radioactivity relative to the cerebellar counterpart was estimated as a semiquantitative value [¹¹C]CFT SUVR. Correlations between [¹¹C]FMZ BP_ND and [¹¹C]CFT SUVR in the same region of interest were also examined.

Results

In patients in the PD group, [¹¹C]CFT SUVR was significantly lower in the putamen. The levels of [¹¹C]FMZ BP_ND in the cerebral cortex (frontal lobe dominancy) and the affected-side putamen were also reduced. In addition, [¹¹C]CFT SUVR was negatively correlated with the [¹¹C]FMZ BP_ND level in the affected-side putamen. In patients in the PD group, the total frontal assessment battery (FAB) score was positively correlated with the [¹¹C]FMZ BP_ND in the frontal region.

Conclusion

GABAergic dysfunction coexists with dopaminergic loss not only in the putamen but also over the extrastriatal region in patients with early PD and is related to frontal dysfunction. The negative correlation of [¹¹C]CFT SUVR with [¹¹C]FMZ BP_ND in the affected putamen suggests that a greater dopaminergic demise would decelerate GABA release (or an increase in tracer binding), resulting in persistent failure of the GABAergic system in PD patients.

Nano-SiO2 transport and retention in saturated porous medium: Influence of pH, ionic strength, and natural organics

Nano silica (nSiO₂), induces potential harmful effects on the living environment and human health. It is well established that SiO₂ facilitates the co-transport of a variety of other contaminants, including heavy metals and pesticides. The current study focused on the systematic evaluation of the effects of multiple physicochemical parameters such as pH (5, 7, and 9), ionic strength (10, 50, and 100 mM), and humic acid (0.1, 1, and 10 mg/L) on the transport and retention of nSiO₂ in saturated porous medium. Additionally, the influent concentration of nSiO₂ (10, 50, and 100 mg/L) was also varied. Our experimental findings indicate that the size of nSiO₂ aggregates was directly related to the pH, ionic strength, HA, and particle concentration had a significant impact on the breakthrough curves (BTCs). The stability provided by the varying concentrations of pH and humic acid had a significant effect on the size of nSiO₂ aggregates and transport (C/C₀ > 0.7). The presence of a greater magnitude of negative charge on the surface of both nSiO₂ and quartz sand resulted in less aggregation and enhanced flow of nSiO₂ through the sand column. The Electrostatic and steric repulsion forces were the primary governing mechanisms in relation to the size of nSiO₂ aggregates, affecting the single-collector efficiency and attachment efficiency, which determined the maximal transport of nSiO₂. Conversely, a probable increase in Van der Waals force of attraction exacerbated the particle deposition and reduced their mobility for high ionic strength, and particle concentrations (C/C₀ < 0.1). The formation of large nSiO₂ aggregates, in particular, was principally responsible for the enhancement of nSiO₂ retention in sand columns over a broad range of IS and particle concentration. The interaction energy profiles based on the Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) theory were determined to understand the mechanism of nSiO₂ deposition. Aditionally, all the experimental BTCs were mathematically simulated and justified by the colloidal filtration theory (CFT). Considering the environmental ramifications, the transport behavior of nSiO₂ was further evaluated in various natural matrices such as river, lake, ground, and tap water. The nSiO₂ suspended in the river, lake, and tap water had significantly higher mobility (C/C₀ > 0.7), whereas groundwater indicated higher retention (C/C₀ < 0.3). The study advances our collective knowledge of physicochemical and environmental parameters that can affect particle mobility.

Progressive Area Elimination of Bovine Brucellosis, 2013-2018, in Gauteng Province, South Africa: Evaluation Using Laboratory Test Reports

Bovine brucellosis is a zoonotic disease of global public health and economic importance. South Africa has had a national bovine brucellosis eradication scheme since 1979; however, no published report on elimination progress from any province exists. We analysed laboratory test results of all cattle herds participating in the Gauteng Provincial Veterinary Services’ eradication scheme between 2013 and 2018. Herd reactor status and within-herd seroprevalence, modelled using mixed-effects logistic and negative binomial regression models, respectively, showed no significant change over the period. However, provincial State Vet Areas, Randfontein (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.1; p < 0.001) and Germiston (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.5–2.5, p = 0.008) had higher odds of reactor herds than the Pretoria Area and within-herd prevalence count ratios for these areas were 1.5-fold greater than the Pretoria State Vet Area (p < 0.001). Reactor herds were associated with increased herd size (p < 0.001) and larger herd sizes were associated with lower within-herd prevalence (p < 0.001). Despite no evidence of significant progress toward bovine brucellosis elimination in Gauteng province, variability in bovine brucellosis prevalence between State Vet Areas exists. A public health and farmer-supported strategy of ongoing district-based surveillance and cattle vaccination targeting small- to medium-sized herds combined with compulsory test and slaughter of reactors in larger herds is recommended for the province.

Compassion-focused therapy groups for people with intellectual disabilities: An extended pilot study

People with intellectual disabilities who experience mental health difficulties often have high levels of self-criticism and shame. Compassion-focused therapy is a therapeutic modality effective in working with such feelings. This article follows on from a previous compassion-focused therapy group study exploring the impact of two compassion-focused therapy-based groups on how participants felt about themselves. Utilizing a mixed method design, the study illustrated that participants experienced higher levels of compassion and, overall, saw themselves more favourably by the end of the groups. They were also able to understand the basic concepts of compassion-focused therapy which reinforced previous study findings, suggesting that it is adaptable and clinically useful for people with intellectual disabilities.

Molecular mapping of platelet hyperreactivity in diabetes: the stress proteins complex HSPA8/Hsp90/CSK2α and platelet aggregation in diabetic and normal platelets

The molecular understanding of the pathophysiological changes elicited by diabetes in platelets may help in further elucidating the involvement of this pseudo-cell in the increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and thrombosis in diabetic subjects. We aimed to investigate the differential characteristics of platelets from diabetic patients and nondiabetic controls to unveil the molecular mechanisms behind the increased platelet reactivity in diabetes. We compared platelets from diabetic and control subjects by 2 dimensional-electrophoresis followed by mass spectrometry. Changes in selected differential proteins were validated by immunoprecipitation assays and western blot. Platelet aggregation was measured by light transmittance aggregometry induced by collagen and ADP, and dynamic coagulation analysis of whole blood was measured by thromboelastometry. We observed significant differences in proteins related to platelet aggregation, cell migration, and cell homeostasis. Subjects with diabetes showed higher platelet aggregation and thrombogenicity and higher contents of the stress-related protein complex HSPA8/Hsp90/CSK2α than nondiabetic subjects. Changes in the chaperones HSPA8 and Hsp90, and in CSK2α protein contents correlated with changes in platelet aggregation and blood coagulation activity. In conclusion, the complex HSPA8/Hsp90/CSK2α is involved in diabetes-related platelet hyperreactivity. The role of the HSPA8/Hsp90/CSK2α complex may become a molecular target for the development of future preventive and therapeutic strategies for platelet dysfunction associated with diabetes and its complications.

An evaluation of compassion-focused therapy within adult mental health inpatient settings

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a compassion-focused therapy (CFT) group in improving patient outcomes compared to those receiving treatment as usual (TAU) with a trans-diagnostic population who are inpatients within an acute psychiatric ward.

DESIGN

Quantitative data were gathered as part of routine clinical practice within three adult psychiatric wards using the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (CORE-OM) at admission and discharge and non-standardized Likert scales pre- and post-group sessions.

METHOD

Between April and August 2017, the Acute Psychology Service (APS) gathered CORE-OM admission and discharge data from inpatients across three acute wards (n = 32) whilst 249 pre/post-group data sets were gathered from CFT group work undertaken on the inpatient wards. Current inpatients self-allocated to receive either CFT or TAU based on their desire for psychological involvement. Those self-allocating to receive psychological involvement (n = 19) were compared to those who did not (n = 13) across the four subdomains of the CORE-OM: Wellbeing, Functioning, Problem/Symptoms, and Risk. The Likert scales included subdomains to evaluate changes in self-compassion, compassion to others, and threat. Those receiving CFT group work also received TAU.

RESULTS

Significant improvements to all CORE-OM subdomains were observed for those receiving CFT group input, in particular the Wellbeing and Functioning subdomains. Those receiving TAU only noted a significant improvement in the area of Risk whilst levels of Wellbeing were identical at admission and discharge with no improvements noted. Pre/post-group results indicated significant results for areas of self-compassion and compassion to others, whilst results by session for the threat subdomain are mixed dependant on session. Overall, all areas noted significant improvements. Session content was observed to be most effective for breathing and Mindfulness-based sessions and those utilizing imagery techniques.

CONCLUSION

Compassion-Focused Therapy appears to be an effective group intervention for a trans-diagnostic population within adult inpatient settings. Patient outcomes are positively improved across a range of areas whilst undertaking psychological input in the form of CFT group work whilst also receiving TAU during an inpatient admission. The use of the CFT model to address trans-diagnostic difficulties supports targeting underlying psychological constructs in comparison to symptom treatment alone.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Compassion-focused therapy is a multi-model approach designed to target high levels of self-criticism. Previous research has demonstrated its effectiveness for a range of specific diagnosis; however, there is a limited research base with open groups and a trans-diagnostic population. Groups can be structured with standalone sessions to accommodate the unpredictable admissions and discharge patterns of acute psychiatric wards. Group sessions focused around Mindfulness and Imagery yielded the greatest significant improvements to pre-sessions scores. The provision of compassion-focused therapy groups within trans-diagnostic inpatient settings is feasible and has shown to significantly improve overall levels of distress and risk compared to those receiving treatment as usual. The lack of standardized Likert group measures limits the power of the study. Whilst a RCT would provide more reliable data, this was not possible as part of routine clinical practice for ethical reasons.

Validation of a Commercial Glanders ELISA as an Alternative to the CFT in International Trade of Equidae

Glanders, caused by Burkholderia (B.) mallei is a notifiable zoonotic disease in equidae. For international trade and movement of equids, certificates of negative serological test results for antibodies against B. mallei are required. To date, the complement fixation test (CFT) is the mandatory test to issue these health certificates. The CFT is difficult to standardize and, due to its poor specificity, often leads to false-positive reactions resulting in trade restrictions with considerable financial consequences. In the present study, the new ID Screen Glanders Double Antigen Multispecies ELISA (GLANDA- ELISA) (IDvet, Grabels, France) was evaluated using 400 negative and 370 glanders positive field samples of equidae. The GLANDA-ELISA was significantly more specific (99.8%) than the CFT (97.0%). Considering the comparable sensitivities of CFT (96.5%) and ELISA (98.1%), this new GLANDA-ELISA test appears a suitable confirmatory test and a realistic alternative for serological testing of horses for trade or movement.

Functional and Structural Outcomes at the Foveal Avascular Zone with Optical Coherence Tomography Following Macula off Retinal Detachment Repair

Background

Visual recovery following macula involving rhegmatogenous retinal detachment remains poorly understood. The aim of this work is to correlate the functional and the anatomical changes in retinal vasculature in the foveal avascular zone using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) after successful retinal reattachment repair and correlate this data with retinal thickness and post-operative visual recovery.

Methods

A prospective, comparative observational study of 28 eyes of 14 patients with 14 eyes undergoing macula off retinal detachment repair with pars plana vitrectomy, endo-laser and silicone oil-based tamponade compared with 14 fellow healthy eyes at 1, 6 and 12 weeks post-operative period. The study was conducted at the Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt between February 2018 and August 2018.

Results

The foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area in the patients group was not significantly different compared to the control group and was found to be negatively correlated with the central retinal thickness in both the study and control group. The superficial capillary plexus (SCP) area at the FAZ was significantly larger than the deep capillary plexus (DCP) area at the FAZ in both the study and control group over the follow-up period. The DCP area at the FAZ was significantly larger at the 3rd follow-up than the 1st follow-up. The SCP FAZ area was significantly larger than the DCP FAZ area in both the study and control group over the follow-up period. BCVA was found to be negatively correlated to the retinal thickness of the temporal 3 mm paracentral quadrant with no correlation with central foveal thickness (CFT) and the FAZ area.

Conclusion

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCTA are valuable noninvasive imaging tools to monitor and predict the structural changes at the foveal avascular zone during the recovery phase after successful retinal reattachment involving macula.

Sero-molecular survey and risk factors of equine piroplasmosis in horses in Spain

BACKGROUND

Theileria equi and Babesia caballi cause equine piroplasmosis (EP), one of the most important tick-borne diseases of horses due to its high negative impact to the equine industry. Although infections with these parasites have been reported for decades in Spain, epidemiological studies have only been carried out in certain regions.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the (sero)prevalence of these parasites in asymptomatic horses nationwide in Spain and to identify potential individual and environmental factors associated with seropositivity to EP.

STUDY DESIGN

Sample size was calculated according to the horses registered in Spain in 2013 and by autonomous community using a random stratified sampling. A questionnaire was used to collect data on factors associated with EP seropositivity.

METHODS

Serological (cELISA and complement fixation test) and molecular (real-time PCR) analyses were carried out in 740 horses. Risk factors were identified computing two independent logistic regression models with the collated data.

RESULTS

Antibodies against EP were detected in 42.9% (95% CI 39.4-46.5) of horses, whereas 30.3% (95% CI 27.0-33.6) were EP positive by PCR. A substantial strength of agreement (k = 0.721) was estimated between serological tests. Exposure to T. equi was significantly higher than to B. caballi and the highest (sero)prevalence was detected in the northern communities. Increasing horse age, presence of ticks and contact with cows were factors related to EP seropositivity in the horses, whereas tetanus vaccination and fairs attendance were associated with lower seropositivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost half of the horses residing in Spain had antibodies against EP or circulating parasitaemia. Appropriate prevention measures and implementation of a EP surveillance programme should be considered in order to reduce and control the infection.

Evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of the lateral flow assay, Rose Bengal test and the complement fixation test for the diagnosis of brucellosis in cattle using Bayesian latent class analysis

This study was conducted to evaluate the sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of the Rose Bengal test (RBT), complement fixation test (CFT), the serum lateral flow assay (LFA_serum) and the blood lateral flow assay (LFA_blood) for the detection of antibodies to Brucella spp. using Bayesian latent class models (BLCMs). Sera and whole blood were collected from naturally infected cattle reared in smallholder, small-scale commercial and large-scale commercial farms in Zimbabwe (n = 1022) and Botswana (n = 770). The BLCMs were fitted under the assumption that conditional dependences existed between the tests. Based on the conditional dependence model, the RBT had the highest Se of 0.897 (95 % Probability Intervals: 0.854; 0.932) compared to 0.827 (0.773; 0.872), 0.812 (0.76; 0.858) and 0.809 (0.785; 0.832) for the LFA_serum, LFA_blood and CFT, respectively. The CFT recorded a higher Sp of 0.999 (0.995; 1.000) than the LFA_serum 0.996 (0.99; 1.000), the LFA_blood 0.984 (0.976; 0.991) and the RBT 0.969 (0.959; 0.978). The data indicated that both the Se and Sp of RBT and CFT and the Sp of LFA_serum and LFA_blood were conditionally independent, while the Se appeared to be conditionally dependent. These results indicated that none of the evaluated tests had perfect Se and Sp and consequently could not be used alone for the diagnosis of brucellosis in cattle from the studied farming sectors. Thus, based on high Se and Sp, respectively, a brucellosis testing regimen using the RBT (screening) and the LFA (confirmatory) may be considered.

Introduction and Application of the Interferon-γ Assay in the National Bovine Tuberculosis Control Program in South Korea

Bovine tuberculosis is a chronic disease impacting both public health and the livestock industry. The interferon (IFN)-γ assay has been introduced as an ancillary test for diagnosing bovine tuberculosis to overcome limitations of the skin test. The objective of this study was to assess the IFN-γ assay in terms of diagnostics and as a nationwide surveillance program in South Korea. From 2012 to 2013, cattle (n = 120) with bovine tuberculosis and cattle (n = 426) from bovine tuberculosis free herds were subjected to the IFN-γ assay to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the assay, respectively, depending on various cut-offs (0-3.5). When optical density of the cut-off was 0.1, the sensitivity and specificity were found to be 81.7% (74.7-88.6) and 99.5% (98.9-100.0), respectively. After introducing the IFN-γ assay as part of the national control program, the IFN-γ assay and single caudal fold skin test data were collected from 47 regional veterinary services to compare the results of these two tests. Overall, the agreement between the IFN-γ assay and the single caudal fold skin test (n = 492,068) was 98.2%, and Cohen's kappa value for the two methods was 0.47. Serial and parallel use of the IFN-γ assay and skin test for the bovine tuberculosis control program were compared using samples (n = 91) from cattle confirmed as bovine tuberculosis positive in laboratories from 2014 to 2016. Parallel screening for bTB showed much higher sensitivity (86/91, 94.5%) than the following screening approaches: serial (47.2%, 43/91), single screening using CFT (63.7%, 58/91), or the IFN-γ assay (78.0%, 71/91). These results indicate that the IFN-γ assay and single caudal fold skin test are complementary to each other; therefore, parallel use of these two tests is considered a useful approach to reduce the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in South Korea.

Compassion focused therapy: a systematic review of its effectiveness and acceptability in clinical populations

Introduction: Compassion focused therapy (CFT) is an increasingly popular therapeutic modality. Its holistic and integrative approach to universal human suffering means that it is well placed as a transdiagnostic therapy. Research into its effectiveness and acceptability has increased over the previous 10 years as the therapy has evolved, and to help consider its status as an evidence-based therapy research concerning its treatment outcomes needs evaluating.Areas covered: This paper reviews research investigating the effectiveness of CFT in clinical populations.Expert opinion: CFT shows promise for a range of mental health problems, especially when delivered in a group format over at least 12 hours. This is important for funding bodies and commissioning groups to consider as they allocate healthcare resources in light of current evidence-based practice. CFT is demonstrably well accepted by clients and clinicians and there is now a clear need for an updated, universally deployed, standard manual to direct future research. This will be critical in enabling widespread implementation and further adoption into mainstream clinical practice, will address the lack of standardization in the current research, and pave the way for further randomized control trials aimed at reducing existing methodological limitations.

Serological surveillance and clinical investigation of glanders among indigenous equines in India from 2015 to 2018

Equine glanders is an infectious and notifiable bacterial disease caused by Burkholderia mallei. The disease has been reported in South American, African and Asian countries including India. Here, we present the outcome of glanders serosurveillance carried out between January 2015 and December 2018 to know the status of equine glanders among different states in India. A total of 102,071 equid sera from 299 districts of twenty-one states and one union territory were tested for glanders. Samples were screened with Hcp1 indirect ELISA followed by confirmatory diagnosis by CFT. During this four-year surveillance, a total of 932 glanders-positive cases were detected from 120 districts of 12 states. The study also revealed increasing trend of glanders from 2016 onwards with maximum occurrence in northern India. Overall seroprevalence ranged between 0.62% (95% CI, 0.52-0.72) and 1.145% (95% CI, 1.03-1.25). Seasonal shifting from winter to summer (March to June) coincided with highest number glanders incidence with corresponding seroprevalences of 1.2% (95% CI, 1.09-1.30). The present surveillance unveils territorial ingression of glanders to six states like Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Tamil Nadu. In addition, re-emerging cases have been reported in Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab after a gap of 10 years. Lack of awareness, little veterinary care and unrestricted movement of equids across state borders might have led to the introduction and establishment of the infection to these states. We believe that information from this study will provide a baseline data on glanders for devising surveillance and control strategies in India. Being a zoonotic disease, the persistence of glanders poses a potential threat to occupationally exposed humans especially equine handlers and veterinarians. Therefore, targeted surveillance of human population from each glanders outbreak is also recommended.

More insights about the interfering effect of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) infection on Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) detection in dairy cattle

The estimated herd and within herd Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) infection prevalence in the southern Chile regions are 0.3 and 0.67%, respectively. However, higher rates of infection still remain in some herds. In parallel, it is well established that a big proportion of cattle herds are infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), which has been also associated with a clear interference effect on M. bovis diagnosis. The present study aims to provide more insights about the diagnostic interference for Mycobacterium bovis detection due to co-infection with MAP. To better understand the dynamics of this identified interference, the effect of MAP genotype present, as well as MAP faecal shedding values (as proxy of the infection progression), for each of the CFT results was compared. No relationship was observed between MAP genotype with any type of differential response to the diagnostic tests of M. bovis infection. However, MAP shedding values in animals with positive CFT diagnostic results for M. bovis infection was significantly lower than animals with a negative CFT result, observing that as the MAP shedding load raises, the response to the bovine tuberculin test tends to be negative. The findings reported in this study allows to interpret that one of the causes of the prolonged elimination of M. bovis infection from some cattle herds may be due in part to the advanced MAP infection status in co-infected individuals affecting the outcome of screening in-vivo diagnostic techniques such as CFT. These false negative animals that show negative results to M. bovis detection tests, may maintain the infection at herd level and spread the pathogen to healthy individuals.

The Modum-ED Trial Protocol: Comparing Compassion-Focused Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in Treatment of Eating Disorders With and Without Childhood Trauma: Protocol of a Randomized Trial

Background: The combination of eating disorder (ED) and the experience of childhood trauma leads to significant impairment and suffering. To improve treatment, it is critically important to study treatment effects, and the mechanism of these effects. The overall aim of the current project is to; (1) build knowledge on how to best treat patients with ED with and without childhood trauma, (2) develop our understanding about how change happens for these patients. We will do this by comparing two treatment models in an inpatient setting; Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for ED. This paper describes the development, design and implementation of the trial. Methods and Design: Patients included in this randomized controlled trial will satisfy DSM-5 criteria for ED and approximately half of the patients will in addition have a history of childhood trauma. A total of 144 patients who have received either CFT or CBT are followed up 1 year after completion of the treatment. The study will collect a rich dataset of outcome measures at four time points, and process and sub-outcome measures at 13 time points. All patients will be assessed with the same clinical instruments based on current state-of-the-art methods. The primary outcome will be change in the severity of ED features as measured by the global ED examination score, and having a global ED examination score less than one standard deviation above the community mean, while secondary outcomes will relate to treatment effects on trauma symptoms, general symptoms, and quality of life. Discussion: This trial will make an important contribution to the need for evidence of effective treatment for patients with ED with or without childhood trauma. Ethics and Dissemination: The project is approved by the South-Eastern Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics of Norway (REC;2014/836). Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, http://www.Clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02649114.

Effects of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) on Symptom Change, Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Rumination in Clients With Depression, Anxiety, and Stress

Objectives: Over the past decade there has been an increasing interest in exploring self-compassion as a related and complementary construct to mindfulness. Increases in self-compassion may predict clinical outcomes after MBCT and cultivation of compassion toward self and others is central to CFT. This pilot study compared the impact of MBCT applying implicit self-compassion instructions and CFT employing explicit self-compassion instructions on symptom change, mindfulness, self-compassion, and rumination.

Method: This non-randomized wait-list controlled study (N = 58) with two intervention arms (MBCT N = 20, CFT N = 18, Control N = 20) assessed the outcomes of clients with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms from before to after the interventions and at one month follow up (MBCT N = 17, CFT N = 13, Control N = 13).

Results: Both treatments resulted in significant increases in mindfulness and self-compassion and decreases in rumination, depression, anxiety, and stress. Furthermore, MBCT enhanced mindfulness for people who were initially high in rumination, whereas CFT enhanced mindfulness across the board.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that both MBCT and CFT, and hence implicit or explicit self-compassion instructions, produce similar clinical outcomes with CFT enhancing mindfulness regardless of client's rumination level.

Compassion Focused Approaches to Working With Distressing Voices

This paper presents an outline of voice-hearing phenomenology in the context of evolutionary mechanisms for self- and social- monitoring. Special attention is given to evolved systems for monitoring dominant-subordinate social roles and relationships. These provide information relating to the interpersonal motivation of others, such as neutral, friendly or hostile, and thus the interpersonal threat, versus safe, social location. Individuals who perceive themselves as subordinate and dominants as hostile are highly vigilant to down-rank threat and use submissive displays and social spacing as basic defenses. We suggest these defense mechanisms are especially attuned in some individuals with voices, in which this fearful-subordinate – hostile-dominant relationship is played out. Given the evolved motivational system in which voice-hearers can be trapped, one therapeutic solution is to help them switch into different motivational systems, particularly those linked to social caring and support, rather than hostile competition. Compassion focused therapy (CFT) seeks to produce such motivational shifts. Compassion focused therapy aims to help voice-hearers, (i) notice their threat-based (dominant-subordinate) motivational systems when they arise, (ii) understand their function in the context of their lives, and (iii) shift into different motivational patterns that are orientated around safeness and compassion. Voice-hearers are supported to engage with biopsychosocial components of compassionate mind training, which are briefly summarized, and to cultivate an embodied sense of a compassionate self-identity. They are invited to consider, and practice, how they might wish to relate to themselves, their voices, and other people, from the position of their compassionate self. This paper proposes, in line with the broader science of compassion and CFT, that repeated practice of creating internal patterns of safeness and compassion can provide an optimum biopsychosocial environment for affect-regulation, emotional conflict-resolution, and therapeutic change. Examples of specific therapeutic techniques, such as chair-work and talking with voices, are described to illustrate how these might be incorporated in one-to-one sessions of CFT.

Sero-prevalence and community awareness on the risks associated with Livestock and Human brucellosis in selected districts of Fafan Zone of Ethiopian-Somali National Regional State

A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the sero-prevalence, potential risk factors for transmission and spread of brucellosis in livestock and human in Jigjiga and Gursum Woredas of Fafan Zone in Ethiopian-Somali. Two Kebeles were purposively selected from each Worada based on accessibility and willingness of livestock owners. For serology, a total of 268 cattle, 108 sheep, 172 goats, 183 camels, 211 humans were included. For questionnaire, 99 volunteers were recruited. Blood samples were collected from livestock and human. The serum was subjected to Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and Complement Fixation Test (CFT) to detect Brucella antibody. Out of the total 731 livestock examined, 3.0% were positive for Brucella antibodies using RBPT. Highest sero-prevalence was recorded in camels (4.9%) followed by goat (2.9%), cattle (2.6%), and sheep (0.9%). Using CFT, 0.4% of animals were found positive for brucellosis. A sero-prevalence of 1.7% was recorded in goats using CFT but no in other animal species. From the 211 human serum samples, 5 (2.4%) were positive for Brucella infection using RBPT. One (0.4%) was confirmed by CFT. Questioner survey revealed, almost all respondents (98%) were not aware about zoonotic risks of brucellosis. Cattle and camel milking were mainly performed by housewives. Although 97-99% of respondent had habits of cooked meat consumption, the majorities (99%) consume raw milk. In the pastoral community, the observed sero-prevalence of human brucellosis along with the practices of animal husbandry and animal food consumption habits, might give an insight that brucellosis could pose a public health hazard.

Compassion focused therapy for people with dementia: A feasibility study

OBJECTIVES

There is a lack of evidence-based psychological therapies for dementia and psychological distress. The study aimed to develop a compassion focused therapy intervention for people with dementia with depression and/or anxiety, and to assess its feasibility, acceptability, and utility.

METHODS

A mixed methods multiple case series (n = 7) was used to assess the intervention's feasibility and changes in self-compassion, mood, anxiety, and quality of life. Outcome measures were administered at pre-intervention, midpoint, and post-intervention. Data were analysed using reliable change and clinically significant change. Thematic analysis on post-therapy interviews and session rating forms was used to assess acceptability and perceived change from the intervention.

RESULTS

Over the course of the intervention, improvements in mood, anxiety, and self-compassion were seen, and three of six participants moved out of the clinical depression range. Six participants were able to engage in soothing rhythm breathing, and five in discussion of self-criticism and developing self-compassion. Several participants and their carers described increased self-compassion in response to cognitive decline.

CONCLUSIONS

Compassion focused therapy can be adapted to be delivered to people with dementia and low mood, anxiety, or other distress. The intervention may improve self-compassion, mood, and anxiety. A larger pilot trial with a comparator group and follow-up is needed to evaluate the intervention's effectiveness for people with dementia.

Improvement of recombinant-truncated Burkholderia motility protein A (BimA)-based indirect ELISA for equine glanders

Glanders is a contagious and highly fatal disease of equines with zoonotic potential. It is caused by a Gram-negative, nonmotile bacterium Burkholderia mallei. Complement fixation test (CFT) is one of the most commonly used tests for diagnosis of glanders; however, it has some limitations. A recombinant-truncated Burkholderia intracellular motility A (BimA) protein-based indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) was previously reported by us for glanders diagnosis, which has been re-optimized in this study using a panel of glanders positive (n = 75) and glanders negative (n = 227) serum samples. The improved iELISA exhibited 96% sensitivity and 90.75% specificity. The assay had 98.56% negative predictive value. In the improved iELISA, background for negative samples was reduced and a rational assay cut-off based on ROC curves was introduced. Intra laboratory repeatability of the iELISA was tested by 3 different operators with 100% correlation. The BimA-coated ELISA plates could be used without significant decrease in diagnostic efficacy even after their storage at room temperature or 37°C for 90 days. Overall, the improved iELISA is a sensitive, specific, reproducible, and easy-to-use assay that has potential in serodiagnosis of glanders, more suitably to demonstrate freedom from B. mallei infection in a population.

Model systems for analysis of dopamine transporter function and regulation

The dopamine transporter (DAT) plays a critical role in dopamine (DA) homeostasis by clearing transmitter from the extraneuronal space after vesicular release. DAT serves as a site of action for a variety of addictive and therapeutic reuptake inhibitors, and transport dysfunction is associated with transmitter imbalances in disorders such as schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, bipolar disorder, and Parkinson disease. In this review, we describe some of the model systems that have been used for in vitro analyses of DAT structure, function and regulation, and discuss a potential relationship between transporter kinetic values and membrane cholesterol.

Quanty4RIXS: a program for crystal field multiplet calculations of RIXS and RIXS-MCD spectra using Quanty

Some initial instructions for the Quanty4RIXS program written in MATLAB^® are provided. The program assists in the calculation of 1s 2p RIXS and 1s 2p RIXS-MCD spectra using Quanty. Furthermore, 1s XAS and 2p 3d RIXS calculations in different symmetries can also be performed. It includes the Hartree-Fock values for the Slater integrals and spin-orbit interactions for several 3d transition metal ions that are required to create the .lua scripts containing all necessary parameters and quantum mechanical definitions for the calculations. The program can be used free of charge and is designed to allow for further adjustments of the scripts.

Understanding the health and production impacts of endemic Chlamydia pecorum infections in lambs

Lamydia pecorum is a globally recognised livestock pathogen that is capable of causing severe and economically significant diseases such as arthritis in sheep and cattle. Relatively little information is available on the clinical progression of disease and the long-term effects of asymptomatic and symptomatic chlamydiosis in sheep. Recent studies in calves indicate that endemic C. pecorum infections may reduce growth rates. To investigate the clinical health parameters and production impacts of endemic C. pecorum infection in an Australian commercial lamb flock, we performed bimonthly sampling and clinical health assessments on 105 Border Leicester lambs from two to ten months of age. Chlamydial status was investigated via serology and species-specific quantitative PCR. Throughout the study period, conjunctivitis remained a persistent clinical feature while signs of arthritis (e.g. palpable synovial joint effusions) resolved in a subset of lambs while persisting in others. Clinical disease and C. pecorum infection were highest at six months of age (weaning). As previously reported, peak seroconversion tends to occur two months after the onset of clinical symptoms (6 months of age), with lambs clearing chlamydial infection by 10 months of age, despite ongoing disease still being present at this time. Notably, the presence of chlamydial infection did not affect lamb mass or growth rates throughout the study. At necropsy, C. pecorum was not detected within the joints of lambs with chronic arthritis. Molecular analysis of the strains in this flock suggest that the infecting strains circulating in this flock are clonal C. pecorum pathotypes, denoted ST 23, commonly associated with conjunctivitis and polyarthritis in Australian sheep. This study provides a platform for further research in the epidemiology and disease transmission dynamics of C. pecorum infections in sheep.

Synergies of media surface roughness and ionic strength on particle deposition during filtration

Although it is widely believed that media/collector roughness can enhance particle deposition on surfaces, this effect has not been consistently observed nor systematically described. Here, column tests were conducted to: 1) evaluate media roughness impacts on particle deposition in the presence of an energy barrier (i.e., at low ionic strength conditions), and 2) describe the concurrent impacts of collector surface roughness and suspension fluid ionic strength on particle deposition in packed beds. This work presents a first, systematic demonstration that media/collector surface roughness consistently influences particle deposition in a non-linear, non-monotonic manner, irrespective of the presence of an energy barrier. Notably, ionic strength-associated changes in DLVO interaction energy could not solely explain observed differences in particle deposition associated with collector surface roughness. Particle-to-roughness element and particle-to-smooth/bottom surface interactions contributed to a critical roughness size associated with a minimum DLVO interaction energy; however, that critical size is not necessarily the same as the critical size associated with minimal particle deposition rates. Surface roughness and ionic strength concurrently affected particle deposition in a manner that is not simply additive; rather, particle deposition rates were highly correlated with inverse Debye-Hückel length (i.e., ln [κ^-1]) using second-order polynomial functions. Notably, the secondary energy minimum alone appears inadequate for explaining the observed particle deposition behavior. These relationships may provide insight for further development of physico-chemical filtration models for describing particle deposition on surfaces.

Brucellosis and associated risk factors in dairy cattle of eastern Ethiopia

Knowing the status of Bovine brucellosis and associated risk factors is a crucial step in formulating evidence based control scheme. In this study, a total of 967 dairy cows from 307 dairy farms in eastern Ethiopia were serologically tested for Brucella antibodies. The screening was done first using RBPT and positive samples were subsequently subjected to CFT for confirmation. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant data from 307 dairy cattle owners or attendants to assess their awareness and routine practice. The data were run using univariable logistic regression analysis using STATA version 11.0 for Windows. Accordingly, herd and individual animal seroprevalence were found to be 6.8% (95% CI = 4.28-10.28) and 1.3% (95% CI = 0.72-2.29), respectively. The prevalence of sero-reactors among local breeds was observed to be higher compared to cross breed (p < 0.05). Herd level analysis of the risk factors indicated that in farms with large herd size (>20 animals), the odds ratio (OR) = 9.13, p = 0.00, CI = 3.01-27.69 of having brucellosis was 9.13 times higher than smaller size herds (<20 animals). Intensively managed herds had shown the highest seroprevalence (20.8%) than extensive (6.7%) and semi-intensive (4.2%). Experience of dairy handlers about the disease that cause abortion in late pregnancy was significantly associated (p < 0.001) with the occurrence of brucellosis in the herds. However, about 91% of the dairy cattle owners/attendants lack awareness about disease(s) that causes abortion in late pregnancy. Similarly risk of having brucellosis in those herds experiencing abortion was 6.3 times higher (OR = 6.3, p < 0.001, CI = 2.50-15.92). This study identified some of the handling practices for aborted and retained fetal materials to be risky. Therefore, the study highlights the need of comprehensive brucellosis surveillance in animal and human and institutions of public education and on farm biosafety measures in shaping proper disease control scheme.

Effects of diet and insulin on dopamine transporter activity and expression in rat caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens, and midbrain

Food restriction (FR) and obesogenic (OB) diets are known to alter brain dopamine transmission and exert opposite modulatory effects on behavioral responsiveness to psychostimulant drugs of abuse. Mechanisms underlying these diet effects are not fully understood. In this study, we examined diet effects on expression and function of the dopamine transporter (DAT) in caudate-putamen (CPu), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and midbrain regions. Dopamine (DA) uptake by CPu, NAc or midbrain synapto(neuro)somes was measured in vitro with rotating disk electrode voltammetry or with [³ H]DA uptake and was found to correlate with DAT surface expression, assessed by maximal [³ H](-)-2-β-carbomethoxy-3-β-(4-fluorophenyl)tropane binding and surface biotinylation assays. FR and OB diets were both found to decrease DAT activity in CPu with a corresponding decrease in surface expression but had no effects in the NAc and midbrain. Diet treatments also affected sensitivity to insulin-induced enhancement of DA uptake, with FR producing an increase in CPu and NAc, likely mediated by an observed increase in insulin receptor expression, and OB producing a decrease in NAc. The increased expression of insulin receptor in NAc of FR rats was accompanied by increased DA D₂ receptor expression, and the decreased DAT expression and function in CPu of OB rats was accompanied by decreased DA D₂ receptor expression. These results are discussed as partial mechanistic underpinnings of diet-induced adaptations that contribute to altered behavioral sensitivity to psychostimulants that target the DAT.

Seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis in abattoir workers at Debre Zeit and Modjo export abattoir, Central Ethiopia

Background

Brucellosis is one of the major zoonoses globally with great veterinary and public health importance, particularly in developing countries where people are having frequent contact with livestock and animal products. This cross sectional study was carried out from November 2013 to May 2014 to determine the seroprevalence and assess the potential risk factors of brucellosis in abattoir workers of five export abattoirs at Debre Ziet and Modjo, Central Ethiopia.

Methods

Serology and structured questionnaire were the methods used. In this study, 156 abattoir workers participated in the questionnaire survey and among them, 149 agreed for blood sample collection. Rose Bengal Plate Test and Complement Fixation Test were conducted using sera samples at serology laboratory of the National Animal Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center. Data collection sheets were used to gather information on possible risk factors believed to influence the spread of Brucella infection in abattoir workers such as sex, age, marital status, duration on job, types of work, educational level, etc. and further information obtained include knowledge of brucellosis and other zoonotic diseases infection, symptoms of the disease, milk and meat consumption habits and work related risk factors. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used for data analysis.

Results

The overall seroprevalence of brucellosis in abattoir workers was found to be 4.7 and 1.3% using Rose Bengal plate test and Compliment fixation test, respectively. Based on the questionnaire survey, 66 (44.2%) and 85 (53.21%) of abattoir workers were aware of brucellosis and other zoonotic diseases, and 29 (18.6%) and 21 (13.5%) were using gloves and cover their mouth while slaughtering, respectively.

Conclusion

Brucellosis in abattoir workers could be prevented by using protective closing and measures. Concerned body should educate occupationally exposed groups and the general public regarding e prevention and control of brucellosis and other zoonotic diseases.

Clinical, diagnostic and pathologic features of presumptive cases of Chlamydia pecorum-associated arthritis in Australian sheep flocks

Background

Arthritis is an economically significant disease in lambs and is usually the result of a bacterial infection. One of the known agents of this disease is Chlamydia pecorum, a globally recognised livestock pathogen associated with several diseases in sheep, cattle and other hosts. Relatively little published information is available on the clinical, diagnostic and pathologic features of C. pecorum arthritis in sheep, hindering efforts to enhance our understanding of this economically significant disease. In this case series, a combination of standard diagnostic testing used routinely by veterinarians, such as the Chlamydia complement fixation text (CFT), veterinary clinical examinations, and additional screening via C. pecorum specific qPCR was used to describe putative chlamydial infections in five sheep flocks with suspected ovine arthritis.

Case presentation

Five separate cases involving multiple lambs (aged six to ten months) of different breeds with suspected C. pecorum arthritis are presented. In two of the five cases, arthritic lambs exhibited marked depression and lethargy. Arthritis with concurrent conjunctivitis was present in four out of five lamb flocks examined. Chlamydia CFT demonstrated medium to high positive antibody titres in all flocks examined. C. pecorum shedding was evident at multiple sites including the conjunctiva, rectum and vagina, as determined via qPCR. Two of the five flocks received antimicrobials and all flocks recovered uneventfully regardless of treatment.

Conclusion

This case series highlights the features a field veterinarian may encounter in cases of suspected ovine chlamydial arthritis. Our analysis suggests a presumptive diagnosis of chlamydial arthritis in lambs can be made when there is evidence of joint stiffness with or without synovial effusion and elevated chlamydia antibody titres. C. pecorum-specific qPCR was found to be a useful ancillary diagnostic tool, detecting Chlamydia positivity in low or negative CFT titre animals. Variables such as symptom duration relative to sampling, sheep breed and farm management practices were all factors recorded that paint a complex epidemiological and diagnostic picture for this disease. These case studies serve to provide a platform for further research to improve diagnostic testing and new treatment and control strategies for C. pecorum infections in sheep.

Impact of disruption of secondary binding site S2 on dopamine transporter function

The structures of the leucine transporter, drosophila dopamine transporter, and human serotonin transporter show a secondary binding site (designated S2 ) for drugs and substrate in the extracellular vestibule toward the membrane exterior in relation to the primary substrate recognition site (S1 ). The present experiments are aimed at disrupting S2 by mutating Asp476 and Ile159 to Ala. Both mutants displayed a profound decrease in [(3) H]DA uptake compared with wild-type associated with a reduced turnover rate kcat . This was not caused by a conformational bias as the mutants responded to Zn(2+) (10 μM) similarly as WT. The dopamine transporters with either the D476A or I159A mutation both displayed a higher Ki for dopamine for the inhibition of [3H](-)-2-β-carbomethoxy-3-β-(4-fluorophenyl)tropane binding than did the WT transporter, in accordance with an allosteric interaction between the S1 and S2 sites. The results provide evidence in favor of a general applicability of the two-site allosteric model of the Javitch/Weinstein group from LeuT to dopamine transporter and possibly other monoamine transporters. X-ray structures of transporters closely related to the dopamine (DA) transporter show a secondary binding site S2 in the extracellular vestibule proximal to the primary binding site S1 which is closely linked to one of the Na(+) binding sites. This work examines the relationship between S2 and S1 sites. We found that S2 site impairment severely reduced DA transport and allosterically reduced S1 site affinity for the cocaine analog [(3) H]CFT. Our results are the first to lend direct support for the application of the two-site allosteric model, advanced for bacterial LeuT, to the human DA transporter. The model states that, after binding of the first DA molecule (DA1 ) to the primary S1 site (along with Na(+) ), binding of a second DA (DA2 ) to the S2 site triggers, through an allosteric interaction, the release of DA1 and Na(+) into the cytoplasm.

Stiffening of short small-size circular composite steel-concrete columns with shear connectors

An experimental program was conducted to investigate the effect of shear connectors' distribution and method of load application on load-displacement relationship and behavior of thin-walled short concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) columns when subjected to axial load. The study focused on the compressive strength of the CFT columns and the efficiency of the shear stud in distribution of the load between the concrete core and steel tube. The study showed that the use of shear connectors enhanced slightly the axial capacity of CFT columns. It is also shown that shear connectors have a great effect on load distribution between the concrete and steel tubes.

Case series: the application of "third wave" cognitive behavioural therapies in difficult to treat asthma

OBJECTIVE

This paper provides for the first time cases of individual psychological therapy undertaken in tertiary, difficult to treat asthma services using "third wave" cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) approaches.

METHODS

These cases were selected to represent common psychological presentations in difficult to treat asthma clinics, namely denial of severity and over-identification with asthma. Assessment, formulation, intervention and results are outlined.

RESULTS

Case 1 demonstrated change from severe to mild depression and anxiety, reduction in shame and improved well-being. Case 2 demonstrated improvements in well-being and psychological symptoms. Both interventions were experienced by the patients as highly satisfactory.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that a psychological understanding of patients' presentations can open up new avenues for intervention. Further research into the potential utility of third wave cognitive therapies in difficult to treat asthma is warranted.

Outcomes of microincision vitrectomy surgery with internal limiting membrane peeling for macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion

Purpose

To evaluate the anatomic and functional effect of microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling for macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

Methods

The medical records of 101 eyes of 101 patients who had undergone MIVS with ILM peeling for macular edema secondary to BRVO were studied. Patients were classified into ischemic and non-ischemic BRVO based on angiograph. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT), determined by spectral domain optical coherence tomography, were evaluated at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

Preoperative mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA ± standard deviation (SD) was 0.52±0.43 and mean CFT ± SD was 489.4±224.9 μm. Postoperative mean BCVA ± SD values were 0.41±0.35, 0.35±0.41, 0.29±0.36, and 0.25±0.41, and mean CFT values were 370.1±148.9, 327.5±157.5, 310.9±154.9, and 274.4±135.3 μm at 1, 3, 6, 12 months, respectively. The mean BCVA was significantly improved at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively (all P<0.05), and the mean CFT was significantly decreased at all postoperative follow-up time points (all P<0.05). At the 12-month postoperative evaluation, BCVA had improved by 0.2 logMAR units in 50 eyes (60.0%) with ischemic BRVO and in nine eyes (50.0%) with non-ischemic BRVO. Six eyes (6.0%) experienced recurrence or persistence of macular edema at 12 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

MIVS with ILM peeling for macular edema secondary to BRVO is effective in improving visual acuity and foveal morphology with low recurrence of macular edema.

Dopamine transporter oligomerization: impact of combining protomers with differential cocaine analog binding affinities

Previous studies point to quaternary assembly of dopamine transporters (DATs) in oligomers. However, it is not clear whether the protomers function independently in the oligomer. Is each protomer an entirely separate unit that takes up dopamine and is inhibited by drugs known to block DAT function? In this work, human embryonic kidney 293 cells were co-transfected with DAT constructs possessing differential binding affinities for the phenyltropane cocaine analog, [³H]WIN35,428. It was assessed whether the binding properties in co-expressing cells capable of forming hetero-oligomers differ from those in preparations obtained from mixed singly transfected cells where such oligomers cannot occur. A method is described that replaces laborious 'mixing' experiments with an in silico method predicting binding parameters from those observed for the singly expressed constructs. Among five pairs of constructs tested, statistically significant interactions were found between protomers of wild-type (WT) and D313N, WT and D345N, and WT and D436N. Compared with predicted Kd values of [³H]WIN35,428 binding to the non-interacting pairs, the observed affinity of the former pair was increased 1.7 fold while the latter two were reduced 2.2 and 4.1 fold, respectively. This is the first report of an influence of protomer composition on the properties of a DAT inhibitor, indicating cooperativity within the oligomer. The dopamine transporter (DAT) can exist as an oligomer but it is unknown whether the protomers function independently. The present results indicate that protomers that are superpotent or deficient in cocaine analog binding can confer enhanced or reduced potency to the oligomer, respectively. In this respect, positive or negative cooperativity is revealed in the DAT oligomer.

Language-dependent performance on the letter fluency task in patients with schizophrenia

Two types of verbal fluency tasks (letter fluency task; LFT, category fluency task; CFT) have been widely used to assess cognitive function in people with psychiatric diseases including schizophrenia. The task demand of the LFT is considered to vary across languages, as the cognitive process largely relies on sound and writing systems. Specifically, a sound unit for a letter (s) and a manner of association between them are assumed to be related with the performance. In the current study, three analyses have been conducted to examine this issue, using Japanese, Turkish, and English-speaking patients with schizophrenia. It was hypothesized that severity of letter fluency impairment would be in the order of Japanese, Turkish, and English speaking patients according to the inflexibility of a word search. First, performance on the LFT and the CFT was compared among Japanese (N=40), Turkish (N=30), and the US (N=31) patients (Analysis 1). A significant difference was found between the US and other two groups only in the LFT. Second, verbal fluency performance was compared between Japanese and Turkish patients by contrasting the degree of disassociations from normal controls (Japanese: N=20, Turkish: N=30) (Analysis 2). In Japanese patients, performance on the LFT was more severely impaired compared to that on the CFT while the opposite trend was found in the Turkish counterpart, suggesting that letter fluency performance was more degraded in Japanese patients. Finally, Analysis 3 was conducted to examine the relative order of letter fluency impairment among Japanese, Turkish and English-speaking patients. Disassociation in English users with schizophrenia was estimated based on previous meta-analytic reviews. The effect size (ES) for the letter fluency deficit was the largest in the Japanese sample, while the other two groups share similar ESs. The results from the three analyses partially supported the hypothesis for the severity of the letter fluency impairment in patients with schizophrenia. The language-dependency of letter fluency impairment was thought to be explained by the theoretical model built on unique properties of sound and writing systems. The considerations presented here would provide useful information for optimizing the portability of cognitive tasks across languages.

Innovative modifications to Rose Bengal plate test enhance its specificity, sensitivity and predictive value in the diagnosis of brucellosis

Current agglutination tests occasionally yield false results. Superagglutination test reduced false results, had higher sensitivity (95.88%) and negative predictive value (95.83%) than Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT), Standard Tube Agglutination test (STAT), ELISA, and Complement Fixation test and specificity (89.32%) and positive predictive value (89.42%) higher than RBPT and STAT.

Preclinical efficacy and safety of rVIII-SingleChain (CSL627), a novel recombinant single-chain factor VIII

INTRODUCTION

The preclinical efficacy and safety of rVIII-SingleChain (CSL627), a novel recombinant single-chain factor VIII, was assessed in a series of animal studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the tail-clip bleeding model, hemophilia A mice were injected with escalating doses (1-150 IU/kg) of rVIII-SingleChain, B-domain deleted (BDD) rFVIII (ReFacto AF(®)), or full-length rFVIII products (Advate(®), Helixate(®)). Total blood loss and the percentage of animals in which hemostasis occurred were assessed in this observer-blinded, randomized study. In a second non-randomized study in hemophilia A mice, thromboelastographic analysis, thrombin generation, and activated partial thromboplastin time assays were performed. General safety and toxicity were assessed in three animal species, including determination of the prothrombotic potential of rVIII-SingleChain in a rabbit venous thrombosis model.

RESULTS

Under acute bleeding conditions, the effect of rVIII-SingleChain on total blood loss and hemostasis was indistinguishable from BDD and full-length rFVIII. rVIII-SingleChain and full-length rFVIII (both 20 IU/kg) corrected thromboelastographic parameters, activated partial thromboplastin time, and thrombin generation to a similar degree in hemophilia A mice. In a thrombosis model, the effect of rVIII-SingleChain on thrombus incidence was non-significant and comparable to BDD rFVIII at doses up to 500 IU/kg. Treatment with rVIII-SingleChain did not cause anaphylactic reaction or local intolerance in safety and toxicity studies, and demonstrated an excellent overall safety profile.

CONCLUSIONS

rVIII-SingleChain showed convincing hemostatic efficacy and excellent tolerability in animal studies, warranting continued investigation in human Phase I/III trials (AFFINITY).

Whole blood rotation thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) profiles in subjects with non-neoplastic portal vein thrombosis

The coagulation pattern and the determinants of portal vein thrombosis (PVT), both in patients with and without cirrhosis, are still largely unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate whole blood thromboelastometry profile, performed by ROTEM®, of both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic subjects with PVT. Two different groups were considered: i) 14 non-cirrhotic PVT patients, ii) 35 cirrhotic patients with PVT. Controls were sex- and age-matched healthy volunteers and cirrhotic subjects without PVT, respectively. ROTEM® assays (i.e. INTEM, EXTEM, NATEM, and FIBTEM) and traditional coagulative parameters (i.e. platelet count, PT/INR, aPTT, and fibrinogen) were performed on blood samples from each subject. There were no significant differences in ROTEM® profile, as for INTEM, EXTEM, and NATEM assays, and in traditional coagulative parameters, between PVT patients, both with and without cirrhosis, and control groups. Interestingly, Maximum Clot Firmness (MCF) in FIBTEM was significantly higher in non-cirrhotic PVT patients (19 mm) than in healthy volunteers (11 mm, p<0.05). The amplitude of MCF in FIBTEM revealed to be a useful tool to discriminate non-cirrhotic subjects with PVT from those without thrombotic events. Larger prospective studies are needed to evaluate the relevance of the association between the alterations of ROTEM® profiles and PVT in cirrhotic patients.