bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcium signaling during salt stress and in the regulation of ion homeostasis
Authors: Manishankar Prabha , Wang Nili , Köster Philipp , Alatar Abdulrahman A , Kudla Jörg
Published: May 2018

Soil composition largely defines the living conditions of plants and represents one of their most relevant, dynamic, and complex environmental cues. The effective concentrations of many either tolerated or essential ions and compounds in the soil usually differ from the optimum that would be most suitable for plants. In this regard, salinity—caused by excess NaCl—represents a widespread adverse growth condition, but shortage of ions such as K+, NO3−, and Fe2+ also restrains plant growth. During the past years, many components and mechanisms that function in the sensing and establishment of ion homeostasis have been identified and characterized. Here, we reflect on recent insights that extended our understanding of components and mechanisms which govern and fine-tune plant salt stress tolerance and ion homeostasis. We put special emphasis on mechanisms that allow for interconnection of the salt overly sensitive pathway with plant development and discuss newly emerging functions of Ca2+ signaling in salinity tolerance. Moreover, we review and discuss accumulating evidence for a central and unifying role for Ca2+ signaling and Ca2+-dependent protein phosphorylation in regulating sensing, uptake, transport, and storage processes of various ions. Finally, based on this cross-field inventory, we deduce emerging concepts and questions arising for future research.
Revealing the velocity structure of the filamentary nebula in NGC 1275 in its entirety
Authors: Gendron-Marsolais M , Hlavacek-Larrondo J , Martin T B , Drissen L , McDonald M , Fabian A C , Edge A C , Hamer S L , McNamara B , Morrison G
Published: May 2018

We have produced for the first time a detailed velocity map of the giant filamentary nebula surrounding NGC 1275, the Perseus cluster’s brightest galaxy, and revealed a previously unknown rich velocity structure across the entire nebula. These new observations were obtained with the optical imaging Fourier transform spectrometer SITELLE at CFHT. With its wide field of view ( ∼11 arcmin × 11 arcmin), SITELLE is the only integral field unit spectroscopy instrument able to cover the 80 kpc  ×  55 kpc ( 3.8 arcmin × 2.6 arcmin) large nebula in NGC 1275. Our analysis of these observations shows a smooth radial gradient of the [N ii]λ6583/H α line ratio, suggesting a change in the ionization mechanism and source across the nebula. The velocity map shows no visible general trend or rotation, indicating that filaments are not falling uniformly onto the galaxy, nor being uniformly pulled out from it. Comparison between the physical properties of the filaments and Hitomi measurements of the X-ray gas dynamics in Perseus is also explored.
Mean 6-Year Follow-up of Magnetically Controlled Growing Rod Patients With Early Onset Scoliosis: A Glimpse of What Happens to Graduates
Authors: Cheung Jason Pui Yin , Yiu Karen , Kwan Kenny , Cheung Kenneth M C
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

There is no agreement on frequency of distractions of magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) but more frequent and smaller amounts of distractions mimic physiological spine growth. The mid- to long-term follow-up and management at skeletal maturity is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze patients with mean 6 yr of follow-up and describe the fate of MCGR graduates.

METHODS

Early onset scoliosis (EOS) patients treated with MCGRs with minimum 4 yr of follow-up and/or at graduation were studied. Parameters under study included Cobb angle, spine and instrumented lengths, and rod distraction gains. Relationship between timing of rod exchanges with changes in rate of lengthening was studied.

RESULTS

Ten EOS patients with mean 6.1 yr of follow-up were studied. The greatest Cobb angle correction occurred at the initial implantation surgery and was stable thereafter. Consistent gains in T1-12, T1-S1, and instrumented segment were observed. Rate of lengthening reduced after the first year of use but improved back to initial rates after rod exchange. Seven of the ten patients experienced complications with reoperation rate of 40% for rod distraction failure and proximal foundation problems. Only mild further improvements in all radiological parameters were observed pre- and postfinal surgery. No clinically significant curve progression was observed for rod removal only. All postfinal surgery parameters remained similar at postoperative 2 yr.

CONCLUSION

This study provides an outlook of the end of MCGR treatment. Although this is a fusionless procedure, instrumented segments do experience stiffness limiting further correction and length gain during final surgery whether fusion or rod removal is performed.
Gastrointestinal Events in High-Dose vs Standard-Dose Influenza Vaccine Recipients
Authors: Talbot H Keipp , Dunning Andrew J , Robertson Corwin A , Landolfi Victoria A , Greenberg David P , DiazGranados Carlos A
Published: May 2018

Passive surveillance data had signaled the possibility of gastrointestinal adverse events occurring after the administration of high-dose inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV-HD). However, in a large, prospective randomized clinical trial, rates of serious gastrointestinal events were no greater among IIV-HD recipients than among those who received a standard-dose influenza vaccine.
Room for Improvement: The HIV–Diabetes Care Continuum Over 15 Years in the Women’s Interagency HIV Study
Authors: Colasanti Jonathan , Galaviz Karla I , Christina Mehta C , Palar Kartika , Schneider Michael F , Tien Phyllis , Adimora Adaora A , Alcaide Maria , Cohen Mardge H , Gustafson Deborah , Karim Roksana , Merenstein Daniel , Sharma Anjali , Wingood Gina , Marconi Vincent C , Ofotokun Ighovwerha , Ali Mohammed K
Published: May 2018

Background

Gains in life expectancy through optimal control of HIV infection with antiretroviral therapy (ART) may be threatened if other comorbidities, such as diabetes, are not optimally managed.

Methods

We analyzed cross-sectional data of the Women’s Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) from 2001, 2006, and 2015. We estimated the proportions of HIV-positive and HIV-negative women with diabetes who were engaged in care and achieved treatment goals (hemoglobin A1c [A1c] <7.0%, blood pressure [BP] <140/90 mmHg, low-density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol <100 mg/dL, not smoking) and viral suppression. Repeated-measures models were used to estimate the adjusted prevalence of achieving each diabetes treatment goal at each time point, by HIV status.

Results

We included 486 HIV-positive and 258 HIV-negative women with diabetes. In 2001, 91.8% visited a health care provider, 60.7% achieved the A1c target, 70.5% achieved the BP target, 38.5% achieved the LDL cholesterol target, 49.2% were nonsmokers, 23.3% achieved combined ABC targets (A1c, BP, and cholesterol), and 10.9% met combined ABC targets and did not smoke. There were no differences by HIV status, and patterns were similar in 2006 and 2015. Among HIV-positive women, viral suppression increased from 41% in 2001 to 87% in 2015 compared with 8% and 13% achieving the ABC goals and not smoking. Viral suppression was not associated with achievement of diabetes care goals.

Conclusions

Successful management of HIV is outpacing that of diabetes. Future studies are needed to identify factors associated with gaps in the HIV–diabetes care continuum and design interventions to better integrate effective diabetes management into HIV care.
“Macrovascular” Decompression of Dolichoectatic Vertebral Artery Causing Hemifacial Spasm Using Goretex Sling: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Munich Stephan A , Morcos Jacques J
Published: May 2018

Hemifacial spasm is characterized by painless and involuntary spasms of the muscles supplied by the facial nerve, most commonly involving the orbicularis oculi. The most common cause of hemifacial spasm is compression of the facial nerve's root by the anterior inferior, or posterior inferior, cerebellar arteries (AICA or PICA). However, in <1% of cases, the compression can be due to a dolichoectatic vertebral artery. Microvascular decompression using Teflon patties may be sufficient when the offending artery is small (eg, AICA or PICA). However, the size and tortuosity of the vertebral artery (especially one that is dolichoectatic) may require a more robust means of decompression (ie, “macrovascular decompression”).

 In this operative video we demonstrate our technique for managing a patient with hemifacial spasm due to a dolicoectatic vertebral artery. We use a Goretex® (W.L. Gore & Associates Inc, Newark, Delaware) sling secured to the dura of the posterior petrous ridge to suspend the vertebral and posterior inferior cerebellar arteries, thereby decompressing the root entry zone of the facial nerve. Teflon felt pieces are added as a second layer of security. Key steps to this technique include: (1) visualization of the root entry zone, (2) extensive arachnoid dissection to allow adequate mobilization of the vertebral artery, 12 and (3) securing the sling in a trajectory that prevents kinking of the vertebral artery and its branches.
Who’s Policing the Crowd? A Typology of Officers Who Policed the 2011 Stanley Cup Riot
Authors: Dawson Stephanie E , Davies Garth
Published: May 2018

Moving away from high-profile, hard-lined tactics, approaches to crowd policing have become increasingly geared towards softer, negotiation-based policing methods. Despite their perceived benefits, there exist a number of challenges relating to the successful implementation of these low-profile approaches, most notably being the officers themselves. Given the central role officers play in responding to and managing crowd situations, it is important to know what types of officers are actually deployed to police these events. Utilizing survey data collected in the aftermath of the 2011 Stanley Cup riot, this study employed a cluster analysis to examine the similarities and differences amongst the officers who were deployed to police this event. This technique produced two distinct clusters, which were subsequently used to examine the relationship between officer characteristics and orientations towards crowd policing. By providing a possible explanation for the success and/or failure of a particular crowd management strategy, these results may help police departments in their preparations for future crowd events.
Evaluation of Major Ancestors of North American Soybean Cultivars for Resistance to Three Pythium Species that Cause Seedling Blight
Authors: Rod K. S. , Walker D. R. , Bradley C. A.
Published: May 2018

Pythium seedling blight, which can be caused by a number of Pythium spp., is a disease that affects soybean (Glycine max) in the United States and Canada. Pythium ultimum var. ultimum, one of the most common pathogenic species, is favored by cool, wet conditions in early spring and causes seed decay, root rot, and seedling damping-off. In all, 102 major ancestors of modern North American cultivars and “first progeny” cultivars developed directly from ancestral lines were evaluated for resistance to P. ultimum var. ultimum and two other species of Pythium in greenhouse assays. Several ancestors and first progeny cultivars, as well as the resistant check Archer, had varying levels of partial resistance to an Illinois isolate of P. ultimum var. ultimum. In a subsequent experiment, four of the most resistant lines (PI 84637, Maple Isle, Fiskeby III, and Fiskeby 840-7-3) and the susceptible cultivar Kanro were screened for resistance against isolates of P. irregulare and P. sylvaticum, and resistance to P. ultimum var. ultimum was confirmed. The lines that were partially resistant to P. ultimum var. ultimum in the first experiment were also partially resistant to P. irregulare and P. sylvaticum. The P. ultimum var. ultimum isolate was the most aggressive of the three isolates, followed by the P. irregulare and P. sylvaticum isolates. Modern cultivars descended from the soybean lines with partial resistance to these pathogens could be useful sources of resistance to Pythium seedling blight if they are found to have similar levels of resistance.
Environmental and Management Factors Associated with Bacterial Diseases of Onion in Pennsylvania
Authors: Pfeufer Emily E. , Gugino Beth K.
Published: May 2018

Bacterial diseases of onion may result in over 60% yield loss in crops grown in the Mid-Atlantic region, even when managed with recommended chemical and cultural practices. To identify environmental and production factors associated with the high incidence of bacterial rots in Pennsylvania, data on 32 environmental and management variables ranging from soil temperature to foliar nutrients were recorded during three visits to each of 28 and 26 fields, surveyed in 2011 and 2012, respectively. Multiple linear regression indicated negative relationships between foliar nitrogen and carbon at midseason and total incidence of bacterial rots. Soil temperatures near the physiological onset of bulbing were positively related to bacterial rots in multiple datasets. These results suggest greater complexity may be necessary for N fertility recommendations: timing of inorganic N application should be considered in addition to the seasonal N rate applied. Lower soil temperatures, particularly near the physiological onset of bulbing, may also reduce the incidence of bacterial rots of onion.
A Model for Sustaining NCLEX-RN Success
Authors: Conklin Patricia S. , Cutright Leonita H.
Published: May 2018

Beginning in 2013, an individualized National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN®) study process with follow through postgraduation was initiated to achieve benchmark pass rates in a nursing program where pass rates had dropped. Identification of students at risk for NCLEX failure and using resources available through an integrated testing program led to the implementation of an individualized NCLEX preparation process. Since implementation, first-time pass rates exceeded the national norm for baccalaureate test takers by 5.41 percent to 11.5 percent for four consecutive years. This model can be used by schools of nursing to guide students in NCLEX preparation.
Immunizations
Authors: Perkins Amanda
Published: May 2018

Negative attitudes toward vaccines have existed since they were developed even though they're important for population health. Learn what you can do to educate parents, patients, and families.
Evaluation and management of migraine in midlife women
Authors: Pavlović Jelena M.
Published: May 2018

Migraine is highly prevalent in women and, in addition to the pain component, can be associated with significant disability and loss of productivity. Migraine is often connected to fluctuations in hormones (primarily estrogen), commonly arising in puberty, worsening in perimenopause, and quiescing in late menopause. This Practice Pearl discusses the various types of migraine with respect to hormone fluctuations and details acute as well as preventive treatment.
Sex hormone levels and risk of primary open-angle glaucoma in postmenopausal women
Authors: Kang Jae Hee , Rosner Bernard A. , Wiggs Janey L. , Pasquale Louis R.
Published: May 2018

Objective:

We evaluated the relation of prediagnostic sex hormone levels in postmenopausal women with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods:

Among postmenopausal participants of the Nurses’ Health Study, POAG cases (n = 189; diagnosed 1990-2008) and controls (n = 189) were matched on age, fasting status, and postmenopausal hormone use at blood draw (1989-1990). Plasma concentrations of estrone sulfate, estradiol, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate were assessed. The primary outcome was POAG; in secondary analyses, among cases only, we evaluated maximum untreated IOP at diagnosis. Multivariable-adjusted logistic/multiple linear regression models were used to evaluate tertiles (Ts) of biomarker levels and the two outcomes, adjusting for various potential confounders.

Results:

We observed no significant associations of estrone, estradiol, sex hormone binding globulin, or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate with POAG risk or with maximum IOP at glaucoma diagnosis among cases. Suggestive significant associations were observed with highest testosterone and POAG risk (T3 vs T1 multivariable-adjusted odds ratio 1.84; 95% confidence interval 1.02, 3.33; P trend 0.10). Similarly, for maximum IOP at diagnosis among cases only (mean 8 years after blood draw), higher testosterone was significantly associated with higher IOP (multivariable-adjusted difference in IOP T3 vs T1 2.17 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval 0.34, 3.99; P trend 0.02).

Conclusions:

Overall, plasma sex hormone levels in postmenopausal women were not associated with POAG risk; however, a trend of higher testosterone levels being associated with higher POAG risk and higher IOP at diagnosis was observed and needs confirmation.
Rapid Response, Dose Assessment, and Clinical Management of a Plutonium-contaminated Puncture Wound
Authors: Sugarman Stephen L. , Findley William M. , Toohey Richard E. , Dainiak Nicholas
Published: May 2018

Internalization of radionuclides occurs not only by inhalation, ingestion, parenteral injection (i.e., administration of radioactive material for a medical purpose), and direct transdermal absorption, but also by contaminated wounds. In June 2010, a glove-box operator at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site sustained a puncture wound while venting canisters containing legacy materials contaminated with 238Pu. To indicate the canisters had been vented, a flag was inserted into the vent hole. The shaft of the flag penetrated the protective gloves worn by the operator. Initial monitoring performed with a zinc-sulfide alpha detector indicated 300 dpm at the wound site. After being cleared by radiological controls personnel, the patient was taken to the site medical facility where decontamination was attempted and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) was administered intravenously within 1.5 h of the incident. The patient was then taken to the Savannah River Site In Vivo Counting Facility where the wound was counted with a Canberra GL 2820 high-purity germanium detector, capable of quantifying contamination by detecting low-energy x rays and gamma rays. In addition to the classic 13, 17, and 20 keV photons associated with 238Pu, the low-yield (0.04%) 43.5 keV peak was also detected. This indicated a level of wound contamination orders of magnitude above the initial estimate of 300 dpm detected with handheld instrumentation. Trace quantities of 241Am were also identified via the 59.5 keV peak. A 24 h urine sample collection was begun on day 1 and continued at varying intervals for over a year. The patient underwent a punch biopsy at 3 h postincident (14,000 dpm removed) and excisional biopsies on days 1 and 9 (removal of an additional 3,200 dpm and 3,800 dpm, respectively). The initial post-DTPA urine sample analysis report indicated excretion in excess of 24,000 dpm 238Pu. Wound mapping was performed in an effort to determine migration from the wound site and indicated minimum local migration. In vivo counts were performed on the liver, axillary lymph nodes, supratrochlear lymph nodes, and skeleton to assess uptake and did not indicate measurable activity. Seventy-one total doses of DTPA were administered at varying frequencies for 317 d post intake. After allowing 100 d for removal of DTPA from the body, five 24 h urine samples were collected and analyzed for dose assessment by using the wound model described in National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements Report No. 156. The total effective dose averted via physical removal of the contaminant and DTPA administration exceeded 1 Sv, demonstrating that rapid recognition of incident magnitude and prompt medical intervention are critical for dose aversion.
Immunological Markers of Chronic Occupational Radiation Exposure
Authors: Rybkina Valentina L. , Bannikova Maria V. , Adamova Galina V. , Dörr Harald , Scherthan Harry , Azizova Tamara V.
Published: May 2018

This study aimed to identify immunological biomarkers for prolonged occupational radiation exposure and thus studied a random sample of the Mayak Production Association worker cohort (91 individuals). The control group included 43 local individuals never employed at the Mayak Production Association. To identify biomarkers, two groups of workers were formed: the first one included workers chronically exposed to external gamma rays at cumulative doses of 0.5–3.0 Gy (14 individuals); the second one included workers exposed to combined radiation—external gamma rays at doses ranging from 0.7 to 5.1 Gy and internal alpha radiation from incorporated plutonium with 0.3–16.4 kBq body burden (77 individuals). The age range of the study individuals was 66–91 y. Peripheral blood serum protein concentrations of cytokines, immunoglobulins, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunoassay following the manufacturer’s protocol. Flow cytometry was used to analyze levels of various lymphocyte subpopulations. The findings of the current study demonstrate that some immunological characteristics may be considered as biomarkers of prolonged chronic radiation exposure for any radiation type (in the delayed period after the exposure) based on fold differences from controls: M immunoglobulin fold differences were 1.75 ± 0.27 (p = 0.0001) for external gamma-ray exposure and 1.50 ± 0.27 (p = 0.0003) for combined radiation exposure; matrix metalloproteinase‐9 fold differences were 1.5 ± 0.22 (p = 0.008) for external gamma-ray exposure and 1.69 ± 0.24 (p = 0.00007) for combined radiation exposure; A immunoglobulin fold differences were 1.61 ± 0.27 (p = 0.002) for external gamma-ray exposure and 1.56 ± 0.27 (p = 0.00002) for combined radiation exposure; relative concentration of natural killer cell fold differences were 1.53 ± 0.23 (p = 0.01) for external gamma-ray exposure and 1.35 ± 0.22 (p = 0.001) for combined radiation exposure; and relative concentration of T-lymphocytes fold differences were 0.89 ± 0.04 (p = 0.01) for external gamma-ray exposure and 0.95 ± 0.05 (p = 0.003) for combined radiation exposure. Based on fold differences from controls, interferon-gamma (3.50 ± 0.65, p = 0.031), transforming growth factor-beta (2.91 ± 0.389, p = 0.026), and relative blood serum levels of T-helper cells (0.90 ± 0.065, p = 0.02) may be used as immunological markers of chronic external gamma-ray exposure. Moreover, there was a significant inverse linear association of relative concentration of T-helper cells with dose from external gamma rays accumulated over an extended period.
Epidemiology of Late Health Effects in Ukrainian Chornobyl Cleanup Workers
Authors: Bazyka Dimitry , Prysyazhnyuk Anatoly , Gudzenko Natalya , Dyagil Iryna , Belyi David , Chumak Vadim , Buzunov Volodymyr
Published: May 2018

This article summarizes the results of 30 y of follow-up of cancer and noncancer effects in Ukrainian cleanup workers after the Chornobyl accident. The number of power plant employees and first responders with acute radiation syndrome under follow-up by the National Research Center for Radiation Medicine decreased from 179 in 1986–1991 to 105 in 2011–2015. Cancers and leukemia (19) and cardiovascular diseases (21) were the main causes of deaths among acute radiation syndrome survivors (54) during the postaccident period. Increased radiation risks of leukemia in the Ukrainian cohort of 110,645 cleanup workers exposed to low doses are comparable to those among survivors of the atomic bomb explosions in Japan in 1945. Additionally, an excess of chronic lymphocytic leukemia was demonstrated in the cleanup workers cohort for 26 y after the exposure. A significant excess of multiple myeloma incidence [standardized incidence rate (SIR) 1.61 %, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–2.21], thyroid cancer (SIR 4.18, 95% CI 3.76–4.59), female breast cancer (SIR 1.57 CI 1.40–1.73), and all cancers combined (SIR 1.07; 95% CI 1.05–1.09) was registered. High prevalence was demonstrated for cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases and mental health changes. However, the reasons for the increases require further investigation. To monitor other possible late effects of radiation exposure in Chornobyl cleanup workers, analytical cohort and case-control studies need to include cardiovascular pathology, specifically types of potentially radiogenic cancers using a molecular epidemiology approach. Possible effects for further study include increased rates of thyroid, breast, and lung cancers and multiple myeloma; reduction of radiation risks of leukemia to population levels; and increased morbidity and mortality of cleanup workers from cardio- and cerebrovascular pathology.
Predicting the Public Health Consequences of a Nuclear Terrorism Attack: Drawing on The Experiences of Hiroshima and Fukushima
Authors: Jorgensen Timothy J.
Published: May 2018

The increasing threat of nuclear terrorism warrants consideration of the health consequences of a terrorist incident should preventive measures fail. Although there has not yet been a nuclear terrorist attack of any kind, experiences with the aftermath of the bombing of Hiroshima and the core meltdowns at Fukushima can provide useful insight and allow some inferences to be made regarding the types of casualties that might be sustained and the rescue efforts that might be required. There are many parallels between the events at Hiroshima and what might be expected from an improvised nuclear device, and there are parallels between the radioactivity released to the environment at Fukushima and the aftermath of a radiological dispersal device attack. Nevertheless, there are some unique aspects to a ground-detonated improvised nuclear device that pose health threats beyond those seen at Hiroshima (i.e., fallout). And psychological health may be impacted more than physical health in the case of a radiological dispersal device. Preparedness requires consideration of all of these various health hazards in order to determine how best to mitigate the consequences of a nuclear terrorism attack.
Genotoxic Effects in Human Fibroblasts Exposed to Microwave Radiation
Authors: Franchini Valeria , Regalbuto Elisa , De Amicis Andrea , De Sanctis Stefania , Di Cristofaro Sara , Coluzzi Elisa , Marinaccio Jessica , Sgura Antonella , Ceccuzzi Silvio , Doria Andrea , Gallerano Gian Piero , Giovenale Emilio , Ravera Gian Luca , Bei Roberto , Benvenuto Monica , Modesti Andrea , Masuelli Laura , Lista Florigio
Published: May 2018

In the last decades, technological development has led to an increasing use of devices and systems based on microwave radiation. The increased employment of these devices has elicited questions about the potential long-term health consequences associated with microwave radiation exposure. From this perspective, biological effects of microwave radiation have been the focus of many studies, but the reported scientific data are unclear and contradictory. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential genotoxic and cellular effects associated with in vitro exposure of human fetal and adult fibroblasts to microwave radiation at the frequency of 25 GHz. For this purpose, several genetic and biological end points were evaluated. Results obtained from comet assay, phosphorylation of H2AX histone, and antikinetochore antibody (CREST)-negative micronuclei frequency excluded direct DNA damage to human fetal and adult fibroblasts exposed to microwaves. No induction of apoptosis or changes in prosurvival signalling proteins were detected. Moreover, CREST analysis showed for both the cell lines an increase in the total number of micronuclei and centromere positive micronuclei in exposed samples, indicating aneuploidy induction due to chromosome loss.
Exome Sequencing Discloses Ionizing-radiation-induced DNA Variants in the Genome of Human Gingiva Fibroblasts
Authors: Nath Neetika , Esche Jennifer , Müller Jessica , Jensen Lars R. , Port Matthias , Stanke Mario , Kaderali Lars , Scherthan Harry , Kuss Andreas W.
Published: May 2018

Ionizing radiation can induce genomic lesions such as DNA double-strand breaks whose incomplete or faulty repair can result in mutations, which in turn can influence cellular functions and alter the fate of affected cells and organ systems. Ionizing-radiation-induced sequence alterations/mutations occur in a stochastic manner, which contributes to an increased cancer risk in irradiated individuals. Ionizing radiation exposure, and particularly acute doses at high dose rates (as often observed in radiation accidents), induce alterations in the genome that in part will reflect specific characteristics of the DNA damage response and the repair mechanisms involved. Here, the exome of primary human gingival fibroblasts not exposed or exposed to 0.2, 2, 5, or 10 Gy of x rays was investigated after 16 h of DNA repair for ionizing-radiation-induced mutations. The irradiation effect with varying dose was investigated using three different bioinformatic filters for the analysis of accumulated variants per Mb of genomic DNA and per cytogenetic bands. A highly stringent cutoff of 20‐fold coverage was used for all analyses. Comparing exome DNA from irradiated and nonirradiated cells disclosed a characteristic variation of the frequency of ionizing-radiation-induced single-nucleotide variants as well as small insertions and deletions among chromosomes and their subregions. Increases in ionizing-radiation-induced variants with increasing dose were highly significant (p = 2.2 × 10−16, Kruskal-Wallis test). These results indicate that certain chromosomal regions may be more prone to accumulating particular ionizing-radiation-induced alterations than others, which points to a characteristic metasignature in the irradiated exome.
PREDICTIVE FACTORS FOR PROLIFERATIVE VITREORETINOPATHY FORMATION AFTER UNCOMPLICATED PRIMARY RETINAL DETACHMENT REPAIR
Authors: Xu Kunyong , Chin Eric K. , Bennett Steven R. , Williams David F. , Ryan Edwin H. , Dev Sundeep , Mittra Robert A. , Quiram Polly A. , Davies John B. , Parke David Wilkin , Boldt Herbert Culver , Almeida David R. P.
Published: May 2018

Purpose:

To determine predictive factors of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) formation after uncomplicated primary retinal detachment repair.

Methods:

Retrospective, single-center, case–control study of 74 consecutive patients with (37 eyes) and without (37 eyes) PVR formation after undergoing uncomplicated primary surgery for retinal detachment repair. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with PVR formation.

Results:

Retinal detachment involving the macula was 4.2 times (adjusted odds ratio; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–12.9; P = 0.0119) more likely to have PVR formation compared with those without. Patients who were current or former smokers were 3.6 times (adjusted odds ratio; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–11.7; P = 0.0352) more likely to have PVR formation compared with nonsmokers. Compared with 25-gauge (g) vitrectomy, larger gauge vitrectomy (20 g or 23 g) was 3.6 times (adjusted odds ratio; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–11.3; P = 0.0276) more likely to have PVR formation. Duration of retinal detachment symptoms, high myopia, lens status, lattice degeneration, location of retinal break, number of retinal breaks, and surgical technique (e.g., scleral buckle with or without vitrectomy versus vitrectomy alone) were not found to be predictive of PVR formation.

Conclusion:

Cigarette smoking and macular involvement are significant risk factors predictive of PVR formation after uncomplicated primary retinal detachment repair.
Use of Moulage to Evaluate Student Assessment of Skin in an Objective Structured Clinical Examination
Authors: Zorn Jennifer , Snyder Jennifer , Guthrie Jennifer
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This study investigated the physician assistant (PA) student evaluation of skin and the use of moulage in an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).

Methods

Clinical-year PA students participated in an OSCE, taking a history, completing a physical examination, and writing a focused clinical note. The standardized patient's history simulated a primary diagnosis of right-sided carpal tunnel syndrome and an incidental skin lesion consistent with melanoma, only if the student made an inquiry in this replication study. Faculty members' assessments of students' physical examinations were standardized using an agreed-upon rubric. Students completed an anonymous survey on the OSCE experience immediately following the activity.

Results

All students identified the primary diagnosis of carpal tunnel. Sixty-three percent of students verbalized examination of the skin; however, only 38% identified an atypical skin lesion in their clinical note documentation. Of those, only 33% of students referred the patient for biopsy. Most students believed that the use of moulage increased the realism of the standardized patient encounter. Sixty percent of students reported that they noticed a skin lesion but did not believe that it was part of the simulated experience.

Conclusions

Moulage increased the realism of the OSCE. This study found that the ability of a student to verbalize the evaluation of a particular body system did not necessarily mean that they adequately or correctly assessed that system upon physical examination. Implementation of an OSCE and use of moulage provided an opportunity to explicitly assess student performance related to evaluation and assessment of skin. It provided a mechanism for meaningful, formative feedback of students' performance.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and albuminuria: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wijarnpreecha Karn , Thongprayoon Charat , Boonpheng Boonphiphop , Panjawatanan Panadeekarn , Sharma Konika , Ungprasert Patompong , Pungpapong Surakit , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: May 2018

Background/objectives

The relationship between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and albuminuria has been shown in many epidemiologic studies, although the results were inconsistent. This meta-analysis was conducted to summarize all available data and to estimate the risk of albuminuria among patients with NAFLD.

Methods

Comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing Medline and Embase database through January 2018 to identify studies that compared the risk of albuminuria among patients with NAFLD versus those without NAFLD. Effect estimates from each study were extracted and combined using the random-effect, generic inverse variance method of DerSimonian and Laird.

Results

Nineteen studies (17 cross-sectional studies and two cohort studies) with 24 804 participants fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. The risk of albuminuria among patients with NAFLD was significantly higher than those without NAFLD with the pooled odds ratio (OR) of 1.67 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.32–2.11]. Subgroup analysis demonstrated the significantly increased risk of albuminuria among patients with NAFLD without diabetes with pooled OR of 2.25 (95% CI: 1.65–3.06). However, we found no significant association between albuminuria and NAFLD among diabetic patients [pooled OR 1.28 (95% CI: 0.94–1.75)].

Conclusion

A significantly increased risk of albuminuria among patients with NAFLD was observed in this meta-analysis. Physicians should pay more attention to the early detection and subsequent treatment of individuals with microalbuminuria especially in patients with NAFLD.
Peer Teaching in High-Fidelity Simulation
Authors: Lawrence Kay , Messias DeAnne K. Hilfinger , Estrada Robin Dawson , Long Vicki
Published: May 2018

Peer teaching provides students with opportunities to experience the educator role and increase self-confidence and problem-solving skills. To address the shortage of meaningful leadership experiences for senior baccalaureate nursing students, faculty implemented an alternative leadership experience involving senior students taking on the role of peer teachers in the high-fidelity simulation (HFS) laboratory. We conducted focus groups to assess peer teachers and learners’ experiences and used thematic analysis to examine and interpret the data. Findings included the intersection of learning, HFS, clinical experience, and teaching; the benefits of practicing teaching in a safe environment; how empathy enhanced understanding of the continuum of expertise; and power differentials experienced by peer teachers and learners.
Dot Motion Perception in Young Adult Emmetropes and Myopes
Authors: Kuo Hui-Ying , Atchison David A. , Schmid Katrina Leanne
Published: May 2018

SIGNIFICANCE

Central motion perception, as assessed by minimum displacement detection, was reduced in highly myopic eyes. Peripheral motion detection may be influenced by myopia, particularly in the inferior-nasal retina.

PURPOSE

Motion discrimination is a complex visual task processed mainly via the magnocellular pathway. We investigated whether it is affected in myopia.

METHODS

Ninety young adults aged 18 to 28 years participated: 30 emmetropes (spherical equivalent refractions +1.00 to −0.50 diopters [D]), 30 low myopes −1.00 to −4.75 D) and 30 higher myopes (<−5 D). Random dot patterns were used to measure motion perception thresholds for minimum displacement (Dmin), maximum displacement (Dmax), and motion coherence tasks. Each task was performed centrally and at four oblique peripheral visual field locations (at 3.65 and 12 degrees forDminandDmaxtasks, respectively). Macular retinal thickness was measured with optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

The centralDmintask was correlated significantly with refraction (r= −0.303,P= .004) and axial length (r= +0.224,P= .04), and the superior-temporal fieldDmintask was correlated significantly with axial length (r= 0.230,P= .04). Higher myopes had poorer performance than emmetropes by 25% (higher values). For theDminperipheral task and forDmaxand coherence tasks at both central and peripheral locations, there were no significant correlations with refraction or axial length. At three of four positions, the peripheralDmintask was correlated significantly with thickness in the corresponding retinal region: superior-temporalDmin(Pearsonr= −0.357,P< .001), inferior-nasalDmin(r= −0.237,P= .03) and inferior-temporalDmin(r= −0.233,P= .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Central motion perception, as assessed by minimum displacement detection, was reduced by 25% in highly myopic eyes. Peripheral motion detection may be influenced by myopia, particularly in the inferior-nasal retina. Retinal stretching due to axial elongation may be linked to reduced performance in higher myopes.
The Effect of Contact Lens Wear on the Cellular Morphology of the Lid Wiper Area
Authors: Alghamdi Waleed M. , Markoulli Maria , Papas Eric B.
Published: May 2018

SIGNIFICANCE

This cross-sectional study presented a link between contact lens wear and changes on the cellular morphology characteristics of the lid wiper (LW) epithelium, which was not visible by LW staining.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to establish if the duration of contact lens (CL) wear affects the cellular morphology of the LW epithelium.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of 100 individuals with different exposures to CL wear: short, moderate, and long experience of CL wear; previous CL wearers; and nonwearers (NWs) as controls. Impression cytology samples were collected from the central upper lid margin (LW area). After fixing, samples were stained with periodic acid–Schiff and haematoxylin for cell morphology analysis and subsequently graded according to the Nelson 0- to 3-point scale. Lid wiper staining was assessed with the aid of lissamine green and graded using the Korb (0- to 3-point) scale. One-way Kruskal-Wallis analysis followed by the Dunn multiple-comparisons test was used for statistical comparison.

RESULTS

The Nelson grade for LW epithelium morphology was significantly different between groups (P = .003). Abnormal epithelial morphology as defined by grade 2 or 3 was evident in 66.7% of CL wearers with short experience and 76.5% of CL wearers with moderate experience. This was significantly higher than NWs of whom only 21.5% showed greater than grade 1 (P = .02 and .005, respectively). There was no significant difference between NWs and other groups. Lid wiper staining did not significantly differ between groups (P = .50) or correlate with the Nelson grade (Spearman r = 0.02, P = .08).

CONCLUSIONS

Metaplasia of the LW epithelium was significantly greater in the early to moderate stages of CL. This supports the view that mechanical irritation is responsible for LW changes in CL wear. Ceasing CL wear seems to lead to recovery. Lid wiper staining did not reflect the underlying morphological changes.
Moonshot Objectives: Catalyze New Scientific Breakthroughs—Proteogenomics
Authors: Rodland Karin D. , Piehowski Paul , Smith Richard D.
Published: May 2018

Breaking down the silos between disciplines to accelerate the pace of cancer research is a key paradigm for the Cancer Moonshot. Molecular analyses of cancer biology have tended to segregate between a focus on nucleic acids—DNA, RNA, and their modifications—and a focus on proteins and protein function. Proteogenomics represents a fusion of those two approaches, leveraging the strengths of each to provide a more integrated vision of the flow of information from DNA to RNA to protein and eventually function at the molecular level. Proteogenomic studies have been incorporated into multiple activities associated with the Cancer Moonshot, demonstrating substantial added value. Innovative study designs integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data, particularly those using clinically relevant samples and involving clinical trials, are poised to provide new insights regarding cancer risk, progression, and response to therapy.
Progress Toward Cancer Data Ecosystems
Authors: Grossman Robert L.
Published: May 2018

One of the recommendations of the Cancer Moonshot Blue Ribbon Panel report from 2016 was the creation of a national cancer data ecosystem. We review some of the approaches for building cancer data ecosystems and some of the progress that has been made. A data commons is the colocation of data with cloud computing infrastructure and commonly used software services, tools, and applications for managing, integrating, analyzing, and sharing data to create an interoperable resource for the research community. We discuss data commons and their potential role in cancer data ecosystems and, in particular, how multiple data commons can interoperate to form part of the foundation for a cancer data ecosystem.
The Evolving Role of Blending of the Lid-Cheek Junction in Lower Blepharoplasty
Authors: Rohrich Rod J. , Mahedia Monali , Hidalgo David , Shah Nilay
Published: May 2018

Background:

Lower blepharoplasty has evolved from traditional lower blepharoplasty involving skin-muscle flaps and fat resection to newer concepts that emphasize blending the lid-cheek junction. It is the objective of this review to evaluate these new concepts for their efficacy in blending the lid-cheek junction.

Methods:

A comprehensive review of literature was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE to identify studies evaluating fat conservation, fat augmentation, fat repositioning, orbicularis retaining ligament (ORL) release, septal reset, and use of fillers in deep cheek fat compartments to obtain aesthetically pleasing lid-cheek junction.

Results:

A total of 22 studies meeting inclusion criteria and evaluating fat conservation, fat augmentation, fat repositioning, ORL release, septal reset, and use of fillers in deep cheek fat compartments are analyzed and discussed.

Conclusions:

This review provides the current evidence for various strategies that can be used alone or combined to obtain youthful lid-cheek junction. It provides the current evidence-based scientific rationale for optimal management of the lower eyelid cheek area for facial rejuvenation.
Computed Diffusion Weighted Imaging of the Liver Using Extrapolation Technique in Patients Who Underwent Liver Transplantation With Hepatocellular Carcinomas: Initial Experience and Feasibility Study
Authors: Park Michael Yong , Choi Joon-Il , Yu Hon , Lall Chandana
Published: May 2018

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and image quality of computed diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) of the liver in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Twenty-four patients who underwent liver transplantation with HCC were enrolled. Computed DWI was synthesized for b-values of 800 (cDWI800) and 1200 s/mm2 (cDWI1200) using directly acquired DWI with b-values of 0, 50, and 500 s/mm2. Signal intensity of HCC, background liver, and contrast-to-noise ratio were evaluated for directly acquired DWI of 800 s/mm2 (dDWI800), cDWI800, and cDWI1200. Two radiologists evaluated the image quality for contrast between HCC and liver, suppression of background signal and T2 shine-through, and overall image quality.

Results

cDWI1200 showed the lowest contrast-to-noise ratio. Qualitative scores for background suppression and decreased T2 shine-through were highest for cDWI1200. However, contrast between HCC and background liver was worst in cDWI1200.

Conclusions

In computed DWI of high b-values, contrast between HCC and background liver was very low.
Acute Appendicitis Involving a De Garengeot Hernia
Authors: Freeman Kyle S. , Picard Melissa M. , Kovacs Mark D.
Published: May 2018

We present a case of appendicitis within a De Garengeot hernia. The patient presented to the emergency department with 4 days of worsening abdominal pain. Computed tomography examination revealed an inflamed appendix within a femoral hernia. The patient underwent appendectomy and repair of the femoral defect. Pathological examination was consistent with acute appendicitis. De Garengeot hernia is a rare phenomenon, with less than 5% of femoral hernias containing the appendix and 0.08% to 0.13% containing an incarcerated acute appendicitis.
Evaluation of Stomach Neoplasms With 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography: Focus on the Potential Role of Cinematic Rendering
Authors: Rowe Steven P. , Chu Linda C. , Fishman Elliot K.
Published: May 2018

Evaluation of stomach neoplasms by traditional 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography methods such as volume rendering and maximum-intensity projection plays an important role in lesion detection and characterization, preoperative planning, staging, and follow-up. Recently, a new 3D visualization method has become available known as cinematic rendering (CR). This novel technique makes use of a complex global lighting model to impart photorealistic levels of detail to 3D images. Although this new technique has yet to be systematically studied for the evaluation of stomach neoplasms, its intrinsic ability to create realistic shadowing effects to enhance understanding of the 3D relative locations of anatomic structures and to enhance detail and texture may prove valuable for a variety of applications. In this article, we demonstrate the CR appearance of multiple different gastric neoplasms, describe potential advantages of CR, and suggest future research directions.