bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond fight or flight: The need for conflict management training in medical education
Authors: Cochran Nan , Charlton Paul , Reed Virginia , Thurber Peter , Fisher Elliott
Published: March 2018

This article reviewed the literature on conflict management training in medicine, proposed a set of competencies that health professionals need to learn in order to effectively deal with conflict in health care settings, and described a pilot project designed to teach many of these competencies at Dartmouth. Our review of the evidence, discussions with experts, and pilot findings highlight the potential value of incorporating comprehensive conflict management training in medical education. Further research is needed to evaluate the optimal timing and most effective ways to teach these skills in medical school, residency, and beyond.
Enhancing Zeolite Performance by Catalyst Shaping in a Mesoscale Continuous‐Flow Diels–Alder Process
Authors: Seghers Sofie , Lefevere Jasper , Mullens Steven , De Vylder Anton , Thybaut Joris W. , Stevens Christian V.
Published: March 2018

In contrast to most lab‐scale batch procedures, a continuous‐flow implementation requires a thorough consideration of the solid catalyst design. In a previous study, irregular zeolite pellets were applied in a miniaturized continuous‐flow reactor for the Diels–Alder reaction in the construction of norbornene scaffolds. After having faced the challenges of continuous operation, the aim of this study is to exploit catalyst structuring. To this end, microspheres with high uniformity and various sphere diameters were synthesized according to the vibrational droplet coagulation method. The influence of the use of these novel zeolite shapes in a mesoscale continuous‐flow Diels–Alder process of cyclopentadiene and methyl acrylate is discussed. An impressive enhancement of catalyst lifetime is demonstrated, as even after a doubled process time of 14 h, the microspheres still exceeded the conversion after 7 h when using zeolite pellets by 30 %. A dual reason is found for this beneficial impact of catalyst shaping. The significant improvement in catalyst longevity can be attributed to the interplay of the chemical composition and the porosity structure of the microspheres.
Quantification of number of CD38 sites on bone marrow plasma cells in patients with light chain amyloidosis and smoldering multiple myeloma
Authors: Kriegsmann Katharina , Dittrich Tobias , Neuber Brigitte , Awwad Mohamed H. S. , Hegenbart Ute , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Hillengass Jens , Hose Dirk , Seckinger Anja , Müller‐Tidow Carsten , Ho Anthony D. , Schönland Stefan , Hundemer Michael
Published: March 2018

Background

Recent approaches in multiple myeloma (MM) treatment have targeted CD38. As antigen expression levels on plasma cells (PCs) were demonstrated to affect response to monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment, a precise characterization of PC phenotype is warranted.

Methods

Anti‐CD38 mAb (isatuximab) was tested for antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in MM cell lines. Quantification of the number of sites (NOS) of CD38 on bone marrow PCs and other immune cells obtained from light chain (AL) amyloidosis (n = 46) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) patients (n = 19) was performed with two different quantitative flow cytometry (QFCM) applications.

Results

ADCC activity of isatuximab was observed in cell lines with >100 × 103 CD38‐NOS only. The average PC CD38‐NOS was 153 ± 53 × 103 in AL amyloidosis and 138.7 ± 53 × 103 in SMM patients. Eight (17%) AL amyloidosis and 4 (21%) SMM patients showed a PC CD38‐NOS level <100 × 103. In four AL amyloidosis and two SMM patients <10% of PCs had a CD38‐NOS ≥100 × 103. The CD38‐NOS identified on bone marrow lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes was two log units below the CD38‐NOS on PCs (P < 0.001). No significant differences in CD38‐NOS expression levels on any of the analyzed PC subpopulations in AL amyloidosis and SMM patients were identified.

Conclusion

Levels of CD38 expression affect the isatuximab‐mediated ADCC in vitro. As PCs of patients with AL amyloidosis and SMM do not homogenously express high CD38 our data provide a rationale for assessment of CD38‐NOS in patients with PC disorders prior to anti‐CD38 treatment. © 2018 International Clinical Cytometry Society
How phonological awareness mediates the relation between working memory and word reading efficiency in children with dyslexia
Authors: Knoop‐van Campen Carolien A. N. , Segers Eliane , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: March 2018

This study examined the relation between working memory, phonological awareness, and word reading efficiency in fourth‐grade children with dyslexia. To test whether the relation between phonological awareness and word reading efficiency differed for children with dyslexia versus typically developing children, we assessed phonological awareness and word reading efficiency in 50 children with dyslexia (aged 9;10, 35 boys) and 613 typically developing children (aged 9;5, 279 boys). Phonological awareness was found to be associated with word reading efficiency, similar for children with dyslexia and typically developing children. To find out whether the relation between working memory and word reading efficiency in the group with dyslexia could be explained by phonological awareness, the children with dyslexia were also tested on working memory. Results of a mediation analysis showed a significant indirect effect of working memory on word reading efficiency via phonological awareness. Working memory predicted reading efficiency, via its relation with phonological awareness in children with dyslexia. This indicates that working memory is necessary for word reading efficiency via its impact on phonological awareness and that phonological awareness continues to be important for word reading efficiency in older children with dyslexia.
Use of capillary electrophoresis for characterisation of vinyl‐terminated Au nanoprisms and nanooctahedra
Authors: Adelantado Carlos , Algarra Manuel , Zougagh Mohammed , Ríos Ángel
Published: March 2018

It is described a simple, rapid and efficient methodology to characterise and separate gold nanoprisms and nanooctahedra by capillary electrophoresis. This technique is suitable to distinguish between morphologies and it can be used as a powerful separation tool after a customised synthesis of both structures. This synthesis was carried out by amending two parameters, temperature and pH, and a sharp decrease was found in nanotriangles when temperature was increased from 70 up to 95°C. However, when the synthesis was performed at a given temperature, an increase in pH did not promote an important change in isolation of any structure until pH = 9.5, critical in the final morphology of the nanoparticle. Gold nanoprisms and nanooctahedra were successfully separated by capillary electrophoresis according to differences in charge‐to‐mass ratio of the morphologies. Final particle morphology was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy analysis. Under optimal working conditions, a mixture containing both shapes of gold nanoparticles was initially injected and two major peaks were obtained for each structure. Capillary electrophoresis allowed to study pH and temperature influence on both morphologies. It was inferred that the ratio between triangles and octahedra decreased to a great extent when increasing both temperature and pH.
Separation of superparamagnetic magnetite nanoparticles by capillary zone electrophoresis using non‐complexing and complexing electrolyte anions and tetramethylammonium as dispersing additive
Authors: Alves Monica N. , Nesterenko Pavel N. , Paull Brett , Haddad Paul R. , Macka Mirek
Published: March 2018

Separations of bare superparamagnetic magnetite nanoparticles (BSPMNPs, approx. 11 nm diameter) was performed using non‐complexing (nitrate) and complexing (chloride, citrate and phosphate) electrolyte ions with additions of tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAOH), which is commonly applied to control the synthesis of stable iron oxides. The use of TMAOH as a background electrolyte (BGE) additive for capillary electrophoresis (CE) separations provided for the first time electropherograms of BSPMNPs exhibiting symmetrical and highly reproducible peaks, free of spurious spikes characteristic of nanoparticle clusters. Consequently, accurate determination of the electrophoretic effective mobility of BSPMNPs was possible, yielding a value of −3.345E‐08 m2 V−1 s−1 (relative standard deviation (RSD) of 0.500%). The obtained mobilities of BSPMNPs in the presence of various electrolyte ions show that the degree of complexation with the surface of BSPMNPs follows the order chloride < citrate < phosphate, correlating with the stabilities of Fe(III) complexes with the respective anions. Finally, bare and carboxylated iron oxide nanoparticles were successfully separated in only 10 min using 10 mM Tris‐nitrate containing 20 mM of TMAOH as electrolyte. Our findings show that simple and rapid CE experiments are an excellent tool to characterise and monitor properties and interactions of iron oxide nanoparticles with other molecules for surface modification purposes.
Three Visualization Approaches for Communicating and Exploring Passive Integrated Transponder Tag Data
Authors: Letcher Benjamin H , Walker Jeffrey D , O'Donnell Matthew J , Whiteley Andrew R , Nislow Keith H , Coombs Jason A
Published: March 2018

As the number, size, and complexity of ecological data sets have increased, narrative and interactive raw data visualizations have emerged as important tools for exploring and understanding these large data sets. As a demonstration, we developed three visualizations to communicate and explore passive integrated transponder tag data from two long-term field studies. We created three independent visualizations for the same data set, allowing separate entry points for users with different goals and experience levels. The first visualization uses a narrative approach to introduce users to the study. The second visualization provides interactive crossfilters that allow users to explore multivariate relationships in the data set. The last visualization allows users to visualize the movement histories of individual fish within the stream network. This suite of visualization tools allows a progressive discovery of more detailed information and should make the data accessible to users with a wide variety of backgrounds and interests.
Preparation of the rainbow trout bone peptides directed by nutritional properties and flavor analyses
Authors: Fan Weiwei , Tan Xiaoyi , Tu Maolin , Jin Feng , Wang Zhenyu , Yu Cuiping , Qi Libo , Du Ming
Published: March 2018

Rainbow trout bone proteins were prepared by heating at 121°C for 30 min, followed by filtration, concentration, and lyophilization. Nutritional properties and flavor analyses of hydrolysates digested by five different enzymes were investigated, respectively. Results showed that the crude protein content of rainbow trout bone was 15.90% and had a well‐balanced nutritional value. The content of total amino acids was 983.64 mg/g. The amount of free amino acids of hydrolysates digested by alkaline protease, neutral protease, flavourzyme, papain, and trypsin for 3 hr was 207.83, 224.13, 1,001.59, 283.26, and 303.64 mg/g, respectively. During the hydrolysis, the main flavor compounds were identified by GC‐MS to be alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, acids, and alkanes. After hydrolysis, the main molecular weight of peptides was focused on the range of 1,000–3,000 Da in all enzymatic hydrolysates. This study provided a theoretical basis to comprehensive utilization of rainbow trout bone in food industry.
Chemical, antimicrobial, and molecular characterization of mortiño (Vaccinium floribundum Kunth) fruits and leaves
Authors: Llivisaca Susana , Manzano Patricia , Ruales Jenny , Flores José , Mendoza Joffre , Peralta Esther , Cevallos‐Cevallos Juan M.
Published: March 2018

Fruits and leaves of Vaccinium spp. are known for their high content of bioactive compounds, but the chemical and biological characteristics of mortiño (Vaccinium floribundum Kunth) have not been fully described. In this study, the levels of polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, anthocyanins, antimicrobial activity, and genetic variability were determined in mortiño plants. The Folin–Ciocalteu's, ABTS scavenging, pH differential, and well diffusion methods were used to evaluate the levels of polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, anthocyanins, and antimicrobial activity, respectively. The genetic variability was evaluated by sequencing of the matK and rbcl DNA regions. Polyphenol content was up to 229.81 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g, the average antioxidant capacity was 11.01 mmol Trolox equivalents/100 g, and anthocyanin content was up to 1,095.39 mg/100 g. Mortiño extracts significantly inhibited the growth of Gram‐negative bacteria including Burkholderia gladioli, Burkholderia cepacia, Salmonella Typhimurium, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio harveyi, Vibrio vulnificus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomona aeruginosa, as well as Gram‐positive bacteria such as Probionibacterium propionicum, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis showing greater inhibition halos than those produced by the antibiotic ampicillin. A polymorphic nucleotide was found in position 739 of the matK region. This study shows the potential of mortiño for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
The high burden of alcoholic cirrhosis in privately insured persons in the United States
Authors: Mellinger Jessica L. , Shedden Kerby , Winder Gerald Scott , Tapper Elliot , Adams Megan , Fontana Robert J , Volk Michael L. , Blow Frederic C. , Lok Anna S.F.
Published: March 2018

Alcoholic cirrhosis (AC) is a major cause of liver‐related morbidity and mortality in the United States. Rising rates of alcohol use disorders in the United States will likely result in more alcoholic liver disease. Our aim was to determine the prevalence, health care use, and costs of AC among privately insured persons in the United States. We collected data from persons aged 18‐64 with AC (identified by codes from the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Revisions) enrolled in the Truven MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters database (2009‐2015). We determined yearly prevalence, weighted to the national employer‐sponsored, privately insured population. Using competing risk analysis, we estimated event rates for portal hypertensive complications and estimated the association between AC and costs as well as admissions and readmissions. In 2015, 294,215 people had cirrhosis and 105,871 (36%) had AC. Mean age at AC diagnosis was 53.5 years, and 32% were women. Over the 7 years queried, estimated national cirrhosis prevalence rose from 0.19% to 0.27% (P < 0.001) and for AC from 0.07% to 0.10% (P < 0.001). Compared to non‐AC, AC enrollees were significantly more likely to have portal hypertensive complications at diagnosis and higher yearly cirrhosis and alcohol‐related admissions (25 excess cirrhosis admissions and 6.3 excess alcohol‐related admissions per 100 enrollees) as well as all‐cause readmissions. Per‐person costs in the first year after diagnosis nearly doubled for AC versus non‐AC persons (US$ 44,835 versus 23,319). Conclusion: In a nationally representative cohort of privately insured persons, AC enrollees were disproportionately sicker at presentation, were admitted and readmitted more often, and incurred nearly double the per‐person health care costs compared to those with non‐AC. (Hepatology 2018).
Loss of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α aggravates γδ T‐cell‐mediated inflammation during acetaminophen‐induced liver injury
Authors: Suzuki Tomohiro , Minagawa Shoko , Yamazaki Takashi , Arai Takatomo , Kanai Mai , Shinjo Satoko , Goda Nobuhito
Published: March 2018

Acetaminophen (APAP)‐induced liver injury is closely associated with acute hepatic inflammation. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) is activated during immunological processes and regulates gene expressions in various types of immune cells. Although HIF‐1 controls the differentiation and functions of conventional T cells in chronic inflammation, the pathological importance of HIF‐1 in innate‐like T cells during acute inflammation remains unknown. Here, we investigated the role of HIF‐1 in innate‐like γδ T cells during APAP‐induced acute liver injury. In response to APAP administration, T‐cell‐specific Hif‐1α gene knockout mice sustained severe liver damage compared to wild‐type control mice but without any impacts on the initial hepatic insult. This severe liver damage was accompanied by excessive neutrophil infiltration into the liver, increased serum interleukin (IL)‐17A levels, and increased hepatic expressions of C‐X‐C chemokine ligand (Cxcl) 1 and Cxcl2. Neutrophil depletion and IL‐17A neutralization completely abolished the aggravated phenotypes in T‐cell‐specific Hif‐1α gene knockout mice. Loss of the Hif‐1α gene enhanced the aberrant accumulation of IL‐17A‐producing innate‐like γδ T cells in the affected liver with no apparent effects on their IL‐17A‐producing ability. Adoptive transfer of Hif‐1α‐deficient splenic γδ T cells into recombination activating gene 2 (Rag2)‐deficient mice aggravated APAP‐induced liver injury with increased neutrophil accumulation in the liver compared to that of wild‐type γδ T cells. Furthermore, Hif‐1α‐deficient γδ T cells selectively showed aberrantly enhanced migratory ability. This ability was totally abolished by treatment with the mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate synthase inhibitor oligomycin. Conclusion: Deletion of Hif‐1α gene in T cells aggravates APAP‐induced acute inflammatory responses by enhancing aberrant innate‐like γδ T‐cell recruitment, thereby increasing excessive neutrophil infiltration into the liver. (Hepatology Communications 2018;2:571‐581)
Anatomic relationship of internal cervical os to maternal bladder in pregnancies at low and high risk of preterm delivery
Authors: Faustin Daniel , Akbar Sabia , Bihun Tatiana , Gomez Erica , Liang Derek , Itzhak Petr , Ruggiero Ralph , Devadoss Joylin
Published: March 2018

62 gravidas at risk of preterm delivery were more likely to be identified by their low‐set internal cervical canal than by the presence of internal os funneling.
Effects of therapist‐worn protective equipment during functional analysis of aggression
Authors: Oropeza Manuella E. , Fritz Jennifer N. , Nissen Melissa A. , Terrell Amy S. , Phillips Lauren A.
Published: March 2018

The effects of therapist‐worn protective equipment (PE) on functional analysis (FA) outcomes for aggression were evaluated. Independent FAs with and without PE were conducted concurrently. Both FAs showed the same function of aggression for all participants. These results suggest that therapists may wear PE during FAs of aggression to reduce risk without altering the interpretation of the analysis.
Time‐lapse microscopy of oxidative stress demonstrates metabolic sensitivity of retinal pericytes under high glucose condition
Authors: Ghanian Zahra , Mehrvar Shima , Jamali Nasim , Sheibani Nader , Ranji Mahsa
Published: March 2018

Hyperglycemia affects retinal vascular cell function, promotes the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy and ultimately causes vision loss. Oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) in excess, is a key biomarker for diabetic retinopathy. Using time‐lapse fluorescence microscopy, ROS dynamics was monitored and the metabolic resistivity of retinal endothelial cells (REC) and pericytes (RPC) was compared under metabolic stress conditions including high glucose (HG). In the presence of a mitochondrial stressor, REC exhibited a significant increase in the rate of ROS production compared with RPC. Thus, under normal glucose (NG), REC may utilize oxidative metabolism as the bioenergetic source, while RPC metabolic activity is independent of mitochondrial respiration. In HG condition, the rate of ROS production in RPC was significantly higher, whereas this rate remained unchanged in REC. Thus, under HG condition RPC may preferentially utilize oxidative metabolism, which results in increased rate of ROS production. In contrast, REC use glycolysis as their major bioenergetic source for ATP production, and consequently HG minimally affects their ROS levels. These observations are consistent with our previous studies where we showed HG condition has minimal effect on apoptosis of REC, but results in increased rate of apoptosis in RPC. Collectively, our results suggest that REC and RPC exhibit different metabolic activity preferences under different glucose conditions. Thus, protection of RPC from oxidative stress may provide an early point of intervention in development and progression of diabetic retinopathy.
The effects of cobalt and chromium ions on transforming growth factor‐beta patterns and mineralization in human osteoblast‐like MG63 and SaOs‐2 cells
Authors: Drynda Susanne , Drynda Andreas , Feuerstein Bernd , Kekow Jörn , Lohmann Christoph H. , Bertrand Jessica
Published: March 2018

Bone homeostasis, the balance of bone formation and resorption is affected by numerous influences, such as, hormones, inflammation, mechanical load, and external stimuli. The transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β), which exists in three isoforms in humans, is a major factor in the maintenance of this balance by regulating osteoblast and osteoclast maturation, development, and function. In artificial joint replacements, release of particles or ions from arthroplasties may exert local effects on the periprosthetic tissue and modulate the expression of bone specific genes and functions. Therefore, the influence of cobalt (II) and chromium (III) ions on the expression levels of the three TGF‐β isoforms in human osteosarcoma cell lines MG63 and SaOs‐2 was analyzed and the impact on mineralization was studied. The osteosarcoma cell lines expressed all three TGF‐β isoforms, with TGF‐β1 being the most abundant isoform. A dose dependent reduction of all TGF‐β isoforms by Co2+ ions was observed, the strongest effect was found on TGF‐β2. The effect was lesser pronounced in SaOs‐2 cells. However, the Cr3+ ions had no significant effect on the expression of all TGF‐β isoforms. In contrast, Co2+ ions in a concentration range of 50–250 µM did not impair the mineralization, but Cr3+ exerted a strong inhibitory effect on the mineralization in a dose dependent fashion. These data suggest that the influence of cobalt ions on bone homeostasis may in part result from the inhibitory effect on the transcription of the bone regulating cytokines TGF‐β1‐3 whereas the chromium ions affect the process of mineralization. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2105‐2115, 2018.
Lack of interferon‐gamma attenuates foreign body reaction to subcutaneous implants in mice
Authors: Cassini‐Vieira Puebla , de Carvalho Santuchi Melissa , da Silva Rafaela Fernandes , Russo Remo Castro , Araújo Fernanda Assis , dos Santos Robson Augusto Souza , Andrade Silvia Passos , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Barcelos Luciola Silva
Published: March 2018

Subcutaneous implantation of synthetic materials and biomedical devices often induces abnormal tissue healing – the foreign body reaction—which impairs their function. In particular, Interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) is a critical endogenous mediator of inflammation and plays a key role in a wide variety of biological responses including tissue healing. However, the contribution of endogenous IFN‐γ on different features of the foreign body response induced by synthetic implants regarding neovascularization, inflammation, and fibrogenesis is not well known. Here, we evaluated inflammatory angiogenesis and fibrogenesis induced by implantation of polyether–polyurethane sponges in mice targeted disrupted of the interferon‐γ gene (IFN‐γ−/−) and wild‐type (WT). The hemoglobin content, the number of vessels, and blood flow (evaluated by LDPI—laser Doppler perfusion imaging) were decreased in the implants from IFN‐γ−/− as compared to WT mice. Likewise, neutrophils and macrophages accumulation (MPO and NAG activities, respectively) was decreased in IFN‐γ−/− implants. Interestingly, while the local content of VEGF, TNF‐α, CXCL‐1/KC, as measured by ELISA, and iNOS expression, as measured by qPCR, were significantly reduced, the content of IL‐10 was greatly increased in the implants from IFN‐γ−/− mice as compared to WT mice. No alterations were observed in CCL‐2/MCP‐1 levels. Lastly, the collagen deposition, assessed by Picro‐Sirius red‐stained histological sections, was also reduced in IFN‐γ−/− implants. Altogether, these data suggest that IFN‐γ activity contributes to inflammatory angiogenesis and fibrogenesis in synthetic implants and that lack of IFN‐γ expression attenuates foreign body reaction to implants in mice. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2243‐2250, 2018.
Significant association between RGS14 rs12654812 and nephrolithiasis risk among Guangxi population in China
Authors: Long Jun , Chen Yang , Lin Haisong , Liao Ming , Li Tianyu , Tong Lei , Wei Suchun , Xian Xiaoying , Zhu Jia , Chen Jianxin , Tian Jiarong , Wang Qiuyan , Mo Zengnan
Published: March 2018

Background

Nephrolithiasis is a worldwide health problem that affects almost all populations. This study aimed to evaluate the association between rs12654812 of regulator of G protein signaling 14 (RGS14) gene and nephrolithiasis in the Chinese population.

Methods

A total of 1541 participators including 830 cases and 711 controls were included from Guangxi area in China. Age, sex, BMI, smoking status, drinking status, creatinine, uric acid, and urea nitrogen were analyzed between the case group and control group.

Results

We found that the G/A+A/A genotypes of rs12654812 had a significantly increased nephrolithiasis risk after adjusting age, sex, BMI, smoking, drinking, and hypertension, compared with G/G genotype (OR = 1.361, 95% CI = 1.033‐1.794, P = .029). This hazardous effect was more pronounced in subgroup of age < 50, ever smoking, ever drinking, creatinine normal, and high uric acid. The G/A genotype of rs12654812 also had a significantly increased nephrolithiasis risk compared with G/G genotype. The A allele of rs12654812 significantly increased the risk of nephrolithiasis compared with the G allele after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, smoking, drinking and hypertension (OR = 1.277, 95% CI = 1.013‐1.609, P = .038).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the RGS14 polymorphism is involved in the etiology of nephrolithiasis and thus may be a genetic marker for nephrolithiasis.
Effects of extremely low bulk liquid DO on autotrophic nitrogen removal performance and NOB suppression in side‐ and mainstream one‐stage PNA
Authors: Akaboci Tiago Rogerio Vitor , Gich Frederic , Ruscalleda Maël , Balaguer Maria Dolors , Colprim Jesús
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Results in the literature are divergent regarding dissolved oxygen (DO) level to ensure nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria (NOB) suppression in mainstream conditions. In this study, a one‐stage granular partial‐nitritation (PNA) was operated controlling the oxygen transfer over ammonium loading rate (OTR/ALR). The effects of extremely low DO availability on autotrophic nitrogen removal (ANR) performance and NOB suppression were assessed.

RESULTS

The strategy applied in the sequencing batch reactor (SBR) in sidestream and mainstream conditions (temperature at 25 °C) allowed micromolar bulk liquid DO concentrations to be obtained. Nitrite production rate (NPR) by aerobic ammonium‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB) was sufficient to provide nitrite to anammox bacteria (AnAOB) and sustain nitrogen removal rates (NRR) of 0.34 ± 0.05 and 0.37 ± 0.07 kg N m−3 d−1 during sidestream and mainstream operation, respectively. Extremely low DO assisted by free ammonia (FA; ≤6.2 mg N L−1) in sidestream conditions resulted in complete nitratation suppression. In mainstream conditions, Nitrospira spp. growth led to limited nitratation rates. Decreasing the OTR/ALR resulted in lower oxygen consumption by AOB than by NOB, as well as reduced nitrite consumption by AnAOB, which is likely to be due to granule structure.

CONCLUSIONS

Low DO availability did not compromise ANR. Micromolar DO allowed complete NOB suppression only with FA assistance (sidestream) but was sufficient to keep nitratation limited in mainstream conditions. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Immune configuration in hatchling snakes is affected by incubation moisture, and is linked to subsequent growth and survival in the field
Authors: Brown Gregory P. , Shine Richard
Published: March 2018

We incubated the eggs of field‐caught keelback snakes (Tropidonophis mairii) on wet versus dry substrates to explore impacts of incubation conditions on white blood cell (WBC) concentrations and differential WBC counts of hatchlings. In a second, independent study young snakes were released into the field, allowing us to explore fitness correlates of WBC profiles. Dry incubation reduced embryonic survival and hatchling body size, thus decoupling egg size from hatchling size. Incubation conditions also altered WBC profiles. Lymphocyte and azurophil counts were related to hatchling body size but not to initial egg mass, whereas heterophil counts were related to both of these traits. The egg‐size effect on heterophil counts may reflect a maternal effect on offspring immune configuration. The ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes (an index of stress) was higher in hatchlings from eggs incubated on dry substrates. Snakes with higher counts of lymphocytes at hatching were more likely to be recaptured as adults (H:L; an index of survival), whereas snakes with higher basophil counts exhibited more rapid growth. In summary, our experiments show that incubation moisture levels influence the immune configuration of hatchling snakes, and that variation among individuals in WBC counts at hatching is a significant predictor of an individual's fitness after it is released into the wild. The demonstrated link between incubation conditions and offspring fitness is likely to impose strong selection on maternal nest‐site choice.
Postpolypectomy prophylactic clip closure for the prevention of delayed postpolypectomy bleeding: A systematic review
Authors: Mangira Dileep , Ket Shara N , Majeed Ammar , Gibson Peter R , Brown Gregor
Published: March 2018

Delayed postpolypectomy bleeding (DPPB) is the most common complication of colonoscopic polypectomy. Prophylactic clipping after an uncomplicated polypectomy is increasingly used, but it is unclear if this results in the prevention of DPPB. This study aimed to review prophylactic clip use and its effect on the rates of DPPB. MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochran Library were systematically searched for studies (1995–March 2017) that used prophylactic hemoclips and assessed DPPB as an outcome. Of 1402 articles identified, nine papers were eligible for inclusion, evaluating 4311 patients and 7783 polyps; 118 patients experienced a DPPB, and 49 of these patients received prophylactic clips. There was no significant difference in DPPB rates in patients who received prophylactic clipping compared to those who did not (odd ratio: 0.8; 95% confidence interval: 0.36–1.77; P = 0.56). There was also no significant difference in the DPPB of polyps <20 mm compared with polyps ≥20 mm. Clip application for prophylactic management of an uncomplicated polypectomy has not been demonstrated to reduce the risk of DPPB, casting doubt on the use of this costly practice.
Child Malnutrition in Indonesia: Can Education, Sanitation and Healthcare Augment the Role of Income?
Authors: De Silva Indunil , Sumarto Sudarno
Published: March 2018

In spite of the sustained economic growth and progress in reducing poverty, the status of child nutrition is abysmal in Indonesia with chronic malnutrition rates continuing to remain at very high levels. In this backdrop, this study attempts to shed light on the channels through which various socio‐economic factors affect children's nutritional status in Indonesia. Utilizing recent data from Indonesian Family Life Survey, and controlling for an exhaustive set of socio‐economic factors, it emerged that mother's education, water and sanitation conditions, household poverty and access to healthcare to strongly influence chronic malnutrition among children in Indonesia. Child stunting rates were surprisingly high even in the wealthiest quintile of households, implying that income growth merely will not automatically solve the nutritional problem. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
mTOR: A double-edged sword for diabetes
Authors: Tuo Yali , Xiang Ming
Published: March 2018

Diabetes is both a metabolic and an immune disorder. One intriguing link between the two is the serine-threonine protein kinase mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). As a component of the PI3K/Akt pathway and other cellular signals, mTOR is a key regulator of fuel metabolism and function of both pancreatic islet β cells and immune cells. Consequently, it seems that mTOR has both anti- and prodiabetic effects. On the one hand, activation of mTOR in β cells can increase their growth and proliferation, opposing impairments of insulin secretion in diabetes. On the other, activation of mTOR signaling in specific immune cells alters their fuel metabolism, amplifying their contributions to β-cell dysfunction, contributing to the development of diabetes. In this review, we focus on roles of mTOR signaling in pancreatic β cells and immune cells and their implications in the pathogenesis and treatment of diabetes.
NMDA receptor blockade ameliorates abnormalities of spike firing of subthalamic nucleus neurons in a parkinsonian nonhuman primate
Authors: Bhattacharya Subhrajit , Ma Yuxian , Dunn Amy R. , Bradner Joshua M. , Scimemi Annalisa , Miller Gary W. , Traynelis Stephen F. , Wichmann Thomas
Published: March 2018

N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are ion channels comprising tetrameric assemblies of GluN1 and GluN2 receptor subunits that mediate excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system. Of the four different GluN2 subunits, the GluN2D subunit‐containing NMDARs have been suggested as a target for antiparkinsonian therapy because of their expression pattern in some of the basal ganglia nuclei that show abnormal firing patterns in the parkinsonian state, specifically the subthalamic nucleus (STN). In this study, we demonstrate that blockade of NMDARs altered spike firing in the STN in a male nonhuman primate that had been rendered parkinsonian by treatment with the neurotoxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine. In accompanying experiments in male rodents, we found that GluN2D‐NMDAR expression in the STN was reduced in acutely or chronically dopamine‐depleted animals. Taken together, our data suggest that blockade of NMDARs in the STN may be a viable antiparkinsonian strategy, but that the ultimate success of this approach may be complicated by parkinsonism‐associated changes in NMDAR expression in the STN.
Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II and Dimethyl Sulfoxide affect the sealing frequencies of transected hippocampal neurons
Authors: Poon Andrew D. , McGill Sarah H. , Bhupanapadu Sunkesula Solomon Raju , Burgess Zachary S. , Dunne Patrick J. , Kang Edward E. , Bittner George D.
Published: March 2018

Traumatic injury often results in axonal severance, initiating obligatory Wallerian degeneration of distal segments, whereas proximal segments often survive. Calcium ion (Ca2+) influx at severed proximal axonal ends activates pathways that can induce apoptosis. However, this same Ca2+‐influx also activates multiple parallel pathways that seal the plasmalemma by inducing accumulation and fusion of vesicles at the lesion site that reduce Ca2+‐influx and enhance survival. We examined whether various inhibitors of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinases (CaMKs), and/or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a common solvent for biologically active substances, affected the ability of a hippocampal‐derived neuronal cell line (B104 cells) to seal membrane damage following axotomy. Axolemmal sealing frequencies were assessed at different transection distances from the axon hillock and at various times after Ca2+‐influx (PC times) by observing whether transected cells took‐up fluorescent dyes. Inhibition of CaMKII by tatCN21 and KN‐93, but not inhibition of CaMKI and CaMKIV by STO‐609, affected axonal sealing frequencies. That is, CaMKII is a component of previously reported parallel pathways that induce membrane sealing, whereas CaMKI and CaMKIV are not involved. The effects of these CaMKII inhibitors on plasmalemmal sealing depended on their mechanism of inhibition, transection distance, and PC time. DMSO at low concentrations (90 µM–28 mM or 0.00064%–0.2% v/v) significantly increased membrane‐sealing frequencies at most PC times and transection distances, possibly by permeabilizing the plasmalemma to Ca2+. Inhibition of CaMKII, DMSO, PC time, and the transection distance significantly affect plasmalemmal sealing that is critical to somal survival in traumatic lesions.
Precipitation fields in an alpine Mediterranean catchment: Inversion of precipitation gradient with elevation or undercatch of snowfall?
Authors: Collados‐Lara Antonio‐Juan , Pardo‐Igúzquiza Eulogio , Pulido‐Velazquez David , Jiménez‐Sánchez Jorge
Published: March 2018

The mean precipitation measurements in a Mediterranean Alpine catchment in Sierra Nevada show an inversion of the gradient with the altitude beyond a certain threshold. Is it due to a real pattern or it can be explained by systematic error of solid precipitation measurement in gauges? Can we assess climatic fields in an alpine catchment from gauge measurement? This article describes a research developed to answer both questions in the Alto Genil Basin. As commonly happens in most of the basins, the spatio‐temporal information from climate gauges is limited; therefore to reduce uncertainty in estimates of climatic fields, some secondary information should be introduced. Since orographic conditions clearly influence precipitation, the relationship between this climatic variable and elevation is usually included as secondary information into the estimates. However, while there is a clear relationship between temperature and elevation, the relationship between precipitation and elevation is not so simple. In this article the analysis of the data performed allow us to demonstrate that there is a real inversion of the gradient within this Mediterranean Alpine area as other authors previously pointed in some tropical and subtropical zones. The intensity of this phenomenon and the altitude threshold from which it appears can be altered as a consequence of the undercath of the solid precipitation. To estimate precipitation fields, we have used different hypotheses about the intensity of the undercatch taking into account empirical corrections obtained for nearby mountain ranges. An analysis of the sensitivity of the results to the assumed undercatch hypothesis shows that it is not possible to estimate properly precipitation fields (the sensitivity of the results to the adopted hypothesis is high) in these alpine areas if we only have information about the precipitation measurements at the stations.
Major postglacial summer temperature changes in the central coniferous boreal forest of Quebec (Canada) inferred using chironomid assemblages
Authors: Bajolle Lisa , Larocque‐Tobler Isabelle , Gandouin Emmanuel , Lavoie Martin , Bergeron Yves , Ali Adam A.
Published: March 2018

Chironomid head capsules preserved in lake sediments were used to reconstruct 8200 years of summer temperatures in the boreal forest of north‐eastern Canada. Two training sets were used derived from Canadian and Eastern Canadian transfer functions. Both models reconstructed similar climate patterns, but the Canadian model provided temperatures generally 2–3 °C lower than the Eastern Canadian model. Three main thermal changes inferred by chironomids were: (i) the Holocene Thermal Maximum, which occurred between 8 and 5k cal a BP, with temperatures generally higher than today's, maximum temperatures between 8 and 6.5k cal a BP, and an average of + 0.9 °C; (ii) the Medieval Climate Anomaly around 1.1–1.2k cal a BP with an amplitude of + 0.7 °C; and (iii) a colder period reconstructed between the 14th and 19th centuries, corresponding to the Little Ice Age, with summer temperatures on average −0.5 °C lower than the climate normal. For each of these three climatic events, the timing and the amplitude of changes were similar with other published regional, North American and Northern Hemisphere records.
The suppression of viewing angle dependence of top emission organic light emitting diodes having strong microcavity characteristics by applying concave patterned anode
Authors: Kim Nam Su , Jung Seon Hyeak , Suh Min Chul
Published: March 2018

In order to obtain the stable viewing angle characteristics of top emission organic light emitting diodes (TEOLEDs) having strong microcavity characteristics, we fabricated nano‐porous film on the glass substrate before depositing highly reflective anode. And then, we could obtain the concave patterned anode by depositing anode on the nano‐porous film and fabricated TEOLED composed of concave patterned layers. From this approach, we could successfully obtain not only the stable color shift and luminance distribution with viewing angle but also high efficiency caused by uneven morphology. In addition, we found that the driving voltage of TEOLED could be reduced due to increased surface area effect of the concave patterned anode, so that the power efficiency was enhanced by about 15% in comparison with reference device.
Technical knowledge creation: Enabling tacit knowledge use
Authors: Søberg Peder Veng , Chaudhuri Atanu
Published: March 2018

The paper investigates knowledge creation in nascent technical industries, a somewhat neglected empirical setting concerning knowledge creation. Frameworks on organizational learning and knowledge creation assume that knowledge creation depends on language creation and neglect the benefits involved by allowing elements of new product and process ideas to mature in a tacit form, whereas cognitive neuroscience data suggest that technical knowledge creation is largely nonlinguistic. The four case studies point to excessive reliance on group discussion, a need for more trial and error and that field tests and prototypes generate new learnings that save time and lowers subsequent risks. Technical knowledge creation in nascent high‐tech industries requires opportunities to work with and further develop knowledge in its tacit form. The paper refines frameworks on organizational learning and knowledge creation to better reflect the characteristics of technical knowledge creation. The paper adds prototypes as a necessary, but currently missing outcome option from interpreting processes in the 4I framework.
Surgical approach to the intrathoracic goiter
Authors: Vaiman Michael , Bekerman Inessa , Basel Jabarin , Peer Michael
Published: March 2018

Objective

In a retrospective study, the authors analyzed the surgical approach to the intrathoracic goiter to avoid sternotomy or thoracotomy.

Methods

We selected 70 intrathoracic cases of multinodular goiter out of 988 cases of thyroidectomy and compared them with cervical goiter cases. Surgical technique, results, and postsurgical complications were assessed.

Results

The analyzed cases presented the retrosternal goiter (n = 53; 75.7%), the retrotracheal goiter (n = 9; 12.8%), and the retroesophageal goiter (n = 8; 11.4%). Complaining of chest pressure or discomfort was specific for intrathoracic cases (50%; 35 of 70). All goiters except one were removed via cervical incision. The surgeons used head reclination and isthmus dissection when removing sizable goiters. Mean weight of goiters was 180 g. The recurrent laryngeal nerve was more often temporarily damaged in intrathoracic cases in comparison with cervical cases (4.3% vs. 2.8%, P = .04), but the difference in permanent injury was less significant (P = .09). The incidence of temporary hypoparathyroidism was significantly higher in intrathoracic cases (P = .01).

Conclusion

In cases of multinodular goiter the goiters of various extensions can be successfully removed via the cervical incision in most of the cases even if they occupy the retrosternal, retrotracheal, or retroesophageal position. The transthoracic approaches and sternotomy might be justified in malignant cases.

Level of Evidence

4.
Effects of submarine groundwater discharge on coral accretion and bioerosion on two shallow reef flats
Authors: Lubarsky Katie A. , Silbiger Nyssa J. , Donahue Megan J.
Published: March 2018

Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) is an important source of nutrients to many coastal reefs, yet there is little information on how SGD impacts key coral reef processes. Here, we investigated the effect of SGD on coral growth and bioerosion rates from Porites lobata nubbins and blocks of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) on two reef flats in Maunalua Bay, O'ahu. Over a 6‐month (coral nubbins) and yearlong (CaCO3 blocks) deployment period, we combined multiple metrics of coral growth (buoyant weight, surface area, and linear extension) and bioerosion with a suite of co‐measured physicochemical parameters that are indicators for SGD (carbonate chemistry, dissolved inorganic nutrients, temperature, salinity, and water motion). All coral growth metrics showed a modal response to SGD, and the percent change in buoyant weights and nubbin surface area were negatively related to pH variation. SGD negatively affected coral survival, indicating that at high levels of SGD, salinity stress could be killing corals, but at mid‐levels SGD‐associated nutrients could be increasing growth rates. SGD had a positive effect on bioerosion, most likely due to the positive effect of increased nutrients on bioeroding organisms. Further, coral accretion rates were two orders of magnitude higher than bioerosion rates; however, given the low coral cover on these reef flats, the total carbonate accreted by corals is much lower than suggested by rates alone. These results indicate that corals can thrive on SGD‐impacted reefs if isolated from secondary stressors, so active management to reduce macroalgae and sedimentation could allow coral recovery in Maunalua Bay.
Coping with arsenic stress: Adaptations of arsenite‐oxidizing bacterial membrane lipids to increasing arsenic levels
Authors: Ghosh Devanita , Bhadury Punyasloke , Routh Joyanto
Published: March 2018

Elevated levels of arsenic (As) in aquifers of South East Asia have caused diverse health problems affecting millions of people who drink As‐rich groundwater and consume various contaminated agriculture products. The biogeochemical cycling and mobilization/immobilization of As from its mineral‐bound phase is controlled by pH, oxic/anoxic conditions, and different microbial processes. The increased As flux generated from ongoing biogeochemical processes in the subsurface in turn affects the in situ microbial communities. This study analyzes how the indigenous arsenite‐oxidizing bacteria combat As stress by various biophysical alterations and self‐adaptation mechanisms. Fifteen arsenite‐oxidizing bacterial strains were isolated and identified using a polyphasic approach. The bacterial strains isolated from these aquifers belong predominantly to arsenite‐oxidizing bacterial groups. Of these, the membrane‐bound phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) were characterized in seven selected bacterial isolates grown at different concentrations of As(III) in the medium. One of the significant findings of this study is how the increase in external stress can induce alteration of membrane PLFAs. The change in fatty acid saturation and alteration of their steric conformation suggests alteration of membrane fluidity due to change in As‐related stress. However, different bacterial groups can have different degrees of alteration that can affect sustainability in As‐rich aquifers of the Bengal Delta Plain.