bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral disorders in adolescents and Orthodontics Attitude of orthodontists? How far to go?
Authors: Thery-Hugly M.-C.
Published: January 2019

Adults are often worried and somewhat shocked by teenagers’ behavior, and their way of learning, the so-called “Adolescence Disorders.”

The lack of assertiveness of adolescents is the most important issue in the management of orthodontic treatment. With the desirable attitude of empathy in mind, for the majority of teenagers, the orthodontist will manage treatment in a quiet and optimal way.

For 15% of them however, real problems such as anxiety, depression or personality disorders may appear. The use of CBT will be useful.

The orthodontist must be empathetic enough to guide these young teenagers in their development, through their “mouth,” this organ is psychologically invested to fundamental symbols of life and learning.
Environmental Footprint Evaluation of Eco-Friendly Products in the Global Economy
Authors: Rousek Pavel
Published: January 2019

Ecological products, their terminology, and the process of certification are not unified within the global economy. This paper gives a comprehensive overview of organic products labelling. The novelty of the contribution is the effort to introduce the evaluation of the environmental footprint of eco-friendly products.
Enterprise Architecture within the Process of Permanent Change
Authors: Váchal Jan , Straková Jarmila
Published: January 2019

Permanent changes that happen within the external surroundings of an enterprise, respectively within the macro-environment, significantly influence its efficiency and behaviour. The framework for these changes is made up by Enterprise Architecture (EA). Impacts of these changes are distinct in both, the internal environment of an enterprise as well as in its mid-environment, being of dynamic nature, and their elimination is a basic assumption of keeping the enterprise's competitiveness. The article focuses on analysing the macro-environment factors' influence on the changes in enterprise EA from the perspective of their sector differentiation. Tests have been carried out both ways – for chosen macro-environment factors, as well as macro-environment areas as a whole. The research survey was carried out on a file of 456 enterprises from the whole of the Czech Republic, out of which the production and industry sectors included 187 enterprises, and the service sector 255 enterprises. Pearson's chi-quadrate test was used as a statistical method. At the same moment, macro-environment factor prediction was tested, respectively the importance attached by top managers to the individual macro-environment factors in the future. Research results have proven a significant sector differentiation from the perspective of macroenvironment factors' impact on EA, while a greater influence of these factors has been indicated mainly in the service sector. It may be assumed that top managers begin to prove a risk symptom caused by a change in the economic cycle.
Comparison of neural networks and regression time series in estimating the development of the EU and the PRC trade balance
Authors: Vrbka Jaromír , Rowland Zuzana , Šuleř Petr
Published: January 2019

China, by GDP, is the second largest economic power, and hence also a key player in the field of international relations. As far as the EU is concerned, it is China's largest trading partner. From this point of view, it is clear that monitoring export and import development between these partners is essential. This paper therefore aims to compare two useful methods, namely the accuracy of time series alignment through regression analysis and artificial neural networks, to assess the evolution of the EU and the People's Republic of China trade balance. Data on the export and import trends of these two partners since 2000 have been used, and it is clear that the trade balance was completely different that year than it is now. The development over time is interesting. The most appropriate curve is selected from the linear regression, and from the neural networks three useful neural structures are selected. We also look at the prediction of future developments while taking into account seasonal fluctuations.
Induction of Secondary Metabolites from the Marine-Derived Fungus Aspergillus versicolor through Co-cultivation with Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Abdel-Wahab Nada , Scharf Sebastian , Özkaya Ferhat , Kurtán Tibor , Mándi Attila , Fouad Mostafa , Kamel Mohamed , Müller Werner , Kalscheuer Rainer , Lin Wenhan , Daletos Georgios , Ebrahim Weaam , Liu Zhen , Proksch Peter
Published: January 2019

A new cyclic pentapeptide, cotteslosin C (1), a new aflaquinolone, 22-epi-aflaquinolone B (3), and two new anthraquinones (9 and 10), along with thirty known compounds (2, 4 – 8, 11 – 34) were isolated from a co-culture of the sponge-associated fungus Aspergillus versicolor with Bacillus subtilis. The new metabolites were only detected in the co-culture extract, but not when the fungus was grown under axenic conditions. Furthermore, the co-culture extract exhibited an enhanced accumulation of the known constituents versicolorin B (14), averufin (16), and sterigmatocyctin (19) by factors of 1.5, 2.0, and 4.7, respectively, compared to the axenic fungal culture. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR spectra and mass spectrometry as well as by comparison with literature data. The absolute configuration of compounds 3, 9, and 10 was determined by ECD (electronic circular dichroism) analysis aided by TDDFT-ECD (time-dependent density functional theory electronic circular dichroism) calculations. Compounds 15, 18 – 21, and 26 exhibited strong to moderate cytotoxic activity against the mouse lymphoma cell line L5178Y, with IC50 values ranging from 2.0 to 21.2 µM, while compounds 14, 16, 31, 32, and 33 displayed moderate inhibitory activities against several gram-positive bacteria, with MIC values ranging from 12.5 to 50 µM.
Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Standardized Extract of Centella asiatica (ECa 233) Capsules in Healthy Thai Volunteers: A Phase 1 Clinical Study
Authors: Songvut Phanit , Chariyavilaskul Pajaree , Tantisira Mayuree , Khemawoot Phisit
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of a newly developed, standardized extract of Centella asiatica (ECa 233) capsule in healthy Thai volunteers. This study was designed as an open-labeled, 2-sequence dosage, single- and repeated-dose study investigated under fasting conditions. Plasma concentrations of the parent compounds and their relative acid metabolites were measured and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using noncompartmental analysis. Tolerability was assessed based on physical examinations, monitoring of vital signs, clinical laboratory tests, and any observed adverse events. A key finding of this study was that the pharmacokinetics of ECa 233 in healthy volunteers did not correspond with its pharmacokinetics in animal studies. As indicated in human pharmacokinetic parameters, maximum plasma concentration and area under the curve of the parent compounds (madecassoside and asiaticoside) were very low, while their respective metabolites (madecassic acid and asiatic acid) demonstrated higher values. Based on the pharmacokinetic results observed in the dose comparison, accumulation of active metabolites after repeated dose is highly suggestive. In addition, the asiatic acid profile showed 2-fold increase in Cmax and AUC(0–t) after increasing dose from 250 to 500 mg of ECa 233. Lastly, the safety and tolerability evaluation illustrated that single and multiple doses in both 250 and 500 mg oral administration of ECa 233 were well tolerated, and none of the volunteers discontinued their participation due to adverse effects during the study.
T2-weighted Hypointense Tumors and Tumor-like Lesions
Authors: Isaac Amanda , Dalili Danoob , Noebauer-Huhmann Iris-Melanie , Papakonstantinou Olympia
Published: January 2019

Most musculoskeletal tumors are hyperintense on T2-weighted images. However, some T2-weighted hypointense tumors and tumor-like lesions are encountered in everyday clinical practice. We explore the spectrum of such T2 hypointense tumors and tumor mimickers that can arise from (1) the bones, presenting as diffuse processes or focal lesions; (2) the joints including diffuse or focal synovial disorders, loose bodies, or substance depositions; and (3) soft tissues, comprising T2 hypointense tumors and tumor mimickers (those that contain abundant fibrous tissue, mineralization, or hemosiderin deposits). Appropriate magnetic resonance imaging sequence selection is required to identify and characterize these lesions confidently when imaging musculoskeletal tumors.
Nerve Tumors: What the MSK Radiologist Should Know
Authors: Isaac Amanda , Bignotti Bianca , Rossi Federica , Zaottini Federico , Martinoli Carlo , Tagliafico Alberto
Published: January 2019

Nerve tumors are rare and heterogeneous soft tissue tumors arising from a peripheral nerve or showing nerve sheath differentiation. In a radiologic setting it is necessary to recognize soft tissue lesions that are of neural origin, their association with a peripheral nerve, and whether they are a true tumor or a so-called pseudotumor such as a neuroma, fibrolipoma, or peripheral nerve sheath ganglion. Ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging are the best modalities to characterize these lesions. US can be used to guide biopsy in difficult and uncertain cases when the lesion is either indeterminate or possibly malignant. At present, no single imaging feature or reproducible criteria, or a combination, can differentiate reliably between a neurofibroma and a schwannoma or discriminate with certainty between benign and malignant neurogenic tumors. Adequate imaging and consultation with a nerve tumors/sarcoma unit is advised.
Effects of Homeopathic Preparations of Mercurius corrosivus on the Growth Rate of Severely Mercury-Stressed Duckweed Lemna gibba L.
Authors: Jäger Tim , Würtenberger Sandra , Baumgartner Stephan
Published: January 2019

Background We developed a bioassay with mercury-stressed duckweed (Lemna gibba L.) to study potential effects of homeopathically potentised mercury(II) chloride (Mercurius corrosivus [Merc-c.]). The response of this bioassay to homeopathic treatments as a function of stress intensity was also of interest.

Methods Duckweed was severely stressed with mercury(II) chloride for 48 hours. Afterwards plants grew in either Merc-c. (seven different potency levels, 24x to 30x) or water controls (unsuccussed and succussed water) for 7 days. Growth rates of the frond (leaf) area were determined using a computerised image analysis system for different time intervals between the measurements on days 0, 3 and 7. Three independent experiments with potentised Merc-c. each were evaluated. Additionally, three water control experiments were analysed to investigate the stability of the experimental set-up (systematic negative control [SNC] experiments). All experiments were randomised and blinded.

Results Unsuccussed and succussed water did not significantly differ in terms of duckweed growth rate. The SNC experiments did not yield any significant effects, providing evidence for the stability of the experimental system. Data from the two control groups and the seven treatment groups (Merc-c. 24x–30x) were each pooled to increase the statistical power. Duckweed growth rates for day 0 to 3 were reduced (p < 0.05) after application of Merc-c. compared with the controls. Growth rates for day 3 to 7 were not influenced by the homeopathic preparations.

Conclusions The present test system with Lemna gibba L. that was severely stressed by mercury yielded evidence for specific effects of Merc-c. 24x to 30x, namely a growth reduction in the first time period (day 0–3). This is in contrast to former experiments with slightly arsenic-stressed duckweed, where a growth increase was observed in the second time period (day 2–6). We hypothesise that the differing results are associated with the level of stress intensity (severe versus slight).
Rare Spontaneous Attenuation of Childhood Inflammatory Cerebral Adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Choi Hyoung Won , Raymond Gerald Vincent , Miller Weston
Published: January 2019

X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a neurodegenerative peroxisomal disorder with variable clinical phenotypes. Childhood cerebral ALD (CCALD) is at the most severe end of the disease spectrum. In CCALD, the clinical manifestations include increasing deficits in behavior, vision, hearing, coordination, and motor function, as well as seizures. Without treatment, CCALD often results in apparent vegetative state within 1 to 2 years of appearance of initial signs and symptoms. We present the case of a boy with classic inflammatory CCALD who exhibited spontaneous attenuation in disease progression. While extremely rare, spontaneous arrest of disease progression may occur in boys with inflammatory CCALD.
Optimization of positioning technology of aspheric compound eyes with variable focal length
Authors: Liu Shuangjie , Li Lun , Hao Yongping , Diao Xiaolei , Liu Fengli
Published: January 2019

For single non-uniform surface compound eyes cannot achieve zoom imaging, resulting in poor imaging and other issues, a new type of aspherical artificial compound eye structure with variable focal length is proposed in this paper. The structure divides the surface compound eye into three fan-shaped areas, and different focal lengths of the micro-lens in different area make the artificial compound eye zoom in a certain range. The focal length and size of the micro-lens are determined by the area and the location of the micro-lens. The optimization of aspherical array of the micro-lens is calculated and the spherical aberration in each area is reduced to one percent of the initial value. Through simulation analysis, the designed artificial compound eye structure can realize the focal length adjustment, and effectively reduce the problem of the poor imaging quality of the curved compound eye edge. As a result, the aspherical artificial compound eye sample with the number of eyes of n=61 and the diameter of the base of 8.66mm was prepared using the molding method. The mutual relationship between the eyes of the child was calibrated and a mathematical model for the simultaneous identification of multiple sub eyes was established. An artificial compound eye positioning experimental system with the error value less than 10% was set up through a number of micro-lens capture target point settlement coordinates.
Accurate simulation of the noise generated by a hot supersonic jet including turbulence tripping and nonlinear acoustic propagation
Authors: Langenais Adrien , Vuillot François , Troyes Julien , Bailly Christophe
Published: January 2019

A procedure to accurately simulate a free hot supersonic jet and its associated noise, which uses simultaneously a turbulence tripping method and a two-way coupling between a flow solver and a nonlinear acoustic solver, is proposed in this study. A Mach 3.1 overexpanded hot jet is computed via a large-eddy simulation by solving the filtered Navier-Stokes equations with a finite volume method on unstructured grids. The resulting noise is propagated in the far field by solving the full Euler equations with a high-order discontinuous Galerkin method on unstructured grids. The full convergent-divergent nozzle is explicitly included in the computational domain thanks to the unstructured flow solver. Both a refined grid and a geometrical boundary layer tripping in the convergent are used to get highly disturbed turbulent conditions at the nozzle lips. The flow field appears to agree with the expected turbulence behavior and the available experimental data. The jet development shows significant improvement compared to similar past simulations. The far field acoustic levels are finely recovered at most of the observation angles. An analysis of the acoustic near and far fields is then performed. The studied conditions lead to strong shock-associated noise and Mach wave emission. The spatio-frequency and azimuthal content of the acoustic field are described in order to identify the main noise properties. A particular noise component, different from screech tones and radiating upstream like Mach waves, is highlighted. Nonlinear propagation effects are finally quantified through specific metrics. They are found to be significant in both the near and the far fields, which justifies the use of a nonlinear acoustic solver.
Study of internal charging of four commonly used polymers through experimental and numerical analysis
Authors: Pacaud Rémi , Paulmier Thierry , Sarrailh Pierre , Ryden Keith , Hands Alex , Payan Denis
Published: January 2019

This paper focuses on the study of internal charging of four space used polymers: polyetheretherketone, fluorinated ethylene propylene, polyimide films, and epoxy based material (Epoxy FR4). Experiments were carried out for each material using the GEODUR facility (Toulouse, ONERA) that mimics the geostationary space environment behind shielding. Two different irradiation currents have been applied: 1 pA/cm2 and 10 pA/cm2. 1 pA/cm2 is used to analyze the charging behavior and the intrinsic electrical properties of each polymer. 10 pA/cm2 is used to study the influence of high electric field levels on their charging behavior. In this paper, two different numerical tools used for the study of internal charging are presented: Monte-Carlo Internal Charging Tool (MCICT) and Transport of Holes and Electrons Model under Irradiation in Space (THEMIS). MCICT has been used in the space community for several years. THEMIS has been recently developed at ONERA and is compared to MCICT. Both numerical tools showed consistent results for the 1 pA/cm2 integrated current but with deviations for the 10 pA/cm2 integrated current, supposedly due to nonlinear electric field effects on charge transport. THEMIS has a more refined physical model for the conductivity than MCICT. It studies more accurately the electron-polymer interactions and the charge transport kinetics of polymers under space radiations. Subsequently, the analysis of the underlying physical phenomena responsible for the polymers’ charging behaviors will be carried out with THEMIS. In addition, studying these phenomena will permit to assess the risks of electrical discharges that may occur on a spacecraft in orbit (e.g., Geostationary (GEO) spacecraft) or during an elliptic trajectory (e.g., sub-GEO) in an Electric Orbit Raising case [E. Y. Choueiri, A. J. Kelly, and R. G. Jahn, J. Spacecr. Rockets 30(6), 749–754 (1993)].
Finite-difference time-domain analysis of the tunability of Anderson localization of light in self-organized GaN nanowire arrays
Authors: Paul Dip Joti , Mimi Arjuman Ara , Hazari Arnab , Bhattacharya Pallab , Baten Md Zunaid
Published: January 2019

The possibility of tuning the resonance frequency and photon lifetime corresponding to Anderson localized resonant modes is investigated using the finite-difference time-domain technique. Experimentally obtained dimensions of molecular beam epitaxy grown self-organized nanowires on silicon have been employed to systematically generate disordered patterns, where multiple-scattering mediated light trapping has been analyzed. The results of our analysis indicate that in spite of the inherent randomness of the scattering medium, it is possible to control the wavelength and strength of the localized modes by varying dimensional features of the nanowires. The localization wavelength in the medium can be tuned toward a higher wavelength by increasing the average diameter of nanowires, whereas cavity quality factors in the order of 105 can be attained by increasing the fill factor of the array. The observed behavior is explained and empirically modeled, and the relation is found to be in good agreement with the predicted localization characteristics for experimentally grown self-assembled nanowires. The results of the analysis indicate that in spite of the absence of periodicity, localization in this medium is related to interference effects resulting from Bragg-like diffractions, which in effect results in the observed systematic variation of localization characteristics as nanowire dimensions are varied.
Spin splitting of surface states in HgTe quantum wells
Authors: Dobretsova A. A. , Kvon Z. D. , Krishtopenko S. S. , Mikhailov N. N. , Dvoretsky S. A.
Published: January 2019

We report on beating appearance in Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations in conduction band of 18–22 nm HgTe quantum wells under applied top-gate voltage. Analysis of the beatings reveals two electron concentrations at the Fermi level arising due to Rashba-like spin splitting of the first conduction subband H1. The difference ΔNs in two concentrations as a function of the gate voltage is qualitatively explained by a proposed toy electrostatic model involving the surface states localized at quantum well interfaces. Experimental values of ΔNs are also in a good quantitative agreement with self-consistent calculations of Poisson and Schrödinger equations with eight- band k ⋅ p Hamiltonian. Our results clearly demonstrate that the large spin splitting of the first conduction subband is caused by surface nature of H1 states hybridized with the heavy-hole band.
Renormalization of triplet populations of a spin dimer in zero magnetic field with quantum transport
Authors: Val'kov V. V. , Aksenov S. V.
Published: January 2019

Based on the nonequilibrium Keldysh technique in the atomic representation, the effect of inducing a varied population of magnetic states of a spin dimer interacting with electrons transported through a system in a zero magnetic field was studied. In order to find the filling numbers of the quantum states of the system under the strong nonequilibrium condition, a system of kinetic equations was derived and solved by the method of nonequilibrium diagram technique for Hubbard operators. Numerical analysis of these equations made it possible to reveal nonequilibrium renormalizations when accounting for strong spin-fermion correlations.
Electrical conductivity, thermoelectrical properties, and EPR spectroscopy of copper chromite ceramic samples doped with magnesium
Authors: Kulbachinskii V. A. , Kytin V. G. , Kondratieva D. Yu. , Konstantinova E. A. , Pavlikov A. V. , Grigoriev A. N. , Mankevich A. S. , Korsakov I. E.
Published: January 2019

The results of a study of copper chromite ceramic samples doped with magnesium are presented. The samples were synthesized according to the solid-phase method using a special procedure for preparing the initial mixture, which ensures a uniform distribution of magnesium with its content from 0.2 to 6%. The substitution of chromium for magnesium in the crystal lattice is confirmed by Raman scattering of light and EPR spectra. As the magnesium content increases from 0 to 6 at.%, the resistivity of the synthesized samples decreases by more than 3 orders of magnitude at room temperature. High thermopower values were obtained, and it was shown that the main charge carriers are holes, and the predominant mechanism of hole transport in doped samples is hopping transfer over localized states, whose density decreases with an increase in energy near the Fermi energy. It is shown that the localization radius increases with an increase in magnesium content.
The manifestation of excitons in low-temperature luminescence spectra of solid solutions of zinc and nickel oxides
Authors: Churmanov V. N. , Sokolov V. I. , Pustovarov V. A. , Gruzdev N. B. , Ivanov V. Yu.
Published: January 2019

The X-ray luminescence spectra of Zn1–xNixO solid solutions of a number of compositions, including nickel oxide (x = 1), were studied in the vicinity of I1 and I2 lines with energies of 3.339 and 3.393 eV. A strong temperature dependence of these lines, similar to that which occurred during observation of donor and acceptor excitons of 3d impurities in compounds II–VI:3d, as well as a change in the intensity ratio with an increase in temperature and different decay kinetics, were found earlier, which made it possible to link the origin of I1 and I2 lines with radiative decay of excitons of various natures. Based on the results obtained in the work, it was confirmed that the band gap width of these compounds does not depend on the composition of the solutions (i.e., on the concentration x), and a set of nickel states, both d and s types, is found in NiO near the conduction band bottom. Based on the analysis of the electron energy spectrum calculated for the studied Zn1–xNixO solid solutions, it was established that one of the observed lines of the X-ray luminescence spectrum is associated with an exciton of s–p type, and the other one—with an exciton of p–d type.
Low-temperature magnetic field dependences of spontaneous magnetization in a low-concentration iron impurity (≤0.2 at%) electron system of a mercury selenide crystal
Authors: Govorkova T. E. , Okulov V. I. , Okulova K. A.
Published: January 2019

The results of an experimental study and theoretical description of the magnetic field dependences of the magnetization of a mercury selenide with low concentrations of iron impurities (0.01–0.2) at% at a temperature of 5 K are presented. The contributions of the spontaneous magnetism of the electron system belonging to the iron atom donor impurity hybridized states, which are shaped like saturation magnetization curves, are highlighted by performing a detailed analysis of the obtained curves. For comparative purposes, similar measurements were carried out on mercury selenide crystals without doping and with gallium impurities (0.05 at%), which allowed confirmation of the data interpretation details. Based on previously developed theoretical concepts about the electron systems under study, formulas describing the field dependences of spontaneous magnetization were obtained, and found to be in good agreement with the experimental curves. As a result of fitting the theoretical dependences to the experimental curves, the parameters characterizing the spontaneous spin magnetism of the studied impurity systems were determined; their values agree with the experimental data obtained earlier when observing Hall effect anomalies and temperature dependences of the magnetic susceptibility in the same systems.
A mixed-methods retrospective study: 10 years of diabetic retinopathy screening in urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary care
Authors: Villalba Clare , Askew Deborah , Jaiprakash Anjali , Donovan Jared , Roberts Jonathan , Russell Anthony , Crawford Ross , Hayman Noel
Published: January 2019

This research applies a mixed-method approach to retrospectively study the history of diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening in an urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander general practice. Data from administrative practice software and publications were extracted and presented as a timeline data visualisation to staff, in six focus groups. Eighteen key staff from the Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (CoE) were purposively recruited. The main outcome measures were retrospective administrative practice data, publications and staff interpretations regarding DR screening at the CoE. The CoE DR screening initially increased screening rates to 93%. Participants reported that CoE DR screening provides eye care from screening to treatment; all annual care is provided in one appointment; and in a client-focussed environment. From 2012 to 2016, the number of regular CoE clients with diabetes increased by 46%. Consequently, DR screening rates dropped from 44% to 22%. Participants’ recognised the service could reach its full potential if it implements continuous quality improvement focussed on client experience, using rigorous data and supported by engaged staff. Initial investment in setting-up DR screening is not enough, instead ongoing quality improvement is integral to a sustainable, successful service long-term.
Tool eccentricity in friction stir welding: a comprehensive review
Authors: Shah L. H. , Walbridge S. , Gerlich A.
Published: January 2019

This paper reviews research on the effect of tool eccentricity in the friction stir welding process. A distinction between pin profile eccentricity and tool eccentricity is addressed, followed by an in-depth review of the research progress in both of the cases, including the mechanism behind the eccentric motion and how it influences the overall joint outcome. Suggestions are made regarding potential future works in this field.
The adaptor protein melanophilin regulates dynamic myosin-Va:cargo interaction and dendrite development in melanocytes
Authors: Robinson Christopher L. , Evans Richard D. , Sivarasa Kajana , Ramalho Jose S. , Briggs Deborah A. , Hume Alistair N.
Published: January 2019

The regulation of organelle transport by the cytoskeleton is fundamental for eukaryotic survival. Cytoskeleton motors are typically modular proteins with conserved motor and diverse cargo-binding domains. Motor:cargo interactions are often indirect and mediated by adaptor proteins, for example, Rab GTPases. Rab27a, via effector melanophilin (Mlph), recruits myosin-Va (MyoVa) to melanosomes and thereby disperses them into melanocyte dendrites. To better understand how adaptors regulate motor:cargo interaction, we used single melanosome fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (smFRAP) to characterize the association kinetics among MyoVa, its adaptors, and melanosomes. We found that MyoVa and Mlph rapidly recovered after smFRAP, whereas Rab27a did not, indicating that MyoVa and Mlph dynamically associate with melanosomes and Rab27a does not. This suggests that dynamic Rab27a:effector interaction rather than Rab27a melanosome:cytosol cycling regulates MyoVa:melanosome association. Accordingly, a Mlph-Rab27a fusion protein reduced MyoVa smFRAP, indicating that it stabilized melanosomal MyoVa. Finally, we tested the functional importance of dynamic MyoVa:melanosome interaction. We found that whereas a MyoVa-Rab27a fusion protein dispersed melanosomes in MyoVa-deficient cells, dendrites were significantly less elongated than in wild-type cells. Given that dendrites are the prime sites of melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, we suggest that dynamic MyoVa:melanosome interaction is important for pigmentation in vivo.
A method of quantifying centrosomes at the single-cell level in human normal and cancer tissue
Authors: Wang Mengdie , Knudsen Beatrice S. , Nagle Raymond B. , Rogers Gregory C. , Cress Anne E.
Published: January 2019

Centrosome abnormalities are emerging hallmarks of cancer. The overproduction of centrosomes (known as centrosome amplification) has been reported in a variety of cancers and is currently being explored as a promising target for therapy. However, to understand different types of centrosome abnormalities and their impact on centrosome function during tumor progression, as well as to identify tumor subtypes that would respond to the targeting of a centrosome abnormality, a reliable method for accurately quantifying centrosomes in human tissue samples is needed. Here, we established a method of quantifying centrosomes at a single-cell level in different types of human tissue samples. We tested multiple anti-centriole and pericentriolar-material antibodies to identify bona fide centrosomes and multiplexed these with cell border markers to identify individual cells within the tissue. High-resolution microscopy was used to generate multiple Z-section images, allowing us to acquire whole cell volumes in which to scan for centrosomes. The normal cells within the tissue serve as internal positive controls. Our method provides a simple, accurate way to distinguish alterations in centrosome numbers at the level of single cells.
Early Infectious Disease Outpatient Follow-up of Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy Patients Reduces 30-Day Readmission
Authors: Saini Ena , Ali Mohammad , Du Ping , Crook Tonya , Zurlo John
Published: January 2019

We conducted a case-control study to examine the association between outpatient infectious disease (ID) follow-up and risk of 30-day readmission in 384 patients receiving outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy. ID outpatient follow-up within 2 weeks was associated with lower risk of all-cause 30-day readmission (adjusted odds ratio, 0.33; P = .0001).
Bilateral trade agreements and price distortions in agricultural markets
Authors: Hirsch Cornelius , Oberhofer Harald
Published: January 2019

Agricultural support levels are at a crossroad with reduced distortions in OECD countries and increasing support for agricultural producers in emerging economies observable over the last decades. This paper studies the determinants of distortions in the agricultural markets by putting a specific focus on the role of trade policy. Applying various different dynamic panel data estimators and explicitly accounting for potential endogeneity of trade policy agreements, we find that an increase in the number of bilateral free trade agreements exhibits significant short- and long-run distortion reducing effects. By contrast, our evidence suggests that WTO’s Uruguay Round Agreement on Agriculture has not been successful in systematically contributing to a reduction in agricultural trade distortions. From a policy point of view, our findings thus point to a lack of effectiveness of multilateral trade negotiations.
Gender differences in incidence and in-hospital outcomes of surgical aortic valve replacement in Spain, 2001–15
Authors: López-de-Andrés Ana , Méndez-Bailón Manuel , Perez-Farinos Napoleon , Hernández-Barrera Valentín , de Miguel-Díez Javier , Muñoz-Rivas Nuria , Jiménez-García Rodrigo
Published: January 2019

Background

we aim to examine trends in the incidence of surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) among women and men in Spain from 2001 to 2015; compare in-hospital outcomes for mechanical and bioprosthetic SAVR by gender and; to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality (IHM) after SAVR.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study using the Spanish National Hospital Discharge Database, 2001–15. We included patients that had SAVR as procedure in their discharge report. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to assess the impact of gender on the outcomes of mechanical and bioprosthetic SAVR.

Results

We identified 86 578 patients who underwent SAVR (40% women). Incidence of SVAR was higher in men (incidence rate ratio 1.57; 95%CI 1.55–1.59). In 2001, 73.36% of the men and 71.57% of women received a mechanical prosthesis; these proportions decreased to 43.04% in men and 35.89% in women in 2015, whereas bioprosthetic SAVR increased to 56.96% and 64.11%. After PSM we found that IHM was higher in women than in matched men for mechanical (8.94% vs. 6.79%; P < 0.001) and bioprosthetic (6.51 vs. 5.42%; P = 0.001) SAVR. The mean length of hospital stay was longer (19.54 vs. 18.74 days; P < 0.001) among females than males undergoing mechanical SAVR. Higher IHM after SAVR was associated with older age, comorbidities (except diabetes and atrial fibrillation), concomitant coronary artery bypass graft and emergency room admission.

Conclusions

This nation-wide analysis over 15 years of gender-specific outcomes after SAVR showed that, after PSM women have significantly higher IHM after mechanical and bioprosthetic SAVR than men.
Defining standards of CARE for invasive fungal diseases in the ICU
Authors: Cuenca-Estrella Manuel , Kett Daniel H , Wauters Joost
Published: January 2019

The aim of this article is to review the current recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of invasive fungal infection in the ICU setting and to explore whether there are standards of care for this patient population. The text focuses mainly on the two most common invasive fungal diseases that afflict non-neutropenic patients: candidaemia and invasive candidosis (IC), and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA).
‘Specimens Distributed’
Authors: Cornish Caroline , Driver Felix
Published: January 2019

This paper presents research on the dispersal of objects from the Museum of Economic Botany at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (rbgk) from 1847 to 1914. Established by William Hooker, the museum received thousands of objects from around the world, the display of which was designed to illustrate plants’ properties and economic potential. The paper argues that the conventional focus in museum studies on processes of acquisition and accumulation captures only one side of collections’ history. Drawing on research in archives and collections at Kew and elsewhere, we highlight the redistribution of specimens and artefacts from Kew’s museum through a variety of channels. We focus on three modes of circulation: firstly, Kew’s role as a clearing house for collections; secondly the exchange of objects; and thirdly the distribution of specimens and artefacts to schools across the British Isles, a practice which became prevalent towards the end of the period.
Extracellular fluid volume expansion, arterial stiffness and uncontrolled hypertension in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Braam Branko , Lai Chung Foon , Abinader Joseph , Bello Aminu K
Published: January 2019

Background

Hypertension is prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is related to extracellular fluid volume (ECFV) expansion. Arterial stiffening is another implication of CKD that can be caused by ECFV expansion. In this study, we hypothesized that CKD patients with uncontrolled hypertension are more likely to be fluid volume expanded than normotensive patients, which in turn is associated with increased arterial stiffness.

Methods

Adult hypertensive patients with mild–severe CKD (n = 82) were recruited. ECFV was assessed using multifrequency bioimpedance and arterial stiffness by applanation tonometry and oscillometry.

Results

Patients with uncontrolled hypertension had fluid volume expansion compared with controls (1.0 ± 1.5 versus 0.0 ± 1.6 L, P < 0.001), and had a higher augmentation index (AIx) and pulse wave velocity. Fluid volume expansion was more prevalent in patients with uncontrolled hypertension (58%) than patients who were at target (27%). Fluid volume expansion was correlated with age, AIx and systolic blood pressure. In a binary logistic regression analysis, AIx, age and fluid volume status were independent predictors of uncontrolled hypertension in both univariate and multivariate models.

Discussion

In summary, uncontrolled hypertension among hypertensive CKD patients is associated with ECFV expansion. Our data suggest a relationship between ECFV expansion, increased arterial stiffness and uncontrolled hypertension.
Validation and Application for the Berlin Grading System of Moyamoya Disease in Adult Patients
Authors: Teo Mario , Furtado Sunil , Kaneko Osamu F , Azad Tej D , Madhugiri Venkatesh , Do Huy M , Steinberg Gary K
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Traditional moyamoya disease (MMD) classification relies on morphological digital subtraction angiography (DSA) assessment, which do not reflect hemodynamic status, clinical symptoms, or surgical treatment outcome.

OBJECTIVE

To (1) validate the new Berlin MMD preoperative symptomatology grading system and (2) determine the clinical application of the grading system in predicting radiological and clinical outcomes after surgical revascularization.

METHODS

Ninety-six MMD patients (192 hemispheres) with all 3 investigations (DSA, magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], Xenon-CT) performed preoperatively at our institution (2007-2013) were included. Two clinicians independently graded the imaging findings according to the proposed criteria. Patients’ modified Rankin Score (mRS) scores (preoperative, postoperative, last follow-up), postoperative infarct (radiological, clinical) were collected and statistical correlations performed.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-seven direct superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery bypasses were performed on 96 patients (66 female, mean age 41 yr, mean follow-up 4.3 yr). DSA, MRI, and cerebrovascular reserve capacity were independent factors associated hemispheric symptomatology (when analyzed individually or in the combined grading system). Mild (grade I), moderate (grade II), severe (grade III) were graded in 45, 71, and 76 hemispheres respectively; of which, clinical symptoms were found in 33% of grade I, 92% of grade II, 100% of grade III hemispheres (P < .0001). Two percent of grade I, 11% of grade II, 20% of grade III hemispheres showed postoperative radiological diffusion weighted image-positive ischemic changes or hemorrhage on MRI (P = .018). Clinical postoperative stroke was observed in 1.4% of grade II, 6.6% of grade III hemispheres (P = .077). The grading system also correlated well to dichotomized mRS postoperative outcome.

CONCLUSION

The Berlin MMD grading system is able to stratify preoperative hemispheric symptomatology. Furthermore, it correlated with postoperative new ischemic changes on MRI, and showed a strong trend in predicting clinical postoperative stroke.
Reduction in Exposure to Selected Harmful and Potentially Harmful Constituents Approaching Those Observed Upon Smoking Abstinence in Smokers Switching to the Menthol Tobacco Heating System 2.2 for 3 Months (Part 1)
Authors: Haziza Christelle , de La Bourdonnaye Guillaume , Donelli Andrea , Poux Valerie , Skiada Dimitra , Weitkunat Rolf , Baker Gizelle , Picavet Patrick , Lüdicke Frank
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The Tobacco Heating System (THS) is a “heat-not-burn” tobacco product designed to generate significantly lower levels of harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHCs) and present lower risk of harm than cigarettes. This study assessed the exposure reduction to selected HPHCs in smokers switching to menthol Tobacco Heating System (mTHS) 2.2 compared with smokers continuing smoking menthol cigarettes (mCCs) and smoking abstinence (SA) for 5 days in a confined setting, followed by an 86-day ambulatory period.

Methods

A total of 160 healthy adult US smokers participated in this randomized, three-arm parallel group, controlled clinical study. Biomarkers of exposure to 16 HPHCs were measured in blood and 24-hour urine. Safety was monitored throughout the study. Information was also gathered on product evaluation, product use, subjective effects, and clinical risk markers (co-publication Part 2).

Results

Nicotine uptake was comparable in both exposure groups (mTHS:mCC ratio of 96% on day 90). On day 5, biomarker of exposure levels to other HPHCs were reduced by 51%–96% in the mTHS group compared with the mCC group, and these reductions were sustained for most biomarkers of exposure over ambulatory period. After 90 days of use, the level of satisfaction with mTHS and suppression of urge to smoke were comparable to mCC.

Conclusion

Switching from mCCs to mTHS significantly reduced the exposure to HPHCs to levels approaching those observed in subjects who abstained from smoking for the duration of the study.

Implications

This study compared the impact of switching to mTHS on biomarkers of exposure, relative to continued smoking or SA.

Clinical Significance

Trial Registration

NCT01989156 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Long-term Follow-up of Patients Treated with Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation via the Foramen Rotundum for Isolated Maxillary Nerve Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Ran Bing , Wei Jun , Zhong Qiong , Fu Min , Yang Jun , Chen XinRong , Wen XinYuan , Liu Yong , Wu Yun , Deng Xin
Published: January 2019

Objective

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation (PRT) via the foramen rotundum (FR) for the treatment of isolated maxillary (V2) idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITN) and assess the appropriate puncture angle through the anterior coronoid process to reach the FR.

Methods

Between January 2011 and October 2016, 87 patients with V2 ITN refractory to conservative treatment were treated by computed tomography (CT)–guided PRT via the FR at our institution. The outcome of pain relief was assessed by the visual analog scale (VAS) and Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain grade and grouped as complete pain relief (BNI grades I–III) or unsuccessful pain relief (BNI grades IV–V). Recurrence and complications were also monitored and recorded. The puncture angle for this novel approach was assessed based on intraoperative CT images.

Results

Of the 87 treated patients, 85 (97.7%) achieved complete pain relief, and two patients (2.3%) experienced unsuccessful pain relief immediately after operation. During the mean follow-up period of 44.3 months, 15 patients (17.2%) experienced recurring pain. No severe complications occurred, except for hypoesthesia restricted to the V2 distribution in all patients (100%) and facial hematoma in 10 patients (11.5%). The mean puncture angle to reach the FR was 33.6° ± 5.7° toward the sagittal plane.

Discussion

CT-guided PRT via the FR for refractory isolated V2 ITN is effective and safe and could be a rational therapy for patients with V2 ITN.
Ordering of Diagnostic Imaging by Physical Therapists: A 5-Year Retrospective Practice Analysis
Authors: Keil Aaron P , Baranyi Brian , Mehta Sameer , Maurer Amma
Published: January 2019

Background

Significant progress has been made in implementing direct access. As more therapists transition into direct access roles, it seems prudent to consider how additional resources common to other first-contact providers might impact patient care.

Objectives

Direct referral for diagnostic imaging by physical therapists is relatively rare in the civilian setting and little has been published on the subject. The primary objective of this study was to examine the appropriateness of diagnostic imaging studies referred by civilian physical therapists at an academic medical center. Secondary objectives were to track reimbursement data and overall use rates.

Design

This was a single-center, retrospective practice analysis of 10 physical therapists over a period of nearly 5 years.

Methods

The electronic medical record was reviewed for each patient who had an imaging referral placed by a physical therapist. Relevant clinical exam findings and patient history were provided to a radiologist who then applied the American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria to determine appropriateness. Reimbursement data and therapist use rates were also evaluated.

Results

Of the 108 total imaging studies, 91% were considered appropriate. Overall, use rates per direct access evaluation were 9% for plain film x-rays and 4% for advanced imaging. Reimbursement was 100%.

Limitations

This study was limited to 10 physical therapists at 1 practice location. Appropriateness was evaluated by 1 radiologist. The educational background of referring therapists was not evaluated.

Conclusions

Physical therapists demonstrated appropriate use of diagnostic imaging in the vast majority of cases (91%). They were judicious in their use of imaging, and there were no issues with reimbursement. These findings could be useful for physical therapists interested in acquiring diagnostic imaging referral privileges.