bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrostatic tuning of the pre- and post-hydrolytic open states in CFTR
Authors: Zhang Jingyao , Hwang Tzyh-Chang
Published: February 2017

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is an ion channel that couples adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis at its nucleotide-binding domains to gating transitions in its transmembrane domains. We previously reported that the charge-neutralized mutant R352C shows two distinct open states, O1 and O2. The two states could be distinguished by their single-channel current amplitudes: O1 having a smaller amplitude (representing a prehydrolytic open state) and O2 having a larger amplitude (representing a post-hydrolytic open state). In this study, a similar phenotype is described for two mutations of another pore-lining residue, N306D and N306E, suggesting that alterations of the net charge within CFTR’s pore confer this unique conductance aberration. Because moving either of the two endogenous charges, R303 and R352, to positions further along TM5 and TM6, respectively, also results in this O1O2 phenotype, we conclude that the position of the charged residue in the internal vestibule affects hydrolysis-dependent conductance changes. Furthermore, our data show that the buffer and CFTR blocker morpholino propane sulfonic acid (MOPS−) occludes the O1 state more than it does the O2 state when the net charge of the internal vestibule is unchanged or increased. In contrast, when the net charge in the internal vestibule is decreased, the differential sensitivity to MOPS− block is diminished. We propose a three-state blocking mechanism to explain the charge-dependent sensitivity of prehydrolytic and post-hydrolytic open states to MOPS− block. We further posit that the internal vestibule expands during the O1 to O2 transition so that mutation-induced electrostatic perturbations within the pore are amplified by the smaller internal vestibule of the O1 state and thus result in the O1O2 phenotype and the charge-dependent sensitivity of the two open states to MOPS− block. Our study not only relates the O1O2 phenotype to the charge distribution in CFTR’s internal vestibule but also provides a toolbox for mechanistic studies of CFTR gating by ATP hydrolysis.
Considerations for the Full Global Withdrawal of Oral Polio Vaccine After Eradication of Polio
Authors: Hampton Lee M. , du Châtellier Gaël Maufras , Fournier-Caruana Jacqueline , Ottosen Ann , Rubin Jennifer , Menning Lisa , Farrell Margaret , Shendale Stephanie , Patel Manish
Published: February 2017

Eliminating the risk of polio from vaccine-derived polioviruses is essential for creating a polio-free world, and eliminating that risk will require stopping use of all oral polio vaccines (OPVs) once all types of wild polioviruses have been eradicated. In many ways, the experience with the global switch from trivalent OPV (tOPV) to bivalent OPV (bOPV) can inform the eventual full global withdrawal of OPV. Significant preparation will be needed for a thorough, synchronized, and full withdrawal of OPV, and such preparation would be aided by setting a reasonably firm date for OPV withdrawal as far in advance as possible, ideally at least 24 months. A shorter lead time would provide valuable flexibility for decisions about when to stop use of OPV in the context of uncertainty about whether or not all types of wild polioviruses had been eradicated, but it might increase the cost of OPV withdrawal.
New ALMA constraints on the star-forming interstellar medium at low metallicity: a 50 pc view of the blue compact dwarf galaxy SBS 0335−052
Authors: Cormier D. , Bendo G. J. , Hony S. , Lebouteiller V. , Madden S. C. , Galliano F. , Glover S. C. O. , Klessen R. S. , Abel N. P. , Bigiel F. , Clark P. C.
Published: February 2017

Properties of the cold interstellar medium of low-metallicity galaxies are not well known due to the faintness and extremely small scale on which emission is expected. We present deep ALMA band 6 (230 GHz) observations of the nearby, low-metallicity (12 + log (O/H) = 7.25) blue compact dwarf galaxy SBS 0335−052 at an unprecedented resolution of 0.2 arcsec (52 pc). The 12CO J = 2→1 line is not detected and we report a 3σ upper limit of LCO(2–1) = 3.6 × 104 K km s−1 pc2. Assuming that molecular gas is converted into stars with a given depletion time, ranging from 0.02 to 2 Gyr, we find lower limits on the CO-to-H2 conversion factor αCO in the range 102–104 M⊙ pc−2 (K km s−1)−1. The continuum emission is detected and resolved over the two main super star clusters. Re-analysis of the IR–radio spectral energy distribution suggests that the mm-fluxes are not only free–free emission but are most likely also associated with a cold dust component coincident with the position of the brightest cluster. With standard dust properties, we estimate its mass to be as large as 105 M⊙. Both line and continuum results suggest the presence of a large cold gas reservoir unseen in CO even with ALMA.
Emerging Techniques in Degenerative Thoracolumbar Surgery
Authors: Choma Theodore J. , Mroz Thomas E. , Goldstein Christina L. , Arnold Paul , Shamji Mohammed F.
Published: February 2017

There continue to be incremental advances in thoracolumbar spine surgery techniques in attempts to achieve more predictable outcomes, minimize risk of complications, speed recovery, and minimize the costs of these interventions. This paper reviews recent literature with regard to emerging techniques of interest in the surgical treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis, fusion fixation and graft material, degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis, and thoracolumbar deformity and sacroiliac joint degeneration. There continue to be advances in minimal access options in these areas, although robust outcome data are heterogeneous in its support. The evidence in support of sacroiliac fusion appears to be growing more robust in the properly selected patient.
Resection of Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation-Positive Prerolandic Motor Areas Causes Permanent Impairment of Motor Function
Authors: Moser Tobias , Bulubas Lucia , Sabih Jamil , Conway Neal , Wildschutz Noémie , Sollmann Nico , Meyer Bernhard , Ringel Florian , Krieg Sandro M.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND: Navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) helps to determine the distribution of motor eloquent areas prior to brain surgery. Yet, the eloquence of primary motor areas frontal to the precentral gyrus identified via nTMS is unclear.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the resection of nTMS-positive prerolandic motor areas and its correlation with postsurgical impairment of motor function.

METHODS: Forty-three patients with rolandic or prerolandic gliomas (WHO grade I-IV) underwent nTMS prior to surgery. Only patients without ischemia within the motor system in postoperative MRI diffusion sequences were enrolled. Based on the 3-dimensional fusion of preoperative nTMS motor mapping data with postsurgical MRI scans, we identified nTMS points that were resected in the infiltration zone of the tumor. We then classified the resected points according to the localization and latency of their motor evoked potentials. Surgery-related paresis was graded as transient (≤6 weeks) or permanent (>6 weeks).

RESULTS: Out of 43, 31 patients (72%) showed nTMS-positive motor points in the prerolandic gyri. In general, 13 out of 43 patients (30%) underwent resection of nTMS points. Ten out of these patients showed postoperative paresis. There were 2 (15%) patients with a transient and 8 (62%) with a permanent surgery-related paresis. In 3 cases (23%), motor function remained unimpaired.

CONCLUSION: After resection of nTMS-positive motor points, 62% of patients suffered from a new permanent paresis. Thus, even though they are located in the superior or middle frontal gyrus, these cortical areas must undergo intraoperative mapping.
Effects of Different Mill Types on Ethanol Production Using Uncooked Dry‐Grind Fermentation and Characteristics of Residual Starch in Distiller's Dried Grains (DDG)
Authors: Wongsagonsup Rungtiwa , Jane Jay‐lin
Published: February 2017

This study aimed to investigate impacts of milling methods on ethanol production using an uncooked dry‐grind (cold fermentation) process and characterize residual starch in the distiller's dried grains (DDG) coproduct. Four corn lines with different chemical compositions were ground with cyclone, ultra‐centrifugal, or hammer mills equipped with a screen of 0.5 mm opening and used for the cold fermentation process. Greater starch hydrolysis and ethanol yield were obtained from cyclone‐milled corn, resulting from larger damaged starch contents and smaller particle sizes of the ground corn. Corn grains and ground corn after five‐month storage showed less starch hydrolysis than the freshly ground counterpart. Residual starch (2.8–8.0%) with large proportions of intact amylopectin contents (up to 42.5%) was found in the DDG from all types of milling. The results suggested that the entrapment of starch granules in ground corn and a low activity of amylolytic enzymes at a high ethanol concentration were accountable for the remaining of starch in the DDG.
Metabolomic Study of Chardonnay Grapevines Double Stressed with Esca-Associated Fungi and Drought
Authors: Lima Marta R. M. , Machado Antoinette F. , Gubler Walter D.
Published: February 2017

Esca is a complex grapevine trunk disease associated with fungal infection of the xylem. However, the inconstancy of external symptoms and the ability of esca-associated fungi to inhabit grapevines without causing apparent disease suggests that abiotic factors might be involved in the disease. Water stress has been proposed to be one of the factors influencing esca symptom manifestation but the specific role played by water stress on esca development is unknown. We conducted a proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy-based metabolomic study aiming at unveiling drought-induced modifications in xylem sap composition that could contribute to esca-related infection progression. Vitis vinifera ‘Chardonnay’ plants were inoculated with Phaeomoniella chlamydospora or Phaeoacremonium minimum and exposed to water stress. Using this approach, 28 metabolites were identified in xylem sap. The results show that water stress induces a concentration increase of most metabolites in xylem sap. An average increase >100% was found for asparagine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, tyrosine, valine, sarcosine, and trigonelline. The increase of these compounds seems to be also modulated by fungal infection. This study offers further support to the putative role of drought in esca expression, and opens new avenues of research by extending the current knowledge about metabolites possibly involved in esca disease.
Repeated Piperacillin-Tazobactam Plasma Concentration Measurements in Severely Obese Versus Nonobese Critically Ill Septic Patients and the Risk of Under– and Overdosing*
Authors: Jung Boris , Mahul Martin , Breilh Dominique , Legeron Rachel , Signe Jeremy , Jean-Pierre Helene , Uhlemann Anne-Catrin , Molinari Nicolas , Jaber Samir
Published: February 2017

Objective:

Obesity and critical illness modify pharmacokinetics of antibiotics, but piperacillin-tazobactam continuous IV infusion pharmacokinetics has been poorly studied in obese critically ill patients. We aimed to compare pharmacokinetics of piperacillin in severely obese and nonobese patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. We hypothesized that plasma concentration variability would expose the critically ill to both piperacillin under and overdosing.

Methods:

Prospective comparative study. Consecutive critically ill severely obese (body mass index, > 35 kg/m2) and nonobese patients (body mass index, < 30 kg/m2) were treated with 16 g/2 g/24 hr continuous piperacillin-tazobactam infusion. Piperacillin plasma concentration was measured every 12 hours over a 7-day period by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Unbound piperacillin plasma concentration and fractional time of plasma concentration spent over 64 mg/L (4-fold the minimal inhibitory concentration for Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were compared between the two groups. We performed 5,000 Monte Carlo simulations for various dosing regimens and minimal inhibitory concentration and calculated the probability to spend 100% of the time over 64 mg/L.

Results:

We enrolled 11 severely obese and 12 nonobese patients and obtained 294 blood samples. We did not observe a statistically significant difference in piperacillin plasma concentrations over time between groups. The fractional time over 64 mg/L was 64% (43–82%) and 93% (85–100%) in obese and nonobese patients, respectively, p = 0.027 with intra- and intergroup variability. Five nonobese and two obese patients experienced potentially toxic piperacillin plasma concentrations. When 64 mg/L was targeted, Monte Carlo simulations showed that 12 g/1.5 g/24 hr was inadequate in both groups and 16 g/2 g/24 hr was adequate only in nonobese patients.

Conclusion:

Using a conventional dosing of 16 g/2 g/24 hr continuous infusion, obese patients were more likely than nonobese patients to experience piperacillin underdosing when facing high minimal inhibitory concentration pathogens. The present study suggests that piperacillin drug monitoring might be necessary in the sickest patients who are at the highest risk of unpredictable plasma concentration exposing them to overdose, toxicity, underdosing, and treatment failure.
Improving Clinical Outcomes for Patients With Class III Heart Failure
Authors: Shapiro Melissa , Bires Angela Macci , Waterstram-Rich Kristen , Cline Thomas W.
Published: February 2017

Heart failure (HF) is a serious medical problem in the United States and is placing a financial strain on the health care system. It is the leading cause of mortality and as the overall incidence continues to increase, so does the economic impact on the health care system. Innovative treatment options, in the form of disease management programs and implantable cardiac devices, such as the CorVue capable implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) pacemaker, offer the promise of an enhanced quality of life and reduced mortality. Even with these advances, HF continues to be a challenge. Studies reviewing HF management programs have shown promising results. However, more studies are needed to determine which combination of HF management interventions has the greatest financial impact and yields the best patient outcomes. The objective of the research study was to compare 30-day readmission rates of patients implanted with the CorVue capable ICD pacemaker with patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) with no implanted device. The aim of the research focused on the usefulness of intrathoracic impedance monitoring alerts in guiding empirical treatment of patients with CHF to prevent HF readmissions. Methodology included a retrospective medical chart review, comparing 30-day readmission events among patients with class III CHF who received home health intervention with similar patients implanted with the CorVue ICD.
An Analysis of the Prevalence of Depression Post–Myocardial Infarction
Authors: DiSante Jessica L. , Bires Angela Macci , Cline Thomas W. , Waterstram-Rich Kristen
Published: February 2017

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. The World Bank and the World Health Organization predict that depression and coronary heart disease will be the largest causes of global health burden and disability by the year 2020. Studies have demonstrated that patients with CAD experience depression at a higher rate than the general population. Because of this connection, it is critical to recognize depression and manage depression effectively for people with CAD. Studies have also provided evidence that identifying and treating depression in patients early after a myocardial infarction improve clinical outcomes. In addition, a number of studies have discussed the negative effects that can occur from untreated depression in these patients. The cited negative effects include mortality, recurrent myocardial events, and a worse quality of life. This article discusses the results of a research that was completed at a cardiology office using a retroactive medical record review that focused on outpatients with cardiac diseases. The primary aim of the study was to collect data using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), a public domain screening tool. This research was intended to provide evidence that would support using the PHQ-9 as a standard depression screening tool for patients post–myocardial infarction. By recognizing the symptoms of depression, the patient would then be treated accordingly.
Can We Identify Parents Who Do Not Verbally Share Concerns for Their Children's Development?
Authors: Eremita Matthew , Semancik Eileen , Lerer Trudy , Dworkin Paul H.
Published: February 2017

Objective:

We aimed to identify characteristics of parents who do not voice developmental concerns when prompted by their children's nurse and/or primary care provider (PCP), despite reporting concerns on parent-completed questionnaires.

Methods:

We reviewed 376 medical records of children seen for a 9-month well-child visit in an urban pediatric clinic between September 2011 and December 2012 for sociodemographic variables hypothesized to affect parents' sharing of developmental concerns: the child's birth order and gender; parents' education level, employment, relationship status, and primary language; and family size and racial/ethnic background. The target population was parents who reported concerns on the Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS), a routinely administered, parent-completed screening questionnaire. We subdivided parents who reported concerns on the PEDS (N = 86) based on whether they voiced developmental concerns when prompted by their children's nurse and/or PCP. Two-sided Fisher's exact tests and logistic regression evaluated the relationship between sociodemographic variables and parents' voicing of developmental concerns.

Results:

Only parent education approached significance, as parents with less than a high school education (<HS) were more likely to not voice concerns for their children's development than parents with at least a high school degree or equivalent (≥HS) (63% compared to 35%, p = .056). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that parents with <HS were 3.238 (1.085–9.663, 95% CI, p = .035) times more likely to not verbally share developmental concerns than those with ≥HS.

Conclusion:

Parents with low educational attainment may be more likely to not verbally share their developmental concerns. For children of such parents, early detection of developmental delay may be strengthened by use of written questionnaires.
The Impact of Two Operating Surgeons on Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Weichman Katie E. , Lam Gretl , Wilson Stelios C. , Levine Jamie P. , Allen Robert J. , Karp Nolan S. , Choi Mihye , Thanik Vishal D.
Published: February 2017

Background:

Given the complexity of microsurgical breast reconstruction, there are many opportunities to improve both surgical efficiency and outcomes. The use of two operating surgeons has been employed, but the outcomes are unproven. In this study, the authors compare the outcomes of patients undergoing microsurgical breast reconstruction with one operating surgeon to those with two surgeons.

Methods:

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing microsurgical breast reconstruction between July of 2011 and January of 2014 at a single academic institution was conducted. Patients were divided into two cohorts: those undergoing reconstruction with one surgeon and those having reconstruction with two surgeons. Once identified, patients were analyzed and outcomes were compared.

Results:

A total of 157 patients underwent 248 microsurgical breast reconstructions during the study period. One hundred three patients (170 flaps) had two surgeons and 54 patients (78 flaps) had one surgeon. Patients undergoing unilateral and bilateral reconstructions with two surgeons had decreased mean operating room time by 60.1 minutes and 134 minutes (p < 0.001) and length of stay by 1.8 days and 1.3 days (p < 0.05), when compared to a single surgeon. Additionally, patients with one surgeon were more likely to have postoperative donor-site breakdown at 5.1 percent (n = 4) versus 0.6 percent (n = 1) (p = 0.0351).

Conclusions:

The use of two operating surgeons has demonstrable effects on the outcomes of microsurgical breast reconstruction. The addition of a second surgeon significantly decreases operating room time and shortens hospital length of stay in both unilateral and bilateral reconstruction. It also significantly decreases donor-site wound healing complications.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, III.
The Effect of Atorvastatin on the Viability of Ischemic Skin Flaps in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Jia Ya-Chao , Xu Jia , Chen Hong-Hao , Kang Qing-Lin , Chai Yi-Min
Published: February 2017

Background:

Endothelial progenitor cells play a critical role in neovascularization. However, the mobilization, recruitment, and functional capacity of endothelial progenitor cells are significantly impaired in diabetes. Statins have been shown to augment the number and improve the function of endothelial progenitor cells. This study investigated the effects of statins on the viability of ischemic skin flaps in diabetic rats.

Methods:

Twenty normal and 40 diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats were included in this study. Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day) was administered orally in 20 diabetic rats at 2 weeks before flap surgery for 21 consecutive days. Other rats received equal vehicle. Two weeks after first gavage, a 3 × 10-cm skin flap was established on the backs of rats. The necrotic area of each skin flap was measured at 7 days postoperatively. Capillary density and endothelial progenitor cells recruited to the flaps were analyzed using immunofluorescence staining. Circulating endothelial progenitor cell number was determined by flow cytometry. In vitro migration and tube formation experiments were used to analyze the function of endothelial progenitor cells.

Results:

Atorvastatin treatment increased flap survival rate and capillary density. In addition, more endothelial progenitor cells were identified in peripheral blood and skin flaps in diabetic rats receiving atorvastatin. Atorvastatin treatment also restored the impaired function of diabetic endothelial progenitor cells in migration and tube formation.

Conclusion:

Atorvastatin notably promoted neovascularization and enhanced the viability of ischemic skin flaps in diabetic rats, which may be mediated at least partially by augmenting the number and restoring the functional capacity of endothelial progenitor cells.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Monobloc Distraction in the Crouzon-Pfeiffer Craniofacial Deformity Using Geometric Morphometrics
Authors: Visser Richard , Ruff Clifford F. , Angullia Freida , Ponniah Allan J. T. , Jeelani N. U. Owase , Britto Jonathan A. , Koudstaal Maarten J. , Dunaway David J.
Published: February 2017

Background:

Crouzon-Pfeiffer syndrome is caused by mutations predominantly in the FGFR2 gene leading to syndromic craniosynostosis and midfacial hypoplasia. Monobloc distraction aims to correct both functional and aesthetic disharmony as a result of midfacial hypoplasia. This study evaluates the corrective effects and effectiveness of monobloc distraction in Crouzon-Pfeiffer patients.

Methods:

Preoperative and postoperative scans were collected from 20 Crouzon and two Pfeiffer patients aged 7 to 20 years. Fifty-six normal skulls were used as a control group. Geometric morphometrics using 52 frontofacial landmarks were used to analyze the normal skull and preoperative and postoperative patient skulls. Color maps were created to visualize differences among the average normal, preoperative, and postoperative Crouzon-Pfeiffer patients.

Results:

In the studied patient population, monobloc distraction with the use of an external distractor advanced the upper half of the midface more than the lower half of the midface. There was an anteroinferior rotation in the monobloc segment. The zygomatic arch length improved on average to 88 and 90 percent of normal (right and left, respectively), whereas globe protrusion was corrected from 134 percent to 84 percent and from 131 percent to 87 percent of normal (right and left, respectively) in the studied patient population. Compared with a normal skull, the maxillary region remained retruded.

Conclusions:

The advancement achieved by monobloc distraction is effective in the upper half of the midface; the lower half of the midface is advanced but remains retruded in comparison with the normal population. The midface is rotated anteroinferiorly.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Homeotic and Embryonic Gene Expression in Breast Adipose Tissue and in Adipose Tissues Used as Donor Sites in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Foissac Rémi , Villageois Phi , Chignon-Sicard Bérengère , Georgiou Charalambos , Camuzard Olivier , Dani Christian
Published: February 2017

Background:

Autologous fat grafting has become an essential procedure in breast reconstructive surgery. However, molecular knowledge of different adipose donor sites remains inadequate. Tissue regeneration studies have shown that it is essential to match the Hox code of transplanted cells and host tissues to achieve correct repair. This study aims to provide a better molecular understanding of adipose tissue.

Methods:

Over the course of 1 year, the authors prospectively included 15 patients and studied seven adipose areas: chin, breast, arm, abdomen, thigh, hip, and knee. The first step consisted of the surgical harvesting of adipose tissue. RNA was then extracted and converted into cDNA to study gene expression levels of 10 targeted genes by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Forty samples from Caucasian women with a mean age of 48 years were studied. The expression of PAX3, a marker of neuroectodermal origin, was significantly higher in the breast, with a decreasing gradient from the upper to lower areas of the body. An inverse gradient was found for the expression of HOXC10. This expression profile was statistically significant for the areas of the thigh and knee compared with the breast (p < 0.0083).

Conclusions:

Breast fat may have a specific embryologic origin compared with the knee and thigh. The reinjection of adipocytes from the infraumbilical area leads to the transfer of cells highly expressing HOXC10. This study raises questions about the safety of this procedure, and future studies will be required to examine molecular modifications of adipose cells transferred to a heterotopic location.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, V.
Laboratory Models for the Study of Normal and Pathologic Wound Healing
Authors: Boyko Tatiana V. , Longaker Michael T. , Yang George P.
Published: February 2017

Current knowledge of wound healing is based on studies using various in vitro and in vivo wound models. In vitro models allow for biological examination of specific cell types involved in wound healing. In vivo models generally provide the full spectrum of biological responses required for wound healing, including inflammation and angiogenesis, and provide cell-cell interactions not seen in vitro. In this review, the authors aim to delineate the most relevant wound healing models currently available and to discuss their strengths and limitations in their approximation of the human wound healing processes to aid scientists in choosing the most appropriate wound healing models for designing, testing, and validating their experiments.
Can I Make Robotic Surgery Make Sense in My Practice?
Authors: Selber Jesse C.
Published: February 2017

Over the past 10 years, robotic technology has had a significant impact on minimally invasive surgery. Because plastic surgery is rooted in “open” techniques, robotic applications in the specialty have been slow to emerge. That said, robotic technology possesses superhuman precision and high-definition, three-dimensional optics that are promising attributes in the hands of the plastic surgeon. In this article, the author explores three applications in robotic plastic surgery: (1) transoral robotic reconstructive surgery for head and neck reconstruction, permitting complex oropharyngeal reconstruction without dividing the lip or mandible; (2) robotic muscle harvest, permitting minimally invasive harvest of the latissimus dorsi and rectus abdominis muscle; and (3) robotic microanastomoses, extending the capabilities of the human hand in microvascular and microlymphatic surgery. An overview of the concepts, surgical techniques, and indications is provided. Although progress has been made, many barriers remain to adopting this technology in its current state, and these are also discussed. Robotic surgery is just beginning to have an impact on the field of plastic surgery. As this technology continues to advance in and out of the operating room, it will play an increasingly prominent role in our specialty and in our lives.
Efficacy and Clinical Utility of a High-Attenuation Object Artifact Reduction Algorithm in Flat-Detector Image Reconstruction Compared With Standard Image Reconstruction
Authors: Naehle Claas P. , Hechelhammer Lukas , Richter Heiko , Ryffel Fabian , Wildermuth Simon , Weber Johannes
Published: February 2017

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and clinical utility of a metal artifact reduction (MAR) image reconstruction algorithm for the reduction of high-attenuation object (HAO)–related image artifacts.

Methods

Images were quantitatively evaluated for image noise (noiseSD and noiserange) and qualitatively for artifact severity, gray–white-matter delineation, and diagnostic confidence with conventional reconstruction and after applying a MAR algorithm.

Results

Metal artifact reduction reduces noiseSD and noiserange (median [interquartile range]) at the level of HAO in 1-cm distance compared with conventional reconstruction (noiseSD: 60.0 [71.4] vs 12.8 [16.1] and noiserange: 262.0 [236.8] vs 72.0 [28.3]; P < 0.0001). Artifact severity (reader 1 [mean ± SD]: 1.1 ± 0.6 vs 2.4 ± 0.5, reader 2: 0.8 ± 0.6 vs 2.0 ± 0.4) at level of HAO and diagnostic confidence (reader 1: 1.6 ± 0.7 vs 2.6 ± 0.5, reader 2: 1.0 ± 0.6 vs 2.3 ± 0.7) significantly improved with MAR (P < 0.0001). Metal artifact reduction did not affect gray–white-matter delineation.

Conclusions

Metal artifact reduction effectively reduces image artifacts caused by HAO and significantly improves diagnostic confidence without worsening gray–white-matter delineation.
Weighted Mean of Signal Intensity for Unbiased Fiber Tracking of Skeletal Muscles
Authors: Giraudo Chiara , Motyka Stanislav , Weber Michael , Resinger Christoph , Thorsten Feiweier , Traxler Hannes , Trattnig Siegfried , Bogner Wolfgang
Published: February 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the origin of random image artifacts in stimulated echo acquisition mode diffusion tensor imaging (STEAM-DTI), assess the role of averaging, develop an automated artifact postprocessing correction method using weighted mean of signal intensities (WMSIs), and compare it with other correction techniques.

Materials and Methods

Institutional review board approval and written informed consent were obtained. The right calf and thigh of 10 volunteers were scanned on a 3 T magnetic resonance imaging scanner using a STEAM-DTI sequence.

Artifacts (ie, signal loss) in STEAM-based DTI, presumably caused by involuntary muscle contractions, were investigated in volunteers and ex vivo (ie, human cadaver calf and turkey leg using the same DTI parameters as for the volunteers). An automated postprocessing artifact correction method based on the WMSI was developed and compared with previous approaches (ie, iteratively reweighted linear least squares and informed robust estimation of tensors by outlier rejection [iRESTORE]). Diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tracking metrics, using different averages and artifact corrections, were compared for region of interest– and mask-based analyses. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance with Greenhouse-Geisser correction and Bonferroni post hoc tests were used to evaluate differences among all tested conditions. Qualitative assessment (ie, images quality) for native and corrected images was performed using the paired t test.

Results

Randomly localized and shaped artifacts affected all volunteer data sets. Artifact burden during voluntary muscle contractions increased on average from 23.1% to 77.5% but were absent ex vivo. Diffusion tensor imaging metrics (mean diffusivity, fractional anisotropy, radial diffusivity, and axial diffusivity) had a heterogeneous behavior, but in the range reported by literature. Fiber track metrics (number, length, and volume) significantly improved in both calves and thighs after artifact correction in region of interest– and mask-based analyses (P < 0.05 each). Iteratively reweighted linear least squares and iRESTORE showed equivalent results, but WMSI was faster than iRESTORE. Muscle delineation and artifact load significantly improved after correction (P < 0.05 each).

Conclusions

Weighted mean of signal intensity correction significantly improved STEAM-based quantitative DTI analyses and fiber tracking of lower-limb muscles, providing a robust tool for musculoskeletal applications.
Widespread impact of DNA replication on mutational mechanisms in cancer
Authors: Tomkova Marketa , Tomek Jakub , Kriaucionis Skirmantas , Schuster-Böckler Benjamin
Published: February 2017

DNA replication plays an important role in mutagenesis, yet little is known about how it interacts with other mutagenic processes. Here, we use somatic mutation signatures – each representing a mutagenic process – derived from 3056 patients spanning 19 cancer types to quantify the asymmetry of mutational signatures around replication origins and between early and late replicating regions. We observe that 22 out of 29 mutational signatures are significantly impacted by DNA replication. The distinct associations of different signatures with replication timing and direction around origins shed new light on several mutagenic processes, for example suggesting that oxidative damage to the nucleotide pool substantially contributes to the mutational landscape of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Together, our results indicate an involvement of DNA replication and associated damage repair in most mutagenic processes.
PHESANT: a tool for performing automated phenome scans in UK Biobank
Authors: Millard Louise A C , Davies Neil M , Gaunt Tom R , Davey Smith George , Tilling Kate
Published: February 2017

Motivation

Epidemiological cohorts typically contain a diverse set of phenotypes such that automation of phenome scans is non-trivial, because they require highly heterogeneous models. For this reason, phenome scans have to date tended to use a smaller homogeneous set of phenotypes that can be analysed in a consistent fashion. We present PHESANT (PHEnome Scan ANalysis Tool), a software package for performing comprehensive phenome scans in UK Biobank.

General features

PHESANT tests the association of a specified trait with all continuous, integer and categorical variables in UK Biobank, or a specified subset. PHESANT uses a novel rule-based algorithm to determine how to appropriately test each trait, then performs the analyses and produces plots and summary tables.

Implementation

The PHESANT phenome scan is implemented in R. PHESANT includes a novel Javascript D3.js visualization, and accompanying Java code that converts the phenome scan results to the required JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) format.

AVAILABILITY

PHESANT is available on GitHub at [https://github.com/MRCIEU/PHESANT]. Git tag v0.2 corresponds to the version presented here.
How to name and classify your phage: an informal guide
Authors: Adriaenssens Evelien M. , Brister J. Rodney
Published: February 2017

With this informal guide, we try to assist both new and experienced phage researchers through two important stages that follow phage discovery, i.e. naming and classification. Providing an appropriate name for a bacteriophage is not as trivial as it sounds and the effects might be long-lasting in databases and in official taxon names. Phage classification is the responsibility of the Bacterial and Archaeal Viruses Subcommittee (BAVS) of the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV). While the BAVS aims at providing a holistic approach to phage taxonomy, for individual researchers who have isolated and sequenced a new phage, this can be a little overwhelming. We are now providing these researchers with an informal guide to phage naming and classification, taking a “bottom-up” approach from the phage isolate level.
No effect of hippocampal lesions on stimulus-response bindings
Authors: Henson Richard N. , Horner Aidan J. , Greve Andrea , Cooper Elisa , Gregori Mariella , Simons Jon S. , Erzinçioğlu Sharon , Browne Georgina , Kapur Narinder
Published: February 2017

The hippocampus is believed to be important for rapid learning of arbitrary stimulus-response contingencies, or S-R bindings. In support of this, Schnyeret al., 2006 (Experiment 2) measured priming of reaction times (RTs) to categorise visual objects, and found that patients with medial temporal lobe damage, unlike healthy controls, failed to show evidence of reduced priming when response contingencies were reversed between initial and repeated categorisation of objects (a signature of S-R bindings). We ran a similar though extended object classification task on 6 patients who appear to have selective hippocampal lesions, together with 24 age-matched controls. Unlike Schnyeret al., 2006, we found that reversing response contingencies abolished priming in both controls and patients. Bayes Factors provided no reason to believe that response reversal had less effect on patients than controls. We therefore conclude that it is unlikely that the hippocampus is needed for S-R bindings.
Parental migration, paid child labour, and human capital
Authors: Shimada Akira
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Households suffering from poverty often rely on parental migration and/or paid child labour for survival. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of parental migration on paid child labour and human capital formation in a dynamic context, explicitly taking the effects of parental migration on child’s school and home education into account.

Design/methodology/approach

The author utilises a mathematical method. In particular, an overlapping-generations model is built, with agents who have a two-period life. The amount of paid child labour is determined as a solution of the utility maximisation problem.

Findings

Contrary to intuition, parental migration possibilities do not necessarily reduce paid child labour. In addition, parental migration possibilities do not necessarily raise human capital. Moreover, a trade-off might exist between alleviating paid child labour and raising human capital under parental migration possibilities.

Research limitations/implications

Migration possibilities are given exogenously evenly among potential migrants by the foreign country. However, in general, they depend on potential migrants’ human capital so that migration possibilities differ across agents.

Practical implications

Migration is usually considered effective in alleviating poverty. However, since it does not necessarily reduce paid child labour and raise human capital, migration should be regulated in some cases as a means to escape from poverty.

Originality/value

This paper deals with parental migration and paid child labour in an identical dynamic model. This paper assumes that human capital is built not only by school education but also home education, the amount of which changes with the duration of parental migration.
Surface integrity of quenched steel 1045 machined by CBN grinding wheel and SiC grinding wheel
Authors: Ji Kankan , Zhang Xingquan , Yang Shubao , Shi Liping , Wang Shiyi , Wu Yuguo
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate surface integrity of quenched steel 1045 ground drily by the brazed cubic boron nitride (CBN) grinding wheel and the black SiC wheel, respectively. Surface integrity, including surface roughness, sub-surface hardness, residual stresses and surface morphology, was investigated in detail, and the surface quality of samples ground by two grinding wheels was compared.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present work, surface integrity of quenched steel 1045 machined by the CBN grinding wheel and the SiC wheel was investigated systematically. All the specimens were machined with a single pass in the down-cutting mode of dry condition. Surface morphology of the ground specimen was observed by using OLYMPUS BX51M optical microscopy. Surface roughness of seven points was measured by using a surface roughness tester at a cut-off length of 1.8 mm and the measurement traces were perpendicular to the grinding direction. Sub-surface micro-hardness was measured by using HVS-1000 digital micro-hardness tester after the cross-section surface was polished. The residual stress was tested by using X-350A X-ray stress analyzer.

Findings

When the cut depth is increased from 0.01 to 0.07 mm, the steel surface machined by the CBN wheel remains clear grinding mark, lower roughness, higher micro-hardness and higher magnitude of compressive stress and fine microstructure, while the surface machined by the SiC grinding wheel becomes worse with increasing of cut depth. The value of micro-hardness decreases, and the surface roughness increases, and the surface compressive stress turns into tensile stress. Some micro-cracks and voids occur when the sample is processed by the SiC grinding wheel with cut depth 0.07 mm.

Originality/value

In this paper, the specimens of quenched steel 1045 were machined by the CBN grinding wheel and the SiC wheel with various cutting depths. The processing quality resulted from the CBN grinding wheel is better than that resulted from the SiC grinding wheel.
Knowledge management strategy: an organizational change prospective
Authors: Imran Muhammad Kashif , Bilal Ahmad Raza , Aslam Usman , Rahman Ubaid-Ur-
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The most critical phase of a change process is change implementation and it is evident that the masterfully originated change process fails due to its poor implementation. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to profile how knowledge management (KM) strategies, personalization and codification, are helpful in successful change implementation by reducing employee cynicism and increasing the level of readiness for change.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 196 executives of National Bank of Pakistan at Time 1 (pre-implementation) and Time 2 (post-implementation) with the temporal research design. Multiple regression analysis is used to test the direct effect; Preacher and Hayes (2004) test is applied to measure the mediating effect and guidelines of Aguinis (2004) are followed for analyzing the moderating effect.

Findings

The result of the direct effect shows that both KM strategies have significant positive effect on successful change implementation. Further, mediation analysis proves that readiness for change partially mediates between KM strategies and successful change implementation. In addition, partial interactive effects of employee cynicism is observed between readiness for change and successful change implementation.

Research limitations/implications

The management should initiate steps to boost personalization and codification strategies at their optimal levels. This would ultimately be helpful to implement a successful change through developing readiness for change and reducing the employee cynicism regarding change.

Originality/value

The area of successful change implementation in the context of KM strategies was untapped, and is examined in this study.
The greatest store west of Chicago: Meier & Frank, 1857-1932
Authors: Savitt Ronald
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to document the development of a major regional department store from the firm’s start to the completion of a single block structure including the warehouses required to support its operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a survey of historic materials including the recently available archival materials in the Oregon Historical Society Research Library.

Findings

The study reveals the interaction of vision, planning and risk taking in a family enterprise over two generations. It illustrates the search for information as to what was required and the importance of architectural elements in the construction and operation of their store.

Research limitations/implications

The archival materials are extensive; however, over the years, much of the operating data were destroyed or lost. Although family members remain in Oregon, they are reluctant to discuss the store’s history, even though the matters that affected them took place many years after the study’s period.

Originality/value

Much of the information collected in the study had never been used in previous work.
Developing insights into contemporary con(pro)sumer culture based on classical ideas in social theory
Authors: Ritzer George
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the concern for prosumption, created by Alvin Toffler’s work, and its fusion with Marx’s ideas to create the view that the people now live in an era of prosumer (rather than producer or consumer) capitalism. As a social theorist, the author routinely studies the ideas of classical (and contemporary) theorists not only to understand their thinking, but also for ideas that he can use, and expand upon, to better understand contemporary society, especially the economy. The author has used the ideas of Max Weber on rationalization – to develop his thinking on McDonaldization, and his ideas on enchantment and disenchantment – in the development of the author’s thinking on the cathedrals of consumption. The latter can also be seen as means of production from the perspective of Karl Marx’s theories. Georg Simmel’s theorizing about money led the author to insights on credit cards, especially the greater temptation to imprudence associated with them in comparison to cash. More recent postmodern theory helped the author understand the mechanisms (e.g. simulations) by which the cathedrals of consumption have undergone a process of enchantment.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a work in historical theory and metatheory.

Findings

The careful review of classical (and contemporary) social theories could, when adapted, help us to better understand contemporary society, especially, in this case the economy.

Research limitations/implications

This is not a piece of research, but rather a theoretical exploration of contemporary prosumer culture based on classical ideas in social theory. It implies a radical change in the thinking about the modern economy.

Originality/value

This essay brings together some of the author’s ideas – and their classical roots – to offer an original perspective on the contemporary economy.