bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV-1 matrix protein p17 misfolding forms toxic amyloidogenic assemblies that induce neurocognitive disorders
Authors: Zeinolabediny Yasmin , Caccuri Francesca , Colombo Laura , Morelli Federica , Romeo Margherita , Rossi Alessandro , Schiarea Silvia , Ciaramelli Carlotta , Airoldi Cristina , Weston Ria , Donghui Liu , Krupinski Jerzy , Corpas Rubén , García-Lara Elisa , Sarroca Sara , Sanfeliu Coral , Slevin Mark , Caruso Arnaldo , Salmona Mario , Diomede Luisa
Published: August 2017

Human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1)-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) remains an important neurological manifestation that adversely affects a patient’s quality of life. HIV-1 matrix protein p17 (p17) has been detected in autoptic brain tissue of HAND individuals who presented early with severe AIDS encephalopathy. We hypothesised that the ability of p17 to misfold may result in the generation of toxic assemblies in the brain and may be relevant for HAND pathogenesis. A multidisciplinary integrated approach has been applied to determine the ability of p17 to form soluble amyloidogenic assemblies in vitro. To provide new information into the potential pathogenic role of soluble p17 species in HAND, their toxicological capability was evaluated in vivo. In C. elegans, capable of recognising toxic assemblies of amyloidogenic proteins, p17 induces a specific toxic effect which can be counteracted by tetracyclines, drugs able to hinder the formation of large oligomers and consequently amyloid fibrils. The intrahippocampal injection of p17 in mice reduces their cognitive function and induces behavioral deficiencies. These findings offer a new way of thinking about the possible cause of neurodegeneration in HIV-1-seropositive patients, which engages the ability of p17 to form soluble toxic assemblies.
Fluorescent CRISPR Adaptation Reporter for rapid quantification of spacer acquisition
Authors: Amlinger Lina , Hoekzema Mirthe , Wagner E. Gerhart H. , Koskiniemi Sanna , Lundgren Magnus
Published: August 2017

CRISPR-Cas systems are adaptive prokaryotic immune systems protecting against horizontally transferred DNA or RNA such as viruses and other mobile genetic elements. Memory of past invaders is stored as spacers in CRISPR loci in a process called adaptation. Here we developed a novel assay where spacer integration results in fluorescence, enabling detection of memory formation in single cells and quantification of as few as 0.05% cells with expanded CRISPR arrays in a bacterial population. Using this fluorescent CRISPR Adaptation Reporter (f-CAR), we quantified adaptation of the two CRISPR arrays of the type I-E CRISPR-Cas system in Escherichia coli, and confirmed that more integration events are targeted to CRISPR-II than to CRISPR-I. The f-CAR conveniently analyzes and compares many samples, allowing new insights into adaptation. For instance, we show that in an E. coli culture the majority of acquisition events occur in late exponential phase.
Early weaning increases aggression and stereotypic behaviour in cats
Authors: Ahola Milla K. , Vapalahti Katariina , Lohi Hannes
Published: August 2017

Behaviour problems are common in companion felines, and problematic behaviour may be a sign of chronic stress. In laboratory animals, early weaning increases the risk for aggression, anxiety, and stereotypic behaviour. However, very few studies have focused on early weaning in one of the world’s most popular pets, the domestic cat, although weaning soon after the critical period of socialisation is common practice. To study the effects of early weaning (<12 weeks) on behaviour, a large data set (N = 5726, 40 breeds) was collected from home-living domestic cats through a questionnaire survey. The results show that weaning before 8 weeks of age increases the risk for aggression, but not fearful behaviour. Moreover, cats weaned after 14 weeks of age have a lower probability for aggression towards strangers than early weaned cats and a lower probability for stereotypic behaviour (excessive grooming) than cats weaned at 12 weeks. The effect of weaning age on stereotypic behaviour is partially explained by the effects on aggression. These findings indicate that early weaning has a detrimental effect on behaviour, and suggest delayed weaning as a simple and inexpensive approach to significantly improve the welfare of millions of domestic cats.
Synthesis and activation for catalysis of Fe-SAPO-34 prepared using iron polyamine complexes as structure directing agents
Authors: Turrina Alessandro , Iulian Dugulan A. , Collier Jillian E. , Walton Richard I. , Casci John L. , Wright Paul A.
Published: August 2017

Fe-SAPO-34 templated with Fe2+–polyamine complexes gives Fe3+ species upon calcination that are active for selective catalytic reduction of NOx with ammonia.
Effect of mode of addition of flaxseed oil on the quality characteristics of chicken sausage containing vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids at levels to support a health claim
Authors: Bolger Zara , Brunton Nigel P. , Monahan Frank J.
Published: August 2017

Direct or pre-emulsified flaxseed oil addition did not affect sensory properties of high omega-3/vitamin E sausages but encapsulation did, negatively.
Polymeric mannosides prevent DC-SIGN-mediated cell-infection by cytomegalovirus
Authors: Brument S. , Cheneau C. , Brissonnet Y. , Deniaud D. , Halary F. , Gouin S. G.
Published: August 2017

Dextrans coated with triazolylheptylmannoside ligands block human cytomegalovirus trans-infection at picomolar polymer concentrations.
The fluorescently responsive 3-(naphthalen-1-ylethynyl)-3-deaza-2′-deoxyguanosine discriminates cytidine via the DNA minor groove
Authors: Suzuki Azusa , Yanagi Masaki , Takeda Takuya , Hudson Robert H. E. , Saito Yoshio
Published: August 2017

A newly synthesized fluorescent nucleoside 3nzG discriminates cytidine in target DNA strands by a distinct change in its emission wavelength.
Individual and combined use of ginsenoside F2 and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside attenuates H2O2-induced apoptosis in HEK-293 cells via the NF-κB pathway
Authors: Liu Di , Wang Ying , Ma Shuang , Sun Hongyu , Shi Wenyan , Feng Xianmin
Published: August 2017

Ginsenoside F2 and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside synergistically inhibited H2O2-induced apoptosis in HEK-293 cells through mitochondria-mediated apoptotic and NF-κB pathways.
New kinetic and mechanistic aspects of photosensitization of iodonium salts in photopolymerization of acrylates
Authors: Kabatc Janina , Ortyl Joanna , Kostrzewska Katarzyna
Published: August 2017

New kinetic and mechanistic aspects of photosensitization of iodonium salts in photopolymerization of acrylates.
Silver particle-loaded nickel oxide nanosheet arrays on nickel foam as advanced binder-free electrodes for aqueous asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Wu Shuxing , Hui Kwan San , Hui Kwun Nam , Yun Je Moon , Kim Kwang Ho
Published: August 2017

Ag particle-loaded NiO nanosheet arrays promise rapid ion and electron transport, large electroactive surface area, and great structural stability.
Enhanced efficiency and stability of inverted perovskite solar cells by interfacial engineering with alkyl bisphosphonic molecules
Authors: Li Nan , Cheng Changmei , Wei Hainan , Liu Hongbin , Li Xiaosong , Li Wenzhe , Wang Liduo
Published: August 2017

Feasible interfacial engineering with bisphosphonic molecules for improving both photovoltaic performances and stability of perovskite solar cells.
Synthesis, cytotoxic evaluation and DNA binding study of 9-fluoro-6H-indolo[2,3-b]quinoxaline derivatives
Authors: Gu Zhenyu , Li Yanci , Ma Songliang , Li Shenghui , Zhou Guoqiang , Ding Shan , Zhang Jinchao , Wang Shuxiang , Zhou Chuanqi
Published: August 2017

New quaternary ammonium salts of 9-fluoro-6H-indolo[2,3-b] derivatives were synthesized. These compounds possessed enhanced DNA binding ability and improved antitumor activity.
Analysis of individual block length of amphiphilic di- & tri-block copolymers containing poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Tufail Muhammad Khurram , Abdul-Karim Rubina , Rahim Sana , Musharraf Syed Ghulam , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: August 2017

Estimation of individual block lengths and extent of homopolymers.
Trapping intermediate MLCT states in low-symmetry {Ru(bpy)} complexes
Authors: Cadranel Alejandro , Oviedo Paola S. , Pieslinger German E. , Yamazaki Shiori , Kleiman Valeria D. , Baraldo Luis M. , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: August 2017

The picosecond excited state dynamics of [Ru(tpm)(bpy)(NCS)]+ (RubNCS+) and [Ru(tpm)(bpy)(CN)]+ (RubCN+) (tpm = tris(1-pyrazolyl)methane, bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine) reveal an intermediate MLCT excited state living in the 300 ps timescale.
Fluorescent turn-on probes for wash-free mRNA imaging via covalent site-specific enzymatic labeling
Authors: Zhou Cun Yu , Alexander Seth C. , Devaraj Neal K.
Published: August 2017

Investigating the many roles RNA plays in cellular regulation and function has increased demand for tools to explore RNA tracking and localization within cells.
Simultaneous quantification of multiple endogenous biothiols in single living cells by plasmonic Raman probes
Authors: Li Shan-Shan , Guan Qi-Yuan , Zheng Mengmeng , Wang Yu-Qi , Ye Deju , Kang Bin , Xu Jing-Juan , Chen Hong-Yuan
Published: August 2017

Three endogenous biothiols in single cells were simultaneously quantified by plasmonic Raman probes and quantitative principal component analysis (qPCA).
Blue-emitting cationic iridium(iii) complexes featuring pyridylpyrimidine ligands and their use in sky-blue electroluminescent devices
Authors: Henwood Adam F. , Pal Amlan K. , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Rees Thomas W. , Momblona Cristina , Babaei Azin , Pertegás Antonio , Ortí Enrique , Bolink Henk J. , Baranoff Etienne , Zysman-Colman Eli
Published: August 2017

The synthesis, structural and photophysical characterisation, and LEEC devices of four novel, cationic iridium(iii) complexes are reported.
Optical properties of Mn2+ doped cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals via a cation–anion co-substitution exchange reaction
Authors: Li Fei , Xia Zhiguo , Gong Yue , Gu Lin , Liu Quanlin
Published: August 2017

The emission colors of cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) can be controlled by dynamic ion exchange and Mn2+ doping.
Three polymorphs of one luminogen: how the molecular packing affects the RTP and AIE properties?
Authors: Yang Jie , Ren Zichun , Chen Bin , Fang Manman , Zhao Zujin , Tang Ben Zhong , Peng Qian , Li Zhen
Published: August 2017

Three crystalline polymorphs of CzS-CN, which display much different properties of room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) and aggregation-induced emission (AIE), are reported.
Technical Developments for Rehabilitation of Mobility
Authors: Dohle Christian , Müller Friedemann , Stephan Klaus
Published: September 2017

Technically assisted rehabilitation of mobility after stroke has been well established for several years. There is good evidence for the use of end-effector devices, exoskeletons and treadmill training with and without body weight support. New developments provide the possibility for functional training during mobilization, even in intensive care units. Mobile exoskeleton devices have been developed, but their clinical effects need still to be evaluated. All devices should not only focus on increasing the number of repetitions, but also include motivational aspects such as virtual reality environments. Hygienic aspects impose a special challenge. All devices should be integrated into a rational and clearly-defined therapy concept.
A high-quality narrow passband filter for elastic SV waves via aligned parallel separated thin polymethylmethacrylate plates
Authors: Zhang Jun , Liu Yaolu , Yan Wensheng , Hu Ning
Published: August 2017

We designed a high-quality filter that consists of aligned parallel polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) thin plates with small gaps for elastic SV waves propagate in metals. Both the theoretical model and the full numerical simulation show the transmission spectrum of the elastic SV waves through such a filter has several sharp peaks with flawless transmission within the investigated frequencies. These peaks can be readily tuned by manipulating the geometry parameters of the PMMA plates. Our investigation finds that the same filter performs well for different metals where the elastic SV waves propagated.
Interstitial solute transport in 3D reconstructed neuropil occurs by diffusion rather than bulk flow
Authors: Holter Karl Erik , Kehlet Benjamin , Devor Anna , Sejnowski Terrence J. , Dale Anders M. , Omholt Stig W. , Ottersen Ole Petter , Nagelhus Erlend Arnulf , Mardal Kent-André , Pettersen Klas H.
Published: August 2017

Significance

Transport of nutrients and clearance of waste products are prerequisites for healthy brain function. It is still debated whether solutes are transported through the interstitial space by pressure-mediated bulk flow or by diffusion. Here we have simulated interstitial bulk flow within 3D electron microscope reconstructions of hippocampal tissue. We show that the permeability is one to two orders of magnitude lower than values typically seen in the literature, arguing against bulk flow as the dominant transport mechanism. Further, we show that solutes of all sizes are more easily transported through the interstitium by diffusion than by bulk flow. We conclude that clearance of waste products from the brain is largely based on diffusion of solutes through the interstitial space.
General and specific promotion of flagellar assembly by a flagellar nucleoside diphosphate kinase
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyan , Poghosyan Emiliya , Gopal Radhika , Liu Yi , Ciruelas Kristine S. , Maizy Yousif , Diener Dennis R. , King Stephen M. , Ishikawa Takashi , Yang Pinfen
Published: September 2017

Nucleoside diphosphate kinases (NDKs) play a central role in diverse cellular processes using the canonical NDK activity or alternative mechanisms that remain poorly defined. Our study of dimeric NDK5 in a flagellar motility control complex, the radial spoke (RS), has revealed new modalities. The flagella in Chlamydomonas ndk5 mutant were paralyzed, albeit only deficient in three RS subunits. RS morphology appeared severely changed in averaged cryo-electron tomograms, suggesting that NDK5 is crucial for the intact spokehead formation as well as RS structural stability. Intriguingly, ndk5’s flagella were also short, resembling those of an allelic spoke-less mutant. All ndk5’s phenotypes were rescued by expressions of NDK5 or a mutated NDK5 lacking the canonical kinase activity. Importantly, the mutated NDK5 that appeared fully functional in ndk5 cells elicited a dominant-negative effect in wild-type cells, causing paralyzed short flagella with hypophosphorylated, less abundant, but intact RSs, and accumulated hypophosphorylated NDK5 in the cell body. We propose that NDK5 dimer is an RS structural subunit with an additional mechanism that uses cross-talk between the two NDK monomers to accelerate phosphorylation-related assembly of RSs and entire flagella.
Effect of number of open charts on intercepted wrong-patient medication orders in an emergency department
Authors: Kannampallil Thomas G , Manning John D , Chestek David W , Adelman Jason , Salmasian Hojjat , Lambert Bruce L , Galanter William L
Published: August 2017

To reduce the risk of wrong-patient errors, safety experts recommend allowing only one patient chart to be open at a time. Due to the lack of empirical evidence, the number of allowable open charts is often based on anecdotal evidence or institutional preference, and hence varies across institutions. Using an interrupted time series analysis of intercepted wrong-patient medication orders in an emergency department during 2010–2016 (83.6 intercepted wrong-patient events per 100 000 orders), we found no significant decrease in the number of intercepted wrong-patient medication orders during the transition from a maximum of 4 open charts to a maximum of 2 (b = −0.19, P = .33) and no significant increase during the transition from a maximum of 2 open charts to a maximum of 4 (b = 0.08, P = .67). These results have implications regarding decisions about allowable open charts in the emergency department in relation to the impact on workflow and efficiency.
Movement System Impairment-Based Classification Treatment Versus General Exercises for Chronic Low Back Pain: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Azevedo Daniel Camara , Ferreira Paulo Henrique , Santos Henrique de Oliveira , Oliveira Daniel Ribeiro , de Souza Joao Victor Leite , Costa Leonardo Oliveira Pena
Published: September 2017

Background

Treatment for chronic low back pain (LBP) includes different forms of exercises, that to date have resulted in only small to moderate treatment effects. To enhance the treatment effects, different classification systems have been developed to classify people with LBP into more homogeneous subgroups leading to specific treatments for each subgroup.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a treatment based on the Movement System Impairment (MSI) model with a treatment consisting of symptom-guided stretching and strengthening exercises in people with chronic LBP.

Design

The study was a 2-arm, prospectively registered, randomized controlled trial with a blinded assessor.

Setting

The study setting was a university physical therapy clinic in Brazil.

Patients

A total of 148 participants with chronic LBP participated in the study.

Interventions

Participants were randomly allocated to an 8-week treatment of either treatment based on the MSI-based classification system or symptom-guided stretching and strengthening exercises.

Measurements

Measures of pain intensity, disability, and global impression of recovery were obtained by a blinded assessor at baseline and at follow-up appointments at 2, 4, and 6 months after randomization.

Results

There were no significant between-group differences for the primary outcomes of pain intensity at 2 months (mean difference = 0.05, 95% CI = –0.90 to 0.80) and disability at 2 months (mean difference = 0.00, 95% CI = –1.55 to 1.56). There also were no statistically significant differences between treatment groups for any of the secondary outcome measures.

Limitations

Participants and physical therapists were not masked.

Conclusions

People with chronic LBP had similar improvements in pain, disability, and global impression of recovery with treatment consisting of symptom-guided stretching and strengthening exercises and treatment based on the MSI model.
Perceptions of Neighborhood Mediate the Relationship Between PTSD Symptoms and Coping in a Neighborhood-Matched Substance-Using Sample
Authors: Hertzel Sara K. , Schroeder Jennifer , Moran Landhing M. , Alvanzo Anika A. , Kowalczyk William J. , Epstein David H. , Preston Kenzie L. , Phillips Karran A.
Published: September 2017

Objectives:

People with substance use problems living in neighborhoods with high levels of disorder are disproportionately likely to experience trauma and develop PTSD symptoms. We sought to evaluate the relationships between objective neighborhood disorder, perceptions of neighborhood, and the use of maladaptive coping behaviors among both non–substance-using and substance-using participants with and without PTSD symptoms.

Methods:

Participants (255 non-drug users [NDUs], 168 marijuana and/or alcohol users [MAUs], and 273 opioid and/or stimulant users) completed the Addiction Severity Index, PTSD Checklist—Civilian Version, The COPE Inventory, and the Perceived Neighborhood Scale. The Neighborhood Inventory for Environmental Typology (NIfETy) was used to objectively assess neighborhood disorder at participants’ home addresses. Regression modeling was used to assess within-group predictors of PTSD and test for mediation in the relationships between PTSD, perceptions of neighborhood, and coping behaviors.

Results:

In NDUs, lower sense of community partially mediated the relationship between PTSD symptoms and using mental disengagement to cope. In MAUs, higher levels of perceived crime partially mediated the individual relationships between PTSD symptoms and using mental disengagement, focusing on and venting emotions, and using substances to cope. Opioid and/or stimulant users with PTSD symptoms reported using higher levels of mental disengagement, focusing on and venting emotions, and substances to cope and perceived a higher degree of crime; no mediation was inferred.

Conclusion:

Perceptions of community and crime may be more predictive of PTSD symptoms than objectively measured neighborhood disorder. These perceptions partially mediate the relationship between maladaptive coping behaviors and PTSD symptoms.
Reversing Dabigatran Anticoagulation with Prothrombin Complex Concentrate versus Idarucizumab as Part of Multimodal Hemostatic Intervention in an Animal Model of Polytrauma
Authors: Honickel Markus , Braunschweig Till , Rossaint Rolf , Stoppe Christian , ten Cate Hugo , Grottke Oliver
Published: August 2017

Background

Although idarucizumab is the preferred treatment for urgent dabigatran reversal, it is not always available. Prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) may be an alternative and, with bleeding in trauma, additional hemostatic therapy may be required. The authors investigated multimodal treatment in a preclinical polytrauma model.

Methods

Dabigatran etexilate (30 mg/kg twice daily) was given orally to 45 male pigs for 3 days. On day 4, animals received a dabigatran infusion before blunt liver injury and bilateral femur fractures. After injury, animals were randomized 1:1:1:1:1 to receive placebo (control), tranexamic acid (TXA; 20 mg/kg) plus human fibrinogen concentrate (FCH; 80 mg/kg) (TXA–FCH group), PCC (25 U/kg or 50 U/kg) plus TXA plus FCH (PCC25 and PCC50 groups), or 60 mg/kg idarucizumab (IDA) plus TXA plus FCH (IDA group). Animals were monitored for 240 min after trauma, or until death.

Results

The degree of injury was similar in all animals before intervention. Control and TXA–FCH animals had the highest total postinjury blood loss (3,652 ± 601 and 3,497 ± 418 ml) and 100% mortality (mean survival time 96 and 109 min). Blood loss was significantly lower in the PCC50 (1,367 ± 273 ml) and IDA (986 ± 144 ml) groups, with 100% survival. Thrombin–antithrombin levels and thrombin generation were significantly elevated in the PCC50 group.

Conclusions

Idarucizumab may be considered the optimal treatment for emergency reversal of dabigatran anticoagulation. However, this study suggests that PCC may be similarly effective as idarucizumab and could therefore be valuable when idarucizumab is unavailable. (Anesthesiology 2017; 127:852-61)
Incidence and Risk Factors of Anterior Arch Fracture of the Atlas Following C1 Laminectomy Without Fusion
Authors: Shimizu Takayoshi , Otsuki Bungo , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Kumamoto Shinji , Hijikata Yasukazu , Shimizu Yu , Takemoto Mitsuru , Ota Masato , Ito Hideo , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: September 2017

Study Design.

A retrospective multicenter study.

Objective.

To identify the incidence of anterior arch fracture (AAF) of the atlas following C1 (first cervical vertebra) laminectomy without fusion, and its risk factors.

Summary of Background Data.

C1 laminectomy without fusion is a widely accepted surgical procedure performed to decompress the spinal cord that is compromised at the C1/C2 level, but without instability. Several case series have reported spontaneous AAF following this procedure. However, the incidence of post-laminectomy AAF and its risk factors have not been studied.

Methods.

This retrospective study included patients who underwent C1 laminectomy without fusion in any of the four participating institutions between April 2002 and March 2016. The incidence of AAF following C1 laminectomy was determined, and the included patients were grouped into those who developed AAF (AAF group) and those who did not (non-AAF group). Patient demographics and radiographic parameters including subaxial cervical balance on x-ray (C2–7 sagittal vertical axis, C2–7 lordosis, C2–7 coronal cobb angle, and T1-slope), and morphology of the atlas on computed tomography (CT) scan were compared with the AAF and non-AAF groups.

Results.

Seventy patients who underwent C1 laminectomy without fusion were included in the study. The incidence of AAF was 14.2% (10/70). Multivariate analysis revealed that a large inferior facet angle (IFA, defined as the coronal inclination angle of the C1/2 facet as measured on CT) and the presence of subaxial ankylosis (bony ankylosis below C2 on CT) were independent risk factors for AAF. There were no significant differences in the subaxial cervical balance as measured on x-ray between the AAF and non-AAF groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion.

The incidence of AAF after C1 laminectomy without fusion is not uncommon. Preoperative assessment using CT may identify patients at high risk of AAF.

Level of Evidence: 4
Putative genomic characteristics of BRAF V600K versus V600E cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Umbach David M. , Li Leping
Published: August 2017

Approximately 50% of all cutaneous melanomas harbor activating BRAF V600 mutations; among, these 10–30% carry the V600K mutation. Clinically, patients with V600K tumors experience distant metastases sooner and have an increased risk of relapse and shorter survival than patients with V600E tumors. Despite the clinical and other histopathological differences between these BRAF tumor subtypes, little is known about them at the genomic level. Herein, we systematically compared BRAF V600E and V600K skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for differential protein, gene, and microRNA expression genome-wide using the Mann–WhitneyU-test. Our analyses showed that elements of energy-metabolism and protein-translation pathways were upregulated and that proapoptotic pathways were downregulated in V600K tumors compared with V600E tumors. We found that c-Kit protein andKITgene expressions were significantly higher in V600K tumors than in V600E tumors, concurrent with significant downregulation of severalKIT-targeting microRNAs (mir) including mir-222 in V600K tumors, suggestingKITand mir-222 might be key genomic contributors toward the clinical differences observed. The relationship that we uncovered amongKIT/c-Kit expression, mir-222 expression, and growth and prosurvival signals in V600 tumors is intriguing. We believe that the observed clinical aggressiveness of V600K tumors compared to V600E tumors may be attributable to the increased energy metabolism, protein translation and prosurvival signals compared with V600E tumors. If confirmed using larger numbers of V600K tumors, our results may prove useful for designing clinical management and targeted chemotherapeutical interventions for BRAF V600K-positive melanomas. Finally, the small sample size in V600K tumors is a major limitation of our study.
Volumetric Measurement of Optic Nerve Head Drusen Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Tsikata Edem , Vercellin Verticchio Alice C. , Falkenstein Iryna , Poon Linda Yi-Chieh , Brauner Stacey , Khoueir Ziad , Miller John B. , Chen Teresa C.
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

To describe new software tools for quantifying optic nerve head drusen volume using 3-dimensional (3D) swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) volumetric scans.

Materials and Methods:

SS-OCT was used to acquire raster volume scans of 8 eyes of 4 patients with bilateral optic nerve head drusen. The scans were manually segmented by 3 graders to identify the drusen borders, and thereafter total drusen volumes were calculated. Linear regression was performed to study the relationships between drusen volume, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and Humphrey visual field mean deviation.

Results:

In the 8 study eyes, drusen volumes ranged between 0.24 to 1.05 mm3. Visual field mean deviation decreased by ∼20 dB per cubic millimeter increase in drusen volume, and the coefficient of correlation of the linear regression was 0.92. In this small patient series, visual field defects were detected when drusen volume was larger than about 0.2 mm3.

Conclusions:

Software tools have been developed to quantify the size of OHND using SS-OCT volume scans.
Primary Trabeculectomy Outcomes by Glaucoma Fellows in a Tertiary Hospital in Brazil
Authors: Abe Ricardo Y. , Shigueoka Leonardo S. , Vasconcellos José P.C. , Costa Vital P.
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

To examine outcomes of trabeculectomy with mitomycin C for uncontrolled glaucoma when performed by glaucoma trainee surgeons.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective case series of patients who underwent trabeculectomy with mitomycin C. Primary outcome was to assess the rate of failure, which was defined as intraocular pressure in 2 consecutive visits >18 or <5 mm Hg or intraocular pressure reduction <30% from baseline, additional glaucoma surgery, or loss of light perception. The secondary outcome was to investigate risk factors for failure and surgical complications.

Results:

One hundred forty-three eyes from 126 glaucoma patients underwent primary trabeculectomy between 2013 and 2014 at University of Campinas. Mean follow-up time was 1.47±0.96 years. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed cumulative survival rates of 70.1%, 62.5%, and 57.8%, after 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. Multivariate analysis with generalized estimating equations revealed that neovascular glaucoma [odd ratios (OR): 5.05, P=0.043], suture lysis (OR: 8.89, P=0.011), and early bleb leak (OR: 4.63, P=0.011) were risk factors for failure.

Conclusions:

A success rate of approximately 60% was obtained 3 years after primary trabeculectomy performed by trainees. Patients with neovascular glaucoma, who underwent suture lysis and who presented an early bleb leak had an increased risk for failure during follow-up.
Vocal fold leukoplakia: incidence, management, and prevention
Authors: Parker Noah P.
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

The purpose of this article is to provide an update on English-language literature evaluating the current understanding of incidence, management, and prevention of vocal fold leukoplakia focusing on premalignancy.

Recent findings

Recent studies have continued to try to elucidate factors influencing recurrence and progression of dysplastic disease, though results vary. Although advanced diagnostic techniques have attempted to predict disease behavior, tissue diagnosis continues to be essential. Studies reinforce the necessity of removal of disease as the primary treatment, whereas use of photoangiolytic lasers via the ablative technique has increased, as has transition of some patients into the office-based settings for treatment. Although genetic and molecular testing may hold promise for predictive purposes, further study is necessary, and chemotherapy for recalcitrant disease continues to be an area of study with few case studies being reported.

Management of vocal fold leukoplakia continues to progress in terms of identification and treatment. Although many work to advance our knowledge in the field and push treatment strategies toward newer avenues, pathologic diagnosis, eradiation of disease on the basis of experience and skill, and close surveillance continue to be paramount.
Voice rest after laryngeal surgery: what's the evidence?
Authors: Kaneko Mami , Hirano Shigeru
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

This article aims to review previous research reports and to summarize current strategies for the optimal duration of voice rest and the effect of phonatory stimulation after phonomicrosurgery.

Recent findings

Voice rest is commonly recommended after laryngeal surgery to prevent worsening of vocal fold injuries. However, there are no established standard protocol for voice rest, and the type and duration of voice rest vary among clinicians. The most effective duration of voice rest is unknown. Recently, early vocal stimulation was recommended as a means to improve wound healing, on the basis of the basic and clinical researches.

It seems that early vocal stimulation may enhance the wound healing process in the vocal fold. More basic and clinical researches are warranted to investigate appropriate timing of initiation of stimulation, as well as the type and amount of stimulation that are available for human.
Association Between Internalized HIV-Related Stigma and HIV Care Visit Adherence
Authors: Rice Whitney S. , Crockett Kaylee B. , Mugavero Michael J. , Raper James L. , Atkins Ghislaine C. , Turan Bulent
Published: September 2017

Background:

Internalized HIV-related stigma acts as a barrier to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, but its effects on other HIV care continuum outcomes are unclear.

Methods:

Among 196 HIV clinic patients in Birmingham, AL, we assessed internalized HIV-related stigma and depressive symptom severity using validated multi-item scales and assessed ART adherence using a validated single-item measure. HIV visit adherence (attended out of total scheduled visits) was calculated using data from clinic records. Using covariate-adjusted regression analysis, we investigated the association between internalized stigma and visit adherence. Using path analytic methods with bootstrapping, we tested the mediating role of depressive symptoms in the association between internalized stigma and visit adherence and the mediating role of visit adherence in the association between internalized stigma and ART adherence.

Results:

Higher internalized stigma was associated with lower visit adherence (B = −0.04, P = 0.04). Black (versus white) race and depressive symptoms were other significant predictors within this model. Mediation analysis yielded no indirect effect through depression in the association between internalized stigma and visit adherence (B = −0.18, SE = 0.11, 95% confidence interval: −0.44 to −0.02) in the whole sample. Supplemental mediated moderation analyses revealed gender-specific effects. Additionally, the effect of internalized stigma on suboptimal ART adherence was mediated by lower visit adherence (B = −0.18, SE = 0.11, 95% confidence interval: −0.44 to −0.02).

Conclusions:

Results highlight the importance of internalized HIV stigma to multiple and sequential HIV care continuum outcomes. Also, findings suggest multiple intervention targets, including addressing internalized stigma directly, reducing depressive symptoms, and promoting consistent engagement in care.
Andy Gump Fracture of the Mandible in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Mulinari-Santos Gabriel , Lima Valthierre Nunes , Palacio-Muñoz Xiomara Mónica Johanna , Oliva André Hergesel de , Momesso Gustavo Antonio Correa , Polo Tárik Ocon Braga , Souza Francisley Ávila , Garcia-Júnior Idelmo Rangel , Faverani Leonardo Perez
Published: August 2017

The mandibular fractures in pediatric patients are rare, and they can need a fast and safe treatment. We present a case of a pediatric patient with “Andy Gump” fracture, resulting in a retrognathic mandible, distress to breathe, and functional discomfort to the patient caused by a cycling accident. The treatment was successful with the fast release of airway path and use of titanium plates to fix the fracture.
Solitary Frontal Sinus Fractures Compared to Multiple Facial Fractures, Energy Impact Dependency
Authors: Weitman Efi , Shilo Dekel , Emodi Omri , Rachmiel Adi
Published: August 2017

Frontal sinus fractures account for 2% to 15% of maxillofacial injuries. Up to 66% to 87% of the patients with frontal sinus fractures experience associated facial fractures. The majority of classifications used today categorize frontal sinus fractures depending on the integrity of the anterior table, posterior table, and the nasofrontal outflow. A retrospective study was performed, which included 24 patients diagnosed with frontal sinus fractures. Treatment in all patients consisted of open reduction and bone fixation. We analyzed population variables, injury etiology, fracture site, associated craniofacial injuries, surgical technique employed, handling of the nasofrontal duct, and postoperative complications. The most frequent etiology was falling accidents. Fifty-eight percent of the fractures involved both the anterior and posterior tables. Sixty-six percent experienced associated facial fractures. Fifty percent of frontal sinus fractures were treated by open reduction internal fixation as the only treatment, 33.3% underwent sinus obliteration, and 16.6% were treated with cranialization. Frontal sinus fractures resulting from high-energy impact exhibited additional facial bone fractures in 100% of the cases, whereas fractures following low-energy impact showed involvement of additional facial fractures in only 27% of the cases. In this report, we suggest a modification to the anteroposterior classification of frontal sinus fractures. In addition to the involvement of the anterior and posterior walls and the degree of dislocation, high and low energy impact can direct us to the involvement of additional facial fractures and influence the surgical strategy.
Temporal Deformity Objectively Measured Before and After Surgery for Metopic Synostosis: Retrusion Rather than Hollowing
Authors: Bhatti-Söfteland Madiha , Maltese Giovanni , Tarnow Peter , Hagmarker Linn , Wikberg Emma , Bernhardt Peter , Kölby Lars
Published: September 2017

The temporal contour deformity typical of metopic synostosis is often referred to as temporal hollowing, but has not been quantitatively defined. This deformity is present before surgery and remains to a varying extent at long-term follow-up. The present study aimed to objectively evaluate the degree of this contour deformity in metopic synostosis before and after surgical correction.

All children surgically treated for metopic synostosis at Sahlgrenska University Hospital between 2002 and 2014 (n = 120) with appropriate computed tomography scans (n = 160) performed preoperatively and/or at follow-up at 3 years of age were included. Depending on age, 1 of 2 surgical techniques was used. Children presenting before the age of 6 months were treated with frontal remodeling in combination with a spring (S group), whereas children older than 6 months were treated with a bone transplant (BT group). The bony temporal deformity was measured with a semiautomatic MATLAB program and patients were compared to sex- and age-matched controls.

The deformity was significantly reduced in both groups (P < 0.001). In the S group, it was reduced from a mean ± standard deviation of 3.6 ± 1.9% to 1.0 ± 1.2% and in the BT group, it was reduced from 3.3% ± 1.4% to 1.1% ± 0.8%.

The contour deformity in metopic synostosis is present both before and after surgery and should therefore be termed temporal retrusion (TR). This assessment method enables objective comparison of TR before and after surgical correction and is a potential tool to evaluate TR in metopic synostosis.
The Sync/deSync model: How a synchronized hippocampus and a de-synchronized neocortex code memories
Authors: Parish George , Hanslmayr Simon , Bowman Howard
Published: September 2017

Neural oscillations are important for memory formation in the brain. The de-synchronisation of Alpha (10Hz) oscillations in the neo-cortex has been shown to predict successful memory encoding and retrieval. However, when engaging in learning, it has been found that the hippocampus synchronises in Theta (4Hz) oscillations, and that learning is dependent on the phase of Theta. This inconsistency as to whether synchronisation is ‘good’ for memory formation leads to confusion over which oscillations we should expect to see and where during learning paradigm experiments. This paper seeks to respond to this inconsistency by presenting a neural network model of how a well-functioning learning system could exhibit both of these phenomena, i.e. desynchronization of alpha and synchronisation of theta during successful memory encoding.

We present a spiking neural network (the Sync/deSync model) of the neo-cortical and hippocampal system. The simulated hippocampus learns through an adapted spike-time dependent plasticity rule, in which weight change is modulated by the phase of an extrinsically generated theta oscillation. Additionally, a global passive weight decay is incorporated, which is also modulated by theta phase. In this way, the Sync/deSync model exhibits theta phase-dependent long-term potentiation and long-term depression. We simulated a learning paradigm experiment and compared the oscillatory dynamics of our model with those observed in single-cell and scalp-EEG studies of the medial temporal lobe. Our Sync/deSync model suggests that both the de-synchronisation of neo-cortical Alpha and the synchronisation of hippocampal Theta are necessary for successful memory encoding and retrieval.

Significance statement

A fundamental question is the role of rhythmic activation of neurons, i.e. how their firing oscillates between high and low rates. A particularly important question is how oscillatory dynamics between the neo-cortex and hippocampus contribute to memory formation. We present a spiking neural-network model of such memory formation, with the central ideas that 1) in neo-cortex, neurons need to break-out of an alpha oscillation in order to represent a stimulus (i.e. alpha desynchronises), while 2) in hippocampus, the firing of neurons at theta facilitates formation of memories (i.e. theta synchronises). Accordingly, successful memory formation is marked by reduced neo-cortical alpha and increased hippocampal theta. This pattern has been observed experimentally and gives our model its name – the Synch/deSynch model.
Discovering novel pharmacogenomic biomarkers by imputing drug response in cancer patients from large genomics studies
Authors: Geeleher Paul , Zhang Zhenyu , Wang Fan , Gruener Robert F. , Nath Aritro , Morrison Gladys , Bhutra Steven , Grossman Robert L. , Huang R. Stephanie
Published: August 2017

Obtaining accurate drug response data in large cohorts of cancer patients is very challenging; thus, most cancer pharmacogenomics discovery is conducted in preclinical studies, typically using cell lines and mouse models. However, these platforms suffer from serious limitations, including small sample sizes. Here, we have developed a novel computational method that allows us to impute drug response in very large clinical cancer genomics data sets, such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The approach works by creating statistical models relating gene expression to drug response in large panels of cancer cell lines and applying these models to tumor gene expression data in the clinical data sets (e.g., TCGA). This yields an imputed drug response for every drug in each patient. These imputed drug response data are then associated with somatic genetic variants measured in the clinical cohort, such as copy number changes or mutations in protein coding genes. These analyses recapitulated drug associations for known clinically actionable somatic genetic alterations and identified new predictive biomarkers for existing drugs.
Digital consumers as cultural curators: the irony of Vaporwave
Authors: Schembri Sharon , Tichbon Jac
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the question of cultural production, consumption and intermediation in the context of digital music.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts an interpretivist, ethnoconsumerist epistemology along with a netnographic research design combined with hermeneutic analysis. Interpreting both the text view and field view of an ethnoconsumerist approach, the netnographic research design includes participant observation across multiple social media platforms as well as virtual interviews and analysis of media material. The context of application is a digital music subculture known as Vaporwave. Vaporwave participants deliberately distort fundamental aspects of modern and postmodern culture in a digital, musical, artistic and storied manner.

Findings

Hermeneutic analysis has identified a critical and nostalgic narrative of consumerism and hyper-reality, evident as symbolic parallels, intertextual relationships, existential themes and cultural codes. As a techno savvy community embracing lo-fi production, self-releasing promotion and anonymity from within a complexity of aliases and myriad collaborations, the vaporous existentialism of Vaporwave participants skirts copyright liability in the process. Accordingly, Vaporwave is documented as blurring reality and fantasy, material and symbolic, production and consumption. Essentially, Vaporwave participants are shown to be digital natives turned digital rebels and heretical consumers, better described as cultural curators.

Research limitations/implications

This research demonstrates a more complex notion of cultural production, consumption and intermediation, argued to be more accurately described as cultural curation.

Practical implications

As digital heretics, Vaporwave participants challenge traditional notions of modernity, such as copyright law, and postmodern notions such as working consumers and consuming producers.

Social implications

Vaporwave participants present a case of digital natives turned digital rebels and consumer heretics, who are actively curating culture.

Originality/value

This interpretive ethnoconusmerist study combining netnography and hermeneutic analysis of an online underground music subculture known as Vaporwave shows digital music artists as cultural curators.
Symmetrical valve controlled asymmetrical cylinder based on wavelet neural network
Authors: Qi Haitao , Liu Zilong , Lang Yan
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The symmetrical valve is usually used in the hydraulic servo control system to control the asymmetrical cylinder, but this system’s structure involves asymmetry, and so its dynamic characteristics are asymmetrical, which causes issues in the control system of symmetric response. The purpose of this paper is to achieve the aim of symmetric control.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors proposed a method that combined wavelet neural network (WNN) and model reference adaptive control. The reference model determined the dynamic response that the system was expected to achieve, and the WNN adaptive control made the system follow the reference model to achieve the purpose of symmetric control.

Findings

The experimental results show that the method can achieve a more accurate symmetric control and position control compared with the solutions via the classical PID control.

Originality/value

The proposed combination of the WNN and the reference model can effectively compensate for the asymmetry of dynamic response of the asymmetric cylinder in forward and return directions, which can be extended to deal with other classes of applications.