bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the photoelectrochemical response of TiO2 nanotubes through their nanodecoration by pulsed-laser-deposited Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Trabelsi K. , Hajjaji A. , Gaidi M. , Bessais B. , El Khakani M. A.
Published: August 2017

We report on the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) based nanodecoration of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotube arrays (NTAs) by Ag nanoparticles (NPs). We focus here on the investigation of the effect of the number of laser ablation pulses (NLP) of the silver target on both the average size of the Ag-NPs and the photoelectrochemical conversion efficiency of the Ag-NP decorated TiO2-NT based photoanodes. By varying the NLP, we were able to not only control the size of the PLD-deposited Ag nanoparticles from 20 to ∼50 nm, but also to increase concomitantly the surface coverage of the TiO2 NTAs by Ag-NPs. The red-shifting of the surface plasmon resonance peak of the PLD-deposited Ag-NPs deposited onto quartz substrates confirmed the increase of their size as the NLP is increased from 500 to 10 000. By investigating the photo-electrochemical properties of Ag-NP decorated TiO2-NTAs, by means of linear sweep cyclic voltammetry under UV-Vis illumination, we found that the generated photocurrent is sensitive to the size of the Ag-NPs and reaches a maximum value at NLP =500 (i.e.,; Ag-NP size of ∼20 nm). For NLP = 500, the photoconversion efficiency of the Ag-NP decorated TiO2-NTAs is shown to reach a maximum of 4.5% (at 0.5 V vs Ag/AgCl). The photocurrent enhancement of Ag-NP decorated TiO2-NTAs is believed to result from the additional light harvesting enabled by the ability of Ag-NPs to absorb visible irradiation caused by various localized surface plasmon resonances, which in turn depend on the size and interdistance of the Ag nanoparticles.
The effect of ionizing radiation on the optical properties of NaMgF3(Mn): Observation of an F-center Mn complex
Authors: Schuyt J. J. , Williams G. V. M.
Published: August 2017

We report the results from optical absorption, photoluminescence, radioluminescence, and optically stimulated luminescence measurements on polycrystalline NaMgF3(Mn). A point defect that absorbed near 340 nm at 300 K was observed after X-ray irradiation, which is not seen in the pure compound and may be due to self-trapped holes close to the Mn sites. This defect could be optically bleached, and optically stimulated luminescence was observed during the bleaching process. Non-distorted and distorted Mn2+ photoluminescence was found where only the non-distorted sites showed optically stimulated luminescence. Both sites displayed radioluminescence, but the dependence on the radiation dose was different for each site. An F-center Mn complex was observed after X-ray irradiation, which has not been previously reported for the NaMgF3(Mn) compound. The photoluminescence emission at 670 nm from this complex increased with increasing radiation dose and was not bleached by optical excitation at 566 nm. However, it could be bleached after 254 nm excitation. Thus, unlike Mn2+ optically stimulated luminescence, the photoluminescence from this emission can be used to provide a non-destructive measure of the radiation dose. Our results show that NaMgF3(Mn) can potentially be used as a radiation dosimeter for dose-rate monitoring via radioluminescence, continual monitoring of individual doses via F-center Mn complex photoluminescence, and cumulative dose detection via optically stimulated luminescence.
Control of a cascaded STATCOM with battery energy storage system under unbalanced and distorted grid voltage conditions
Authors: Mao Sumin , Chen Qiang , Li Rui , Cai Xu
Published: August 2017

This paper proposes a novel control strategy of a star-connected cascaded static synchronous compensator with a battery energy storage system (STATCOM/BESS) under unbalanced and distorted grid voltage conditions. Cascaded second-order generalized integrators are utilized to effectively extract the fundamental positive- and negative-sequence components from the adverse grid voltage. Moreover, proportional multi-complex integral current controllers are adopted to improve the harmonic characteristic of the grid-connected current with zero steady-state error and rapid dynamic response in the stationary αβ reference frame. However, unbalanced grid voltage along with the control target of obtaining the fundamental positive-sequence grid-connected current leads to unbalanced active powers among the three phase clusters. This issue will result in an unbalanced clustered state of charge of battery units and seriously affect the battery life and system performance. Accordingly, clustered active-power-balancing control is presented to solve this issue by injecting an appropriate zero-sequence voltage. Simulation results show the good operational performance of the cascaded STATCOM/BESS and verify the validity and effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Note: A miniature oscillating microbalance for sampling ice and volcanic ash from a small airborne platform
Authors: Airey M. W. , Harrison R. G. , Nicoll K. A. , Williams P. D. , Marlton G. J.
Published: August 2017

A lightweight and low power oscillating microbalance for in situ sampling of atmospheric ice and volcanic ash is described for airborne platforms. Using a freely exposed collecting wire fixed at only one end to a piezo transducer, the instrument collects airborne materials. Accumulated mass is determined from the change in natural frequency of the wire. The piezo transducer is used in a dual mode to both drive and detect the oscillation. Three independent frequency measurement techniques are implemented with an on-board microcontroller: a frequency sweep, a Fourier spectral method, and a phase-locked loop. These showed agreement to ±0.3 Hz for a 0.5 mm diameter collecting wire of 120 mm long, flown to 19 km altitude on a weather balloon. The instrument is well suited to disposable use with meteorological radiosondes, to provide high resolution vertical profiles of mass concentration.
Self-organization process in newborn skin organoid formation inspires strategy to restore hair regeneration of adult cells
Authors: Lei Mingxing , Schumacher Linus J. , Lai Yung-Chih , Juan Wen-Tau , Yeh Chao-Yuan , Wu Ping , Jiang Ting-Xin , Baker Ruth E. , Widelitz Randall Bruce , Yang Li , Chuong Cheng-Ming
Published: August 2017

Significance

This study opens avenues to improve the ability of adult skin cells to form a fully functional skin, with clinical applications. Our investigation elucidates a relay of molecular events and biophysical processes at the core of the self-organization process during tissue morphogenesis. Molecules key to the multistage morphological transition are identified and can be added or inhibited to restore the stalled process in adult cells. The principles uncovered here are likely to function in other organ systems and will inspire us to view organoid morphogenesis, embryogenesis, and regeneration differently. The application of these findings will enable rescue of robust hair formation in adult skin cells, thus eventually helping patients in the context of regenerative medicine.
Extruded Mg–7.2Zn–1.5Cu–1.0Mn magnesium alloy with strong aging strengthening
Authors: Zhang Jing , Huang Hao , Xiao Wenxia , Yang Chengbo
Published: August 2017

An Mg–7.2Zn–1.5Cu–1.0Mn (wt-%) magnesium alloy was processed by extrusion and a subsequent solution heat treatment, followed by a two-step aging treatment, with the aim of achieving a high mechanical strength. Results show that a strong age-strengthening response was achieved in the alloy. Compared to the solution heat-treated sample, the increase in the yield strength (YS) of the aged sample was approximately 170 MPa, resulting in a high YS of approximately 370 MPa, which is much higher than that for most high rare-earth-containing Mg alloys. The enhanced age-strengthening response of the alloy is closely related to the high number density of nanoscale rod-shaped precipitates.

This paper is part of a thematic issue on Light Alloys.
PiMP my metabolome: an integrated, web-based tool for LC-MS metabolomics data
Authors: Gloaguen Yoann , Morton Fraser , Daly Rónán , Gurden Ross , Rogers Simon , Wandy Joe , Wilson David , Barrett Michael , Burgess Karl
Published: August 2017

The Polyomics integrated Metabolomics Pipeline (PiMP) fulfils an unmet need in metabolomics data analysis. PiMP offers automated and user-friendly analysis from mass spectrometry data acquisition to biological interpretation. Our key innovations are the Summary Page, which provides a simple overview of the experiment in the format of a scientific paper, containing the key findings of the experiment along with associated metadata; and the Metabolite Page, which provides a list of each metabolite accompanied by ‘evidence cards’, which provide a variety of criteria behind metabolite annotation including peak shapes, intensities in different sample groups and database information.

Availability and implementation

PiMP is available at http://polyomics.mvls.gla.ac.uk, and access is freely available on request. 50 GB of space is allocated for data storage, with unrestricted number of samples and analyses per user. Source code is available at https://github.com/RonanDaly/pimp and licensed under the GPL.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Morbidity and Mortality in Patients With Posterior Circulation Aneurysms Treated With the Pipeline Embolization Device: A Subgroup Analysis of the International Retrospective Study of the Pipeline Embolization Device
Authors: Lopes Demetrius K , Jang Dong-Kyu , Cekirge Saruhan , Fiorella David , Hanel Ricardo A , Kallmes David F , Levy Elad I , Lylyk Pedro
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

The safety of PipelineTM Embolization Device (PED; Medtronic Inc, Dublin, Ireland) in posterior circulation aneurysms is still controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To study complications associated with the treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms by conducting a subgroup analysis from the International Retrospective Study of PED registry.

METHODS

Data from 91 consecutive patients with 95 posterior circulation aneurysms at 17 centers between July 2008 to February 2013 were analyzed. The primary endpoint was defined as any complication leading to neurological morbidity or death. The outcome predictors were calculated using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression methods.

RESULTS

The mean aneurysm size was 13.8 mm. Aneurysm types were saccular (36.8%), fusiform (29.5%), dissecting (28.4%), and others (5.3%). The median follow-up was 21.1 mo. Twelve (13.2%) patients encountered a primary endpoint event. In multivariate analysis for the primary endpoint, use of ≥3 PEDs and fusiform shape compared with other shapes had hazard ratios (HRs) of 7.77 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.48-25.86; P = .0007) and 3.48 (95% CI, 1.06-13.39; P = .0488), respectively. The multivariate HR of aneurysm size for neurological morbidity after PED implantation was 1.11 (95% CI, 1.04-1.18; P = .0015), and HRs of ruptured aneurysm and age for neurological mortality were 8.1 (95% CI, 1.31-41.26; P = .0197) and 1.07 (95% CI, 1.02-1.15; P = .0262), respectively. Basilar artery aneurysm had an HR of 3.54 (95% CI, 1.12-14.18, P = .0529) in the univariate analysis for major outcomes.

CONCLUSION

PED implantation may be considered for the treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms, especially of saccular or dissecting type. Our major complications appear to be comparable to those reported previously after clipping and coiling in the literature. Neurointerventionists should consider the shape, size, rupture, and location of complex posterior circulation aneurysms as well as age and PED number before the PED placement.
Paratendinous Scraping and Excision of Plantaris for Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Jowett Charlie R.J. , Richmond Anneka , Bedi Harvinder S.
Published: August 2017

Recent research has suggested a combined role of the plantaris tendon and neovascularization for Achilles tendinopathy recalcitrant to nonoperative management. The aim of our study was to determine if addressing both these issues improved symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy. We report on the results of a prospective case series involving 2 cohorts of patients between February 2011 and February 2015 undergoing this combined technique. One cohort included recreational athletes (group A), the second included patients who undertook minimal recreational activity (group B). In group A there were 19 patients (25 tendons). The mean age at surgery was 44 years (range, 20 to 55 y). The mean follow-up was 21 months (range, 7 to 38 mo). Patients were satisfied with the results in 21 of the 25 tendons (84%). The mean Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles improved from 51 to 90 following surgery (P<0.001). One case was revised. In group B there were 7 patients (9 tendons). Patients were satisfied in 7 of the 9 cases. These results support the use of this combined procedure in recreational athletes with failed nonoperative management. We believe surgery provides a healthier environment for conservative load-based rehabilitation. In the nonathletic population results are less consistent.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Current status and future direction in the management of malignant melanoma
Authors: Gladfelter Patrick , Darwish Noureldien H.E. , Mousa Shaker A.
Published: August 2017

The incidence of malignant melanoma is increasing rapidly on a global scale. Although some types of melanoma, for example primary cutaneous melanoma, can be managed by surgery, metastatic melanoma cannot and it has a high mortality rate. Both oncogene and immune-targeted strategies have shown marked efficacy in some patients, but their effect on overall survival is still variable. Therefore, newer therapeutic approaches are needed. Fortunately, new advances in molecular medicine have led to an understanding of an individual patient’s cancer at the genomic level. This information is now being used in all stages of cancer treatment including diagnosis, treatment selection, and treatment monitoring. This new strategy of personalized medicine may lead to marked shifts in immunotherapeutic treatment approaches such as individualized cancer vaccines and adoptive transfer of genetically modified T cells. This review provides an overview of recent approaches in cancer research and expected impact on the future of treatment for metastatic melanoma.
Risk factors for development of melanoma brain metastasis and disease progression: a single-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Gardner Laura J. , Ward Morgan , Andtbacka Robert H.I. , Boucher Kenneth M. , Bowen Glen M. , Bowles Tawnya L. , Cohen Adam L. , Grossmann Kenneth , Hitchcock Ying J. , Holmen Sheri L. , Hyngstrom John , Khong Hung , McMahon Martin , Monroe Marcus M. , Ross Carolyn B. , Suneja Gita , Wada David , Grossman Douglas
Published: August 2017

Melanoma metastasis to the brain is associated with a poor prognosis. We sought to determine patient demographics and primary tumor factors associated with the development of brain metastasis (BM) and survival. We also investigated whether the BM detection setting (routine screening vs. symptomatic presentation) affected clinical outcomes. A database of melanoma patients seen from 1999 to 2015 at our institution was reviewed to identify patients who developed BM. Patients with BM were matched by initial stage with patients who did not develop BM as a control group. Patient demographics, primary tumor characteristics, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. A total of 123 patients with BM were matched by initial presenting stage to 237 patients without BM. The characteristics of the primary melanoma tumor associated with BM development included location on the scalp (P=0.030), nodular histologic type (P=0.020), and Breslow depth more than 4 mm (P=0.048), whereas location on the leg was associated with decreased BM risk (P=0.006). In patients with BM, time to first recurrence for melanomas of the scalp was significantly shorter (10.8 vs. 24.8 months, P=0.007) than nonscalp head and neck tumors. Patient stage, tumor depth, nodular type, and ulceration were also associated with worse clinical outcomes. There were no differences in the clinical outcomes between patients whose BM were detected upon routine screening versus those detected upon symptomatic presentation. In summary, factors predictive of development of BM included primary scalp location, nodular type, and depth. In BM patients, scalp location, stage, tumor depth, nodular type, and ulceration, but not detection setting, were associated with worse clinical outcomes.
Rapid detection of bacterial meningitis using a point-of-care glucometer
Authors: Rousseau Geoffroy , Asmolov Romain , Grammatico-Guillon Leslie , Auvet Adrien , Laribi Said , Garot Denis , Jouan Youenn , Dequin Pierre-François , Guillon Antoine
Published: August 2017

Background

In case of acute bacterial meningitis, a decision on the need for intensive care admission should be made within the first hour. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of a point-of-care glucometer to determine abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose concentration at the bedside that contributes toward bacterial meningitis diagnosis.

Methods

We carried out a prospective study and simultaneously measured the glucose concentrations in CSF and blood using a central laboratory and a point-of-care glucometer. We compared CSF/blood glucose ratios obtained at the bedside with a glucometer versus those obtained by the central laboratory. We determined the performance characteristics of the CSF/blood glucose ratio provided by a glucometer to detect bacterial infection in the CSF immediately after CSF sampling.

Results

We screened 201 CSF collection procedures during the study period and included 172 samples for analysis. Acute bacterial meningitis was diagnosed in 17/172 (9.9%) of CSF samples. The median turnaround time for a point-of-care glucometer analysis was 5 (interquartile range 2–10) min versus 112 (interquartile range 86–154) min for the central laboratory (P<0.0001). The optimal cut-off of the CSF/blood glucose ratio calculated from a bedside glucometer was 0.46, with a sensitivity of 94.1% (95% confidence interval: 71.3–99.9%), a specificity of 91% (95% confidence interval: 85.3–95%), and a positive likelihood ratio of 10.

Conclusion

A glucometer accurately detects an abnormal CSF/blood glucose ratio immediately after the lumbar puncture. This cheap point-of-care method has the potential to speed up the diagnostic process of patients with bacterial meningitis.
Will Veterans Answer Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Questions?
Authors: Ruben Mollie A. , Blosnich John R. , Dichter Melissa E. , Luscri Lorry , Shipherd Jillian C.
Published: August 2017

Background:

The Veterans Health Administration does not routinely collect and document sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data, despite existing health disparities among sexual and gender minority Veterans. Because of the legacy of previous Department of Defense (DoD) policies that prohibited disclosure of sexual or gender minority identities among active duty personnel, Veterans may be reluctant to respond to SOGI questions.

Objectives:

This population-based study assesses item nonresponse to SOGI questions by Veteran status.

Research Design:

This is a secondary analysis of data from a population-based sample of adults in 20 US states that elected to administer a SOGI module in the 2014 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey. Prevalence of SOGI refusals and responses of “don’t know” were compared for Veterans and non-Veterans.

Subjects:

Veterans (n=22,587) and non-Veterans (n=146,475) were surveyed.

Results:

Nearly all Veteran respondents (≥98%) completed the SOGI questions, with 95.4% identifying as heterosexual, 1.2% as gay or lesbian, 1.2% as bisexual, and 0.59% as transgender. A significantly lower proportion of Veterans than non-Veterans refuse to answer sexual orientation (1.5% vs. 1.9%). There was no difference between Veterans and non-Veterans in responses for gender identity.

Conclusions:

Veterans are just as likely as non-Veterans to complete SOGI items in survey research. Asking Veterans about SOGI is unlikely to yield significant nonresponse. These data suggest that future research should investigate Veterans’ perspectives on being asked about SOGI in research settings and as part of routine clinical care.
Harnessing Implementation Science to Increase the Impact of Health Equity Research
Authors: Chinman Matthew , Woodward Eva N. , Curran Geoffrey M. , Hausmann Leslie R.M.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Health disparities are differences in health or health care between groups based on social, economic, and/or environmental disadvantage. Disparity research often follows 3 steps: detecting (phase 1), understanding (phase 2), and reducing (phase 3), disparities. Although disparities have narrowed over time, many remain.

Objectives:

We argue that implementation science could enhance disparities research by broadening the scope of phase 2 studies and offering rigorous methods to test disparity-reducing implementation strategies in phase 3 studies.

Methods:

We briefly review the focus of phase 2 and phase 3 disparities research. We then provide a decision tree and case examples to illustrate how implementation science frameworks and research designs could further enhance disparity research.

Results:

Most health disparities research emphasizes patient and provider factors as predominant mechanisms underlying disparities. Applying implementation science frameworks like the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research could help disparities research widen its scope in phase 2 studies and, in turn, develop broader disparities-reducing implementation strategies in phase 3 studies. Many phase 3 studies of disparity-reducing implementation strategies are similar to case studies, whose designs are not able to fully test causality. Implementation science research designs offer rigorous methods that could accelerate the pace at which equity is achieved in real-world practice.

Conclusions:

Disparities can be considered a “special case” of implementation challenges—when evidence-based clinical interventions are delivered to, and received by, vulnerable populations at lower rates. Bringing together health disparities research and implementation science could advance equity more than either could achieve on their own.
Exploring the Role of Key Workers in Cancer Care
Authors: Ling Jonathan , McCabe Karen , Brent Sue , Crosland Ann , Brierley-Jones Lyn
Published: August 2017

Purpose/Aims:

The key worker role in cancer services was established in England to improve the continuity of care for patients. We examined how the role has been implemented by clinical nurse specialists and how both cancer patients and nursing staff viewed its effectiveness to inform debate about the transfer of patients between clinical nurse specialists during cancer care.

Design:

This study was questionnaire based, with separate surveys developed for patients and staff.

Method:

The questionnaires explored issues including implementation of the key worker role, modifications to it, and where the role was felt to have most impact. The questionnaires were completed by 101 staff members and 46 patients. The data were analyzed descriptively.

Results:

Perspectives on the key worker role differed between nursing staff respondents and patient respondents. Overall, patient respondents were very positive, whereas staff respondents were less so. The following is a key difference related to patient handover: 71% of patient respondents wanted the same key worker throughout their treatment, but only 28% of staff respondents did. Staff respondents wanted more training to clarify the role.

Conclusion:

Continuity of care through an assigned key worker was highly valued by patients. Successful implementation could be better achieved through improved communication with both nursing staff and allied health professions. Where possible, cancer patients should be assigned a dedicated key worker at initial diagnosis.
Contraception After Surgical and Medical Abortion: A Review
Authors: Roe Andrea Hsu , Bartz Deborah
Published: August 2017

Importance

To prevent subsequent unintended pregnancy, contraception should be initiated soon after surgical and medical abortion. Evidence regarding the safety of postabortion contraception, especially for long-acting reversible methods, has accumulated in recent years.

Objective

This review seeks to provide up-to-date recommendations about the provision and timing of contraception after surgical and medical abortion.

Evidence Acquisition

Recommendations are based on the US Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC) or on the authors’ review of the current literature for topics that the MEC does not address.

Results

Contraceptive counseling at the time of abortion should be collaborative. All reversible contraceptive methods are safe to begin immediately after surgical abortion, barring concern for surgical complications or underlying medical contraindications. After medical abortion, the implant may be initiated immediately, combined hormonal contraception may be initiated shortly thereafter, and the intrauterine device may be placed once the abortion is complete. Further research is needed to determine the optimal timing of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate initiation after medical abortion.

Conclusions and Relevance

Abortion is an important opportunity for contraceptive counseling and provision. Clinic policies and insurance coverage should maximize access to all contraceptive methods, including long-acting reversible methods.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians.

Learning Objectives

After completing this activity, the learner should be better able to describe the importance of combining contraception and abortion provision; specify the contraceptive methods that can be safely offered on the same day as surgical and medical abortion; utilize the MEC to identify medical contraindications to contraceptive use; and recognize the public health benefits of the prompt initiation of long-acting reversible methods.
Optimizing Postsurgical Scars: A Systematic Review on Best Practices in Preventative Scar Management
Authors: Perez Justin L. , Rohrich Rod J.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Scar management is critical for every plastic surgeon’s practice and, ultimately, the patient’s satisfaction with his or her aesthetic result. Despite the critical nature of this component of routine postoperative care, there has yet to be a comprehensive analysis of the available literature over the past decade to assess the best algorithmic approach to scar care. To this end, a systematic review of best practices in preventative scar management was conducted to elucidate the highest level of evidence available on this subject to date.

Methods:

A computerized MEDLINE search was performed for clinical studies addressing scar management. The resulting publications were screened randomized clinical trials that met the authors’ specified inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Results:

This systematic review was performed in May of 2016. The initial search for the Medical Subject Headings term “cicatrix” and modifiers “therapy, radiotherapy, surgery, drug therapy, prevention, and control” yielded 13,101 initial articles. Applying the authors’ inclusion/exclusion criteria resulted in 12 relevant articles. All included articles are randomized, controlled, clinical trials.

Conclusions:

Optimal scar care requires taking into account factors such as incisional tension, anatomical location, and Fitzpatrick skin type. The authors present a streamlined algorithm for scar prophylaxis based on contemporary level I and II evidence to guide clinical practice.
Alzheimer's Disease Caregivers' Health and Important Resources: Next Steps in Intervention Research
Authors: Ross Kharah M. , Carroll Judith E.
Published: August 2017

In this issue of Psychosomatic Medicine, Mausbach and colleagues report that Alzheimer's disease caregivers who engage in more pleasant leisure activities had lower blood pressure for 5 years compared with those who engage in fewer leisure activities. This novel finding suggests that something as simple as taking more walks in the park or more time for reading books could protect the physical health of caregivers. In this editorial, we review possible mechanisms linking pleasant leisure activities with lower blood pressure in caregivers and discuss potential barriers that prevent caregivers from engaging in pleasant leisure activities. One possibility is that caregivers may not give themselves “permission” to take time away from caregiving, or feel guilty or selfish for doing so. Another impediment may be lack of outside assistance or support that would be needed to take time for leisure activities. Primary health care providers may play an important role in helping caregivers overcome these obstacles. In addition, public policy innovations are needed to meet the increasing societal demands on the psychological and medical consequences of caregiver burden.
Gummy Smile Correction Using Lingual Orthodontics and Augmented Corticotomy in Extremely Thin Alveolar Housing
Authors: Nahm Kyung-Yen , Shin Seung-Yun , Ahn Hyo-Won , Kim Seong-Hun , Nelson Gerald
Published: August 2017

Background:

Tooth movement out of anatomic limitations was assisted by augmented corticotomy using deproteinized bovine bone mineral.

Methods:

Lip protrusion can be reduced by premolar extraction followed by retraction of the anterior teeth. Surgical intervention is appropriate when the alveolar bone housing of the anterior region is insufficient for the tooth movement. In this patient, corticotomy in upper palatal area and anterior segmented osteotomy in the mandible were performed. Anatomic limitation to the retraction was expanded by xenograft. An antero-posterior lingual appliance was used to bodily retract the upper anterior teeth. The gummy smile was resolved by intrusion of upper entire arch using 2 mid-palatal temporary skeletal anchorage devices.

Results:

New bone formation was observed on palatal side of upper anterior teeth. The teeth were moved into augmented area without fenestration or vitality loss. Lip protrusion was resolved, and the gummy smile was effectively improved.

Conclusions:

Orthodontic tooth movement beyond the limitation of the alveolar bone housing can be achieved with surgical assistance, which can be performed under local anesthesia. Without orthognathic surgery, the gummy smile can be reduced using an antero-posterior lingual retractor with mid-palatal skeletal anchorage.
Formation of the Philtral Column Using a Dermal Graft in Secondary Unilateral Cleft Lip
Authors: Kim Jeenam , Park Jongok , Uhm Ki-il , Shin Donghyeok , Choi Hyungon
Published: August 2017

Introduction:

The philtral column has an important aesthetic significance and is especially important in patients with cleft lip. If the integrity of the philtrum cannot be preserved in patients of unilateral clefts, these patients will have profound abnormalities in their facial musculature. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of dermal grafting on the philtral column in patients with a unilateral alveolar cleft.

Methods:

The authors retrospectively studied dermal grafts performed in Konkuk University Medical Center between January 2009 and January 2015. A total of 26 patients with unilateral cleft lip were included in this study; the authors measured philtral symmetry based on differences in convexity and angle using clinical photos. Additionally, panel evaluation was performed.

Results:

Of 26 patients enrolled, 21 completed follow-up and had adequate photographs. Five patients who were lost to follow-up were excluded. The difference in convexity decreased from 0.25 to 0.15 (P < 0.005) and the difference in angle decreased from 10.76 to 6.43 (P < 0.005). The panel evaluation indicated that patient appearances were significantly improved (P < 0.001).

Discussion:

In patients with secondary cleft lip deformity of the philtral depression, the authors’ procedure may augment the thickness of the philtral ridge and have positive aesthetic outcomes.
The Double Intravenous Catheter Technique for Single-Puncture Arthrocentesis
Authors: Nagori Shakil Ahmed , Chattopadhyay Probodh K. , Pathey Kamal K. , Dua Gaurav
Published: August 2017

Traditionally, arthrocentesis involves insertion of 2 needles into the joint space of which one acts as an inflow port and the other as the outflow port. These 2 needles must triangulate and be exactly placed in the upper joint space for the procedure to be effective. Due to the difficulty in maintaining the needle position, single-puncture arthrocentesis is gaining popularity. It is relatively easier to perform and less traumatic to the joint. The authors describe a simple technique of single-puncture arthrocentesis using parts of 2 peripheral intravenous catheters of different gauges. The outflow port is formed by the catheter tube of 1 cannula while the inflow port is formed by the needle of the second cannula. Besides beings easy to perform and cost-effective, our technique provides predictable joint lavage of the joint with minimal trauma to the tissues.
Pediatric Pseudotumor Cerebri Syndrome
Authors: Phillips Paul H. , Sheldon Claire A.
Published: August 2017

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension, otherwise known as primary pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTCS), most frequently occurs in obese women of childbearing age. However, children may be affected as well. This review will address recent findings regarding demographics, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric PTCS. Prepubertal children with primary PTCS have an equal sex distribution and less frequent obesity compared with adult patients. However, female gender and obesity are risk factors for primary PTCS in postpubertal children. Compared with adults, children with PTCS more frequently present with ocular motility deficits and more often have associated medical conditions that increase the risk of developing PTCS. Visual field testing may be unreliable, and the optimal modality to monitor visual function is unknown. MRI shows signs of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in children with PTCS similar to that of adults. It has now been established that elevated ICP in children ≤18 years old is greater than 25 cm H20 in nonobese, nonsedated children, and greater than 28 cm H2O in the remainder. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) may be used to distinguish pseudopapilledema from papilledema, monitor response to treatment in preverbal children, and identify patients with PTCS at risk for permanent visual loss. However, the precise role of OCT in the management of pediatric PTCS remains to be determined.
Optic Pathway Gliomas in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: An Update: Surveillance, Treatment Indications, and Biomarkers of Vision
Authors: de Blank Peter M. K. , Fisher Michael J. , Liu Grant T. , Gutmann David H. , Listernick Robert , Ferner Rosalie E. , Avery Robert A.
Published: August 2017

Optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) occur in 15%–20% of children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), leading to visual deficits in fewer than half of these individuals. The goal of chemotherapy is to preserve vision, but vision loss in NF1-associated OPG can be unpredictable. Determining which child would benefit from chemotherapy and, equally important, which child is better observed without treatment can be difficult. Unfortunately, despite frequent imaging and ophthalmologic evaluations, some children experience progressive vision loss before treatment. Indications for chemotherapy usually are based on a comprehensive, quantitative assessment of vision, but reliable vision evaluation can be challenging in young children with NF1-OPG. The ability to identify and predict impending vision loss could potentially improve management decisions and visual outcomes. To address this challenge, ophthalmologic, electrophysiologic, and imaging biomarkers of vision in NF1-OPG have been proposed. We review current recommendations for the surveillance of children at risk for NF1-OPG, outline guidelines for initiating therapy, and describe the utility of proposed biomarkers for vision.
Pediatric Optic Neuritis: What Is New
Authors: Borchert Mark , Liu Grant T. , Pineles Stacy , Waldman Amy T.
Published: August 2017

Few diseases blur the margins between their childhood and adult-onset varieties as much as optic neuritis. This report will review our state of knowledge of pediatric optic neuritis, as well as its relationship to the latest consensus definitions of neuroinflammatory disease. Current diagnostic and treatment options will be explored, as well as our potential to uncover an understanding of pediatric optic neuritis through systematic prospective studies. The risk of evolving multiple sclerosis is probably less than in adults, but pediatric optic neuritis is more likely to be an initial manifestation of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Steroids may hasten visual recovery, but they do not change visual outcome except in cases because of neuromyelitis optica. The role of puberty in modifying the presentation and risk associations is unknown. Prospective studies are required to resolve these diagnostic and management issues.
Identifying a TFIID interactome via integrated biochemical and high-throughput proteomic studies
Authors: Liu Wei-Li , Song Lihua , Dailey Gina , Piasecka Anna , Coleman Robert A.
Published: August 2017

The core promoter recognition TFIID complex acts as a central regulator for eukaryotic gene expression. To direct transcription initiation, TFIID binds the core promoter DNA and aids recruitment of the transcription machinery (e.g., RNA polymerase II) to the transcription start site. Many transcription factors target TFIID to control vital cellular processes. Current studies on finding TFIID interactors have predominantly focused on transcription factors. Yet, a comprehensive interactome of mammalian TFIID has not been established. Therefore, this study sought to reveal potential TFIID-nucleated networks by identifying likely co-regulatory factors that bind TFIID. By using intact native human TFIID complexes, we have exploited three independent approaches including a high-throughput Next Generation DNA sequencing coupled with proteomic analysis. Among these methods, we found some overlapping and new candidates in which we further assessed three putative interactors (i.e., Sox2, H2A and EMSY) by co-immunoprecipitation assays. Notably, in addition to known TFIID interactors, we identified a number of novel factors that participate either in co-regulatory pathways or non-transcription related functions of TFIID. Overal, these results indicate that, in addition to transcription initiation, mammalian TFIID may be involved in broader regulatory pathways than previous studies suggested.
MERS-CoV spillover at the camel-human interface
Authors: Dudas Gytis , Carvalho Luiz Max , Rambaut Andrew , Bedford Trevor , Somily Ali M. , Barry Mazin , Al Subaie Sarah S. , BinSaeed Abdulaziz A. , Alzamil Fahad A. , Zaher Waleed , Qahtani Theeb Al , Jerian Khaldoon Al , McNabb Scott J.N. , Al-Jahdali Imad A. , Alotaibi Ahmed M. , Batarfi Nahid A. , Cotten Matthew , Watson Simon J. , Binter Spela , Kellam Paul
Published: August 2017

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a zoonotic virus from camels causing significant mortality and morbidity in humans in the Arabian Peninsula. The epidemiology of the virus remains poorly understood, and while case-based and seroepidemiological studies have been employed extensively throughout the epidemic, viral sequence data have not been utilised to their full potential. Here we use existing MERS-CoV sequence data to explore its phylodynamics in two of its known major hosts, humans and camels. We employ structured coalescent models to show that long-term MERS-CoV evolution occurs exclusively in camels, whereas humans act as a transient, and ultimately terminal host. By analysing the distribution of human outbreak cluster sizes and zoonotic introduction times we show that human outbreaks in the Arabian peninsula are driven by seasonally varying zoonotic transfer of viruses from camels. Without heretofore unseen evolution of host tropism, MERS-CoV is unlikely to become endemic in humans.
Gpufit: An open-source toolkit for GPU-accelerated curve fitting
Authors: Przybylski Adrian , Thiel Björn , Keller-Findeisen Jan , Stock Bernd , Bates Mark
Published: August 2017

We present a general purpose, open-source software library for estimation of non-linear parameters by the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. The software, Gpufit, runs on a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) and executes computations in parallel, resulting in a significant gain in performance. We measured a speed increase of up to 42 times when comparing Gpufit with an identical CPU-based algorithm, with no loss of precision or accuracy. Gpufit is designed such that it is easily incorporated into existing applications or adapted for new ones. Multiple software interfaces, including to C, Python, and Matlab, ensure that Gpufit is accessible from most programming environments. The full source code is published as an open source software repository, making its function transparent to the user and facilitating future improvements and extensions. As a demonstration, we used Gpufit to accelerate an existing scientific image analysis package, yielding significantly improved processing times for super-resolution fluorescence microscopy datasets.
Evolution of chalcone isomerase from a non-catalytic ancestor
Authors: Kaltenbach Miriam , Burke Jason R. , Dindo Mirco , Pabis Anna , Munsberg Fabian S. , Rabin Avigayel , Kamerlin Shina C. L. , Noel Joseph P. , Tawfik Dan S.
Published: August 2017

The emergence of catalysis in a non-catalytic protein scaffold is a rare, unexplored event. Chalcone isomerase (CHI), a key enzyme in plant flavonoid biosynthesis, is presumed to have evolved from a non-enzymatic ancestor related to the widely-distributed fatty-acid binding proteins (FAPs) and a plant protein family with no isomerase activity (CHILs for “CHI-like”). Ancestral inference confirmed that CHI evolved from a protein lacking isomerase activity. We also identified four alternative founder mutations, i.e. mutations that individually instated activity, including a mutation that is not phylogenetically traceable. Despite strong epistasis in other cases of protein evolution, CHI’s laboratory reconstructed mutational trajectory shows weak epistasis. Thus, enantioselective CHI activity can readily emerge despite a catalytically inactive starting point. X-ray crystallography, NMR, and MD simulations reveal reshaping of the active site toward a productive substrate-binding mode and repositioning of the catalytic arginine that was inherited from the ancestral fatty-acid binding proteins.
Genome downsizing, physiological novelty, and the global dominance of flowering plants
Authors: Simonin Kevin A. , Roddy Adam B.
Published: August 2017

During the Cretaceous (145-66 Ma), early angiosperms rapidly diversified, eventually outcompeting the ferns and gymnosperms previously dominating most ecosystems. Heightened competitive abilities of angiosperms are often attributed to higher rates of transpiration facilitating faster growth. This hypothesis does not explain how angiosperms were able to develop leaves with smaller, but densely packed stomata and highly branched venation networks needed to support increased gas exchange rates. Although genome duplication and reorganization have likely facilitated angiosperm diversification, here we show that genome downsizing facilitated reductions in cell size necessary to construct leaves with a high density stomata and veins. Rapid genome downsizing during the early Cretaceous allowed angiosperms to push the frontiers of anatomical trait space. In contrast, during the same time period ferns and gymnosperms exhibited no such changes in genome size, stomatal size, or vein density. Further reinforcing the effect of genome downsizing on increased gas exchange rates, we found that species employing water-loss limiting crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, have significantly larger genomes than C3 and C4 species. By directly affecting cell size and gas exchange capacity, genome downsizing brought actual primary productivity closer to its maximum potential. These results suggest species with small genomes, exhibiting a larger range of final cell size, can more finely tune their leaf physiology to environmental conditions and inhabit a broader range of habitats.
A subset of sweet-sensing neurons identified by IR56d are necessaryand sufficient for fatty acid taste
Authors: Tauber John M. , Brown Elizabeth , Li Yuanyuan , Yurgel Maria E. , Masek Pavel , Keene Alex C.
Published: August 2017

Fat represents a calorically potent food source that yields approximately twice the amount of energy as carbohydrates or proteins per unit of mass. The highly palatable taste of FAs promotes food consumption, activates reward circuitry, and is thought to contribute to hedonic feeding underlying many metabolism-related disorders. Despite a role in the etiology of metabolic diseases, little is known about how dietary fats are detected by the gustatory system to promote feeding. Previously, we showed that a broad population of sugar-sensitive taste neurons expressing Gustatory Receptor 64f (Gr64f), is required for reflexive feeding responses to both FAs and sugars. Here, we report a genetic silencing screen to identify specific populations of taste neurons that mediate fatty acid taste. We find neurons identified by expression of Ionotropic Receptor 56d (IR56d) are necessary and sufficient for reflexive feeding response to FAs. Functional imaging reveals thatIR56d-expressing neurons are responsive to short- and medium-chain FAs. SilencingIR56dneurons selectively abolishes fatty acid taste, while their activation is sufficient to drive feeding responses. Analysis of co-expression withGr64fidentifies two subpopulations ofIR56d-expressing neurons. While physiological imaging reveals that both populations are responsive to FAs,IR56d/Gr64fneurons are activated by medium-chain FAs and are sufficient for reflexive feeding responses to FA. Moreover, flies can discriminate between sugar and FAs in an aversive taste memory assay, indicating that FA taste is a unique modality inDrosophila. Taken together, these findings localize fatty acid taste within theDrosophilagustatory center and provide an opportunity to investigate discrimination between different categories of appetitive tastants.

Authors Summary

Fat represents a calorically potent food source that yields approximately twice the amount of energy as carbohydrates or proteins per unit of mass. Dietary lipids are comprised of both triacylglycerides and FAs, and growing evidence suggests that it is the free FAs that are detected by the gustatory system. The highly palatable taste of FAs promotes food consumption, activates reward centers in mammals, and is thought to contribute to hedonic feeding that underlies many metabolism-related disorders. Despite a role in the etiology of metabolic diseases, little is known about how dietary fats are detected by the gustatory system to promote feeding. We have identified a subset of sugar-sensing neurons in the fly that also respond to medium-chain FAs and are necessary and sufficient for behavioral responses to FAs. Further, we find that despite being sensed by shared neuron populations, flies can differentiate between the taste of sugar and FAs, fortifying the notion that FAs and sugar represent distinct taste modalities in flies.