bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A strategy for the synthesis of cyclomatrix-polyphosphazene nanoparticles from non-aromatic monomers
Authors: Huang Zhangjun , Zheng Feng , Chen Shuangshuang , Lu Xuemin , Catharina Elizabeth van Sittert Cornelia Gertina , Lu Qinghua
Published: July 2016

Cyclomatrix-polyphosphazenes (C-PPZs) are a new class of nanomaterials that have attracted significant interest owing to their unique inorganic–organic hybrid structure and tunable properties.
Effect of arginine : lysine ratio in free amino acid and protein form onl-NAME induced hypertension in hypercholesterolemic Wistar rats
Authors: Vallabha Vishwanath S. , Tapal Arun , Sukhdeo Shinde Vijay , K Govindaraju , Tiku Purnima Kaul
Published: July 2016

Arginine : lysine in the ratio of 5 : 1 plays an important role in cardiovascular diseases, especially as a nitric oxide precursor leading to vasodilation and inhibiting angiotensin-I converting enzyme in renin angiotensin system.
Cyclodextrin-based ordered rotaxane-monolayers at gold surfaces
Authors: Sun Ruyi , Zhu Liangliang
Published: July 2016

Complexation-to-deaggregation effect of cyclodextrin was applied to achieve ordered functional monolayers on a gold surface.
Isabgol–silk fibroin 3D composite scaffolds as an effective dermal substitute for cutaneous wound healing in rats
Authors: Ponrasu Thangavel , Vishal Pagidipally , Kannan Ramya , Suguna Lonchin , Muthuvijayan Vignesh
Published: July 2016

Psyllium husk based silk 3D scaffolds were developed via freeze drying method without adding any bioactive substances to enhance tissue repair during cutaneous wound healing in rats.
The access of Trichoderma reesei 6A to cellulose is blocked by isolated hemicelluloses and their derivatives in biomass hydrolysis
Authors: Xin Donglin , Yang Ming , Chen Xiang , Zhang Junhua
Published: July 2016

Mannan inhibited action of CBHII fromTrichoderma reeseiby retarding the adsorption of CBHII to cellulose.
Regioisomeric donor–acceptor–donor triads based on benzodithiophene and BODIPY with distinct optical properties and mobilities
Authors: Sengupta Sanchita , Pandey Upendra K. , Athresh Eashwer Umesh
Published: July 2016

Two regioisomeric donor–acceptor–donor triads composed of benzodithiophene and BODIPY exhibit distinct optical and charge transfer properties, and mobilities of ∼10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Assembling pore-rich FeP nanorods on the CNT backbone as an advanced electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution
Authors: Yan Ya , Zhao Bin , Yi Sung Chul , Wang Xin
Published: July 2016

A catalyst of porous FeP nanorods on CNT backbones (FeP@CNT) is designed for the efficient OER and the effect of the unique structure on the OER performance is also investigated.
Biodegradable fiducial markers for X-ray imaging – soft tissue integration and biocompatibility
Authors: Górecka Żaneta , Teichmann Juliane , Nitschke Mirko , Chlanda Adrian , Choińska Emilia , Werner Carsten , Święszkowski Wojciech
Published: July 2016

This study aims at investigation of material for innovative fiducial markers for soft tissue in X-ray based medical imaging. NH3 plasma modified P[LAcoCL] combined with BaSO4 and hydroxyapatite as radio-opaque fillers appears to be a promising material systems for this application.
Light-directed alignment, surface morphing and related processes: recent trends
Authors: Seki Takahiro
Published: July 2016

The immense potential of light responsive polymer materials toward technological applications in photonics, mechanics and micro-fabrication has been attracting increasing attention from both materials chemists and physicists.
Inhibitory serpins. New insights into their folding, polymerization, regulation and clearance
Authors: Gettins Peter G.W. , Olson Steven T.
Published: July 2016

Serpins are a widely distributed family of high molecular mass protein proteinase inhibitors that can inhibit both serine and cysteine proteinases by a remarkable mechanism-based kinetic trapping of an acyl or thioacyl enzyme intermediate that involves massive conformational transformation. The trapping is based on distortion of the proteinase in the complex, with energy derived from the unique metastability of the active serpin. Serpins are the favoured inhibitors for regulation of proteinases in complex proteolytic cascades, such as are involved in blood coagulation, fibrinolysis and complement activation, by virtue of the ability to modulate their specificity and reactivity. Given their prominence as inhibitors, much work has been carried out to understand not only the mechanism of inhibition, but how it is fine-tuned, both spatially and temporally. The metastability of the active state raises the question of how serpins fold, whereas the misfolding of some serpin variants that leads to polymerization and pathologies of liver disease, emphysema and dementia makes it clinically important to understand how such polymerization might occur. Finally, since binding of serpins and their proteinase complexes, particularly plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), to the clearance and signalling receptor LRP1 (low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1), may affect pathways linked to cell migration, angiogenesis, and tumour progression, it is important to understand the nature and specificity of binding. The current state of understanding of these areas is addressed here.
Stable and salient patch‐based appearance model for robust object tracking
Authors: Luo Bo , Liang Chao , Ruan Weijian , Hu Ruimin
Published: July 2016

As a classic appearance modelling method in object tracking, patch‐based approach is believed to own natural superiority in handling local occlusion to its divide‐and‐conquer philosophy. However, in facing of more severe application conditions, such as heavy occlusion, part deformation and illumination change, traditional patch‐based method may also fail due to the lack of sufficient matching patches. To address this problem, temporal stability as well as spatial salience to collaboratively improve patch selection and update schemes, resulting in a robust tracking algorithm for more challenging scenarios are proposed. Both quantitative and qualitative experiments conducted on practical video sequences demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Online condition monitoring and power management system for standalone micro‐grid using FPGAs
Authors: Venkatraman K. , Dastagiri Reddy B. , Selvan M.P. , Moorthi S. , Kumaresan N. , Gounden N. Ammasai
Published: July 2016

The integration of multiple renewable energy resources to meet the energy needs of the consumers in remote locations with better reliability is a major challenge due to inherent characteristics of available renewable sources namely unpredictability and variability. This requires development of effective micro‐grid controllers to manage power balance between load and generation. In this study, a micro‐grid controller integrating the output from multiple types of renewable energy conversion systems, namely, wind and solar along with diesel generator as well as battery storage has been developed with source and load control features using field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The load controller facilitates load management (switching ON/OFF non‐critical loads) based on the generation availability and energy storage capacity. The source controller facilitates source management based on the load requirement and battery status. The various parameters of these different power generation sources and loads are displayed on visual screen using FPGA for online condition monitoring of the micro‐grid. It also includes the communication between source and load controllers using Ethernet for exchange of monitored data for a suitable control action. This innovative work has been developed in such a manner that it will be replicable in the field to bring it on the large scale.
Laboratory medicine in pediatric lupus
Authors: La Cava Antonio
Published: July 2016

Pediatric lupus encompasses a broad variety of clinical manifestations of a systemic disease. Routine laboratory testing, autoantibodies, and complement levels can confirm the diagnosis and help monitoring and therapy of the disease, to ultimately improve outcomes. Additionally, tests can help to identify subsets of patients with specific risk factors and/or the involvement of selected organs/systems. The availability, refinement and accuracy of laboratory tests are instrumental to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of pediatric lupus patients.
Negative charge trapping effects in Al2O3 films grown by atomic layer deposition onto thermally oxidized 4H-SiC
Authors: Schilirò Emanuela , Lo Nigro Raffaella , Fiorenza Patrick , Roccaforte Fabrizio
Published: July 2016

This letter reports on the negative charge trapping in Al2O3 thin films grown by atomic layer deposition onto oxidized silicon carbide (4H-SiC). The films exhibited a permittivity of 8.4, a breakdown field of 9.2 MV/cm and small hysteresis under moderate bias cycles. However, severe electron trapping inside the Al2O3 film (1 × 1012 cm−2) occurs upon high positive bias stress (>10V). Capacitance-voltage measurements at different temperatures and stress conditions have been used to determine an activation energy of 0.1eV. The results provide indications on the possible nature of the trapping defects and, hence, on the strategies to improve this technology for 4H-SiC devices.
Trap characterization in composite of solid-liquid using dual-level trap model and TSDC method
Authors: Wei Yanhui , Chen George , Zhang Guan-Jun , Liu Ning , Li Guochang
Published: July 2016

Charge trap is considered to be one of the effective characteristic parameters for qualitatively evaluating the aging status of insulating material. In this paper, the trap characteristics in oil-impregnated paper with different aging types (non-treatment, thermal treatment and electrical treatment) are investigated using a dual-level (shallow and deep energy) trap model based on space charge profiles and thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) data. The simulated results based on the model are well consistent with the experimental results. On the other hand, the TSDC method can acquire much information related to the shallower traps, and the dual–level trap model can obtain much charge dynamics characteristics. It has been observed that thermally aging makes the shallow trap energy become deeper while electrically aging makes it shallower. Moreover, the trap density in oil-impregnated paper increases after aging regardless of thermal or electrical aging.
Addressing cost of unwarranted medical care in the medical curriculum
Authors: Tran David Minh , Forbes Malcolm P.
Published: July 2016

Within the past decade, there has been a significant increase in Australia’s health expenditure, with a concurrent rise in overdiagnosis. Australia has introduced the Choosing Wisely campaign in a bid to identify and reduce commonly used investigations, treatments and procedures that add little benefit to patient care. By catalysing a discussion regarding evidence-based use of medications and medical testing, the Choosing Wisely campaign can minimise risk of harm to patients, as well as reduce expenditure. Internationally, several institutions are considering introducing training regarding cost-effective medical investigations into medical school curricula. The American College of Radiology has found positive results when conducting small-group teaching sessions with medical students regarding appropriate imaging modalities. These results are reflected in a US study that used an educational intervention to improve students’ understanding of investigation costs. In addition, the Academy of Clinical Laboratory Physicians and Scientists has developed a proposed curriculum to further medical students’ training in appropriate ordering of laboratory investigations. Australian medical educators must consider whether introducing evidence-based testing into Australian medical curricula should be part of a wider strategy to prevent unnecessary testing and health expenditure now and into the future.
SIM key comparison for luminous flux. SIM.PR-K4
Authors: Matamoros Carlos H , Ohno Yoshi , Zwinkels Joanne , Cogno Jorge A , Couceiro Iakyra B
Published: July 2016

In compliance with the established BIPM and CCPR policies and guidelines on comparisons, the SIM Photometry and Radiometry Working Group decided to conduct a key comparison on total luminous flux in order to provide an opportunity for its member National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) that did not participate in the CCPR-K4 comparison, to get a link to the reference value obtained for this quantity (the lumen) and to derive the corresponding degrees of equivalence.

This SIM.PR-K4 was piloted by Centro Nacional de Metrología (CENAM), the NMI of Mexico and included the participation of five laboratories: CENAM (Mexico), INTI (Argentina), INMETRO (Brazil), NIST (USA, linking lab), and NRC (Canada, linking lab).

The comparison, conducted in star type scheme, was run using three to four lamps per participant, and results are given in this report, including the unilateral degrees of equivalence.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCPR, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Tau antagonizes end-binding protein tracking at microtubule ends through a phosphorylation-dependent mechanism
Authors: Ramirez-Rios Sacnicte , Denarier Eric , Prezel Eléa , Vinit Angélique , Stoppin-Mellet Virginie , Devred François , Barbier Pascale , Peyrot Vincent , Sayas Carmen Laura , Avila Jesus , Peris Leticia , Andrieux Annie , Serre Laurence , Fourest-Lieuvin Anne , Arnal Isabelle
Published: July 2016

Proper regulation of microtubule dynamics is essential for cell functions and involves various microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). Among them, end-binding proteins (EBs) accumulate at microtubule plus ends, whereas structural MAPs bind along the microtubule lattice. Recent data indicate that the structural MAP tau modulates EB subcellular localization in neurons. However, the molecular determinants of EB/tau interaction remain unknown, as is the effect of this interplay on microtubule dynamics. Here we investigate the mechanisms governing EB/tau interaction in cell-free systems and cellular models. We find that tau inhibits EB tracking at microtubule ends. Tau and EBs form a complex via the C-terminal region of EBs and the microtubule-binding sites of tau. These two domains are required for the inhibitory activity of tau on EB localization to microtubule ends. Moreover, the phosphomimetic mutation S262E within tau microtubule-binding sites impairs EB/tau interaction and prevents the inhibitory effect of tau on EB comets. We further show that microtubule dynamic parameters vary, depending on the combined activities of EBs and tau proteins. Overall our results demonstrate that tau directly antagonizes EB function through a phosphorylation-dependent mechanism. This study highlights a novel role for tau in EB regulation, which might be impaired in neurodegenerative disorders.
Narrative and poetry working together
Authors: Linafelt Tod
Published: July 2016

“Narrative and poetry working together” shows how the Bible brings narrative and poetry together as complementary forms to maintain and make use of the distinctive literary resources of each. The poetic insets in narrative contexts can be used as markers of structure; to add certain weight, gravitas, or solemnity to the speech of the characters; to introduce both figurative language and the expression of thought and passion into a literary form where it is otherwise mostly absent; or as an expression of interiority—the expression or intensification of a character’s emotional life, his or her thoughts, feelings, and commitments. Examples from the book of Job are given.
Joint sparse canonical correlation analysis for detecting differential imaging genetics modules
Authors: Fang Jian , Lin Dongdong , Schulz S. Charles , Xu Zongben , Calhoun Vince D. , Wang Yu-Ping
Published: July 2016

Motivation: Imaging genetics combines brain imaging and genetic information to identify the relationships between genetic variants and brain activities. When the data samples belong to different classes (e.g. disease status), the relationships may exhibit class-specific patterns that can be used to facilitate the understanding of a disease. Conventional approaches often perform separate analysis on each class and report the differences, but ignore important shared patterns.

Results: In this paper, we develop a multivariate method to analyze the differential dependency across multiple classes. We propose a joint sparse canonical correlation analysis method, which uses a generalized fused lasso penalty to jointly estimate multiple pairs of canonical vectors with both shared and class-specific patterns. Using a data fusion approach, the method is able to detect differentially correlated modules effectively and efficiently. The results from simulation studies demonstrate its higher accuracy in discovering both common and differential canonical correlations compared to conventional sparse CCA. Using a schizophrenia dataset with 92 cases and 116 controls including a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array and functional magnetic resonance imaging data, the proposed method reveals a set of distinct SNP-voxel interaction modules for the schizophrenia patients, which are verified to be both statistically and biologically significant.

Availability and Implementation: The Matlab code is available at https://sites.google.com/site/jianfang86/JSCCA.

Contact:  wyp@tulane.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
A Practical Training Program for Peripheral Radial Artery Catheterization in Adult Patients
Authors: Nakayama Yoshinobu , Inagaki Yuko , Nakajima Yasufumi , Sessler Daniel I. , Mukai Nobuhiro , Ogawa Satoru , Mizobe Toshiki , Sawa Teiji
Published: July 2016

Background

The main cause of unsuccessful peripheral radial artery catheterization using traditional palpation is imprecisely locating the arterial center. The authors evaluated factors causing disparities between the arterial centers determined by palpation versus ultrasound. The authors applied them to create and test a novel catheterization training program.

Methods

The arterial central axis was determined by ultrasound and palpation in 350 adults. Potential independent predictors of disparity included sex, body mass index, pulse pressure, transverse arterial diameter, subcutaneous arterial depth, chronic hypertension, and experience as an anesthesiologist (less than 3 vs. greater than or equal to 3 yr). Using the results, the authors developed a radial artery catheterization training program. It was tested by enrolling 20 first-year interns, randomized to a training or control group. The time to successful insertion was the primary outcome measure. The success rate and time required for catheterization by palpation were evaluated in 100 adult patients per group.

Results

Independent predictors of central axis disparity were pulse pressure, subcutaneous radial artery depth, years of experience, and chronic hypertension. Training improved the catheterization time (training group 56 ± 2 s vs. control group 109 ± 2 s; difference –53 ± 3 s; 95% CI, –70 to –36 s; P < 0.0001) and total success rate (training group 83 of 100 attempts, 83%; 95% CI, 75 to 90 vs. control group 57 of 100, 57%; 95% CI, 47 to 66; odds ratio, 3.7; 95% CI, 2.7 to 5.1).

Conclusions

Misjudging the central axis position of the radial artery is common with a weak pulse and/or deep artery. The authors’ program, which focused on both these issues, shortened the time for palpation-guided catheterization and improved success.
Global incidence of primary malignant bone tumors
Authors: Kumar Narinder , Gupta Bhawna
Published: July 2016

Background:

Though the incidence of primary malignant bone tumors is relatively low, the mortality related to them is disproportionately high, especially among teenagers and young adults. The currently available incidence figures are based mainly on data collected from more developed countries. Global incidence figures and comparative figures between various regions and continents are not available.

Methods:

The global incidence rates for primary malignant bone tumors across all age groups were estimated using the data from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents, IARC CI5-annual detailed data set (ADDS). Comparison of incidence rates was done across all age groups and continents, including gender comparison. The data are presented in 5-year age brackets from birth until maximal possible age for which data were available in the database.

Results:

The global incidence of primary malignant bone tumors shows a specific age distribution pattern with two incidence peaks at 10-20 yr and a steady increase from 40 yr to the age of 80 yr. There is a significant difference between males and females, with males being affected almost 1.5 times more frequently than females. South America had the highest incidence rates in both the peak age groups affected.

Conclusions:

There are significant geographic variations in incidence of primary malignant bone tumors with variation being more significant in elderly age group.
Liquid nitrogen recycled autograft prosthesis composite reconstruction for osteosarcoma around the knee: review of 15 cases
Authors: Mostafa Mohamed Abdel Rahman , Mashhour Mohamed Ahmed , El Masry Ayman Mohammad , Azmy Sherif Ishak
Published: July 2016

Background:

Many technical and financial obstacles face surgeons when performing limb-salvage surgeries.

Methods:

We retrospectively studied 15 patients with osteosarcoma around the knee joint treated with limb salvage procedure in the form of wide resection, recycling the resected segment using liquid nitrogen followed by implantation of a hinged knee prosthesis and re-implantation of the autograft-prosthetic composite to the host bone by osteosynthesis, with mean follow-up duration of 66.53 mo.

Results:

The average duration until union of the graft was 7.73 mo (range, 4-13 mo). Implant failure occurred in one of 15 patients with resultant screw pull out for whom revision plating was done. Superficial wound infection occurred in one of 15 patients for whom surgical debridement was done. No prosthesis-related complications were detected until the final follow-up. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scoring was applicable for 13 patients who were alive at the final follow-up period and was 73%. Eleven of 15 patients were disease free at last follow-up (average follow-up 66.5 mo).

Conclusions:

As far as we know no other research showed population study homogeneity regarding autograft prosthesis composite reconstruction using liquid nitrogen around the knee joint for the same pathology. Use of recycled autograft prosthesis composite is an option that eliminates disadvantages of both stand-alone endoprosthetic replacement and recycled tumor-bearing segment autografts while preserving the advantages of these techniques. The technique provides comparable survival rates to other techniques. It represents an alternative to the use of allograft when culturally unacceptable and saves about 50% of expected cost as compared to megaprosthesis reconstruction.
Autologous Minced Muscle Grafts Improve Muscle Strength in a Porcine Model of Volumetric Muscle Loss Injury
Authors: Ward Catherine L. , Pollot Beth E. , Goldman Stephen M. , Greising Sarah M. , Wenke Joseph C. , Corona Benjamin T.
Published: July 2016

Objectives:

The traumatic loss of muscle tissue, defined as volumetric muscle loss (VML) injury, has no definitive therapy. The purposes of this study were: (1) to develop a porcine model of VML and (2) to investigate autologous minced muscle grafts (1-mm3 pieces of muscle) as a potential therapeutic. Minced grafts were evaluated because they have promoted fiber regeneration and functional recovery in rat VML models and do not require US Food and Drug Administration approval for clinical use.

Methods:

In 5 female Yorkshire-cross pigs, ≈5 g (≈20%) of tissue was excised from the peroneous tertius muscle (≈3 × 3 × 1.5-cm defect) of each leg. The defect in one leg was treated with autologous minced grafts derived from the contralateral leg. Maximal isometric tetanic strength assessments of the dorsiflexor muscles (ie, the peroneous tertius muscle) were performed before and biweekly up to 12 weeks postinjury.

Results:

VML injury resulted in a −43.5% ± 7.2% strength deficit 12 weeks postinjury in nonrepaired legs. Autologous minced muscle graft repair significantly improved strength over 12 weeks (32% strength increase 12 weeks postinjury vs. nonrepaired muscles with a remaining −27.8% ± 7.0% strength deficit; P < 0.001). Nonrepaired muscles developed extensive fibrosis and presented no evidence of muscle fiber regeneration within the defect area. Minced graft-treated muscles presented areas of putative de novo muscle fiber regeneration within the defect area, although extensive fibrotic tissue deposition was also present.

Conclusion:

Autologous minced muscle grafts partially restored neuromuscular strength in a novel porcine model of VML.
What Are Your Patients Reading Online About Soft-tissue Fillers? An Analysis of Internet Information
Authors: Al-Taha Mona T. , Al Youha Sarah A. , Bull Courtney E. , Butler Michael B. , Williams Jason G.
Published: July 2016

Background:

Soft-tissue fillers are increasingly being used for noninvasive facial rejuvenation. They generally offer minimal downtime and reliable results. However, significant complications are reported and patients need to be aware of these as part of informed consent. The Internet serves as a vital resource to inform patients of the risks and benefits of this procedure.

Methods:

Three independent reviewers performed a structured analysis of 65 Websites providing information on soft-tissue fillers. Validated instruments were used to analyze each site across multiple domains, including readability, accessibility, reliability, usability, quality, and accuracy. Associations between the endpoints and Website characteristics were assessed using linear regression and proportional odds modeling.

Results:

The majority of Websites were physician private practice sites (36.9%) and authored by board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists (35.4%) or nonphysicians (27.7%). Sites had a mean Flesch-Kincaid grade level of 11.9 ± 2.6, which is well above the recommended average of 6 to 7 grade level. Physician private practice sites had the lowest scores across all domains with a notable lack of information on complications. Conversely, Websites of professional societies focused in plastic surgery and dermatology, as well as academic centers scored highest overall.

Conclusions:

As the use of soft-tissue fillers is rising, patients should be guided toward appropriate sources of information such as Websites sponsored by professional societies. Medical professionals should be aware that patients may be accessing poor information online and strive to improve the overall quality of information available on soft-tissue fillers.
CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL CORRELATION IN A PATIENT WITH PREVIOUSLY TREATED BIRDSHOT CHORIORETINOPATHY
Authors: Sohn Elliott H. , Chirco Kathleen R. , Folk James C. , Mullins Robert F.
Published: July 2016

Purpose:

Birdshot chorioretinopathy (BCR) is a bilateral, chronic uveitis primarily involving the posterior segment that often results in progressive vision loss. Histopathology on eyes with BCR has been limited, but we had the rare opportunity to study the eyes of a donor with BCR. We sought to compare immunolabeling in the eyes of this donor who was treated with immunosuppression for over 30 years to age-matched controls.

Methods:

From each eye, a macular punch and superotemporal regions were used for cryostat sectioning, and immunohistochemistry was performed on the sections using antibodies directed against CD45, intercellular adhesion molecule–1, IBA1, and GFAP. The vasculature-binding lectin, Ulex europaeus agglutinin–I (UEA-I), was also used to perform lectin histochemistry.

Results:

At death, her visual acuity was 20/25 right eye, 20/250 left eye with extensive chorioretinal atrophy, vascular attenuation, and disk pallor. Compared with controls, the BCR donor had extensive degeneration of the outer nuclear layer and retinal pigment epithelium as well as choroidal thinning with inner retinal preservation. Loss of UEA-I+ choroidal endothelial cells was extensive, and atypical intercellular adhesion molecule–1 labeling and IBA+ microglia/macrophages were present along with widespread GFAP labeling throughout the retina.

Conclusion:

The BCR may cause progressive chorioretinal and optic atrophy with long-standing increased leukocyte abundance throughout the retina and microglial activation especially at the retina–choroid interface.
There's an App for That!
Authors: Wellde Paula T. , Miller Lisa A.
Published: July 2016

Social media has opened the door of information to patients and fundamentally changed communication in ways never imagined 30 years ago. Apps and Web sites from professional organizations as well as private individuals and commercial businesses abound. Opportunities for both research and unique forms of social and emotional support are part of the trend. While there are obvious advantages to having so much information available, social media has disadvantages as well. Today's clinicians need to understand how to access and evaluate social media for patient education and provide guidance for patients seeking health information from the cloud.
Evidence-Based Practice and Quality Improvement in Nursing Education
Authors: Balakas Karen , Smith Joan R.
Published: July 2016

For more than a decade, nursing education has experienced several significant changes in response to challenges faced by healthcare organizations. Accrediting organizations have called for improved quality and safety in care, and the Institute of Medicine has identified evidence-based practice and quality improvement as 2 core competencies to include in the curricula for all healthcare professionals. However, the application of these competencies reaches far beyond the classroom setting. For nurses to possess the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to apply evidence-based practice and quality improvement to the real-world setting, academic-clinical institution partnerships are vital.
Surgical Treatment of Mediastinitis with Omentoplasty in Ventricular Assist Device Patients: Report of Referral Center Experience
Authors: Pieri Marina , Müller Marcus , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Pergantis Panagiotis , Kretzschmar Alexandra , Kaufmann Friedrich , Falk Volkmar , Krabatsch Thomas , Arlt Georg , Potapov Evgenij , Kukucka Marian
Published: July 2016

Mediastinitis is more frequent in patients with implantable ventricular assist devices (VADs) than in other cardiac surgery patients and carries significant mortality. We report our experience with a stepwise approach including aggressive debridement, jet lavage, vacuum assisted closure dressing, and finally coverage with well-vascularized and immune-active omental flaps in VAD patients with infective mediastinitis. We retrospectively collected and analyzed data of patients with continuous flow VAD who underwent plasty with the omental flap because of mediastinitis at Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin between January 1, 2008 and October 30, 2015. Eight hundred forty-five patients underwent VAD implantation during the study period. Omentoplasty due to infective mediastinitis was performed in 17 cases. Nine had a HeartWare HVAD as left ventricular assist device (LVAD), three patients had two Heart-Ware HVAD as biventricular assist device (BIVAD), four had a HeartMate II LVAD device, and one patient had a Berlin Heart Incor LVAD. The microorganisms most frequently isolated from the sternal wound were Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. Four cases of bleeding requiring surgical revision were recorded: three of intraabdominal and one of wound bleeding. Eight patients (47%) survived, whereas the other nine patients (53%) died. Sixteen (94%) required intensive care unit admission, and median hospital stay was 21 (1–182) days. Postoperative renal failure requiring dialysis and septic shock requiring vasopressors were associated with hospital mortality (p = 0.009 and p = 0.05, respectively). Early surgical treatment of mediastinitis after VAD implantation with omentoplasty is a valuable strategy in an otherwise dead-end situation. Bleeding should be meticulously controlled in these anticoagulated and fragile patients.
To the Point: Integrating Patient Safety Education Into the Obstetrics and Gynecology Undergraduate Curriculum
Authors: Abbott Jodi F. , Pradhan Archana , Buery-Joyner Samantha , Casey Petra M. , Chuang Alice , Dugoff Lorraine , Dalrymple John L. , Forstein David A. , Hampton Brittany S. , Hueppchen Nancy A. , Kaczmarczyk Joseph M. , Katz Nadine T. , Nuthalapaty Francis S. , Page-Ramsey Sarah , Wolf Abigail , Cullimore Amie J.
Published: July 2016

This article is part of the To the Point Series prepared by the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics Undergraduate Medical Education Committee. Principles and education in patient safety have been well integrated into academic obstetrics and gynecology practices, although progress in safety profiles has been frustratingly slow. Medical students have not been included in the majority of these ambulatory practice or hospital-based initiatives. Both the Association of American Medical Colleges and Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education have recommended incorporating students into safe practices. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education milestone 1 for entering interns includes competencies in patient safety. We present data and initiatives in patient safety, which have been successfully used in undergraduate and graduate medical education. In addition, this article demonstrates how using student feedback to assess sentinel events can enhance safe practice and quality improvement programs. Resources and implementation tools will be discussed to provide a template for incorporation into educational programs and institutions. Medical student involvement in the culture of safety is necessary for the delivery of both high-quality education and high-quality patient care. It is essential to incorporate students into the ongoing development of patient safety curricula in obstetrics and gynecology.
Metabolite exchange within the microbiome produces compounds that influenceDrosophilabehavior
Authors: Fischer Caleb N. , Trautman Eric , Crawford Jason M. , Stabb Eric V. , Broderick Nichole A. , Handelsman Jo
Published: July 2016

Animals host multi-species microbial communities (microbiomes) whose properties may result from inter-species interactions; however current understanding of host-microbiome interactions is derived mostly from studies in which is it is difficult to elucidate microbe-microbe interactions. In exploring howDrosophila melanogasteracquires its microbiome, we found that a microbial community influencesDrosophilaolfactory and egg-laying behaviors differently than individual members.Drosophilaprefers aSaccharomyces-Acetobacterco-culture to the same microorganisms grown individually and then mixed, a response mainly due to the conserved olfactory receptor,Or42b.Acetobactermetabolism ofSaccharomyces-derived ethanol was necessary, and acetate and its metabolic derivatives were sufficient, for co-culture preference. Preference correlated with three emergent co-culture properties: ethanol catabolism, a distinct volatile emission profile, and yeast population decline. We describe a molecular mechanism by which a microbial community affects animal behavior. Our results support a model whereby emergent metabolites signalDrosophilato acquire its preferred multispecies microbiome.
Axonal mRNA in human embryonic stem cell derived neurons
Authors: Bigler Rebecca L. , Kamande Joyce W. , Dumitru Raluca , Niedringhaus Mark , Taylor Anne Marion
Published: July 2016

The identification of axonal mRNAs in model organisms has led to the discovery of multiple proteins synthesized within axons for functional roles such as axon guidance and injury response. The extent to which protein synthesis within the axon is conserved in humans is unknown. Here we used axon-isolating microfluidic chambers to characterize the axonal transcriptome of human embryonic stem cells (hESC-neurons) differentiated using a protocol for glutamatergic neurons. Using gene expression analysis, we identified mRNAs proportionally enriched in axons, representing a functionally unique local transcriptome as compared to the human neuronal transcriptome inclusive of somata and dendrites. Further, we found that the most abundant mRNAs within hESC-neuron axons were functionally similar to the axonal transcriptome of rat cortical neurons. We confirmed the presence of two well characterized axonal mRNAs in model organisms, β-actin and GAP43, within hESC-neuron axons using multiplexed single molecule RNA-FISH. Additionally, we report the novel finding that oxytocin mRNA localized to these human axons and confirmed its localization using RNA-FISH. This new evaluation of mRNA within human axons provides an important resource for studying local mRNA translation and has the potential to reveal both conserved and unique axonal mechanisms across species and neuronal types.
DrosophilaMutants that Are Motile but Respond Poorly to All Stimuli Tested: Mutants in RNA Splicing and RNA Helicase, Mutants in The Boss
Authors: Vang Lar L. , Adler Julius
Published: July 2016

AdultDrosophila melanogasterfruit flies were placed into one end of a tube near to repellents (benzaldehyde and heat) and away from the other end containing attractants (light and a favored temperature). They escaped from the repellents and went to the attractants. Five motile mutants that failed to do that were isolated. They did not respond to any external attractants tested or external repellents tested. In addition, they did not respond well to internal sensory stimuli like hunger, thirst, and sleep. The mutants, although motile, failed to respond to stimuli at both 34°C and at room temperature. Some of the mutants have been mapped. The mutants are missing RNA splicing and RNA helicase. In addition, mutants missing information from The Boss are discussed.
On representing rotations by Rodrigues parameters in non-orthonormal reference systems
Authors: Morawiec A.
Published: July 2016

A Rodrigues vector is a triplet of real numbers used for parameterizing rotations or orientations in three-dimensional space. Because of its properties (e.g.simplicity of fundamental regions for misorientations) this parameterization is frequently applied in analysis of orientation maps of polycrystalline materials. By conventional definition, the Rodrigues parameters are specified in orthonormal coordinate systems, whereas the bases of crystal lattices are generally non-orthogonal. Therefore, the definition of Rodrigues parameters is extended so they can be directly linked to non-Cartesian bases of a crystal. The new parameters are co- or contravariant components of vectors specified with respect to the same basis as atomic positions in a unit cell. The generalized formalism allows for redundant crystallographic axes. The formulas for rotation composition and the relationship to the rotation matrix are similar to those used in the Cartesian case, but they have a wider range of applicability: calculations can be performed with an arbitrary metric tensor of the crystal lattice. The parameterization in oblique coordinate frames of lattices is convenient for crystallographic applications because the generalized parameters are directly related to indices of rotation-invariant lattice directions and rotation-invariant lattice planes.
TakeTwo: an indexing algorithm suited to still images with known crystal parameters
Authors: Ginn Helen Mary , Roedig Philip , Kuo Anling , Evans Gwyndaf , Sauter Nicholas K. , Ernst Oliver P. , Meents Alke , Mueller-Werkmeister Henrike , Miller R. J. Dwayne , Stuart David Ian
Published: July 2016

The indexing methods currently used for serial femtosecond crystallography were originally developed for experiments in which crystals are rotated in the X-ray beam, providing significant three-dimensional information. On the other hand, shots from both X-ray free-electron lasers and serial synchrotron crystallography experiments are still images, in which the few three-dimensional data available arise only from the curvature of the Ewald sphere. Traditional synchrotron crystallography methods are thus less well suited to still image data processing. Here, a new indexing method is presented with the aim of maximizing information use from a still image given the known unit-cell dimensions and space group. Efficacy for cubic, hexagonal and orthorhombic space groups is shown, and for those showing some evidence of diffraction the indexing rate ranged from 90% (hexagonal space group) to 151% (cubic space group). Here, the indexing rate refers to the number of lattices indexed per image.
Exploring the interplay between leadership styles and PSM in two organisational settings
Authors: Fazzi Gabriella , Zamaro Nereo
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationships of public service motivation (PSM) with leadership style (transformational and transactional) in two different sectors: nonprofit and public research.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors have investigated the effects of leadership styles on the level of PSM, assuming that transformational leadership has a positive and higher relation to PSM than transactional one. The analysis is based on data collected in two different investigations: a group of nonprofit volunteers, sitting in the NPs boards of directors, and a group of employees working for a National Research Institute.

Findings

– Transformational leaders in the nonprofit organisation have higher scores on PSM than transactional leaders. For the employees of the research institution a charismatic leadership is not necessary, and even demotivating; autonomy is a central factor for researcher, and the intervention of the leader seems to be playing a motivation role only in moments of impasse.

Research limitations/implications

– Some more work should be done in refining the measures used in the scales. The perception of the leader attitude as controlling or supportive can be the key to better understand some controversial results: this can be object of further studies.

Practical implications

– The results offers some preliminary results indicating that, in research institutions, a charismatic leadership should not be considered a generalised management solution. The transformational style reach better results in those research contexts in which research programmes are carried out via team work.

Originality/value

– Not so much work in this field has been done yet in Italy, even less focusing on leadership in the research institutions.
Bridging the gap
Authors: Choi Seungjin
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to theoretically clarify the relationship between public service motivation and performance by suggesting a framework in which social networks among members provide an explicit mechanism linking employees’ PSM with their performance and by proposing several empirically testable propositions.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author suggests a theoretical framework based on a literature review and combining insights from several major strands of theory including social capital and social network theories.

Findings

– Conceptually, the paper shows that, first, the extent of the social relationships among group members and their positions within a network vary depending on the level of PSM; second, individuals with high PSM are more likely to complete their tasks when they are in central positions in a network of advice relations and less likely to complete their tasks when they are in peripheral positions in central positions and a network of advice relations in a network of adversarial relations; third, group members with high PSM are more likely to complete group tasks when the group has higher density in a network of advice relations and less likely to complete tasks in a dense network of adversarial relations.

Practical implications

– The author demonstrates the possibility of reciprocal relationships between PSM and social networks, in which PSM builds social capital that reinforces each member’s PSM by enhancing relationship quality, which will positively affect performance.

Originality/value

– This paper provides opportunities for future empirical research by developing the discussion about a new conceptual mechanism in the relationship between PSM and performance, proposing an initial conceptual framework that clarifies the PSM and performance linkage, and suggesting several testable propositions.
Mammalian cell entry (Mce) protein of Leptospira interrogans binds extracellular matrix components, plasminogen and β2 integrin
Authors: Cosate Maria Raquel , Siqueira Gabriela Hase , de Souza Gisele Oliveira , Vasconcellos Silvio Arruda , Nascimento Ana Lucia T. O.
Published: July 2016

A severe re‐emergingzoonosis, leptospirosis, is caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. Several studies have identified leptospiral surface proteins with the ability to bind ECM and plasma components, which could mediate adhesion and invasion through the hosts. It has been shown that Mce of pathogenic Leptospira spp. is an RGD (Arg‐Gly‐Asp)‐motif‐dependent virulence factor, responsible for infection of cells and animals. In the present article, we decided to further study the repertoire of the Mce activities in leptospiral biological properties. We report that the recombinant Mce is a broad‐spectrum ECM‐binding protein, capable of interacting with laminin, cellular and plasma fibronectin and collagen IV. Dose­–r­esponse interaction was observed for all the components, fulfilling ligand­–receptor requirements. Mce is a PLG binding protein capable to recruit this component from NHS, generating PLA in the presence of PLG activator. Binding of Mce was also observed with the leukocyte cell receptors αLβ2 [(CD11a/CD18)‐LFA‐1] and αMβ2 [(CD11b/CD18)‐Mac‐1], suggesting the involvement of this protein in the host immune response. Indeed, virulent Leptospira L1‐130 was capable of binding both integrins, whereas culture‐attenuated M‐20 strain only bind to αMβ2 [(CD11b/CD18)‐Mac‐1]. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work to describe that Mce surface protein could mediate the attachment of Leptospira interrogans to human cell receptors αLβ2(CD11a/CD18) and αMβ2(CD11b/CD18).