bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PLEKHG3 enhances polarized cell migration by activating actin filaments at the cell front
Authors: Nguyen Trang Thi Thu , Park Wei Sun , Park Byung Ouk , Kim Cha Yeon , Oh Yohan , Kim Jin Man , Choi Hana , Kyung Taeyoon , Kim Cheol-Hee , Lee Gabsang , Hahn Klaus M. , Meyer Tobias , Heo Won Do
Published: August 2016

Significance

Polarized cell migration plays a pivotal role in the development and repair of tissues. PI3K, Rho GTPases, and actin filaments are known to be involved in a positive feedback loop that induces and maintains cell polarity. Here, we show that the pleckstrin homology and RhoGEF domain containing G3 (PLEKHG3) selectively binds to newly polymerized actin and that this interaction exerts a positive regulatory effect on PLEKHG3 activity that enhances and sustains the cell front. A lack of PLEKHG3 ablates cell polarity, resulting in a decrease in cell migration. These findings provide the missing link that explains how Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) and actin polymerization are coupled by a positive feedback loop to ensure the stability of cell polarity.
Catalytic strategy for carbon−carbon bond scission by the cytochrome P450 OleT
Authors: Grant Job L. , Mitchell Megan E. , Makris Thomas Michael
Published: August 2016

Significance

The biocatalytic production of hydrocarbons from abundant natural resources provides a means to expand the current fuel inventory. The recently identified cytochrome P450, OleT, synthesizes 1-alkenes from fatty acids through a carbon−carbon scission reaction that is highly atypical for the enzyme superfamily. Rapid kinetics studies reveal two critical reaction cycle intermediates that define the catalytic strategy used by OleT and highlight the functional versatility of P450 enzymes.
Baseplate assembly of phage Mu: Defining the conserved core components of contractile-tailed phages and related bacterial systems
Authors: Büttner Carina R. , Wu Yingzhou , Maxwell Karen L. , Davidson Alan R.
Published: August 2016

Significance

Many phages use a contractile tail to inject their genomes into the host bacterial cell. These complex assemblages are capable of specifically recognizing the cell surface, contracting upon cell binding, penetrating the cell wall, and creating a channel in the cell membrane through which the phage genome can pass. Remarkably, bacteria have co-opted phage tails and adapted them into protein-injecting nanomachines directed at other bacteria and even eukaryotic cells. Here, we elucidate the composition and assembly pathway of the baseplate of the contractile-tailed phage Mu. Our work demonstrates that the “simple” Mu-like baseplates are the only baseplate type encoded in phage genomes integrated within bacteria, and these baseplates are thus the most likely evolutionary precursors of the tail-derived bacterial nanomachines.
Agrarian transformation in the Near East and North Africa: influences from the work of Lionel Cliffe
Authors: Bush Ray
Published: August 2016

This article explores the influences of the work of Lionel Cliffe in developing a radical rural political economy. A number of key themes in Cliffe’s work are reviewed in order to explore how they have helped to shape a view of rural development that is based, amongst other things, on listening to farmers and exploring why both government policy and often radical interventions fail to deliver the promises of improvements to rural conditions of existence. Case studies from the Near East and North Africa (NENA) highlight absences in policy intervention particularly in the areas of conflict, environmental transformation and economic reform.
Effect of Huperzine A on Aβ-induced p65 of astrocyte in vitro
Authors: Xie Lushuang , Jiang Cen , Wang Zhang , Yi Xiaohong , Gong Yuanyuan , Chen Yunhui , Fu Yan
Published: August 2016

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. Its pathology often accompanies inflammatory action, and astrocytes play important roles in such procedure. Rela(p65) is one of significant message factors in NF-κB pathway which has been reported high expression in astrocyte treated by Aβ. HupA, an alkaloid isolated from Chinese herb Huperzia serrata, has been widely used to treat AD and observations reflected that it improves memory and cognitive capacity of AD patients. To reveal its molecular mechanisms on p65, we cultured astrocytes, built Aβ-induced AD model, treated astrocytes with HupA at different concentrations, assayed cell viability with MTT, and detected p65 expression by immunohistochemistry and PCR. Our results revealed that treatment with 10 μM Aβ1–42 for 24 h induced a significant increase of NF-κB in astrocytes; HupA significantly down-regulated p65 expression induced by Aβ in astrocytes. This study infers that HupA can regulate NF-κB pathway to treat AD.
Diversion of Individuals with Mental Illness in the Criminal Justice System in Ghana
Authors: Adjorlolo Samuel
Published: August 2016

The overrepresentation of individuals with mental illness in the criminal justice system is a major challenge facing criminal justice and mental health professionals and policy makers. This article discusses the recently enacted diversion legislation aimed at intercepting and transferring individuals with mental illness to mental health facilities for treatment in Ghana. Importantly, recommendations aimed at ensuring effective implementation of the diversion legislation using the Sequential Intercept Model have been proffered. Efforts to improve the organization and delivery of mental health services, as well as effective collaboration between the criminal justice and public mental health systems should be given priority.
Forms of interdisciplinarity in four sport science research centres in Europe
Authors: Camy Jean , Fargier Patrick , Perrin Claire , Belli Alain
Published: August 2016

Interdisciplinarity is often presented as a significant element of sport science. We present here the results of an investigation conducted in four European Sport Science Research Centres applying interdisciplinarity. Four main dimensions, that we have called “forms”, have been investigated. The “scientific”, “organisational”, “academic” and “societal” forms cover a wide range of activities run by these Centres. We have compared their situations using indicators. Globally they present quite similar combinations of forms, with dominant roles in the construction of interdisciplinarity played by the organisational and societal forms. The scientific form is never quite supported by an epistemological setting and the academic form, mostly characterised by the position of the university, plays an influential role when it is hostile to that kind of research. Following Klein classification, all of them remain at a multidisciplinary stage, one of them exploring interdisciplinary tracks in some research projects. The development of a common culture and a curiosity regarding disciplines other than its own is a key factor for a sustainable situation, as is the capacity to secure long‐term financial resources, often linked to a high academic recognition for the director(s).
Modelling third harmonic ion cyclotron acceleration of deuterium beams for JET fusion product studies experiments
Authors: Schneider M. , Johnson T. , Dumont R. , Eriksson J. , Eriksson L.-G. , Giacomelli L. , Girardo J.-B. , Hellsten T. , Khilkevitch E. , Kiptily V.G. , Koskela T. , Mantsinen M. , Nocente M. , Salewski M. , Sharapov S.E. , Shevelev A.E.
Published: August 2016

Recent JET experiments have been dedicated to the studies of fusion reactions between deuterium (D) and Helium-3 (3He) ions using neutral beam injection (NBI) in synergy with third harmonic ion cyclotron radio-frequency heating (ICRH) of the beam. This scenario generates a fast ion deuterium tail enhancing DD and D3He fusion reactions. Modelling and measuring the fast deuterium tail accurately is essential for quantifying the fusion products. This paper presents the modelling of the D distribution function resulting from the NBI+ICRF heating scheme, reinforced by a comparison with dedicated JET fast ion diagnostics, showing an overall good agreement. Finally, a sawtooth activity for these experiments has been observed and interpreted using SPOT/RFOF simulations in the framework of Porcelli’s theoretical model, where NBI+ICRH accelerated ions are found to have a strong stabilizing effect, leading to monster sawteeth.
Executive Summary: 2016 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Coccidioidomycosis
Authors: Galgiani John N. , Ampel Neil M. , Blair Janis E. , Catanzaro Antonino , Geertsma Francesca , Hoover Susan E. , Johnson Royce H. , Kusne Shimon , Lisse Jeffrey , MacDonald Joel D. , Meyerson Shari L. , Raksin Patricia B. , Siever John , Stevens David A. , Sunenshine Rebecca , Theodore Nicholas
Published: August 2016

It is important to realize that guidelines cannot always account for individual variation among patients. They are not intended to supplant physician judgment with respect to particular patients or special clinical situations. Infectious Diseases Society of America considers adherence to these guidelines to be voluntary, with the ultimate determination regarding their application to be made by the physician in the light of each patient's individual circumstances.

Coccidioidomycosis, also known as San Joaquin Valley fever, is a systemic infection endemic to parts of the southwestern United States and elsewhere in the Western Hemisphere. Residence in and recent travel to these areas are critical elements for the accurate recognition of patients who develop this infection. In this practice guideline, we have organized our recommendations to address actionable questions concerning the entire spectrum of clinical syndromes. These can range from initial pulmonary infection, which eventually resolves whether or not antifungal therapy is administered, to a variety of pulmonary and extrapulmonary complications. Additional recommendations address management of coccidioidomycosis occurring for special at-risk populations. Finally, preemptive management strategies are outlined in certain at-risk populations and after unintentional laboratory exposure.
Using mobile devices for inpatient rounding and handoffs: an innovative application developed and rapidly adopted by clinicians in a pediatric hospital
Authors: Motulsky Aude , Wong Jenna , Cordeau Jean-Pierre , Pomalaza Jorge , Barkun Jeffrey , Tamblyn Robyn
Published: August 2016

Objective: To describe the usage of a novel application (The FLOW) that allows mobile devices to be used for rounding and handoffs.

Materials and Methods: The FLOW provides a view of patient data and the capacity to enter short notes via personal mobile devices. It was deployed using a “bring-your-own-device” model in 4 pilot units. Social network analysis (SNA) was applied to audit trails in order to visualize usage patterns. A questionnaire was used to describe user experience.

Results: Overall, 253 health professionals used The FLOW with their personal mobile devices from October 2013 to March 2015. In pediatric and neonatal intensive care units (ICUs), a median of 26–26.5 notes were entered per user per day. Visual network representation of app entries showed that usage patterns were different between the ICUs. In 127 questionnaires (50%), respondents reported using The FLOW most often to enter notes and for handoffs. The FLOW was perceived as having improved patient care by 57% of respondents, compared to usual care. Most respondents (86%) wished to continue using The FLOW.

Discussion: This study shows how a handoff and rounding tool was quickly adopted in pediatric and neonatal ICUs in a hospital setting where patient charts were still paper-based. Originally developed as a tool to support informal documentation using smartphones, it was adapted to local practices and expanded to print sign-out documents and import notes within the medicolegal record with desktop computers. Interestingly, even if not supported by the nursing administrative authorities, the level of use for data entry among nurses and doctors was similar in all units, indicating close collaboration in documentation practices in these ICUs.
Implementation of Motivational Interviewing in Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Research Network Participation and Organizational Compatibility
Authors: Rieckmann Traci R. , Abraham Amanda J. , Bride Brian E.
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

Despite considerable empirical evidence that psychosocial interventions improve addiction treatment outcomes across populations, implementation remains problematic. A small body of research points to the importance of research network participation as a facilitator of implementation; however, studies examined limited numbers of evidence-based practices. To address this gap, the present study examined factors impacting implementation of motivational interviewing (MI).

Methods:

This study used data from a national sample of privately funded treatment programs (n = 345) and programs participating in the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network (CTN) (n = 156). Data were collected via face-to-face interviews with program administrators and clinical directors (2007–2009). Analysis included bivariate t tests and chi-square tests to compare private and CTN programs, and multivariable logistic regression of MI implementation.

Findings:

A majority (68.0%) of treatment programs reported use of MI. Treatment programs participating in the CTN (88.9%) were significantly more likely to report use of MI compared with non-CTN programs (58.5%; P < 0.01). CTN programs (82.1%) also were more likely to use trainers from the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers as compared with private programs (56.1%; P < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression models reveal that CTN-affiliated programs and programs with a psychiatrist on staff were more likely to use MI. Programs that used the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale assessment tool were more likely to use MI, whereas programs placing greater emphasis on confrontational group therapy were less likely to use MI.

Discussion:

Findings suggest the critical role of research network participation, access to psychiatrists, and organizational compatibility in adoption and sustained use of MI.
Association between Participation in an Intensive Longitudinal Assessment Program and Performance on a Cognitive Examination in the Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology Program®
Authors: Sun Huaping , Zhou Yan , Culley Deborah J. , Lien Cynthia A. , Harman Ann E. , Warner David O.
Published: August 2016

Background

As part of the Maintenance of Certification in Anesthesiology Program® (MOCA®), the American Board of Anesthesiology (Raleigh, North Carolina) developed the MOCA Minute program, a web-based intensive longitudinal assessment involving weekly questions with immediate feedback and links to learning resources. This observational study tested the hypothesis that individuals who participate in the MOCA Minute program perform better on the MOCA Cognitive Examination (CE) compared with those who do not participate.

Methods

Two separate cohorts of individuals eligible for July 2014 and January 2015 CEs were invited to participate in this pilot. The CE scores for each cohort were compared between those who did and did not participate, controlling for the factors known to affect performance. For the first cohort, examination performances for topics covered and not covered by the MOCA Minute were analyzed separately.

Results

Six hundred sixteen diplomates in July 2014 and 684 diplomates in January 2015 took the CE for the first time. In multiple regression analysis, those actively participating scored 9.9 points (95% CI, 0.8 to 18.9) and 9.3 points (95% CI, 2.3 to 16.3) higher when compared with those not enrolled, respectively. Compared to the group that did not enroll in MOCA Minute, those who enrolled but did not actively participate demonstrated no improvement in scores. MOCA Minute participation was associated with improvement in both questions covering topics included the MOCA Minute and questions not covering these topics.

Conclusions

This analysis provides evidence that voluntary active participation in a program featuring frequent knowledge assessments accompanied by targeted learning resources is associated with improved performance on a high-stakes CE.
Vagus Nerve Attenuates Hepatocyte Apoptosis upon Ischemia–Reperfusion via α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor on Kupffer Cells in Mice
Authors: Ni Min , Fu Hui , Huang Fang , Zhao Ting , Chen Ji-Kuai , Li Dong-Jie , Shen Fu-Ming
Published: August 2016

Background

Hepatic ischemia–reperfusion (HIR) injury is a complication of liver surgery. As much as 50% of hepatocytes undergo apoptosis within the first 24 h of reperfusion. The neurotransmitters of the vagus nerve can activate α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) on macrophages. The function of Kupffer cells (KCs) determines HIR injury. We hypothesize that the vagus nerve could attenuate HIR-induced hepatocyte apoptosis by activating α7nAChR on KCs.

Methods

Hepatic vagotomized C57BL/6J mice, KC-eliminated C57BL/6J mice, and α7nAChR−/− mice were used for HIR. Primary KCs and hepatocytes were subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation (HR). Liver injury, hepatocyte apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and soluble CD163 were measured.

Results

Hepatic vagotomy and α7nAChR−/− caused higher levels of alanine transaminase and liver caspase-3 and -8 activity by HIR. Activating α7nAChR attenuated these changes in wild-type but not in the α7nAChR−/− mice. Furthermore, activating α7nAChR diminished hepatic injury and reduced liver apoptosis by HIR in vagotomized mice. In vitro, activating α7nAChR reduced apoptosis of hepatocytes cocultured with KCs that suffered HR. Similar to the effects by catalase, activating α7nAChR on KCs reduced ROS and H2O2 by HR. The supernatant from KCs, with α7nAChR activated or catalase treated, prevented hepatocyte apoptosis by HR. Finally, KC elimination reduced HIR-induced H2O2 production in mice. Activating α7nAChR significantly attenuated soluble CD163 both in mice by HIR (serum: 240 ± 34 vs. 446 ± 72; mean ± SD; n = 8; P < 0.01) and in KCs by HR (supernatant: 4.23 ± 0.06 vs. 5.60 ± 0.18; n = 3; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The vagus nerve could minimize HIR-induced liver apoptosis through activating α7nAChR on KCs possibly by preventing their excessive ROS production.
Cigarette smoking and gastric cancer in the Stomach Cancer Pooling (StoP) Project
Authors: Praud Delphine , Rota Matteo , Pelucchi Claudio , Bertuccio Paola , Rosso Tiziana , Galeone Carlotta , Zhang Zuo-Feng , Matsuo Keitaro , Ito Hidemi , Hu Jinfu , Johnson Kenneth C. , Yu Guo-Pei , Palli Domenico , Ferraroni Monica , Muscat Joshua , Lunet Nuno , Peleteiro Bárbara , Malekzadeh Reza , Ye Weimin , Song Huan , Zaridze David , Maximovitch Dmitry , Aragonés Nuria , Castaño-Vinyals Gemma , Vioque Jesus , Navarrete-Muñoz Eva M. , Pakseresht Mohammadreza , Pourfarzi Farhad , Wolk Alicja , Orsini Nicola , Bellavia Andrea , Håkansson Niclas , Mu Lina , Pastorino Roberta , Kurtz Robert C. , Derakhshan Mohammad H. , Lagiou Areti , Lagiou Pagona , Boffetta Paolo , Boccia Stefania , Negri Eva , La Vecchia Carlo
Published: August 2016

Tobacco smoking is a known cause of gastric cancer, but several aspects of the association remain imprecisely quantified. We examined the relation between cigarette smoking and the risk of gastric cancer using a uniquely large dataset of 23 epidemiological studies within the ‘Stomach cancer Pooling (StoP) Project’, including 10 290 cases and 26 145 controls. We estimated summary odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by pooling study-specific ORs using random-effects models. Compared with never smokers, the ORs were 1.20 (95% CI: 1.09–1.32) for ever, 1.12 (95% CI: 0.99–1.27) for former, and 1.25 (95% CI: 1.11–1.40) for current cigarette smokers. Among current smokers, the risk increased with number of cigarettes per day to reach an OR of 1.32 (95% CI: 1.10–1.58) for smokers of more than 20 cigarettes per day. The risk increased with duration of smoking, to reach an OR of 1.33 (95% CI: 1.14–1.54) for more than 40 years of smoking and decreased with increasing time since stopping cigarette smoking (P for trend<0.01) and became similar to that of never smokers 10 years after stopping. Risks were somewhat higher for cardia than noncardia gastric cancer. Risks were similar when considering only studies with information on Helicobacter pylori infection and comparing all cases to H. pylori+ controls only. This study provides the most precise estimate of the detrimental effect of cigarette smoking on the risk of gastric cancer on the basis of individual data, including the relationship with dose and duration, and the decrease in risk following stopping smoking.
New, Virtually Wall-Less Cannulas Designed for Augmented Venous Drainage in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
Authors: von Segesser Ludwig Karl , Berdajs Denis , Abdel-Sayed Saad , Tozzi Piergiorgio , Ferrari Enrico , Maisano Francesco
Published: August 2016

Objective

Inadequate venous drainage during minimally invasive cardiac surgery becomes most evident when the blood trapped in the pulmonary circulation floods the surgical field. The present study was designed to assess the in vivo performance of new, thinner, virtually wall-less, venous cannulas designed for augmented venous drainage in comparison to traditional thin-wall cannulas.

Methods

Remote cannulation was realized in 5 bovine experiments (74.0 ± 2.4 kg) with percutaneous venous access over the wire, serial dilation up to 18 F and insertion of either traditional 19 F thin wall, wire-wound cannulas, or through the same access channel, new, thinner, virtually wall-less, braided cannulas designed for augmented venous drainage. A standard minimal extracorporeal circuit set with a centrifugal pump and a hollow fiber membrane oxygenator, but no inline reservoir was used. One hundred fifty pairs of pump-flow and required pump inlet pressure values were recorded with calibrated pressure transducers and a flowmeter calibrated by a volumetric tank and timer at increasing pump speed from 1500 RPM to 3500 RPM (500-RPM increments).

Results

Pump flow accounted for 1.73 ± 0.85 l/min for wall-less versus 1.17 ± 0.45 l/min for thin wall at 1500 RPM, 3.91 ± 0.86 versus 3.23 ± 0.66 at 2500 RPM, 5.82 ± 1.05 versus 4.96 ± 0.81 at 3500 RPM. Pump inlet pressure accounted for 9.6 ± 9.7 mm Hg versus 4.2 ± 18.8 mm Hg for 1500 RPM, −42.4 ± 26.7 versus −123 ± 51.1 at 2500 RPM, and −126.7 ± 55.3 versus −313 ±116.7 for 3500 RPM.

Conclusions

At the well-accepted pump inlet pressure of −80 mm Hg, the new, thinner, virtually wall-less, braided cannulas provide unmatched venous drainage in vivo. Early clinical analyses have confirmed these findings.
Consequences of Delayed, Unfinished, or Missed Nursing Care During Labor and Birth
Authors: Simpson Kathleen Rice , Lyndon Audrey
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine the concept of delayed, unfinished, or missed nursing care when patient census and acuity exceed nurse staffing resources with nurses who care for women during labor and birth. Focus groups were held during which labor nurses were asked about aspects of nursing care that may be regularly delayed, unfinished, or completely missed during labor and birth, including possible reasons and potential consequences. Seventy-one labor nurses participated in 11 focus groups in 6 hospitals. Nurses focused on support and encouragement as aspects of care that they felt are essential but often not able to be performed when the unit is busy. Nurses seemed to assume technical features of care as a “given” in the background and not always noticed unless missed. They voiced concerns about risks to maternal and fetal well-being when they were short-staffed. Potential outcomes were discussed including cesarean birth, depressed infants at birth, hemorrhage, and negative effects on patient satisfaction, successful breast-feeding, and the overall patient experience.

Conclusion:

When essential aspects of nursing care are delayed, unfinished, or completely missed, there are potentially negative implications for numerous patient outcomes and patient safety is at risk.
Percutaneous Dilatation Tracheostomy in Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Device and Established Phenprocoumon Therapy
Authors: Schaefer Andreas , Schneeberger Yvonne , Reichart Daniel , Bernhardt Alexander M. , Kubik Mathias , Barten Markus J. , Wagner Florian M. , Kluge Stefan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Philipp Sebastian A.
Published: August 2016

Over the last decade, the number of heart transplantations declined, and the number of implanted left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) markedly increased. Accordingly, common intensive care interventions rise and present their own challenges, especially because of the necessary anticoagulation regimen. One of these procedures is percutaneous dilatation tracheostomy (PDT). We herein report our experience with 34 patients with LVAD and established phenprocoumon therapy (International normalized ratio 2.1 ± 0.9, partial thromboplastin time 68.9 ± 19.0 seconds) who underwent PDT between 2006 and 2015 at our specialized cardiac surgery intensive care unit. Intraprocedural success was achieved in all cases (34/34 patients) with sufficient placement of the tracheal tube and adequate mechanical ventilation. No retained secretions or tracheostomy tube obstructions were observed during follow-up. In no case, conversion to surgical tracheostomy was necessary. No serious bleeding complications that required urgent or emergent reoperation occurred during or after the PDT procedure. A total of 16 patients (47.1%) died within the first 30 days after LVAD implantation. This is the first report describing outcomes of patients with LVAD under established phenprocoumon therapy and postoperative implemented PDT. PDT is a safe procedure for those patients. It is not connected with bleeding complications and shows a good procedural outcome.
Numerical and In Vitro Experimental Investigation of the Hemolytic Performance at the Off-Design Point of an Axial Ventricular Assist Pump
Authors: Liu Guang-Mao , Jin Dong-Hai , Jiang Xi-Hang , Zhou Jian-Ye , Zhang Yan , Chen Hai-Bo , Hu Sheng-Shou , Gui Xing-Min
Published: August 2016

The ventricular assist pumps do not always function at the design point; instead, these pumps may operate at unfavorable off-design points. For example, the axial ventricular assist pump FW-2, in which the design point is 5 L/min flow rate against 100 mm Hg pressure increase at 8,000 rpm, sometimes works at off-design flow rates of 1 to 4 L/min. The hemolytic performance of the FW-2 at both the design point and at off-design points was estimated numerically and tested in vitro. Flow characteristics in the pump were numerically simulated and analyzed with special attention paid to the scalar sheer stress and exposure time. An in vitro hemolysis test was conducted to verify the numerical results. The simulation results showed that the scalar shear stress in the rotor region at the 1 L/min off-design point was 70% greater than at the 5 L/min design point. The hemolysis index at the 1 L/min off-design point was 3.6 times greater than at the 5 L/min design point. The in vitro results showed that the normalized index of hemolysis increased from 0.017 g/100 L at the 5 L/min design point to 0.162 g/100 L at the 1 L/min off-design point. The hemolysis comparison between the different blood pump flow rates will be helpful for future pump design point selection and will guide the usage of ventricular assist pumps. The hemolytic performance of the blood pump at the working point in the clinic should receive more focus.
Antithrombotic Therapy in a Prospective Trial of a Pediatric Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Steiner Marie E. , Bomgaars Lisa R. , Massicotte M. Patricia
Published: August 2016

Efficacious ventricular assist device (VAD) support in pediatric patients depends on successful antithrombotic management. The experience with antithrombotic management for the EXCOR Pediatric VAD Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) study is described. All 68 children in North America enrolled in the IDE study from May 9, 2007 to December 10, 2010 are included. The Edmonton Anticoagulation and Platelet Inhibition Protocol was provided for management guidance. Monitoring parameters, drug dosing, targeted serious adverse events, and pump changes were reviewed. Major bleeding occurred in 43% of all subjects with most events occurring within 14 days of implantation. Bleeding events were probably/definitely related in 24% to antithrombotic management. Neurologic events occurred in 28% of subjects and were probably/definitely related in 9% to antithrombotic therapy intensity. Most neurologic events occurred between 4 and 30 days postimplantation and sporadically thereafter. Pump change occurred in 56% of subjects. Use of an antithrombotic protocol for enrolled subjects was possible in this multicenter study. Incidence of significant bleeding and thromboembolic events was acceptable when balanced against life-saving benefits of VADs. Further studies are needed to optimize the antithrombotic management of this patient population.
Active Clearance of Chest Tubes Reduces Re-Exploration for Bleeding After Ventricular Assist Device Implantation
Authors: Maltais Simon , Davis Mary E. , Haglund Nicholas A. , Perrault Louis , Kushwaha Sudhir S. , Stulak John M. , Boyle Edward M.
Published: August 2016

Chest tubes are utilized to evacuate shed blood after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, however, they can become clogged, leading to retained blood. We implemented a protocol for active tube clearance (ATC) of chest tubes to determine if this might reduce interventions for retained blood. A total of 252 patients underwent LVAD implantation. Seventy-seven patients had conventional chest tube drainage (group 1), whereas 175 patients had ATC (group 2). A univariate and multivariate analysis adjusting for the use of conventional sternotomy (CS) and minimally invasive left thoracotomy (MILT) was performed. Univariate analysis revealed a 65% reduction in re-exploration (43–15%, p < 0.001), and an 82% reduction in delayed sternal closure (DSC; 34–6%, p <0.001). In a sub-analysis of CS only, there continued to be statistically significant 53% reduction in re-exploration (45% vs. 21%, p = 0.0011), and a 77% reduction in DSC (35% vs. 8%, p < 0.001) in group 2. Using a logistic regression model adjusting for CS versus MILT, there was a significant reduction in re-exploration (odds ratio [OR] = 0.44 [confidence interval {CI} = 0.23–0.85], p = 0.014) and DSC (OR = 0.20 [CI = 0.08–0.46], p <0.001) in group 2. Actively maintaining chest tube patency after LVAD implantation significantly reduces re-exploration and DSC.
Perioperative blood transfusion and the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing cholangiocarcinoma surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Qiang , Du Tao , Lu Changyou
Published: August 2016

Several studies have reported different results on the association between perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) and clinical outcomes for patients undergoing cholangiocarcinoma surgery. So far, no systematic review and meta-analysis have focused on this inconsistent issue. Therefore, we carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between PBT and the clinical outcomes of cholangiocarcinoma surgery patients. EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from their inception to 6 April 2016 to evaluate the relationship between PBT and clinical outcomes for patients undergoing cholangiocarcinoma surgery. The pooled hazard ratio (HR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using the Cochrane Collaboration’s RevMan 5.3 software. A total of 10 studies (1719 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled analysis showed that PBT was associated with worse 5-year survival rate (HR=1.67, 95% CI=1.41–1.98, P<0.0001) and median overall survival (OS) (HR=1.45, 95% CI=1.14–1.83, P=0.002) in the patients who underwent cholangiocarcinoma surgery. Subgroup analysis showed that intraoperative blood transfusion was also associated with worse 5-year survival rate (HR=1.95, 95% CI=1.49–2.57, P<0.00001). Intraoperative blood transfusion is associated with poor OS for patients undergoing cholangiocarcinoma surgery because it will increase the risk of death. Postoperative blood transfusion may not be associated with OS. In addition, the relationship between PBT and the postoperative complication rate of cholangiocarcinoma surgery is still unclear.
Nutritional Status in Short Stature Children Is Related to Both Ghrelin and Insulin‐like Growth Factor I Concentrations
Authors: Stawerska Renata , Czkwianianc Elżbieta , Smyczyńska Joanna , Hilczer Maciej , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: August 2016

Objectives:

Ghrelin plays an important role in the growth processes in children. In addition, it regulates appetite. The aim of the study was to assess ghrelin and insulin‐like growth factor type I (IGF‐I) concentrations in children with idiopathic short stature, dependent on nutritional status.

Methods:

The study group included 116 children, ages 10.6 ± 3.5 years (mean ± standard deviation), with idiopathic short stature (height <−2.0 standard deviation scores [SDS], maximal growth hormone [GH] secretion during 2 GH‐stimulating tests—>10 ng/mL). In each child, fasting ghrelin, IGF‐I, insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP‐3), glucose, insulin, lipids, leptin, adiponectin, and resistin concentrations were assessed. The IGF‐I/IGFBP‐3 molar ratio was calculated to determine the IGF‐I bioavailability. According to body mass index SDS calculated for height age, the children were divided into 3 groups: poorly nourished (thin), normal, and obese. The control group consisted of 19 healthy children, ages 11.0 ± 3.5 years, with normal body weight and height.

Results:

Ghrelin concentration was significantly higher in short, thin children than in short, obese children (1458.3 ± 798.5 vs 917.2 ± 303.0 pg/mL; P < 0.005). In turn, IGF‐I/IGFBP‐3 molar ratio was significantly lower in short, thin children than in short, obese children (0.16 ± 0.06 vs 0.28 ± 0.15; P < 0.005).

Conclusions:

In short, thin children, despite elevated ghrelin production, the low IGF‐I concentration is observed, probably due to undernutrition and worse IGF‐I formation. In short, normal‐weight children and in short, obese ones, ghrelin and IGF‐I production is normal, and it seems that mechanisms responsible for their short stature are other than low IGF‐I.
Animal Studies and the Mechanism of Myopia—Protection by Light?
Authors: Ashby Regan
Published: August 2016

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that spending time outdoors during your childhood is protective against the development of myopia. It has been hypothesized that this protective effect is associated with light-induced increases in retinal dopamine levels, a critical neuromodulator that has long been postulated to be involved in the regulation of ocular growth. This paper, along with the paper entitled “What do animal studies tell us about the mechanism of myopia—protection by light?” discusses the evidence provided by animal models for this hypothesis.
The Possible Role of Peripheral Refraction in Development of Myopia
Authors: Atchison David A. , Rosén Robert
Published: August 2016

Recent longitudinal studies do not support the current theory of relative peripheral hyperopia causing myopia. The theory is based on misunderstanding of the Hoogerheide et al. article of 1971, which actually found relative peripheral hyperopia to be present after, rather than before, myopia development. The authors present two alternative theories of the role of peripheral refraction in the development and progression of myopia. The one for which most detail is given is based on cessation of ocular growth when the periphery is at an emmetropic stage as determined by equivalent blur of the two line foci caused by oblique astigmatism. This paper is based on an invited commentary on the role of lens treatments in myopia from the 15th International Myopia Conference in Wenzhou, China in September 2015.
Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Is Associated With Asymptomatic Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Ferrari Ana Luisa V. , Calonga L. , Lapa Aline T. , Postal Mariana , Sinicato Nailu A. , Peliçari Karina O. , Peres Fernando A. , Valente João Paulo , Soki Marcelo , Appenzeller Simone , Costallat Lilian T.L.
Published: August 2016

Objective

The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of asymptomatic sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to determine the association between SNHL and demographic, clinical, and laboratory features and cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study including consecutive female SLE patients. We performed audiometry and clinical and laboratory evaluation and determined cardiovascular risk factors in all patients. Statistical analysis included principal component analysis and logistic regression.

Results

Eighty-nine women were included with mean age of 38.98 (SD, 7.77) years and mean disease duration of 10.29 (SD, 9.19) years. Asymptomatic SNHL was observed in 14 patients (16%). In logistic regression model, only low-density lipoprotein levels (z = 2.64; P = 0.008) were associated with SNHL.

Conclusions

We observed asymptomatic SNHL in 16% of SLE and an association with low-density lipoprotein levels suggesting atherosclerosis as a mechanism. Follow-up is needed to determine clinical implications.
Diagnosing Light Chain Amyloidosis on Temporal Artery Biopsies for Suspected Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Ghinai Rosanna A. M. , Mahmood Shameem , Mukonoweshuro Pinias , Webber Sally , Wechalekar Ashutosh D. , Moore Sally E.
Published: August 2016

Although still rarely diagnosed, amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis is the most common form of systemic amyloidosis. It is characterized by misfolded monoclonal immunoglobulin light chain fragments that accumulate extracellularly as amyloid fibrils, with consequent organ dysfunction. We report 2 such cases where initial symptoms and signs were identical to and mistaken for those of giant cell arteritis, associated with polymyalgia rheumatica. Neither patient responded to high-dose corticosteroids; instead, their temporal artery biopsies revealed amyloid deposits and other investigations confirmed a diagnosis of systemic AL amyloidosis. Review of the literature reveals similar cases of diagnostic confusion spanning 75 years. We have summarized the findings and learning points from cases reported in the past 30 years and highlight the need for increased awareness and investigation of this underrecognized syndrome.
Effects of changing sea ice on marine mammals and subsistence hunters in northern Alaska from traditional knowledge interviews
Authors: Huntington Henry P. , Quakenbush Lori T. , Nelson Mark
Published: August 2016

Marine mammals are important sources of food for indigenous residents of northern Alaska. Changing sea ice patterns affect the animals themselves as well as access to them by hunters. Documenting the traditional knowledge of Iñupiaq and Yupik hunters concerning marine mammals and sea ice makes accessible a wide range of information relevant to understanding the ecosystem to which humans belong. We interviewed hunters in 11 coastal villages from the northern Bering Sea to the Beaufort Sea. Hunters reported extensive changes in sea ice and weather that have affected the timing of marine mammal migrations, their distribution and behaviour and the efficacy of certain hunting methods. Amidst these changes, however, hunters cited offsetting technological benefits, such as more powerful and fuel-efficient outboard engines. Other concerns included potential impacts to subsistence hunting from industrial activity such as shipping and oil and gas development. While hunters have been able to adjust to some changes, continued environmental changes and increased disturbance from human activity may further challenge their ability to acquire food in the future. There are indications, however, that innovation and flexibility provide sources of resilience.
Selective disappearance of individuals with high levels of glycated haemoglobin in a free-living bird
Authors: Récapet Charlotte , Sibeaux Adélaïde , Cauchard Laure , Doligez Blandine , Bize Pierre
Published: August 2016

Although disruption of glucose homeostasis is a hallmark of ageing in humans and laboratory model organisms, we have little information on the importance of this process in free-living animals. Poor control of blood glucose levels leads to irreversible protein glycation. Hence, levels of protein glycation are hypothesized to increase with age and to be associated with a decline in survival. We tested these predictions by measuring blood glycated haemoglobin in 274 adult collared flycatchers of known age and estimating individual probability of recapture in the following 2 years. Results show a strong decrease in glycated haemoglobin from age 1 to 5 years and an increase thereafter. Individuals with high levels of glycated haemoglobin had a lower probability of recapture, even after controlling for effects of age and dispersal. Altogether, our findings suggest that poor control of glucose homoeostasis is associated with lower survival in this free-living bird population, and that the selective disappearance of individuals with the highest glycation levels could account for the counterintuitive age-related decline in glycated haemoglobin in the early age categories.
Whither life? Conjectures on the future evolution of biochemistry
Authors: Brewster Jodi L. , Finn Thomas J. , Ramirez Miguel A. , Patrick Wayne M.
Published: August 2016

Life has existed on the Earth for approximately four billion years. The sheer depth of evolutionary time, and the diversity of extant species, makes it tempting to assume that all the key biochemical innovations underpinning life have already happened. But we are only a little over halfway through the trajectory of life on our planet. In this Opinion piece, we argue: (i) that sufficient time remains for the evolution of new processes at the heart of metabolic biochemistry and (ii) that synthetic biology is providing predictive insights into the nature of these innovations. By way of example, we focus on engineered solutions to existing inefficiencies in energy generation, and on the complex, synthetic regulatory circuits that are currently being implemented.
Cross-modal individual recognition in wild African lions
Authors: Gilfillan Geoffrey , Vitale Jessica , McNutt John Weldon , McComb Karen
Published: August 2016

Individual recognition is considered to have been fundamental in the evolution of complex social systems and is thought to be a widespread ability throughout the animal kingdom. Although robust evidence for individual recognition remains limited, recent experimental paradigms that examine cross-modal processing have demonstrated individual recognition in a range of captive non-human animals. It is now highly relevant to test whether cross-modal individual recognition exists within wild populations and thus examine how it is employed during natural social interactions. We address this question by testing audio–visual cross-modal individual recognition in wild African lions (
Panthera leo
) using an expectancy-violation paradigm. When presented with a scenario where the playback of a loud-call (roaring) broadcast from behind a visual block is incongruent with the conspecific previously seen there, subjects responded more strongly than during the congruent scenario where the call and individual matched. These findings suggest that lions are capable of audio–visual cross-modal individual recognition and provide a useful method for studying this ability in wild populations.
A single origin of extreme matrotrophy in African mabuyine skinks
Authors: Metallinou Margarita , Weinell Jeffrey L. , Karin Benjamin R. , Conradie Werner , Wagner Philipp , Schmitz Andreas , Jackman Todd R. , Bauer Aaron M.
Published: August 2016

Most mammals and approximately 20% of squamates (lizards and snakes) are viviparous, whereas all crocodilians, birds and turtles are oviparous. Viviparity evolved greater than 100 times in squamates, including multiple times in Mabuyinae (Reptilia: Scincidae), making this group ideal for studying the evolution of nutritional patterns associated with viviparity. Previous studies suggest that extreme matrotrophy, the support of virtually all of embryonic development by maternal nutrients, evolved as many as three times in Mabuyinae: in Neotropical Mabuyinae (63 species),
Eumecia
(2 species; Africa) and
Trachylepis ivensii
(Africa). However, no explicit phylogenetic hypotheses exist for understanding the evolution of extreme matrotrophy. Using multilocus DNA data, we inferred a species tree for Mabuyinae that implies that
T. ivensii
(here assigned to the resurrected genus
Lubuya
) is sister to
Eumecia
, suggesting that extreme matrotrophy evolved only once in African mabuyine skinks.
Oceanic circulation models help to predict global biogeography of pelagic yellow-bellied sea snake
Authors: Brischoux François , Cotté Cédric , Lillywhite Harvey B. , Bailleul Frédéric , Lalire Maxime , Gaspar Philippe
Published: August 2016

It is well recognized that most marine vertebrates, and especially tetrapods, precisely orient and actively move in apparently homogeneous oceanic environments. Here, we investigate the presumptive role of oceanic currents in biogeographic patterns observed in a secondarily marine tetrapod, the yellow-bellied sea snake (
Hydrophis
[
Pelamis
]
platurus
). State-of-the-art world ocean circulation models show how
H. platurus
, the only pelagic species of sea snake, can potentially exploit oceanic currents to disperse and maintain population mixing between localities that spread over two-thirds of the Earth's circumference. The very close association of these snakes with surface currents seems to provide a highly efficient dispersal mechanism that allowed this species to range extensively and relatively quickly well beyond the central Indo-Pacific area, the centre of origin, abundance and diversity of sea snakes. Our results further suggest that the pan-oceanic population of this species must be extraordinarily large.
Behavioural phenotypes predict disease susceptibility and infectiousness
Authors: Araujo Alessandra , Kirschman Lucas , Warne Robin W.
Published: August 2016

Behavioural phenotypes may provide a means for identifying individuals that disproportionally contribute to disease spread and epizootic outbreaks. For example, bolder phenotypes may experience greater exposure and susceptibility to pathogenic infection because of distinct interactions with conspecifics and their environment. We tested the value of behavioural phenotypes in larval amphibians for predicting ranavirus transmission in experimental trials. We found that behavioural phenotypes characterized by latency-to-food and swimming profiles were predictive of disease susceptibility and infectiousness defined as the capacity of an infected host to transmit an infection by contacts. While viral shedding rates were positively associated with transmission, we also found an inverse relationship between contacts and infections. Together these results suggest intrinsic traits that influence behaviour and the quantity of pathogens shed during conspecific interactions may be an important contributor to ranavirus transmission. These results suggest that behavioural phenotypes provide a means to identify individuals more likely to spread disease and thus give insights into disease outbreaks that threaten wildlife and humans.