bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature-Sensitive Reproduction and the Physiological and Evolutionary Potential for Mother’s Curse
Authors: Montooth Kristi L , Dhawanjewar Abhilesh S , Meiklejohn Colin D
Published: June 2019

Strict maternal transmission of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is hypothesized to permit the accumulation of mitochondrial variants that are deleterious to males but not females, a phenomenon called mother’s curse. However, direct evidence that mtDNA mutations exhibit such sexually antagonistic fitness effects is sparse. Male-specific mutational effects can occur when the physiological requirements of the mitochondria differ between the sexes. Such male-specific effects could potentially occur if sex-specific cell types or tissues have energy requirements that are differentially impacted by mutations affecting energy metabolism. Here we summarize findings from a model mitochondrial–nuclear incompatibility in the fruit fly Drosophila that demonstrates sex-biased effects, but with deleterious effects that are generally larger in females. We present new results showing that the mitochondrial–nuclear incompatibility does negatively affect male fertility, but only when males are developed at high temperatures. The temperature-dependent male sterility can be partially rescued by diet, suggesting an energetic basis. Finally, we discuss fruitful paths forward in understanding the physiological scope for sex-specific effects of mitochondrial mutations in the context of the recent discovery that many aspects of metabolism are sexually dimorphic and downstream of sex-determination pathways in Drosophila. A key parameter of these models that remains to be quantified is the fraction of mitochondrial mutations with truly male-limited fitness effects across extrinsic and intrinsic environments. Given the energy demands of reproduction in females, only a small fraction of the mitochondrial mutational spectrum may have the potential to contribute to mother’s curse in natural populations.
Combining scientific and fishers’ knowledge to co-create indicators of food web structure and function
Authors: Bentley Jacob W , Hines David E , Borrett Stuart R , Serpetti Natalia , Hernandez-Milian Gema , Fox Clive , Heymans Johanna J , Reid David G
Published: June 2019

In this study, we describe the approach taken by the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas Irish Sea benchmark working group (WKIrish), to co-create diet information for six commercial species using fishers' and scientists knowledge and incorporate it into an existing Ecopath food web model of the Irish Sea. To understand how the co-created diet information changed the model we compared a suite of food web indicators before and after the addition of fishers' knowledge (FK). Of the 80 predator–prey interactions suggested by fishers during workshops, 50 were already included in the model. Although the small number of changes made to the model structure had an insignificant impact on the ecosystem-level indicators, indicators of species hierarchical importance and mixed trophic impacts were significantly changed, particularly for commercial species. FK heightened the importance of discards as a source of food for rays, plaice, and whiting and reduced the importance of cod, toothed whales, and plaice as structural components of the food web. FK therefore led to changes which will influence pairwise advice derived from the model. We conclude by providing lessons from WKIrish which we believe were key to the positive co-production experience and development of integrated management.
All Hegemons Are Not the Same: The Role(s) of Relational Structures and Modes of Control
Authors: Nicholls Daniel Hywel
Published: June 2019

In this article I adopt a relational-structural approach to hegemonic order, setting out two distinct forms of consensual order, which differ in their modes of control. The central argument is that patterned structures of relational interaction determine the way in which roles are developed, and this, in turn, conditions structural power asymmetries, legitimacy, and authority. Within an elevated hegemonic order, intraperipheral ties are sparse, and a well-connected hegemon has been able to control flows of meanings and understandings. This relational domination leads to the hegemon role-making its own role and alter-casting roles onto its periphery. The resulting role-structures generate hegemonic privileges and pronounced structural power asymmetries within an order that exhibits authority but wherein legitimacy is either absent or exists in the form of “submission legitimacy,” even though consent is forthcoming. In an ensconced hegemonic order, the periphery is densely interconnected, allowing secondary actors to establish common aims and negotiate collectively with the hegemon. Here, the hegemon cannot control role-creation to a significant degree, and dynamics of role-taking predominate, both for hegemon and periphery. This plays out in reduced structural power disparities and an order based on legitimated roles and functions. This relational-structural approach moves us away from the consent-coercion dichotomy toward interpretations of subtler forms of control, blending a relational-constructivist focus on the production, reproduction, and modification of actor-roles into a schematic causal account of how and why roles matter for hierarchy. The two models are then woven into an analytical narrative that interprets forms of hegemonic order in the Western Hemisphere during the post–Cold War period.
How Knowledge Workers Manage Their Personal Information Spaces: Perceptions, Challenges and High-Level Strategies
Authors: Alon Lilach , Hardof-Jaffe Sharon , Nachmias Rafi
Published: June 2019

The study explored the personal information management (PIM) experiences of knowledge workers, defined as workers in professional fields where information is the essence of the work. It examined their perceptions of personal information spaces, challenges of managing personal information and the use of PIM strategies and looked for links between them. Qualitative data were collected in seven in-depth interviews with knowledge workers from education and industry. Content analysis included horizontal analysis and cluster of meanings analysis (Moustakas, 1994). Participants varied in the extent to which they sensed three factors: belonging to, dependence on and control of information spaces. They mentioned two specific challenges: the overloading of personal information spaces and the divergence of these spaces. Participants used a number of innovative high-level strategies for saving, managing and retrieving information. The strategies were linked to both perceptions and challenges of the personal space. The paper concludes with guidelines for managing information.

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

A complex set of perceptions (belonging, dependence and control) characterizes the interaction between knowledge workers and their personal information spaces. High-level strategies for saving, managing and retrieving information are a useful way of coping with the PIM challenges of overloaded and divergent information spaces. Innovative thinking about PIM is an important aspect of knowledge workers’ ability to manage personal information in the digital era.
Review of Molecular Identification Techniques for Forensically Important Diptera
Authors: Gemmellaro M Denise , Hamilton George C , Ware Jessica L
Published: June 2019

The medico-legal section of forensic entomology focuses on the analysis of insects associated with a corpse. Such insects are identified, and their life history characteristics are evaluated to provide information related to the corpse, such as postmortem interval and time of colonization. Forensically important insects are commonly identified using dichotomous keys, which rely on morphological characteristics. Morphological identifications can pose a challenge as local keys are not always available and can be difficult to use, especially when identifying juvenile stages. If a specimen is damaged, certain keys cannot be used for identification. In contrast, molecular identification can be a better instrument to identify forensically important insects, regardless of life stage or specimen completeness. Despite more than 20 yr since the first use of molecular data for the identification of forensic insects, there is little overlap in gene selection or phylogenetic methodology among studies, and this inconsistency reduces efficiency. Several methods such as genetic distance, reciprocal monophyly, or character-based methods have been implemented in forensic identification studies. It can be difficult to compare the results of studies that employ these different methods. Here we present a comprehensive review of the published results for the molecular identification of Diptera of forensic interest, with an emphasis on evaluating variation among studies in gene selection and phylogenetic methodology.
THE SMALLEST SALABLE PATENT PRACTICING UNIT AND COMPONENT LICENSING: WHY $1 IS NOT $1
Authors: Gautier Axel , Petit Nicolas
Published: June 2019

The smallest salable patent pricing unit (SSPPU) is a valuation method used as a preliminary step toward the calculation of fair, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory royalties for licenses over standard-essential patents (SEPs). Under SSPPU, royalties should reflect the value added to the smallest salable component implementing the patented invention. In this paper, we discuss policy-making proposals to convert SSPPU into a pricing rule that not only assists the assessment of SEPs’ added value but also forces the specification of royalties terms as a share of component costs in SEP licensing negotiations. We call this new rule SSPPU+ and we show that it distorts the distribution of surplus between SEP owners and implementers by laying down a revenue cap on standardized technologies. Therefore, a change in the royalty basis is not neutral and $1 is not $1. Furthermore, SSPPU+ imposes uniform pricing of SEPs across different industries and does not allow SEP owners to take advantage of complementarities between technologies. This pleads against a generalization of SSPPU+ at early standardization and negotiation stages.
Infectious-disease Screening and Vaccination for Refugees and Asylum Seekers Entering Europe in 2015–16: A Scoping Study of Six European Union Countries
Authors: Piselli Pierluca , Samuilova Mariya , Bozorgmehr Kayvan , Ippolito Giuseppe , Petrova-Benedict Roumyana , Kentikelenis Alexander , Girardi Enrico
Published: June 2019

In 2015, more than 1 million asylum seekers and refugees arrived in Europe. Information on how European countries addressed the prevention and control of infectious diseases among these populations during and after this period is limited. This study is based on 27 semi-structured interviews conducted with first-line staff and health officials in May–June 2016 in first-entry countries (Greece/Italy), transit countries (Croatia/Slovenia) and destination countries (Austria/Sweden). Characteristics of health-service provision for infectious diseases at each stage of reception, with a focus on tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, intestinal parasites and human immunodeficiency virus infections, were investigated. No major differences in the provision of services in accordance with migration status (asylum seekers vs refugees) were reported. At arrival, interventions were focused on addressing emerging health needs and no major barriers to accessing acute hospital care for infectious diseases were reported. There were shortcomings in interventions to tackle medium- to long-term needs with respect to infectious diseases, including screening for chronic treatable infections and adult vaccination. European evidence-based guidance highlighting the most relevant interventions for infectious diseases during the reception process is needed.
Educating Palestinian Refugees: The Origins of UNRWA’s Unique Schooling System
Authors: Irfan Anne E
Published: June 2019

This article examines the origins of the unique schooling system for Palestinian refugees run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Examining developments c. 1950–57, it illuminates the programme’s beginning and explores the objectives of those behind it. Using archival evidence from numerous international welfare organizations and testimonies from refugees themselves, this article argues that the parties providing education and the refugees receiving it often had conflicting objectives that were highly politicized on both sides. Despite the comparatively greater power and resources of the United Nations, the Palestinian refugees were able to make use of their limited leverage in order to shape the education system as they preferred. The UNRWA education programme thus serves as a revealing case study for explaining developmental aid to refugee populations and its inevitable intersection with politics.
Targeted search for young radio pulsars in the SMC: discovery of two new pulsars
Authors: Titus N , Stappers B W , Morello V , Caleb M , Filipović M D , McBride V A , Ho W C G , Buckley D A H
Published: June 2019

We report the first rotation powered pulsars discovered in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) in more than a decade. PSR J0043–73 and PSR J0052–72 were discovered during a Parkes Multi-Beam (PMB) survey of MCSNR J0127–7332, and five new, optically selected, supernova remnant (SNR) candidates identified by the XMM–Newton survey. In addition to the candidates, we adjusted the PMB rotation to include additional nine SNRs and pulsar wind nebulae. We searched for young pulsars (1–200 ms) employing a Fourier analysis with PRESTO, as well as a search for longer period pulsars (200 ms–360 s) with a fast folding algorithm. Our targeted survey had a limiting flux density of 0.039 mJy for periods greater than 50 ms. Although not the main target of this search it was also sensitive to millisecond pulsars. PSR J0043–73 has a period and dispersion measure of 937.429 37 (26) ms and 115.1 (3.4) pc cm−3, respectively, and PSR J0052–72 has a period of 191.444 328 (46) ms and a DM of 158.6 (1.6) pc cm−3.
Black hole magnetosphere with small-scale flux tubes – II. Stability and dynamics
Authors: Yuan Yajie , Spitkovsky Anatoly , Blandford Roger D , Wilkins Dan R
Published: June 2019

In some Seyfert galaxies, the hard X-rays that produce fluorescent emission lines are thought to be generated in a hot corona that is compact and located at only a few gravitational radii above the supermassive black hole. We consider the possibility that this X-ray source may be powered by small-scale magnetic flux tubes attached to the accretion disc near the black hole. We use three-dimensional, time-dependent, special relativistic, force-free simulations in a simplified setting to study the dynamics of such flux tubes as they get continuously twisted by the central compact star/black hole. We find that the dynamical evolution of the flux tubes connecting the central compact object and the accretion disc is strongly influenced by the confinement of the surrounding field. Although differential rotation between the central object and the disc tends to inflate the flux tubes, strong confinement from surrounding field quenches the formation of a jet-like outflow, as the inflated flux tube becomes kink unstable and dissipates most of the extracted rotational energy relatively close to the central object. Such a process may be able to heat up the plasma and produce strong X-ray emission. We estimate the energy dissipation rate and discuss its astrophysical implications.
Black hole masses of tidal disruption event host galaxies II
Authors: Wevers Thomas , Stone Nicholas C , van Velzen Sjoert , Jonker Peter G , Hung Tiara , Auchettl Katie , Gezari Suvi , Onori Francesca , Mata Sánchez Daniel , Kostrzewa-Rutkowska Zuzanna , Casares Jorge
Published: June 2019

We present new medium resolution, optical long-slit spectra of a sample of six ultraviolet (UV)/optical and 17 X-ray-selected tidal disruption event candidate host galaxies. We measure emission line ratios from the optical spectra, finding that the large majority of hosts are quiescent galaxies, while those displaying emission lines are generally consistent with star formation dominated environments; only three sources show clear evidence of nuclear activity. We measure bulge velocity dispersions using absorption lines and infer host black hole (BH) masses using the M – σ relation. While the optical and X-ray host BH masses are statistically consistent with coming from the same parent distribution, the optical host distribution has a visible peak near $M_{\rm BH} \sim 10^6 \, \mathrm{M}_\odot$, whereas the X-ray host distribution appears flat in MBH. We find a subset of X-ray-selected candidates that are hosted in galaxies significantly less luminous (Mg ∼ −16) and less massive (stellar mass ∼ 108.5–9 M⊙) than those of optical events. Using statistical tests we find suggestive evidence that, in terms of BH mass, stellar mass, and absolute magnitude, the hard X-ray hosts differ from the UV/optical and soft X-ray samples. Similar to individual studies, we find that the size of the emission region for the soft X-ray sample is much smaller than the optical emission region, consistent with a compact accretion disc. We find that the typical Eddington ratio of the soft X-ray emission is ∼ 0.01, as opposed to the optical events which have LBB ∼ LEdd. The latter seems artificial if the radiation is produced by self-intersection shocks, and instead suggests a connection to the supermassive black hole.
Puzzling blue dips in the black hole candidate Swift J1357.2 − 0933, from ULTRACAM, SALT, ATCA, Swift, and NuSTAR
Authors: Paice J A , Gandhi P , Charles P A , Dhillon V S , Marsh T R , Buckley D A H , Kotze M M , Beri A , Altamirano D , Middleton M J , Plotkin R M , Miller-Jones J C A , Russell D M , Tomsick J , Díaz-Merced W , Misra R
Published: June 2019

We present rapid, multiwavelength photometry of the low-mass X-ray binary Swift J1357.2-0933 during its 2017 outburst. Using several sets of quasi-simultaneous ULTRACAM/NTT (optical), NuSTAR (X-ray), XRT/Swift (X-ray), SALT (optical), and ATCA (radio) observations taken during outburst decline, we confirm the frequent optical dipping that has previously been noted both in outburst and in quiescence. We also find: (1) that the dip frequency decreases as the outburst decays, similar to what was seen in the previous outburst, (2) that the dips produce a shape similar to that in binary systems with partial disc occultations, (3) that the source becomes significantly bluer during these dips, indicating an unusual geometry compared to other LMXB dippers, and (4) that dip superposition analysis confirms the lack of an X-ray response to the optical dips. These very unusual properties appear to be unique to Swift J1357.2−0933, and are likely the result of a high binary inclination, as inferred from features such as its very low outburst X-ray luminosity. From this analysis as well as X-ray/optical timing correlations, we suggest a model with multicomponent emission/absorption features with differing colours. This could include the possible presence of a sporadically occulted jet base and a recessed disc. This source still hosts many puzzling features, with consequences for the very faint X-ray transients population.
SDSS-IV MaNGA: stellar population gradients within barred galaxies
Authors: Fraser-McKelvie Amelia , Merrifield Michael , Aragón-Salamanca Alfonso , Peterken Thomas , Masters Karen , Krawczyk Coleman , Andrews Brett , Knapen Johan H , Kruk Sandor , Schaefer Adam , Smethurst Rebecca , Riffel Rogério , Brownstein Joel , Drory Niv
Published: June 2019

Bars in galaxies are thought to stimulate both inflow of material and radial mixing along them. Observational evidence for this mixing has been inconclusive so far, however, limiting the evaluation of the impact of bars on galaxy evolution. We now use results from the MaNGA integral field spectroscopic survey to characterize radial stellar age and metallicity gradients along the bar and outside the bar in 128 strongly barred galaxies. We find that age and metallicity gradients are flatter in the barred regions of almost all barred galaxies when compared to corresponding disc regions at the same radii. Our results re-emphasize the key fact that by azimuthally averaging integral field spectroscopic data one loses important information from non-axisymmetric galaxy components such as bars and spiral arms. We interpret our results as observational evidence that bars are radially mixing material in galaxies of all stellar masses, and for all bar morphologies and evolutionary stages.
Detection of the self-regulation of star formation in galaxy discs
Authors: Zaragoza-Cardiel Javier , Fritz Jacopo , Aretxaga Itziar , Mayya Divakara , Rosa-González Daniel , Beckman John E , Bruzual Gustavo , Charlot Stephane , Lomelí-Núñez Luis
Published: June 2019

Stellar feedback has a notable influence on the formation and evolution of galaxies. However, direct observational evidence is scarce. We have performed stellar population analysis using MUSE optical spectra of the spiral galaxy NGC 628 and find that current maximum star formation in spatially resolved regions is regulated according to the level of star formation in the recent past. We propose a model based on the self-regulator or ‘bathtub’ models, but for spatially resolved regions of the galaxy. We name it the ‘resolved self-regulator model’ and show that the predictions of this model are in agreement with the presented observations. We observe star formation self-regulation and estimate the mass-loading factor, η = 2.5 ± 0.5, consistent with values predicted by galaxy formation models. The method described here will help provide better constraints on those models.
The Great Brandoni: A Life of Creativity and Connection
Authors: Mahoney Mike
Published: June 2019

In this article, I share the story of my work with Brandon, a long-term patient who had a significant impact on my practice. Brandon was 8 when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a form of childhood cancer that took his ability to walk. Beyond the hospital, family dynamics brought even more stressors to Brandon’s life. But even after his interest in my song- and instrument-based interventions dwindled, his drive toward creativity and connection with others made music therapy a vital resource for him. While I supported him, Brandon had a knack for helping me uncover new ideas, and then offering his patience as I developed them into interventions that I would use with patients in years to come. As a child, Brandon showed me how a patient’s play with toys could fit into music therapy. As an early adolescent, he set a path for my work using music technology with teens and young adults. And at the end of his life, Brandon’s family helped me understand the role of hope amidst tragedy. These three phases of music therapy are presented in detail and connected by the narrative thread of Brandon’s story. This article describes an adaptable approach to music therapy practice, helpful in strengthening relationships with patients not drawn to the clinician’s established interventions.
DEAD-box helicase eIF4A2 inhibits CNOT7 deadenylation activity
Authors: Meijer Hedda A , Schmidt Tobias , Gillen Sarah L , Langlais Claudia , Jukes-Jones Rebekah , de Moor Cornelia H , Cain Kelvin , Wilczynska Ania , Bushell Martin
Published: June 2019

The CCR4–NOT complex plays an important role in the translational repression and deadenylation of mRNAs. However, little is known about the specific roles of interacting factors. We demonstrate that the DEAD-box helicases eIF4A2 and DDX6 interact directly with the MA3 and MIF domains of CNOT1 and compete for binding. Furthermore, we now show that incorporation of eIF4A2 into the CCR4–NOT complex inhibits CNOT7 deadenylation activity in contrast to DDX6 which enhances CNOT7 activity. Polyadenylation tests (PAT) on endogenous mRNAs determined that eIF4A2 bound mRNAs have longer poly(A) tails than DDX6 bound mRNAs. Immunoprecipitation experiments show that eIF4A2 does not inhibit CNOT7 association with the CCR4–NOT complex but instead inhibits CNOT7 activity. We identified a CCR4–NOT interacting factor, TAB182, that modulates helicase recruitment into the CCR4–NOT complex, potentially affecting the outcome for the targeted mRNA. Together, these data show that the fate of an mRNA is dependent on the specific recruitment of either eIF4A2 or DDX6 to the CCR4–NOT complex which results in different pathways for translational repression and mRNA deadenylation.
Regulation of bistability in the std fimbrial operon of Salmonella enterica by DNA adenine methylation and transcription factors HdfR, StdE and StdF
Authors: García-Pastor Lucía , Sánchez-Romero María A , Jakomin Marcello , Puerta-Fernández Elena , Casadesús Josep
Published: June 2019

Bistable expression of the Salmonella enterica std operon is controlled by an AND logic gate involving three transcriptional activators: the LysR-type factor HdfR and the StdE and StdF regulators encoded by the std operon itself. StdE activates transcription of the hdfR gene, and StdF activates std transcription together with HdfR. Binding of HdfR upstream of the std promoter is hindered by methylation of GATC sites located within the upstream activating sequence (UAS). Epigenetic control by Dam methylation thus antagonizes formation of the StdE-StdF-HdfR loop and tilts the std switch toward the StdOFF state. In turn, HdfR binding hinders methylation of the UAS, permitting activation of the StdE-StdF-HdfR loop and concomitant formation of StdON cells. Bistability is thus the outcome of competition between DNA adenine methylation and the StdE-StdF-HdfR activator loop.
XAB2 depletion induces intron retention in POLR2A to impair global transcription and promote cellular senescence
Authors: Hou Shuai , Qu Dajun , Li Yue , Zhu Baohui , Liang Dapeng , Wei Xinyue , Tang Wei , Zhang Qian , Hao Jiaojiao , Guo Wei , Wang Weijie , Zhao Siqi , Wang Qi , Azam Sikandar , Khan Misbah , Zhao Haidong , Zhang Liye , Lei Haixin
Published: June 2019

XAB2 is a multi-functional protein participating processes including transcription, splicing, DNA repair and mRNA export. Here, we report POLR2A, the largest catalytic subunit of RNA polymerase II, as a major target gene down-regulated after XAB2 depletion. XAB2 depletion led to severe splicing defects of POLR2A with significant intron retention. Such defects resulted in substantial loss of POLR2A at RNA and protein levels, which further impaired global transcription. Treatment of splicing inhibitor madrasin induced similar reduction of POLR2A. Screen using TMT-based quantitative proteomics identified several proteins involved in mRNA surveillance including Dom34 with elevated expression. Inhibition of translation or depletion of Dom34 rescued the expression of POLR2A by stabilizing its mRNA. Immuno-precipitation further confirmed that XAB2 associated with spliceosome components important to POLR2A expression. Domain mapping revealed that TPR motifs 2–4 and 11 of XAB2 were critical for POLR2A expression by interacting with SNW1. Finally, we showed POLR2A mediated cell senescence caused by XAB2 deficiency. Depletion of XAB2 or POLR2A induced cell senescence by up-regulation of p53 and p21, re-expression of POLR2A after XAB2 depletion alleviated cellular senescence. These data together support that XAB2 serves as a guardian of POLR2A expression to ensure global gene expression and antagonize cell senescence.
Evolutionary coupling analysis identifies the impact of disease-associated variants at less-conserved sites
Authors: Kim Donghyo , Han Seong Kyu , Lee Kwanghwan , Kim Inhae , Kong JungHo , Kim Sanguk
Published: June 2019

Genome-wide association studies have discovered a large number of genetic variants in human patients with the disease. Thus, predicting the impact of these variants is important for sorting disease-associated variants (DVs) from neutral variants. Current methods to predict the mutational impacts depend on evolutionary conservation at the mutation site, which is determined using homologous sequences and based on the assumption that variants at well-conserved sites have high impacts. However, many DVs at less-conserved but functionally important sites cannot be predicted by the current methods. Here, we present a method to find DVs at less-conserved sites by predicting the mutational impacts using evolutionary coupling analysis. Functionally important and evolutionarily coupled sites often have compensatory variants on cooperative sites to avoid loss of function. We found that our method identified known intolerant variants in a diverse group of proteins. Furthermore, at less-conserved sites, we identified DVs that were not identified using conservation-based methods. These newly identified DVs were frequently found at protein interaction interfaces, where species-specific mutations often alter interaction specificity. This work presents a means to identify less-conserved DVs and provides insight into the relationship between evolutionarily coupled sites and human DVs.
Functional MRI Signature of Chronic Pain Relief From Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson Disease Patients
Authors: DiMarzio Marisa , Rashid Tanweer , Hancu Ileana , Fiveland Eric , Prusik Julia , Gillogly Michael , Madhavan Radhika , Joel Suresh , Durphy Jennifer , Molho Eric , Hanspal Era , Shin Damian , Pilitsis Julie G
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain occurs in 83% of Parkinson disease (PD) patients and deep brain stimulation (DBS) has shown to result in pain relief in a subset of patients, though the mechanism is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To compare functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data in PD patients with chronic pain without DBS, those whose pain was relieved (PR) with DBS and those whose pain was not relieved (PNR) with DBS.

METHODS

Functional MRI (fMRI) with blood oxygen level-dependent activation data was obtained in 15 patients in control, PR, and PNR patients. fMRI was obtained in the presence and absence of a mechanical stimuli with DBS ON and DBS OFF. Voxel-wise analysis using pain OFF data was used to determine which regions were altered during pain ON periods.

RESULTS

At the time of MRI, pain was scored a 5.4 ± 1.2 out of 10 in the control, 4.25 ± 1.18 in PNR, and 0.8 ± 0.67 in PR cohorts. Group analysis of control and PNR groups showed primary somatosensory (SI) deactivation, whereas PR patients showed thalamic deactivation and SI activation. DBS resulted in more decreased activity in PR than PNR (P < .05) and more activity in anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in PNR patients (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Patients in the control and PNR groups showed SI deactivation at baseline in contrast to the PR patients who showed SI activation. With DBS ON, the PR cohort had less activity in SI, whereas the PNR had more anterior cingulate cortex activity. We provide pilot data that patients whose pain responds to DBS may have a different fMRI signature than those who do not, and PR and PNR cohorts produced different brain responses when DBS is employed.
Flavored Tobacco Product Use and Its Association With Indicators of Tobacco Dependence Among US Adults, 2014–2015
Authors: Odani Satomi , Armour Brian , Agaku Israel T
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Widely marketed flavored tobacco products might appeal to nonusers and could be contributing to recent increases in tobacco product use. We assessed flavored product use among current tobacco users; and measured associations between flavored product use and dependence among US adults.

Methods

Data were from the 2014–2015 Tobacco Use Supplement to the Current Population Survey, a cross-sectional household-based survey of US adults ≥18 years (n = 163 920). Current users of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookahs, smokeless tobacco, and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) were asked whether their usual product was menthol or came in any characterizing flavors. Proportions of flavored product users were computed nationally and by state and demographic characteristics. Tobacco dependence was assessed with two proxy measures: daily use and use ≤30 minutes after waking. Associations between flavored product use and tobacco dependence were examined using logistic regression adjusted for sex, age, race/ethnicity, and multi tobacco product use.

Results

An estimated 41.0% of current users of any tobacco product usually used a flavored product during 2014–2015. The proportion ranged from 22.5% (Maine) to 62.1% (District of Columbia). By product, the proportion ranged from 28.3% (cigars) to 87.2% (hookah). Flavored product use was associated with: daily tobacco product use among current e-cigarette users (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.71), cigar smokers (AOR = 1.42), and cigarette smokers (AOR = 1.13); and tobacco product use ≤30 minutes after waking among current cigar smokers (AOR = 1.80), and cigarette smokers (AOR = 1.11).

Conclusions

Restricting sales of flavored tobacco products and implementation of proven population-level tobacco control interventions could help reduce tobacco product use among US adults.

Implications

During 2014–2015, flavored tobacco products were widely used by US adults with variations across states and demographic characteristics. Use of flavored e-cigarettes, flavored cigars, and menthol cigarettes were associated with daily tobacco use: use of flavored cigars and menthol cigarettes were associated with tobacco use within 30 minutes after waking. These findings suggest associations between flavor use and increased tobacco dependence. Prohibiting sale of flavored products can reduce access to those products, and could help reduce tobacco dependence and promote cessation behaviors among current tobacco product users.
Reversible colony formation and the associated costs in Scenedesmus obliquus
Authors: Albini Dania , Fowler Mike S , Llewellyn Carole , Tang Kam W
Published: June 2019

Grazer-induced colony formation as a defense strategy in microalgae such as Scenedesmus species has been widely reported, but the associated costs and reversibility of the colonies are rarely studied. We experimentally showed that Scenedesmus obliquus formed chained colonies in the presence of a predator, including predators separated from the algae by a membrane, but quickly reverted to single cells after the removal of the predator—a defining characteristic of an inducible defense. We detected stress indicators—astaxanthin esters—in the algal populations in the presence of grazers but not when grazers were absent. We found significant costs associated with S. obliquus colony formation in terms of lower population growth rate, lower photosystem II efficiency and lower cellular chlorophyll a content. These results together show that colony formation as an inducible defense in S. obliquus against grazers comes at a substantial cost such that the defense must be switched off and the colonies revert to single cells when the predation risk disappears.
The Effectiveness of Lumbar Transforaminal Injection of Steroid for the Treatment of Radicular Pain: A Comprehensive Review of the Published Data
Authors: Smith Clark C , McCormick Zachary L , Mattie Ryan , MacVicar John , Duszynski Belinda , Stojanovic Milan P
Published: June 2019

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of lumbar transforaminal injection of steroid for the treatment of radicular pain.

Design

Comprehensive systematic review.

Outcome Measures

The primary outcome of interest was the proportion of individuals with reduction of pain by ≥50%. Additional outcomes of interest were a more-than-two-point reduction in pain score, patient satisfaction, functional improvement, decreased use of pain medication, and avoidance of spinal surgery.

Results

For patients with disc herniations, using the criterion of ≥50% reduction in pain, success rates across included studies (range) were 63% (58–68%) at one month, 74% (68–80%) at three months, 64% (59–69%) at six months, and 64% (57–71%) at one year. For patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, success rates across included studies (range) were 49% (43–55%) at one month, 48% (35–61%) at three months, 43% (33–53%) at six months, and 59% (45–73%) at one year, but there was a lack of corroboration from appropriately controlled studies.

Conclusions

There is strong evidence that lumbar transforaminal injection of steroids is an effective treatment for radicular pain due to disc herniation. There is a lack of high-quality evidence demonstrating their effectiveness for the treatment of radicular pain due to spinal stenosis, though small studies suggest a possible benefit. Lumbar transforaminal injection of nonparticulate steroids is as effective as injections with particulate steroids.
Vessel-length determination using silicone and air injection: are there artifacts?
Authors: Gao Hui , Chen Ya-Jun , Zhang Yong-Jiang , Maenpuen Phisamai , Lv Song , Zhang Jiao-Lin
Published: June 2019

Xylem vessels are used by most angiosperm plants for long-distance water and nutrient transport. Vessel length is one of the key functional traits determining plant water-transport efficiency. Additionally, determination of maximum vessel length is necessary for correct sample collection and measurements in hydraulic studies to avoid open-vessel and cutting-under-tension artifacts. Air injection and silicone injection (BLUESIL RTV141A and B mixtures) are two widely used methods for maximum vessel length determination. However, the validity of both methods needs to be carefully tested for species with different vessel lengths. In this study, we tested the air-injection and silicone-injection methods using eight species with different vessel lengths: short (<0.5 m), medium (0.5–1 m) and long (>1 m). We employed a novel approach using RTV141A injection without the RTV141B hardener as a reference method because RTV141A cannot penetrate inter-vessel pit membranes and is not prone to hardening/solidification effects during the injection process. The results revealed that the silicone-injection method substantially underestimated the maximum vessel length of all eight species. However, the air-injection method tended to overestimate the maximum vessel length in five out of eight species. The ratio of underestimation of the silicone-injection method was higher for species with longer vessels, but the overestimation of the air-injection method was independent of the vessel length. Moreover, air injection with different pressures—ranging from 40 to 300 kPa—resulted in comparable results. We conclude that the conventional silicone-injection method can underestimate the vessel length, whereas the air-injection method can overestimate the maximum vessel length, particularly for long-vessel led species. We recommend RTV141A-only injection for determining the maximum vessel length, and it can also be used to validate the use of the air-injection and conventional silicone-injection methods for a given species.
Growth resilience and oxidative burst control as tolerance factors to Ophiostoma novo-ulmi in Ulmus minor
Authors: Martín Juan A , Sobrino-Plata Juan , Coira Begoña , Medel David , Collada Carmen , Gil Luis
Published: June 2019

The Dutch elm disease (DED) pathogens, Ophiostoma ulmi (Buisman) Nannf. and the more aggressive Ophiostoma novo-ulmi Brasier, have decimated European elm populations in the last 100 years. Today, the number of tolerant elm varieties available on the market is limited, partly due to the long breeding cycles and expensive facilities they require. Developing a low-cost technique to allow early screening of elm tolerance based on simple morphological and/or biochemical traits would considerably boost elm breeding and research. Within this general aim, we developed an in vitro plant culture system to (i) characterize stress responses to O. novo-ulmi-root inoculation in two Ulmus minor Mill. clones of contrasting susceptibility level to DED (termed ‘tolerant’ and ‘susceptible’) and (ii) compare the upward dispersal rate of the pathogen in the two clones. Constitutive xylem anatomy was similar in both clones, indicating that differences in plant responses to the pathogen are not attributable to anatomical factors (e.g., conduit size). Susceptible plantlets suffered a significant delay in apical growth and a decrease in chlorophyll content at 21 days post-inoculation (dpi). The rate of pathogen dispersal from roots to aerial tissues was similar in both clones. However, the tolerant clone showed a marked increase in lipid peroxidation at 1 dpi, while the susceptible clone showed enhanced values of lipid peroxidation during most of the experimental period (1–21 dpi). Despite wide stem colonization by the pathogen, the tolerant clone effectively regulated the oxidative stress levels and showed remarkable resilience to inoculation. These results extend current knowledge on elm defense mechanisms, and the proposed in vitro plant culture system emerges as a promising early screening method for tolerance to improve elm breeding.
Age-specific prevalence of TB infection among household contacts of pulmonary TB: Is it time for TB preventive therapy?
Authors: Dolla Chandra Kumar , Padmapriyadarsini Chandrasekaran , Thiruvengadam Kannan , Lokhande Rahul , Kinikar Aarti , Paradkar Mandar , BM Shrinivas , Murali Lakshmi , Gupte Akshay , Gaikwad Sanjay , Selvaraju Sriram , Padmanaban Yashoda , Pattabiraman Sathyamurthy , Pradhan Neeta , Kulkarni Vandana , Shivakumar Shri Vijay Bala Yogendra , Prithivi Munivardhan , Kagal Anju , Karthavarayan Barath Thopili , Suryavanshi Nishi , Gupte Nikhil , Kumaran Paul , Mave Vidya , Gupta Amita
Published: June 2019

Background

Household contacts (HHCs) of TB patients are at high risk of developing evidence of latent TB infection (LTBI) and active disease from the index patient. We estimated the age-specific prevalence of LTBI and the force of infection (FI), as a measure of recent transmission, among HHCs of active TB patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis of HHCs of pulmonary TB patients enrolled in a prospective study, ‘CTRIUMPh’, was conducted at two sites in India. LTBI was defined as either a positive tuberculin skin test (induration ≥5 mm) or QuantiFERON–Gold in tube test (value ≥0.35 IU/ml) and was stratified by age. FI, which is a measure of recent transmission of infection and calculated using changes in age-specific prevalence rates at specific ages, was calculated. Factors associated with LTBI were determined by logistic regression models.

Results

Of 1020 HHCs of 441 adult pulmonary TB cases, there were 566 (55%) females and 289 (28%) children aged ≤15 y. While screening for the study 3% of HHC were diagnosed with active TB. LTBI prevalence among HHCs of pulmonary TB was 47% at <6 y, 53% between 6–14 y and 78% between 15–45 y. FI increased significantly with age, from 0.4 to 1.15 in the HHCs cohort (p=0.05).

Conclusion

This study observed an increased prevalence of LTBI and FI among older children and young adults recently exposed to infectious TB in the household. In addition to awareness of coughing etiquette and general hygiene, expanding access to TB preventive therapy to all HHCs, including older children, may be beneficial to achieve TB elimination by 2035.
Fixation of a Type 3 Flexor Digitorum Avulsion Injury
Authors: Weber Morgan B. , Chepla Kyle J. , Bafus Blaine T.
Published: June 2019

This article describes a novel technique for flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) avulsion injuries, useful for Leddy Packer type 3, 4, and 5 injuries. Multidirectional stability is achieved with combination pull-out suture, which neutralizes the deforming force of FDP, and cerclage wire, which holds the bone fragment in an anatomic position and provides interfragmentary compression. Traditional techniques such as interosseous wires, Kirschner wires, or plating risk fragment comminution and loss of reduction due to proximal pull of FDP as demonstrated in this case report of failed Kirschner-wire fixation. The technique presented here eliminates the risk of avulsion fragment comminution and provides stable fixation that allows for early mobilization.
A Novel External Fixation Technique for Injuries of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint
Authors: McCarley Matthew , Hunter Allison M. , McKissack Haley , Shah Ashish , Oakes Jean , Chaudhari Nilesh , Sherrill Joseph
Published: June 2019

Digital external fixation is often used for the management of complex injuries involving the proximal interphalangeal joint, including pilon fractures of the middle phalanx base and unstable fracture-dislocations. Several dynamic “homemade” constructs have been described which utilize only K-wires and rubber bands and allow early range of motion within the construct. Although these constructs are inexpensive and their application is fairly straightforward, their designs pose a few potential problems when the construct is stressed during rehabilitation efforts. These designs utilize a blocking K-wire which relies on pin-to-pin contact to maintain reduction and creates unnecessary friction that can impede motion and result in pin loosening in bone. Furthermore, rubber band rupture can occur and destabilizes the construct. Here we present a novel technique which utilizes only K-wires and K-wire caps, provides adequate joint distraction and stabilization throughout the arc of motion, and avoids the aforementioned pitfalls of existing designs.
INCREASED FOVEAL GANGLION CELL AND INNER PLEXIFORM LAYER THICKNESS IN CHILDREN AGED 6.5 YEARS BORN EXTREMELY PRETERM
Authors: Rosén Rebecka M. , Hellgren Kerstin M. , Venkataraman Abinaya P. , Dominguez Vicent Alberto , Nilsson Maria
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

To analyze the ganglion cell layer and inner plexiform layer (GCL+) thickness in children born extremely preterm and control children.

Methods:

A study of 6.5-year-old children born before the gestational age of 27 weeks and age-matched controls. The GCL+ thickness and foveal depth (FD) were analyzed in a single optical coherence tomography B-scan. Association with neonatal risk factors and sex was investigated. Extremely preterm was divided into no, mild, and severe retinopathy of prematurity, retinopathy of prematurity treatment, and no, mild, and severe intraventricular hemorrhage.

Results:

Adequate measurements were obtained from 89 children born extremely preterm and 92 controls. Extremely preterm children had increased total (5 µm, P < 0.001) and central (21 µm, P < 0.001) GCL+ thickness and reduced FD (−53 µm, P < 0.001) compared with controls. Extremely preterm children receiving retinopathy of prematurity treatment had increased GCL+ thickness and reduced FD compared with other subgroups. Sex and gestational age were associated with increased central GCL+ thickness and reduced FD. Reduced total GCL+ thickness was associated with severe intraventricular hemorrhage.

Conclusion:

Extremely preterm birth can cause incomplete extrusion of the GCL+ and reduced FD. Retinopathy of prematurity treatment, gestational age, and male sex were associated to increased central GCL+ thickness and reduced FD, while severe intraventricular hemorrhage was associated with reduced total GCL+ thickness.