bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CREATIVE POTENTIAL OF MICROGENETIC THEORY
Authors: Pachalska Maria , MacQueen Bruce Duncan , Cielebąk Ksenia
Published: October 2018

This paper is devoted to illustrating how process neuropsychology and neurolinguistics, based on microgenetic theory androoted in process thought, can help to explain the often baffling symptomatology of brain damage. Our purpose is to present an overview of this difficult and complex subject matter for readers, with particular emphasis on its creative potential. The essence of microgenetic theory in neuropsychology is an account of the phases in brain process through which successive mind/brain states arise and perish over the duration of the psychological present, measured in milliseconds. According to the theory, mental states are rhythmically generated out of a “core” in the anatomically deepest and phylogenetically oldest parts of the central nervous system, over phases to the outermost and youngest regions of the brain, the neocortex. The clinical applications are only one aspect of the creative potential of microgenetic theory. Indeed, the elegance of the theory consists in the way in which it can be extended into a number of different fields of endeavor, providing a kind of “unified field theory” for the explanation of often rather diverse phenomena. This provides an opportunity for neuropsychology and neurolinguistics to resume the interdisciplinary discourse they were founded to conduct.
CORRELATION OF MORNING SALIVARY CORTISOL-MELATONIN RATIO WITH QEEG AND DELAYED RECALL IN AGING
Authors: Sroykham Watchara , Wongsawat Yodchanan
Published: October 2018

Melatonin and cortisol are the main hormones of the circadian rhythm, which effect cognitive decline during aging. An imbalance of circadian rhythm hormones serves as an early sign of the progress of age-related disease and brain pathology in aging. The aim of this study was to determine the cortisol-melatonin ratio in relation to brain activity and cognitive function in aging.

Sixty-four aging subjects were recruited from the brain healthy project. The morning salivary of all subjects was collected for cortisol and melatonin levels analysis. The brain activity was recorded for 5 minutes in the eyes open condition and seven cognitive functions were assessed by the MoCA.

The results were divided into a low ratio group and a high ratio group of cortisol-melatonin ratio. The low ratio group and the high ratio group differed in the delta-beta ratio at the left temporal lope (p < .05), and the delayed recall in the high ratio group was markedly higher than in the low ratio group. Moreover, the cortisol-melatonin ratio was strongly correlated with delayed recall (p < .05), the delta-beta ratio in the left temporal lope (p <.05), the theta alpha ratio in the left temporal lope (p < .05), and right temporal lope (p < .05).

We found that a low cortisol-melatonin ratio corresponded to a high delta-beta ratio and a high thetaalpha ratio at the left temporal lobe with a low score of delayed recall function, but a high cortisol-melatonin ratio corresponded to a low delta-beta ratio and a low theta-alpha ratio at the left temporal lobe with a high score of delayed recall. The imbalance of the circadian hormone related to cognitive function and brain activity in aging could serve as a biomarker of age-related diseases.
„Pain – take the challenge” – report
Authors: Bohdanowicz Anna , Panasiuk Dominik Andrzej , Turczynowicz Aleksander , Chmara Natalia , Lubecka Klaudia , Mazuruk Olga , Mijalska Agnieszka , Jakubów Piotr , Siemiątkowski Andrzej , Kościuczuk Urszula
Published: October 2018

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Biphenotypic Sinonasal Sarcoma: A Review and Update
Authors: Carter Cody S. , East Ellen G. , McHugh Jonathan B.
Published: October 2018

Context.—

Biphenotypic sinonasal sarcoma (BSNS) is a rare, slow-growing soft tissue sarcoma of the sinonasal tract, typically presenting with nonspecific obstructive nasal symptoms. Although recurrences are common, no metastases have been reported, and only 1 patient has died of disease thus far. It characteristically demonstrates rearrangements of PAX3 with multiple fusion partners, the most common of which is MAML3.

Objectives.—

To highlight the most important diagnostic features, including morphologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings, and to provide comparisons to other entities in the differential diagnosis. We also aim to provide a summary of the clinical features and outcomes in cases reported to date.

Data Sources.—

Recently published literature encompassing BSNS and its synonym, low-grade sinonasal sarcoma with neural and myogenic differentiation.

Conclusions.—

BSNS is a sinonasal tumor that is important to recognize because its biologic behavior differs from most of the entities in the differential diagnosis. The diagnosis can typically be rendered through a combination of morphology, immunohistochemical stains, and ancillary testing for characteristic PAX3 rearrangements.
Hereditary Leiomyomatosis and Renal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome (HLRCC): A Contemporary Review and Practical Discussion of the Differential Diagnosis for HLRCC-Associated Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Skala Stephanie L. , Dhanasekaran Saravana M. , Mehra Rohit
Published: October 2018

Context.—

Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma syndrome (HLRCC) is an uncommon disorder with germline-inactivating mutations in the fumarate hydratase (FH) gene. The kidney cancers that develop in patients with HLRCC are often unilateral and solitary, with a potentially aggressive clinical course; morphologic identification of suspicious cases is of the utmost importance.

Objective.—

To review classic morphologic features of HLRCC-associated renal cell carcinoma, the reported morphologic spectrum of these tumors and their mimics, and the evidence for use of immunohistochemistry and molecular testing in diagnosis of these tumors.

Data Sources.—

University of Michigan cases and review of pertinent literature about HLRCC and the morphologic spectrum of HLRCC-associated renal cell carcinoma.

Conclusions.—

Histologic features, such as prominent nucleoli with perinucleolar halos and multiple architectural patterns within one tumor, are suggestive of HLRCC-associated renal cell carcinoma. However, the morphologic spectrum is broad. Appropriate use of FH immunohistochemistry and referral to genetic counseling is important for detection of this syndrome.
A Review of Smoking-Related Interstitial Fibrosis, Respiratory Bronchiolitis, and Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonia: Overlapping Histology and Confusing Terminology
Authors: Konopka Kristine E. , Myers Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2018

Smoking-related lung diseases traverse a spectrum of clinicopathologic entities, with cases often comprising a complex mixture of findings. The complexity of the diagnostic process extends beyond the histologic findings to the nomenclature, which is murky from a seemingly unending expansion of terms being applied to a handful of pathologic changes. Here, we focus our review on smoking-related interstitial fibrosis, respiratory bronchiolitis, and desquamative interstitial pneumonia, 3 entities that perhaps show the most histologic overlap and suffer from competing terminology.
Discours médiatique sur les activités des multinationales à l’étranger : Le cas de Danone en Chine
Authors: Goxe François , Viegas Pires Michaël
Published: October 2018

Cet article s’intéresse à la façon dont les activités de firmes multinationales (FMN) à l’étranger sont présentées dans les média de leur pays d’origine. Il s’appuie sur le cas de Danone en Chine, traité à partir de données tirées de la presse économique en recourant à l’analyse critique du discours. Il montre comment le propos médiatique s’articule autour de quelques discours types, et principalement un discours culturel/nationaliste. Il questionne ainsi la portée des schémas discursifs déjà identifiés dans la littérature, en même temps qu’il les complète.
La condamnation de l’usure dans le Christianisme et dans l’Islam
Authors: Khoury Nabil
Published: October 2018

Tout paiement d’intérêt sur un prêt a toujours été condamné comme de l’usure dans le Christianisme et dans l’Islam. Cette condamnation fut imposée par ces deux religions de par leur autorité, sans justification aucune. Malgré tout, elle a inspiré théologiens et exégètes qui ont cherché à l’interpréter et à l’adapter aux impératifs de l’évolution des sociétés. C’est ainsi que du côté chrétien, les docteurs scholastiques ont développé une doctrine de l’usure considérée comme une des premières avancées de la science économique en occident, alors que du côté de l’islam, on assiste depuis la deuxième moitié du XXème siècle à l’émergence d’un système financier moderne fondé sur la Sharia.

Cette étude présente une analyse approfondie de l’évolution de la pensée économique sur ce sujet. Elle met en exergue les fondements financiers des mesures proposées par les exégètes et souligne leur impact sur la vie socio-économique en occident et en orient à travers l’histoire.
Ajustement des capitaux propres réels pour la détermination de la marge de solvabilité, en vue d’éliminer le biais d’agence introduit par l’État en faveur des dirigeants des compagnies d’assurances au détriment de leurs actionnaires – Cas du Maroc
Authors: Adel Nabil
Published: October 2018

La théorie classique de l’agence n’intègre pas l’intervention de l’État en faveur d’une partie sur l’autre dans le rapport entre principal / agent. Or au Maroc, nous avons observé que les normes de solvabilité dans le secteur des assurances, basées sur une formule standard, se traduisent par une mobilisation excessive des flux de trésorerie disponibles entre les mains des managers. Ce faisant, elle déséquilibre la relation d’agence au détriment des actionnaires. Nos travaux de recherche ont permis d’identifier quantitativement ce biais, d’observer la réaction des actionnaires qui en résulte et de proposer des retraitements à la formule standard de nature à l’éliminer. Nous avons ensuite appliqué ces retraitements au cas réel d’une compagnie d’assurances au Maroc et constaté que ces retraitements permettaient effectivement d’éliminer ce biais.
L’intégration à l’emploi des personnes présentant une déficience intellectuelle et en situation linguistique minoritaire : état des lieux et pratiques prometteuses
Authors: Potvin Lynne A. , Plourde Natasha , Cardinal Linda , Cobigo Virginie
Published: October 2018

L’article porte sur le thème de l’inclusion sociale des personnes présentant une déficience intellectuelle (DI) dans le domaine de l’intégration à l’emploi. Il accorde aussi une attention particulière à la situation des francophones présentant une DI, une situation mal connue dans le milieu de la recherche sur les handicaps. Le texte présente les résultats d’une recension des écrits scientifiques sur la formation professionnelle et l’intégration à l’emploi des personnes présentant une DI. Les résultats de cette recherche permettent de poser des jalons en vue de mieux comprendre la question des inégalités sociales en milieu francophone chez les personnes présentant une DI et de réfléchir aux approches les plus appropriées pour favoriser leur intégration à un emploi au sein de leur milieu.
Analyse intersectionnelle des défis et enjeux des inégalités sociales sur le marché du travail : l’expérience de vingt femmes congolaises résidant au Québec et en Ontario
Authors: Namululi Nsimire , Bagaoui Rachid , Hemedzo Komi
Published: October 2018

Dans une perspective intersectionnelle qui articule les différents marqueurs identitaires, notamment la couleur de la peau, le sexe, l’origine ethnique, la taille, la langue et la religion, cet article est basé sur une étude qui veut savoir dans quelle mesure ces variables prédisposent les femmes noires originaires de l’Afrique aux discriminations, mythes, racisme, préjugés et stéréotypes sur le marché de l’emploi. L’article présente les résultats d’une analyse qualitative qui se concentre sur les expériences de femmes immigrantes congolaises sur le marché de l’emploi en Ontario et au Québec, deux grandes provinces du Canada. Les résultats soulèvent trois variables qui illustrent les difficultés de ces femmes sur le marché de l’emploi : la couleur de la peau, le sexe et l’origine ethnique. L’article montre que ces femmes sont discriminées systématiquement, qu’elles soient nées au Canada ou qu’elles y aient immigré.
ŠTETAN UTICAJ PREBIRNIH SJEČA NA PODMLAĐIVANJE PREBIRNE ŠUME JELE I BUKVE NA PODRUČJU Š.G. “OŠTRELJ” DRINIĆ
Authors: Nedimović Dalibor
Published: October 2018

Ulasci u intervalima od deset godina u jednu istu sastojinu, što čini osnovu prebirnog gazdovanja, otvarajumogućnosti za štete po sve njene elemente, prvenstveno od strane mehanizacije. Fokus ovogistraživanja jeste štetan uticaj prebirnih sječa (sječe i izrade i prve faze transporta) na sam podmladak.Ogledne površine koje su postavljene na tri lokacije u okviru sastojine (traktorska vlaka, neposrednopored vlake i na 10 m od vlake) i na kojima je izvršen pregled podmlatka koji se na njima nalazio,omogućile su da se dođe do izvjesnih zaključaka o brojnosti i zdravstvenom stanju mladih biljaka.Naime, rezultati su pokazali da su generalno najveće štete na podmlatku neposredno na traktorskojvlaci, što je uzrokovalo da je na toj lokaciji i najmanja njegova brojnost i najlošije zdravstveno stanje.Podmladak neposredno pored vlake je u nešto boljem stanju kada su u pitanju ova tri faktora, dok jepodmladak na udaljenosti od 10 m od vlake pokazao najbolji kvalitet i najveću brojnost, a sve to iz razlogašto je na ovoj lokaciji dosta manji štetan uticaj mehanizacije. Isto tako, sa udaljavanjem od stovarišta(početka vlake) za sve tri lokacije istraživanja, utvrđeno je da se kvalitet podmlađivanja povećava, štoje uglavnom prouzrokovano opadanjem intenziteta šteta od mehanizovanih sredstava. Ovo poboljšanjestanja podmlatka sa udaljavanjem od početka vlake jasno je vidljivo na samoj vlaci i pored vlake, dok jena 10 m od vlake ova progresija slabijeg intenziteta.
OPTIMIZACIJA IZRAČUNAVANJA FAKTORA PRIVLAČENJA DRVETA NA PODRUČJU Š.G. ”PRIJEDOR” PRIJEDOR
Authors: Petković Vladimir , Marčeta Dane , Ljubojević Darko , Potočnik Igor
Published: October 2018

Transport drveta je jedna od najskupljih faza u proizvodnji drveta. Obično se sastoji iz tri faze: primicanje,privlačenje i transport drveta kamionima. Prva i druga faza su najvažnije sa aspekta troškova transporta.Oni zavise od udaljenosti mjesta sječe stabala u šumi do najbližeg šumskog puta. Ta udaljenost je distancaprivlačenja. Određivanje distance privlačenja je veoma važno za operativno planiranje u šumarstvuzbog toga što je to jedan od indikatora otvorenosti šume. Vrijednost distance privlačenja može bitiodređena na više načina: mjerenjem na terenu po vlakama, računanjem uz pomoć matematičkih modelai uz pomoć geografskih informacionih sistema (GIS). Distance privlačenja mogu biti geometrijskei stvarne. Geometrijska distanca je dobijena uz pomoć GIS programa, a definisana je kao udaljenostizmeđu težišta odjela i najbliže tačke na šumskom putu. Stvarna distanca privlačenja je izačunata nabazi dužina vlaka. Faktor privlačenja je izračunat kao odnos između stvarne i geometrijske distance. Onje upoređen sa faktorima privlačenja za slične terenske i reljefne uslove, zbog toga što zavisi od nagibaterena i prisustva prepreka na površini terena. Vlake su snimljene uz pomoć GPS uređaja u 27 odjelana području P.J. „Prosara“ i P.J. „Kozara-Mlječanica“ u šumskoprivrednom području „Kozaračko“, Bosnai Herzegovina.
Seven myths on crowding
Authors: Strasburger Hans
Published: October 2018

Crowding research has become a hotbed of vision research and some fundamentals are now widely agreed upon. You would agree with the following statements – wouldn’t you? 1) Bouma’s Law can be sensibly stated as saying that ‘critical distance for crowding is about half the target’s eccentricity’. 2) Crowding is a peripheral phenomenon. 3) Crowding increases drastically with eccentricity (as does the minimal angle of resolution, MAR). 4) Crowding asymmetry: For the nasal-temporal asymmetry of crowding, Bouma’s (1970) paper is the one to cite. 5) The more peripheral flanker is the more important one in crowding. 6) Critical crowding distance corresponds to a constant cortical distance in V1. 7) Except for Bouma (1970), serious crowding research pretty much started in the noughties. I propose the answer is ‘no!’ to all these questions. So should we care? I think we should, before we write the textbooks for the next generation.
Cellular localization of the cell cycle inhibitor Cdkn1c controls growth arrest of adult skeletal muscle stem cells
Authors: Mademtzoglou Despoina , Asakura Yoko , Borok Matthew J , Alonso-Martin Sonia , Mourikis Philippos , Kodaka Yusaku , Mohan Amrudha , Asakura Atsushi , Relaix Frederic
Published: October 2018

Adult skeletal muscle maintenance and regeneration depend on efficient muscle stem cell (MuSC) functions. The mechanisms coordinating cell cycle with activation, renewal, and differentiation of MuSCs remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated how adult MuSCs are regulated by CDKN1c (p57kip2), a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, using mouse molecular genetics. In the absence of CDKN1c, skeletal muscle repair is severely impaired after injury. We show that CDKN1c is not expressed in quiescent MuSCs, while being induced in activated and proliferating myoblasts and maintained in differentiating myogenic cells. In agreement, isolated Cdkn1c-deficient primary myoblasts display differentiation defects and increased proliferation. We further show that the subcellular localization of CDKN1c is dynamic; while CDKN1c is initially localized to the cytoplasm of activated/proliferating myoblasts, progressive nuclear translocation leads to growth arrest during differentiation. We propose that CDKN1c activity is restricted to differentiating myoblasts by regulated cyto-nuclear relocalization, coordinating the balance between proliferation and growth arrest.
Yeast Ded1 promotes 48S translation pre-initiation complex assembly in an mRNA-specific and eIF4F-dependent manner
Authors: Gupta Neha , Lorsch Jon R , Hinnebusch Alan G
Published: October 2018

DEAD-box RNA helicase Ded1 is thought to resolve secondary structures in mRNA 5'-untranslated regions (5'-UTRs) that impede 48S preinitiation complex (PIC) formation at the initiation codon. We reconstituted Ded1 acceleration of 48S PIC assembly on native mRNAs in a pure system, and recapitulated increased Ded1-dependence of mRNAs that are Ded1-hyperdependent in vivo. Stem-loop (SL) structures in 5'-UTRs of native and synthetic mRNAs increased the Ded1 requirement to overcome their intrinsically low rates of 48S PIC recruitment. Ded1 acceleration of 48S assembly was greater in the presence of eIF4F, and domains mediating one or more Ded1 interactions with eIF4G or helicase eIF4A were required for efficient recruitment of all mRNAs; however, the relative importance of particular Ded1 and eIF4G domains were distinct for each mRNA. Our results account for the Ded1 hyper-dependence of mRNAs with structure-prone 5'-UTRs, and implicate an eIF4E·eIF4G·eIF4A·Ded1 complex in accelerating 48S PIC assembly on native mRNAs.
Bid maintains mitochondrial cristae structure and function and protects against cardiac disease in an integrative genomics study
Authors: Salisbury-Ruf Christi T , Bertram Clinton C , Vergeade Aurelia , Lark Daniel S , Shi Qiong , Heberling Marlene L , Fortune Niki L , Okoye G Donald , Jerome W Gray , Wells Quinn S , Fessel Josh , Moslehi Javid , Chen Heidi , Roberts L Jackson , Boutaud Olivier , Gamazon Eric R , Zinkel Sandra S
Published: October 2018

Bcl-2 family proteins reorganize mitochondrial membranes during apoptosis, to form pores and rearrange cristae. In vitro and in vivo analysis integrated with human genetics reveals a novel homeostatic mitochondrial function for Bcl-2 family protein Bid. Loss of full-length Bid results in apoptosis-independent, irregular cristae with decreased respiration. Bid-/- mice display stress-induced myocardial dysfunction and damage. A gene-based approach applied to a biobank, validated in two independent GWAS studies, reveals that decreased genetically determined BID expression associates with myocardial infarction (MI) susceptibility. Patients in the bottom 5% of the expression distribution exhibit >4 fold increased MI risk. Carrier status with nonsynonymous variation in Bid’s membrane binding domain, BidM148T, associates with MI predisposition. Furthermore, Bid but not BidM148T associates with Mcl-1Matrix, previously implicated in cristae stability; decreased MCL-1 expression associates with MI. Our results identify a role for Bid in homeostatic mitochondrial cristae reorganization, that we link to human cardiac disease.
Clustering of fMRI data: the elusive optimal number of clusters
Authors: Seghier Mohamed L.
Published: October 2018

Model-free methods are widely used for the processing of brain fMRI data collected under natural stimulations, sleep, or rest. Among them is the popular fuzzy c-mean algorithm, commonly combined with cluster validity (CV) indices to identify the ‘true’ number of clusters (components), in an unsupervised way. CV indices may however reveal different optimal c-partitions for the same fMRI data, and their effectiveness can be hindered by the high data dimensionality, the limited signal-to-noise ratio, the small proportion of relevant voxels, and the presence of artefacts or outliers. Here, the author investigated the behaviour of seven robust CV indices. A new CV index that incorporates both compactness and separation measures is also introduced. Using both artificial and real fMRI data, the findings highlight the importance of looking at the behavior of different compactness and separation measures, defined here as building blocks of CV indices, to depict a full description of the data structure, in particular when no agreement is found between CV indices. Overall, for fMRI, it makes sense to relax the assumption that only one unique c-partition exists, and appreciate that different c-partitions (with different optimal numbers of clusters) can be useful explanations of the data, given the hierarchical organization of many brain networks.
Social representations of the parturition process of women who experienced teenage pregnancy / Representações sociais do processo de parturição de mulheres que vivenciaram a gravidez na adolescência
Authors: Matos Greice Carvalho de , Soares Marilu Correa , Muniz Rosani Manfrim , Escobal Ana Paula de Lima , Boettcher Cássia Luíse , Quadro Pricilla Porto
Published: October 2018

OBJETIVOS: Conhecer as representações sociais do processo de parturição de mulheres que vivenciaram partos recorrentes na adolescência. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo com abordagem qualitativa, fundamentado na Teoria das Representações Sociais proposta por Serge Moscovici. Fizeram parte desta pesquisa 30 mulheres que vivenciaram o parto recorrente na adolescência. Os dados foram coletados no período de maio a agosto de 2015, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados foram analisados por meio da Análise Textual Discursiva e do referencial teórico da Teoria das Representações Sociais. RESULTADOS: Foi constatado a presença de representações sociais positivas e negativas de ambas as vias de parto. É possível perceber que as mulheres compreendem os benefícios do parto normal, bem como as indicações do parto cesariano. CONCLUSÃO: O conhecimento das mulheres está atrelado ao universo consensual, desta forma constroem representações sociais negativas do processo de parturição que vão perpassando as gerações.
Public policies awareness toward the AIDS combat under the perspective of health professionals / Despertar das políticas públicas de combate à AIDS na perspectiva de profissionais de saúde
Authors: Angelim Rebeca Coelho de Moura , Brandão Brígida Maria Gonçalves de Melo , Oliveira Denize Cristina de , Abrão Fátima Maria da Silva
Published: October 2018

Objetivo: Identificar os avanços e as falhas das políticas públicas no decorrer da epidemia da aids na perspectiva de profissionais de saúde. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo de campo, exploratório, descritivo e qualitativo, realizado com 46 profissionais de saúde de nível técnico e superior que atuavam nos Serviços de Assistência Especializada em HIV/Aids ou Centro de Testagem e Aconselhamento. Utilizou-se a técnica de entrevista semiestruturada sendo analisada por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo lexical. Resultados: A partir da identificação dos conteúdos discursivos foram analisadas duas classes que obtiveram as seguintes denominações: Categoria 1: Tratamento do HIV/Aids por meio de antirretrovirais; Categoria 2: Políticas públicas direcionadas ao controle da aids, sendo revelado as mudanças ocorridas no contexto político e social da aids. Conclusão: Percebeu-se a necessidade de incentivar a realização de investimentos financeiros acerca das campanhas voltadas à prevenção do HIV de forma frequente.
Rapid Detection and Monitoring of Flavobacterium psychrophilum in Water by Using a Handheld, Field-Portable Quantitative PCR System
Authors: Nguyen Phong L. , Sudheesh Ponnerassery S. , Thomas Austen C. , Sinnesael Mieke , Haman Katherine , Cain Kenneth D.
Published: September 2018

Advances in technology are making it easier for rapid field detection of microbes in aquaculture. Specifically, real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis, which has traditionally been confined to laboratory-based protocols, is now available in a handheld, field-portable system. The feasibility of using the Biomeme handheld qPCR system for rapid (<50 min) on-site detection and monitoring of Flavobacterium psychrophilum from filtered water samples was evaluated. Paired water samples were collected over a 23-d period from microcosm tanks that housed fish injected with known levels of F. psychrophilum. Water samples were filtered through 0.45-μm nitrocellulose filters and were analyzed with both the Biomeme qPCR platform and a traditional bench qPCR protocol. The two methods identified similar fluctuations in F. psychrophilum DNA throughout the study. Standard curves relating quantification cycles to the number of F. psychrophilum colony-forming units (CFU) were constructed and analyzed; results indicated that CFU increased rapidly between days 6 and 8 of the trial and then progressively decreased during the remaining 15 d. Average calculated log10(CFU/mL) values were significantly correlated between the two platforms. Rapid, field-based qPCR can be incorporated into daily water quality monitoring protocols to help detect and monitor microbes in aquaculture systems.
Health Characteristics and Blood Bacterial Assemblages of Healthy Captive Red Drum: Implications for Aquaculture and Fish Health Management
Authors: Tarnecki Andrea M. , Rhody Nicole R. , Walsh Catherine J.
Published: September 2018

The newly emerging tissue microbiota hypothesis suggests that bacteria found in blood and tissues play a role in host health, as these bacterial communities have been associated with various noncommunicable diseases such as obesity, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. Numerous reports have identified bacteria in the blood of healthy finfish, indicating bacteremia may not always indicate disease. Current research priorities in aquaculture include the development of technologies and practices that will allow for an effective reduction in antibiotic use for the prevention and treatment of disease. Overall, a better understanding of fish health is needed, particularly among species selected for commercial-scale production. This study investigated blood characteristics of cultured Red Drum Sciaenops ocellatus with the tissue microbiota hypothesis in mind. Bacterial assemblages within the blood were characterized using next-generation sequencing and compared with other various blood characteristics, including innate immune function enzymes, between two fish cohorts reared in aquaculture. A total of 137 prokaryotic operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified from the blood of Red Drum. Microbiota diversity and structure varied greatly among individuals, for which the number of OTUs ranged from 4 to 58; however, predicted metagenomic function was highly similar between individuals and was dominated by the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids and membrane transport. Communities were dominated by Proteobacteria, followed by Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. The most commonly identified genera included Acinetobacter, Bacillus, Corynebacterium, and Pseudomonas. Three genera previously identified as containing marine fish pathogens were detected: Corynebacterium, Pantoea, and Chryseobacterium. A subset of bacterial OTUs were positively correlated with superoxide dismutase activity and negatively correlated with lysozyme activity, indicating a relationship between blood microbiota and the innate immune system. The results of this study provide further evidence for the tissue microbiota hypothesis and demonstrate the potential for these bacterial communities to be linked to immunological characteristics often used as biomarkers for fish health.
NBEA: Developmental disease gene with early generalized epilepsy phenotypes
Authors: Mulhern Maureen S. , Stumpel Constance , Stong Nicholas , Brunner Han G. , Bier Louise , Lippa Natalie , Riviello James , Rouhl Rob P. W. , Kempers Marlies , Pfundt Rolph , Stegmann Alexander P. A. , Kukolich Mary K. , Telegrafi Aida , Lehman Anna ,   for the CAUSES study, Lopez‐Rangel Elena , Houcinat Nada , Barth Magalie , den Hollander Nicolette , Hoffer Mariette J. V. , Weckhuysen Sarah ,   for the EuroEPINOMICS‐RES‐MAE working group, Roovers Jolien , Djemie Tania , Barca Diana , Ceulemans Berten , Craiu Dana , Lemke Johannes R. , Korff Christian , Mefford Heather C. , Meyers Candace T. , Siegler Zsuzsanna , Hiatt Susan M. , Cooper Gregory M. , Bebin E. Martina , Snijders Blok Lot , Veenstra‐Knol Hermine E. , Baugh Evan H. , Brilstra Eva H. , Volker‐Touw Catharina M. L. , van Binsbergen Ellen , Revah‐Politi Anya , Pereira Elaine , McBrian Danielle , Pacault Mathilde , Isidor Bertrand , Le Caignec Cedric , Gilbert‐Dussardier Brigitte , Bilan Frederic , Heinzen Erin L. , Goldstein David B. , Stevens Servi J. C. , Sands Tristan T.
Published: September 2018

NBEA is a candidate gene for autism, and de novo variants have been reported in neurodevelopmental disease (NDD) cohorts. However, NBEA has not been rigorously evaluated as a disease gene, and associated phenotypes have not been delineated. We identified 24 de novo NBEA variants in patients with NDD, establishing NBEA as an NDD gene. Most patients had epilepsy with onset in the first few years of life, often characterized by generalized seizure types, including myoclonic and atonic seizures. Our data show a broader phenotypic spectrum than previously described, including a myoclonic‐astatic epilepsy–like phenotype in a subset of patients. Ann Neurol 2018;84:796–803
Discovery of the first self‐assembling peptide, study of peptide dynamic behaviors, and G protein‐coupled receptors using an Aviv circular dichroism spectropolarimeter
Authors: Zhang Shuguang
Published: September 2018

Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy is a useful technique to study the structure and dynamics of peptides, proteins and nucleic acids. CD is particularly useful because sample volumes may be as low as 50 μL, it provides high precision and sensitivity, and it achieves a good signal to noise ratio. CD characterizes molecular conformational changes in real time by finely controlling temperature, pH, and titrating urea and guanidine·HCl which is necessary for studying protein folding. Although CD does not provide detailed structure at the atomic level, it provides a global structural framework. Researchers use CD to observe molecular phenomena, namely how macromolecules unfold/refold and their overall self‐assembly/disassembly. Using CD to monitor a peptide structure, I serendipitously discovered the self‐assembling peptide EAK16 from yeast protein Zuotin. This unusual peptide formed a new type of nanofiber scaffold hydrogel material. The discovery in 1990 opened a new field in the design and study of numerous self‐assembling peptides, thereby launching the area of peptide nanobiotechnology. In this review, I reflect on my personal discoveries of several self‐assembling peptides, investigations into the dynamic behaviors of peptides, as well as the impact of the work on society. I also describe studies of natural membrane proteins and engineered membrane proteins using CD. Furthermore, I enjoyed numerous and close interactions with Jack Aviv since 1997. He generously supported 10 high impact workshops (Crete and Mikonos) and meetings in various countries around the world that left fond memories of many young researches who later became leading scientists in their respective fields.
In‐hospital outcomes of STEMI patients on warfarin undergoing primary PCI
Authors: Marbach Jeffrey A. , Almufleh Aws , Bernick Jordan , Blondeau Melissa , Osborne Christina , Russo Juan , Hibbert Benjamin , Froeschl Michael , Labinaz Marino , Glover Christopher , Dick Alexander , So Derek , Chong Aun‐Yeong , Le May Michel
Published: September 2018

Objectives

We sought to describe the safety and efficacy outcomes of patients on warfarin presenting with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Background

Limited data exist on the outcomes and optimal management of STEMI patients on warfarin undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Baseline characteristics and outcomes were prospectively collected for 2,390 consecutive STEMI patients referred for primary PCI. Patients were stratified based on warfarin use at baseline. The primary safety endpoint was the rate of in‐hospital bleeding (a composite of major bleeding or minor bleeding) according to the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) classification. Efficacy endpoints included major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as death, myocardial infarction, or stroke, as well as intracranial bleeding, cardiogenic shock, and length of stay. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine if warfarin was independently associated with bleeding and MACE.

Results

Warfarin patients (n = 59 vs. n = 2,331) were significantly older (73.2 years vs. 61.7 years; P < 0.01), and more likely to present as Killip Class IV (13.6% vs. 2.7%; P < 0.01). TIMI major/minor bleeding occurred in 30.4% of the warfarin patients and 14.2% of the control patients (P < 0.01). After adjustment warfarin was independently associated with an increased risk of bleeding (OR 2.08; P = 0.04). Warfarin patients also had an increased frequency of MACE (20.3% vs. 5.9%; P < 0.01), though this was not significant after adjustment (OR 2.00; P = 0.10).

Conclusions

STEMI patients on warfarin referred for primary PCI are more likely to experience bleeding. New strategies are needed to optimize the management and minimize bleeding in this high‐risk population.
Alcohol septal ablation for outflow tract obstruction after transcatheter aortic and mitral valve replacement
Authors: Edris Ahmad , Bartel Thomas , Tuzcu Emin M. , Suri Rakesh M.
Published: September 2018

Left ventricular outflow obstruction after transcatheter mitral valve replacement is a life‐threatening complication. We report a case of a 68‐year old female with early degeneration of a transcatheter aortic valve and severely calcified mitral valve stenosis who was considered inoperable by a multidisciplinary heart team and referred for transcatheter aortic and mitral valve replacement. Our aim is to report the planning, procedural aspects, and management of device‐related left‐ventricular outflow tract obstruction after transcatheter double valve replacement.
Post procedural risk assessment in patients undergoing trans aortic valve implantation according to the age, creatinine, and ejection fraction‐7 score: Advantages of age, creatinine, and ejection fraction‐7 in stratification of post‐procedural outcome
Authors: Denegri Andrea , Mehran Roxana , Holy Erik , Taramasso Maurizio , Pasotti Elena , Pedrazzini Giovanni , Moccetti Tiziano , Maisano Francesco , Nietlispach Fabian , Obeid Slayman
Published: September 2018

Background

Post‐procedural risk stratification based on renal function after trans aortic valve implantation (TAVI) was assessed by means of a modified age, creatinine, and ejection fraction (ACEF) score using the lowest glomerular filtration rate (GFR), obtained within 1 week after valve implantation. We refer to the score as ACEF‐7 score.

Methods

The Zurich‐ and Cardiocentro Ticino TAVI‐Cohorts comprised of 424, and 137 patients, who were not on hemodialysis and had already survived the first post‐procedural week. Zurich patients were stratified into tertiles of ACEF‐7 score (ACEF‐7Low ≤ 2.45 (n = 138), ACEF‐7Mid 2.46–4.38 (n = 142), and ACEF‐7High ≥ 4.39 (n = 144) and compared for survival using KM curves. Euroscore II, Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), and ACEF were also calculated at baseline in all patients and assessed for prognostic significance in predicting the primary outcome of 1‐year all‐cause mortality using univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. Results were then confirmed in the Cardiocentro cohort.

Results

Six months (18.1% vs. 6.3% vs. 2.9% P < 0.001) and 1‐year all‐cause mortality (24.3% vs. 12.7% % vs. 5.8%, P < 0.001), as well as the composite of death or rehospitalization (35% vs. 20% vs. 11% P < 0.001) occurred significantly more frequently in the ACEF‐7High compared to the other groups. Both Euroscore II and STS score were not predictors of mortality in our cohort. In a multivariate Cox regression model corrected for gender, Acute Kidney Injury, and baseline ACEF score, the ACEF‐7 score was an independent predictor of 1‐year all‐cause mortality as a per point increment HR 1.512 [95% CI 1.227–1.862, P < 0.001] and as ACEF‐7High (≥4.39); HR 5.541 [1.694–18.120]). In addition, the ACEF‐7 tertiles showed a significant (P = 0.02) net reclassification improvement of 16% when compared to baseline tertiles of ACEF score, when assessing 1‐year all‐cause mortality.

Conclusion

Post‐procedural risk stratification using the simple ACEF‐7 score significantly better predicted long‐term outcome than commonly used risk‐scores.

Practical implications could include contrast sparing and renal protection in high‐risk patients, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures.
Safety and efficacy of switching from unfractionated heparin to bivalirudin during primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Shah Rahman , Jovin Ion S. , Chaudhry Amina , Haji Showkat A. , Askari Raza , Dennis Mallie M. , Berzingi Chalak , Rao Sunil V.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of switching to bivalirudin during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for patients who received preprocedure unfractionated heparin (UFH).

Background

Current guidelines favor bivalirudin for primary PCI in patients at high risk of bleeding, particularly when femoral access is used. However, patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction frequently receive UFH before arrival in the catheterization laboratory.

Methods

Scientific databases and websites were searched for randomized controlled trials. Patients were divided into those who received heparin with or without glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (heparin group); those switched to bivalirudin during primary PCI from preprocedure UFH (switch group); and those who received bivalirudin without preprocedure UFH (Biv‐alone group). Both traditional pairwise meta‐analyses using moderator analyses and network meta‐analyses using mixed‐treatment comparison models were performed.

Results

Data from five trials including13,547 patients were analyzed. In mixed‐comparison models, switching to bivalirudin during primary PCI was associated with lower rates for all‐cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) compared to the other strategies. Rates for all‐cause mortality, MACEs, and net adverse clinical events (NACEs) were similar for the heparin and Biv‐alone groups. Switching strategies was also associated with lower major bleeding rates compared to heparin alone. Similarly, in a standard pairwise model, both the switch and Biv‐alone groups were associated with decreased bleeding risk compared to the heparin group. However, only the switch strategy was associated with decreased all‐cause mortality (RR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.30–0.75; P = 0.001), MACE (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.49–0.91; P = 0.012), and NACE (RR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.41–0.92; P = 0.019) compared with heparin alone.

Conclusions

During primary PCI, use of bivalirudin for those receiving preprocedure UFH was associated decreased rates for major bleeding, NACEs, MACEs, and all‐cause mortality compared to heparin +/− GPI. This strategy was also associated with decreased rates for MACEs and all‐cause mortality compared to bivalirudin alone without preprocedure UFH.
Temporal trends, characteristics and outcomes of fibrinolytic therapy for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction among patients 80 years or older
Authors: Ogunbayo Gbolahan O. , Misumida Naoki , Ayoub Karam , Hailemariam Yared , Hillerson Dustin , Elbadawi Ayman , Abdel‐Latif Ahmed , Smyth Susan , Ziada Khaled , Messerli Adrian W.
Published: September 2018

Background

Pharmacologic reperfusion therapy is a recommended and effective strategy in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) when percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is not available. This study investigates temporal trends and outcomes of fibrinolytic therapy (FT) in elderly patients with STEMI.

Methods

Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database, we extracted patients ≥80 years a primary diagnosis of STEMI admitted between 2010 and 2014. Using ICD codes, we identified patients who underwent FT. We performed temporal trend analysis, then compared characteristics and inpatient outcomes in the FT group versus no‐FT group. Our primary outcome of interest was hemorrhagic stroke (HS). We also assessed the impact of HS on mortality and discharge to skilled nursing facility (SNF).

Results

Of the 917,307 patients with STEMI, 16.1% (n = 147,874) were aged 80 or older. Primary PCI was performed in 46.2%, 2.4% underwent FT, and 51.3% had neither pharmacologic nor mechanical revascularization. The rate of FT increased (1.9%–2.4%) in a nonlinear trend over the five years of the study. The FT group was eight times more likely to suffer HS (P < 0.001). FT was an independent predictor of HS (OR 7.90, 95% CI 4.36–14.30; P < 0.001), whether they underwent PCI or not. HS was an independent predictor of mortality and SNF discharge.

Conclusion

FT in patients 80 years or older presenting with STEMI was associated with an eight‐fold increase in HS and no associated mortality advantage, both with or without PCI. These data underscore the increased risk of FT in the elderly.
Feasibility and 1‐year outcome of transcatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defects with different devices
Authors: Shrestha Manish , Promphan Worakan , Layangool Thanarat , Roymanee Supaporn , Wongwaitaweewong Kanjarut , Prachasilchai Pimpak , Kirawittaya Tawatchai , Sangtawesin Chaisit , Pattarakunwiwat Panthip
Published: September 2018

Objective

To analyze feasibility of closing perimembranous ventricular septal defect (pmVSD) with different devices by percutaneous approach and determining initial 1‐year outcome of the procedure.

Background

Transcatheter closure of pmVSD remains controversial due to a previous higher incidence of complete heart block (CHB), especially with the Amplatzer pmVSD occluder. Recently, several devices have been used to minimize the procedure‐related complications.

Methods and materials

A retrospective longitudinal cohort study of 133 patients who underwent transcatheter closure of pmVSD from September 2009 to March 2015. The median age and weight at intervention were 7.1 years (ranging from 9 months to 28 years) and 21.2 kg (ranging from 6.4 to 93 kg).

Results

Transcatheter pmVSD closure was successfully performed in 129 cases (97%) using 13 different devices. There were two new onset severe aortic regurgitation (AR) (1.5%), one new onset severe tricuspid regurgitation (0.7%), and one CHB (0.7%). Immediately after procedure, 41 patients (30.8%) had mild to moderate residual shunt and 27 patients (20.8%) had trivial to mild AR. At 1 year, there was no CHB and 10 patients (9.6%) had tiny to mild residual shunt and 10 patients (9.6%) had trivial AR.

Conclusion

With proper case selection, good expertise, and judicious use of various devices with respect to anatomic details of pmVSD, transcatheter closure is feasible with satisfactory early outcome.
Incidence and outcomes of early percutaneous coronary intervention after isolated valve surgery
Authors: Alqahtani Fahad , Ziada Khaled , Rihal Charanjit S. , Alkhouli Mohamad
Published: September 2018

Background

Coronary ischemia requiring early percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a rare but serious complication of isolated valve surgery. We sought of assess the incidence, predictors and outcomes of early PCI after isolated valve surgery using the national inpatient sample.

Methods

Patients who underwent isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR), isolated mitral valve repair (MVr) or replacement (MVR) between 2003 and 2014 were identified. Patients who had early postoperative PCI were compared with patients who did not require PCI. Primary end point was in‐hospital mortality. Secondary endpoints were complications, length‐of‐stay and cost.

Results

Among the 135,611 included patients, 1,074 (0.8%) underwent PCI prior to discharge. Unadjusted in‐hospital mortality was higher in patients requiring early PCI following AVR (11.2 vs. 3.1%), MVR (24.1 vs. 5.5%), and MVr (22.4 vs. 2.5%) (P < 0.001) compared with patients not requiring PCI. Postoperative PCI remained independently associated with higher mortality after adjusting for demographics, comorbidities and hospital characteristics (adjusted OR [aOR] = 3.74, 95%CI 2.70–5.17 for AVR, aOR = 6.10, 95%CI 4.53–8.23 for MVR, and aOR = 9.90, 95%CI 7.22–13.58 for MVr). Patients undergoing PCI had higher incidences of stroke, acute kidney injury, infectious complications, higher hospital charges, and longer hospitalizations. Age, robotic‐assisted surgery, and chronic renal failure were independent predictors of needing early postoperative PCI.

Conclusions

Early PCI after isolated aortic or mitral valve surgery is rare but is associated with substantial in‐hospital morbidity, mortality, and cost. Further studies are needed to identify preventable causes, and optimal management strategies of this serious complication.