bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hot cracking in cast alloy 718
Authors: Singh Sukhdeep , Andersson Joel
Published: January 2018

Hot cracking susceptibility of the Fe–Ni-based precipitation hardening cast superalloy Alloy 718 was studied by Varestraint weldability testing. The effect of two hot isostatic pressing (HIP) treatments commonly employed in the aerospace industry was investigated in reference to the as cast condition. It was found that the heat affected zone (HAZ) liquation cracking susceptibility increased for samples with pre-weld HIP treatments. The as cast condition disclosed the best response for liquation cracking followed by HIP-1120 (1120°C/4h (HIP) + 1050°C/1h and furnace cooling to 650°C/1h in vacuum + 950°C/1h) and HIP-1190 (1190°C/4h (HIP) + 870°C/10h and furnace cooling to 650°C/1h in vacuum + 950°C/1h). The amount of the secondary precipitates and base metal grain size was found to be important parameters influencing the cracking susceptibility. Regarding solidification cracking susceptibility, the three conditions appear to behave similarly.
Algebraic dynamics of skew-linear self-maps
Authors: Ghioca Dragos , Xie Junyi
Published: January 2018

Let

X
X

be a variety defined over an algebraically closed field

k
k

of characteristic

0
0

, let

N
∈

N

N\in \mathbb {N}

, let

g
:
X
⇢
X

g:X\dashrightarrow X

be a dominant rational self-map, and let

A
:

A

N

⟶

A

N

A:\mathbb {A}^N\longrightarrow \mathbb {A}^N

be a linear transformation defined over

k
(
X
)

k(X)

, i.e., for a Zariski open dense subset

U
⊂
X

U\subset X

, we have that for

x
∈
U
(
k
)

x\in U(k)

, the specialization

A
(
x
)

A(x)

is an

N
N

-by-

N
N

matrix with entries in

k
k

. We let

f
:
X
×

A

N

⇢
X
×

A

N

f:X\times \mathbb {A}^N\dashrightarrow X\times \mathbb {A}^N

be the rational endomorphism given by

(
x
,
y
)
↦
(
g
(
x
)
,
A
(
x
)
y
)

(x,y)\mapsto (g(x), A(x)y)

. We prove that if the determinant of

A
A

is nonzero and if there exists

x
∈
X
(
k
)

x\in X(k)

such that its orbit

O

g

(
x
)

\mathcal {O}_g(x)

is Zariski dense in

X
X

, then either there exists a point

z
∈
(
X
×

A

N

)
(
k
)

z\in (X\times \mathbb {A}^N)(k)

such that its orbit

O

f

(
z
)

\mathcal {O}_f(z)

is Zariski dense in

X
×

A

N

X\times \mathbb {A}^N

or there exists a nonconstant rational function

ψ
∈
k
(
X
×

A

N

)

\psi \in k(X\times \mathbb {A}^N)

such that

ψ
∘
f
=
ψ

\psi \circ f=\psi

. Our result provides additional evidence to a conjecture of Medvedev and Scanlon.
Fourier multipliers in Banach function spaces with UMD concavifications
Authors: Amenta Alex , Lorist Emiel , Veraar Mark
Published: January 2018

We prove various extensions of the Coifman–Rubio de Francia–Semmes multiplier theorem to operator-valued multipliers on Banach function spaces. Our results involve a new boundedness condition on sets of operators which we call

ℓ

r

(

ℓ

s

)

{\ell ^{r}(\ell ^{s})}

-boundedness, which implies

R

\mathcal {R}

-boundedness in many cases. The proofs are based on new Littlewood–Paley–Rubio de Francia-type estimates in Banach function spaces which were recently obtained by the authors.
The nonmotor adaptor HMMR dampens Eg5-mediated forces to preserve the kinetics and integrity of chromosome segregation
Authors: Chen Helen , Connell Marisa , Mei Lin , Reid Gregor S. D. , Maxwell Christopher A.
Published: January 2018

Mitotic spindle assembly and organization require forces generated by motor proteins. The activity of these motors is regulated by nonmotor adaptor proteins. However, there are limited studies reporting the functional importance of adaptors on the balance of motor forces and the promotion of faithful and timely cell division. Here we show that genomic deletion or small interfering RNA silencing of the nonmotor adaptor Hmmr/HMMR disturbs spindle microtubule organization and bipolar chromosome–kinetochore attachments with a consequent elevated occurrence of aneuploidy. Rescue experiments show a conserved motif in HMMR is required to generate interkinetochore tension and promote anaphase entry. This motif bears high homology with the kinesin Kif15 and is known to interact with TPX2, a spindle assembly factor. We find that HMMR is required to dampen kinesin Eg5-mediated forces through localizing TPX2 and promoting the formation of inhibitory TPX2-Eg5 complexes. In HMMR-silenced cells, K-fiber stability is reduced while the frequency of unattached chromosomes and the time needed for chromosome segregation are both increased. These defects can be alleviated in HMMR-silenced cells with chemical inhibition of Eg5 but not through the silencing of Kif15. Together, our findings indicate that HMMR balances Eg5-­mediated forces to preserve the kinetics and integrity of chromosome segregation.
Dynamics of human telomerase recruitment depend on template-telomere base pairing
Authors: Schmidt Jens C. , Zaug Arthur J. , Kufer Regina , Cech Thomas R.
Published: January 2018

The reverse transcriptase telomerase adds telomeric repeats to chromosome ends to counteract telomere shortening and thereby assures genomic stability in dividing human cells. Key parameters in telomere homeostasis are the frequency with which telomerase engages the chromosome end and the number of telomeric repeats it adds during each association event. To study telomere elongation in vivo, we have established a live-cell imaging assay to track individual telomerase ribonucleoproteins in CRISPR-edited HeLa cells. Using this assay and the drug imetelstat, which is a competitive inhibitor of telomeric DNA binding, we demonstrate that stable association of telomerase with the single-stranded overhang of the chromosome end requires telomerase-DNA base pairing. Furthermore, we show that telomerase processivity contributes to telomere elongation in vivo. Together, these findings provide new insight into the dynamics of telomerase recruitment and the importance of processivity in maintaining telomere length in human cancer cells.
AbDesigner3D: a structure-guided tool for peptide-based antibody production
Authors: Saethang Thammakorn , Hodge Kenneth , Kimkong Ingorn , Payne D Michael , Knepper Mark A , Pisitkun Trairak
Published: January 2018

We present AbDesigner3D, a new tool for identification of optimal immunizing peptides for antibody production using a peptide-based strategy. AbDesigner3D integrates 3D structural data from the Protein Data Bank (PDB) with UniProt data, which includes basic sequence data, post-translational modification sites, SNP occurrences and more. Other features, such as uniqueness and conservation scores, are calculated based on sequences from UniProt. The 3D visualization capabilities allow an intuitive interface, while an abundance of quantitative output simplifies the process of comparing immunogen peptides. Important quantitative features added in this tool include calculation and display of accessible surface area (ASA) and protein-protein interacting residues (PPIR). The specialized data visualization features of AbDesigner3D will greatly assist users to optimize their choice of immunizing peptides.

Availability and implementation

AbDesigner3D is freely available at http://sysbio.chula.ac.th/AbDesigner3D or https://hpcwebapps.cit.nih.gov/AbDesigner3D/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Retracted: Abridged Life Tables for Cephalonomia stephanoderis and Prorops nasuta (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) Parasitoids of Hypothenemus hampei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) Reared on Artificial Diet
Authors: Portilla Maribel , Grodowitz Michael
Published: January 2018

Biological aspects and demographic parameters of Cephalonomia stephanoderis Betrem (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) and Prorops nasuta Waterston (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) parasitoids of the coffee berry borer (CBB), Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) were investigated using diet-reared CBB hosts. Developmental time from eggs to adults, oviposition, and postoviposition period were comparable for both parasitoids. However, P. nasuta had a considerably longer preoviposition and longevity period averaging 17.3 and 63.1 d, respectively. The reproductive rate for C. stephanoderis was 46.1 daughters per female with a mean generation time of 47.4 d, whereas P. nasuta had a reproductive rate of 18.3 daughters per female in a mean time of 58.6 d. Oviposition behavior was also different with C. stephanoderis typically ovipositing on CBB prepupae and pupae, while P. nasuta preferred prepupae and second-instar CBB larvae. An abridged cohort life table for both parasitoids was constructed for growth rates estimations.
K2 spots rotation in the helium star HD144941
Authors: Jeffery C Simon , Ramsay Gavin
Published: January 2018

HD144941 is an evolved early-type metal-poor low-mass star with a hydrogen-poor surface. It is frequently associated with other intermediate helium-rich subdwarfs and extreme helium stars. Previous photometric studies have failed to detect any variability. New observations with the K2 mission show complex but periodic variations with a full amplitude of 4 parts per thousand. It is proposed that these are due to an inhomogeneous surface brightness distribution (spots) superimposed on a rotation period of 13.9 ± 0.2 d. The cause of the surface inhomogeneity is not identified, although an oblique dipolar magnetic field origin is plausible.
The PRO leader model
Authors: O'Neal Pamela V. , Bianchi Ann , Adams Ellise D.
Published: January 2018

A transformative approach to influence change
Complication Severity Score for Growth-friendly Surgery Has Strong Interrater and Intrarater Agreement
Authors: Michael Nicole , Palmer Claire , Smith John T. , Pan Zhaoxing , St. Hilaire Tricia , Morgan Jessica , Heagy Victoria , Garg Sumeet
Published: January 2018

Background:

Growth-friendly surgery has high complication rates. The Complication Severity Score for growth-friendly surgery was developed to maintain consistency while reporting complications as part of research in this rapidly evolving field. This study evaluates the interrater and intrarater reliability of this complication classification system.

Methods:

After Institutional Review Board approval, complications during treatment for early onset scoliosis were identified from a prospectively collected database. Previous validation studies and a 10-case pilot survey determined that 60 cases were needed to represent a minimum of substantial agreement. In total, 63 of 496 cases were selected randomly to evenly represent each severity classification. The cases comprised an internet survey for classification sent to faculty and research coordinators involved in early onset scoliosis research, 3 weeks apart, with questions shuffled between iterations. Fleiss Kappa and Cohen Kappa were used to assess interrater and intrarater agreement, respectively.

Results:

A total of 20 participants, 12 faculty and 8 research assistants, completed the survey twice. The overall Fleiss Kappa coefficient for interrater agreement from the second round of the survey was 0.86 (95% confidence interval, 0.86-87), which represents substantial agreement. Reviewers agreed almost perfectly on categorizing complications as Device I (0.85), Disease I (0.91), Disease II (0.94), Device IIB (0.92), and Disease IV (0.98). There was substantial agreement for categorizing Device IIA (0.73) and Device III (0.76) complications. Disease III and Device IV were not evaluated in this survey since none of these occurred in the database. There was almost perfect intrarater agreement among faculty (0.87), research coordinators (0.85), and overall (0.86).

Conclusions:

There is strong interrater and intrarater agreement for the published complications classification scheme for growing spine surgery. The complication classification system is a reliable tool for standardizing reports of complications with growth-friendly surgery. Adoption of this classification when reporting on growth-friendly surgery is recommended to allow for comparison of complications between treatment modalities.

Level of Evidence:

Level I—diagnostic study.
The Cost of Innovation Roles of Industry, Regulatory Agencies, and the Clinician
Authors: Friedlaender Gary E.
Published: January 2018

New knowledge and innovative technology have provided exciting potential improvement in clinical outcomes, but come with increasing costs, challenges in assessing their safety and efficacy as well as the need to carefully define guidelines for their successful applications. Industry plays a major role, along with individual scientists and clinicians, in providing the research and product development required to bring new products to the market. The Federal government, specifically, the Food and Drug Administration in the United States, must carefully evaluate these products in a manner that protects the public from harm while, simultaneously, providing a pathway for the timely availability of potentially beneficial health care products. Clinicians partner with industry and the regulatory authorities to innovate and evaluate new opportunities in health care, and they must also be strong conflict-free advocates for their patients in the proper selection and skillful application of these new and, often, costly technologies.
Long-Term Cognitive Outcome and Brain Imaging in Adults After Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: von Bahr Viktor , Kalzén Håkan , Hultman Jan , Frenckner Björn , Andersson Christin , Mosskin Mikael , Eksborg Staffan , Holzgraefe Bernhard
Published: January 2018

Objectives:

To investigate the presence of cognitive dysfunction and brain lesions in long-term survivors after treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for severe respiratory failure, and to see whether patients with prolonged hypoxemia were at increased risk.

Design:

A single-center retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Tertiary referral center for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in Sweden.

Patients:

Long-term survivors treated between 1995 and July 2009. Seven patients from a previously published study investigated with a similar protocol were included.

Interventions:

Brain imaging, neurocognitive testing, interview.

Measurements and Main Results:

Thirty-eight patients (i.e., n = 31 + 7) were enrolled and investigated in median 9.0 years after discharge. Only memory tests were performed in 10 patients, mainly due to a lack of formal education necessary for the test results to be reliable. Median full-scale intelligence quotient, memory index, and executive index were 97, 101, and 104, respectively (normal, 100 ± 15). Cognitive function was not reduced in the group with prolonged hypoxemia. Brain imaging showed cerebrovascular lesions in 14 of 38 patients (37%), most commonly in the group treated with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (7/11, 64%). In this group, memory function and executive function were significantly reduced.

Conclusions:

Patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for respiratory failure may have normal cognitive function years after treatment, if not affected by cerebrovascular lesions. Permissive hypoxemia was not correlated with long-term cognitive dysfunction in the present study. Further prospective studies with minimal loss to follow-up are direly needed to confirm our findings.
Simvastatin Modulates Interaction Between Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell/Macrophage and TNF-α–Activated Endothelial Cell
Authors: Chu Fujiang , Wang Min , Ma Hongyan , Zhu Jiayong
Published: January 2018

Cellular interactions between endothelial cell (EC) and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC)/macrophages seem to be greatly changed under inflammatory conditions. Although simvastatin could regulate inflammatory transcription factors in EC and VSMC and also could inhibit leukocyte–endothelium interaction, whether it could modulate VSMC/macrophage functions that are induced by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)–activated EC remained unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of simvastatin on VSMC/macrophage functions, which are induced by TNF-α–activated EC in coculture system in vitro. The results showed that under noncontacting conditions, simvastatin could reduce the proliferation, apoptosis, and TNF-α, IL-6, and vascular endothelial growth factor secretion both in VSMC and macrophage, which is induced by TNF-α–activated EC. And a hypothesis that simvastatin regulates the interactions and the soluble factors between EC and VSMC/macrophages could be drawn. And that might be a potential anti-atherosclerosis mechanism of simvastatin.
Dihydrocodeine Overdoses in a Neonate and in a 14-year-old Girl Who Were Both Genotyped as Cytochrome P450 2D6*1/*10-*36: Comparing Developmental Ages and Drug Monitoring Data With the Results of Pharmacokinetic Modeling
Authors: Shimizu Makiko , Kondo Tatsuki , Fukuoka Tetsuya , Tanaka Toshihiro , Yamazaki Hiroshi
Published: January 2018

A high activity of cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) reportedly leads to toxicity of dihydrocodeine/codeine by increasing toxic potential of their metabolite dihydromorphine/morphine, which are further metabolized to highly active dihydromorphine 6-O-glucuronide and the less active morphine 3-O-glucorinide but rapidly excreted into urine as water-soluble forms. A case of acute respiratory depression after administration of prescribed dihydrocodeine phosphate (2.0 mg/d divided twice a day for 2 days) to a 1-month-old baby boy genotyped as CYP2D6*1/*10-*36 is described. The case is compared with that of a 14-year-old girl, also genotyped as CYP2D6*1/*10-*36, presenting in an agitated state after an overdose (37 mg) of dihydrocodeine phosphate taken as simultaneous ingestion of multiple over-the-counter tablets. In contrast to the rapid clearance of dihydrocodeine from blood in the 14-year-old girl (apparent half-life of 3 hours), the 1-month-old baby boy still had high serum concentrations of dihydrocodeine (400 nmol/L) and dihydromorphine (1.9 nmol/L) 21 hours after the last oral administration of dihydrocodeine-containing cough mixture. The rapid clearance in the 14-year-old girl was mainly attributed to dihydrocodeine glucuronidation and partly attributed to dihydromorphine formation, as determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analyses. However, the conjugation ratios of dihydrocodeine and dihydromorphine in the neonate were low in comparison with those in the 14-year-old girl and with those measured in 3-, 6-, and 13-year-old control subjects, resulting from the poorly developed glucuronidation potential of the neonate. The current observations suggest that the CYP2D6*1/*10-*36 genotype seen in the 2 Japanese patients may not significantly contribute to the likelihood of dihydrocodeine overdose but highlight the importance of considering age when prescribing dihydrocodeine.
Ophthalmic Manifestations of Allergic Fungal Sinusitis
Authors: Alaraj Ahmad M. , Al-Faky Yasser H. , Alsuhaibani Adel H.
Published: January 2018

Purposes:

To study the ophthalmic manifestations of patients with allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) and evaluate the importance of early diagnosis and management in preventing the possible future complications of AFS.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review of 100 patients with the diagnosis of AFS from a single institution was performed. Age, gender, clinical presentation including ophthalmic and radiological findings, immune status, patterns of sinus involvement, medical and surgical intervention needed, laboratory results, and the course of the disease were evaluated.

Results:

The mean age at presentation was 19.8 years (range, 10–42 years) with no clear gender predominance (52% of patients were female).The most common sinuses involved were ethmoid and maxillary sinuses. All patients underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery and received systemic and topical steroids. There were no intervention-related complications. Thirty-four of 100 patients had ophthalmic consequences of AFS. The most common ophthalmic presentation was proptosis (n = 21, 61.7%), followed by epiphora (n = 5, 14.7%), visual loss (n = 4, 11.7%), diplopia (n = 3, 8.8%), and dystopia (n = 1, 2.9%) in addition to 1 patient having ptosis beside proptosis. CT scans of these 34 patients showed that 82.3% had nonhomogenous opacification of sinuses, 52% had erosion of lamina papyracea, 17.6% had intraorbital extension, and 8.8% had intracranial extension.

Conclusions:

Ophthalmologists may be the first who encounter these patients which necessitates familiarity with AFS presentations and complications. In cases of sudden visual loss, early intervention may prevent permanent vision loss. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery and postoperative systemic and topical steroids resulted in dramatic improvement of ophthalmic symptoms and signs.
Assessment of Bronchoscopic Dexterity and Procedural Competency in a Low-fidelity Simulation Model
Authors: Steinfort Daniel P. , Yong Yi Heng , Byrne Timothy , Gorelik Alexandra , Colt Henri , Irving Louis B.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Assessment of competency in bronchoscopy has traditionally been undertaken in clinical settings, however, recent recognition of increased procedural complications and learner anxiety have led to interest in simulation-based competency assessment. The aim of this study was to determine if low-fidelity simulation-based assessment allows discrimination of competency based on prior experience between bronchoscopists.

Methods:

Forty-four participants were allocated to 3 groups based on prior bronchoscopic experience [novices (n=31) with no prior experience, intermediates (n=7) with prior experience of 5 to 10 bronchoscopies, and expert bronchoscopists (n=6) with minimum 200 prior bronchoscopies performed]. Participants performed bronchoscopy in a 3D-printed anatomic airway model and were assessed according to time required to navigate to a target bronchus. Bronchoscopic dexterity was measured using a modified version of the validated Bronchoscopy Skills and Tasks Assessment Tool.

Results:

Competency based on successful navigation to a target bronchus differed significantly between each group [experts, 12/12 (100%); intermediates, 9/14 (64%); novices, 19/62 (31%); P<0.001]. Bronchoscopic dexterity as measured by modified Bronchoscopy Skills and Tasks Assessment Tool also differed significantly between groups with experts achieving consistently higher scores compared with other 2 groups [median (interquartile range) scores: novices, 3.5 (2.5 to 5); intermediate, 5 (4.5 to 7); experts, 8 (7.5 to 8); P<0.0.001).

Conclusions:

Multiple measures demonstrate that low-fidelity simulation-based assessment may reliably discriminate between different levels of skill in performing bronchoscopic navigation and airway inspection. Procedural dexterity of trainees may be assessed in a 0-risk simulation environment.
Pain management in neurocritical care; an update
Authors: Morad Athir , Farrokh Salia , Papangelou Alexander
Published: January 2018

Purpose of review

Pain management in neurocritical care is a subject often avoided because of concerns over the side-effects of analgesics and the potential to cause additional neurological injury with treatment. The sedation and hypercapnia caused by opioids have been feared to mask the neurological examination and contribute to elevations in intracranial pressure. Nevertheless, increasing attention to patient satisfaction has sparked a resurgence in pain management. As opioids have remained at the core of analgesic therapy, the increasing attention to pain has contributed to a growing epidemic of opioid dependence. In this review, we summarize the most recent literature regarding opioids and their alternatives in the treatment of acute pain in patients receiving neurocritical care.

Recent findings

Studies on pain management in neurocritical care continue to explore nonopioid analgesics as part of a multimodal strategy aimed at decreasing overall opioid consumption. Agents including local anesthetics, acetaminophen, ketamine, gabapentinoids, and dexmedetomidine continue to demonstrate efficacy. In addition, the prolonged longitudinal course of many recent trials has also revealed more about the transition from acute to chronic pain following hospitalization.

In an era of increasing attention to patient satisfaction mitigated by growing concerns over the harms imposed by opioids, alternative analgesic therapies are being investigated with promising results.
Postprandial remnant lipoproteins as targets for the prevention of atherosclerosis
Authors: Nakajima Katsuyuki , Tanaka Akira
Published: January 2018

Purpose of review

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) and chylomicron remnants were previously proposed as the most atherogenic lipoproteins for the causal lipoproteins of atherosclerosis. However, there are still controversies on these hypothesizes. Therefore, we have proposed a new hypothesis based on our recent findings of remnant lipoproteins (RLPs) in postprandial plasma.

Recent findings

Plasma RLP-C and RLP-TG increased significantly after fat load. More than 80% of the increased triglycerides after fat load consisted of the triglycerides in RLP, which contained greater amount of apoB100 than apoB48 particles as mostly very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) remnants. The majority of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in plasma was found in RLP as RLP-LPL complex, which is released into circulation after hydrolysis. LPL activity and concentration in plasma did not increase after food intake associated with the insufficient hydrolysis of chylomicrons and VLDL and resulted in the significant increase of RLP-TG. Plasma LPL was inversely correlated with RLP particle size and number.

VLDL remnants have been shown as the major atherogenic lipoproteins in postprandial plasma associated with LPL activity as the targets for prevention of atherosclerosis. We also proposed a new definition of RLPs, ‘LPL bound TG-rich lipoproteins’ based on the findings of RLP-LPL complex.
Hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence in hepatitis C virus-related cirrhosis treated with direct-acting antivirals: a case–control study
Authors: Adhoute Xavier , Penaranda Guillaume , Raoul Jean Luc , Sellier Floriane , Castellani Paul , Oules Valerie , Perrier Herve , Lefolgoc Gaëlle , Pol Bernard , Campanile Manuela , Bayle Olivier , Beaurain Patrick , Monnet Olivier , Bourlière Marc
Published: January 2018

Background

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) therapy against hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection has markedly improved the sustained viral response. However, recent studies have suggested an unsuspected high rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence.

Patients and methods

A retrospective case–control study was carried out to investigate the impact of DAAs on tumor recurrence in patients with complete response to HCC treatment within our HCV-related cirrhosis cohort. Patients who received [group 1 (G1), n=22] or not [group 2 (G2), n=49] a DAAs therapy were matched 1 : 2 for age, sex, liver function, HCC stage, and treatment.

Results

Initial HCC were mostly Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage A (95% G1, 94% G2). Sustained viral response with DAAs was achieved in 86% of patients. After a similar median overall follow-up time with similar radiologic surveillance after HCC treatment, 41% of patients developed radiologic tumor recurrence in G1 versus 35% of patients in G2 (P=0.7904). There was no significant difference in time to progression between the two groups [12 (9–16) months G1 vs. 14 (8–21) months G2, P=0.7688], or Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage at recurrence. However, the interval between HCC treatment and antiviral therapy was significantly different among DAAs patients with recurrence and those without recurrence [7.0 (2.5–9.0) months vs. 36.0 (9.0–58.0) months, P=0.0235, respectively].

Conclusion

In our case–control study, HCV therapy with DAAs does not accelerate or prevent early HCC recurrence compared with untreated patients. The rate of recurrence, time to progression, and HCC pattern are similar. Early DAAs treatment (<12 months) after HCC cure should be discouraged considering the HCC recurrence rate during this period.
Associations Between Anorectal Chlamydia and Oroanal Sex or Saliva Use as a Lubricant for Anal Sex: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Cornelisse Vincent J. , Fairley Christopher K. , Read Tim R.H. , Lee David , Walker Sandra , Hocking Jane S. , Chen Marcus Y. , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Chow Eric P.F.
Published: January 2018

Background

Receptive condomless anal sex is a known risk factor for anorectal chlamydia, but it remains unclear whether oroanal sex practices also contribute. We aimed to determine whether oroanal sex (“rimming”), fingering, or the use of saliva as anal lubricant are risk factors for anorectal chlamydia among men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre from July 2014 to June 2015. Routinely collected computer-assisted self-interview data included demographics, number of sexual partners, and condom use. We added questions on receptive rimming, receptive fingering or penis “dipping,” and the use of a partner's saliva as anal lubricant.

Results

A total of 1691 MSM completed the questionnaire and tested for anorectal chlamydia. In univariable analyses, anorectal chlamydia was associated with using a partner's saliva as lubricant (odds ratio [OR] 1.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26–3.09), receptive rimming (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.04–2.45), and receptive fingering or dipping (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.06–3.43). In multivariable analysis, anorectal chlamydia was not associated with these sexual practices, after adjusting for number of sexual partners, HIV status, known contact with chlamydia, and condom use. However, collinearity between sexual practices likely obscured associations with anorectal chlamydia, and further analyses suggested weak associations between these sexual practices and anorectal chlamydia.

Conclusions

The use of a partner's saliva during receptive anal sex practices such as rimming, fingering, or penis dipping were weak risk factor for anorectal chlamydia in MSM. This contrasts with our previously reported findings that the use of saliva as anal lubricant is more strongly associated with anorectal gonorrhea.
Hemoglobin Levels Across the Pediatric Critical Care Spectrum: A Point Prevalence Study*
Authors: Hassan Nabil E. , Reischman Diann E. , Fitzgerald Robert K. , Faustino Edward Vincent S.
Published: January 2018

Objectives:

To determine the prevailing hemoglobin levels in PICU patients, and any potential correlates.

Design:

Post hoc analysis of prospective multicenter observational data.

Settings:

Fifty-nine PICUs in seven countries.

Patients:

PICU patients on four specific days in 2012.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Patients’ hemoglobin and other clinical and institutional data. Two thousand three hundred eighty-nine patients with median age of 1.9 years (interquartile range, 0.3–9.8 yr), weight 11.5 kg (interquartile range, 5.4–29.6 kg), and preceding PICU stay of 4.0 days (interquartile range, 1.0–13.0 d). Their median hemoglobin was 11.0 g/dL (interquartile range, 9.6–12.5 g/dL). The prevalence of transfusion in the 24 hours preceding data collection was 14.2%. Neonates had the highest hemoglobin at 13.1 g/dL (interquartile range, 11.2–15.0 g/dL) compared with other age groups (p < 0.001). The percentage of 31.3 of the patients had hemoglobin of greater than or equal to 12 g/dL, and 1.1% had hemoglobin of less than 7 g/dL. Blacks had lower median hemoglobin (10.5; interquartile range, 9.3–12.1 g/dL) compared with whites (median, 11.1; interquartile range, 9.0–12.6; p < 0.001). Patients in Spain and Portugal had the highest median hemoglobin (11.4; interquartile range, 10.0–12.6) compared with other regions outside of the United States (p < 0.001), and the highest proportion (31.3%) of transfused patients compared with all regions (p < 0.001). Patients in cardiac PICUs had higher median hemoglobin than those in mixed PICUs or noncardiac PICUs (12.3, 11.0, and 10.6 g/dL, respectively; p < 0.001). Cyanotic heart disease patients had the highest median hemoglobin (12.6 g/dL; interquartile range, 11.1–14.5). Multivariable regression analysis within diagnosis groups revealed that hemoglobin levels were significantly associated with the geographic location and history of complex cardiac disease in most of the models. In children with cancer, none of the variables tested correlated with patients’ hemoglobin levels.

Conclusions:

Patients’ hemoglobin levels correlated with demographics like age, race, geographic location, and cardiac disease, but none found in cancer patients. Future investigations should account for the effects of these variables.
Prevention of all-terrain vehicle injuries: A systematic review from The Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma
Authors: Rattan Rishi , Joseph D’Andrea K. , Dente Christopher J. , Klein Eric N. , Kimbrough Mary K. , Nguyen Jonathan , Simmons Jon D. , O’Keeffe Terence , Crandall Marie
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Despite increasing usage since their introduction, there exist no evidence-based guidelines on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and injury prevention. While the power and speed of these vehicles has increased over time, advancements in ATV safety have been rare.

METHODS

A priori questions about ATV injury pattern and the effect of helmet and safety equipment use and legislation mandating use were developed. A query of MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase for all-terrain vehicle injury was performed. Letters to the editor, case reports, book chapters, and review articles were excluded. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology was used to perform a systematic review and create recommendations.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies were included. Helmet use reduced traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, studies examining whether legislation mandating helmet use reduced TBI had mixed results. When ATV safety legislation was enforced, overall injury rates and mortality decreased. However, enforcement varied widely and lack of enforcement led to decreased compliance with legislation and mixed results. There was not enough evidence to determine the effectiveness of non–helmet-protective equipment.

CONCLUSION

Helmet use when riding an ATV reduced the rate of TBI. ATV safety legislation, when enforced, also reduced morbidity and mortality. Compliance with laws is often low, however, possibly due to poor enforcement. We recommend helmet use when riding on an ATV to reduce TBI. We conditionally recommend implementing ATV safety legislation as a means to reduce ATV injuries, noting that enforcement must go hand in hand with enactment to ensure compliance.
Evaluating an Order Set for Improvement of Quality Outcomes in Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Joyner Blair Anna Marie , Hamilton Bernita K. , Spurlock Amy
Published: January 2018

The timely management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is essential to avoid lengthy hospitalizations and poor clinical outcomes. There is often an absence of ownership for glycemic management in hospitalized patients, most notably in those with a diagnosis other than diabetes. Evidence supports the use of evidence-based DKA protocols. The purpose of this project was to determine whether utilization of an evidence-based order set versus an individualized provider approach for the treatment and management of DKA decreases resolution time and occurrences of hypoglycemia and improves clinical outcomes. Preintervention and postintervention retrospective reviews of the electronic medical record of 150 nonpregnant adult patients diagnosed with DKA allowed retrieval of relevant outcome data. Multiple events provided an intensive orientation and development of health care professionals for a systems approach to utilization of the evidence-based order set. Implementation of the institutionally approved evidence-based order set affirmed anticipated outcomes. Results showed improvements in the (a) total length of stay, (b) arrival to intravenous fluid time, (c) intravenous insulin initiation to discontinuation (resolution) time, (d) arrival to subcutaneous insulin administration time, (e) time from initial to sequential laboratory testing, (f) use of a basal, prandial, and correction insulin approach (physiological mimic), and (g) the incidence of hypoglycemia. Outcomes substantiate the importance and need for maintaining an evidence-based and systems approach for the management of DKA.
Behavioral and neuroanatomical approaches in models of neurodevelopmental disorders: opportunities for translation
Authors: Silverman Jill L. , Ellegood Jacob
Published: January 2018

Purpose of review

This review highlights the invaluable contribution of in-vivo rodent models in dissecting the underlying neurobiology for numerous neurodevelopmental disorders. Currently, models are routinely generated with precision genomics and characterized for research on neurodevelopmental disorders. In order to impact translation, outcome measures that are translationally relevant are essential. This review emphasizes the importance of accurate neurobehavioral and anatomical analyses.

Recent findings

Numerous well validated assays for testing alterations across behavioral domains with sensitivity and throughput have become important tools for studying the effects of genetic mutations on neurodevelopment. Recent work has highlighted relationships and links between behavioral outcomes and various anatomical metrics from neuroimaging via magnetic resonance. These readouts are biological markers and outcome measures for translational research and will be have important roles for genetic or pharmacologic intervention strategies.

Combinatorial approaches that leverage translationally relevant behavior and neuroanatomy can be used to develop a platform for assessment of cutting edge preclinical models. Reliable, robust behavioral phenotypes in preclinical model systems, with clustering of brain disease will lead to well informed, precise biochemical mechanistic hypotheses. Ultimately, these steadfast workhorse techniques will accelerate the progress of developing and testing targeted treatments for multiple neurodevelopmental disorders.
Motor development and delay: advances in assessment of motor skills in autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Wilson Rujuta B. , Enticott Peter G. , Rinehart Nicole J.
Published: January 2018

Purpose of review

Motor impairments in neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are prevalent and pervasive. Moreover, motor impairments may be the first sign of atypical development in ASD and likely contribute to abnormalities in social communication. However, measurement of motor function in ASD has lagged behind other behavioral phenotyping. Quantitative and neurodiagnostic measures of motor function can help identify specific motor impairments in ASD and the underlying neural mechanisms that might be implicated. These findings can serve as markers of early diagnosis, clinical stratification, and treatment targets.

Recent findings

Here, we briefly review recent studies on the importance of motor function to other developmental domains in ASD. We then highlight studies that have applied quantitative and neurodiagnostic measures to better measure motor impairments in ASD and the neural mechanisms that may contribute to these abnormalities.

Information from advanced quantitative and neurodiagnostic methods of motor function contribute to a better understanding of the specific and subtle motor impairments in ASD, and the relationship of motor function to language and social development. Greater utilization of these methods can assist with early diagnosis and development of targeted interventions. However, there remains a need to utilize these approaches in children with neurodevelopmental disorders across a developmental trajectory and with varying levels of cognitive function.
Identification and functional characterization of arginine vasopressin receptor 1A : atypical chemokine receptor 3 heteromers in vascular smooth muscle
Authors: Albee Lauren J. , LaPorte Heather M. , Gao Xianlong , Eby Jonathan M. , Cheng You-Hong , Nevins Amanda M. , Volkman Brian F. , Gaponenko Vadim , Majetschak Matthias
Published: January 2018

Recent observations suggest that atypical chemokine receptor (ACKR)3 and chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor (CXCR)4 regulate human vascular smooth muscle function through hetero-oligomerization with α
1
-adrenoceptors. Here, we show that ACKR3 also regulates arginine vasopressin receptor (AVPR)1A. We observed that ACKR3 agonists inhibit arginine vasopressin (aVP)-induced inositol trisphosphate (IP
3
) production in human vascular smooth muscle cells (hVSMCs) and antagonize aVP-mediated constriction of isolated arteries. Proximity ligation assays, co-immunoprecipitation and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer experiments suggested that recombinant and endogenous ACKR3 and AVPR1A interact on the cell surface. Interference with ACKR3 : AVPR1A heteromerization using siRNA and peptide analogues of transmembrane domains of ACKR3 abolished aVP-induced IP
3
production. aVP stimulation resulted in β-arrestin 2 recruitment to AVPR1A and ACKR3. While ACKR3 activation failed to cross-recruit β-arrestin 2 to AVPR1A, the presence of ACKR3 reduced the efficacy of aVP-induced β-arrestin 2 recruitment to AVPR1A. AVPR1A and ACKR3 co-internalized upon agonist stimulation in hVSMC. These data suggest that AVPR1A : ACKR3 heteromers are constitutively expressed in hVSMC, provide insights into molecular events at the heteromeric receptor complex, and offer a mechanistic basis for interactions between the innate immune and vasoactive neurohormonal systems. Our findings suggest that ACKR3 is a regulator of vascular smooth muscle function and a possible drug target in diseases associated with impaired vascular reactivity.
Paternity and kin structure among neighbouring groups in wild bonobos at Wamba
Authors: Ishizuka Shintaro , Kawamoto Yoshi , Sakamaki Tetsuya , Tokuyama Nahoko , Toda Kazuya , Okamura Hiroki , Furuichi Takeshi
Published: January 2018

Although both bonobos and chimpanzees are male-philopatric species, outcomes of male–male reproductive competition seem to be more closely associated with mating success in chimpanzees. This suggests that the extent of male reproductive skew is lower in bonobos. In addition, between-group male–male reproductive competition is more lethal in chimpanzees. This suggests that between-group differentiation in male kinship is lower in bonobos. We analysed the paternity of 17 offspring in two bonobo groups and estimated the relatedness of individuals among three neighbouring groups by using DNA extracted from non-invasive samples at Wamba, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The alpha males sired at least nine of 17 offspring. This supports a previous finding that the male reproductive skew is higher in bonobos than that in chimpanzees. Average relatedness among males within groups was significantly higher than that among males across groups, whereas there was no significant difference among females between within and across groups. These results are consistent with male philopatry, highly skewed reproductive success of males and female dispersal. Higher average relatedness among males within groups suggest that the differences in hostility towards males of different groups between bonobos and chimpanzees may be explained by factors other than kinship.
Parallel diversifications ofCremastospermaandMosannona(Annonaceae), tropical rainforest trees tracking Neogene upheaval of South America
Authors: Pirie Michael D. , Maas Paul J. M. , Wilschut Rutger A. , Melchers-Sharrott Heleen , Chatrou Lars W.
Published: January 2018

Much of the immense present day biological diversity of Neotropical rainforests originated from the Miocene onwards, a period of geological and ecological upheaval in South America. We assess the impact of the Andean orogeny, drainage of Lake Pebas and closure of the Panama isthmus on two clades of tropical trees (Cremastosperma,ca31 spp.; andMosannona,ca14 spp.; both Annonaceae). Phylogenetic inference revealed similar patterns of geographically restricted clades and molecular dating showed diversifications in the different areas occurred in parallel, with timing consistent with Andean vicariance and Central American geodispersal. Ecological niche modelling approaches show phylogenetically conserved niche differentiation, particularly withinCremastosperma. Niche similarity and recent common ancestry of Amazon and GuiananMosannonaspecies contrast with dissimilar niches and more distant ancestry of Amazon, Venezuelan and Guianan species ofCremastosperma, suggesting that this element of the similar patterns of disjunct distributions in the two genera is instead a biogeographic parallelism, with differing origins. The results provide further independent evidence for the importance of the Andean orogeny, the drainage of Lake Pebas, and the formation of links between South and Central America in the evolutionary history of Neotropical lowland rainforest trees.
Reversing functional extinction of mammals prompts a rethink of paradigms about seed fate in arid Australia
Authors: Mills Charlotte H. , Letnic Mike
Published: January 2018

Functional extinction of once abundant species has frequently preceded understanding of their ecological roles. Consequently, our understanding of ecosystems is prone to shifting baselines because it often relies on observations made on depauperate species assemblages. In Australian deserts, current paradigms are that ants are the dominant granivores, mammals are unimportant seed predators and that myrmecochory in many Australian shrubs is an adaptation to increase dispersal distance and direct seeds to favourable germination sites. Here, we ask whether these paradigms could be artefacts of mammal extinction. We take advantage of a predator-proof reserve within which locally extinct native mammals have been reintroduced to compare seed removal by ants and mammals. Using foraging trays that selectively excluded mammals and ants we show that a reintroduced mammal, the woylie (
Bettongia penicillata
) was at least as important as ants in the removal of seeds of two shrub species (
Dodonaea viscosa
and
Acacia ligulata
). Our results provide evidence that the dominance of ants as granivores and current understanding of the adaptive benefit of myrmecochory in arid Australia may be artefacts of the functional extinction of mammals. Our study shows how reversing functional extinction can provide the opportunity to rethink contemporary understanding of ecological processes.
Magnonic band spectrum of spin waves in an elliptical helix
Authors: Golovchan A. V. , Kruglyak V. V. , Tkachenko V. S. , Kuchko A. N.
Published: January 2018

We show that the spin-wave spectrum in an elliptical helix has a band character. The size of the first band gap calculated using the perturbation theory is shown to scale as square root of the eccentricity. Curved magnonic waveguides of the kind considered here could be used as structural elements of future three-dimensional magnonic architectures.
The role of frictional contact of constituent blocks on the stability of masonry domes
Authors: Beatini Valentina , Royer-Carfagni Gianni , Tasora Alessandro
Published: January 2018

The observation of old construction works confirms that masonry domes can withstand tensile hoop stresses, at least up to a certain level. Here, such tensile resistance, rather than
a priori
assumed as a property of the bulk material, is attributed to the contact forces that are developed at the interfaces between interlocked blocks under normal pressure, specified by Coulomb’s friction law. According to this rationale, the aspect ratio of the blocks, as well as the bond pattern, becomes of fundamental importance. To investigate the complex assembly of blocks, supposed rigid, we present a non-smooth contact dynamic analysis, implemented in a custom software based on the Project Chrono C++ framework and complemented with parametric-design interfaces for pre- and post-processing complex geometries. Through this advanced tool, we investigate the role of frictional forces resisting hoop stresses in the stability of domes, either circular or oval, under static and dynamic loading, focusing, in particular, on the structural role played by the underlying drum and the surmounting
tiburium
.