bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework for Assessing the Feasibility of Native Fish Conservation Translocations: Applications to Threatened Bull Trout
Authors: Galloway Benjamin T. , Muhlfeld Clint C. , Guy Christopher S. , Downs Christopher C. , Fredenberg Wade A.
Published: July 2016

There is an urgent need to consider more aggressive and direct interventions for the conservation of freshwater fishes that are threatened by invasive species, habitat loss, and climate change. Conservation introduction (moving a species outside its indigenous range to other areas where conditions are predicted to be more suitable) is one type of translocation strategy that fisheries managers can use to establish new conservation populations in areas of refugia. To date, however, there are few examples of successful conservation-based introductions. Many attempts fail to establish new populations—in part because environmental factors that might influence success are inadequately evaluated before the translocation is implemented. We developed a framework to assess the feasibility of rescuing threatened fish populations through translocation into historically unoccupied stream and lake habitats. The suitability of potential introduction sites was evaluated based on four major components: the recipient habitat, recipient community, donor population, and future threats. Specific questions were then developed to evaluate each major component. The final assessment was based on a scoring system that addressed each question by using criteria developed from characteristics representative of highly suitable habitats and populations. This framework was used to evaluate the proposed within-drainage translocation of three Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus populations in Glacier National Park, Montana. Our results indicated that within-drainage translocation is a feasible strategy for conserving locally adapted populations of Bull Trout through the creation of new areas of refugia in Glacier National Park. The framework provides a flexible platform that can help managers make informed decisions for moving threatened fishes into new areas of refugia for conservation and recovery programs.

Received April 26, 2015; accepted January 17, 2016 Published online July 7, 2016
Exploring the Effectiveness of a Fisheries Simulation Model for Communicating Stock Assessment Information
Authors: Fisher Emily A. , Hesp S. Alex , Hall Norman G.
Published: July 2016

The effectiveness of graphical user interfaces for conveying stock assessment information within a fisheries simulation model was explored. Assessments of stock status for different species and exploitation states were presented to workshop participants via alternative user interfaces of the same model. Participants then decided how to manage these fisheries using various management controls, including size and bag limits and temporal and spatial closures. The management decisions made by participants for a range of different scenarios were subjected to multivariate analyses. When the initial level of exploitation of a stock was high, participants typically made stronger and more varied management decisions using a wider range of controls than when exploitation was less. Although these decisions led to substantial reductions in fishing mortality, stock status outcomes were more varied and less optimal than those observed for scenarios of low and moderate levels of initial exploitation. The trends in decisions made by workshop participants probably reflect those that often occur for real-life fisheries, in that as fishing pressure increases, management often becomes more complex and thus its overall effectiveness may become less predictable. Unexpectedly, there were no detectable differences between the decisions made by users of alternative interfaces, which varied in the amount and complexity of stock assessment outputs provided, indicating that the simpler interfaces were as effective as more complex interfaces in communicating stock status information. This study demonstrates the value of scenario-testing experiments for understanding decision making in fisheries management and for assessing whether stock assessment information is conveyed to fishery stakeholders in ways that can be readily understood.

Received August 14, 2015; accepted February 27, 2016 Published online July 7, 2016
The Effects of Macrophyte Stem Density and Structural Complexity on Foraging Return of Invertivorous Juvenile Largemouth Bass
Authors: Stahr Kristopher J. , Shoup Daniel E.
Published: July 2016

Aquatic vegetation can impact juvenile fishes through multiple pathways. Previous studies have found that dense macrophytes can cause a trade-off of survival for Bluegills Lepomis macrochirus, with decreased foraging efficiency in macrophytes but also decreased predation risk. For juvenile Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides, this phenomenon has been proposed but never experimentally tested. In addition, little information exists on the effects of vegetation on juvenile Largemouth Bass prior to the shift to piscivory, a critical period in the recruitment process. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if aquatic vegetation reduces the foraging ability of invertivorous (prepiscivorous) juvenile Largemouth Bass. Twenty-four invertivorous juvenile Largemouth Bass were tested individually at each of five stem densities (0, 125, 250, 500, and 1,000 stems/m2) of artificial macrophytes within 20.8-liter aquaria. Five treatments of a simple stem architecture (at all stem densities) and three complex stem architecture treatments (125, 250, and 500 stems/m2) were used within this experiment. Complex stem density treatments were created using a branched design which doubled the string abundance (number of strings) within the water relative to corresponding stem densities in simple vegetation treatments. Thirty chironomid larvae were used as prey during each 15-minute foraging bout. Foraging return (number of chironomid larvae consumed/15-minute foraging bout) was not significantly different among all stem treatments. Therefore, our results suggest the predator avoidance advantage aquatic macrophytes provide to juvenile Largemouth Bass does not come with a trade-off in foraging efficiency (up to 1,000 stems/m2 vegetation density), at least when Largemouth Bass are prepiscivorous.

Received December 15, 2015; accepted March 23, 2016 Published online July 7, 2016
Characterization of iron-sulfur clusters in flavin-containing opine dehydrogenase
Authors: Watanabe Seiya , Tajima Kunihiko , Matsui Kazuma , Watanabe Yasuo
Published: July 2016

Flavin-containing opine dehydrogenase from Bradyrhizobium japonicum forms a heterooligomeric α4β4γ4 enzyme complex. An electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis using wild-type and site-directed mutants revealed that [4Fe-4S] and [2Fe-2S] clusters bind to two different types of [Fe-S] binding sites in the γ- and α-subunits, respectively. The latter was found to be important for structural folding and enzyme catalysis.
More effective as regent than as monarch: Abdullah’s reform legacy
Authors: Kumaraswamy P. R. , Quamar Md. Muddassir
Published: July 2016

Abdullah, as Saudi crown prince and king, initiated a number of socio-political reforms to placate the growing concerns over rising radicalism and political discontent. Among these measures were efforts to improve the education system, employment opportunities and women’s rights. Political reforms included expansion of the Majlis al-Shura (Consultative Council), municipal elections, national and interfaith dialogues and concessions to Shias, but most important was the formation of the Allegiance Council towards institutionalizing succession. Though not insignificant, these reform initiatives did not considerably advance the possibilities of an inclusive state and society. Hence, his domination of the Saudi political landscape for five decades did not transform into a lasting legacy primarily due to Abdullah’s inability to bring about structural changes within the ruling family and wider society.
MSK1 triggers the expression of the INK4AB/ARF locus in oncogene-induced senescence
Authors: Culerrier Raphaël , Carraz Maëlle , Mann Carl , Djabali Malek
Published: July 2016

The tumor suppressor proteins p15INK4B, p16INK4A, and p14ARF, encoded by the INK4AB/ARF locus, are crucial regulators of cellular senescence. The locus is epigenetically silenced by the repressive Polycomb complexes in growing cells but is activated in response to oncogenic stress. Here we show that the mitogen- and stress-activated kinase (MSK1) is up-regulated after RAF1 oncogenic stress and that the phosphorylated (activated) form of MSK1 is significantly increased in the nucleus and recruited to the INK4AB/ARF locus. We show that MSK1 mediates histone H3S28 phosphorylation at the INK4AB/ARF locus and contributes to the rapid transcriptional activation of p15INK4Band p16INK4Ain human cells despite the presence of the repressive H3K27me3 mark. Furthermore, we show that upon MSK1 depletion in oncogenic RAF1-expressing cells, H3S28ph presence at the INK4 locus and p15INK4Band p16INK4Aexpression are reduced. Finally, we show that H3S28-MSK–dependent phosphorylation functions in response to RAF1 signaling and that ERK and p38α contribute to MSK1 activation in oncogene-induced senescence.
Cofilin-mediated actin dynamics promotes actin bundle formation duringDrosophilabristle development
Authors: Wu Jing , Wang Heng , Guo Xuan , Chen Jiong
Published: July 2016

The actin bundle is an array of linear actin filaments cross-linked by actin-bundling proteins, but its assembly and dynamics are not as well understood as those of the branched actin network. Here we used the Drosophila bristle as a model system to study actin bundle formation. We found that cofilin, a major actin disassembly factor of the branched actin network, promotes the formation and positioning of actin bundles in the developing bristles. Loss of function of cofilin or AIP1, a cofactor of cofilin, each resulted in increased F-actin levels and severe defects in actin bundle organization, with the defects from cofilin deficiency being more severe. Further analyses revealed that cofilin likely regulates actin bundle formation and positioning by the following means. First, cofilin promotes a large G-actin pool both locally and globally, likely ensuring rapid actin polymerization for bundle initiation and growth. Second, cofilin limits the size of a nonbundled actin-myosin network to regulate the positioning of actin bundles. Third, cofilin prevents incorrect assembly of branched and myosin-associated actin filament into bundles. Together these results demonstrate that the interaction between the dynamic dendritic actin network and the assembling actin bundles is critical for actin bundle formation and needs to be closely regulated.
Interaction of Gcn4 with target gene chromatin is modulated by proteasome function
Authors: Howard Gregory C. , Tansey William P.
Published: July 2016

The ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) influences gene transcription in multiple ways. One way in which the UPS affects transcription centers on transcriptional activators, the function of which can be stimulated by components of the UPS that also trigger their destruction. Activation of transcription by the yeast activator Gcn4, for example, is attenuated by mutations in the ubiquitin ligase that mediates Gcn4 ubiquitylation or by inhibition of the proteasome, leading to the idea that ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis of Gcn4 is required for its activity. Here we probe the steps in Gcn4 activity that are perturbed by disruption of the UPS. We show that the ubiquitylation machinery and the proteasome control different steps in Gcn4 function and that proteasome activity is required for the ability of Gcn4 to bind to its target genes in the context of chromatin. Curiously, the effect of proteasome inhibition on Gcn4 activity is suppressed by mutations in the ubiquitin-selective chaperone Cdc48, revealing that proteolysis per se is not required for Gcn4 activity. Our data highlight the role of Cdc48 in controlling promoter occupancy by Gcn4 and support a model in which ubiquitylation of activators—not their destruction—is important for function.
Altered RNA processing and export lead to retention of mRNAs near transcription sites and nuclear pore complexes or within the nucleolus
Authors: Paul Biplab , Montpetit Ben
Published: July 2016

Many protein factors are required for mRNA biogenesis and nuclear export, which are central to the eukaryotic gene expression program. It is unclear, however, whether all factors have been identified. Here we report on a screen of >1000 essential gene mutants in Saccharomyces cerevisiae for defects in mRNA processing and export, identifying 26 mutants with defects in this process. Single-molecule FISH data showed that the majority of these mutants accumulated mRNA within specific regions of the nucleus, which included 1) mRNAs within the nucleolus when nucleocytoplasmic transport, rRNA biogenesis, or RNA processing and surveillance was disrupted, 2) the buildup of mRNAs near transcription sites in 3′-end processing and chromosome segregation mutants, and 3) transcripts being enriched near nuclear pore complexes when components of the mRNA export machinery were mutated. These data show that alterations to various nuclear processes lead to the retention of mRNAs at discrete locations within the nucleus.
Abelson kinase acts as a robust, multifunctional scaffold in regulating embryonic morphogenesis
Authors: Rogers Edward M. , Spracklen Andrew J. , Bilancia Colleen G. , Sumigray Kaelyn D. , Allred S. Colby , Nowotarski Stephanie H. , Schaefer Kristina N. , Ritchie Benjamin J. , Peifer Mark
Published: July 2016

Abelson family kinases (Abls) are key regulators of cell behavior and the cytoskeleton during development and in leukemia. Abl’s SH3, SH2, and tyrosine kinase domains are joined via a linker to an F-actin–binding domain (FABD). Research on Abl’s roles in cell culture led to several hypotheses for its mechanism of action: 1) Abl phosphorylates other proteins, modulating their activity, 2) Abl directly regulates the cytoskeleton via its cytoskeletal interaction domains, and/or 3) Abl is a scaffold for a signaling complex. The importance of these roles during normal development remains untested. We tested these mechanistic hypotheses during Drosophila morphogenesis using a series of mutants to examine Abl’s many cell biological roles. Strikingly, Abl lacking the FABD fully rescued morphogenesis, cell shape change, actin regulation, and viability, whereas kinase-dead Abl, although reduced in function, retained substantial rescuing ability in some but not all Abl functions. We also tested the function of four conserved motifs in the linker region, revealing a key role for a conserved PXXP motif known to bind Crk and Abi. We propose that Abl acts as a robust multidomain scaffold with different protein motifs and activities contributing differentially to diverse cellular behaviors.
Detection of protein–protein interactions at the septin collar inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeusing a tripartite split-GFP system
Authors: Finnigan Gregory C. , Duvalyan Angela , Liao Elizabeth N. , Sargsyan Aspram , Thorner Jeremy
Published: July 2016

Various methods can provide a readout of the physical interaction between two biomolecules. A recently described tripartite split-GFP system has the potential to report by direct visualization via a fluorescence signal the intimate association of minimally tagged proteins expressed at their endogenous level in their native cellular milieu and can capture transient or weak interactions. Here we document the utility of this tripartite split-GFP system to assess in living cells protein–protein interactions in a dynamic cytoskeletal structure—the septin collar at the yeast bud neck. We show, first, that for septin–septin interactions, this method yields a robust signal whose strength reflects the known spacing between the subunits in septin filaments and thus serves as a “molecular ruler.” Second, the method yields little or no spurious signal even with highly abundant cytosolic proteins readily accessible to the bud neck (including molecular chaperone Hsp82 and glycolytic enzyme Pgk1). Third, using two proteins (Bni5 and Hsl1) that have been shown by other means to bind directly to septins at the bud neck in vivo, we validate that the tripartite split-GFP method yields the same conclusions and further insights about specificity. Finally, we demonstrate the capacity of this approach to uncover additional new information by examining whether three other proteins reported to localize to the bud neck (Nis1, Bud4, and Hof1) are able to interact physically with any of the subunits in the septin collar and, if so, with which ones.
A Transdiagnostic Network Approach to Psychosis
Authors: Wigman Johanna T. W. , de Vos Stijn , Wichers Marieke , van Os Jim , Bartels-Velthuis Agna A.
Published: July 2016

Our ability to accurately predict development and outcome of early expression of psychosis is limited. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying psychopathology, a broader, transdiagnostic approach that acknowledges the complexity of mental illness is required. The upcoming network paradigm may be fruitful here. In this study, we applied a transdiagnostic network approach to psychosis. Data pertain to the third wave (second follow-up) of a sample of adolescents originally recruited at age 7–8 years. At baseline, N = 347 children with auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH) and N = 347 control children were included. N = 293 of these N = 694 children participated in the second follow-up (mean age 18.9 years; 59% women). Participants completed the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences (CAPE) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). A specific type of network model, the Ising model, was applied to dichotomized CAPE and DASS items. Interconnections of experiences within the same domain were observed, as well as interconnections between experiences of multiple domains of psychopathology. Quantitative and qualitative differences in network architecture were found in networks of psychopathological experiences in individuals with or without AVH at age 7–8 years. Although adolescents with or without previous AVH did not differ in their current CAPE scores, differences in the interconnectedness of psychopathology items were still found, possibly mirroring a difference in psychosis liability. This study showed that it is possible to map transdiagnostic experiences of psychopathology as a network and that important information can be derived from this approach in comparison to regular approaches.
The clubfoot over the centuries
Authors: Sanzarello Ilaria , Nanni Matteo , Faldini Cesare
Published: July 2016

The aim of this paper is to review all treatment methods of the clubfoot over the years through the documentation present in the literature and art with the aim of better understanding the pathoanatomy of the deformity, but to also clarify factors that allow a safe, logical approach to clubfoot management. The initial part of this paper traces the most representative iconographic representations of clubfoot in history to describe how his presence was witnessed since ancient times. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was the first to present written references about treatment methods of clubfoot. After the dark period of the Middle Ages, during the Renaissance, there were more detailed studies on the disease, with the creation of the first orthopedic orthotics, designed to correct the deformity with the help of famous names in medicine’s history. In the XVIII century, as we witness the birth of orthopedics as a distinct discipline in medicine, more and more brilliant minds developed complex orthoses and footwear with the aim of obtaining a proper correction of the deformity. In the last part of the paper, there is a description of the main surgical techniques developed over the years until the return to conservative treatment methods such as the Ponseti method, internationally recognized as the gold standard of treatment, despite the presence of some unresolved issues such as the possible recurrence of the disease.
Partial double-layered patella in a nondysplasic adolescent
Authors: García-Mata Serafín , Hidalgo-Ovejero Angel
Published: July 2016

Double-layered patella (DLP) is a rare patella-formation abnormality reported in association with multiple epiphyseal dysplasia. DLP is one of the five types of bipartite patella, caused by a coronal septum that divides the patella into anterior and posterior segments. Although the double layer of bone has been reported as complete, it may also manifest as partial, as in our case. A 13-year-old male patient attended A&E after accidentally falling and sustaining a direct injury to his left knee, with pain in the anterior surface of the right patella. He was diagnosed with an incomplete vertical fracture of the left patella. An axial view radiography indicated an external partial DLP. No bone dysplasia was found. Computed tomographic scan and MRI showed partial DLP and bone marrow oedema because of the injury in the femoral condyle, but no fracture. The reason for highlighting this type of patella abnormality is to present the case of a patient without bone dysplasia, either partial or incomplete, that has not been reported previously. We also wish to emphasize the importance of not confusing it with a fracture in standard radiographies.
Reduction and circumferential fusion for low-grade slips and intermediate-grade slips in pediatric spondylolisthesis
Authors: Leverone Nicholas A. , Kowalski Christopher A. , Thompson Matthew J. , Tuten Hans R.
Published: July 2016

Uninstrumented in-situ fusion of pediatric spondylolisthesis harbors a significant risk of suboptimal outcome. We suggest that reduction and instrumented fusion with deliberate protective measures against neurologic insult should be considered for the treatment of low-grade slips to intermediate-grade slips. This retrospective review of the clinical and radiographic data of 13 consecutively treated pediatric patients describes our experience with this approach. Eleven patients were pain free at the most recent follow-up and showed an average sustained correction in percent slip of 39%. This technique provides a safe alternative to in-situ fusion with the potential for improved outcomes.
Short-term results of early (before 6 months) open reduction of dislocated hips in arthrogryposis multiplex congenita
Authors: Aydin Bahattin K. , Yilmaz Guney , Senaran Hakan , Durgut Fatih
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study was to report the results of early open reduction of hip dislocations in infants with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Seven patients who were under 6 months of age at the time of hip reduction, with a mean follow-up period of 47.5±11.3 months after surgery, were included in this study. Four of seven patients (six of 13 hips) required additional hip surgeries during their follow-up. The short-term results of early open reduction of hips were not promising as most of the patients required additional hip surgeries.
Effectiveness of Web-Based Interventions for Managing Diabetes in Korea
Authors: Joo Jee Young
Published: July 2016

Web-based interventions are an emerging approach to managing diabetes in Korea. This review systematically evaluated the effectiveness of these interventions. To identify studies for review, a search of online electronic databases was conducted; the search was guided by the Cochrane processes and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations. Ten studies published between 2005 and 2015 that met the inclusion criteria were assessed for methodological quality and analyzed. All 10 studies had participants that were Korean adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The analysis revealed that the Web-based interventions under review, which included self-care management services and decision support systems, improved measures of biophysiological, psychobehavioral, and satisfaction of care outcomes. This review found strong evidence of the effectiveness of these Web-based interventions in improving glucose controls. Future studies with rigorous research design that study large populations with different age groups and have structured descriptions of interventions are recommended. Nurses and healthcare providers can use the evidence in this review to improve outcomes in diabetes management, and healthcare policy makers can use this review to evaluate whether to adopt these interventions as a care coordination strategy.
An Internet-Assisted Weight Loss Intervention for Older Overweight and Obese Rural Women
Authors: O'Brien Tara , Jenkins Carolyn , Amella Elaine , Mueller Martina , Moore Michael , Hathaway Donna
Published: July 2016

Older Appalachian women are an understudied population with few resources available to prevent obesity and chronic disease. This study explored the feasibility of a 12-week weight loss intervention using Internet technology for older rural Appalachian women. The sample (N = 24) included women 55 years or older recruited from two senior centers in the Appalachian region. The women were randomly assigned to either an Internet program called “Lose It” (Internet program for recording of daily calories and physical activity) or to a daily wellness program (health tips) delivered via e-mail. The mean age of participants was 69 ± 8 years. Their mean body mass index (kg/m2) at baseline was 34.2 ± 8. A significant difference (P = .036) was observed between intervention and control group scores on the Social Pressure Subscale. Both groups improved their intake of fruits and vegetables and lost weight from baseline to week 12. Internet weight loss programs appear feasible for older rural women. Internet-delivered weight loss interventions that provide a way to record daily calories, physical activity, and weight may provide a technology platform leading to increased self-efficacy for weight loss.
Nerve growth factor induces facial heat hyperalgesia and plays a role in trigeminal neuropathic pain in rats
Authors: dos Reis Renata C. , Kopruszinski Caroline M. , Nones Carina F.M. , Chichorro Juliana G.
Published: July 2016

There is preclinical evidence that nerve growth factor (NGF) contributes toward inflammatory hyperalgesia in the orofacial region, but the mechanisms underlying its hyperalgesic effect as well as its role in trigeminal neuropathic pain require further investigation. This study investigated the ability of NGF to induce facial heat hyperalgesia and the involvement of tyrosine kinase receptor A, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, and mast cells in NGF pronociceptive effects. In addition, the role of NGF in heat hyperalgesia in a model of trigeminal neuropathic pain was evaluated. NGF injection into the upper lip of naive rats induced long-lasting heat hyperalgesia. Pretreatment with an antibody anti-NGF, antagonists of tyrosine kinase receptor A, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptors or compound 48/80, to induce mast-cell degranulation, all attenuated NGF-induced hyperalgesia. In a rat model of trigeminal neuropathic pain, local treatment with anti-NGF significantly reduced heat hyperalgesia. In addition, increased NGF levels were detected in the ipsilateral infraorbital nerve branch at the time point that represents the peak of heat hyperalgesia. The results suggest that NGF is a prominent hyperalgesic mediator in the trigeminal system and it may represent a potential therapeutic target for the management of painful orofacial conditions, including trigeminal neuropathic pain.
Donor deferral policies for men who have sex with men: where are we today?
Authors: Goldman Mindy , O’Brien Sheila F.
Published: July 2016

Purpose of review

The review summarizes recent publications on the contentious issue of donor deferral criterion for men who have sex with men (MSM).

Recent findings

Recent studies from the United States and China demonstrated that MSM is still a frequent risk factor for HIV-positive donors. Noncompliance is an important factor in the overall risk of HIV transmission but does not appear to be affected by the length of the deferral period. A major US study found a 2.6% noncompliance rate with the current indefinite deferral for MSM; similar or lower rates were found in other jurisdictions with shorter deferral periods. Several countries have had a defined deferral period of 1 year or 5 years in place long enough to determine that increases in HIV-positive cases predicted by modeling studies did not actually occur, suggesting that the assumptions made in these models are overly conservative.

In summary, MSM eligibility policies are slowly changing around the world, with the US FDA now permitting a 1-year deferral. Transparency, involvement of stakeholders, and careful evaluation of risk and societal benefit should be part of future policy discussions on this issue.
Oculometric Assessment of Sensorimotor Impairment Associated with TBI
Authors: Liston Dorion B. , Wong Lily R. , Stone Leland S.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Diffuse tissue damage from impact or blast traumatic brain injury (TBI) degrades information processing throughout the brain, often resulting in impairments in sensorimotor function. We have developed an eye-movement assessment test, consisting of a simple, appropriately randomized, radial tracking task together with a broad set of oculometric measures that can be combined to yield a sensitive overall indicator of sensorimotor functional status. We show here that this multidimensional method can be used to detect and characterize sensorimotor deficits associated with TBI.

Methods

To compare dynamic visuomotor processing of TBI subjects (n = 34) with a separate control population (n = 41), we used the Comprehensive Oculometric Behavioral Response Assessment (COBRA) method (Liston & Stone, J Vision. 14:12, 2014) to quantify 10 performance metrics for each subject. Each TBI subject's set of oculometrics was then combined to compute a single TBI impairment vector whose magnitude we refer to as the impairment index.

Results

In our TBI population, several individual oculometrics were significantly degraded, including pursuit latency, initial pursuit acceleration, pursuit gain, catch-up saccade amplitude, proportion smooth tracking, and speed responsiveness. Furthermore, the TBI impairment index discriminated TBI subjects from controls with an 81% probability that increased with self-reported TBI severity; although the 9 subjects self-reporting “little-to-no” residual impairment were statistically indistinguishable from controls (58% probability), the remaining 25 subjects were easily detectable (91% probability). Given the demonstrated link between higher-order visual perception/cognition and eye movements, we interpret the observed TBI-related impairments as degradations in the speed, accuracy, and precision of information processing within cortical circuits supporting higher-order visual processing and sensorimotor control, not just low-level brainstem motor deficits.

Conclusions

We conclude that multidimensional oculometric testing could be used as a sensitive screen for subtle neurological signs of subclinical neurological insults, to quantify functional impairment, to monitor deterioration or recovery, and to evaluate treatment efficacy.
Lid Wiper Epitheliopathy in Soft Contact Lens Wearers
Authors: Schulze Marc-Matthias , Srinivasan Sruthi , Hickson-Curran Sheila B. , Berntsen David A. , Howarth Gillian F. , Toubouti Youssef , Morgan Philip , Nichols Jason J. , Jones Lyndon W.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To evaluate lid wiper epitheliopathy (LWE) in soft contact lens (SCL) wearers on initial presentation and after using various SCL and solution combinations.

Methods

LWE was assessed in 253 habitual SCL wearers who attended a screening visit at one of three study sites. LWE was assessed using lissamine green and sodium fluorescein dyes (Korb scale); a final LWE grade was calculated as the averaged LWE grade of the two dyes. Eligible habitual wearers continued into the four study periods, during which they wore one of three SCL types (etafilcon A, galyfilcon A, or senofilcon A) while using each of four care solutions for 10 to 14 days in randomized order. Statistical analyses were performed using linear mixed models, testing for differences in LWE for subject characteristics and between three multipurpose (MPS) test solutions (BioTrue, OPTI-FREE PureMoist, RevitaLens OcuTec) compared to a hydrogen peroxide (Clear Care) control solution.

Results

LWE was present in 85% of habitual SCL wearers. LWE was not different for age (p = 0.28), sex (p = 0.99), race (p = 0.34), and comfort (p = 0.38) and not correlated with refractive error (r = 0.07). LWE was lower in habitual senofilcon A wearers (least-squares (LS) mean ± SE = 0.82 ± 0.19) compared to wearers of lotrafilcon B (1.34 ± 0.20; p < 0.02), comfilcon A (1.41 ± 0.21; p < 0.01), and other (1.18 ± 0.16; p < 0.03). Two hundred three participants completed all four study solutions with their assigned lens type; LWE was not different between the MPSs compared to the peroxide control solution across lens materials, except for less LWE for BioTrue (0.88 ± 0.17) versus Clear Care for participants wearing galyfilcon A (1.11 ± 0.18; p < 0.01).

Conclusions

On initial presentation, LWE was present in 85% of habitual wearers and found to be independent of age, sex, race, comfort, and refractive error but dependent on habitual SCL type. There were no clinically meaningful differences in LWE between the MPSs and hydrogen peroxide solution for the three lens types studied.
Topographic, Tomographic, and Aberrometric Characteristics of Post-LASIK Ectasia
Authors: Padmanabhan Prema , Rachapalle Reddi Sudhir , Sivakumar Poornima Devi
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To report the refractive, topographic, tomographic, and aberrometric characteristics of post-LASIK ectasia; to compare these characteristics with normal post-LASIK controls; and to propose a comprehensive system to grade the severity of post-LASIK ectasia.

Methods

The refraction, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), magnitude, and location of the steepest and thinnest point on the cornea, the highest anterior and posterior surface elevation, the radius of best fit sphere, corneal asphericity, and corneal aberrations were measured in 50 eyes of 29 patients with post-LASIK ectasia. These were compared with corresponding parameters in 50 eyes that did not develop ectasia for more than 1 year after LASIK. A logistic regression analysis was used to create a scoring system to grade the severity.

Results

Eyes with post-LASIK ectasia had significantly higher myopia with astigmatism and a lower CDVA than control eyes. Mean topographic toricity was 3.4 ± 1.9D, mean keratometry at the steepest point was 55.32 ± 6.63D, mean highest posterior elevation was 69.72 ± 3 μm, and mean coma was −2.06 ± 1.2 μm. All these parameters were significantly higher than corresponding values in the control group (p < 0.001 in all). Spherical aberration was more negative and the change in asphericity indicated significantly greater prolate shape of the cornea in eyes with post-LASIK ectasia compared to controls. Five parameters, namely, CDVA, spherical equivalent, highest posterior corneal elevation, spherical aberration, and corneal asphericity, were identified as significant predictors of post-LASIK ectasia and used to create a scoring system.

Conclusion

Post-LASIK ectasia is characterized by significant changes in refraction, topography, tomography, and aberrometry. The proposed scoring system may be useful in diagnosing, grading, and monitoring post-LASIK ectasia.
Visual Discrimination Increase by Yellow Filters in Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Cedrún-Sánchez Juan E. , Chamorro Eva , Bonnin-Arias Cristina , Aguirre-Vilacoro Victoria , Castro José J. , Sánchez-Ramos Celia
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The objective of this study was to evaluate, by halometry and under low illumination conditions, the effects of short-wavelength light absorbance filters on visual discrimination capacity in retinitis pigmentosa patients.

Methods

This was an observational, prospective, analytic, and transversal study on 109 eyes of 57 retinitis pigmentosa patients with visual acuity better than 1.25 logMAR. Visual disturbance index (VDI) was determined using the software Halo 1.0, with and without the interposition of filters which absorb (totally or partially) short-wavelength light between 380 and 500 nm.

Results

A statistically significant reduction in the VDI values determined using filters which absorb short-wavelength light was observed (p < 0.0001). The established VDIs in patients with VA logMAR <0.4 were 0.30 ± 0.05 (95% CI, 0.26–0.36) for the lens alone, 0.20 ± 0.04 (95% CI, 0.16–0.24) with the filter that completely absorbs wavelengths shorter than 450 nm, and 0.24 ± 0.04 (95% CI, 0.20–0.28) with the filter that partially absorbs wavelengths shorter than 450 nm, which implies a 20 to 33% visual discrimination capacity increase. In addition, a decrease of VDI in at least one eye was observed in more than 90% of patients when using a filter.

Conclusions

Short-wavelength light absorbance filters increase visual discrimination capacity under low illumination conditions in retinitis pigmentosa patients. Use of such filters constitutes a suitable method to improve visual quality related to intraocular light visual disturbances under low illumination conditions in this group of patients.
Soft Contact Lens-Related Symptoms in North America and the United Kingdom
Authors: Chalmers Robin L. , Young Graeme , Kern Jami , Napier Leslie , Hunt Chris
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To characterize and compare the prevalence of soft contact lens-related (SCL) dryness symptoms in large populations of SCL wearers in North America (NAm) and the United Kingdom (UK).

Methods

SCL wearers from NAm (n = 1443) and UK (n = 932) sites completed self-administered questionnaires on SCL symptoms and wearing experiences. A categorization for contact lens-related dry eye (CL-DE) was applied that combined Contact Lens Dry Eye Questionnaire (CLDEQ) items on dryness frequency and intensity at the end of the day (CL-DE+ = constantly/frequently/sometimes plus intensity = 3–5, and CL-DE- = never/rarely plus intensity = 0–1, Marginal = all other ratings). Data were analyzed across regions and categories, with p-values <0.05 significant.

Results

Compared to UK wearers, those in NAm wore fewer toric and multifocal designs, and reported significantly longer average and comfortable wearing times (p < 0.001) but similar levels of general and end-of-day comfort. The prevalence of CL-DE+ differed between the UK and NAm: CL-DE+: 31 vs. 39%, Marginal CL-DE: 13 vs. 14%, and CL-DE−: 56 vs. 47%, p = 0.0001. Although daily disposable (DD) lenses were worn more commonly in the UK than NAm (33 vs. 10%, p < 0.0001), their use did not impact the overall prevalence of dryness symptoms. Between regions, NAm wearers reported significantly more frequent and intense end-of-day discomfort and dryness (p < 0.0001) and were significantly more likely to use treatments for CL-related symptoms yet experienced a lower degree of relief.

Conclusions

SCL wearers in NAm reported longer hours of wear with significantly more symptoms of dryness and discomfort. NAm wearers used dryness treatments more often, but experienced less relief than UK wearers. In both regions, the CL-DE categorization was useful to predict poorer comfort, shorter comfortable wearing time, and increased use of treatments. These results highlight the need to benchmark SCL performance locally or regionally to understand and focus on the challenges to the lens wearing experience.
Characteristic Distribution Pattern of CD30-positive Cytotoxic T Cells Aids Diagnosis of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease
Authors: Tabata Tetsuya , Takata Katsuyoshi , Miyata-Takata Tomoko , Sato Yasuharu , Ishizawa Shin , Kunitomo Tomoyoshi , Nagakita Keina , Ohnishi Nobuhiko , Taniguchi Kohei , Noujima-Harada Mai , Maeda Yoshinobu , Tanimoto Mitsune , Yoshino Tadashi
Published: July 2016

Introduction:

Histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (or Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease) frequently occurs in Asian young adult females and typically presents as cervical lymphadenopathy with unknown etiology. Although large immunoblasts frequently appear in Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, the diffuse infiltration of these cells can cause difficulty in establishing a differential diagnosis from lymphoma. In such cases, CD30 immunostaining may be used; however, the extent or distribution pattern of CD30-positive cells in Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease remains largely unknown. Here we investigated the expression of CD30 and its clinicopathologic significance.

Materials and Methods:

We investigated 30 Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease and 16 control [6, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); 10, reactive lymphoid hyperplasia (RLH)] cases.

Results:

The number of CD30-positive cells in Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease was significantly more than that in SLE and RLH, and majority of these cells were located around necrotic areas. Moreover, double immunohistochemical staining showed these CD30-positive cells to be CD8-positive cytotoxic T cells, suggesting that activated cytotoxic T cells around necrotic areas are a characteristic feature of this disease. Clinicopathologic analysis showed that cases with abundant CD30-positive cells were predominantly female with only mild symptoms and normal laboratory data.

Conclusions:

In Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease cases, CD30-positive cytotoxic T cells were abundant around necrotic areas; this histologic feature may be helpful to differentiate this disease from SLE and RLH.
The Profunda Artery Perforator Flap Experience for Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Allen Robert J. , Lee Z-Hye , Mayo James L. , Levine Joshua , Ahn Christina , Allen Robert J.
Published: July 2016

Background:

The profunda artery perforator flap was first introduced for breast reconstruction in 2010. In this article, the authors analyze the results of all profunda artery perforator flaps performed by their group to date.

Methods:

A retrospective review was completed of consecutive profunda artery perforator flaps performed by the senior author (R.J.A.) from 2010 to 2014. Patient demographics, indications, operative techniques, flap specifics, complications, and number of operations were recorded.

Results:

Ninety-six patients have undergone 164 profunda artery perforator flap operations for breast reconstruction since 2010. Reconstructions were performed following breast cancer management (59.5 percent), following prophylactic mastectomy for cancer risk reduction (35.7 percent), and for congenital breast deformity (4.8 percent). The average age of the patients was 48 years (range, 24 to 64 years) and their average body mass index was 22.5 kg/m2. Average flap weight was 367.4 g and average pedicle length was found to be 10.2 cm. The success rate of the profunda artery perforator flap was greater than 99 percent, with a 3 percent take-back rate and only one flap loss recorded. Complications included hematoma (1.9 percent), seroma (6 percent), fat necrosis (7 percent), and donor-site infection (1.9 percent).

Conclusions:

The profunda artery perforator flap is an excellent option for breast reconstruction. Advantages include a reliable blood supply, long pedicle, thick donor tissue, and a favorable donor site. Currently, the profunda artery perforator flap is second only to the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator among flaps used by the authors for breast reconstruction.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
The increasing relevance of nuclear envelope myopathies
Authors: Meinke Peter , Schirmer Eric C.
Published: July 2016

Purpose of review

Nuclear envelope links to a wide range of disorders, including several myopathies and neuropathies over the past 2 decades, has spurred research leading to a completely changed view of this important cellular structure and its functions. However, the many functions now assigned to the nuclear envelope make it increasingly hard to determine which functions underlie these disorders.

Recent findings

New nuclear envelope functions in genome organization, regulation and repair, signaling, and nuclear and cellular mechanics have been added to its classical barrier function. Arguments can be made for any of these functions mediating abnormality in nuclear envelope disorders and data exist supporting many. Moreover, transient and/or distal nuclear envelope connections to other cellular proteins and structures may increase the complexity of these disorders.

Although the increased understanding of nuclear envelope functions has made it harder to distinguish specific causes of nuclear envelope disorders, this is because it has greatly expanded the spectrum of possible mechanisms underlying them. This change in perspective applies well beyond the known nuclear envelope disorders, potentially implicating the nuclear envelope in a much wider range of myopathies and neuropathies.
Novel functional hepatitis C virus glycoprotein isolates identified using an optimized viral pseudotype entry assay
Authors: Urbanowicz Richard A. , McClure C. Patrick , King Barnabas , Mason Christopher P. , Ball Jonathan K. , Tarr Alexander W.
Published: July 2016

Retrovirus pseudotypes are a highly tractable model used to study the entry pathways of enveloped viruses. This model has been extensively applied to the study of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) entry pathway, preclinical screening of antiviral antibodies and for assessing the phenotype of patient-derived viruses using HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpp) possessing the HCV E1 and E2 glycoproteins. However, not all patient-isolated clones produce particles that are infectious in this model. This study investigated factors that might limit phenotyping of patient-isolated HCV glycoproteins. Genetically related HCV glycoproteins from quasispecies in individual patients were discovered to behave very differently in this entry model. Empirical optimization of the ratio of packaging construct and glycoprotein-encoding plasmid was required for successful HCVpp genesis for different clones. The selection of retroviral packaging construct also influenced the function of HCV pseudoparticles. Some glycoprotein constructs tolerated a wide range of assay parameters, while others were much more sensitive to alterations. Furthermore, glycoproteins previously characterized as unable to mediate entry were found to be functional. These findings were validated using chimeric cell-cultured HCV bearing these glycoproteins. Using the same empirical approach we demonstrated that generation of infectious ebolavirus pseudoviruses (EBOVpv) was also sensitive to the amount and ratio of plasmids used, and that protocols for optimal production of these pseudoviruses are dependent on the exact virus glycoprotein construct. These findings demonstrate that it is crucial for studies utilizing pseudoviruses to conduct empirical optimization of pseudotype production for each specific glycoprotein sequence to achieve optimal titres and facilitate accurate phenotyping.
Electrophysiology reveals the neural dynamics of naturalistic auditory language processing: event-related potentials reflect continuous model updates
Authors: Alday Phillip M. , Schlesewsky Matthias , Bornkessel-Schlesewsky Ina
Published: July 2016

The recent trend away from ANOVA-based analyses places experimental investigations into the neurobiology of cognition in more naturalistic and ecologically valid designs within reach. Using mixed-effects models for epoch-based regression, we demonstrate the feasibility of examining event-related potentials (ERPs), and in particular the N400, to study the neural dynamics of auditory language processing in a naturalistic setting. Despite the large variability between trials during naturalistic stimulation, we replicated previous findings from the literature: frequency, animacy, word order. This suggests a new perspective on ERPs, namely as a continuous modulation reflecting continuous model updates (cf. Friston, 2005) instead of a series of discrete and essentially sequential processes.