bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigate the complex process in particle-fluid based surface generation technology using reactive molecular dynamics method
Authors: Han Xuesong , Li Haiyan , Zhao Fu
Published: July 2017

Particle-fluid based surface generation process has already become one of the most important materials processing technology for many advanced materials such as optical crystal, ceramics and so on. Most of the particle-fluid based surface generation technology involves two key process: chemical reaction which is responsible for surface softening; physical behavior which is responsible for materials removal/deformation. Presently, researchers cannot give a reasonable explanation about the complex process in the particle-fluid based surface generation technology because of the small temporal-spatial scale and the concurrent influence of physical-chemical process. Molecular dynamics (MD) method has already been proved to be a promising approach for constructing effective model of atomic scale phenomenon and can serve as a predicting simulation tool in analyzing the complex surface generation mechanism and is employed in this research to study the essence of surface generation. The deformation and piles of water molecule is induced with the feeding of abrasive particle which justifies the property mutation of water at nanometer scale. There are little silica molecule aggregation or materials removal because the water-layer greatly reduce the strength of mechanical interaction between particle and materials surface and minimize the stress concentration. Furthermore, chemical effect is also observed at the interface: stable chemical bond is generated between water and silica which lead to the formation of silconl and the reaction rate changes with the amount of water molecules in the local environment. Novel ring structure is observed in the silica surface and it is justified to be favored of chemical reaction with water molecule. The siloxane bond formation process quickly strengthened across the interface with the feeding of abrasive particle because of the compressive stress resulted by the impacting behavior.
Efficient Synthesis of an Indinavir Precursor from Biomass-Derived (–)-Levoglucosenone
Authors: Ledingham Edward T. , Stockton Kieran P. , Greatrex Ben W.
Published: July 2017

Lignocellulosic biomass pyrolysis with acid catalysis selectively produces the useful chiral synthon 6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]oct-2-ene-4-one ((–)-levoglucosenone, LGO). In this report, LGO was used to prepare (3R,5S)-3-benzyl-5-(hydroxymethyl)-4,5-dihydrofuran-2(3H)-one, which is an intermediate used in the construction of antivirals including the protease inhibitor indinavir. To achieve the synthesis, the hydrogenated derivative of LGO was functionalised using aldol chemistry and various aromatic aldehydes were used to show the scope of the reaction. Choice of base affected reaction times and the best yields were obtained using 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidine. Hydrogenation of the α-benzylidene-substituted bicyclic system afforded a 4 : 3 equatorial/axial mixture of isomers, which was equilibrated to a 97 : 3 mixture under basic conditions. Subsequent Baeyer–Villiger reaction afforded the target lactone in 57 % overall yield for four steps, a route that avoids the protection and strong base required in the traditional approach. The aldol route is contrasted with the α-alkylation and a Baylis–Hillman approach that also both start with LGO.
The nitrification inhibitor DMPP applied to subtropical rice has an inconsistent effect on nitrous oxide emissions
Authors: Rose Terry J. , Morris Stephen G. , Quin Peter , Kearney Lee J. , Kimber Stephen , Van Zwieten Lukas
Published: July 2017

Although there is growing evidence that the nitrification inhibitor 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) can lower soil nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in temperate environments, there is little evidence of its efficacy in subtropical or tropical environments where temperatures and rainfall intensities are typically higher. We investigated N2O emissions in field-grown aerobic rice in adjacent fields in the 2013–14 and 2014–15 seasons in a subtropical environment. Crops were topdressed with 80 kg nitrogen (N) ha–1 before rainfall, as either urea, urea + DMPP (at 1.6 kg DMPP t–1 urea: ‘urea-DMPP’) or a blend of 50% urea and 50% urea-DMPP in the 2013–14 season, and urea, urea-DMPP or polymer (3 month)-coated urea (PCU) in the 2014–15 season. DMPP-urea significantly (P < 0.05) lowered soil N2O emissions in the 2013–14 season during the peak flux period after N fertiliser application, but had no effect in 2014–15. The mean cumulative N2O emissions over the entire growing period were 190 g N2O-N ha–1 in 2013–14 and 413 g N2O-N ha–1 in 2014–15, with no significant effect of DMPP or PCU. Our results demonstrate that DMPP can lower N2O emissions in subtropical, aerobic rice during peak flux events following N fertiliser application in some seasons, but inherent variability in climate and soil N2O emissions limited the ability to detect significant differences in cumulative N2O flux over the seasonal assessment. A greater understanding of how environmental and soil factors impact the efficacy of DMPP in the subtropics is needed to formulate appropriate guidelines for its use commercially.
Domain-specific control of germ cell polarity and migration by multifunction Tre1 GPCR
Authors: LeBlanc Michelle G. , Lehmann Ruth
Published: July 2017

The migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs) from their place of origin to the embryonic gonad is an essential reproductive feature in many animal species. In Drosophila melanogaster, a single G protein–coupled receptor, Trapped in endoderm 1 (Tre1), mediates germ cell polarization at the onset of active migration and directs subsequent migration of PGCs through the midgut primordium. How these different aspects of cell behavior are coordinated through a single receptor is not known. We demonstrate that two highly conserved domains, the E/N/DRY and NPxxY motifs, have overlapping and unique functions in Tre1. The Tre1-NRY domain via G protein signaling is required for reading and responding to guidance and survival cues controlled by the lipid phosphate phosphatases Wunen and Wunen2. In contrast, the Tre1-NPIIY domain has a separate role in Rho1- and E-cadherin–mediated polarization at the initiation stage independent of G protein signaling. We propose that this bifurcation of the Tre1 G protein–coupled receptor signaling response via G protein–dependent and independent branches enables distinct spatiotemporal regulation of germ cell migration.
Evaluating the Energy Recovery Potential of Nigerian Coals under Non-Isothermal Thermogravimetry
Authors: Bevan Nyakuma Bemgba , Oladokun Olagoke , Jauro Aliyu , Damian Nyakuma Denen
Published: July 2017

This study investigated the fuel properties and energy recovery potential of two coal samples from Ihioma (IHM) and Ogboligbo (OGB) environs in Nigeria. The ultimate, proximate, and bomb calorimetric analyses of the coal were examined. Next, the rank classification and potential application of the coals were evaluated according to the ASTM standard D388. Lastly, thermal decomposition behaviour was examined by non-isothermal thermogravimetry (TG) under pyrolysis conditions from 30 – 900 °C. The results indicated IHM and OGB contain high proportions of combustible elements for potential thermal conversion. The higher heating value (HHV) of IHM was 20.37 MJ/kg whereas OGB was 16.33 MJ/kg. TG analysis revealed 55% weight loss for OGB and 76% for IHM. The residual mass was 23% for IHM and 44% for OGB. Based on the temperature profile characteristics (TPCs); Ton
, Tmax
, and Toff
, IHM was more reactive than OGB due to its higher volatile matter (VM). Overall, results revealed the coals are Lignite (Brown) low-rank coals (LRCs) with potential for electric power generation.
Spatio-temporal distribution pattern of Calanus sinicus and its relationship with climate variability in the northern Yellow Sea
Authors: Yang Qing , Liu Hui , Liu Guize , Gu Yanbin
Published: July 2017

The spatio-temporal distribution pattern of Calanus sinicus, a key copepod species, was examined in the northern Yellow Sea (YS). Compared with 1959 and 1982, there was a significant increase in the abundance of C. sinicus in the spring, summer, and autumn of 2011 and winter of 2014. The percentage of C. sinicus in the zooplankton assemblages ranging from 45.6 to 75.8% in different seasons of 2011-2014 was significantly higher than that in 1982. Two different spatial distribution patterns of C. sinicus were observed, with higher abundance occurring nearshore during the cold season (e.g. January) and offshore in the central portion of the northern YS in the warm season (e.g. May, July, and October). The YS Cold Water Mass in the central portion of the northern YS likely provides an important over-summering site for the species. Additionally, a greater increase of the abundance of C. sinicus was found in the northern portion (the northern YS) of its spatial distribution during the past half century. This study has an implication on the climate-driven shifts in zooplankton community in the northern YS, highlighting the importance of C. sinicus in the warm-temperate ecosystem of Chinese coastal seas.
Feasibility of Treating Hepatitis C in a Transient Jail Population
Authors: MacDonald Ross , Akiyama Matthew J , Kopolow Aimee , Rosner Zachary , McGahee Wendy , Joseph Rodrigue , Jaffer Mohamed , Venters Homer
Published: July 2017

Jails represent a critical component of the public health response to HCV elimination. We report on outcomes of 104 patients receiving HCV treatment from January 1, 2014 to June 30, 2016 in a large urban jail setting. Our data demonstrate that treatment in jails is feasible, but many barriers remain.
Variations of Occipital Artery-Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Bypass: Anatomic Consideration
Authors: Matsushima Ken , Matsuo Satoshi , Komune Noritaka , Kohno Michihiro , Lister J Richard
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Advances in diagnosis of posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms have revealed the high frequency of distal and/or dissecting PICA aneurysms. Surgical treatment of such aneurysms often requires revascularization of the PICA including but not limited to its caudal loop.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the microsurgical anatomy involved in occipital artery (OA)-PICA anastomosis at various anatomic segments of the PICA.

METHODS

Twenty-eight PICAs in 15 cadaveric heads were examined with the operating microscope to take morphometric measurements and explore the specific anatomy of bypass procedures.

RESULTS

OA bypass to the p2, p3, p4, or p5 segment was feasible with a recipient vessel of sufficient diameter. The loop wandering near the jugular foramen in the p2 segment provided sufficient length without requiring cauterization of any perforating arteries to the brainstem. Wide dissection of the cerebellomedullary fissure provided sufficient exposure for the examination of some p3 segments and all p4 segments hidden by the tonsil. OA-p5 bypass was placed at the main trunk before the bifurcation in 5 hemispheres and at the larger hemispheric trunk in others.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the possible variations of OA-PICA bypass may enable revascularization of the appropriate portion of the PICA when the parent artery must be occluded. A detailed anatomic understanding of each segment clarifies important technical nuances for the bypass on each segment. Dissection of the cerebellomedullary fissure helps to achieve sufficient exposure for the bypass procedures on most of the segments.
Using Rasch Analysis to Validate the Motor Activity Log and the Lower Functioning Motor Activity Log in Patients With Stroke
Authors: Chuang I-Ching , Lin Keh-Chung , Wu Ching-Yi , Hsieh Yu-Wei , Liu Chien-Ting , Chen Chia-Ling
Published: July 2017

Background

The Motor Activity Log (MAL) and Lower-Functioning MAL (LF-MAL) are used to assess the amount of use of the more impaired arm and the quality of movement during activities in real-life situations for patients with stroke.

Objective

This study used Rasch analysis to examine the psychometric properties of the MAL and LF-MAL in patients with stroke.

Design

This is a methodological study.

Methods

The MAL and LF-MAL include 2 scales: the amount of use (AOU) and the quality of movement (QOM). Rasch analysis was used to examine the unidimensionality, item difficulty hierarchy, targeting, reliability, and differential item functioning (DIF) of the MAL and LF-MAL.

Results

A total of 403 patients with mild or moderate stroke completed the MAL, and 134 patients with moderate/severe stroke finished the LF-MAL. Evidence of disordered thresholds and poor model fit were found both in the MAL and LF-MAL. After the rating categories were collapsed and misfit items were deleted, all items of the revised MAL and LF-MAL exhibited ordering and constituted unidimensional constructs. The person-item map showed that these assessments were difficult for our participants. The person reliability coefficients of these assessments ranged from .79 to .87. No items in the revised MAL and LF-MAL exhibited bias related to patients’ characteristics.

Limitations

One limitation is the recruited patients, who have relatively high–functioning ability in the LF-MAL.

Conclusions

The revised MAL and LF-MAL are unidimensional scales and have good reliability. The categories function well, and responses to all items in these assessments are not biased by patients’ characteristics. However, the revised MAL and LF-MAL both showed floor effect. Further study might add easy items for assessing the performance of activity in real-life situations for patients with stroke.
A Risk Assessment Model for Bacterial Leaf Spot of Pepper (Capsicum annuum), Caused by Xanthomonas euvesicatoria, Based on Concentrations of Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Micronutrient Ratios
Authors: Dutta B. , Langston D. B. , Luo X. , Carlson S. , Kichler J. , Gitaitis R.
Published: July 2017

The phytopathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas euvesicatoria causes bacterial leaf spot (BLS) of pepper and has a worldwide distribution. BLS is difficult to control and an integrated management strategy that incorporates crop rotation, use of clean seed and clean plants, weed control, resistant varieties, applications of bactericides, biocontrol agents, and systemic acquired resistance (SAR) inducers is generally recommended. However, even with that arsenal of weapons, BLS can still be responsible for severe losses under favorable environmental conditions. Thus, additional tools need to be added to an overall integrated management strategy to combat BLS. In this article, we developed several models from 2012 to 2014 that were based on how macronutrients, micronutrients, and micronutrient ratios affect BLS severity. Factors used to select a model for validation included highly significant P values, high adjusted R2 values, low variance inflation factor values (<5), root mean square error, Mallow’s Cp, and high Akaike’s information criterion correction values. In addition, salicylic acid (SA) concentrations and relative expression of nonexpresser pathogenesis-related gene1 (NPR1) and pathogenesis-related protein 1 (PR1) in pepper tissues were also considered in model selection. A model (ECGA1) consisting of concentrations of copper, manganese, potassium, and the iron/zinc ratio as independent variables was used for validation in three different commercial pepper fields in Georgia: Colquitt County and Worth County in 2015 and Tift County in 2016. When area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) values for two field sites (Colquitt and Worth Counties) in 2015 were pulled together and plotted against ECGA1-predicted values for both sites, the resulting relationship was highly significant (P = 0.0001) with an R2 value of 0.92. A significant relationship between observed AUDPC versus predicted values was also observed in Tift County in 2016 (P < 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.98). Relative gene expression of both NPR1 and PR1 genes was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in pepper grown in predicted low-risk sites compared with pepper from high-risk sites in Colquitt, Worth, and Tift Counties. Although BLS severity will fluctuate depending on environmental conditions, the data indicate that the level of risk at a particular location may be influenced by how macronutrient and micronutrient concentrations affect plant disease resistance genes in the SAR pathway.
Prolonged Second Stage in Nulliparous With Epidurals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gimovsky Alexis C. , Guarente Juliana , Berghella Vincenzo
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017;30:461–465)

When the second stage of labor is 3 hours or more in nulliparous women with an epidural, it has been defined as “prolonged second stage.” Effective clinical management of the second stage is crucial because much of the maternal and neonatal morbidity associated with birth occurs during the second stage or around delivery. In nulliparous women, a prolonged second stage of labor occurs in 9.9% to 16.7% of cases.
mTORC1/2 Inhibition Preserves Ovarian Function and Fertility During Genotoxic Chemotherapy
Authors: Goldman Kara N. , Chenette Devon , Arju Rezina , Duncan Francesca E. , Keefe David L. , Grifo Jamie A. , Schneiderb Robert J.
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017;114:3186–3191)

The ovaries have a fixed pool of immature (primordial) follicles at birth known as the ovarian reserve. Activation or loss of follicles in this reserve causes an irreversible decline in reproductive function that culminates in menopause.
Colorectal cancer and markers of anemia
Authors: Schneider Cornelia , Bodmer Michael , Jick Susan S. , Meier Christoph R.
Published: July 2017

Unexplained iron-deficiency anemia is an important marker for colorectal cancer (CRC). Our objectives were as follows: (a) to assess whether the association between anemia and CRC can be detected on the ‘Clinical Practice Research Datalink’, (b) to evaluate the timing between laboratory changes and CRC detection, and (c) to analyze its association with survival. We conducted a case–control study on patients with an incident CRC diagnosis during 2008–2012 and a 1 : 1-matched control group. We compared anemia markers serum ferritin (SF), hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and red blood cell count between cases and controls using conditional logistic regression. We assessed survival in CRC cases. SF values up to 20 ng/ml were associated with an odds ratio [OR (95% confidence interval)] of 10.66 (6.88–16.51) compared with SF values of 101–300 ng/ml when restricted to measurements up to 180 days before the CRC diagnosis. For measurements taken at 1 year or earlier before the diagnosis, the OR was 2.02 (1.57–2.61). For Hb values less than 9 g/dl compared with Hb values of 13.0–15.9 g/dl the corresponding ORs were 74.25 (34.69–158.91) and 2.19 (1.31–3.67), respectively. The corresponding ORs for MCV values up to 80 fl compared with MCV values of 86–95 fl were 13.94 (10.31–18.85) and 1.89 (1.51–2.36), respectively. Low levels of these markers were only weakly associated with survival. Hb, MCV, and SF levels substantially dropped only shortly before the CRC diagnosis. Although slightly more cases had anemia markers compared with controls at 1 year or earlier before the diagnosis, most cases still had normal values. The Clinical Practice Research Datalink is well-suited to detect associations between low Hb, MCV, and SF levels and CRC.
Utilization of colonoscopy and colonoscopic findings among individuals aged 40–54 years with a positive family history of colorectal cancer: a cross-sectional study in general practice
Authors: Plath Jasper , Siebenhofer Andrea , Haug Ulrike , Koné Insa , Hechtner Marlene , Blumenstein Irina , Schulz-Rothe Sylvia , Gerlach Ferdinand M. , Guethlin Corina
Published: July 2017

Guidelines recommend early colonoscopy for individuals with a positive family history of colorectal cancer (CRC), but little is known about the utilization of colonoscopy and the frequency of colorectal neoplasms among younger affected individuals in Germany. The aim of this study was to determine the utilization of colonoscopy and the frequency of colorectal neoplasms in this risk group. We conducted a cross-sectional study in a general practice setting. Patients aged 40–54 years with at least one first-degree relative with CRC were identified, counseled on their increased risk, and referred to colonoscopy if they decided to undergo this procedure. We assessed the reported utilization of colonoscopy before study participation with a questionnaire and obtained results of colonoscopies performed during the study period from colonoscopy reports. Out of 484 patients with a positive family history of CRC, 191 (39.5%) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and participated in the study: 54% reported that at least one colonoscopy had been performed before study participation. Out of 191 participants, 86 (45%) underwent a colonoscopy during study period. No CRC was found, but 16.3% had any adenoma, and 7.0% had advanced adenomas. Overall, 155 (82%) study participants underwent a colonoscopy either before or during the study period. The utilization of colonoscopies among participants was remarkably high even before study participation. This rate increased up to 82% after counseling by general practitioners. A relevant number of participants had (advanced) adenomas. It appears worthwhile to involve general practitioners in identifying and counseling younger individuals with familial risk for CRC.
Carcinoma of the Middle Ear: A Review of the National Cancer Database
Authors: Brant Jason A. , Eliades Steven J. , Chen Jinbo , Newman Jason G. , Ruckenstein Michael J.
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Malignancy of the middle ear is a rare condition with limited data available for clinical guidance.

Study Design:

Retrospective evaluation of a large national database.

Setting:

Deidentified national cancer database.

Patients:

Subjects with diagnosis of malignancy of the middle ear in the National Cancer Database between 2004 and 2012.

Main Outcome Measures:

Demographic information and tumor characteristics were evaluated. The primary endpoint of interest is overall survival.

Results:

The most common histology was squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (50%). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis found the following variables had a significant negative impact on overall survival: age (HR 1.04 95% CI [1.02–1.05]), squamous cell carcinoma, not otherwise specified (NOS) (HR 2.08 95% CI [1.30–3.32]), squamous cell carcinoma, keratinizing, NOS (HR 4.20 95% CI [2.14–8.24]), embroynal rhabdomyosarcoma, NOS (HR 4.96 95% CI [1.17–21.11]), and unknown extension (HR 2.87 95% CI [1.22–6.74]). For patients of SCC who underwent surgery, 30 had positive margins and 29 underwent adjuvant radiation. For these, no survival advantage was found with the addition of chemotherapy, regardless of node status.

Conclusion:

Malignancy of the middle ear is a rare condition with prognosis that depends on histology. The most common histology, SCC, is associated with the poorest overall survival. Evaluation of large national datasets can add significantly to the understanding of such uncommon tumors.
Reduction in Temporary and Permanent Audiological Injury Through Internal Jugular Vein Compression in a Rodent Blast Injury Model
Authors: Sindelar Brian , Shinners Michael , Sherman Sydney , Erickson Kristine , Patel Vimal , Kubilis Paul , Finan John D. , Bailes Julian E.
Published: July 2017

Hypothesis:

Internal jugular vein (IJV) compression influences not only intracranial but also intracochlear physiology and has demonstrated preclinical effectiveness in reducing acute audiological injury in a rodent blast model. However, the long-term effects in this model are unknown.

Background:

Blast wave-induced audiological injury from an improvised explosive device is a leading cause of morbidity among service members in theater but there are limitations to the current protective measures.

Methods:

For this study, we exposed 20 Sprague Dawley rats to a 16.8 ± 0.3 PSI (195.3 dB SPL) right-sided shock wave in which 10 had application of a custom IJV compression collar in place at the time of injury.

Results:

IJV compression at the time of injury was shown acutely to significantly reduce the incidence of tympanic membrane rupture and the initial temporary threshold shift on otoacoustic emissions in both the right and left ears of animals who had collar application immediately after and 7 days post injury. At 28 days from injury, collared animals demonstrated a return to baseline of otoacoustic emission values while the noncollared animals had persistent threshold shifts, signifying the presence of a permanent threshold shift only in those animals without collar application. IJV compression was also found to significantly reduce hair cell loss at the base of the cochlea secondary to mechanical trauma from the blast wind.

Conclusion:

Previously observed acute protective effects of IJV compression are sustained at chronic time points. IJV compression can potentially be used to reduce long-term permanent morbidity from blast-induced audiological trauma.
Vestibular Schwannoma Growth With Aspirin and Other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
Authors: Hunter Jacob B. , O’Connell Brendan P. , Wanna George B. , Bennett Marc L. , Rivas Alejandro , Thompson Reid C. , Haynes David S.
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To investigate whether the use of aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) impact the growth of vestibular schwannoma (VS).

Study Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Single academic, tertiary care center.

Patients:

Patients with VS who underwent at least two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies before intervention.

Intervention(s):

Serial MRI studies.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

VS tumor growth, defined as more than or equal to 2 mm increase in the maximum tumor diameter between consecutive MRI studies, or between the first and last available study. Mean growth rate was also calculated, defined as the change in tumor size divided by length of follow-up.

Results:

A total of 564 VS patients met inclusion criteria, with 234 (41.2%) taking some type of NSAID. Aspirin use was not associated with VS tumor growth, presenting tumor diameter, or mean VS growth rate. Further, aspirin dosage did not impact growth outcomes or presenting tumor diameter. A total of 96 (17.0%) patients took an NSAID other than aspirin. Neither non-aspirin NSAID use nor degree of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selectivity, including aspirin, was significantly associated with VS tumor growth, presenting tumor diameter, or mean VS growth rate.

Conclusions:

While previous studies have suggested a relationship between aspirin usage and VS growth, we found no significant association in our series of 564 observed VS. Furthermore, there was no apparent relationship between aspirin dosage, non-aspirin NSAID use, and COX-2 selectivity with VS growth, presenting tumor diameter at presentation, or mean VS growth rate.
Associations of Hospice Disenrollment and Hospitalization With Continuous Home Care Provision
Authors: Wang Shi-Yi , Dang Weixiong , Aldridge Melissa D. , Canavan Maureen , Cherlin Emily , Bradley Elizabeth
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

To examine rates of hospice disenrollment and posthospice hospitalization among patients who are enrolled in hospices that provide continuous home care (CHC) (CHC hospices) compared with patients who are enrolled in hospices that do not offer CHC (non-CHC hospices).

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study among Medicare fee-for-service decedents between July and December 2011, who were 66 years and older and had used hospice in their last 6 months of life. We used propensity score matching to account for potential confounding characteristics of hospices. Generalized estimating equation models were applied to estimate between CHC hospices and non-CHC hospices the associations of hospice disenrollment/hospitalization, adjusted for patient characteristics. We also conducted subgroup analyses to examine how the association might have differed by hospice size, and by the percentage of enrollees who received CHC.

Results:

After matching, we identified 936 pairs of CHC and non-CHC hospices, well balanced in terms of organizational characteristics. In fully adjusted models, compared with non-CHC hospices, CHC hospices had significantly lower disenrollment rates (adjusted rate ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.60–0.87), and lower hospitalization rates (adjusted rate ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.66–0.95). These associations were significantly more pronounced among larger hospices (those with >175 enrollees during study period), and among hospices in which at least 7.3% of enrollees used CHC.

Conclusions:

CHC hospices had significantly lower rates of hospice disenrollment and posthospice hospitalization, suggesting CHC service available may enable higher quality of end-of-life care.
Long-term Pulmonary Outcomes in Pediatric Survivors of High-risk Neuroblastoma
Authors: Stone Anne , Novetsky Friedman Danielle , Worgall Stefan , Kushner Brian H. , Wolden Suzanne , Modak Shakeel , LaQuaglia Michael P. , Wu Xian , Cheung Nai-Kong , Sklar Charles A.
Published: July 2017

Background:

Children with high-risk neuroblastoma are exposed to multimodality therapies early in life and survivors confront late therapy-related toxicities. This study assessed respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function tests (PFTs), and risk factors for abnormalities among survivors.

Materials and Methods:

High-risk neuroblastoma survivors followed in the long-term follow-up clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center were enrolled. Self-administered symptom questionnaires were completed. Medical records were reviewed for treatment information and comorbidities. PFTs included spirometry, plethysmography, and diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO).

Results:

Thirty-nine survivors participated (median age at study: 11.4 y; median age at diagnosis: 2.3 y; median time since completion of therapy: 5.5 y). Chronic respiratory symptoms were reported for 33%. PFT abnormalities were identified in 79% and included low forced expiratory volume in 1 second (38%), decreased total lung capacity (44%), and abnormal DLCO (67%). PFT abnormalities were mostly mild to moderate. Mean forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, and total lung capacity were normal and mean DLCO was mildly abnormal. Risks included thoracic surgery, chest radiation therapy, thoracic surgery plus chest radiation therapy, and shorter time since completion of therapy (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

Although respiratory abnormalities were common, they were mostly mild or moderate. Continued pulmonary surveillance of this at-risk population is warranted.
The value of musculoskeletal ultrasound in geriatric care and rehabilitation
Authors: Can Büşra , Kara Murat , Kara Özgür , Ülger Zekeriya , Frontera Walter R. , Özçakar Levent
Published: July 2017

The WHO reports that one of the major chronic conditions affecting the elderly worldwide is musculoskeletal disorders that are associated with long-term pain and disability. Considering the healthcare needs of the elderly (i.e. comprehensive, accessible, efficient) and the advantages of ultrasound (US) use (patient-friendly, convenient, cost-effective, and does not require exposure to radiation or magnetic fields), there seems to be a ‘gap’ in the actual clinical practice. In this paper, we aimed to highlight the potential value of US imaging in the management of the elderly with a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions (degenerative/rheumatic joint diseases, falls/trauma, nursing care, peripheral nerve problems, sarcopenia, and interventions). In this respect, electronic databases (ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Elsevier Science Direct) and reference lists of relevant articles/reviews were screened by two blinded investigators for each topic. The main medical subject heading terms selected to capture the most relevant papers on the topics in accordance with the literature were knee/hip/hand osteoarthritis, prevalence, rotator cuff injury, lateral epicondylitis, tendinopathy, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, polymyalgia rheumatica, crystal arthropathies, gout, pseudogout, carpal tunnel syndrome, fall, fractures, hematoma, pressure ulcer, ultrasonography, interventional, sarcopenia, body composition, rehabilitation, frail elderly, and aged. The search was limited to peer-reviewed full-text English journals starting from the earliest papers to May 2017. A study population (or part of the study population) of adults older than 65 years (if possible) was included. We especially underscore the use of US by clinicians as an extension of their physical examination or as a practical guide for an immediate intervention.
Activity Restriction Recommendations and Outcomes After Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mueller Margaret G. , Lewicky-Gaupp Christina , Collins Sarah A. , Abernethy Melinda G. , Alverdy Alex , Kenton Kimberly
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from Obstet Gynecol 2017;129:608–614)

It has been recommended for many years that women recovering from gynecologic surgery should restrict their postoperative activity. With increasing use of minimally invasive surgery and resulting decreased hospital stays and quicker recovery, many surgeons have questioned the need for this anecdotal practice.
Effect of Adjuvant Chemotherapy on Left Ventricular Remodeling in Women with Newly Diagnosed Primary Breast Cancer
Authors: Avelar Erick , Truong Quynh A. , Inyangetor David , Marfatia Ravi , Yang Clifford , Kaloudis Electra , Tannenbaum Susan , Rosito Guido , Litwin Sheldon
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to assess the left ventricular (LV) remodeling response to chemotherapy in low–cardiac-risk women with newly diagnosed nonmetastatic breast cancer. Cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy are an increasing concern. To effectively interpret cardiac imaging studies performed for screening purposes in patients undergoing cancer therapy it is necessary to understand the normal changes in structure and function that may occur.

Methods:

Twenty women without preexisting cardiovascular disease, of a mean age of 50 years, newly diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer and treated with anthracycline or trastuzumab, were prospectively enrolled and evaluated at four time points (at baseline, during chemotherapy, 2 weeks after chemotherapy, and 6 months after chemotherapy) using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, blood samples, and a clinical questionnaire.

Results:

Over a 6-month period, the left ventricular ejection fraction (%) decreased (64.15±5.30 to 60.41±5.77, P<0.002) and the LV end-diastolic (mm) and end-systolic (mm) volumes increased (124.73±20.25 to 132.21±19.33, P<0.04 and 45.16±11.88 to 52.57±11.65, P<0.00, respectively). The LV mass (g) did not change (73.06±11.51 to 69.21±15.3, P=0.08), but the LV mass to LVEDV ratio (g/mm) decreased (0.594±0.098 to 0.530±0.124, P<0.04).

Conclusions:

In low–cardiac-risk women with nonmetastatic breast cancer, the increased LV volume and a mildly decreased left ventricular ejection fraction during and after chemotherapy do not seem to be associated with laboratory or clinical evidence of increased risk for heart failure.
Effect of Spreader Graft on Nasal Functions in Septorhinoplasty Surgery
Authors: Mamanov Marlen , Batioglu-Karaaltin Ayşegül , Inci Ender , Erdur Zülküf Burak
Published: July 2017

Objective:

The authors aimed to investigate the effect of spreader grafts on nasal function in septorhinoplasty (SRP).

Methods:

A prospective randomized double-blind study was conducted. Thirty patients who underwent SRP operation between October 2011 and January 2013 were divided into 2 equal groups randomly. Fifteen patients underwent SRP surgery without spreader graft technique (Group I) and 15 patients underwent SRP surgery with spreader grafts (Group II). Preoperative and postoperative evaluation included visual analog score (VAS) and acoustic rhinometry test.

Results:

Visual analog scores and acoustic rhinometry measurements of Group I and Group II patients were compared. Statistically significant difference was found for VAS scores of both the sides of the nasal cavity (both before and after topical decongestion) (P < 0.05), except for the VAS on the right side of the nasal cavity before decongestion (P > 0.05). On acoustic rhinometry test the difference was statistically significant for minimal cross-sectional area (MCA) and volumetric values (VOL)—MCA1, MCA2, VOL1, VOL2 values on the left side of the nasal cavity (both before and after topical decongestion) (P < 0.05) but not on the right side of the nasal cavity (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Performing spreader graft technique in SRP surgery can prevent the narrowing of the internal nasal valve area after surgery and maintain adequate airway for respiration.
Would Be Prophylactic Administrations of Low Concentration of Alendronate an Alternative for Improving the Craniofacial Bone Repair? A Preliminary Study Focused in the Period of Cellular Differentiation and Tissue Organization
Authors: Göhringer Isabella , Muller Carmem L. Storrer , Cunha Emanuelle Juliana , Passoni Giuliene Nunes De Souza , Vieira Juliana Souza , Zielak João Cesar , Scariot Rafaela , Deliberador Tatiana Miranda , Giovanini Allan Fernando
Published: July 2017

Background:

Alendronate (ALN) is a nitrogen-bisphosphonate that may induce an anabolic effect on craniofacial bone repair when administrated in low doses. Based on this premise, this study analyzed the influence of prophylactic low doses of ALN on bone healing in defects created in rabbit mandible.

Methods:

A 5 × 2-mm diameter deep defect was created in the calvaria of 28 rabbits. Fourteen of these rabbits received previously 50 μg/kg of 1% sodium ALN for 4 weeks, while the other rabbits received only 0.9% physiological saline solution (control). Animals were euthanized at 15 and 60 days postsurgery (n = 7), and the data were analyzed using histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry using the anti-CD34, bone morphogenetic protein -2 (BMP-2), and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 antibodies.

Results:

On the 15th day postsurgery, the specimens that received previous treatment with ALN demonstrated large vascular lumen and intense positivity to CD34 either concentrated in endothelium or cells spread among the reparative tissue. These results coincided with intense positivity for BMP-2+ cells and TGF-β1 that was concentrated in both cells and perivascular area. In contrast, the control group revealed scarce cells that exhibited CD34, BMP-2+, and the TGF-β1 was restricted for perivascular area on well-formed granulation tissue. These patterns of immunohistochemical result, especially found on the 15th day of analysis, seem to be responsible for the development of larger quantities of bone matrix in the specimens that receive ALN on the 60th day postsurgery.

Conclusion:

These preliminary results showed that the prophylactic administration of low doses of ALN might be an alternative to craniofacial bone craniofacial bone repair because it increases the immunopositivity for TGF-β1 and consequently improves the CD34+ and BMP-2+ cells on reparative sites.
Modified Medial Ramus Retractor to Facilitate Horizontal Osteotomy During Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy Procedure
Authors: Ganesh Praveen , Nagarjuna Muralidhara , Boyina Kiran Kumar
Published: July 2017

Introducing a horizontal osteotomy is the first and a critical step in sagittal split ramus osteotomy procedure. Identification of the lingula and medial displacement of the vital structures entering the inferior alveolar foramen are of paramount importance in ensuring a risk-free placement of the medial cut with bur or a saw. Quite often, identification of lingula and retrolingular fossa can be an arduous task owing to the thickness of the internal oblique ridge. Hence, placement of horizontal osteotomy depends on the experience of the operator.

Here, the authors describe a simple, low profile instrument that aids in the identification of the lingula as well as provide a posterior stop for horizontal osteotomy during the sagittal split ramus osteotomy procedure.
Non-linear Auto-Regressive Models for Cross-Frequency Coupling in Neural Time Series
Authors: Dupré la Tour Tom , Tallot Lucille , Grabot Laetitia , Doyère Valérie , van Wassenhove Virginie , Grenier Yves , Gramfort Alexandre
Published: July 2017

We address the issue of reliably detecting and quantifying cross-frequency coupling (CFC) in neural time series. Based on non-linear auto-regressive models, the proposed method provides a generative and parametric model of the time-varying spectral content of the signals. As this method models the entire spectrum simultaneously, it avoids the pitfalls related to incorrect filtering or the use of the Hilbert transform on wide-band signals. As the model is probabilistic, it also provides a score of the model “goodness of fit” via the likelihood, enabling easy and legitimate model selection and parameter comparison; this data-driven feature is unique to our model-based approach. Using three datasets obtained with invasive neurophysiological recordings in humans and rodents, we demonstrate that these models are able to replicate previous results obtained with other metrics, but also reveal new insights such as the influence of the amplitude of the slow oscillation. Using simulations, we demonstrate that our parametric method can reveal neural couplings with shorter signals than non-parametric methods. We also show how the likelihood can be used to find optimal filtering parameters, suggesting new properties on the spectrum of the driving signal, but also to estimate the optimal delay between the coupled signals, enabling a directionality estimation in the coupling.

Author Summary

Neural oscillations synchronize information across brain areas at various anatomical and temporal scales. Of particular relevance, slow fluctuations of brain activity have been shown to affect high frequency neural activity, by regulating the excitability level of neural populations. Such cross-frequency-coupling can take several forms. In the most frequently observed type, the power of high frequency activity is time-locked to a specific phase of slow frequency oscillations, yielding phase-amplitude-coupling (PAC). Even when readily observed in neural recordings, such non-linear coupling is particularly challenging to formally characterize. Typically, neuroscientists use band-pass filtering and Hilbert transforms with ad-hoc correlations. Here, we explicitly address current limitations and propose an alternative probabilistic signal modeling approach, for which statistical inference is fast and well-posed. To statistically model PAC, we propose to use non-linear auto-regressive models which estimate the spectral modulation of a signal conditionally to a driving signal. This conditional spectral analysis enables easy model selection and clear hypothesis-testing by using the likelihood of a given model. We demonstrate the advantage of the model-based approach on three datasets acquired in rats and in humans. We further provide novel neuroscientific insights on previously reported PAC phenomena, capturing two mechanisms in PAC: influence of amplitude and directionality estimation.
Massive crossover elevation via combination ofHEI10andrecq4a recq4bduring Arabidopsis meiosis
Authors: Serra Heïdi , Lambing Christophe , Griffin Catherine H. , Topp Stephanie D. , Séguéla-Arnaud Mathilde , Fernandes Joiselle , Mercier Raphaël , Henderson Ian R.
Published: July 2017

During meiosis homologous chromosomes undergo reciprocal crossovers, which generate genetic diversity and underpin classical crop improvement. Meiotic recombination initiates from DNA double strand breaks, which are processed into single-stranded DNA that can invade a homologous chromosome. The resulting joint molecules can ultimately be resolved as crossovers. In Arabidopsis, competing pathways balance the repair of ∼100–200 meiotic DSBs into ∼10 crossovers per meiosis, with the excess DSBs repaired as non-crossovers. In order to bias DSB repair towards crossovers, we simultaneously increased dosage of the pro-crossover E3 ligase geneHEI10and introduced mutations in the anti-crossover helicase genesRECQ4AandRECQ4B. AsHEI10andrecq4a recq4bincrease interfering and non-interfering crossover pathways respectively, they combine additively to yield a massive meiotic recombination increase. Interestingly, we also show that increasedHEI10dosage increases crossover coincidence, which indicates an effect ofHEI10on interference. We also show that patterns of interhomolog polymorphism and heterochromatin drive recombination increases towards the sub-telomeres in bothHEI10andrecq4a recq4bbackgrounds, while the centromeres remain crossover-suppressed. These results provide a genetic framework for engineering meiotic recombination landscapes in plant genomes.
Common Piezo1 allele in African populations causes xerocytosis and attenuates Plasmodium infection
Authors: Ma Shang , Cahalan Stuart , Lohia Rakhee , LaMonte Gregory , Zeng Weizheng , Murthy Swetha , Paytas Emma , Grubaugh Nathan D. , Gamini Ramya , Berry Laurence , Lukacs Viktor , Whitwam Tess , Loud Meaghan , Su Andrew I. , Andersen Kristian G. , Winzeler Elizabeth A. , Honore Eric , Wengelnik Kai , Patapoutian Ardem
Published: July 2017

Hereditary xerocytosis (HX) is thought to be a rare genetic condition characterized by red blood cell (RBC) dehydration with mild hemolysis. Gain-of-function (GOF) mutations in mechanosensitive Piezo1 ion channels are identified in HX patients. RBC dehydration is linked to reducedPlasmodiuminfection rates in vitro. We engineered a Piezo1 mouse model of HX and show thatPlasmodiuminfection fails to cause experimental cerebral malaria in these mice. Furthermore, we identified a novel GOF human Piezo1 variant, E756del, present in a third of African population. Remarkably, RBCs from individuals carrying this allele are dehydrated and protected againstPlasmodiuminfection in vitro. The presence of an HX-causing Piezo1 mutation at such high frequencies in African population is surprising, and suggests an association with malaria resistance.