bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A stage-scanning two-photon microscope equipped with a temporal and a spatial pulse shaper: Enhance fluorescence signal by phase shaping
Authors: Büchau Frederik , Patas Alexander , Yang Yang , Lindinger Albrecht , Heyne Karsten
Published: December 2018

Here, we present a stage-scanning two-photon microscope (2PM) equipped with a temporal pulse shaper and a spatial light modulator enabling full control over spectral and spatial phases of the exciting laser pulse. We demonstrate the capability of correcting wavefronts and temporal pulse distortions without cross-dependencies induced by optical elements at the same time enhancing the fluorescence signal. We implemented phase resolved interferometric spectral modulation for temporal pulse shaping and the iterative feedback adaptive compensation technique for spatial pulse modulation as iterative techniques. Sample distortions were simulated by cover glass plates in the optical path and by chirping the exciting laser pulses. Optimization of the spectral and spatial phases results in a signal increase of 30% and nearly complete recovery of the losses. Applying a measured spatial compensation phase within a real leaf sample shows the enhancement in contrast due to wavefront shaping with local fluorescence increase up to 75%. The setup allows full independent control over spatial and spectral phases keeping or improving the spatial resolution of our microscope and provides the optimal tool for sensitive non-linear and coherent control microscopy.
Physical flow properties for Pollard-like internal water waves
Authors: Kluczek Mateusz
Published: December 2018

We present a study of the physical flow properties for a recently derived three-dimensional nonlinear geophysical internal wave solution. The Pollard-like internal wave solution is explicit in terms of Lagrangian labelling variables, enabling us to examine the mean flow velocities and mass flux in the three-dimensional setting. We show that the Pollard-like internal water wave does not have a net wave transport.
Development of a scanning probe microscopy integrated atomic layer deposition system for in situ successive monitoring of thin film growth
Authors: Cao Kun , Hu Quan , Cai Jiaming , Gong Miao , Yang Jianfeng , Shan Bin , Chen Rong
Published: December 2018

A dual chamber system integrated with atomic layer deposition (ALD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) was developed for the successive monitoring of nanoparticles to thin film growth process. The samples were fabricated in the ALD chamber. A magnetic transmission rod enabled sample transferring between the ALD and the AFM test chambers without breaking the vacuum, avoiding possible surface morphology change when frequently varying the growth condition and oxidation under ambient condition. The sample transmission also avoids deposition and contamination on the AFM tip during the successive testing. The sample stage has machined a group of accurate location pinholes, ensuring the 10 μm2 measurement consistency. As a demonstration, the platinum thin films with different thickness were fabricated by varying ALD cycles. The surface morphology was monitored successively during the deposition. Under vacuum with controlled oxygen partial pressure, the aging and sintering phenomenon of particles has been studied in the AFM testing chamber after high temperature treatment. The integrated AFM/ALD instrument is potentially a powerful system for monitoring the thin film preparation and characterization.
Unidirectional propagation of coupled edge states in sandwich topological photonic crystals
Authors: Gao Yong-Feng , Jiang Zhen , Zhang Lu-Lu , He Liu , Zhao Jian
Published: December 2018

Topological photonic crystals (PCs) with exotic optical properties such as helical edge states have tremendous potential applications in the fields of photonic integrated circuits. Here, we propose a sandwich PC structure based on trivial-nontrivial-trivial topology with a robust unidirectional light propagation through coupling of two helical edge states in the nontrivial topological region. We calculate dispersion relations of the sandwich structures and observe a robust unidirectional light propagation excited by an external point source with orbital angular momentum. To evaluate the stability of light flow, a Z-shaped corner is established and positions or radii of several cylinders are changed randomly. Results show that the unidirectional propagation remains stable in the imperfect structures. The configuration may find potential applications for the construction of nanophotonic circuits.
An anomalous thermal expansion phenomenon induced by phase transition of Fe-Co-Ni alloys
Authors: Wang H. P. , Zhao J. F. , Liu W. , Wei B.
Published: December 2018

The thermal expansion and the phase transition of Fe-15.6 wt. %Co-12 wt. %Ni single-phase solid solution alloy were systematically investigated by thermal analysis experiments and molecular dynamics simulations. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) was accurately measured in the temperature range of 300-1580 K. The eccentric changes of thermal expansion ranging from 900 to 1150 K were verified from the incomplete transformation of α-Fe phase to γ-Fe phase by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and in situ X-ray diffraction experiments. The CTE of α-Fe phase increases nonlinearly from 9.29 × 10−6 to 1.278 × 10−5 K−1 in the range of 300-900 K, which is in good agreement with the results obtained by molecular dynamics simulation, whereas the CTE of γ-Fe phase increases linearly from 2.024 × 10−5 to 2.398 × 10−5 K−1 in the range of 1150-1580 K. Meanwhile, the visual atomic positions at different temperatures indicate that thermal expansion is attributed to the anharmonic vibration and short-range diffusion of atoms when the temperature exceeds a certain value. Furthermore, the Curie temperature is determined as 725 K by the thermal expansion and DSC experiments. Additionally, the isothermal sections of the Fe-rich corner [Fe-5x wt. %Co-5y wt. %Ni(2 ≤ x + y ≤ 8)] in Fe-Co-Ni non-equilibrium ternary phase diagram at 300 K are derived by X-ray diffraction. Moreover, the CTE ranging from 300 to 1700 K of the Fe-rich corner in Fe-Co-Ni ternary phase diagram was predicted theoretically on the basis of the molecular dynamics method.
First marlin archival tagging study suggests new direction for research
Authors: Domeier Michael L. , Ortega-Garcia Sofia , Nasby-Lucas Nicole , Offield Paxson
Published: December 2018

Decades of billfish tagging studies have been hindered by below-par conventional tag recovery rates and high rates of premature satellite pop-up tag shedding. With hopes of obtaining long-term tracking data, we performed the world’s first archival tagging study on an istiophorid, surgically implanting 99 archival tags into the peritoneal cavity of striped marlin (Kajikia audax) off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. Marlin were also tagged externally with a conventional tag before release. Ten archival tags (10.1%) were recovered with days at liberty (DAL) ranging from 400 to 2795. Nine recoveries were from Mexican waters, whereas one marlin was recaptured off Ecuador. In total, 100% of the light stalks on the archival tags failed, with nine failing within the first 3 months of deployment; because the light data are used to estimate the geographic position of the tagged fish, tracking data were compromised. The absence of conventional tags on all recaptured marlin indicates that studies of marlin using conventional tags have been hindered by tag shedding rather than tagging-associated mortality or underreporting. Our high recapture rate and long DAL suggest istiophorid science could be greatly advanced by archival tagging if new tag designs or methods can eliminate tag failure.
Species and genus richness and assemblage composition of stream caddisflies (Insecta: Trichoptera) vary with latitude in mountain rainforest of Argentina
Authors: Pero Edgardo J. I. , Rueda Martín Paola A. , Reynaga María C.
Published: December 2018

Evidence found in results of studies of latitudinal gradients of benthic macroinvertebrate diversity is variable. This study analysed how species and genus richness and the composition of caddisfly assemblages (Insecta: Trichoptera) vary in Argentinean mountain forest through a latitudinal gradient from 22 to 28°S. Qualitative and quantitative data from 20 stream sites were compared. Assemblage richness and composition were analysed by comparing linear regressions, rank–abundance (RA) curves and non-metric multidimensional scaling (nMDS). Taxonomic richness increased from high to low latitude. RA curves showed changes in assemblage composition and structure across the latitudinal gradient. The nMDS revealed that the composition of the assemblages also changed along the latitudinal gradient. The patterns are similar to those observed in plants and vertebrates from the study region. The results are of particular note because a latitudinal gradient of aquatic insect diversity has rarely been observed in a narrow range.
Modulation of HIF-2α PAS-B domain contributes to physiological responses
Authors: Feng Zhihui , Zou Xuan , Chen Yaomin , Wang Hanzhi , Duan Yingli , Bruick Richard K.
Published: December 2018

Significance

Constitutive HIF-2α activity has been well demonstrated to promote cancer progression. A newly designed small molecule (PT2399) has been proven to inhibit HIF-2α through binding its PAS-B domain in recent studies. In the present study, we generated a mouse model featuring a cavity-filling point mutation (S305M), which fails to bind PT2399 in vivo. In addition to response to hypoxia stress, we show that HIF-2α PAS-B domain also mediates response to metabolic stress such as high fat diet, and PT2399 could ameliorate metabolic condition in obese animals, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for HIF-2α antagonists in metabolic disorders.
Biocontrol potential of
Pasteuria
spp. for the management of plant parasitic nematodes.
Authors: Ciancio A.
Published: December 2018

Plant parasitic nematodes represent a severe threat for agriculture, causing yield losses for several food and industrial crops, worldwide. Actually, increasing demand for organic food products and for sustainable management practices requires the development of biocontrol approaches based on suitable antagonists. In this review, some traits of members of the bacterial genus
Pasteuria
are discussed, focusing on their biology and taxonomy, host range, specificity and application for host nematode regulation. Given the high specificity of
Pasteuria
spp. and the biodiversity recognized Within species, the exploitation of these parasites requires the collection of data on the isolates most suitable for practical use. Some traits of
Pasteuria
spp. biology appear favourable for biocontrol applications, such as the minimum impact on the other soil microorganisms and invertebrates, the durability of endospores, together with host specificity and regulation capability. Experimental evaluation of host-parasite compatibility for biocontrol purposes is a pre-requisite necessary for practical use. Isolates selection and evaluation may represent an additional cost in the development of commercial products and bioformulations based on mass cultivation of these bacteria. The
Pasteuria
spp. associated with nematode pests represent a valuable and widespread natural resource, whose benefits and application potential are not yet completely explored.
Minimizing length of billiard trajectories in hyperbolic polygons
Authors: Parker John , Peyerimhoff Norbert , Siburg Karl
Published: December 2018

Closed billiard trajectories in a polygon in the hyperbolic plane can be coded by the order in which they hit the sides of the polygon. In this paper, we consider the average length of cyclically related closed billiard trajectories in ideal hyperbolic polygons and prove the conjecture that this average length is minimized for regular hyperbolic polygons. The proof uses a strict convexity property of the geodesic length function in Teichmüller space with respect to the Weil–Petersson metric, a fundamental result established by Wolpert.
Endocrine stress response of Eastern Fence Lizards in fire-disturbed landscapes
Authors: Iacchetta Michael G , Maloney K Nichole , Gienger C M
Published: December 2018

Landscape disturbances can alter habitat structure and resource availability, often inducing physiological responses by organisms to cope with the changing conditions. Quantifying the endocrine stress response through measurement of glucocorticoids has become an increasingly common method for determining how organisms physiologically respond to challenges imposed by their environment. We tested the hypothesis that Eastern Fence Lizards cope with fire disturbance effects by modulating their secretion of corticosterone (CORT). We measured the baseline and stress-induced plasma CORT of male Eastern Fence Lizards in a chronosequence of fire-altered habitats (recently burned, recovering from burn, and unburned). Although habitat use by lizards differed among burn treatments, including differences in use of canopy cover, leaf litter, and vegetation composition, we did not detect a significant effect of fire-induced habitat alteration on plasma CORT concentration or on body condition. In addition, we found no effect of blood draw treatment (baseline or stress-induced), body temperature, body condition, or time taken to collect blood samples on concentration of plasma CORT. Low intensity burns, which are typical of prescribed fire, may not be a sufficient stressor to alter CORT secretion in Eastern Fence Lizards (at least during the breeding season). Instead, lizards may avoid allostatic overload using behavioral responses and by selecting microsites within their environment that permit thermoregulatory opportunities necessary for optimal performance and energy assimilation.
Finite Generation of the Algebra of Type A Conformal Blocks via Birational Geometry
Authors: Moon Han-Bom , Yoo Sang-Bum
Published: December 2018

We study the birational geometry of the moduli space of parabolic bundles over a projective line, in the framework of Mori’s program. We show that the moduli space is a Mori dream space. As a consequence, we obtain the finite generation of the algebra of type A conformal blocks. Furthermore, we compute the H-representation of the effective cone that was previously obtained by Belkale. For each big divisor, the associated birational model is described in terms of moduli space of parabolic bundles.
Rapid decline in 51Cr-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid-measured renal function during the first weeks following liver transplantation
Authors: Hornum Mads , Penninga Luit , Rostved Andreas A , Christensen Karl B , Oturai Peter , Plagborg Ulla , Feldt-Rasmussen Bo , Hillingsø Jens G , Rasmussen Allan
Published: December 2018

Background

Renal dysfunction is a serious late complication after liver transplantation (LTX), but there are no studies addressing the early changes associated with this complication.

Methods

We prospectively studied glomerular filtration rate (GFR) before and at 1, 3 and 12 weeks after LTX using 51Cr-labelled ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid clearance in 37 adult consecutive patients who underwent non-acute first LTX.

Results

The mean (±SD) age was 49.5 ± 9.5 years, and the male:female sex ratio was 21:16. Diagnoses were autoimmune liver diseases (17), alcoholic cirrhosis (10) and other diseases (10). Immunosuppressive treatment consisted predominantly of triple-drug therapy. A total of 27 of the 37 patients were eligible for GFR analysis at all times. The mean (±SD) GFR was 86 ± 26 mL/min/1.73 m2 before LTX, and 77 ± 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 at 1 week, 64 ± 27 mL/min/1.73 m2 at 3 weeks and 64 ± 23 mL/min/1.73 m2 at 12 weeks after LTX, comparable to a reduction in mean GFR compared with baseline values of 10% (P = 0.1907), 25% (P = 0.0010) and 26% (P = 0.0007). Age and number of blood transfusions during surgery were identified as risk factors for this decline as well as gender, but not pre-transplant diagnosis, model of end-stage liver disease score, cold ischaemia time or post-transplant area under the curve tacrolimus during Days 0–14.

Conclusions

Using measured rather than estimated GFR, our results show that severe renal impairment occurs during the first week after LTX. These results emphasize the need for more studies addressing renoprotective treatment strategies.
Does Smoking Intensity Predict Cessation Rates? A Study of Light-Intermittent, Light-Daily, and Heavy Smokers Enrolled in Two Telephone-Based Counseling Interventions
Authors: Ni Katherine , Wang Binhuan , Link Alissa R , Sherman Scott E
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Though many interventions have been shown to be effective in helping smokers quit, outcomes may differ between light and heavy smokers. We identified differences in baseline characteristics and post-intervention cessation rates among smoker groups at two safety-net hospitals.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed cessation rates in 1604 patients randomized to either a quitline referral (1–2 telephone counseling sessions) or intensive counseling program (seven telephone sessions). Participants were stratified into light-intermittent (smoked on ≤24 of last 30 days), light-daily (smoked on >24/30 days, 1–9 cigarettes per day [CPD]), or heavy smokers (smoked on >24/30 days, ≥10 CPD). We compared baseline characteristics between smoker types using chi-squared tests, then identified predictors of 30-day abstinence using a multivariable model.

Results

Compared with light-daily and light-intermittent smokers, heavy smokers were more likely to be white, male, concomitant e-cigarette users, to have high-risk alcohol use, to have used quitting aids previously, to have current or lifetime substance use (excluding cannabis), and have lower confidence in quitting. However, in multivariable analysis, smoker type was not significantly associated with cessation. The statistically significant predictors of cessation at 6 months were higher confidence in quitting and enrollment in the intensive counseling intervention.

Conclusions

Smoker type (light-intermittent, light-daily, or heavy) does not independently predict success in a cessation program. However, smoker type is strongly associated with patients’ confidence in quitting, which may be one predictor of cessation.

Implications

This study of two safety-net hospitals emphasizes that the number of cigarettes smoked per day does not independently predict smoking cessation. Additionally, heavy smokers are at highest risk for the detrimental health effects of tobacco, yet have lower confidence and motivation to quit. Confidence in quitting may be one factor that affects cessation rates; however, further study is needed to identify which other attributes predict cessation. These findings suggest that smoker type may still be a useful proxy for predicting cessation and that interventions specifically designed for and validated in heavy smokers are needed to better aid these individuals.
Effect of Preperitoneal Versus Epidural Analgesia on Postoperative Inflammatory Response and Pain Following Radical Cystectomy: A Prospective, Randomized Trial
Authors: Othman Ahmed H. , Ahmed Doaa G. , Abd El-Rahman Ahmad M. , El Sherif Fatma A. , Mansour Samar , Aboeleuon Ebrahim
Published: December 2018

Objectives:

Continuous wound infiltration of local anesthetics has been proposed as an alternative to epidural analgesia during abdominal surgery. Cytokines have a major role in inflammatory changes caused by surgery. This study aimed to compare the effects of continuous preperitoneal versus epidural analgesia on inflammatory cytokines postoperatively.

Materials and Methods:

Forty patients scheduled for radical cystectomy were included in this observer-blinded, randomized trial; patients were randomly assigned into 2 groups to receive; continuous preperitoneal wound infiltration (PPB) or epidural analgesia (EDB). Serum levels of interleukins (IL1β, IL6, IL10, and tumor necrosis factor α) were measured at baseline (before induction of anesthesia), preinfusion (before the start of local anesthetic infusion), 6 and 24 hours postoperatively. Visual Analog Scale at rest/movement (VAS-R∕M), time to the first request of analgesia, total morphine consumption, sedation score, hemodynamics, and side effects were observed 24 hours postoperatively.

Results:

There was a significant reduction in IL6, IL1β and increase in IL10 in PPB compared with EDB at 6 and 24 hours postoperatively and compared with preinfusion levels (P≤0.001). In EDB, a significant increase in IL1β, IL10, and tumor necrosis factor α at 6 hours compared with preinfusion levels (P≤0.002). VAS-R∕M was significantly decreased at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 hours in EDB compared with PPB (P≤0.014), with no significant difference in the mean time to the first request of analgesia and total morphine consumption between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Continuous preperitoneal analgesia better attenuated postoperative inflammatory response and provided a comparable overall analgesia to that with continuous epidural analgesia following radical cystectomy.
A practical guide to orthopaedic surgery away rotation success
Authors: Davis William A. , Uribe John , Yagnik Gautam
Published: December 2018

Matching into an orthopaedic surgery residency is a highly competitive process. Applicants are typically excellent by multiple objective measures. Because of these competitive statistics, students often complete several elective away rotations in hopes of distinguishing themselves at a program in which they have particular interest. Students should be well prepared for these rotations, as they often serve the function of a 4-week audition. A strong performance can be very helpful to successfully match, but a weak performance can be detrimental. Here we present advice that may be helpful to senior students preparing for orthopaedic surgery rotations, which may also be applicable to third year students and even junior residents. Additionally we provide some practical tips specific to the elective orthopaedic surgery away rotation.
Clinical and radiographic comparison of single-sugar-tong splint to long-arm cast immobilization for pediatric forearm fractures
Authors: Murphy Robert F. , Plumblee Leah , Sleasman Brian , Barfield William , Dow Matthew A. , Mooney James F.
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a single-sugar-tong splint (SSTS) to a long-arm cast (LAC) in maintaining reduction of pediatric forearm fractures, while avoiding secondary intervention. One hundred patients age 3–15 with a forearm fracture requiring a reduction and immobilization were evaluated (50 LAC and 50 SSTS). Medical records and radiographs were reviewed at injury, postreduction, and at 1, 2, and 4 weeks postinjury. Sagittal and coronal angular deformities were recorded. Any secondary intervention due to loss of reduction was documented. The groups were matched by age (P = 0.19), sex (P = 0.26), mechanism of injury (P = 0.66), average injury sagittal deformity (LAC 27.4°, SSTS 25.4°; P = 0.50), and average injury coronal deformity (LAC 15.5°, SSTS 16°; P = 0.80) At 4 weeks postinjury follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences between use of an SSTS or LAC when comparing postimmobilization sagittal alignment (LAC 10.3 ± 7.2, SSTS 8.4 ± 5.1°; P = 0.46), coronal alignment (LAC 6.9 ± 4.6, SSTS 7.6 ± 9.3°; P = 0.46), or need for repeat manipulation or surgery (LAC 4/50, SSTS 3/50; P = 0.70).
Ferroptosis Contributes to Neuronal Death and Functional Outcome After Traumatic Brain Injury*
Authors: Kenny Elizabeth M. , Fidan Emin , Yang Qin , Anthonymuthu Tamil S. , New Lee Ann , Meyer Elizabeth A. , Wang Hong , Kochanek Patrick M. , Dixon C. Edward , Kagan Valerian E. , Bayir Hülya
Published: December 2018

Objectives:

Traumatic brain injury triggers multiple cell death pathways, possibly including ferroptosis—a recently described cell death pathway that results from accumulation of 15-lipoxygenase–mediated lipid oxidation products, specifically oxidized phosphatidylethanolamine containing arachidonic or adrenic acid. This study aimed to investigate whether ferroptosis contributed to the pathogenesis of in vitro and in vivo traumatic brain injury, and whether inhibition of 15-lipoxygenase provided neuroprotection.

Design:

Cell culture study and randomized controlled animal study.

Setting:

University research laboratory.

Subjects:

HT22 neuronal cell line and adult male C57BL/6 mice.

Interventions:

HT22 cells were subjected to pharmacologic induction of ferroptosis or mechanical stretch injury with and without administration of inhibitors of ferroptosis. Mice were subjected to sham or controlled cortical impact injury. Injured mice were randomized to receive vehicle or baicalein (12/15-lipoxygenase inhibitor) at 10–15 minutes postinjury.

Measurements and Main Results:

Pharmacologic inducers of ferroptosis and mechanical stretch injury resulted in cell death that was rescued by prototypical antiferroptotic agents including baicalein. Liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry revealed the abundance of arachidonic/adrenic-phosphatidylethanolamine compared with other arachidonic/adrenic acid-containing phospholipids in the brain. Controlled cortical impact resulted in accumulation of oxidized phosphatidylethanolamine, increased expression of 15-lipoxygenase and acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (enzyme that generates substrate for the esterification of arachidonic/adrenic acid into phosphatidylethanolamine), and depletion of glutathione in the ipsilateral cortex. Postinjury administration of baicalein attenuated oxidation of arachidonic/adrenic acid-containing-phosphatidylethanolamine, decreased the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling positive cells in the hippocampus, and improved spatial memory acquisition versus vehicle.

Conclusions:

Biomarkers of ferroptotic death were increased after traumatic brain injury. Baicalein decreased ferroptotic phosphatidylethanolamine oxidation and improved outcome after controlled cortical impact, suggesting that 15-lipoxygenase pathway might be a valuable therapeutic target after traumatic brain injury.
Marijuana Use in Pregnancy: An Updated Look at Marijuana Use and Its Impact on Pregnancy
Authors: STICKRATH ELAINE
Published: December 2018

This article aims to provide an updated look at the use of marijuana in the United States and its impact on pregnancy. First, the prevalence of marijuana use is examined, including use both in and outside of pregnancy. The literature surrounding attitudes and beliefs with regard to use in pregnancy is reviewed. The impact on pregnancy outcomes is reviewed along with the evidence of marijuana’s impact on neural development of the fetus. Finally, clinical considerations for providers are discussed.
Chronic Monteggia
Authors: Soni Jamil F. , Valenza Weverley R. , Pavelec Anna Carolina
Published: December 2018

Purpose of review

The chronic Monteggia may lead to pain, mobility limitation, progressive valgus deformity, lateral elbow instability, late ulnar nerve paralysis, and degenerative changes. In this review, we discuss the current procedures in the literature focused on correcting chronic Monteggia to avoid these complications.

Recent findings

Correction of the ulnar deformity with elongation and angulation of the ulna in the opposite direction of the dislocation of the radial head is the most important factor for the reduction and consequent preservation of the radial head. This correction reestablishes the relation of the ulna with the radius and increases the space of the interosseous membrane, providing greater stability after the reduction. The correction may be performed in the acute phase and stabilized with a properly molded plate and screws, or done progressively with an external fixator.

The chronic Monteggia may occur along with undiagnosed lesions, such as plastic deformation of the ulna with radial head dislocation, or after an unsuccessfully treated acute Monteggia lesion. This condition may go unnoticed, thus requiring attention to the physical examination and imaging tests. Chronic Monteggia may be treated by ulnar osteotomy with progressive correction with an external fixator. However, the most common treatment is transverse proximal ulnar osteotomy, capsulotomy and removal interposed tissue, reduction of the radial head to the capitellum and temporary transcapitellar fixation, ulnar fixation with a straight plate molded to the ulnar deformity, which is usually deviated dorsally, removal of the transcapitellar Kirschner-wire, stability test, and, if necessary, annular ligament reconstruction.
Factors Associated With Responsiveness to Gait and Balance Training in People With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Löfgren Niklas , Conradsson David , Joseph Conran , Leavy Breiffni , Hagströmer Maria , Franzén Erika
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose:

Although increasing evidence supports the benefit- of exercise among people with Parkinson disease (PwPD), it is unclear whether a given exercise modality suits all PwPD, given the heterogeneity of the disease. The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with responsiveness to a highly challenging training intervention that incorporated dual-task exercises.

Methods:

Forty-seven PwPD (mean age: 73 years; 19 females, Hoehn and Yahr stages 2-3) who had participated in 10 weeks of highly challenging gait and balance training were included. Baseline demographics, disease-related factors, physical and cognitive ability, and perceived health were used for the prediction of percent change in balance performance (the Mini-BESTest) and comfortable gait speed between the pre- and postassessments, using multiple linear regression analyses.

Results:

Thirty-five percent of the variance of change in balance performance was explained by General Health Perceptions (β = −0.36), the Timed Up and Go test (β = −0.33), and the single-task performance of a cognitive task (β = −0.24). Forty-nine percent of change in gait speed was explained by gait speed while performing a dual task (β = −0.46), dual-task interference while walking (β = 0.43), time to complete the Timed Up and Go test (β = −0.29), and percent error on a cognitive task (β = −0.25).

Discussion and Conclusions:

The results may suggest that the PwPD with overall lower perceived health, functional mobility, and cognitive functions are the ones most likely to benefit from highly challenging and attention-demanding gait and balance training.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A240).
Milestones in Plastic Surgery: Attending Assessment versus Resident Assessment
Authors: Chow Ian , Nguyen Vu T. , Losee Joseph E. , Goldstein Jesse A. , Spiess Alexander M. , Solari Mario G. , Rubin J. Peter , Gusenoff Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2018

Background:

The Plastic Surgery Milestones Project was jointly conceived by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and the American Board of Plastic Surgery as a tool to improve granularity in resident feedback. Resident self-evaluations were compared to attending clinical competency committee evaluations to gauge resident self-perceptions and understanding of the milestones framework.

Methods:

Semiannual evaluations from June of 2014 to 2017 were analyzed and compared with corresponding resident self-evaluations from the 2015 to 2017 academic year at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Evaluations were analyzed for overall trends in performance. The presence of systemic differences between each type of evaluation were determined using Student’s t tests. Subgroup analysis using the chi-square test was performed to determine factors that may contribute to major assessment disparity (≥1).

Results:

Six thousand two hundred seven milestones across 187 faculty evaluations and 3139 milestones across 106 resident self-evaluations were available for review. With the exception of postgraduate year–2 residents, residents rated themselves at a significantly lower level in the competencies of medical education and patient care. Postgraduate year, academic year timing, and Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education competency were associated with major assessment discrepancies.

Conclusions:

Overall, resident and faculty evaluations at the authors’ program were concordant, which demonstrates that residents are capable of accurately assessing their own abilities and understanding the milestones framework. Areas of discordance between resident and faculty evaluations fostered discussion between residents and faculty and have led to multiple changes in the authors’ program. The introduction of self-evaluation tools at other programs may provide them with similar benefits.
An Electrophysiological Biomarker That May Predict Treatment Response to ECT
Authors: Scangos Katherine W. , Weiner Richard D. , Coffey Edward C. , Krystal Andrew D.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for major depression but also carries risk of cognitive side effects. The ability to predict whether treatment will be effective before initiation of treatment could significantly improve quality of care, reduce suffering, and diminish costs. We sought to carry out a comprehensive and definitive study of the relationship between the background electroencephalography (EEG) and therapeutic response to ECT.

Methods

Twenty-one channel resting EEG was collected pre-ECT and 2 to 3 days after ECT course from 2 separate data sets, one to develop an EEG model of therapeutic response (n = 30) and a second to test this model (n = 40). A 3-way principal components analysis was applied and coherence and spectral amplitude across 6 frequency bands were examined. The primary outcome measure was the Montgomery-Asberg Rating Scale (MADRS).

Results

Four patterns of amplitude and coherence along with baseline MADRS score accounted for 85% of the variance in posttreatment course MADRS score in study 1 (R
2 = 0.85, F = 11.7, P < 0.0002) and 53% of the variance in MADRS score in study 2 (R
2 = 0.53, F = 5.5, P < 0.003). Greater pre-ECT course anterior delta coherence accounted for the majority of variance in therapeutic response (study 1: R
2 = 0.44, P = 0.01; study 2: R
2 = 0.16, P = 0.008).

Conclusions

These results suggest a putative electrophysiological biomarker that can predict therapeutic response before a course of ECT. Greater baseline anterior delta coherence is significantly associated with a better subsequent therapeutic response and could be indicative of intact circuitry allowing for improved seizure propagation.
Family Presence During Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Elias Alby , Ang Angela , Schneider Andrew , George Kuruvilla
Published: December 2018

Background

The practice of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is often hampered by stigma and myths prevailing among patients and families. Family attendance at ECT has not been systematically studied.

Methods

From January 2017 to May 2018, 69 consecutive patients were approached for family attendance at ECT. The inclusion criteria for entry to the ECT suite were consent from families and patients, age older than 18 years, and 1 family member at a time. After watching ECT, family members completed a multiple-choice questionnaire regarding their experience.

Results

Twenty-one family members watched ECT. A majority viewed the idea of attendance at ECT as reassuring, and a few indicated that it was anxiety provoking. Five participants (24%) felt distressed while watching the procedure, whereas 16 family members rated their experience as comfortable or rewarding (76%). In terms of the outcome, a clear majority have responded that watching the procedure alleviated their fears of ECT or provided transformative knowledge, whereas others felt no change in their attitude toward ECT (71% vs 29%). Most of the participants recommended watching ECT to other family members, whereas a minority was uncertain about their opinion (62% vs 38%). There were no adverse effects, premature exit from the ECT suite, interferences with treatment, or litigations.

Conclusions

A clear majority of families viewed their attendance at ECT as a beneficial experience. Family presence during ECT may have the potential to promulgate its practice by reducing stigma and misconceptions.
Ketamine Versus Midazolam for Depression Relapse Prevention Following Successful Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Finnegan Martha , Galligan Toni , Ryan Karen , Shanahan Enda , Harkin Andrew , Daly Leslie , McLoughlin Declan M.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Depression relapse after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is common (40% at 6 months). Ketamine has a robust antidepressant effect, but there are no reported studies of ketamine for depression relapse prevention. This pilot trial (NCT02414932) was designed to assess feasibility of the proposed trial protocol, including examining reasons for nonrecruitment, nonrandomization, and dropout.

Methods

Patients with unipolar depression referred for ECT were monitored weekly for therapeutic response, using the 24-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (monitoring phase). Those who met standard response criteria were invited to be randomized to a course of 4 once-weekly infusions of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) or the active comparator, midazolam (0.045 mg/kg), over 40 minutes to examine trial processes (treatment phase). Participants were followed up for 6 months after ECT to assess for relapse.

Results

One hundred seventy-five referrals were screened over 18 months, and 68% of eligible participants (n = 43) were recruited to the monitoring phase; 60.5% of participants met ECT response criteria (n = 26), but only 26% (6) of these consented to take part in the treatment phase. These were randomized (3 to ketamine and 3 to midazolam), and no participant completed the 4-week treatment protocol. Information was gathered on reasons for nonrecruitment, nonrandomization, and dropout, which included practical aspects of infusions and lack of interest in further treatment after response to ECT.

Conclusions

The proposed treatment protocol is not suitable for a definitive trial in our center. Information collected on reasons for dropout may inform future clinical trials of intravenous ketamine.

Trial registration: www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT02414932.
In Troyer syndrome Spartin loss induces Complex I impairments and alters pyruvate metabolism
Authors: Diquigiovanni Chiara , Bergamini Christian , Diaz Rebeca , Liparulo Irene , Bianco Francesca , Masin Luca , Tranchina Antonia , Buscherini Francesco , Wischmeijer Titia Anita , Pippucci Tommaso , Scarano Emanuela , Cordelli Duccio Maria , Fato Romana , Lucocq John Milton , Seri Marco , Paracchini Silvia , Bonora Elena
Published: December 2018

Growth delay and retardation are complex phenotypes which can results by a range of factors including genetics variants. We identified a novel homozygous frameshift mutation, c.892dupA, in SPART gene, in two brothers with short stature and psychomotor retardation, born from healthy consanguineous parents. Mutations in SPART are the cause of Troyer syndrome, an autosomal recessive form of spastic paraplegia resulting in muscle weakness, short stature and cognitive defects. SPART encodes for Spartin, a protein with different cellular functions, such as endosomal trafficking and mitochondrial stability.

We evaluated the effects of Spartin loss by transiently silencing SPART in human neural stem cells (hNSCs) and by generating an SH-SY5Y cell line model carrying the c.892dupA mutation via CRISPR/Cas9. In both models, we observed an altered neuronal growth and an increase in neurite outgrowth. In the SH-SY5Y cell line carrying the c.892dupA mutation, Spartin absence led to an altered distribution of mitochondria, and to a severe decrease in the NADH-dehydrogenase activity of mitochondrial Complex I. These impairments determined an energetic failure with a decrease in ATP synthesis due to a halt in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, increased reactive oxygen species production, and alteration in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. Transient re-expression of Spartin in mutant cells restored an intracellular Ca2+ level. Mutant cells presented a significant increase in extracellular pyruvate, which may result from increased glycolysis due to impaired Complex I activity. Consistently, Spartin loss led to an over-activation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) factor, a key regulator of glycolysis.

These data demonstrate that Spartin loss leads to a profound bioenergetics imbalance with defective OXPHOS activity, and this altered metabolism might underlie Troyer syndrome and neurodevelopmental delays.
Formin-2 drives intracellular polymerisation of actin filaments enabling correct segregation of apicoplasts in Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Stortz Johannes Felix , Singer Mirko , Wilkes Jonathan M , Meissner Markus , Das Sujaan
Published: December 2018

Pathogenic obligate-intracellular apicomplexan parasites possess an essential chloroplast-like organelle called the apicoplast that undergoes division and segregation during replication. Parasite actin is essential during intracellular development, implicated in vesicular transport, parasite replication and apicoplast inheritance. However, the inability to visualise live actin dynamics in apicomplexan parasites limited functional characterisation of both filamentous-actin (F-actin) and actin regulatory factors. Apicomplexans possess at least two distinct formins, Formin-1 and Formin-2, predicted to serve as actin-nucleating factors, and previously implicated in regulating gliding motility and host cell invasion. Here, we expressed chromobodies and validated them as F-actin-binding sensors in Plasmodium falciparum and characterised the in vivo dynamics of the F-actin network. The F-actin network could be modulated chemically and disrupted by conditionally deleting the actin-1 gene. In a comparative approach, we demonstrate that Formin-2 is closely associated with apicoplasts and with the F-actin network in P. falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii. Consequently, disruption of Formin-2 resulted not only in an apicoplast segregation defect, but also in complete abrogation of F-actin dynamics in intracellular parasites. Together, our results strongly indicate that Formin-2-mediated filament formation is the common primary mechanism for F-actin nucleation during apicomplexan intracellular growth effecting apicoplast segregation.
Codon usage and amino acid identity are major determinants of mRNA stability in humans
Authors: Forrest Megan E. , Narula Ashrut , Sweet Thomas J , Arango Daniel , Hanson Gavin , Ellis James , Oberdoerffer Shalini , Coller Jeff , Rissland Olivia S
Published: December 2018

mRNA degradation is a critical, yet poorly understood, aspect of gene expression. Previous studies demonstrate that codon content acts as a major determinant of mRNA stability in model organisms. In humans, the importance of open reading frame (ORF)-mediated regulation remains unclear. Here, we globally analyzed mRNA stability for both endogenous and human ORFeome collection mRNAs in human cells. Consistent with previous studies, we observed that synonymous codon usage impacts human mRNA decay. Unexpectedly, amino acid identity also acts as a driver of translation-dependent decay, meaning that primary protein sequence dictates overall mRNA levels and, consequently, protein abundance. Both codon usage and amino acid identity affect translational elongation rate to varying degrees in distinct organisms, with the net result being sensed by mRNA degradation machinery. In humans, interplay between ORF- and UTR-mediated control of mRNA stability may be critical to offset this fundamental relationship between protein sequence and mRNA abundance.
Cornerstone root causes through the analysis of the Ishikawa diagram, is it possible to find them?
Authors: Suárez-Barraza Manuel F. , Rodríguez-González Francisco G.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Some manufacturing and service organizations have made efforts to work on continuous improvement in the form of Kaizen, lean thinking, Six Sigma, etc. The elimination of problems and waste (MUDA for the Japanese) plays a fundamental role in the reduction of operational costs and quality rejections of finished products both internally in the organization and in the supply chain. Some of these efforts use quality control tools to remedy it. Kaoru Ishikawa proposes seven basic quality tools. In this group of quality tools is the cause-and-effect diagram (CED), also known as “The Fishbone” and “Ishikawa diagram”. Exploring this questioning can shed light on the first indications to ratify the arguments of Ishikawa and Deming, that the main problems of companies are found in their processes and perhaps, in a deep way, in some of these cornerstone root causes that have to do with the way organizations are managed. The purpose of this study is to investigate cornerstone root causes through the application of CEDs in 40 Mexican companies that began an effort to improve some of their organizational processes.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted. As a research strategy, the case study method was applied. Using theoretical sampling, the Ishikawa diagrams of 40 companies were analyzed, and 24 semi-structured interviews in depth were conducted.

Findings

The results of this research confirm the main research question: Are there cornerstone root causes that give way to one or several problems or effects of problems in organizations regardless of their sector? In other words, there were at least seven typical patterns that show the first signs of cornerstones root causes in organizations.

Research limitations/implications

The method itself is a limitation; 40 case studies are not enough to generalize the results. In addition, the research was conducted only in a single Latin American country; in some cities of Mexico. However, 60 per cent of these companies are multinationals.

Practical implications

This paper is fundamental to delve into the cornerstones causes that give rise to the problems of organizations of the twenty-first century. The authors understand that these are the first indications, and that they cannot be considered a conclusion of these causes. However, this first theoretical sampling presents a first light on the subject.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the limited existing literature on total quality management and Kaizen in quality control tools and subsequently disseminates this information to provide impetus, guidance and support toward improving the problems of the organizations of twenty-first century.