bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ubiquitin ligases HUWE1 and NEDD4 cooperatively control signal-dependent PRC2-Ezh1α/β-mediated adaptive stress response pathway in skeletal muscle cells
Authors: Liu Peng , Shuaib Muhammad , Zhang Huoming , Nadeef Seba , Orlando Valerio
Published: December 2019

Background

While the role of Polycomb group protein-mediated “cell memory” is well established in developmental contexts, little is known about their role in adult tissues and in particular in post-mitotic cells. Emerging evidence assigns a pivotal role in cell plasticity and adaptation. PRC2-Ezh1α/β signaling pathway from cytoplasm to chromatin protects skeletal muscle cells from oxidative stress. However, detailed mechanisms controlling degradation of cytoplasmic Ezh1β and assembly of canonical PRC2-Ezh1α repressive complex remain to be clarified.

Results

Here, we report NEDD4 ubiquitin E3 ligase, as key regulator of Ezh1β. In addition, we report that ubiquitination and degradation of Ezh1β is controlled by another layer of regulation, that is, one specific phosphorylation of serine 560 located at Ezh1β-specific C terminal. Finally, we demonstrate that also Ezh1α needs to be stabilized under stress condition and this stabilization process requires decreased association pattern between another E3 ubiquitin ligase HUWE1.

Conclusions

Together, these results shed light on key components that regulate PRC2-Ezh1α/β pathway to direct modulation of epigenome plasticity and transcriptional output in skeletal muscle cells.
Quantifying disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis with the TSPO PET ligand 18F-GE-180 and comparison with 18F-FDG and DCE-MRI
Authors: de Groot Marius , Patel Neel , Manavaki Roido , Janiczek Robert L. , Bergstrom Mats , Östör Andrew , Gerlag Danielle , Roberts Alexandra , Graves Martin J. , Karkera Yakshitha , Fernando Disala , Mistry Prafull , Walker Adam , Wisniacki Nicolas , Fryer Tim D. , Jimenez-Royo Pilar
Published: December 2019

Purpose

While the aetiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear, many of the inflammatory components are well characterised. For diagnosis and therapy evaluation, in vivo insight into these processes would be valuable. Various imaging probes have shown value including dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI and PET/CT using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) or tracers targeting the translocator protein (TSPO). To evaluate 18F-GE-180, a novel TSPO PET tracer, for detecting and quantifying disease activity in RA, we compared 18F-GE-180 uptake with that of 18F-FDG and DCE-MRI measures of inflammation.

Methods

Eight RA patients with moderate-to-high, stable disease activity and active disease in at least one wrist were included in this study (NCT02350426). Participants underwent PET/CT examinations with 18F-GE-180 and 18F-FDG on separate visits, covering the shoulders and from the pelvis to the feet, including hands and wrists. DCE-MRI was performed on one affected hand. Uptake was compared visually between tracers as judged by an experienced radiologist and quantitatively using the maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax). Uptake for both tracers was correlated with DCE-MRI parameters of inflammation, including the volume transfer coefficient Ktrans using Pearson correlation (r).

Results

PET/CT imaging with 18F-GE-180 in RA patients showed marked extra-synovial uptake around the affected joints. Overall sensitivity for detecting clinically affected joints was low (14%). 18F-GE-180 uptake did not or only weakly correlate with DCE-MRI parameters in the wrist (r = 0.09–0.31). 18F-FDG showed higher sensitivity for detecting symptomatic joints (34%), as well as strong positive correlation with DCE-MRI parameters (SUVmax vs. Ktrans: r = 0.92 for wrist; r = 0.68 for metacarpophalangeal joints).

Conclusions

The correlations between DCE-MRI parameters and 18F-FDG uptake support use of this PET tracer for quantification of inflammatory burden in RA. The TSPO tracer 18F-GE-180, however, has shown limited use for the investigation of RA due to its poor sensitivity and ability to quantify disease activity in RA.
Generalizations and refinements of three-tuple Diamond-Alpha integral Hölder’s inequality on time scales
Authors: Yan Fei , Wang Jianfeng
Published: December 2019

In this paper, based on the existing Hölder’s inequality, some new three-tuple diamond-alpha integral Hölder’s inequalities on time scales are proposed and the related theorems and corollaries are given. At the same time, we also give the relevant conclusions and proof ofn-tuple diamond-alpha integral Hölder’s inequalities on time scales.
Charting global position and vision of stakeholders towards sustainable bioenergy
Authors: Mai-Moulin T. , Fritsche U. R. , Junginger M.
Published: December 2019

Background

Stakeholder’s position of bioenergy sustainability is important for the deployment and contribution of bioenergy to sustainable development. Existing publications are usually limited to specific geographical contexts and focuses. This paper aims more broadly to examine the position and vision of a wider range of stakeholder groups towards bioenergy and its development at a global level.

Method

The applied methodology includes six steps: (1) identification of stakeholders as belonging to one of seven groups; (2) describing the role of each group in relation to bioenergy; (3) data collection via an online questionnaire, roundtable dialogues and interviews to examine their stated awareness and opinions of bioenergy development, driver and barriers to such development; (4) data analysis; (5) comparison of interests and influence as a basis for expressing position and vision; and (6) recommendations for gaining support for sustainable bioenergy development.

Results

The stakeholders state awareness of bioenergy development and have in general a positive view of the sector. They also inform that the general public is less aware of and not sufficiently involved in bioenergy development. Internet and social media are the most consulted sources of information but least trusted, while scientific information is most trusted but least used. Agricultural residues, energy crops cultivated on marginal or degraded land and forestry residues are widely accepted as feedstocks for bioenergy production, whereas use of agricultural land is viewed critically. The stakeholders generally support bioenergy development when jointly agreed sustainability requirements are met.

Conclusions

The stakeholders acknowledge the important role of effectively disseminating scientific information as an influencing factor on the position towards bioenergy. They also find that enhancing support for the bioenergy sector relies on mandatory sustainability requirements covering social, economic and environmental aspects, applied to all types of biomass regardless of end use. Some also emphasise that all relevant sectors should work on market conditions to create a level playing field and that this is crucial to change stakeholders’ position to gain more social acceptance of bioenergy. Transparency in demonstrating compliance with sustainability criteria is also an expected pre-condition to enhance support for bioenergy (and ultimately the bioeconomy) in the long term.
First report of Klebsiella quasipneumoniae harboring blaKPC-2 in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hala Sharif , Antony Chakkiath Paul , Alshehri Mohammed , Althaqafi Abdulhakeem O. , Alsaedi Asim , Mufti Areej , Kaaki Mai , Alhaj-Hussein Baraa T. , Zowawi Hosam M. , Al-Amri Abdulfattah , Pain Arnab
Published: December 2019

Background

Nosocomial infections caused by multi-drug resistantEnterobacteriaceaeare a global public health threat that ought to be promptly identified, reported, and addressed accurately. Many carbapenem-resistantEnterobacteriaceae-associated genes have been identified in Saudi Arabia but not the endemicKlebsiella pneumoniaecarbapenemases (KPCs), which are encoded byblaKPC-typegenes. KPCs are known for their exceptional spreading potential.

Methods

We collectedn = 286 multi-drug resistant (MDR)Klebsiella spp.isolates as part of screening for resistant patterns from a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia between 2014 and 2018. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out using both VITEK II and the broth microdilution of all collected isolates. Detection of resistance-conferring genes was carried out using Illumina whole-genome shotgun sequencing and PacBio SMRT sequencing protocols.

Results

A Carbapenem-resistantEnterobacteriaceae(CRE)Klebsiella quasipneumoniaesubsp.similipneumoniaestrain was identified as a novel ST-3510 carrying ablaKPC-2carbapenemase encoding gene. The isolate, designated as NGKPC-421, was obtained from shotgun Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) surveillance of 286 MDRKlebsiella spp. clinical isolates. The NGKPC-421 isolate was collected from a septic patient in late 2017 and was initially misidentified asK. pneumoniae. The sequencing and assembly of the NGKPC-421 genome resulted in the identification of a putative ~ 39.4 kb IncX6 plasmid harboring ablaKPC-2gene, flanked by transposable elements (ISKpn6-blaKPC-2–ISKpn27).

Conclusion

This is the first identification of a KPC-2-producing CRE in the Gulf region. The impact on this finding is of major concern to the public health in Saudi Arabia, considering that it is the religious epicenter with a continuous mass influx of pilgrims from across the world. Our study strongly highlights the importance of implementing rapid sequencing-based technologies in clinical microbiology for precise taxonomic classification and monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns.
KEA-1010, a ketamine ester analogue, retains analgesic and sedative potency but is devoid of Psychomimetic effects
Authors: Harvey Martyn , Sleigh Jamie , Voss Logan , Bickerdike Mike , Dimitrov Ivaylo , Denny William
Published: December 2019

Background

Ketamine, a widely used anaesthetic and analgesic agent, is known to improve the analgesic efficacy of opioids and to attenuate central sensitisation and opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Clinical use is, however, curtailed by unwanted psychomimetic effects thought to be mediated by N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism. KEA-1010, a ketamine ester-analogue designed for rapid offset of hypnosis through hydrolysis mediated break-down, has been shown to result in short duration sedation yet prolonged attenuation of nociceptive responses in animal models. Here we report on behavioural effects following KEA-1010 administration to rodents.

Methods

KEA-1010 was compared with racemic ketamine in its ability to produce loss of righting reflex following intravenous injection in rats. Analgesic activity was assessed in thermal tail flick latency (TFL) and paw incision models when injected acutely and when co-administered with fentanyl. Tail flick analgesic assessment was further undertaken in morphine tolerant rats. Behavioural aberration was assessed following intravenous injection in rats undergoing TFL assessment and in auditory pre-pulse inhibition models.

Results

KEA-1010 demonstrated an ED50 similar to ketamine for loss of righting reflex following bolus intravenous injection (KEA-1010 11.4 mg/kg [95% CI 10.6 to 12.3]; ketamine (racemic) 9.6 mg/kg [95% CI 8.5–10.9]). Duration of hypnosis was four-fold shorter in KEA-1010 treated animals. KEA-1010 prolonged thermal tail flick responses comparably with ketamine when administered de novo, and augmented morphine-induced prolongation of tail flick when administered acutely. The analgesic effect of KEA-1010 on thermal tail flick was preserved in opioid tolerant rats. KEA-1010 resulted in increased paw-withdrawal thresholds in a rat paw incision model, similar in magnitude yet more persistent than that seen with fentanyl injection, and additive when co-administered with fentanyl. In contrast to ketamine, behavioural aberration following KEA-1010 injection was largely absent and no pre-pulse inhibition to acoustic startle was observed following KEA-1010 administration in rats.

Conclusions

KEA-1010 provides antinociceptive efficacy in acute thermal and mechanical pain models that augments standard opioid analgesia and is preserved in opioid tolerant rodents. The NMDA channel affinity and psychomimetic signature of the parent compound ketamine is largely absent for KEA-1010.
Antidiabetic and antioxidant potentials of Vitellaria paradoxa barks in alloxan-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Miaffo David , Guessom Kamgue Oulianovie , Ledang Tebou Narcisse , Maa Maa Temhoul Clarice , Kamanyi Albert
Published: December 2019

Background

Vitellaria paradoxa (V. paradoxa) is a plant used in traditional medicine in the treatment of many diseases including diabetes mellitus. Although the different parts of this plant are used empirically as antidiabetic drug, no scientific work to our knowledge has yet been undertaken to evaluate its effects on blood glucose, and lipid and antioxidant parameters of diabetic animals. The objective of this study is therefore to evaluate the hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract of V. paradoxa barks in diabetic rats.

Methods

Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (120 mg/kg bw). Thirty male albino rats were divided into groups and orally treated for 14 days with distilled water, glibenclamide (2.5 mg/kg bw) and aqueous extract of V. paradoxa (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg bw). Glycaemia, insulin level, relative body weight, hepatic glycogen level, some liver enzymes, and lipid and antioxidant parameters were evaluated.

Results

The results showed that the extract caused a significant increase in relative body weight, insulin level, HDL-cholesterol, hepatic glycogen rate, and fructose-1,6-biphosphate and glucokinase activities. A significant decrease in glycaemia, glucose-6-phosphatase activity, total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol were also observed after the administration of V. paradoxa. Glutathione level and the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase increased significantly while the nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels decreased significantly in the liver of animals treated with the extract of V. paradoxa.

Conclusion

These results justify the hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of aqueous extract of V. paradoxa barks, which can reduce the complications associated with diabetes.
The optimal degree of lateral wedge insoles for reducing knee joint load: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ferreira Vitor , Simões Rita , Gonçalves Rui Soles , Machado Leandro , Roriz Paulo
Published: December 2019

Background

Lateral wedge insoles are traditionally used to reduce the adduction moment that crosses the knee during walking in people with medial knee osteoarthritis. However, the best degree to reduce knee joint load is not yet well established.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched from their inception until May 2017. Included studies reported on the immediate biomechanical effects of different degrees of lateral wedge insoles during walking in people with knee osteoarthritis. The main measures of interest relating to the biomechanics were the first and second peak of external knee adduction moment and knee adduction angular impulse. For the comparison of the biomechanical effects of different degrees of insoles, the studies were divided in three subgroups: insoles with a degree higher than 0° and equal to or lower than 5°; insoles higher than 5° and equal to or lower than 9°; and insoles higher than 9°. Eligible studies were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

Fifteen studies with a total of 415 participants met all eligibility criteria and were included in the final review and meta-analysis. The overall effect suggests that lateral wedge insoles resulted in a statistically significant reduction in the first peak (standardized mean difference [SMD] –0.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] –0.36, − 0.13;P < 0.001), second peak (SMD –0.26 [95% CI –0.48, − 0.04];P = 0.02) and knee adduction angular impulse (SMD –0.17 [95% CI –0.31, − 0.03]; P = 0.02). The test of subgroups found no statistically significant differences.

Conclusion

Systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that lateral wedge insoles cause an overall slight reduction in the biomechanical parameters. Higher degrees do not show higher reductions than lower degrees. Prior analysis of biomechanical parameters may be a valid option for selecting the optimal angle of wedge that best fits in knee osteoarthritis patients with the lowest possible degree.
Direction of collaborative problem solving-based STEM learning by learning analytics approach
Authors: Chen Li , Yoshimatsu Nobuyuki , Goda Yoshiko , Okubo Fumiya , Taniguchi Yuta , Oi Misato , Konomi Shin’ichi , Shimada Atsushi , Ogata Hiroaki , Yamada Masanori
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that might affect learning performance and collaborative problem solving (CPS) awareness in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. We collected and analyzed data on important factors in STEM education, including learning strategy and learning behaviors, and examined their interrelationships with learning performance and CPS awareness, respectively. Multiple data sources, including learning tests, questionnaire feedback, and learning logs, were collected and examined following a learning analytics approach. Significant positive correlations were found for the learning behavior of using markers with learning performance and CPS awareness in group discussion, while significant negative correlations were found for some factors of STEM learning strategy and learning behaviors in pre-learning with some factors of CPS awareness. The results imply the importance of an efficient approach to using learning strategies and functional tools in STEM education.
Dietary Supplement Use During Chemotherapy and Survival Outcomes of Patients With Breast Cancer Enrolled in a Cooperative Group Clinical Trial (SWOG S0221)
Authors: Ambrosone Christine B. , Zirpoli Gary R. , Hutson Alan D. , McCann William E. , McCann Susan E. , Barlow William E. , Kelly Kara M. , Cannioto Rikki , Sucheston-Campbell Lara E. , Hershman Dawn L. , Unger Joseph M. , Moore Halle C.F. , Stewart James A. , Isaacs Claudine , Hobday Timothy J. , Salim Muhammad , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Gralow Julie R. , Budd George T. , Albain Kathy S.
Published: December 2019

PURPOSE

Despite reported widespread use of dietary supplements during cancer treatment, few empirical data with regard to their safety or efficacy exist. Because of concerns that some supplements, particularly antioxidants, could reduce the cytotoxicity of chemotherapy, we conducted a prospective study ancillary to a therapeutic trial to evaluate associations between supplement use and breast cancer outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with breast cancer randomly assigned to an intergroup metronomic trial of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and paclitaxel were queried on their use of supplements at registration and during treatment (n =1,134). Cox proportional hazards regression adjusting for clinical and lifestyle variables was used. Recurrence and survival were indexed at 6 months after enrollment using a landmark approach.

RESULTS

There were indications that use of any antioxidant supplement (vitamins A, C, and E; carotenoids; coenzyme Q10) both before and during treatment was associated with an increased hazard of recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio [adjHR], 1.41; 95% CI, 0.98 to 2.04; P = .06) and, to a lesser extent, death (adjHR, 1.40; 95% CI, 0.90 to 2.18; P = .14). Relationships with individual antioxidants were weaker perhaps because of small numbers. For nonantioxidants, vitamin B12 use both before and during chemotherapy was significantly associated with poorer disease-free survival (adjHR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.92; P < .01) and overall survival (adjHR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.22 to 3.40; P < .01). Use of iron during chemotherapy was significantly associated with recurrence (adjHR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.20 to 2.67; P < .01) as was use both before and during treatment (adjHR, 1.91; 95% CI, 0.98 to 3.70; P = .06). Results were similar for overall survival. Multivitamin use was not associated with survival outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Associations between survival outcomes and use of antioxidant and other dietary supplements both before and during chemotherapy are consistent with recommendations for caution among patients when considering the use of supplements, other than a multivitamin, during chemotherapy.
Interrelationships Between Pituitary Hormones as Assessed From 24-hour Serum Concentrations in Healthy Older Subjects
Authors: van der Spoel Evie , Roelfsema Ferdinand , Akintola Abimbola A , Jansen Steffy W , Slagboom P Eline , Westendorp Rudi G J , Blauw Gerard J , Pijl Hanno , van Heemst Diana
Published: December 2019

Context

Hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland axes are mostly investigated separately, whereas the interplay between hormones might be as important as each separate hormonal axis.

Objective

Our aim is to determine the interrelationships between GH, TSH, ACTH, and cortisol in healthy older individuals.

Design

We made use of 24-hour hormone serum concentrations assessed with intervals of 10 minutes from 38 healthy older individuals with a mean age (SD) of 65.1 (5.1) years from the Leiden Longevity Study. Cross-correlation analyses were performed to assess the relative strength between 2 24-hour hormone serum concentration series for all possible time shifts. Cross-approximate entropy was used to assess pattern synchronicity between 2 24-hour hormone serum concentration series.

Results

Within an interlinked hormonal axis, ACTH and cortisol were positively correlated with a mean (95% confidence interval) correlation coefficient of 0.78 (0.74–0.81) with cortisol following ACTH concentrations with a delay of 10 minutes. Between different hormonal axes, we observed a negative correlation coefficient between cortisol and TSH of -0.30 (-0.36 to -0.25) with TSH following cortisol concentrations with a delay of 170 minutes. Furthermore, a positive mean (95% confidence interval) correlation coefficient of 0.29 (0.22–0.37) was found between TSH and GH concentrations without any delay. Moreover, cross-approximate entropy analyses showed that GH and cortisol exhibit synchronous serum concentration patterns.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that interrelations between hormones from interlinked as well as different hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland axes are observed in healthy older individuals. More research is needed to determine the biological meaning and clinical consequences of these observations.
Adverse Events During Intrahospital Transport of Critically Ill Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Haydar Bishr , Baetzel Anne , Elliott Anila , MacEachern Mark , Kamal Afra , Christensen Robert
Published: December 2019

Intrahospital transport of a critically ill patient is often required to achieve a diagnostic and/or therapeutic objective. However, clinicians who recommend a procedure that requires transport are often not fully aware of the risks of transport. Clinicians involved in the care of critically ill children may therefore benefit from a clear enumeration of adverse events that have occurred during transport, risk factors for those events, and guidance for event prevention. The objective of this review was to collect all published harm and adverse events that occurred in critically ill children in the context of transport within a medical center, as well as the incidence of each type of event. A secondary objective was to identify what interventions have been previously studied that reduce events and to collect recommendations for harm prevention from study authors. Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and CINAHL were searched in January 2018 and again in December 2018. Terms indicating pediatric patients, intrahospital transport, critical illness, and adverse events were used. Titles and abstracts were screened and full text was reviewed for any article meeting inclusion criteria. If articles included both children and adults, incidence data were collected only if the number of pediatric patients could be ascertained. Of 471 full-text articles reviewed, 40 met inclusion criteria, of which 24 included only children, totaling 4104 patient transports. Heterogeneity was high, owing to a wide range of populations, settings, data collection methods, and outcomes. The incidence of adverse events varied widely between studies. Examples of harm included emergent tracheostomy, pneumothorax, and cardiac arrest requiring chest compressions. Respiratory and airway events were the most common type of adverse event. Hypothermia was common in infants. One transport-associated death was reported. When causation was assessed, most events were judged to have been preventable or potentially mitigated by improved double-checks and usage of checklists. Prospective studies demonstrated the superiority of mechanical ventilation over manual ventilation for intubated patients. Risk of adverse events during critical care transport appears to relate to the patient’s underlying illness and degree of respiratory support. Recommendations for reducing these adverse events have frequently included the use of checklists. Other recommendations include optimization of the patient’s physiological status before transport, training with transport equipment, double-checking of equipment before transport, and having experienced clinicians accompany the patient. All available recommendations for reducing transport-associated adverse events in included articles were collated and included.
Dosage dependent requirements ofMagohfor cortical interneuron generation and survival
Authors: Sheehan Charles J. , McMahon John J. , Serdar Lucas D. , Silver Debra L.
Published: December 2019

Embryonic interneuron development underlies cortical function and its disruption contributes to neurological disease. Yet, the mechanisms by which viable interneurons are produced from progenitors remain poorly understood. Here we demonstrate dosage dependent requirements of the exon junction complex component Magoh for interneuron genesis. Conditional Magoh ablation from interneuron progenitors, but not post-mitotic neurons, depletes cortical interneuron number through adulthood, with increased severity in homozygotes. Using live imaging we discover that Magoh deficiency delays progenitor mitotic progression in a dosage sensitive fashion, with 40% of homozygous progenitors failing to divide. This shows Magoh is required in progenitors for both generation and survival of newborn progeny. Transcriptome analysis implicates p53 signaling; Moreover, p53 ablation in Magoh haploinsufficient progenitors rescues apoptosis, completely recovering interneuron number. In striking contrast, in Magoh homozygotes, p53 loss fails to rescue interneuron number and mitotic delay, further implicating mitotic defects in interneuron loss. Our results demonstrate interneuron development is intimately dependent upon progenitor mitosis duration and uncover a critical post-transcriptional regulator of interneuron fate relevant for neurodevelopmental pathologies.
A multipronged approach to understanding the form and function of hStaufen protein
Authors: Visentin Silvia , Cannone Giuseppe , Doutch James , Harris Gemma , Gleghorn Michael L. , Clifton Luke , Smith Brian O. , Spagnolo Laura
Published: December 2019

Staufen is a dsRNA-binding protein involved in many aspects of RNA regulation, such as mRNA transport, Staufen-mediated mRNA decay and the regulation of mRNA translation. It is a modular protein characterized by the presence of conserved consensus amino acid sequences that fold into double-stranded RNA binding domains (RBDs) as well as degenerated RBDs that are instead involved in protein–protein interactions. The variety of biological processes in which Staufen participates in the cell suggests that this protein associates with many diverse RNA targets, some of which have been identified experimentally. Staufen binding mediates the recruitment of effectors via protein–protein and protein–RNA interactions. The structural determinants of a number of these interactions, as well as the structure of full-length Staufen, remain unknown. Here, we present the first solution structure models for full-length hStaufen155, showing that its domains are arranged as beads-on-a-string connected by flexible linkers. In analogy with other nucleic acid-binding proteins, this could underpin Stau1 functional plasticity.
Lower limb joint repair and replacement: an overview
Authors: Aicale Rocco , Maffulli Nicola
Published: December 2019

In the last few years, much has been published concerning total joint arthroplasty, and debates and discussions to new questions and points of view started many years ago. In this commentary, we report the latest evidence of best practice in the field of lower limb arthroplasty; this evidence is based on a literature search conducted by using PubMed and Scopus databases with a time limit of five years. We found novel evidence regarding cemented and not cemented implant, implant design, anticoagulant use, tourniquets, and other aspects of joints replacement surgery that we consider a common part of modern orthopedic practice. We specifically focus on lower limb joint replacement.
The role of pulmonary arterial hypertension-targeted therapy in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Lee Michael H , Bull Todd M
Published: December 2019

Pulmonary arterial hypertension, categorized as group 1 pulmonary hypertension by the World Health Organization classification system, represents a major complication of systemic sclerosis resulting from pulmonary vascular involvement of the disease. The high mortality seen in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension is likely due to the impairment of right ventricular systolic function and the coexistence of other non-group-1 pulmonary hypertension phenotypes that may negatively impact clinical response to pulmonary arterial hypertension-targeted therapy. This review highlights two areas of recent advances regarding the management of systemic sclerosis patients with pulmonary hypertension: the tolerability of pulmonary arterial hypertension-targeted therapy in the presence of mild to moderate interstitial lung disease and the potential clinical significance of the antifibrotic effect of soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators demonstrated in preclinical studies.
ENHANCED MICROSTRUCTURE AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SIC PARTICLE REINFORCED ALUMINIUM ALLOY COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Authors: Pal Manoj Kumar , Vikram Arnav , Bajaj Vineet
Published: December 2019

Aluminium6061 alloy composites containing various volume fraction (0-25%) Silicon Carbide (SiC) particles were prepared by stir casting method. In the current study, microstructures and mechanical properties of cast silicon carbide (SiC) reinforced aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) were investigated. Optical microscopic examination, SEM, tensile strength test, hardness test, and elongation test were carried out. The results showed that the addition of SiC reinforcements in aluminum6061 matrix increased hardness and tensile strength however, decreased elongation at 25% SiC reinforced AMC. Hardness and tensile strength were observed to be are maximum at 25% SiC and elongation is minimum at 25% SiC. Microstructural observation confirmed clustering and homogeneous distribution of SiC particles in the Al6061 matrix.
Effect of Nitrogen and Phosphorus on Growth, Flowering and Yield of Cut Chrysanthemum cv. Thai Chen Queen
Authors: Rajan Kitty , Bhatt Dipal S. , Chawla S. L. , Bhatt S. T. , Priya S Sangeetha
Published: December 2019

An investigation was carried out to study the effect of nitrogen and phosphorus on growth, flowering and yield of cut chrysanthemum cv. Thai Chen Queen. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with factorial concept comprising of twelve treatment combinations with four levels of nitrogen, viz., 100 kg N/ha (N1), 150 kg N/ha (N2), 200 kg N/ha (N3) and 250 kg N/ha (N4) and three levels of phosphorus, viz., 50 kg P2O5/ha (P1), 75 kg P2O5/ha (P2) and 100 kg P2O5/ha (P3). The treatments were replicated four times. The results indicated that application of 200 kg N/ha (N3) to cut chrysanthemum was most effective to increase plant height whereas, plants receiving 150 kg N/ha significantly improved vegetative growth as well as quality and yield of flowers. Application of 75 kg P2O5/ha was found promising for growth, quality as well as yield parameters.
Denture cleaning — best practice
Authors: King Elizabeth , Jagger Robert
Published: December 2019

Surveys have shown that many people do not clean their dentures effectively and suggest that the dental team may fail to educate patients in basic denture hygiene procedures. Poor denture hygiene can result in denture staining and malodour and is a risk factor for oral and systemic diseases. Methods available to clean dentures are described. Their modes of action, effectiveness and potential adverse effects are discussed. A combination of cleaning methods is probably more effective than any one method. Recommendations for effective denture cleaning that can be given to patients by the dental team are provided.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: The dental team needs to explain effective approaches to denture hygiene to patients. Written information should also be provided to reinforce the message.
See a Pin and pick it up … radiographically!
Authors: Clark Ailish , Seenan Phillip , Gibson John , Donaldson Kirstyn
Published: December 2019

A 67-year-old female was referred to secondary care with asymptomatic foreign bodies visible on intra-oral radiographs. Clinical examination was unremarkable. Radiographic examination revealed nine pin-like radio-opaque objects throughout the face and head present on multiple previous imaging modalities. The patient was unaware of their presence and could not account for them. A review of available literature revealed similar objects have been used during acupuncture and cosmetic procedures without complication. As the objects were asymptomatic, the patient was reassured and discharged.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Routine radiographic examination of patients may reveal the presence of unusual and unexpected findings.
Should dentists be more aware of the role of dietary supplements when assessing dental caries risk?
Authors: Thalukder Imran , Dhunna Ajay , Collard Mechelle
Published: December 2019

Taking sports supplements is an increasing trend within the population and regular consumption of these supplements may increase the risk of developing caries. This paper focuses on identifying current evidence relating to caries risk and sports supplements, and also aims to investigate the sugar content of current sports supplements available in the UK.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Frequent sugar attacks causes caries. Dentists need to be aware that ingestion of sports supplements, eg protein bars/powders for some patients may contribute to the development of caries and this should form part of their caries risk assessment.
Dental trauma: management of complicated crown root fractures
Authors: Ayub Khawer , Darcey James
Published: December 2019

Trauma of maxillary incisors is frequent and dental practitioners have to be competent in managing the consequences. Complicated crown root fractures of anterior teeth can have profound aesthetic and psychological implications on patients. In younger patients, if extractions are considered, it can lead to complex prosthodontic challenges in the future. Ideally, an attempt should be made in restoring the traumatized teeth, so an effective aesthetic and functional result can be reached. This case report highlights the treatment of complicated crown root fractures on maxillary incisors using endodontics and fragment re-attachment of the fractured crowns. Twelve-month follow-up of the treatment demonstrated aesthetic and functional success and delayed the need for prosthetic replacement.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This paper describes traumatic injuries of teeth and how management via fragment re-attachment of the fractured crowns has led to delay of definitive prosthetic treatment.
The orthodontic-surgical management of a patient with gorlin syndrome: a case report
Authors: Storey Madeleine , Caldwell Susi , Watkinson Simon , Patel Manu
Published: December 2019

This case report describes the management of a patient following the incidental finding of multiple odontogenic keratocysts on an orthopantomogram by the patient's general dental practitioner (GDP). The cysts were extensive and had caused considerable displacement of the unerupted permanent teeth. Following marsupialisation, the teeth were aligned orthodontically. This article describes the features of odontogenic keratocysts, the associated Gorlin syndrome, and the management options available. The importance of close collaboration between the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical and Orthodontic teams is highlighted.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Odontogenic keratocysts are benign but locally aggressive jaw cysts. They occur most commonly as solitary lesions in the jaws of healthy individuals, but may also be a feature of Gorlin syndrome. In young patients there is potential for severely displaced teeth to improve their position spontaneously and erupt.
Diagnosis and management of chronic osteomyelitis and cemento-osseous dysplasia of the mandible
Authors: Akram Arifa , Lidhar Tajinder , Valentine Katy Marie , Webb Roger
Published: December 2019

Chronic osteomyelitis is a severe and persistent infection of the bone including the bone marrow. Cemento-osseous dysplasias are a group of conditions arising from the periodontal ligament tissue and are categorized into peri-apical, focal and florid. A case of a patient with buccal and submandibular swelling associated with a discharging sinus between LR45 was presented. History, examination and investigations confirmed a diagnosis of chronic osteomyelitis and an incidental finding of florid cemento-osseous dysplasia of the mandible. The patient's treatment is discussed within the context of important clinical considerations required in managing these patients.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: It is pertinent for a general practitioner to be aware of signs and symptoms associated with chronic osteomyelitis and understand the management options.
Spontaneous dental abscesses in hereditary hypophosphataemic rickets: a preventive restorative approach in the primary dentition
Authors: Hughes Sara L , Hingston Emma J
Published: December 2019

Patients with Hereditary Hypophosphatemic Rickets (HHR) commonly present with spontaneous dental abscesses and are often faced with a life-long burden of multiple endodontic treatments and/or extractions. Early diagnosis and management is essential to reduce risk of infection and maintain function and wellbeing. This is a case report of a 3-year-old boy with HHR, who presented with recurrent spontaneous abscesses in multiple primary teeth that subsequently required extraction. A preventive/restorative approach to protect the unaffected primary teeth is described and demonstrates how early clinical intervention can result in a symptom- and disease-free patient one year following treatment.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Oral manifestations are common in patients with HHR and early intervention by the clinician can contribute to reducing the risk of future complications.
Acute onset trismus in a 15-year-old
Authors: Mohammed Manal , Beech Andrea , Farrier Jeremy
Published: December 2019

Trismus can be a common complaint encountered in general dental practice. A 15-year-old female presented to the Emergency Department with a history of acute onset and worsening trismus, pain and extra-oral swelling following placement of a restoration in the lower right first molar tooth. An initial diagnosis of trismus associated with either muscular spasm or a haematoma following an inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) block was assumed. The patient was reviewed the following week, the trismus and swelling having increased. An urgent MRI scan showed a large heterogeneous mass in the right masticator space. A biopsy under general anaesthetic diagnosed a rhabdomyosarcoma. The patient was referred to the oncology team for chemo/radiotherapy treatment.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Although ‘common things occur commonly’, it is important to remember that common symptoms and presentations can lead to more rare diagnoses. Prompt referral for specialist advice needs to be sought should first line management of trismus prove to be unsuccessful.
Cost-effective inhaler device prescribing for COPD
Authors: Gundry Stephen
Published: December 2019

Stephen Gundry explains how nurses can choose the best device for their patients
Asthma adherence and the overuse of short-acting inhalers
Authors: Adsley Rosemary
Published: December 2019

Many people living with asthma have poor adherence to their medication, explains Rosemary Adsley
A tale of two vaccines: yellow fever and measles
Authors: Umeed Margaret
Published: December 2019

Margaret Umeed details what nurses need to know about yellow fever; and measles, mumps and rubella
Evaluating the role of bricolage in US Health Care policy reform
Authors: Hannah Adam
Published: December 2019

Understanding of the role of ideas in non-paradigmatic policy change has been advanced by the introduction of the concept of bricolage, which suggests that reformers are likely to piece together ideas from disparate sources. However, the current literature is limited in several ways. As such, this article proposes three main contributions to the field. First, the use of bricolage as a pragmatic strategy is perfectly compatible with actors being motivated by relatively fixed policy goals or seeking to imitate policies from elsewhere. Second, the creative use of ideas can be limited by the imposition of narrow frames or problem definitions by the victors of agenda-setting battles. Third, the use of bricolage comes with more potential for conflict and unintended consequences than has been recognised. This argument is illustrated through an analysis of healthcare reform in the United States in 2009/10, focusing particularly on the fate of the ‘public option’.
Laser processing of alumina ceramic by spatially and temporally superposing the millisecond pulse and nanosecond pulse train
Authors: Jia Xianshi , Zhu Guangzhi , Zhang Yudong , Chen Yongqian , Wang Hailin , Shan Ping , Aleksei Kozlov , Zhu Xiao
Published: December 2019

A novel combined laser pulses (CLPs) consisting of a millisecond (ms) pulse and an assisted nanosecond (ns) pulse train was proposed for drilling alumina ceramic. The processing efficiency and quality were well improved by spatially and temporally superposing the ms and ns laser beams. As a result, due to the multi-reflection of keyhole and ejection of melt, the temporally superposed CLPs could decrease the energy consumption of the drilling by an order of magnitude compared with the conventional ms pulse. On the other hand, the spatial distribution of the ns laser on the focal plane was elliptical due to the off-axis distortion of the optical system. However, since the reflection of the laser in the keyhole was non-uniform, the spatially superposed CLPs showed no dependence on the shape of the focused elliptical ns laser spot in terms of the drilling quality. The research results have an important guiding for improving the efficiency and quality of laser processing, especially for the alumina ceramic laser processing.
High-quality integrated microdisk resonators in the visible-to-near-infrared wavelength range on a 3C-silicon carbide-on-insulator platform
Authors: Fan Tianren , Wu Xi , Eftekhar Ali A. , Bosi Matteo , Moradinejad Hesam , Woods Eric V. , Adibi Ali
Published: December 2019

In this Letter, we report, to the best of our knowledge, the first demonstration of high-quality integrated microdisk resonators (MDRs) on a 3C-silicon carbide-on-insulator (SiCOI) platform, working over a wide bandwidth from visible to near-infrared wavelengths. We show record-high quality factors for 3C-silicon carbide (SiC) MDRs of 242,000, 112,000, and 83,000 at the wavelengths of 1550 nm, 770 nm, and 650 nm, respectively, based on high-quality 3C-SiC films with the surface roughness as low as 1.4 Å, achieved by sample-transfer bonding, and precise chemical-mechanical polishing of the SiC film, to remove growth defects. Our study of 3C-SiC films grown on Si using transmission electron microscopy shows that even considerably higher-quality single-crystalline SiCOI can be achieved by flipping and thinning down an ultra-thick (∼5−10µm) 3C-SiC film grown on Si. The SiCOI platform can be used to realize ultra-wideband high-quality SiC devices that are desirable for applications in nonlinear and quantum photonics.
Linewidth-narrowing of a continuous wave terahertz polariton laser using an intracavity etalon
Authors: Zheng Yameng , Lee Andrew , Spence David , Pask Helen
Published: December 2019

An uncoated etalon was incorporated within an intracavity continuous wave terahertz polariton laser, leading to a tenfold reduction in linewidth, plus a factor of 2 increase in the THz output power. The increase in output power is explained in terms of phase matching considerations for the parametric downconversion process.
State of play: A survey of sports journalists in Australia
Authors: English Peter
Published: December 2019

Sports journalism in Australia has undergone immense change over the past decade, with many factors contributing to the widespread upheaval. Utilizing a representative survey, this study of 120 of the nation’s sports journalists provides insight into how journalists in a specialized sector of the media are operating during a period of transformation. While previous surveys of Australian journalists have focused on profiling sports journalists, this study offers an updated overview of the profession following a decade of change and provides an understanding of the perceptions of sports journalists on key issues in contemporary newsrooms. The findings highlight that there have been some substantial changes. Overall, the respondents paint a much gloomier picture of sports journalism in Australia than previously.
The promise and perils of staff/student publications in Australian journalism programmes
Authors: Martin Jennifer , Smy Lucy , Ricketson Matthew
Published: December 2019

Once rare, staff-supervised, student-produced publications are now common in Australian journalism programmes. This trend owes something to the consolidation of journalism education, but also much to two intersecting developments: the decline in the scale of the mainstream news media has opened up reporting deserts that journalism programmes, their staffing complements bolstered by journalists who have taken redundancy packages from mainstream outlets, have stepped in to water. This article reports the results of a national survey of journalism educators responsible for staff/student publications and discusses the implications of these publications. The survey respondents report strongly favourable educational outcomes for their students. They also report universities’ tardiness in adequately resourcing the editing and supervision time needed to transform student work submitted for assessment into publishable stories.