bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metastable radical state, nonreactive with oxygen, is inherent to catalysis by respiratory and photosynthetic cytochromes
bc
1
/
b
6
f
Authors: Sarewicz Marcin , Bujnowicz Łukasz , Bhaduri Satarupa , Singh Sandeep K. , Cramer William A. , Osyczka Artur
Published: January 2017

Significance

Photosynthesis and respiration are crucial energy-conserving processes of living organisms. These processes rely on redox reactions that often involve unstable radical intermediates. In an oxygenic atmosphere, such intermediates present a danger of becoming a source of electrons for generation of reactive oxygen species. Here, we discover that cytochrome
b
6
f
, a key component of oxygenic photosynthesis, generates a metastable state nonreactive with oxygen during enzymatic turnover. In this state, a radical intermediate of a catalytic cycle interacts with a metal cofactor of a catalytic site via spin-spin exchange. We propose that this state is a candidate for regulation of cyclic vs
.
noncyclic photosynthesis and also allows photosynthetic and respiratory cytochrome
bc
complexes to function safely in the presence of oxygen.
ATF5 regulates β-cell survival during stress
Authors: Juliana Christine A. , Yang Juxiang , Rozo Andrea V. , Good Austin , Groff David N. , Wang Shu-Zong , Green Michael R. , Stoffers Doris A.
Published: January 2017

Significance

The survival and function of insulin-secreting β cells is critical for the prevention of diabetes. We identify a previously unknown function for activating transcription factor 5 (ATF5) in the apoptotic susceptibility of β cells. ATF5 expression in β cells is stress inducible, and ATF5 deficiency results in a significant increase in β-cell apoptosis in response to stress. Further, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (EIF4EBP1), a component of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway that inhibits protein translation through interaction with EIF4E, is regulated by ATF5 and likely is involved in apoptotic susceptibility through regulation of global translation. Understanding the role of ATF5 deepens our understanding of the complex mechanisms governing β-cell fate decisions, providing a potential pathway for the prevention of diabetes.
Complementary roles of gasotransmitters CO and H2S in sleep apnea
Authors: Peng Ying-Jie , Zhang Xiuli , Gridina Anna , Chupikova Irina , McCormick David L. , Thomas Robert J. , Scammell Thomas E. , Kim Gene , Vasavda Chirag , Nanduri Jayasri , Kumar Ganesh K. , Semenza Gregg L. , Snyder Solomon H. , Prabhakar Nanduri R.
Published: January 2017

Significance

The carotid body (CB) is the major sensory organ responsible for monitoring arterial blood oxygen content. Glomus cells in the CB express heme oxygenase 2 (HO-2) and cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE), enzymes that generate the gasotransmitters carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), respectively. In normoxia, CO inhibits CSE from producing H2S. During hypoxia, HO-2 produces less CO, resulting in increased H2S production, which stimulates CB activity, leading to increases in respiratory rate, heart rate, and blood pressure. We report that decreased CO and increased H2S generation in the CB causes sleep apnea in HO-2 knockout mice and spontaneously hypertensive rats. An inhibitor of CSE eliminates sleep apnea when administered to these animals, suggesting that this approach may have therapeutic utility in patients with sleep apnea.
Gleevec shifts APP processing from a β-cleavage to a nonamyloidogenic cleavage
Authors: Netzer William J. , Bettayeb Karima , Sinha Subhash C. , Flajolet Marc , Greengard Paul , Bustos Victor
Published: January 2017

Significance

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Four approved drugs are used to treat AD cognitive symptoms, including loss of short-term memory. These drugs produce modest, temporary benefits at best and do not prevent or delay worsening of the disease. Recently, a mutation that protects elderly people from developing AD was discovered. The cellular process responsible for the mutation’s protective effect was also identified, suggesting that drugs targeting this process or pathway also might provide protection against the development of AD. In the present study, we discovered that the anticancer drug Gleevec and a related compound mimic the effects of the protective mutation and thus can act as models for the development of effective drugs to fight AD.
WAVE1 in neurons expressing the D1 dopamine receptor regulates cellular and behavioral actions of cocaine
Authors: Ceglia Ilaria , Lee Ko-Woon , Cahill Michael E. , Graves Steven M. , Dietz David , Surmeier Dalton J. , Nestler Eric J. , Nairn Angus C. , Greengard Paul , Kim Yong
Published: January 2017

Significance

Cocaine-induced synaptic plasticity in the nucleus accumbens is implicated in neural adaptations that underlie addiction. Here we demonstrate that Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP) family verprolin homologous protein 1 (WAVE1) plays a selective role in medium spiny projection neurons that express D1 dopamine receptors (D1-MSNs) in the cellular and behavioral actions of cocaine. Our results suggest that chronic exposure to cocaine, followed by withdrawal, potentiates the signaling capacity of D1 dopamine and NMDA glutamate receptors, allowing WAVE1 activation in response to an acute cocaine challenge. WAVE1 activation is associated with morphological and functional decreases in glutamatergic synapses on D1-MSNs. Thus, we propose that WAVE1 is involved in a negative feedback mechanism of regulation of glutamatergic synapses as a part of the process of cocaine-induced synaptic plasticity.
Involvement and Attitude in Japanese Discourse
Authors: Ogi Naomi
Published: January 2017

This book addresses the long discussed issue of Japanese interactive markers (traditionally called sentence-final particles) in a new light, and provides the comprehensive linguistic documentation of the interactional functions of seven interactive markers: ne, na, yo, sa, wa, zo and ze. By adopting three key notions, ‘involvement’, ‘formality’ and ‘gender’, the study not only reveals the functions and pragmatic effects of each marker, but also sheds light on some fundamental issues of the nature of spoken discourse in general, including how speakers collaborate with each other to create and sustain their conversations and how linguistic functions of verbal forms interface with sociocultural norms. This book will be of interest to students and scholars in a wide range of linguistic fields such as Japanese linguistics, pragmatics, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis and applied linguistics and to teachers and learners of Japanese and of a second/foreign language.
Pleonasm in particle verb constructions in German
Authors: Diedrichsen Elke
Published: January 2017

Verbs with separable prefixes are one of many existing realisations of discontinuous complex predicates in German. Their syntactic structure follows the widely described sentence bracket structure, in that the finite verb base opens the bracket at the second position in the sentence, while the separable prefix, which is also called particle, closes it. Between the two brackets, the main information of the sentence is placed in a Theme-Rheme sequence, as the word order within the brackets is free. It can be shown that the verb base – particle combination in separable prefix verbs is quite productive, in that the selection of the respective particle is not entirely determined by the verb base. Also, particles may appear freely, which means that in non-finite occurrences, they can be found detached from the verb base orthographically, and they may also appear on their own, carrying a semantic residue from one of their verb-particle combination options. The chapter will explore one particular kind of separable prefix construction that has not received much attention in the literature so far. These are constructions with a separable prefix that repeats locative or directional information given in a prepositional phrase in the same sentence. Such Pleonastic Particle Constructions, as we will call them, appear in varying degrees of productivity. Using Talmy’s theory of the windowing of attention in a motion event frame, we will argue that generally, the particle can be assumed to be the redundant element, while the PP carries vital information about PATH and GROUND in a MOTION event. We will offer an explanation for the appearance of the redundant particle on the basis of that theory as well, which will also enable us to account for one interesting aspect of these Pleonastic Particle Constructions, which is that they cannot be used when the PP and/or the particle in the sentence are used figuratively.
Complex predicates in Lithuanian
Authors: Bruno Jonė
Published: January 2017

Lithuanian is a highly synthetic language that is morphologically rich. This research revisits a set of specific classification of Lithuanian predicates into complex predicate constructions. The data for the analysis was collected from the publically accessible corpus of Lithuanian language and the examples were analysed using the RRG framework. The discussion revealed that the V + V constructions classified in the traditional Lithuanian grammar need to be reclassified as complex predicate constructions. Furthermore, the research revealed the existence of a type of serial verb construction in the Lithuanian complex predicates. This study discussed nominal complex predicates [V + NP] and verbal complex predicates [V + V
inf
]; this research argued that there is a type of complex verbal predicate [V + V
inf
 + V
inf
…] which, in some cases, have a serial verb construction embedded in the predication [V + SVC]. The analyses revealed the diverse and layered constructions of Lithuanian predicates where semantics, syntax and morphology play an equally important role.
Serial verb constructions in Estonian
Authors: Tragel Ilona
Published: January 2017

The Estonian serial verb construction (SVC) consists of two or more adjacent verbs with concordant grammatical marking in the same clause: cf. Lähe-n vaata-n kohe. ‘go-1sg look-1sg now’ ‘I’ll go look now’. This type of monoclausal SVCs exists in Estonian and in some Finno-Ugric languages, at least with motion verbs (GO, COME, WALK) as first verbs. The results of a corpus study of Estonian GO SVCs show that this type of verb serialisation is productive in Estonian; the SVCs are usually monoclausal, and the first verb of the SVC is often grammaticalised, taking an intentional, inchoative or imperative-hortative function.
Complex predication in three dialects of Australia’s Western Desert
Authors: Pyle Conor
Published: January 2017

This chapter looks at complex predicates in three dialects of Australia’s Western Desert, Pitjantjatjara, Yankunytjatjara and Ngaanyatjarra. Complex predication involving syntactic and morphological structures as well as internally complex lexical items are analysed within the functional framework of Role and Reference Grammar (RRG). Based on evidence from written sources, the dialects are found to have both verb compounding and serial verb constructions; complexes may represent a single composite action or a sequence of related actions. Elements in a complex can serve as light verbs, providing tense, aspect or causation to the complex. Nominals may serve as the arguments of one predicate, or as the arguments of the complex predicate as a whole. Furthermore, they may become fused with verbs to provide semantic narrowing. There is productive derivational morphology; derived lexical items and simple lexical predicates can be shown to be internally complex.
Complex verbs in Bohairic Coptic
Authors: Zakrzewska Ewa D.
Published: January 2017

This chapter discusses second argument markers in Bohairic Coptic complex verbs constructed with the light verbs er‑ ‘do, make’ and
ti- ‘give’ and typically used to integrate verbal borrowings from Greek. The question is examined if Coptic argument marking can be considered a replica of Greek valency patterns. Enhancement of already existing marking strategies seems more plausible, however, whereby the rise of complex verbs has contributed to a radical restructuring of the transitivity system in Coptic. Two competing subsystems of transitivity are distinguished: a recessive one characterized by head marking and emphasis on the discriminating function of case and a productive one in which the characterizing function of case becomes prominent thanks to dependent marking by means of a preposition.
Verb-verb compounds and argument structure in Tepehua
Authors: Watters James K.
Published: January 2017

In Tepehua (Totonacan, Mexico), verb-verb constructions are of two kinds: verb-verb compounds and verb-as-operator constructions. In verb-verb compounds, the second verb is the head of the construction and the two verbs may or may not be separated by inflection. These compounds parallel adverb-incorporation constructions and are subject to a constraint: if the first verb is transitive, the second verb must also be formally transitive, even if its semantic contribution is intransitive. Beyond this transitivity constraint, verb selection is only restricted by pragmatics. In the verb-as-operator constructions, the head verb is the first member of the construction, the modifying verb is a member of a closed class, and it may not be separated from the head verb by inflection. In some instances, the second verb functions as an operator specifying aspect or position. The complex predicate construction has made it possible for what was historically a verb root, tʃuqu, to become a very common productive suffix in Tepehua.
Multi-verb constructions in Cheyenne
Authors: Esteban Avelino Corral
Published: January 2017

As multi-verb constructions are commonly believed to be a widespread feature of Native American languages, the aim of this paper is to offer an in-depth study of this particular phenomenon in Cheyenne (Plains Algonquian: USA) in accordance with the framework provided by Aikhenvald and Dixon (2006) and Aikhenvald and Muysken (2011), since their works cover the major parameters required for a cross-linguistic analysis of the different types of multi-verb constructions. This paper will show that, as Cheyenne does not allow for converbs that are generally considered to be examples of biclausal constructions, complex predicates should be interpreted as part of a monoclausal construction. Additionally, verb compounding is mainly asymmetrical in composition, since there are restrictions as to which verbs are included in every construction type. Indeed, the aim here is to provide a detailed description of verb combinations in Cheyenne while paying attention to their syntactic and semantic properties, thus allowing us both to observe their similarities and differences and analyse their place within the typology of multi-verb constructions.
A Gāthic Rite? A Critique of the Cosmological Interpretation of the Gāthās I
Authors: Ahmadi Amir
Published: January 2017

In the last few decades ritual interpretation of the Gāthās has replaced the biblical one as the dominant paradigm. The emphasis on the central role of ritual in the Avesta is well justified. This realization has given rise to the question of the role and meaning of ritual in the Gāthās. Marijan Molé had tried to argue that the Gāthās in fact describe and accompany a rite whose purpose was the preservation/renovation of the cosmic order. Students of the Gāthās working within the new paradigm have taken up Molé’s general frame. They have tried to show that the Gāthās, collectively or individually, is the text of a particular rite that served, among others, to preserve the cosmic order, especially the daily rise of the sun. The article questions the validity of this thesis. Its focus is on the version of the thesis we find in a number of recent publications by Jean Kellens. He tries to show that the first Gāthā (Ahunauuaitī) describes a unitary pre-dawn ritual that comprised ahaomarite and an animal sacrifice, and had cosmological and eschatological pretensions. His textual analyses and arguments are examined in some detail. The article concludes that Kellens's attempt must be deemed unsuccessful.
New approach to estimate coverage parameter in 3D FEM shot peening simulation
Authors: Pham Trung Quang , Khun Nay Win , Butler David Lee
Published: January 2017

Shot peening is a surface cold working process used to enhance the fatigue life of metallic parts or members. Coverage is a major parameter of shot peening process, which is defined as the percentage of the sum of peened area over the total area on the surface of the specimen. In this paper, a new method is proposed to estimate the full coverage for simulation of the shot peening process. A dynamic plastic model of the shot peening process with the aid of Matlab™ code is also presented using the finite element method (FEM). The numerical results show that the coverage, shot velocity and radius significantly affect the residual stress distribution of the target material, AISI 4340 steel. In addition, a double-shot peening process is also studied in simulation to consider its effect on compressive residual stress distribution.
CoNiMn magnetic films prepared by magnetic field induced codeposition technology
Authors: Yu Yundan , Wei Guoying , Ge Hongliang , Jiang Li , Sun Lixia
Published: January 2017

Magnetic fields vertical to electric fields were applied during electrodeposition process to prepare CoNiMn magnetic thin films. Influences of different magnetic intensities on electrochemistry mechanism, nucleation, surface morphology and magnetic property of CoNiMn films were studied. Magnetohydrodynamics phenomenon caused by Lorentz forces during magnetic electrodeposition process tends to agitate the diffusion layer near cathode. It was found out that, CoNiMn films fabricated by magnetic electrodeposition process belonged to a kind of typical progressive nucleation mechanism. Anomalous codeposition phenomenon of CoNi was affected by magnetic fields. Higher magnetic intensity tended to obtain smooth surface of CoNiMn films with smaller and denser particles. Coercivity and remanence of CoNiMn alloy films increased sharply when magnetic field was induced. Magnetic property of vertical direction was better than parallel direction, which indicated that CoNiMn magnetic film possessed good vertical anisotropy.
Influence of WC–20Co–1Ni coating by HVOF on lifespan of the downhole drilling motors
Authors: Farokhian Gh. , Salehnasab B. , Zat Ajam H. , Nahidi H.
Published: January 2017

Downhole drilling motor is one of the equipment used for drilling and they perform the task of directional drilling. The rotor of these motors is made of 17-4 PH steel, which is generally coated with hard chromium. In this study, the feasibility of replacing hard chromium with WC–20Co–1Ni using a high velocity oxygen fuel system was examined. The result of the metallurgical and mechanical examination showed that changing of the coating to WC–20Co–1Ni improved the wear performance and increased the lifespan of the rotor. In addition, the chemical resistance to corrosion due to the influence of the corrosive gases in the hole on the rotor improved significantly. Finally, substitution of the hard chromium coating with the WC–20Co–1Ni caused an increase in the lifespan and performance of the downhole motor in extreme environmental conditions of the drilling formations, which led to economic savings in amendment and maintenance costs.
Plant growth regulators from the fruiting bodies of Tricholoma flavovirens
Authors: Qiu Weitao , Kobori Hajime , Wu Jing , Choi Jea-Hoon , Hirai Hirofumi , Kawagishi Hirokazu
Published: January 2017

A novel indole derivative (1) and three known compounds (2–4) were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Tricholoma flavovirens. Their structures were determined or identified by the interpretation of spectroscopic data. Compounds 1 and 2 promoted root growth of lettuce and inhibited hypocotyl growth at 1 μmol/paper. Compound 3 inhibited hypocotyl and root growth at 100 nmol/paper.
Effect of different dextrose equivalents of maltodextrin on oxidation stability in encapsulated fish oil by spray drying
Authors: Abd Ghani Asmaliza , Adachi Sae , Shiga Hirokazu , Neoh Tze Loon , Adachi Shuji , Yoshii Hidefumi
Published: January 2017

Encapsulating fish oil by spray drying with an adequate wall material was investigated to determine if stable powders containing emulsified fish-oil-droplets can be formed. In particular, the dextrose equivalent (DE) of maltodextrin (MD) affects the powder structure, surface-oil ratio, and oxidative stability of fish oil. The carrier solution was prepared using MD with different DEs (DE = 11, 19, and 25) and sodium caseinate as the wall material and the emulsifier, respectively. The percentage of microcapsules having a vacuole was 73, 39, and 38% for MD with DE = 11, 19, and 25, respectively. Peroxide values (PVs) were measured for the microcapsules incubated at 60 °C. The microcapsules prepared with MD of DE = 25 and 19 had lower PVs than those prepared with MD of DE = 11. The difference in PV can be ascribed to the difference in the surface-oil ratio of the spray-dried microcapsules.
Modulation of circadian clocks by nutrients and food factors
Authors: Oike Hideaki
Published: January 2017

Daily activity rhythms that are dominated by internal clocks are called circadian rhythms. A central clock is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, and peripheral clocks are located in most mammalian peripheral cells. The central clock is entrained by light/dark cycles, whereas peripheral clocks are entrained by feeding cycles. The effects of nutrients on the central and peripheral clocks have been investigated during the past decade and much interaction between them has come to light. For example, a high-fat diet prolongs the period of circadian behavior, a ketogenic diet advances the onset of locomotor activity rhythms, and a high-salt diet advances the phase of peripheral molecular clocks. Moreover, some food factors such as caffeine, nobiletin, and resveratrol, alter molecular and/or behavioral circadian rhythms. Here, we review nutrients and food factors that modulate mammalian circadian clocks from the cellular to the behavioral level.
Disseminated Leishmaniasis by Leishmania viannia Subgenus: A Series of 18 Cases in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Vernal Sebastian , De Paula Natalia A. , Gomes Ciro M. , Roselino Ana Maria
Published: January 2017

Background.  Disseminated leishmaniasis (DL) is an emerging clinical form of American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) that occurs mainly in Northeastern Brazil. This study describes 18 cases where DL has not yet been reported.

Methods.  Disseminated leishmaniasis cases were extracted from ATL recorded cases between 1987 and March 2015. Disseminated leishmaniasis identification was based on ≥10 mixed-type lesions, located in ≥2 body parts.

Results.  Eighteen (5.4%) patients were identified as DL. Polymerase chain reaction followed by enzymatic digestion confirmed Leishmania viannia subgenus in 17 patients; amastigotes forms were identified in another one.

Conclusions.  Considering that DL diagnosis and management is challenging, clinicians must be aware of this emerging clinical form of the disease.
Paraburkholderia phytofirmans PsJN Protects Arabidopsis thaliana Against a Virulent Strain of Pseudomonas syringae Through the Activation of Induced Resistance
Authors: Timmermann Tania , Armijo Grace , Donoso Raúl , Seguel Aldo , Holuigue Loreto , González Bernardo
Published: January 2017

Paraburkholderia phytofirmans PsJN is a plant growth–promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) that stimulates plant growth and improves tolerance to abiotic stresses. This study analyzed whether strain PsJN can reduce plant disease severity and proliferation of the virulent strain Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000, in Arabidopsis plants, through the activation of induced resistance. Arabidopsis plants previously exposed to strain PsJN showed a reduction in disease severity and pathogen proliferation in leaves compared with noninoculated, infected plants. The plant defense-related genes WRKY54, PR1, ERF1, and PDF1.2 demonstrated increased and more rapid expression in strain PsJN-treated plants compared with noninoculated, infected plants. Transcriptional analyses and functional analysis using signaling mutant plants suggested that resistance to infection by DC3000 in plants treated with strain PsJN involves salicylic acid–, jasmonate-, and ethylene-signaling pathways to activate defense genes. Additionally, activation occurs through a specific PGPR-host recognition, being a necessary metabolically active state of the bacterium to trigger the resistance in Arabidopsis, with a strain PsJN–associated molecular pattern only partially involved in the resistance response. This study provides the first report on the mechanism used by the PGPR P. phytofirmans PsJN to protect A. thaliana against a widespread virulent pathogenic bacterium.
Chemoradiation Versus Chemotherapy in Uterine Carcinosarcoma
Authors: Odei Bismarck , Boothe Dustin , Suneja Gita , Werner Theresa L. , Gaffney David K.
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

Uterine carcinosarcoma (UCS) is a rare and aggressive cancer with poor survival. Our purpose was to evaluate the patterns-of-care and overall survival (OS) benefit of adjuvant chemoradiation (aCRT) compared with adjuvant chemotherapy (aCT) among UCS patients.

Methods:

A query was made in the National Cancer Database to identify patients with UCS diagnosed between 2004 and 2012. Factors predictive of OS were determined using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, as well as Kaplan-Meier and log-rank analysis. Propensity-score matching was employed to decrease the potential influence of selection bias.

Results:

A total of 3538 patients were identified for analysis, consisting of 1787 patients (50.5%) receiving aCT and 1751 (49.5%) receiving aCRT. The median age of patients was 65 years. The majority of patients in our cohort were white (68.6%), on Medicare insurance (47.9%), with >5 cm tumor size (59.9%), and received a lymph node surgery (87.9%). The following factors were predictive of aCRT use: undergoing lymph node surgery (odds ratio, 1.59, P=0.01), and FIGO stage II (odds ratio, 1.71, P=0.01). Median survival for the aCT and aCRT groups was 24 months and 31.3 months, respectively. When compared with aCT alone, aCRT was associated with a benefit in OS on multivariate analysis (hazard ratio, 0.65, P<0.01).

Conclusions:

When compared with aCT alone, the use of aCRT in UCS patients was associated with a significant OS benefit. Multiple demographic and clinical factors significantly influence the choice of adjuvant therapy in this setting.
Suboptimal Compliance With National Comprehensive Cancer Network Melanoma Guidelines
Authors: Blakely Andrew M. , Comissiong Danielle S. , Vezeridis Michael P. , Miner Thomas J.
Published: January 2017

Background:

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) melanoma treatment guidelines are based on best available literature. We evaluated NCCN excision margin and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) guideline adherence to identify patient populations at risk for suboptimal care.

Methods:

Retrospective review of prospectively maintained database of all patients who underwent operation for invasive melanoma from January 2005 to 2015.

Results:

In total, 865 patients underwent operation for 522 thin (60.3%), 268 intermediate-thickness (31.0%), and 75 thick (8.7%) melanomas. Tumor location was 349 extremity (40.4%), 348 trunk (40.2%), and 168 head/neck (19.4%). SLNB was performed in 422 patients (48.8%); 75 (17.8%) were positive, and 67 (15.9%) underwent therapeutic lymphadenectomy. A total of 154 lesions (17.8%) were ulcerated; 444 had mitotic rate ≥1 (51.3%). In total, 788 patients (91.1%) fulfilled both NCCN guidelines. Recommended surgical margins were achieved in 837 patients (96.8%) and SLNB was performed as appropriate in 806 patients (93.2%); 10 patients (1.2%) were deficient for both. Deficient margins and lack of SLNB were associated with increased invasion depth and head/neck location; deficient SLNB was associated with age 80 and above (P<0.0001). Overall recurrence was 7.1%: 15 local (1.7%), 23 regional (2.7%), and 23 distant (2.7%) failures. Local recurrence was associated with head/neck location (P=0.031); all recurrence types were associated with increased tumor thickness.

Conclusions:

NCCN excision and SLNB guidelines were almost always met. Patients at risk for not meeting criteria included the elderly and those with head/neck tumors. Failure to meet NCCN criteria was not associated with increased disease recurrence. Surgeons must carefully balance the risks of not pursuing NCCN guidelines with treatment goals.
Dried and free flowing granules of Spinacia oleracea accelerate bone regeneration and alleviate postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Adhikary Sulekha , Choudhary Dharmendra , Ahmad Naseer , Kumar Sudhir , Dev Kapil , Mittapelly Naresh , Pandey Gitu , Mishra Prabhat Ranjan , Maurya Rakesh , Trivedi Ritu
Published: January 2017

Objective:

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of extract derived from Spinacia oleracea extract (SOE) in reversing bone loss induced by ovariectomy and bone healing properties in a drill-hole fracture model in rats.

Methods:

SOE was administered orally for 12 weeks in adult ovariectomized Sprague Dawley rats after inducing osteopenic condition. Bone micro-architecture, expressions of osteogenic and resorptive gene markers, biomechanical strength, new bone formation, and bone turnover markers were studied. Uterine histomorphometry was used to assess estrogenicity. Bone regeneration potential of SOE was assessed in a drill-hole fracture model. Fracture healing was assessed by calcein intensity and micro-CT analysis of callus at fracture region.

Results:

SOE prevented ovariectomy-induced bone loss as evident from 122% increase in bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) and 29% decline in Tb.Sp in femoral trabecular micro-architecture. This was corroborated by the more than twofold stimulation in the expression of osteogenic genes runt-related transcription factor 2, osterix, osteocalcin, bone morphogenetic protein 2, collagen-1. Furthermore in the fracture healing model, we observed a 25% increase in BV/TV and enhancement in calcein intensity at the fractured site. The extract when converted into dried deliverable Spinaceae oleracea granule (SOG) form accelerated bone regeneration at fracture site, which was more efficient as evident by a 39% increase in BV/TV. Transforming SOE into dried granules facilitated prolonged systemic availability, thus providing enhanced activity for a period of 14 days.

Conclusions:

SOE treatment effectively prevents ovariectomy-induced bone loss and stimulated fracture healing in adult rats. The dried granular form of the extract of Spinaceae oleracea was effective in fracture healing at the same dose.
Peripartum Care of the Jehovah’s Witness Patient
Authors: RIVEROS-PEREZ EFRAIN , KACMAR RACHEL
Published: January 2017

Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal mortality. Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs) refuse allogeneic blood transfusion, and thus treatment of hemorrhagic complications in this patient population is complex. Recognition and respect for religious beliefs are essential when caring for the JW parturient and several ethical and legal considerations must be taken into account. Interdisciplinary teamwork and communication as well as active patient participation are critical in the decision-making process for JW patients. Various techniques and technologies are available to optimize red blood cell mass, minimize bleeding, increase tolerance to anemia and support multiorgan derangements derived from antepartum and postpartum hemorrhage.
Peripartum Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: BOOTH JESSICA M. , TONIDANDEL ASHLEY M.
Published: January 2017

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea is unknown during pregnancy, but the syndrome is likely underdiagnosed and rising in frequency along with the obesity epidemic. Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with adverse outcomes, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, preterm, and cesarean delivery. Obese pregnant women should be screened and referred to a sleep medicine specialist for evaluation. Continuous positive airway pressure is the treatment of choice with demonstrated safety and compliance in pregnancy. Early anesthesia consultation allows for preparation and implementation of a peripartum plan that includes early labor analgesia, avoidance of respiratory depressants, and closer monitoring of oxygenation.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of the New Susanna Glaucoma Drainage Device in Refractory Glaucomas: Short-term Results
Authors: Biteli Luis G. , Prata Tiago S. , Gracitelli Carolina P.B. , Kanadani Fábio N. , Villas Boas Flávia , Hatanaka Marcelo , Paranhos Junior Augusto
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To assess the efficacy and safety of the new Susanna glaucoma drainage device (SGDD) in patients with neovascular and refractory glaucomas.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective study, patients with neovascular glaucoma or refractory glaucomas (defined as eyes with previous trabeculectomy failure) were enrolled. All eyes had to have intraocular pressure (IOP) above 21 mm Hg despite maximum tolerated topical medication, or recent documentation of anatomic and/or functional progression. Patients underwent glaucoma surgery with the new SGDD in a standardized manner. Postoperative visits were performed at days 1 and 7; months 1, 3, and 6; and every 6 months thereafter. Preoperative and postoperative IOP, number of antiglaucoma medications, surgical complications, and any subsequent related events were recorded. Success criteria were: (I) IOP≥6 and ≤21 mm Hg; (II) IOP≥6 and ≤18 mm Hg. Each criterion was classified as complete (without medication) or qualified (with medication).

Results:

A total of 58 patients with a mean age of 64.3±11.5 years were included [19 with neovascular glaucoma (group 1) and 39 with failure of first trabeculectomy (group 2)]. Overall, mean follow-up was 7.1±3.8 months, and mean IOP was reduced from 31.5±1.6 (range, 18 to 68) mm Hg to 12.6±0.7 (range, 2 to 28) mm Hg at the last follow-up visit (P<0.01). The mean number of antiglaucoma medications used was reduced from 3.4±0.9 to 1.4±1.5 (P<0.01). At 6 months postoperatively, qualified success rates for groups 1 and 2 were 73% and 86%, respectively (considering the stricter criterion). Main complications were 2 cases of conjunctival erosion and 2 cases of late hypotony.

Conclusions:

Our initial findings suggest that the new SGDD is an effective alternative for managing neovascular and refractory glaucomas, with minor postoperative complications in the short-term.
Everolimus for Treatment of Pseudomyogenic Hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Ozeki Michio , Nozawa Akifumi , Kanda Kaori , Hori Tomohiro , Nagano Akihito , Shimada Akira , Miyazaki Tatsuhiko , Fukao Toshiyuki
Published: January 2017

Pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma (PMH) is a recently described vascular neoplasm that occurs most commonly in the soft tissue of the distal extremities of young adults. Metastatic PMH can be fatal and there are no effective medications. We describe a case of a 15-year-old boy with metastatic PMH, who responded to treatment with everolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor. Immunohistochemistry showed that mammalian target of rapamycin was expressed in PMH biopsy specimens, which may explain the reduction in PMH tumor size following treatment.
Respiratory Difficulties in Children With Underlying Asthma During Immunotherapy for High-risk Neuroblastoma
Authors: Metrock Laura K. , Qayed Muna , Simon Dawn , Cash Thomas , O’Connor Michael G. , Johnson Shaina , Esiashvili Natia , Katzenstein Howard M.
Published: January 2017

Treatment of high-risk neuroblastoma now includes antibody based antitumor immunotherapy as part of standard care. Although this therapy has resulted in dramatic improvements in survival, it is associated with significant side effects. Children with underlying respiratory issues, and in particular asthma, may be more susceptible to immunotherapy associated respiratory compromise and pulmonary complications. Early routine involvement of pulmonology care is warranted for these patients in an effort to allow maximal delivery of immunotherapy and minimize acute and long-term complications.
Determinants of Suicidality and of Treatment Modalities in a Community Psychiatry Sample of Asylum Seekers
Authors: Premand Natacha , Baeriswyl-Cottin Rachel , Gex-Fabry Marianne , Hiller Nikol , Framorando David , Eytan Ariel , Giannakopoulos Panteleimon , Bartolomei Javier
Published: January 2017

A high prevalence of mental illness has been reported in asylum seekers. The present cross-sectional study examined suicidal thoughts, treatment modalities (outpatient crisis intervention, inpatient care), and their determinants in asylum seekers (n = 119) and permanent residents (n = 120) attending the same outpatient clinic in Geneva, Switzerland. The most frequent diagnoses were depressive disorders (64.7%) and posttraumatic stress disorder (34.5%) in asylum seekers and psychotic (55.0%) and depressive disorders (33.3%) in permanent residents. The frequency of suicidal thoughts was similar in both groups (>30%). Asylum seekers benefited from outpatient crisis intervention more frequently than residents did (26.9% vs. 5.8%), whereas inpatient care was less frequent (25.2% vs. 44.2%). In asylum seekers, acute suicidal thoughts were associated with increased frequency of outpatient crisis interventions, and, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or personality disorders were associated with higher rates of hospitalization. Documenting clinical characteristics and service utilization of asylum seekers is a prerequisite to organizing targeted interventions.
Obesity and skin and soft tissue infections: how to optimize antimicrobial usage for prevention and treatment?
Authors: Grupper Mordechai , Nicolau David P.
Published: January 2017

Purpose of review

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are prevalent in the obese population, with rising trend expected. Although numerous antibiotics are available for the prevention and treatment of SSTIs, their characterization in obese patients is not a regulatory mandate. Consequently, information that carries importance for optimizing the dosing regimen in the obese population may not be readily available. This review focuses on the most recent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data on this topic with attention to cefazolin for surgical prophylaxis as well as antibiotics that are active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Moreover, the implications for optimizing SSTIs prevention and treatment in the obese population will also be discussed.

Recent findings

On the basis of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic considerations, most studies found a perioperative prophylactic cefazolin regimen of 2 g to be reasonable in the case of obese patients undergoing cesarean delivery or bariatric surgery. There is general paucity of data regarding the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic characteristics of antimicrobials active against MRSA in obese patients, especially for the target tissue. Therapeutic drug monitoring has been correlated with pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic optimization for vancomycin and teicoplanin, and should be used in these cases. There is more supportive evidence for the use of oxazolidinones (linezolid and tedizolid), daptomycin and lipoglycopeptides (telavancin, dalbavancin and oritavancin) in the management of SSTIs in this population.

The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic approach, which can be used as a basis or supplement to clinical trials, provides valuable data and decision-making tools for optimizing regimens used for both prevention and treatment of SSTIs in the obese population. Important pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic characteristics of antibiotics, such as the penetration into the subcutaneous tissue and the probability of reaching the pharmacodynamic, target dictate efficacy, and thus should be taken into account and further investigated.
Ultrasound Tomography Evaluation of Breast Density
Authors: O'Flynn Elizabeth A.M. , Fromageau Jeremie , Ledger Araminta E. , Messa Alessandro , D'Aquino Ashley , Schoemaker Minouk J. , Schmidt Maria , Duric Neb , Swerdlow Anthony J. , Bamber Jeffrey C.
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Ultrasound tomography (UST) is an emerging whole-breast 3-dimensional imaging technique that obtains quantitative tomograms of speed of sound of the entire breast. The imaged parameter is the speed of sound which is used as a surrogate measure of density at each voxel and holds promise as a method to evaluate breast density without ionizing radiation. This study evaluated the technique of UST and compared whole-breast volume averaged speed of sound (VASS) with MR percent water content from noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods

Forty-three healthy female volunteers (median age, 40 years; range, 29–59 years) underwent bilateral breast UST and MRI using a 2-point Dixon technique. Reproducibility of VASS was evaluated using Bland-Altman analysis. Volume averaged speed of sound and MR percent water were evaluated and compared using Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

The mean ± standard deviation VASS measurement was 1463 ± 29 m s−1 (range, 1434–1542 m s−1). There was high similarity between right (1464 ± 30 m s−1) and left (1462 ± 28 m s−1) breasts (P = 0.113) (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.98). Mean MR percent water content was 35.7% ± 14.7% (range, 13.2%–75.3%), with small but significant differences between right and left breasts (36.3% ± 14.9% and 35.1% ± 14.7%, respectively; P = 0.004). There was a very strong correlation between VASS and MR percent water density (r
2 = 0.96, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Ultrasound tomography holds promise as a reliable and reproducible 3-dimensional technique to provide a surrogate measure of breast density and correlates strongly with MR percent water content.
The K-Technique: A Novel Technique for Laparoscopic Apical Suspension Using Barbed Sutures
Authors: Khalife Tarek , Hanna Rabbie K.
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Hysterectomy is among the most common gynecologic procedures performed for women, second only to cesarean sections, and the proportion of it performed laparoscopically continues to increase. Addressing apical support at the time of the hysterectomy is crucial to minimizing the risk of posthysterectomy prolapse. Barriers to addressing apical support include the lack of experience in laparoscopic suturing and knot tying that require advanced skills and dexterity. The K-technique is a novel modification of the uterosacral ligament suspension procedure using the knot-less barbed suture technology, rendering suturing easier and quicker to perform.

Method

The vaginal cuff epithelium is closed with 2 unidirectional barbed sutures that are started at the lateral fornices and ran until the midsection. The same sutures will then serially purchase the anterior and posterior vaginal endopelvic fascia and the midsegment of the uterosacral ligament. Two more passes are thrown through the same structures, yet farther laterally, back and forth. A video illustration of the procedure is attached.

Results

Eighteen patients underwent the procedure with no urinary tract injuries documented by cystoscopy and no postoperative morbidity documented during the 6-week postoperative follow-up period. Limited short- and long-term follow-up data are reassuring, but more will be needed to confirm the efficacy of barbed sutures in prolapse repair.

Conclusions

The K-technique combines the conventional uterosacral ligament suspension concept with the ease, effectiveness, and safety of barbed sutures. The technique might aid the surgeon to add the apical vaginal support when indicated.
Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) Correlation of Histopathology and MRI in Prion Disease
Authors: Mente Karin P. , O’Donnell James K. , Jones Stephen E. , Cohen Mark L. , Thompson Nicolas R. , Bizzi Alberto , Gambetti Pierluigi , Safar Jiri G. , Appleby Brian S.
Published: January 2017

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) and other prion diseases are rapidly progressive spongiform encephalopathies that are invariably fatal. Clinical features and magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalogram, and cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities may suggest prion disease, but a definitive diagnosis can only be made by means of neuropathologic examination. Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) is not routinely used to evaluate patients with suspected prion disease. This study includes 11 cases of definite prion disease in which FDG-PET scans were obtained. There were 8 sporadic CJD cases, 2 genetic CJD cases, and 1 fatal familial insomnia case. Automated FDG-PET analysis revealed parietal region hypometabolism in all cases. Surprisingly, limbic and mesolimbic hypermetabolism were also present in the majority of cases. When FDG-PET hypometabolism was compared with neuropathologic changes (neuronal loss, astrocytosis, spongiosis), hypometabolism was predictive of neuropathology in 80.6% of cortical regions versus 17.6% of subcortical regions. The odds of neuropathologic changes were 2.1 times higher in cortical regions than subcortical regions (P=0.0265). A similar discordance between cortical and subcortical regions was observed between FDG-PET hypometabolism and magnetic resonance imaging diffusion weighted imaging hyperintensity. This study shows that there may be a relationship between FDG-PET hypometabolism and neuropathology in cortical regions in prion disease but it is unlikely to be helpful for diagnosis.
Feedback traps for virtual potentials
Authors: Gavrilov Momčilo , Bechhoefer John
Published: January 2017

Feedback traps are tools for trapping and manipulating single charged objects, such as molecules in solution. An alternative to optical tweezers and other single-molecule techniques, they use feedback to counteract the Brownian motion of a molecule of interest. The trap first acquires information about a molecule's position and then applies an electric feedback force to move the molecule. Since electric forces are stronger than optical forces at small scales, feedback traps are the best way to trap single molecules without ‘touching’ them (e.g. by putting them in a small box or attaching them to a tether). Feedback traps can do more than trap molecules: they can also subject a target object to forces that are calculated to be the gradient of a desired potential functionU(x). If the feedback loop is fast enough, it creates avirtual potentialwhose dynamics will be very close to those of a particle in an actual potentialU(x). But because the dynamics are entirely a result of the feedback loop—absent the feedback, there is only an object diffusing in a fluid—we are free to specify and then manipulate in time an arbitrary potentialU(x,t). Here, we review recent applications of feedback traps to studies on the fundamental connections between information and thermodynamics, a topic where feedback plays an even more fundamental role. We discuss how recursive maximum-likelihood techniques allow continuous calibration, to compensate for drifts in experiments that last for days. We consider ways to estimate work and heat, using them to measure fluctuating energies to a precision of ±0.03kTover these long experiments. Finally, we compare work and heat measurements of the costs of information erasure, theLandauer limitofkTln 2 per bit of information erased. We argue that, when you want to know the average heat transferred to a bath in a long protocol, you should measure instead the average work and then infer the heat using the first law of thermodynamics.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Horizons of cybernetical physics’.