bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work-Life Balance in the Professional Sports Setting: The Athletic Trainer’s Perspective
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Hunter Chantel
Published: February 2018

The professional sport setting requires athletic trainers to work long hours, spend days on the road, and adhere to schedules made by others. These job expectations can lead to a reduction in work-life balance, and recent evidence suggests that role strain and reduced professional commitment are present. At this time, work-life balance of the professional sport athletic trainer has not been examined. Twenty-seven male athletic trainers who represented four major professional sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL) participated in the study. We collected data online by asking our participants to respond to a series of demographic, Likert-scaled, and open-ended questions. Means and standard deviations were calculated for Likert scale data and scores were compiled for each question. All qualitative data from the online interviews were coded following a general inductive approach. Data source triangulation was the primary credibility strategy, followed by peer review and multiple analyst triangulation. Mean scores were 40.5 ± 6.6 for work-family/personal life conflict. Two major themes emerged from our data: barriers and facilitators. Barriers speak to those aspects of the role of the athletic trainer in the professional setting that limit work-life balance. Facilitators speak to those strategies and practices that stimulated work-life balance for our participants. The professional sports setting can be demanding and stimulate conflict, but, with support garnered from the organization and supportive spouses, balance can be gained.
Discriminatory Ability of Lower-Extremity Peak Torque and Rate of Torque Development in the Identification of Older Women With Slow Gait Speed
Authors: Morcelli Mary Hellen , LaRoche Dain Patrick , Crozara Luciano Fernandes , Marques Nise Ribeiro , Hallal Camilla Zamfolini , Gonçalves Mauro , Navega Marcelo Tavella
Published: February 2018

The aim was to compare torque and rate of torque development of lower limb muscles between older women with functional and slow gait speeds to determine which muscle group is the best predictor of functional gait speed, and to establish strength thresholds needed for functional walking speed. Torque and rate of torque development of hip, knee, and ankle muscles were measured in older women who were divided in 2 groups according to gait speed: slow gait speed (<1.22 m·s−1) and functional gait speed (≥1.22 m·s−1). For each muscle group, 3 maximal isometric contractions were performed, and peak torque and rate of torque development were recorded. Older women with slow gait speed had lower peak torque than older women with functional gait speed for hip extension (28%), knee flexion (15%), knee extension (14%), and plantar flexion (16%) (all Ps < .05). Older women with slow gait speed had lower peak rate of torque development for hip flexion (29%), hip extension (37%), knee flexion (34%), knee extension (33%), and plantar flexion (19%) (all Ps < .05). Knee extension peak rate of torque development and hip extension peak torque were the better predictors of functional gait speed with thresholds of 2.96 N·m·s−1·kg−1 and 1.26 N·m·kg−1, respectively.
Ankle and Midfoot Power During Walking and Stair Ascent in Healthy Adults
Authors: DiLiberto Frank E. , Nawoczenski Deborah A. , Houck Jeff
Published: February 2018

Ankle power dominates forward propulsion of gait, but midfoot power generation is also important for successful push-off. However, it is unclear if midfoot power generation increases or stays the same in response to propulsive activities that induce larger external loads and require greater ankle power. The purpose of this study was to examine ankle and midfoot power in healthy adults during progressively more demanding functional tasks. Multisegment foot motion (tibia, calcaneus, and forefoot) and ground reaction forces were recorded as participants (N = 12) walked, ascended a standard step, and ascended a high step. Ankle and midfoot positive peak power and positive total power, and the proportion of midfoot to ankle positive total power were calculated. One-way repeated-measures analyses of variance were conducted to evaluate differences across tasks. Main effects were found for ankle and midfoot peak and total powers (all Ps < .01), but not for the proportion of midfoot-to-ankle total power (P = .33). Ankle and midfoot power significantly increased across each task. Midfoot power increased in proportion to ankle power and in congruence to the external load of a task. Study findings may serve to inform multisegment foot modeling applications and internal mechanistic theories of normal and pathological foot function.
The Use of a Wheelchair Propulsion Field Test to Determine Peak Heart Rate in Children and Adolescents With Myelomeningocele
Authors: Leonardi-Figueiredo Marisa Maia , de Souza Mariana Angélica , Lizzi Elisangela Aparecida da Silva , de Oliveira Luciano Fonseca Lemos , Crescencio Julio Cesar , Schwartzmann Pedro Vellosa , Gallo Lourenço , Mattiello-Sverzut Ana Claudia
Published: February 2018

Purpose: We analyzed the evolution and pattern of heart rate (HR) during the 12-minute wheelchair propulsion field test (WPFT) and compared the peak HR (HRpeak) from the WPFT to the HRpeak obtained in the progressive cardiopulmonary exercise test on arm cranking ergometer (ACT). We aimed to determine if the field test detects the HRpeak consistently and could be used in clinical practice. Methods: Eleven wheelchair-using children and adolescents with myelomeningocele (aged 8–15 y) performed a maximal ACT and a 12-minute WPFT. HR was recorded continuously at rest, during each minute of the tests, and at recovery. Mixed analysis of variance was used to compare the variables at rest and peak. Bland–Altman plot and Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient were used to show agreement between the tests. Results: During minute 2 of the WPFT, participants reached 73%–96% of the HRpeak values recorded in the ACT. From minutes 4 to 12, participants reached HRpeak values ranging 86%–109% of the values recorded in the ACT. There is agreement between the ACT and the WPFT tests. Conclusion: WPFT with minimal duration of 4 minutes may be an alternative tool to obtain HRpeak in children and adolescents with myelomeningocele.
The cost of being different
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: February 2018

Extensive genetic variations in GPCRs may alter responses to commonly used drugs and incur a high economic burden.
Treatment of Clostridium difficile Infection with a Small-Molecule Inhibitor of Toxin UDP-Glucose Hydrolysis Activity
Authors: Stroke Ilana L. , Letourneau Jeffrey J. , Miller Teresa E. , Xu Yan , Pechik Igor , Savoly Diana R. , Ma Linh , Sturzenbecker Laurie J. , Sabalski Joan , Stein Philip D. , Webb Maria L. , Hilbert David W.
Published: February 2018

Clostridium difficile
infection (CDI) is the leading cause of hospital-acquired infectious diarrhea, with significant morbidity, mortality, and associated health care costs. The major risk factor for CDI is antimicrobial therapy, which disrupts the normal gut microbiota and allows
C. difficile
to flourish. Treatment of CDI with antimicrobials is generally effective in the short term, but recurrent infections are frequent and problematic, indicating that improved treatment options are necessary. Symptoms of disease are largely due to two homologous toxins, TcdA and TcdB, which are glucosyltransferases that inhibit host Rho GTPases. As the normal gut microbiota is an important component of resistance to CDI, our goal was to develop an effective nonantimicrobial therapy. Here, we report a highly potent small-molecule inhibitor (VB-82252) of TcdA and TcdB. This compound inhibits the UDP-glucose hydrolysis activity of TcdB and protects cells from intoxication after challenge with either toxin. Oral dosing of the inhibitor prevented inflammation in a murine intrarectal toxin challenge model. In a murine model of recurrent CDI, the inhibitor reduced weight loss and gut inflammation during acute disease and did not cause the recurrent disease that was observed with vancomycin treatment. Lastly, the inhibitor demonstrated efficacy similar to that of vancomycin in a hamster disease model. Overall, these results demonstrate that small-molecule inhibition of
C. difficile
toxin UDP-glucose hydrolysis activity is a promising nonantimicrobial approach to the treatment of CDI.
24th Annual Midwest Microbial Pathogenesis Conference
Authors: Champion Patricia A. , Shrout Joshua D.
Published: February 2018

The 24th Annual Midwest Microbial Pathogenesis Conference (MMPC) was held at the University of Notre Dame from 25 to 27 August 2017. The conference provided an opportunity for scientists from the Midwest to discuss new advances in microbial pathogenesis, including how pathogens promote disease and how they interact with each other, the microbiome, and the host. We highlight the history of the MMPC, the topics presented at the conference, and the reports in this issue of theJournal of Bacteriology.
Disentangling the determinants of interest and willingness-to-pay for breast cancer susceptibility testing in the general population: a cross-sectional Web-based survey among women of Québec (Canada)
Authors: Blouin-Bougie Jolyane , Amara Nabil , Bouchard Karine , Simard Jacques , Dorval Michel
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To identify common and specific individual factors that favour or impede women’s interest in and willingness-to-pay (WTP) for breast cancer susceptibility testing (BCST) and to identify the most impactful factors on both outcome measures.

Design and methods

This study used a self-administered cross-sectional Web-based questionnaire that included hypothetical scenarios about the availability of a new genetic test for breast cancer.

Participants

French-speaking women of the general population of Québec (Canada), aged between 35 and 69 years, were identified from a Web-based panel (2410 met the selection criteria, 1160 were reached and 1031 completed the survey).

Measures

The outcomes are the level of interest in and the range of WTP for BCST. Three categories of individual factors identified in the literature were used as potential explanatory factors, that is, demographic, clinical and psychosocial.

Results

Descriptive statistics indicated that the vast majority of sampled women are interested in BCST (90%). Among those, more than half of them are willing-to-pay for such a test (57%). The regression models pointed out several factors associated with both outcomes (eg, age, income, family history, locus of control-powerful others) and marginal effects were used to highlight the most impactful factors for each outcome.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide a proxy of the readiness of women of the general population to use and to pay for BCST. They also offer insights for developing inclusive and specific strategies to foster informed decision-making and guide the services offered by health organisations corresponding to women’s preferences and needs.
Multiple barriers to participation for people with psychosocial disability in Dehradun district, North India: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mathias Kaaren , Pant Hira , Marella Manju , Singh Lawrence , Murthy GVS , Grills Nathan
Published: February 2018

Objectives

This study used a population-based cross-sectional survey to describe the prevalence of psychosocial disability and unmet need for access to services in North India.

Setting

This study was conducted in Dehradun district, Uttarakhand, in 2014.

Participants

A population-based sample of 2441 people over the age of 18 years.

Primary outcome measures

The Rapid Assessment of Disability survey tool identified people with disability and used an adapted version of the Kessler scale to identify those with psychosocial disability. It additionally collected information on socioeconomic variables, access to community services and barriers to participation. Prevalence of psychosocial disability and unmet needs and descriptions of barriers to services were calculated, and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between risk factors and psychosocial disability.

Results

Prevalence of psychosocial disability was 4.8% and 75% of participants with psychological distress also reported comorbid functional impairments. Adjusted ORs for depression of more than two were found for people who were unschooled, unemployed and of moderate or poor socioeconomic status. The unmet need for access to services was significantly higher in every domain for people with psychosocial disability and was more than 25% in the areas of employment, health service access and community consultation. People with psychosocial disability encountered greater barriers in each domain compared with controls.

Conclusions

People who are poor, uneducated and unemployed are two to four times more likely to have psychosocial disability in Dehradun district. They face unmet needs in accessing community services and perceive negative social attitudes, lack of physical accessibility and lack of information as barriers limiting their participation. Social policy must increase access to education and reduce poverty but additionally ensure action is taken in all community services to increase information, physical accessibility and social inclusion of people with psychosocial and other forms of disability.
A Widely Tunable Bandpass CMOS Filter Based on a Low-Voltage Active Inductor
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Mahdi , Jalali Ali
Published: February 2018

A Chebyshev bandpass filter for digital TV (DTV) tuner ICs, as an RF tracking filter, based on a low-voltage tunable active inductor (TAI) is presented. The new filter has a tuning range of 200–800[Formula: see text]MHz. Independent tuning of the inductance and central frequency of the filter are very important in this wide frequency span. Adjusting the inductance for tuning of the filter should not vary its quality factor and consequently performance of the filter. Use of a feedback resistor in the active inductor makes the inductance and quality factor tuning-independent. Moreover, the feedback resistor increases the quality factor of the active inductor. Biasing the bulk terminals of the devices to a positive voltage, we achieve low threshold devices and consequently low voltage TAI. The proposed filter has IIP3 and noise figure of [Formula: see text]0.8 to 9.5[Formula: see text]dBm and 19.1 to 20.9[Formula: see text]dB, respectively. Besides, the power consumption varies from 9.6 to 25.5[Formula: see text]mW in the tuning range of 200–800[Formula: see text]MHz.
A FRACTAL MODEL FOR WATER FLOW THROUGH UNSATURATED POROUS ROCKS
Authors: XIAO BOQI , ZHANG XIAN , WANG WEI , LONG GONGBO , CHEN HANXIN , KANG HAO , REN WEN
Published: February 2018

In this work, considering the effect of porosity, pore size, saturation of water and tortuosity fractal dimension, an analytical model for the capillary pressure and water relative permeability is derived in unsaturated porous rocks. Besides, the formulas of calculating the capillary pressure and water relative permeability are given by taking into account the fractal distribution of pore size and tortuosity of capillaries. It can be seen that the capillary pressure for water phase decreases with the increase of saturation in unsaturated porous rocks. It is found that the capillary pressure for water phase decreases as the tortuosity fractal dimension decreases. It is further seen that the capillary pressure for water phase increases with the decrease of porosity, and at low porosity, the capillary pressure increases sharply with the decrease of porosity. Besides, it can be observed that the water relative permeability increases with the increase of saturation in unsaturated porous rocks. This predicted the capillary pressure and water relative permeability of unsaturated porous rocks based on the proposed models which are in good agreement with the experimental data and model predictions reported in the literature. The proposed model improved the understanding of the physical mechanisms of water flow through unsaturated porous rocks.
The FSZ properties of sporadic simple groups
Authors: Keilberg Marc
Published: February 2018

We investigate a possible connection between the [Formula: see text] properties of a group and its Sylow subgroups. We show that the simple groups [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], as well as all sporadic simple groups with order divisible by [Formula: see text] are not [Formula: see text], and that neither are their Sylow 5-subgroups. The groups [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] were previously established as non-[Formula: see text] by Peter Schauenburg; we present alternative proofs. All other sporadic simple groups and their Sylow subgroups are shown to be [Formula: see text]. We conclude by considering all perfect groups available through GAP with order at most [Formula: see text], and show they are non-[Formula: see text] if and only if their Sylow 5-subgroups are non-[Formula: see text].
On a class of constacyclic codes of length 4ps over 𝔽pm + u𝔽pm
Authors: Dinh Hai Q. , Nguyen Bac T. , Sriboonchitta Songsak , Vo Thang M.
Published: February 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a prime such that [Formula: see text]. For any unit [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], we determine the algebraic structures of [Formula: see text]-constacyclic codes of length [Formula: see text] over the finite commutative chain ring [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. If the unit [Formula: see text] is a square, each [Formula: see text]-constacyclic code of length [Formula: see text] is expressed as a direct sum of an -[Formula: see text]-constacyclic code and an [Formula: see text]-constacyclic code of length [Formula: see text] If the unit [Formula: see text] is not a square, then [Formula: see text] can be decomposed into a product of two irreducible coprime quadratic polynomials which are [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. By showing that the quotient rings [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are local, non-chain rings, we can compute the number of codewords in each of [Formula: see text]-constacyclic codes. Moreover, the duals of such codes are also given.
Microbiota and metabolism: what's new in 2018?
Authors: Bretin Alexis , Gewirtz Andrew T. , Chassaing Benoit
Published: February 2018

The concept that the gut microbiota plays a broadly important role in health and disease in general, and metabolic health in particular, is now well established. However, many of the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood while approaches to reliably manipulate the microbiota to promote health have not yet been clearly defined. Nonetheless, progress in these areas is steadily accelerating. Herein, we review select areas of progress that have been made in the last year that should hasten the era in which the microbiota can be therapeutically manipulated to promote metabolic health.
Defect Analysis in Microgroove Machining of Nickel-Phosphide Plating by Small Cross-Angle Microgrooving
Authors: Dong Xiaobin , Zhou Tianfeng , Pang Siqin , Liang Zhiqiang , Yu Qian , Ruan Benshuai , Wang Xibin
Published: February 2018

Crystalline nickel-phosphide (c-Ni-P) plating is a newly developed mold material for precision glass molding (PGM) to fabricate microgrooves. In the ultraprecision cutting process of the c-Ni-P plating material, the neighboring microgrooves are required to adjoin with each other to ensure acute microgroove ridges and miniaturize the microgroove size. Generally, defects of burrs and fracture pits can easily occur on the ridges when the plating layer is grooved. Burrs appear when tears dominate in material removal with a large adjacent amount. With the change of the adjacent amount, the removed material is sheared out from the workpiece, and when the cutting depth of the groove ridge is over the brittle-ductile transition thickness, fracture pits arise. To restrict these defects, a small cross-angle microgrooving method is proposed to test the critical adjacent amount range efficiently. It is found that an acute ridge of the microgroove is formed with a small enough adjacent amount; when this amount is in the range of 570 nm~720 nm in the microgroove machining process, fracture pits begin to arise on the gradient edge. High-quality microgrooves can be obtained based on this methodology.
Common Issues Seen in Paediatric Diabetes Clinics, Psychological Formulations, and Related Approaches to Management
Authors: Deeb Asma , Akle Mariette , Al Ozairi Abdulla , Cameron Fergus
Published: February 2018

Diabetes is a chronic disease and its management is associated with multiple challenges. This is particularly the case in children and adolescents. Factors that contribute to difficulties in managing diabetes in youth include psychological characteristics, family dynamics, and social behavior. The purpose of this article is to highlight some psychological issues in children and adolescents with diabetes. We aim to present selected case scenarios encountered by health professionals and to provide tips on strategies for managing psychological aspect of diabetes. We tackle the psychological issues related to diabetes under four main categories: maladaptive disorders, eating disorders, family psychopathology, and family dysfunction. Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis are useful modalities in diabetes management. The psychological intervention is aimed at supporting patients and families to reach a balance between a normal family routine and a good glycemic control. We demonstrate unique requirements in coordinating care for children and adolescents with diabetes and highlight the importance of encouraging a positive behavior. Managing diabetes in children and adolescents needs to be in the form of a collaborative work between health care professionals, children and adolescents, and their families. Caring, supportive family backed up by experienced multidisciplinary team is the best approach to prevent psychological difficulties.
Microorganisms in the Treatment of Cancer: Advantages and Limitations
Authors: Łukasiewicz Klaudia , Fol Marek
Published: February 2018

Cancer remains one of the major challenges of the 21st century. The increasing numbers of cases are not accompanied by adequate progress in therapy. The standard methods of treatment often do not lead to the expected effects. Therefore, it is extremely important to find new, more effective treatments. One of the most promising research directions is immunotherapy, including the use of specific types of microorganisms. This type of treatment is expected to stimulate the immune system for the selective elimination of cancer cells. The research results seem to be promising and show the intensive activation of the immune response as a result of bacterial stimulation. In addition, it is possible to use microorganisms in many different ways, based on their specific properties, that is, toxin production, anaerobic lifestyle, or binding substances that can be delivered to a specific location (vectors). This paper provides an overview of selected microorganisms which are already in use or that are in the experimental phase. Just like any other therapy, the use of microbes for cancer treatment also has some disadvantages. Nevertheless, this kind of treatment can supplement conventional anticancer therapy, giving cancer patients a chance and hope of recovery.
Gastrointestinal Tuberculosis Presenting as Malnutrition and Distal Colonic Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Chakinala Raja Chandra , Farkas Zahava C. , Barbash Benjamin , Haq Khwaja F. , Solanki Shantanu , Khan Muhammad Ali , Esses Edward , Farooq Taliya , Dworkin Brad
Published: February 2018

Gastrointestinal (GI) tuberculosis (TB) is rare and can occur in the context of active pulmonary disease or as a primary infection with no pulmonary symptoms. It typically presents with vague abdominal symptoms, making it difficult to discern from alternative disease processes. Although the ileocecal region is the most commonly affected site, tuberculous enteritis can involve any aspect of the GI tract. To demonstrate the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion for the disease, we present a case of GI TB presenting as severe malnutrition and segmental colitis of the left colon.
Biomimetic Beetle-Inspired Flapping Air Vehicle Actuated by Ionic Polymer-Metal Composite Actuator
Authors: Zhao Yang , Xu Di , Sheng Jiazheng , Meng Qinglong , Wu Dezhi , Wang Lingyun , Xiao Jingjing , Lv Wenlong , Chen Qinnan , Sun Daoheng
Published: February 2018

During the last decades, the ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) received much attention because of its potential capabilities, such as large displacement and flexible bending actuation. In this paper, a biomimetic flapping air vehicle was proposed by combining the superiority of ionic polymer metal composite with the bionic beetle flapping principle. The blocking force was compared between casted IPMC and IPMC. The flapping state of the wing was investigated and the maximum displacement and flapping angle were measured. The flapping displacement under different voltage and frequency was tested. The flapping displacement of the wing and the support reaction force were measured under different frequency by experiments. The experimental results indicate that the high voltage and low frequency would get large flapping displacement.
Molecular Detection of EMT Markers in Circulating Tumor Cells from Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients: Potential Role in Clinical Practice
Authors: Milano Annalisa , Mazzetta Francesca , Valente Sabatino , Ranieri Danilo , Leone Laura , Botticelli Andrea , Onesti Concetta Elisa , Lauro Salvatore , Raffa Salvatore , Torrisi Maria Rosaria , Marchetti Paolo
Published: February 2018

Background. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common cause of cancer-related mortality; nevertheless, there are few data regarding detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in NSCLC, compared to other kinds of cancers in which their prognostic roles have already been defined. This difference is likely due to detection methods based on the epithelial marker expression which ignore CTCs undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (CTCsEMT). Methods. After optimization of the test with spiking experiments of A549 cells undergoing TGF-β1-induced EMT (A549EMT), the CTCsEMT were enriched by immunomagnetic depletion of leukocytes and then characterized by a RT-PCR assay based on the retrieval of epithelial and EMT-related genes. Blood samples from ten metastatic NSCLC patients before starting treatment and during chemotherapy were used to test this approach by longitudinal monitoring. Ten age- and sex-matched healthy subjects were also enrolled as controls. Results. Recovery experiments of spiked A549EMT cells showed that the RT-PCR assay is a reliable method for detection of CTCsEMT. CTCsEMT were detected in three patients at baseline and in six patients after four cycles of cysplatin-based chemotherapy. Longitudinal monitoring of three patients showed that the CTCsEMT detection is related to poor therapeutic response. Conclusions. The RT-PCR-based approach for the evaluation of CTCsEMT phenotype could be a promising and inexpensive tool to predict the prognosis and the therapeutic response in NSCLC patients.
Case Reports in Oncological Medicine Myoepithelioma: A New Rearrangement Involving the LPP Locus in a Case of Multiple Bone and Soft Tissue Lesions
Authors: Pairet Géraldine , Tilman Gaëlle , Sciot Rafaël , Schubert Thomas , Perlepe Vasiliki , Poirel Hélène A. , Galant Christine
Published: February 2018

We report a case of multiple myoepithelioma with synchronous bone and soft tissue tumors, associated with a new genomic alteration of the LPP locus. The lesions occurred in the foot by presenting one lump in the plantar soft tissue, and three lesions were detected in the calcaneus and in the navicular bone. All tumors showed the double immunophenotype of epithelial markers and S100 protein expression. No rearrangement of the EWSR1 and FUS loci was detected as reported in myoepitheliomas. However, molecular karyotyping detected an unbalanced rearrangement of the LPP locus, not involving the HMGA2 locus, which is the most frequent translocation partner observed in benign mesenchymal tumors such as lipomas (of soft tissue as well as parosteal) and pulmonary chondroid hamartoma.
In Vivo Evaluation of Short-Term Performance of New Three-Layer Collagen-Based Vascular Graft Designed for Low-Flow Peripheral Vascular Reconstructions
Authors: Grus Tomas , Lambert Lukas , Mlcek Mikulas , Chlup Hynek , Honsova Eva , Spacek Miroslav , Burgetova Andrea , Lindner Jaroslav
Published: February 2018

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate short-term patency of the new prosthetic graft and its structural changes after explantation. Methods. The study team developed a three-layer conduit composed of a scaffold made from polyester coated with collagen from the inner and outer side with an internal diameter of 6 mm. The conduit was implanted as a bilateral bypass to the carotid artery in 7 sheep and stenosis was created in selected animals. After a period of 161 days, the explants were evaluated as gross and microscopic specimens. Results. The initial flow rate (median ± IQR) in grafts with and without artificial stenosis was 120±79 ml/min and 255±255 ml/min, respectively. Graft occlusion occurred after 99 days in one of 13 conduits (patency rate: 92%). Wall-adherent thrombi occurred only in sharp curvatures in two grafts. Microscopic evaluation showed good engraftment and preserved structure in seven conduits; inflammatory changes with foci of bleeding, necrosis, and disintegration in four conduits; and narrowing of the graft due to thickening of the wall with multifocal separation of the outer layer in two conduits. Conclusions. This study demonstrates good short-term patency rates of a newly designed three-layer vascular graft even in low-flow conditions in a sheep model.
Blast Responses and Vibration of Flood‐Defense Structures under High‐Intensity Blast Loadings
Authors: Ryu Yonghee , Jung WooYoung , Son HoYoung , Ju Bu-Seog
Published: February 2018

This study presented the blast behavior of flood‐defense structures subjected to high‐intensity loadings such as blast shock waves. In order to understand the blast behavior of weir structures, PHAST program was used to predict blast loadings in consideration of material reactivity and congestion levels. Environment factors such as weather data and atmospheric parameters were also considered in this study. Then, nonlinear dynamic analyses were performed using the ABAQUS platform to evaluate structural responses and blast vibration of concrete weir structures subjected to various types of blast loadings, due to uncertainties of the magnitude and durations of blast loads as a function of distance from the explosion. It was shown that the blast damage to concrete weir structure was significantly influenced by congestion levels or material reactivity. Also, the stress concentration under blast loading was observed at the connection area between the concrete weir body and stilling basin.
Prevalence of Microalbuminuria in Adult Patients with Sickle Cell Disease in Eastern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alkhunaizi Ahmed M. , Al-Khatti Adil A. , Alkhunaizi Mansour A.
Published: February 2018

Background. Proteinuria is a common feature of sickle cell nephropathy (SCN) that can progress to renal insufficiency and end stage renal disease. Microalbuminuria (MA) is the earliest manifestation of SCN and precedes the development of overt proteinuria. In addition to the renal consequences, MA is linked to cardiovascular complications. Periodic screening and early detection of MA allow early intervention that may reduce the risk of progression to advanced renal failure and cardiovascular diseases. Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of MA in patients with SCD in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia. Methods. A prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH). Urine samples of SCD patients 18 years old and older were tested for the presence of MA using urinary albumin over creatinine ratio (ACR). Correlation was tested with multiple variables including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin level, blood pressure, blood transfusion history, pain episodes, and use of hydroxyurea. Results. Urine samples were tested on 72 patients. The mean age of the study cohort was 35±16.9 years. Microalbuminuria was detected in 18 patients (25%). No correlation was found with any of the tested variables. Conclusion. Microalbuminuria is a common finding in patients with SCD in eastern Saudi Arabia. Patients with SCD should be screened for MA, and those with positive tests should probably be treated with antiproteinuric agents that may slow the progression to advanced stages of renal failure and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
JC Virus-DNA Detection Is Associated with CD8 Effector Accumulation in Peripheral Blood of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis under Natalizumab Treatment, Independently from JC Virus Serostatus
Authors: Zingaropoli Maria A. , Iannetta Marco , Pontecorvo Simona , Anzivino Elena , Prezioso Carla , Rodio Donatella Maria , Morreale Manuela , D’Abramo Alessandra , Oliva Alessandra , Lichtner Miriam , Cortese Antonio , Frontoni Marco , Pietropaolo Valeria , Francia Ada , Mastroianni Claudio M. , Vullo Vincenzo , Ciardi Maria R.
Published: February 2018

Although natalizumab (anti-α4 integrin) represents an effective therapy for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), it is associated with an increased risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), caused by the polyomavirus JC (JCV). The aim of this study was to explore natalizumab-induced phenotypic changes in peripheral blood T-lymphocytes and their relationship with JCV reactivation. Forty-four patients affected by RRMS were enrolled. Blood and urine samples were classified according to natalizumab infusion number: 0 (N0), 1–12 (N12), 13–24 (N24), 25–36 (N36), and over 36 (N>36) infusions. JCV-DNA was detected in plasma and urine. T-lymphocyte phenotype was evaluated with flow cytometry. JCV serostatus was assessed. Ten healthy donors (HD), whose ages and sexes matched with the RRMS patients of theN0 group, were enrolled. CD8 effector (CD8 E) percentages were increased in natalizumab treated patients with detectable JCV-DNA in plasma or urine compared to JCV-DNA negative patients (JCV−) (p<0.01andp<0.001, resp.). Patients with CD8 E percentages above 10.4% tended to show detectable JCV-DNA in plasma and/or urine (ROC curvep=0.001). The CD8 E was increased when JCV-DNA was detectable in plasma or urine, independently from JCV serology, forN12 andN24 groups (p<0.01). As long as PML can affect RRMS patients under natalizumab treatment with a negative JCV serology, the assessment of CD8 E could help in the evaluation of JCV reactivation.
Prefabricated Bar System for Immediate Loading in Edentulous Patients: A 5-Year Follow-Up Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Gherlone Enrico F. , Sannino Gianpaolo , Rapanelli Andrea , Crespi Roberto , Gastaldi Giorgio , Capparé Paolo
Published: February 2018

Objectives. The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate a new type of prefabricated bar system, supported by axial and tilted implants at 5-year follow-up. Materials and Methods. Twenty-nine consecutive participants (19 females, 10 males) (mean age 61.4 years), edentulous in one or both jaws, with severe atrophy of the posterior regions, were treated according to the All-on-four® protocol with immediately loaded axial (64) and tilted (64) implants supporting complete-arch screw-retained prostheses (12 maxillary, 20 mandibular) featuring a prefabricated bar as framework. Follow-up visits were performed at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 60 months after implant insertion. Radiographic assessments were made using panoramic radiographs obtained immediately after surgery and at each follow-up visit. Bone level measurements around the axial and tilted implants were compared by means of the Student’s t-test. Results. One axial implant failed in the lower jaw and did not compromise prosthetic function. The 60-month overall implant survival rate was 100% for axially positioned implants and 98.44% for tilted implants. The implant survival rates were 100% in the maxilla and 98.75% in the mandible. None of the 32 fixed prostheses were lost during the observation period, representing a prosthetic survival rate of 100%. No statistically significant differences (P>0.05) in marginal bone loss between tilted and axial implants were detected in either jaw over time. Conclusions. The use of the evaluated prefabricated bar for immediately loaded implants placed according to the All-on-four concept may significantly reduce implant failures; however, more long-term prospective clinical trials are needed to affirm the effectiveness of the surgical-prosthetic protocol.
Effective Semiactive Base Isolation System under Multiple Earthquakes
Authors: Mohebbi Mohtasham , Dadkhah Hamed
Published: February 2018

A method is proposed to design an effective semiactive control system composed of a linear low damping base isolation and a supplemental magnetorheological (MR) damper when the structure subjected to multiple earthquakes. In the proposed design method, the parameters of semiactive control system have been determined based on minimizing the average of maximum response of isolated structure under multiple design ground motions. To select appropriate value for force related weighting parameter, defined in performance index, a range has been suggested for each design objective. For numerical simulations, a scaled three‐story base‐isolated frame subjected to different scaled real earthquakes as well as filtered white noise excitations and the proposed method has been applied to design semiactive base isolation system under multiple earthquakes. The results of numerical simulations have shown the capability of the proposed method in designing an effective semiactive base isolation system, the performance of which under multiple earthquakes has been almost close to the case that it is designed optimally for each earthquake separately. Also, under multiple earthquakes, using the passive‐off and passive‐on forms of MR damper can be recommended, respectively, regarding to the objectives of minimizing the maximum acceleration and base drift.
Numerical Analyses of a Shield Building Subjected to a Large Commercial Aircraft Impact
Authors: Liu Jingbo , Han Pengfei
Published: February 2018

The missile‐target interaction method is used to perform simulations of the impact of a commercial B767 aircraft on a shield building made of steel‐concrete‐steel sandwich panels to study impact damage characteristics. Refined finite element models of a shield building and two large commercial B767 aircraft are developed. The aircraft impact force is given and assessed with the Riera function to verify the B767 aircraft model, and a simulation analysis of tests is performed to verify the concrete model. The peak impact forces of the fuselage, engine, wing, and entire aircraft are approximately linearly proportional to the square of each impact velocity. The shield building subjected to the aircraft impact exhibits no perforation, and the damage range of the shield building expands with increasing impact velocity. The influences of impact velocity, aircraft mass, impact angle, and tie bar diameter on the deformation of the shield building are significant. The thickness of the steel plate plays an important part in the deformation of the shield building, whereas the compressive strength of concrete and the water in circular tank have only a slight effect on the deformation of the shield building.
Antibacterial Effect of Hypochlorous Acid Solution on Nasal Discharge from Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Wu Shang-Heng , Lin Jen-Fu , Jiang Rong-San
Published: February 2018

Purpose. The antibacterial effect of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) solution on nasal secretion of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) was investigated. Materials and Methods. Five swab specimens were collected from the middle meatus of CRS patients. The first one was placed directly in a Thanswab tube while all of the others were placed randomly into 4 glass tubes containing either HOCl solution, normal saline (NS), 75% alcohol, or povidone-iodine (PVPI) solution for one minute in the first part and for 5 minutes in the second part of the study before transfer to a Thanswab tube. Results. Bacteria were cultured from 27 of 50 specimens when they were put directly in a Thanswab tube and from 26 after soaking in HOCl solution, 27 in NS, 13 in 75% alcohol, and 25 in PVPI solution for one minute. In the second part of the study, bacteria were cultured from 14 of 32 specimens when they were put directly in a Thanswab tube and from 14 after soaking in HOCl solution, 13 in NS, 3 in 75% alcohol, and 11 in PVPI solution for 5 minutes. Conclusions. This study showed that HOCL solution did not exert an antibacterial effect on nasal secretion from CRS patients within 5 minutes.
The Unfolded Protein Response: A Novel Therapeutic Target for Poor Prognostic BRAF Mutant Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Forsythe Nicholas , Refaat Alaa , Javadi Arman , Khawaja Hajrah , Weir Jessica-Anne , Emam Heba , Allen Wendy L. , Burkamp Frank , Popovici Vlad , Jithesh Puthen V. , Isella Claudio , Labonte Melissa J. , Mills Ian G. , Johnston Patrick G. , Van Schaeybroeck Sandra
Published: February 2018

BRAF V600E mutations occur in ∼10% of colorectal cancer cases, are associated with poor survival, and have limited responses to BRAF/MEK inhibition with or without EGFR inhibition. There is an unmet need to understand the biology of poor prognostic BRAFMT colorectal cancer. We have used differential gene expression and pathway analyses of untreated stage II and stage III BRAFMT (discovery set: n = 31; validation set: n = 26) colorectal cancer, and an siRNA screen to characterize the biology underpinning the BRAFMT subgroup with poorest outcome. These analyses identified the unfolded protein response (UPR) as a novel and druggable pathway associated with the BRAFMT colorectal cancer subgroup with poorest outcome. We also found that oncogenic BRAF drives endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and UPR pathway activation through MEK/ERK. Furthermore, inhibition of GRP78, the master regulator of the UPR, using siRNA or small molecule inhibition, resulted in acute ER stress and apoptosis, in particular in BRAFMT colorectal cancer cells. In addition, dual targeting of protein degradation using combined Carfilzomib (proteasome inhibitor) and ACY-1215 (HDAC6-selective inhibitor) treatment resulted in marked accumulation of protein aggregates, acute ER stress, apoptosis, and therapeutic efficacy in BRAFMT in vitro and xenograft models. Mechanistically, we found that the apoptosis following combined Carfilzomib/ACY-1215 treatment is mediated through increased CHOP expression. Taken together, our findings indicate that oncogenic BRAF induces chronic ER stress and that inducers of acute ER stress could be a novel treatment strategy for poor prognostic BRAFMT colorectal cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(6); 1280–90. ©2018 AACR.
Antitumor Activity of Osimertinib, an Irreversible Mutant-Selective EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, in NSCLC Harboring EGFR Exon 20 Insertions
Authors: Floc'h Nicolas , Martin Matthew J. , Riess Jonathan W. , Orme Jonathan P. , Staniszewska Anna D. , Ménard Ludovic , Cuomo Maria Emanuela , O'Neill Daniel J. , Ward Richard A. , Finlay M. Raymond V. , McKerrecher Darren , Cheng Mingshan , Vang Daniel P. , Burich Rebekah A. , Keck James G. , Gandara David R. , Mack Philip C. , Cross Darren A.E.
Published: February 2018

EGFR exon 20 insertions (Ex20Ins) account for 4% to 10% of EGFR activating mutations in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). EGFR Ex20Ins tumors are generally unresponsive to first- and second-generation EGFR inhibitors, and current standard of care for NSCLC patients with EGFR Ex20Ins is conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. Therefore, the development of an EGFR TKI that can more effectively target NSCLC with EGFR Ex20Ins mutations represents a major advance for this patient subset. Osimertinib is a third-generation EGFR TKI approved for the treatment of advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR T790M; however, the activity of osimertinib in EGFR Ex20Ins NSCLC has yet to be fully assessed. Using CRISPR-Cas 9 engineered cell lines carrying the most prevalent Ex20Ins mutations, namely Ex20Ins D770_N771InsSVD (22%) or Ex20Ins V769_D770InsASV (17%), and a series of patient-derived xenografts, we have characterized osimertinib and AZ5104 (a circulating metabolite of osimertinib) activities against NSCLC harboring Ex20Ins. We report that osimertinib and AZ5104 inhibit signaling pathways and cellular growth in Ex20Ins mutant cell lines in vitro and demonstrate sustained tumor growth inhibition of EGFR-mutant tumor xenograft harboring the most prevalent Ex20Ins in vivo. The antitumor activity of osimertinib and AZ5104 in NSCLC harboring EGFR Ex20Ins is further described herein using a series of patient-derived xenograft models. Together these data support clinical testing of osimertinib in patients with EGFR Ex20Ins NSCLC. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(5); 885–96. ©2018 AACR.
p110α Inhibition Overcomes Stromal Cell–Mediated Ibrutinib Resistance in Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Guan Jiyu , Huang Dan , Yakimchuk Konstantin , Okret Sam
Published: February 2018

Acquired resistance to cancer drugs is common, also for modern targeted drugs like the Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib, a new drug approved for the treatment of the highly aggressive and relapsing mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). The tumor microenvironment often impacts negatively on drug response. Here, we demonstrate that stromal cells protect MCL cells from ibrutinib-induced apoptosis and support MCL cell regrowth after drug removal by impairing ibrutinib-mediated downregulation of PI3K/AKT signaling. Importantly, the stromal cell–mediated ibrutinib resistance was overcome in vitro by inhibiting AKT activity using the PI3K catalytic p110α subunit–specific inhibitor BYL719. This was seen both for MCL cell lines and primary MCL cells. Furthermore, inhibition of p110α activity by BYL719 potentiated the ability of ibrutinib to inhibit MCL tumor growth in vivo in a mouse xenograft model. The stromal cell–mediated ibrutinib resistance was found to be due to a direct interaction with MCL cells and involves the integrin VLA-4, as disrupting stromal cell–MCL cell interaction using a VLA-4 blocking antibody abrogated the ibrutinib resistance. This suggests that combined treatment with ibrutinib and a p110α inhibitor, alternatively by disrupting stromal cell–MCL cell interaction, may be a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome stromal cell–mediated ibrutinib resistance in MCL. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(5); 1090–100. ©2018 AACR.