bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viscoelastic phase separation of polystyrene/poly(vinyl methyl ether) blends with different dynamic asymmetry
Authors: Abbasi Hadi , Goharpey Fatemeh , Khademzadeh Yeganeh Jafar
Published: May 2017

Viscoelastic phase separation (VPS) can be induced in dynamically asymmetric polystyrene/poly(vinyl methyl ether) (PS/PVME) blend in which there is a large difference between glass transition temperature of the components (about 125 °C). In this study, the effect of molecular weight of the slower component, PS, on VPS mechanism is investigated. The correlation between the time evolution of the phase-separating morphologies and their linear and nonlinear rheological behavior is studied for blends with three different PSs. Rheological measurements and morphological observations are carried out at quench depth of 14 °C. While it was previously found that depending on composition of blend, three different types of VPS behavior can be observed due to self-induced stresses in the early stage of phase separation—(i) the transient gel induced VPS (TG-VPS), (ii) coalescence induced VPS (C-VPS), and (iii) aggregating nucleation and growth (ANG)—in this study, we show that different types of VPS can be observed for a single composition by changing the molecular weight of PS. In other words, dynamic asymmetry between PS-rich and PVME-rich phases decreases with a decrease of molecular weight of PS which results in weaker transient gel in the early stage of phase separation. Consequently, the phase separation mechanism changes for 10/90 blend from TG-VPS to C-VPS and, for 5/95 blend from C-VPS to ANG or NNG (normal nucleation and growth). Furthermore, the variation of fractal dimension by phase separation is studied for 10/90 blends containing PS with different molecular weights.
Quorum sensing to repress virulence
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: May 2017

A quorum-sensing system of an insect endosymbiont enables the bacterium to establish persistent infection by inhibiting the expression of virulence genes.
Papers of note in
Science Translational Medicine
9
(389)
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: May 2017

This week’s articles highlight how tumor-associated macrophages limit the efficacy of PD-1–targeted checkpoint therapy and show that an anti-inflammatory drug may be used to treat lymphedema.
Papers of note in
Science
356
(6338)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: May 2017

This week’s articles demonstrate how T cells search for ligands; a role for the endoplasmic reticulum in the nonclathrin-mediated endocytosis of a growth factor receptor; and growth coupling between distant bacterial colonies that enables the cells to share limited resources.
New connections: The duality of ROS in angiogenesis
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: May 2017

Depending on the tissue and context, ROS can either stimulate or suppress blood vessel formation.
Real-Life Assessment of the Safety and Effectiveness of the New Tablet and Intravenous Formulations of Posaconazole in the Prophylaxis of Invasive Fungal Infections via Analysis of 343 Courses
Authors: Tverdek Frank P. , Heo Sang Taek , Aitken Samuel L. , Granwehr Bruno , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P.
Published: May 2017

Posaconazole is the preferred mold-active azole for prophylaxis against invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in patients with hematological malignancy. Delayed-release tablet and intravenous formulations of posaconazole have recently become available, but clinical data are limited. We sought to examine the real-world pharmacokinetics and prophylactic effectiveness of the new formulations of posaconazole given as prophylaxis for patients with hematological malignancy. A retrospective cohort of all consecutive adult inpatients with hematological malignancy who received ≥3 days of tablet or intravenous posaconazole therapy for primary IFI prophylaxis at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center between 1 December 2013 and 31 December 2015 was established. Clinical information was collected and correlated with low posaconazole serum levels (<700 ng/ml). Rates of IFIs and safety events were assessed. A total of 1,321 courses of posaconazole were administered at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center during the study period, of which 343 courses were assessed for prophylactic safety and effectiveness. Seventy-nine patients (23%) had posaconazole serum level measurements available for interpretation. Acute myeloid leukemia was the primary malignancy (62%), with 20% of all patients having previously received a stem cell transplant. The median posaconazole level was 1,380 ng/ml (interquartile range, 864 to 1,860 ng/ml). Low posaconazole levels (<700 ng/ml) were observed for 14 patients (18%). Proven or probable breakthrough IFIs occurred in 8 patients (2%); posaconazole therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) was performed for 6 of those patients, all with levels above 700 ng/ml. Overall, 19% of patients experienced grade 3 or 4 liver injury, manifesting primarily as hyperbilirubinemia and being correlated with serum levels of >1,830 ng/ml. Although hepatotoxicity in a small percentage of patients is of concern, posaconazole tablets appeared to be generally safe and effective. As all breakthrough IFIs for which TDM was performed occurred in patients with levels of >700 ng/ml, and a posaconazole level of >1,830 ng/ml was correlated with grade 3 or 4 liver toxicity, further studies are needed to assess the role of TDM.
Reduced Vancomycin Susceptibility of Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Has No Significant Impact on Mortality but Results in an Increase in Complicated Infection
Authors: Sullivan Sean B. , Austin Eloise D. , Stump Stephania , Mathema Barun , Whittier Susan , Lowy Franklin D. , Uhlemann Anne-Catrin
Published: May 2017

Methicillin-susceptible
Staphylococcus aureus
(MSSA) bloodstream infections (BSIs) often lead to severe complications despite the availability of effective antibiotics. It remains unclear whether elevated vancomycin MICs are associated with worse outcomes. We conducted a 2-year retrospective cohort study (
n
= 252) of patients with MSSA BSIs at a tertiary care hospital. We defined reduced vancomycin susceptibility (RVS) as a Microscan MIC of 2 mg/liter. All strains were genotyped (
spa
) and assessed for
agr
functionality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the impact of RVS phenotype and strain genotype on 30-day all-cause mortality and complicated bacteremia (metastatic spread, endovascular infection, or duration ≥3 days). One-third of patients (84/252) were infected with RVS isolates. RVS Infections were more frequently associated with metastatic or embolic sites of infection (36% versus 17%,
P
< 0.001), and endovascular infection (26% versus 12%,
P
= 0.004). These infections occurred more often in patients with fewer underlying comorbidities (Charlson comorbidity index of ≥3 [73% versus 88%,
P
= 0.002]). Genotyping identified 127
spa
-types and 14 Spa-clonal complexes (Spa-CCs). Spa-CC002 and Spa-CC008 were more likely to exhibit the RVS phenotype versus other Spa-CCs (OR = 2.2,
P
< 0.01). The RVS phenotype was not significantly associated with 30-day mortality; however, it was associated with complicated bacteremia (adjusted odds ratio of 2.35 [range, 1.26 to 4.37];
P
= 0.007) in adjusted analyses. The association of RVS strains with complicated infection and fewer underlying comorbidities suggests the phenotype as a potential marker of strain virulence in MSSA BSIs. The RVS phenotype itself was not a significant predictor of mortality in this patient cohort. Further studies are necessary to explore this host-pathogen relationship.
Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Antiviral Activity of a Novel HIV Antiviral, ABX464, in Treatment-Naive HIV-Infected Subjects in a Phase 2 Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Steens Jean-Marc , Scherrer Didier , Gineste Paul , Barrett P. Noel , Khuanchai Supparatpino , Winai Ratanasuwan , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Tazi Jamal , Murphy Robert , Ehrlich Hartmut
Published: May 2017

We investigated the safety and antiviral effects of an anti-HIV compound (ABX464) with a unique mechanism of viral replication inhibition. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study in treatment-naive HIV-infected patients. Participants were assigned to eight groups; each group included eight subjects receiving either the study compound, ABX464 (
n
= 6), or the corresponding placebo (
n
= 2), according to a randomization code. The first dose administered was 25 mg, given once or 3 times a day over a 2- to 3-week period. Ascending doses of up to 150 mg were delivered after review of the safety data. The primary objective of the study was to assess the safety and tolerability of ABX464 after repeated oral administrations in subjects infected by HIV. Sixty-six subjects were enrolled and were randomized. Sixty-three subjects completed the study according to the study protocol. Twenty-one adverse events (AEs) were reported by 7 subjects out of 16 (44%) who received placebo, and 158 AEs were reported by 39 subjects out of 50 (78%) who received the study drug. In the ABX464 treatment group, all of these adverse events were mild to moderate. No subjects discontinued treatment due to drug-related AEs. Administration of ABX464 at up to 150 mg once a day was safe and well tolerated in HIV-infected subjects. An efficacy signal with respect to a reduction of the viral load by ABX464 was detected, mainly in subjects treated at the highest dose. Further studies will be required to demonstrate antiviral effects in HIV-infected subjects in combination with other antiretroviral therapies. (This study is registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov website under registration no. NCT02452242.)
Controlled Release of Plectasin NZ2114 from a Hybrid Silicone-Hydrogel Material for Inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm
Authors: Klein Kasper , Grønnemose Rasmus Birkholm , Alm Martin , Brinch Karoline Sidelmann , Kolmos Hans Jørn , Andersen Thomas Emil
Published: May 2017

Staphylococcus aureus
is a major human pathogen in catheter-related infections. Modifying catheter material with interpenetrating polymer networks is a novel material technology that allows for impregnation with drugs and subsequent controlled release. Here, we evaluated the potential for combining this system with plectasin derivate NZ2114 in an attempt to design an
S. aureus
biofilm-resistant catheter. The material demonstrated promising antibiofilm properties, including properties against methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
, thus suggesting a novel application of this antimicrobial peptide.
Efficacy of a Binuclear Cyclopalladated Compound Therapy for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the Murine Model of Infection with Leishmania amazonensis and Its Inhibitory Effect on Topoisomerase 1B
Authors: Velásquez Angela Maria Arenas , Ribeiro Willian Campos , Venn Vutey , Castelli Silvia , Camargo Mariana Santoro de , de Assis Renata Pires , de Souza Rodrigo Alves , Ribeiro Aline Rimoldi , Passalacqua Thaís Gaban , da Rosa João Aristeu , Baviera Amanda Martins , Mauro Antonio Eduardo , Desideri Alessandro , Almeida-Amaral Elmo Eduardo , Graminha Marcia A. S.
Published: May 2017

Leishmaniasis is a disease found throughout the (sub)tropical parts of the world caused by protozoan parasites of the
Leishmania
genus. Despite the numerous problems associated with existing treatments, pharmaceutical companies continue to neglect the development of better ones. The high toxicity of current drugs combined with emerging resistance makes the discovery of new therapeutic alternatives urgent. We report here the evaluation of a binuclear cyclopalladated complex containing Pd(II) and
N
,
N
′-dimethylbenzylamine (Hdmba) against
Leishmania amazonensis
. The compound [Pd(dmba)(μ-N
3
)]
2
(CP2) inhibits promastigote growth (50% inhibitory concentration [IC
50
] = 13.2 ± 0.7 μM) and decreases the proliferation of intracellular amastigotes in
in vitro
incubated macrophages (IC
50
= 10.2 ± 2.2 μM) without a cytotoxic effect when tested against peritoneal macrophages (50% cytotoxic concentration = 506.0 ± 10.7 μM). In addition, CP2 was also active against
T. cruzi
intracellular amastigotes (IC
50
= 2.3 ± 0.5 μM, selective index = 225), an indication of its potential for use in Chagas disease therapy.
In vivo
assays using
L. amazonensis
-infected BALB/c showed an 80% reduction in parasite load compared to infected and nontreated animals. Also, compared to amphotericin B treatment, CP2 did not show any side effects, which was corroborated by the analysis of plasma levels of different hepatic and renal biomarkers. Furthermore, CP2 was able to inhibit
Leishmania donovani
topoisomerase 1B (
Ld
topo1B), a potentially important target in this parasite. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT02169141.)
Efficacy and Pharmacokinetics of the Combination of OP0595 and Cefepime in a Mouse Model of Pneumonia Caused by Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Kaku Norihito , Kosai Kosuke , Takeda Kazuaki , Uno Naoki , Morinaga Yoshitomo , Hasegawa Hiroo , Miyazaki Taiga , Izumikawa Koichi , Mukae Hiroshi , Yanagihara Katsunori
Published: May 2017

OP0595 (RG6080) is a novel diazabicyclooctane that inhibits class A and C serine beta-lactamases. Although the combination of OP0595 and cefepime (FEP) showed good
in vitro
activity against extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing pathogens, the effect of the combination therapy against severe infections, such as pneumonia or bacteremia, remains unknown
in vivo
. In this study, we investigated the efficacy and pharmacokinetics of the combination therapy of OP0595 and FEP in a mouse model of pneumonia caused by
Klebsiella pneumoniae
harboring SHV- and CTX-M-9-type ESBLs. The infected BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally administered saline (control), 100 mg/kg of body weight of FEP, 20 mg/kg of OP0595, or both FEP and OP0595, twice a day. The MIC of FEP against the bacteria was 8 mg/liter and markedly improved to 0.06 mg/liter with the addition of 0.5 mg/ml of OP0595. In the survival study, the combination of FEP and OP0595 significantly improved the survival rate compared with that reported with either OP0595 or FEP alone (
P
< 0.001). The number of bacteria in the lungs and blood significantly decreased in the combination therapy group compared to that reported for the monotherapy groups (
P
< 0.001). In addition, the
in vivo
effect depended on the dose of FEP. However, pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that the percentage of time above MIC remained constant when increasing the dose of FEP in combination with 20 mg/kg of OP0595. The results of our study demonstrated the
in vivo
effectiveness of the combination of OP0595 and FEP.
Global Transcriptional Response to Organic Hydroperoxide and the Role of OhrR in the Control of Virulence Traits in Chromobacterium violaceum
Authors: Previato-Mello Maristela , Meireles Diogo de Abreu , Netto Luis Eduardo Soares , da Silva Neto José Freire
Published: May 2017

A major pathway for the detoxification of organic hydroperoxides, such as cumene hydroperoxide (CHP), involves the MarR family transcriptional regulator OhrR and the peroxidase OhrA. However, the effect of these peroxides on the global transcriptome and the contribution of the OhrA/OhrR system to bacterial virulence remain poorly explored. Here, we analyzed the transcriptome profiles of
Chromobacterium violaceum
exposed to CHP and after the deletion of
ohrR
, and we show that OhrR controls the virulence of this human opportunistic pathogen. DNA microarray and Northern blot analyses of CHP-treated cells revealed the upregulation of genes related to the detoxification of peroxides (antioxidant enzymes and thiol-reducing systems), the degradation of the aromatic moiety of CHP (oxygenases), and protection against other secondary stresses (DNA repair, heat shock, iron limitation, and nitrogen starvation responses). Furthermore, we identified two upregulated genes (
ohrA
and a putative diguanylate cyclase with a GGDEF domain for cyclic di-GMP [c-di-GMP] synthesis) and three downregulated genes (hemolysin, chitinase, and collagenase) in the
ohrR
mutant by transcriptome analysis. Importantly, we show that OhrR directly repressed the expression of the putative diguanylate cyclase. Using a mouse infection model, we demonstrate that the
ohrR
mutant was attenuated for virulence and showed a decreased bacterial burden in the liver. Moreover, an
ohrR
-diguanylate cyclase double mutant displayed the same virulence as the wild-type strain. In conclusion, we have defined the transcriptional response to CHP, identified potential virulence factors such as diguanylate cyclase as members of the OhrR regulon, and shown that
C. violaceum
uses the transcriptional regulator OhrR to modulate its virulence.
Microbiomes of Site-Specific Dental Plaques from Children with Different Caries Status
Authors: Richards Vincent P. , Alvarez Andres J. , Luce Amy R. , Bedenbaugh Molly , Mitchell Mary Lyn , Burne Robert A. , Nascimento Marcelle M.
Published: May 2017

The oral microbiota associated with the initiation and progression of dental caries has yet to be fully characterized. The Human Oral Microbe Identification Using Next-Generation Sequencing (HOMINGS) approach was used to analyze the microbiomes of site-specific supragingival dental plaques from children with different caries status. Fifty-five children (2 to 7 years of age) were assessed at baseline and at 12 months and grouped as caries free (CF), caries active with enamel lesions (CAE), and caries active with dentin carious lesions (CA). Plaque samples from caries-free tooth surfaces (PF) and from enamel carious lesions (PE) and dentin carious lesions (PD) were collected. 16S community profiles were obtained by HOMINGS, and 408 bacterial species and 84 genus probes were assigned. Plaque bacterial communities showed temporal stability, as there was no significant difference in beta diversity values between the baseline and 12-month samples. Irrespective of collection time points, the microbiomes of healthy tooth surfaces differed substantially from those found during caries activity. All pairwise comparisons of beta diversity values between groups were significantly different (P< 0.05), except for comparisons between the CA-PF, CAE-PE, and CA-PE groups.Streptococcusgenus probe 4 andNeisseriagenus probe 2 were the most frequently detected taxa across the plaque groups, followed byStreptococcus sanguinis, which was highly abundant in CF-PF. Well-known acidogenic/aciduric species such asStreptococcus mutans,Scardovia wiggsiae,Parascardovia denticolens, andLactobacillus salivariuswere found almost exclusively in CA-PD. The microbiomes of supragingival dental plaque differ substantially among tooth surfaces and children of different caries activities. In support of the ecological nature of caries etiology, a steady transition in community species composition was observed with disease progression.
SaeRS Is Responsive to Cellular Respiratory Status and Regulates Fermentative Biofilm Formation in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Mashruwala Ameya A. , Gries Casey M. , Scherr Tyler D. , Kielian Tammy , Boyd Jeffrey M.
Published: May 2017

Biofilms are multicellular communities of microorganisms living as a quorum rather than as individual cells. The bacterial human pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
uses oxygen as a terminal electron acceptor during respiration. Infected human tissues are hypoxic or anoxic. We recently reported that impaired respiration elicits a
p
rogrammed
c
ell
l
ysis (PCL) phenomenon in
S. aureus
leading to the release of cellular polymers that are utilized to form biofilms. PCL is dependent upon the AtlA murein hydrolase and is regulated, in part, by the SrrAB two-component regulatory system (TCRS). In the current study, we report that the SaeRS TCRS also governs fermentative biofilm formation by positively influencing AtlA activity. The SaeRS-modulated factor fibronectin-binding protein A (FnBPA) also contributed to the fermentative biofilm formation phenotype. SaeRS-dependent biofilm formation occurred in response to changes in cellular respiratory status. Genetic evidence presented suggests that a high cellular titer of phosphorylated SaeR is required for biofilm formation. Epistasis analyses found that SaeRS and SrrAB influence biofilm formation independently of one another. Analyses using a mouse model of orthopedic implant-associated biofilm formation found that both SaeRS and SrrAB govern host colonization. Of these two TCRSs, SrrAB was the dominant system driving biofilm formation
in vivo
. We propose a model wherein impaired cellular respiration stimulates SaeRS via an as yet undefined signal molecule(s), resulting in increasing expression of AtlA and FnBPA and biofilm formation.
Recruitment of Neutrophils Mediated by Vγ2 γδ T Cells Deteriorates Liver Fibrosis Induced by Schistosoma japonicum Infection in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Zheng Li , Hu Yuan , Wang Yanjuan , Huang Xibao , Xu Yuxin , Shen Yujuan , Cao Jianping
Published: May 2017

Conventional adaptive T cell responses contribute to the pathogenesis ofSchistosoma japonicuminfection, leading to liver fibrosis. However, the role of gamma-delta (γδ) T cells in this disease is less clear. γδ T cells are known to secrete interleukin-17 (IL-17) in response to infection, exerting either protective or pathogenic functions. In the present study, mice infected withS. japonicumare used to characterize the role of γδ T cells. Combined with the infection ofS. japonicum, an extremely significant increase in the percentage of neutrophils in the CD45+cells was detected (from approximately 2.45% to 46.10% in blood and from 0.18% to 7.34% in spleen). Further analysis identified two different γδ T cell subsets that have different functions in the formation of granulomas inS. japonicum-infected mice. The Vγ1 T cells secrete gamma interferon (IFN-γ) only, while the Vγ2 T cells secrete both IL-17A and IFN-γ. Both subtypes lose the ability to secrete cytokine during the late stage of infection (12 weeks postinfection). When we depleted the Vγ2 T cells in infected mice, the percentage of neutrophils in blood and spleen decreased significantly, the liver fibrosis in the granulomas was reduced, and the level of IL-17A in the serum decreased (P< 0.05). These results suggest that duringS. japonicuminfection, Vγ2 T cells can recruit neutrophils and aggravate liver fibrosis by secreting IL-17A. This is the first report that a subset of γδ T cells plays a partial role in the pathological process of schistosome infection.
Inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus Cell Wall Biosynthesis by Desleucyl-Oritavancin: a Quantitative Peptidoglycan Composition Analysis by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chang James D. , Foster Erin E. , Thadani Aanchal N. , Ramirez Alejandro J. , Kim Sung Joon
Published: May 2017

Oritavancin is a lipoglycopeptide antibiotic that exhibits potent activities against vancomycin-resistant Gram-positive pathogens. Oritavancin differs from vancomycin by a hydrophobic side chain attached to the drug disaccharide, which forms a secondary binding site to enable oritavancin binding to the cross-linked peptidoglycan in the cell wall. The mode of action of secondary binding site was investigated by measuring the changes in the peptidoglycan composition of
Staphylococcus aureus
grown in the presence of desleucyl-oritavancin at subinhibitory concentration using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Desleucyl-oritavancin is an Edman degradation product of oritavancin that exhibits potent antibacterial activities despite the damaged
d
-Ala–
d
-Ala binding site due to its functional secondary binding site. Accurate quantitative peptidoglycan composition analysis based on 83 muropeptide ions determined that cell walls of
S. aureus
grown in the presence of desleucyl-oritavancin showed a reduction of peptidoglycan cross-linking, increased muropeptides with a tetrapeptide-stem structure, decreased
O
-acetylation of MurNAc, and increased
N
-deacetylation of GlcNAc. The changes in peptidoglycan composition suggest that desleucyl-oritavancin targets the peptidoglycan template to induce cell wall disorder and interferes with cell wall maturation.

IMPORTANCE
Oritavancin is a lipoglycopeptide antibiotic with a secondary binding site that targets the cross-linked peptidoglycan bridge structure in the cell wall. Even after the loss of its primary
d
-Ala–
d
-Ala binding site through Edman degradation, desleucyl-oritavancin exhibits potent antimicrobial activities through its still-functioning secondary binding site. In this study, we characterized the mode of action for desleucyl-oritavancin's secondary binding site using LC-MS. Peptidoglycan composition analysis of desleucyl-oritavancin-treated
S. aureus
was performed by determining the relative abundances of 83 muropeptide ions matched from a precalculated library through integrating extracted ion chromatograms. Our work highlights the use of quantitative peptidoglycan composition analysis by LC-MS to provide insights into the mode of action of glycopeptide antibiotics.
Treatment of severe hypocalcaemia due to osteoblastic metastases in a patient with post-thyroidectomy hypoparathyroidism with153Sm-EDTMP
Authors: Kassi Eva , Kapsali Ifigeneia , Kokkinos Michalis , Gogas Helen
Published: May 2017

Symptomatic hypocalcaemia is an uncommon finding in patients with malignant tumours. We describe a patient with advanced metastatic breast cancer who developed severe hypocalcaemia caused by the combination of osteoblastic metastases and a permanent postoperative hypoparathyroidism. The patient failed to be treated with the conventional replacement therapy and was submitted effectively to radionucleotide therapy with153Sm.
Anaemia and respiratory failure in a child: can it be idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis?
Authors: Ahmed Minhajuddin , Raj Dinesh , Kumar Ashwini , Kumar Abhay
Published: May 2017

We present an 8-year-old male child admitted with cough and high-grade fever for 7 days and respiratory difficulty for 2 days. There was a history of blood transfusion at 2 years of age during a respiratory illness. The child was anaemic, tachycardic, tachypnoeic and hypoxic at presentation. Chest examination revealed equal air entry with fine crackles bilaterally. Blood reports were suggestive of anaemia (haemoglobin 6.5 g/dL), leucocytosis and high C reactive protein levels. Chest radiograph revealed bilateral air space opacities involving diffuse lung fields, right more than left. Relevant microbiological workup was negative. Based on the clinical scenario and investigations, a provisional diagnosis of pulmonary haemosiderosis was kept. The patient was started on intravenous pulse methylprednisolone. Fibre-optic bronchoscopy was done following recovery from the acute event. Bronchoalveolar lavage demonstrated a significant number of haemosiderin-laden macrophages confirming pulmonary haemosiderosis.
Use of propranolol in a remote region of rural Guatemala to treat a large facial infantile haemangioma
Authors: Goldberg Vera , Martinez Boris , Cnop Katia , Rohloff Peter
Published: May 2017

We present a female infant with a right-sided facial and neck haemangioma, from a remote, resource-poor community in rural Guatemala. She received first-line treatment, propranolol, with marked reduction in tumour size and erythema. Treatment was stopped after 35 weeks due to recurrent diarrhoea and sustained weight loss. Propranolol can be used to safely treat infants with haemangiomas in remote, rural communities if there is adequate follow-up, education and communication. Periocular haemangiomas should be treated promptly to avoid visual impairment. Infants with large facial haemangiomas should be screened forPosterior fossa anomalies,Hemangioma,Arterial anomalies,Cardiac anomalies, andEye anomalies (PHACE) syndrome, and specialists should be involved. The case also highlights the difficulty of providing treatment for a complex illness when basic health needs, such as food security and water sanitation, are limited.
Acute high-intensity interval running increases markers of gastrointestinal damage and permeability but not gastrointestinal symptoms
Authors: Pugh Jamie N. , Impey Samuel G. , Doran Dominic A. , Fleming Simon C. , Morton James P. , Close Graeme L.
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval running on markers of gastrointestinal (GI) damage and permeability alongside subjective symptoms of GI discomfort. Eleven male runners completed an acute bout of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (eighteen 400-m runs at 120% maximal oxygen uptake) where markers of GI permeability, intestinal damage, and GI discomfort symptoms were assessed and compared with resting conditions. Compared with rest, HIIT significantly increased serum lactulose/rhamnose ratio (0.051 ± 0.016 vs. 0.031 ± 0.021, p = 0.0047; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.006 to 0.036) and sucrose concentrations (0.388 ± 0.217 vs. 0.137 ± 0.148 mg·L−1; p < 0.001; 95% CI = 0.152 to 0.350). In contrast, urinary lactulose/rhamnose (0.032 ± 0.005 vs. 0.030 ± 0.005; p = 0.3; 95% CI = −0.012 to 0.009) or sucrose concentrations (0.169% ± 0.168% vs. 0.123% ± 0.120%; p = 0.54; 95% CI = −0.199 to 0.108) did not differ between HIIT and resting conditions. Plasma intestinal-fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) was significantly increased (p < 0.001) during and in the recovery period from HIIT whereas no changes were observed during rest. Mild symptoms of GI discomfort were reported immediately and at 24 h post-HIIT, although these symptoms did not correlate to GI permeability or I-FABP. In conclusion, acute HIIT increased GI permeability and intestinal I-FABP release, although these do not correlate with symptoms of GI discomfort. Furthermore, by using serum sampling, we provide data showing that it is possible to detect changes in intestinal permeability that is not observed using urinary sampling over a shorter time-period.
Comment on “Series solution for flow of a second grade fluid in a divergent – convergent channel” by T. Hayat, M. Nawaz, S. Asghar, and Awatif A. Hendi [Can. J. Phys. 88: 911–917 (2010)]
Authors: Pantokratoras Asterios
Published: May 2017

The cited article incorrectly treats a non-similar problem as a similar one. Other anomalies are indicated.
Wavelet analysis on the drag-reducing characteristics of turbulent channel flow with surfactant additive based on experimental data
Authors: Wang Lu , Zheng Zhi-Ying , Bao Jia-Qi , Wei Tong-Zhou , Cai Wei-Hua , Li Feng-Chen
Published: May 2017

Two-dimensional velocity fields for turbulent channel flows of water and 50 ppm CTAC/NaSal (cetyltrimethyl ammonium chloride/sodium salicylate) solution were experimentally obtained by particle image velocimetry. Multi-scale decompositions of the fluctuating velocity signals were performed by two-dimensional binary orthogonal discrete wavelet to analyze the influence of surfactant additives on the multi-scale characteristics of turbulent channel flow. From the results of wavelet multi-scale decompositions, it can be observed that the quantity of coherent structures near the wall in CTAC solution flow is decreased obviously. The results of the flatness factor show that the addition of drag-reducing additives inhibits the intermittency in turbulence. By analyzing the distribution of local intermittence measure and local Reynolds shear measure, it is found that the intermittency mainly concentrates near the wall, and the intermittent region distinctly reduces in CTAC solution flow compared with that in water flow. By combining the analysis of the motion of coherent structures in turbulent channel flow, it is shown that surfactant additives mainly and distinctly impact the coherent structures near the wall, especially in the viscous layer.
Uniqueness results for algebraic and holomorphic curves into ℙn(ℂ)
Authors: Ru Min , Ugur Gul
Published: May 2017

This paper derives several new results, as well as gives a partial survey of the recent development, on the value sharing for algebraic and holomorphic curves into [Formula: see text].
Representing de Rham cohomology classes on an open Riemann surface by holomorphic forms
Authors: Alarcón Antonio , Lárusson Finnur
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a connected open Riemann surface. Let [Formula: see text] be an Oka domain in the smooth locus of an analytic subvariety of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], such that the convex hull of [Formula: see text] is all of [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be the space of nondegenerate holomorphic maps [Formula: see text]. Take a holomorphic 1-form [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text], not identically zero, and let [Formula: see text] send a map [Formula: see text] to the cohomology class of [Formula: see text]. Our main theorem states that [Formula: see text] is a Serre fibration. This result subsumes the 1971 theorem of Kusunoki and Sainouchi that both the periods and the divisor of a holomorphic form on [Formula: see text] can be prescribed arbitrarily. It also subsumes two parametric h-principles in minimal surface theory proved by Forstnerič and Lárusson in 2016.
On stable commutator lengths of Dehn twists along separating curves
Authors: Monden Naoyuki , Yoshihara Kazuya
Published: May 2017

We give new upper bounds on the stable commutator lengths of Dehn twists along separating curves in the mapping class group of a closed oriented surface. The estimates of these upper bounds are [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the genus of the surface.
Thermodynamical dimensional reduction in a UV & IR-deformed Snyder space
Authors: Nozari Kourosh , Ramezani Hamed
Published: May 2017

We study a formulation of statistical mechanics in the context of symplectic structures of the IR and also UV & IR-deformed Snyder phase-spaces. We derive the corresponding invariant Liouville volume and by using it we obtain the deformed partition function. We then study the thermodynamical properties of the 3-dimensional harmonic oscillator in this set-up. By using the equipartition theorem, we show that two of the six degrees of freedom for a 3-dimensional harmonic oscillator will be frozen as the temperature increases. Also, at a constant temperature, whatever is the increase in oscillator length, this reduction of the number of degrees of freedom gets more and more appreciable and it offers an effective dimensional reduction of space from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] when it is close to the IR-length scale.
OPTIMIZATION OF THE FRACTAL-LIKE ARCHITECTURE OF POROUS FIBROUS MATERIALS RELATED TO PERMEABILITY, DIFFUSIVITY AND THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
Authors: XIAO BOQI , WANG WEI , FAN JINTU , CHEN HANXIN , HU XIAOLONG , ZHAO DESHUN , ZHANG XIAN , REN WEN
Published: May 2017

In this study, the optimization of the fractal-like architecture of porous fibrous materials related to permeability, diffusivity, and thermal conductivity was analyzed by applying the established theoretical models. It was observed that the ratio of dimensionless permeability over dimensionless effective diffusivity decreased with the decrease of porosity and tortuosity fractal dimension, respectively, which implied that lower porosity and tortuosity fractal dimension were beneficial to wind/water resistant fabric, as it reduced the ratio of dimensionless permeability over dimensionless effective diffusivity. Besides, it was found that the ratio of the dimensionless total effective thermal conductivity over dimensionless effective diffusivity increased with tortuosity fractal dimension, which implied lower tortuosity fractal dimension was beneficial to clothing insulation, as it reduced the ratio of dimensionless total effective thermal conductivity over dimensionless effective diffusivity. The optimization results indicated that fabrics with more aligned fibers were preferred for protective clothing, as the low tortuosity fractal dimension implied fibers in the fibrous materials should be more aligned.
FINANCIAL MARKETS DURING HIGHLY ANXIOUS TIME: MULTIFRACTAL FLUCTUATIONS IN ASSET RETURNS
Authors: SIOKIS FOTIOS M.
Published: May 2017

Building on the notion that systems and in particular complex systems such as stock exchange markets reveal their structure better when they are under stress, we analyze the multifractal character and nonlinear properties of four major stock market indices during financial meltdowns by means of the multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA). The three distinct financial crises under investigation are the Black Monday, the Dot-Com and the Great Recession. Scaling and Hurst exponents are derived as well as the singularity spectra. The results show that all indices exhibit strong multifractal properties. The complexity of the markets is higher under the Black Monday event revealed by the width of the singularity spectrum and the higher [Formula: see text] parameter.
Neurolysis with Amniotic Membrane Nerve Wrapping for Treatment of Secondary Wartenberg Syndrome: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Gaspar Michael P. , Kane Patrick M. , Vosbikian Michael M. , Ketonis Constantinos , Rekant Mark S.
Published: May 2017

Background: Entrapment of the superficial sensory branch of the radial nerve (SRN) commonly results in debilitating pain of the dorsoradial wrist. Symptom relief following SRN neurolysis is often incomplete or temporary due to recurrent perineural scarring.

Methods: We performed a retrospective review with prospective follow-up of all patients with SRN neuropathy who were treated with neurolysis and nerve wrapping using an amnion-based allograft adhesion barrier over a one-year interval. Measured outcomes included pain rated by Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) functional outcome scores.

Results: Three females satisfied inclusion. At mean follow-up of 28.9 months, all three patients exhibited improved pain (mean VAS change −4.7 ± 0.6), function (mean QuickDASH change −40 ± 5), and subjective satisfaction. No adverse events or reactions to the implanted tissue occurred.

Conclusions: SRN entrapment neuropathy was safely and effectively treated with neurolysis and amnion nerve wrapping in this small series. Use of this technique for perineural scar prevention warrants additional study in larger groups of patients and in other upper extremity entrapment neuropathies.
The Effect of Psychological Factors on the Outcomes of Carpal Tunnel Release: A Systematic Review
Authors: Park Jin Woo , Gong Hyun Sik , Rhee Seung Hwan , Kim Jihyeung , Lee Young Ho , Baek Goo Hyun
Published: May 2017

Background: Several studies report that psychological factors are associated with outcomes of carpal tunnel release. However, interpretation of the association is difficult as there are diverse outcome parameters and patient expectations are different. We performed a systematic review to assess the relationships between psychological factors and the various outcome parameters.

Methods: We identified 611 papers and selected 8 papers that fit the inclusion criteria. Psychological factors assessed were anxiety, depression, pain catastrophizing, coping, and mental health status. Outcomes of interest included satisfaction and measures of perceived level of function, pain, and physical measures of recovery.

Results: For satisfaction and perceived level of function as the outcome, three studies reported a significant association, one study found an association approaching a value of significance, and one study reported no association. For pain as the outcome, two studies reported a significant association. For physical measures, one study reported no association.

Conclusions: This systematic review found that depression correlates with postoperative pain, but that the association is less clear between psychological factors and outcomes such as satisfaction, perceived level of symptom and function, and physical measures of recovery. As pain may not be a primary symptom or outcome of CTS, we consider that the current literature does not strongly support the association between psychological factors and outcomes of CTR. This review could be of benefit during preoperative counseling in patients with psychological disturbances.
Incidence of Carpal Coalition in an Asian Population – Preliminary Findings of a Study on Patients from a Distal Radius Fracture Database
Authors: Ong Sean , Sechachalam Sreedharan
Published: May 2017

Background: Congenital carpal coalition is usually seen as an incidental finding. The incidence of carpal coalition has been reported from 0.1 to 9.5 %; highest incidence has been reported in people of African descent. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the incidence and subtypes of carpal coalition in an Asian population.

Methods: Review of the radiographs of the patients in our distal radius fracture database from 2009 to 2014 was conducted to determine the incidence and type of carpal coalition.

Results: 4141 patients’ wrist radiographs were reviewed. 2 cases of carpal coalition were identified; this leads to an incidence of 0.048%. One was of luno-triquetral type and the other was of capito-hamate type.

Conclusions: The preliminary results of our study indicate that carpal coalition in the Asian population is less common than that reported in the Western literature. Our results are inconclusive as to the type of carpal coalition that is more common.
That Tendon is the Median Nerve: Perils of a Palmaris Longus Deficient Wrist
Authors: Woon Colin Yi-Loong , Gourineni Ramadevi , Watkins Summer , Richardson Rhea , Gourineni Prasad
Published: May 2017

Background: To document the course of the median nerve in the distal forearm in palmaris longus (PL) deficient forearms and elucidate features that help distinguish it from the PL.

Methods: In the cadaveric study, 56 cadaveric forearms were dissected and the location and course of the median nerve were documented. In the clinical study, 20 healthy subjects with absent PL were examined with provocative tests to elucidate the PL (Schaeffer’s test and Thompson’s test), and modified Durkan’s and Phalen’s tests. In the imaging study, one subject with a clearly visible and palpable median nerve was further evaluated with MRI with a superficial fiducial marker.

Results: Cadaveric dissection revealed that the median nerve was deep to the antebrachial fascia and superficial to the FDS tendons in the distal forearm. In 9 specimens without a PL, the median nerve was the most superficial structure deep and lay draped over the FDS tendons. In the clinical study, PL absence was bilateral in 4 subjects and unilateral in 16. The nerve was visible and palpable in 4 forearms and palpable but not visible in 20 forearms. In all 24 forearms, the nerve was palpable as a lax, mobile, cord-like structure that could be rolled over the taut FDS tendons. Tinel’s and Durkan’s signs were positive in 11 subjects. In the imaging study, MRI confirmed that the palpable structure was the median nerve.

Conclusions: Unlike the PL, the nerve is non-contractile and remains flaccid on provocative testing. It is usually palpable and may also be visible in thin forearms. Careful scrutiny may reveal it to be distinct from, and draped over underlying FDS tendons. These findings may help avoid inadvertent median nerve harvest in place of a PL tendon graft.
The Effect of Myostatin (GDF-8) on Proliferation and Tenocyte Differentiation of Rat Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Le Wei , Yao Jeffrey
Published: May 2017

Background: The future in flexor tendon surgery involves tissue engineering approaches directed toward increasing early repair strength to accelerate tendon healing and to allow for earlier onset of rehabilitation. Previous work has shown that pluripotential mesenchymal stem cells may be successfully delivered to a tendon repair site using a suture carrier. The current work describes the use of Myostatin (GDF-8) to help guide these delivered pluripotential stem cells to differentiate down a tenocyte lineage to potentially maximize the reparative effects of these cells at the tendon repair site.

Methods: Primary rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells isolated from the long bones of male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with 500 ng/ml myostatin for 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. Collagen 1 A, scleraxis (Scx), and tenomodulin (Tnmd) expression, indicative of tenogenesis, was analyzed using real time PCR and immunohistochemistry staining. A migration assay was performed to assess the functional activity of BMSCs after they were treated with myostatin.

Results: Compared to the control cells (without treatment), the cells treated with 500 ng/ml myostatin for 72 h exhibited higher expression of Col 1A, Scx, and Tnmd. The mRNA expression of Col1A, Scx, Tnmd increased 15.3, 13 and 7 times respectively. Immunohistochemistry staining showed Scx and Tnmd were expressed in the cellular cytoplasm. In response to myostatin, the cells also showed a tendency to proliferate and migrate more than the control cells.

Conclusions: Myostatin (GDF-8) has the ability to increase rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell growth and differentiation toward a tenocyte lineage. This information could be useful for future studies regarding tendon repair.
Galeazzi-equivalent Fractures: Report of Two Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Suganuma Seigo , Tada Kaoru , Yamamoto Daiki , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki
Published: May 2017

The Galeazzi-equivalent fracture is a rare injury that occurs in children. The most important issue is the distal ulnar epiphyseal injury. Although there have been some case reports, most of them performed only short term follow-up. This article describes two cases of this fracture with long term follow-up until epiphyseal closure. First case is a 12-year-old girl who sustained a Galeazziequivalent fracture of her right forearm and underwent emergency surgery. At follow-up of 5 years and 10 months postsurgery, radiographs show ulnar growth arrest of one mm and she has mild pain. Second case is a 15-year-old boy who sustained an open Galeazzi-equivalent fracture of his left forearm and underwent emergency surgery. At follow-up of 3 years and 3 months postsurgery, radiographs show no growth arrest of the distal ulna. He has no residual complaint. Long term follow-up is absolutely necessary to monitor ulnar growth.
Screw Fixation and Autogenous Bone Graft for an Irreducible Distal Ulna Fracture Associated with Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Naito Kiyohito , Sugiyama Yoichi , Obata Hiroyuki , Mogami Atsuhiko , Obayashi Osamu , Kaneko Kazuo
Published: May 2017

Distal ulna fractures often occur with distal radius fractures, and their treatment method is still controversial. We considered reduction of the distal radio-ulnar joint (DRUJ) surface the most important factor when treating distal ulna fractures accompanied by residual dislocation. We herein presented a patient with a distal ulna fracture accompanied by dislocation of the DRUJ surface in whom an autogenous bone fragment collected from the radius was grafted onto the ulnar bone defect after open reduction and Herbert screw fixation. In this technique, the bone fragment was supported through the medullary cavity by inserting a Herbert screw, which was less likely to cause irritation between the screw and surrounding tissue, because the screw was almost entirely present in the bone. In addition, an autogenous bone graft from the same surgical field may be less invasive than that from another region.