bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food availability drives plastic self-repair response in a basal metazoan- case study on the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi A. Agassiz 1865
Authors: Bading Katharina Tissy , Kaehlert Sarah , Chi Xupeng , Jaspers Cornelia , Martindale Mark Q. , Javidpour Jamileh
Published: November 2017

Many marine invertebrates including ctenophores are capable of extensive body regeneration when injured. However, as for the invasive ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi, there is a constant subportion of individuals not undergoing whole body regeneration but forming functionally stable half-animals instead. Yet, the driving factors of this phenomenon have not been addressed so far. This study sheds new light on how differences in food availability affect self-repair choice and regeneration success in cydippid larvae of M. leidyi. As expected, high food availability favored whole-body regeneration. However, under low food conditions half-animals became the preferential self-repair mode. Remarkably, both regenerating and half-animals showed very similar survival chances under respective food quantities. As a consequence of impaired food uptake after injury, degeneration of the digestive system would often occur indicating limited energy storage capacities. Taken together, this indicates that half-animals may represent an alternative energy-saving trajectory which implies self-repair plasticity as an adaptive trade-off between high regeneration costs and low energy storage capacities. We conclude that self-repair plasticity could lead to higher population fitness of ctenophores under adverse conditions such as in ships’ ballast water tanks which is postulated to be the major vector source for the species’ spreading around the globe.
Virus replicon particle vaccines expressing nucleoprotein of influenza A virus mediate enhanced inflammatory responses in pigs
Authors: Ricklin Meret E. , Python Sylvie , Vielle Nathalie J. , Brechbühl Daniel , Zumkehr Beatrice , Posthaus Horst , Zimmer Gert , Ruggli Nicolas , Summerfield Artur
Published: November 2017

Studies in the mouse model indicate that the nucleoprotein of influenza A virus represents an interesting vaccine antigen being well conserved across subtypes of influenza virus but still able to induce protective immune responses. Here we show that immunizations of pigs with vesicular stomatitis virus- and classical swine fever virus-derived replicon (VRP) particles expressing the nucleoprotein (NP) of H1N1 A/swine/Belzig/2/01 induced potent antibody and T-cell responses against influenza A virus. In contrast to a conventional whole inactivated virus vaccine, the VRP vaccines induced both NP-specific CD4 and CD8 T cells responses, including interferon-γ and tumor-necrosis-factor dual-secreting cell. Although T-cells and antibody responses were cross-reactive with the heterologous H1N2 A/swine/Bakum/R757/2010 challenge virus, they did not provide protection against infection. Surprisingly, vaccinated pigs showed enhanced virus shedding, lung inflammation and increased levels of systemic and lung interferon-α as well as elevated lung interleukin-6. In conclusion, our study shows that NP, although efficacious in the mouse model, appears not to be a promising stand-alone vaccine antigen for pigs.
Surface modification of layered perovskite Sr2TiO4 for improved CO2 photoreduction with H2O to CH4
Authors: Kwak Byeong Sub , Do Jeong Yeon , Park No-Kuk , Kang Misook
Published: November 2017

Layered perovskite Sr2TiO4 photocatalyst was synthesized by using sol-gel method with citric acid. In order to increase the surface area of layered perovskite Sr2TiO4, and thus to improve its photocatalytic activity for CO2 reduction, its surface was modified via hydrogen treatment or exfoliation. The physical and chemical properties of the prepared catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, elemental mapping analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, N2 adsorption-desorption, UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and electrophoretic light scattering. CO2 photoreduction was performed in a closed reactor under 6 W/cm2 UV irradiation. The gaseous products were analyzed using a gas chromatograph equipped with flame ionization and thermal conductivity detectors. The exfoliated Sr2TiO4 catalyst (E-Sr2TiO4) exhibited a narrow band gap, a large surface area, and high dispersion. Owing to these advantageous properties, E-Sr2TiO4 photocatalyst showed an excellent catalytic performance for CO2 photoreduction reaction. The rate of CH4 production from the photoreduction of CO2 with H2O using E-Sr2TiO4 was about 3431.77 μmol/gcat after 8 h.
Modification and functional adaptation of the MBF1 gene family in the lichenized fungus Endocarpon pusillum under environmental stress
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Wei Xinli , Huang Jenpan , Wei Jiangchun
Published: November 2017

The multiprotein-bridging factor 1 (MBF1) gene family is well known in archaea, non-lichenized fungi, plants, and animals, and contains stress tolerance-related genes. Here, we identified four unique mbf1 genes in the lichenized fungi Endocarpon spp. A phylogenetic analysis based on protein sequences showed the translated MBF1 proteins of the newly isolated mbf1 genes formed a monophyletic clade different from other lichen-forming fungi and Ascomycota groups in general, which may reflect the evolution of the biological functions of MBF1s. In contrast to the lack of function reported in yeast, we determined that lysine114 in the deduced Endocarpon pusillum MBF1 protein (EpMBF1) had a specific function that was triggered by environmental stress. Further, the Endocarpon-specific C-terminus of EpMBF1 was found to participate in stress tolerance. Epmbf1 was induced by a number of abiotic stresses in E. pusillum and transgenic yeast, and its stress-resistant ability was stronger than that of the yeast mbf1. These findings highlight the evolution and function of EpMBF1 and provide new insights into the co-evolution hypothesis of MBF1 and TATA-box-binding proteins.
Phytoplankton communities determine the spatio-temporal heterogeneity of alkaline phosphatase activity: evidence from a tributary of the Three Gorges Reservoir
Authors: Yuan Yijun , Bi Yonghong , Hu Zhengyu
Published: November 2017

In order to reveal the role of phytoplankton in the spatio-temporal distribution of alkaline phosphatase activity (APA), monthly investigations were conducted in the Xiaojiang River, a tributary of the Three Gorges Reservoir in China. Different APA fractions, environmental parameters, and phytoplankton communities were followed. High spatio-temporal variations of APA were observed, with the highest value in summer and the lowest in winter. The annual average APAT (total alkaline phosphatase activity) ranged from 7.78–14.03 nmol∙L−1∙min−1 with the highest in the midstream and the lowest in the estuary. The dominant phytoplankton phyla in summer and winter were Cyanophyta and Bacillariophyta, respectively. The mean cell density in the midstream and in the estuary was 5.2 × 107 cell∙L−1 and 1.4 × 107 cell∙L−1, respectively. That APA>3.0 μm was significantly higher than APA0.45-3 μm indicating phytoplankton was the main contributor to alkaline phosphatase. Correlation analysis indicated the dominant species and cell density could determine the distribution pattern of APA. Turbidity, total phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand, water temperature (WT), pH and chlorophyll a were proved to be positively correlated with APA; soluble reactive phosphorus, conductivity, transparency and water level(WL) were negatively correlated with APA. It was concluded that spatio-temporal heterogeneity of APA determined by phytoplankton communities was related to WT and WL.
Immobilized Cerrena sp. laccase: preparation, thermal inactivation, and operational stability in malachite green decolorization
Authors: Yang Jie , Wang Zhengjuan , Lin Yonghui , Ng Tzi Bun , Ye Xiuyun , Lin Juan
Published: November 2017

Laccases are polyphenol oxidases with widespread applications in various industries. In the present study, the laccase from Cerrena sp. HYB07 was immobilized with four methods, namely entrapment in alginate, covalently binding to chitosan as well as formation of cross-linked enzyme aggregates (CLEAs) and magnetic CLEAs (M-CLEAs). The activity recovery rates of the immobilized laccases ranged from 29% to 68%. Immobilization elevated the reaction temperature optimum and reduced substrate specificity, but not necessarily the turnover rate. pH stability of immobilized laccases was improved compared with that of the free laccase, especially at acidic pH values. Thermal inactivation of all laccases followed a simple first-order exponential decay model, and immobilized laccases displayed higher thermostability, as manifested by lower thermal inactivation rate constants and longer enzyme half-life time. Operational stability of the immobilized laccase was demonstrated by decolorization of the triphenylmethane dye malachite green (MG) at 60 °C. MG decolorization with free laccase was accompanied by a shift of the absorption peak and accumulation of a stable, colored intermediate tetradesmethyl MG, probably due to lower thermostability of the free laccase and premature termination of the degradation pathway. In contrast, complete decolorization of MG was achieved with laccase CLEAs at 60 °C.
Highly efficient and selective extraction of uranium from aqueous solution using a magnetic device: succinyl-β-cyclodextrin-APTES@maghemite nanoparticles
Authors: Helal A. S. , Mazario E. , Mayoral A. , Decorse P. , Losno R. , Lion C. , Ammar S. , Hémadi M.
Published: November 2017

The removal of radio-elements, notably uranium, from wastewaters is crucial for public health and environmental remediation.
Hidden molecular outflow in the LIRG Zw 049.057
Authors: Falstad N. , Aalto S. , Mangum J. G. , Costagliola F. , Gallagher J. S. , González-Alfonso E. , Sakamoto K. , König S. , Muller S. , Evans A. S. , Privon G. C.
Published: November 2017

Context. Feedback in the form of mass outflows driven by star formation or active galactic nuclei is a key component of galaxy evolution. The luminous infrared galaxy Zw 049.057 harbours a compact obscured nucleus with a possible far-infrared signature of outflowing molecular gas. Due to the high optical depths at far-infrared wavelengths, however, the interpretation of the outflow signature is uncertain. At millimeter and radio wavelengths, the radiation is better able to penetrate the large columns of gas and dust responsible for the obscuration.

Aims. We aim to investigate the molecular gas distribution and kinematics in the nucleus of Zw 049.057 in order to confirm and locate the molecular outflow, with the ultimate goal to understand how the nuclear activity affects the host galaxy.

Methods. We used high angular resolution observations from the Submillimeter Array (SMA), the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), and the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) to image the CO J = 2–1 and J = 6–5 emission, the 690 GHz continuum, the radio centimeter continuum, and absorptions by rotationally excited OH.

Results. The CO line profiles exhibit wings extending ~ 300 km s-1 beyond the systemic velocity. At centimeter wavelengths, we find a compact (~ 40 pc) continuum component in the nucleus, with weaker emission extending several 100 pc approximately along the major and minor axes of the galaxy. In the OH absorption lines toward the compact continuum, wings extending to a similar velocity as for the CO are only seen on the blue side of the profile. The weak centimeter continuum emission along the minor axis is aligned with a highly collimated, jet-like dust feature previously seen in near-infrared images of the galaxy. Comparison of the apparent optical depths in the OH lines indicate that the excitation conditions in Zw 049.057 differ from those within other OH megamaser galaxies.

Conclusions. We interpret the wings in the spectral lines as signatures of a nuclear molecular outflow. A relation between this outflow and the minor axis radio feature is possible, although further studies are required to investigate this possible association and understand the connection between the outflow and the nuclear activity. Finally, we suggest that the differing OH excitation conditions are further evidence that Zw 049.057 is in a transition phase between megamaser and kilomaser activity.
Gefangen im falschen Körper
Authors: Müller Jessica
Published: November 2017

Protokoll systemische Fallbesprechung Im dritten Teil unserer Serie geht es um einen Patienten, der sich einer Geschlechtsumwandlung
unterzieht und massives selbstverletzendes Verhalten zeigt. Lesen Sie, wie das Pflegeteam es schafft, mithilfe der systemischen
Fallbesprechung neue Perspektiven für den Umgang mit dem Patienten zu entwickeln. Auch hier möchten wir Sie wieder einladen, sich selbst in
die verschiedenen Rollen hineinzuversetzen. Fallen Ihnen weitere Lösungswege ein? Dann schreiben Sie uns an psych.pflegeheute@thieme.de.
Rot, gelb oder grün?
Authors: Kindling Julia , Schreiner Alexandra
Published: November 2017

Ampelsystem für die psychiatrische Akutaufnahme Wenn ein Patient in die Notfallambulanz kommt, müssen Pflegende oft schnell
einschätzen, wie dringlich Handlungsbedarf besteht. Doch Priorisierungen sind unter Zeitdruck häufig schwierig, zumal bisher eindeutige
Kriterien für ein standardisiertes Aufnahmemanagement fehlten. Wir stellen Ihnen farbgeleitete Checklisten vor, mit denen Pflegende direkt
erfassen können in welchem Zustand der Patient ist und wie schnell ein Arzt hinzugezogen werden sollte.
Carrier accumulation and depletion in point-contact capacitance-voltage measurements
Authors: Naitou Yuichi
Published: November 2017

Scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) is a variation of atomic force microscopy in which a conductive probe tip detects the bias modulated capacitance for the purpose of measuring the nanoscale semiconductor carrier concentration. SCM can be regarded as a point-contact capacitance-voltage system, and its capacitance-voltage properties are different from those of a conventional parallel-plate capacitor. In this study, the charge accumulation and depletion behavior of a semiconductor sample were closely investigated by SCM. By analyzing the tip-sample approach curve, the effective probe tip area and charge depletion depth could be quantitatively determined.
Friction stir welding industrialisation and research status
Authors: Magalhães V. M. , Leitão C. , Rodrigues D. M.
Published: November 2017

This paper intends to provide a perspective on the current development of the friction stir welding (FSW) technology. The industrialisation of the technology and related research were assessed by analysing patent and scientific publications databases. The literature reviews on FSW and related technologies were also collected and analysed. The work performed enabled to understand the main areas of industry/research where the FSW technology is being applied/explored and the geographical distribution of the main players in its implementation/research. The main FSW process variants, the materials already welded/processed using it, as well as the applications envisaged, were also analysed. The data collected shows that the FSW technology, originally developed for the joining of light alloys, became a research tool with interest in several fields of engineering and material science.
The amazing brain drain
Authors: Blanchette Marie , Daneman Richard
Published: November 2017

In this issue of JEM, Antila et al. (https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20170391) demonstrate that central nervous system lymphatics develop in the mouse meninges during early postnatal periods and display remarkable plasticity in adult periods through manipulation of VEGF-C–VEGFR3 signaling.
Neuroendovascular Fellowship Training: Self-Assessment of a Program Accredited by the Committee on Advanced Subspecialty Training
Authors: Shakir Hakeem J , Shallwani Hussain , Rangel-Castilla Leonardo , Bregy Amade , Davies Jason M , Sonig Ashish , Ogilvy Christopher S , Snyder Kenneth V , Hopkins L Nelson , Siddiqui Adnan H , Levy Elad I
Published: November 2017

The University at Buffalo's neuroendovascular fellowship is one of the longest running fellowship programs in North America. The burgeoning neurointerventional workforce and the rapid growth in the neurointerventional space on the heels of groundbreaking clinical trials prompted us to assess the fellowship's academic impact and its graduates’ perceptions and productivity. An anonymized web-based survey was sent to all former neuroendovascular fellows with specific questions pertaining to current practice, research and funding, and perceptions about the fellowship's impact on their skills, competitiveness, and compensation. Additionally, the h-index was calculated to assess the academic productivity of each graduated fellow. Among 50 former fellows, 42 (84%) completed the survey. The fellows came from various countries, ethnic backgrounds, and specialties including neurosurgery (n = 39, 93%), neurology (n = 2, 5%), and neuroradiology (n = 1, 2%). Twenty (48%) respondents were currently chairs or directors of their practice. Most (n = 30, 71%) spent at least 10% of their time on research activities, with 27 (64%) receiving research funding. The median h-index of all 50 former fellows was 14. The biggest gains from the fellowship were reported to be improvement in endovascular skills (median = 10 on a scale of 0-10 [highest]) and increase in competitiveness for jobs in vascular neurosurgery (median = 10), followed by increase in academic productivity (median = 8), and knowledge of vascular disease (median = 8). In an era with open calls for moratoriums on endovascular fellowships, concerns over market saturation, and pleas to improve training, fellowship programs perhaps merit a more objective assessment. The effectiveness of a fellowship program may best be measured by the academic impact and leadership roles of former fellows.
Enhancing Nursing and Midwifery Student Learning Through the Use of QR Codes
Authors: Downer Terri , Oprescu Florin , Forbes Helen , Phillips Nikki , McTier Lauren , Lord Bill , Barr Nigel , Bright Peter , Simbag Vilma
Published: November 2017

A recent teaching and learning innovation using new technologies involves the use of quick response codes, which are read by smartphones and tablets. Integrating this technology as a teaching and learning strategy in nursing and midwifery education has been embraced by academics and students at a regional university.
MRI Characteristics of Spinal Ependymoma in WHO Grade II
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuyoshi , Ando Kei , Kato Fumihiko , Kanemura Tokumi , Imagama Shiro , Sato Koji , Kamiya Mitsuhiro , Ito Kenyu , Tsushima Mikito , Matsumoto Akiyuki , Morozumi Masayoshi , Tanaka Satoshi , Machino Masaaki , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: November 2017

Study Design.

Retrospective multicenter study.

Objective.

The goal of this study is to determine the characteristic imaging features of spinal ependymoma in a review of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data for a large series of surgically proven cases.

Summary of Background Data.

Common spinal intramedullary neoplasms are mostly ependymomas and comprise 50% to 60% of spinal neuroepithelial tumors in adults. Preoperative prediction of the pathological diagnosis could enhance surgical planning and explanation of the procedure to patients. However, these types of tumors exhibit a variety of MRI findings.

Methods.

Records were examined for 59 patients who underwent surgery for spinal cord ependymoma and had a pathological diagnosis of cellular ependymoma of World Health Organization classification grade II.

Results.

The ependymomas included 28 in the cervical spine, 34 in the thoracic spine, and 3 conus lesions. All cases were isointense or hypointense on T1-weighted MRI, and 55 (93%) were hyperintense on T2-weighted MRI. Tumors were located centrally in all cases; 50 (85%) showed surrounding cord edema; and 52 (88%) had associated cysts, including 36 (61%) rostral or caudal cysts, 10 (17%) intratumoral cysts, and 6 (10%) with syringomyelia. Of the 59 tumors, 17 (29%) showed the “cap sign,” a rim of extreme hypointensity seen around the tumor on T2-weighted images, due to hemosiderin. In gadolinium-enhanced MRI, all cases were enhanced, and 27 (46%), 16 (27%), 11 (19%), and 5 (8%) cases showed homogeneous, heterogeneous, rim, and nodular enhancement, respectively.

Conclusion.

Hypointense changes on T2-weighted MRI and hemosiderin deposition reflect easy bleeding. Tumors are associated with various types of cysts, and gadolinium-enhancement patterns reflect a variety of intratumor cellular components. In cases in which the whole tumor shows gadolinium enhancement on MRI, rostral, or caudal cyst and a cap sign with hemorrhage are characteristics of grade II classical ependymoma.

Level of Evidence: 3
Comparing Injectable DaxibotulinumtoxinA and OnabotulinumtoxinA in Moderate and Severe Glabellar Lines: Additional Analyses From a Phase 2, Randomized, Dose-Ranging, Double-Blind, Multicenter Study
Authors: Bertucci Vince , Humphrey Shannon , Carruthers Jean , Solish Nowell , Muhn Channy , Swift Arthur , Rubio Roman G. , Shears Gill , Rosen Nathan
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Injectable daxibotulinumtoxinA (RT002) is an investigational botulinum toxin Type A. Published Phase 2 data show that, compared with 20U onabotulinumtoxinA, 40U daxibotulinumtoxinA is associated with a significantly greater response rate and significantly longer duration of response (median 24 weeks), and appears generally safe and well tolerated (www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT02303002).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether these efficacy and safety findings are influenced by baseline glabellar line severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the Phase 2, randomized, dose-ranging, parallel-group, double-blind, multicenter study, subjects with moderate or severe glabellar lines at maximum frown were randomly assigned to 20U, 40U, or 60U daxibotulinumtoxinA, 20U onabotulinumtoxinA, or placebo. Efficacy was evaluated by investigators for ≥24 weeks.

RESULTS

Data from the per protocol population (n = 191) stratified by baseline glabellar line severity (125 moderate, 66 severe) suggest that the clinical advantage of 40U daxibotulinumtoxinA over 20U onabotulinumtoxinA is maintained for a range of efficacy outcomes regardless of whether glabellar lines are moderate or severe at baseline. Statistical evaluations were not completed due to the limited size of each subgroup.

CONCLUSION

40U daxibotulinumtoxinA appears to offer a clinical efficacy advantage over 20U onabotulinumtoxinA in both moderate and severe glabellar lines—with a greater advantage observed in severe glabellar lines.
Minimally Invasive Genioplasty Procedure
Authors: Nadjmi Nasser , Van Roy Sien , Van de Casteele Elke
Published: November 2017

In this technical note, we present a new surgical approach for genioplasty in which a minimally invasive procedure is used to perform the chin osteotomy. The main goal was to reduce postoperative functional recovery time and possible complications, especially reduction of lip incompetence, chin ptosis, and muscle dysfunction, by retaining the intactness of the mentalis muscles.
Discharge Criteria for Bronchiolitis
Authors: Garcia-Mauriño Cristina , Moore-Clingenpeel Melissa , Wallihan Rebecca , Koranyi Katalin , Rajah Bavani , Shirk Tiffany , Vegh Maria , Ramilo Octavio , Mejias Asuncion
Published: November 2017

Background:

Admission criteria and standardized management strategies for bronchiolitis are addressed in several guidelines and have shown to be beneficial; however, guidance regarding discharge criteria is limited and widely variable. We assessed the impact on clinical outcomes of a discharge protocol for children <2 years of age hospitalized with bronchiolitis in a tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Methods:

In October 2013, a protocol to standardize the discharge of children with bronchiolitis was implemented in the infectious diseases (ID) ward but not in other pediatric units caring for these children (non-ID). The protocol included objective clinical criteria and a standardized oxygen weaning pathway. Patients were identified via International Classification of Diseases-9 codes and data manually reviewed. We compared length of stay (LOS) and readmission rates within 2 weeks of discharge according to protocol implementation (ID versus non-ID), adjusted for demographic factors, comorbidities, viral etiology and stratified by pediatric intensive care unit admission.

Results:

From October 2013 to May 2015, 1118 children were hospitalized in ID and 695 in non-ID units. Median age was 4.5 months, 55% were males and 28% had comorbidities. LOS was 36% longer in non-ID units (risk ratio: 1.36 [1.27–1.45]; P < 0.001) adjusted for age, gender, comorbidities and viral etiology. Difference in LOS remained significant after excluding children with comorbidities and stratifying by pediatric intensive care unit admission. Readmission rates were comparable between units (ID, 2.9% versus non-ID, 2.6%).

Conclusions:

A standardized discharge protocol for bronchiolitis reduced LOS without increasing readmission rates. Unifying bronchiolitis discharge criteria and oxygen weaning pathways could positively impact hospital-based patient care for this condition.
Muscle Damage Due to Fusidic Acid–Statin Interaction: Review of 75 Cases From the French Pharmacovigilance Database and Literature Reports
Authors: Bataillard Maxime , Beyens Marie-Noëlle , Mounier Geneviève , Vergnon-Miszczycha Delphine , Bagheri Haleh , Cathebras Pascal
Published: November 2017

Background/Area of Uncertainty:

Statins, which reduce cardiovascular risk in both primary and secondary prevention, are one of the most widely prescribed therapeutic classes in the world. Usually well-tolerated, statin-associated muscle symptoms are a well-known adverse effect. Fusidic acid (FA) is a bacteriostatic antibiotic of interest in the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections. Cases of rhabdomyolysis, sometimes fatal, have been reported after coprescription of FA and a statin.

Data Sources/Area of Uncertainty:

We studied 75 cases of muscle damage related to interaction between FA and a statin reported in the French national pharmacovigilance database (43 cases) and from a literature review (32 cases).

Results:

Cases were mostly men (72.5%), often overweight (mean body mass index: 29.4). The most commonly reported statins were atorvastatin (60%), simvastatin (22.7%), and rosuvastatin (8.0%). Muscle disorders appeared on average 30 days after initiation of FA. Symptoms were muscle weakness (82%), dark urine (71%), and myalgia (61%). Mean creatine kinase level at diagnosis was 43,890 UI/mL, and acute renal injury occurred more than half of the cases. Outcome was fatal in 22% of cases and 28% kept sequelae at the end of the follow-up (54 days).

Conclusions:

Muscle damage induced by interaction between FA and statin is a potentially life-threatening complication, leading to contraindication of this association in France. This is to be reminded especially because FA is about to get FDA approval and should soon be available in the United States.
Beyond the Farm in the Farm Bill
Authors: Ismail Mehreen , Wilde Parke
Published: November 2017

Nutrition professionals focused on populations with low or no income in the United States should stay informed and participate in discussions about 2018 Farm Bill reauthorization. The Farm Bill’s nutrition title authorizes programs administered by the US Department of Agriculture, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and food distribution programs. In the most recent 2014 Farm Bill, the nutrition title accounted for 80% of the bill’s forecasted spending. This article summarizes 5 issues that may be up for debate in the coming year. Decisions about program structure and funding, benefit adequacy, and benefit redemption will influence dietary intake and food security for millions of Americans with low income.
Histologic Features Do Not Reliably Predict Mismatch Repair Protein Deficiency in Colorectal Carcinoma: The Results of a 5-Year Prospective Evaluation
Authors: Olevian Dane C. , Pai Reetesh K.
Published: November 2017

Most major professional medical organizations advocate universal screening for Lynch syndrome in colorectal carcinoma; however, some allow for a selective screening approach based on clinicopathologic factors including assessment of histologic features of mismatch repair protein deficiency (MMRD). We performed a prospective evaluation for histopathologic features of MMRD in colorectal carcinomas that underwent universal screening for Lynch syndrome to evaluate the ability of histology to predict MMRD. In total, 947 resected colorectal carcinomas over a 5-year period were prospectively analyzed for histologic features of MMRD and for DNA mismatch repair protein abnormalities. Histologic features of MMRD were reported as present in 281 of 947 (30%) tumors with only 109 (39%) cases demonstrating MMRD by immunohistochemistry. Histologic features of MMRD had a sensitivity of 74% [95% confidence interval (CI), 66%-80%], specificity of 78% (95% CI, 75%-81%), positive predictive value of 39% (95% CI, 32%-44%), and negative predictive value of 94% (95% CI, 92%-96%). Histologic features of MMRD in left colon/rectal tumors had a significantly lower sensitivity of 56% (95% CI, 41%-77%) compared with right colon tumors (P=0.02). Histologic rereview identified that tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were most likely to be incorrectly reported as absent, and 72% of cases incorrectly assessed as lacking TILs demonstrated MMRD by immunohistochemistry. We demonstrate that histologic features of MMRD do not reliably predict the presence of MMRD by immunohistochemistry. Interpretative errors in the assessment of histologic features of MMRD occur, particularly for TILs and in tumors of the left colon/rectum.
Enteric Pathologic Manifestations of Alpha-Synucleinopathies
Authors: Punsoni Michael , Friedman Joseph H. , Resnick Murray , Donahue John E. , Yang Dong Fang , Stopa Edward G.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common in Parkinson disease (PD), often preceding neurological manifestations; however, early diagnostic utility of GI biopsies remains controversial. Studies suggest aberrant deposition of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) follows step-wise progression in central nervous system though histologic interpretation of normal and aberrant staining patterns have shown variable results. This study examines whether GI α-syn mRNA expression combined with standard α-syn immunohistochemical staining enhance the role of GI biopsy in PD.

Materials and Methods:

Four groups were examined, including pediatric (21) and adult control patients (18), PD clinic patients (17), and pathologically confirmed PD cases from hospital archives (16). Enteric nervous system α-syn staining was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 33 PD and 39 controls. α-Syn mRNA levels were compared between patient groups using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and stomach and colon levels in PD.

Results:

PD patients had Lewy bodies (LB) and diffuse neuronal α-syn staining. GI tissues from elderly controls, children, and young adults exhibited diffuse positivity. LB were limited to PD. Myenteric plexus immunoreactivity varied in different regions. Widespread staining was noted within stomach and colon. Immunoreactivity was present within esophagus, appendix, and small bowel. α-Syn mRNA expression was highest in PD; however, levels varied between proximal and distal GI tract.

Conclusions:

α-Syn is normally present within young and elderly enteric nervous system; furthermore, while α-syn mRNA is always detectable, levels are highest and most variable in PD. This suggests that enteric α-syn may be altered in neurodegenerative disease. The presence of LB in the GI tract, not solely α-syn expression, may prove useful, distinguishing neurodegenerative disease patients from normal controls.
The Use of Smoothelin and Other Antibodies in the Diagnosis of Uterine and Soft Tissue Smooth Muscle Tumors
Authors: Mayhall Kim Greg , Oertling Estelle , Lewin Eleanor , Schmieg John , LeBeau Helena , Wu Tong , Crawford Byron
Published: November 2017

Smoothelin is a cytoplasmic protein expressed in differentiated smooth muscle cells. Immunohistochemical evaluation of smoothelin has previously been reported in gastrointestinal (GI) smooth muscle tumors, but has yet to be studied in smooth muscle tumors of uterine and other soft tissue origin. DOG1 expression is reported to be specific for GI stromal tumors; however, variable expression has been reported in leiomyosarcomas (LMS) depending on site of origin. Overexpression of p16 is common in LMS of uterine and other sites of origin, but has not been correlated with tumor grade. This study explores the differential expression of these markers, as well as caldesmon, in LMS cases to assess diagnostic utility. Using tissue microarrays and cases from Tulane Medical Center and Medical College of Wisconsin, expression of smoothelin, DOG1, caldesmon, and p16 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 87 cases of LMS. The cases were subdivided by location of origin into uterine (N=31) and nonuterine (N=56) with 10 of the nonuterine of GI origin, as well as by grade into low grade (N=27) and intermediate and high grade (N=60). Differential expression among different grades and locations was evaluated. The same markers were evaluated in atypical leiomyoma cases (N=4) and 1 smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential case (N=1). Smoothelin expression was also assessed in 20 benign uterine leiomyomas. Weak DOG1 expression is rare but possible in extrauterine LMS. Expression of p16 is common in both uterine and extrauterine LMS, and more frequent in higher grades. Expression of smoothelin in this study differed depending on tumor type, grade, and site of origin. All leiomyomas and most atypical leiomyomas showed cytoplasmic positivity for smoothelin, whereas only 5% of LMS had cytoplasmic expression. The study suggests smoothelin may be downregulated in the cytoplasm of malignant smooth muscle tumor cells and may serve as a supportive aid in the distinction of LMS from benign smooth muscle tumors in cases where it is difficult by morphology alone.
Psychological and Psychiatric Outcomes Following PICU Admission: A Systematic Review of Cohort Studies
Authors: Lopes-Júnior Luís Carlos , Rosa Maria Antonia dos Reis de Paula , Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia de
Published: November 2017

Objective:

Admissions to PICU places pediatric patients at increased risk of persistent psychological and psychiatric morbidity. This systematic review aimed to summarize and critically examine literature regarding psychological and psychiatric outcomes of pediatric patients following PICU admission.

Data Sources:

MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, PsycInfo, CINAHL, LILACS, and SciELO were searched up to May 2016.

Study Selection:

Cohort studies about psychological and psychiatric outcomes of pediatric patients following PICU admission; full-text records published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2015 were included. Neonatal patient population (age, <1 mo), follow-up after PICU discharge (<3 mo), and nonprimary literature were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened studies based on the predetermined exclusion criteria.

Data Extraction:

Data were extracted using an adapted tool. The internal validity and risk of bias were assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Data Synthesis:

The search yielded 1,825 studies after the removal of duplications, of which eight met the inclusion criteria. Methodologic quality of the studies ranged from low to high, with an average score of five of nine. Of all the studies, half had a control group. Regarding the length of follow-up, most of the studies ranged from 3 to 12 months.

Conclusions:

Psychological and psychiatric outcomes after pediatric critical illness appear to be substantial issues that need to be further studied. Our review highlights the need for psychological screening of pediatric patients and their parents following PICU admission since these patients are a vulnerable population at risk for developing psychiatric responses.
Unusual Case of Penile Ecchymosis
Authors: Peterson Thomas , Supenia Emily , Hashikawa Andrew
Published: November 2017

Hirudin is a potent anticoagulant found in the salivary glands of several species of leeches. We report a case of direct hirudin exposure after suspected leech bite causing significant penile ecchymosis. Diagnosis was not apparent on initial evaluation but made after a thorough history was obtained and the leech was found in the lining of his swim trunks, which he left at home. Although this presentation mimics several other potentially serious conditions, treatment is largely observational with anticipated rapid improvement over the course of hours without intervention.
The Use of the Data-to-Action Framework in the Evaluation of CDC's DELTA FOCUS Program
Authors: Armstead Theresa L. , Kearns Megan , Rambo Kirsten , Estefan Lianne Fuino , Dills Jenny , Rivera Moira S. , El-Beshti Rasha
Published: November 2017

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) Domestic Violence Prevention Enhancements and Leadership Through Alliances, Focusing on Outcomes for Communities United with States (DELTA FOCUS) program is a 5-year cooperative agreement (2013-2018) funding 10 state domestic violence coalitions and local coordinated community response teams to engage in primary prevention of intimate partner violence. Grantees' prevention strategies were often developmental and emergent; therefore, CDC's approach to program oversight, administration, and support to grantees required a flexible approach. CDC staff adopted a Data-to-Action Framework for the DELTA FOCUS program evaluation that supported a culture of learning to meet dynamic and unexpected information needs. Briefly, a Data-to-Action Framework involves the collection and use of information in real time for program improvement. Utilizing this framework, the DELTA FOCUS data-to-action process yielded important insights into CDC's ongoing technical assistance, improved program accountability by providing useful materials, and information for internal agency leadership, and helped build a learning community among grantees. CDC and other funders, as decision makers, can promote program improvements that are data-informed by incorporating internal processes supportive of ongoing data collection and review.
A Stratified Algorithm for Skull Base Reconstruction With Endoscopic Endonasal Approach
Authors: Li Zhen , Ji Tao , Huang Guo-Dong , Guo Jian , Yang Ji-Hu , Li Wei-Ping
Published: November 2017

The authors presented our institutional experience with skull base reconstruction techniques and developed a stratified algorithm for different causes of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. This is a retrospective review of patients who were diagnosed as CSF leak treated with skull base reconstruction or who underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery for sellar and parasellar lesions at our department from August 2012 to April 2017. The authors totally identified 57 (59 operations in total) patients who were divided into 3 groups according to the causes of CSF leak and different reconstruction techniques. All patients underwent skull base reconstruction with specific focus on diagnosis, reconstruction techniques and strategies, and clinical outcome. The reconstruction technique we adopted was the classical multiple-layer technique, as known as “sandwich” technique, with combination of fat tissue, septal bone, autologous fascia lata, artificial dura, and nasoseptal flap (NSF). The NSF was selectively harvested for large defects according to our protocol. The reconstruction failure rate is 4.4% (2 of 45) in patients underwent endoscopic surgery for sellar and parasellar lesions. Reconstruction for postoperative iatrogenic, traumatic, and spontaneous CSF leak achieved 100% success rate; 54.2% (32 of 59) operations were done with “sandwich” plus NSF. The overall failure rate of all reconstructions was 3.4% (2 of 59). A stratified approach with multiple-layer technique and NSF is reliable for skull base reconstruction.
Comparative analysis of the Burkholderia cenocepacia K56-2 essential genome reveals cell envelope functions that are uniquely required for survival in species of the genus Burkholderia
Authors: Gislason April S. , Turner Keith , Domaratzki Mike , Cardona Silvia T.
Published: November 2017

Burkholderia cenocepaciaK56-2 belongs to theBurkholderia cepaciacomplex, a group of Gram-negative opportunistic pathogens that have large and dynamic genomes. In this work, we identified the essential genome ofB. cenocepaciaK56-2 using high-density transposon mutagenesis and insertion site sequencing (Tn-seq circle). We constructed a library of one million transposon mutants and identified the transposon insertions at an average of one insertion per 27 bp. The probability of gene essentiality was determined by comparing of the insertion density per gene with the variance of neutral datasets generated by Monte Carlo simulations. Five hundred and eight genes were not significantly disrupted, suggesting that these genes are essential for survival in rich, undefined medium. Comparison of theB. cenocepacia K56-2 essential genome with that of the closely relatedB. cenocepaciaJ2315 revealed partial overlapping, suggesting that some essential genes are strain-specific. Furthermore, 158 essential genes were conserved inB. cenocepaciaand two species belonging to theBurkholderia pseudomalleicomplex,B. pseudomalleiK96243 andBurkholderia thailandensisE264. Porins, including OpcC, a lysophospholipid transporter, LplT, and a protein involved in the modification of lipid A with aminoarabinose were found to be essential inBurkholderiagenomes but not in other bacterial essential genomes identified so far. Our results highlight the existence of cell envelope processes that are uniquely essential in species of the genusBurkholderiafor which the essential genomes have been identified by Tn-seq.
The antiviral mechanism of MxA revealed by a molecular docking-based structural model of the complex of MxA and influenza A virus NP/RNPs
Authors: Sun Yeping
Published: November 2017

MxA, a member of the dynamin superfamily, is a potent host restriction factor for influenza A virus replication. The viral nucleoprotein (NP) of influenza A virus has been suggested to be a target of MxA. However, the molecular details of the interactions between NP and MxA remain unknown. In the present study, loop L4 of MxA, which was shown to target viral component and is missing in the crystal structure of MxA was modeled on a dimer of the MxA. The dimer was then docked onto NP. The resulting NP-MxA dimer complex is in agreement with previous studies, as the interface contains many residues that were previously identified to be associated with MxA resistance. And the model was the used to construct NP-MxA ring. We also constructed a structural model of the complex of influenza virus NP and polymerase, and the NP residues that interact with MxA in the NP-MxA model partly overlap with those in the NP-polymerase model, so MxA may competitively inhibit the binding of NP and the polymerase and disrupt the assembly of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex. These results of this work represent a putative molecular mechanisms for MxA antiviral activity.
Optimizing gene expression by adapting splicing
Authors: Frumkin Idan , Yofe Ido , Bar-Ziv Raz , Voichek Yoav , Pilpel Yitzhak
Published: November 2017

Can splicing be used by cells to adapt to new environmental challenges? While various adaptation mechanisms for regulating gene expression have been revealed for transcription and translation, the role of splicing and how it evolves to optimize gene-expression patterns has not been thoroughly investigated. To tackle this question, we employed a lab-evolution experimental approach that challenged yeast cells to increase expression levels of a gene that carries an inefficiently-spliced intron. We followed the evolution of multiple lines and found independent routes by which cells adapted. Surprisingly, we did not observe an intron loss event, a mechanism believed to be common in intron evolution. Instead, we identified mutations in cis that improved the intron’s splicing efficiency and increased the overall expression level of the entire gene. One of these cis-acting mutations occurred in an adjacent exon and hampered the functionality of the gene that was not under selection - demonstrating that adaptation of splicing efficiency may sometimes come at the expense of protein activity. Additionally, we observed adaptations in trans, which increased the cellular availability of the splicing machinery. These adaptations were achieved either by elevated expression levels of the splicing apparatus or, unexpectedly, by reduced expression levels of other intron-containing genes that are the natural consumers of this process. Ultimately, our work reveals novel molecular means by which the splicing machinery is changed by natural selection to optimize gene-expression patterns of cells.
Pairwise correlations of spiking activity changes along the ventral visual cortical pathway of macaque monkeys
Authors: Tamura Hiroshi
Published: November 2017

Spiking activity often correlates across neurons in the cerebral cortex. Precise spike-timing correlation at millisecond scale reflects underlying neural circuitries. Correlations of stimulus evoked spiking activities affects the distributions of spike counts in a multi-neuron space and reflects stimulus encoding ability of neuron populations. The present study compared the degree of spiking-activity correlation among three areas of the macaque visual system to determine whether neural circuitry and the way to encode stimulus-related information by neuron populations are unique to each area. Spiking activity of multiple single neurons was recorded in macaque primary visual cortex (V1), visual association cortex (V4), and inferior temporal cortex (IT). Cross-correlation of spike trains revealed that single-neuron pairs in IT exhibited the highest incidence of precisely correlated firing, whereas V1 pairs showed the lowest incidence. Although noise correlation, which quantifies similarity in trial-to-trial response fluctuations, differed among cortical areas, signal correlation, which quantifies similarity in stimulus preferences, did not. The degree of temporally precise correlation was positively related to the signal-correlation strength in all three cortical areas and the relation of IT pairs was stronger than that of V1 pairs. Temporally precise correlations between single-neuron and population-level activity also differed among cortical areas and V1 neurons exhibited the lowest incidence of correlated firing with population activities. The differences in spiking-activity correlations among visual cortical areas suggest that each cortical area has unique neuronal circuitry for representing information, and which performs unique neuronal computations.

Significance Statement

Although hierarchical information processing plays a crucial role in the brain and in artificial neural networks, whether hierarchically connected brain areas share neural circuitry and information representation remains unclear. Here, we examined spiking activity across the ventral visual system in macaque monkeys and found that cortical areas differed in how correlated their spiking activity was, suggesting that neural circuitry and the way to encode stimulus-related information by neuron populations are unique to each cortical area.