bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Redox Behavior of a Sheathed Cross-Conjugated Polythiophene
Authors: Sugiyasu Kazunori , Takeuchi Masayuki , Inoue Ryota , Shomura Ryo , Matsushita Yoshitaka
Published: October 2018

Control over the electronic structure in π-conjugated polymers is of great importance for the development of organic electronics and spintronics. In this study, we synthesized a sheathed cross-conjugated polythiophene through oxidative electrochemical polymerization. Spectroelectrochemistry has revealed that unlike linearly conjugated polythiophenes, polarons were confined in the repeating units that were segmented by cross-conjugation.
Neuromuscular Involvement in Glycogen Storage Disease Type III in Fifty Tunisian Patients: Phenotype and Natural History in Young Patients
Authors: Ben Messaoud Sana , Ben Abdelaziz Rim , Ben Ali Nadia , Boudabous Hela , Ben Abdelaziz Ines , Ben Ameur Zeineb , Sassi Yosra , Kaabachi Neziha , Abdelhak Sonia , Abdelmoula Mohamed , Fradj Mohamed , Azzouz Hatem , Tebib Neji , Ben Chehida Amel
Published: October 2018

Background Our aim was to describe the natural history of neuromuscular involvement (NMI) in glycogen storage disease type III (GSDIII).

Methods We conducted a longitudinal study of 50 Tunisian patients, 9.87 years old in average.

Results NMI was diagnosed at an average age of 2.66 years and was clinically overt in 85% of patients. Patients with clinical features were older (p = 0.001). Complaints were dominated by exercise intolerance (80%), noticed at 5.33 years in average. Physical signs, observed at 6.75 years in average, were dominated by muscle weakness (62%). Functional impairment was observed in 64% of patients, without any link with age (p = 0.255). Among 33 patients, 7 improved. Creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were higher with age.

Electrophysiological abnormalities, diagnosed in average at 6.5 years, were more frequent after the first decade (p = 0.0005). Myogenic pattern was predominant (42%). Nerve conduction velocities were slow in two patients. Lower caloric intake was associated with more frequent clinical and electrophysiological features. Higher protein intake was related to fewer complaints and physical anomalies.

Conclusion Neuromuscular investigation is warranted even in asymptomatic patients, as early as the diagnosis of GSDIII is suspected. Muscle involvement can be disabling even in children. Favorable evolution is possible in case of optimal diet.
Personality Traits of Postmenopausal Women with Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: de Caires Cristiano Santos , Steiner Marcelo Luis , Pompei Luciano de Melo , Strufaldi Rodolfo , Fernandes Cesar Eduardo
Published: October 2018

Objective The aim of the present study is to identify the association between personality traits of postmenopausal women and the occurrence of sexual dysfunction.

Methods A total of 43 postmenopausal women were evaluated according to their self-perception of the quality of their sexual life. They answered the following questionnaires: Sociodemographic Profile Questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Factorial Personality Inventory (FPI-II).

Results Women with poorer sexual self-perception showed low affective need (p < 0.01) and low need for organization (p < 0.01). Based on the need for control and opposition, there was no difference between the groups. Groups separated by the scores obtained on the FSFI showed no significant differences.

Conclusion Postmenopausal women with lower schooling and personality characteristics that demonstrate low affective and organizational needs are more likely to present sexual dysfunction.
A computational tool for simulation and design of tangential multi-energy soft x-ray pin-hole cameras for tokamak plasmas
Authors: Yamazaki H. , Delgado-Aparicio L. F. , Groebner R. , Grierson B. , Hill K. , Pablant N. , Stratton B. , Efthimion P. , Ejiri A. , Takase Y. , Ono M.
Published: October 2018

A new tool has been developed to calculate the spectral, spatial, and temporal responses of multi-energy soft x-ray (ME-SXR) pinhole cameras for arbitrary plasma densities (ne,D), temperature (Te), and impurity densities (nZ). ME-SXR imaging provides a unique opportunity for obtaining important plasma properties (e.g., Te, nZ, and Zeff) by measuring both continuum and line emission in multiple energy ranges. This technique employs a pixelated x-ray detector in which the lower energy threshold for photon detection can be adjusted independently. Simulations assuming a tangential geometry and DIII-D-like plasmas (e.g., ne,0 ≈ 8 × 1019 m−3 and Te,0 ≈ 2.8 keV) for various impurity (e.g., C, O, Ar, Ni, and Mo) density profiles have been performed. The computed brightnesses range from few 102 counts pixel−1 ms−1 depending on the cut-off energy thresholds, while the maximum allowable count rate is 104 counts pixel−1 ms−1. The typical spatial resolution in the mid-plane is ≈0.5 cm with a photon-energy resolution of 500 eV at a 500 Hz frame rate.
Long spin-flip time and large Zeeman splitting of holes in type-II ZnTe/ZnSe submonolayer quantum dots
Authors: Ji H. , Dhomkar S. , Wu R. , Ludwig J. , Lu Z. , Smirnov D. , Tamargo M. C. , Bryant G. W. , Kuskovsky I. L.
Published: October 2018

The Zeeman splitting and degree of circular polarization (DCP) of photoluminescence (PL) from type-II submonolayer ZnTe/ZnSe quantum dots (QDs) have been investigated in magnetic fields up to 18 T. To explain the observed relative intensities and energy positions of the σ+ and the σ− PL, a non-Boltzmann distribution for holes with ultra-long spin-flip time, confined to submonolayer QDs, is proposed. The g-factor of electrons, located in the ZnSe barriers, was obtained from fitting the temperature dependence of the DCP, and its value is in excellent agreement with that of bulk ZnSe. The g-factor of type-II excitons was extracted by analyzing the Zeeman splitting, from which the g-factor of holes confined within submonolayer ZnTe QDs was found to be ∼2.65 ± 0.40. This value is considerably larger than that in bulk ZnTe. Tight-binding calculations using an sp3s* model were employed to understand the origin of such an increase. The results of the simulation match the experiment and show that the enhancement of the hole g-factor is mostly caused by a reduced orbital contribution to Zeeman splitting arising from the submonolayer thickness of these QDs.
Statistical efficiency of methods for computing free energy of hydration
Authors: Yildirim Ahmet , Wassenaar Tsjerk A. , van der Spoel David
Published: October 2018

The hydration free energy (HFE) is a critical property for predicting and understanding chemical and biological processes in aqueous solution. There are a number of computational methods to derive HFE, generally classified into the equilibrium or non-equilibrium methods, based on the type of calculations used. In the present study, we compute the hydration free energies of 34 small, neutral, organic molecules with experimental HFE between +2 and −16 kcal/mol. The one-sided non-equilibrium methods Jarzynski Forward (JF) and Backward (JB), the two-sided non-equilibrium methods Jarzynski mean based on the average of JF and JB, Crooks Gaussian Intersection (CGI), and the Bennett Acceptance Ratio (BAR) are compared to the estimates from the two-sided equilibrium method Multistate Bennett Acceptance Ratio (MBAR), which is considered as the reference method for HFE calculations, and experimental data from the literature. Our results show that the estimated hydration free energies from all the methods are consistent with MBAR results, and all methods provide a mean absolute error of ∼0.8 kcal/mol and root mean square error of ∼1 kcal for the 34 organic molecules studied. In addition, the results show that one-sided methods JF and JB result in systematic deviations that cannot be corrected entirely. The statistical efficiency ε of the different methods can be expressed as the one over the simulation time times the average variance in the HFE. From such an analysis, we conclude that ε(MBAR) > ε(BAR) ≈ ε(CGI) > ε(JX), where JX is any of the Jarzynski methods. In other words, the non-equilibrium methods tested here for the prediction of HFE have lower computational efficiency than the MBAR method.
Structural, magnetic, and magnetocaloric properties of Fe7Se8 single crystals
Authors: Radelytskyi I. , Aleshkevych P. , Gawryluk D. J. , Berkowski M. , Zajarniuk T. , Szewczyk A. , Gutowska M. , Hawelek L. , Wlodarczyk P. , Fink-Finowicki J. , Minikayev R. , Diduszko R. , Konopelnyk Y. , Kozłowski M. , Puz´niak R. , Szymczak H.
Published: October 2018

The magnetocaloric effect has been studied in high quality single crystals of Fe7Se8 (3c type) grown by using Bridgman’s method. Magnetization and magnetocaloric effect measurements have been carried out in a magnetic field up to 5 T over the temperature range from 2 to 490 K. The spin reorientation transition from the easy c-axis to the easy c-plane, proceeding in an abrupt fashion, as a first-order phase transition, has been observed near the temperature TR ≈ 125 K. The magnetization curves in the vicinity of this transition were shown to have an S-shape with a clear hysteresis. The first order metamagnetic field induced transitions have been identified above and below TR. The conventional magnetocaloric effect related to the metamagnetic transitions has been found above TR, while below TR the inverse magnetocaloric effect was clearly seen. The existence of both kinds of magnetocaloric effect is important from the point of view of large rotating field entropy change in Fe7Se8 single crystals. The refrigeration capacity associated with a second order phase transition from the ferrimagnetic to the paramagnetic state at the Néel temperature TN ≈ 450 K was found to be weaker than that appearing near TR. The giant anisotropy of the magnetocaloric effect was related to the magnetic anisotropy of Fe7Se8 crystals. The one-ion model of the magnetocaloric effect has been developed and its predictions have been compared with experimental data.
Stability of stratified flows through neo-Hookean soft-gel-coated walls
Authors: Dinesh B. , Pushpavanam S.
Published: October 2018

The linear stability of two-phase stratified flows through soft-gel-coated walls is studied in this work. A consistent nonlinear neo-Hookean model describes the soft-gel. The base state is characterised by a first normal stress difference in this model. This results in a significantly different effect on the stability of two-phase flows as compared to when a linear viscoelastic model is used for the soft-gel. Both fluids are assumed Newtonian and incompressible. We analyze the system in the absence and presence of a soluble surfactant. A linear stability analysis is carried out to identify different instability modes in the system. The linearised equations result in a generalised eigenvalue problem which is numerically solved employing a Chebyshev collocation technique. Three distinct instabilities are identified in the absence of a soluble surfactant. A long wave interfacial instability, a Tollmien-Schlichting wave type instability, and a gel-liquid instability arise in the system. Two distinct additional instabilities are identified in the presence of soluble surfactants in the system, a Marangoni driven long wave instability and a liquid-liquid short wave mode. It is shown that all instabilities except the Tollmien-Schlichting shear instability can be stabilised by the soft-gel layers for a suitable choice of parameters. Insights into the physical mechanism driving the different instabilities are discussed.
Analytical modeling of temperature and power dependent photoluminescence (PL) spectra of InAs/GaAs quantum dots
Authors: Mal I. , Panda D. P. , Tongbram B. , Samajdar D. P. , Chakrabarti S.
Published: October 2018

In order to theoretically analyze the Photoluminescence (PL) spectra and its dependence on temperature and power, we have calculated the electronic band structure of self-assembled InAs/GaAs Quantum Dots (QDs) with a temperature dependent 8 band k·p Hamiltonian by including the effects of strain. The transition energies for the ground state and the first excited state are calculated using a mathematical model, which takes into account the effect of both homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening, caused due to carrier scattering processes and QD size variation, respectively. Our proposed analytical model describes the origin of bimodal peak in the PL spectra and its correlation with the transition energies for different temperatures by considering the temperature induced intrinsic carrier concentration and carrier relaxation time. The applicability of the derived expression is validated using the experimental data of single layer InAs/GaAs QDs grown using Stranski-Krastanov growth mode. In addition to this, the simplicity of the model and its various useful aspects including computation of temperature dependent electronic band profiles and complete PL spectra make it a potential tool to study the optoelectronic properties of QD heterostructures.
Ultrawide-range photon number calibration using a hybrid system combining nano-electromechanics and superconducting circuit quantum electrodynamics
Authors: Schmidt Philip , Schwienbacher Daniel , Pernpeintner Matthias , Wulschner Friedrich , Deppe Frank , Marx Achim , Gross Rudolf , Huebl Hans
Published: October 2018

We present a hybrid system consisting of a superconducting coplanar waveguide resonator coupled to a nanomechanical string and a transmon qubit acting as a nonlinear circuit element. We perform spectroscopy for both the transmon qubit and the nanomechanical string. Measuring the ac-Stark shift on the transmon qubit and the electromechanically induced absorption on the string allows us to determine the average photon number in the microwave resonator in both the low and high power regimes. In this way, we measure photon numbers that are up to nine orders of magnitude apart. We find a quantitative agreement between the calibrations of photon numbers in the microwave resonator using the two methods. Our experiments demonstrate the combination of superconducting circuit quantum electrodynamics and nano-electromechanics on a single chip.
The loop rogue wave solutions for the Wadati–Konno–Ichikawa equation
Authors: Zhang Yongshuai , Qiu Deqin , Mihalache Dumitru , He Jingsong
Published: October 2018

The first-order rogue wave solution with two arbitrary parameters of the Wadati–Konno–Ichikawa equation is generated based on the Darboux transformation and inverse hodograph transformation. The analyticity of first-order rogue wave solution is studied. A simple analysis shows that the parameter that denotes the amplitude of background wave plays an important role in controlling the analyticity of rogue wave solution. In particular, the rogue wave solution displays a loop-type profile when it is singular, and the general features of loop rogue waves are discussed in detail.
Susceptibility to climate change via effects on food resources: the feeding ecology of the endangered mountain pygmy-possum (Burramys parvus)
Authors: Gibson Rebecca K. , Broome Linda , Hutchinson Michael F.
Published: October 2018

Context Climate change is causing changes to seasonal food resources, with critical health and survival impacts for many species. The endangered Burramys parvus (mountain pygmy-possum) predominantly consumes Agrotis infusa (Bogong moth), a long-distance seasonal migrant. Aims We aimed to examine direct and indirect climate-related influences on B. parvus food resources so as to assess the susceptibility of the species to climate change. Methods We analysed a long-term (17-year) data record of B. parvus faecal samples from sites across a climate gradient, in relation to plant-growth indices derived from climate data. We also modelled the population dynamics of A. infusa against climate variables and in relation to the probability of consumption by B. parvus. Key Results The diet of B. parvus was highly variable among sites and years and there were strong seasonal patterns for predominant food resources (A. infusa, other local arthropods, Podocarpus sp. and other local seeds). Seasonal patterns generally diminished with an increasing elevation, which may be due to resource availability or complex interactions with food preferences. Growth conditions across spatially far removed A. infusa breeding grounds influenced their abundance recorded in the Alps in spring, which was reflected in B. parvus diet. Conclusions Strong seasonal and climatic influences on dominant food resources suggest that B. parvus may be susceptible to climate change. Selective foraging for the lipid-rich A. infusa and Podocarpus sp. seed suggests that there may be important health and survival benefits for B. parvus. Implications Given the dependence on cooler, higher-elevation aestivation sites, A. infusa may have reduced survival in a warmer world. Climate change across the vast migratory route of A. infusa is likely to further affect survival and availability for consumption by B. parvus. Predicted increases in fire frequency and severity may reduce availability of the fire-sensitive Podocarpus sp. The health and survival of B. parvus may be compromised as a result of reduced availability of A. infusa and Podocarpus seed and a greater dependence on angiosperm plants (seeds and nectar) and local arthropods because of the consequent change in dietary lipid composition. Integrated predictive modelling of A. infusa and B. parvus population dynamics under future climate-change scenarios is recommended.
Nematic twist–bend phase in an external field
Authors: Pająk Grzegorz , Longa Lech , Chrzanowska Agnieszka
Published: October 2018

Significance

The twist–bend nematic liquid crystalline phase is the fifth nematic structure recognized in nature [Chen D, et al. (2013)Proc Natl Acad Sci USA110:15931–15936], and its stabilization is explained by assuming a coupling between polar and nematic orderings. It exhibits macroscopically chiral heliconical orientational order on the 10-nm scale and represents a unique example of spontaneous chiral symmetry breaking for a system of achiral molecules. Understanding how an external field affects the stability of this phase can shed further light on the origin of this induced twist and is of relevance to potential applications. Within the Landau–de Gennes theory we find that for compounds with positive anisotropy the helix unwinds to a polar nematic, however negative material anisotropy gives rise to a rich sequence of new nematic phases obtained via a mechanism of flattening the conical spiral.
Homogenisation of austenite during non-equilibrium heating in hypereutectoid steels
Authors: Kannan Rangasayee , Wang Yiyu , Bannister Rebekah , Rashid Muhammad , Li Leijun
Published: October 2018

The homogenisation (Stage III) of austenite during non-equilibrium heating of hypereutectoid steels has been characterised for the first time through dilatometric strain measurements and electron microscopic techniques. It has been found that the homogenisation temperature ( Ach) is significantly higher than the cementite dissolution temperature ( Acm). Though there is a complete conversion of low-temperature constituents to austenite above the Acm, a significant segregation of carbon in the austenite is observed below the Ach. Performing heat treatment with an incomplete austenitisation between the Acm and the Ach temperature can affect the subsequent on-cooling phase transformations. It is proposed that the Ach temperature should be used as the full austenitisation temperature in hypereutectoid steels.
A Multicenter, Retrospective Evaluation of Tissue Stabilized-Guided Subcision in the Management of Cellulite
Authors: Nikolis Andreas , Enright Kaitlyn M , Sapra Sheetal , Khanna Julie
Published: October 2018

Background

The first FDA-cleared, long-lasting, minimally invasive device for improving the appearance of cellulite was recently launched in Canada as a novel, tissue stabilized–guided subcision (TS-GS) system (Cellfina, Merz North America, Inc., Raleigh, NC). Clinicians from 2 of the first Canadian sites offering this procedure were interested in evaluating treatment efficacy and patient satisfaction after its first year on the market.

Objectives

The authors sought to evaluate the efficacy of TS-GS and the level of patient satisfaction associated with the procedure.

Methods

Medical charts of female patients treated with the TS-GS system in 2017 were retrospectively analyzed at 2 Canadian centers. Measurements at baseline and 3 months posttreatment were assessed for patient satisfaction and physician-rated efficacy. Patient satisfaction was assessed using a 5-point Likert-type scale, and efficacy was evaluated through physician review of 2-deminsional and 3-dimensional photography, the Nürnberger-Müller Scale for cellulite, and the Global Assessment of Improvement Scale.

Results

We reviewed 25 patient charts. At month 3, 95.6% of patients were satisfied with treatment results and physician evaluations revealed that on average, patients displayed a 1-point improvement in their cellulite grades. Moreover, Global Assessment of Improvement Scale scores indicated that all patients had visible improvement in the global appearance of cellulite. No serious adverse events were observed within 3 months postprocedure.

Conclusions

The physician ratings, patient satisfaction, and photographic evidence support the efficacy of the TS-GS system to manage grades 1 to 3 cellulite in women’s thighs and buttocks. These findings indicate the safety of the TS-GS system.

Level of Evidence: 4
Intervision and Professional Development: An Exploration of a Peer-Group Reflection Method in Social Work Education
Authors: Staempfli Adi , Fairtlough Anna
Published: October 2018

‘Intervision’, a peer-led group reflection method, was introduced in a teaching partnership between a university and three local authorities to enhance the quality of social work education and support the development of a learning culture across the partnership. A review of the limited international research on Intervision shows almost entirely positive impacts but no studies in social work education. This article reports on research into impacts following the introduction of Intervision sessions for BA (bachelor’s) and MA (master’s) social work students. An interpretive, qualitative approach with thematic data analysis of two focus groups with twenty-three participants was carried out. Findings show that, for most students, Intervision offered emotional containment, widened their perspectives and enhanced skills for Intervision. Students identified several positive impacts on their professional development and practice. Reported factors that contributed to students’ varied experience of Intervision sessions and their impact were commitment among participants and facilitators’ ability to model the Intervision process. The context of the teaching partnership was crucial in supporting students to negotiate their learning at the boundary between practice and university. Based on these findings, Intervision is suggested as a useful approach to embed peer-led reflective practice, and open questions for further research are suggested.
Loss of RNF40 Decreases NF-κB Activity in Colorectal Cancer Cells and Reduces Colitis Burden in Mice
Authors: Kosinsky Robyn Laura , Chua Robert Lorenz , Qui Martin , Saul Dominik , Mehlich Dawid , Ströbel Philipp , Schildhaus Hans-Ulrich , Wegwitz Florian , Faubion William A , Johnsen Steven A
Published: October 2018

Background and Aims

Inflammatory bowel diseases are linked to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer [CRC]. Previous studies suggested that the H2B ubiquitin ligase RING finger protein-20 [RNF20] inhibited inflammatory signaling mediated by the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells [NF-κB]. However, the role of RNF40, the obligate heterodimeric partner of RNF20, in the context of inflammation and CRC has not been addressed. Here, we examined the effect of RNF40 loss on CRC cells in vitro and on inflammation and inflammatory signaling in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

We evaluated H2Bub1 levels in human and murine colorectal tumors by immunohistochemistry. Moreover, we correlated H2Bub1 and RNF40 levels in vivo and assessed the consequences of RNF40 depletion on cellular phenotype and gene expression in CRC cells in vitro. Finally, we examined the effect of a colon-specific loss of Rnf40 in a murine model of colitis, and assessed both local and systemic inflammation-associated consequences.

Results

In vitro studies revealed that the tumorigenic phenotype of CRC cells decreased after RNF40 depletion and displayed gene expression changes related to chromosome segregation and DNA replication, as well as decreased induction of several NF-κB-associated cytokines. This effect was associated with decreased nuclear localization of NF-κB following tumor necrosis factor alpha treatment. Consistently, the colon-specific loss of Rnf40 exerted a protective local, as well as systemic, effect following acute colitis.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that RNF40 plays a central role in the maintenance of tumorigenic features and inflammatory signaling by promoting nuclear NF-κB activity.
The Affective Border: Missing Migrants and The Governance of Migrant Bodies at The EU’s Southern Frontier
Authors: Robins Simon
Published: October 2018

While living migrants are the object of enormous attention, counted and screened on arrival and throughout their presence in European states, those who die crossing the Mediterranean remain uncounted and largely unidentified, as a result of a failure of European states to collect data from both bodies and from families looking for missing loved ones. Living migrants are seen as objects of interest to and control of biopolitical regimes, yet, once migrants are dead, they become marginal to their concerns. The body of the migrant is neither fully inside nor outside the social and legal order, while family members waiting for news of a loved one are entirely invisible to it. The result of death at the frontier is that the border gains an affective dimension, with the capacity to communicate trauma over large distances, plunging into ambiguity families in states of migrant origin who are unable to learn if loved ones are alive or dead.
Accelerated podocyte detachment early after kidney transplantation is related to long-term allograft loss of function
Authors: Naik Abhijit S , Afshinnia Farsad , Aqeel Jawad , Cibrik Diane M , Samaniego Milagros , Wickman Larysa , Wang Su Q , Chowdhury Mahboob , Wiggins Roger C
Published: October 2018

Background

Kidney allograft half-life has not improved despite excellent short-term survival. Recent long-term surveillance biopsy studies identify accumulating glomerulosclerosis (GS) to be associated with late allograft loss. While podocyte depletion is well known to drive proteinuria and GS in animal models and human glomerular diseases, its role in renal allograft loss of function is generally not recognized.

Methods

To address these questions, we collected urine from 125 kidney allograft recipients in the first posttransplant year for urine pellet messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein analysis, with a median follow up of 4.5 years.

Results

Using multivariable linear models adjusted for proteinuria, transplant, recipient and donor factors, we observed that the average urine pellet podocin mRNA normalized to urine creatinine (UPodCR) in the first posttransplant year was significantly associated with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline (P = 0.001). The relationship between UPodCR and eGFR decline persisted even among recipients who were nonproteinuric and who had no recurrent or de novo glomerular disease identified on 1-year protocol biopsy. Finally, we identified recipient, donor and recipient:donor body surface area mismatch ratio to be independently associated with UPodCR early after transplantation. A larger donor was protective, while a larger recipient and increased recipient:donor size mismatch ratio were associated with increased UPodCR.

Conclusions

These findings support the concept that in kidney allografts, accelerated podocyte loss precedes proteinuria and is associated with inferior long-term allograft outcomes as measured by eGFR decline and may be initiated by recipient:donor size mismatch. Modulating factors driving early podocyte detachment after kidney transplantation may help improve long-term outcomes.
Influence of chromium propionate dose and feeding regimen on growth performance and carcass composition of pigs housed in a commercial environment1,2
Authors: Gebhardt Jordan T , Woodworth Jason C , Tokach Mike D , DeRouchey Joel M , Goodband Robert D , Loughmiller Joe A , de Souza Ana L P , Dritz Steve S
Published: October 2018

Although chromium (Cr) feeding study results have been variable, our hypothesis was feeding a regimen that changed dosage over time would result in a larger positive response in growth performance and carcass characteristics. In Exp. 1, a total of 1,206 pigs (PIC 337 × 1050, initial BW 28.7 kg) were used with 27 pigs per pen and 9 pens per treatment. Diets were corn–soybean meal-dried distillers grains with solubles based and were fed in a five-phase feeding program. Treatments were arranged as a 2 × 2 + 1 factorial with a control diet containing no added Cr propionate (Kemin Industries Inc., Des Moines, IA), or diets with either 100 or 200 µg/kg added Cr during the grower (dietary phases 1 and 2) and/or finisher (dietary phases 3, 4, and 5) periods. During the grower period, ADG and G:F were similar among pigs fed the control or 100 µg/kg added Cr diets, but decreased in pigs fed 200 µg/kg Cr (quadratic, P ≤ 0.001). During the finisher period, pigs supplemented with 200 µg/kg added Cr had the greatest ADG and G:F (quadratic, P ≤ 0.019). Overall, increasing Cr had no effect on ADG or ADFI; but G:F was greatest (quadratic, P = 0.020) when pigs were fed 100 µg/kg of added Cr throughout. Carcass characteristics were not influenced by Cr dosage or feeding regimen. In Exp. 2, a total of 1,206 pigs (PIC 359 × 1050, initial BW 48.9 kg) were used with 27 pigs per pen and 15 pens per treatment. Diets were corn–soybean meal, dried distillers grains with solubles based and were fed in four phases. There were three dietary treatments: a diet with no added Cr for both grower (dietary phase 1 and 2) and finisher (dietary phase 3 and 4) periods, a diet with 200 µg/kg added Cr during the grower and 100 µg/kg added Cr during the finisher periods, or a diet with 200 µg/kg added Cr for both periods. Addition of 200 µg/kg Cr in both periods marginally increased (P < 0.10) ADG compared with pigs fed no added Cr. There was no evidence (P ≥ 0.523) of added Cr influencing overall ADFI and G:F. Percentage carcass yield was reduced (P = 0.018) when Cr was added at 200 µg/kg for both periods, with no evidence of differences (P ≥ 0.206) in other carcass characteristics. In summary, overall G:F was improved in Exp. 1, and ADG in Exp. 2, by added Cr, but there was no evidence that different feeding regimens will consistently result in improved performance. However, these data are consistent with the literature in that added Cr in growing-finishing pigs diets improves, albeit small, ADG or G:F.
Early versus late hip spica casting for paediatric femoral shaft fractures
Authors: Younis Manaf H. , Mahmoud Karim , Kawas Alaa , Ibrahim Talal
Published: October 2018

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of treating paediatric femoral shaft fractures by early (<48 h) versus late (>48 h) hip spica casting. A retrospective review of 44 patients with 44 femoral shaft fractures treated by either early or late hip spica application with at least 9-month follow-up was undertaken. Both groups were treated on an inpatient basis. The late hip spica group had skin traction applied before the application of a hip spica. The outcome measures involved both clinical [Pediatric Outcomes Questionnaire (POQ) and Activities Scale for Kids (ASK)] and radiological outcomes. Complications were noted. A total of 44 patients with a mean age of 33 months (range: 7–66 months) were evaluated. Overall, 20 patients underwent early and 24 had late hip spica casting. At follow-up, the ASK was similar amongst the two groups (44.2 vs. 44.8, P=0.8). However, the POQ was better in the early hip spica casting group (24.7 vs. 28.9, P=0.01). Length of hospital stay and duration of immobilization in the hip spica were significantly shorter in the early group (P<0.001). There were no differences in leg lengths, lateral distal femoral angles and medial proximal tibia angles between the fractured and nonfractured limbs in both groups. Early hip spica casting is a safe procedure for paediatric femoral shaft fractures and was associated with less time in hospital and hip spica with a better POQ score. However, early hip spica casting was associated with more hip spica changes and required wedging. At follow-up, radiological parameters were similar in both groups. Level of Evidence: III.
Thoracic Epidural Analgesia: Does It Enhance Recovery?
Authors: Rosen David R. , Wolfe Rachel C. , Damle Aneel , Atallah Chady , Chapman William C. , Vetter Joel M. , Mutch Matthew G. , Hunt Steven R. , Glasgow Sean C. , Wise Paul E. , Smith Radhika K. , Silviera Matthew L.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND:

Thoracic epidural analgesia has been shown to be an effective method of pain control. The utility of epidural analgesia as part of an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol is debatable.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to determine if the use of thoracic epidural analgesia in an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol decreases hospital length of stay or inpatient opioid consumption after elective colorectal resection.

DESIGN:

This is a single-institution retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS:

The study was performed at a high-volume, tertiary care center in the Midwest. An institutional database was used to identify patients.

PATIENTS:

All patients undergoing elective transabdominal colon or rectal resection by board-certified colon and rectal surgeons from 2013 to 2017 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

The main outcome was length of stay. The secondary outcome was oral morphine milligram equivalents consumed during the first 48 hours.

RESULTS:

There were 1006 patients (n = 815 epidural, 191 no epidural) included. All patients received multimodal analgesia with opioid-sparing agents. Univariate analysis demonstrated no difference in length of stay between those who received thoracic epidural analgesia and those who did not (median, 4 vs 5 days; p = 0.16), which was substantiated by multivariable linear regression. Subgroup analysis showed that the addition of epidural analgesia resulted in no difference in length of stay regardless of an open (n = 362; p = 0.66) or minimally invasive (n = 644; p = 0.46) approach. Opioid consumption data were available after 2015 (n = 497 patients). Univariate analysis demonstrated no difference in morphine milligram equivalents consumed in the first 48 hours between patients who received epidural analgesia and those who did not (median, 135 vs 110 oral morphine milligram equivalents; p = 0.35). This was also confirmed by multivariable linear regression.

LIMITATIONS:

The retrospective observational design was a limitation of this study.

CONCLUSION:

The use of thoracic epidural analgesia within an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol was not found to be associated with a reduction in length of stay or morphine milligram equivalents consumed within the first 48 hours. We cannot recommend routine use of thoracic epidural analgesia within enhanced recovery after surgery protocols. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A765.
Management of Conjunctival Perforation and XEN Gel Stent Exposure by Stent Repositioning Through the Anterior Chamber
Authors: Santamaría-Álvarez Juan F. , Lillo-Sopena Juan , Sanz-Moreno Silvia , Caminal-Mitjana Josep M.
Published: October 2018

In recent years, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery has emerged as a novel approach to lowering intraocular pressure. This technique, which is usually reserved for mild to moderate cases, is less invasive than classic filtration surgery and potentially offers a better safety profile. The XEN Gel Stent is implanted through a minimally invasive, ab interno procedure to create a subconjunctival pathway. Conjunctival tissue disruption is minimal, and flow is restricted to avoid hypotony. Data on the optimal approach to managing complications associated with this procedure are limited due to the relatively recent commercialization of this device. Here, we report a case of a persistent leaking bleb caused by XEN Stent exposure, which was managed by ab interno repositioning of the stent through the anterior chamber and direct suturing of the conjunctival defect.
HPV 6-associated HSIL/Squamous Carcinoma in the Anogenital Tract
Authors: Liu Martina Z. , Hung Yin P. , Huang Eric C. , Howitt Brooke E. , Nucci Marisa R. , Crum Christopher P.
Published: October 2018

Human papillomavirus (HPV) type 6 is historically classified as low-risk HPV type and associates with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions of the anogenital tract. Rare squamous carcinomas have been reported in association with these HPV types but the mechanism(s) behind this carcinogenic sequence have been unclear. We report 4 cases of low risk anogenital HPV infections—3 cervical (immature low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion with metaplastic phenotype) and one anal (exophytic condyloma) lesion—that manifested with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion/squamous cell carcinoma. Two were associated with invasion one of which metastasized to a regional node. Two cases exhibited strong p53 positivity in the high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion/squamous cell carcinoma component analogous to that seen in HPV-negative differentiated intraepithelial lesions of the external genitalia. This series of cases adds to the literature on low risk HPV-associated cervical squamous carcinomas. It underscores the similarities between the baseline cyto-morphology and benign mimics (low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions), the subtle cytologic and immunohistochemical (MIB1) features heralding biologic aggressiveness, and in some potential pathways (p53) not usually involved in HPV-related anogenital neoplasia.
Examining Medical Office Owners and Clinicians Perceptions on Patient Safety Climate
Authors: Mazurenko Olena , Richter Jason , Kazley Abby Swanson , Ford Eric
Published: October 2018

Objective

An essential element of effective medical practice management is having a shared set of beliefs among members regarding patient safety climate. Recognizing the need for improving patient safety, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality began a series of surveys to assess medical practice members’ attitudes and beliefs on patient safety climate. The aim of the study was to examine owners and clinicians perceptions of their medical practice’s patient safety climate.

Methods

We used the 2010–2011 Medical Office Survey on Patient Safety Culture collected by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. We used hierarchical linear modeling to examine owners’ and clinicians’ perceptions of practice’s patient safety climate while controlling for the nested nature of individuals within practices.

Results

Managers with ownership responsibility, clinicians with ownership responsibility, and staff clinicians have different perceptions of the practice’s patient safety climate. In particular, managers with ownership responsibility have more positive perceptions of the patient safety climate, as compared with non-owners. Clinicians with ownership responsibility had less favorable views than managers in a similar role. Finally, staff clinicians have the most negative perceptions of patient safety climate as compared with individuals in the ownership positions.

Conclusions

There is a statistically significant lack of agreement among medical office team members depending on their backgrounds and roles. Increasing the communication among organizational members about their practice’s patient safety climate is a principal aim whether improvements in care quality are to be achieved.
Implant Based Breast Reconstruction With Acellular Dermal Matrix
Authors: Lohmander Fredrik , Lagergren Jakob , Roy Pankaj G. , Johansson Hemming , Brandberg Yvonne , Eriksen Catharina , Frisell Jan
Published: October 2018

Objective:

To evaluate clinical outcomes of using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) with implant based breast reconstructions (IBBRs) in a randomized controlled trial.

Summary Background Data:

The use of ADMs in IBBRs is widespread, but link between ADM and complications remain a controversial topic. In view of reports concerning harm, we present 6-months safety data of ADM-assisted IBBR in the setting of breast cancer treatment.

Methods:

An open-label, randomized, controlled trial recruiting patients from 4 centers in Sweden and 1 in UK. Eligible were women with breast cancer planned for mastectomy with immediate IBBR. Participants were randomly allocated to IBBR with or without ADM (Strattice, Branchburg, NJ), with stratification by center in blocks of 6. Main primary endpoint was number of unplanned reoperations at 24 months, and safety expressed as the incidence of adverse events with a 6-month follow-up time for all participants. Analysis were done per protocol using Fisher exact test for complications and reoperations.

Results:

From start of enrolment on April 24, 2014, to close of trial on May 10, 2017, 135 women were enrolled, of whom 64 with ADM and 65 without ADM were included in the final analysis. Four patients (6%) in each group had reconstructive failure with implant loss, but IBBR with ADM exhibited a trend of more overall complications and reoperations (difference 0·16, 95% CI, −0·01 to 0·32, P = 0·070), and with higher risk of wound healing problems (P = 0·013).

Conclusions:

With 6-months follow-up for all participants, immediate IBBR with ADM carried a risk of implant loss equal to conventional IBBR without ADM, but was associated with more adverse outcomes requiring surgical intervention. Further investigation of risk factors and patient selection in a long-term follow-up is warranted.
Transmission dynamics and between-species interactions of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Crellen Thomas , Turner Paul , Pol Sreymom , Baker Stephen , Nguyen To Nguyen Thi , Stoesser Nicole , Day Nicholas P.J. , Cooper Ben S.
Published: October 2018

Widespread resistance to antibiotics is among the gravest threats to modern medicine, and controlling the spread of multi-drug resistant Enterobacteriaceae has been given priority status by the World Health Organization. Interventions to reduce transmission within hospital wards may be informed by modifiable patient-level risk factors for becoming colonised, however understanding of factors that influence a patient’s risk of acquisition is limited. We analyse data from a one year prospective carriage study in a neonatal intensive care unit in Cambodia using Bayesian hierarchical models to estimate the daily probability of acquiring multi-drug resistant organisms, while accounting for patient-level time-varying covariates, including interactions between species, and interval-censoring of transmission events. We estimate the baseline daily probability for becoming colonised with third generation cephalosporin resistant (3GC-R) Klebsiella pneumoniae as 0.142 (95% credible interval [CrI] 0.066, 0.27), nearly ten times higher than the daily probability of acquiring 3GC-R Escherichia coli (0.016 [95% CrI 0.0038, 0.049]). Prior colonization with 3GC-R K. pneumoniae was associated with a greatly increased risk of a patient acquiring 3GC-R E. coli (odds ratio [OR] 6.4 [95% CrI 2.8, 20.9]). Breast feeding was associated with a reduced risk of colonization with both 3GC-R K. pneumoniae (OR 0.73 [95% CrI 0.38, 1.5]) and E. coli (OR 0.62 [95% CrI 0.28, 1.6]). The use of an oral probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus) did not show clear evidence of protection against colonization with either 3GC-R K. pneumoniae (OR 0.83 [95% CrI 0.51, 1.3]) or 3GC-R E. coli (OR 1.3 [95% CrI 0.77, 2.1]). Antibiotic consumption within the past 48 hours did not strongly influence the risk of acquiring 3GC-R K. pneumoniae. For 3GC-R E. coli, ceftriaxone showed the strongest effect for increasing the risk of acquisition (OR 2.2 [95% CrI 0.66, 6.2]) and imipenem was associated with a decreased risk (OR 0.31 [95% CrI 0.099, 0.76). Using 317 whole-genome assemblies of K. pneumoniae, we determined putatively related clusters and used a range of models to infer transmission rates. Model comparison strongly favored models with a time-varying force of infection term that increased in proportion with the number of colonized patients, providing evidence of patient-to-patient transmission, including among a cluster of Klebsiella quasipneumoniae. Our findings provide support for the hypothesis that K. pneumoniae can be spread person-to-person within ward settings. Subsequent horizontal gene transfer within patients from K. pneumoniae provides the most parsimonious explanation for the strong association between colonization with 3GC-R K. pneumoniae and acquisition of 3GC-R E. coli.
First detection of a highly invasive freshwater amphipod (Crangonyx floridanus) in the United Kingdom
Authors: Mauvisseau Quentin , Davy-Bowker John , Bryson David , Souch Graham R. , Burian Alfred , Sweet Michael
Published: October 2018

The freshwater gammarid, Crangonyx floridanus, originates from North America but has invaded and subsequently spread rapidly throughout Japan. We provide here the first genetic and microscopic evidence that C. floridanus has now also reached the United Kingdom. We found this species in two locations separated by more than 200 km (Lake Windermere in the North of the UK and Smestow Brook, West Midlands). The current distribution of C. floridanus is currently unknown, however both sites are well connected to other river and channel systems therefore the chance of further spread is high. Genetic analyses of C. floridanus indicate that British inland waters are colonised by the same linage, which also has invaded Japan. We recommend further work to assess the distribution of this species and its impact on the local fauna and flora.
Cytoscape stringApp: Network analysis and visualization of proteomics data
Authors: Doncheva Nadezhda T. , Morris John H. , Gorodkin Jan , Jensen Lars J.
Published: October 2018

Protein networks have become a popular tool for analyzing and visualizing the often long lists of proteins or genes obtained from proteomics and other high-throughput technologies. One of the most popular sources of such networks is the STRING database, which provides protein networks for more than 2000 organisms, including both physical interactions from experimental data and functional associations from curated pathways, automatic text mining, and prediction methods. However, its web interface is mainly intended for inspection of small networks and their underlying evidence. The Cytoscape software, on the other hand, is much better suited for working with large networks and offers greater flexibility in terms of network analysis, import and visualization of additional data. To include both resources in the same workflow, we created stringApp, a Cytoscape app that makes it easy to import STRING networks into Cytoscape, retains the appearance and many of the features of STRING, and integrates data from associated databases. Here, we introduce many of the stringApp features and show how they can be used to carry out complex network analysis and visualization tasks on a typical proteomics dataset, all through the Cytoscape user interface. stringApp is freely available from the Cytoscape app store:http://apps.cytoscape.org/apps/stringapp.