bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avoidance threshold to oil water-soluble fraction by a juvenile marine teleost fish
Authors: Claireaux Guy , Quéau Pierre , Marras Stefano , Le Floch Stéphane , Farrell Anthony P. , Nicolas-Kopec Annabelle , Lemaire Philippe , Domenici Paolo
Published: October 2017

When oil spills occur, behavior is the first line of defense for a fish to avoid being contaminated. We determined the avoidance threshold of the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) to the water-soluble fraction (WSF) of oil using a dual-flow choice box. The results showed that a plume of 20%-diluted WSF (total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon [PAH] concentration: 8.54 μg L−1) triggered a significant avoidance response that was detected within 7.5 min of introducing WSF-contaminated water into the experimental setup. However, the ecological relevance of seabass capacity to detect and avoid WSF remains to be established. In the short term, such a response is indeed liable to reduce seabass contact time with oil-contaminated water and thus preserve their functional integrity. In the long term, however, avoidance may contribute to the displacement of a population into a possibly less auspicious environment, with consequences very similar to those of contaminant exposure, that is, disturbed population dynamics and demography. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:854–859. © 2017 SETAC
The Impact of Traditional Food and Lifestyle Behavior on Epigenetic Burden of Chronic Disease
Authors: Imam Mustapha U. , Ismail Maznah
Published: October 2017

Noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCCDs) are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. The mismatch between present day diets and ancestral genome is suggested to contribute to the NCCDs burden, which is promoted by traditional risk factors like unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol and tobacco. However, epigenetic evidence now suggests that cumulatively inherited epigenetic modifications may have made humans more prone to the effects of present day lifestyle factors. Perinatal starvation was widespread in the 19th century. This together with more recent events like increasing consumption of western and low fiber diets, smoking, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity, and environmental pollutants may have programed the human epigenome for higher NCCDs risk. In this review, on the basis of available epigenetic data it is hypothesized that transgenerational effects of lifestyle factors may be contributing to the current global burden of NCCDs. Thus, there is a need to reconsider prevention strategies so that the subsequent generations will not have to pay for our sins and those of our ancestors.
Impairment of protein degradation and proteasome function in hereditary neuropathies
Authors: VerPlank Jordan J. S. , Lokireddy Sudarsanareddy , Feltri M. Laura , Goldberg Alfred L. , Wrabetz Lawrence
Published: October 2017

In several neurodegenerative diseases in which misfolded proteins accumulate there is impairment of the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). We tested if a similar disruption of proteostasis occurs in hereditary peripheral neuropathies. In sciatic nerves from mouse models of two human neuropathies, Myelin Protein Zero mutation (S63del) and increased copy number (P0 overexpression), polyubiquitinated proteins accumulated, and the overall rates of protein degradation were decreased. 26S proteasomes affinity‐purified from sciatic nerves of S63del mice were defective in degradation of peptides and a ubiquitinated protein, unlike proteasomes from P0 overexpression, which appeared normal. Nevertheless, cellular levels of 26S proteasomes were increased in both, through the proteolytic‐activation of the transcription factor Nrf1, as occurs in response to proteasome inhibitors. In S63del, increased amounts of the deubiquitinating enzymes USP14, UCH37, and USP5 were associated with proteasomes, the first time this has been reported in a human disease model. Inhibitors of USP14 increased the rate of protein degradation in S63del sciatic nerves and unexpectedly increased the phosphorylation of eIF2α by Perk. Thus, proteasome content, composition and activity are altered in these diseases and USP14 inhibitors have therapeutic potential in S63del neuropathy.
The Morality of Health Care Reform: Liberal and Conservative Views and the Space between Them
Authors: Stoltzfus Jost Timothy
Published: October 2017

We have just completed an exhausting nine‐month debate on the future of the Affordable Care Act. I see this debate as having ended—as of this writing—in a draw. After months of repeal efforts, Republicans in the House barely passed in early May, with a 217‐to‐213 margin, the American Health Care Act, which would have significantly amended the ACA. Republicans in the Senate spent the summer trying to arrive at amendments to the AHCA that could attract fifty of their fifty‐two votes, but in the end, the clock ran out on their opportunity to enact an amendment without Democratic input. With this legislative failure, we appear to be in a stalemate. The Affordable Care Act remains in place as the law of the land, but the Trump administration seems committed to at best condemning the ACA to malign neglect and at worst actively undermining it at every opportunity. Given the political stalemate, the time is right to reassess the deeper issues at stake and ponder the prospects for a considered compromise on health reform.
A systematic review of empirical studies on methodology and burden of informal patient payments in health systems
Authors: Khodamoradi Abdolvahed , Ghaffari Mohammad Payam , Daryabeygi‐Khotbehsara Reza , Sajadi Haniye Sadat , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Informal patients' payments (IPPs) is a sensitive subject. The aim of current study was to assess the trends in informal payment studies and explore methods of IPPs measurement, prevalence, and features (payment type, volume, and receiver) in various contexts.

Methods

A search strategy was developed to identify peer‐reviewed articles addressing informal payments on PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL. A total of 1252 studies were identified initially. After screening process, 38 studies were included in the systematic review. The selected studies were appraised, and findings were synthesized.

Result

Among selected studies, quantitative approaches were mostly used for measuring IPPs from general public and patients' perspective, and qualitative methods mainly targeted health care providers. Reported IPP prevalence in selected articles ranges between 2% and 80%, more prevalent in the inpatient sector than in outpatient.

Conclusion

There are a number of strategies for the measurement of IPPs with different strengths and weaknesses. Most applied strategies for general public were quantitative surveys recruiting more than 1000 participants using a face‐to‐face structured interview, and then qualitative studies on less than 150 health care providers, with focus group discussion. This review provides a comprehensive picture of current informal patients' payments measurement tools, which helps researchers in future investigations.
Validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the Care Transitions Measure
Authors: Yoshimura Mai , Sato Miho , Sumi Naomi
Published: October 2017

Objective

To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Japanese Version of the Care Transitions Measure (J‐CTM‐15).

Design

Questionnaire items were translated, and a longitudinal study was conducted.

Setting

Three urban hospitals: a special functioning hospital, a regional‐designated cancer care hospital, and a private hospital in the northern part of Japan.

Participants

Patients, aged 20 years and older, who were discharged from hospitals.

Main outcome measure

Reliability was measured using Cronbach α and item‐total correlations. Convergent validity was measured using a Pearson correlation with the Self‐Care Agency Questionnaire. Construct validity was examined by an exploratory factor analysis. Predictive validity was examined by the ability to discriminate negative post hospital experiences, including anxiety, problems at home, readmission, emergency visit, consultation via telephone, poor health condition without consultation, and by the correlation with the 12‐item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐12v2).

Results

A total of 223 and 158 participants were selected for data analyses. The Cronbach α was 0.90. The J‐CTM‐15 differed from the original factor model, but significantly correlated with Self‐Care Agency Questionnaire and SF‐12v2 scores. The J‐CTM‐15 also significantly discriminated between patients who did and did not display anxiety, problems at home, and poor health condition, but did not discriminate for readmission, emergency visits, and consultation via telephone.

Conclusion

The J‐CTM‐15 is a valid and reliable measure of the quality of care transitions. However, insufficient levels of predictive validity and a lack of generalizability are limitations of the current study.
Surface reactivity of octacalcium phosphate‐derived fluoride‐containing apatite in the presence of polyols and fluoride
Authors: Tsutsui Sei , Anada Takahisa , Shiwaku Yukari , Tsuchiya Kaori , Yamazaki Hajime , Suzuki Osamu
Published: October 2017

The present study was designed to characterize co‐precipitated fluoridated apatitic materials from octacalcium phosphate (OCP) precursor and to investigate their surface reactions with polyols including glycerol in the presence of fluoride ions. Laboratory‐synthesized fluoridated apatite crystals (LS‐FA) were obtained in a solution containing fluoride (F) from 25 to 500 ppm. LS‐FAs and commercially available fluoroapatite (FA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) were characterized by physical techniques, such as X‐ray diffraction. LS‐FA obtained in the presence of 100 ppmF (100 ppm‐LS‐FA) had an apatitic structure, but its solubility was close to HA in a culture medium (α‐MEM) despite the fact it contains over 3 wt % of F. 100 ppm‐LS‐FA, FA, and HA were then subjected to the human serum albumin (HSA) adsorption test at pH 7.4 (in a 150 mM Tris–HCl buffer) and the dissolution and re‐mineralization experiments in the presence of xylitol, D‐sorbitol, or glycerol, and F under acidic and neutral conditions. Adsorption affinity of HSA was estimated as highest for FA and lowest for LS‐FA. LS‐FA, FA, and HA were immersed in a lactic acid solution with the polyols and/or F ion‐containing solution up to 200 ppm to analyze the dissolution behavior. LS‐FA had the highest dissolution tendency in the conditions examined. Glycerol enhanced the dissolution of phosphate from apatite crystals in particular from LS‐FA. The results suggest that the apatite crystals, obtained through the hydrolysis of OCP in the presence of F, provide a more reactive surface than FA or HA under physiological environments. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2235–2244, 2018.
The susceptibility to autoxidation of erythrocytes in diabetic mice: Effects of melatonin and pentoxifylline
Authors: Şekeroğlu Mehmet Ramazan , Huyut Zübeyir , Çokluk Erdem , Özbek Hanefi , Alp Hamit Hakan
Published: October 2017

Oxidative stress had a great importance in development of complications in diabetes. We investigated effects of melatonin and pentoxifylline in diabetic mice. Swiss albino mice (n = 40) were divided into four groups: alloxan‐induced diabetes mellitus (DM), alloxan‐induced diabetes with melatonin supplementation (DM + MLT), alloxan‐induced diabetes with pentoxifylline supplementation (DM + PTX), and control. Glutathione‐peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, and susceptibility to oxidation of erythrocytes were measured. MDA levels were higher than control in the DM and DM + MLT. The DM had more MDA level than the DM + MLT and DM + PTX (P < 0.001). After in vitro oxidation, MDA levels of all groups were found higher than the control. However, they were significantly lower than the DM in DM + PTX and DM + MLT (P < 0.001). Although GSH levels of the DM and DM + PTX were less than the control, GSH‐Px activity of the DM was lower than the control and DM + PTX (P < 0.05). We suggest that there is increased oxidative stress and compromised antioxidant status of erythrocytes in diabetes; however, it can be effectively prevented by melatonin or pentoxifylline supplementation.
Death effects of reveromycin A in normal and disease‐associated cells of the joint
Authors: Svrcina Haley , Greer Austin , Baker Seth , Smith Morgan , Martinez Patricia , Granger Nathan , Thomas Natassja , Miller Jaylin , Steinke Ellen , Davitt Kelsey , Sloane Emily , Nugent Lauren , Sabo Ryan , Williams Calli , Lipton Mark A. , Jones Daniel
Published: October 2017

Earlier work in our laboratory demonstrated that naturally occurring reveromycin A (Rev A) causes apoptosis in osteoclasts without accompanying necrosis. Rev A death effects in both normal and diseased joint cells were investigated in this study. A dose of 10 μM Rev A did not cause apoptosis nor necrosis in monolayer chondrocytes, even at pH 6.8, a pH mimicking that of an inflamed joint. In contrast, at the acidic pH Rev A did induce significant apoptosis (fourfold increase at 48 h of treatment, P < 0.005) in normal synoviocytes without accompanying necrosis. Western blot of the normal synoviocyte proteins revealed that cytochrome c levels were not significantly changed over the time course of treatment nor did caspase 8 activity increase; therefore, Rev A appears to exert this apoptotic effect through a mechanism independent of the classical intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Fibroblast‐like synoviocytes isolated from rheumatoid arthritis patients (RAFLS) as well as normal human fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (NHFLS), cells known to play key roles in arthritic joint pathology, were also subjected to Rev A treatment at both physiologic and acidic pH's. Neither apoptosis nor necrosis was induced in either RAFLS or NHFLS. Parallel mitomycin C treatment of NHFLS induced both apoptosis and necrosis. Comparative structure‐activity analyses of Rev A and mitomycin C revealed that Rev A is less likely to cross the cell membrane at near neutral pH. Collectively the data reveal that a physiological dose of Rev A under acidic conditions induces normal synoviocytes to undergo apoptosis while pathologic fibroblast‐like synoviocytes are resistant to apoptosis and necrosis.
Prediction of the interaction of metallic moieties with proteins: An update for protein‐ligand docking techniques
Authors: Sciortino Giuseppe , Rodríguez‐Guerra Pedregal Jaime , Lledós Agustí , Garribba Eugenio , Maréchal Jean‐Didier
Published: October 2017

In this article, we present a new approach to expand the range of application of protein‐ligand docking methods in the prediction of the interaction of coordination complexes (i.e., metallodrugs, natural and artificial cofactors, etc.) with proteins. To do so, we assume that, from a pure computational point of view, hydrogen bond functions could be an adequate model for the coordination bonds as both share directionality and polarity aspects. In this model, docking of metalloligands can be performed without using any geometrical constraints or energy restraints. The hard work consists in generating the convenient atom types and scoring functions. To test this approach, we applied our model to 39 high‐quality X‐ray structures with transition and main group metal complexes bound via a unique coordination bond to a protein. This concept was implemented in the protein‐ligand docking program GOLD. The results are in very good agreement with the experimental structures: the percentage for which the RMSD of the simulated pose is smaller than the X‐ray spectra resolution is 92.3% and the mean value of RMSD is < 1.0 Å. Such results also show the viability of the method to predict metal complexes–proteins interactions when the X‐ray structure is not available. This work could be the first step for novel applicability of docking techniques in medicinal and bioinorganic chemistry and appears generalizable enough to be implemented in most protein‐ligand docking programs nowadays available. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beliefs about causes of major depression: Clinical and treatment correlates among African Americans in an urban community
Authors: Murphy Eleanor , Hankerson Sidney
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Major depression is increasingly viewed in the United States public as a medical disorder with biological and psychosocial causes. Yet little is known about how causal attributions about depression vary among low‐income racial minorities. This study examined beliefs about causes of depression and their demographic, clinical and treatment correlates in a lower income African American sample.

Method

Volunteers (N = 110) aged 24–79 years, who participated in a family study of depression, completed a 45‐item questionnaire on their beliefs about the causes of depression. We used multidimensional scaling (MDS) to cluster items into causal domains and multivariate regression analyses to test associations of causal domains with demographic and clinical characteristics and treatments received.

Results

Three causal domains, conceptualized as Eastern culture/supernatural (ECS), Western culture/natural/psychosocial (WCN‐P), and /neurobiological (WCN‐N) attributions, were derived from MDS clusters. WCN‐P was most commonly endorsed (50%–91%) and ECS least endorsed as causes of depression (10‐44%). This pattern held across gender, age, educational levels, and diagnostic category. WCN‐N items were moderately endorsed, with some distinction between genetic causes and other biological causes. WCN‐N was positively associated with medication as opposed to other forms of treatment (B = 1.17; p = .049).

Conclusion

Among low‐income African Americans, beliefs about causes of depression are varied but broadly consistent explanatory models that include a combination of psychosocial causes with genetic/biological contributions. For certain individuals, supernatural and natural causal attributions may coexist without dissonance. Causal attributions may be associated with types of treatment accepted and have implications for treatment compliance and adherence.
IRCAD recommendation on safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Conrad Claudius , Wakabayashi Go , Asbun Horacio J. , Dallemagne Bernard , Demartines Nicolas , Diana Michele , Fuks David , Giménez Mariano Eduardo , Goumard Claire , Kaneko Hironori , Memeo Riccardo , Resende Alexandre , Scatton Olivier , Schneck Anne‐Sophie , Soubrane Olivier , Tanabe Minoru , van den Bos Jacqueline , Weiss Helmut , Yamamoto Masakazu , Marescaux Jacques , Pessaux Patrick
Published: October 2017

An expert recommendation conference was conducted to identify factors associated with adverse events during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) with the goal of deriving expert recommendations for the reduction of biliary and vascular injury. Nineteen hepato‐pancreato‐biliary (HPB) surgeons from high‐volume surgery centers in six countries comprised the Research Institute Against Cancer of the Digestive System (IRCAD) Recommendations Group. Systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase was conducted. Using nominal group technique, structured group meetings were held to identify key items for safer LC. Consensus was achieved when 80% of respondents ranked an item as 1 or 2 (Likert scale 1–4). Seventy‐one IRCAD HPB course participants assessed the expert recommendations which were compared to responses of 37 general surgery course participants. The IRCAD recommendations were structured in seven statements. The key topics included exposure of the operative field, appropriate use of energy device and establishment of the critical view of safety (CVS), systematic preoperative imaging, cholangiogram and alternative techniques, role of partial and dome‐down (fundus‐first) cholecystectomy. Highest consensus was achieved on the importance of the CVS as well as dome‐down technique and partial cholecystectomy as alternative techniques. The put forward IRCAD recommendations may help to promote safe surgical practice of LC and initiate specific training to avoid adverse events.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Hydroxy Pyrazolo[1,2‐a][1,2,4]triazoles and Their Dehydration Using Recyclable Ionic Liquids as Reaction Media
Authors: Meena Kalawati , Khurana Jitender M. , Malik Amita
Published: October 2017

An eco‐friendly, simple, and efficient one‐pot new procedure has been developed for the synthesis of hydroxy phenylhexahydropyrazolo[1,2‐a][1,2,4]triazoles by condensation of 4‐phenylurazole, aldehydes, and ethyl/methyl acetoacetate using ionic liquid [bmim]BF4 in presence of l‐proline at 80°C. The hydroxy pyrazolo[1,2‐a][1,2,4]triazoles could be dehydrated in presence of [bmim]HSO4 to give corresponding phenyltetrahydropyrazolo[1,2‐a][1,2,4]triazoles in high yields. High yields, less reaction time, operational simplicity, and recyclability of reaction media are the advantages of this protocol.
Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of the Anticancer Properties of a Novel Series of α‐(Benzoylamino)‐β‐substituted Acrylic Amide Derivatives of Pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine
Authors: Sasikumar A. , Mohanasrinivasan V. , Ajeesh Kumar A. K. , Krishnaswamy D.
Published: October 2017

A novel series of α‐(benzoylamino)‐β‐substituted acrylic amide derivatives of pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine has been synthesized using a convergent multistep synthesis. The synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI‐MS, and IR analyses. Those new compounds were screened for their in vitro antiproliferative activity using an MTT assay analysis. Out of nine derivatives synthesized in the current study, compounds 13g, 13d, 13h, and 13i exhibited the greatest anticancer activities in HeLa and HepG2 cell lines. The in vitro anticancer activity of compound 13g against HeLa, HepG2, and MCF‐7 cell lines is superior to the marketed drugs paclitaxel and SAHA.
Oogenesis in the viviparous phoronid, Phoronis embryolabi
Authors: Temereva Elena N.
Published: October 2017

The study of gametogenesis is useful for phylogenetic analysis and can also provide insight into the physiology and biology of species. This report describes oogenesis in the Phoronis embryolabi, a newly described species, which has an unusual type of development, that is, a viviparity of larvae. Phoronid oogonia are described here for the first time. Yolk formation is autoheterosynthetic. Heterosynthesis occurs in the peripheral cytoplasm via fusion of endocytosic vesicles. Simultaneously, the yolk is formed autosynthetically by rough endoplasmic reticulum in the central cytoplasm. Each developing oocyte is surrounded by the follicle of vasoperitoneal cells, whose cytoplasm is filled with glycogen particles and various inclusions. Cytoplasmic bridges connect developing oocytes and vasoperitoneal cells. These bridges and the presence of the numerous glycogen particles in the vasoperitoneal cells suggest that nutrients are transported from the follicle to oocytes. Phoronis embryolabi is just the second phoronid species in which the ultrastructure of oogenesis has been studied, and I discuss the data obtained comparing them with those in Phoronopsis harmeri. Finally, I discuss the distribution of reproductive patterns across both, molecular and morphological phylogenetic trees in Phoronida proving that parental care has evolved independently several times in this phylum.
Genetic variability human respiratory syncytial virus subgroups A and B in Turkey during six successive epidemic seasons, 2009‐2015
Authors: Bayrakdar Fatma , Kocabas Can Naci , Altas Ayse Basak , Kavuncuoglu H. Gokhan , Cosgun Yasemin , Mısırlıoglu Emine Dibek , Durmaz Ihsan , Korukluoglu Gulay , Ozkul Aykut
Published: October 2017

Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is most important viral respiratory pathogen of acute lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children worldwide. The circulating pattern and genetic characteristics in the HRSV attachment glycoprotein gene were investigated in Turkey during six consecutive seasons from 2009 to 2015. HRSVA was dominant in the all epidemic seasons except 2011‐2012 season. Partial sequences of the HVR2 region of the G gene of 479 HRSVA and 135 HRSVB were obtained. Most Turkish strains belonged to NA1, ON1, and BA9, which were the predominant genotypes circulating worldwide. Although three novel genotypes, TR‐A, TR‐BA1, and TR‐BA2, were identified, they were not predominant. Clinical data were available for 69 HRSV‐positive patients who were monitored due to acute lower respiratory tract illness. There were no significant differences in the clinical diagnosis, hospitalization rates, laboratory findings and treatment observed between the HRSVA and HRSVB groups, and co‐infections in this study. The major population afflicted by HRSV infections included infants and children between 13 and 24 months of age. We detected that the CB1, GB5, and THB strains clustered in the same branch with a bootstrap value of 100%. CB‐B and BA12 strains clustered in the same branch with a bootstrap value of 65%. The BA11 genotype was clustered in the BA9 genotype in our study. The present study may contribute on the molecular epidemiology of HRSV in Turkey and provide data for HRSV strains circulating in local communities and other regions worldwide.
Analysis of the airflow at the centre of the upper plateau on the Iberian Peninsula and its link to CO2 and CH4 concentrations
Authors: Pérez Isidro A. , Sánchez M. Luisa , García M. Ángeles , Pardo Nuria , Fernández‐Duque Beatriz
Published: October 2017

Air trajectories are useful tools to investigate the airflow and transport of substances released into the atmosphere. Web‐based models are widely used to calculate trajectories reaching places that are being studied. This article considers 6 years of air trajectories as of October 2010 together with CO2 and CH4 concentrations. A bivariate smoothing function that employs the radial distance and direction of the trajectory to the measuring site was used to form trajectory groups from the minima of this function. Varied radial and angular windows were assayed to investigate the behaviour of the smoothing function. Curves associated with the number of minima were L‐shaped and the windows selected corresponded to the ‘knee’ of the curves. Seven trajectory groups were considered to observe the response of the procedure against the radial distance and the direction. Seasonal evolution revealed the greatest radial extent for winter and the lowest for summer. Moreover, trajectories from the Atlantic Ocean were the most frequent. CO2 and CH4 concentrations were detrended using a linear function, and average trends were 2.34 and 0.0085 ppm year−1, respectively. Annual cycles of detrended concentrations were very soft and were linked to the site's ecosystem. CO2 presented one maximum in spring linked to substantial vegetation growth, and one minimum in summer, when vegetation dies and dispersion is maximum. CH4 maximum was observed in winter although the minimum was found in summer and attributed to oxidation with the hydroxyl radical in the troposphere and to dispersion in this season. Analysis of concentration trends for the groups proposed revealed the opposite behaviour of both gases in summer. Finally, maximum CO2 concentrations were marked by trajectories from North Africa affected by nearby cities, whereas minimum concentrations for both gases were noticeable for trajectories from the ocean in summer.
Hip abductor strength and fatigue are associated with activity levels more than 1 year after total hip replacement
Authors: Foucher Kharma C. , Cinnamon Christopher C. , Ryan Colleen A. , Chmell Samuel J. , Dapiton Kris
Published: October 2017

Despite improvements in pain and function, people who undergo total hip arthroplasty (THR) may not always return to desired levels of physical activity (PA). The factors associated with low activity levels are not fully understood. Abductor weakness and fatigue have both been proposed as factors that limit activity in older adults or people with hip osteoarthritis, but have not been investigated after THR. We hypothesized that abductor weakness and fatigue are associated with lower activity levels in people who have undergone a THR and that fatigue mediates the association between abductor strength and activity. We evaluated 16 subjects (24 ± 10 months post‐THR; age 56.8 ± 8.4 yrs; BMI 31 ± 7 kg/m2). Fatigue was assessed using the PROMIS fatigue short‐form 7a. Peak isometric hip abductor torque was assessed using a dynamometer with subjects in a sidelying position. We assessed activity level using the UCLA activity score. We used Pearson correlations to explore the associations among the variables. Next we used a three‐step linear regression procedure to test whether or not fatigue acted as a mediator between abductor torque and UCLA activity scores. Higher abductor torque was associated with less fatigue (R2 = 0.275; p = 0.037) and with higher UCLA scores (R2 = 0.488, p = 0.003). Higher fatigue was associated with lower UCLA scores (R2 = 0. 307, p = 0.017), however there was no evidence of mediation. This suggests that addressing both abductor strength and fatigue may increase physical activity. Statement of Clinical Significance: Fatigue and abductor weakness should be evaluated in sedentary THR patients presenting for long‐term follow‐up. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1519–1525, 2018.
Femoral version: Comparison among advanced imaging methods
Authors: Fuller Corey B. , Farnsworth Christine L. , Bomar James D. , Jeffords Megan E. , Murphy Joshua S. , Edmonds Eric W. , Pennock Andrew T. , Wenger Dennis R. , Upasani Vidyadhar V.
Published: October 2017

Accurate assessment of femoral version is essential to the surgical treatment of lower extremity deformities, yet the ideal modality and technique to measure femoral version is controversial. This study explored two hypotheses: First, there is no difference in the accuracy of femoral version measurement from 2D CT, 2D MRI, and 3D biplanar radiography reconstructions compared to a 3D model created from CT. Second, there is a difference between the measured version from traditional axial sections of the proximal femur compared to femoral neck oblique sections for CT and MRI. Eight adult cadaver lower extremities underwent CT, MRI, and biplanar radiography. Femoral version measurements from the CT and MRI axial and oblique sections, as well as biplanar radiography reconstructions, were compared to 3D reconstructed models from CT. All five techniques underestimated femoral version compared to the 3D model, but none were statistically significantly different. Regarding the first hypothesis, all five techniques had excellent correlation (r > 0.81, p ≤ 0.01) with the 3D model. Concerning the second hypothesis, the CT and MRI version measurements in femoral neck oblique sections were greater by 5.4° and 1.4°compared to traditional axial sections, respectively. All five techniques across three modalities provided accurate assessment of femoral version, suggesting that the treating physician's choice of modality can be determined per individual patient, not on measurement accuracy. Clinical significance: In choosing a modality to determine femoral version, consider the advantages and disadvantages of each modality for the individual patient, using femoral neck oblique slices for CT and MRI when available. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1536–1542, 2018.
Hybrid femtosecond/picosecond pure‐rotational coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering with chirped probe pulses
Authors: Yang Chaobo , Escofet‐Martin David , Dunn‐Rankin Derek , Chien Yu‐Chien , Yu Xin , Mukamel Shaul
Published: October 2017

The influence of probe laser chirp on hybrid femtosecond/picosecond pure‐rotational coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering is studied theoretically and experimentally. Experiments of N2(hybrid fs/ps pure‐rotational coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering) are carried out using an in‐house built second harmonic bandwidth compressor, results with different probe chirps of are reported. The experimental spectra are fitted with and without considering probe chirp. Including the chirp improves the fit to experimental spectra at all probe delays. The effect of probe pulse chirp is evaluated through a quantitative analysis of matching residuals.
Raman spectra of Ni1‐XZnXFe2O4 nanopowders
Authors: Aliyeva Shahla , Babayev Sardar , Mehdiyev Talat
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we present the results of studies the Raman spectra of Ni1‐xZnxFe2O4 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.75, 1.0) ferrites nanopowders at room temperature and spectral range from 50 to 2,000 cm−1. The interpretations of the Raman spectra are given. The analysis of the results showed that spectra of compositions contain of maxima interpreted by us as oscillations of magnetic sublattices. The intensities of these maxima correlated with changes of Ni and Zn concentrations in compositions and, accordingly, of total spins concentration.
Highly selective and efficient imprinted polymers based on carboxyl‐functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for the extraction of gallic acid from pomegranate rind
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Li Benqiang , Yue Huijuan , Wang Jing , Zheng Yuansuo
Published: October 2017

With the combined surface imprinting technique and immobilized template strategy, molecularly imprinted magnetic nanoparticles were successfully prepared and coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography to selectively separate and determine gallic acid from the pomegranate rind. On the surface of carboxyl‐functionalized magnetic nanospheres, thin imprinting shells were formed using dopamine as monomer and crosslinker. The characteristics, polymerization conditions, and adsorption performances of the resultant nanomaterials were investigated in detail. In addition of good crystallinity, satisfactory magnetism, and uniform morphology of the obtained polymers, they had rapid binding kinetics, high adsorption capacity, and favorable reusability. In the mixed solution of four hydroxybenzoic acids, the prepared nanomaterials have an excellent selectivity to gallic acid with an imprinting factor of as high as 17.5. Therefore, the polymers have great potentials in specific extraction and enrichment of gallic acid from the complex natural resources.
Ultrasound Assessment of the Transverse Abdominis During Functional Movement
Authors: Mangum L. Colby , Henderson Kaitlin , Murray Kyle P. , Saliba Susan A.
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The traditional activation ratio divides contracted muscle thickness by resting muscle thickness while an abdominal draw‐in maneuver is performed during hook lying. Ultrasound imaging during function, such as standing or gait, or peak knee flexion in a single‐leg squat allows for further visualization of muscle activity. The goal of this study was to examine activation ratio calculations for transverse abdominis function in supine versus loaded conditions to determine the most informative normalization strategy for muscle activity based on thickness values.

Methods

Transverse abdominis thickness was measured via ultrasound in 35 healthy participants under 4 different conditions. Comparisons were made between the traditional activation ratio tabletop, standing activation ratio (standing abdominal draw‐in maneuver thickness/quiet standing thickness), and functional activation ratio (single‐leg squat thickness/quiet standing thickness). Additionally, a cued activation ratio (single‐leg squat with cued abdominal draw‐in maneuver thickness/single‐leg squat thickness) during the single‐leg squat was obtained. Activation ratios of greater than 1.0 indicated that participants could activate the muscle during activity, and values were compared by analysis of variance.

Results

The participants included 23 women and 12 men with a mean age ± SD of 21.3 ± 2.7 years, mass of 66.1 ± 14.4 kg, and height of 168.5 ± 10.1 cm. Activation ratios exceeded 1.0 in 94.3% for the traditional activation ratio, 85.7% for the standing activation ratio, 82.9% for the cued activation ratio, and 82.9% for the functional activation ratio. With groups defined as tabletop activated or not, the standing, cued, and functional activation ratios were all significantly different (all P < .05).

Conclusions

Normalizing muscle thickness to the corresponding functional position quiet value provides a useful functional activation ratio and may help clinicians better understand the transverse abdominis role during complex functional tasks. Assessment techniques using various formulas for activation ratios reveal that the muscle functions differently during weight bearing compared to traditional measures.
Could laser‐assisted dissection of the pre‐epiglottic space affect functional outcome after ESL?
Authors: Bertolin Andy , Lionello Marco , Russo Simone , Rizzotto Giuseppe , Lucioni Marco
Published: October 2017

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of preepiglottic space (PES) dissection in the endoscopic supraglottic laryngectomy (ESL).

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

We retrospectively compared 15 patients who underwent ESL with 15 patients matched for clinical stage who underwent open partial horizontal laryngectomy (OPHL).

The functional outcomes were assessed in terms of hospital stay; need for nasal feeding tube (NFT) and tracheostomy, as well as duration of their use; postoperative complications; aspiration pneumonia rates; voice quality; and dysphagia.

Results

Among the ESL cases, combined dissection of the epiglottis and PES (type III) had a negative impact on functional outcomes. ESL patients experienced shorter hospital stays, as well as shorter use of NFT and tracheostomy, than patients who had OPHL.

Conclusion

Combined dissection of the epiglottis and PES (ESL type III) negatively affected functional outcome in patients undergoing ESL, a procedure generally related to significantly better functional outcomes than OPHL type I.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1371–1378, 2018
Pro (With Caution): Extended oncologic indications in liver transplantation
Authors: Mazzaferro Vincenzo , Battiston Carlo , Sposito Carlo
Published: October 2017

The success of liver transplantation (LT) in curing cancer (particularly hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic metastases from neuroendocrine tumors) is based on the augmented oncologic potentials of the total hepatectomy and on restrictive criteria applied to patient selection. Consensus on the grade of expansion of conventional limits and implementation of alternative indications to LT (cholangiocarcinoma and metastases from colorectal cancer) has not been reached. On top of regional/local conditions for wait‐list dynamics and organ availability, expanded cancer indications for LT should be explored with caution. Prospective investigations should rely on staging protocols predicting the exclusive hepatic location of cancer; restrictions on clinical conditions, tumor biology, and molecular profile, including the response to neoadjuvant therapies; confirmed tumor nonresectability with curative intent; sufficient life span of the transplant candidates to assess survival and transplant benefit; and use of marginal and extended criteria donors. In conclusion, the arguments supporting moderately loosened criteria for cancer seem more valid today than in the past. Transplant oncology is likely to represent a leading field in the near future, also because comorbidities and transplant‐related causes of death are better managed and often eliminated. Liver Transplantation 24 98–103 2018 AASLD.
A Novel 3D Cultured Model for Studying Early Changes in Age‐Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Shokoohmand Ali , Jeon June E. , Theodoropoulos Christina , Baldwin Jeremy G. , Hutmacher Dietmar W. , Feigl Beatrix
Published: October 2017

Various in vitro culture systems have been used to investigate the pathogenesis of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). However, many still rely on oversimplified monolayer culture models. AMD is a complex disease, associated with the pathological changes to multiple structural components such as the Bruch's membrane, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and choroidal endothelial cells. This study aims to construct a novel 3D coculture model using the polycaprolactone (PCL)‐gelatin electrospun scaffold, with human RPE cells (hRPE) and primate choroidal cells (RF‐6A). Results from this study show that PCL‐gelatin scaffolds have a highly porous ultrastructure that supports the attachment, proliferation, differentiation, and migration of the hRPEs and choroidal endothelial cells. It is also demonstrated that the PCL‐gelatin 3D coculture model may be useful in exploring the molecular interplay between the hPRE and the choroidal endothelial cells, and their effects on growth factor modulation, which may be important in the pathogenesis of AMD.
Fermat's last theorem and Catalan's conjecture in weak exponential arithmetics
Authors: Glivický Petr , Kala Vítězslav
Published: October 2017

We study Fermat's last theorem and Catalan's conjecture in the context of weak arithmetics with exponentiation. We deal with expansions of models of arithmetical theories (in the language ) by a binary (partial or total) function e intended as an exponential. We provide a general construction of such expansions and prove that it is universal for the class of all exponentials e which satisfy a certain natural set of axioms . We construct a model and a substructure with e total and (Presburger arithmetic) such that in both and Fermat's last theorem for e is violated by cofinally many exponents n and (in all coordinates) cofinally many pairwise linearly independent triples . On the other hand, under the assumption of ABC conjecture (in the standard model), we show that Catalan's conjecture for e is provable in (even in a weaker theory) and thus holds in and . Finally, we also show that Fermat's last theorem for e is provable (again, under the assumption of ABC in ) in “coprimality for e”.
Biological wheat straw valorization: Multicriteria optimization of Polyporus brumalis pretreatment in packed bed bioreactor
Authors: Zhou Simeng , Herpoël‐Gimbert Isabelle , Grisel Sacha , Sigoillot Jean‐Claude , Sergent Michelle , Raouche Sana
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this work was to optimize the pretreatment process of wheat straw by Polyporus brumalis_BRFM985 in order to improve carbohydrate accessibility for more efficient bioconversion. Indeed, there is growing demands to develop sustainable routes for lignocellulosic feedstocks valorization into value‐added products in energy, chemicals, materials, and animal feed fields. To be achieved, implementation of cheap and ecofriendly biomass pretreatment processes is necessary. In this frame, white rot basidiomycetes, well known for their ability to degrade lignin efficiently and selectively, are of great interest. The pretreatment of wheat straw by Polyporus brumalis_BRFM985 was performed in packed bed bioreactor and optimized using response surface methodology. The four pretreatment parameters optimized were metals addition (Cu, Mn, and Fe), time of culture, initial water content, and temperature. Multicriteria optimization highlighted that wheat straw pretreatment by Polyporus brumalis_BRFM985 in the presence of metals with high initial water content of 3.6 g H2O/g at 27°C for 15–16 days led to an improvement of carbohydrate accessibility with minimal matter loss.
Bacillus kwashiorkori sp. nov., a new bacterial species isolated from a malnourished child using culturomics
Authors: Seck El hadji , Beye Mamadou , Traore Sory Ibrahima , Khelaifia Saber , Michelle Caroline , Couderc Carine , Brah Souleymane , Fournier Pierre‐Edouard , Raoult Didier , Bittar Fadi
Published: October 2017

Strain SIT6T was isolated from the fecal flora of a severely malnourished child as part of a broad “culturomics” study aiming to maximize the culture conditions for the in‐depth exploration of the human microbiota. An analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that strain SIT6T shared 94.1% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with Bacillus thermoamylovorans DKPT (NR_029151), the phylogenetically closest type species. Colonies are creamy white, circular, 4–5 mm in diameter after cultivation at 37°C for 24 hr on 5% sheep blood‐enriched Colombia agar. Growth occurs at temperatures in the range of 25–56°C (optimally at 37°C). Strain SIT6T is a gram‐positive, facultative anaerobic rod and motile by means of peritrichous flagella and sporulating; it is catalase and oxidase positive. The 2,784,637‐bp‐long genome, composed of 16 contigs, has a G+C content of 35.19%. Of the 2,646 predicted genes, 2,572 were protein‐coding genes and 74 were RNAs. The major fatty acids are saturated species (15:0 iso, 16:0 and 17:0 anteiso). Of the 14 detected fatty acids, 11 are saturated, either linear or branched (iso and anteiso). Digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) estimation and average genomic identity of orthologous gene sequences (AGIOS) of the strain SIT6T against genomes of the type strains of related species ranged between 18.6% and 38.3% and between 54.77% and 65.50%, respectively. According to our taxonogenomics results, we propose the creation of Bacillus kwashiorkori sp. nov. that contains the type strain SIT6T (=CSUR P2452T, =DSM 29059T).
Genetic influences on cognition in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Gerstenecker Adam , Roberson Erik D. , Schellenberg Gerard D. , Standaert David G. , Shprecher David R. , Kluger Benzi M. , Litvan Irene
Published: October 2017

Background

Cognitive dysfunction is common in progressive supranuclear palsy, but the influence of genetics on cognition in this disorder has not been well studied. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of genes previously identified as risk alleles, including microtubule‐associated protein tau, myelin‐associated oligodendrocyte basic protein, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2‐alpha kinase 3, and syntaxin 6, as well as apolipoprotein E, on cognitive function in progressive supranuclear palsy.

Methods

The sample was composed of 305 participants who met criteria for possible or probable progressive supranuclear palsy. Genetic information was determined by TaqMan genotyping assays. A neuropsychological battery was administered to all study participants. Measures included in the battery evaluated for general cognition, executive function, memory, attention, language, and visuospatial ability.

Results

Cognition did not vary significantly between individuals homozygous or heterozygous for the microtubule‐associated protein tau H1 haplotype. However, cognition varied significantly at the subhaplotype level, with carriers of the microtubule‐associated protein tau rs242557/A allele, which marks the H1c subhaplotype, performing better than noncarriers on measures of general cognitive function, executive function, and attention. No associations were found for other genes.

Conclusions

The results of the current study indicate that variations in microtubule‐associated protein tau influence cognition in progressive supranuclear palsy. Although the H1c‐specific rs242557/A allele is a risk factor for progressive supranuclear palsy, carriers of this allele may exhibit better cognition than non‐carriers in patients with the atypical parkinsonian syndrome. Further studies are needed. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society