bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jacques Jean Lhermitte and Lhermitte’s sign
Authors: Chu Duong T , Hautecoeur Patrick , Santoro Jonathan D
Published: December 2018

Jacques Jean Lhermitte, a forefather of modern clinical neurology, was a French neurologist conducting the majority of his research between 1908 and 1957. Although less well known than his contemporaries at the time, Lhermitte eventually was famously recognized for his eponymously named “Lhermitte’s sign.” Lhermitte’s contributions to the field of neurology spanned that of monographic clinical descriptions of syndromes to exquisitely detailed descriptions of neuropathology, finally delving into the realm of modern neuropsychiatry in his later years. Lhermitte laid the groundwork for the burgeoning field of neurology, developing the reputation of a renaissance physician by both his contemporaries and current neurologists. Here, we take an extensive look into the life and career of Lhermitte and the legacies that he left behind.
Reflecting on the interview as an erotic encounter
Authors: Huysamen Monique
Published: December 2018

As researchers, our sexualities are always relevant to the research process. However, when woman researchers engage in research with men about their (hetero)sexual experiences, our positionality becomes more explicitly central. This article makes a methodological contribution to critical research into male sexualities by providing a reflexive analysis of cross-gender interviews conducted with 43 men about paying for sex. It employs an understanding of both the participant and the interviewer as defended subjects and it interrogates the complex interviewer-participant power relationship, offering a critical approach to understanding the knowledge that is produced by and within our research encounters.
Psychological factors as predictors of readiness to combat crime among police officers in Osun State Command, Nigeria
Authors: Ayinde Adeboye Titus , Ayegun Olusola Abayomi
Published: December 2018

The increasing crime rate and apparent reduction in combatting crime by law enforcement agencies in Nigeria, particularly the Nigerian Police, deserve attention from a psychological point of view. This study examined the extent to which locus of control and emotional intelligence (EI) predict readiness to combat crime among police officers in Osun State Police Command, Nigeria. The study used primary data embedded in a descriptive survey design. A multistage sampling technique was adopted to obtain data from the sample population. Three police area commands in Osun State, namely Osogbo, Ile-Ife and Ilesa, were selected for the study. The sample comprised 258 police officers selected using a stratified random technique with different units of command as the basis of stratification. Three instruments, the Work Locus of Control Scale, Brief Emotional Intelligence Scale and Readiness to Combat Crime Scale were used. Data were analysed using descriptive (percentage count) and inferential statistics (linear regression and t-test). The results showed that locus of control did not significantly predict readiness to combat crime among police officers in Osun State Command [ F(1,214) = 0.371; p > 0.05], whereas EI [ F(1,225) = 131.045; p < 0.05] did. The study concluded that EI successfully predicted readiness to combat crime among police officers in Osun State Command, whereas locus of control had no influence.
The social organization of assistance in multilingual interaction in Swedish residential care
Authors: Jansson Gunilla , Plejert Charlotta , Lindholm Camilla
Published: December 2018

In this article, we explore the organization of assistance in multilingual interaction in Swedish residential care. The data that form the basis for the study cover care encounters involving three residents with a language background other than Swedish, totalling 13 hours and 14 minutes of video documentation. The empirical data consists of a collection of 134 instances where residents seek assistance with the realization of a practical action. For this article, three examples that involve the manipulation of an object have been selected for analysis. We use the concept of ‘recruitment’ to encompass the various methods by which assistance is sought in the care encounter. In the first example, the need for assistance concerns the transfer of an object that is recognizable and physically available for both participants. This, in combination with the resident’s gestural work that pinpoints the description of the action, facilitates its realization. In the second and third examples, the realization of the action becomes more difficult because the object involved is not recognizable for the caregiver. The article highlights the collaborative ways in which residents manage to support their talk through bodily practices, and the strong and empathetic engagement with which caregivers become involved in interpreting the meaning of these practices. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings for care provision in multilingual circumstances.
Strong intramolecular hydrogen bonding in protonated β-methylaminoalanine: A vibrational spectroscopic and computational study
Authors: Linford Bryan D , Le Donne Andrea , Scuderi Debora , Bodo Enrico , Fridgen Travis D
Published: December 2018

The gas-phase structure of protonated β-methylaminoalanine was investigated using infrared multiple photon dissociation spectroscopy in the C–H, N–H, O–H stretching region (2700–3800 cm−1) and the fingerprint region (1000–1900 cm−1). Calculations using density functional theory methods show that the lowest energy structures prefer protonation of the secondary amine. Formation of hydrogen bonds between the primary and secondary amine, and the secondary amine and carboxylic oxygen further stabilize the lowest energy structure. The infrared spectrum of the lowest energy structure originating with harmonic density functional theory has features that generally match the positions of the experimental spectra; however, the overall agreement with the experimental spectrum is poor. Molecular dynamics calculations were used to generate a gas-phase infrared spectrum. With these calculations a reasonable match with the experimental spectrum, especially in the high-energy region, was obtained. The results of the molecular dynamics simulation support the density functional theory calculations, with protonation of the secondary amine and the formation of a hydrogen bond between the protonated secondary amine and the primary amine. This work shows the importance of accounting for anharmonic effects in systems with very strong intramolecular hydrogen bonding.
“The Road Less Traveled”: Combining Disability Studies and Quantitative Analysis with Medium and Large Data Sets
Authors: Cosier Meghan
Published: December 2018

Historically, researchers focused on individuals with severe disabilities have utilized single-subject research methodologies to study the application of the behavioral theory to learning. In contrast, disability studies scholars have primarily used qualitative research methodologies to study quality of life or policy issues related to individuals with significant disabilities. Also, less emphasis has been placed on quantitative research using medium to large data sets, despite the impact this research can have on policy and practice. This article discusses possibilities for applying a disability studies theoretical framework to quantitative research in ways that can empower individuals with significant disabilities and introduces possibilities for broadening research by encouraging a dialogue among fields of inquiry.
LXRs, SHP, and FXR in Prostate Cancer: Enemies or Ménage à Quatre With AR?
Authors: Cariello Marica , Ducheix Simon , Maqdasy Salwan , Baron Silvère , Moschetta Antonio , Lobaccaro Jean-Marc A.
Published: December 2018

Androgens and androgen receptor (AR, NR3C4) clearly play a crucial role in prostate cancer progression. Besides, the link between metabolic disorders and the risk of developing a prostate cancer has been emerging these last years. Interestingly, “lipid” nuclear receptors such as LXRα/NR1H3 and LXRβ/NR1H2 (as well as FXRα/NR1H4 and SHP/NR0B2) have been described to decrease the lipid metabolism, while AR increases it. Moreover, these former orphan nuclear receptors can regulate androgen levels and modulate AR activity. Thus, it is not surprising to find such receptors involved in the physiology of prostate. This review is focused on the roles of liver X receptors (LXRs), farnesoid X receptor (FXR), and small heterodimeric partner (SHP) in prostate physiology and their capabilities to interfere with the androgen-regulated pathways by modulating the levels of active androgen within the prostate. By the use of prostate cancer cell lines, mice deficient for these nuclear receptors and human tissue libraries, several authors have pointed out the putative possibility to pharmacologically target these receptors. These data open a new field of research for the development of new drugs that could overcome the castration resistance in prostate cancer, a usual phenomenon in patients.
GR Utilizes a Co-Chaperone Cytoplasmic CAR Retention Protein to Form an N/C Interaction
Authors: Ohno Marumi , Negishi Masahiko
Published: December 2018

The N-terminal domain (NTD) of nuclear receptor superfamily members has been recently reported to regulate functions of the receptor through the interaction between the NTD and the C-terminal ligand binding domain (LBD), so-called an N/C interaction. Although this N/C interaction has been demonstrated in various nuclear receptors, eg, androgen receptor, this concept has not been observed in glucocorticoid receptor (GR). We hypothesized that GR requires its co-chaperone CCRP (cytoplasmic constitutive active/androstane receptor retention protein) to form a stable N/C interaction. This hypothesis was examined by co-immunoprecipitation assays using GR fragments overexpressing COS-1 cell lysate. Here, we demonstrated that GR undergoes the N/C interaction between the 26VMDFY30 motif in the NTD and the LBD. More importantly, co-chaperone CCRP is now found to induce this interaction. By the fact that a negative charge at Y30 disrupts this interaction, this residue, a potential phosphorylation site, was indicated to regulate the GR N/C interaction critically. Utilizing Y30F and Y30E mutants as N/C interacting and noninteracting forms of GR, respectively, a 2-dimensional blue native/sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was performed to examine whether or not the N/C interaction regulated formation of GR complexes. A cDNA microarray analysis was performed with COS-1 cells expressing Y30F or Y30E. We will present experimental data to demonstrate that CCRP is essential for GR to form the N/C interaction and will discuss its implications in GR functions.
Access to Health Services Among Young Adult Gay Men in New York City
Authors: Griffin-Tomas Marybec , Cahill Sean , Kapadia Farzana , Halkitis Perry N.
Published: December 2018

This research is a cross-sectional study of young adult gay men (YAGM), ages 18 to 29, that aims to understand their health-care access including: having a primary care provider (PCP), frequency of health-care visits, and instances of foregone health care. Surveys were conducted with a modified time-space sample of 800 YAGM in New York City (NYC). Surveys were conducted between November 2015 and June 2016. This study examined associations between sociodemographic characteristics and health-care access using multivariable logistic regression models. In multivariable logistic regression models, there were higher odds of having a PCP among participants enrolled in school (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.85, 95% CI [1.18, 2.91], p < .01) and covered by insurance (AOR = 21.29, 95% CI [11.77, 38.53], p < .001). Modeling indicated higher odds of more than one health visit in the past 12 months for non-White participants (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI [1.43, 3.63], p < .001), those covered by insurance (AOR = 3.10, 95% CI [1.06, 9.04], p < .05), and those who disclosed their sexual orientation to their PCP (AOR = 2.99, 95% CI [1.58, 5.69], p < .001). Participants with insurance were less likely to report instances of foregone care (AOR = 0.21, 95% CI [0.21, 0.13], p < .001). Understanding the facilitators and barriers to health-care access among YAGM populations is of critical importance, as many YAGM between the ages of 18 and 29 are establishing their access to health care without parental guidance. Health-care access, including the decision to forego care, can represent a missed opportunity for primary prevention and early diagnosis of health issues, as well as more effective, less invasive, and less costly treatments.
Late Effects of Low-Dose Radiation on the Bone Marrow, Lung, and Testis Collected From the Same Exposed BALB/cJ Mice
Authors: Jangiam Witawat , Udomtanakunchai Chatchanok , Reungpatthanaphong Paiboon , Tungjai Montree , Honikel Louise , Gordon Chris R. , Rithidech Kanokporn Noy
Published: December 2018

We used 3 biological metrics highly relevant to health risks, that is, cell death, inflammation, and global DNA methylation, to determine the late effects of low doses (0.05 or 0.1 Gy) of 137Cs γ rays on the bone marrow, lung, and testis collected at 6 months post-irradiation from the same exposed BALB/cJ mouse. This integrative approach has not been used for such a purpose. Mice exposed to 0 or 1 Gy of radiation served as a sham or positive control group, respectively. The results could deliver information for better health risk assessment across tissues, including better scientific basis for radiation protection and clinical application. We found no changes in the levels of all studied biological metrics (except a significant increase in the levels of an anti-inflammatory cytokine, ie, interleukin 10) in tissues of 0.05-Gy exposed mice, when compared to those in sham controls. In contrast, significantly increased levels of cell death and inflammation, including a significant loss of global 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, were found in all tissues of the same mice exposed to 0.1 or 1.0 Gy. Our data demonstrated not only no harm but also hormesis in the 0.05-Gy exposed mice. However, the hormetic effect appears to be dependent on biological metrics and tissue.
PiROB: Vision-based pipe-climbing robot for spray-pipe inspection in nuclear plants
Authors: Kim Jae-Hee , Lee Jae-Cheol , Choi You-Rack
Published: December 2018

Among many pipes in a nuclear power plant, the spray pipes in the reactor building are one of the most important pipes in view of their function and safety aspects. However, it is very difficult to manually reach and inspect the pipes for defects or damage, because these pipes are installed in very high places. To carry out this kind of inspection more easily, we developed a mobile robot to climb up and down and to cross over such pipes. A mobile robot should be small and light enough that it can be practically and safely operated in a nuclear power plant. Our robot is able to overcome obstacles such as valves, pipe flanges, and T-shaped branches, and it also meets the requirements of fail-safe, autonomous grasping, and self-power without the cables to the remote control station. The robot has a five-degree-of-freedom manipulator and two grippers and moves along the cylindrical pipes bypassing the obstacles. The robot should be able to grasp the next pipe autonomously, because the robot works in places high off the ground where the remote operator cannot see the next pipe for the robot to grasp. This article proposes a vision-based scheme for grasping a cylindrical pipe semi-autonomously and describes its solution along with the forward kinematics and inverse kinematics of the mobile robot. The configuration of the pipe-climbing robot, including its hardware and software, is described, and the robot control with visual grasping is explained. The robot can be used practically for spray-pipe inspection as well as many potential other applications, such as inspection of the roof frame of a stadium consisting of pipes.
Birth Injury: Birth Asphyxia and Birth Trauma
Authors: Collins Kim A. , Popek Edwina
Published: December 2018

Injury to a fetus or neonate during delivery can be due to several factors involving the fetus, placenta, mother, and/or instrumentation. Birth asphyxia results in hypoxia and ischemia, with global damage to organ systems. Birth trauma, that is mechanical trauma, can also cause asphyxia and/or morbidity and mortality based on the degree and anatomic location of the trauma. Some of these injuries resolve spontaneously with little or no consequence while others result in permanent damage and severe morbidity. Unfortunately, some birth injuries are fatal. To understand the range of birth injuries, one must know the risk factors, clinical presentations, pathology and pathophysiology, and postmortem autopsy findings. It is imperative for clinicians and pathologists to understand the causes of birth injury; recognize the radiographic, gross, and microscopic appearances of these injuries; differentiate them from inflicted postpartum trauma; and work to prevent future cases.
Testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin and risk of cardiovascular events: A report from the Outcome Reduction with an Initial Glargine Intervention trial
Authors: Wang Anne , Arver Stefan , Boman Kurt , Gerstein Hertzel C , Fu Lee Shun , Hess Sibylle , Rydén Lars , Mellbin Linda G
Published: December 2018

Aims: Testosterone and its binding protein sex hormone-binding globulin have been associated with cardiovascular disease and dysglycaemia. However, information on the prognostic implication in patients at high cardiovascular risk with dysglycaemia is inconsistent. The study objective was to determine whether testosterone and/or sex hormone-binding globulin predict cardiovascular events or death in dysglycaemic patients.

Methods: Dysglycaemic males at high cardiovascular risk ( n = 5553) who participated in the Outcome Reduction with an Initial Glargine Intervention (ORIGIN) trial and provided baseline blood samples were studied. Testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin were measured at baseline and used to estimate free testosterone. Low levels of total and free testosterone were defined as ≤300 ng/dl and ≤7 ng/dl, respectively. Patients were followed for six years for cardiovascular events (defined as the composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction or stroke) and all-cause mortality.

Results: The mean total and free testosterone levels were 416.6 ng/dl and 8.4 ng/dl, and low levels were present in 13% and 37% of the patients. The median sex hormone-binding globulin level was 35 nmol/l. In Cox regression models adjusted for age, previous diseases and pharmacological treatment, neither total nor free testosterone predicted cardiovascular events. However, a one-standard-deviation increase in sex hormone-binding globulin predicted both cardiovascular events (hazard ratio 1.07; 95% confidence interval 1.00–1.14; p = 0.03) and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.13; 95% confidence interval 1.06–1.21; p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Sex hormone-binding globulin, but not total testosterone, predicts cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in dysglycaemic males at high cardiovascular risk.
Traumatic hemothorax due to chance fracture requiring emergency surgical management: A report of two cases
Authors: Okamoto Keigo , Ichinose Masutaro , Hanaoka Jun
Published: December 2018

Traumatic hemothorax is usually caused by thoracic organ damage. Cases of atypical bleeding sources may be difficult to diagnose. Here we present two surgical cases of vertebral fracture that caused hemothorax. Case 1: an 81-year-old man was admitted to our hospital after a fall. Computed tomography showed right hemothorax without rib fractures. He suddenly developed shock and intrathoracic hemorrhage. Thoracotomy revealed the bleeding source as a transverse laceration in T7. Case 2: an 83-year-old woman fell on her back and was admitted. Computed tomography indicated an L1 vertebral fracture. A few days later, she suddenly developed a right hemothorax. An intrathoracic hemorrhage was sustained after transcatheter embolization. Thoracotomy revealed a diaphragmatic rupture. Total cross-fracture of the vertebral body solely caused the hemothorax. If bleeding source is unclear in elderly patients, this etiology should be considered. We saved both patients by performing spinal fusion surgery at the appropriate time.
Efficacy of tadalafil against lower urinary tract symptoms after low-dose-rate brachytherapy in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Saito T , Minagawa T , Ogawa T , Ishizuka O
Published: December 2018

Objectives:

This study was performed to evaluate the effects of addition of tadalafil to tamsulosin in the treatment of brachytherapy patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Methods:

Localized prostate cancer patients who developed LUTS after low-dose-rate brachytherapy (LDR-BT) were first treated with alpha-1 blockers (tamsulosin, 0.2 mg per day). Those still suffering from LUTS were additionally treated with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (tadalafil, 5 mg/day). LUTS was evaluated by the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS Quality of Life (QOL) score, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), and the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF5) score before brachytherapy, before treatment with tadalafil, and after three months of treatment with tadalafil.

Results:

Twenty-three patients were enrolled in the study. Each subscore of the IPSS (storage symptom, voiding symptom, and postvoiding symptom) and the QOL score improved, but OABSS and IIEF5 did not show significant recovery after addition of tadalafil treatment. When patient characteristics and each question score were surveyed, time from seed implantation until treatment with tadalafil showed the strongest correlation with recovery.

Conclusions:

Addition of tadalafil to tamsulosin treatment was effective against LUTS in localised prostate cancer patients after brachytherapy.

Evidence level:

2b
Evaluation of Intrinsic Biomechanical Risk Factors in Patellar Tendinopathy: A Retrospective Radiographic Case-Control Series
Authors: Dan Michael J. , McMahon James , Parr William C.H. , Broe David , Lucas Phil , Cross Meryvn , Walsh William R.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Patellar tendinopathy is an overuse condition often affecting athletes. It has been postulated that patellar tendinopathy is associated with patella alta; however, this and any other anatomic risk factors have not been identified.

Purpose:

To explore whether lever arm differences from radiographic measurements exist between patients with and without tendinopathy. This may provide surgeons with a simple radiographic means to identify patients at risk.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Magnetic resonance imaging scans of the knee from a sports imaging facility were screened and reviewed to identify 2 groups of patients: those with and those without imaging signs of patellar tendinopathy. The lateral radiographs were reviewed and measurements made to determine (1) lever arm ratio, (2) moment arm ratio, (3) angle between the moment and line of pull of the patellar tendon, (4) patellar tendon pivot point angle, and (5) patellar height (alta). Measurements were obtained directly from radiographs. The images and measurements were reviewed by 2 experienced orthopaedic clinicians.

Results:

A total of 105 patients were included in this study: 52 with patellar tendinopathy and 53 without patellar tendinopathy (controls). The mean age was similar between groups (23 years); females accounted for 8 of 52 patients with patellar tendinopathy and 24 of 53 patients without. The lever arm ratio in the group with patellar tendinopathy versus controls was 1.71 versus 1.01 ( P = .01), with a moment arm difference of 1.00 versus 0.80 ( P < .01), respectively. There was no difference detected between groups for patellar tendon angle, patellar tendon pivot point angle, knee flexion angle, or incidence of patella alta. No correlation was found with our measurements and the Insall-Salvati ratio. Statistical analysis was also performed according to sex, and a statistically significant difference between groups was found for differences in lever arm ratio and moment arm.

Conclusion:

The lever arm ratio and moment arm ratio from lateral radiographs were significantly different between patients with and without patellar tendinopathy. Further study is needed on the biomechanical implications of the pivot point and how altering it can affect stress within the patellar tendon, patellofemoral joint, and associated clinical outcomes.
My Pilgrimage in Mission
Authors: Bevans Stephen
Published: December 2018

This article traces Steve Bevans’s journey as a “global theologian,” from his first encounters with “contextual theology” through his development as a theologian and missiologist at Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, and his membership in the World Council of Churches’ Commission on World Mission and Evangelism.
Pope Francis’s Effort to Revitalize Catholic Mission
Authors: Gregory William P.
Published: December 2018

From the start of his pontificate, Pope Francis has pursued a reform of the Catholic Church aimed at revitalizing Catholic engagement in mission. He has pursued this reform in three areas. He has sought, first, to clarify to all Christians the nature of their task; second, to motivate all Christians to carry out this task; and third, to correct a recurring set of countermissionary attitudes and practices within the church that damage the church’s missionary efforts.
Total Ankle Replacement Conversion to Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis With Bulk Femoral Head Allograft and Pseudoelastic Intramedullary Nail Providing Sustained Joint Compression
Authors: Conklin Mark Jay , Smith Kathryn Elizabeth , Blair Jeremy Webster , Dupont Kenneth Michael
Published: December 2018

Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis is commonly performed to salvage a failed total ankle replacement. These salvage procedures are complicated by significant bone loss from the ankle replacement and are associated with low patient satisfaction. Here, we describe 2 cases of patients who presented with a failed total ankle replacement and underwent arthrodesis using a bulk femoral head allograft and a novel pseudoelastic intramedullary nail. The intramedullary nail contains an internal pseudoelastic element that adapts to bone resorption and settling allowing for compression to be maintained at the arthrodesis sites throughout healing. In the first case, a 65-year-old woman with a failed total ankle replacement underwent TTC arthrodesis. The second case involved an obese 53-year-old woman who had previously undergone 2 total ankle replacement procedures that resulted in unsuccessful outcomes. In both cases, union was demonstrated on computed tomographic scan by 6 months. At 2 years postsurgery, both patients were satisfied with the procedure. These cases provide preliminary evidence that tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with a pseudoelastic IM nail and structural allograft is an appropriate treatment for failed total ankle replacements.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, therapeutic, case series.
Enduring phenotype of episodic status migrainosus in a prospectively identified patient
Authors: Smith Jonathan H
Published: December 2018

Episodic status migrainosus is a previously described migraine variant where the exclusive phenotype is that of relapsing status migrainosus. The majority of cases have been reported based on retrospective chart review. A prospectively identified case fulfilling previously published criteria for episodic status migrainosus is reported, with an enduring pattern of attacks meeting criteria for status migrainosus over a 35-year period. A family history in a maternal aunt of a similar phenotype was noted. This prospectively identified case further validates the existence of episodic status migrainosus as a novel nosologic entity. The family history in our case suggests the possibility of genetic susceptibility. Perspective regarding a potential temporal continuum between acute migraine, status migrainosus, and new daily persistent headache is described. Status migrainosus may occur both as a complication of migraine and in the pure form of episodic status migrainosus.
Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome
Authors: Wu Evelyn
Published: December 2018

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a condition characterized by pain in the abdominal region attributed to compression of the celiac artery by the median arcuate ligament of the diaphragm during expiration. MALS is also known as celiac artery compression syndrome, celiac axis syndrome, or Dunbar syndrome. Pain may result from the tight pressing on the celiac nerves in the area. The patient usually presents with symptoms such as postprandial epigastric pain, weight loss, and, occasionally, an abdominal bruit. Furthermore, some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting. It may be an etiology of a rare disorder, chronic mesenteric ischemia.
Deep functional immunophenotyping predicts risk of cytomegalovirus reactivation after hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Camargo Jose F. , Wieder Eric D. , Kimble Erik , Benjamin Cara L. , Kolonias Despina S. , Kwon Deukwoo , Chen Xi Steven , Komanduri Krishna V.
Published: December 2018

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common viral infection in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients. We performed deep phenotyping of CMV-specific T cells to predict CMV outcomes following allogeneic HCT. By using 13-color flow cytometry, we studied ex vivo CD8+ T-cell cytokine production in response to CMV-pp65 peptides in 3 clinically distinct subgroups of CMV-seropositive HCT patients: (1) Elite Controllers (n = 19): did not have evidence of CMV DNAemia on surveillance testing; (2) Spontaneous Controllers (n = 16): spontaneously resolved low-grade CMV DNAemia without antiviral therapy; and (3) Noncontrollers (NC; n = 21): experienced clinically significant CMV. Two CMV-specific CD8+ T-cell functional subsets were strongly associated with risk of CMV: (i) the nonprotective signature (NPS; IL-2−IFN-γ+TNF-α−MIP-1β+), found at increased levels among NC; and (ii) the protective signature (PS; IL-2+IFN-γ+TNF-α+MIP-1β+) found at low levels among NC. High levels of the NPS and low levels of PS were associated with an increased 100-day cumulative incidence of clinically significant CMV infection (35% vs 5%; P = .02; and 40% vs 12%; P = .05, respectively). The highest predictive value was observed when these signatures were combined into a composite biomarker consisting of low levels of the PS and high levels of the NPS (67% vs 10%; P < .001). After adjusting for steroid use or donor type, this composite biomarker remained associated with a fivefold increase in the risk of clinically significant CMV infection. CMV-specific CD8+ T-cell cytokine signatures with robust predictive value for risk of CMV reactivation should prove useful in guiding clinical decision making in HCT recipients.
Reproducibility and staging of 3D human retinal organoids across multiple pluripotent stem cell lines
Authors: Capowski Elizabeth E. , Samimi Kayvan , Mayerl Steven J. , Phillips M. Joseph , Pinilla Isabel , Howden Sara E. , Saha Jishnu , Jansen Alex D. , Edwards Kimberly L. , Jager Lindsey D. , Barlow Katherine , Valiauga Rasa , Erlichman Zachary , Hagstrom Anna , Sinha Divya , Sluch Valentin M. , Chamling Xitiz , Zack Donald J. , Skala Melissa C. , Gamm David M.
Published: December 2018

Numerous protocols have been described that produce neural retina from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), many of which are based on the culture of 3D organoids. While nearly all such methods yield at least partial segments of highly mature-appearing retinal structure, variabilities exist within and between organoids that can change over a protracted time course of differentiation. Adding to this complexity are potential differences in the composition and configuration of retinal organoids when viewed across multiple differentiations and hPSC lines. In an effort to better understand the current capabilities and limitations of these cultures, we generated retinal organoids from 16 hPSC lines and monitored their appearance and structural organization over time by light microscopy, immunocytochemistry, metabolic imaging, and electron microscopy. We also employed optical coherence tomography and 3D imaging techniques to assess and compare whole or broad regions of organoids to avoid selection bias. Results from this study led to the development of a practical staging system to reduce inconsistencies in retinal organoid cultures and increase rigor when utilizing them in developmental studies, disease modeling and transplantation.
Genetic and epigenetic regulation of cardiomyocytes in development, regeneration and disease
Authors: Cui Miao , Wang Zhaoning , Bassel-Duby Rhonda , Olson Eric N.
Published: December 2018

Embryonic and postnatal life depend on the uninterrupted function of cardiac muscle cells. These cells, termed cardiomyocytes, display many fascinating behaviors, including complex morphogenic movements, interactions with other cell types of the heart, persistent contractility and quiescence after birth. Each of these behaviors depends on complex interactions between both cardiac-restricted and widely expressed transcription factors, as well as on epigenetic modifications. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the genetic and epigenetic control of cardiomyocyte differentiation and proliferation during heart development, regeneration and disease. We focus on those regulators that are required for both heart development and disease, and highlight the regenerative principles that might be manipulated to restore function to the injured adult heart.
Brief exposure to intense turbulence induces a sustained life-history shift in echinoids
Authors: Ferner Mathew C. , Hodin Jason , Ng Gabriel , Gaylord Brian
Published: December 2018

In coastal ecosystems, attributes of fluid motion can prompt animal larvae to rise or sink in the water column and to select microhabitats within which they attach and commit to a benthic existence. In Echinoid (sea urchin and sand dollar) larvae living along wave-exposed shorelines, intense turbulence characteristic of surf zones can cause individuals to undergo an abrupt life-history shift characterized by precocious entry into competence: the stage at which larvae will settle and complete metamorphosis in response to local cues. However, the mechanistic details of this turbulence-triggered onset of competence remain poorly defined. Here, we evaluate in a series of laboratory experiments the time course of this turbulence effect, both the rapidity with which it initiates, and how long it perdures. We find that larvae become competent with turbulence exposures as brief as 30 sec, with longer exposures inducing a greater proportion of larvae to become competent. Intriguingly, larvae can remember such exposures for a protracted period (at least 24 hrs), a pattern reminiscent of long-term potentiation. Turbulence also induces short-term behavioral responses that last less than 30 mins, including cessation of swimming, that facilitate sinking and thus contact of echinoid larvae with the substrate. Together these results yield a novel perspective on how larvae find their way to suitable adult habitat at the critical settlement transition, and also open new experimental opportunities to elucidate the mechanisms by which planktonic animals respond to fluid motion.
Bone without minerals and its secondary mineralization in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar): the recovery from phosphorus deficiency
Authors: Witten P. Eckhard , Fjelldal Per Gunnar , Huysseune Ann , McGurk Charles , Obach Alex , Owen Matthew A. G.
Published: December 2018

Calcium and phosphorus (P) are the main bone minerals and P-deficiency causes hypomineralized bones (osteomalacia) and malformations. This study uses a P-deficient salmon model to falsify three hypotheses. First, an extended period of dietary P-deficiency does not cause pathologies other than osteomalacia. Second, secondary mineralization of non-mineralized bone is possible. Third, secondary mineralization can restore the bones' mineral composition and mechanical properties.

Post-smolt Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) received for seven weeks diets with regular P-content (RP), or with a 50% lowered P-content (LP). For additional nine weeks RP animals continued on the regular diet (RP-RP). LP animals continued on the LP-diet (LP-LP), on a regular P diet (LP-RP), or on a high P diet (LP-HP).

After 16 weeks, animals in all groups maintained a non-deformed vertebral column. LP-LP animals continued bone formation albeit without mineralization. Nine weeks of RP diet largely restored the mineral content and mechanical properties of vertebral bodies. Mineralization resumed deep inside the bone and away from osteoblasts. The history of P-deficiency was traceable in LP-RP and LP-HP animals as a ring of low-mineralized bone in the vertebral body endplates but no tissue alterations occurred that foreshadow vertebral body compression or fusion. Large quantities of non-mineralized salmon bone have the capacity to re-mineralize. If 16 weeks of P-deficiency as a single factor is not causal for typical vertebral body malformations other factors remain to be identified. This example of functional bone without minerals may explain why some teleost species can afford to have an extremely low mineralized skeleton.
Do naked mole rats accumulate a metabolic acidosis or an oxygen debt in severe hypoxia?
Authors: Pamenter Matthew E. , Dzal Yvonne A. , Thompson William A. , Milsom William K.
Published: December 2018

In severe hypoxia, most vertebrates increase anaerobic energy production, which results in the development of a metabolic acidosis and an O2 debt that must be repaid during reoxygenation. Naked mole rats (NMRs) are among the most hypoxia-tolerant mammals, capable of drastically reducing their metabolic rate in acute hypoxia; while staying active and alert. We hypothesized that a key component of remaining active is an increased reliance on anaerobic metabolism during severe hypoxia. To test this hypothesis, we exposed NMRs to progressive reductions in inspired O2 (9 to 3% O2) followed by reoxygenation (21% O2) and measured breathing frequency, heart rate, behavioural activity, body temperature, metabolic rate, and also metabolic substrates and pH in blood and tissues. We found that NMRs exhibit robust metabolic rate depression in acute hypoxia, accompanied by declines in all physiological and behavioural variables examined. However, blood and tissue pH were unchanged and tissue [ATP] and [phosphocreatine] were maintained. Naked mole rats increased their reliance on carbohydrates in hypoxia, and glucose was mobilized from the liver to the blood. Upon reoxygenation NMRs entered into a coma-like state for∼15-20 mins during which metabolic rate was negligible and body temperature remained suppressed. However, an imbalance in the rates at which V̇O2 and V̇CO2 returned to normoxic levels during reoxygenation hint at the possibility that NMRs do utilize anaerobic metabolism during hypoxia but have a tissue and/or blood buffering capacity that mask typical markers of metabolic acidosis, and prioritize the synthesis of glucose from lactate during recovery.
Contribution of High School Sport Participation to Young Adult Bone Strength
Authors: WARD RYAN C. , JANZ KATHLEEN F. , LETUCHY ELENA M. , PETERSON CLAYTON , LEVY STEVEN M.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Nearly 8 million American adolescents participate in sports. Participation declines in young adulthood.

Purpose

This study assessed longitudinal effects of high school sport participation and muscle power on young adult bone strength.

Methods

Two hundred twenty-eight young adults from the Iowa Bone Development Study completed an interscholastic sport participation questionnaire. Current physical activity (PA) behaviors were assessed via questionnaire. Dual x-ray absorptiometry assessed hip areal bone mineral density and was used with hip structure analysis to estimate femoral neck section modulus and hip cross-sectional area. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography provided strength-strain index and bone strength index at 38% and 4% midshaft tibial sites, respectively. Vertical jump estimated muscle power at 17 yr. Sex-specific multiple linear regression predicted young adult bone outcomes based on sport participation groups. Mediation analysis analyzed the effects of muscle power on relationships between sport participation and bone strength.

Results

At follow-up, males participating in any interscholastic sport had greater bone strength than males who did not participate in sport. The explained variability in bone outcomes was 2% to 16%. Females who participated in sports requiring muscle power had greater bone strength than females who did not participate in sports or females who participated in nonpower sports (explained variability was 4%–10%). Muscle power mediated 24.7% to 41% of the effect of sport participation on bone outcomes in males and 19.4% to 30% in females.

Conclusions

Former male interscholastic sport participants and female interscholastic power sport participants have stronger bones than peers even when adjusting for current PA. Muscle power did not fully explain differences in all bone outcomes, suggesting that sport participation has additional bone health benefits.
Role of Bronchial Washing Gene Xpert in Sputum-Scarce Cases of Suspected Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Zuberi Faisal Faiyaz , Hussain Sagheer , Hameed Sidra , Zuberi Bader Faiyaz
Published: December 2018

Objective: To determine the frequency of mycobacterium tuberculosis detection, in bronchial washing in sputum-scarce cases of suspected pulmonary tuberculosis.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Ojha Institute of Chest Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, during July 2016 to December 2017. Sputum-scarce patients with suspicion of pulmonary tuberculosis were selected and underwent for bronchoscopy, detailed examination of bronchial tree was performed, and bronchial washing collected for testing of mycobacterium tuberculosis with Gene Xpert.

Results: A total of 120 patients were included. In this study 55 (45.8%) patients were female and 65 (54.2%) were male with mean±SD of age was 39.9±14.7 years. Bronchial washing Gene Xpert for mycobacterium tuberculosis was detected in 83 (69.2%) sputum-scarce cases of suspected pulmonary tuberculosis patients.

Conclusion: Bronchial washing Gene Xpert has an excellent diagnostic yield for detection of mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum-scarce cases of suspected pulmonary tuberculosis.

How to cite this:Zuberi FF, Hussain S, Hameed S, Zuberi BF. Role of Bronchial Washing Gene Xpert in Sputum-Scarce Cases of Suspected Pulmonary Tuberculosis. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(1):211-214. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.1.107

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Modern Factors of Economic Development
Authors: Бабанов В. , Babanov V.
Published: December 2018

The economy as an economic system is under continuous influence of numerous internal and external factors; it is the integral effect of these factors on the processes of economic activity; the Central place in the economy belongs to the processes of production, distribution and consumption of produced and traded in this system are good; the behavior of the consumer depends on many factors, but the main factor here is the utility of the consumed good; new factors that should be considered as problems on the way to economic development are becoming more and more evident; the first of these factors is the transformation of the traditional economy into a digital one; the organization of people’s activities is becoming an increasingly acute problem; the role of man in the key areas of the economy today: production, circulation, consumption — will weaken.
Conceptual Aspects of Digital Marketing
Authors: Поляков В. , Polyakov V. , Фомичева Ирина , Fomicheva Irina
Published: December 2018

The stages of evolutionary formation of digital marketing depending on the concept of the industry, stages of development of marketing and marketing environment are considered. The features of marketing tools (4p) in digital marketing are revealed. New markets of the digital revolution are presented. Digital marketing strategies in industry 4.0 are proposed in accordance with the concept of customized marketing. The features of the development of integrated marketing communications in the digital environment are highlighted. The approach of “service-oriented design” in consumer activity in digital marketing is considered.
Problems of Efficiency of Strategy of Enterprises and Organizations of Modern Russia
Authors: Басовская Елена , Basovskaya Elena , Басовский Леонид , Basovskiy Leonid
Published: December 2018

The relationship between the profitability of assets and the growth of production of enterprises and organizations in Russia in short-term periods is estimated. The estimates obtained indicate that, on the eve and during the economic crisis of 2014–2015, the management of most enterprises and organizations lost control over the performance of the organization, which was necessary in a market environment. Estimates of the economic value added provided by Russian enterprises and organizations in 2010–2015 show the inefficiency of their economic activity since 2013. The negative value of economic value added indicates a reduction in investment in enterprises and the organization of capital. The management of the majority of Russian enterprises and organizations has not yet mastered the approaches and methods of forming an effective strategy in changing conditions. Enterprises and organizations need constant monitoring of the environment, internal and external, and analysis of opportunities for improving efficiency. Even more important is the selection of managerial staff on the abilities of a creative approach to making management decisions based on experience and situation analysis.
Organization of the Amortization Process, Providing an Intensification of Updating of the Basic Means of the Enterprise
Authors: Хлынин Э. , Khlynin E. , Борисов А. , Borisov A. , Фатуев В. , Fatuev V.
Published: December 2018

The opportunity of the organization of amortization process of the basic means of the enterprise from a position innovations amortizations objects of means of work is considered. The hypothesis about dependence of used ways and methods of charge of depreciation charges on a degree innovations amortization object is formulated. For this purpose, each object of the basic means is offered for carrying to one of four innovative classes depending on a level of his obsolescence. The mechanism of the organization of amortization process in which the degree innovations object of the basic means is characterized by values of factors of an obsolescence and loading is developed. Realization of the generated mechanism of the organization of amortization process of means of work allows to choose a way and a method of charge of depreciation charges and to establish term of useful use of object amortization property, according to the requirement of an intensification of process of updating of the basic means of the enterprise.
Methodical Tools of Definition of Criteria Indicators and Factors of Formation of Cost of the Industrial Enterprises
Authors: Маевская Елена , Maevskaya Elena
Published: December 2018

In article methodological approach to justification of factors of formation and definition of criteria cost indexes of the industrial enterprises is considered. The methodology of estimating cost of the industrial enterprises taking into account their specifics and modern tendencies of the economic environment is presented in article.