bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) Mass Flow Rate as Affected by Drying and Storage Conditions
Authors: Bhadra Rumela , Rosentrater Kurt. A. , Muthukumarappan K.
Published: February 2017

Ethanol production in 2015 was over 15 million gallons in the United States, and it is projected to increase in the next few years to meet market demands. With the continued growth in the ethanol industry, there has been enormous expansion in distillers grains production. Because the local market for distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is often saturated, it is essential to transport DDGS long distances, across the United States and to international markets. Caking and agglomeration of DDGS particles in hoppers and other storage structures are typical during transportation. The current study deals with DDGS prepared by combining condensed distillers solubles (CDS) with distillers wet grains and then drying at varying temperatures. DDGS was stored in conical hoppers under varying ambient temperature, consolidation pressure, and time conditions. We investigated the effects of CDS (10, 15, and 20% wb), drying temperature (100, 200, and 300°C), drying time (20, 40, and 60 min), cooling temperature (0, 25, and 50°C), consolidation pressure (0, 1.72, and 3.43 kPa), and consolidation time (0, 3, and 6 days) levels on various flow parameters. To examine these factors, Taguchi's experimental design with an L18 orthogonal array was implemented. Response surface modeling yielded mass flow rate = f(Hausner ratio, angle of repose) with R2 = 0.99, and it predicted moisture content for good, fair, and poor flow. Results showed that drying temperature, drying time, and cooling type were the main factors in predicting mass flow rate. The Johansson model for predicted mass flow rate was calibrated with experimental data, and a new parameter, compressibility factor, with a value of 0.96 g2/(min cm3), was determined to quantify the divergence of compressible and cohesive materials (such as DDGS) for free‐flowing bulk solids. Thus, the predicted models may be beneficial for quantitative understanding of DDGS flow.
Discovery of Known and Novel Viral Genomes in Soybean Aphid by Deep Sequencing
Authors: Feng Ying , Krueger Elizabeth N. , Liu Sijun , Dorman Karin , Bonning Bryony C. , Miller W. Allen
Published: February 2017

The phytobiome includes not just cellular microorganisms, but also all viruses associated with plants: the virome. Plants and aphids exchange viruses regularly and efficiently; thus, the plant virome is tightly linked with the aphid virome. Yet, little is known about aphid viromes, particularly that of the soybean aphid (Aphis glycines), one of the most economically important pest insects of soybean. To sample the soybean aphid virome, and to seek new viruses as potential biological control agents, we employed next-generation sequencing. Genomes isolated from viruses in soybean aphids collected at four sites revealed many viruses, and six complete or nearly complete genomes were assembled. Most abundant were the picornavirus-like dicistroviruses Aphid lethal paralysis virus and Rhopalosiphum padi virus. We also sequenced the genome of a new dicistrovirus, Big Sioux River virus, fragments of which had been found previously in honey bee. Genome sequences that represent two entirely new virus families were obtained. These include an abundant tetravirus-like virus and a virus distantly related to cileviruses of plants and negeviruses of insects. Surprisingly, Cotton leafroll dwarf virus, a member of the genus Polerovirus, was found in soybean aphids from China, suggesting that the soybean aphid may be a vector of this virus. This virus had not been reported previously in China or in soybean. This study provides a peek into the rapidly expanding, largely unexplored world of insect viromes that will provide valuable knowledge for future understanding of plant−virus−vector interactions.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Segmented Assimilation
Authors: Flórez Karen R. , Abraído-Lanza Ana
Published: February 2017

Segmented assimilation theory posits that immigrants experience distinct paths of assimilation. Using cluster analysis and data from the National Latino and Asian American Survey, this study sought to apply this theory in relation to obesity among Latinos. Four clusters emerged: a “second-generation classic,” a “third-generation classic,” an “underclass,” and a “segmented assimilation” pattern. In analyses controlling for sociodemographic confounders (eg, age), second-generation classic individuals had higher odds of obesity (odds ratio = 2.70, 95% confidence interval = 1.47-4.93) relative to the segmented pattern. Similarly, third-generation classic individuals had higher odds of obesity (odds ratio = 3.23, 95% confidence interval = 1.74-6.01) compared with segmented assimilation individuals.
Cultural Contributors to Smoking Susceptibility Outcomes Among Latino Youth
Authors: Allen Michele L. , Hurtado G. Ali , Garcia-Huidobro Diego , Davey Cynthia , Forster Jean , Reynoso Ursula , Alvarez de Davila Silvia , Linares Roxana , Gonzales Nancy , Veronica Svetaz María
Published: February 2017

Padres Informados/Jovenes Preparados is a community-based participatory, family-focused tobacco prevention intervention for immigrant Latino families of adolescents. We conducted a participatory randomized controlled trial including 352 Latino families. Parents and youth in the intervention condition engaged in eight family skill building sessions. Participants completed baseline and 6-month postintervention surveys assessing smoking susceptibility and contextual factors. While the intervention did not affect smoking susceptibility overall, it resulted in lower smoking susceptibility among youth in families with less adherence to traditional Latino cultural values. This family cultural orientation is a key consideration for tobacco prevention interventions focused on Latino youth.
Interleukin-37 Ameliorates Coxsackievirus B3-induced Viral Myocarditis by Modulating the Th17/Regulatory T cell Immune Response
Authors: An Bang , Liu Xuefei , Li Ge , Yuan Haitao
Published: February 2017

Myocarditis is a heterogeneous group of disorders defined by inflammation of the heart muscle with an excessively activated immune response. Numerous interventions have been investigated for the treatment of myocarditis while success is limited. Interleukin-37 (IL-37), a novel member of the IL-1 cytokine family, is a natural inhibitor of innate immunity associated with autoimmune diseases. However, the modulatory effect of IL-37 in myocarditis is unknown. In this study, we investigated the immunological regulation of IL-37 in the coxsackievirus B3-induced model of murine viral myocarditis. The results show that IL-37 significantly ameliorates the signs of myocarditis with increased survival rate and bodyweight, improved histological changes, reduced activities of MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase and cardiac troponin I, and a suppressed response of Th17 cells and enhanced response of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the spleen. Moreover, IL-37 down-regulates the expression of Th17-related cytokines IL-6 and IL-17A, while promoting Treg-related cytokine IL-10 levels in the heart. Therefore, IL-37 may exhibit anti-inflammatory activity in the murine model of myocarditis by regulating the balance between Th17 and Treg cells, thereby providing a possible novel therapeutic target in myocarditis.
Impact of very low anti-Müllerian hormone on pregnancy success
Authors: Pacheco Alberto , Cruz María , García Velasco Juan Antonio
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Biomarkers are useful tool to help clinicians to estimate the chances of pregnancy of an infertile couple prior to assisted reproductive treatment. One proposed candidate is anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), but its role as a predictor of reproductive success, especially in patients with low or very low levels, is under discussion. This review highlights recent findings from literature regarding to reproductive outcome in women with very low levels of AMH.

Recent findings

Although there is a general agreement about the lower pregnancy rates of patients with very low levels of AMH compared with patients with normal AMH levels, the role of AMH as a predictor of success is still under discussion. In this sense, some authors establish a cutoff level below which the reproduction treatment is not successful; by contrast, other published data show a significant percentage of success is still observed in this group of patients, especially in young women.

In the following review, we discuss the usefulness of AMH as a predictor of reproductive outcome in patients with very low AMH levels and provide an update of the clinical results after assisted reproductive treatment in this group of patients. We also analyzed the different assays used to measure the AMH, focused on the differences between the manual and the new automated systems.
ISCHEMIC CENTRAL RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION IN THE ANTI–VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR ERA
Authors: Tam Emily K. , Golchet Pamela , Yung Madeline , DeCroos Francis C. , Spirn Marc , Lehmann-Clarke Lydia , Ambresin Aude , Tsui Irena
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy has improved the prognosis for patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). However, most studies published to date exclude ischemic CRVO. The purpose of this study was to describe the outcome in eyes with ischemic CRVO treated with anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy.

Methods:

Thirty-seven patients with ischemic CRVO from 3 centers were followed for at least 6 months. Data on patient demographic, vision status, and anti–vascular endothelial growth factor treatments were collected.

Results:

Average number of injections during the study period was 5. Younger age was associated with improved vision (P = 0.006). Patients with improved visual outcomes tended to have macular edema as the primary indication for treatment, whereas patients with worse outcomes tended to have neovascularization as the primary indication for treatment.

Conclusion:

This study highlights significant variability in the use of anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for ischemic CRVO and underscores that eyes with neovascularization tend to have worse visual outcomes.
Characteristics of Corneal Astigmatism of Anterior and Posterior Surface in a Normal Control Group and Patients With Keratoconus
Authors: Shajari Mehdi , Friderich Stefan , Pour Sadeghian Miad , Schmack Ingo , Kohnen Thomas
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate and compare power and axis orientation of anterior and posterior astigmatism in eyes with keratoconus with healthy eyes.

Methods:

In this retrospective cohort study, we examined 861 eyes of 494 patients diagnosed with keratoconus at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Frankfurt, and 256 eyes of 256 healthy individuals. Using a Scheimpflug device (Pentacam HR), we measured the magnitude and axis orientation of anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism, corneal thickness, and conus location. The results were compared between different stages of the disease according to the Amsler–Krumeich classification and the control group.

Results:

Magnitude of corneal astigmatism was 3.47 ± 2.10 diopters (D) on the anterior surface and 0.69  ± 0.40 D on the posterior surface in eyes across all keratoconus stages. We found a significant increase of anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism with progression of disease (P < 0.01, 1-way analysis of variance) and a significant correlation between anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism (r = 0.77, P < 0.01). In contrast to eyes of healthy individuals, in which posterior corneal axis alignment is vertical in most cases independent of anterior alignment, we found in eyes with keratoconus a match between anterior and posterior alignment when alignment was vertical in 97% of eyes, 46% when oblique and 61% when horizontal (Cohen kappa coefficient κ = 0.55, P < 0.01). With progression of disease, alignment of anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism became increasingly vertical.

Conclusions:

In eyes with keratoconus, posterior axis alignment of corneal astigmatism is in line with alignment of the anterior surface in the majority of cases. Posterior astigmatism axis alignment could potentially be used in algorithms to support diagnosis and staging of keratoconus.
Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome: Inadvertent Administration of Intracameral Lidocaine 1% and Phenylephrine 2.5% Preserved With 10% Benzalkonium Chloride During Cataract Surgery
Authors: Bielory Brett P. , Shariff Ayesha , Hussain Rehan M. , Bermudez-Magner Jose Antonio , Dubovy Sander R. , Donaldson Kendall E.
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

To report 3 patients with corneal decompensation and anterior uveitis within 24 hours of cataract surgery from a single ambulatory surgery center using intracameral lidocaine HCl 1% and phenylephrine 2.5% inadvertently preserved with 10% benzalkonium chloride.

Methods:

This case series describes 3 patients who underwent traditional cataract extraction with a significant decrease in visual acuity in the immediate postoperative period resulting in secondary surgical intervention for corneal decompensation in 2 patients.

Results:

All 3 patients experienced a dramatic decrease in visual acuity on the day of surgery, ranging from 20/400 to light perception. They were treated with topical steroids and sodium chloride, with stabilization of vision at 20/60 in 1 patient. The remaining 2 patients did not recover with medical management. One underwent Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty with placement of the corneal graft on top of Descemet membrane, which could not be removed secondary to extensive fibrosis. The third patient underwent penetrating keratoplasty secondary to deep corneal scarring.

Conclusions:

This is the first case series of toxic anterior segment syndrome occurring secondary to the use of benzalkonium chloride-preserved intracameral lidocaine and phenylephrine. Clinicians should remain alert to this phenomenon, and should refrain from using intracameral preservatives during cataract surgery.
Forensic Nursing Provides Closure in Workplace Fatality
Authors: Harris Colin
Published: February 2017

The Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia in Canada is the provincial agency mandated to investigate workplace injuries and fatalities. In 2012, the Fatal and Serious Injuries Investigation section of this organization initiated the integration of forensic nursing expertise into the investigation of workplace incidents. The goals were to improve investigative outcomes and aid in prevention initiatives by achieving a more accurate understanding of incident causation through the application of forensic nursing science. An unexpected outcome of the use of forensic nursing expertise was providing closure for families through a deeper understanding of their loved one’s tragic workplace incident.
Health Sector Reform, Emotional Exhaustion, and Nursing Burnout: A Retrospective Panel Study in Iran
Authors: Sadati Ahmad Kalateh , Rahnavard Farnaz , Heydari Seyed Taghi , Hemmati Soroor , Ebrahimzadeh Najmeh , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri
Published: February 2017

Background:

Nursing burnout is affected by various factors, including work overload. Since the inauguration of the Health Sector Evolution Plan (HSEP) in Iran in 2014, government hospitals have been required to provide health services to the public at all levels. This decision, however, has increased the volume of patients admitted to government hospitals. Because nurses are on the front line of health services, they are faced with a greater load of care provision.

Purpose:

This study aimed to evaluate nursing burnout before and after HSEP in Iran, with an emphasis on the differences between government and private hospitals.

Method:

This retrospective panel study used Maslach’s burnout inventory to evaluate nursing burnout in 371 nurses working in government and private hospitals in Shiraz, Iran, before and 7 months after the health sector reform. Chi-square test and paired t test were used to compare burnout scores.

Results:

The results showed that nursing burnout had changed significantly after HSEP was launched (p = .030). A more detailed assessment found that burnout and emotional exhaustion had both increased significantly in the government-hospital group (ps = .014 and .001, respectively). However, no significant change in burnout was found in the private-hospital group over the same period.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice:

The findings of this study indicate an increase in nursing burnout in government hospitals. An important issue in every health sector reform is nursing resource management, with a focus on burnout. Accordingly, policymakers should consider the work overload situation of nurses and work to prevent increased burnout, especially emotional exhaustion.
Effect of Orthotic Rehabilitation with Isocentric Reciprocating Gait Orthosis on Functional Ambulation in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Arazpour Mokhtar , Samadian Mohammad , Mardani Mohammad Ali , Bahramizadeh Mahmood , Ebrahimzadeh Kaveh , Kashani Reza Vahab , Mousavi Mohammad Ebrahim
Published: February 2017

Objectives

Functional ability defines a person's ability to walk, with or without the aid of appropriate assistive devices, safely and sufficiently to carry out mobility-related activities of daily living. Longitudinal evaluation of the efficiency of gait training positively affecting these parameters has not been reported. Therefore, the aim of this study is to provide evidence supporting the progression of walking speed and functional ambulation over 12 weeks of orthotic gait rehabilitation using an isocentric reciprocating gait orthosis (IRGO) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Materials and Methods

Twelve patients with SCI participated in this study. Gait evaluation was performed at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks following intervention with an IRGO and specific gait training. Gait speed and endurance were measured by the 10-m walk test and the 6-minute walk test, respectively. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) locomotor subscale and the Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI II) were used to measure the locomotor ability.

Results

Improvement in speed of walking was observed after 4 weeks and continued to improve with time. The distance of walking, FIM, and WISCI also increased significantly during the study period when compared with the baseline.

Conclusion

Patients with SCI showed an increase in walking functional ambulation ability during a longitudinal period of orthotic gait training with an IRGO. In conclusion, wearing IRGO associated with gait training can provide individuals with thoracic-level SCI the ability to walk faster.
A Three-Dimensional Geometric-Morphometric Study to Quantify Temporal Bone Growth and its Consequences for the Success of Implanting Bone Anchored Hearing Devices
Authors: Schilde Sebastian , Plontke Stefan K. , Rahne Torsten
Published: February 2017

Objective:

A computed tomography (CT)-based morphological-investigation to describe temporal bone growth and to devise a predictive test of the likely success of Bonebridge implantation into the growing mastoid region of the temporal bone in young patients.

Study Design:

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Setting:

University Hospital Halle (Saale), Germany.

Patients:

Two cohorts participated. This first, of patients aged less than 21 years, comprised 42 men, and 33 women patients. The second cohort, for those aged more than or equal to 21 years, comprised 17 men, and 20 women patients.

Intervention:

One hundred eighty three three-dimensional (3-D) reconstructions of the mastoid portion of the temporal bone without malformations or chronic middle ear disease were created on the base of high resolution computer tomography. The 3-D-reconstructions were analyzed using 13 linear measurements and volumetry.

Primary Outcome Measure:

A CT/3-D model derived metric with which to best estimate the likely success of fitting a Bonebridge.

Results:

Volume increase stagnated at, on average, 15.6 years of age (men), or 17.5 years (women). The most obvious extent of growth was observed in the craniocaudal direction from the middle cranial fossa to the tip of the mastoid process (total height). This growth is highly correlated with the increase of the mastoid volume (r = 0.938) and thus represents the most influential factor on mastoid volume increase. The total height of the mastoid portion can be used to usefully predict the chance of successful Bonebridge implantation.

The depth of the mastoid almost doubled its size from birth (8.93 mm) to adulthood (16.34 mm) and also strongly affects the mastoid volume (r = 0.912). That portion between the external auditory canal (EAC) and the sigmoid sinus showed a lower growth capacity.

Conclusions:

The highly significant correlations between CT derived linear parameters and Bonebridge fitting (p < 0.001) can be used to estimate the success of Bonebridge implantation. The remarkable inter-individual variation of mastoid shape underlines the necessity of radiological preoperative planning.
P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 in T cells
Authors: Abadier Michael , Ley Klaus
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

We review P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) as a selectin and chemokine-binding adhesion molecule. PSGL-1 is widely studied in neutrophils. Here, we focus on T cells, because PSGL-1 was recently described as a major immunomodulatory molecule during viral infection. PSGL-1 also plays a crucial role in T-cell homeostasis by binding to lymphoid chemokines, and can induce tolerance by enhancing the functions of regulatory T cells.

Recent findings

PSGL-1 was originally described as a leukocyte ligand for P-selectin, but it is actually a ligand for all selectins (P-, L- and E-selectin), binds chemokines, activates integrins and profoundly affects T-cell biology. It has been shown recently that PSGL-1 can modulate T cells during viral infection by acting as a negative regulator for T-cell functions. Absence of PSGL-1 promotes effector CD4 and CD8 T-cell differentiation and prevents T-cell exhaustion. Consistent with this, tumor growth was significantly reduced in PSGL-1-deficient mice because of an enhanced number of effector T cells together with reduced levels of inhibitory receptors that induce T-cell exhaustion.

PSGL-1 is the best-studied selectin ligand and has become a posterchild of versatility in leukocyte adhesion, inflammation and immunology. The direct involvement of PSGL-1 in T-cell biology suggests that it might be a drug target. Indeed, PSGL-1 has been tested in some clinical trials and recently, PSGL-1 blockers were proposed as a potential cotherapy in cancer immunotherapy.
Endothelial cell metabolism: an update anno 2017
Authors: Teuwen Laure-Anne , Draoui Nihed , Dubois Charlotte , Carmeliet Peter
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Endothelial cell metabolism has recently emerged as an important coregulator of angiogenesis and is therefore a promising new target in various angiogenesis-associated illnesses, like cancer. In this review, we discuss recent insights in endothelial cell metabolism in both physiological and pathological conditions and discuss possible translational implications.

Recent findings

Two metabolic pathways that determine the performance of endothelial cells are glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation (FAO). Glycolysis is essential as endothelial cells primarily rely on this pathway for ATP production. 6-Phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) is a key regulator of glycolysis in endothelial cells. As endothelial cells increase glycolysis even further during angiogenesis, PFKFB3 also controls vessel sprouting and promotes endothelial cell migration. Moreover, in tumors, additional PFKFB3 upregulation leads to a more immature and dysfunctional vasculature. PFKFB3 blockade therefore results in tumor vessel normalization, with beneficial therapeutic effects on reduced metastasis and improved chemotherapy. Also, FAO stimulates endothelial cell proliferation through affecting DNA synthesis, and is critical for lymphangiogenesis, in part through epigenetic changes in histone acetylation. As FAO is controlled by carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a, inhibition of this key enzyme decreases pathological angiogenesis.

Both PFKFB3 and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a are key metabolic regulators of vessel sprouting and promising new therapeutic targets in diseases associated with pathological angiogenesis.
Wnt signaling in the vessel wall
Authors: Badimon Lina , Borrell-Pages Maria
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Wnt signaling plays a crucial role during embryogenesis. In an adult, Wnt is mainly associated to cellular proliferation and differentiation mechanisms. Recent data suggest that Wnt signaling is involved in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. However, the roles of Wnt signaling pathways in the vessel wall are poorly understood. This review outlines recent discoveries in understanding the role of Wnt pathways in healthy and atherosclerotic vessels.

Recent findings

In the last years, the involvement of both canonical and noncanonical Wnt pathways in the development of atherosclerotic lesions has been recognized. Indeed, several Wnt pathway components have been shown to participate in the early, intermediate, and late stages of atherosclerosis development. Specifically, the role of the Wnt coreceptors low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 seems to be crucial for atherosclerotic plaque progression.

Many of the clinical trials developed in the last decade to reduce atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases have been futile or have failed possibly because of a poor understanding of new mechanisms that lead to diseases. The understanding of the signaling pathways involved in human atherosclerosis development should help in the development of future therapies.
Open partial laryngectomy after failure of (chemo) radiation: indications, oncologic and functional outcomes
Authors: Mortuaire Geoffrey , Chevalier Dominique , Mouawad François
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Early-stage squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx can be successfully treated with radiotherapy or surgery (transoral or open approaches). Oncologic results are comparable while functional results may be different according to the volume of resection. In some countries radiotherapy is often preferred as primary treatment. In case of recurrence, surgical salvage is the only option. Careful examination, endoscopic assessment, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging are necessary to assess superficial and deep extensions into the larynx, including cartilage framework and to restage the tumor.

Recent findings

The choice between endoscopic and open partial laryngectomy is based on the extension and characteristics of the tumor. Oncologic results of open approaches are encouraging as local control, survival, and laryngeal preservation rates reported in the literature are close to those obtained in nonpreviously treated patients. Functional results are not significantly worse and major complications in the previously irradiated patients undergoing open neck surgery not increased.

Supracricoid partial surgery seems to be more and more performed.

With regards to the results, open partial surgery, like in nonpreviously treated patients, is still indicated for the surgical treatment of postradiotherapic recurrent/persistent disease.
Neuroprotective Effect of Modified Electroconvulsive Therapy for Schizophrenia
Authors: Gan Jing-Li , Duan Hui-Feng , Cheng Zheng-Xiang , Yang Jia-Ming , Zhu Xi-Quan , Gao Cun-You , Zhao Lan-Min , Liang Xue-Jun
Published: February 2017

The underlying mechanism of modified electroconvulsive therapy (MECT) treatment for drug-resistant and catatonic schizophrenia remains unclear. Here, we aim to investigate whether MECT exerts its antipsychotic effects through elevating N-acetylaspartate (NAA) concentration measured by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS). Multiple-voxel 1H-MRS was acquired in the bilateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) and thalamus to obtain measures of neurochemistry in 32 MECT, 34 atypical antipsychotic-treated schizophrenic patients, and 34 healthy controls. We found that both MECT and atypical antipsychotic treatments showed significant antipsychotic efficacy. MECT and atypical antipsychotic treatments reversed the reduced NAA/creatine ratio (NAA/Cr) in the left PFC and left thalamus in schizophrenic patients compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, the NAA/Cr ratio after treatments was significant higher in the MECT group, but not in the medication group. Our findings demonstrate that eight times of MECT elevated the relative NAA concentration to display neuroprotective effect, which may be the underlying mechanism of rapid antipsychotic efficacy.
Comfortably Numb
Authors: Mason Tyler B. , Lavender Jason M. , Wonderlich Stephen A. , Steiger Howard , Cao Li , Engel Scott G. , Mitchell James E. , Crosby Ross D.
Published: February 2017

Evidence suggests that both dissociation and negative affect (NA) may precipitate binge eating. The extent to which dissociation may impact the experience of NA around binge eating is unclear. Women with bulimia nervosa completed a 2-week ecological momentary assessment protocol of dissociation, NA, and binge eating. Multilevel modeling was used to examine dissociation as a moderator of NA before and after binge eating. NA was greater at the time of binge eating for participants higher in average dissociation (between subjects) and when momentary dissociation was greater than one's average (within subjects). The trajectory of NA was characterized by a sharper increase before binge eating for participants higher in average dissociation; the NA trajectories were characterized by sharper increases before and decreases after binge eating when momentary dissociation was greater than one's average. Results support the salience of both dissociation and NA in relation to the occurrence of binge eating.
Sleep Problems in Relation to Smoking and Alcohol Use in Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Chen Hua , Bo Qi-Gui , Jia Cun-Xian , Liu Xianchen
Published: February 2017

This study examined sleep patterns and sleep problems in relation to smoking and alcohol use in Chinese adolescents. A questionnaire survey of 2090 adolescent students was conducted in Lijin County, Shandong, China. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. After adjustment for demographics and internalizing and externalizing problems, poor sleep quality was associated with increased risk of smoking (odds ratio [OR], 2.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.24–5.40), alcohol use (OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 2.81–3.89), and getting drunk (OR, 2.81; 95% CI, 1.72–4.57); sleeping 7 hours (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.20–2.43) and sleeping 6 hours or less per night on weekdays (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.25–3.10) were significantly associated with increased risk for alcohol use, and sleeping 6 hours or less per night on weekends (OR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.18–3.70) were significantly associated with increased risk for getting drunk; and hypnotic medication use was significantly associated with ever smoking (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.08–2.99). These findings highlight the potential role of sleep intervention in the prevention of adolescent substance use.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor–Induced Hyponatremia and the Plastic Surgery Patient
Authors: Levine Steven M. , Sinno Sammy , Cannavo Dominick , Baker Daniel C.
Published: February 2017

Cosmetic plastic surgery procedures continue to increase in frequency, and a greater number of them now occur outside of an acute-care hospital setting. In addition, antidepressant use is also rising, with a greater number of patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors to aid in a variety of mood and anxiety disorders. Americans spend more than $86 billion each year on antidepressants, as 34 million people in the United States are taking at least one of these medications. Many side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are well known and not clinically relevant to practicing surgeons. Hyponatremia, however, is a well-documented side effect of these medications that has received relatively little attention in the surgical literature. Postoperative hyponatremia results because of a decrease of antidiuretic hormone suppression that occurs with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor administration. Here, the authors first review the literature reporting hyponatremia with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use. The authors then present two cases of severe postoperative hyponatremia after plastic surgery operations. The authors propose that patients using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, especially elderly patients and those undergoing procedures with expected large fluid shifts, should be tested preoperatively and postoperatively for serum sodium levels so that a diagnosis of hyponatremia may be made early and treated before a catastrophic event.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, V.
Vagal Regulation of Cardiac Function in Early Childhood and Cardiovascular Risk in Adolescence
Authors: Gangel Meghan J. , Shanahan Lilly , Kolacz Jacek , Janssen James A. , Brown Ashley , Calkins Susan D. , Keane Susan P. , Wideman Laurie
Published: February 2017

Objective

Poor behavioral self-regulation in the first 2 decades of life has been identified as an important precursor of disease risk in adulthood. However, physiological regulation has not been well studied as a disease risk factor before adulthood. We tested whether physiological regulation at the age of 2 years, in the form of vagal regulation of cardiac function (indexed by respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA] change), would predict three indicators of cardiovascular risk at the age of 16 years (diastolic and systolic blood pressure and body mass index).

Methods

Data came from 229 children who participated in a community-based longitudinal study. At the age of 2 years, children were assessed for RSA baseline and RSA change (ln(ms)2) in response to a series of challenge tasks. These same children were assessed again at the age of 16 years for diastolic and systolic blood pressure (millimeters of mercury), height (meters), and weight (kilogram).

Results

Regression analyses revealed that less RSA withdrawal at the age of 2 years predicted higher diastolic blood pressure at the age of 16 years, adjusting for demographic characteristics (B = −3.07, M [S E] = 1.12, p = .006). Follow-up analyses demonstrated that these predictions extended to clinically significant levels of diastolic prehypertension (odds ratio = 0.43, 95% confidence interval = 0.22–0.89). RSA withdrawal did not significantly predict adolescent body mass index or systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions

Vagal regulation of cardiac function in early childhood predicts select indicators of cardiovascular risk 14 years later. Early signs of attenuated vagal regulation could indicate an increased risk for elevated blood pressure before adulthood. Future research should test biological, behavioral, and psychological mechanisms underlying these long-term predictions.
Staphylococcus aureus infections, some second thoughts
Authors: van Wamel Willem J.B.
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is well known for its ability to cause life-threatening infections. On the other hand, this bacterium can thrive as a commensal on and in human tissues without causing much problems. How big a threat is S. aureus actually? Furthermore, commensalism is associated with biofilms, where can we find them, and which natural and artificial components activate biofilm formation?

Recent findings

Recent findings on S. aureus carriage on skin, mucosa, and in wounds indicate the presence of large numbers of S. aureus, yet its abundance can be without major implications for the host. S. aureus is often present in biofilms, together with other microorganisms, which can stimulate biofilm formation of S. aureus, in addition medicine including antibiotics can do the same.

S. aureus can cause devastating infections, but when we take into consideration the ubiquitous presence of S. aureus, the risk seems to be relatively low. S. aureus forms biofilms in response to the ‘hazards’ on the human body, and signal to do so can come from various sources. All this has to be taken into consideration when we treat a patient as this might have enormous impact on the outcome.
Comparison of the Speech Results After Correction of Submucous Cleft Palate With Furlow Palatoplasty and Pharyngeal Flap Combined With Intravelar Veloplasty
Authors: Calis Mert , Ustun Galip Gencay , Ozturk Mehtap , Gunaydin Riza Onder , Kulak Kayikci Mavis Emel , Ozgur Figen
Published: February 2017

Submucous cleft palate (SMCP) is a relatively rare variant of the common pathology of cleft palate with specific anatomic and clinical features. Even though there are many surgical options defined previously to correct the SMCP, correction of the velopharyngeal insufficiency and obtaining ideal speech results remains as a challenge. The aim of this article was to compare the speech benefits of Furlow double opposing Z plasty and posterior pharyngeal flap operation combined with intravelar veloplasty for the correction of SMCP using objective assessment tools. This study reviewed 29 patients who underwent either superiorly based posterior pharyngeal flap combined with intravelar veloplasty or Furlow palatoplasty for submucous cleft palate repair between years 2005 and 2011. The mean standard deviation age at palate repair was 123.6 ± 65.8 months and the mean follow-up period was 31.2 ± 15.9 months. The postoperative results demonstrated that in both groups significantly correction has been achieved in means of velopharygeal closure (P values for Furlow and pharyngeal flap groups are 0.012 and 0.001 respectively). The correction of the nasalance scores obtained depending on the surgical procedure for /şa/ and /ka/ syllables demonstrated significantly more benefit with pharyngeal flap combined with intravelar veloplasty than Furlow palatoplasty (P = 0.026 for each). In the treatment of submucous clefts, both Furlow palatoplasty and pharyngeal flap procedure combined with intravelar veloplasty appear to be effective whereas for the patients having significant signs of hypernasality, contribution of pharyngeal flap may be taken into consideration.
Factors Influencing Difficulty of Laparoscopic Abdominoperineal Resection for Ultra-Low Rectal Cancer
Authors: Li Qiken , Li Dechuan , Jiang Lai , Qiu Pengnian , Fu Zhixuan , Tang Lilong , Chen Weiping
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Our current study was conducted to identify patients’ anatomic, pathologic, and clinical factors to predict difficulty of performing laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection for ultra-low rectal cancer.

Materials and Methods:

Records of 117 consecutive patients with rectal cancer 2 to 5 cm from the anal verge were retrospectively reviewed. Using univariate and multivariate linear or logistic regression models, standardized operative time and blood loss, as well as postoperative morbidity were utilized as endpoints to screen patients’ multiple variables to predict operative difficulty.

Results:

Multivariate linear regression analysis showed body mass index (BMI) (estimate=0.07, P=0.0056), interspinous distance (estimate=−0.02, P=0.0011), tumor distance from anal verge (estimate=−0.17, P=0.0355), prior abdominal surgery (estimate=0.51, P=0.0180), preoperative chemoradiotherapy (estimate=0.67, P=0.0146), and concurrent diseases (hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus) (estimate=0.49, P=0.0122) are predictors for standardized operative time. Age (estimate=0.02, P=0.0208) and concurrent diseases (estimate=0.43, P=0.0476) were factors related to standardized blood loss. BMI (estimate=0.15, P=0.0472) was the only predictor for postoperative morbidity based on logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions:

Age, BMI, interspinous distance, tumor distance from anal verge, prior abdominal surgery, preoperative chemoradiotherapy, and concurrent diseases influence the difficulty of performing laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection for ultra-low rectal cancer. Standardized operative time allows researchers to amass samples by pooling data from all published studies, thus building reliable models to predict operative difficulty for clinical use.
Genome-scale genetic interactions position the Mitotic Exit Network as a major antagonist of transient Topoisomerase II deficiency
Authors: Cristina Ramos-Pérez , W Brown Grant , Félix Machín
Published: February 2017

Topoisomerase II (Top2) is the essential protein that resolves DNA catenations. When the Top2 is inactivated, mitotic catastrophe results from massive entanglement of chromosomes. Top2 is also the target of many first-line anticancer drugs, the so-called Top2 poisons. Often, tumours become resistant to these drugs by downregulating Top2. Here, we have compared two isogenic yeast strains carryingtop2thermosensitive alleles that differ in their resistance to Top2 poisons, the broadly-used poison-sensitivetop2-4and the poison-resistanttop2-5. We found thattop2-5transits through anaphase faster thantop2-4. In order to define the biological importance of this difference, we performed genome-scale Synthetic Gene Array (SGA) analyses during chronic sublethal Top2 downregulation and acute, yet transient, Top2 inactivation. We find that downregulation of cell cycle progression, especially the Mitotic Exit Network (MEN), protects against Top2 deficiency. In all conditions, genetic protection was stronger intop2-5, and this correlated with destabilization of anaphase bridges by execution of MEN. We suggest that mitotic exit may be a therapeutic target to hypersensitize cancer cells carrying downregulating mutations inTOP2.
A Supernova at 50 PC: Effects on the Earth’s Atmosphere and Biota
Authors: Melott A.L , Thomas B.C. , Kachelrieß M. , Semikoz D.V. , Overholt A.C.
Published: February 2017

Recent60Fe results have suggested that the estimated distances of supernovae in the last few million years should be reduced from ∼100 pc to ∼50 pc. Two events or series of events are suggested, one about 2.7 million years to 1.7 million years ago, and another may at 6.5 to 8.7 million years ago. We ask what effects such supernovae are expected to have on the terrestrial atmosphere and biota. Assuming that the Local Bubble was formed before the event being considered, and that the supernova and the Earth were both inside a weak, disordered magnetic field at that time, TeV-PeV cosmic rays at Earth will increase by a factor of a few hundred. Tropospheric ionization will increase proportionately, and the overall muon radiation load on terrestrial organisms will increase by a factor of ∼150. All return to pre-burst levels within 10kyr. In the case of an ordered magnetic field, effects depend strongly on the field orientation. The upper bound in this case is with a largely coherent field aligned along the line of sight to the supernova, in which case TeV-PeV cosmic ray flux increases are ∼104; in the case of a transverse field they are below current levels. We suggest a substantial increase in the extended effects of supernovae on Earth and in the “lethal distance” estimate; more work is needed. This paper is an explicit followup to Thomas et al. (2016). We also here provide more detail on the computational procedures used in both works.
(E)-3-(3-Methylthiophen-2-yl)-1-p-tolylprop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Naveen S. , Al-Maqtari Helmi Muhammed , Jamalis Joazaizulfazli , Sirat Hasnah Mohd , Lokanath N. K. , Abdoh Muneer
Published: February 2017

In the title compound, C15H14OS, the dihedral angle between the thiophene and benzene rings is 31.34 (13)°. The thiophene S atom and enone C=O group are approximately in anantiorientation. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviapairs of very weak C—H-...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers withR22(16) ring motifs.
Assessing reflection
Authors: Cathro Virginia , O’Kane Paula , Gilbertson Deb
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest ways in which business educators can interact successfully with reflective learning journals (RLJs). Specifically, the research was interested in how students used RLJs and how educators assessed these RLJs.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 31 RLJs, submitted as part of an international communication course involving a global virtual team exercise, were analysed. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes discussed by participants, while content analysis, based upon Kolb’s learning cycle, was used to assess the depth of student reflection.

Findings

Students appear to have engaged with depth and understanding and were able to articulate their skill level, but there was variance in their reflective ability across different skills.

Practical implications

An interpretation of Kolb’s (1984) learning cycle as a method to assist educators to assess RLJs is presented. Specifically, educators need to provide more guidance to students to enhance their ability to reflect. The authors suggest that a rubric based on Kolb could fulfil this objective.

Originality/value

This study responds to the call for more research examining depth of reflection (Lienet al., 2012); it also offers contribution to the variety of models characterising reflective depth (Ash and Clayton, 2009; Chamberlain, 2012; Lienet al., 2012) drawn from experiential learning in the form of written RLJs.
A single‐stranded DNA aptamer against mannose‐capped lipoarabinomannan enhances anti‐tuberculosis activity of macrophages through downregulation of lipid‐sensing nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ expression
Authors: Pan Qin , Yan Jiamin , Liu Qi , Yuan Chunhui , Zhang Xiao‐Lian
Published: February 2017

Mannose‐capped lipoarabinomannan (ManLAM) is an immunomodulatory epitope of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). An aptamer (ZXL1) that specifically binds to ManLAM from the virulent Mtb H37Rv strain was previously generated and it was found that ZXL1 functions as an antagonist, inhibiting the ManLAM‐induced immunosuppression of DCs. In the present study, it was found that ZXL1 inhibits Mtb entry into murine macrophages and that ZXL1 enhances IL‐1β and IL‐12 mRNA expression and cytokine production in ManLAM‐treated macrophages but decreases IL‐10 production. Inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in macrophages was upregulated in the presence of ZXL1 after stimulation with ManLAM. ZXL1 was also found to inhibit expression of lipid‐sensing nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ). These results suggest that ZXL1 promotes anti‐tuberculosis activity through downregulation of PPAR‐γ expression, which may contribute to M1 macrophage polarization and Mtb killing by macrophages.