bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence and the burden of pain in patients with Huntington disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sprenger Gregory P. , van der Zwaan Kasper F. , Roos Raymund A.C. , Achterberg Wilco P.
Published: January 2019

It is remarkable that studies focusing on the prevalence and the burden of pain in patients with Huntington disease (HD) are scarce. This may lead to inadequate recognition of pain and hence lack of treatment, eventually affecting the quality of life. The aim of this review is to investigate the prevalence of pain and its burden in HD by performing a systematic literature search. In February 2018, a systematic search was performed in the electronic databases of Pubmed, Embase, Cinahl, Cochrane, and PsycINFO. Studies focusing on patients with juvenile HD were excluded. All other types of study were included without language restrictions. In total, 2234 articles were identified, 15 of which met the inclusion criteria and provided information on 2578 patients with HD. The sample-weighted prevalence of pain was 41.3% (95% confidence interval: 36%-46%). The pain burden, which was measured with the SF-36, is significantly less compared with that in the general population. The sample-weighted mean score on the SF-36 was 84 (95% confidence interval: 81-86), where a score of 100 represents the lowest symptom burden. The results demonstrate that pain could be an important nonmotor symptom in patients with HD, and there are indications that the pain burden could be diminished because of HD. Larger and high-quality prospective cohort and clinical studies are required to confirm these findings. In the meantime, awareness about pain and its burden in patients with HD is warranted in clinical practice.
Increased pain sensitivity but normal pain modulation in adolescents with migraine
Authors: Nahman-Averbuch Hadas , Leon Eric , Hunter Benjamin M. , Ding Lili , Hershey Andrew D. , Powers Scott W. , King Christopher D. , Coghill Robert C.
Published: January 2019

Inhibitory pain modulation has been reported to be deficient in adults across different types of chronic pain, including migraine. To determine whether a similar phenomenon occurs in youth, we performed a quantitative sensory testing investigation in adolescents with migraine (N = 19). These patients were compared to healthy adolescents with (Fam-His; N = 20) or without (Healthy; N = 29) a family history of migraine (eg, first-degree relative with migraine). Subjects were first familiarized with the stimuli and visual analogue rating scales using graded noxious stimuli (0°C, 43-49°C range). These data were used to explore potential pain sensitivity differences between the groups. Pain inhibition was assessed by conditioned pain modulation (CPM), which used both suprathreshold heat pain (heat CPM) and pressure pain thresholds (pressure CPM) as the test stimuli before and during cold-water immersion (8°C). In response to the graded heat stimuli, Fam-His participants reported higher pain intensity ratings compared with patients with migraine, who in turn reported higher pain intensity ratings than the healthy controls (F = 3.6, [df = 2, 459], P = 0.027). For heat and pressure CPM, there was no significant group difference in the magnitude of CPM responses. Thus, adolescents with migraine and healthy adolescents have similar inhibitory pain modulation capability, despite having marked differences in pain sensitivity. Although Fam-His participants are asymptomatic, they demonstrate alterations in pain processing, which may serve as markers for prediction of migraine development.
Intact mast cell content during mild head injury is required for development of latent pain sensitization: implications for mechanisms underlying post-traumatic headache
Authors: Bree Dara , Levy Dan
Published: January 2019

Post-traumatic headache (PTH) is one of the most common, debilitating, and difficult symptoms to manage after a traumatic head injury. Although the mechanisms underlying PTH remain elusive, recent studies in rodent models suggest the potential involvement of calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP), a mediator of neurogenic inflammation, and the ensuing activation of meningeal mast cells (MCs), proalgesic resident immune cells that can lead to the activation of the headache pain pathway. Here, we investigated the relative contribution of MCs to the development of PTH-like pain behaviors in a model of mild closed-head injury (mCHI) in male rats. We initially tested the relative contribution of peripheral CGRP signaling to the activation of meningeal MCs after mCHI using a blocking anti-CGRP monoclonal antibody. We then used a prophylactic MC granule depletion approach to address the hypotheses that intact meningeal MC granule content is necessary for the development of PTH-related pain-like behaviors. The data suggest that after mCHI, ongoing activation of meningeal MCs is not mediated by peripheral CGRP signaling and does not contribute to the development of the mCHI-evoked cephalic mechanical pain hypersensitivity. Our data, however, also reveal that the development of latent sensitization, manifested as persistent hypersensitivity upon the recovery from mCHI-evoked acute cranial hyperalgesia to the headache trigger glyceryl trinitrate requires intact MC content during and immediately after mCHI. Collectively, our data implicate the acute activation of meningeal MCs as mediator of chronic pain hypersensitivity after a concussion or mCHI. Targeting MCs may be explored for early prophylactic treatment of PTH.
Sirtuin 1 alleviates diabetic neuropathic pain by regulating synaptic plasticity of spinal dorsal horn neurons
Authors: Zhang Zongqin , Ding Xiaobao , Zhou Zhiwei , Qiu Zhuang , Shi Naihao , Zhou Shasha , Du Lei , Zhu Xia , Wu Yuqing , Yin Xiaoxing , Zhou Chenghua
Published: January 2019

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the enhanced synaptic plasticity of nociceptive interneurons in the spinal dorsal horn is the basis of central sensitization in neuropathic pain. Our previous results demonstrated that sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent deacetylase, alleviates neuropathic pain in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats. SIRT1 has also been reported to regulate synaptic plasticity in different brain neurons. However, the role of SIRT1 in synaptic plasticity of spinal dorsal horn neurons remains unknown. In this study, we found that in the spinal dorsal horn of diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) rats and db/db mice, decreased SIRT1 expression was accompanied by enhanced structural synaptic plasticity. The levels of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43), and synaptophysin increased in the spinal dorsal horn of DNP rats and db/db mice and in high glucose–cultured primary spinal neurons. Upregulation of spinal SIRT1 by SIRT1 activator SRT1720 relieved pain behavior, inhibited the enhanced structural synaptic plasticity in rats and db/db mice with DNP, and decreased the levels of synapse-associated proteins in DNP rats, db/db mice, and high glucose–cultured spinal neurons. SIRT1-shRNA induced pain behavior and enhanced structural synaptic plasticity in normal rats and increased synapse-associated proteins levels in normal rats and spinal neurons. Intrathecal injection of AAV-Cre-EGFP into SIRT1flox/flox mice also induced pain behavior and enhanced synaptic plasticity of the spinal dorsal horn neurons. These results suggest that SIRT1 plays an important role in the progression of DNP by regulating synaptic plasticity of spinal dorsal horn neurons.
Virtual Reality and Cognitive Rehabilitation in People With Stroke: An Overview
Authors: Maggio Maria Grazia , Latella Desirèe , Maresca Giuseppa , Sciarrone Francesca , Manuli Alfredo , Naro Antonino , De Luca Rosaria , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: January 2019

Objective: This review evaluates the use of virtual reality (VR) tools in cognitive rehabilitation of stroke-affected individuals. Methods: Studies performed between 2010 and 2017 that fulfilled inclusion criteria were selected from PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Sciences databases. The search combined the terms “VR,” “rehabilitation,” and “stroke.” Results: Stroke patients experienced significant improvement in many cognitive domains (such as executive and visual–spatial abilities and speech, attention, and memory skills) after the use of VR training. Conclusions: Rehabilitation using new VR tools could positively affect stroke patient cognitive outcomes by boosting motivation and participation.
The Feasibility and Impact of the EMOVE Intervention on Self-efficacy and Outcome Expectations for Exercise in Epilepsy
Authors: Dustin Irene H. , Resnick Barbara , Galik Elizabeth , Klinedinst N. Jennifer , Michael Kathleen , Wiggs Edythe , Theodore William H.
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of the self-efficacy based Epilepsy-Motivate and Outcome Expectations for Vigorous Exercise (EMOVE) intervention and report on the preliminary efficacy of this intervention aimed at improving exercise behaviors in adults with epilepsy. Methods: A single-group, repeated-measures design was used in 30 outpatients. Data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks after the intervention. Participant outcomes included Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations for Exercise in Epilepsy, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory-31, seizure frequency, average daily steps, and body mass index. Daily number of steps was measured using a wrist-worn activity monitor. Feasibility data were assessed using evidence of treatment fidelity including intervention delivery, receipt, and enactment. Results: Participants were single (63%), white (53%), female (63%), had a mean (SD) age of 46.7 (13) years (range, 26–68 years), had low levels of self-efficacy (mean, 5.10; range, 0–10) and high outcome expectations (mean, 3.90; range, 0–5), took under the recommended 10 000 steps per day (mean, 5107), and had an average of 6 seizures per month. Postintervention testing showed statistical improvement in depressive symptoms (mean [SD], 9.95 [9.47]; P < .05). There were no significant differences found for the other study outcomes. Our study showed the EMOVE intervention was feasible. Study participants had improved depressive symptoms. Future research should focus on increasing the sample size, improving exercise performance through group or individualized exercise sessions, and adding a control group to better evaluate the relationship between the intervention and improved depressive symptoms.
Brief Report: PrEP Eligibility Among At-Risk Women in the Southern United States: Associated Factors, Awareness, and Acceptability
Authors: Patel Anar S. , Goparaju Lakshmi , Sales Jessica M. , Mehta Cyra Christina , Blackstock Oni J. , Seidman Dominika , Ofotokun Igho , Kempf Mirjam-Colette , Fischl Margaret A. , Golub Elizabeth T. , Adimora Adaora A. , French Audrey L. , DeHovitz Jack , Wingood Gina , Kassaye Seble , Sheth Anandi N.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Among women in the United States, non-Latina black women in the South have disproportionately high rates of new HIV infections but low use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Effective strategies to identify factors associated with PrEP eligibility could facilitate improved screening, offering, and uptake of PrEP among US women at risk of HIV.

Setting and methods:

We applied 2014 CDC criteria for PrEP use to at-risk HIV-negative women enrolled in the Southern US sites (Atlanta, Chapel Hill, Birmingham/Jackson, Miami) of the Women's Interagency HIV Study from 2014 to 2015 to estimate PrEP eligibility and assess PrEP knowledge and acceptability. Factors associated with PrEP eligibility were assessed using multivariable models.

Results:

Among 225 women, 72 (32%) were PrEP-eligible; the most common PrEP indicator was condomless sex. The majority of PrEP-eligible women (88%) reported willingness to consider PrEP. Only 24 (11%) PrEP-eligible women had previously heard of PrEP, and only 1 reported previous use. Education level less than high school [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.56; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22 to 5.37], history of sexual violence (aOR 4.52; 95% CI: 1.52 to 17.76), and medium to high self-perception of HIV risk (aOR 6.76; 95% CI: 3.26 to 14.05) were significantly associated with PrEP eligibility in adjusted models.

Conclusions:

Extremely low PrEP awareness and use despite a high proportion of eligibility and acceptability signify a critical need to enhance PrEP education and delivery for women in this region. Supplementing CDC eligibility criteria with questions about history of sexual violence and HIV risk self-assessment may enhance PrEP screening and uptake among US women.
Associations Between Self-Reported Symptoms and Gait Parameters Using In-Home Sensors in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Newland Pamela , Salter Amber , Flach Alicia , Flick Louise , Thomas Florian P. , Gulick Elsie E. , Rantz Marilyn , Skubic Marjorie
Published: January 2019

Background and Purpose

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological disorder, characterized by exacerbations and remissions, often resulting in disability affecting multiple neurological functions. The purpose of this article was (1) to describe the frequencies of self-reported symptoms in a natural environment and (2) to determine characteristics and associations between self-reported symptoms and home gait parameters (speed, stride time, and stride length) at baseline and at 3 months in patients with MS.

Methods

Participants completed the self-report MS-Related Symptom Scale to measure symptoms. A three-dimensional depth imaging system (Foresite Healthcare) was used to measure gait parameters in the home environment.

Results

These data show significant correlations between the following symptoms: knee locking or collapsing, difficulty sleeping, depression, and anxiety with decreased number of average walks per day; however, the symptoms including trouble-making toilet: day and difficulty in starting urine were positively correlated with average walks per day. The symptom numbness was significantly correlated with decreased speed and decreased stride length.

Discussion and Conclusions

Our findings suggest that certain groups of symptoms were more frequently reported with certain gait parameters (stride time/speed) in persons with MS. Rehabilitation nurses can provide optimal care to prevent future decline in symptoms and gait.
Comparison of Outcomes of Fasciocutaneous Free Flaps and Jejunal Free Flaps in Pharyngolaryngoesophageal Reconstruction
Authors: Koh Hui Kai , Tan Ngian Chye , Tan Bien Keem , Ooi Adrian S. H.
Published: January 2019

Background

The literature reports a wide variety of reconstructive methods for pharyngolaryngoesophageal (PLO) defects, the most widely used being anterolateral thigh (ALT), radial forearm (RFF), and jejunal free flaps (JFF). However, there is a lack of uniform agreement among head and neck surgeons as to which technique offers the best results. With an increasing number of salvage PLO extirpations, determining the role of radiotherapy in influencing postoperative complication rates is becoming ever more important. Hence, this study aims to provide an up-to-date comparison of surgical and functional outcomes of the fasciocutaneous ALT and RFF versus the intestinal JFF for circumferential and partial PLO defects and determine whether radiotherapy, both preoperative and postoperative, influences the postoperative fistula and stricture rates in circumferential defects.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using PubMed for reports published in the most recent 10 years between 2007 and 2017.

Results

A total of 33 articles comprising 1213 patients were reviewed. For circumferential defects, fistula and stricture rates were significantly lower in JFF than ALT and RFF. Of note, there was no statistical difference in tracheoesophageal speech and oral alimentation rates between JFF and the FC flaps. For near-circumferential and partial defects, ALT has a significantly lower fistula rate than RFF. There was no statistical Powered by Editorial Manager and ProduXion Manager from Aries Systems Corporation difference in stricture and oral alimentation rates between ALT and RFF. Fistula rates were significantly higher in patients who had preoperative radiotherapy than those without. However, there was no significant difference in fistula and stricture rates for postoperative radiotherapy.

Conclusions

Jejunal free flaps still remain an excellent first choice for PLO reconstruction of circumferential defects. For near-circumferential and partial defects, ALT seems to have a better performance than RFF. Preoperative radiotherapy was associated with an increased risk of fistula formation in circumferential PLO defects but not postoperative radiotherapy.
Reconstructive Options for Inferior Alveolar and Lingual Nerve Injuries After Dental and Oral Surgery
Authors: Ducic Ivica , Yoon Joshua
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The investigators wanted to evaluate, analyze, and compare the current microsurgical repair modalities (primary repair, autograft, tube conduit, and allograft reconstruction) in achieving functional sensory recovery in inferior alveolar and lingual nerve reconstructions due to injury.

Methods

A literature review was undertaken to identify studies focusing on microsurgical repair of inferior alveolar and lingual nerve injuries. Included studies provided a defined sample size, the reconstruction modality, and functional sensory recovery rates. A Fischer exact test analysis was performed with groups based on the nerve and repair type, which included subgroups of specific nerve gap reconstruction modalities.

Results

Twelve studies were analyzed resulting in a sample consisting of 122 lingual nerve and 137 inferior alveolar nerve reconstructions. Among the nerve gap reconstructions for the lingual nerve, processed nerve allografts and autografts were found to be superior in achieving functional sensory recovery over the conduits with P values of 0.0001 and 0.0003, respectively. Among the nerve gap reconstructions for the inferior alveolar nerve, processed nerve allografts and autografts were also found to be superior in achieving functional sensory recovery over the conduits with P values of 0.027 and 0.026, respectively. Overall, nerve gap reconstructions with allografts and autografts for inferior alveolar and lingual nerve reconstruction were superior in achieving functional sensory recovery with a P value of <0.0001.

Conclusions

The data analyzed in this study suggest that primary tension-free repair should be performed in inferior alveolar and lingual nerve reconstructions when possible. If a bridging material is to be used, then processed nerve allografts and autografts are both superior to conduits and noninferior to each other. In addition, allografts do not have the complications related to autograft harvesting such as permanent donor site morbidity. Based on the conclusions drawn from these data, we provide a reproducible operative technique for inferior alveolar and lingual nerve reconstruction.
Fluorescence Imaging of Nerves During Surgery
Authors: Walsh Erika M. , Cole Denzel , Tipirneni Kiranya E. , Bland Kirby I. , Udayakumar Neha , Kasten Benjamin B. , Bevans Stephanie L. , McGrew Benjamin M. , Kain Joshua J. , Nguyen Quyen T. , Rosenthal Eben L. , Warram Jason M.
Published: January 2019

Objective:

This review details the agents for fluorescence-guided nerve imaging in both preclinical and clinical use to identify factors important in selecting nerve-specific fluorescent agents for surgical procedures.

Background:

Iatrogenic nerve injury remains a significant cause of morbidity in patients undergoing surgical procedures. Current real-time identification of nerves during surgery involves neurophysiologic nerve stimulation, which has practical limitations. Intraoperative fluorescence-guided imaging provides a complimentary means of differentiating tissue types and pathology. Recent advances in fluorescence-guided nerve imaging have shown promise, but the ideal agent remains elusive.

Methods:

In February 2018, PubMed was searched for articles investigating peripheral nerve fluorescence. Key terms used in this search include: “intraoperative, nerve, fluorescence, peripheral nerve, visualization, near infrared, and myelin.” Limits were set to exclude articles exclusively dealing with central nervous system targets or written in languages other than English. References were cross-checked for articles not otherwise identified.

Results:

Of the nonspecific agents, tracers that rely on axonal transport showed the greatest tissue specificity; however, neurovascular dyes already enjoy wide clinical use. Fluorophores specific to nerve moieties result in excellent nerve to background ratios. Although noteworthy findings on tissue specificity, toxicity, and route of administration specific to each fluorescent agent were reported, significant data objectively quantifying nerve-specific fluorescence and toxicity are lacking.

Conclusions:

Fluorescence-based nerve enhancement has advanced rapidly over the past 10 years with potential for continued utilization and progression in translational research. An ideal agent would be easily administered perioperatively, would not cross the blood-brain barrier, and would fluoresce in the near-infrared spectrum. Agents administered systemically that target nerve-specific moieties have shown the greatest promise. Based on the heterogeneity of published studies and methods for reporting outcomes, it appears that the development of an optimal nerve imaging agent remains challenging.
Histopathologic Predictors of Survival and Recurrence in Resected Ampullary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Moekotte Alma L. , Lof Sanne , Van Roessel Stijn , Fontana Martina , Dreyer Stephan , Shablak Alaaeldin , Casciani Fabio , Mavroeidis Vasileios K. , Robinson Stuart , Khalil Khalid , Gradinariu George , Mowbray Nicholas , Al-Sarireh Bilal , Fusai Giuseppe Kito , Roberts Keith , White Steve , Soonawalla Zahir , Jamieson Nigel B. , Salvia Roberto , Besselink Marc G. , Abu Hilal Mohammed
Published: January 2019

Objective:

The aim of the study was to define histopathologic characteristics that independently predict overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), in patients who underwent resection of an ampullary adenocarcinoma with curative intent.

Summary Background Data:

A broad range of survival rates have been described for adenocarcinoma of the ampulla of Vater, presumably due to morphological heterogeneity which is a result of the different epitheliums ampullary adenocarcinoma can arise from (intestinal or pancreaticobiliary). Large series with homogenous patient selection are scarce.

Methods:

A retrospective multicenter cohort analysis of patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for ampullary adenocarcinoma in 9 European tertiary referral centers between February 2006 and December 2017 was performed. Collected data included demographics, histopathologic details, survival, and recurrence. OS and DFS analyses were performed using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard models.

Results:

Overall, 887 patients were included, with a mean age of 66 ± 10 years. The median OS was 64 months with 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS rates of 89%, 63%, 52%, and 37%, respectively. Histopathologic subtype, differentiation grade, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, T-stage, N-stage, resection margin, and adjuvant chemotherapy were correlated with OS and DFS. N-stage (HR = 3.30 [2.09–5.21]), perineural invasion (HR = 1.50 [1.01–2.23]), and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR = 0.69 [0.48–0.97]) were independent predictors of OS in multivariable analysis, whereas DFS was only adversely predicted by N-stage (HR = 2.65 [1.65–4.27]).

Conclusions:

Independent predictors of OS in resected ampullary cancer were N-stage, perineural invasion, and adjuvant chemotherapy. N-stage was the only predictor of DFS. These findings improve predicting survival and recurrence after resection of ampullary adenocarcinoma.
Blepharospasm as a Manifestation of Peak of Dose Dyskinesia in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Ramírez-Gómez Carolina C. , Zúñiga-Ramírez Carlos , Contartese María Laura , Montilla Verónica , Gramajo Jorge , Micheli Federico
Published: January 2019

Objectives

The aim of the study was to report 4 patients with Parkinson disease (PD) and On-period blepharospasm (BS).

Methods

We analyzed patients with PD and motor fluctuations who developed BS in several different centers in Latin America.

Results

Four patients had BS while in the ON periods.

Conclusions

Blepharospasm in the On period in patients with PD is extremely uncommon, and our series is the only one to describe such association.
Oxygen limitation is not the cause of death during lethal heat exposure in an insect
Authors: Lehmann Philipp , Javal Marion , Terblanche John S.
Published: January 2019

Oxygen- and capacity-limited thermal tolerance (OCLTT) is a controversial hypothesis claiming to explain variation in, and mechanistically determine, animal thermal limits. The lack of support from Insecta is typically argued to be a consequence of their high-performance respiratory systems. However, no studies have reported internal body oxygen levels during thermal ramping so it is unclear if changes in ambient gas are partially or fully offset by a compensatory respiratory system. Here we provide such an assessment by simultaneously recording haemolymph oxygen (pO2) levels—as an approximation of tissue oxygenation—while experimentally manipulating ambient oxygen and subjecting organisms to thermal extremes in a series of thermolimit respirometry experiments using pupae of the butterflyPieris napi. The main results are that whileP. napiundergo large changes in haemolymph pO2that are positively correlated with experimental oxygen levels, haemolymph pO2is similar pre- and post-death during thermal assays. OCLTT predicts that reduction in body oxygen level should lead to a reduction in CTmax. Despite finding the former, there was no change in CTmax across a wide range of body oxygen levels. Thus, we argue that oxygen availability is not a functional determinant of the upper thermal limits in pupae ofP. napi.
Collagen reorganization in cartilage under strain probed by polarization sensitive second harmonic generation microscopy
Authors: Mansfield Jessica C. , Mandalia Vipul , Toms Andrew , Winlove C. Peter , Brasselet Sophie
Published: January 2019

Type II collagen fibril diameters in cartilage are beneath the diffraction limit of optical microscopy, which makes the assessment of collagen organization very challenging. In this work we use polarization sensitive second harmonic generation (P-SHG) imaging to map collagen organization in articular cartilage, addressing in particular its behaviour under strain and changes which occur in osteoarthritis. P-SHG yields two parameters, molecular order and orientation, which provide measures of the degree of organization both at the molecular scale (below the diffraction limit) and above a few hundred nanometres (at the image pixel size). P-SHG clearly demonstrates the zonal collagen architecture and reveals differences in the structure of the fibrils around chondrocytes. P-SHG also reveals sub-micron scale fibril re-organization in cartilage strips exposed to tensile loading, with an increase in local organization in the superficial zone which weakly correlates with tensile modulus. Finally, P-SHG is used to investigate osteoarthritic cartilage from total knee replacement surgery, and reveals widespread heterogeneity across samples both microscale fibril orientations and their sub-micron organization. By addressing collagen fibril structure on scales intermediate between conventional light and electron microscopy, this study provides new insights into collagen micromechanics and mechanisms of degradation.
Unravelling hagfish slime
Authors: Chaudhary Gaurav , Ewoldt Randy H. , Thiffeault Jean-Luc
Published: January 2019

Hagfish slime is a unique predator defence material containing a network of long fibrous threads each ∼10 cm in length. Hagfish release the threads in a condensed coiled state known as skeins (∼100 µm), which must unravel within a fraction of a second to thwart a predator attack. Here we consider the hypothesis that viscous hydrodynamics can be responsible for this rapid unravelling, as opposed to chemical reaction kinetics alone. Our main conclusion is that, under reasonable physiological conditions, unravelling due to viscous drag can occur within a few hundred milliseconds, and is accelerated if the skein is pinned at a surface such as the mouth of a predator. We model a single skein unspooling as the fibre peels away due to viscous drag. We capture essential features by considering simplified cases of physiologically relevant flows and one-dimensional scenarios where the fibre is aligned with streamlines in either uniform or uniaxial extensional flow. The peeling resistance is modelled with a power-law dependence on peeling velocity. A dimensionless ratio of viscous drag to peeling resistance appears in the dynamical equations and determines the unraveling time scale. Our modelling approach is general and can be refined with future experimental measurements of peel strength for skein unravelling. It provides key insights into the unravelling process, offers potential answers to lingering questions about slime formation from threads and mucous vesicles, and will aid the growing interest in engineering similar bioinspired material systems.
Interfibril hydrogen bonding improves the strain-rate response of natural armour
Authors: Arola D. , Ghods S. , Son C. , Murcia S. , Ossa E. A.
Published: January 2019

Fish scales are laminated composites that consist of plies of unidirectional collagen fibrils with twisted-plywood stacking arrangement. Owing to their composition, the toughness of scales is dependent on the intermolecular bonding within and between the collagen fibrils. Adjusting the extent of this bonding with an appropriate stimulus has implications for the design of next-generation bioinspired flexible armours. In this investigation, scales were exposed to environments of water or a polar solvent (i.e. ethanol) to influence the extent of intermolecular bonding, and their mechanical behaviour was evaluated in uniaxial tension and transverse puncture. Results showed that the resistance to failure of the scales increased with loading rate in both tension and puncture and that the polar solvent treatment increased both the strength and toughness through interpeptide bonding; the largest increase occurred in the puncture resistance of scales from the tail region (a factor of nearly 7×). The increase in strength and damage tolerance with stronger intermolecular bonding is uncommon for structural materials and is a unique characteristic of the low mineral content. Scales from regions of the body with higher mineral content underwent less strengthening, which is most likely the result of interference posed by the mineral crystals to intermolecular bonding. Overall, the results showed that flexible bioinspired composite materials for puncture resistance should enrol constituents and complementary processing that capitalize on interfibril bonds.
Chromatin interactome mapping at 139 independent breast cancer risk signals
Authors: Beesley Jonathan , Sivakumaran Haran , Marjaneh Mahdi Moradi , Lima Luize G. , Hillman Kristine M. , Kaufmann Susanne , Tuano Natasha , Hussein Nehal , Ham Sunyoung , Mukhopadhyay Pamela , Kazakoff Stephen , Lee Jason S. , Michailidou Kyriaki , Barnes Daniel R. , Antonio Antonis C. , Fachal Laura , Dunning Alison M. , Easton Douglas F. , Waddell Nicola , Rosenbluh Joseph , Möller Andreas , Chenevix-Trench Georgia , French Juliet D. , Edwards Stacey L.
Published: January 2019

Genome-wide association studies have identified 196 high confidence independent signals associated with breast cancer susceptibility. Variants within these signals frequently fall in distal regulatory DNA elements that control gene expression. We designed a Capture Hi-C array to enrich for chromatin interactions between the credible causal variants and target genes in six human mammary epithelial and breast cancer cell lines. We show that interacting regions are enriched for open chromatin, histone marks for active enhancers and transcription factors relevant to breast biology. We exploit this comprehensive resource to identify candidate target genes at 139 independent breast cancer risk signals, and explore the functional mechanism underlying altered risk at the 12q24 risk region. Our results demonstrate the power of combining genetics, computational genomics and molecular studies to rationalize the identification of key variants and candidate target genes at breast cancer GWAS signals.
Jet engine degradation prognostic using artificial neural networks
Authors: De Giorgi Maria Grazia , Ficarella Antonio , De Carlo Laura
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and develop artificially intelligent methodologies to discover degradation trends through the detection of engine’s status. The objective is to predict these trends by studying their effects on the engine measurable parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The method is based on the implementation of an artificial neural network (ANN) trained with well-known cases referred to real conditions, able to recognize degradation because of two main gas turbine engine deterioration effects: erosion and fouling. Three different scenarios are considered: compressor fouling, turbine erosion and presence of both degraded conditions. The work consists of three parts: the first one contains the mathematical model of real jet engine in healthy and degraded conditions, the second step is the optimization of ANN for engine performance prediction and the last part deals with the application of ANN for prediction of engine fault.

Findings

This study shows that the proposed diagnostic approach has good potential to provide valuable estimation of engine status.

Practical implications

Knowledge of the true state of the engine is important to assess its performance capability to meet the operational and maintenance requirements and costs.

Originality/value

The main advantage is that the engine performance data for model validation were obtained from real flight conditions of the engine VIPER 632-43.
Patterns of participation in the Grow parenting program
Authors: Czymoniewicz-Klippel Melina , Chesnut Ryan , DiNallo Jennifer , Perkins Daniel
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Employing brief, low-intensity, face-to-face parenting programs can result in improvements in parenting and child behavior; however, their usefulness is often limited by low participation rates. Online technologies are increasingly presented as a panacea for promoting program reach in a cost-effective way. The extant literature, however, provides limited guidance on issues around the implementation of online parenting programs. Grow is a universal, health-promoting parenting program that targets families with 5–10 year olds and was developed for face-to-face delivery and then adapted for a web-based format. The purpose of this paper is to present implementation results from feasibility proof of concept studies of Grow Face-to-Face and Grow Online and explores issues regarding mode of delivery and parent participation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from participants using attendance records, end-of-module/session surveys and semi-structured, in-depth interviews, and were examined using descriptive statistics and inductive thematic analysis.

Findings

Findings suggest that, compared to the online implementation, recruitment was more difficult for the face-to-face implementation. Conversely, retention in the online program was poorer than in the face-to-face program. Participants from both programs self-reported high levels of engagement and satisfaction. Parents who completed Grow Online expressed a desire for more interpersonal interactions, which suggests a possible need for hybrid programs that combine online technologies with traditional face-to-face modes of delivery.

Originality/value

These findings challenge the idea that the internet can fully address barriers to parenting program participation by showing that while parents may sign up more readily for an online program, they may struggle to complete all modules. This is problematic as program dosage can influence parent and child outcomes.
Corrosion characterization of Sn-Zn solder: a review
Authors: Mohd Nazeri Muhammad Firdaus , Yahaya Muhamad Zamri , Gursel Ali , Cheani Fakhrozi , Masri Mohamad Najmi , Mohamad Ahmad Azmin
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review and examine three of the most common corrosion characterization techniques specifically on Sn-Zn solders. The discussion will highlight the configurations and recent developments on each of the compiled characterization techniques of potentiodynamic polarization, potentiostatic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

Design/methodology/approach

The approach will incorporate a literature review of previous works related to the experimental setups and common parameters.

Findings

The potentiostatic polarization, potentiodynamic polarization and EIS were found to provide crucial and vital information on the corrosion properties of Sn-Zn solders. Accordingly, this solder relies heavily on the amount of Zn available because of the inability to produce the intermetallic compound in between the elements. Further, the excellent mechanical properties and low melting temperature of the Sn-Zn solder is undeniable, however, the limitations regarding corrosion resistance present opportunities in furthering research in this field to identify improvements. This is to ensure that the corrosion performance can be aligned with the outstanding mechanical properties. The review also identified and summarized the advantages, recent trends and important findings in this field.

Originality/value

The unique challenges and future research directions regarding corrosion measurement in Sn-Zn solders were shown to highlight the rarely discussed risks and problems in the reliability of lead-free soldering. Many prior reviews have been undertaken of the Sn-Zn system, but limited studies have investigated the corrosive properties. Therefore, this review focuses on the corrosive characterizations of the Sn-Zn alloy system.
Thematic framework of social media research: state of the art
Authors: Leung Xi Yu , Sun Jie , Bai Billy
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The unprecedented growth of social media in the past decade has resulted in an increasing interest on social media research. The purpose of this study is to examine the state-of-the-art developments in social media research and to develop a thematic research framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The study reviewed 262 social media-related articles published in eight top hospitality and tourism journals between 2007 and 2017. Content analysis was used to code data from the selected articles, and correspondence analysis was then used to compare the characteristics of research conducted on different social media platforms.

Findings

A thematic framework of social media research was developed based on a thorough review and systematic examination of the articles. The thematic framework consisted of the three key players – hospitality and tourism businesses, social media platforms and consumers – along with four categories of topical areas – marketing, managerial implication, user-generated content and impact – and 19 research topics. Three platform groups were identified to share similar article characteristics and research attributes.

Originality/value

This study offers a systematic overview of social media research in hospitality and tourism and is the first one to identify triadic relationships of social media platforms in thematic research framework. The innovative findings of correspondence analysis offer insights on future social media research from a platform perspective.
The spatial ecology of sex ratios in a dioecious plant: Relations between ramet and genet sex ratios
Authors: Timerman David , Barrett Spencer C. H.
Published: January 2019

In clonal dioecious plants, the frequency and spatial distribution of flowering ramets contains information on the underlying genet sex ratio. These measures can also provide insight on potential ecological mechanisms causing variation and bias in sex ratios among populations.

We used a novel likelihood‐based approach and spatial clustering model to estimate the genet sex ratios from flowering ramet data collected from 32 populations of dioecious Thalictrum pubescens, a clonal species from eastern N. America that occupies moist wetland and forested environments. We investigated sex ratios of seed families, clone size, patterns of flowering and plant height to determine potential causes of sex‐ratio bias.

Flowering ramet sex ratios varied considerably among populations but were significantly male‐biased. Seed families grown to flowering also exhibited the same degree of male bias. Both models predicted close correspondence between ramet and genet sex ratios. The likelihood model revealed that sex differences in ramet production could not account for biased ramet sex ratios. The spatial clustering model indicated that ramets were significantly clustered at two spatial scales and estimated similar cluster sizes and densities for both sexes. There was no evidence for spatial segregation of the sexes. Both sexes were equally likely to flower in consecutive years and repeated bouts of flowering had no effect on ramet height.

Synthesis. Our analyses suggest that the widespread occurrence of male‐biased sex ratios in Thalictrum pubescens is unlikely to result from sexual differences in clonal growth or habitat preferences. The bias appears to become established early in the life cycle, perhaps at the seed stage as a consequence of local resource competition.
Three‐dimensional conformal radiation therapy alone for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: 10‐year survival outcomes
Authors: Fan Xing‐Wen , Wu Jun‐Lan , Wang Hong‐Bing , Liang Fei , Jiang Guo‐Liang , Wu Kai‐Liang
Published: January 2019

Background

Concurrent chemoradiation is the standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We conducted a phase II study to explore the effect of three‐dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3‐DCRT) alone for patients with locally advanced esophageal SCC. This study aimed to analyze the long‐term survival outcomes.

Methods

Between November 2004 and April 2007, 30 patients with thoracic esophageal SCC underwent late‐course sequential boost 3‐DCRT at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. The planning target volume (PTV1) comprised a 1.2–1.5 cm lateral margin around the gross tumor volume and a 3.0 cm margin, superior and inferior to the gross tumor volume. PTV2 encompassed the gross tumor volume with a margin of 0.5–0.7 cm. The PTV1 dose delivered was 50 Gy, and the PTV2 dose was a boost dose of 16 Gy, resulting in a total dose of 66 Gy. No chemotherapy was administered.

Results

The median follow‐up time was 30 months for all patients, and 132 months for patients who were alive. The median overall survival was 27 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 18.9–35.0). The 2‐, 5‐, and 10‐year overall survival rates were 56.6%, 33.3%, and 26.6%, respectively. The median progression‐free survival was 14 months (95% CI 7.7–20.2 months), and the 2‐, 5‐, and 10‐year progression‐free survival rates were 33.3%, 30.0%, and 26.6%, respectively. No severe late toxicity was observed in long‐term survivors.

Conclusion

Late‐course sequential boost 3‐DCRT is safe and feasible with promising long‐term outcomes for esophageal SCC.
A review of ASA physical status – historical perspectives and modern developments
Authors: Mayhew D. , Mendonca V. , Murthy B. V. S.
Published: January 2019

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status is a tool commonly used to classify a patient's physical fitness before surgery. Since its introduction in 1941 it has undergone very few modifications to improve its reliability and to eliminate subjectivity, despite vast changes in both surgical and anaesthetic technique. We present the history of the ASA physical status and review the literature on its applicability to contemporary anaesthetic practice.
Bazedoxifene exhibits growth suppressive activity by targeting interleukin‐6/glycoprotein 130/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ma Haiyan , Yan Dan , Wang Yina , Shi Wei , Liu Tianshu , Zhao Chongqiang , Huo Shengqi , Duan Jialin , Tao Jingwen , Zhai Maocai , Luo Pengcheng , Guo Junyi , Tian Lei , Mageta Lulu , Jou David , Zhang Cuntai , Li Chenglong , Lin Jiayuh , Lv Jiagao , Li Sheng , Lin Li
Published: January 2019

The interleukin (IL)‐6/glycoprotein (GP)130/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 pathway is emerging as a target for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. IL‐6 binds to IL‐6R, forming a binary complex, which further combines with GP130 to transduce extracellular signaling by activating STAT3. Therefore, blocking the interaction between IL‐6 and GP130 may inhibit the IL‐6/GP130/STAT3 signaling pathway and its biological effects. It has been reported that bazedoxifene acetate (BAZ), a selective estrogen receptor modulator approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, could inhibit IL‐6/GP130 protein‐protein interactions. Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, wound healing and colony formation assays were used to detect the effect of BAZ on liver cancer cells. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Apoptosis of cells was determined using the Annexin V‐FITC detection kit. Mouse xenograft tumor models were utilized to evaluate the effect of BAZ in vivo. Our data showed that BAZ inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation (P‐STAT3) and expression of STAT3 downstream genes, inducing apoptosis in liver cancer cells. BAZ inhibited P‐STAT3 induced by IL‐6, but not by leukemia inhibitory factor. BAZ inhibited P‐STAT1 and P‐STAT6 less significantly as elicited by interferon‐α, interferon‐γ and IL‐4. In addition, pretreatment of BAZ impeded the translocation of STAT3 to nuclei induced by IL‐6. BAZ inhibited cell viability, wound healing and colony formation in vitro. Furthermore, tumor growth in HEPG2 mouse xenografts were significantly inhibited by daily intragastric gavage of BAZ. Our results suggest that BAZ inhibited the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro and in vivo, indicating another potential strategy for HCC prevention and therapy.
Bigger Than You Thought: China's Contribution to Scientific Publications and Its Impact on the Global Economy
Authors: Xie Qingnan , Freeman Richard B.
Published: January 2019

China's advance to the forefront of scientific research is one of the 21st century's most surprising developments, with implications for a world where knowledge is arguably “the one ring that rules them all.” This paper provides new estimates of China's contribution to global science that far exceed estimates based on the proportion of papers with Chinese addresses in databases of international journals. Address‐based measures ignore articles written by Chinese researchers with non‐Chinese addresses and articles in Chinese language journals not indexed in those databases. Taking account of these contributions, we attribute 36 percent of 2016 global scientific articles to China. Taking account of increased citations to Chinese‐addressed articles relative to the global average as well, we attribute 37 percent of global citations to scientific articles published in 2013 to China. With shares of articles and citations more than twice its share of global population or GDP, China has achieved a comparative advantage in knowledge that has implications for the division of labor and trade among countries and for the direction of research and of technological and economic development worldwide.