bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding in elderly people: Clinical outcomes and prognostic factors
Authors: González‐González José A , Monreal‐Robles Roberto , García‐Compean Diego , Paz‐Delgadillo Jonathan , Wah‐Suárez Martín , Maldonado‐Garza Héctor J.
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the clinical characteristics, outcomes and prognostic factors in elderly patients (aged 75 years and elder) with acute nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).

METHODS

Consecutive patients admitted with acute nonvariceal UGIB who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were prospectively recruited and subdivided into two age‐based groups, elderly (aged ≥75 years) and younger patients (<75 years). The patients’ characteristics and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Altogether 1136 patients were included in the study, 276 (24.3%) aged ≥75 years. Peptic ulcers, gastroduodenal erosions and esophagitis represented the three most common endoscopic lesions found in 87.7% of the elderly patients compared with 80.8% in younger patients (
P
 = 0.008). Overall, the rebleeding rate (4.0% vs 3.3%, P = 0.568), need for blood transfusion (66.3% vs 61.0%, P = 0.122), surgery rate (1.2% vs 1.4%, P = 0.947) and in‐hospital mortality (13.0% vs 10.0%, P = 0.157) were not different between the two groups. In elderly patients, serum albumin was the only predictive variable independently associated with mortality in the overall analysis (OR 5.867, 95% CI 2.206–15.604, P < 0.001) and in the subgroup patients with peptic ulcers (OR 5.230, 95% CI 2.099–13.029, P = 0.001). Elderly patients with serum albumin >23.5 g/L at admission presented a low mortality (negative predictive value 97.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical evolution and mortality do not differ between the elderly and younger patients with acute nonvariceal UGIB. Serum albumin level at admission is a prognostic marker for mortality in elder patients.
Should the biofilm mode of life be taken into consideration for microbial biocontrol agents?
Authors: Pandin Caroline , Le Coq Dominique , Canette Alexis , Aymerich Stéphane , Briandet Romain
Published: February 2017

Almost one‐third of crop yields are lost every year due to microbial alterations and diseases. The main control strategy to limit these losses is the use of an array of chemicals active against spoilage and unwanted pathogenic microorganisms. Their massive use has led to extensive environmental pollution, human poisoning and a variety of diseases. An emerging alternative to this chemical approach is the use of microbial biocontrol agents. Biopesticides have been used with success in several fields, but a better understanding of their mode of action is necessary to better control their activity and increase their use. Very few studies have considered that biofilms are the preferred mode of life of microorganisms in the target agricultural biotopes. Increasing evidence shows that the spatial organization of microbial communities on crop surfaces may drive important bioprotection mechanisms. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence of biofilm formation by biocontrol agents on crops and discuss how this surface‐associated mode of life may influence their biology and interactions with other microorganisms and the host and, finally, their overall beneficial activity.
Nitrogen Subsidies from Hillslope Alder Stands to Streamside Wetlands and Headwater Streams, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Authors: Callahan Michael K. , Whigham Dennis F. , Rains Mark C. , Rains Kai C. , King Ryan S. , Walker Coowe M. , Maurer Jasmine R. , Baird Steven J.
Published: February 2017

We examined nitrogen transport and wetland primary production along hydrologic flow paths that link nitrogen‐fixing alder (Alnus spp.) stands to downslope wetlands and streams in the Kenai Lowlands, Alaska. We expected that nitrate concentrations in surface water and groundwater would be higher on flow paths below alder. We further expected that nitrate concentrations would be higher in surface water and groundwater at the base of short flow paths with alder and that streamside wetlands at the base of alder‐near flow paths would be less nitrogen limited than wetlands at the base of long flow paths with alder. Our results showed that groundwater nitrate‐N concentrations were significantly higher at alder‐near sites than at no‐alder sites, but did not differ significantly between alder‐far sites and no‐alder sites or between alder‐far sites and alder‐near sites. A survey of 15N stable isotope signatures in soils and foliage in alder‐near and no‐alder flow paths indicated the alder‐derived nitrogen evident in soils below alder is quickly integrated downslope. Additionally, there was a significant difference in the relative increase in plant biomass after nitrogen fertilization, with the greatest increase occurring in the no‐alder sites. This study demonstrates that streamside wetlands and streams are connected to the surrounding landscapes through hydrologic flow paths, and flow paths with alder stands are potential “hot spots” for nitrogen subsidies at the hillslope scale.
Hydrogen or formate: Alternative key players in methanogenic degradation
Authors: Schink Bernhard , Montag Dominik , Keller Anja , Müller Nicolai
Published: February 2017

Hydrogen and formate are important electron carriers in methanogenic degradation in anoxic environments such as sediments, sewage sludge digestors and biogas reactors. Especially in the terminal steps of methanogenesis, they determine the energy budgets of secondary (syntrophically) fermenting bacteria and their methanogenic partners. The literature provides considerable data on hydrogen pool sizes in such habitats, but little data exist for formate concentrations due to technical difficulties in formate determination at low concentration. Recent evidence from biochemical and molecular biological studies indicates that several secondary fermenters can use both hydrogen and formate for electron release, and may do so even simultaneously. Numerous strictly anaerobic bacteria contain enzymes which equilibrate hydrogen and formate pools to energetically equal values, and recent measurements in sewage digestors and biogas reactors indicate that – beyond occasional fluctuations ‐ the pool sizes of hydrogen and formate are indeed energetically nearly equivalent. Nonetheless, a thermophilic archaeon from a submarine hydrothermal vent, Thermococcus onnurineus, can obtain ATP from the conversion of formate to hydrogen plus bicarbonate at 80°C, indicating that at least in this extreme environment the pools of formate and hydrogen are likely to be sufficiently different to support such an unusual type of energy conservation.
Emergency Department–initiated Home Oxygen for Bronchiolitis: A Prospective Study of Community Follow‐up, Caregiver Satisfaction, and Outcomes
Authors: Freeman Julia Fuzak , Deakyne Sara , Bajaj Lalit
Published: February 2017

Objective

Retrospective studies have shown home oxygen to be a safe alternative to hospitalization for some patients with bronchiolitis living at high altitudes. We aimed to prospectively describe adverse events, follow‐up, duration of home oxygen, factors associated with failure, and caregiver preferences.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study of hypoxemic bronchiolitis patients ages 3 to 18 months who were discharged from a tertiary care pediatric emergency department on home oxygen over three winters (2011–2014). Caregivers were contacted on postdischarge days ~3, 7, 14, and 28 while on oxygen. Caregivers not reached by phone were sent a survey and their primary care physicians were contacted. Records of admitted subjects were reviewed. Outcome measures included hospital readmission, positive pressure ventilation (noninvasive or intubation), outpatient follow‐up, duration of home oxygen therapy, and caregiver satisfaction.

Results

A total of 274 patients were enrolled. Forty‐eight (17.5%) were admitted and 225 (82.1%) were discharged on oxygen. The median age was 8 months. Eighteen subjects were lost to follow‐up. A total of 196 (87.1%) were successfully treated with outpatient oxygen, and 11 (4.9%) failed outpatient therapy and were hospitalized. Only one hospitalized patient required invasive ventilation. The median duration of home oxygen was 7 days. Child noncompliance was the most common problem (reported by 14%). The median caregiver comfort level with home oxygen was 9 of 10. Eighty‐eight percent of caregivers would again choose home oxygen over admission.

Conclusions

This study confirms that outpatient oxygen therapy can reduce hospitalizations due to bronchiolitis in a relatively high‐altitude setting, with low failure and complication rates. Caregivers are comfortable with home oxygen and prefer it to hospitalization.
Doing it hard in the bush: Aligning what gets measured with what matters
Authors: McDonald Malcolm I. , Lawson Kenny D.
Published: February 2017

What gets measured gets managed. Funding of health services is substantially determined by operational activity and specific outcome indicators. In day‐to‐day clinical decision‐making, surrogate markers, such as glycosylated haemoglobin and blood pressure, are commonly used to modify risks of ‘hard’ outcomes that include kidney failure, ischaemic cardiac events, stroke and all‐cause mortality. In many settings, surrogates are all we have to go on. As a consequence, current health funding models heavily rely on surrogate‐based key performance indicators [KPIs]. While surrogates are convenient and provide immediate information, there is an obligation to ensure that they are appropriate, reliable and validated in context. In contrast, hard outcomes, the real consequences of illness, are usually realised over an extended timeframe. Additionally, and for a host of reasons, hard endpoints have the greatest social, emotional and economic impact for people at the far end of the health system; those in rural and remote settings – ‘in the bush’ – especially Indigenous Australians. We propose a health service assessment approach that aligns short‐term decision‐making with patient‐centred and longer term hard outcomes, one that takes into account community, cultural and environmental factors, especially remoteness. Communities should have a major say in determining what health indicators are measured and managed.
Growth inhibition of formed corneal neovascularization following Fosaprepitant treatment
Authors: Bignami Fabio , Lorusso Anna , Rama Paolo , Ferrari Giulio
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of Neurokinin‐1 Receptor (NK‐1R) antagonist −Fosaprepitant− in inducing regression of established corneal neovascularization (CNV).

Methods

Twenty C57BL/6 mice underwent alkali burn. Seven days later, when corneal neovessels had developed, they received Fosaprepitant 10 mg/ml, administered topically six times a day in the right eye for 10 days. In parallel, a group of 20 causticated mice was treated with normal saline, as control. A second independent experiment was also performed (n = 10/group). Finally, ten healthy mice received the same topical treatment for 10 days to evaluate Fosaprepitant safety. Haemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis were measured by means of vesselj plugin (imagej). Secondary endpoints, such as leucocyte infiltration, corneal opacity and corneal fluorescein staining were also evaluated. Inflammatory cell composition was assessed by flow cytometry.

Differences between groups were assessed using unpaired t‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test or two‐way anova, as appropriate.

Results

Topical Fosaprepitant administration induced a significant reduction of (i) CD31+ blood corneal neovessels (−27%, p = 0.0132), (ii) LYVE1+ lymphatic corneal neovessels (−31%, p = 0.0118) and (iii) CD45+ leucocyte infiltration (−36%; p = 0.0237). The second independent experiment confirmed these data. Moreover, Fosaprepitant‐treated corneas showed a reduction in opacity, no impairment in corneal fluorescein staining and decreased infiltration of neutrophils (−72%, p < 0.05) and macrophages (−75%, p < 0.01). Finally, topical Fosaprepitant was not toxic to the ocular surface: no signs of conjunctivitis, opacity, perforations or corneal fluorescein staining were detected. Similarly, corneal TUJ1+ nerve density was not affected.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that NK‐1R antagonists, such as Fosaprepitant, could be a new, promising therapeutic tool to inhibit CNV after this has been established.
Assessment of the outcome of ophthalmological screening for uveitis in a cohort of Swedish children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Papadopoulou Maria , Zetterberg Madeleine , Oskarsdottir Solveig , Andersson Grönlund Marita
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To describe clinical features, risk factors and complications in a cohort of Swedish children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) screened for uveitis between 2002 and 2011.

Methods

Medical records of 299 children with JIA (93 male, 206 female; median age 5.0 years at diagnosis) were retrospectively scrutinized focusing on subtype of JIA, onset of arthritis/uveitis, presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and ophthalmological status.

Results

Uveitis was found in 32 (11%) children, 78% bilaterally affected. The median age of arthritis onset in children who developed uveitis was 2.5 years (range 1–10) versus 5.0 years (range 1–15) in those who did not. Sex ratio was 3.5:1 (girl:boy). The most prevalent JIA subtype was oligoarthritis (75%). All but one child with uveitis was found to be ANA (+). The median interval between diagnosis of arthritis and uveitis was 12 months. Only one child developed uveitis between the fourth and fifth years after arthritis onset. Ocular complications were recorded in 45.6% (26/57 affected eyes) at last follow‐up. On univariate analysis, both young age at arthritis onset and ANA positivity were possible predictors for developing uveitis, but on multivariate analysis, the latter was the most important predictor (HR 16.25, 95%; CI 2.19–120.44; p = 0.006, Cox regression analysis).

Conclusion

Almost all of the children developing JIA‐associated uveitis did so within 4 years after arthritis onset, a fact that accentuates the importance of early initiation of ophthalmological screening and more frequent regular follow‐ups during the first 4 years. The most important predictor for developing uveitis was ANA positivity.
Mechanistics and photo‐energetics of macrocycles and photodynamic therapy: An overview of aspects to consider for research
Authors: Horne Tamarisk K. , Cronjé Marianne J.
Published: February 2017

Research within the field of photodynamic therapy has escalated over the past 20 years. The required conjunctional use of photosensitizers, particularly of the macrocycle structure, has lead to a vast repertoire of derivatives that branch classes and subclasses thereof. Each exhibits a differential range of physiochemical properties that influence their potential applications within the larger phototherapy field for use in either diagnostics, photodynamic therapy, both or none. Herein, we provide an overview of these properties as they relate to photodynamic therapy and to a lesser extent diagnostics. By summarizing the mechanistics of photodynamic therapy coupled to the photo‐energetics displayed by macrocycle photosensitizers, we aimed to highlight the critical aspects any researcher should be aware of and consider when selecting and performing research for therapeutic application purposes. These include photosensitizer, photophysical and structural properties, synthesis design and subsequent attributes, main applications within research, common shortcomings exhibited and the current methods practiced to overcome them.
Quantum‐chemistry descriptors for photosensitizers based on macrocycles
Authors: Bettanin Fernanda , Antonio Felipe C. T. , Honorio Kathia M. , Homem‐de‐Mello Paula
Published: February 2017

Phthalocyanines, porphyrins, and chlorins have been widely studied as photosensitizers. Both experimental and computational strategies are employed in order to propose new and more active molecules derived from those macrocycles. In this context, there are two main strategies used: (i) the addition of different substituents and (ii) the complexation of the macrocycle with different metallic ions. In this work, we present selected descriptors based on quantum chemistry calculations for forty macrocycles, including some approved drugs. We have found that density functional theory is a suitable methodology to study the large sets of molecules when applying the B3LYP/LanL2DZ methodology for geometry optimization and TD‐OLYP/6‐31G(d) for absorption spectrum. The inclusion of solvent effects by means of continuum model is important in order to obtain the accurate electronic data. We have verified that by bonding charged or polar substituents to the macrocycle, it is possible to enhance water solvation as well as to improve spectroscopic properties because molecular orbital contributions for Q band can be affected by some substituents. Selected descriptors, electronic and steric, were pointed out as important to propose the new photosensitizers.
Functionalized calix[4]arenes as potential therapeutic agents
Authors: Naseer Muhammad Moazzam , Ahmed Mukhtiar , Hameed Shahid
Published: February 2017

Calixarenes, composed of phenolic units linked by methylene bridges at the 2,6‐positions, represent a versatile class of macrocyclic compounds in supramolecular chemistry that can host small molecules or ions in their well‐defined hydrophobic cavities. In recent years, it has been recognized that this class of compounds has the potential to serve as platform for the design of biological active compounds. Therefore, the calixarenes functionalized with different pharmacophoric groups have been synthesized as target structure by many researchers and were further evaluated for their biological activities. Owing to their promising biological activities such as antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer, the functionalized calixarenes are recently receiving increased attention from pharmaceutical/medicinal chemistry community. In this review, we summarize and discuss the synthetic approaches and the biological potential of functionalized calixarenes, mainly focusing on the selected recent studies for a comprehensive and target‐oriented information, which could help in the design and synthesis of new therapeutic agents leading to the development of clinically viable drugs based on these macrocyles.
Immunohistochemical analysis of laminin components in the blood–nerve barrier and blood–brain barrier
Authors: Takeshita Yukio , Omoto Masatoshi , Fujikawa Susumu , Kanda Takashi
Published: February 2017

Objective

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) and blood–nerve barrier (BNB) play crucial roles in the maintenance of the central and peripheral nervous system. It had previously been thought that the BNB was leaky compared with the BBB, but several recent reports showed that the BNB has almost the same properties as a barrier system as the BBB, suggesting that the specific structural component of the basement membrane (especially laminin) in the BNB acts as a distinct barrier. Although the role of the laminin isoforms has been linked to BBB, the laminins in the BNB still remain unknown. Here, we aim to show the laminin components in the BNB and BBB.

Methods

The laminin isoforms (α5, α4, β1, β2 and γ1) were immunohistochemically analyzed in the brain and a median nerve specimen of a post‐mortem amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient. Then the expression of these laminin isoforms was scrutinized in sural nerve specimens of some peripheral neuropathies.

Results

The present histological data showed that laminin α4 was hardly present in BNB compared with BBB, whereas other laminin isoforms were widely expressed in BBB and BNB. Additionally, laminin α4 in BNB decreased in both amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the peripheral neuropathies in which the BNB was supposed to be broken down.

Conclusions

Laminin α4 did not decrease in BBB, but did decrease in BNB in the patients with or without peripheral neuropathies. As previous reports showed that laminin α4 is essential for T lymphocytes to migrate across the BBB, these results suggested that BNB might have a distinct mechanism for T cell migration that does not require laminin α4.
The Intensive and Extensive Margins of China's Agricultural Trade
Authors: Zhang Xiaoheng , Zhou Yingheng , Geng Xianhui , Tian Xu
Published: February 2017

Utilizing the 1995–2013 Harmonized System's six‐digit agricultural product data for China, this study measures the dual margin contribution to export growth in China's agricultural products. Results show that contribution from the intensive margin has reached and been staying at a high level since 2007, providing new insight in explaining the deteriorating terms of trade in China's agricultural products. In light of this, an empirical analysis of the determinants of dual margins indicates that larger trading partners lead to less growth in exports of both new and existing products. Destination countries with higher labor productivities and lower fixed trade costs are China's target markets to convert intensive‐margin‐driven growth into extensive‐margin‐driven growth. In addition, the impact of relative labor productivity and free trade agreements on the intensive margin differs between primary and processed products due to their product characteristics.

Au moyen des données à six chiffres du produit agricole pour la Chine provenant du Système harmonisé de 1995–2013, cette étude mesure la double marge de contribution à la croissance, des exportations des produits agricoles chinois. Les résultats démontrent que la contribution provenant de la marge intensive a atteint et demeure élevée depuis 2007, fournissant de nouvelles explications aux termes de l′échange des produits agricoles chinois. Étant donné ces informations, une analyse empirique des déterminants des doubles marges indique que les grands partenaires commerciaux mènent à moins de croissance dans les exportations à la fois de produits nouveaux et existants. La Chine choisit comme cibles les pays de destination avec une productivité élevée de la main‐d'œuvre et de faibles coûts fixes de commerce pour convertir la croissance stimulée par les marges intensives en croissance stimulée par les marges extensives. Qui plus est, l'impact de la productivité relative de la main‐d'œuvre et des accords de libre‐échange sur les marges intensives diffère des produits primaires aux produits transformés en raison des caractéristiques du produit.
Impact of continuous positive airway pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea during drug‐induced sleep endoscopy
Authors: Torre C. , Liu S.Y. , Kushida C.A. , Nekhendzy V. , Huon L.K. , Capasso R.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

The primary objective of the study was to understand the differential impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on the location, degree and pattern of airway collapse in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients utilizing drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE).

Study design

Non‐randomized trial.

Setting

University Medical Center.

Participants

Fifteen consecutive OSA patients undergoing DISE.

Main outcomes and measures

The patterns of airway collapse were videorecorded at baseline and under differential application of nasal CPAP (nCPAP) at 5, 10 and 15 cm H2O. For each modality, the pattern and degree of airway collapse were analyzed by three independent observers using the velum, oropharynx, tongue base, epiglottis (VOTE) classification system.

Results

The modest nCPAP pressures (10 cm H2O) had the greatest impact on the lateral walls of the pharynx, followed by the palatal region. The collapsibility of the tongue base and epiglottis demonstrated significant resistance to nCPAP application, which was overcome by increasing nCPAP to 15 cm H2O. Compared to 5 cm H2O, nCPAP pressures of 10 and 15 cm H2O improved complete collapse at least at one level of the upper airway (P=.016 and .001, respectively). Increased nCPAP pressures also led to changes in the configuration of airway collapse at the level of the velum.

Conclusions

The differential nCPAP effects observed in this study may help to understand some of the mechanisms responsible for inadequate patient response and poor nCPAP compliance. The use of DISE in combination with CPAP may serve as a first step in optimizing patients that failed to adapt to treatment with CPAP. This approach can help the physician identify patterns of airway collapse that may require varying pressures different from the one the patient is using, as well as anatomical factors that may be corrected to help with compliance.
Occurrence of artichoke‐infecting viruses in Tunisia
Authors: Salleh W. , Minutillo S. A. , Spanò R. , Zammouri S. , Gallitelli D. , Mnari‐Hattab M.
Published: February 2017

Crops of globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) in Manouba and Bizerte regions, Tunisia, were surveyed in spring and autumn 2012 for the presence of key artichoke viruses. A total of 336 leaf samples were collected randomly from plants that were either asymptomatic or showing virus‐like symptoms. These were tested for Artichoke Italian latent virus (AILV), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Artichoke mottled crinkle virus (AMCV), Pelargonium zonate spot virus (PZSV), Artichoke latent virus (ArLV), Bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV), Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), Potato virus X (PVX), Tomato infectious chlorosis virus (TICV) and Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). Results from dot‐blot hybridization and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) showed the occurrence of AILV and BYMV for the first time in Tunisia, and confirmed that of TICV on artichoke crops. ArLV and AILV were the most frequent viruses detected, whereas infections of AMCV, CMV and PVX had a lower incidence. PZSV, TuMV and TSWV were not detected in any of the samples collected. Notable differences were observed between results from spring and autumn surveys, probably as a consequence of the different vegetatives status of the plants and different leaf sample conditions (fresh versus dried). Consequences of the import of planting material with a poor sanitary status and of the overall phytosanitary status of globe artichoke in Tunisia are discussed.
Label Ranking Forests
Authors: de Sá Cláudio Rebelo , Soares Carlos , Knobbe Arno , Cortez Paulo
Published: February 2017

The problem of Label Ranking is receiving increasing attention from several research communities. The algorithms that have been developed/adapted to treat rankings of a fixed set of labels as the target object, including several different types of decision trees (DT). One DT‐based algorithm, which has been very successful in other tasks but which has not been adapted for label ranking is the Random Forests (RF) algorithm. RFs are an ensemble learning method that combines different trees obtained using different randomization techniques. In this work, we propose an ensemble of decision trees for Label Ranking, based on Random Forests, which we refer to as Label Ranking Forests (LRF). Two different algorithms that learn DT for label ranking are used to obtain the trees. We then compare and discuss the results of LRF with standalone decision tree approaches. The results indicate that the method is highly competitive.
The polar warhead of a TRIM24 bromodomain inhibitor rearranges a water‐mediated interaction network
Authors: Liu Jiuyang , Li Fudong , Bao Hongyu , Jiang Yiyang , Zhang Shuya , Ma Rongsheng , Gao Jia , Wu Jihui , Ruan Ke
Published: February 2017

Tripartite motif‐containing protein 24 (TRIM24) is closely correlated with multiple cancers, and a recent study demonstrated that the bromodomain of TRIM24 is essential for the proliferation of lethal castration‐resistant prostate cancer. Here, we identify three new inhibitors of the TRIM24 bromodomain using NMR fragment‐based screening. The crystal structures of two new inhibitors in complex with the TRIM24 bromodomain reveal that the water‐bridged interaction network is conserved in the same fashion as those for known benzoimidazolone inhibitors. Interestingly, the polar substitution on the warhead of one new inhibitor pulls the whole ligand approximately 2 Å into the inner side pocket of the TRIM24 bromodomain, and thus exhibits a binding mode significantly different from other known bromodomain ligands. This mode provides a useful handle for further hit‐to‐lead evolution toward novel inhibitors of the TRIM24 bromodomain.

Database

Structural data are available in the PDB under the accession numbers 5H1T, 5H1U, and 5H1V.
Cysteine proteases in atherosclerosis
Authors: Weiss‐Sadan Tommy , Gotsman Israel , Blum Galia
Published: February 2017

Atherosclerosis predisposes patients to cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Instigation of vascular injury is triggered by retention of lipids and inflammatory cells in the vascular endothelium. Whereas these vascular lesions develop in young adults and are mostly considered harmless, over time persistent inflammatory and remodeling processes will ultimately damage the arterial wall and cause a thrombotic event due to exposure of tissue factors into the lumen. Evidence from human tissues and preclinical animal models has clearly established the role of cathepsin cysteine proteases in the development and progression of vascular lesions. Hence, understanding the function of cathepsins in atherosclerosis is important for developing novel therapeutic strategies and advanced point of care diagnostics. In this review we will describe the roles of cysteine cathepsins in different cellular process that become dysfunctional in atherosclerosis, such as lipid metabolism, inflammation and apoptosis, and how they contribute to arterial remodeling and atherogenesis. Finally, we will explore new horizons in protease molecular imaging, which may potentially become a surrogate marker to identify future cardiovascular events.
The Notional Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and the German ‘Point System’: A Comparison
Authors: Gurtovaya Vera , Nisticò Sergio
Published: February 2017

This paper examines the analytical properties of the German ‘points-based’ pension system. These properties are compared with those of a canonical Notional Defined Contribution (NDC) pension scheme. The paper identifies the circumstances under which the German ‘points-based’ system would mimic a Swedish-type NDC scheme and verifies to what extent the German ‘points-based’ scheme ensures uniformity of individual rates of return for some hypothetical careers. Finally, the paper proposes a set of new possible adjustment rules able to increase similarity between the German point system and the NDC scheme.
Changes in Projected Spatial and Seasonal Groundwater Recharge in the Upper Colorado River Basin
Authors: Tillman Fred D , Gangopadhyay Subhrendu , Pruitt Tom
Published: February 2017

The Colorado River is an important source of water in the western United States, supplying the needs of more than 38 million people in the United States and Mexico. Groundwater discharge to streams has been shown to be a critical component of streamflow in the Upper Colorado River Basin (UCRB), particularly during low‐flow periods. Understanding impacts on groundwater in the basin from projected climate change will assist water managers in the region in planning for potential changes in the river and groundwater system. A previous study on changes in basin‐wide groundwater recharge in the UCRB under projected climate change found substantial increases in temperature, moderate increases in precipitation, and mostly periods of stable or slight increases in simulated groundwater recharge through 2099. This study quantifies projected spatial and seasonal changes in groundwater recharge within the UCRB from recent historical (1950 to 2015) through future (2016 to 2099) time periods, using a distributed‐parameter groundwater recharge model with downscaled climate data from 97 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) climate projections. Simulation results indicate that projected increases in basin‐wide recharge of up to 15% are not distributed uniformly within the basin or throughout the year. Northernmost subregions within the UCRB are projected an increase in groundwater recharge, while recharge in other mainly southern subregions will decline. Seasonal changes in recharge also are projected within the UCRB, with decreases of 50% or more in summer months and increases of 50% or more in winter months for all subregions, and increases of 10% or more in spring months for many subregions.
Preliminary evaluation of altered brain microstructure in the emotion–cognition region in children with haemophilia A: a diffusional kurtosis imaging study
Authors: Hu D. , Kang H. , Lv Y. , Zhang N. , Tang L. , Zhang J. , Shi K. , Wu R. , Peng Y.
Published: February 2017

Aim

Using diffusional kurtosis imaging (DKI) to assess the impact of emotional disorders on microstructural changes of the brain in children with haemophilia A.

Materials and Methods

Diffusional kurtosis imaging was acquired from haemophilia A (n = 22) and controls (n = 22) using a 3T scanner. A regression analysis of frontal, cingulate, hippocampus, insula and amygdala regions of interest (ROIs) was conducted. Clinical data and results of psychological tests were collected. A paired t‐test was used to analyse the differences between the two groups’ ROIs, and the Spearman test was used to analyse the correlation between ROIs and psychological tests or clinical data.

Results

Fractional anisotropy (FA) in the left middle cingulate and right hippocampus; mean diffusion (MD) in the frontal lobe, right anterior cingulate and right middle cingulate showed varying degrees of increase in the ROI compared to controls (P < 0.003). MD in the frontal lobe and the course of disease (P < 0.05), FA in the right hippocampus and the social score of the self‐consciousness scale (P < 0.01) had a positive correlation.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to evaluate the relationship between emotion disorders and cognitive changes in the microstructure of the brain in children with haemophilia A, suggesting that DKI provides more information about tissue microstructural changes than do the conventional image method and traditional psychological tests.
Pathogenesis of enuresis: Towards a new understanding
Authors: Nevéus Tryggve
Published: February 2017

Enuresis was historically viewed as a primarily psychiatric disorder, but this understanding has changed dramatically since the end of the last century, when it became clear that somatic factors, such as nocturnal polyuria as a result of vasopressin deficiency, nocturnal detrusor overactivity and high arousal thresholds, all play a crucial role in enuresis pathogenesis. It has also become clear that enuresis is inherited in the majority of cases, although the correlation between genotype and enuretic phenotype is not straightforward. The standard view of enuresis as being the result of either (i) nocturnal polyuria and high arousal thresholds; or (ii) nocturnal detrusor overactivity and high arousal thresholds has become well‐established, but further research now complicates the picture. First, psychological/psychiatric problems are overrepresented in enuresis, and might in a minority of cases have a causal or aggravating role. Second, nocturnal polyuria is not always linked to vasopressin deficiency. Third, nocturnal detrusor overactivity is in itself pathogenetically heterogeneous, and could be linked to constipation. Fourth, the sleep of enuretic children might be “deep,” but possibly also disturbed (by obstructed airways or a distended or contracting bladder). These children might have high arousal thresholds because of the enuresis instead of the other way around. The same might possibly be said about nocturnal polyuria. Taking these new insights into account, a new model of enuresis pathogenesis is presented, which is more complicated but hopefully also more true than the standard consensus.
Recurrent contrast‐induced encephalopathy following coronary angiography
Authors: Spina Roberto , Simon Neil , Markus Romesh , Muller David W. M. , Kathir Krishna
Published: February 2017

Contrast‐induced encephalopathy (CIE) is an acute and reversible neurological disturbance associated with the intra‐arterial administration of iodinated contrast medium during cardiac catheterisation. It may manifest with encephalopathy, motor and sensory disturbances; vision disturbances, including cortical blindness, ophthalmoplegia, aphasia; and seizures. Disruption of the blood–brain barrier and direct neuronal toxicity are believed to be implicated in the pathophysiology of the syndrome. Symptoms appear soon after contrast administration and resolve completely within 24–48 h. Risk factors may include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, renal impairment, the administration of large volumes of iodinated contrast, percutaneous coronary intervention or selective angiography of internal mammary grafts and previous adverse reaction to iodinated contrast. On cerebral imaging, CIE may mimic subarachnoid haemorrhage or cerebral ischaemia, but imaging may be normal. Prognosis is excellent with supportive management alone. CIE may recur, but re‐challenge with iodinated contrast without adverse effects has been documented. CIE is a diagnosis of exclusion and is an important clinical entity to consider in the differential diagnosis of stroke following cardiac catheterisation. Physicians should be aware of it and consider it prior to initiating thrombolysis.
An Innovative Method for Fragment Reattachment after Complicated Crown Fracture
Authors: Tonini Riccardo
Published: February 2017

The case of a nineteen‐year‐old female with atypical fractures to three maxillary incisors (#11 FDI, #8 universal; #21 FDI, #9 universal and #22 FDI, #10 universal) with one showing a complicated crown fracture and pulp exposure is reported. A partial pulpotomy had been carried out immediately after trauma and the patient complained of acute pain on percussion of the left central incisor. Direct restoration with resin‐based composite was carried out on the two teeth where fragments were not available (tooth #8 and #10) and root canal treatment with reattachment of fragments and fiber post was carried out on the third (tooth #9). An innovative method was used to reattach the tooth fragments whereby the fiber post was inserted without drilling a hole in the crown thus preserving the integrity of the crown. Follow‐up visits confirmed the success of treatment based on clinical and radiographic evaluations. The patient was pain free with no tooth sensitivity and good function and esthetics after four years of follow‐up.

Clinical Significance

Case report with a follow‐up of 4 years, provides confirmatory evidence of the long‐term efficacy of an innovative method to reattach tooth fragments whereby fiber post is inserted without drilling a hole in the crown thus preserving the integrity of the crown. (J Esthet Restor Dent 29:172–177, 2017)
The Synonymy of the Toxic Dinoflagellates Prorocentrum mexicanum and P. rhathymum and the Description of P. steidingerae sp. nov. (Prorocentrales, Dinophyceae)
Authors: Gómez Fernando , Qiu Dajun , Lin Senjie
Published: February 2017

Prorocentrum mexicanum and P. rhathymum are toxicologically important dinoflagellates, but their relationship is not well defined. We investigated strains from Puerto Rico and Brazil by light and scanning electron microscopies. We provide molecular data from a strain isolated near the type locality of P. rhathymum, and the first morphological and molecular data from the South Atlantic Ocean. The rRNA gene (rDNA) sequences of the Puerto Rican and Brazilian strains were identical, and their morphologies fit the description of P. rhathymum. In the molecular phylogenies, the globally distributed populations under the names P. mexicanum and P. rhathymum are intermixed and branched together, except for several divergent strains from Florida and Cuba. We examined the original descriptions and iconotypes of the species Prorocentrum maximum, P. brochii, P. mexicanum, and P. rhathymum. We conclude that P. maximum sensu Schiller's figure 41a corresponds to the earlier description of this species; the split of P. mexicanum and P. rhathymum was based on a misidentification because P. mexicanum sensu Cortés‐Altamirano & Sierra‐Beltrán corresponds to P. texanum var. cuspidatum; and P. rhathymum is a junior synonym of P. mexicanum. Several Floridian and Cuban strains correspond to a new species, which we describe as Prorocentrum steidingerae sp. nov.
Effects of Different Types of Exercise on Body Composition, Muscle Strength, and IGF‐1 in the Elderly with Sarcopenic Obesity
Authors: Chen Hung‐Ting , Chung Yu‐Chun , Chen Yu‐Jen , Ho Sung‐Yen , Wu Huey‐June
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To investigate the influence of resistance training (RT), aerobic training (AT), or combination training (CT) interventions on the body composition, muscle strength performance, and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) of patients with sarcopenic obesity.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Community center and research center.

Participants

Sixty men and women aged 65–75 with sarcopenic obesity.

Intervention

Participants were randomly assigned toRT,AT,CT, and control (CON) groups. After training twice a week for 8 weeks, the participants in each group ceased training for 4 weeks before being examined for the retention effects of the training interventions.

Measurements

The body composition, grip strength, maximum back extensor strength, maximum knee extensor muscle strength, and blood IGF‐1 concentration were measured.

Results

The skeletal muscle mass (SMM), body fat mass, appendicularSMM/weight %, and visceral fat area (VFA) of theRT,AT, andCTgroups were significantly superior to those of theCONgroup at both week 8 and week 12. Regarding muscle strength performance, theRTgroup exhibited greater grip strength at weeks 8 and 12 as well as higher knee extensor performance at week 8 than that of the other groups. At week 8, the serum IGF‐1 concentration of theRTgroup was higher than theCONgroup, whereas theCTgroup was superior to theATandCONgroups.

Conclusion

Older adults with sarcopenic obesity who engaged in theRT,AT, andCTinterventions demonstrated increased muscle mass and reduced total fat mass andVFAcompared with those without training. The muscle strength performance and serum IGF‐1 level in trained groups, especially in theRTgroup, were superior to the control group.
Multicenter Validation of an MMSE‐MoCA Conversion Table
Authors: Bergeron David , Flynn Kelsey , Verret Louis , Poulin Stéphane , Bouchard Rémi W. , Bocti Christian , Fülöp Tamàs , Lacombe Guy , Gauthier Serge , Nasreddine Ziad , Laforce Robert Jr
Published: February 2017

Background

Accumulating evidence points to the superiority of the MoCA over the MMSE as a cognitive screening tool. To facilitate the transition from the MMSE to the MoCA in clinical and research settings, authors have developed MMSE‐MoCA conversion tables. However, it is unknown whether a conversion table generated from Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients would apply to patients with other dementia subtypes like vascular dementia or frontotemporal dementia. Furthermore, the reliability and accuracy of MMSE‐MoCA conversion tables has not been properly evaluated.

Method

We retrospectively examined the MMSE‐MoCA relationship in a large multicenter sample gathered from 3 Memory Clinics in Quebec, Canada (1492 patients). We produced an MMSE‐MoCA conversion table using the equi‐percentile method with log‐linear smoothing. We then cross‐validated our conversion table with the ADNI dataset (1202 patients) and evaluated its accuracy for future predictions.

Results

The MMSE‐MoCA conversion table is consistent with previously published tables and has an intra‐class correlation of 0.633 with the ADNI sample. However, we found that the MMSE‐MoCA relationship is significantly modified by diagnosis (P < .01), with dementia subtypes associated with a dysexecutive syndrome showing a trend towards higher MMSE than other dementia syndromes for a given MoCA score. The large width of 95% confidence interval (CI) for a new prediction suggests questionable reliability for clinical use.

Conclusion

In this study, we validated a conversion table between MMSE and MoCA using a large multicenter sample. Our results suggest caution in interpreting the tables in heterogeneous clinical populations, as the MMSE‐MoCA relationship may be different across dementia subtypes.
Sucrose transporter2 contributes to maize growth, development, and crop yield
Authors: Leach Kristen A. , Tran Thu M. , Slewinski Thomas L. , Meeley Robert B. , Braun David M.
Published: February 2017

During daylight, plants produce excess photosynthates, including sucrose, which is temporarily stored in the vacuole. At night, plants remobilize sucrose to sustain metabolism and growth. Based on homology to other sucrose transporter (SUT) proteins, we hypothesized the maize (Zea mays) SUCROSE TRANSPORTER2 (ZmSUT2) protein functions as a sucrose/H+ symporter on the vacuolar membrane to export transiently stored sucrose. To understand the biological role of ZmSut2, we examined its spatial and temporal gene expression, determined the protein subcellular localization, and characterized loss‐of‐function mutations. ZmSut2 mRNA was ubiquitously expressed and exhibited diurnal cycling in transcript abundance. Expressing a translational fusion of ZmSUT2 fused to a red fluorescent protein in maize mesophyll cell protoplasts revealed that the protein localized to the tonoplast. Under field conditions, zmsut2 mutant plants grew slower, possessed smaller tassels and ears, and produced fewer kernels when compared to wild‐type siblings. zmsut2 mutants also accumulated two‐fold more sucrose, glucose, and fructose as well as starch in source leaves compared to wild type. These findings suggest (i) ZmSUT2 functions to remobilize sucrose out of the vacuole for subsequent use in growing tissues; and (ii) its function provides an important contribution to maize development and agronomic yield.
Coupling Processes and Experiences of Never Married Heterosexual Black Men and Women: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Awosan Christiana I. , Hardy Kenneth V.
Published: February 2017

Over the past decades, the decline in Black marriages and the upsurge of never‐married Blacks have stimulated much theoretical focus, but researchers conducted few studies on never‐married heterosexual Black adults' coupling unions. Guided by an integrated framework of Africana womanism and symbolic interactionism, this qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological study used comprehensive individual interviews to explore the experiences of 26 never‐married heterosexual Black men and women between the ages 25 and 35 about their attempts to cultivate and maintain intimate romantic relationships as well as their desire for marriage. Findings revealed mixed emotions from participants' lived experiences in developing and sustaining romantic relationships. Clinical implications highlighted the need to effectively attend to Black romantic relationships and experiences in their sociohistorical and sociocultural contexts.