bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Homozygous Missense Mutation in CAPN3 Gene Detected in a Saudi Arabian Family With Limb–Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2A
Authors: Al-Harbi Talal M. , Abdulmana' Sameeh O. , Dridi Walid
Published: November 2016

More than 300 mutations were identified in Calpainopathy (CAPN3) gene in limb–girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A (LGMD2A) patients. LGMD2A type is also known as Calpainopathy, which is characterized by selective atrophy and weakness of proximal limb muscles. We report a Saudi Arabian family with weakness in limb–girdle distribution: waddling gait, positive Gowers' sign, and marked muscle atrophy in the shoulder and pelvic girdle muscles. We sequenced all exonic and intronic regions of the CAPN3 gene and identified c.1699 G>A variant as a novel variant not previously described in other patients. In silico predictions indicate that this is probably a disease-causing mutation. Here, for the first time, we report this c.1699 G>A new variant in the CAPN3 gene that can be considered as a robust genetics factor causing LGMD2A disease.
Gastrointestinal and Urologic Sphincter Dysfunction in Stiff Person Syndrome
Authors: Dumitrascu Oana M. , Tsimerinov Evgeny I. , Lewis Richard A.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

Stiff person syndrome is a neurologic disorder characterized by axial rigidity leading to progressive disability, with broad clinical spectrum.

Methods:

We report 2 cases with unique clinical presentation.

Results:

Two young men suffered progressive urinary retention requiring bladder catheterization, anorectal spasms and constipation, complicated subsequently with lower extremity trigger-induced spasms, and gait instability. Associated symptoms revealed brainstem involvement (vertigo, diplopia, and cranial neuropathies) and dysautonomia (abnormal sweating and orthostatic hypotension). Anal manometry demonstrated incomplete relaxation of the anal sphincter. The first case was associated with diabetes mellitus type I, did not respond to classical therapies, but was responsive to rituximab. The second case responded to intravenous immunoglobulin infusions. Paraneoplastic profiles were negative, and anti-GAD65 antibody titers remained elevated despite successful therapeutic responses.

Conclusions:

We want to raise awareness that stiff person syndrome can present with esophageal, anorectal, and urethral sphincter disturbance. Rituximab is a good therapeutic option in intractable cases.
Utilizing a Social Determinant of Health Framework as Determinants of Perceived Behavioral Control
Authors: Maness Sarah B. , Branscum Paul
Published: November 2016

Health disparities reflect inequalities in health outcomes among different populations. As a planning tool for researchers and practitioners to address health disparities, multiple frameworks utilizing social determinants of health have been proposed. Perceived behavioral control, a construct within the Integrative Behavioral Model, reflects how much control one feels over a health behavior and how easy or difficult the behavior is to enact under internal and external barriers. The purpose of this commentary is to suggest how a unified social determinant of health framework can be utilized as a predictor and determinant of the construct perceived behavioral control.
A Community-Based Participatory Research Intervention to Promote Physical Activity Among Rural Children
Authors: Hamilton Kara C. , Richardson Mark T. , Owens Teirdre , Morris Timothy , Hathaway Elizabeth D. , Higginbotham John C.
Published: November 2016

The overall objective of Project SHAPE (Shaping Health using Activity Photovoice and E-Video) was to improve physical activity levels of rural, medically underserved children by designing and implementing a culturally relevant physical activity intervention. This objective was met by using a community-based participatory research approach to design and implement an intervention that would positively affect the psychosocial constructs related to increasing physical activity, which, in turn, would lead to increases in the time spent in daily physical activity. This article describes the unique design of the intervention including its theoretical framework, its interrelated components, and the logistics involved.
A Simple High-Performance Liquid Chromatography for Determining Lapatinib and Erlotinib in Human Plasma
Authors: Ohgami Masahiro , Homma Masato , Suzuki Yoshiharu , Naito Kanako , Yamada Motoko , Mitsuhashi Shoichi , Fujisawa Fumie , Kojima Hiroshi , Kaburagi Takayuki , Uchiumi Keiko , Yamada Yutaka , Bando Hiroko , Hara Hisato , Takei Keiji
Published: November 2016

Background:

Lapatinib and erlotinib are used for cancer treatment, showing large interindividual variability. Therapeutic drug monitoring may be useful for assessing the clinical outcomes and adverse events. A simple high-performance liquid chromatography UV method was developed for the determination of lapatinib and erlotinib in human plasma.

Methods:

An aliquot of plasma sample spiked with internal standard was treated with acetonitrile to precipitate the proteins. Lapatinib and erlotinib were separated on an octadecylsilyl silica gel column using a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile, methanol, water, and trifluoroacetic acid (26:26:48:0.1) pumped at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The detection wavelength was set at 316 nm.

Results:

The calibration curves for lapatinib and erlotinib were linear (r = 0.9999) in the range of 0.125–8.00 mcg/mL. The extraction recoveries for both lapatinib and erlotinib at the plasma concentration of 0.125–8.00 mcg/mL were higher than 89.9% with coefficients of variation less than 3.5%. The coefficients of variation for intraday and interday assays of lapatinib and erlotinib were less than 5.1% and 6.1%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The present method can be used for blood concentration monitoring for lapatinib or erlotinib in exactly the same conditions.
Does Otosclerosis Affect Dark and Transitional Cells in the Human Vestibular Labyrinth?
Authors: Kaya Serdar , Paparella Michael M. , Cureoglu Sebahattin
Published: November 2016

Hypothesis:

The density of vestibular dark cells (DCs) and vestibular transitional cells (TCs) can be quantitatively decreased in human temporal bones with otosclerosis.

Background:

Previous reports have shown that otosclerosis can lead to vestibular symptoms.

Methods:

We examined 61 human temporal bone specimens from 52 deceased donors with otosclerosis group–with and without endosteal involvement (EI), and with and without endolymphatic hydrops (EH)–versus 25 specimens from 18 age-matched controls. Using light microscopy, we evaluated the nonsensory epithelium of the lateral semicircular canal (LSC) and posterior semicircular canal (PSC) of the human vestibular labyrinth, focusing on the density of DCs and TCs.

Results:

In both the LSC and the PSC, as compared with the control group, the mean density of DCs significantly decreased in the EI (+) group, in the EI (+) and EH (+) subgroup, and in the EI (+) and EH (−) subgroup (p < 0.05). In addition, we found a significant difference in the mean density of DCs between the EI (+) group and the EI (−) group in the LSC and in the PSC (p < 0.05). But we found no significant difference in the mean density of TCs in any of the otosclerosis groups or subgroups as compared with the control group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

We found a decrease in the density of DCs associated with EI in human temporal bone specimens with otosclerosis, regardless of the presence of EH. This decrease might cause damage in ion and water transportation, leading to vestibular symptoms.
Hepatogenic Differentiation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem cells on Collagen-Coated Polyethersulfone Nanofibers
Authors: Mahmoodinia Maymand Maryam , Soleimanpour-Lichaei Hamid Reza , Ardeshirylajimi Abdolreza , Soleimani Masoud , Mirzaei Samaneh , Hajarizadeh Athena , Kabir Salmani Maryam
Published: November 2016

Many scientists have been fascinated with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for cell replacement therapies. Nanofibrous biocompatible scaffolds have been shown to foster better cell adhesion and improve stem cell differentiation. In the current study, after fabrication using electrospinning technique and surface modifications, the characteristics of polyethersulfone (PES) nanofibers were determined by scanning electron microscopy, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and 3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Then, the hepatogenic potential of iPSCs was evaluated using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunocytochemistry (ICC) after culture on collagen-coated polyethersulfone (PES/COL) scaffolds. After scaffolds characterization, analysis of two important definitive endoderm specific markers (Sox17 and Foxa2) using real-time RT-PCR and ICC indicated increase in their mRNA and protein levels after 5 days of hepatogenic induction. In addition, to determine hepatic differentiation of iPSCs cultured on PES/COL, the expression of albumin and α-fetoprotein was evaluated by ICC after 20 days. Real-time RT-PCR analysis showed increased expression of albumin, TAT, cytokeratin 19, and Cyp7A1 genes during the course of differentiation program. Finally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis demonstrated an increased expression of albumin in the protein level after 28 days of differentiation. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that PES/COL nanofibrous scaffolds could be a proper substrate to significantly increase the hepatogenic differentiation potential of iPSCs and could also be introduced as a promising candidate for liver tissue engineering applications.
Comparison of rectal indomethacin, diclofenac, and naproxen for the prevention of post endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis
Authors: Mohammad Alizadeh Amir H. , Abbasinazari Mohammad , Hatami Behzad , Abdi Saeed , Ahmadpour Forozan , Dabir Shideh , Nematollahi Aida , Fatehi Samira , Pourhoseingholi Mohammad A.
Published: November 2016

Background and aim

NSAIDs are commonly utilized for the prevention of post endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis (PEP). However, not much is known about the most effective drug in preventing this complication. This study aims to clarify which drug (indomethacin, diclofenac, or naproxen) is most effective for the prevention of post endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Materials and methods

In a double-blind, randomized study, patients received a single rectal dose of one of the three drugs 30 min before undergoing ERCP: diclofenac (100 mg), indomethacin (100 mg), or naproxen (500 mg). The primary outcome measured was the development of pancreatitis. The levels of serum amylase, lipase, lipoxin A4, and resolvin E1 were measured before ERCP, and at 24 h after the procedure.

Results

Three hundred and seventy-two patients completed the study. The overall incidence of PEP was 8.6%, which occurred in five of the 124 (4%) patients who received diclofenac, seven of the 122 (5.8%) patients who received indomethacin, and 20 of the 126 (15.9%) patients who received naproxen. There were no significant differences in amylase and lipase levels among the three groups (P=0.183 and 0.597, respectively). Unlike patients in the naproxen group, patients in the diclofenac and indomethacin groups showed a significant increase in lipoxin A4 and resolvin E1 (P=0.001 and 0.02, respectively).

Conclusion

Diclofenac and indomethacin patient groups had a lower incidence of PEP than the naproxen group.
Patients Negatively Impacted by Discontinuity of Nursing Care During Acute Hospitalization
Authors: Yakusheva Olga , Costa Deena K. , Weiss Marianne
Published: November 2016

Background:

Continuity of nursing care in hospitals remains poor and not prioritized, and we do not know whether discontinuous nursing care is negatively impacting patient outcomes.

Objectives:

This study aims to examine nursing care discontinuity and its effect on patient clinical condition over the course of acute hospitalization.

Research Design:

Retrospective longitudinal analysis of electronic health records (EHR). Average point-in-time discontinuity was estimated from time of admission to discharge and compared with theoretical predictions for optimal continuity and random nurse assignment. Mixed-effects models estimated within-patient change in clinical condition following a discontinuity.

Subjects:

A total of 3892 adult medical-surgical inpatients were admitted to a tertiary academic medical center in the Eastern United States during July 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011.

Measures:

Exposure: discontinuity of nursing care was measured at each nurse assessment entry into a patient’s EHR as assignment of the patient to a nurse with no prior assignment to that patient. Outcome: patient’s clinical condition score (Rothman Index) continuously tracked in the EHR.

Results:

Discontinuity declined from nearly 100% in the first 24 hours to 70% at 36 hours, and to 50% by the 10th postadmission day. Discontinuity was higher than predicted for optimal continuity, but not random. Each instance of discontinuity lead to a 0.12–0.23 point decline in the Rothman Index score, with more pronounced effects for older and high-mortality risk patients.

Conclusions:

Discontinuity in acute care nurse assignments was high and negatively impacted patient clinical condition. Improved continuity of provider-patient assignment should be advocated to improve patient outcomes in acute care.
Nonmodifiable risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Price Meghan J. , Tuca Maria , Cordasco Frank A. , Green Daniel W.
Published: November 2016

Purpose of review

As anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is becoming increasingly prevalent in the population of active children and young adolescents, it is crucial to be aware of both the modifiable and nonmodifiable factors that place this population at increased ACL injury risk. Historically, there has not been a definitive consensus on all of these risk factors—particularly the nonmodifiable ones.

Recent findings

The present review has accumulated the most recent evidence for the nonmodifiable risk factors in ACL injury focusing particularly on female gender, generalized joint laxity, knee recurvatum, increased lateral tibial slope, decreased intercondylar notch width, structural lower extremity valgus, limb length discrepancy, family history, and history of contralateral knee ACL injury.

Physicians should be aware of the nonmodifiable risk factors for ACL tears in active children and adolescents and should also encourage avoidance of modifiable risk factors in this population. Young athletes with nonmodifiable risk factors are at a particularly increased risk of recurrent injury following ACL reconstruction (ACLR). We believe that a primary extra-articular augmentation via iliotibial band tenodesis at the same time of ACLR may decrease the rate of reinjury for the high risk athlete with multiple nonmodifiable risk factors.
Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire
Authors: van Engelenburg‐van Lonkhuyzen Marieke L. , Bols Esther M.J. , Bastiaenen Caroline H.G. , Benninga Marc A. , de Bie Rob A.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to develop a questionnaire evaluating the frequency of symptoms over time of concomitant childhood bladder and bowel dysfunctions (CBBDs) in 5‐ to 12‐year‐old children and to assess its feasibility and aspects of validity and reliability.

Methods:

The Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire (CBBDQ) was developed in phases according to COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) in cooperation with epidemiologists, pediatricians, physiotherapists (phases 1 and 5), and professional translators (phase 5): selection of items (Delphi‐method), content validity (pilot), feasibility (interviews), structural validity and internal consistency (field testing), and guideline‐based translation (Dutch‐English). Participants were parents of children, ages 5 to 12 years (phases 2–4).

Results:

Parents of 1333 children (mean age 7.8 years [standard deviation 2.1]) were included. Most common were urinary incontinence (35.9%), enuresis (29.7%), and constipation/fecal incontinence (30.1%). Concomitant CBBD was seen in 74.2% of 1229 children. Originally, a 27‐item CBBDQ was developed. After the pilot (48 parents) a 23‐item version remained for evaluation of feasibility aspects by interviewing 56 parents. Based on 1229 completed questionnaires during field testing, the CBBDQ reduced to 18 items. Cronbach α values were 0.74 and 0.71 for bladder and bowel subscales, respectively. Feasibility and aspects of validity and reliability were satisfactory. A definitive and accepted English version of the CBBDQ is available.

Conclusions:

When completed by parents, the 18‐item evaluative CBBDQ appears feasible, content, and structurally valid with good internal consistency for the bladder and bowel subscales. The Dutch and English versions will be introduced clinically and subjected to further psychometric evaluation.
Nutrient‐enriched Infant Formula Is Associated With Higher Weight Gain for Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Ngan Michelle , Durazo‐Arvizu Ramon , Weiss Marc G. , Kramer Holly
Published: November 2016

Objective:

Nutrient‐enriched formulas were developed to provide extra nutrients and facilitate optimal growth for low birth weight infants. This study examined the association between use of nutrient‐enriched formulas and weight gain among low birth weight infants (birth weight 1500–2500 g).

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study used data from infants enrolled in the Illinois Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. Analyses were limited to infants born in 2010 with low birth weight (1500–2500 g, n = 3130). We examined weight gain by use of nutrient‐enriched versus standard term formula, which was assigned to the infant by the Women, Infants, and Children program during the first month of life. The analyses used a multilevel mixed‐effects linear regression model with random intercepts to determine the association between use of enriched versus standard term formula and weight gain while simultaneously adjusting for confounders including gestational age, birth weight, and history of breast‐feeding.

Results:

Among 670 infants in the 1500 to 1999 g birth weight group, those fed enriched formula gained 46.4 g (95% confidence interval 7.4–85.3, P < 0.05) more per month in the first 6 months, and 34.0 g (95% confidence interval −0.4 to 68.3, P = 0.05) more per month >6 to 12 months of age compared with infants using standard term infant formula after adjustment for covariates. Similar findings were noted among the 2460 infants in the 2000 to 2500 g birth weight group.

Conclusions:

Use of nutrient‐enriched formulas is associated with higher weight gain in low birth weight infants.
Use of CA-125 Tests and Computed Tomographic Scans for Surveillance in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Esselen Katharine M. , Cronin Angel M. , Bixel Kristin , Bookman Michael A. , Burger Robert A. , Cohn David E. , Cristea Mihaela , Griggs Jennifer J. , Levenback Charles F. , Mantia-Smaldone Gina , Meyer Larissa A. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Niland Joyce C. , Sun Charlotte , O’Malley David M. , Wright Alexi A.
Published: November 2016

(Abstracted from JAMA Oncol 2016; DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.1842)

Data from a clinical trial presented at the 2009 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting and published in 2010 compared results among patients with ovarian cancer in clinical remission, who were randomized to either active surveillance with cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) testing or clinical observation. Findings from this trial demonstrated that routine surveillance with CA-125 testing increased use of chemotherapy and decreased patients’ quality of life without improving survival.
Zika and the Risk of Microcephaly
Authors: Johansson Michael A. , Mier-y-Teran-Romero Luis , Reefhuis Jennita , Gilboa Suzanne M. , Hills Susan L.
Published: November 2016

(Abstracted from N Engl J Med 2016;375:1–4)

During an outbreak in 2013–2014, the rate of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in the Polynesian population was estimated at a rate of 66%, and it was estimated that it posed a risk of microcephaly in the first trimester of pregnancy of 0.95% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.34%–1.91%). In order to estimate the risk of microcephaly in the recent Brazilian outbreak, where Zika infection rates are not known, a range of 10% to 80% of ZIKV infection rates were estimated in Bahia.
Anti-Ro and Concomitant Anti-La Autoantibodies Strongly Associated With Anti-oxLDL or Anti-Phospholipid Antibody in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Kurien Biji Theyilamannil , Fesmire James , Anderson Camille Jean , Scofield Robert Hal
Published: November 2016

Background

Premature atherosclerosis is observed in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Oxidative modification of LDL is associated with atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Objectives

We hypothesized that anti-oxidized LDL (oxLDL) and anti-phospholipid (APL) in SLE sera would segregate with specific antibody subsets, and that anti-oxLDL antibodies will linger in circulation over an extended period.

Patients and Methods

Sixty-seven SLE and control subjects and two SLE subjects with sera collected longitudinally for 13 years were tested for anti-oxLDL and IgG/IgM/IgA APL antibodies.

Results

Anti-oxLDL ELISA values above 57.48 Activity Units (AcU) (means of normals + 3 standard deviations) and anti-IgG/IgM/IgA APL above 10 phospholipid units (PU) were considered positive. Average anti-oxLDL was 67.7 ± 50.5 AcU in SLE compared to 23.9 ± 11.19 AcU in normals (P = 0.018). Ten out of ten subjects with anti-Ro60/anti-La/anti-Ro52 antibodies had highly significant (P < 0.0001) anti-oxLDL (127.29 ± 45.67 AcU) and IgG APL (18.66 ± 7.4 PU) (P < 0.02). Subjects with anti-RNP were positive for anti-oxLDL (P < 0.002), but subjects with anti-Ro60/anti-Ro52 and subjects negative for extractable nuclear antigen (ENA) antibody were not positive for anti-oxLDL. Anti-oxLDL/anti-IgG APL remained significantly elevated in two patients studied longitudinally. Interestingly, one developed anti-oxLDL/anti-APL antibodies several years before anti-Ro60 development.

Conclusions

Presence of antibodies against Ro RNP and La, and RNP is highly associated with developing anti-oxLDL and APL antibodies in SLE. It will be clinically important to see if cardiovascular events occur in these SLE subsets having elevated anti-oxLDL and APL antibodies. Emergence of anti-oxLDL/IgG APL before anti-Ro60 over time in a patient indicates that these antibodies could not be cross-reactive in nature, at least in this particular patient.
Improved Delineation of Pulmonary Embolism and Venous Thrombosis Through Frequency Selective Nonlinear Blending in Computed Tomography
Authors: Bongers Malte Niklas , Bier Georg , Kloth Christopher , Schabel Christoph , Fritz Jan , Nikolaou Konstantin , Horger Marius
Published: November 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a novel frequency selective nonlinear blending (NLB) algorithm increases the delineation of pulmonary embolism and venous thrombosis in portal-venous phase whole-body staging computed tomography (CT).

Materials and Methods

A cohort of 67 patients with incidental pulmonary embolism and/or venous thrombosis in contrast-enhanced oncological staging CT were retrospectively selected. Computed tomography data sets were acquired 65 to 90 seconds after intravenous iodine contrast administration using state-of-the-art multi-detector CT scanners. A novel frequency selective NLB postprocessing technique was applied to reconstructed standard CT images. Two readers determined the most suitable settings to increase the delineation of pulmonary embolism and venous thrombosis. Outcome measure included region of interest and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) analyses, image noise, overall image quality, subjective delineation, as well as number and size of emboli and thrombi. Statistical testing included quantitative comparisons of Hounsfield units of thrombus and vessel, image noise and related CNR values and subjective image analyses of image noise, image quality and thrombus delineation, number and size in standard, and NLB images.

Results

Using frequency selective NLB settings with a center of 100 HU, delta of 40 HU, and a slope of 5, CNR values of pulmonary embolism (StandardCNR, 10 [6, 16]; NLBCNR, 22 [15, 30]; P < 0.001) and venous thrombosis (StandardCNR, 8 [5, 15]; NLBCNR, 12 [7, 19]; P = 0.0007) increased. Mean vascular enhancement using NLB was significantly higher than in standard images for pulmonary arteries (Standard, 138 [118, 191] HU; NLB, 269 [176, 329] HU; P < 0.0001) and veins (Standard, 120 [103, 162] HU; NLB, 169 [132, 217] HU; P < 0.0001), respectively. Image noise was not significantly different between standard and NLB images (P = 0.64-0.88). There was substantial to almost perfect interrater agreement as well as a significant increase of overall image quality (P < 0.004) and subjective delineation of the thrombotic material (P < 0.0001) in both subgroups. Nonlinear blending images revealed 8 additional segmental and 13 subsegmental emboli. Thrombus sizes were not significantly different, but subjective accuracy of the measurement could be significantly increased using NLB (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Postprocessing of standard whole-body staging CT images with frequency selective NLB improves image quality and the delineation of pulmonary embolism and venous thrombosis.
Can Nodular Hyperplasia of the Thyroid Gland be Differentiated From Follicular Adenoma and Follicular Carcinoma by Ultrasonography?
Authors: Jeong Sun Hye , Hong Hyun Sook , Lee Eun Hye
Published: November 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ultrasonographic features for differentiation of follicular thyroid lesions.

Methods

Ultrasonographic features of surgically confirmed 56 follicular adenoma (FA), 22 follicular carcinoma (FC), and 100 nodular hyperplasia (NH) were evaluated using univariable and multivariable multinomial logistic regression analyses, receiver operating characteristic analyses, and areas under the curve.

Results

Tumor diameter, margin, echotexture, cystic changes, calcification, hypoechoic rim, and vascularity were significant on univariable analysis. On multivariable logistic regression analyses, tumor diameter (FA,P= 0.002; odds ratio [OR], 0.75; FC,P= 0.001; OR, 2.02), absence of cystic changes (FA,P= 0.127; OR, 2.21; FC,P≤ 0.001; OR, 17.74), absence of spongiform appearance (FA,P= 0.234; OR, 0.31; FC,P< 0.001; OR,  1673.46), and peripheral vascularity (FA,P= 0.004; OR, 26.64; FC,P< 0.001; OR, 145060.38) differed significantly among the 3 follicular lesions, with NH as a reference. The areas under the curve for NH, FA, and FC were 0.844, 0.858, and 0.705, respectively, and diagnostic accuracy was 72.6%.

Conclusions

Tumor diameter, cystic changes, spongiform appearance, and peripheral vascularity differed significantly among follicular lesions. The diagnostic capability was moderate.
Collective behaviour in vertebrates: a sensory perspective
Authors: Pita Diana , Collignon Bertrand , Halloy José , Fernández-Juricic Esteban
Published: November 2016

Collective behaviour models can predict behaviours of schools, flocks, and herds. However, in many cases, these models make biologically unrealistic assumptions in terms of the sensory capabilities of the organism, which are applied across different species. We explored how sensitive collective behaviour models are to these sensory assumptions. Specifically, we used parameters reflecting the visual coverage and visual acuity that determine the spatial range over which an individual can detect and interact with conspecifics. Using metric and topological collective behaviour models, we compared the classic sensory parameters, typically used to model birds and fish, with a set of realistic sensory parameters obtained through physiological measurements. Compared with the classic sensory assumptions, the realistic assumptions increased perceptual ranges, which led to fewer groups and larger group sizes in all species, and higher polarity values and slightly shorter neighbour distances in the fish species. Overall, classic visual sensory assumptions are not representative of many species showing collective behaviour and constrain unrealistically their perceptual ranges. More importantly, caution must be exercised when empirically testing the predictions of these models in terms of choosing the model species, making realistic predictions, and interpreting the results.
Carbon nitride supported copper nanoparticles: light-induced electronic effect of the support for triazole synthesis
Authors: Nandi Debkumar , Taher Abu , Ul Islam Rafique , Siwal Samarjeet , Choudhary Meenakshi , Mallick Kaushik
Published: November 2016

The composite framework of graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) supported copper nanoparticle can act as a high-performance photoreactor for the synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole derivatives under light irradiation in the absence of alkaline condition. The photoactivity ofgCN originates from an electron transition from the valence band to the conduction band, in the presence of photon energy, and the hot electron acts as a scavenger of the terminal proton of the alkyne molecule to facilitate the formation of copper acetanilide complex. In this study, we have performed the experiment under a different photonic environment, including dark condition, and in the presence and absence of base. A comparative study was also executed using Cu-TiO2system, as a reference material, in the support of our proposed mechanism. The recycling performance and the photocorrosion effect of the catalyst have also been reported in this study.
Domain-specific functions of Stardust inDrosophilaembryonic development
Authors: Koch Leonie , Feicht Sabine , Sun Rui , Sen Arnab , Krahn Michael P.
Published: November 2016

InDrosophila, the adaptor protein Stardust is essential for the stabilization of the polarity determinant Crumbs in various epithelial tissues, including the embryonic epidermis, the follicular epithelium and photoreceptor cells of the compound eye. In turn, Stardust recruits another adaptor protein, PATJ, to the subapical region to support adherens junction formation and morphogenetic events. Moreover, Stardust binds to Lin-7, which is dispensable in epithelial cells but functions in postsynaptic vesicle fusion. Finally, Stardust has been reported to bind directly to PAR-6, thereby linking the Crumbs–Stardust–PATJ complex to the PAR-6/aPKC complex. PAR-6 and aPKC are also capable of directly binding Bazooka (theDrosophilahomologue of PAR-3) to form the PAR/aPKC complex, which is essential for apical–basal polarity and cell–cell contact formation in most epithelia. However, little is known about the physiological relevance of these interactions in the embryonic epidermis ofDrosophila in vivo. Thus, we performed a structure–function analysis of the annotated domains with GFP-tagged Stardust and evaluated the localization and function of the mutant proteins in epithelial cells of the embryonic epidermis. The data presented here confirm a crucial role of the PDZ domain in binding Crumbs and recruiting the protein to the subapical region. However, the isolated PDZ domain is not capable of being recruited to the cortex, and the SH3 domain is essential to support the binding to Crumbs. Notably, the conserved N-terminal regions (ECR1 and ECR2) are not crucial for epithelial polarity. Finally, the GUK domain plays an important role for the protein's function, which is not directly linked to Crumbs stabilization, and the L27N domain is essential for epithelial polarization independently of recruiting PATJ.
Cryo-EM structure of haemoglobin at 3.2 Å determined with the Volta phase plate
Authors: Khoshouei Maryam , Radjainia Mazdak , Baumeister Wolfgang , Danev Radostin
Published: November 2016

With the advent of direct electron detectors, the perspectives of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) have changed in a profound way1. These cameras are superior to previous detectors in coping with the intrinsically low contrast of radiation-sensitive organic materials embedded in amorphous ice, and so they have enabled the structure determination of several macromolecular assemblies to atomic or near-atomic resolution. According to one theoretical estimation, a few thousand images should suffice for calculating the structure of proteins as small as 17 kDa at 3 Å resolution2. In practice, however, we are still far away from this theoretical ideal. Thus far, protein complexes that have been successfully reconstructed to high-resolution by single particle analysis (SPA) have molecular weights of ~100 kDa or larger3. Here, we report the use of Volta phase plate in determining the structure of human haemoglobin (64 kDa) at 3.2 Å. Our results demonstrate that this method can be applied to complexes that are significantly smaller than those previously studied by conventional defocus-based approaches. Cryo-EM is now close to becoming a fast and cost-effective alternative to crystallography for high-resolution protein structure determination.
Structural and functional brain changes following four weeks of unimanual motor training: evidence from fMRI-guided diffusion MRI tractography
Authors: Reid Lee B , Sale Martin V , Cunnington Ross , Mattingley Jason B , Rose Stephen E
Published: November 2016

We have reported reliable changes in behaviour, brain structure and function in 24 healthy right-handed adults who practiced a finger-thumb opposition sequence task with their left hand for 10 mins daily, over four weeks. Here we extend these findings by employing diffusion MRI to investigate white-matter changes in the corticospinal tract, basal-ganglia, and connections of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Twenty-three participant datasets were available with pre-training and post-training scans. Task performance improved in all participants (mean: 52.8%, SD: 20.0%; group p<0.01 FWE) and widespread microstructural changes were detected across the motor system of the ‘trained’ hemisphere. Specifically, region-of-interest based analyses of diffusion MRI (n=21) revealed significantly increased fractional anisotropy in the right caudate nucleus (4.9%; p<0.05 FWE), and decreased mean diffusivity in the left nucleus accumbens (-1.3%; p<0.05 FWE). Diffusion MRI tractography (n=22), seeded by sensorimotor cortex fMRI activation, also revealed increased fractional anisotropy in the right corticomotor tract (mean 3.28%; p<0.05 FWE) predominantly reflecting decreased radial diffusivity. These changes were consistent throughout the entire length of the tract. The left corticomotor tract did not show any changes. FA also increased in white matter connections between the right middle frontal gyrus and both right caudate nucleus (17/22 participants; p<0.05 FWE) and right supplementary motor area (18/22 participants; p<0.05 FWE). Equivalent changes in FA were not seen in the left (‘non-trained’) hemisphere. In combination with our functional and structural findings, this study provides detailed, multifocal evidence for widespread neuroplastic changes in the human brain resulting from motor training.
Epigenetic regulation of intestinal stem cells by Tet1-mediated DNA hydroxymethylation
Authors: Kim Rinho , Sheaffer Karyn L. , Choi Inchan , Won Kyoung-Jae , Kaestner Klaus H.
Published: November 2016

Methylated cytosines are associated with gene silencing. The ten-eleven translocation (TET) hydroxylases, which oxidize methylated cytosines to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), are essential for cytosine demethylation. Gene silencing and activation are critical for intestinal stem cell (ISC) maintenance and differentiation, but the potential role of TET hydroxylases in these processes has not yet been examined. Here, we generated genome-wide maps of the 5hmC mark in ISCs and their differentiated progeny. Genes with high levels of hydroxymethylation in ISCs are strongly associated with Wnt signaling and developmental processes. We found Tet1 to be the most abundantly expressed Tet gene in ISCs; therefore, we analyzed intestinal development in Tet1-deficient mice and determined that these mice are growth-retarded, exhibit partial postnatal lethality, and have significantly reduced numbers of proliferative cells in the intestinal epithelium. In addition, the Tet1-deficient intestine displays reduced organoid-forming capacity. In the Tet1-deficient crypt, decreased expression of Wnt target genes such as Axin2 and Lgr5 correlates with lower 5hmC levels at their promoters. These data demonstrate that Tet1-mediated DNA hydroxymethylation plays a critical role in the epigenetic regulation of the Wnt pathway in intestinal stem and progenitor cells and consequently in the self-renewal of the intestinal epithelium.
Effect of composition and aging on the porous structure of metakaolin-based geopolymers
Authors: Benavent Virginie , Frizon Fabien , Poulesquen Arnaud
Published: November 2016

A combination of intrusive and small-angle scattering techniques (USAXS/SAXS and SANS) was used to characterize the porous structure of metakaolin-based geopolymers. The influence of the geopolymer paste composition and the aging time in a 100% relative humidity environment at 293 K were studied. The effect of the alkali activator, the water amount and the silica amount were investigated. The results show a strong `ink-bottle' effect, indicating a two-level pore structure: a meso- and macroporous network. Both the alkali activator and the water amount have a significant impact on porosity and microstructure in the studied formulation range. After a period of one month, the pore structure is stable over a period of one year except for a slight closure of pores, revealed by nitrogen sorption and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). These results highlight the geopolymer stability in these curing conditions. For the first time, SANS combined with the contrast matching technique was used to determine the fraction of closed pores in metakaolin-based geopolymers. It was found that the geopolymer porous network is mainly open and that the fraction of closed pores represents less than 5% of the total pore volume after six months of aging. These conclusions are supported by transmission and scanning electron microscopy observations and by the determination of the chemical composition of the interstitial solution over time.
1.45 Å resolution structure of SRPN18 from the malaria vectorAnopheles gambiae
Authors: Meekins David A. , Zhang Xin , Battaile Kevin P. , Lovell Scott , Michel Kristin
Published: November 2016

Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) in insects function within development, wound healing and immunity. The genome of the African malaria vector,Anopheles gambiae, encodes 23 distinct serpin proteins, several of which are implicated in disease-relevant physiological responses.A. gambiaeserpin 18 (SRPN18) was previously categorized as non-inhibitory based on the sequence of its reactive-center loop (RCL), a region responsible for targeting and initiating protease inhibition. The crystal structure ofA. gambiaeSRPN18 was determined to a resolution of 1.45 Å, including nearly the entire RCL in one of the two molecules in the asymmetric unit. The structure reveals that the SRPN18 RCL is extremely short and constricted, a feature associated with noncanonical inhibitors or non-inhibitory serpin superfamily members. Furthermore, the SRPN18 RCL does not contain a suitable protease target site and contains a large number of prolines. The SRPN18 structure therefore reveals a unique RCL architecture among the highly conserved serpin fold.
1-[(Anthracen-9-yl)carbonyl]-2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene: a chain-like structure composed of face-to-face type dimeric molecular aggregates
Authors: Siqingaowa  , Tsumuki Takehiro , Ogata Kazuki , Yonezawa Noriyuki , Okamoto Akiko
Published: November 2016

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C27H20O3, contains two independent molecules (AandB). The anthracene ring system is connected to the 2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene core in a twisted manner, with dihedral angles of 86.38 (5) and 79.36 (8)°, respectively, for conformersAandB. In the crystal, face-to-face type dimeric molecular aggregates of each conformer are observed. The dimer of conformerAis formed by two pairs of C—H...π interactions, and that of conformerBby a pair of (sp2)C—H...O hydrogen bonds. The dimers of conformerAare linked to each otherviaa π–π stacking interaction between the anthracene rings to form a chain along thebaxis and the chains are aligned along thecaxis, forming a sheet structure. The dimers of conformerBare connected to each otherviaa couple of C—H...π interactions to form a chain along thebaxis. The chains are aligned along thecaxis through (sp2)C—H...O=C hydrogen bonds, forming a sheet parallel to thebcplane. The sheets of conformersAandBare alternately stacked along theaaxisviatwo kinds of intermolecular (sp2)C—H...O=C hydrogen bonds.
Liabilities of regionalization and the emerging market firm
Authors: Kelley Keith J.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to revisit the causal relationships of the liabilities of inter-regional foreignness to show that the process of regionalization itself has affected firms’ strategic capabilities and focus. The constraints of these regions, a consequence of regionalization that limits the strategic options of multinational enterprises, are known as the liabilities of regionalization (LOR).

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviews previous literature and uses a mixture of theory and inference to make propositions regarding the existence of liabilities attributable to the regionalization process. The propositions discuss macro-level, and industry and firm-level strategic impact on firms of Triad and non-Triad regions.

Findings

It is argued specific emerging market attributes, in relation to the developed Triad regions, will influence strategic focus of those emerging market firms. This in turn will also influence global strategic behavior and capabilities in the future, creating additional LOR in some cases and reducing them in others.

Originality/value

Previous scholars have focused on the liabilities of inter-regional and regional foreignness and its effect on international diversification strategy both upstream and downstream. This study attempts to explain the formation of regions that shape the FSAs that limit global strategic diversification, which are characterized as the LOR. More importantly, it discusses them from perspective of emerging market firms, which on the outside of the Triad regions, may form their own regions and FSAs.
International Financial Reporting Standards, board governance, and accounting quality
Authors: Krismiaji  , Aryani Y. Anni , Suhardjanto Djoko
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss empirical research examining the impact of International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) adoption and board governance on the accounting quality, in terms of relevance and faithful representation.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a sample of 454 observations of publicly listed companies on the Indonesian Stock Exchange for the fiscal year that ends on December 31, 2008 through 2011. Relevance is measured by predictive value, whereas faithful representation is measured by absolute discretionary accrual as an inverse measure. Board governance is measured by the board of commissioner score whereas IFRS adoption is measured by the percentage of IFRS adopted. The data used in this study are obtained both from Indonesian Capital Market Directory, Indonesian Stock Exchange database, and from company annual reports.

Findings

This research found evidence of a positive association of IFRS adoption on the relevance of accounting information quality. With respect to faithful representation, this study proves a positive association after IFRS adoption. This research also found that board governance has a positive impact on accounting information quality after IFRS adoption both in relevance and faithful representation. This result is in line with investor’s expectations that fair value IFRS adoption enhances the relevance of accounting information.

Originality/value

This study provides further evidence on the effect of IFRS adoption and board of governance on accounting information quality using data from Indonesia. Moreover, this study measures and tests both dimensions of earnings quality which are relevance and faithful representation and portrays a complete story about the quality of earnings. This study uses the qualitative characteristics of accounting information as proxies for accounting quality, so that it enriches the accounting literature about the role of accounting standards in financial reporting quality.
Current trends in collection development practices and policies
Authors: Horava Tony , Levine-Clark Michael
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a snapshot of some major collections-related trends and issues in current academic libraries today. These include using collection development policies; demand-driven acquisition (DDA) models; big deals; using the collections budget; rationalizing legacy print collections; stewarding local digital collections; and demonstrating value.

Design/methodology/approach

A web survey was developed and sent to 20 academic librarians via e-mail during the summer of 2016, along with a statement on the purpose of the study.

Findings

The findings are as follows: the collections budget is used to fund many costs other than content (such as memberships and MARC records); most libraries are experimenting with DDA in one form or another; most libraries financially support open access investments; most libraries participate in at least one collaborative print rationalization project; and libraries have diverse methods of demonstrating value to their institutions.

Research limitations/implications

This was a very selective survey of North American academic libraries. Therefore, these findings are not necessarily valid on a broader scale.

Practical implications

Within the limitations above, the results provide librarians and others with an overview of current practices and trends related to key issues affecting collection development and management in North America.

Originality/value

These results are quite current and will enable academic librarians engaged in collection development and management to compare their current policies and practices with what is presented here. The results provide a current snapshot of the ways in which selected libraries are coping with transformative challenges and a rapidly changing environment.