bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variations of mechanical property of out circumferential lamellae in cortical bone along the radial by nanoindentation
Authors: Sun Xingdong , Zhao Hongwei , Yu Yang , Zhang Shizhong , Ma Zhichao , Li Ning , Yu Miao , Hou Pengliang
Published: November 2016

Because the out circumferential lamellae have a special protective effect on the cortical bone, it is very important to understand the variations of the mechanical property of the out circumferential lamellae in cortical bone. For the purpose, the elasticity modulus and hardness of out circumferential lamellae in cortical bone were investigated in two orthogonal planes by nanoindentation, and the comparisons were made for both elasticity modulus and hardness between the two orthogonal planes. From the experiments, the decreasing trend was discovered for elasticity modulus from inside to outside in the transverse plane and ruleless variations tendency was presented in the longitudinal plane. The hardness presented the same variations in two orthogonal planes with elasticity modulus in respective plane. In the same layer, the elasticity modulus in the transverse plane was higher than that in the longitudinal plane, and the difference values between them turned to be smaller. In contrast, the hardness in the longitudinal plane was higher than that in the transverse plane in all the layers. From the heterogeneity and the microstructure of the material, the influence factors were discussed. A soft to hard structure model was put forward, and the coordinating protection mechanism of buffer and support was described. Investigation of variations of mechanical properties of out circumferential lamellae in cortical bone can provide some new understanding in researches of fracture of bone, interface load effect and design of bone graft.
Polarization-independent gain in mid-infrared interband cascade lasers
Authors: Ryczko K. , Sęk G.
Published: November 2016

We have calculated the gain function of a type-II W-design AlSb/InAs/GaAsSb/InAs/AlSb quantum wells to be used in an active region of interband cascade lasers, for two linear polarizations of in-plane propagating light: transverse-electric and transverse-magnetic. The effect of external electric field, imitating the conditions in a working device, has also been taken into account. We have proposed an active region design suitable for practical realization of mid-infrared lasing devices with controllable polarization properties. We have also demonstrated a way to achieve polarization-independent gain in mid-infrared emitters, which has not been reported so far.
Fluorine-19 NMR and computational quantification of isoflurane binding to the voltage-gated sodium channel NaChBac
Authors: Kinde Monica N. , Bondarenko Vasyl , Granata Daniele , Bu Weiming , Grasty Kimberly C. , Loll Patrick J. , Carnevale Vincenzo , Klein Michael L. , Eckenhoff Roderic G. , Tang Pei , Xu Yan
Published: November 2016

Significance

How general anesthetics modulate the function of voltage-gated sodium (Na
V
) channels remains a mystery. Here, strategic placements of
19
F probes, guided by molecular dynamics simulations, allowed for high-resolution NMR quantitation of the volatile anesthetic isoflurane binding to the bacterial Na
v
channel NaChBac. The data provided experimental evidence showing that channel blockade at the base of the ion selectivity filter and the restricted pivot motion at the S4–S5 linker and the P2–S6 helix hinge underlie the action of isoflurane on NaChBac. The results contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of general anesthesia.
Spontaneous default network activity reflects behavioral variability independent of mind-wandering
Authors: Kucyi Aaron , Esterman Michael , Riley Clay S. , Valera Eve M.
Published: November 2016

Significance

The brain’s default mode network (DMN) is comprised of regions that are highly active during wakeful rest. In the past 15 y, the DMN has been a target of investigation in thousands of basic and clinical neuroscience studies, yet the fundamental role of this network remains debated and unknown. Some studies suggest that DMN activity increases with self-reported mind-wandering away from the present sensory environment, a state in which task performance tends to be highly unstable. However, we show that DMN activity increases with stable, rather than variable, behavior, independent from increases with mind-wandering. Our work urges reinterpretation of the significance of DMN activity fluctuations in daily life and DMN disruption in disease.
Tetraphenylethene-based highly emissive metallacage as a component of theranostic supramolecular nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Guocan , Cook Timothy R. , Li Yang , Yan Xuzhou , Wu Dan , Shao Li , Shen Jie , Tang Guping , Huang Feihe , Chen Xiaoyuan , Stang Peter J.
Published: November 2016

Significance

Because of severe side effects, poor specificity, and lack of any ability to track the process of translocation, clinic applications of platinum anticancer drugs are limited. New motifs that combine a targeting ability, diagnostic capabilities, and therapeutic functions are urgently needed. Herein, we use a highly emissive metallacage as a component of theranostic supramolecular nanoparticles. In vitro and in vivo investigations demonstrate the metallacage-loaded nanoparticles (MNPs) are more active and show low systemic activity while also possessing emissive properties that allow for fluorescence imaging. This metallacage provides an excellent nanoplatform on which to develop theranostic anticancer agents, providing a blueprint for the next generation of nanomedicines and the development of noble metal-based–targeted drug delivery systems.
Colour resistance of Zn–Ti coatings to corrosive environments
Authors: Burattini C. , Zortea L. , Bisegna F. , Natali S.
Published: November 2016

Adding titanium to a hot-dip galvanising bath, a coloured oxide film due to interference effect was obtained on iron samples; different colours were achieved varying the bath temperature in the range of 520–600°C. In this paper, the resistance of three colours (yellow, purple and light blue) to four corrosive environments (urban, marine, industrial and rural) has been investigated by means of an experimental approach: two specimens of each colour with titanium percentage of 0.2% were exposed for 1 year in each environment and colour measurements in CIE Lab coordinates have been recorded at fixed time intervals. Modification of colours on samples due to corrosion effects of different chemical agents was evaluated calculating CIE colour difference. Results demonstrated that the colour of the coatings have a good resistance to all kinds of atmospheres tested; so the performance of this galvanising bath resulted adequate for architectural application.
Membrane-bound glycerol dehydrogenase catalyzes oxidation of D-pentonates to 4-keto-D-pentonates, D-fructose to 5-keto-D-fructose, and D-psicose to 5-keto-D-psicose
Authors: Ano Yoshitaka , Hours Roque A , Akakabe Yoshihiko , Kataoka Naoya , Yakushi Toshiharu , Matsushita Kazunobu , Adachi Osao
Published: November 2016

A novel oxidation of D-pentonates to 4-keto-D-pentonates was analyzed with Gluconobacter thailandicus NBRC 3258. D-Pentonate 4-dehydrogenase activity in the membrane fraction was readily inactivated by EDTA and it was reactivated by the addition of PQQ and Ca2+. D-Pentonate 4-dehydrogenase was purified to two different subunits, 80 and 14 kDa. The absorption spectrum of the purified enzyme showed no typical absorbance over the visible regions. The enzyme oxidized D-pentonates to 4-keto-D-pentonates at the optimum pH of 4.0. In addition, the enzyme oxidized D-fructose to 5-keto-D-fructose, D-psicose to 5-keto-D-psicose, including the other polyols such as, glycerol, D-ribitol, D-arabitol, and D-sorbitol. Thus, D-pentonate 4-dehydrogenase was found to be identical with glycerol dehydrogenase (GLDH), a major polyol dehydrogenase in Gluconobacter species. The reaction versatility of quinoprotein GLDH was notified in this study.
Welding metallurgy of martensitic advanced high strength steels during resistance spot welding
Authors: Tamizi M. , Pouranvari M. , Movahedi M.
Published: November 2016

The paper addresses the process–microstructure–performance relationships in resistance spot welding of a martensitic advanced high strength steel. Significant softening was observed in the heat affected zone (HAZ) due to allotriomorphic ferrite formation in the inter-critical HAZ and tempering of martensite in sub-critical HAZ (SCHAZ), with the latter plays more important role in mechanical properties of the spot welds. The strain concentration associated with the HAZ softening promotes initiation of pullout failure from the soft SCHAZ. While, the peak load in the interfacial failure mode is governed by the fusion zone size, that of the pullout mode is significantly affected by the HAZ softening. To improve weldability of martensitic steels, the HAZ softening should be minimised via modifications in welding process or steel chemistry.
Cardiovascular risk factors and hearing impairment
Authors: Pirodda Antonio , Brandolini Cristina , Raimondi Maria Chiara , Pelligra Irene , Strocchi Enrico , Cicero Arrigo F.G. , Rosticci Martina , Borghi Claudio
Published: November 2016

Background:

In the literature the association between common cardiovascular risk factors and/or major events and inner ear diseases has been widely considered. Despite the controversial related results, a recent review underlines that while a direct and causal correlation between cardiovascular risk factors and hearing impairment is lacking, the former are thought to have an influence on hearing acuity: this should imply some correlation between arterial conditions and inner ear function.

Aims:

Aiming at verifying the reliability of the correlation between arterial conditions and inner ear function, the hearing function of a population with metabolic syndrome and a population without metabolic syndrome were matched.

Methods:

All the examined subjects were enrolled within the Brisighella Heart Study, in order to obtain a detailed knowledge of the cardiovascular and metabolic parameters. 142 subjects were enrolled, including 89 healthy subjects and 53 affected by metabolic syndrome, having ruled out those cases associated with external and/or middle ear pathologies, or unilateral sensorineural hearing loss or with a history of previous ototoxic drugs and ear surgery. Among the examined parameters was arterial stiffness, as evaluated by means of the Vicorder® device with a non-invasive procedure, which had not previously been considered in relation to labyrinthine function.

Results:

The lack of any statistically significant correlation between common cardiovascular risk factors and hearing deterioration, as emerged from the study, has a particular significance.

Conclusions:

The inference from this result is that the relationship between the systemic circulation and inner ear conditions must be more complex than frequently considered.
Interventionist Omissions: A Critical Case Study of Mechanistic Explanation in Biology
Authors: Fagan Melinda Bonnie
Published: November 2016

It is widely assumed that mechanistic explanations are causal explanations. Many prominent new mechanists endorse interventionism as the correct analysis of explanatory causal models in biology and other fields. This article argues that interventionism is not entirely satisfactory in this regard. A case study of Jacob and Monod’s operon model shows that at least some important mechanistic explanations in biology present significant contrasts with the interventionist account. This result motivates a more inclusive approach to mechanistic explanation, allowing for noncausal aspects.
Force supplementary comparison at SIM (SIM.M.F-S5), compression testing machines calibration, up to 200 kN
Authors: Cárdenas Moctezuma A , Guzmán, J C Torres , Espeleta A Dajer , García L De La Cruz , Mora H Tioli , Granados L
Published: November 2016

CENAM, through the Force and Pressure Division, organized a comparison on testing machines calibration, in compression mode. The participating laboratories were SIM National Institutes of Metrology from Colombia, Peru and Costa Rica, where CENAM, Mexico was the pilot and reference laboratory. The results obtained by the laboratories are presented in this paper as well as the analysis of compatibility.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Existence of surface energy minimizing partitions of ℝⁿ satisfying volume constraints
Authors: Caraballo David
Published: November 2016

We give the first proof, with independent smooth normsϕij,\phi _{ij},of the existence of surface energy minimizing partitions ofRn\mathbb {R}^{n}into regions having prescribed volumes. Our existence proof significantly extends that of F. Almgren, who in 1976 gave the first such results for the special case in which eachϕij\phi _{ij}is a scalar multiple of a fixed smoothϕ:\phi :ϕij=cijϕ\phi _{ij}=c_{ij}\phi. Most materials are polycrystalline and do not have surface energy density functions which are scalar multiples of one another, so it is important to extend the theory by removing this restriction, as we have done. We also discuss connections with polycrystalline evolution problems.
fCCAC: functional canonical correlation analysis to evaluate covariance between nucleic acid sequencing datasets
Authors: Madrigal Pedro
Published: November 2016

Computational evaluation of variability across DNA or RNA sequencing datasets is a crucial step in genomic science, as it allows both to evaluate reproducibility of biological or technical replicates, and to compare different datasets to identify their potential correlations. Here we present fCCAC, an application of functional canonical correlation analysis to assess covariance of nucleic acid sequencing datasets such as chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by deep sequencing (ChIP-seq). We show how this method differs from other measures of correlation, and exemplify how it can reveal shared covariance between histone modifications and DNA binding proteins, such as the relationship between the H3K4me3 chromatin mark and its epigenetic writers and readers.

Availability and Implementation

An R/Bioconductor package is available at http://bioconductor.org/packages/fCCAC/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
cerebroViz: an R package for anatomical visualization of spatiotemporal brain data
Authors: Bahl Ethan , Koomar Tanner , Michaelson Jacob J
Published: November 2016

Spatiotemporal transcriptomic profiling has provided valuable insight into the patterning of gene expression throughout the human brain from early fetal development to adulthood. When combined with prior knowledge of a disease’s age at onset and region-specificity, these expression profiles have provided the necessary context to both strengthen putative gene–disease associations and infer new associations. While a wealth of spatiotemporal expression data exists, there are currently no tools available to visualize this data within the anatomical context of the brain, thus limiting the intuitive interpretation of many such findings. We present cerebroViz, an R package to map spatiotemporal brain data to vector graphic diagrams of the human brain. Our tool allows rapid generation of publication-quality figures that highlight spatiotemporal trends in the input data, while striking a balance between usability and customization. cerebroViz is generalizable to any data quantifiable at a brain-regional resolution and currently supports visualization of up to thirty regions of the brain found in databases such as BrainSpan, GTEx and Roadmap Epigenomics.

Availability and Implementation

cerebroViz is freely available through GitHub (https://github.com/ethanbahl/cerebroViz). The tutorial is available at http://ethanbahl.github.io/cerebroViz/

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
LEAP: constructing gene co-expression networks for single-cell RNA-sequencing data using pseudotime ordering
Authors: Specht Alicia T , Li Jun
Published: November 2016

To construct gene co-expression networks based on single-cell RNA-Sequencing data, we present an algorithm called LEAP, which utilizes the estimated pseudotime of the cells to find gene co-expression that involves time delay.

Availability and Implementation

R package LEAP available on CRAN

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Recon2Neo4j: applying graph database technologies for managing comprehensive genome-scale networks
Authors: Balaur Irina , Mazein Alexander , Saqi Mansoor , Lysenko Artem , Rawlings Christopher J , Auffray Charles
Published: November 2016

The goal of this work is to offer a computational framework for exploring data from the Recon2 human metabolic reconstruction model. Advanced user access features have been developed using the Neo4j graph database technology and this paper describes key features such as efficient management of the network data, examples of the network querying for addressing particular tasks, and how query results are converted back to the Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML) standard format. The Neo4j-based metabolic framework facilitates exploration of highly connected and comprehensive human metabolic data and identification of metabolic subnetworks of interest. A Java-based parser component has been developed to convert query results (available in the JSON format) into SBML and SIF formats in order to facilitate further results exploration, enhancement or network sharing.

Availability and Implementation

The Neo4j-based metabolic framework is freely available from: https://diseaseknowledgebase.etriks.org/metabolic/browser/. The java code files developed for this work are available from the following url: https://github.com/ibalaur/MetabolicFramework.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Falco: a quick and flexible single-cell RNA-seq processing framework on the cloud
Authors: Yang Andrian , Troup Michael , Lin Peijie , Ho Joshua W K
Published: November 2016

Single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) is increasingly used in a range of biomedical studies. Nonetheless, current RNA-seq analysis tools are not specifically designed to efficiently process scRNA-seq data due to their limited scalability. Here we introduce Falco, a cloud-based framework to enable paralellization of existing RNA-seq processing pipelines using big data technologies of Apache Hadoop and Apache Spark for performing massively parallel analysis of large scale transcriptomic data. Using two public scRNA-seq datasets and two popular RNA-seq alignment/feature quantification pipelines, we show that the same processing pipeline runs 2.6–145.4 times faster using Falco than running on a highly optimized standalone computer. Falco also allows users to utilize low-cost spot instances of Amazon Web Services, providing a ∼65% reduction in cost of analysis.

Availability and Implementation

Falco is available via a GNU General Public License at https://github.com/VCCRI/Falco/

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
AltORFev facilitates the prediction of alternative open reading frames in eukaryotic mRNAs
Authors: Kochetov Alex V , Allmer Jens , Klimenko Alexandra I , Zuraev Bulat S , Matushkin Yury G , Lashin Sergey A
Published: November 2016

Motivation

Protein synthesis is not a straight forward process and one gene locus can produce many isoforms, for example, by starting mRNA translation from alternative start sites. altORF evaluator (altORFev) predicts alternative open reading frames within eukaryotic mRNA translated by a linear scanning mechanism and its modifications (leaky scanning and reinitiation). The program reveals the efficiently translated altORFs recognized by the majority of 40S ribosomal subunits landing on the 5′-end of an mRNA. This information aids to reveal the functions of eukaryotic genes connected to synthesis of either unknown isoforms of annotated proteins or new unrelated polypeptides.

Availability and Implementation

altORFev is available at http://www.bionet.nsc.ru/AUGWeb/and has been developed in Java 1.8 using the BioJava library; and the Vaadin framework to produce the web service.
Long-term Mortality of Patients With Tuberculous Meningitis in New York City: A Cohort Study
Authors: Vinnard Christopher , King Liza , Munsiff Sonal , Crossa Aldo , Iwata Kentaro , Pasipanodya Jotam , Proops Douglas , Ahuja Shama
Published: November 2016

Background.

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most devastating clinical presentation of infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis; delayed initiation of effective antituberculosis therapy is associated with poor treatment outcomes. Our objective was to determine the relationship between drug resistance and 10-year mortality among patients with TBM.

Methods.

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 324 patients with culture-confirmed TBM, susceptibility results reported for isoniazid and rifampin, and initiation of at least 2 antituberculosis drugs, reported to the tuberculosis registry in New York City between 1 January 1992 and 31 December 2001. Date of death was ascertained by matching the tuberculosis registry with death certificate data for 1992–2012 from the New York Office of Vital Statistics. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status was ascertained by medical records review, matching with the New York City HIV Surveillance registry, and review of cause of death.

Results.

Among 257 TBM patients without rifampin-resistant isolates, isoniazid resistance was associated with mortality after the first 60 days of treatment when controlling for age and HIV infection (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.94 [95% confidence interval, 1.08–3.94]). Death occurred before completion of antituberculosis therapy in 63 of 67 TBM patients (94%) with rifampin-resistant disease.

Conclusions.

Among patients with culture-confirmed TBM, we observed rapid early mortality in patients with rifampin-resistant isolates, and an independent association between isoniazid-resistant isolates and death after 60 days of therapy. These findings support the continued evaluation of rapid diagnostic techniques and the empiric addition of second-line drugs for patients with clinically suspected drug-resistant TBM.
Singing and Difference: The Case of Gautier and Berlioz Re-Examined
Authors: Abbott Helen
Published: November 2016

Théophile Gautier stands out as a key figure in the context of critical-theoretical approaches to word–music relations in nineteenth-century France. This article seeks to re-examine his importance in the light of his musical collaboration with Hector Berlioz by reworking the Derridean notion of ‘iterability’, bringing it into contact with Gautier’s and Berlioz’s
Nuits d’été
songs and offering a fresh approach to the concept of ‘writing and difference’ that insists on the importance of the performative in song instead of privileging writing. With analyses of
Les Nuits d’été
, the figure of Mignon, the concept of the
tombeau poétique
, and of song-like qualities in poetry, this article tests the hypothesis that singing (in) poetry fundamentally reshapes our understanding of how language functions beyond its inscription on the page, discussing the underlying ‘unperformability’ inherent to song.
Seasonal dynamics in the diet of pelagic fish species in the southwest Baltic Proper
Authors: Jakubavičiūtė Eglė , Casini Michele , Ložys Linas , Olsson Jens
Published: November 2016

There is accumulating evidence of the significant role of three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) for ecosystem structure and functioning in coastal areas of the Baltic Sea, but little is known about the role of the species in the pelagic foodwebs of the Baltic and its interaction with other planktivorous fish species. In this study, we assess the feeding niche, diet overlap, and prey selectivity of sticklebacks, herring (Clupea harengus), and sprat (Sprattus sprattus) in an area of the southwest Baltic Sea (Kalmar Sound) in relation to the seasonal abundance of zooplanktonic prey during 2009–2011. The main prey items for all fish species studied were the calanoid copepods Eurytemora affinis, Temora longicornis, and Acartia spp. during spring and summer, and the cladoceran Bosmina spp in autumn. The diet of all the three fish species overlapped considerably, especially during summer and autumn. A substantial diet overlap was even present between sticklebacks and larger (>10 cm) herring and sprat. We also found evidence for an overlap in feeding preferences, i.e. certain zooplankton species were selected by all the three fish species in each given season. Overall, these results indicate potential resource competition between sticklebacks and clupeids. With an increasing abundance of sticklebacks in the Baltic Sea, their role should not be neglected when investigating pelagic foodweb dynamics, and management of herring and sprat may have to account for sticklebacks by considering that sticklebacks, via food competition, might affect clupeid stocks.
Assessment of the French National Health Insurance Information System as a tool for epidemiological surveillance of malaria
Authors: Delon François , Mayet Aurélie , Thellier Marc , Kendjo Eric , Michel Rémy , Ollivier Lénaïck , Chatellier Gilles , Desjeux Guillaume
Published: November 2016

Objective: Epidemiological surveillance of malaria in France is based on a hospital laboratory sentinel surveillance network. There is no comprehensive population surveillance. The objective of this study was to assess the ability of the French National Health Insurance Information System to support nationwide malaria surveillance in continental France.

Materials and methods: A case identification algorithm was built in a 2-step process. First, inclusion rules giving priority to sensitivity were defined. Then, based on data description, exclusion rules to increase specificity were applied. To validate our results, we compared them to data from the French National Reference Center for Malaria on case counts, distribution within subgroups, and disease onset date trends.

Results: We built a reusable automatized tool. From July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014, we identified 4077 incident malaria cases that occurred in continental France. Our algorithm provided data for hospitalized patients, patients treated by private physicians, and outpatients for the entire population. Our results were similar to those of the National Reference Center for Malaria for each of the outcome criteria.

Discussion: We provided a reliable algorithm for implementing epidemiological surveillance of malaria based on the French National Health Insurance Information System. Our method allowed us to work on the entire population living in continental France, including subpopulations poorly covered by existing surveillance methods.

Conclusion: Traditional epidemiological surveillance and the approach presented in this paper are complementary, but a formal validation framework for case identification algorithms is necessary.
Neonectria Canker Found on Spruce and Fir in Swedish Christmas Tree Plantations
Authors: Pettersson Martin , Frampton John , Rönnberg Jonas , Talgø Venche
Published: November 2016

In May 2015, a Christmas tree disease and pest survey was carried out in southern Sweden. Neonectria canker found on spruce and fir was the most prominent disease problem.

Accepted for publication 1 September 2016.
First Report of Boxwood Blight Caused by Calonectria pseudonaviculata in Florida
Authors: Iriarte Fanny , Paret Mathews , Knox Gary , Schubert Tim , Jeyaprakash Ayyamperumal , Davison David
Published: November 2016

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of Boxwood blight in Florida.

Accepted for publication 22 September 2016.
Effectiveness of a Low-volume Spray Technology in the Control of Major Strawberry Diseases in Florida
Authors: Cordova Leandro G. , Peres Natalia A.
Published: November 2016

Florida strawberry production is greatly affected by Botrytis and anthracnose fruit rots (BFR and AFR), caused by Botrytis cinerea and Colletotrichum acutatum, respectively. Fungicide applications are the most effective method for control of both diseases. Traditionally, Florida strawberry growers use sprayers mounted with hydraulic nozzles delivering high flow rates. The objective of this study was to compare the standard hydraulic nozzle (SHN) sprayer with the air-assisted rotary atomizer (AARA). The effects of low volumes on the control of BFR and AFR, the reduction of 25% on fungicide rate, and their operational efficiency were evaluated, and an economic analysis was conducted. Two experiments were conducted (in the 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 seasons) where three treatments were compared: two using the AARA at 25 gal/acre, one of these with 75% of the fungicide rate; and one using the SHN at 100 gal/acre. In the first season, yield, AFR control, and BFR control were similar for all three treatments. In the second, BFR control was similar among all the treatments. However, the AARA treatment had a higher yield than the SHN, with the AARA (75% rate) being more productive. The operational capacity in acres per hour of the AARA was 17% higher than the SHN. Labor and fungicide costs were lower in the AARA treatments. Thus, the technology was shown to be a good fit for Florida growers.

Accepted for publication 25 October 2016.
How to Lead the Way Through Complexity, Constraint, and Uncertainty in Academic Health Science Centers
Authors: Lieff Susan J. , Yammarino Francis J.
Published: November 2016

Academic medicine is in an era of unprecedented and constant change due to fluctuating economies, globalization, emerging technologies, research, and professional and educational mandates. Consequently, academic health science centers (AHSCs) are facing new levels of complexity, constraint, and uncertainty. Currently, AHSC leaders work with competing academic and health service demands and are required to work with and are accountable to a diversity of stakeholders. Given the new challenges and emerging needs, the authors believe the leadership methods and approaches AHSCs have used in the past that led to successes will be insufficient. In this Article, the authors propose that AHSCs will require a unique combination of old and new leadership approaches specifically oriented to the unique complexity of the AHSC context. They initially describe the designer (or hierarchical) and heroic (military and transformational) approaches to leadership and how they have been applied in AHSCs. While these well-researched and traditional approaches have their strengths in certain contexts, the leadership field has recognized that they can also limit leaders’ abilities to enable their organizations to be engaged, adaptable, and responsive. Consequently, some new approaches have emerged that are taking hold in academic work and professional practice. The authors highlight and explore some of these new approaches—the authentic, self, shared, and network approaches to leadership—with attention to their application in and utility for the AHSC context.
Factors Associated With Nonaccidental Trauma Evaluation Among Patients Below 36 Months Old Presenting With Femur Fractures at a Level-1 Pediatric Trauma Center
Authors: Blatz Allison M. , Gillespie Catherine W. , Katcher Arielle , Matthews Allison , Oetgen Matthew E.
Published: November 2016

Background:

In 2009, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons published clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) on the treatment of pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures, which recommended a nonaccidental trauma (NAT) evaluation for all patients below 36 months of age. A recent study of these guidelines found <50% clinical compliance with this treatment recommendation. We aimed to identify areas for improvement in compliance with this guideline.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed of all patients presenting to a single pediatric tertiary care hospital with a diaphyseal femur fracture from January 2007 to June 2013 who were below 36 months old. Medical records were reviewed for documentation of a NAT evaluation, patient characteristics, presence of other fractures or injuries, and hospital of presentation. Radiographs were reviewed for fracture pattern. Statistical analysis was performed to assess for differences overall and before and after CPG publication.

Results:

During the study period, 281 children below 36 months presented with femur fractures; 41% were evaluated for NAT. Overall, the following factors were significantly associated with receipt of a NAT evaluation: younger age (P<0.001), transfer from an outside facility (P=0.027), and identification of another fracture (P=0.004). Before publication of the CPG, nonwhite patients were much more likely to undergo NAT evaluation compared with white patients (43% vs. 19%; P=0.014). After publication of the CPGs, this differential disappeared (43% vs. 47%; P=0.685). Fracture pattern and patient sex did not influence receipt of NAT evaluation.

Conclusions:

We found poor utilization of NAT evaluation for patients below 36 months old presenting with femur fracture. Despite CPG publication, only modest improvements in this evaluation occurred over the study period, with less than half of all patients being evaluated. Younger children, patients transferred from other institutions, and patients presenting with concomitant fractures were more likely to undergo NAT evaluation. Compliance with the CPG may be improved by focusing on older children, patients who initially present to tertiary care centers, and those with an isolated femur fracture.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Programmed Cell Death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) Expression in Anal Cancer
Authors: Govindarajan Rangaswamy , Gujja Swetha , Siegel Eric R. , Batra Anu , Saeed Anwaar , Lai Keith , James Jennifer D. , Fogel Bradley J. , Williamson Stephen
Published: November 2016

Objective:

To evaluate the expression of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in anal cancer.

Patients and Methods:

In a retrospective cohort analysis, subjects with squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal were tested for PD-L1 expression, then followed for recurrence and survival. Crude recurrence rates (CRRs), crude mortality rates (CMRs), and crude event rates (CERs) were assessed for PD-L1-dependent differences using Poisson regression. All 3 types of crude rate were expressed as the number that occurred per hundred person-years (hPY) of follow-up.

Results:

Samples from 41 subjects were evaluated for PD-L1 expression; 23 (56%) were positive. Subjects with PD-L1-expressing versus PD-L1-negative tumors respectively had CRRs of 30.8 versus 12.1 recurrences/hPY (P=0.082), CMRs of 16.7 versus 12.0 deaths/hPY (P=0.47), and CERs of 39.2 versus 16.9 events/hPY (P=0.069).

Conclusions:

PD-L1 positivity was associated with worse CRR and CER, and marginally worse CMR. The effect on progression-free and overall survival needs to be validated in a study with a larger sample size.
A Multicenter Phase II Study of Gemcitabine, Capecitabine, and Bevacizumab for Locally Advanced or Metastatic Biliary Tract Cancer
Authors: Iyer Renuka V. , Pokuri Venkata K. , Groman Adrienne , Ma Wen W. , Malhotra Usha , Iancu Dan M. , Grande Catherine , Saab Tanios B.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

Vascular endothelial growth factor overexpression, seen in 42% to 76% of biliary tract cancers (BTCs), correlates with poor survival. We explored the safety/efficacy and potential biomarkers for bevacizumab in combination with gemcitabine-capecitabine in advanced BTCs.

Patients and Methods:

Inoperable stage III/IV BTC patients in our prospective study were given 1000 mg/m2 of gemcitabine (on days 1, 8), 650 mg/m2 of capecitabine (on days 1 to 14), and 15 mg/kg of bevacizumab (on day 1) in 21-day cycles. Circulating tumor cells and quality of life were assessed at baseline and before cycle 2 and 3.

Results:

In total, 50 patients with gallbladder cancer (22%), intrahepatic (58%), and extrahepatic (20%) cholangiocarcinoma, received a median of 8 treatment cycles for median treatment duration of 5.8 months. Common grade 3/4 toxicities were neutropenia (36%), thrombocytopenia (16%), fatigue (20%), infections (14%), and hand-foot syndrome (10%). There were 12 partial response (24%), 24 stable disease (48%) with clinical benefit rate of 72%. Median progression-free survival was 8.1 months (95% confidence interval, 5.3-9.9). Median overall survival was 10.2 months (95% confidence interval, 7.5-13.7). Circulating tumor cells were identified at baseline in 21/46 patients (46%), who had lower median overall survival compared with those without (9.4 vs. 13.7 mo; P=0.29). Patients with quality of life scores greater than the group median by the end of first cycle of treatment had improved survival compared with those who did not (13.3 vs. 9.4 mo; P=0.39).

Conclusions:

Addition of bevacizumab to gemcitabine/capecitabine did not improve outcome in an unselected group of patients with advanced BTC compared with historical controls. The selective benefit of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition in BTC remains to be explored.
Can the Risks of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak After Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery Be Predicted?
Authors: Russel Adrien , Hoffmann Charles P. , Nguyen Duc T. , Beurton Renaud , Parietti-Winkler Cécile
Published: November 2016

Objective:

Identifying predictive factors of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak after translabyrinthine approach (TLA) for vestibular schwannoma.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Setting:

Tertiary care center.

Patients:

All patients (n = 275) operated for a vestibular schwannoma by TLA between 2004 and 2013 were included.

Intervention:

Vestibular schwannoma surgery by TLA.

Main Outcomes and Measures:

The rate of postoperative CSF leak considering the age, sex, body mass index (BMI), tumor staging, and duration of surgical procedure. A logistic regression model was used to identify the predictors and compute a biometric predictive model of CSF leak.

Results:

Thirty-three patients (12.0%) developed a CSF leak after surgery. In a multivariable model, an increased risk of CSF leak was found for younger patients (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.98), longer duration of surgery (OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.12–3.05), and the male sex (0 = male; 1 = female; OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.09–0.54), while also adjusting for BMI. The probability of developing a CSF leak after vestibular schwannoma surgery was calculated using a statistical prediction model, with a percentage of false negative of 7.0% and an overall correct prediction of 88.4%.

Conclusion:

The predictors of CSF leak after TLA for vestibular schwannoma are young age, male sex, longer duration of surgery, which adjusting for BMI. In this regard, the surgical team should adapt its management during pre- and postoperative period to decrease the likelihood of a leak.
Alcohol Use and Activity Limitations in Gout Patients
Authors: Harding Mariann
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated whether patients with a diagnosis of gout adhere to alcohol use recommendations and the relationship between adherence and activity limitations.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study was to determine adherence to American College of Rheumatology (ACR) alcohol use recommendations and evaluate the relationship between alcohol use and activity limitations in persons with gout.

METHOD:

A secondary analysis was performed with a sample of 298 persons with gout from the 2008 National Health Interview Survey.

RESULTS:

In all, 22.8% of persons with gout were nonadherent to alcohol use recommendations. Males, those aged 41–60 years, and those not receiving healthcare for joint symptoms were most likely to be nonadherent. In all, 39.9% reported that joint symptoms interfered with activity in the preceding 30 days. Those who were adherent were more likely to report limitations (χ2 = 6.788, p = .03).

CONCLUSIONS:

To promote optimal patient outcomes, more attention needs to be devoted to individualized patient education and self-management interventions that follow ACR recommendations.
Reduced H3K27me3 Expression Is Common in Nodular Melanomas of Childhood Associated With Congenital Melanocytic Nevi But Not in Proliferative Nodules
Authors: Busam Klaus J. , Shah Kara N. , Gerami Pedram , Sitzman Thomas , Jungbluth Achim A. , Kinsler Veronica
Published: November 2016

The formation of a nodule within a congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) raises concerns about possible melanoma. Most new nodular growths that develop during childhood, however, are benign proliferative nodules (PN); melanoma is very rare. The distinction of melanoma from PN can at times be difficult clinically and histopathologically, requiring ancillary molecular tests for diagnosis. Although the application of molecular methods has revealed new insights into the mutational and genomic landscape of childhood melanomas, little is known about epigenetic events that may drive the growth of a melanoma or PN in a CMN. In this study we compared the expression of H3K27me3, a key regulator in chromatin remodelling-controlled transcription, in PNs and pediatric nodular melanomas arising within medium-sized to large CMN by immunohistochemistry. Significant loss of H3K27me3 expression was seen in 4 of 5 melanomas, but not in any of the 20 PNs. This observation suggests that epigenetic events likely play a role in the pathogenesis of melanoma developing in the dermis or subcutis of CMN. Furthermore, assessing for H3K27me3 expression by immunohistochemistry may be diagnostically useful for problematic cases.
Increased Survival Among HIV-Infected PWID Receiving a Multi-Level HIV Risk and Stigma Reduction Intervention: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Go Vivian F. , Frangakis Constantine , Le Minh Nguyen , Ha Tran Viet , Latkin Carl A. , Sripaipan Teerada , Zelaya Carla E. , Davis Wendy W. , Celentano David D. , Quan Vu Minh
Published: November 2016

Objective:

In Vietnam, where 58% of prevalent HIV cases are attributed to people who inject drugs, we evaluated whether a multi-level intervention could improve care outcomes and increase survival.

Methods:

We enrolled 455 HIV-infected males who inject drugs from 32 communes in Thai Nguyen Province. Communes were randomized to a community stigma reduction intervention or standard of care and then within each commune, to an individual enhanced counseling intervention or standard of care, resulting into 4 arms: Arm 1 (standard of care); Arm 2 (community intervention alone); Arm 3 (individual intervention alone); and Arm 4 (community + individual interventions). Follow-up was conducted at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months to assess survival.

Results:

Overall mortality was 23% (n = 103/455) more than 2 years. There were no losses to follow-up for the mortality endpoint. Survival at 24 months was different across arms: Arm 4 (87%) vs Arm 1 (82%) vs Arm 2 (68%) vs Arm 3 (73%); log-rank test for comparison among arms: P = 0.001. Among those with CD4 cell count <200 cells/mm3 and not on antiretroviral therapy at baseline (n = 162), survival at 24 months was higher in Arm 4 (84%) compared with other arms (Arm 1: 61%; Arm 2: 50%; Arm 3: 53%; P-value = 0.002). Overall, Arm 4 (community + individual interventions) had increased uptake of antiretroviral therapy compared with Arms 1, 2, and 3.

Conclusions:

This multi-level behavioral intervention seemed to increase survival of HIV-infected participants more than a 2-year period. Relative to the standard of care, the greatest intervention effect was among those with lower CD4 cell counts.
Pneumonia, Intake Problems, and Survival Among Nursing Home Residents With Variable Stages of Dementia in the Netherlands
Authors: Hendriks Simone A. , Smalbrugge Martin , van Gageldonk-Lafeber Arianne B. , Galindo-Garre Francisca , Schipper Maarten , Hertogh Cees M.P.M. , van der Steen Jenny T.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

We explored how pneumonia and intake problems affect survival in nursing home residents in variable stages of dementia.

Methods:

In a longitudinal observational study (372 residents) with up to 3.5 years of follow-up, we examined relationships between dementia severity, the development of pneumonia, intake problems, and mortality using joint modeling, Cox models, and mediation analyses. Dementia severity was measured semiannually with the Bedford Alzheimer Nursing Severity-Scale (BANS-S).

Results:

The median BANS-S score at baseline was 13 (range, 7 to 28). Pneumonia occurred in 103 (28%) and intake problems in 126 (34%) of 367 residents with complete registration of pneumonia and intake problems. Compared with dementia severity, incident pneumonia and, even more so, incident intake problems were more strongly associated with mortality risk. Pneumonia and intake problems both mediated the relationship between more severe dementia and mortality.

Discussion:

Developing pneumonia and intake problems affects survival, and this is not limited to advanced dementia. The occurrence of pneumonia and intake problems are important signals to consider a palliative care approach in nursing home residents with dementia, and an active focus on advance care planning is needed. Future studies should investigate whether this is also relevant for patients in primary care.
Sea ice, rain-on-snow and tundra reindeer nomadism in Arctic Russia
Authors: Forbes Bruce C. , Kumpula Timo , Meschtyb Nina , Laptander Roza , Macias-Fauria Marc , Zetterberg Pentti , Verdonen Mariana , Skarin Anna , Kim Kwang-Yul , Boisvert Linette N. , Stroeve Julienne C. , Bartsch Annett
Published: November 2016

Sea ice loss is accelerating in the Barents and Kara Seas (BKS). Assessing potential linkages between sea ice retreat/thinning and the region's ancient and unique social–ecological systems is a pressing task. Tundra nomadism remains a vitally important livelihood for indigenous Nenets and their large reindeer herds. Warming summer air temperatures have been linked to more frequent and sustained summer high-pressure systems over West Siberia, Russia, but not to sea ice retreat. At the same time, autumn/winter rain-on-snow (ROS) events have become more frequent and intense. Here, we review evidence for autumn atmospheric warming and precipitation increases over Arctic coastal lands in proximity to BKS ice loss. Two major ROS events during November 2006 and 2013 led to massive winter reindeer mortality episodes on the Yamal Peninsula. Fieldwork with migratory herders has revealed that the ecological and socio-economic impacts from the catastrophic 2013 event will unfold for years to come. The suggested link between sea ice loss, more frequent and intense ROS events and high reindeer mortality has serious implications for the future of tundra Nenets nomadism.
Computational properties of mitochondria in T cell activation and fate
Authors: Uzhachenko Roman , Shanker Anil , Dupont Geneviève
Published: November 2016

In this article, we review how mitochondrial Ca2+transport (mitochondrial Ca2+uptake and Na+/Ca2+exchange) is involved in T cell biology, including activation and differentiation through shaping cellular Ca2+signals. Based on recent observations, we propose that the Ca2+crosstalk between mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and cytoplasm may form a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller. This PID mechanism (which is well known in engineering) could be responsible for computing cellular decisions. In addition, we point out the importance of analogue and digital signal processing in T cell life and implication of mitochondrial Ca2+transport in this process.