bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Biochar to Mitigate Allelopathic Effects in Tropical Island Invasive Plants
Authors: Sujeeun Leeladarshini , Thomas Sean C.
Published: April 2017

Many tropical invasive species have strong allelopathic effects. Pyrolyzed waste biomass (“biochar”) has sorptive properties that can reduce the bioavailability of a variety of toxic organic compounds, including pesticides and naturally occurring phenolic acids; however, sorption of allelochemicals has received little attention. Strawberry guava ( Psidium cattleianum) and lemongrass ( Cymbopogon flexuosa) are important tropical island invasives thought to be allelopathic. Leaf extracts of both species were treated with two biochars (made from maize stalk and coconut husk feedstocks) and applied to maize ( Zea mays) and radish ( Raphanus sativus) seeds in a factorial design involving leaf extract and biochar dosages. Leaf extracts of both species had large inhibitory effects on germination and seedling growth, particularly at higher dosages, consistent with allelopathic effects. Biochar treatments positively affected seed germination and early seedling development consistent with sorption of these allelochemicals; in some cases, “rescue” effects occurred, in which biochar treatments completely counteracted allelopathic effects. Biochar leachates alone also generally had positive effects on seed germination and seedling development. We conclude that biochars have promise as a tool for combatting invasive allelopathic plants in tropical island ecosystems. The relative ease of biochar production using “low-tech” methods, and multiple benefits of biochar in enhancing soil productivity and carbon sequestration, may make such an approach viable in many developing countries.
The role of TIPS in the management of liver transplant candidates
Authors: Unger Lukas W , Stork Theresa , Bucsics Theresa , Rasoul‐Rockenschaub Susanne , Staufer Katharina , Trauner Michael , Maschke Svenja , Pawloff Max , Soliman Thomas , Reiberger Thomas , Berlakovich Gabriela A
Published: April 2017

Background

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) implantation is used for treatment of several complications in patients with liver cirrhosis. Recent studies have identified a survival benefit for patients on the waiting list after TIPS implantation, but the optimal time point for TIPS implantation prior to orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has not been established.

Study

This study retrospectively assessed patients undergoing TIPS implantation before or after listing for OLT at the Medical University of Vienna. n  = 98 patients with TIPS on the waiting list between January 1993 and December 2013 were identified (n  = 73 (74.5%) pre‐listing TIPS, n  = 25 (25.5%) post‐listing TIPS). A matched control group at the time of OLT without TIPS (n  = 60) was included.

Results

More patients with post‐listing TIPS (28.0%, 7/25) showed clinical improvement and went off‐list than patients with pre‐listing TIPS (8.2%, 6/73, p  = .0119). A similar proportion of patients with pre‐listing TIPS (19.2%, 14/73) and post‐listing TIPS (20.0%, 5/25) died on the OLT waiting list. Transplant surgery time was similar in patients with and without TIPS: 348(±13) vs. 337(±10) minutes (p  = .5139). Estimated 1‐year post‐transplant survival was similar across all groups (pre‐listing TIPS: 76.2%, post‐listing TIPS: 86.0%, no TIPS: 91.2%, log‐rank p  = .1506).

Conclusion

TIPS should be considered in all liver transplant candidates, since it can obviate the need for OLT and optimize bridging to OLT.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Unilateral Versus Bilateral C1 Lateral Mass-C2 Intralaminar Fixation
Authors: Bhatia Nitin , Rama Asheen , Sievers Brandon , Quigley Ryan , McGarry Michelle H. , Lee Yu-Po , Lee Thay Q
Published: April 2017

Study Design:

Biomechanical, cadaveric study.

Objectives:

To compare the relative stiffness of unilateral C1 lateral mass-C2 intralaminar fixation to intact specimens and bilateral C1 lateral mass-C2 intralaminar constructs.

Methods:

The biomechanical integrity of a unilateral C1 lateral mass-C2 intralaminar screw construct was compared to intact specimens and bilateral C1 lateral mass-C2 intralaminar screw constructs. Five human cadaveric specimens were used. Range of motion and stiffness were tested to determine the stiffness of the constructs.

Results:

Unilateral fixation significantly decreased flexion/extension range of motion compared to intact ( P < .001) but did not significantly affect axial rotation ( P = .3) or bending range of motion ( P = .3). There was a significant decrease in stiffness in extension for both unilateral and bilateral fixation techniques compared to intact ( P = .04 and P = .03, respectively). There was also a significant decrease in stiffness for ipsilateral rotation for the unilateral construct compared to intact ( P = .007) whereas the bilateral construct significantly increased ipsilateral rotation stiffness compared to both intact and unilateral fixation ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Bilateral constructs did show improved biomechanical properties compared to the unilateral constructs. However, unilateral C1-C2 fixation using a C1 lateral mass and C2 intralaminar screw-rod construct decreased range of motion and improved stiffness compared to the intact state with the exception of extension and ipsilateral rotation. Hence, a unilateral construct may be acceptable in clinical situations in which bilateral fixation is not possible, but an external orthosis may be necessary to achieve a fusion.
Factors Associated With Clinical Outcomes After Lumbar Interbody Fusion With a Porous Nitinol Implant
Authors: Abduljabbar Fahad H. , Makhdom Asim M. , Rajeh Mona , Tales Alisson R. , Mathew Jacob , Ouellet Jean , Weber Michael , Jarzem Peter
Published: April 2017

Study Design:

A retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to assess the association of demographic and perioperative factors with clinical outcomes of lumbar interbody fusion with a porous nitinol (TiNi) implant for degenerative disc disease.

Methods:

Forty-one patients with degenerative lumbar disease were prospectively followed for a mean of 4.8 years. All patients were instrumented with porous TiNi interbody fusion devices. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and return to work were used to assess clinical outcomes. Factors including age, body mass index, smoking status, insurance status, number of comorbidities, duration of surgery, estimated blood loss, number of levels fused, time since surgery, and preoperative ODI score were assessed. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to look for demographic and perioperative factors associated with clinical outcome.

Results:

All patients except one (98%) showed complete fusion on radiography at 1 year. Estimated blood loss and duration of surgery were significantly associated with higher postoperative ODI scores ( P = .002 and P = .019, respectively). Smoking status, salary insurance status, age, body mass index, number of comorbidities, number of levels fused, time since surgery, and preoperative ODI score were not significantly associated with outcome.

Conclusions:

Porous nitinol permitted fusion rates similar to those reported in the literature for alternative fusion cages. Poor functional outcome of patients was strongly associated with intraoperative blood loss and duration of surgery. We believe that estimated blood loss should be carefully evaluated in studies of postoperative outcome, as it may affect midterm outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3
Effect of Social Support and Marital Status on Perceived Surgical Effectiveness and 30-Day Hospital Readmission
Authors: Adogwa Owoicho , Elsamadicy Aladine A. , Vuong Victoria D. , Mehta Ankit I. , Vasquez Raul A. , Cheng Joseph , Bagley Carlos A. , Karikari Isaac O.
Published: April 2017

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort review.

Objective:

To determine whether higher levels of social support are associated with improved surgical outcomes after elective spine surgery.

Methods:

The medical records of 430 patients (married, n = 313; divorced/separated/widowed, n = 71; single, n = 46) undergoing elective spine surgery at a major academic medical center were reviewed. Patients were categorized by their marital status at the time of surgery. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and postoperative complication rates were collected. All patients had prospectively collected outcomes measures and a minimum of 1-year follow-up. Patient reported outcomes instruments (Oswestry Disability Index, Short Form–36, and visual analog scale–back pain/leg pain) were completed before surgery, then at 1 year after surgery.

Results:

Baseline characteristics were similar in all cohorts. There was no statistically significant difference in the length of hospital stay across all 3 cohorts, although “single patients” had longer duration of in-hospital stays that trended toward significance (single 6.24 days vs married 4.53 days vs divorced/separated/widowed 4.55 days, P = .05). Thirty-day readmission rates were similar across all cohorts (married 7.03% vs divorced/separated/widowed 7.04% vs single 6.52%, P = .99). Additionally, there were no significant differences in baseline and 1-year patient reported outcomes measures between all groups.

Conclusions:

Increased social support did not appear to be associated with superior short and long-term clinical outcomes after spine surgery; however, it was associated with a shorter duration of in-hospital stay with no increase in 30-day readmission rates.
Trends and Cost of Posterior Cervical Fusions With and Without Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 in the US Medicare Population
Authors: Myhre Sue Lynn , Buser Zorica , Meisel Hans-Joerg , Brodke Darrel S. , Yoon S. Tim , Wang Jeffrey C. , Park Jong-Beom , Youssef Jim A.
Published: April 2017

Study Design:

Retrospective database review.

Objective:

To analyze and report the trends and cost of posterior cervical fusions (PCFs) with and without off-label recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) in the Medicare population.

Methods:

Patient records from the PearlDiver database were retrospectively reviewed from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2012, to distinguish individuals who underwent a PCF with or without rhBMP-2. Total numbers, incidence, age, gender, geographic region, reimbursement, and length of stay were analyzed and summarized.

Results:

The combined total of non-rhBMP-2 (n = 39 479; 85.51%) and rhBMP-2 PCF (n = 6692; 14.49%) procedures performed between 2005 and 2012 was 46 171. In general, the number of PCFs without rhBMP-2 consistently increased over time, while the number of PCFs with rhBMP-2 had only a slight increase from 2005 to 2012. On average, PCFs without rhBMP-2 were associated with $1197 higher cost than those with rhBMP-2, but the average length of stay was similar (6 days). From 2005 to 2012, the average cost for procedures with and without rhBMP-2 increased by $12 605 and $7291, respectively. The percentage of rhBMP-2 use peaked in 2007 and dwindled until 2010, and declined an additional 2.84% from 2011 to 2012. Multiple age, region, and gender tendencies were observed.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge, this was the first study to use the PearlDiver database to report incidence and cost trends of PCF procedures. This article provides meaningful trend data on PCFs to surgeons and clinicians, researchers, and patients, as well as functions as a beacon for future research questions.
Vertebral Column Resection for Rigid Spinal Deformity
Authors: Saifi Comron , Laratta Joseph L. , Petridis Petros , Shillingford Jamal N. , Lehman Ronald A. , Lenke Lawrence G.
Published: April 2017

Study Design:

Broad narrative review.

Objective:

To review the evolution, operative technique, outcomes, and complications associated with posterior vertebral column resection.

Methods:

A literature review of posterior vertebral column resection was performed. The authors’ surgical technique is outlined in detail. The authors’ experience and the literature regarding vertebral column resection are discussed at length.

Results:

Treatment of severe, rigid coronal and/or sagittal malalignment with posterior vertebral column resection results in approximately 50–70% correction depending on the type of deformity. Surgical site infection rates range from 2.9% to 9.7%. Transient and permanent neurologic injury rates range from 0% to 13.8% and 0% to 6.3%, respectively. Although there are significant variations in EBL throughout the literature, it can be minimized by utilizing tranexamic acid intraoperatively.

Conclusion:

The ability to correct a rigid deformity in the spine relies on osteotomies. Each osteotomy is associated with a particular magnitude of correction at a single level. Posterior vertebral column resection is the most powerful posterior osteotomy method providing a successful correction of fixed complex deformities. Despite meticulous surgical technique and precision, this robust osteotomy technique can be associated with significant morbidity even in the most experienced hands.
A Novel Spinal Implant for Fusionless Scoliosis Correction: A Biomechanical Analysis of the Motion Preserving Properties of a Posterior Periapical Concave Distraction Device
Authors: Holewijn Roderick M. , de Kleuver Marinus , van der Veen Albert J. , Emanuel Kaj S. , Bisschop Arno , Stadhouder Agnita , van Royen Barend J. , Kingma Idsart
Published: April 2017

Study Design:

Biomechanical study.

Objective:

Recently, a posterior concave periapical distraction device for fusionless scoliosis correction was introduced. The goal of this study was to quantify the effect of the periapical distraction device on spinal range of motion (ROM) in comparison with traditional rigid pedicle screw-rod instrumentation.

Methods:

Using a spinal motion simulator, 6 human spines were loaded with 4 N m and 6 porcine spines with 2 N m to induce flexion-extension (FE), lateral bending (LB), and axial rotation (AR). ROM was measured in 3 conditions: untreated, periapical distraction device, and rigid pedicle screw-rod instrumentation.

Results:

The periapical distraction device caused a significant ( P < .05) decrease in ROM of FE (human, −40.0% and porcine, −55.9%) and LB (human, −18.2% and porcine, −17.9%) as compared to the untreated spine, while ROM of AR remained unaffected. In comparison, rigid instrumentation caused a significantly ( P < .05) larger decrease in ROM of FE (human, −80.9% and porcine, −94.0%), LB (human, −75.0% and porcine, −92.2%), and AR (human, −71.3% and porcine, −86.9%).

Conclusions:

Although no destructive forces were applied, no device failures were observed. Spinal ROM was significantly less constrained by the periapical distraction device compared to rigid pedicle screw-rod instrumentation. Therefore, provided that scoliosis correction is achieved, a more physiological spinal motion is expected after scoliosis correction with the posterior concave periapical distraction device.
The Functional Arm Scale for Throwers (FAST)—Part II: Reliability and Validity of an Upper Extremity Region-Specific and Population-Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Scale for Throwing Athletes
Authors: Huxel Bliven Kellie C. , Snyder Valier Alison R. , Bay R. Curtis , Sauers Eric L.
Published: April 2017

Background:

The Functional Arm Scale for Throwers (FAST) is an upper extremity (UE) region-specific and population-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) scale developed to measure health-related quality of life in throwers with UE injuries. Stages I and II, described in a companion paper, of FAST development produced a 22-item scale and a 9-item pitcher module. Stage III of scale development, establishing reliability and validity of the FAST, is reported herein.

Purpose:

To describe stage III of scale development: reliability and validity of the FAST.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Data from throwing athletes collected over 5 studies were pooled to assess reliability and validity of the FAST. Reliability was estimated using FAST scores from 162 throwing athletes who were injured (n = 23) and uninjured (n = 139). Concurrent validity was estimated using FAST scores and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) scores from 106 healthy, uninjured throwing athletes. Known-groups validity was estimated using FAST scores from 557 throwing athletes who were injured (n = 142) and uninjured (n = 415). Reliability and validity were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and measurement error was assessed using standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC). Receiver operating characteristic curves and sensitivity/specificity values were estimated for known-groups validity. Data from a separate group (n = 18) of postsurgical and nonoperative/conservative rehabilitation patients were analyzed to report responsiveness of the FAST.

Results:

The FAST total, subscales, and pitcher module scores demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC, 0.91-0.98). The SEM95 and MDC95 for the FAST total score were 3.8 and 10.5 points, respectively. The SEM95 and MDC95 for the pitcher module score were 5.7 and 15.7 points, respectively. The FAST scores showed acceptable correlation with DASH (ICC, 0.49-0.82) and KJOC (ICC, 0.62-0.81) scores. The FAST total score classified 85.1% of players into the correct injury group. For predicting UE injury status, a FAST total cutoff score of 10.0 out of 100.0 was 91% sensitive and 75% specific, and a pitcher module score of 10.0 out of 100.0 was 87% sensitive and 78% specific. The FAST total score demonstrated responsiveness on several indices between intake and discharge time points.

Conclusion:

The FAST is a reliable, valid, and responsive UE region-specific and population-specific PRO scale for measuring patient-reported health care outcomes in throwing athletes with injury.
Treating sickle cell disease by targeting HbS polymerization
Authors: Eaton William A. , Bunn H. Franklin
Published: April 2017

Although the root cause of sickle cell disease is the polymerization of hemoglobin S (HbS) to form fibers that make red cells less flexible, most drugs currently being assessed in clinical trials are targeting the downstream sequelae of this primary event. Less attention has been devoted to investigation of the multiple ways in which fiber formation can be inhibited. In this article, we describe the molecular rationale for 5 distinct approaches to inhibiting polymerization and also discuss progress with the few antipolymerization drugs currently in clinical trials.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: diagnostic criteria, clinical features, and long-term outcomes from 1995 through 2015
Authors: Page Evaren E. , Kremer Hovinga Johanna A. , Terrell Deirdra R. , Vesely Sara K. , George James N.
Published: April 2017

Key Points

The diagnosis of TTP requires clinical judgment in addition to measurement of ADAMTS13 activity. Patients with TTP may not seem to be seriously ill; they may have no or only mild neurologic and kidney function abnormalities.
Therapeutic efficacy and artemisinin resistance in northern Myanmar: evidence from in vivo and molecular marker studies
Authors: Myint Moe Kyaw , Rasmussen Charlotte , Thi Aung , Bustos Dorina , Ringwald Pascal , Lin Khin
Published: April 2017

Background

In Myanmar, three types of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) are recommended as first-line treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria: artemether–lumefantrine (AL), artesunate–mefloquine (AS + MQ), and dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine (DP). Resistance to both artemisinins and ACT partner drugs has been reported from the Greater Mekong Sub-region, and regular efficacy monitoring of the recommended ACT is conducted in Myanmar. This paper reports on results from studies to monitor the efficacy of the three forms of ACT in sentinel sites in northern Myanmar, and investigations of mutations in the Kelch13 (k13) propeller domain.

Methods

Seven therapeutic efficacy studies were conducted in 2011–12 and 2014 in three sentinel sites in Myanmar (Tamu, Muse, Tabeikkyin). Three studies were done for the evaluation of AL (204 patients), two studies for AS + MQ (119 patients) and two studies for DP (147 patients). These studies were done according to 2009 standard WHO protocol. Polymorphisms in the k13 propeller domain were examined in dried blood spots collected on day 0. The primary endpoint was adequate clinical and parasitological response (ACPR) on day 28 for AL and on day 42 for DP and AS + MQ, corrected to exclude re-infection using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genotyping. Safety data were collected through self-reporting.

Results

PCR-corrected ACPR was 97.2–100% for AL, 98.6–100% for AS + MQ and 100% for DP across the study sites and years. All studies found a prevalence of k13 mutations (>440) above 23% in the day-0 samples. The F446I mutation was the most common mutation, making up 66.0% of the mutations found. Seven out of nine day-3 positive patients were infected with k13 wild type parasites. The remaining two cases with day-3 parasitaemia had the P574L mutation.

Conclusions

The efficacy of AL, AS + MQ and DP remains high in northern Myanmar despite widespread evidence of k13 mutations associated with delayed parasite clearance. This study showed that already in 2012 there was a high frequency of k13 mutations in Myanmar on the border with India. The high efficacy of the recommended ACT gives confidence in the continued recommendation of the use of these treatments in Myanmar.

Trial registration numbers ACTRN12611001245987 (registered 06-12-2011) and ACTRN12614000216617 (registered 28-02-2014)
An innovative teaching approach to product development: creating tennis wear for female baby boomers
Authors: Chae May
Published: April 2017

To approach innovative teaching, prototype development of tennis wear for female baby boomers was incorporated into the product development course. This semesterlong project, fully funded by Cotton Incorporated, guided students in identifying the needs of female baby boomers who play tennis and then designing appropriate tennis wear. Twelve female tennis participants aged between 55 and 66 were interviewed in a focus group. To mirror fashion industry practice, students worked in teams including with real-world clients. The functional, expressive, and aesthetic consumer needs model (Lamb and Kallal in Cloth Text Res J 10:42–47, 1992) provided the conceptual framework for the project, and the students took the FEA design criteria into account when developing tennis wear prototypes that met the needs of the baby boomers. At the end of the semester, a panel of faculty judges who fall within the age group of baby boomers and who play tennis regularly evaluated the student groups’ work and selected the three winning teams using the following criteria: creativity, quality (i.e., construction, tech pack [garment measurements], and fit), presentation (i.e., storyboard and oral presentation), and readiness for production.
End-of-Life Racial and Ethnic Disparities Among Patients With Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Taylor Jolyn S. , Rajan Suja S. , Zhang Ning , Meyer Larissa A. , Ramondetta Lois M. , Bodurka Diane C. , Lairson David R. , Giordano Sharon H.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To assess disparities in end-of-life care among patients with ovarian cancer.

Patients and Methods

Using Texas Cancer Registry-Medicare data, we assessed patients with ovarian cancer deceased in 2000 to 2012 with at least 13 months of continuous Medicare coverage before death. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted to evaluate end-of-life care, including chemotherapy in the final 14 days of life, intensive care unit (ICU) admission in the final 30 days of life, more than one emergency room (ER) or hospital admission in the final 30 days of life, invasive or life-extending procedures in the final 30 days of life, enrollment in hospice, enrollment in hospice during the final 3 days of life, and enrollment in hospice while not hospitalized.

Results

A total of 3,666 patients were assessed: 2,819 (77%) were white, 553 (15%) Hispanic, 256 (7%) black, and 38 (1%) other. A total of 2,642 (72%) enrolled in hospice before death, but only 2,344 (64%) died while enrolled. The median hospice enrollment duration was 20 days. In the final 30 days of life, 381 (10%) had more than one ER visit, 505 (14%) more than one hospital admission, 593 (16%) ICU admission, 848 (23%) invasive care, and 418 (11%) life-extending care. In the final 14 days of life, 357 (10%) received chemotherapy. Several outcomes differed for minorities compared with white patients. Hispanic and black patients were less likely to enroll and die in hospice (black odds ratio [OR], 0.66; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.88; P = .004; Hispanic OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.61 to 0.94; P = .01). Hispanic patients were more likely to be admitted to an ICU (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.78; P = .02), and black patients were more likely to have more than one ER visit (OR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.53 to 3.16; P < .001) and receive a life-extending procedure (OR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.49 to 3.04; P < .001).

Conclusion

We found being a minority was associated with receiving intensive and invasive end-of-life care among patients with ovarian cancer.
Sleep-Disordered Breathing, Postoperative Delirium, and Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Lam Enoch W. K. , Chung Frances , Wong Jean
Published: April 2017

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is highly prevalent in the general population and has been associated with cognitive impairment in older individuals. Delirium is an acute decline in cognitive function and attention that often occurs after surgery, especially in older individuals. Several recent studies suggest an association between SDB and postoperative delirium. The aim of this systematic review is to examine the current literature on SDB, postoperative delirium, and cognitive impairment and to discuss the pathophysiology and perioperative considerations. A literature search was performed of Medline (1946–2016), Medline In-Process (June 2016), Embase (1947–2016), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (May 2016), and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2005 to June 2016). Inclusion criteria for studies were (1) polysomnography confirmed SDB; (2) postoperative delirium or cognitive impairment confirmed by a validated diagnostic tool; and (3) publications in the English language. All study designs including randomized controlled trials and observational studies were included. The literature search identified 2 studies on SDB and postoperative delirium, 15 studies on SDB and cognitive impairment, and 5 studies on the effect of continuous positive airway pressure on cognitive impairment and delirium in older individuals. SDB was associated with cognitive impairment, and this systematic review revealed that SDB may be a risk factor for postoperative delirium, especially in older individuals. Although the pathophysiology of SDB and postoperative delirium is unclear and effective treatments for SDB to reduce the incidence of delirium have not been studied extensively, preliminary evidence suggests that continuous positive airway pressure therapy may lower the risk of delirium. Health care professionals need to be aware that undiagnosed SDB may contribute to postoperative delirium. Preoperative screening for SDB and strategies to reduce the risk for postoperative delirium may be helpful in older individuals. Further studies are needed to clarify the relationship between SDB and postoperative delirium and elucidate the pathophysiology of postoperative delirium through SDB.
Sevoflurane Posttreatment Attenuates Lung Injury Induced by Oleic Acid in Dogs
Authors: Du Guizhi , Wang Shurong , Li Zhuo , Liu Jin
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND:

In animal models, both sevoflurane and propofol protect against acute lung injury (ALI), especially when administered prior to ALI onset. We hypothesized that when compared to propofol, sevoflurane administration after the onset of acute respiratory distress syndrome would mitigate oleic acid (OA)-induced ALI in dogs.

METHODS:

Dogs were randomly assigned to receive intravenous OA to induce ALI (n = 7 for each OA group) or saline as an OA control (n = 6 for each control). Dogs were then mechanically ventilated for 6 hours during which propofol (5 mg/kg/h) or sevoflurane (1.0 minimum alveolar concentration) was administered for sedation. Study end points included Po
2/Fio
2 ratio, pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary edema, histology, and tumor nuclear factor-α.

RESULTS:

In OA-injured animals, oxygenation was worse at 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours after 6-hour mechanical ventilation in sevoflurane-sedated animals compared with propofol-sedated animals, with mean difference (95% confidence interval; propofol minus sevoflurane) of 75 (39–111), 87 (55–119), 66 (44–87), and 67 (27–107) mm Hg for the respective time points. However, sevoflurane reduced the elevated pulmonary arterial pressure and vascular resistance, attenuated pulmonary edema as evidenced by reduced extravascular lung water index, and decreased tumor nuclear factor-α and diffuse alveolar damage score compared with propofol in the OA-injured lungs.

CONCLUSIONS:

When compared with propofol, sevoflurane attenuates OA-induced lung damage. However, despite this effect on lung histology and inflammation, sevoflurane worsened oxygenation in OA-induced ALI, possibly via inhibition of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction.
“Mother of Her Nation”: Dr. Éléonore Sioui (1920–2006)
Authors: Labelle Kathryn Magee
Published: April 2017

Éléonore Sioui was born in 1920—the same year that the Canadian deputy superintendent of Indian Affairs, Duncan Campbell Scott, proclaimed infamously, “Our object is to continue until there is not a single Indian in Canada that has not been absorbed into the body politic, and there is no Indian question and no Indian Department.” The major piece of legislation guiding Canadian federal relations with First Nations, the Indian Act, reinforced Scott’s declaration, promoting an imperial patriarchal system that disregarded Wendat matrifocal traditions. This policy swept across the Canadian nation-state, transcending provincial borders and informing mainstream society’s attitudes toward Indigenous peoples. Although the 1920s seemed to suggest a new wave of racist and sexist objectives, the national policies remained consistent with the historical process of colonization and imperial rule in North America. This article uses Sioui’s life story as a window into this long history, providing insight into twentieth-century Indigenous social movements such as the political activism of the 1970s, the quest for higher education in the 1980s, and the efforts to harmonize Indigenous international rights in the 1990s. Taken as a whole, Éleonore’s Sioui’s participation in these movements outlines a successful strategy to counter colonialism. Throughout her existence, Sioui witnessed the ongoing marginalization of Indigenous peoples at home and abroad, motivating her toward a lifetime dedicated to combating these policies and empowering Indigenous women like herself.
Evolution of the endomembrane systems of trypanosomatids – conservation and specialisation
Authors: Venkatesh Divya , Boehm Cordula , Barlow Lael D. , Nankissoor Nerissa N. , O'Reilly Amanda , Kelly Steven , Dacks Joel B. , Field Mark C.
Published: April 2017

Parasite surfaces support multiple functions required for survival within their hosts, and maintenance and functionality of the surface depends on membrane trafficking. To understand the evolutionary history of trypanosomatid trafficking, where multiple lifestyles and mechanisms of host interactions are known, we examined protein families central to defining intracellular compartments and mediating transport, namely Rabs, SNAREs and RabGAPs, across all available Euglenozoa genomes. Bodonids possess a large trafficking repertoire, which is mainly retained by the Trypanosoma cruzi group, with extensive losses in other lineages, particularly African trypanosomes and phytomonads. There are no large-scale expansions or contractions from an inferred ancestor, excluding direct associations between parasitism or host range. However, we observe stepwise secondary losses within Rab and SNARE cohorts (but not RabGAPs). Major changes are associated with endosomal and late exocytic pathways, consistent with the diversity in surface proteomes between trypanosomatids and mechanisms of interaction with the host. Along with the conserved core family proteins, several lineage-specific members of the Rab (but not SNARE) family were found. Significantly, testing predictions of SNARE complex composition by proteomics confirms generalised retention of function across eukaryotes.
Unr defines a novel class of nucleoplasmic reticulum involved in mRNA translation
Authors: Saltel Frédéric , Giese Alban , Azzi Lamia , Elatmani Habiba , Costet Pierre , Ezzoukhry Zakaria , Dugot-Senant Nathalie , Miquerol Lucile , Boussadia Oréda , Wodrich Harald , Dubus Pierre , Jacquemin-Sablon Hélène
Published: April 2017

Unr (officially known as CSDE1) is a cytoplasmic RNA-binding protein with roles in the regulation of mRNA stability and translation. In this study, we identified a novel function for Unr, which acts as a positive regulator of placental development. Unr expression studies in the developing placenta revealed the presence of Unr-rich foci that are apparently located in the nuclei of trophoblast giant cells (TGCs). We determined that what we initially thought to be foci, were actually cross sections of a network of double-wall nuclear membrane invaginations that contain a cytoplasmic core related to the nucleoplasmic reticulum (NR). We named them, accordingly, Unr-NRs. Unr-NRs constitute a novel type of NR because they contain high levels of poly(A) RNA and translation factors, and are sites of active translation. In murine tissues, Unr-NRs are only found in two polyploid cell types, in TGCs and hepatocytes. In vitro, their formation is linked to stress and polyploidy because, in three cancer cell lines, cytotoxic drugs that are known to promote polyploidization induce their formation. Finally, we show that Unr is required in vivo for the formation of Unr-containing NRs because these structures are absent in Unr-null TGCs.
Multiple roles of integrin-α3 at the neuromuscular junction
Authors: Ross Jacob A. , Webster Richard G. , Lechertier Tanguy , Reynolds Louise E. , Turmaine Mark , Bencze Maximilien , Jamshidi Yalda , Cetin Hakan , Muntoni Francesco , Beeson David , Hodilvala-Dilke Kairbaan , Conti Francesco J.
Published: April 2017

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the synapse between motoneurons and skeletal muscle, and is responsible for eliciting muscle contraction. Neurotransmission at synapses depends on the release of synaptic vesicles at sites called active zones (AZs). Various proteins of the extracellular matrix are crucial for NMJ development; however, little is known about the identity and functions of the receptors that mediate their effects. Using genetically modified mice, we find that integrin-α3 (encoded by Itga3), an adhesion receptor at the presynaptic membrane, is involved in the localisation of AZ components and efficient synaptic vesicle release. Integrin-α3 also regulates integrity of the synapse – mutant NMJs present with progressive structural changes and upregulated autophagy, features commonly observed during ageing and in models of neurodegeneration. Unexpectedly, we find instances of nerve terminal detachment from the muscle fibre; to our knowledge, this is the first report of a receptor that is required for the physical anchorage of pre- and postsynaptic elements at the NMJ. These results demonstrate multiple roles of integrin-α3 at the NMJ, and suggest that alterations in its function could underlie defects that occur in neurodegeneration or ageing.
Cross-modal influence of mechanosensory input on gaze responses to visual motion in Drosophila
Authors: Mureli Shwetha , Thanigaivelan Ilakkiya , Schaffer Michael L. , Fox Jessica L.
Published: April 2017

Animals typically combine inertial and visual information to stabilize their gaze against confounding self-generated visual motion, and to maintain a level gaze when the body is perturbed by external forces. In vertebrates, an inner ear vestibular system provides information about body rotations and accelerations, but gaze stabilization is less understood in insects, which lack a vestibular organ. In flies, the halteres, reduced hindwings imbued with hundreds of mechanosensory cells, sense inertial forces and provide input to neck motoneurons that control gaze. These neck motoneurons also receive input from the visual system. Head movement responses to visual motion and physical rotations of the body have been measured independently, but how inertial information might influence gaze responses to visual motion has not been fully explored. We measured the head movement responses to visual motion in intact and haltere-ablated tethered flies to explore the haltere's role in modulating visually-guided head movements in the absence of rotation. We note that visually-guided head movements occur only during flight. Although halteres are not necessary for head movements, the amplitude of the response is smaller in haltereless flies at higher speeds of visual motion. This modulation occurred in the absence of rotational body movements, demonstrating that the inertial forces associated with straight tethered flight are important for gaze-control behavior. The cross-modal influence of halteres on the fly's responses to fast visual motion indicates that the haltere's role in gaze stabilization extends beyond its canonical function as a sensor of angular rotations of the thorax.
Can attenuated total internal reflection-Fourier transform infrared be used to understand the interaction between
polymers and water? A hyperspectral imaging study
Authors: Mukherjee S. , Martínez-González J. , Stallard C. , Dowling D. , Gowen A.
Published: April 2017

This study investigates the potential use of attenuated total internal reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-
IR) imaging, a hyperspectral imaging modality, to investigate molecular level trends in the interaction of water with
polymeric surfaces of varying hydrophobicity. The hydrophobicity of two categories of polymeric biomaterials is
characterised using contact angle (CA) measurements and their relationship with the band area of the OH stretching νs
vibration of water over time is presented. This is supported with correlations between CA data and single wavenumber
intensity values (univariate analysis). Multivariate analysis of the spectra captured at the OH stretch for all polymers is
carried out using principal component analysis to study the spatial variation in the interaction between the polymeric
surfaces and water. Finally, a comparison between the univariate and multivariate strategies is presented to understand
the interaction between polymeric biomaterials and water.

This is a corrected version of the original paper; this corrected version was published on 15 May 2017. Please see
Erratum at https://doi.org/10.1255/jsi.2017.a3e.
Mechano-chemical ablation in the treatment of small saphenous vein varicosis
Authors: Hartmann K.
Published: April 2017

In mechano-chemical ablation (MOCA) the vein to be treated is not heated but is occluded with a combination of mechanical and chemical techniques. No anaesthesia is required as access to the vein is through an 18G vein cannula, and there is no danger of nerve lesions as the technique is heat-free. MOCA is therefore particularly suitable for treating the small saphenous vein (SSV).
Building the infrastructure to make science metrics more scientific
Authors: Lin Jennifer , Murphy Fiona L. , Taylor Mike , Allen Liz
Published: April 2017

Research leaders, policy makers and science strategists need evidence to support decision-making around research funding investment, policy and strategy.  In recent years there has been a rapid expansion in the data sources available that shed light onto aspects of research quality, excellence, use, re-use and attention, and engagement. This is at a time when the modes and routes to share and communicate research findings and data are also changing. 

In this opinion piece, we outline a series of considerations and interventions that are needed to ensure that research metric development is accompanied by appropriate scrutiny and governance, to properly support the needs of research assessors and decision-makers, while securing the confidence of the research community. Key among these are: agreed ‘gold standards’ around datasets and methodologies; full transparency around the calculation and derivation of research-related indicators; and a strategy and roadmap to take the discipline of scientific indicators and research assessment to a more robust and sustainable place.
DangerTrack: A scoring system to detect difficult-to-assess regions
Authors: Dolgalev Igor , Sedlazeck Fritz , Busby Ben
Published: April 2017

Over recent years, multiple groups have shown that a large number of structural variants, repeats, or problems with the underlying genome assembly have dramatic effects on the mapping, calling, and overall reliability of single nucleotide polymorphism calls. This project endeavored to develop an easy-to-use track for looking at structural variant and repeat regions. This track, DangerTrack, can be displayed alongside the existing Genome Reference Consortium assembly tracks to warn clinicians and biologists when variants of interest may be incorrectly called, of dubious quality, or on an insertion or copy number expansion. While mapping and variant calling can be automated, it is our opinion that when these regions are of interest to a particular clinical or research group, they warrant a careful examination, potentially involving localized reassembly. DangerTrack is available at https://github.com/DCGenomics/DangerTrack.
A genomic atlas of human adrenal and gonad development
Authors: del Valle Ignacio , Buonocore Federica , Duncan Andrew J. , Lin Lin , Barenco Martino , Parnaik Rahul , Shah Sonia , Hubank Mike , Gerrelli Dianne , Achermann John C.
Published: April 2017

Background: In humans, the adrenal glands and gonads undergo distinct biological events between 6-10 weeks post conception (wpc), such as testis determination, the onset of steroidogenesis and primordial germ cell development. However, relatively little is currently known about the genetic mechanisms underlying these processes. We therefore aimed to generate a detailed genomic atlas of adrenal and gonad development across these critical stages of human embryonic and fetal development.

Methods: RNA was extracted from 53 tissue samples between 6-10 wpc (adrenal, testis, ovary and control). Affymetrix array analysis was performed and differential gene expression was analysed using Bioconductor. A mathematical model was constructed to investigate time-series changes across the dataset. Pathway analysis was performed using ClueGo and cellular localisation of novel factors confirmed using immunohistochemistry.

Results: Using this approach, we have identified novel components of adrenal development (e.g.ASB4,NPR3) and confirmed the role ofSRYas the main human testis-determining gene. By mathematical modelling time-series data we have found new genes up-regulated withSOX9in the testis (e.g.CITED1), which may represent components of the testis development pathway. We have shown that testicular steroidogenesis has a distinct onset at around 8 wpc and identified potential novel components in adrenal and testicular steroidogenesis (e.g.MGARP,FOXO4,MAP3K15,GRAMD1B,RMND2), as well as testis biomarkers (e.g.SCUBE1). We have also shown that the developing human ovary expresses distinct subsets of genes (e.g.OR10G9,OR4D5), but enrichment for established biological pathways is limited.

Conclusion: This genomic atlas is revealing important novel aspects of human development and new candidate genes for adrenal and reproductive disorders.
Are Truth Commissions Just Hot-Air Balloons? A Reality Check on the Impact of Truth Commission Recommendations
Authors: Langer Johannes
Published: April 2017

Las comisiones de la verdad (CDV), ampliamente reconocidas como herramientas clave de los mecanismos de justicia transicional (MJT), tienen el objetivo de lograr verdad, justicia y reconciliación después de dictaduras o conflictos violentos. Sin embargo, los actores políticos que promueven estos mecanismos no han, a menudo, ejercido una adecuada reflexión crítica sobre las medidas políticas sugeridas. Por el contrario, suelen argumentar desde puntos de vistas normativos, desestimando pruebas empíricas reales. Durante la última década, se ha debatido si los MJT funcionan realmente y qué impacto tienen. Partiendo de tres casos específicos (Kenia, Sierra Leona y Timor Oriental), este trabajo analiza la (no) aplicación de las recomendaciones resultantes de informes finales de CDV creadas después de conflictos armados. El trabajo se centra en el impacto de las comisiones de la verdad con respecto a la democracia, paz y reforma institucional, para averiguar qué impacto real tienen las CDV. El análisis sigue de cerca el enfoque cuadripartito de Skaar, Maica y Eide (2015) para medir el impacto de las CDV y muestra sus posibilidades y limitaciones.
La generación de mecanismos de participación política y el papel de la publicidad política en los países miembro de la Alianza Pacífico
Authors: Saldierna Salas Alma Rosa , Marañón Lazcano Felipe De Jesús , Mendoza Ibarra José Fredman
Published: April 2017

La evidencia histórica demuestra que América Latina ha padecido desigualdad económica y política desde siempre. Por eso, para disminuir estas problemáticas en la región, son fundamentales las uniones comerciales entre los países que hacen parte de ella. En ese sentido, la Alianza Pacífico surgió como un acuerdo para lograr el balance de las diferencias existentes entre los países miembros y el desarrollo económico regional, teniendo como países fundadores a Chile, Colombia, Perú y México. Evidentemente, esto no se puede lograr sin considerar la situación política de cada uno de los países miembros, dado que necesitan fortalecer las políticas nacionales y consolidar las instituciones democráticas propiciando la participación política de sus ciudadanos; así como otorgar los mecanismos apropiados para una democracia que conduzca a la prosperidad. El objetivo del artículo es resaltar los elementos teóricos que son necesarios para promover la participación política ciudadana con el fin de lograr una democracia sana para el desarrollo y crecimiento económico regional. Por lo tanto, se analizarán los marcos regulatorios de cada país miembro de la Alianza Pacífico, y el papel de la publicidad política como herramienta de divulgación necesaria para la política en la construcción de la democracia.
Learning by Doing in Leadership Education: Experiencing Followership and Effective Leadership Communication Through Role-Play
Authors: Tabak Filiz , Lebron Mariana
Published: April 2017

This paper describes the implementation of a role-play exercise to illustrate the influence of followership styles and effective communication on leader-follower relationship formation and development. We provide the pedagogical theory and evidence behind using role-plays in classroom settings, followed by a literature review pertaining to leader-member relations and followership on which this role-play is based. The activity aims to fulfill multiple objectives: (a) to explain the importance of effectively managing-up the hierarchy, (b) to use effective communication skills in challenging and conflict laden situations, and (c) to expand self- awareness and explore own implicit assumptions. We further provide the session plan for using the role-play including the instructions, timing, and role handouts, and discuss potential outcomes.