bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐inflammatory and antiradical effects of a 2% diosmin cream in a human skin organ culture as model
Authors: Boisnic Sylvie , Branchet Marie‐Christine , Gouhier‐Kodas Christelle , Verriere François , Jabbour Violaine
Published: September 2018

Background

Diosmin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, is considered as a vascular‐protective agent and is used orally to treat chronic venous insufficiency. It exhibits anti‐inflammatory and free radical scavenging properties, but, like many other flavonoids, it is poorly absorbed in the small intestine.

Objective

Our aim was to investigate the skin protective effects of a diosmin‐based cream, using skin organ culture as model.

Methods

Fragments of human skin explants, cultured ex vivo, were allocated to four treatment groups: no cream, no cream + stress, placebo cream + stress, and 2% diosmin cream + stress. Stress was induced by exposure to either substance P (anti‐inflammatory effects’ assessment) or UVB irradiation (free radical scavenging effects’ assessment). Vascular dilation and the pro‐inflammatory mediator IL‐8 release were determined in the first model, whereas hydrogen peroxide level and the number of cyclobutane pyrimidine‐positive cells were evaluated in the second model.

Results

In the substance P‐induced inflammation model, 2% diosmin cream exhibited significant vasoconstrictive (proportion of dilated capillaries: −29%, capillary luminal area: −49% vs no cream + stress) and anti‐inflammatory (IL‐8 release: −36% vs no cream + stress) effects. In the UVB irradiation model, 2% diosmin cream significantly reduced hydrogen peroxide production and cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer formation (−45% and −36% vs no cream + stress, respectively). These effects were not observed with placebo cream.

Conclusion

Diosmin administered topically may protect skin against the biological effects of various exogenous or endogenous stresses, such as those involved in chronic venous disease.
Evidence‐based dentistry or meta‐analysis illness? A commentary on current publishing trends in the field of temporomandibular disorders and bruxism
Authors: Manfredini Daniele , Greene Charles S. , Ahlberg Jari , De Laat Antoon , Lobbezoo Frank , Klasser Gary D.
Published: September 2018

The field of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and bruxism research has recently witnessed a publishing trend leaning towards an overuse of systematic reviews (SRs) that contribute little or nothing to current knowledge. The majority of these seem to be more methodological exercises than manuscripts prepared to provide clinicians and researchers with up‐to‐date information to advance knowledge. In addition, given the increasing number of researchers who have been reviewing the dental literature on various topics without seemingly having any specific clinical or scientific background in the topic under review, the ultimate value of some SRs is questionable. Some of them end up producing meta‐analyses (MAs) to give “numbers” (eg, risk measures and strength of association) that do not have a biological basis, due to the clinical heterogeneity of the articles being reviewed. Based on the above, the present commentary discusses this ongoing publishing trend that is affecting the TMD and bruxism field, which does not align well with the core principles of evidence‐based dentistry (EBD). Ideally, EBD should be derived from a combination of literary, clinical and patient‐centred information, but relying only on the bibliographic aspects could potentially expose less expert clinicians and other readers who merely browse the literature to incomplete, misdirected or even incorrect conclusions.
Effect of Cardiorespiratory Fitness on Academic Achievement is Stronger in High‐SES Elementary Schools Compared to Low
Authors: Garber Michael D. , Stanhope Kaitlyn K. , Shah Monica P. , Cheung Patricia , Gazmararian Julie A.
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Academic achievement is influenced by factors at the student, school, and community levels. We estimated the effect of cardiorespiratory fitness performance on academic performance at the school level in Georgia elementary schools and examined effect modification by sociodemographic factors.

METHODS

This study is a repeat cross‐sectional analysis of Georgia elementary schools between 2011 and 2014 (approximately 1138 schools per year). Multivariable beta regression estimated the effect of the proportion of 4th and 5th graders meeting cardiorespiratory fitness standards on the proportion of 5th graders passing standardized tests for Reading, English and Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies and considered potential interaction by school‐level socioeconomic status (SES), racial composition, and urbanity.

RESULTS

There was a 0.15 higher estimated odds (OR: 1.15 (1.09, 1.22)) of passing the mathematics standardized test for every 10‐percentage‐point increase in school‐level cardiorespiratory fitness among high‐SES schools and 0.04 higher odds (OR: 1.04 (1.02, 1.05)) for low‐SES schools. This pattern was similar for other academic subjects. No effect modification by racial composition or urbanity was observed for any academic subject.

CONCLUSIONS

Promoting physical fitness may be effective in improving academic performance among high‐SES schools, but additional strategies may be needed among lower‐SES schools.
Perceived Weight Discrimination and School Connectedness Among Youth: Does Teacher Support Play a Protective Role?
Authors: Golaszewski Natalie M. , Pasch Keryn E. , Fernandez Alejandra , Poulos Natalie S. , Batanova Milena , Loukas Alexandra
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Weight discrimination has been associated with poor academic performance and decreased school attendance. Little is known about weight discrimination and students' feelings of belonging to their school. This study examined the association between weight discrimination and school connectedness among adolescents. Teacher support was examined as a protective factor.

METHODS

Middle school students (N = 639; 57% white; Mean age = 12.16 years) completed a health behaviors survey. Weight discrimination from peers and/or good friends was dichotomized into never versus experienced weight discrimination. The mean of 5 school connectedness items assessed level of school connectedness. Teacher support was measured by taking the mean of 4 teacher support items. Hierarchical linear regression was used to examine the association between weight discrimination and school connectedness. Teacher support was tested as a moderator.

RESULTS

Weight discrimination was associated with lower levels of school connectedness (p < .05). Teacher support was associated with higher levels of school connectedness (p < .001) but did not moderate the association between weight discrimination and school connectedness.

CONCLUSION

The association between weight discrimination and low levels of school connectedness is important as students spend most of their time at school and should benefit from the positive effects of feeling connected to school.
Functional carbohydrate binding modules identified in evolved dits from siphophages infecting various Gram‐positive bacteria
Authors: Hayes Stephen , Vincentelli Renaud , Mahony Jennifer , Nauta Arjen , Ramond Laurie , Lugli Gabriele A. , Ventura Marco , van Sinderen Douwe , Cambillau Christian
Published: September 2018

With increasing numbers of 3D structures of bacteriophage components, combined with powerful in silico predictive tools, it has become possible to decipher the structural assembly and associated functionality of phage adhesion devices. Recently, decorations have been reported in the tail and neck passage structures of members of the so‐called 936 group of lactococcal siphophages. In the current report, using bioinformatic analysis we identified a conserved carbohydrate binding module (CBM) among many of the virion baseplate Dit components, in addition to the CBM present in the ‘classical’ receptor binding proteins (RBPs). We observed that, within these so‐called ‘evolved’ Dit proteins, the identified CBMs have structurally conserved folds, yet can be grouped into four distinct classes. We expressed such modules in fusion with GFP, and demonstrated their binding capability to their specific host using fluorescent binding assays with confocal microscopy. We detected evolved Dits in several phages infecting various Gram‐positive bacterial species, including mycobacteria. The omnipresence of CBM domains in siphophages indicates their auxiliary role in infection, as they can assist in the specific recognition of and attachment to their host, thus ensuring a highly efficient and specific phage‐host adhesion process as a prelude to DNA injection.
Systemic immune‐inflammation index could estimate the cross‐sectional high activity and the poor outcomes in immunosuppressive drug‐naïve patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis
Authors: Kim Youhyun , Choi Hyeok , Jung Seung Min , Song Jason Jungsik , Park Yong‐Beom , Lee Sang‐Won
Published: September 2018

Objectives

We investigated whether systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) at diagnosis can estimate the cross‐sectional high activity and predict the poor outcomes in immunosuppressive drug‐naïve patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis (AAV).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 163 patients with AAV and obtained clinical and laboratory data. We calculated Birmingham vasculitis activity score (BVAS) as well as five‐factor score (FFS) (2009) at diagnosis. SII at diagnosis was calculated by the equation of (SII at diagnosis = platelet count × neutrophil count/lymphocyte count at diagnosis). Severe AAV was defined as BVAS at diagnosis ≥16. The odds ratio was assessed using the multivariable logistic regression analysis and cumulative survival rates were compared by the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 58.0 years old and 51 patients were men. The median BVAS was 12.0. Fifty‐seven patients had severe AAV. The median SII at diagnosis was 1349.6. In the multivariable analysis, only SII exhibited a significant odds ratio for the cross‐sectional severe AAV (P = 0.043). We obtained the cut‐off of SII at diagnosis for severe AAV as 1573.56. Patients with SII at diagnosis ≥1573.56 exhibited a significantly high relative risk of the cross‐sectional severe AAV compared to those without (relative risk 4.625). Furthermore, patients with SII at diagnosis ≥1573.56 exhibited significantly the lower cumulative relapse free and renal survivals than those without.

Conclusion

Systemic immune‐inflammation index at diagnosis could estimate the cross‐section severe AAV and predict the poor outcomes in AAV patients.
Quantifying leaf‐trait covariation and its controls across climates and biomes
Authors: Yang Yanzheng , Wang Han , Harrison Sandy P. , Prentice I. Colin , Wright Ian J. , Peng Changhui , Lin Guanghui
Published: September 2018

Plant functional ecology requires the quantification of trait variation and its controls. Field measurements on 483 species at 48 sites across China were used to analyse variation in leaf traits, and assess their predictability.

Principal components analysis (PCA) was used to characterize trait variation, redundancy analysis (RDA) to reveal climate effects, and RDA with variance partitioning to estimate separate and overlapping effects of site, climate, life‐form and family membership.

Four orthogonal dimensions of total trait variation were identified: leaf area (LA), internal‐to‐ambient CO2 ratio (χ), leaf economics spectrum traits (specific leaf area (SLA) versus leaf dry matter content (LDMC) and nitrogen per area (Narea)), and photosynthetic capacities (Vcmax, Jmax at 25°C). LA and χ covaried with moisture index. Site, climate, life form and family together explained 70% of trait variance. Families accounted for 17%, and climate and families together 29%. LDMC and SLA showed the largest family effects. Independent life‐form effects were small.

Climate influences trait variation in part by selection for different life forms and families. Trait values derived from climate data via RDA showed substantial predictive power for trait values in the available global data sets. Systematic trait data collection across all climates and biomes is still necessary.
Orbital complications following extraction of mandibular molar teeth: a case report
Authors: French K. , Jagsi A. , Main B.G. , Thomas S.J.
Published: September 2018

Serious sequelae of dental infections are unusual but can be potentially life‐ or sight‐threatening. This case describes the rapid and extensive development of a fascial space infection through an uncommon route, originating in mandibular molar teeth to involve the orbital tissues. Relevant surgical anatomy and pathophysiology are discussed. Also highlighted is the multidisciplinary management of care across three surgical specialities with input from the radiology and microbiology teams.
Strategic change, leadership and accounting: A triptych of organizational reform
Authors: Carter Chris , Spence Crawford , McKinlay Alan
Published: September 2018

Strategic change in public sector organizations has been well documented. This article suggests that public management research would benefit from a greater appreciation of how calculative practices are deeply imbricated with, and constitutive of, organizational life. In turn, the article argues that the field of interdisciplinary accounting has much to learn from public administration, especially in terms of leadership. The overarching argument is that understanding strategic change in public organizations can be enhanced by bringing together insights from the academic fields of public administration and interdisciplinary accounting. In this respect, organizational reform can be understood as a triptych, involving strategic change, leadership and accounting practices. We illustrate this thesis through a case study of strategic change in the world's largest public service broadcaster—the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). It is shown how, during the tenure of one organizational leader—John Birt—accounting became pivotal to his leadership.
Paradoxical Internationalization: Regulatory Reforms in the Mexican Health‐Care System through the Lens of European Experience
Authors: Bode Ingo , Culebro M Jorge E.
Published: September 2018

Over the recent past, Mexico has been exemplary in having launched regulatory reforms in order to modernize its health‐care system, with major objectives being universal insurance coverage and less infrastructural fragmentation. In this article we argue that these reforms, widely inspired by the global New Public Management movement and its aftermath, take shape in a difficult encounter with both the traditional public administration model in Mexico and tensions endemic to the aforementioned reform movement as attempts to enhance system integration coincide with procedural disorganization. This results in a paradoxical internationalization of the Mexican health‐care system due to which the above objectives may be difficult to achieve. To illustrate our argument, we examine the Mexican case through the lens of experience two European countries (Germany and Norway) in which reforms have affected the health‐care system in a similar way.
Understanding Gaps in the Coexistence between Different Modes of Governance: A Case Study of Public Health in Schools in a Multilevel System
Authors: Burau Viola , Clavier Carole
Published: September 2018

Governing contemporary public services across industrialized countries typically draws on a mix of different modes of governance. The literature on governance has raised the issue of the specific coexistences between different modes of governance. The focus is on fits and clashes, whereas there is less attention on situations, where different modes of governance do not connect. The contribution of the present article is to more systematically account for the “what” and “why” of such “gaps.” What are their specific characteristics? How can their existence be explained? Based on a critical case study of supporting coordination in public health services in Québec, the article argues: that gaps in the coexistence between different modes of governance can be thought of as disconnects in the management of public services; and that this reflects a de facto lack of governance capacity to connect different modes of governance to each other.
A Prunus persica genome‐wide RNA‐seq approach uncovers major differences in the transcriptome among chilling injury sensitive and non‐sensitive varieties
Authors: Nilo‐Poyanco Ricardo , Vizoso Paula , Sanhueza Dayan , Balic Iván , Meneses Claudio , Orellana Ariel , Campos‐Vargas Reinaldo
Published: September 2018

Chilling injury represents a major constrain for crops productivity. Prunus persica, one of the most relevant rosacea crops, have early season varieties that are resistant to chilling injury, in contrast to late season varieties, which display chilling symptoms such as mealiness (dry, sandy fruit mesocarp) after prolonged storage at chilling temperatures. To uncover the molecular processes related to the ability of early varieties to withstand mealiness, postharvest and genome‐wide RNA‐seq assessments were performed in two early and two late varieties. Differences in juice content and ethylene biosynthesis were detected among early and late season fruits that became mealy after exposed to prolonged chilling. Principal component and data distribution analysis revealed that cold‐stored late variety fruit displayed an exacerbated and unique transcriptome profile when compared to any other postharvest condition. A differential expression analysis performed using an empirical Bayes mixture modeling approach followed by co‐expression and functional enrichment analysis uncover processes related to ethylene, lipids, cell wall, carotenoids and DNA metabolism, light response, and plastid homeostasis associated to the susceptibility or resistance of P. persica varieties to chilling stress. Several of the genes related to these processes are in quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated to mealiness in P. persica. Together, these analyses exemplify how P. persica can be used as a model for studying chilling stress in plants.
The karrikin ‘calisthenics’: Can compounds derived from smoke help in stress tolerance?
Authors: Banerjee Aditya , Tripathi Durgesh Kumar , Roychoudhury Aryadeep
Published: September 2018

Karrikins (KARs) are unique butenolides derived as a by‐product of incomplete combustion during wildfire. Some receptive plant species respond to KARs in the form of accelerated germination. These molecules originate from stress to mediate tolerance against different sub‐optimal conditions like oxidative stress, drought and low‐light intensity (shade stress). KARs promote seed germination, seedling establishment and ecological diversity by accelerating the abundance of selective communities of plants. The signaling pathway is closely related, yet unique from strigolactones (SLs). Due to the structural relatedness with SLs, KARs have potential roles in mediating abiotic stress tolerance in plants. In addition, the KAR directly/indirectly interact with crucial phytohormones like abscisic acid, gibberellic acid, auxins and ethylene. This article is a summarized update on KAR research in recent times. The exhaustive discussions would be beneficial for understanding the extraordinary strategy devised by nature to protect plants from stress using a molecule which is itself generated out of stress.
Periodontal complications of hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus: Epidemiologic complexity and clinical challenge
Authors: Kocher Thomas , König Jörgen , Borgnakke Wenche Sylling , Pink Christiane , Meisel Peter
Published: September 2018

This report provides a comprehensive overview of the adverse effects of hyperglycemia on the periodontium. It combines data from literature reviews of original data from two large, population‐based epidemiologic studies with comprehensive periodontal health assessment. Emphasis is placed on the exploration of hitherto sparsely reported effects of prediabetes and poorly controlled (uncontrolled) diabetes, in contrast to the umbrella term “diabetes.” This stems from the realization that it is not simply having a diagnosis of diabetes that may adversely affect periodontal health. Rather, it is the level (severity) of hyperglycemia that is the determining factor, not the case definition of the diagnosis of diabetes or the type of diabetes in question. Importantly, based on existing evidence this paper also attempts to estimate the improvements in periodontal probing depth and clinical attachment level that can be expected upon successful nonsurgical periodontal treatment in people with chronic periodontitis, with and without diabetes, respectively. This exploration includes the implentation of new systematic reviews and meta‐analyses that allow comparison of such intervention outcomes between hyperglycemic and normoglycemic subjects. Based on both existing literature and original analyses of population‐based studies, we try to answer questions such as: Is there a glycated hemoglobin concentration threshold for periodontitis risk? Does short‐term periodontal probing depth reduction and clinical attachment level gain after scaling and root planing depend on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes? Are short‐term scaling and root planing outcomes in people with hyperglycemia/diabetes inferior to those in people without diabetes? Do periodontitis patients with diabetes benefit more from the use of adjuvant antibiotics with nonsurgical periodontal treatment than people without diabetes? Does hyperglycemia lead to greater tooth loss in patients in long‐term post‐periodontal treatment maintenance programs? Throughout this review, we compare our new findings with previous data and report whether the results of these new analyses corroborate, or are in discord with, similar scientific reports in the literature. We also explore the potential role of dental health‐care professionals in helping patients control the risk factors that are identical for periodontitis and diabetes. Finally, we suggest various topics that still need exploration in future research.
Temperature effects on photosynthesis in gametophytic and sporophytic stages of the freshwater red alga Sirodotia delicatula (Rhodophyta, Batrachospermales) under a global warming perspective
Authors: Vilas Boas Lucas K. , Oliveira Régis de C. , Necchi Orlando , Branco Ciro C. Z.
Published: September 2018

The increase in Earth's global mean temperature due to human influence has become a major concern, with ecological consequences already being reported around the world. In tropical streams, benthic red algae belonging to the order Batrachospermales contribute to a large fraction of the community energy input and play an important role in sustaining autotrophic food webs. The Batrachospermales also have a unique life history, with heteromorphic life stages (gametophytes and sporophytes) occurring seasonally and with distinct ecological roles. Through “in vivo” chlorophyll fluorescence and dissolved oxygen evolution techniques, we evaluated the effects of projected temperature increases of two future scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) on the photosynthetic response of Sirodotia delicatula gametophytes and sporophytes. In general, both chlorophyll fluorescence and dissolved oxygen showed that the RCP 8.5 scenario could severely jeopardize the photosynthetic performance of the sporophytes during the summer while also providing a stressful physiological situation to the gametophytes. Due to the crucial role of sporophytes in the development of this species, results indicate that this predicted scenario could affect this species. Given the position of these organisms at the base of the food web in tropical lotic environments, especially in shaded low‐order streams, such impact could generate unforeseen cascade effects on higher trophic levels.
Acute reduction of lower‐body contractile function following a microbiopsy of m. vastus lateralis
Authors: Davies Robert W. , Carson Brian P. , Bass Joseph J. , Holohan Sorcha , Jakeman Philip M.
Published: September 2018

Twenty‐three resistance trained men 18‐35 years (23 [3] years, 1.8 [0.1] m, 81 [10] kg body mass, 2.3 [1.1] years resistance training experience; mean [SD]) performed repeated maximal voluntary isometric squats (ISQ) and countermovement jumps (CMJ) pre‐ and +30 minutes post a unilateral microbiopsy of m. vastus lateralis. ISQ and CMJ were simultaneously measured by two force plates sampling ipsilateral (biopsied) and contralateral (non‐biopsied) limb force. Bilateral limb force (ipsilateral + contralateral) and imbalance (ipsilateral/bilateral) data are reported as % change from pre‐biopsy (mean [95% CI]). A post‐biopsy reduction in bilateral ISQ peak force (−17 [−23, −11] %; P < 0.001), ISQ rate of force development (RFD; −28 [−41, −15] %, P = 0.002) and CMJ peak take‐off force (−7 [−13, −1]%, P = 0.019) occurred. Imbalance was observed for ISQ peak force (3.2 [2.1, 4.3] %, P < 0.001), RFD (2.8 [1.6, 4.0] %, P < 0.001) and CMJ landing (3.3 [1.0, 5.6] %, P = 0.009), resultant of a force transfer from the ipsilateral (biopsied) to the contralateral (non‐biopsied) limb. These data suggest that in young, resistance trained men a modulatory influence on maximal voluntary static and dynamic lower‐body contractile function is evoked acutely (+30 minutes) following a microbiopsy of m. vastus lateralis.
Native kidney cytomegalovirus nephritis and cytomegalovirus prostatitis in a kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Tan Susanna K. , Cheng Xingxing S. , Kao Chia‐Sui , Weber Jenna , Pinsky Benjamin A. , Gill Harcharan S. , Busque Stephan , Subramanian Aruna K. , Tan Jane C.
Published: September 2018

We present a case of cytomegalovirus (CMV) native kidney nephritis and prostatitis in a CMV D+/R‐ kidney transplant recipient who had completed six months of CMV prophylaxis four weeks prior to the diagnosis of genitourinary CMV disease. The patient had a history of benign prostatic hypertrophy and urinary retention that required self‐catheterization to relieve high post‐voiding residual volumes. At 7 months post‐transplant, he was found to have a urinary tract infection, moderate hydronephrosis of the transplanted kidney, and severe hydroureteronephrosis of the native left kidney and ureter, and underwent native left nephrectomy and transurethral resection of the prostate. Histopathologic examination of kidney and prostate tissue revealed CMV inclusions consistent with invasive CMV disease. This case highlights that CMV may extend beyond the kidney allograft to involve other parts of the genitourinary tract, including the native kidneys and prostate. Furthermore, we highlight the tissue‐specific risk factors that preceded CMV tissue invasion. In addition to concurrent diagnoses, health care providers should have a low threshold for considering late‐onset CMV disease in high‐risk solid organ transplant recipients presenting with signs and symptoms of genitourinary tract pathology.
Double lung transplantation in an HIV‐positive patient with Mycobacterium kansasii infection
Authors: Ambaraghassi Georges , Ferraro Pasquale , Poirier Charles , Rouleau Danielle , Fortin Claude
Published: September 2018

Good outcomes with kidney and liver transplantation in HIV‐positive patients have led clinicians to recommend lung transplantation in HIV‐positive patients based on extrapolated data. Pre‐transplant mycobacterial infection is associated with an increased risk of developing new infection or aggravating existing infection, though it does not contraindicate transplantation in non‐HIV–infected patients. However, no data exists regarding the outcome of HIV‐positive patients with pre‐transplant mycobacterial infection. We report a case of double lung transplantation in a 50‐year‐old HIV‐positive patient with alpha‐1 antitrypsin deficiency. Prior to transplantation, Mycobacterium kansasii was isolated in one sputum culture and the patient was considered merely colonized as no clinical evidence of pulmonary or disseminated disease was present. The patient successfully underwent a double lung transplantation. Nontuberculous mycobacterial infection was diagnosed histologically on examination of native lungs. Surveillance and watchful waiting were chosen over treatment of the infection. HIV remained under control post‐transplantation with no AIDS‐defining illnesses throughout the follow‐up. A minimal acute rejection that responded to increased corticosteroids was reported. At 12 months post‐transplant, a bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome was diagnosed after a drop in FEV1. No evidence of isolation nor recurrence of nontuberculous mycobacteria was reported post‐transplantation. At 15 months post‐transplant, the patient remained stable with an FEV1 of 30%. The presence of pre‐transplant nontuberculous mycobacterial infection did not translate into recurrence of nontuberculous mycobacterial infection post‐transplant. Whether it contributed to bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome remains unknown.
Safety and efficacy of cryopreserved platelets in bleeding patients with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Slichter Sherrill J. , Dumont Larry J. , Cancelas Jose A. , Jones MeLinh , Gernsheimer Terry B. , Szczepiorkowski Zbigniew M. , Dunbar Nancy M. , Prakash Gautham , Medlin Stephen , Rugg Neeta , Kinne Bridget , Macdonald Victor W. , Housler Greggory , Valiyaveettil Manoj , Hmel Peter , Ransom Janet H.
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

The short dating period of room temperature–stored platelets (PLTs; 5‐7 days) limits their availability at far‐forward combat facilities and at remote civilian sites in the United States. PLT cryopreservation in 6% DMSO and storage for up to 2 years may improve timely availability for bleeding patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A dose escalation trial of DMSO‐cryopreserved PLTs (CPPs) compared to standard liquid‐stored PLTs (LSPs) was performed in bleeding patients with thrombocytopenia. Within each of four cohorts, six patients received escalating doses of CPP (0.5 unit, 1 unit, and sequential transfusions of 2 and 3 units) and one received a LSP transfusion. Patients were monitored for adverse events (AEs), coagulation markers, PLT responses, and hemostatic efficacy.

RESULTS

Patients with a World Health Organization bleeding score of 2 or more received from 0.5 to 3 units of CPP (n = 24) or 1 unit of LSP (n = 4). There were no related thrombotic or other serious AEs experienced. Mild transfusion‐related AEs of chills and fever (n = 1), transient increased respiratory rate (n = 1), DMSO‐related skin odor (n = 2), and headache (n = 1) were observed after CPP transfusion. Among CPP recipients 14 of 24 (58%) had improved bleeding scores, including three of seven (43%) patients who had intracerebral bleeding. CPP posttransfusion PLT increments were significantly less than those of LSPs; however, days to next transfusion were the same. After transfusion, the CPP recipients had improvements in some variables of thrombin generation tests and thromboelastography.

CONCLUSION

Cryopreserved PLT transfusions appear to be safe and effective when given to bleeding patients with thrombocytopenia.
Comparison of automated and manual methods for washing red blood cells
Authors: Proffitt Susan , Curnow Elinor , Brown Chloe , Bashir Saber , Cardigan Rebecca
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

We sought to compare the quality of washed red blood cells (RBCs) produced using the ACP215 device or manual methods with different combinations of wash and storage solutions. Our aim was to establish manual methods of washing that would permit a shelf life of more than 24 hours.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Fourteen‐day‐old RBCs were pooled, split, and washed in one of five ways: 1) using the ACP215 and stored in SAGM, 2) manually washed and stored in saline, 3) manually washed in saline and stored in SAGM, 4) manually washed in saline‐glucose and stored in SAGM, and 5) manually washed and stored in SAGM. Additional units were pooled and split, washed manually or using the ACP215, and irradiated on Day 14. Units were sampled to 14 days after washing and storage at 4 ± 2°C.

RESULTS

All washed RBCs met specification for volume (200‐320 mL) and hemoglobin (Hb) content (>40 g/unit). Removal of plasma proteins was better using manual methods: residual immunoglobulin A in saline‐glucose–washed cells 0.033 (0.007‐0.058) mg/dL manual versus 0.064 (0.026‐0.104) mg/dL ACP215 (median, range). Hb loss was lower in manually washed units (mean, ≤ 2.0g/unit) than in ACP215‐washed units (mean, 6.1 g/unit). Disregarding saline‐washed and stored cells, hemolysis in all nonirradiated units was less than 0.8% 14 days after washing. As expected, the use of SAGM to store manually washed units improved adenosine triphosphate, glucose, lactate, and pH versus storage in saline.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that the shelf life of manually washed RBCs could be extended to 14 days if stored in SAGM instead of saline.
Extraction of the current distribution out of saturated integral measurement data of p-type silicon field emitter arrays
Authors: Breuer Janis , Bachmann Michael , Düsberg Felix , Pahlke Andreas , Edler Simon , Langer Christoph , Prommesberger Christian , Ławrowski Robert , Schreiner Rupert , Serbun Pavel , Lützenkirchen-Hecht Dirk
Published: September 2018

At the moment, only complicated techniques are known for the determination of array properties of field emitter arrays such as the number of active tips, the current distribution, or the individual tip radii. In this work, a method for extracting these parameters from integral measurement data is presented. A model describing the characteristics of a single emitter, including the saturation as a function of the applied voltage and the emitter radius, is developed. It is shown that experimental data of field emitter arrays can be represented as the sum of these functions and the characteristic parameters can be fitted to field emission data of an array. Using this method, the values of the radii as well as the parameters of distribution models can be determined directly. Analysis of experimental data from p-type Si emitter arrays shows that only 1–2% of the tips contribute significantly.
Scandal in College Basketball: A Case Study of Image Repair via Facebook
Authors: Frederick Evan , Pegoraro Ann
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this case study was to determine what image-repair strategies the University of Louisville employed immediately after the announcement of an FBI investigation involving multiple universities and college coaches taking bribes in order to steer high-profile recruits to certain agents. Specifically, this case study examined the image-repair strategies used on the University of Louisville’s official Facebook page and the comments made to those posts to gauge public reaction to the university’s image-repair strategies. The University of Louisville primarily employed the image-repair strategies of transcendence, bolstering, stonewalling, and a newly identified strategy referred to as rallying, or unifying and “moving beyond” the scandal. Three themes emerged from an inductive analysis of users’ comments, including support, rejection, and scandal. The high volume of support indicates that many users were receptive to the university’s attempt to reduce the offensiveness of the scandal through the use of bolstering and transcendence.
The Difference in Neuromuscular Fatigue and Workload During Competition and Training in Elite Cricketers
Authors: Cooke Kieran , Outram Tom , Brandon Raph , Waldron Mark , Vickery Will , Keenan James , Tallent Jamie
Published: September 2018

Purpose: First, to assess changes in neuromuscular function via alterations in countermovement-jump strategy after training and 2 forms of competition and second, to compare the relationship between workloads and fatigue in seam bowlers and nonseam bowlers. Methods: Twenty-two professional cricketers’ neuromuscular function was assessed at baseline, immediately post and +24 h posttraining, and after multiday and 1-day cricket events. In addition, perceptual (rating of perceived exertion [RPE] and soreness) measures and external loads (PlayerLoad™, number of sprints, total distance, and overs) were monitored across all formats. Results: Seam bowlers covered more distance, completed more sprints, and had a higher RPE in training (P < .05), without any difference in soreness compared with nonseam bowlers. Compared with seam bowlers, the nonseam bowlers’ peak force decreased post-24 h compared with baseline only in 1-d cricket (95% CI, 2.1–110.0 N; P < .04). There were no pre–post training or match differences in jump height or alterations in jump strategy (P > .05). Seam bowlers increased their peak jumping force from baseline to immediately posttraining or game (95% CI, 28.8–132.4 N; P < .01) but decreased between postcricket to +24 h (95% CI, 48.89–148.0 N; P < .001). Conclusion: Seam bowlers were more accustomed to high workloads than nonseamers and thus more fatigue resistant. Changes in jump height or strategy do not appear to be effective methods of assessing fatigue in professional crickets. More common metrics such as peak force are more sensitive.
Higher- Versus Lower-Intensity Strength-Training Taper: Effects on Neuromuscular Performance
Authors: Pritchard Hayden J. , Barnes Matthew J. , Stewart Robin J. , Keogh Justin W. , McGuigan Michael R.
Published: September 2018

Purpose: To investigate the effects of strength-training tapers of different intensities but equal volume reductions on neuromuscular performance. Methods: Eleven strength-trained men (21.3 [3.3] y, 92.3 [17.6] kg, relative 1-repetition-maximum deadlift 1.9 [0.2] times bodyweight) completed a crossover study. Specifically, two 4-wk strength-training blocks were followed by a taper week with reduced volume (∼70%) involving either increased (5.9%) or decreased (−8.5%) intensity. Testing occurred pretraining (T1), posttraining (T2), and posttaper (T3). Salivary testosterone and cortisol, plasma creatine kinase, a Daily Analysis of Life Demands in Athletes questionnaire, countermovement jump (CMJ), isometric midthigh pull, and isometric bench press were measured. Results: CMJ height improved significantly over time (P < .001), with significant increases from T1 (38.0 [5.5] cm) to both T2 (39.3 [5.3] cm; P = .010) and T3 (40.0 [5.3] cm; P = .001) and from T2 to T3 (P = .002). CMJ flight time:contraction time increased significantly over time (P = .004), with significant increases from T1 (0.747 [0.162]) to T2 (0.791 [0.163]; P = .012). Isometric midthigh-pull relative peak force improved significantly over time (P = .033), with significant increases from T1 (34.7 [5.0] N/kg) to T2 (35.9 [4.8] N/kg; P = .013). No significant changes were found between tapers. However, the higher-intensity taper produced small effect-size increases at T3 vs T1 for isometric midthigh-pull relative peak force, CMJ height, and flight time:contraction time, while the lower-intensity taper only produced small effect-size improvements at T3 vs T1 for CMJ height. Conclusions: A strength-training taper with volume reductions had a positive effect on power, with a tendency for the higher-intensity taper to produce more favorable changes in strength and power.
Young Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Children’s Fundamental Motor Competence and Physical Activity Behaviors
Authors: Gu Xiangli , Chen Senlin , Zhang Xiaoxia
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between fundamental motor skills (FMS; including locomotor and object-control skills), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior among young Hispanic and non-Hispanic children. Using the prospective research design spanning one academic school year, we recruited 671 children (6.96 ± 1.6 years, 46% girls) from four primary schools in North Texas, 300 of whom were Hispanic and 371 non-Hispanic children, with 90% of the Hispanic and 74% of the non-Hispanic children from low-income families. All participants completed the PE Metrics™ FMS assessment and wore Actical accelerometers. Hispanic children demonstrated a lower level of MVPA on school days than their non-Hispanic peers. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, both locomotor and object-control skills significantly predicted school-based MVPA for the non-Hispanic groups, while only object-control skills significantly predicted MVPA for the Hispanic group. For both ethnic groups, locomotor skills significantly predicted school-based sedentary behavior. The findings shed light on future motor competence–based interventions for physical activity promotion and obesity prevention among young Hispanic as well as non-Hispanic children.
Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate is a major source of GPCR-stimulated phosphoinositide production
Authors: de Rubio Rafael Gil , Ransom Richard F. , Malik Sundeep , Yule David I. , Anantharam Arun , Smrcka Alan V.
Published: September 2018

The plasma membrane lipid PI4P is the main source of phosphoinositides generated by GPCR activation.
Should the clinic matter to nonphysician scientists?
Authors: Le Reste Pierre Jean , Chevet Eric
Published: September 2018

Clinical training for nonphysician scientists may accelerate the pace of translational research.
The Nucleolar Protein LYAR Facilitates Ribonucleoprotein Assembly of Influenza A Virus
Authors: Yang Cha , Liu Xiaokun , Gao Qingxia , Cheng Tailang , Xiao Rong , Ming Fan , Zhang Shishuo , Jin Meilin , Chen Huanchun , Ma Wenjun , Zhou Hongbo
Published: September 2018

Influenza A virus (IAV) must utilize the host cell machinery to replicate, but many of the mechanisms of IAV-host interaction remain poorly understood. Improved understanding of interactions between host factors and vRNP not only increases our basic knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of virus replication and pathogenicity but also provides insights into possible novel antiviral targets that are necessary due to the widespread emergence of drug-resistant IAV strains. Here, we have identified LYAR, a cell growth-regulating nucleolar protein, which interacts with viral RNP components and is important for efficient replication of IAVs and whose role in the IAV life cycle has never been reported. In addition, we further reveal the role of LYAR in viral RNA synthesis. Our results extend and improve current knowledge on the mechanisms of IAV transcription and replication.
Transmission of Foot-and-Mouth Disease from Persistently Infected Carrier Cattle to Naive Cattle via Transfer of Oropharyngeal Fluid
Authors: Arzt Jonathan , Belsham Graham J. , Lohse Louise , Bøtner Anette , Stenfeldt Carolina
Published: September 2018

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a viral disease of livestock with substantial impact on agricultural production and subsistence farming on a global scale. Control of FMD is impeded by the existence of a prolonged asymptomatic carrier phase during which infected cattle shed low quantities of infectious virus in oropharyngeal fluid (OPF) for months to years after infection. The epidemiological significance of FMD virus (FMDV) carriers is unresolved. However, the existence of the FMDV carrier state has substantial impact on international trade in animal products. The current investigation demonstrated that transfer of OPF from persistently infected FMDV carrier cattle to naive cattle led to fulminant clinical FMD. It was thus demonstrated that, although the risk for disease transmission under natural conditions is considered to be low, there is detectable contagion associated with FMDV carrier cattle. This finding is important for optimization of FMD risk mitigation strategies.
Tubercular septal abscess in a postoperative patient: a novel entity
Authors: Sarwar Fatima , Sheikh Sana , Khan Naqeeb Ullah , Fatima Syeda Nidaa
Published: September 2018

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis is a rather uncommon and potentially challenging phenomenon. Such manifestation, particularly in the scenario of a late postoperative period, is extremely rare and requires a high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

We present the case scenario of a patient with history of successfully treated pulmonary tuberculosis many years earlier, without any signs of recurrence, who developed primary nasal septal tuberculosis after undergoing septoplasty to correct his septal deviation. His postoperative course remained uneventful for 4 months. He then presented with a spontaneous nasal septal abscess, which proved to be tubercular in nature on investigations. Appropriate diagnosis was established, and the patient was treated successfully with antituberculous therapy.

Recurrent tuberculosis may present a diagnostic challenge for healthcare professionals. Only a high index of suspicion, modern diagnostic tools and institution of appropriate treatment including surgical intervention as required will ensure a promising outcome.
Research integrity and the law that never was
Authors: Mayer Martin
Published: September 2018

Evidence-based medicine is arguably among the most important innovations of the modern era, but publication bias and inadequate research transparency are serious issues affecting the very foundation of evidence-based practice. Despite this truth, these crucial issues have gone largely unaddressed or inadequately addressed for a distressingly long period of time. Regulatory efforts have thus far proven insufficient in eliminating these issues. Fortunately, the last 5 years in particular have seen developments that one hopes will contribute to the eradication of these issues and a future where we can look back on these issues as a sordid story of our past. However, much like the purported fixes of the past, time will be the final arbiter of the efficacy of remedial measures currently underway. This article chronicles the history of these issues, failed attempts to fix these issues, and what can be and is being done with the hope of bringing about true resolution.