bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term Outcomes After Elective Sterilization Procedures—A Comparative Retrospective Cohort Study of Medicaid Patients
Authors: Steward Rachel , Carney Patricia , Law Amy , Xie Lin , Wang Yuexi , Yuce Huseyin
Published: November 2018

(Abstracted from Contraception 2018;97:428–433)

The second most common form of contraception among reproductive-aged women in the United States is female sterilization, although trends suggest declining rates. Methods available for interval sterilization include laparoscopic tubal ligation (TL) and hysteroscopic sterilization (HS).
Opioid Prescribing Patterns Among American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Members in the Medicare Part D Database
Authors: Charlson Emily S. , Feng Paula Wu , Bui Anh , Grob Seanna , Tao Jeremiah P.
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

To assess opioid prescribing patterns among American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) members.

Methods:

An observational, retrospective, cohort study of ASOPRS members’ prescribing patterns in the 2013–2016 Medicare Part D Prescriber database. These prescribers were stratified by years in practice, sex, and geography. The ASOPRS member cohort was compared with all ophthalmologists, as a group, and other surgeons.

Results:

The authors identified 617 surgeons in the 2017 ASOPRS directory. Members wrote an average of 45 opioid prescriptions/year. Almost half (45%) wrote <10 prescriptions. Those with >10 prescriptions averaged 78 annually. A minority wrote >100 prescriptions per year (14.8%). Overall, opioids comprised 16.5% of all prescriptions written by ASOPRS members. Despite seeing a similar number of beneficiaries (p = 0.20), male members prescribed a greater number (p < 0.05) and a higher rate (p < 0.05) of opioids than female members. Older members had a lower opioid prescription rate (p < 0.0001). Many heavy opioid prescribers practiced in states with high opioid overdose deaths.

Conclusions:

American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery members prescribe moderate amounts of opioids at a rate (16.5%) higher than all of ophthalmology (4%),
1
above the national mean (6.8%), but lower than other surgical services (36.5%).
2
Male gender, younger age, and practice in states with high opioid-related deaths were correlated to number of prescriptions. Prescribing patterns may naturally relate to the type of surgical intervention and population. Further research is warranted to understand opioid prescriptions and their role in the opioid epidemic.
Genome-wide association reveals contribution of MRAS to painful temporomandibular disorder in males
Authors: Smith Shad B. , Parisien Marc , Bair Eric , Belfer Inna , Chabot-Doré Anne-Julie , Gris Pavel , Khoury Samar , Tansley Shannon , Torosyan Yelizaveta , Zaykin Dmitri V. , Bernhardt Olaf , de Oliveira Serrano Priscila , Gracely Richard H. , Jain Deepti , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Kaste Linda M. , Kerr Kathleen F. , Kocher Thomas , Lähdesmäki Raija , Laniado Nadia , Laurie Cathy C. , Laurie Cecelia A. , Männikkö Minna , Meloto Carolina B. , Nackley Andrea G. , Nelson Sarah C. , Pesonen Paula , Ribeiro-Dasilva Margarete C. , Rizzatti-Barbosa Celia M. , Sanders Anne E. , Schwahn Christian , Sipilä Kirsi , Sofer Tamar , Teumer Alexander , Mogil Jeffrey S. , Fillingim Roger B. , Greenspan Joel D. , Ohrbach Richard , Slade Gary D. , Maixner William , Diatchenko Luda
Published: November 2018

Painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are the leading cause of chronic orofacial pain, but its underlying molecular mechanisms remain obscure. Although many environmental factors have been associated with higher risk of developing painful TMD, family and twin studies support a heritable genetic component as well. We performed a genome-wide association study assuming an additive genetic model of TMD in a discovery cohort of 999 cases and 2031 TMD-free controls from the Orofacial Pain: Prospective Evaluation and Risk Assessment (OPPERA) study. Using logistic models adjusted for sex, age, enrollment site, and race, we identified 3 distinct loci that were significant in combined or sex-segregated analyses. A single-nucleotide polymorphism on chromosome 3 (rs13078961) was significantly associated with TMD in males only (odds ratio = 2.9, 95% confidence interval: 2.02-4.27, P = 2.2 × 10−8). This association was nominally replicated in a meta-analysis of 7 independent orofacial pain cohorts including 160,194 participants (odds ratio = 1.16, 95% confidence interval: 1.0-1.35, P = 2.3 × 10−2). Functional analysis in human dorsal root ganglia and blood indicated this variant is an expression quantitative trait locus, with the minor allele associated with decreased expression of the nearby muscle RAS oncogene homolog (MRAS) gene (beta = −0.51, P = 2.43 × 10−5). Male mice, but not female mice, with a null mutation of Mras displayed persistent mechanical allodynia in a model of inflammatory pain. Genetic and behavioral evidence support a novel mechanism by which genetically determined MRAS expression moderates the resiliency to chronic pain. This effect is male-specific and may contribute to the lower rates of painful TMD in men.
Performance Outcomes and Return-to-Sport Rate of National Hockey League Athletes Vary After Common Orthopedic Surgical Procedures
Authors: Lubbe Ryan J. , Freshman Ryan D. , Singh Gurmit , Katchko Karina M. , Schneider Andrew D. , Sharma Sumender , Riederman Brett , Chang Alec , Hsu Wellington K.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Evaluate performance-based outcomes and return-to-sport rate in National Hockey League (NHL) athletes.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Public records. No direct patient care was provided.

Participants:

National Hockey League athletes who underwent different orthopedic procedures were identified using public records. Three hundred thirty-seven athletes met inclusion criteria.

Independent Variables:

Common orthopedic surgical procedures in NHL athletes.

Main Outcome Measures:

Return-to-play and preoperative and postoperative performance measures were collected to calculate a position-specific performance score. Short-term and medium-term outcomes were defined as 1 and 2 to 3 seasons after surgery, respectively.

Results:

Three hundred seven athletes (92.6%) successfully returned to play. The number of games played during the first season after surgery compared with baseline was significantly decreased for hip arthroscopy (HA), noninstability shoulder arthroscopy (ie, shoulder arthroscopy procedure to address pathology other than shoulder instability), knee arthroscopy, and sports hernia repair (P = 0.002, 0.009, 0.03, and 0.01, respectively). The number of games played for seasons 2 and 3 after surgery was significantly decreased for both HA and noninstability shoulder arthroscopy (P = 0.01 and 0.001, respectively). Short-term postoperative performance scores were significantly decreased for HA, noninstability shoulder arthroscopy, and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (P = 0.00004, 0.02, and 0.02, respectively) while medium-term scores were significantly decreased for HA only (P = 0.009).

Conclusions:

National Hockey League athletes return to play at a high rate after common orthopedic surgeries. However, certain procedures portend poorer performance scores and game participation than others. In particular, HA and noninstability shoulder arthroscopy have the greatest negative effect on NHL careers after surgery.
Can Exercise Targeting Mid-Thoracic Spine Segmental Movement Reduce Back Pain and Improve Sensory Perception in Cross-Country Skiers?
Authors: Kobesova Alena , Andel Ross , Cizkova Karolina , Kolar Pavel , Kriz Jiri
Published: November 2018

Objective:

To assess the role of exercise targeting proper trunk stabilization and segmental spinal movement in back pain and sensory perception among cross-country skiers.

Design:

Randomized, controlled trial with blinded outcome assessors.

Setting:

University Hospital, Department of Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine.

Participants:

Twenty elite cross-country skiers aged 17 to 27 years.

Interventions:

Ten cross-country skiers integrated 3 types of exercise targeting segmental motion in mid-thoracic spine into their routine training practice for 2 months. The 10 controls performed routine athletic training.

Main Outcome Measures:

The Young Spine Questionnaire to measure intensity and frequency of back pain was completed at the start and end of study. Tactile sensory perception using 10-g Semmes–Weinstein monofilament, thermic perception using TIP THERM device, graphesthesia assessed by a touch monitor pencil, 2-point discrimination assessed by a digital caliper, and vibration perception assessed by a 128-Hz tuning fork measured in mid-thoracic spine 5 times.

Results:

No significant group differences in pain and sensory perception were identified at baseline. Over the 2-month study interval, repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed that the experimental group improved significantly relative to the control group on pain intensity (P = 0.005 for cervical, P = 0.004 for thoracic, and P = 0.014 for lumbar) and frequency of pain in the thoracic area only (P = 0.011). Improvements were also observed in the experimental relative to control group on graphesthesia (P < 0.001), vibration perception (P = 0.002), and 2-point discrimination (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Exercise targeting the mid-thoracic spine may decrease back pain and improve sensory perception in cross-country skiers.

Level of Evidence:

Original research, level I.
Evaluation of Baseline Impedance During Water-perfused High Resolution Impedance Manometry in Patients With Symptomatic GERD
Authors: Hung Jui-Sheng , Wong Ming-Wun , Liu Tso-Tsai , Yi Chih-Hsun , Lei Wei-Yi , Chen Chien-Lin
Published: November 2018

Goals:

We aimed to investigate the hypothesis whether baseline impedance measured during water-perfused high resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) can help discriminate patients with reflux symptoms from the controls and predict the response to the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Background/Aim:

Baseline impedance measured during solid-state HRIM can reliably discriminate patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) from controls.

Study:

We enrolled consecutive patients with typical reflux symptoms and healthy controls for the measurement of baseline impedance during the landmark period of HRIM. All patients were given PPIs and PPI response was assessed after 8 weeks of the treatment.

Results:

Baseline mucosa impedance measured during HRIM was lower in GERD patients than the controls (1861±183 vs. 3371±250 Ω; P<0.001). Baseline impedance during water-perfused HRIM had moderate diagnostic accuracy for differentiating symptomatic GERD with an area under the curve of 0.853 on receiver operating characteristics analysis. A threshold of 2530 Ω for baseline impedance had a sensitivity of 88.3% and specificity of 82.4% for GERD with a positive predictive value of 83.4% and negative predictive value of 87.6%. Among symptomatic GERD patients, poor PPI responders had higher baseline impedance than those without it (2340±260 vs. 1479±189 Ω; P=0.02). BMI negatively correlated to base impedance in either controls (r=−0.59; P=0.012) or GERD patients (r=−0.47; P=0.047).

Conclusions:

Baseline impedance measurement during water-perfused HRIM helps differentiate patients with typical reflux symptoms from controls and also serves as a potential utility in predicting PPI response.
Is There Evidence of a July Effect Among Patients Undergoing Hysterectomy Surgery?
Authors: Varma Sanskriti , Mehta Ambar , Hutfless Susan , Stone Rebecca L. , Wethington Stephanie L. , Fader Amanda N.
Published: November 2018

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018;219:176.e1–176.e9)

It has been hypothesized that yearly turnover and hospitals' overall transition from more experienced to less experienced trainees from July to September may be responsible for an increase in medical errors and poorer outcomes, a phenomenon known as the July effect. A large number of studies have investigated the July effect in both medical and surgical fields, but results have been largely mixed.
A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Onabotulinumtoxin A as First-Line Treatment for Overactive Bladder
Authors: Shepherd Jonathan P. , Carter-Brooks Charelle M. , Chermanksy Christopher
Published: November 2018

(Abstracted from Int Urogynecol J 2018;29:1213–1219)

First-line therapy for overactive bladder (OAB) includes an anticholinergic (ACH) medication and behavioral modification. There are high rates of discontinuation with ACH because of adverse effects such as dry mouth, dry eyes, and constipation.
Robustness and Reproducibility of Radiomics in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Baeßler Bettina , Weiss Kilian , Pinto dos Santos Daniel
Published: November 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the robustness and reproducibility of radiomic features in different magnetic resonance imaging sequences.

Materials and Methods

A phantom was scanned on a clinical 3 T system using fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), T1-weighted (T1w), and T2-weighted (T2w) sequences with low and high matrix size. For retest data, scans were repeated after repositioning of the phantom. Test and retest datasets were segmented using a semiautomated approach. Intraobserver and interobserver comparison was performed. Radiomic features were extracted after standardized preprocessing of images. Test-retest robustness was assessed using concordance correlation coefficients, dynamic range, and Bland-Altman analyses. Reproducibility was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients.

Results

The number of robust features (concordance correlation coefficient and dynamic range ≥ 0.90) was higher for features calculated from FLAIR than from T1w and T2w images. High-resolution FLAIR images provided the highest percentage of robust features (n = 37/45, 81%). No considerable difference in the number of robust features was observed between low- and high-resolution T1w and T2w images (T1w low: n = 26/45, 56%; T1w high: n = 25/45, 54%; T2 low: n = 21/45, 46%; T2 high: n = 24/45, 52%). A total of 15 (33%) of 45 features showed excellent robustness across all sequences and demonstrated excellent intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.75).

Conclusions

FLAIR delivers the most robust substrate for radiomic analyses. Only 15 of 45 features showed excellent robustness and reproducibility across all sequences. Care must be taken in the interpretation of clinical studies using nonrobust features.
Analysis of Cranial Morphology of Healthy Infants Using Homologous Modeling
Authors: Kuwahara Kosuke , Hikosaka Makoto , Kaneko Tsuyoshi , Takamatsu Ako , Nakajima Yukari , Ogawa Rei , Miyazaki Osamu , Nosaka Shunsuke
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Data on cranial morphology of healthy individuals can be used as the guide in the treatment of cranial deformity. There are many reports analyzing the cranial morphology of healthy children in the past. But most of them focus on 2-dimensional values, and there are only a few reports, which analyzed the cranial morphology of Japanese healthy infants. We report a novel method that enables the comprehensive analysis of cranial morphology of Japanese healthy infants in 3D.

Methods:

Craniofacial CT data of 20 healthy infants (9 males, 11 females) ranging in age from 1 to 11 months were collected. Based on the CT data, we created 20 homologous models of cranium using software specifically designed to support homologous modeling. We averaged vertex coordinates of the homologous models to create average model. We further performed principal component analysis, and created virtual models based on each principal component. The contribution rate was calculated, and the features described by each principal component were interpreted.

Results:

We created the average cranial model of Japanese healthy infants. Seven principal components (cumulative contribution rate: 89.218%) were interpreted as to which part of the cranial shape each component was related to. The elements were extracted that may characterize the cranial morphology of some of the clinical conditions such as dolico/brachycephaly and deformational plagiocephaly. Some of these elements have not been mentioned in the past literature.

Conclusion:

Homologous modeling was considered to be valid and strong tool for comprehensive analysis of cranial morphology.
Māori: living and dying with cardiovascular disease in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Mason Kathleen , Toohey Frances , Gott Merryn , Moeke-Maxwell Tess
Published: November 2018

Purpose of review

This article provides an informed perspective on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and palliative care need among Māori New Zealanders. High Māori CVD risk factors will contribute to a sharp increase in older Māori deaths which has implications for health and palliative care service provision.

Recent findings

CVD is New Zealand's leading cause of premature deaths and disability among Māori. A projected rise in older Māori deaths within the next 30 years will require increased palliative care. However, accessing palliative care and obtaining and understanding information can be challenging for families who are already often overburdened with high social and economic disadvantages. Meeting the high financial costs associated with end-of-life care make living with CVD challenging. Engaging with the health system's biomedical approach when holistic care is preferable can be a major barrier.

Māori families provide the bulk of care at end-of-life, but they can become fatigued with the challenges that accompany long-term progressive illnesses, such as CVD. They are also burdened by the financial costs associated with end-of-life. It is often difficult for Māori to access palliative care and to obtain and understand information about the illness and treatment. Navigating an unfamiliar and complex health system, low health literacy among Māori and poor relationship building and communication skills of health professionals are significant barriers. Cultural safety training would help to increase health and cardiovascular professionals’ cultural understanding of Māori and their holistic end-of-life preferences; this could go some way to strengthen rapport building and communication skills necessary for effective engagement and informational exchanges. Increasing the Māori palliative care workforce and introducing cultural safety training among health professionals could help to bridge the gap. A current study to gather traditional care customs and present these to whānau and the health and palliative care sectors in the form of an online resource could contribute to this decolonizing objective.
Quality loss of spring-harvested fresh ginseng under simulated export and distribution conditions
Authors: Chang Eun Ha , Bae Yeoung Seuk , Lee Ji Hyun , Shin Il Sheob , Choi Ji Weon
Published: November 2018

We investigated the causes of quality loss of fresh ginseng during simulated export by air and ship. Fresh ginseng was washed and packed in large (5 kg) or small (500 g) functional low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film packages. The packages were then stored under a range of temperatures, to simulate various export conditions. For export by air, the storage temperatures were 15℃ and 25℃, for 4 days. For export by ship, the storage temperatures were 1℃ and 5℃, for 14 days. At the conclusion of the export simulation experiment, ginseng was stored at 10℃ to simulate distribution conditions. We found that loss under simulated export was mostly through softening and decay due to fungal infection. The time point at which the combined loss from softening and decay due to fungal infection reached 20% was considered the limit of distribution. Following air export simulation at 25℃, ginseng in the large and small LDPE film packages lasted for 10 days and 6-7 days, respectively, whereas after air export simulation at 15℃, it lasted for 17 days and 12-13 days in the large and small packages, respectively. Following ship export simulation at 5℃, ginseng in the large and small packages lasted for 21 days and 28 days, respectively, whereas after ship export simulation at 1℃, it lasted for 24 days and 29 days in the large and small packages, respectively. The fungi responsible for the loss of fresh ginseng quality were mostly Fusarium sp., Botrytis sp., and Penicillium sp. The dominant strain at 25℃ was Fusarium sp., whereas Botrytis sp. was dominant at lower temperatures.
Quality characteristics of porridge made from different Korean rice varieties including high yield tongil-type rice
Authors: Sim Eun-Yeong , Lee Ji Yoon , Cho Jun Hyeon , Yoon Mi-Ra , Kwak Ji-eun , Kim Nam-Geol , Jeon Yong-hee , Lee Choon-Ki , Lee Jeom Sig , Hong Ha-Cheol
Published: November 2018

This study was carried out to compare the physiochemical properties and quality characteristics of porridge made from different Korean rice varieties, including high yield tongil-type rice. The rice varieties used in this study were 4 tongil-type (Areum, Namcheon, Hanareum3, Hanareum4) and 5 japonica-type rices (Unkwang, Daebo, Goami4, Dodamssal and Hwaseonchal). The protein and amylose contents of the varieties ranged from 6.0% (Namcheon) to 7.3% (Hanareum3) and from 5.0% (Hwaseonchal) to 42.8% (Dodamssal). Compared to the other varieties, Hwaseonchal and Dodamssal had low final and setback viscosity values in the rapid-visco analyzer test. The color value of the porridge ranged between 52.90 and 71.12 for the L value, -2.06 and -1.01 for the a value, and -5.59 and -2.62 for the b value. SEM images revealed distinct differences in the endosperm structure of rice varieties as well as the porridge. Furthermore, porridge made from Hwaseonchal rice had the highest spreadability, followed by porridge made from others non-glutinous rice varieties, Goami4 rice, and Dodamssal rice. The results of this study suggested that rice varieties with different amylose contents could be effectively used to control the viscosity of rice porridge. In laboratory experiments, the sensory test did not indicate significant differences except for the mouthfeel. The mouthfeel of the porridge depended on the amylose content of rice. This study suggested that tongil-type rice variety such as Hanareum4 could be substituted with Japonica type rice for making porridge.
Evaluation of microbiological safety of commercial spices
Authors: Lee Seo-Hyun , Mun Kwang-Ho , Kim Na-Ye-Seul , Kim Jung-Beom
Published: November 2018

The study investigated the level of contamination by total aerobic bacteria, coliform bacteria and food poisoning bacteria in commercial spices for the evaluation of microbiological safety. A total of 119 commercial spices was used for this study. The total aerobic bacterial count was 6.2 log CFU/g in HACCP certificated spices and 5.4 log CFU/g in HACCP non-certificated spices. Coliform bacteria were detected in 13 (35.1%) out of 37 HACCP certificated spices and 27 (32.9%) out of 82 HACCP non-certificated spices. Bacillus cereus was detected in 7 (18.9%) out of 37 HACCP certificated spices and 10 (11.8%) out of 82 non-certificated spices. All the B. cereus detected in this study possessed at least one toxin gene, and hemolysin BL enterotoxin was detected in 9 (52.9%) out of 17 B. cereus isolates. Overall, these results indicated that contamination with total aerobic bacteria was higher in HACCP certified spices, with more coliform bacteria and B. cereus detected, than in non-certificated spices. Hence, it is necessary to refine the HACCP system and introduce good agricultural practices for the improvement of microbiological safety of spices.
Characteristics of Yakju fermented using different commercial yeasts
Authors: Choi Jeong-Sil , Park Yoo-Deok , Kim Chan-Woo , Jeong Seok-Tae
Published: November 2018

This study was conducted to investigate the characteristics of Yakju fermented using different 7 commercial yeasts; La parisienne (black), La parisienne (red), Fermivin, RC212, K1-V1116, D47, and EC1118. After completion of fermentation, the total acid content in Yakju ranged from 0.26 to 0.40%; the lowest and highest values corresponded to fermentation using La parisienne (red) and EC1118, respectively. The amino acidity of the different Yakju samples varied significantly in the range of 2.49 to 5.50. The Yakju fermented with K1-V1116, La parisienne (black), La parisienne (red) showed high amino acidity levels of 5.59, 5.55 and 5.34, respectively, but that fermented with Fermivin showed a low level of 2.49. EC1118 seemed to be most suitable for producing the dry type of alcoholic beverage because of the low reducing sugar content (0.19%) and soluble solid (7.2 °Brix). The main organic acids in Yakju were succinic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, malic acid and acetic acid. Further, the succinic acid content in Yakju fermented with La parisienne (black), La parisienne (red) was high (about 1,080 mg/L). The main volatile compounds were acetaldehyde, acetic acid and iso-amyl alcohol, and the acetaldehyde and acetic acid contents of the different Yakju samples varied substantially.
Oligomeric α-synuclein-specific degradation by HtrA2/Omi to bestow a neuroprotective function
Authors: Chung Hea-Jong , Jamal Mohammad Abu Hena Mostofa , Rahman Mashiar , Kim Hyeon-Jin , Hong Seong-Tshool
Published: November 2018

Although the malfunction of HtrA2/Omi leads to Parkinson’s disease (PD), the underlying mechanism has remained unknown. Here, we showed that HtrA2/Omi specifically removed oligomeric α-Syn but not monomeric α-Syn to protect oligomeric α-Syn-induced neurodegeneration. Experiments using mnd2 mice indicated that HtrA2/Omi degraded oligomeric α-Syn specifically without affecting monomers. TransgenicDrosophila melanogasterexperiments of the co-expression α-Syn and HtrA2/Omi and expression of genes individually also confirmed that pan-neuronal expression of HtrA2/Omi completely rescued Parkinsonism in the α-Syn-induced PDDrosophilamodel by specifically removing oligomeric α-Syn. HtrA2/Omi maintained the health and integrity of the brain and extended the life span of transgenic flies. Because HtrA2/Omi specifically degraded oligomeric α-Syn, co-expression of HtrA2/Omi and α-Syn inDrosophilaeye maintained a healthy retina, while the expression of α-Syn induced retinal degeneration. This work showed that the bacterial function of HtrA to degrade toxic misfolded proteins is evolutionarily conserved in mammalian brains as HtrA2/Omi.
Molecular aspects of multivalent engagement between Syk and FcεRIγ
Authors: Travers Timothy , Kanagy William , Jhamba Elton , Goldstein Byron , Lidke Diane S. , Wilson Bridget S. , Gnanakaran S.
Published: November 2018

Syk/Zap70 family kinases are essential for signaling via multichain immune-recognition receptors such as the tetrameric (αβγ2) FcεRI The simplest model assumes that Syk activation occurs throughcisbinding of its tandem SH2 domains to dual phosphotyrosines within immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs of individual γ chains. In this model, Syk activity is modulated by phosphorylation occurring between adjacent Syk molecules docked on γ homodimers and by Lyn molecules bound to FcεRIβ. However, the mechanistic details of Syk docking on γ homodimers are not fully resolved, particularly the possibility oftransbinding orientations and the impact of Y130 autophosphorylation within Syk interdomain A. Analytical modeling shows that multivalent interactions lead to increased WT Sykcis-oriented binding by three orders of magnitude. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show increased inter-SH2 flexibility in a Y130E phosphomimetic form of Syk, associated with reduced overall helicity of interdomain A. Hybrid MD/worm-like chain polymer models show that the Y130E substitution reducescisbinding of Syk. We report computational models and estimates of relative binding for all possiblecisandtrans2:2 Syk:FcεRIγ complexes. Calcium imaging experiments confirm model predictions thatcisbinding of WT Syk is strongly preferred for efficient signaling, whiletransconformations trigger weak but measurable responses.
Predictability changes what we remember in familiar temporal contexts
Authors: Kim Hyojeong , Schlichting Margaret L. , Preston Alison R. , Lewis-Peacock Jarrod A.
Published: November 2018

The human brain constantly anticipates the future based on memories of the past. Encountering a familiar situation reactivates memory of previous encounters which can trigger a prediction of what comes next to facilitate responsiveness. However, a prediction error can lead to pruning of the offending memory, a process that weakens its representation in the brain and leads to forgetting. Our goal in this study was to evaluate whether memories are spared from pruning in situations that allow for more abstract yet reliable predictions. We hypothesized that when the category, but not the identity, of a new stimulus can be anticipated, this will reduce pruning of existing memories and also reduce encoding of the specifics of new memories. Participants viewed a sequence of objects, some of which reappeared multiple times (“cues”), followed always by novel items. Half of the cues were followed by new items from different (unpredictable) categories, while others were followed by new items from a single (predictable) category. Pattern classification of fMRI data was used to identify category-specific predictions after each cue. Pruning was observed only in unpredictable contexts, while encoding of new items suffered more in predictable contexts. These findings demonstrate that how episodic memories are updated is influenced by the reliability of abstract-level predictions in familiar contexts.
Precursor miRNAs are trafficked along axons associated with vesicles and locally processed to regulate growth cone steering
Authors: Corradi Eloina , Gavoci Antoneta , Strohbuecker Stephanie , Rocuzzo Michela , Costa Irene Dalla , Iyer Archana , Bridi Simone , Rodriguez Gabriela Santoz , Abreu-Goodger Cei , Baudet Marie-Laure
Published: November 2018

Various species of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are enriched in subcellular compartments but the mechanisms orchestrating their delocalization and their local functions remain largely unknown. We investigated both aspects using the elongating retinal ganglion cell axon and its tip, the growth cone, as models. We reveal that specific endogenous precursor microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) are actively trafficked, anchored to CD63-positive vesicles, to distal axons along microtubules. Upon exposure to the chemotropic cue Sema3A, pre-miRNAs are processed specifically within axons into newly synthesized mature miRNAs, which, in turn, silence the basal translation of TUBB3 but not of APP. At the organismal level, these mature miRNAs are required for growth cone steering and a fully functional visual system. Overall, our results uncover a novel mode of ncRNA transport from one cytosolic compartment to another within polarized cells. They also reveal that newly synthesized miRNAs are critical components of a ncRNA-based signaling pathway that transduces environmental signals into the structural remodelling of subcellular compartments.

Highlights

Precursor miRNAs are actively transported along axons to the growth cone tethered to CD63-positive vesicles

Sema3A but not Slit2 induces the local biogenesis of specific miRNAs within axons

Mature miRNAs are important for growth cone responsivenessex vivoand the establishment of functional connectionsin vivo

Newly synthesized miRNAs inhibit the basal translation of TUBB3 but not APP upon Sema3A exposure
PP4 phosphatase cooperates in recombinational DNA repair by enhancing double-strand break end resection
Authors: Villoria María Teresa , Gutiérrez-Escribano Pilar , Ramos Facundo , Alonso-Rodríguez Esmeralda , Merino Eva , Montoya Alex , Kramer Holger , Aragón Luis , Clemente-Blanco Andrés
Published: November 2018

The role of Rad53 in response to a DNA lesion is central for the accurate orchestration of the DNA damage response. Rad53 activation relies on its phosphorylation by the Mec1 kinase and its own auto-phosphorylation in a manner dependent on the adaptor Rad9. While the mechanism behind Rad53 phosphorylation and activation has been well documented, less is known about the processes that counteract its kinase activity during the response to DNA damage. Here, we describe that PP4 phosphatase dephosphorylates Rad53 during the repair of a double-strand break, a process that impacts on the phosphorylation status of multiple factors involved in the DNA damage response. PP4-dependent Rad53 dephosphorylation stimulates DNA end resection by relieving the negative effect that Rad9 exerts over the Sgs1/Dna2 exonuclease complex. Consequently, elimination of PP4 activity affects DNA resection and repair by single-strand annealing, defects that are bypassed by reducing the hyper-phosphorylation state of Rad53 observed in the absence of the phosphatase. These results confirm that Rad53 is one of the main targets of PP4 during the repair of a DNA lesion and demonstrate that the attenuation of its kinase activity during the initial steps of the repair process is essential to efficiently enhance recombinational DNA repair pathways that depend on long-range resection.
A platform for case-control matching enables association studies without genotype sharing
Authors: Artomov Mykyta , Loboda Alexander A. , Artyomov Maxim N. , Daly Mark J.
Published: November 2018

Acquiring a sufficiently powered cohort of control samples can be time consuming or, sometimes, impossible. Accordingly, an ability to leverage control samples that were already collected and sequenced elsewhere could dramatically improve power in all genetic association studies. However, since majority of the genotyped and sequenced human DNA samples to date are subject to strict data sharing regulations, large-scale sharing of, in particular, control samples is extremely challenging. Using insights from image recognition, we developed a method allowing selection of the best-matching controls in an external pool of samples that is compliant with personal genotype data protection restrictions. Our approach uses singular value decomposition of the matrix of case genotypes to rank controls in another study by similarity to cases. We demonstrate that this recovers an accurate case-control association analysis for both ultra-rare and common variants and implement and provide online access to a library of ~17,000 controls that enables association studies for case cohorts lacking control subjects.
Myocardin ablation in a cardiac-renal rat model
Authors: Mittal Anupam , Rana Santanu , Sharma Rajni , Kumar Akhilesh , Prasad Rishikesh , Raut Satish K , Sarkar Sagartirtha , Saikia Uma Nahar , Bahl Ajay , Dhandapany Perundurai S , Khullar Madhu
Published: November 2018

Cardiorenal syndrome is defined by primary heart failure conditions influencing or leading to renal injury or dysfunction. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a major co-existing form of heart failure (HF) with renal diseases. Myocardin (MYOCD), a cardiac-specific co-activator of serum response factor (SRF), is increased in DCM mice and patient cardiac tissues and plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of DCM. Inhibiting the increased MYOCD has shown to be partially rescuing the DCM mice phenotype. However, expression levels of MYOCD in the cardiac tissues of the cardiorenal syndromic patients and the beneficial effect of inhibiting MYOCD in a cardiorenal syndrome model remains to be explored.

Here, we analyzed the expression levels of MYOCD in the DCM patients with and without renal diseases. We also explored, whether cardiac specific silencing of MYOCD expression could ameliorate the cardiac remodeling and improve cardiac function in a renal artery ligated rat model (RAL). We observed an increase in MYOCD levels in the endomyocardial biopsies of DCM patients associated with renal failure compared to DCM alone. Silencing of MYOCD in RAL rats by a cardiac homing peptide conjugated MYOCD siRNA resulted in attenuation of cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and restoration of the left ventricular functions.

Our data suggest hyper-activation of MYOCD in the pathogenesis of the cardiorenal failure cases. Also, MYOCD silencing showed beneficial effects by rescuing cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, size and function in a cardiorenal rat model.
Probing the effects of nonannular lipid binding on the stability of the calcium pump SERCA
Authors: Espinoza-Fonseca L. Michel
Published: November 2018

The calcium pump SERCA is a transmembrane protein that is critical for calcium transport in cells. SERCA resides in an environment made up largely by the lipid bilayer, so lipids play a central role on its stability and function. Studies have provided insights into the effects of annular and bulk lipids on SERCA activation, but the role of a nonannular lipid site in the E2 intermediate state remains elusive. Here, we have performed microsecond molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to probe the effects of nonannular lipid binding on the stability and structural dynamics of the E2 state of SERCA. We found that the structural integrity and stability of the E2 state is independent of nonannular lipid binding, and that occupancy of a lipid molecule at this site does not modulate destabilization of the E2 state, a step required to initiate the transition toward the competent E1 state. We also found that binding of the nonannular lipid does not induce direct allosteric control of the intrinsic functional dynamics the E2 state. We conclude that nonannular lipid binding is not necessary for the stability of the E2 state, but we speculate that it becomes functionally significant during the E2-to-E1 transition of the pump.
Discriminative learning of similar objects enhances memory for the objects and contexts
Authors: Zhou Wenxi , Chen Haoyu , Yang Jiongjiong
Published: November 2018

How to improve our episodic memory is an important issue in the field of memory. In the present study, we used a discriminative learning paradigm that was similar to a paradigm used in animal studies. In Experiment 1, a picture (e.g., a dog) was either paired with an identical picture, with a similar picture of the same concept (e.g., another dog), or with a picture of a different concept (e.g., a cat). Then, after intervals of 10 min, 1 d, and 1 wk, participants were asked to perform a 2-alternative forced-choice (2AFC) task to discriminate between a repeated and a similar picture, followed by the contextual judgment. In Experiment 2, eye movements were measured when participants encoded the pairs of pictures. The results showed that by discriminative learning, there was better memory performance in the 2AFC task for the “same” and “similar” conditions than for the “different” condition. In addition, there was better contextual memory performance for the “similar” condition than for the other two conditions. With regard to the eye movements, the participants were more likely to fixate on the lure objects and made more saccades between the target and lure objects in the “similar” (versus “different”) condition. The number of saccades predicted how well the targets were remembered in both the 2AFC and contextual memory tasks. These results suggested that with discriminative learning of similar objects, detailed information could be better encoded by distinguishing the object from similar interferences, making the details and the contexts better remembered and retained over time.
Quantum-entanglement pigeon-inspired optimization for unmanned aerial vehicle path planning
Authors: Li Siqi , Deng Yimin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new algorithm for independent navigation of unmanned aerial vehicle path planning with fast and stable performance, which is based on pigeon-inspired optimization (PIO) and quantum entanglement (QE) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A biomimetic swarm intelligent optimization of PIO is inspired by the natural behavior of homing pigeons. In this paper, the model of QEPIO is devised according to the merging optimization of basic PIO algorithm and dynamics of QE in a two-qubit XXZ Heisenberg System.

Findings

Comparative experimental results with genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization and traditional PIO algorithm are given to show the convergence velocity and robustness of our proposed QEPIO algorithm.

Practical implications

The QEPIO algorithm hold broad adoption prospects because of no reliance on INS, both on military affairs and market place.

Originality/value

This research is adopted to solve path planning problems with a new aspect of quantum effect applied in parameters designing for the model with the respective of unmanned aerial vehicle path planning.
The impact of self-congruity (symbolic and functional) on the brand hate
Authors: Islam Tahir , Attiq Saman , Hameed Zahid , Khokhar Munnawar Naz , Sheikh Zaryab
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the impact of symbolic and functional incongruity on brand hate. According to self-congruity theory, symbolic and functional congruence are a critical phenomenon in consumer buying decisions. Therefore, the present study develops a theoretical framework based on self-congruity theory to examine the key determinants of brand hate.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected only in fast-food chain franchises in the capital city territory of Pakistan. Therefore, it is hard to generalize the findings of this research for customers from different cultural backgrounds.

Findings

The results of the study reveal that symbolic and functional incongruence are the primary factors responsible for brand hate among Pakistani fast-food customers. Customers carefully consider both self-image and product attributes when purchasing products.

Research limitations/implications

The research uses the cross-sectional method, which limits the findings’ usefulness in other sectors.

Practical implications

The current research helps policymakers understand the key determinants of brand hate, showing that symbolic incongruence is the primary antecedent. Therefore, policymakers and corporate leaders should consider that Pakistan is an Islamic country where consumer choices of food are not only derived from food quality, food hygiene and service quality, but also the symbolic image (i.e. halal food) is a vital determinant of consumption.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by discussing the above issue and presenting quantitative data. This research extends the literature by testing and validating a conceptual model that includes two types of congruence (symbolic and functional) to study brand hate. The proposed conceptual model provides a novel, theoretical, self-congruity point of view on brand hate.
Photograph as an act: toward information visual education
Authors: Santos Pérez Ana Cristina , Luna Gerardo Belmont
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper is based on the analysis of a few photographs published by El Heraldo de México in 1968 about the student movement. The purpose of this paper is to consider the photograph as an act in which the observer is included. From this point of view, the observer could identify a discursive line of the newspaper and build an independent interpretation. The librarian is an observer.

Design/methodology/approach

It is a theoretical description about the objective character of the photographs published by El Heraldo de México in 1968. Considering photography as an act, this paper proposes to empirically identify the whole context of three cases of photographs of the newspaper, as examples.

Findings

Based on the contextualized interpretation (or photograph as an act), the photograph is identified as an information object and, therefore, an epistemological object, too. There is a relation between the image and the building of knowledge, through the interpretation of the observer.

Research limitations/implications

There are many studies about cataloguing and classification of images, but there is no study on the theoretical implications. The theory presented in this document comes from the work of other specialists and from other disciplines.

Practical implications

Learning to read visual information is as necessary as reading texts. The visual world waits to be decoded. And the twenty-first-century librarian knows how to organize, preserve and disseminate documentary collections (as photos). Value is how to find, access, decode and build knowledge over them.

Originality/value

In this document, the authors take a position in the library discussion about the image as an information object. Also, this paper promotes development of theoretical studies about this topic by librarians.
Rapid needs assessment: an evidence-based model
Authors: Lee Jin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Although conducting a needs assessment has been accepted as the first step in solving performance problems, many human resource development (HRD) and training professionals find it still difficult to conduct an effective and efficient needs assessment. The primary reasons are the lack of a guiding model based on empirical evidence and the pressing need for a cost-effective approach. To resolve these issues, this paper aims to explore ways to conduct a needs assessment and propose an evidence-based needs assessment model.

Design/methodology/approach

Followed the guidelines provided by Richey and Klein (2007), a design and development research was conducted. From the in-depth interviews with participants, the author proposed a more rapid model of needs assessment.

Findings

The salient features of the rapid needs assessment model are utilizing hypothetical interventions at an earlier stage in the process and gaining a commitment from the client across the entire process. Due to the exploratory nature of the present study, the rapid needs assessment model calls for further investigation in terms of strengths and weaknesses, and validation through multiple-case studies.

Originality/value

Three significant features of the rapid needs assessment model are different from the existing needs assessment models: developing initial hypothetical interventions, engaging in an interactive and cyclical process and including the client in the whole process. The proposed model can also be used to guide HRD professionals which lays out the process and activities of needs assessment especially when the project due date is imminent, when performance problems should be addressed quickly or when the client requires results or at least the blueprint at an earlier phase.
Work-family conflict and female employees’ turnover intentions
Authors: Rasheed Mamoona , Iqbal Salman , Mustafa Faisal
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the influences of informal organisational and family support on work-family conflict (WFC) and its subsequent impact on turnover intentions among female employees.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate the WFC among female individuals, data were collected through a questionnaire distributed among female employees in the service sector in Lahore, Pakistan, by using convenience-sampling technique. The collected data were analysed through a well-known statistical technique, SEM, using AMOS software.

Findings

The findings suggest that supports (informal organizational and family) have no impact to resolving the issues of WFC arising because of female members of the family working. Also, it was found that WFC is positively linked to employee turnover intentions.

Practical implications

By addressing WFC issues, this research has key implication for WFC practically. This study has essential implications for organization, so it can reduce the WFC by creating a supportive environment to create balance amongst work and family life. Specifically, managers need to be aware of the impact that social support and WFC have on turnover intention.

Originality/value

This study provides the model of WFC that helps in future research. The research also improves past studies’ methodology by testing the direct and mediation impacts between the constructs specifically in female employees. This study is a valuable addition to the existing body of literature.