bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservative Management of Second Metatarsophalangeal Joint Instability in a Professional Dancer: A Case Report
Authors: Ojofeitimi Sheyi , Bronner Shaw , Becica Laura
Published: January 2016

Study Design

Case report.

Background

Professional ballet and modern dancers spend an inordinate amount of time on demi pointe (rising onto their forefeet), placing excessive force on the metatarsophalangeal joints and putting them at risk of instability. Surgical treatment of this condition is well described in the literature. However, studies describing conservative management, particularly in dance populations, are lacking.

Case Description

A 33-year-old dancer presented with insidious onset of medial arch and second and third metatarsophalangeal joint pain. Functional deficits included the inability to walk barefoot, perform demi relevé, or balance on demi pointe. Imaging studies revealed osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, second metatarsophalangeal joint calcification, capsulitis, and plantar plate rupture, leading to a diagnosis of instability. The dancer underwent a treatment program that included taping, padding, physical therapy, a series of prolotherapy injections, and activity modification.

Outcomes

The dancer was seen for a total of 37 physical therapy sessions over the 16-week rehabilitation period. At the time of discharge, the patient had returned to full duty and performed all choreography with taping and padding. Repeated single-leg jumps and turns on the right foot, however, still caused discomfort. At her 6-month follow-up, the dancer's total Dance Functional Outcome Survey (DFOS) score had improved from 16% to 86%, and her Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) physical scores improved from 24 to 47. One year after discharge, the dancer reported pain-free dancing with no taping or padding.

Discussion

This case report describes early diagnosis and a multimodal treatment approach in a professional dancer with significant disability secondary to metatarsophalangeal joint instability.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(2):114–123. Epub 11 Jan 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.5824
A Comparison of the Effects of Stabilization Exercises Plus Manual Therapy to Those of Stabilization Exercises Alone in Patients With Nonspecific Mechanical Neck Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Celenay Seyda Toprak , Akbayrak Turkan , Kaya Derya Ozer
Published: January 2016

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Background

Little is known about the efficacy of providing manual therapy in addition to cervical and scapulothoracic stabilization exercises in people with mechanical neck pain (MNP).

Objectives

To compare the effects of stabilization exercises plus manual therapy to those of stabilization exercises alone on disability, pain, range of motion (ROM), and quality of life in patients with MNP.

Methods

One hundred two patients with MNP (18–65 years of age) were recruited and randomly allocated into 2 groups: stabilization exercise without (n = 51) and with (n = 51) manual therapy. The program was carried out 3 days per week for 4 weeks. The Neck Disability Index, visual analog pain scale, digital algometry of pressure pain threshold, goniometric measurements, and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey were used to assess participants at baseline and after 4 weeks.

Results

Improvements in Neck Disability Index score, night pain, rotation ROM, and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey score were greater in the group that received stabilization exercise with manual therapy compared to the group that only received stabilization exercise. Between-group differences (95% confidence interval) were 2.2 (0.1, 4.3) points for the Neck Disability Index, 1.1 (0.0, 2.3) cm for pain at night measured on the visual analog scale, −4.3° (−8.1°, −0.5°) and −5.0° (−8.2°, −1.7°) for right and left rotation ROM, respectively, and −2.9 (−5.4, −0.4) points and −3.1 (−6.2, 0.0) points for the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey physical and mental components, respectively. Changes in resting and activity pain, pressure pain threshold, and cervical extension or lateral flexion ROM did not differ significantly between the groups. Pressure pain threshold increased only in those who received stabilization exercise with manual therapy (P<.05).

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that stabilization exercises with manual therapy may be superior to stabilization exercises alone for improving disability, pain intensity at night, cervical rotation motion, and quality of life in patients with MNP.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(2):44–55. Epub 11 Jan 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.5979
Methotrexate plus narrow band ultraviolet B (NBUVB) versus methotrexate alone in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Khadka Dhan Keshar , Agrawal S , Dhali T K
Published: January 2016

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic, recurring inflammatory disease affecting the skin, joints and nails that has a significant negative impact on the quality of life. Efficacy of combination of methotrexate/narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) phototherapy in the treatment of psoriasis has been rarely assessed. Objectives: To compare the therapeutic efficacy of methotrexate plus NBUVB phototherapy combination vs.  methotrexate  in  the  treatment  of  moderate  to  severe  chronic  plaque  psoriasis. Material and methods: Seventy-nine patients with chronic plaque-type psoriasis (body surface area involvement >2%) were randomized to receive either methotrexate/NBUVB phototherapy (group A) or methotrexate (group B). End point of treatment was 75% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI75) Score or up to 12weeks, whichever was earlier. Patients were then followed up for a period of 12 weeks for assessment of adverse effect, DLQI and relapse.Results: Of 79 patients, 69 completed the treatment period and follow-up. PASI 75 was achieved in 35/39(89%) patients in group A and 34/40(85%) patients in group B (P=0.052). The mean number of weeks (P = 0.031), the mean cumulative dose of NBUVB (8.2±3.5J/cm2)) and the mean number of phototherapy sessions (12±3)) required to achieve PASI 75 were less in group A compared with group B. There was no significant difference in the number of patients who relapsed during the follow- up period (P = 0.68). Conclusion: Combination of methotrexate and NBUVB phototherapy provides more rapid clinical improvement compared with methotrexate monotherapy in the treatment for chronic plaque-type psoriasis.NJDVL Vol. 13, No. 1, 2015 Page: 12-23
Pemphigus herpetiformis : A rare clinical variant of pemphigus
Authors: Shrestha P , Tajhya R B , Pokharel A
Published: January 2016

Pemphigus herpetiformis is an autoimmune blistering disease. We report a case of pemphigus herpetiformis, a generalized form, manifested as pruritic grouped vesicles at extremities and trunk, in a seventy years old man. Neutrophil dominant inflammatory substrate was seen in histopathology. Direct immunofluorescene revealed IgG reactivity in net like pattern at upper epidermis, confirming pemphigus. The patient responded well to prednisolone and colchicine combination initially and maintained remission later on colchicine alone. Colchicine has anti-mitotic, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive mechanism of actions and proven benefits in neutrophilic dermatoses. Therefore we recommend colchicine as mono therapy or in combination with immunosuppressive, for the treatment of pemphigus herpetiformis where neutrophil is predominant inflammatory infiltrate histologically.NJDVL Vol. 13, No. 1, 2015 Page: 61-65
Performing Catastrophe: Erwin Piscator’s Documentary Theatre
Authors: Arjomand Minou
Published: January 2016

This article explores the relationship between aesthetics and politics in documentary theatre. In contrast to approaches in both scholarly literature and artistic practice that assess the political significance of documentary theatre primarily in terms of content, the article discusses how the form of theatre itself can become political. I argue that Erwin Piscator’s post-war documentary theatre seeks, not only to intervene in political issues thematized in the productions, but also to claim a place for theatre as an institution uniquely capable of addressing two pressing questions of post-war politics: how to learn from the past and how to forestall future genocide. Piscator’s documentary productions relied on theatricality and aesthetic experience, offering a useful foil to current documentary theatre with its suspicion of theatricality. I base my argument on archival materials drawn from productions of plays, including The Burning Bush (New York Dramatic Workshop, 1949), The Crucible (Bühnen der Stadt Essen, 1958), The Investigation (Freie Volksbühne Berlin, 1965), and the pageant The Golden Doors (Madison Square Garden, 1943).
Roundabouts as a Form of Access Management
Authors: Michalaka Dimitra , Xu Ruoying , Page Joseph J. , Steiner Ruth L. , Washburn Scott , Elefteriadou Lily
Published: January 2016

Transportation engineers and planners are becoming more interested in using roundabouts to address capacity and traffic operations, access management, and safety concerns in the transportation system. Roundabouts are preferred as a form of intersection by some communities because they allow for continuous flow of traffic and they can be less expensive to maintain and operate. However, the operational characteristics in the functional area are less well understood than other types of intersections. Therefore, although roundabouts are being used in a variety of contexts, existing research does not provide detailed guidance on how to evaluate the use of roundabouts as a form of access management. This paper provides an operational analysis of selected roundabouts in Florida and South Carolina. The operational analysis identifies four areas of concern: corner clearance, including stopping site distance and intersection sight distance; the flow of traffic and the queuing of vehicles in the functional area near roundabouts, including driveway and intersection spacing, and the use of medians; access to major activity centers; and safety of vulnerable road users, especially bicyclists and pedestrians.
Pavement Working Platforms Constructed with Large-Size Unconventional Aggregates
Authors: Kazmee Hasan , Tutumluer Erol , Beshears Sheila
Published: January 2016

As a sustainable construction practice, recent research efforts of the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT) have been focused on an engineered approach for developing construction specifications and performance validation of the use of large-size virgin and recycled unconventional aggregates in soft subgrade remediation. The Illinois DOT Bureau of Design and Environment has issued a special provision that specifies certain gradation bands for improved aggregate subgrade to allow enhanced use of large rocks from both primary crusher type virgin and recycled sources. Nevertheless, laboratory tests are usually inadequate for characterizing the properties and engineering behavior of large-size unconventional aggregates. Therefore, the recent field performance evaluation study using accelerated pavement testing was initiated at the University of Illinois with 12 full-scale pavement working platforms constructed with selected large-size virgin and recycled materials, including reclaimed asphalt pavement, recycled concrete aggregate, and demolition waste. For in-depth performance testing and evaluation, this paper describes test section construction and quality control sequences conducted at different phases of the study, including state-of-the-art field aggregate and pavement layer imaging techniques. The rutting performance trends of test sections were investigated in light of innovative test devices and techniques, including variable energy penetration testing, geoendoscopy, transverse ground-penetrating radar scans, as well as postfailure trenching images. Penetration of large rocks into the soft subgrade was effective in achieving a stable construction platform. Moreover, reclaimed asphalt pavement as a granular pavement layer was prone to large permanent deformations.
A Practical Approach for the Synthesis of Novel Triazolo-fused Benzazepine Derivatives Using a Multi-component Reaction and an Intramolecular C–H Arylation
Authors: Homami Seyed Saied , Rezaei Zahra
Published: January 2016

An efficient and straightforward method has been developed for the preparation of triazolo-fused benzazepines by a facile, one-pot Ugi multi-component reaction/click reaction. In this strategy, the Ugi-reaction products were coupled by a click reaction, thus integrating the triazole fragment into the benzazepine structure using an intramolecular C–H arylation. The corresponding products were obtained in good yields without unfavourable by-products.
Steer by ear: Myoelectric auricular control of powered wheelchairs for individuals with spinal cord injury
Authors: Schmalfuß L. , Rupp R. , Tuga M.R. , Kogut A. , Hewitt M. , Meincke J. , Klinker F. , Duttenhoefer W. , Eck U. , Mikut R. , Reischl M. , Liebetanz D.
Published: January 2016

Purpose:

Providing mobility solutions for individuals with tetraplegia remains challenging. Existing control devices have shortcomings such as varying or poor signal quality or interference with communication. To overcome these limitations, we present a novel myoelectric auricular control system (ACS) based on bilateral activation of the posterior auricular muscles (PAMs).

Methods:

Ten able-bodied subjects and two individuals with tetraplegia practiced PAM activation over 4 days using visual feedback and software-based training for 1 h/day. Initially, half of these subjects were not able to voluntarily activate their PAMs. This ability was tested with regard to 8 parameters such as contraction rate, lateralized activation, wheelchair speed and path length in a virtual obstacle course. In session 5, all subjects steered an electric wheelchair with the ACS.

Results:

Performance of all subjects in controlling their PAMs improved steadily over the training period. By day 5, all subjects successfully generated basic steering commands using the ACS in a powered wheelchair, and subjects with tetraplegia completed a complex real-world obstacle course. This study demonstrates that the ability to activate PAM on both sides together or unilaterally can be learned and used intuitively to steer a wheelchair.

Conclusions:

With the ACS we can exploit the untapped potential of the PAMs by assigning them a new, complex function. The inherent advantages of the ACS, such as not interfering with oral communication, robustness, stability over time and proportional and continuous signal generation, meet the specific needs of wheelchair users and render it a realistic alternative to currently available assistive technologies.
Nicotinamide found to reduce the rate of nonmelanoma skin cancers in high‐risk patients
Authors: Barton Mary Kay
Published: January 2016

Key Points

Daily nicotinamide significantly reduced the incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancers in high‐risk individuals.

It is reasonable to recommend nicotinamide in high‐risk individuals along with continued sunscreen use and regular skin checks in motivated patients.

Further studies including longer follow‐up and a wider population of patients to assess for any unforeseen safety issues as well as efficacy are indicated.
Low amniotic uid index and the materno-fetal out come in 3rd trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Monir Fahmida , Nazneen Rumana , Akhter Rumana , Begum Tahmina , Kayum AKM Abdul , Abedin Mohshina , Zabin Fahmida
Published: January 2016

Amniotic fluid volume is an indirect indicator of fetal well being. About 8% of pregnant women can have low amniotic fluid, with about 4% being diagnosed with oligohydramnios. Oligohydramnios can cause complications in about 12% of pregnancies that go past 41 wks of gestation. This cross-sectional observational study was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BSMMU, Dhaka from July 2010 to December 2010 on 55 admitted pregnant mother of 28-40 weeks gestational age with low amniotic fluid index (<8cm) with or without medical disorders specially during and after delivery along with its impact on mode of termination of pregnancy & complications of the fetus. Most of the mother (64%) had mild oligohydramnios. Most of them were < 37weeks of gestation and 69.1% of them had to undergo caesarean section as there mode of delivery. The indications were mostly (66%) due to less fetal movement, IUGR, previous C/S, malpresentation etc. The current study showed significantly higher rate (65.5%) of low birth weight resulting from the low AFI. The APGAR score less than 7 in 5 minute was significantly higher in severe oligohydramnios group and majority of the neonate experienced complications like RDS (13%), meconeum aspiration (21%) with admission in neonatal ward (54%). Low AFI has poorer prognosis to some extent with maternal as well as fetal outcome. It is responsible for a significantly higher rate of caesarean section & also associated with low birth rate along with low APGAR score and increase in neonatal complications.Bangladesh Med J. 2015 Jan; 44 (1): 16-20
Variation of blood pressure among the adolescent students
Authors: Mushroor Sumaiya , Islam Md Ziaul , Amir Riyadh Ahmed , Ahmed Nafiza , Amin Md Rasul
Published: January 2016

The increase in the burden of chronic disease associated with dietary and life style changes is of growing concern in Bangladesh and the adolescents are at the forefront of these changes. A very few studies have been carried out on the dietary intake, nutritional status and lifestyle pattern of adolescent in Bangladesh. This cross sectional study was carried out to determine the variation of blood pressure among adolescents and its association with socio-demographic factors, personal habits, dietary habits and body mass index. The study was conducted among one hundred and thirty students of adolescent age from selected school and college in Dhaka city during January to June 2012. Among 130 adolescents majority (50.8%) were male and 49.2% were female but no association was found between blood pressure and sex of the adolescent. Among the adolescents, 69.2% perform physical exercise but no association was found between the blood pressure and the exercise habit of the adolescent students. Among all the adolescents, 12.3% were smoker. The study assessed the association between blood pressure and smoking habit of the adolescent students & it was significant. Majority (70.80%) of the adolescents had history of taking extra salt but no association was found between the blood pressure and extra salt intake habit. Majority of the adolescent (86.2%) used to take fast food regularly but no association was found between the blood pressure and fast food intake habit. Majority of the adolescent 58.5% had positive family history of hypertension but no association was found between the blood pressure and family history of hypertensio. Among the adolescents, 40.0% had mental stress but no association was found between the blood pressure and mental stress. The study assessed the association between blood pressure and BMI of the adolescent students. But no association was found between the blood pressure and BMI. These findings might not have revealed the true picture regarding variation of blood pressure among adolescents and identify the risk factors responsible for this variation because the time was limited and sample size was small.Bangladesh Med J. 2015 Jan; 44 (1): 21-25
Traumatic Brain Injury in United States Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) Hispanic Veterans—A Review Using the PRISMA Method
Authors: Arriola Vanessa , Rozelle Jeffrey
Published: January 2016

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is commonly defined by Menon et al. as an “alteration of the brain function, or other evidence of brain pathology, caused by an external force.” TBI can be caused by penetrating trauma to the head in which the magnitude of the injury is dependent on the magnitude of the forces that are applied to the head. The consequences of TBI can range from minimal to severe disability and even death. The major objectives of this systematic review are to survey the current literature on Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Hispanic veterans with TBI. To complete this analysis, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and MetaAnalysis (PRISMA) identified 875 articles in common and retrieved a total of 34 articles that met the inclusion criteria, consisted of OEF/OIF Hispanic veterans, reported quantitative data, and were conducted with adult U.S. veterans living in the United States. Since TBI diagnosis was unclear in most articles, only five articles that used the VATBIST instrument were analyzed. The results suggested that there is a lack of research on OEF/OIF Hispanic veterans and Hispanic subgroups. Future studies need to be conducted to consider minority groups while analyzing data involving TBI.
Benefits of Minimal Access Surgery in Elderly Patients with Pelvic Cancer
Authors: Lavoué Vincent , Gotlieb Walter
Published: January 2016

An increasing proportion of patients requiring treatment for malignancy are elderly, which has created new challenges for oncologic surgeons. Aging is associated with an increasing prevalence of frailty and comorbidities that may affect the outcome of surgical procedures. By decreasing complications and shortening length of hospital stay without affecting oncologic safety, surgery performed using the robot, rather than traditional laparotomy, improves the chances of a better outcome in our growing elderly populations. In addition to age, surgeons should take into account factors, such as frailty and comorbidities that correlate with outcome.
Cell Proliferation in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Stafman Laura , Beierle Elizabeth
Published: January 2016

Neuroblastoma, the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood, continues to carry a dismal prognosis for children diagnosed with advanced stage or relapsed disease. This review focuses upon factors responsible for cell proliferation in neuroblastoma including transcription factors, kinases, and regulators of the cell cycle. Novel therapeutic strategies directed toward these targets in neuroblastoma are discussed.
Catalytic Performance of Lanthanum Vanadate Catalysts in Ammoxidation of 2-Methylpyrazine
Authors: Kalevaru Venkata , Dhachapally Naresh , Martin Andreas
Published: January 2016

The influence of reaction conditions on the catalytic performance of lanthanum vanadate (La0.1V0.9Ox) catalyst in the ammoxidation of 2-methylpyrazine (MP) to 2-cyanopyarazine (CP) has been investigated. This novel catalytic material exhibited remarkably good performance with very high space-time-yields (STY) of CP. The reaction parameters such as the effect of temperature, gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) and all other reaction variables (e.g., NH3, air, and MP feed rates) on the catalytic performance were explored and optimized. For example, an increase in MP feed rate from 2 to >16 mmol/h led to decreased conversion of MP but increased the STY of CP significantly. Optimal performance was achieved when the reaction temperature was 420 °C and the molar ratio of 2-MP, ammonia, air, H2O and N2 in the feed gas was set to 1:7:26:13:22. Under these optimal reaction conditions, the catalyst showed a MP conversion of ~100%, CP selectivity of 86%, and STY of >500 gCP/(kgcat∙h). On the other hand, the formation of pyrazine (Py) as a by-product was found to be high when the NH3:MP ratio was lower at increased contact time. This suggests possible differences in the reaction mechanism pathways with respect to feed composition over La0.1V0.9Ox catalysts.
TiCl4 Barrier Process Engineering in Semiconductor Manufacturing
Authors: Luoh Tuung , Huang Yu-Kai , Hung Yung-Tai , Yang Ling-Wuu , Yang Ta-Hone , Chen Kuang-Chao
Published: January 2016

Titanium nitride (TiN) not only was utilized in the wear-resistant coatings industry but it was also adopted in barrier processes for semiconductor manufacturing. Barrier processes include the titanium (Ti) and TiN processes, which are commonly used as diffusion barriers in via/contact applications. However, engineers frequently struggle at the via/contact module in the beginning of every technology node. As devices shrink, barrier processes become more challenging to overcome the both the physical fill-in and electrical performance requirements of advanced small via/contact plugs. The aim of this paper is to investigate various chemical vapor deposition (CVD) TiCl4-based barrier processes to serve the application of advanced small via/contact plugs and the metal gate processes. The results demonstrate that the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) TiCl4-based Ti process needs to select a feasible process temperature to avoid Si surface corrosion by high-temperature chloride flow. Conventional high step coverage (HSC) CVD TiCl4-based TiN processes give much better impurity performance than metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) TiN. However, the higher chloride content in HSC film may degrade the long-term reliability of the device. Furthermore, it is evidenced that a sequential flow deposition (SFD) CVD TiCl4-based process with multiple cycles can give much less chloride content, resulting in faster erase speeds and lower erase levels than that of conventional HSC TiN.
Quantifying the Impacts of Systemic Acquired Resistance to Pitch Canker on Monterey Pine Growth Rate and Hyperspectral Reflectance
Authors: Reynolds Gregory , Gordon Thomas , McRoberts Neil
Published: January 2016

Pitch canker, caused by Fusarium circinatum, is a disease affecting Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) and many other pine species throughout the world. The impact of pitch canker on Pinus radiata may be limited by systemic acquired resistance (SAR), a phenomenon that elevates resistance to a pathogen after initial challenge by that pathogen or another microorganism. Allocation of resources to defense, as a consequence of SAR, is presumed to reduce resources available to support growth and reproduction, but specific fitness consequences associated with SAR in P. radiata have not been measured. To quantify impacts of SAR on growth rate, a 2 × 2 factorial experiment was established in which trees were either primed for SAR or unprimed, with half the trees in each of those two groups being inoculated with the pitch canker pathogen and the other half not inoculated. Priming for SAR was accomplished by inoculating one branch with F. circinatum and removing inoculated branches prior to subsequent challenge inoculations (= disease treatments). Disease treatments included three inoculations that were removed for measurement of lesion length, and three additional inoculations that remained on the tree as a representation of persistent disease. Control trees were mock inoculated with water. Main effects of priming and disease did not result in significant effects on growth rate. Based on hyperspectral canopy reflectance data, diseased trees were associated with higher difference vegetation index values and biomass. The absence of a negative impact on growth rate associated with SAR suggests that induction of resistance may have utility as a tool for management of pitch canker in plantations.
Urban Natural Environments, Obesity, and Health-Related Quality of Life among Hispanic Children Living in Inner-City Neighborhoods
Authors: Kim Jun-Hyun , Lee Chanam , Sohn Wonmin
Published: January 2016

Although a substantial body of literature has provided evidence supporting the positive effects of natural environments on well-being, little has been known about the specific spatial patterns of urban nature in promoting health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among children. This study assessed the association that the urban natural environment measured by landscape spatial patterns may have with obesity and HRQOL among Hispanic children. Ninety-two 4th and 5th grade students were recruited from Houston, Texas, and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) was used to capture the children’s HRQOL. The quality of urban natural environments was assessed by quantifying the landscape spatial patterns, using landscape indices generated by Geographic Information Systems and remote sensing. From the bivariate analyses, children’s body mass index showed a significantly negative association with their HRQOL. After controlling for socio-demographic factors, the results revealed that larger and more tree areas were positively correlated with children’s HRQOL. In addition, those children living in areas with tree patches further apart from each other showed higher HRQOL. This research adds to the current multi-disciplinary area of research on environment-health relationships by investigating the roles of urban greeneries and linking their spatial structures with children’s HRQOL.
Disability and Public Health
Authors: Bickenbach Jerome , Cieza Alarcos , Sabariego Carla
Published: January 2016

People with disabilities comprise approximately 15% of the world’s population. [...]
The Use of Illegal Drugs and Infectious Contagious Diseases: Knowledge and Intervention among Dockworkers
Authors: Cezar-Vaz Marta , Bonow Clarice , Silva Mara , Farias Francisca , Almeida Marlise
Published: January 2016

This study’s objective was to analyze the use of illegal drugs by dockworkers and provide risk communication regarding the use of illegal drugs and test for infectious contagious diseases among dockworkers. This cross-sectional study including an intervention addressed to 232 dockworkers, who were individually interviewed, as well as communication of risk with testing for infectious contagious diseases for 93 dockworkers from a city in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Poisson regression analysis was used. Twenty-nine workers reported the use of illegal drugs. Poisson regression indicated that being a wharfage worker, smoker, having a high income, and heavier workload increases the prevalence of the use of illegal drugs. During risk communication, two workers were diagnosed with hepatitis B (2.2%), three (3.2%) with hepatitis C, two (2.2%) with syphilis. None of the workers, though, had HIV. This study provides evidence that can motivate further research on the topic and also lead to treatment of individuals to improve work safety, productivity, and the health of workers.
Aneurysm miRNA Signature Differs, Depending on Disease Localization and Morphology
Authors: Busch Albert , Busch Martin , Scholz Claus-Jürgen , Kellersmann Richard , Otto Christoph , Chernogubova Ekaterina , Maegdefessel Lars , Zernecke Alma , Lorenz Udo
Published: January 2016

Limited comprehension of aneurysm pathology has led to inconclusive results from clinical trials. miRNAs are key regulators of post-translational gene modification and are useful tools in elucidating key features of aneurysm pathogenesis in distinct entities of abdominal and popliteal aneurysms. Here, surgically harvested specimens from 19 abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and 8 popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) patients were analyzed for miRNA expression and histologically classified regarding extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and inflammation. DIANA-based computational target prediction and pathway enrichment analysis verified our results, as well as previous ones. miRNA-362, -19b-1, -194, -769, -21 and -550 were significantly down-regulated in AAA samples depending on degree of inflammation. Similar or inverse regulation was found for miR-769, 19b-1 and miR-550, -21, whereas miR-194 and -362 were unaltered in PAA. In situ hybridization verified higher expression of miR-550 and -21 in PAA compared to AAA and computational analysis for target genes and pathway enrichment affirmed signal transduction, cell-cell-interaction and cell degradation pathways, in line with previous results. Despite the vague role of miRNAs for potential diagnostic and treatment purposes, the number of candidates from tissue signature studies is increasing. Tissue morphology influences subsequent research, yet comparison of distinct entities of aneurysm disease can unravel core pathways.
Post-Translational Modification and Secretion of Azelaic Acid Induced 1 (AZI1), a Hybrid Proline-Rich Protein from Arabidopsis
Authors: Pitzschke Andrea , Xue Hui , Persak Helene , Datta Sneha , Seifert Georg
Published: January 2016

Arabidopsis EARLI-type hybrid proline-rich proteins (HyPRPs) consist of a putative N-terminal secretion signal, a proline-rich domain (PRD), and a characteristic eight-cysteine-motif (8-CM). They have been implicated in biotic and abiotic stress responses. AZI1 is required for systemic acquired resistance and it has recently been identified as a target of the stress-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase MPK3. AZI1 gel migration properties strongly indicate AZI1 to undergo major post-translational modifications. These occur in a stress-independent manner and are unrelated to phosphorylation by MAPKs. As revealed by transient expression of AZI1 in Nicotiana benthamiana and Tropaeolum majus, the Arabidopsis protein is similarly modified in heterologous plant species. Proline-rich regions, resembling arabinogalactan proteins point to a possible proline hydroxylation and subsequent O-glycosylation of AZI1. Consistently, inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase reduces its apparent protein size. AZI1 secretion was examined using Arabidopsis protoplasts and seedling exudates. Employing Agrobacterium-mediated leaf infiltration of N. benthamiana, we attempted to assess long-distance movement of AZI1. In summary, the data point to AZI1 being a partially secreted protein and a likely new member of the group of hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins. Its dual location suggests AZI1 to exert both intra- and extracellular functions.
Possible Immune Regulation of Natural Killer T Cells in a Murine Model of Metal Ion-Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Kumagai Kenichi , Horikawa Tatsuya , Shigematsu Hiroaki , Matsubara Ryota , Kitaura Kazutaka , Eguchi Takanori , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Nakasone Yasunari , Sato Koichiro , Yamada Hiroyuki , Suzuki Satsuki , Hamada Yoshiki , Suzuki Ryuji
Published: January 2016

Metal often causes delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions, which are possibly mediated by accumulating T cells in the inflamed skin, called irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. However, accumulating T cells during development of a metal allergy are poorly characterized because a suitable animal model is unavailable. We have previously established novel murine models of metal allergy and found accumulation of both metal-specific T cells and natural killer (NK) T cells in the inflamed skin. In our novel models of metal allergy, skin hypersensitivity responses were induced through repeated sensitizations by administration of metal chloride and lipopolysaccharide into the mouse groin followed by metal chloride challenge in the footpad. These models enabled us to investigate the precise mechanisms of the immune responses of metal allergy in the inflamed skin. In this review, we summarize the immune responses in several murine models of metal allergy and describe which antigen-specific responses occur in the inflamed skin during allergic contact dermatitis in terms of the T cell receptor. In addition, we consider the immune regulation of accumulated NK T cells in metal ion–induced allergic contact dermatitis.
Individualized Follow-up of Pregnant Women with Asymptomatic Autoimmune Thyroid Disease
Authors: Stoian Dana , Pantea Stelian , Margan Madalin , Timar Bogdan , Borcan Florin , Craina Marius , Craciunescu Mihaela
Published: January 2016

Maternal hormones are essential for the normal fetal development during pregnancy. Autoimmune thyroid disease is a frequent pathology in our iodine replete region. The aim of this study is to evaluate the occurrence of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in cases with known autoimmune thyroid disease, which were in a euthyroid state prior to pregnancy, and to assess the association between supplemental treatments administered and the outcome of the pregnancy. The study is a prospective interventional controlled study. The two cohorts comprise the interventional group, consisting of 109 pregnant women with known autoimmune asymptomatic thyroid disease, without any levothyroxine (LT4) treatment and an aged-matched control group, with an unknown thyroid disease. After the pregnancy, a monthly evaluation of TSH, FT3, and FT4 was performed. Offspring evaluation was made at birth time. 88.8% of the women developed SCH in the first four weeks of pregnancy. Average LT4 doses increased as the pregnancy progressed. The monthly adjustment was 12.5 or 25 μg. All SCH cases developed in the first trimester of pregnancy. There was no significant difference regarding the gestational week, weight, or length at birth between the interventional group and controls, when TSH values were in the optimal range, during the whole pregnancy. Premature birth was described in one case in the interventional group.
Survivin Modulates Squamous Cell Carcinoma-Derived Stem-Like Cell Proliferation, Viability and Tumor Formation in Vivo
Authors: Lotti Roberta , Palazzo Elisabetta , Petrachi Tiziana , Dallaglio Katiuscia , Saltari Annalisa , Truzzi Francesca , Quadri Marika , Puviani Mario , Maiorana Antonino , Marconi Alessandra , Pincelli Carlo
Published: January 2016

Squamous Cell Carcinoma-derived Stem-like Cells (SCC-SC) originate from alterations in keratinocyte stem cells (KSC) gene expression and sustain tumor development, invasion and recurrence. Since survivin, a KSC marker, is highly expressed in SCC-SC, we evaluate its role in SCC-SC cell growth and SCC models. Survivin silencing by siRNA decreases clonal growth of SCC keratinocytes and viability of total, rapidly adhering (RAD) and non-RAD (NRAD) cells from primary SCC. Similarly, survivin silencing reduces the expression of stem cell markers (OCT4, NOTCH1, CD133, β1-integrin), while it increases the level of differentiation markers (K10, involucrin). Moreover, survivin silencing improves the malignant phenotype of SCC 3D-reconstruct, as demonstrated by reduced epidermal thickness, lower Ki-67 positive cell number, and decreased expression of MMP9 and psoriasin. Furthermore, survivin depletion by siRNA in RasG12V-IκBα-derived tumors leads to smaller tumor formation characterized by lower mitotic index and reduced expression of the tumor-associated marker HIF1α, VEGF and CD51. Therefore, our results indicate survivin as a key gene in regulating SCC cancer stem cell formation and cSCC development.
Emerging Transcriptional Mechanisms in the Regulation of Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition and Cellular Plasticity in the Kidney
Authors: De Chiara Letizia , Crean John
Published: January 2016

Notwithstanding controversies over the role of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in the pathogenesis of renal disease, the last decade has witnessed a revolution in our understanding of the regulation of renal cell plasticity. Significant parallels undoubtedly exist between ontogenic processes and the initiation and propagation of damage in the diseased kidney as evidenced by the reactivation of developmental programmes of gene expression, in particular with respect to TGFβ superfamily signaling. Indeed, multiple signaling pathways converge on a complex transcriptional regulatory nexus that additionally involves epigenetic activator and repressor mechanisms and microRNA regulatory networks that control renal cell plasticity. It is becoming increasingly apparent that differentiated cells can acquire an undifferentiated state akin to “stemness” which is leading us towards new models of complex cell behaviors and interactions. Here we discuss the latest findings that delineate new and novel interactions between this transcriptional regulatory network and highlight a hitherto poorly recognized role for the Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC2) in the regulation of renal cell plasticity. A comprehensive understanding of how external stimuli interact with the epigenetic control of gene expression, in normal and diseased contexts, establishes a new therapeutic paradigm to promote the resolution of renal injury and regression of fibrosis.
The tRNA Elbow in Structure, Recognition and Evolution
Authors: Zhang Jinwei , Ferré-D’Amaré Adrian
Published: January 2016

Prominent in the L-shaped three-dimensional structure of tRNAs is the “elbow” where their two orthogonal helical stacks meet. It has a conserved structure arising from the interaction of the terminal loops of the D- and T-stem-loops, and presents to solution a flat face of a tertiary base pair between the D- and T-loops. In addition to the ribosome, which interacts with the elbow in all three of its tRNA binding sites, several cellular RNAs and many proteins are known to recognize the elbow. At least three classes of non-coding RNAs, namely 23S rRNA, ribonuclease P, and the T-box riboswitches, recognize the tRNA elbow employing an identical structural motif consisting of two interdigitated T-loops. In contrast, structural solutions to tRNA-elbow recognition by proteins are varied. Some enzymes responsible for post-transcriptional tRNA modification even disrupt the elbow structure in order to access their substrate nucleotides. The evolutionary origin of the elbow is mysterious, but, because it does not explicitly participate in the flow of genetic information, it has been proposed to be a late innovation. Regardless, it is biologically essential. Even some viruses that hijack the cellular machinery using tRNA decoys have convergently evolved near-perfect mimics of the tRNA elbow.
Failure Analysis in Magnetic Tunnel Junction Nanopillar with Interfacial Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Zhao Weisheng , Zhao Xiaoxuan , Zhang Boyu , Cao Kaihua , Wang Lezhi , Kang Wang , Shi Qian , Wang Mengxing , Zhang Yu , Wang You , Peng Shouzhong , Klein Jacques-Olivier , De Barros Naviner Lirida , Ravelosona Dafine
Published: January 2016

Magnetic tunnel junction nanopillar with interfacial perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA-MTJ) becomes a promising candidate to build up spin transfer torque magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) for the next generation of non-volatile memory as it features low spin transfer switching current, fast speed, high scalability, and easy integration into conventional complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuits. However, this device suffers from a number of failure issues, such as large process variation and tunneling barrier breakdown. The large process variation is an intrinsic issue for PMA-MTJ as it is based on the interfacial effects between ultra-thin films with few layers of atoms; the tunneling barrier breakdown is due to the requirement of an ultra-thin tunneling barrier (e.g., <1 nm) to reduce the resistance area for the spin transfer torque switching in the nanopillar. These failure issues limit the research and development of STT-MRAM to widely achieve commercial products. In this paper, we give a full analysis of failure mechanisms for PMA-MTJ and present some eventual solutions from device fabrication to system level integration to optimize the failure issues.
Influence of Different Post-Plasma Treatment Storage Conditions on the Shear Bond Strength of Veneering Porcelain to Zirconia
Authors: Lee Mun-Hwan , Min Bong , Son Jun , Kwon Tae-Yub
Published: January 2016

This in vitro study investigated whether different storage conditions of plasma-treated zirconia specimens affect the shear bond strength of veneering porcelain. Zirconia plates were treated with a non-thermal atmospheric argon plasma (200 W, 600 s). Porcelain veneering (2.38 mm in diameter) was performed immediately (P-I) or after 24 h storage in water (P-W) or air (P-A) on the treated surfaces (n = 10). Untreated plates were used as the control. Each group was further divided into two subgroups according to the application of a ceramic liner. All veneered specimens underwent a shear bond strength (SBS) test. In the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, the oxygen/carbon ratios of the plasma-treated groups increased in comparison with those of the control group. When a liner was not used, the three plasma-treated groups showed significantly higher SBS values than the control group (p < 0.001), although group P-A exhibited a significantly lower value than the other two groups (p < 0.05). The liner application negatively affected bonding in groups P-I and P-W (p < 0.05). When the veneering step was delayed after plasma treatment of zirconia, storage of the specimens in water was effective in maintaining the cleaned surfaces for optimal bonding with the veneering porcelain.
Easily Fabricated Microfluidic Devices Using Permanent Marker Inks for Enzyme Assays
Authors: Gallibu Coreen , Gallibu Chrisha , Avoundjian Ani , Gomez Frank
Published: January 2016

In this communication, we describe microfluidic paper analytical devices (μPADs) easily fabricated from commercially available Sharpie ink permanent markers on chromatography paper to colorimetrically detect glucose using glucose oxidase (GOx). Here, solutions of horseradish peroxidase (HRP), GOx, and potassium iodide (KI)were directly spotted onto the center of the μPAD and flowed into samples of glucose that were separately spotted on the μPAD. Using an XY plotter (Roland DGA Corporation, Irvine, CA USA), several ink marks drawn in the paper act as the hydrophobic barriers, thereby, defining the hydrophilic fluid flow paths of the solutions. Two paper devices are described that act as independent assay zones. The glucose assay is based on the enzymatic oxidation of iodide to iodine whereby a color change from clear to brownish-yellow is associated with the presence of glucose. In these experiments, two designs are highlighted that consist of circular paper test regions fabricated for colorimetric and subsequent quantification detection of glucose. The use of permanent markers for paper patterning is inexpensive and rapid and does not require special laboratory equipment or technical skill.
Chemical Structure-Related Drug-Like Criteria of Global Approved Drugs
Authors: Mao Fei , Ni Wei , Xu Xiang , Wang Hui , Wang Jing , Ji Min , Li Jian
Published: January 2016

The chemical structure of a drug determines its physicochemical properties, further determines its ADME/Tox properties, and ultimately affects its pharmacological activity. Medicinal chemists can regulate the pharmacological activity of drug molecules by modifying their structure. Ring systems and functional groups are important components of a drug. The proportion of non-hydrocarbon atoms among non-hydrogen atoms reflects the heavy atoms proportion of a drug. The three factors have considerable potential for the assessment of the drug-like properties of organic molecules. However, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no studies to systematically analyze the simultaneous effects of the number of aromatic and non-aromatic rings, the number of some special functional groups and the proportion of heavy atoms on the drug-like properties of an organic molecule. To this end, the numbers of aromatic and non-aromatic rings, the numbers of some special functional groups and the heavy atoms proportion of 6891 global approved small drugs have been comprehensively analyzed. We first uncovered three important structure-related criteria closely related to drug-likeness, namely: (1) the best numbers of aromatic and non-aromatic rings are 2 and 1, respectively; (2) the best functional groups of candidate drugs are usually -OH, -COOR and -COOH in turn, but not -CONHOH, -SH, -CHO and -SO3H. In addition, the -F functional group is beneficial to CNS drugs, and -NH2 functional group is beneficial to anti-infective drugs and anti-cancer drugs; (3) the best R value intervals of candidate drugs are in the range of 0.05–0.50 (preferably 0.10–0.35), and R value of the candidate CNS drugs should be as small as possible in this interval. We envision that the three chemical structure-related criteria may be applicable in a prospective manner for the identification of novel candidate drugs and will provide a theoretical foundation for designing new chemical entities with good drug-like properties.