bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome differentiation, natural hybridisation and taxonomic relationships among Eleocharis viridans, E. niederleinii and E. ramboana (Cyperaceae)
Authors: da Silva Carlos Roberto Maximiano , de Souza Thaíssa Boldieri , Trevisan Rafael , González-Elizondo María Socorro , Torezan José Marcelo Domingues , de Souza Rogério Fernandes , Vanzela André Luís Laforga
Published: August 2017

The role of natural hybridisation and genome changes in the differentiation and speciation of Eleocharis (Cyperaceae) was addressed through the study of the following three closely related species of the polyphyletic series Tenuissimae: Eleocharis viridans Kük. ex Osten, E. ramboana R.Trevis & Boldrini and E. niederleinii Boech., which often reproduce asexually. Molecular and cytogenetic data were used to understand the genomic and karyotypic relationships in the group. Genomes were compared using internal transcribed spacer–cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (ITS-CAPS) marker and confirmed with random amplified polymorphic DNA, which allowed identification of different genetic groups, with clear evidence of natural hybrids. Karyotype analysis showed numerical variation from 2n = 20–42, with occurrence of chromosome heteromorphisms and polymorphisms, including variability in 35S rDNA site numbers. Meiotic studies demonstrated irregular pairing in some samples, which is associated with hybridisation and asexual reproduction. Genomic in situ hybridisation (GISH) reactions were conducted using two well defined genetic groups as probes, with 2n = 20 and normal meiosis. Probes were tested against each one of the genetic groups and showed positive, partial and negative GISH results, which supported the molecular analysis data. The results indicated that the three studied species are undergoing an intense process of genomic and karyotypic re-arrangement, which results in overlapping of morphological and genomic characteristics. The present study has exemplified the value of an integrative taxonomic approach to solve conflicts in species delimitation in groups undergoing hybridisation.
A new Cynoglossum species, and transfers to Hackelia in eastern Australian Boraginaceae
Authors: Dimon Richard J. , Renner Matt A. M.
Published: August 2017

Recent molecular evidence supports the transfer of two Australian endemic species, Austrocynoglossum latifolium (R.Br.) R.R.Mill and Cynoglossum suaveolens R.Br., to the genus Hackelia Opiz as H. latifolia (R.R.Mill) Dimon & M.A.M.Renner, comb. nov., and H. suaveolens (R.Br.) Dimon & M.A.M.Renner, comb. nov. Hackelia latifolia comprises two morphological entities that, although sharing the procumbent-prostrate habit and production of elongated internodes and frondose bracts in the inflorescence, differ in a range of qualitative and quantitative micro-morphological characters. Hackelia latifolia has few, widely spaced, thorn-like trichomes on stems, a glabrous abaxial lamina surface, and mericarps with free glochids densely and evenly distributed over the outer surface, and a rectangular cicatrix at the mericarp apex, which is beaked. The other entity has many densely packed cellular trichomes on the stems, trichomes on the abaxial leaf lamina, and mericarps with a wing formed by basally connate glochids, and a triangular cicatrix located centrally on the inner mericarp surface. For the latter, we propose the new species Cynoglossum torvum Dimon & M.A.M.Renner, and by implication suggest that H. latifolia is polyphyletic as previously circumscribed. Whereas H. latifolia s.s. is widespread along the south-eastern coast of Australia from Tasmania to south-eastern Queensland, Cynoglossum torvum is restricted to the tablelands of north-eastern New South Wales and south-eastern Queensland. We compare C. torvum with the other Australian Cynoglossum L. species, C. australe R.Br., confirm previous observations of variation in mericarp morphology, and suggest that further investigation to resolve species circumscription is required given this variation.
Effect of flow on platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) reproduction and related population processes in the upper Shoalhaven River
Authors: Serena M. , Grant T. R.
Published: August 2017

The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) occupies a wide range of aquatic habitats, feeding mainly on benthic macroinvertebrates. In this study, we investigated how flow affects platypus reproduction in the unregulated upper Shoalhaven River in rural New South Wales. In a mainly dry period, the population occurred at relatively high density (12.4 animals km–1) and was strongly female-biased (84% of resident animals); mean annual loss and recruitment of resident females were respectively estimated to be 12% and 14%. Percentage lactation was 17–71% (n = 23 years), and annual reproductive success (defined as the mean number of juveniles captured per adult/subadult female from February to April) varied from 0 to 1.5 juveniles female–1 (n = 21 years). A significant positive linear relationship was evident between percentage lactation and antecedent discharge in the five months before breeding (March–July) and a positive curvilinear relationship was evident between percentage lactation and mean litter size. Conversely, reproductive success was compromised by high poststorm discharge in the period when juveniles are confined to a nesting burrow, especially from late November to early January. The relationships identified in our study between flow and reproduction also appear to apply to platypus populations occupying urban streams in Victoria, suggesting that they may be widely relevant to this species.
Recruitment of CRISPR-Cas systems by Tn7-like transposons
Authors: Peters Joseph E. , Makarova Kira S. , Shmakov Sergey , Koonin Eugene V.
Published: August 2017

Significance

CRISPR-Cas is an adaptive immunity system that protects bacteria and archaea from mobile genetic elements. We present comparative genomic and phylogenetic analysis of minimal CRISPR-Cas variants associated with distinct families of transposable elements and develop the hypothesis that such repurposed defense systems contribute to the transposable element propagation by facilitating transposition into specific sites. Thus, these transposable elements are predicted to propagate via RNA-guided transposition, a mechanism that has not been previously described for DNA transposons.
What kind of literature is a literary translation?
Authors: Robinson Douglas
Published: August 2017

This paper is a kind of manifesto for a new conception of literary translation as a unique literary genre that is imitative but qualitatively different from, and not necessarily worse than, the model it imitates. It explores this possibility by first interrogating Gérard Genette’s model of literariness inFiction and Diction – considering how literary translation as a unique genre might fit that model – and then considering what the literary translator imitates, and the relationship between translation and the novel as similar imitative genres. Key to this comparison is the novel’s early (and continuing) reliance on the “found-translation framing device,” which is effectively what Gideon Toury calls a pseudotranslation but is not (necessarily) designed tohideoriginal creation – rather, to play with the illusion of reality. The paper ends with the suggestion that literature tout court might be reimagined in terms of its transformative energies – and that translation might come to be seen as one of literature’s most definitive genres.
Oral administration of ovalbumin after sensitization attenuates symptoms in a mouse model of food allergic enteropathy
Authors: Hiraide Erika , Morinaga Mamiko , Hidaka Hiroki , Yamada Satoki , Takeyama Jun , Kitamura Noriko , Kaminuma Osamu , Hiroi Takachika , Du Weibin , Ohashi-Doi Katsuyo , Nakajima-Adachi Haruyo , Hachimura Satoshi
Published: August 2017

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a promising treatment of food allergy. To administer an appropriate oral dose of an allergenic component as OIT to individuals sensitized with a food allergen may prevent inducing food allergic inflammation in them. So we attempted to establish a mouse model to evaluate efficacy for oral administration of food allergen after sensitization. In BALB/c mice sensitized by injecting ovalbumin (OVA) with alum twice, OVA was administered before inducing inflammation by feeding the mice with egg white (EW) diet. Severe inflammatory responses, such as enteropathy, weight loss, IL-4 production, and increase of IgE antibody levels, were suppressed by administration with 4 mg of OVA 7 times before feeding EW diet. OVA administration alone induced a slight Th2 response, but no symptoms. The current study demonstrated that severe food allergic enteropathy could be prevented by pre-administration with appropriate dose of OVA to sensitized mice.
Biosynthesis of anthraquinone derivatives in a Sesamum indicum hairy root culture
Authors: Furumoto Toshio , Sato Ryuta
Published: August 2017

In order to investigate the intermediacy of 2-(4-methylpent-3-en-1-yl)anthraquinone (MPAQ), a possible intermediate for the biosynthesis of anthraquinone derivatives in sesame (Sesamum indicum), 2H-labeled MPAQ was administered to a hairy root culture of S. indicum. Efficient conversion of fed MPAQ to 2-[(Z)-4-methylpenta-1,3-dien-1-yl]anthraquinone ((Z)-MPDEAQ) was observed. Furthermore, administration experiment with 2H-labeled 2-geranyl-1,4-naphthohydroquinone, another possible intermediate, showed that it was converted to MPAQ and (Z)-MPDEAQ. The results clearly demonstrated that these substrates are the actual precursors for the production of (Z)-MPDEAQ. In contrast, neither MPAQ nor 2-geranyl-1,4-naphthohydroquinone was converted to anthrasesamone B and 2,3-epoxyanthrasesamone B, other anthraquinone derivatives in the hairy roots, suggesting that these substrates may not be the common precursors in the biosynthesis of anthraquinone derivatives.
EB1 and EB3 regulate microtubule minus end organization and Golgi morphology
Authors: Yang Chao , Wu Jingchao , de Heus Cecilia , Grigoriev Ilya , Liv Nalan , Yao Yao , Smal Ihor , Meijering Erik , Klumperman Judith , Qi Robert Z. , Akhmanova Anna
Published: August 2017

End-binding proteins (EBs) are the core components of microtubule plus end tracking protein complexes, but it is currently unknown whether they are essential for mammalian microtubule organization. Here, by using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout technology, we generated stable cell lines lacking EB2 and EB3 and the C-terminal partner-binding half of EB1. These cell lines show only mild defects in cell division and microtubule polymerization. However, the length of CAMSAP2-decorated stretches at noncentrosomal microtubule minus ends in these cells is reduced, microtubules are detached from Golgi membranes, and the Golgi complex is more compact. Coorganization of microtubules and Golgi membranes depends on the EB1/EB3–myomegalin complex, which acts as membrane–microtubule tether and counteracts tight clustering of individual Golgi stacks. Disruption of EB1 and EB3 also perturbs cell migration, polarity, and the distribution of focal adhesions. EB1 and EB3 thus affect multiple interphase processes and have a major impact on microtubule minus end organization.
Effect of NO2 and NH3 on the resistive switching behavior of W/Cu
x
O/Cu devices
Authors: Nyenke Chinwe , Dong Lixin
Published: August 2017

Cu
x
O-based devices were fabricated and investigated for the effect of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ammonia (NH3) on resistive switching behavior. Bottom copper (Cu) electrodes, copper-rich copper oxide (Cu
x
O) switching layers, and top tungsten (W) electrodes were sputtered onto two separate substrates to achieve two sets of memristors. Groups of holes ranging in diameter from 300 nm to 2 µm were wet etched into the top memristor layer to expose the Cu
x
O surface. At room temperatures, one substrate was subjected to 20 ppm of NO2 gas then a second substrate was subjected to 100 ppm of NH3 to measure the effect on memristance. For the first substrate, low and high resistance states demonstrated decreased values while the overall hysteresis gap collapsed after 10 min of exposure to NO2. The second substrate also showed decreases in resistance states but with a widening of the hysteresis gap after exposure to NH3 for 20 min. Recovery of both devices were visible at 25 and 30 min, respectively.
Division rings with ranks
Authors: Hempel Nadja , Palacín Daniel
Published: August 2017

Any superrosy division ring is shown to be centrally finite. Furthermore, division rings satisfying a generalized chain condition on definable subgroups are studied. In particular, a division ring of burden

n
n

has dimension at most

n
n

over its center, and any definable group of definable automorphisms of a field of burden

n
n

has size at most

n
n

. Additionally, an alternative proof that division rings interpretable in o-minimal structures are algebraically closed, real closed or the quaternions over a real closed field is given.
Expression of time almost periodic traveling wave solutions to a class of competition diffusion systems
Authors: Li Fang , Lou Bendong
Published: August 2017

In this paper we consider a class of competition diffusion systems with time almost periodic coefficients. We show that any almost periodic traveling wave solution to such a system is given by a decomposition formula, that is, each component of the solution equals the product of the corresponding diffusion coefficient and the classical traveling wave solution (with a different time scale).
Osm1 facilitates the transfer of electrons from Erv1 to fumarate in the redox-regulated import pathway in the mitochondrial intermembrane space
Authors: Neal Sonya E. , Dabir Deepa V. , Wijaya Juwina , Boon Cennyana , Koehler Carla M.
Published: August 2017

Prokaryotes have aerobic and anaerobic electron acceptors for oxidative folding of periplasmic proteins. The mitochondrial intermembrane space has an analogous pathway with the oxidoreductase Mia40 and sulfhydryl oxidase Erv1, termed the mitochondrial intermembrane space assembly (MIA) pathway. The aerobic electron acceptors include oxygen and cytochrome c, but an acceptor that can function under anaerobic conditions has not been identified. Here we show that the fumarate reductase Osm1, which facilitates electron transfer from fumarate to succinate, fills this gap as a new electron acceptor. In addition to microsomes, Osm1 localizes to the mitochondrial intermembrane space and assembles with Erv1 in a complex. In reconstitution studies with reduced Tim13, Mia40, and Erv1, the addition of Osm1 and fumarate completes the disulfide exchange pathway that results in Tim13 oxidation. From in vitro import assays, mitochondria lacking Osm1 display decreased import of MIA substrates, Cmc1 and Tim10. Comparative reconstitution assays support that the Osm1/fumarate couple accepts electrons with similar efficiency to cytochrome c and that the cell has strategies to coordinate expression of the terminal electron acceptors. Thus Osm1/fumarate is a new electron acceptor couple in the mitochondrial intermembrane space that seems to function in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
Systemic Angiotensinogen Concentrations Are Independently Associated With Left Ventricular Diastolic Function in a Community Sample
Authors: Millen Aletta M E , Woodiwiss Angela J , Gomes Monica , Michel Frederic , Norton Gavin R
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction characterizes heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction. Although it is recognized that the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) decreases LV diastolic function, whether systemic angiotensinogen (AGT) contributes to these effects is uncertain. Hence, the aim was to determine the relationship between systemic AGT concentrations and LV diastolic function.

METHODS

LV diastolic function was determined from the mean of the lateral and septal wall myocardial tissue lengthening at the mitral annulus (average e’) and from the ratio of early transmitral blood flow velocity (E) to average e’ (E/e’) in 445 Black African participants from a community sample.

RESULTS

In multivariate regression models with adjustments for age, sex, waist circumference diabetes mellitus, alcohol and tobacco use, hypertension treatment, systolic blood pressure (BP), and relative wall thickness, the square root of serum AGT concentrations was independently associated with E/e’ (partial r (95% confidence interval [CI]) = 0.11 (0.02–0.21), P = 0.04), but not with average e’ (partial r (95% CI) = −0.06 (−0.15 to 0.04), P = 0.25). There was no association between plasma renin concentrations and markers of diastolic function (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Circulating AGT concentrations are associated with LV diastolic function beyond BP and other confounders in an African population. Hence, through circulating AGT, the systemic RAAS may play an important role in contributing to LV diastolic function in Black Africans.
Evaluation of the High-Frequency Monopolar Stimulation Technique for Mapping and Monitoring the Corticospinal Tract in Patients With Supratentorial Gliomas. A Proposal for Intraoperative Management Based on Neurophysiological Data Analysis in a Series of 92 Patients
Authors: Plans Gerard , Fernández-Conejero Isabel , Rifà-Ros Xavier , Fernández-Coello Alejandro , Rosselló Aleix , Gabarrós Andreu
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative identification and preservation of the corticospinal tract is often necessary for glioma resection.

OBJECTIVE

To make a proposal for intraoperative management with the high-frequency monopolar stimulation technique for monitoring the corticospinal tract.

METHODS

Ninety-two patients operated on with the assistance of the high-frequency monopolar stimulation. Clinical and neurophysiological data have been related with the motor status at 3 months to establish prognostic factors of motor deterioration.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients (22.8%) presented intraoperative alterations in motor-evoked potentials (MEPs). Twelve (13%) presented an increment in the MEP threshold ≥5 mA (no deficit at 3 months). Two (2.2%) presented an MEP amplitude reduction >50% (100% deficit at 3 months). Seven (7.6%) had an intraoperative MEP loss (80% deficit at 3 months). Subcortical stimulation was positive in 75 patients (81.5%). Eighty-five patients were available for the analysis at 3 months. Fourteen presented new deficits (16.5%). Among them, 5 presented a deficit in nonmonitored muscles (5.9%) and 1 presented a new deficit not detected intraoperatively. The combination of patients with preoperative motor deficits, MEP deterioration, or loss and intensity of subcortical stimulation ≤3 mA showed the highest sensitivity and specificity in the prediction of new deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

Persistent MEP loss or deterioration is associated with a high probability of new deficits. It seems recommendable to stop the subcortical resection before obtaining a subcortical MEP threshold at 3 mA especially in patients with preoperative motor deficits. A careful selection of muscles for the registration of MEPs is mandatory to avoid deficits in nonmonitored muscles.
Intraoperative Imaging in Traumatic Peripheral Nerve Lesions: Correlating Histologic Cross-Sections with High-Resolution Ultrasound
Authors: Burks S. Shelby , Cajigas Iahn , Jose Jean , Levi Allan D.
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative ultrasound (US) has been used as a guide during surgery to better identify deep neuroanatomical structures.

OBJECTIVE: To correlate histologic cross-sections from nerve samples taken at the time of surgery with axial, high-resolution US images at similar locations and validate this important tool for intraoperative guidance in nerve surgery.

METHODS: Three subjects undergoing nerve repair procedures after traumatic nerve injuries were enrolled prospectively. US images captured at the time of surgery were later matched with gross anatomic cross-sections and fascicular anatomy compared across modalities.

RESULTS: In cases 1 and 3, neuromatous tissue spanned the entire cross-section of the common peroneal and upper trunk of the brachial plexus, respectively. In case 2, only a portion of the sciatic nerve was involved with neuroma. Intraoperative US aided in differentiating normal peripheral nerve from neuroma in all 3 cases and helped minimize the disruption of healthy peripheral nerve tissue.

CONCLUSION: Intraoperative US correlates well with anatomic sections removed at the time of surgery. The ability to noninvasively image the peripheral nerve along with compound nerve action potentials can greatly assist in determining the extent of neurolysis, resection, and grafting and is a useful adjunct for intraoperative decision-making. This report serves to highlight the role of US and validate its use in peripheral nerve surgery for trauma.
Age as a Predictor of Long-Term Results in Patients with Brachial Plexus Palsies Undergoing Surgical Repair
Authors: Socolovsky Mariano , di Masi Gilda , Bonilla Gonzalo , Lovaglio Ana Carolina , López Dan
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Among other factors, like the time from trauma to surgery or the number of axons that reach the muscle target, a patient's age might also impact the final results of brachial plexus surgery.

OBJECTIVE

To identify (1) any correlations between age and the 2 outcomes: elbow flexion strength and shoulder abduction range; (2) whether childhood vs adulthood influences outcomes; and (3) other baseline variables associated with surgical outcomes.

METHODS

Twenty pediatric patients (under age 20 yr) who had sustained a traumatic brachial plexus injury were compared against 20 patients, 20 to 29 yr old, and 20 patients, 30 yr old or older. Univariate, univariate trend, and correlation analyses were conducted with patient age, time to surgery, type of injury, and number of injured roots included as independent variables.

RESULTS

A statistically significant trend toward decreasing mean strength in elbow flexion, progressing from the youngest to oldest age group, was observed. This linear trend persisted when subjects were subdivided into 4 age groups (<20, 20-29, 30-39, ≥40). There were no differences by age group in final shoulder abduction range or the percentage achieving a good shoulder outcome.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that age is somehow linked to the outcomes of brachial plexus surgery with respect to elbow flexion, but not shoulder abduction strength. Increasing age is associated with steadily worsening elbow flexion outcomes, perhaps indicating the need for earlier surgery and/or more aggressive repairs in older patients.
BrainPath-Mediated Resection of a Ruptured Subcortical Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Witek Alex M , Moore Nina Z , Sebai M Adeeb , Bain Mark D
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Although tubular retractor systems have gained popularity for other indications, there have been few reports of their use for arteriovenous malformation (AVM) surgery. A patient was diagnosed with a ruptured 1.2-cm subcortical AVM after presenting with intracerebral hemorrhage in the right frontal lobe and anterior basal ganglia. The characteristics of this AVM made it amenable to resection using a tubular retractor.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the feasibility and safety of AVM resection using a tubular retractor system.

METHODS

Resection of the ruptured 1.2-cm subcortical AVM was performed utilizing the BrainPathTM (NICO corp, Indianapolis, Indiana) tubular retractor system.

RESULTS

The BrainPathTM approach provided sufficient visualization and surgical freedom to permit successful AVM resection and hematoma evacuation. Postoperative imaging demonstrated near total hematoma removal and angiographic obliteration of the AVM. There were no complications, and the patient made an excellent recovery.

CONCLUSION

Tubular retractors warrant consideration for accessing small, deep, ruptured AVMs. The nuances of such systems and their role in AVM surgery are discussed.
Tobacco exposure and sleep disturbance in 498 208 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Boakye D , Wyse C A , Morales-Celis C A , Biello S M , Bailey M E S , Dare S , Ward J , Gill J M R , Pell J P , Mackay D F
Published: August 2017

Background

The prevalence of sleep disturbance is high and increasing. The study investigated whether active, former and passive smoking were associated with sleep disturbance.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from the UK Biobank: a cohort study of 502 655 participants, of whom 498 208 provided self-reported data on smoking and sleep characteristics. Multivariable multinomial and logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between smoking and sleep disturbance.

Results

Long-sleep duration (>9 h) was more common among current smokers [odds ratio (OR): 1.47; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17–1.85; probability value (P) = 0.001] than never smokers, especially heavy (>20/day) smokers (OR: 2.85; 95% CI: 1.66–4.89; P < 0.001). Former heavy (>20/day) smokers were also more likely to report short (<6 h) sleep duration (OR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.25–1.60; P < 0.001), long-sleep duration (OR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.47–2.71; P < 0.001) and sleeplessness (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.38–1.57; P < 0.001) than never smokers. Among never smokers, those who lived with more than one smoker had higher odds of long-sleep duration than those not cohabitating with a smoker (OR: 2.71; 95% CI: 1.26–5.82; P = 0.011).

Conclusions

Active and passive exposure to high levels of tobacco smoke are associated with sleep disturbance. Existing global tobacco control interventions need to be enforced.
Age-Related Resistance inArabidopsis thalianaInvolves the MADS-Domain Transcription Factor SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE and Direct Action of Salicylic Acid onPseudomonas syringae
Authors: Wilson Daniel C. , Kempthorne Christine J. , Carella Philip , Liscombe David K. , Cameron Robin K.
Published: August 2017

Arabidopsis thaliana exhibits a developmentally regulated disease-resistance response known as age-related resistance (ARR), a process that requires intercellular accumulation of salicylic acid (SA), which is thought to act as an antimicrobial agent. ARR is characterized by enhanced resistance to some pathogens at the late adult-vegetative and reproductive stages. While the transition to flowering does not cause the onset of ARR, both processes involve the MADS-domain transcription factor SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP). In this study, ARR-defective svp mutants were found to accumulate reduced levels of intercellular SA compared with wild type in response to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato. Double mutant and overexpression analyses suggest that SVP and SOC1 (SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CO 1) act antagonistically, such that SVP is required for ARR to alleviate the negative effects of SOC1 on SA accumulation. In vitro, SA exhibited antibacterial and antibiofilm activity at concentrations similar to those measured in the intercellular space during ARR. In vivo, P. syringae pv. tomato formed biofilm-like aggregates in young susceptible plants, while this was drastically reduced in mature ARR-competent plants, which accumulate intercellular SA. Collectively, these results reveal a novel role for the floral regulators SVP and SOC1 in disease resistance and provide evidence that SA acts directly on pathogens as an antimicrobial agent.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Pestalotiopsis-Like Species Causing Gray Blight Disease onCamellia sinensisin China
Authors: Chen Yingjuan , Zeng Liang , Shu Na , Jiang Maoyuan , Wang Han , Huang Yunjin , Tong Huarong
Published: August 2017

Gray blight of tea, caused by several Pestalotiopsis-like species, is one of the most destructive foliar diseases in tea cultivation yet the characteristics of these pathogens have not been confirmed until now. With morphological and multigene phylogenetic analyses, we have identified the gray blight fungi as Pseudopestalotiopsis camelliae-sinensis, Neopestalotiopsis clavispora, and Pestalotiopsis camelliae. Phylogenetic analyses derived from the combined internal transcribed spacer, β-tubulin, and translation elongation factor 1-α gene regions successfully resolved most of the Pestalotiopsis-like species used in this study with high bootstrap supports and revealed three major clusters representing these three species. Differences in colony appearance and conidia morphology (shape, size, septation, color and length of median cells, and length and number of apical and basal appendages) were consistent with the phylogenetic grouping. Pathogenicity tests validated that all three species isolated from tea leaves were causal agents of gray blight disease on tea plant (Camellia sinensis). This is the first description of the characteristics of the three species Pseudopestalotiopsis camelliae-sinensis, N. clavispora, and Pestalotiopsis camelliae as causal agents of tea gray blight disease in China.
Beyond Citation Rates: A Real-Time Impact Analysis of Health Professions Education Research Using Altmetrics
Authors: Maggio Lauren A. , Meyer Holly S. , Artino Anthony R.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To complement traditional citation-based metrics, which take years to accrue and indicate only academic attention, academia has begun considering altmetrics or alternative metrics, which provide timely feedback on an article’s impact by tracking its dissemination via nontraditional outlets, such as blogs and social media, across audiences. This article describes altmetrics and examines altmetrics attention, outlets used, and top article characteristics for health professions education (HPE) research.

Method

Using Altmetric Explorer, a tool to search altmetrics activity, the authors searched for HPE articles that had at least one altmetrics event (e.g., an article was tweeted or featured in a news story) between 2011 and 2015. Retrieved articles were analyzed using descriptive statistics. In addition, the 10 articles with the highest Altmetric Attention Scores were identified and their key characteristics extracted.

Results

The authors analyzed 6,265 articles with at least one altmetrics event from 13 journals. Articles appeared in 14 altmetrics outlets. Mendeley (161,470 saves), Twitter (37,537 tweets), and Facebook (1,650 posts) were most popular. The number of HPE articles with altmetrics attention increased 145%, from 539 published in 2011 to 1,321 in 2015. In 2015, 50% or more of the articles in 5 journals received altmetrics attention. Themes for articles with the most altmetrics attention included social media or social networking; three such articles were written as tips or guides.

Conclusions

Increasing altmetrics attention signals interest in HPE research and the need for further investigation. Knowledge of popular and underused outlets may help investigators strategically share research for broader dissemination.
Association of Testosterone Replacement Therapy and the Incidence of a Composite of Postoperative In-hospital Mortality and Cardiovascular Events in Men Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Argalious Maged Y. , You Jing , Mao Guangmei , Ramos Daniel , Khanna Sandeep , Maheshwari Kamal , Trombetta Carlos
Published: August 2017

Background

Whether patients on testosterone replacement therapy undergoing noncardiac surgery have an increased risk of postoperative in-hospital mortality and cardiovascular events remains unknown. We therefore sought to identify the impact of testosterone replacement on the incidence of a composite of postoperative in-hospital mortality and cardiovascular events in men undergoing noncardiac surgery.

Methods

Data from male American Society of Anesthesiologists I through IV patients 40 yr or older who underwent noncardiac surgery between May 2005 and December 2015 at the Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, Ohio) main campus were included. The primary exposure was preoperative testosterone use. The primary outcome was a composite of postoperative in-hospital mortality and cardiovascular events. We compared patients who received testosterone and those who did not using propensity score matching within surgical procedure matches.

Results

Among 49,273 patients who met inclusion and exclusion criteria, 947 patients on testosterone were matched to 4,598 nontestosterone patients. The incidence of in-hospital mortality was 1.3% in the testosterone group and 1.1% in the nontestosterone group, giving an odds ratio of 1.17 (99% CI, 0.51 to 2.68; P = 0.63). The incidence of myocardial infarction was 0.2% in the testosterone group and 0.6% in the nontestosterone group (odds ratio = 0.34; 99% CI, 0.05 to 2.28; P = 0.15). Similarly, no significant difference was found in stroke (testosterone vs. nontestosterone: 2.0% vs. 2.1%), pulmonary embolism (0.5% vs. 0.7%), or deep venous thrombosis (2.0% vs. 1.7%).

Conclusions

Preoperative testosterone is not associated with an increased incidence of a composite of postoperative in-hospital mortality and cardiovascular events.
The Shikani Optical Stylet as an Alternative to Awake Fiberoptic Intubation in Patients at Risk of Secondary Cervical Spine Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mahrous Rabab S.S. , Ahmed Aly M.M.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Conventional intubation of the trachea and consequent prone positioning of anesthetized patients with cervical spine instability may result in secondary neurological injury. Historically, flexible fiberoptics used to be the chief choice for patients presenting with cervical spine instability surgery with difficult airway. Recently, the rigid optical stylets have shown promise in assisting difficult intubations.

Purpose:

The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of Shikani optical stylet (SOS) with the flexible fiberscope for awake intubation in patients with cervical spine instability.

Patients and Methods:

In total, 60 adult patients diagnosed with cervical instability or at risk of secondary cervical injury, who were planned for awake intubation and/or self-positioning prone, were registered in this study and were randomly categorized into 2 equal groups (30 patients each), a fiberoptic group and an SOS group, followed by assessment of coughing and gagging during intubation, time to successful intubation, number of attempts for successful intubation, and hemodynamic parameters.

Results:

As regards time to successful intubation, statistically significant differences were detected between the 2 studied groups, with the fiberoptic group having significantly longer intubation time than the Shikani group, whereas no statistically significant differences were recorded between the 2 groups with regard to the first-attempt success, the mean heart rate value, the mean arterial blood pressure, coughing, and occurrence of complications.

Conclusion:

This study validates the efficacy of both SOS and flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope for awake oral intubation in patients with cervical spine instability. SOS has been found to be more effective in reducing time to intubation.
Distance Traveled for an Abortion and Source of Care After Abortion
Authors: Upadhyay Ushma D. , Johns Nicole E. , Meckstroth Karen R. , Kerns Jennifer L.
Published: August 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the association between distance traveled for an abortion and site of postabortion care among low-income women.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using claims data from 39,747 abortions covered by California's Medicaid program in 2011–2012. Primary outcomes were the odds of abortion-related visits to an emergency department (ED) and the original abortion site, and the secondary outcome was total abortion care costs. We used mixed-effects logistic regression adjusting for patient and abortion characteristics to examine the associations between distance traveled and subsequent abortion-related care at each location.

RESULTS:

Among all abortions (N=39,747), 3% (95% CI 2.9–3.3, n=1,232) were followed by an ED visit (3% first-trimester aspirations, 2% second trimester or later, and 4% medication abortions) and 25% (95% CI 24.1–24.9, n=9,745) were followed by a visit to the original abortion site (4% first-trimester aspirations, 3% second-trimester or later, and 77% medication abortions). Women traveling farther for their abortions had higher odds of visiting an ED (100 or more miles compared with less than 25 miles, first-trimester aspirations: adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.29, 95% CI 1.50–3.49; medication abortions: adjusted OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.34–3.93) and lower odds of returning to their abortion site for follow-up (100 or more miles compared with less than 25 miles, first-trimester aspirations: adjusted OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.18–0.70; second trimester or later: adjusted OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.31–0.88; and medication abortions: adjusted OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.23–0.50). Costs were consistently higher when subsequent care occurred at an ED rather than the abortion site (median cost $941 compared with $536, P<.001).

CONCLUSION:

For most patients, greater distance traveled for abortion was associated with increased likelihood of seeking subsequent care at an ED. Increasing the number of rural Medicaid abortion providers and reimbursing providers for telemedicine and alternatives to routine follow-up would likely improve continuity of care and reduce state costs by shifting the location of follow-up from EDs back to abortion providers.
Suture anchor repair for ruptured deltoid ligament in pronation ankle fractures
Authors: Diab Hossam S.
Published: August 2017

Background:

The deltoid ligament is the main medial stabilizer of the ankle joint. Rupture of this ligament is not uncommon in pronation ankle injuries and should be suspected in the absence of medial malleolar fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of deltoid ligament reconstruction using suture anchor fixation to the medial malleolus for such conditions.

Methods:

Twenty-seven ankles with pronation ankle injuries were surgically treated and enrolled in this prospective study. Sixteen patients with pronation-external rotation injury (group 1) and 11 patients with pronation-abduction injury (group 2) were evaluated using the Foot and Ankle Outcome score (FAOS) and Ankle-Hindfoot scale. A composite questionnaire, including the Health-related Quality of Life Index (EQ-5D) and visual analog scales (VAS) for pain and satisfaction, was used to assess the surgical result.

Results:

All patients returned to their preinjury activity level at their final follow-up. The mean FAOS score for all patients included in the study was 94.44, and the mean Ankle-Hindfoot scale was 93.3, with no statistical difference between the two groups. Adequate range of motion was achieved in all patients. Twenty-five patients reported being fully satisfied, while two patients reported to be just satisfied, with an overall satisfaction scale of 8.85.

Conclusions:

Surgical reconstruction of a ruptured deltoid ligament in pronation ankle injury using suture anchors is an effective treatment modality with excellent functional outcome.
Biologics for idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Moghadam-Kia Siamak , Aggarwal Rohit , Oddis Chester V.
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

As treatment of refractory cases of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) has been challenging, there is growing interest in assessing novel biologics that target various pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of IIM.

Recent findings

In the largest clinical trial in adult and juvenile IIM assessing the effectiveness of rituximab, the primary outcome was not met but 83% of this refractory group of IIM patients met a predefined definition of improvement and rituximab demonstrated a significant glucocorticoid-sparing effect. Antitumor necrosis factor utility in IIM is generally limited by uncertain efficacy data along with recent reports suggesting their potential for inducing systemic autoimmune disease including IIM.

Further research is required to evaluate the role of newer therapies such as tocilizumab (anti-interleukin-6), abatacept (inhibition of T-cell costimulation), sifalimumab (anti-interferonα) and ruxolitinib, (Janus kinase inhibitor) given their biological plausibility and encouraging recent small case series results. Future clinical trials should consider the targeting of biomarkers implicated in the etiopathogenesis of IIM, predictive factors of treatment response, recent revisions in IIM classification criteria, as well as newly developed data-driven response criteria which employ validated core set measures.
Radius regeneration after open fracture and extrusion: a case report
Authors: McCall Kristopher B. , Chong David Y.
Published: August 2017

A pediatric patient presenting with an open forearm fracture with segmental defect is rare, and the pediatric orthopedic literature to guide treatment is sparse. There are several described methods to treat the defect, including bone grafting and bone transport techniques. In addition, there are reports of fibular regeneration after resection if the periosteum is left intact. We present a case report of complete regeneration of over half of a pediatric radial shaft with an intact periosteum, after traumatic extrusion from an open fracture. A 6-year-old girl presented with a Gustilo Grade-IIIB open fracture with extrusion and loss of 7 cm of her radial shaft. Initially, the arm was stabilized using a monoplanar external fixator. She developed a compartment syndrome and underwent volar forearm fasciotomies. We found her periosteum grossly intact and decided to allow its natural biology to provide healing potential for the radial defect. She was placed into a circular external fixator, leaving her wrist and elbow free, and her ulna was stabilized with a flexible intramedullary nail. Soft tissue coverage was obtained with a split thickness skin graft. The patient’s skin graft healed uneventfully and there were radiographic signs of bone regeneration by 2 weeks postoperatively. She maintained most of her elbow and wrist motion while in her external fixator. She developed a small pin site infection that resolved with oral antibiotics. By 10 weeks postoperatively, radiographs showed adequate corticalization and the fixator was removed. By 8 months postoperatively, the patient was released to full activity with nearly full function and range of motion. Our patient sustained a severe and rare injury but had an excellent outcome with minimal complications. This report represents a method of treatment for large bony defects in children if the periosteum is grossly intact, as opposed to more complex procedures. The intact periosteum can regenerate bony defects in the forearm if stabilized appropriately. Level of Evidence: Level 4; case report.
Adjacent Segment Disease After Cervical Spine Fusion
Authors: Alhashash Mohamed , Shousha Mootaz , Boehm Heinrich
Published: August 2017

Study Design.

A retrospective study of 70 patients undergoing surgical treatment for adjacent segment disease (ASD) after anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF).

Objective.

To analyze the risk factors for the development of ASD in patients who underwent ACDF.

Summary of Background Data.

ACDF has provided a high rate of clinical success for the cervical degenerative disc disease; nevertheless, adjacent segment degeneration has been reported as a complication at the adjacent level secondary to the rigid fixation.

Methods.

Between January 2005 and December 2012, 70 consecutive patients underwent surgery for ASD after ACDF in our institution. In all patients thorough clinical and radiological examination was performed preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the final follow-up. The clinical data included the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The radiological evaluation included x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for all patients. The duration of follow up after the adjacent segment operation ranged from 3 to 10 years.

Results.

Surgery for ASD was performed after a mean period of 32 months from the primary ACDF. ASD occurred after single level ACDF in 54% of cases, most commonly after C5/6 fusion (28%). Risk factors for ASD were found to be preexisting radiological signs of degeneration at the primary surgery (74%) and bad sagittal profile after the primary ACDF (90%).

Conclusion.

ASD occurred predominantly in the middle cervical region (C4–6); especially in patients with preexisting evidence of radiological degeneration in the adjacent segment at the time of primary cervical fusion, notably when this surgery failed to restore or maintain the cervical lordosis.

Level of Evidence: 4
Coronal Decompensation After Posterior-only Thoracolumbar Hemivertebra Resection and Short Fusion in Young Children With Congenital Scoliosis
Authors: Li Song , Chen Zhong-Hui , Qiu Yong , Xu Liang , Chen Xi , Du Chang-Zhi , Zhu Ze-Zhang , Sun Xu
Published: August 2017

Study Design.

A retrospective study.

Objective.

To determine the incidence and risk factors of coronal decompensation after posterior-only thoracolumbar hemivertebra (HV) resection and short fusion in patients younger than 5-years old.

Summary of Background Data.

Postoperative coronal decompensation may occur in operated patients during the follow up. However, there is a paucity of valid data regarding this complication in very young patients with thoracolumbar HV.

Methods.

This study reviewed a consecutive series of patients (younger than 5 years) who had undergone posterior-only hemivertebrectomy and short fusion from January 2006 to December 2014. They had a minimum follow-up of 24 months. According to the coronal compensation behavior, they were divided into two groups: Group P (progressed, curve decompensated beyond twenty degrees) and Group NP (nonprogressed, curve well compensated).

Results.

There were 179 patients included in this study. Mean age at surgery was 38 ± 11 months. Mean follow-up was 41 ± 11 months. Postoperative coronal decompensation was identified in 18 patients (rate, 10.1%) who constituted Group P. The remaining 161 patients had a well-compensated pattern. In contrast to Group NP, the patients in Group P had greater preoperative lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) translation (18.5 mm ± 6.4 mm vs. 10.5 mm ± 4.9 mm, P < 0.01), and higher postoperative LIV disc angle (7.0° ± 3.1° vs. 3.1° ± 3.3°, P < 0.01) after surgery. During the follow up, LIV translation and LIV disc experienced continuous aggravation until initiation of bracing. Preoperative LIV translation (≥15.1 mm) and postoperative LIV disc angle (≥5.5°) were identified as two independent risk factors of coronal decompensation after surgery.

Conclusion.

After thoracolumbar hemivertebrectomy in children younger than 5 years, the overall rate of coronal decompensation is approximately 10.1%. As two independent risk factors of postoperative coronal decompensation, preoperative LIV translation (≥15.1 mm) and postoperative LIV disc angle (≥5.5°) should on all accounts be the major causes for concern.

Level of Evidence: 4