bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra-amniotic Dye Alternatives for the Diagnosis of Preterm Prelabor Rupture of Membranes
Authors: Ireland Kayla E. , Rodriguez Emma I. , Acosta Ometeotl M. , Ramsey Patrick S.
Published: May 2017

Intra-amniotic dye instillation is a useful tool for evaluation of equivocal cases of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and for genetic amniocentesis in multifetal gestation. Indigo carmine, the most used and studied dye, is no longer available. We sought to provide a resource of potential dyes for clinical use that summarizes dosing along with maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. We reviewed the literature evaluating the use of alternative agents. Sodium fluorescein has proven clinical usefulness but has side effects when used intravenously. Phenol-sulfonphthalein has reported clinical utility with no cases of maternal, fetal, or neonatal side effects; however, it is not currently available in the United States. Indocyanine green has been used in pregnancy for other indications. Oral phenazopyridine hydrochloride may lead to a false-positive diagnosis of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Evans blue and methylene blue have adverse fetal and neonatal effects. Of the dye options available, fluorescein is a readily available commercial option that has the best evidence supporting use and safety for these indications.
Zebularine Treatment Induces MAGE-A11 Expression and Improves CTL Cytotoxicity Using a Novel Identified HLA-A2-restricted MAGE-A11 Peptide
Authors: Zhang Jiandong , Sang Meixiang , Gu Lina , Liu Fei , Li Weijing , Yin Danjing , Wu Yunyan , Liu Shina , Huang Weina , Shan Baoen
Published: May 2017

Melanoma-associated antigen-A11 (MAGE-A11) is frequently expressed in breast cancer and is associated with poor prognosis. Therefore, MAGE-A11 is a potential immunotherapy target in breast cancer. MAGE-A11 expression, however, is downregulated in many patients, thus constraining the application of immunotherapy. The induction of MAGE-A11 expression is crucial for the recognition and killing of breast cancer cells by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). In this study, a series of HLA-A2-restricted candidate MAGE-A11 peptides were predicted, synthesized, and tested. Of the selected peptides, p350 (FLFGEPKRL) elicited peptide-specific CTLs from healthy HLA-A*0201-positive donors. The induced CTLs can lyse MAGE-A11-expressing breast cancer cells but not MAGE-A11-negative tumor cells. To improve antitumor immune response, zebularine, a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, was used to induce MAGE-A11 expression and upregulate the cytotoxicity of antigen-specific T cells in breast cancer cell lines and primary breast cancer cells. The present findings suggested that peptide p350 induces peptide-specific cytolytic activity and is thus a potential candidate for tumor vaccination or T-cell therapy. Epigenetic modulation by zebularine can induce MAGE-A11 expression in breast cancer cells and facilitate cytotoxicity via MAGE-A11-specific CTL.
Ipilimumab-associated cholestatic hepatitis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Yildirim Sümeyra , Deniz Kemal , Doğan Ender , Başkol Mevlüt , Gürsoy Şebnem , Özkan Metin
Published: May 2017

Ipilimumab is a monoclonal antibody that exerts its effects by inhibiting the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 receptor on cytotoxic T lymphocytes. It is frequently used for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Ipilimumab may lead to several immune-related disease including colitis, thyroiditis, pneumonia, hepatitis, or pancreatitis as a side effect. Limited number of cases with hepatic damage as an ipilimumab-related adverse event has been reported in the literature. This agent has been implicated in causing acute hepatitis-like liver injury. Here, we presented a case in which cholestatic hepatitis developed during ipilimumab use for the treatment of metastatic melanoma.
Menopause and postmenopausal hormone therapy and risk of hearing loss
Authors: Curhan Sharon G. , Eliassen A. Heather , Eavey Roland D. , Wang Molin , Lin Brian M. , Curhan Gary C.
Published: May 2017

Objective:

Menopause may be a risk factor for hearing loss, and postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT) has been proposed to slow hearing decline; however, there are no large prospective studies. We prospectively examined the independent relations between menopause and postmenopausal HT and risk of self-reported hearing loss.

Methods:

Prospective cohort study among 80,972 women in the Nurses’ Health Study II, baseline age 27 to 44 years, followed from 1991 to 2013. Baseline and updated information was obtained from detailed validated biennial questionnaires. Cox proportional-hazards regression models were used to examine independent associations between menopausal status and postmenopausal HT and risk of hearing loss.

Results:

After 1,410,928 person-years of follow-up, 18,558 cases of hearing loss were reported. There was no significant overall association between menopausal status, natural or surgical, and risk of hearing loss. Older age at natural menopause was associated with higher risk. The multivariable-adjusted relative risk of hearing loss among women who underwent natural menopause at age 50+ years compared with those aged less than 50 years was 1.10 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03, 1.17). Among postmenopausal women, oral HT (estrogen therapy or estrogen plus progestogen therapy) was associated with higher risk of hearing loss, and longer duration of use was associated with higher risk (P trend < 0.001). Compared with women who never used HT, the multivariable-adjusted relative risk of hearing loss among women who used oral HT for 5 to 9.9 years was 1.15 (95% CI 1.06, 1.24) and for 10+ years was 1.21 (95% CI 1.07, 1.37).

Conclusions:

Older age at menopause and longer duration of postmenopausal HT are associated with higher risk of hearing loss.
VASCULAR DISTORTION AND DRAGGING RELATED TO APPARENT TISSUE CONTRACTION IN MACULAR TELANGIECTASIS TYPE 2
Authors: Spaide Richard F. , Marco Rosa D. , Yannuzzi Lawrence A.
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

To examine the alterations in retinal vascular morphology over an extended follow-up in eyes with macular telangiectasis Type 2 (MacTel2).

Methods:

Eyes with high-quality digital photographs were evaluated. The geometric distortion in baseline images required to emulate the follow-up images was determined and vectors were made that represented the direction and magnitude of changes, to create a warp field. Optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography evaluation of the retina was performed.

Results:

There were 7 eyes of 4 patients, who had a mean age of 70.25 years, which were followed for a mean of 8.8 years. The eyes showed increasing grayish opacification in the temporal macula with straightening and displacement of the macular vessels, even those in the nasal macula. The warp field vectors pointed to the temporal juxtafoveal macula. There was never any cavitation at the epicenter of the retinal distortion in any patient, although cavitations were found around this area. Optical coherence tomography imaging showed a circumscribed region of hyperreflectivity in the temporal macula. Optical coherence tomography angiography showed a deep angular condensed network of vessels within the hyperreflective region. One eye showed marked atrophic changes including full-thickness macular hole formation, but no increase in graying of the retina, loss of retinal laminations, pigmentary infiltration, or alteration in the retinal vessels.

Conclusion:

Tissue contraction with retinal vascular displacement and contortion seem to be integral aspects of disease manifestation in MacTel2. The induced vascular changes may lead to secondary effects that increase morbidity in this disease.
CLINICAL FINDINGS OF EYES WITH MACULAR EDEMA ASSOCIATED WITH BRANCH RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION REFRACTORY TO RANIBIZUMAB
Authors: Hasegawa Taiji , Kawano Taizo , Maruko Ichiro , Koizumi Hideki , Iida Tomohiro
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

To determine the relationship between the clinical findings and the response to ranibizumab therapy in eyes with macular edema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion.

Methods:

We reviewed the medical records of 68 patients with macular edema associated with a branch retinal vein occlusion. The patients were placed in the refractory group if the central foveal thickness remained more than 250 μm throughout the 6-month study period despite the ranibizumab therapy; otherwise, they were placed in the responsive group.

Results:

Sixty (88.2%) of 68 eyes were placed in the responsive group and the other 8 eyes (11.8%) were placed in the refractory group. At the pretreatment examination, fluorescein angiography showed extensive leakage from occluded vessels in 52 (86.7%) of the 60 eyes in the responsive group and focal leakages from microaneurysms or dilated capillaries in the other 8 eyes (13.3%). In the refractory group, 7 (87.5%) of 8 eyes had only focal leakage and 1 eye (12.5%) had extensive leakage (P < 0.0001). The mean initial subfoveal choroidal thickness in the eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion in the responsive group was significantly thicker than that in the fellow eyes (278.0 ± 90.5 μm, 249.9 ± 94.4 μm; P < 0.0001). On the other hand, the mean initial subfoveal choroidal thickness in the refractory group was not significantly different from that of the fellow eyes (P = 0.4002).

Conclusion:

The dye leakage pattern in the fluorescein angiography images and choroidal thickness may be associated with response to ranibizumab therapy.
Comparison of Tear Osmolarity in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients With and Without Secondary Sjogren Syndrome
Authors: Ng Alex L. K. , Choy Bonnie N. K. , Chan Tommy C. Y. , Wong Ian Y. H. , Lai Jimmy S. M. , Mok Mo Yin
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

To compare tear osmolarity (TO) and other dry eye parameters in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with or without secondary Sjogren syndrome (sSS).

Methods:

Consecutive patients with RA were divided into a sSS group and no-sSS group using conventional diagnostic criteria by rheumatologists using symptomatology, Schirmer test score, and anti-Ro or anti-La autoantibody status. The TO, Ocular Surface Disease Index, dry eye disease (DED) parameters [such as tear breakup time (TBUT) and corneal staining score] and the systemic inflammatory markers [erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP)] were compared. Correlation analyses between TO and the DED parameters and inflammatory markers were also performed.

Results:

A total of 42 cases with mean age 54.8 ± 12.3 were included, with 12 patients (29%) having sSS and 30 (71%) without sSS. TO was increased in both groups (329 ± 20 and 319 ± 25 mOsm/L, respectively), but no statistically significant difference was found between the 2 groups (P = 0.126). RA with sSS had significantly shorter TBUT, higher corneal staining score, and ESR CRP levels (P < 0.05). TO did not correlate with the Schirmer test score, but had significant positive correlations with age, corneal staining score, ESR, and CRP levels, and a significant negative correlation with TBUT.

Conclusions:

TO was increased in RA patients with or without sSS. There was no significant correlation between TO and the Schirmer test score, and the physician could not use TO to diagnose sSS. However, TO correlated well with both DED parameters (TBUT and corneal staining score) and systemic inflammatory markers (ESR and CRP).
How to apply to a summer undergraduate research program
Authors: Jafree Daniyal J. , Koshy Kiron
Published: May 2017

Want to get more experience in research, but find it difficult as an undergraduate? A summer research project may be the answer and there are many ways to organize this. Various universities around the world offer summer undergraduate research programs. These tend to be very competitive; hundreds, even thousands of students can apply for only a handful of positions. However, with some proactivity and strong planning, diligent undergraduate students can get accepted onto these prestigious programs. In this article, we outline the steps involved in selecting and successfully applying to a summer undergraduate research program.
Evaluation of Optic Nerve Head and Peripapillary Choroidal Vasculature Using Swept-source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Na Kyeong Ik , Lee Won June , Kim Young Kook , Jeoung Jin Wook , Park Ki Ho
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

The authors visualized arterioles from the peripapillary choroid to the optic nerve head in vivo, using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography.

Methods and Results:

In this case series, we present 3 eyes with visible centripetal branches from the peripapillary choroid. The 3 eyes were diagnosed as glaucoma suspect, normal-tension glaucoma, and primary open-angle glaucoma. In the en face projection images of the choroidal layer, obtained by swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography, the vessels from the peripapillary choroid to the optic nerve head were observed in all 3 eyes; one of them was further evaluated by indocyanine green angiography using the Heidelberg retina angiograph. The filling pattern, as viewed on high-speed indocyanine green angiographic video, confirmed that the vessels were arterioles originating from the peripapillary choroid and supplying the prelaminar region of the optic nerve head.

Conclusions:

The prelaminar region of the optic nerve head might be supplied by the peripapillary choroid in addition to the known major blood supply from the short posterior ciliary arteries.
A Novel Method for Assessing Lamina Cribrosa Structure Ex Vivo Using Anterior Segment Enhanced Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Chien Jason L. , Ghassibi Mark P. , Mahadeshwar Pooja , Li Pengcheng , Liebmann Jeffrey M. , Ritch Robert , Milman Tatyana , Park Sung Chul
Published: May 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of anterior segment enhanced depth imaging (EDI) optical coherence tomography (OCT) for ex vivo lamina cribrosa (LC) imaging.

Materials and Methods:

After removing anterior segment and vitreous, the optic nerve head (ONH) tissue of porcine eyes was placed on a customized eye holder for imaging. Serial EDI OCT B-scans (interval, ∼35 μm) of the ONH were obtained using anterior segment module of spectral-domain OCT. Various conditions were tested for better quality LC images. After EDI OCT, serial histologic sections were obtained (distance between sections, ∼5 μm). LC structures in OCT scans were compared with those in histologic sections. Three-dimensional LC reconstructions created using serial OCT scans were compared with LC structures in disc photographs.

Results:

ONHs of 3 enucleated eyes were examined. The LC was more clearly imaged when the retina and part of the prelaminar tissue were removed (quality score, 39.01±3.30 vs. 26.40±5.85; P<0.001) and when the tissue was kept moist during imaging (quality score, 38.70±2.11 vs. 36.18±5.98; P<0.001). LC image quality was similar before and after fixation (quality score, 38.84±6.57 vs. 39.21±9.69; P=0.79). LC beams and part of retrolaminar glial columns identified in OCT scans matched those in histologic sections. LC beams and pores in 3-dimensional reconstructions matched those in disc photographs.

Conclusions:

High-resolution cross-sectional images of the LC, comparable to histologic sections, can be obtained using anterior segment EDI OCT in ex vivo eyes with proper tissue preparation.
Japanese and Korean Nursing Students' Motivation for Joining Disaster Relief Activities as Nurses in the Future
Authors: Choe Myoung-Ae , Kuwano Noriko , Bang Kyung-Sook , Cho Mi-Kyoung , Yatsushiro Rika , Kawata Yuki
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to identify differences in motivation for joining disaster relief activities as a nurse in the future between Japanese and Korean nursing students. A descriptive 2-group comparative study design was used. The participants were 721 first- to fourth-year nursing students (Japanese, n = 324; Korean, n = 397). From June to September 2014, data were collected through a researcher-administered questionnaire and self-reported answers. The collected data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, the χ2 test, and the t test.

No significant difference was found between Japanese and Korean students in motivation to join domestic relief activities should a disaster occur in the area in which they lived. Compared with Korean students, Japanese students strongly agreed that it is necessary to carry out relief work across borders when disasters occur in foreign countries (p = .001). Meanwhile, Japanese students showed less motivation than Korean students to join relief activities in other domestic areas and foreign countries (p = .020).

The results of this study suggest that the motivation of Japanese students to join disaster relief activities as nurses in the future should a disaster occur in other domestic areas and foreign countries needs to be increased. The results also suggest that undergraduate students should be well prepared for disasters through disaster nursing education, including practical training, disaster drills, and simulation.
Appendicitis in a Neutropenic Patient: A Multicentric Retrospective Study
Authors: Scarpa Alberto A. , Hery Géraldine , Petit Arnaud , Brethon Benoit , Jimenez Irène , Gandemer Virginie , Abbou Samuel , Haouy Stéphanie , Breaud Jean , Poiree Marilyne
Published: May 2017

To study the management of acute appendicitis in neutropenic patients, we retrospectively reviewed cases of acute appendicitis in neutropenic children treated for cancer. The patients’ demographics, medical records, and outcomes were tracked. We compared nonoperative treatment versus emergency or delayed surgery. The cases of 30 patients with a mean age of 8.8 years in 12 French departments of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology between 1995 and 2013 were studied. Most patients (90%) were treated for hematological malignancies. Seven of the 30 children were successfully treated with exclusive medical treatment. Early surgery was performed in 6 patients, and the remaining 17 underwent combined management with a first-line antibiotic treatment and delayed appendectomy. Treatments were successful in all cases with transitory complications in only 3 patients. No death linked to infection was reported. Surgery was well tolerated even in the neutropenic period. Appendix perforation was a major risk factor of prolonged hospitalization. Histologic as well as bacteriologic and mycologic/parasitologic analyses were required in case of surgery. Analysis of diagnostic assessments showed the major importance of imaging (ultrasonography and tomography) on diagnosis confirmation. We could not come to a conclusion in the few numbers of reviewed cases because of a significant difference in management strategies, but we can conclude that early surgery after adequate supportive care is an acceptable modality of treatment and must be chosen in the face of life-threatening conditions.
Temporary Seizure in an Infant Who Had Been Exposed to G-Amino Butyric Acid Receptor Antagonist Thiocolchicoside
Authors: Havali Cengiz , Gucuyener Kivilcim , Gurkas Esra , Demir Ercan
Published: May 2017

Seizure is the most common presentation of neurological disorder in the pediatric emergency care setting. In evaluating the child after a first seizure, the first consideration should be determining if the seizure was provoked or unprovoked. Investigation listing the causes of the first seizure is considerably long, and adverse drug reactions must be in mind. Epileptic seizures after using thiocolchicoside (TCC) have been reported in several adult patients with epilepsy and acute brain injury. We present a previously healthy 3-month-old female infant who was admitted to the emergency department with a generalized seizure after exposure to TCC. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of a child who had an epileptic seizure after TCC intake via breastfeeding in the literature.
The Role of Amantadine Withdrawal in 3 Cases of Treatment-Refractory Altered Mental Status
Authors: Fryml Leah D. , Williams Kristen R. , Pelic Christopher G. , Fox James , Sahlem Gregory , Robert Sophie , Revuelta Gonzalo J. , Short Edward Baron
Published: May 2017

Amantadine, which was originally developed as an antiviral medication, functions as a dopamine agonist in the central nervous system and consequently is utilized in the treatment of Parkinson disease, drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. For reasons that are not entirely understood, abrupt changes in amantadine dosage can produce a severe withdrawal syndrome. Existing medical literature describes case reports of amantadine withdrawal leading to delirium, which at times has progressed to neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Amantadine withdrawal may be under-recognized by mental health clinicians, which has the potential to lead to protracted hospital courses and suboptimal outcomes. The goal of this case series is to highlight the role of amantadine withdrawal in the cases of 3 medically complex patients with altered mental status. In the first case, the cognitive side effects of electroconvulsive therapy masked acute amantadine withdrawal in a 64-year-old man with Parkinson disease. In the second case, a 75-year-old depressed patient developed a catatonic delirium when amantadine was discontinued. Finally, a refractory case of neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a 57-year-old patient with schizoaffective disorder rapidly resolved with the reintroduction of outpatient amantadine. These cases highlight several learning objectives regarding amantadine withdrawal syndrome: First, it may be concealed by co-occurring causes of delirium in medically complex patients. Second, its symptoms are likely to be related to a cortical and limbic dopamine shortage, which may be reversed with electroconvulsive therapy or reintroduction of amantadine. Third, its clinical presentation may occur on a spectrum and may include features suggestive of delirium, catatonia, or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Early Intervention With Live Donor Liver Transplantation Reduces Resource Utilization in NASH: The Toronto Experience
Authors: Barbas Andrew S. , Goldaracena Nicolas , Dib Martin J. , Al-Adra David P. , Aravinthan Aloysious D. , Lilly Leslie B. , Renner Eberhard L. , Selzner Nazia , Bhat Mamatha , Cattral Mark S. , Ghanekar Anand , McGilvray Ian D. , Sapisochin Gonzalo , Selzner Markus , Greig Paul D. , Grant David R.
Published: May 2017

Background

In parallel with the obesity epidemic, liver transplantation for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is increasing dramatically in North America. Although survival outcomes are similar to other etiologies, liver transplantation in the NASH population has been associated with significantly increased resource utilization. We sought to compare outcomes between live donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT) at a high volume North American transplant center, with a particular focus on resource utilization.

Methods

The study population consists of primary liver transplants performed for NASH at Toronto General Hospital from 2000 to 2014. Recipient characteristics, perioperative outcomes, graft and patient survivals, and resource utilization were compared for LDLT versus DDLT.

Results

A total of 176 patients were included in the study (48 LDLT vs 128 DDLT). LDLT recipients had a lower model for end-stage liver disease score and were less frequently hospitalized prior to transplant. Estimated blood loss and early markers of graft injury were lower for LDLT. LDLT recipients had a significantly shorter hospitalization (intensive care unit, postoperative, and total hospitalization).

Conclusions

LDLT for NASH facilitates transplantation of patients at a less severe stage of disease, which appears to promote a faster postoperative recovery with less resource utilization.
The population genomics of archaeological transition in west Iberia: Investigation of ancient substructure using imputation and haplotype-based methods
Authors: Martiniano Rui , Cassidy Lara M , Ó’Maoldúin Ros , McLaughlin Russell , Silva Nuno M , Manco Licinio , Fidalgo Daniel , Pereira Tania , Coelho Maria J , Serra Miguel , Burger Joachim , Parreira Rui , Moran Elena , Valera Antonio C , Porfirio Eduardo , Boaventura Rui , Silva Ana M , Bradley Daniel G
Published: May 2017

We analyse new genomic data (0.05-2.95x) from 14 ancient individuals from Portugal distributed from the Middle Neolithic (4200-3500 BC) to the Middle Bronze Age (1740-1430 BC) and impute genomewide diploid genotypes in these together with published ancient Eurasians. While discontinuity is evident in the transition to agriculture across the region, sensitive haplotype-based analyses suggest a significant degree of local hunter-gatherer contribution to later Iberian Neolithic populations. A more subtle genetic influx is also apparent in the Bronze Age, detectable from analyses including haplotype sharing with both ancient and modern genomes, D-statistics and Y-chromosome lineages. However, the limited nature of this introgression contrasts with the major Steppe migration turnovers within third Millennium northern Europe and echoes the survival of non-Indo-European language in Iberia. Changes in genomic estimates of individual height across Europe are also associated with these major cultural transitions, and ancestral components continue to correlate with modern differences in stature.

Author Summary

Recent ancient DNA work has demonstrated the significant genetic impact of mass migrations from the Steppe into Central and Northern Europe during the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. In Iberia, archaeological change at the level of material culture and funerary rituals has been reported during this period, however, the genetic impact associated with this cultural transformation has not yet been estimated. In order to investigate this, we sequence Neolithic and Bronze Age samples from Portugal, which we compare to other ancient and present-day individuals. Genome-wide imputation of a large dataset of ancient samples enabled sensitive methods for detecting population structure and selection in ancient samples. We revealed subtle genetic differentiation between the Portuguese Neolithic and Bronze Age samples suggesting a markedly reduced influx in Iberia compared to other European regions. Furthermore, we predict individual height in ancients, suggesting that stature was reduced in the Neolithic and affected by subsequent admixtures. Lastly, we examine signatures of strong selection in important traits and the timing of their origins.
Fast Periodic Stimulation (FPS): A highly effective approach in fMRI brain mapping
Authors: Gao Xiaoqing , Gentile Francesco , Rossion Bruno
Published: May 2017

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a major technique for human brain mapping. We present a Fast Periodic Stimulation (FPS) fMRI approach, demonstrating its high effectiveness in defining category-selective brain regions. Observers see a dynamic stream of widely variable natural object images alternating at a fast rate (6 images/sec). Every 9 seconds, a short burst of variable face images contrasting with objects in pairs induces an objective 0.111 Hz face-selective neural response in the ventral occipito-temporal cortex and beyond. A model-free Fourier analysis achieves a two-fold increase in signal-to-noise ratio compared to a conventional block-design approach with identical stimuli. Periodicity of category contrast and random variability among images minimize low-level visual confounds while preserving naturalness of the stimuli, leading to the highest values (80-90%) of test-retest reliability yet reported in this area of research. FPS-fMRI opens a new avenue for understanding brain function with low temporal resolution methods.

Highlights

FPS-fMRI achieves a two-fold increase in peak SNR over conventional approach

FPS-fMRI reveals comprehensive extended face-selective areas including ATL

FPS-fMRI achieves high specificity by minimizing influence of low-level visual cues

FPS-fMRI achieves very high test-retest reliability (80%-90%) in spatial activation map

eTOC Blurb

In Brief

Gao et al. present a novel FPS-fMRI approach, which achieves a two-fold increase in peak signal-to-noise ratio in defining the neural basis of visual categorization while preserving ecological validity, minimizing low-level visual confounds and reaching very high (80%-90%) test-retest reliability.
Crosslink: A fast, scriptable genetic mapper for outcrossing species
Authors: Vickerstaff Robert J. , Harrison Richard J.
Published: May 2017

Crosslink is genetic mapping software for outcrossing species designed to run efficiently on large datasets by combining the best from existing tools with novel approaches. Tests show it runs much faster than several comparable programs whilst retaining a similar accuracy.

Availability and implementation

Available under the GNU General Public License version 2 fromhttps://github.com/eastmallingresearch/crosslink

Contact

robert.vickerstaff@emr.ac.uk

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available atBioinformaticsonline and fromhttps://github.com/eastmallingresearch/crosslink/releases/tag/v0.5.
Excitatory Motor Neurons are Local Central Pattern Generators in an Anatomically Compressed Motor Circuit for Reverse Locomotion
Authors: Gao Shangbang , Guan Sihui Asuka , Fouad Anthony D. , Meng Jun , Kawano Taizo , Huang Yung-Chi , Li Yi , Alcaire Salvador , Hung Wesley , Lu Yangning , Qi Yingchuan Billy , Jin Yishi , Alkema Mark , Fang-Yen Christopher , Zhen Mei
Published: May 2017

Central pattern generators are cell‐ or network-driven oscillators that underlie motor rhythmicity. The existence and identity ofC. elegansCPGs remain unknown. Through cell ablation, electrophysiology, and calcium imaging, we identified oscillators for reverse locomotion. We show that the cholinergic and excitatory class A motor neurons exhibit intrinsic and oscillatory activity, and such an activity can drive reverse locomotion without premotor interneurons. Regulation of their oscillatory activity, either through effecting an endogenous constituent of oscillation, the P/Q/N high voltage-activated calcium channel UNC-2, or, via dual regulation – inhibition and activation ‐ by the descending premotor interneurons AVA, determines the propensity, velocity, and sustention of reverse locomotion. Thus, the reversal motor executors themselves serve as oscillators; regulation of their intrinsic activity controls the reversal motor state. These findings exemplify anatomic and functional compression: motor executors integrate the role of rhythm generation in a locomotor network that is constrained by small cell numbers.
Spinal cholinergic interneurons differentially control motoneuron excitability and alter the locomotor network operational range
Authors: Bertuzzi Maria , Ampatzis Konstantinos
Published: May 2017

Summary

While cholinergic neuromodulation is important for locomotor circuit operation, the specific neuronal mechanisms that acetylcholine employs to regulate and fine-tune the speed of locomotion are largely unknown. Here, we show that cholinergic interneurons are present in the zebrafish spinal cord and differentially control the excitability of distinct classes of motoneurons (slow, intermediate and fast) in a muscarinic dependent manner. Moreover, we reveal that m2-type muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) are present in fast and intermediate motoneurons, but not in the slow motoneurons, and that their activation decreases neuronal firing. We also provide evidence that this configuration of motoneuron muscarinic receptors serves as the main intrinsic plasticity mechanism to alter the operational range of motoneuron modules. These unexpected findings provide new insights into the functional flexibility of motoneurons and how they execute locomotion at different speeds.
Population-based Relative Risks for Specific Family History Constellations of Breast Cancer
Authors: Albright Frederick S. , Kohlmann Wendy , Neumayer Leigh , Buys Saundra S. , Matsen Cindy B. , Kaphingst Kimberly A. , Cannon-Albright Lisa A.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Using a large resource linking genealogy with decades of cancer data, RRs were estimated for breast cancer (BC) based on specific family history extending to first cousins.

Methods

RRs for BC were estimated in 640,366 females with breast cancer family histories that included number of first-(FDR), second-(SDR), and third-degree relatives (TDR), maternal and paternal relatives, and age at earliest diagnosis.

Results

RRs for first-degree relatives of BC cases ranged from 1.61 (=1 FDR affected, CI: 1.56, 1.67) to 5.00 (≥4 FDRs affected, CI: 3.35, 7.18). RRs for second degree relatives of probands with 0 affected FDRs ranged from 1.08 (≥1 SDR affected, CI: 1.04, 1.12) to 1.71 (≥4 SDRs affected, CI: 1.26, 2.27) and for second degree relatives of probands with exactly 1 FDR from 1.54 (0 SDRs affected, CI:1.47, 1.61) to 4.78 (≥ 5 SDRs; CI 2.47, 8.35). RRs for third-degree relatives with no closer relatives affected were significantly elevated for probands with >=5 affected TDRs RR=1.32, CI: 1.11, 1.57).

Conclusions

The majority of females analyzed had a family history of BC. Any number of affected FDRs or SDRs significantly increased risk for BC, and more than 4 TDRs, even with no affected FDRs or SDRs significantly increased risk. Risk prediction derived from specific and extended family history allows identification of females at highest risk even when they do not have a conventionally defined “high risk” family; these risks could be a powerful, efficient tool to individualize cancer prevention and screening.
The development of Bayesian integration in sensorimotor estimation
Authors: Chambers Claire , Sokhey Taegh , Gaebler-Spira Deborah , Kording Konrad
Published: May 2017

If the brain is inherently Bayesian, then behavior should show the signatures of Bayesian computation from an early stage in life without the need for learning. Children should integrate probabilistic information from prior and likelihood distributions to reach decisions and should be as statistically efficient as adults. To test this idea, we examined the integration of prior and likelihood information in a simple position estimation task comparing children aged 6-11 years and adults. During development, estimation performance became closer to the statistical optimum. Children use likelihood information as well as adults but are limited in their use of priors. This finding suggests that Bayesian behavior is not inherent but learnt over the course of development.
Universal alternative splicing of noncoding exons
Authors: Deveson Ira W. , Brunck Marion E. , Blackburn James , Tseng Elizabeth , Hon Ting , Clark Tyson A. , Clark Michael B. , Crawford Joanna , Dinger Marcel E. , Nielsen Lars K. , Mattick John S. , Mercer Tim R.
Published: May 2017

The human transcriptome is so large, diverse and dynamic that, even after a decade of investigation by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), we are yet to resolve its true dimensions. RNA-Seq suffers from an expression-dependent bias that impedes characterization of low-abundance transcripts. We performed targeted single-molecule and short-read RNA-Seq to survey the transcriptional landscape of a single human chromosome (Hsa21) at unprecedented resolution. Our analysis reaches the lower limits of the transcriptome, identifying a fundamental distinction between protein-coding and noncoding gene content: almost every noncoding exon undergoes alternative splicing, producing a seemingly limitless variety of isoforms. Analysis of syntenic regions of the mouse genome shows that few noncoding exons are shared between human and mouse, yet human splicing profiles are recapitulated on Hsa21 in mouse cells, indicative of regulation by a deeply conserved splicing code. We propose that noncoding exons are functionally modular, with alternative splicing generating an enormous repertoire of potential regulatory RNAs and a rich transcriptional reservoir for gene evolution.
Parallel sequencing lives, or what makes large sequencing projects successful
Authors: Quilez Javier , Vidal Enrique , Dily François Le , Serra François , Cuartero Yasmina , Stadhouders Ralph , Graf Thomas , Marti-Renom Marc A. , Beato Miguel , Filion Guillaume
Published: May 2017

T47D_rep2 and b1913e6c1_51720e9cf were two Hi-C samples. They were born and processed at the same time, yet their fates were very different. The life of b1913e6c1_51720e9cf was simple and fruitful, while that of T47D_rep2 was full of accidents and sorrow. At the heart of these differences lies the fact that b1913e6c1_51720e9cf was born under a lab culture of Documentation, Automation, Traceability, Autonomy and compliance with the FAIR Principles. Their lives are a lesson for those who wish to embark on the journey of managing high throughput sequencing data.
Population-Averaged Atlas of the Macroscale Human Structural Connectome and Its Network Topology
Authors: Yeh Fang-Cheng , Panesar Sandip , Fernandes David , Meola Antonio , Yoshino Masanori , Fernandez-Miranda Juan C , Vettel Jean M. , Verstynen Timothy
Published: May 2017

A comprehensive map of the structural connectome in the human brain has been a coveted resource for understanding macroscopic brain networks. Here we report an expert-vetted, population-averaged atlas of the structural connectome derived from diffusion MRI data (N=842). This was achieved by creating a high-resolution template of diffusion patterns averaged across individual subjects and using tractography to generate 550,000 trajectories of representative white matter fascicles annotated by 80 anatomical labels. The trajectories were subsequently clustered and labeled by a team of experienced neuroanatomists in order to conform to prior neuroanatomical knowledge. A multi-level network topology was then described using whole-brain connectograms, with subdivisions of the association pathways showing small-worldness in intra-hemisphere connections, projection pathways showing hub structures at thalamus, putamen, and brainstem, and commissural pathways showing bridges connecting cerebral hemispheres to provide global efficiency. This atlas of the structural connectome provides representative organization of human brain white matter, complementary to traditional histologically-derived and voxel-based white matter atlases, allowing for better modeling and simulation of brain connectivity for future connectome studies.
FplA FromFusobacterium nucleatumis a Type Vd autotransporter phospholipase with a proposed role in altered host signaling and evasion of autophagy
Authors: Casasanta Michael A. , Yoo Christopher C. , Smith Hans B. , Duncan A. Jane , Cochrane Kyla , Varano Ann C. , Allen-Vercoe Emma , Slade Daniel J.
Published: May 2017

Fusobacterium nucleatumis a pathogenic oral bacterium that is linked to multiple human infections and colorectal cancer. While most Gram-negative pathogens utilize secretion systems for cellular invasion and infection,F. nucleatumlacks Type I, II, III, IV, and VI secretion. By contrast,F. nucleatumstrains are enriched in Type V secreted autotransporters, which are Gram-negative bacterial virulence factors critical for binding and entry into host cells. Here we present the first biochemical characterization of aF. nucleatumType Vd phospholipase class A1 autotransporter (strain ATCC 25586, gene FN1704) that we hereby renameFusobacteriumphospholipase autotransporter (FplA). FplA is expressed as a full-length 85 kDa outer membrane embedded protein, or as a truncated phospholipase domain that remains associated with the outer membrane. Using multiple FplA constructs we characterized lipid substrate specificity, potent inhibitors, and chemical probes to detect and track this enzyme family. While the role of FplA is undetermined inF. nucleatumvirulence, homologous phospholipases from intracellular pathogens are critical for vacuole escape, altered host signaling, and intracellular survival. We hypothesize that upon intracellular invasion of the host, FplA could play a role in phagosomal escape, subversion of autophagy, or eicosanoid-mediated inflammatory signaling, as we show that FplA binds with high affinity to host phosphoinositide signaling lipids critical to these processes. Our identification of substrates, inhibitors, and chemical probes for FplA, in combination with anfplAgene deletion strain, encompass a powerful set of tools for the future analysis of FplAin vivo. In addition, these studies will guide the biochemical characterization of additional Type Vd autotransporter phospholipases.

IMPORTANCE

F. nucleatumis an emerging pathogen that is linked to the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer, yet there is a critical knowledge gap in the mechanisms used by this bacterium to elicit changes in the host for intracellular entry and survival. As phospholipases are critical virulence factors for intracellular bacteria to initiate vacuole lysis, cell-to-cell spread, and evasion of autophagy, we set out to characterize a unique Type Vd secreted phospholipase A1 enzyme fromF. nucleatum. Our results show a potential role for modulating host signaling pathways through cleavage of phosphoinositide dependent signaling lipids. These studies open the door for further characterization of this unique enzyme family in bacterial virulence, host-pathogen interactions, and forF. nucleatum, in colorectal carcinogenesis.
The first-row transition-metal series of tris(ethylenediamine) diacetate complexes [M(en)3](OAc)2 (M is Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn)
Authors: Pham Duyen N. K. , Roy Mrittika , Golen James A. , Manke David R.
Published: May 2017

The crystal structures of the first-row transition-metal series of tris(ethylenediamine-κ2
N,N′)metal(II) diacetate, [M(C2H8N2)3](CH3CO2)2, with M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn, are reported. The complexes are all isostructural, crystallizing in a centrosymmetric triclinic cell and possessing an asymmetric unit composed of one [M(en)3]2+ cation and two symmetrically independent acetate anions. In the unit cell, the two complex cations are inversion-generated enantiomers, possessing the energetically favoured Δ(λλλ) and Λ(δδδ) configurations. The complex cations and acetate anions combine through a series of N—H...O hydrogen bonds to generate a three-dimensional network in the crystals. The other notable feature of the series is a significant Jahn–Teller distortion for the d
9 Cu2+ complex.
2-(5-Fluoro-1-methyl-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-N-[4-(methylsulfanyl)phenyl]hydrazine-1-carbothioamide
Authors: Atioğlu Zeliha , Sevinçli Zekiye Şeyma , Karalı Nilgün , Akkurt Mehmet , Ersanlı Cem Cüneyt
Published: May 2017

The title molecule, C17H15FN4OS2, obtained from 5-fluoro-1-methyl-1H-indol-2,3-dione, and 3-[4-(methylsulfanyl)phenyl]thiosemicarbazide, has an essentially planar conformation (r.m.s deviation for all non-H atoms = 0.116 Å). Intramolecular N—H...N and N—H...O hydrogen bonds generateS(5) andS(6) ring motifs, respectively. In the crystal, C—H...S hydrogen bonds occur between layers of molecules parallel to the (10-1) plane. Face-to-face π–π stacking interactions are also observed.
2,6-Dichloro-4-nitrotoluene
Authors: Medjroubi Mohamed Larbi , Boudjada Ali , Hamdouni Noudjoud , Jeannin Olivier , Meinnel Jean
Published: May 2017

The title compound, C7H5Cl2NO2[systematic name: 1,3-dichloro-2-methyl-5-nitrobenzene], crystallizes in the chiral space groupP212121with a Flack parameter of −0.03 (5). The methyl C atom, the Cl atoms and the N atom of the nitro substituent all lie extremely close to the plane of the benzene ring; the deviations are 0.028 (3) Å for the methyl C atom, −0.016 (1) and 0.007 (1) Å for the two Cl atoms, and −0.017 (3) Å for the nitro N atom. Hence, no significant steric hindrance of the methyl group by theorthohalogen atoms is observed. The nitro group is inclined to the benzene ring by 9.8 (3)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by weak C—H...O and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds, forming layers parallel to theabplane.
Application of the analytical hierarchy process to evaluate consumer acceptance and preferences for omega-3 enriched eggs
Authors: Baba Yasmina , Kallas Zein , Realini Carolina
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the appropriateness of the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to measure consumers’ acceptance and preference for eggs enriched with omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids as a health claim and to compare its results with the traditional nine-point hedonic scale.

Design/methodology/approach

The AHP was used as a multi-criteria decision analysis. Data were obtained from a face-to-face questionnaire completed by 122 consumers in a controlled environment in Cataluña (Spain).

Findings

Results showed the capacity of the AHP to analyse consumers’ acceptance and preferences. An agreement between the AHP and the nine-point scale was found showing that n-3 enriched eggs had lower flavour acceptance, conventional eggs had higher yolk colour acceptance, and conventional and the free-range eggs had similar and higher odour acceptance than the other egg types. The most important attributes that determine preferences for egg purchase were the type and the egg price followed by the origin and the egg size.

Research limitations/implications

The AHP approach seems to be a reliable tool to evaluate consumers’ hedonic preferences. However, further testing on other food products with larger sample size is needed.

Originality/value

The AHP methodology has been widely used in many fields in the last decades, but to the knowledge, not in the sensory field. In the Spanish market, studies that analyse consumers’ preferences and acceptance of eggs are scarce, and new insights are needed particularly regarding n-3 enriched eggs.
Quality preferences and pricing of fresh-cut salads in Italy: new evidence from market data
Authors: Pilone Vittoria , Stasi Antonio , Baselice Antonio
Published: May 2017

Purpose

In Europe fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, is one of the major growing segments in agro-food sector. Current literature reports a limited number of studies about consumers’ preferences towards these products. In particular, it lacks of studies focussed on fresh-cut salads and based on market data. In this paper, a study on consumer preferences towards the main attributes of Italian fresh-cut salads is proposed. More specifically the investigation is focussed on attributes assessable by consumers before purchase such as assortment, tenderness, product preparation and vegetable variety together with brand, size and type of packaging, presence of organic certification, promotion and product price. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate how much Italian consumers pay for those attributes with the aim to understand how much profitable could be different strategies in the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on IRI-Infoscan scanner data, consisting of 881 fresh-cut products. The impact of each attributes on pricing is measured by means of a hedonic price model.

Findings

Main results show that, in Italy, fresh-cut salad price is greatly affected by tenderness, product preparation, assortment, brand, presence of organic certification, packaging attributes and vegetable variety.

Practical implications

Findings offer to producers the possibility to set up products by composing the mix of attributes that gives back the highest price. In addition, they provide some insights to define manufacturer’s strategies.

Originality/value

This paper represents a novelty in economic literature because it can be considered an example of consumer preferences analysis towards the different attributes of fresh-cut vegetables based on real market data.