bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting the hydrophilic regions of recombinant proteins by MS via in-solution buffer-free trypsin digestion
Authors: Betancourt Lázaro H , Espinosa Luis A , Ramos Yassel , Bequet-Romero Mónica , Rodríguez Elías N , Sánchez Aniel , Marko-Varga Gyorgy , González Luis J , Besada Vladimir
Published: December 2019

A desalting step using reversed phase chromatography is a common practice prior to mass spectrometry analysis of proteolytic digests in spite of the detrimental exclusion of the hydrophilic peptides. The detection of such peptides is also important for the complete coverage of protein sequences and the analysis of posttranslational modifications as inquired by regulatory agencies for the commercialization of biotechnological products. The procedure described here, named in-solution buffer-free digestion, simplifies the sample processing and circumvents the above-mentioned limitations by allowing the detection of tryptic hydrophilic peptides via direct ESI-MS analysis. Two DNA recombinant proteins such as HBcAg (hepatitis B core antigen) and fusion VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) were analyzed with the proposed in-solution buffer-free digestion allowing the detection of extremely hydrophilic di-, tri- and tetra-peptides, C-terminal His-tail peptide, as well as disulfide-containing peptides. All these molecular species are hardly seen in mass spectrometric analysis using a standard digestion that includes a C18-desalting step. The procedure was also successfully tried on hydrophilic tetra- and hexa-peptides of Ribonuclease B carrying an N-glycosylation site occupied with “high-mannose” N-glycan chains. The in-solution buffer-free digestion constitutes a simple and straightforward approach to analyse the hydrophilic proteolytic peptides which are commonly elusive to the detection by conventional mass spectrometric analysis.
The role of nostalgia in retro sewing
Authors: Armstead Charity S. , McKinney Ellen
Published: December 2019

This article explores the role of nostalgia as a motivation for retro sewing and the ways in which nostalgia shapes the practices of retro sewing. Retro sewers circumvent typical models of clothing consumption by opting out of the commercial fashion cycle, and instead creating clothing for everyday use that replicates or is inspired by styles from the past. As such, the practice of retro sewing is inextricably linked to one or more of the many forms of nostalgia. Previous studies on consumers and nostalgia have not considered the full breadth of how consumers interact with nostalgia. This article explains what types of nostalgia motivate the practice of retro sewing, using qualitative analysis of interview data collected as part of a larger study. Forms of nostalgia that motivate retro sewers include both connecting with the past and using the past in the present. Retro sewing is often motivated by an interest in history and personal nostalgia for childhood and family. Some retro sewers would like to live in the past, whereas others prefer to enjoy past fashions in the present. Retro sewers value aspects of the past as useful tools in the present; they collect and consume vintage items, maintain knowledge, refer to history as a guide for the present and future, and use and reinterpret aesthetics of the past in their clothing. Methods used in designing and sewing retro clothing vary depending on which types of nostalgia are most salient for the retro sewer for any given project.
Towards silent micro-air vehicles: optimization of a low Reynolds number rotor in hover
Authors: Serré Ronan , Gourdain Nicolas , Jardin Thierry , Jacob Marc C. , Moschetta Jean-Marc
Published: December 2019

The demand in micro-air vehicles is increasing as well as their potential missions. Either for discretion in military operations or noise pollution in civilian use, noise reduction of micro-air vehicles is a goal to achieve. Aeroacoustic research has long been focusing on full scale rotorcrafts. At micro-air vehicle scales however, the hierarchization of the numerous sources of noise is not straightforward, as a consequence of the relatively low Reynolds number that ranges typically from 5000 to 100,000 and low Mach number of approximately 0.1. This knowledge, however, is crucial for aeroacoustic optimization and blade noise reduction in drones. This contribution briefly describes a low-cost, numerical methodology to achieve noise reduction by optimization of micro-air vehicle rotor blade geometry. Acoustic power measurements show a reduction of 8 dB(A). The innovative rotor blade geometry allowing this noise reduction is then analysed in detail, both experimentally and numerically with large eddy simulation using lattice Boltzmann method. Turbulence interaction noise is shown to be a major source of noise in this configuration of low Reynolds number rotor in hover, as a result of small scale turbulence and high frequency unsteady aeroadynamics impinging the blades at the leading edge.
Scholarship Development Series Part I: Writing a Review of the Literature
Authors: Cuellar Norma
Published: December 2019

As part of National Association of Hispanic Nurses’ Strategic Plan, our organization focuses on the development of scholarship in our members. Scholarship is what moves nursing science forward and includes not only research but also teaching/education and clinical practice. Part of scholarship is identifying what is in the literature or what is the “evidence” which is detrimental to identifying the best practices for our Latino communities. This article is part of a scholarship development series that will run in Hispanic Health Care International. The purpose of this first article is to provide a background on how to conduct a review of the literature. The objectives of the article are to (1) define what a review of the literature is, (2) discuss various types of review articles that can be used for research, practice, or education, (3) identify the process of synthesizing evidence, (4) present standardized formats that can be used in writing a review, and (5) provide steps to begin the process of writing a review.
Exploiting cooperative sensing for accurate target tracking in industrial Internet of things
Authors: Khan Muneeb A , Khan Muazzam A , Rahman Anis U , Malik Asad Waqar , Khan Safdar A
Published: December 2019

Wireless sensor networks are a cornerstone of the Internet of things with many applications. An important aspect of such applications is target tracking using self-positioned known sensor nodes. Over the years, many schemes have been proposed to locate and track the target path. However, accuracy and reliable tracking remain an open area of research. In this article, we propose a dynamic cooperative multilateral sensing scheme for indoor industrial environments to improve target localization and tracking accuracy. The scheme is designed to select reliable nodes based on the distance between nodes within-cluster and to the target for reduced positioning error. Furthermore, a cluster node is dynamically selected based on distance from the base station. We simulate the proposed technique in scenarios with tracking at regular intervals and with the complete path. Furthermore, the performance of the scheme is also tested under different sensor coverage areas. The results show that the proposed scheme provides better target tracking with up to 19% higher accuracy in comparison to the traditional trilateration scheme.
Ethylene Oxide: Cancer Evidence Integration and Dose–Response Implications
Authors: Vincent Melissa J. , Kozal Jordan S. , Thompson William J. , Maier Andrew , Dotson G. Scott , Best Elizabeth A. , Mundt Kenneth A.
Published: December 2019

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) classified ethylene oxide (EtO) as a known human carcinogen. Critically, both noted that the epidemiological evidence based on lymphoid and breast cancers was “limited,” but that the evidence in animal studies was “sufficient” and “extensive” (respectively) and that EtO is genotoxic. The USEPA derived one of the highest published inhalation unit risk (IUR) values (3 × 10−3 per [µg/m3 EtO]), based on results from 2 epidemiological studies. We performed focused reviews of the epidemiological and toxicological evidence on the carcinogenicity of EtO and considered the USEPA’s reliance on a genotoxic mode of action to establish EtO’s carcinogenicity and to determine likely dose–response patterns. Higher quality epidemiological studies demonstrated no increased risk of breast cancers or lymphohematopoietic malignancies (LHM). Similarly, toxicological studies and studies of early effect biomarkers in animals and humans provided no strong indication that EtO causes LHM or mammary cancers. Ultimately, animal data are inadequate to define the actual dose–response shape or predict tumor response at very low doses with any confidence. We conclude that the IARC and USEPA classification of EtO as a known human carcinogen overstates the underlying evidence and that the IUR derived by USEPA grossly overestimates risk.
Prototyping of a novel anthropomorphic mechanical leg
Authors: Li Yanbiao , Sun Peng , Qi Huan , Luo Yiqin
Published: December 2019

This research aims to explore a better kinematic performance and design scheme for a novel mechanical leg using parameter optimization method. Serial structural mechanisms are widely employed in anthropomorphic mechanism legs but with significant disadvantages of the complex structure and large inertia, particularly, for the multi-objective parameter optimization it is hard to select good parameters to achieve excellent performance. In this article, the plane model of the solution space for multiple parameters and a novel statistics parameter optimization method were proposed for a novel mechanical leg. In the position analysis, the structure and workspace for the novel mechanical leg were developed with simple structure, small inertia, and large workspace; and several kinematic performance evaluation indices were also proposed in the kinematics analysis. In the parameter optimization process, the design scheme and prototyping of the mechanical leg have shown a better kinematic performance by considering the assembly technique as compared with the conventional models. The proposed research provides the basis for the applications of the novel mechanical leg, which can be applied in the modern humanoid robot fields to meet the requirements of high stiffness, lower inertia, and good technological efficiency.
A novel adaptive actuator failure compensation scheme based on multi-design integration for half-car active suspension system
Authors: Yao Xuelian , Yang Yi , Su Mingming
Published: December 2019

A new actuator failure compensation scheme in the presence of actuator failures with multi-uncertainties is proposed for half-car active suspension systems based on multi-design integration. A parameterized function has been introduced to denote the multiple failures occurred in the front and rear actuators. An effective feedback controller is designed to obtain asymptotic tracking and closed-loop system stability by employing backstepping technique. Based on the desired controller, multiple adaptive control signals are designed corresponding to each possible failure case. By introducing failure indicator functions and integrating these control signals, a composite controller is constructed to handle all failure patterns, which ensures both pitch and vertical motions of car body to stabilize and track the desired signals. Finally, simulation is conducted to verify the effectiveness of the controller proposed in this study.
Highly para-selective C‒H alkylation of unactivated arenes with α-aryl-α-diazoesters catalyzed by gold(I) immobilized on MCM-41
Authors: Du Yingying , Yao Fang , Cai Mingzhong
Published: December 2019

The heterogeneous gold(I)-catalyzed highly para-selective C(sp2)–H bond alkylation of benzene derivatives with α-aryl-α-diazoesters possessing electron-withdrawing substituents on the aryl rings are achieved. The reactions proceed under mild conditions in good to excellent yields by using an MCM-41-anchored diphenylphosphine gold(I) complex [MCM-41-PPh2-AuOTf] as a recyclable catalyst.
Analyzing safety level and recognizing flaws of commercial centers through data mining approach
Authors: Haeri Abdorrahman
Published: December 2019

The construction industry, including buildings and commercial centers, is a dynamic industry with diverse and complex nature, which makes its safety provision difficult. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety status of commercial centers and their classification based on common features; and to uncover the hidden relationships between characteristics of the commercial centers under study by means of data mining techniques. Data required for this study were collected based on a 75-item checklist designed for this study. Indeed, this study included 108 commercial centers. Thereafter, the commercial centers under study were divided into three categories, labeled unsafe, normal, and safe by means of K-means algorithm. The results obtained from the implementation of classification method showed that the two resources, namely, fire protection systems and buildings, played a critical role in the safety of studied commercial centers. The results of in-depth analysis on unsafe commercial centers indicated that these centers have common weaknesses. These weak areas include such items as deficiency of the standards required for the equipment associated with some resources, insufficient training in the use of firefighting equipment, the necessity of the employment of redundant approaches for exit from the building in emergency conditions, and non-feasibility of conducting of operations for firefighting vehicles and lifts. Urban planners and managers and safety officials of the buildings, particularly commercial centers, can apply the results of this study as strategic guidelines.
Discursive construction of Syrian refugees in shaping international public opinion: Turkey’s public diplomacy efforts
Authors: Akşak Emel Özdora
Published: December 2019

This research focuses on the Turkish government’s communications with the international community with regard to Syrian refugees. I use the Discourse Historical Approach to reveal and compare the discursive strategies that the official Turkish news agency has used as part of its public diplomacy efforts in their mass communication efforts regarding Syrian refugees during the last 8 years. The results reveal how a humanitarian issue such as the plight of refugees might be employed to establish a government’s political position, affirm its involvement and influence public opinion about a conflict that exceeds national boundaries and has turned into a challenge for international dominance involving world superpowers. The topics highlighted in the Turkish news reports and the argumentations that these reports put forward reveal that the Turkish government is highly critical of the international community, especially Western powers, for not fulfilling their humanitarian responsibilities. This specific criticism from Turkey regarding its outsized role in hosting refugees has become a leverage point to claim a place in the decision table about the future of Syria.
Paternalism inChina Daily’s coverage of Chinese Muslims (2001–2015)
Authors: Ye Meng , Thomas Peter
Published: December 2019

This article explores the media representation of Muslims using critical discourse analysis (CDA). It emphasises the discursive construction of governmental paternalism that forms the dominant ideological disposition of China Daily’s (CD) coverage. The results reveal how Chinese official English newspapers facilitate the government’s dissemination of paternalistic discourse in the news of a large population of Chinese Muslims over the period. The investigation combines topic modelling with topos analysis to identify topics and topoi and to exhibit the ideology through the corpus compiled with CD’s news about Chinese Muslims. Our findings both uncover the extent to which CD is used to promote paternalistic discourse by topic and reveal how paternalism is constructed by topoi. CD can be seen to strongly legitimise the paternalistic framework corresponding with the government’s promotion of social development and security in the region. Reciprocally, most Chinese Muslims are portrayed as obedient and dependent Chinese citizens who benefit from the government’s intervention.
A phase II study of the efficacy and safety of the MET inhibitor capmatinib (INC280) in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Qin Shukui , Chan Stephen Lam , Sukeepaisarnjaroen Wattana , Han Guohong , Choo Su Pin , Sriuranpong Virote , Pan Hongming , Yau Thomas , Guo Yabing , Chen Minshan , Ren Zhenggang , Xu Jianming , Yen Chia-Jui , Lin Zhong-Zhe , Manenti Luigi , Gu Yi , Sun Yongjian , Tiedt Ralph , Hao Lu , Song Wenjie , Tanwandee Tawesak
Published: December 2019

Background:

The objectives of this phase II study were to determine the clinical activity of the MET tyrosine kinase inhibitor capmatinib (INC280) in patients with MET-dysregulated advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics, and correlation of biomarkers with the response.

Methods:

This phase II, open-label, single-arm study evaluated twice daily (BID) oral capmatinib in a dose-determining stage, utilizing a Bayesian Logistic Regression Model (BLRM) subject to Escalation with Overdose Control criteria, safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic information to determine a recommended dose for expansion (RDE) evaluating efficacy in patients with MET-dysregulated HCC.

Results:

A total of 38 patients received treatment. In the dose-determining stage, patients received capmatinib 300 mg BID capsules ( n = 8), and in the expansion, patients received 600 mg BID capsules ( n = 28) or 400 mg BID tablets ( n = 2) based on the BLRM and other relevant clinical data. No predefined qualifying adverse events (AEs) were observed during the first 28 days of treatment, and the RDE was 600 mg BID capsules (equivalent pharmacokinetics to 400 mg BID tablets). The most common any causality AEs were nausea (42%), vomiting (37%), and diarrhea (34%). In the expansion stage, in a subgroup of 10 patients with MET-high HCC, the overall response rate was 30%, including 1 durable complete response (>600 days) and 2 partial responses [1 durable (>600 days)].

Conclusions:

Single agent capmatinib at the RDE is tolerable with a manageable safety profile. Antitumor activity was seen in a subset of patients with MET-dysregulated (MET-high) HCC.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01737827. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01737827
An RB-1 loss of function gene signature as a tool to predict response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy plus anti-HER2 agents: a substudy of the NeoALTTO trial (BIG 1-06)
Authors: Risi Emanuela , Biagioni Chiara , Benelli Matteo , Migliaccio Ilenia , McCartney Amelia , Bonechi Martina , Guarducci Cristina , Hilbers Florentine , Di Cosimo Serena , Huober Jens , Romagnoli Dario , Boccalini Giulia , Vitale Stefania , Sotiriou Christos , Biganzoli Laura , Di Leo Angelo , Malorni Luca
Published: December 2019

Background:

Chemotherapy added to anti-HER2 agents (H) is the treatment of choice in patients with HER2+ early breast cancer. However, HER2+ tumours are clinically and biologically heterogeneous, and treatment response varies significantly by hormone receptor (HR) status and molecular subtype. Predictive biomarkers are needed in this context. This study assessed whether an RB-1 loss of function gene signature (RBsig) is predictive of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in combination with trastuzumab, lapatinib or both, within the NeoALTTO trial.

Methods:

We collected RNA-sequencing data from pretreatment biopsies derived from the NeoALTTO trial. RBsig expression was computed retrospectively and correlated with pathological complete response (pCR) using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The RBsig was dichotomised as High/Low in correspondence to the 25th percentile. Reported p values resulted from Fisher’s exact test.

Results:

Of 455 NeoALTTO patients, 244 were eligible for this substudy (HR+ n = 129; HR− n = 115). Overall, pCR rate was significantly higher in patients with RBsig High tumours than those with RBsig Low (35% versus 18% respectively; p = 0.01). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.60 (95% CI 0.52–0.67). A remarkably low pCR rate of 11% was seen in HR+/RBsig Low patients versus 28% in HR+/RBsig High.

Conclusions:

These results indicate RBsig may add valuable information to HER2 and HR expression, which may in turn inform treatment choices. HR+/HER2+/RBsig Low breast cancers exhibited the poorest pathological response following chemotherapy plus H. Accordingly, in such patients, endocrine therapy in combination with H and, possibly, a CDK4/6 inhibitor, may potentially prove to be a more effective treatment.
Complex cerebral aneurysms: intra-luminal reconstruction using Pipeline flow-diverting stent and the obliteration mechanism
Authors: Lv Xianli , Jiang Chuhan , Wu Zhongxue , Jiang Weijian , Wang Guihuai
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Patients with complex cerebral aneurysms can now be treated intravascularly with the help of flow-diverting stents. The primary purpose of this article is to document the clinical and angiographic outcomes in 80 patients who were treated with the Pipeline flow-diverting stent (PFS; Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) and the obliteration mechanism was discussed.

Patients and methods

Between October 2015 and October 2019, 80 patients with 90 complex (undefined neck, large/giant, blood blister–like, and recurrent side-wall) cerebral aneurysms treated with the PFS were retrospectively reviewed. Forty-five patients were women and 35 were men, with a mean age of 52 years. Large or giant aneurysms were defined as 10 mm or larger and small aneurysms were defined as less than 10 mm at the largest diameter measured on angiogram.

Results

Forty-one aneurysms (45.6%) were large or giant, 41 (45.6%) were small, four (4.4%) were recurrent side-wall aneurysms and four (4.4%) were blood blister–like aneurysms. In total, 87 PFSs were placed in 80 patients with 90 aneurysms. In six patients, coexisting proximal stenosis of parent artery was also covered with PFS without balloon angioplasty. Adjunct coils were placed in 31 aneurysms (34%). One patient died of intracerebral hematoma after thrombolysis. There was one intrastent occlusion at six-month follow-up without any symptoms. The morbidity and the mortality rate is 0% and 1.3% (95% confidence interval (CI), 0%–3.7%). Control angiography was available in 74 (92.5%) patients with 83 aneurysms, and the aneurysm occlusion rate was 98.8% (95% CI, 96.5%–100%) in 6 to 12 months.

Conclusion

For wide-necked saccular, large/giant, blood blister–like aneurysms and recurrent side-wall aneurysms, PFS is a valid and safe treatment option.
Urology highlights 2017 to 2018
Authors: Biers Suzanne , Walton Tom , Belal Mohammed , Keeley Francis X , Alnajjar Hussain M , Muneer Asif
Published: December 2019

The final clinical session of the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) annual meeting is the Updates and Highlights session, where the most important advances in the main urological sub-specialities are summarised and presented by sub-specialist experts representing each BAUS section. The aim of the session is to disseminate knowledge on the latest research, new guidelines and changes to general and specialist clinical practice. This paper covers contemporary urological advances as presented at the Liverpool BAUS meeting in June 2018.
Femoral osteochondroma responsible for ischiofemoral impingement, bursitis, and secondary lipoma arborescens mimicking malignant transformation
Authors: Schubert Thomas , Navez Marie , Galant Christine , Docquier Pierre-Louis , Acid Souad , Lecouvet Frédéric E
Published: December 2019

We present the case of a 53-year-old woman with a known history of hereditary multiple exostosis disease referred for further imaging work-up after ultrasound and computed tomography leading to the suspicion of malignant transformation of an osteochondroma (exostosis) located on the posteromedial aspect of the right proximal femur. Imaging examinations suggested an ischiofemoral impingement resulting in a secondary bursitis associated with the development of an internal lipoma arborescens. This rare association explained the complexity of the diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) played a key role in correctly identifying this benign complication of the osteochondroma and in distinguishing those observations from a secondary exostotic chondrosarcoma. MRI findings were subsequently confirmed at surgery and pathological examination.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Translation Studies: A Case Study on Chinese Canon The Journey to the West
Authors: Wang Feng (Robin) , Humblé Philippe , Chen Wen
Published: December 2019

A Chinese classic novel The Journey to the West (Chinese: 西游记, pinyin: Xi You Ji) has been yielding large volumes of English renditions across genres and media in the past 120 years starting in 1895. This body of renderings gives considerable material for research on how particularly translations have been handled. To give an overview of this research, this article proposes a bibliometric analysis to sketch a map of the translation studies conducted so far on The Journey to the West. A series of queries are made: which translators are most researched; which translations are most often compared with each other; which research questions are most addressed or ignored; which theories are most applied to resolve these questions. As Rovira-Esteva et al. state, “we need maps to know where we are so as to be helped instead of unconsciously being steered by them” (p. 160). The multiple and complementary perspectives we provide in this article are constructive to identify problems and lacunas and point out future directions. The present analytical framework has been applied to English translations of a Chinese classic, but we believe it can be successfully extrapolated to other similar cases.
The Impact of Writing Anxiety, Writing Achievement Motivation, and Writing Self-Efficacy on Writing Performance: A Correlational Study of Iraqi Tertiary EFL Learners
Authors: Sabti Ahmed Abdulateef , Md Rashid Sabariah , Nimehchisalem Vahid , Darmi Ramiza
Published: December 2019

Previous studies have examined learner factors such as anxiety, self-efficacy, and achievement motivation in ESL/EFL (English as a second language/English as a foreign language) writing. Studies have affirmed that self-efficacy and achievement motivation could enhance writing performance, whereas anxiety may hinder writing achievement. This study aimed to examine individual differences in Iraqi EFL learners’ writing anxiety, writing self-efficacy, and writing achievement motivation in the Iraqi EFL context. A quantitative approach, specifically the correlational design, was employed to examine the abovementioned relationships. The sample of the study comprised 100 Iraqi undergraduate students majoring in English language from two Iraqi public universities. Data were collected via four instruments: three questionnaires, namely, Second Language Writing Anxiety Inventory (SLWAI), Writer Self-Perception Scale (WSPS) and Achievement Goal Questionnaire (AGQ), and one descriptive writing task. The findings of this study discovered that the higher the writing anxiety level, the poorer the writing performance, whereas the higher the writing self-efficacy and writing achievement motivation level, the better the writing performance. The findings of this study also indicated that both writing self-efficacy and writing anxiety, and writing anxiety and writing achievement motivation were negatively correlated, whereas writing self-efficacy and writing achievement motivation were significantly and positively correlated. This study suggests that these factors need to be taken into consideration in EFL writing instruction to facilitate the teaching and learning process of EFL writing, which in turn would help enhance the EFL undergraduates’ writing ability.
Corporate Governance, Ultimate Owner, and Target Cash Holdings: Evidence From China
Authors: Jebran Khalil , Chen Shihua , Tauni Muhammad Zubair , Ahmad Hassan
Published: December 2019

This study investigates the influence of corporate governance and the nature of the ultimate owner on the adjustment behavior of corporate cash holdings. This study uses a sample of Chinese listed firms over the period 2003–2016 and opts difference- and system-GMM (generalized method of moments) models to explore the target cash holdings of Chinese firms. The results demonstrate that Chinese firms have target cash holdings and that the cash holdings adjustment behavior varies across the state-owned enterprises and nonstate-owned enterprises. Finally, the results show that cash holdings adjustment rate varies across normal and crisis period. This study adds to the existing literature by showing how corporate governance attributes and the nature of ownership can impact the cash holdings. Finally, this study provides insights that the cash holdings adjustment varies in normal and a crisis period.
Anteromedial Portal Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Yields Similar Outcomes to Non-AMP Femoral Drilling Double-Bundle Techniques: A Systematic Review of Comparative Studies
Authors: Tejpal Tushar , Gupta Arnav , Shanmugaraj Ajaykumar , Horner Nolan S. , Simunovic Nicole , Peterson Devin C. , Ayeni Olufemi R.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Biomechanical studies have shown double-bundle (DB) anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) to have increased anterior and rotational stability as compared with single-bundle ACLR. Various techniques exist to drill the femoral tunnel, such as anteromedial portal (AMP), outside-in (OI), and transtibial (TT) drilling. However, it is unclear whether one drilling technique is superior to others when a DB graft is used.

Purpose:

To systematically assess the outcomes and complications in patients undergoing DB ACLR through an AMP technique as compared with other femoral drilling techniques.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE databases were searched in April 2018. Nonrandomized studies were assessed with the MINORS (Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies), whereas randomized studies were assessed with the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system.

Results:

Ten studies comprising 722 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. A total of 351 patients underwent DB ACLR with AMP drilling (mean ± SD age, 32.7 ± 4.7 years); 318 patients had DB ACLR with OI drilling (age, 31.9 ± 4.1 years); and 53 received a DB ACLR with TT drilling (age, 26.5 ± 2.0 years). Graft types used included hamstring autograft (74.1%; n = 247), tibialis anterior autograft (6.0%; n = 20) and unspecified grafts (19.8%; n = 66). No significant difference in postoperative Tegner and Lysholm scores was found between the AMP and OI groups postoperatively. The AMP group had a lower anterior and posterior graft bending angle as compared with the OI group. Four patients (1.1%) in the AMP group had graft reruptures, as compared with 9 reruptures (2.8%) in the OI group. There were no reports of rerupture in the TT group.

Conclusion:

DB AMP ACLR results in significantly improved functional outcome scores postoperatively. AMP techniques yield similar functional outcomes to OI ACLR. No direct comparison in functional outcomes scores were available between the AMP and TT techniques. Low overall complication and revision rates were observed for patients undergoing DB AMP ACLR and were found to be similar to those of other femoral drilling techniques. Owing to a steeper graft bending angle in patients undergoing OI or TT ACLR relative to AMP ACLR, patients treated with OI or TT femoral drilling may have increased strain placed on the graft. Based on the various limitations in the available literature, it is not currently possible to make a definite conclusion of whether AMP is superior to non-AMP techniques in the setting of DB ACLR.
Cannabis Consumption Patterns Explain the East-West Gradient in Canadian Neural Tube Defect Incidence: An Ecological Study
Authors: Reece Albert Stuart , Hulse Gary Kenneth
Published: December 2019

While a known link between prenatal cannabis exposure and anencephaly exists, the relationship of prenatal cannabis exposure with neural tube defects (NTDs) generally has not been defined. Published data from Canada Health and Statistics Canada were used to assess this relationship. Both cannabis use and NTDs were shown to follow an east-west and north-south gradient. Last year cannabis consumption was significantly associated ( P < .0001; cannabis use–time interaction P < .0001). These results were confirmed when estimates of termination for anomaly were used. Canada Health population data allowed the calculation of an NTD odds ratio) of 1.27 (95% confidence interval = 1.19-1.37; P < 10−11) for high-risk provinces versus the remainder with an attributable fraction in exposed populations of 16.52% (95% confidence interval = 12.22-20.62). Data show a robust positive statistical association between cannabis consumption as both a qualitative and quantitative variable and NTDs on a background of declining NTD incidence. In the context of multiple mechanistic pathways these strong statistical findings implicate causal mechanisms.
Guiding urban self-organization: Combining rule-based and case-based planning
Authors: Partanen J
Published: December 2019

In cities, positive self-organization, reflecting the preferred pattern formation resulting from dissipative decision making of activities, is a key promoter of urban dynamics. The urban planning system is limited in recognizing it, but planners adapt to these autonomous processes by deviating from the plan. The result is a dual system of rules and systematic exceptions, which lacks the ability to steer and evaluate the overall direction of urban progress. Similar yet explicit dual problem-solving procedures of statutory rule frameworks and adaptations applying previous cases are common in many fields. Applying this multi-disciplinary knowledge, I propose a dual, computation-supported planning procedure combining rule-based and case-based reasoning. Such planning could respond to urban self-organization, while guiding urban dynamics in a consistent manner. The operation of this coupled system is illustrated using the empirical example of Lielahti, a mixed-use working place district in the Finnish city of Tampere in an exploratory manner.
Results of a Survey of the National Psoriasis Foundation Medical Board on the Management of Ear Psoriasis
Authors: Blake Amy , Enos Clinton , Armstrong April W. , Garg Amit , Gottlieb Alice , Koo John , Mehta Nehal , Prussick Ronald , Ryan Caitriona , Schwartzman Sergio , Siegel Michael , Wu Jashin J. , Strasnick Barry , Van Voorhees Abby S.
Published: December 2019

Background:

There is limited literature on the occurrence and management of psoriasis involving the ear.

Objective:

To better understand psoriasis of the ear and current approaches for management.

Methods:

The Medical Board of the National Psoriasis Foundation was surveyed on the frequency and presentation of psoriasis of the ear, the types of examinations performed, and the rationale for choice of treatment.

Results:

In this survey, the observed frequency of ear psoriasis was wide (10%-70%). The scalp was the most common concurrent site of extra-auricular psoriasis. Inspection of the ear was commonly reported; however, 75% of respondents report not inspecting the canal. Topical corticosteroids were the most commonly used treatment. Systemic and biologic therapies are infrequently used.

Limitations:

This study is limited by the sample size of respondents. Not every question of the survey was answered by all those surveyed.

Conclusions:

Results from our survey suggest that the evaluation of psoriasis of the ear is often not complete. Inspection of the ear, including the canal, is recommended, especially if the scalp is involved. Routine inspection of the ear is recommended both to evaluate treatment response and for potential adverse side effects. In the setting of persistent ear disease, collaboration between dermatologists and otolaryngologists is encouraged.
Lack of the multidrug transporter MRP4/ABCC4 defines the PEL-negative blood group and impairs platelet aggregation
Authors: Azouzi Slim , Mikdar Mahmoud , Hermand Patricia , Gautier Emilie-Fleur , Salnot Virginie , Willemetz Alexandra , Nicolas Gaël , Vrignaud Cédric , Raneri Alexandre , Mayeux Patrick , Bole-Feysot Christine , Nitschké Patrick , Cartron Jean-Pierre , Colin Yves , Hermine Olivier , Jedlitschky Gabriele , Cloutier Marc , Constanzo-Yanez Jessica , Ethier Carole , Robitaille Nancy , St-Louis Maryse , Le Van Kim Caroline , Peyrard Thierry
Published: December 2019

The rare PEL-negative phenotype is one of the last blood groups with an unknown genetic basis. By combining whole-exome sequencing and comparative global proteomic investigations, we found a large deletion in the ABCC4/MRP4 gene encoding an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter in PEL-negative individuals. The loss of PEL expression on ABCC4-CRISPR-Cas9 K562 cells and its overexpression in ABCC4-transfected cells provided evidence that ABCC4 is the gene underlying the PEL blood group antigen. Although ABCC4 is an important cyclic nucleotide exporter, red blood cells from ABCC4null/PEL-negative individuals exhibited a normal guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate level, suggesting a compensatory mechanism by other erythroid ABC transporters. Interestingly, PEL-negative individuals showed an impaired platelet aggregation, confirming a role for ABCC4 in platelet function. Finally, we showed that loss-of-function mutations in the ABCC4 gene, associated with leukemia outcome, altered the expression of the PEL antigen. In addition to ABCC4 genotyping, PEL phenotyping could open a new way toward drug dose adjustment for leukemia treatment.
Estimation of antioxidant, antimicrobial activity and brine shrimp toxicity of plants collected from Oymyakon region of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia
Authors: Paudel Babita , Bhattarai Hari Datta , Kim Il Chan , Lee Hyoungseok , Sofronov Roman , Ivanova Lena , Poryadina Lena , Yim Joung Han
Published: December 2019

Background

Several plants are reported to be produced various biological active compounds. Lichens from the extreme environments such as high altitude, high UV, drought and cold are believed to be synthesized unique types of secondary metabolites than the other one. Several human pathogenic bacteria and fungi have been muted into drug resistant strains. Various synthetic antioxidant compounds have posed carcinogenic effects. This phenomenon needs further research for new effective drugs of natural origin. This manuscript aimed to screen new source of biological active compounds from plants of subarctic origin.

Results

A total of 114 plant species, including 80 species of higher plants, 19 species of lichens and 15 species of mosses, were collected from Oymyakon region of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia (63˚20′N, 141˚42′E–63˚15′N, 142˚27′E). Antimicrobial, DPPH free radical scavenging and brine shrimp (Artemia salina) toxicity of all crude extract were evaluated. The obtained result was analyzed and compared with commercial standards. A total of 28 species of higher plants showed very strong antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50, 0.45-5.0 μg/mL), 13 species showed strong activity (DPPH IC50, 5-10 μg/mL), 22 species showed moderate antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50,10-20 μg/mL) and 17 species showed weak antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50 more than 20 μg/mL). Similarly, 3 species of lichen showed strong antioxidant activity, one species showed moderate and 15 species showed weak DPPH reducing activity. In addition, 4 species of mosses showed moderate antioxidant activity and 11 species showed weak antioxidant activity. Similarly, extracts of 51 species of higher plants showed antimicrobial (AM) activity against Staphylococcus aureus and 2 species showed AM activity against Candida albicans. Similarly, 11 species of lichen showed AM activity against S. aureus and 3 species showed AM activity against Escherichia coli. One species of moss showed AM activity against S. aureus. And finally, one species of higher plant Rheum compactum and one species of lichen Flavocetraria cucullata showed the toxicity against Brine shrimp larvae in 100 μg/mL of concentration.

Conclusion

The experimental results showed that subarctic plant species could be potential sources of various biologically active natural compounds.
Latitudinal diversity patterns of Chilean coastal fishes: searching for causal processes
Authors: Navarrete Arturo H , Lagos Nelson A , Ojeda F Patricio
Published: December 2019

Background

Several particular aspects of diversity patterns of Chilean littoral fishes are still poorly understood, and existing studies within this scope are fundamentally based on bibliographic compilations. In this study, we use empirical data to assess whether the diversity patterns of fish fauna along 4000 km of the Chilean coast (20°–55° S)can be explained in relation to the environmental latitudinal gradient. Fish were collected from intertidal pools and subtidal habitats (<35 m). Analyses focused on the spatial scales of diversity patterns and latitudinal breaks in species diversity, comparing the observed patterns among intertidal and subtidal habitats. Correlations between variance in environmental factors and species richness were calculated.

Results

Richness was positively autocorrelated at spatial scales <1000 km. Overall, richness was observed to progressively decrease toward higher latitudes, but values for intertidal fish in particular decreased towards the north and south from the point of maximum richness. This is a pattern that has already been recorded for other intertidal organisms. Similarity was seen to decrease with distance, and turnover point for intertidal fishes was high around 30°–32° S, while northern species disappeared between 36°–39° S. Subtidally, there is an invasion of subantarctic species between 53°–55° S.

Conclusions

Environmental variables are significant to the diversity patterns recorded. However, richness variations could result from many types of variables acting together and not from one single factor.
Sensitivity analysis of dynamic biological systems with time-delays
Authors: Wu Wu Hsiung , Wang Feng Sheng , Chang Maw Shang
Published: December 2019

Background

Mathematical modeling has been applied to the study and analysis of complex biological systems for a long time. Some processes in biological systems, such as the gene expression and feedback control in signal transduction networks, involve a time delay. These systems are represented as delay differential equation (DDE) models. Numerical sensitivity analysis of a DDE model by the direct method requires the solutions of model and sensitivity equations with time-delays. The major effort is the computation of Jacobian matrix when computing the solution of sensitivity equations. The computation of partial derivatives of complex equations either by the analytic method or by symbolic manipulation is time consuming, inconvenient, and prone to introduce human errors. To address this problem, an automatic approach to obtain the derivatives of complex functions efficiently and accurately is necessary.

Results

We have proposed an efficient algorithm with an adaptive step size control to compute the solution and dynamic sensitivities of biological systems described by ordinal differential equations (ODEs). The adaptive direct-decoupled algorithm is extended to solve the solution and dynamic sensitivities of time-delay systems describing by DDEs. To save the human effort and avoid the human errors in the computation of partial derivatives, an automatic differentiation technique is embedded in the extended algorithm to evaluate the Jacobian matrix. The extended algorithm is implemented and applied to two realistic models with time-delays: the cardiovascular control system and the TNF-α signal transduction network. The results show that the extended algorithm is a good tool for dynamic sensitivity analysis on DDE models with less user intervention.

Conclusions

By comparing with direct-coupled methods in theory, the extended algorithm is efficient, accurate, and easy to use for end users without programming background to do dynamic sensitivity analysis on complex biological systems with time-delays.
A quantitatively-modeled homozygosity mapping algorithm, qHomozygosityMapping, utilizing whole genome single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping data
Authors: Huqun*  , Fukuyama Shun-ichiro , Morino Hiroyuki , Miyazawa Hiroshi , Tanaka Tomoaki , Suzuki Tomoko , Kohda Masakazu , Kawakami Hideshi , Okazaki Yasushi , Seyama Kuniaki , Hagiwara Koichi
Published: December 2019

Homozygosity mapping is a powerful procedure that is capable of detecting recessive disease-causing genes in a few patients from families with a history of inbreeding. We report here a homozygosity mapping algorithm for high-density single nucleotide polymorphism arrays that is able to (i) correct genotyping errors, (ii) search for autozygous segments genome-wide through regions with runs of homozygous SNPs, (iii) check the validity of the inbreeding history, and (iv) calculate the probability of the disease-causing gene being located in the regions identified. The genotyping error correction restored an average of 94.2% of the total length of all regions with run of homozygous SNPs, and 99.9% of the total length of them that were longer than 2 cM. At the end of the analysis, we would know the probability that regions identified contain a disease-causing gene, and we would be able to determine how much effort should be devoted to scrutinizing the regions. We confirmed the power of this algorithm using 6 patients with Siiyama-type α1-antitrypsin deficiency, a rare autosomal recessive disease in Japan. Our procedure will accelerate the identification of disease-causing genes using high-density SNP array data.
Phylogenetic search through partial tree mixing
Authors: Sundberg Kenneth , Clement Mark , Snell Quinn , Ventura Dan , Whiting Michael , Crandall Keith
Published: December 2019

Background

Recent advances in sequencing technology have created large data sets upon which phylogenetic inference can be performed. Current research is limited by the prohibitive time necessary to perform tree search on a reasonable number of individuals. This research develops new phylogenetic algorithms that can operate on tens of thousands of species in a reasonable amount of time through several innovative search techniques.

Results

When compared to popular phylogenetic search algorithms, better trees are found much more quickly for large data sets. These algorithms are incorporated in the PSODA application available at http://dna.cs.byu.edu/psoda

Conclusions

The use of Partial Tree Mixing in a partition based tree space allows the algorithm to quickly converge on near optimal tree regions. These regions can then be searched in a methodical way to determine the overall optimal phylogenetic solution.