bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunolocalization of Substance P and NK‐1 Receptor in ADIPOSE Stem Cells
Authors: Muñoz Miguel , Muñoz Mario F. , Ayala Antonio
Published: May 2017

Substance P (SP) is a neuropeptide belonging to the thachykinin peptide family. SP, after binding to its receptor, the neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), controls several transcription factors such as NF‐κB, hypoxia inducible factor (HIF‐1α), c‐myc, c‐fos, c‐jun, and AP‐1. SP and NK1R have a widespread distribution in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. They are also present in cells not belonging to the nervous system (immune cells, placenta, etc.). SP is located in all body fluids, that is, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, etc., making it ubiquitous throughout the human body. SP and NK1R genes are expressed in the stem cell line TF‐1 and in primary stem cells derived from human placental cord blood. However, to our knowledge, the presence of SP and the NK1R receptor in adipose stem cells (ADSC) is unknown. We demonstrated by immunofluorescence the localization of SP and NK1R in human and rat ADSC. SP and NK1R are located in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus of these cells. The NK1R is higher in the nucleus than in the cytoplasm of ADSCs. By Western blot we demonstrated the presence of different isoforms of NK1R that have different subcellular locations in the ADSC. SP induces proliferation and mitogenesis through NK1R in ADSCs. These findings reported here for the first time suggest an important role for a SP/NK1R system, either as genetic and/or epigenetic factor, in both the cytoplasm and nucleus functions of the ADSCs. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4686–4696, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High density lipoprotein (HDL) reverses palmitic acid induced energy metabolism imbalance by switching CD36 and GLUT4 signaling pathways in cardiomyocyte
Authors: Wen Su‐Ying , Velmurugan Bharath Kumar , Day Cecilia Hsuan , Shen Chia‐Yao , Chun Li‐Chin , Tsai Yi‐Chieh , Lin Yueh‐Min , Chen Ray‐Jade , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: May 2017

In our previous study palmitic acid (PA) induced lipotoxicity and switches energy metabolism from CD36 to GLUT4 in H9c2 cells. Low level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) is an independent risk factor for cardiac hypertrophy. Therefore, we in the present study investigated whether HDL can reverse PA induced lipotoxicity in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells. In this study, we treated H9c2 cells with PA to create a hyperlipidemia model in vitro and analyzed for CD36 and GLUT4 metabolic pathway proteins. CD36 metabolic pathway proteins (phospho‐AMPK, SIRT1, PGC1α, PPARα, CPT1β, and CD36) were decreased by high PA (150 and 200 μg/μl) concentration. Interestingly, expression of GLUT4 metabolic pathway proteins (p‐PI3K and pAKT) were increased at low concentration (50 μg/μl) and decreased at high PA concentration. Whereas, phospho‐PKCζ, GLUT4 and PDH proteins expression was increased in a dose dependent manner. PA treated H9c2 cells were treated with HDL and analyzed for cell viability. Results showed that HDL treatment induced cell proliferation efficiency in PA treated cells. In addition, HDL reversed the metabolic effects of PA: CD36 translocation was increased and reduced GLUT4 translocation, but HDL treatment significantly increased CD36 metabolic pathway proteins and reduced GLUT4 pathway proteins. Rat neonatal cardiomyocytes showed similar results. In conclusion, HDL reversed palmatic acid‐induced lipotoxicity and energy metabolism imbalance in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells and in neonatal rat cardiomyocyte cells.
Increased expression of CD38 and HLADR in HIV‐infected patients with oral lesion
Authors: Lins Liliane , Farias Érica , Brites‐Alves Clara , Torres Alex , Netto Eduardo M. , Brites Carlos
Published: May 2017

Persistent immune actiation is associated with innadequate immune recovery in HIV‐patients. This study assessed the relationship between frequency of expression of cell activation markers (CD38 and HLADR) and presence of oral lesions in HIV‐1 infected patients. Fifty‐seven HIV‐infected persons, undergoing antiretroviral treatment, were divided into three groups, according to the number of CD4+ T cells and CD4+/CD8+ ratio: adequate, partial, and inadequate immune restauration. All patients underwent full mouth assessments for saliva flow measurement, oral mucosal lesion, periodontal disease, and severity of periodontitis. Immune activation markers levels were compared according to three groups of periodontal disease (“No periodontal disease,” “gingivitis,” and “periodontitis”). Oral mucosal lesions (P = 0.03) and peridodontal disease (P = 0.03) were associated with lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio. Patients with oral mucosal lesions had significantly higher median levels of HLADR and CD38 markers in all T‐lymphocytes populations than patients without oral lesions. Patients with gingivitis and with periodontitis presented significantly higher median levels of CD3+ HLADR+, CD4+ HLADR+, CD8+ HLADR+, and CD3+ CD38+ and significantly lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio than patients with no periodontal disease. Increased levels of HLADR and CD38 expressions in peripheral blood were associated with oral lesions in HIV‐positive patients. Periodontal disease was associated with HLADR expression.
The Frequency and Self‐perceived Impact on Daily Life of Motor and Non‐motor Symptoms in Cervical Dystonia
Authors: Smit Marenka , Bartels Anna L. , Kuiper Anouk , Kamphuis Arwen S. J. , Han Vladimir , Tijssen Marina A. J.
Published: May 2017

Background

Evidence suggests that non‐motor symptoms (NMS) are the most important predictors of decreased health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL) in patients with cervical dystonia (CD). In this study, we evaluate an NMS screening list and examine the influence of motor symptoms and NMS on HR‐QoL.

Methods

In 40 patients with CD, the frequency of NMS was evaluated using an extended NMS questionnaire. Furthermore, patients composed a list of their 5 most burdensome motor symptoms and NMS and scored the severity of predefined symptoms. HR‐QoL was examined with the RAND 36‐item Health Survey.

Results

Of 40 patients, 38 experienced NMS (median number of NMS, 6.5; range, 0–13; maximum, 15). The self‐perceived most burdensome symptoms were tremor/jerks, pain, sleep disturbances, daily‐life limitations, and fatigue. Also, of the predefined symptom list, tremor and fatigue were identified as the most disturbing. Several domains of HR‐QoL were significantly influenced by NMS, whereas motor symptoms had only a small influence on the physical functioning domain of HR‐QoL.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the impact of NMS on HR‐QoL and emphasize the importance of a standardized, validated NMS questionnaire for patients with dystonia. This would enable us to monitor the effect of treatment for motor symptoms and NMS on an individual basis and improve treatment options.
Which ante mortem clinical features predict progressive supranuclear palsy pathology?
Authors: Respondek Gesine , Kurz Carolin , Arzberger Thomas , Compta Yaroslau , Englund Elisabet , Ferguson Leslie W. , Gelpi Ellen , Giese Armin , Irwin David J. , Meissner Wassilios G. , Nilsson Christer , Pantelyat Alexander , Rajput Alex , van Swieten John C. , Troakes Claire , Josephs Keith A. , Lang Anthony E. , Mollenhauer Brit , Müller Ulrich , Whitwell Jennifer L. , Antonini Angelo , Bhatia Kailash P. , Bordelon Yvette , Corvol Jean‐Christophe , Colosimo Carlo , Dodel Richard , Grossman Murray , Kassubek Jan , Krismer Florian , Levin Johannes , Lorenzl Stefan , Morris Huw , Nestor Peter , Oertel Wolfgang H. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Rowe James B. , van Eimeren Thilo , Wenning Gregor K. , Boxer Adam , Golbe Lawrence I. , Litvan Irene , Stamelou Maria , Höglinger Günter U. ,   for the Movement Disorder Society‐Endorsed PSP Study Group
Published: May 2017

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neuropathologically defined disease presenting with a broad spectrum of clinical phenotypes.

Objective

To identify clinical features and investigations that predict or exclude PSP pathology during life, aiming at an optimization of the clinical diagnostic criteria for PSP.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the literature published since 1996 to identify clinical features and investigations that may predict or exclude PSP pathology. We then extracted standardized data from clinical charts of patients with pathologically diagnosed PSP and relevant disease controls and calculated the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of key clinical features for PSP in this cohort.

Results

Of 4166 articles identified by the database inquiry, 269 met predefined standards. The literature review identified clinical features predictive of PSP, including features of the following 4 functional domains: ocular motor dysfunction, postural instability, akinesia, and cognitive dysfunction. No biomarker or genetic feature was found reliably validated to predict definite PSP. High‐quality original natural history data were available from 206 patients with pathologically diagnosed PSP and from 231 pathologically diagnosed disease controls (54 corticobasal degeneration, 51 multiple system atrophy with predominant parkinsonism, 53 Parkinson's disease, 73 behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia). We identified clinical features that predicted PSP pathology, including phenotypes other than Richardson's syndrome, with varying sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the clinical variability of PSP and the high prevalence of phenotypes other than Richardson's syndrome. The features of variant phenotypes with high specificity and sensitivity should serve to optimize clinical diagnosis of PSP. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Magnetic resonance neurography and diffusion tensor imaging of the peripheral nerves in patients with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth Type 1A
Authors: Vaeggemose Michael , Vaeth Signe , Pham Mirko , Ringgaard Steffen , Jensen Uffe B. , Tankisi Hatice , Ejskjaer Niels , Heiland Sabine , Andersen Henning
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Investigation of peripheral neuropathies by magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) may provide increased diagnostic accuracy when performed in combination with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). This study seeks to evaluate DTI in the detection of neuropathic abnormalities in Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth type 1A (CMT1A).

Methods

MRI of the sciatic and tibial nerves, including MRN and DTI, was prospectively performed in 15 CMT1A patients and 30 healthy controls (HCs). The following MRI parameters were evaluated and correlated with clinical and neurophysiological findings: T2‐relaxation time, proton spin density (PD) and DTI (fractional anisotropy [FA] and apparent diffusion coefficient [ADC]).

Results

DTI showed lower FA and higher ADC in CMT1A compared with HCs. T2 relaxation time showed no difference; however, PD of the sciatic nerve was higher in CMT1A. There were some close associations between neuropathy severity and MRN‐DTI, with the closest correlation between FA and nerve conduction velocity in the sciatic nerve (r = 0.76, P < 0.01).

Discussion

MRN‐DTI evaluation of sciatic and tibial nerves improves the detection of nerve abnormalities in patients with CMT1A. Muscle Nerve 56: E78–E84, 2017
Costs of cancer care in children and adolescents in Ontario, Canada
Authors: de Oliveira Claire , Bremner Karen E. , Liu Ning , Greenberg Mark L. , Nathan Paul C. , McBride Mary L. , Krahn Murray D.
Published: May 2017

Background

Cancer in children and adolescents presents unique issues regarding treatment and survivorship, but few studies have measured economic burden. We estimated health care costs by phase of cancer care, from the public payer perspective, in population‐based cohorts.

Methods

Children newly diagnosed at ages 0 days–14.9 years and adolescents newly diagnosed at 15–19.9 years, from January 1, 1995 to June 30, 2010, were identified from Ontario cancer registries, and each matched to three noncancer controls. Data were linked with administrative records describing resource use for cancer and other health care. Total and net (patients minus controls) resource‐specific costs ($CAD2012) were estimated using generalized estimating equations for four phases of care: prediagnosis (60 days), initial (360 days), continuing (variable), final (360 days).

Results

Mean ages at diagnosis were 6 years for children (N = 4,606) and 17 years for adolescents (N = 2,443). Mean net prediagnosis phase 60‐day costs were $6,177 for children and $1,018 for adolescents. Costs for initial, continuing, and final phases were $138,161, $15,756, and $316,303 per 360 days for children, and $62,919, $7,071, and $242,008 for adolescents. The highest initial phase costs were for leukemia patients ($156,225 per 360 days for children and $171,275 for adolescents). The final phase was the most costly ($316,303 per 360 days for children and $242,008 for adolescents).

Conclusions

Costs for children with cancer are much higher than for adolescents and much higher than those reported in adults. Comprehensive population‐based long‐term estimates of cancer costs are useful for health services planning and cost‐effectiveness analysis.
The effect of multiwalled carbon nanotube and crosslinking degree on creep–recovery behavior of PET waste originated‐polyurethanes and their nanocomposites
Authors: Shamsi Ramin , Asghari Gholam Hosein , Mir Mohamad Sadeghi Gity , Nazarpour‐Fard Hamed
Published: May 2017

The polyester diol obtained from the glycolysis of the recycled PET flakes was used to synthesize the polyurethanes of PU‐1, PU‐1.7, and PU‐2 that the numbers indicate the isocyanate to hydroxyl groups (NCO/OH) molar ratios. The nanocomposites of PUs with hydroxylated multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) (PUCNT‐1.7 and PUCNT‐2) were synthesized via in situ polymerization, while the PUCNT‐1 was not synthesized due to the steric hinderance effect of MWCNT. It was shown that the NCO/OH molar ratios and the added MWCNT govern the crosslink degree of the samples. Because, the good creep–recovery behavior of the under‐loaded polymers in long time applications has remarkable importance for polymer engineers, the creep–recovery behavior of PUs and their nanocomposites was studied by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Nevertheless, there has been no report on the creep–recovery behavior of these PET originated polyurethanes. The well‐known models of Power law and Burgers (for fitting the creep experimental data), and Weibull model (for fitting the recovery experimental data) showed the good agreements with the empirical data. The creep strain of the samples was in the order PU‐1 > PUCNT‐1.7 > PU‐2 > PU‐1.7 > PUCNT‐2. It was found that the crosslink‐degree of the samples and also the opposing effects of MWCNT (the reinforcing and hindrance effects) are the important parameters that govern Young modulus, creep, and recovery of the samples. PU‐1.7 due to its higher crosslink‐degree showed the lower creep–recovery strain in comparison to PU‐2 and PU‐1. The lower creep–recovery strain of PUCNT‐2 as compared to other samples can be attributed to the dominant reinforcing effect of MWCNT in this sample, whereas the high creep–recovery strain of PUCNT‐1.7 was assigned to the dominant hindrance effect of MWCNT. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1013–E1024, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Predictors of Response in Emergency Department Patients Receiving Intravenous Opioids for Severe Pain
Authors: Radcliff Jacob A. , Rafeq Rachel M. , Bowen Jane F. , Pontiggia Laura , Sen Sanchita
Published: May 2017

The primary objective of this study was to identify significant environmental and patient characteristics of emergency department (ED) patients who responded to intravenous (IV) hydromorphone and IV morphine for severe pain. Secondary objectives were to investigate the individual effect of the significant environmental and patient characteristics of responders, and to assess the nature and strength of the correlation of initial dose and change in pain score from arrival to pre‐administration. A retrospective chart review was performed in patients who received IV hydromorphone or morphine in the ED for severe pain. Key evaluated patient characteristics included patient demographics, recent opioid use, history of drug or alcohol abuse, and pain location, among others. Key evaluated environmental characteristics included initial opioid administered, time to first dose, initial pain score, and initial dose of opioid administered, among others. Environmental and patient characteristics associated with response to pain management were first identified using bivariate analyses and then entered into a multiple stepwise logistic regression mode. Patients were excluded if they were younger than 18 years, did not have a follow‐up pain score within 2 hours of drug administration, or if they were discharged from the ED within 1 hour of administration. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were grouped into two cohorts based on response and lack of response to treatment. A total of 200 patients were included. A decrease in pain score from arrival until pre‐administration pain score and an inactive tobacco history had a positive association with response (odds ratio [OR] 1.488, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.088–2.036, p=0.013, and OR 1.835, 95% CI 0.801–4.200, overall p=0.022, respectively). A higher initial dose and an active tobacco history had a negative association with response (OR 0.715, 95% CI 0.580–0.881, p=0.002, and OR 0.582, 95% CI 0.296–1.144, overall p=0.022, respectively). Two characteristics were associated with response to IV opioid pain management in the ED, inactive tobacco history and an increase in pain score from arrival until pre‐administration, and two characteristics were associated with nonresponse to IV opioid pain management in the ED, active tobacco history and a higher initial dose. Previous literature supports both characteristics identified as risk factors but does not support either characteristic identified as protective factors, prompting the need for further research.
Triple responsive block copolymers combining pH‐responsive, thermoresponsive, and glucose‐responsive behaviors
Authors: Brooks William L. A. , Vancoillie Gertjan , Kabb Christopher P. , Hoogenboom Richard , Sumerlin Brent S.
Published: May 2017

Polymers with multiple tunable responses were achieved by incorporating boronic acid functionality along the backbone of a thermoresponsive polymer. The inherent Lewis acidity and diol‐sensitivity of boronic acid moieties allowed these polymers to respond to changes in pH and glucose concentration. Through reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer copolymerization of boronic acid‐containing monomers with N‐isopropylacrylamide, well‐defined block copolymers were synthesized containing a hydrophilic N,N‐dimethylacrylamide block and a second, responsive block with temperature‐dependent water solubility, making the resulting polymers capable of self‐assembly into nanostructures upon heating. By incorporating boronic acids within the thermoresponsive block, the cloud point of the polymer depended on the solution conditions, including pH and diol concentration, allowing tunable cloud point ranges. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2309–2317
Designing Mountaintop Cloud Experiments
Authors: Carlton Annmarie , Barth Mary , Lance Sara
Published: May 2017

Whiteface Mountain Cloud Chemistry Workshop; Wilmington, New York, 16–17 September 2016
A New Theory May Explain “Impossible” TRAPPIST-1 Planets
Authors: Hall Shannon
Published: May 2017

The proposed formation scenario relies on unconventional processes to account for a bevy of seven Earth-sized exoplanets recently found orbiting an unlikely star.
Joint channel estimation and detection using Markov chain Monte Carlo method over sparse underwater acoustic channels
Authors: Jing Lianyou , He Chengbing , Huang Jianguo , Ding Zhi
Published: May 2017

This study proposes a novel approach to joint channel estimation and detection of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing transmission over underwater acoustic (UWA) multipath channels exhibiting cluster sparsity. Unlike most sparse channel estimations, the authors exploit the cluster‐sparsity characteristic of UWA channels without additional prior information. They adopt a modified spike‐and‐slab prior model in their non‐parametric Bayesian learning framework. To avoid the need for a closed‐form Bayesian estimate, they apply the Markov chain Monte Carlo technique to joint achieve channel estimation and signal detection. The proposed solution is amenable to being integrated with soft‐input soft‐output decoding to improve the performance through turbo iteration. Simulation results demonstrate improved bit error rate of the proposed algorithm over existing algorithms.
BCoPS: an energy‐efficient routing protocol with coverage preservation
Authors: Noh Youngtae , Lee Donghun
Published: May 2017

In wireless sensor networks, an energy‐efficient routing protocol plays a crucial role in extending the lifetime of the network. In order to realise this, an optimal coverage‐preserving scheme (OCoPS) has been proposed by Boukerche et al. in 2005 as an add‐on to the Low‐energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) protocol. This scheme operates alongside another coverage‐preserving scheme that excludes redundant nodes if their on‐duty neighbours fully overlap in terms of their sensing ranges, hence saving energy. In this study, the authors propose a central angle decision algorithm that ensures that it does not introduce any coverage hole after applying the coverage‐preserving scheme. They also propose a base station (BS)‐aided clustering routing protocol with a coverage‐preserving scheme (BCoPS) to assess the applicability of the authors’ proposed algorithm to routing protocols and verify the performance gains. In BCoPS, energy‐intensive tasks for deployed sensor nodes are substituted by the BS to ensure longer network lifetime. The performance of the BCoPS was compared to that of LEACH and OCoPS. The results of simulations carried out in considered scenarios showed that BCoPS outperformed OCoPS by >20% in terms of network lifetime in general, and by >30% when the coverage rate was higher than 80%.
Maximum correntropy sparse Gauss–Hermite quadrature filter and its application in tracking ballistic missile
Authors: Qin Wutao , Wang Xiaogang , Cui Naigang
Published: May 2017

A novel robust filter referred as maximum correntropy sparse Gauss–Hermite quadrature filter (MCSGHQF) is proposed. The novel algorithm makes use of the sparse Gauss–Hermite quadrature (SGHQ) rule to numerically compute Gaussian‐weighted integrals, which are propagated through non‐linear state equation, and then a weighted means and covariance is taken. As the sensor measurements are always corrupted by non‐Gaussian noise which is typically glint noise or mixed Gaussian‐impulsive noise, the measurement update is redesigned based on the maximum correntropy criterion instead of minimum mean square error. Therefore, the MCSGHQF could exhibit robustness to the non‐Gaussian measurement noise, especially impulsive noise. In addition, the study proposes the use of MCSGHQF for ballistic missile tracking during midcourse phase to deal with the non‐Gaussian noise. The tracking performance is compared with that of SGHQ filter (SGHQF), Huber‐based filter and extended Kalman filter by Monte‐Carlo simulations. The simulation results demonstrate that the MCSGHQF is effective in glint noise case and exhibits superior to Huber‐based filter in mixed Gaussian‐impulsive noise case.
Fundamental trade-offs between information flow in single cells and cellular populations
Authors: Suderman Ryan , Bachman John A. , Smith Adam , Sorger Peter K. , Deeds Eric J.
Published: May 2017

Significance

The function of signal transduction networks is to detect changes in the extracellular environment and combine this with information on intracellular state and thereby control cell-fate decisions. Recent evidence suggests that high levels of biochemical noise in eukaryotic signaling networks interfere with information transmission, making it unclear how cell fate is correctly controlled. Here, we show that high noise levels are advantageous when a system needs to regulate the behavior of populations of cells using noisy biological signals. In contrast, when the key biological unit is a single cell, we show that the impact of noise on cellular responses is much less pronounced. Understanding how noise is generated and exploited advances our understanding of information processing in cells.
Combined HMG-COA reductase and prenylation inhibition in treatment of CCM
Authors: Nishimura Sayoko , Mishra-Gorur Ketu , Park JinSeok , Surovtseva Yulia V. , Sebti Said M. , Levchenko Andre , Louvi Angeliki , Gunel Murat
Published: May 2017

Significance

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are common vascular anomalies of the central nervous system that can lead to seizures, focal neurological deficits, and brain hemorrhage. Clinical options are limited mainly to treatment of symptoms or surgical resection, and targeted pharmacological therapy is lacking. Here we undertake a high-throughput screen and identify fluvastatin and zoledronate, two drugs already approved for clinical use for other indications, which act synergistically to reverse outcomes of CCM3 loss. Used in combination, fluvastatin and zoledronate effectively attenuate neural and vascular deficits in mouse models of CCM in vivo, significantly reducing formation of lesions and extending longevity. Our studies suggest that combined therapy targeting the mevalonate pathway might have therapeutic effects in CCM disease.
Impact of an Integrated Antibiotic Allergy Testing Program on Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Multicenter Evaluation
Authors: Trubiano Jason A , Thursky Karin A , Stewardson Andrew J , Urbancic Karen , Worth Leon J , Jackson Cheryl , Stevenson Wendy , Sutherland Michael , Slavin Monica A , Grayson M Lindsay , Phillips Elizabeth J
Published: May 2017

An integrated antibiotic allergy testing program resulted in increased prescribing of narrow-spectrum β-lactams and reduction in restricted antibiotics and inappropriate prescriptions. The program effectively and safely de-labeled patients, with >80% of antibiotic allergy labels removed following testing.
Association Between Neurotrophic Factor Expression and Pain-Related Behavior Induced by Nucleus Pulposus Applied to Rat Nerve Root
Authors: Seki Shinobu , Sekiguchi Miho , Konno Shin-ichi
Published: May 2017

Study Design.

An experimental animal study.

Objective.

To investigate the relationship between pain-related behavior and the expression of neurotrophic factors in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) using a nucleus pulposus (NP) rat model.

Summary of Background Data.

Neurotrophic factors are released from activated glial cells and are associated with pain-related behavior. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophic factor that is induced by inflammation.

Methods.

Rats were divided into an NP group (n = 94) and a sham-operated group (n = 46). NP harvested from the tail was applied to the left L5 DRG. Rats in the NP group were then divided into five subgroups: one non-treatment and four treatment groups. In the treatment groups, a dose of anti-NGF antibody or phosphate-buffered saline was administered into the DRG. Behavioral testing was performed to investigate the mechanical withdrawal threshold of the left hind paw for all groups. Immunohistochemical localization of NGF, phosphorylated p38 (p38), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the DRGs and SCs was performed, and the numbers of immunoreactive (IR) cells were counted.

Results.

The withdrawal threshold in the nontreatment NP group was significantly decreased for 35 days, and that of the middle- and high-dose treatment rats was significantly higher than the phosphate-buffered saline group values. In the DRG, NGF-IR, p38-IR, and BDNF-IR cells were increased for days 21. In the SC, BDNF-IR, and p38-IR cells were increased from days 7 to 21.

Conclusion.

In the DRG, NGF expression increased, mechanical thresholds were reduced, and p38 and BDNF expression was increased in the NP group. p38 and BDNF expression was increased in SC neurons during the same period. Inhibition of NGF may be a potential treatment for neuropathic pain due to lumbar disc herniation.

Level of Evidence: 5
T1D Autoantibodies: room for improvement?
Authors: Yu Liping , Zhao Zhiyuan , Steck Andrea K.
Published: May 2017

Purpose of review

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is now predictable by measuring major islet autoantibodies (IAbs) against insulin and other pancreatic β cells proteins including GAD65 (GADA), islet antigen 2 (IA-2A), and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8A). The assay technology for IAbs has made great progress; however, several important aspects still need to be addressed and improved.

Recent findings

Currently a radio-binding assay has been well established as the ‘gold’ standard assay for all four IAbs. New generation of nonradioactive IAb assay with electrochemiluminescence technology has been shown to further improve sensitivity and disease specificity. Recently, multiplexed assays have opened the possibility of more efficient screening in large populations. Identification of potential new autoantibodies to neo-antigens or neo-epitopes posttranslational modification is a new important field to be explored.

Individuals having a single positive autoantibody are at low risk for progression to T1D, whereas individuals expressing two or more positive autoantibodies, especially on multiple tests over time, have nearly 100% risk of developing clinical T1D when followed for over two decades. More efficient and cost effective IAb assays will hopefully lead to point-of-care screening in the general population.
Cosmetic bone contouring
Authors: Rodman Regina
Published: May 2017

Purpose of review

In recent years, cosmetic bone contouring surgery has become increasingly popular, especially in East Asian countries. These procedures are also being requested by patients in the United States at an increasing rate. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of what is involved with these procedures and their potential complications.

Recent findings

In some cultures, a wide jaw and a square face are aesthetically unpleasing, whereas an ovoid or ‘melon seed face’ is thought to be feminine, delicate and beautiful. Mandibular angloplasty, mandibular lateral cortex excision, reduction malarplasty, as well as genioplasty may be performed to alter the facial contour and bring about dramatic results.

Whether a surgeon choses to incorporate these procedures into practice or not, the craniofacial surgeons should be familiar with the procedures as well as the potential complications.
Update on injectables in the nose
Authors: Wang Leo L. , Friedman Oren
Published: May 2017

Purpose of review

The use of injectable fillers for nonsurgical rhinoplasty has increased tremendously over the past decade. This review describes the most commonly used fillers and their indications in the context of recent reports of both their successes and failures.

Recent findings

Hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite are the two most commonly used fillers for injection. Recent studies have found that most injectable fillers are met with success and patient satisfaction, but vascular complications are still a serious problem of which physicians should be wary.

Injectable fillers should continue to be considered for patients on a case-by-case basis, but physicians should be knowledgeable of the various filler types, their indications, and injection technique to prevent serious complications.
An update on the impact of food allergy on anxiety and quality of life
Authors: Shaker Marcus S. , Schwartz Jonathan , Ferguson Morgan
Published: May 2017

Purpose of review

Food allergies have become more common, and management involves dietary avoidance that can impair quality of life. Patients and families must manage the daily risk of anaphylaxis at each meal. The purpose of this review is to describe the impact of food allergies on quality of life and to provide an update on new developments in food allergy management, particularly peanut allergy.

Recent findings

Food allergy requires careful avoidance of common and ubiquitous dietary allergens. Living with food allergy is associated with annual economic costs in excess of $4000 per child, in addition to risks of anxiety and depressive symptoms. An expert panel sponsored by the 2017 National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases published addendum guidelines for the prevention of peanut allergy, which suggest three separate approaches to peanut protein introduction for infants at various levels of risk.

Clinicians must be aware of underappreciated burdens faced by children and families with food allergies. Management involves a partnership between primary and specialty care. Mitigation strategies to improve quality of life for patients include efforts to avoid overdiagnosis in synergy with balanced counseling about the risks of food allergies. Experimental food allergen desensitization can improve quality of life but remains investigational at this time. For patients with significant anxiety, interdisciplinary management involving professional counseling may be helpful. Risk stratification and early introduction of peanut protein can help prevent the development of peanut allergy.
Organizational, Regional, and Community Factors Determining Protocol Compliance for Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tai Teresa W. , Bame Sherry I. , Patidar Nitish
Published: May 2017

This study examined factors determining hospital compliance to Hospital Quality Alliance's protocol for patients with myocardial infarction. Using a spatially matched sample of 132 Magnet and 264 non-Magnet hospitals, multivariate regressions determined significant hospital characteristics associated with compliance per Hospital Quality Alliance protocol. Adherence to the Hospital Quality Alliance protocols varied widely by hospital characteristics. Registered nurse staffing/bed was a key factor determining patient care quality variation. Quality of care practices such as protocol compliance should be measured and examined separately.
Relationship Between Psychological Safety and Reporting Nonadherence to a Safety Checklist
Authors: Gilmartin Heather M. , Langner Paula , Gokhale Madhura , Osatuke Katerine , Hasselbeck Rachael , Maddox Thomas M. , Battaglia Catherine
Published: May 2017

Patient safety checklists are ubiquitous in health care. Nurses bear significant responsibility for ensuring checklist adherence. To report nonadherence to a checklist and stop an unsafe procedure, a workplace climate of psychological safety is needed. Thus, an analysis of organizational data was conducted to examine the relationship between psychological safety and reports of nonadherence to the central line bundle checklist. Results showed varied perceptions of psychological safety but no relationship with nonadherence. Considerations for this finding and assessing psychological safety are provided.
Automated Medication Error Risk Assessment System (Auto-MERAS)
Authors: Kang Min-Jeoung , Jin Yinji , Jin Taixian , Lee Sun-Mi
Published: May 2017

This study developed the Automated Medical Error Risk Assessment System (Auto-MERAS), which was incorporated into the electronic health record system. The system itself maintained high predictive validity for medication errors at the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of above 0.80 at the time of development and validation. This study has found possibilities to predict the risk of medication errors that are sensitive to situational and environmental risks without additional data entry from nurses.
The opioid epidemic and national guidelines for opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain: a perspective from different continents
Authors: Häuser Winfried , Schug Stephan , Furlan Andrea D.
Published: May 2017

Introduction:

A marked rise in opioid prescriptions for patients with chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) with a parallel increase in opioid abuse/misuse, and resulting deaths was noted in the Unites states in the past decade (opioid epidemic). In response, the US Center of Diseases Control (CDC) developed a guideline for prescribing of opioids for patients with CNCP.

Objectives:

To assess (1) if there is an opioid epidemic in Australia, Canada, and Germany (2) to compare Australian, Canadian, German, and Center of Diseases Control guidelines recommendations for long-term opioid therapy for CNCP.

Methods:

National evidence-based guidelines and PubMed were searched for recommendations for opioid prescriptions for CNCP.

Results:

There are signs of an opioid epidemic in Australia and Canada, but not in Germany. Guidelines in all 4 countries provide similar recommendations: opioids are not the first-line therapy for patients with CNCP; regular clinical assessments of benefits and harms are necessary; excessive doses should be avoided (recommended morphine equivalent daily doses range from 50 to 200 mg/d); stopping rules should be followed. All guidelines do not recommend the use of opioids in chronic pain conditions without an established nociceptive or neuropathic cause such as fibromyalgia and primary headache.

Conclusion:

Implementation of opioid prescribing guidelines should ensure that physicians prescribe opioids only for appropriate indications in limited doses for selected patients and advice patients on their safe use. These measures could contribute to reduce prescription opioid misuse/abuse and deaths.
Cytomegalovirus disease in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients: current and future therapeutic options
Authors: Fuji Shigeo , Einsele Hermann , Kapp Markus
Published: May 2017

Purpose of review

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) has become one of the standard treatment for hematological diseases. Although the clinical outcome has improved significantly during the last decades, the morbidity and mortality after allo-HSCT are still obstacles to cure. Out of major morbidities, opportunistic virus infections such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection are important complications, in particular in patients who received human leukocyte antigen-mismatched HSCT. Here, we aim to summarize information about current and future therapeutic options in CMV disease after allo-HSCT.

Recent findings

Recently, not only new drugs but also adoptive T-cell therapy are tested in the setting of clinical trials. CMV prophylaxis using letermovir significantly reduced the incidence of CMV disease in comparison to placebo in a phase III clinical trial. Meanwhile, adoptive T-cell therapies which are fully adapted to good manufacturing practice (GMP) conditions are now available. A recent multicenter study in Germany showed a promising result using Streptamer-isolated T-cell therapy.

With the recent development of CMV-targeted therapy, treatment strategies of CMV infection would be further sophisticated in the near future.

Video abstract

http://links.lww.com/COID/A19.
Automated surveillance of healthcare-associated infections: state of the art
Authors: Sips Meander E. , Bonten Marc J.M. , van Mourik Maaike S.M.
Published: May 2017

Purpose of review

This review describes recent advances in the field of automated surveillance of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), with a focus on data sources and the development of semiautomated or fully automated algorithms.

Recent findings

The availability of high-quality data in electronic health records and a well-designed information technology (IT) infrastructure to access these data are indispensable for successful implementation of automated HAI surveillance. Previous studies have demonstrated that reliance on stand-alone administrative data is generally unsuited as sole case-finding strategy. Recent attempts to combine multiple administrative and clinical data sources in algorithms yielded more reliable results. Current surveillance practices are mostly limited to single healthcare facilities, but future linkage of multiple databases in a network may allow interfacility surveillance. Although prior surveillance algorithms were often straightforward decision trees based on structured data, recent studies have used a wide variety of techniques for case-finding, including logistic regression and various machine learning methods. In the future, natural language processing may enable the use of unstructured narrative data.

Developments in healthcare IT are rapidly changing the landscape of HAI surveillance. The electronic availability and incorporation of routine care data in surveillance algorithms enhances the reliability, efficiency and standardization of surveillance practices.
The Experience of Living With an Ileoanal Pouch
Authors: Sammut Jacqueline , Xuereb Rita Borg , Scerri Josianne
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of individuals living with an ileoanal pouch. A qualitative, phenomenological methodology was used to elicit detailed accounts of the impact of living with an ileoanal pouch. Ten individuals having an ileoanal pouch, formed as a consequence of ulcerative colitis, participated in the study. Semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. The following 4 themes emerged from the analysis: “a flood of emotions”; “changed body image”; “changes in lifestyle”; and “intimacy and sexual relationships.” Participants indicated that their quality of life after surgery has improved because they were no longer suffering from the devastating symptoms of ulcerative colitis. However, a considerable number of these participants disclosed that they are still living a restricted lifestyle and reported profound changes not only in their physical self but also in their social and sexual relationships. By acknowledging these experiences, healthcare professionals have the potential to improve the psychological, sexual, and social care that these individuals receive.
Oral diseases: a 14-year experience of a Chilean institution with a systematic review from eight countries
Authors: Rivera César , Jones-Herrera Carolina , Vargas Pablo , Venegas Bernardo , Droguett Daniel
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Retrospective studies to assess the distribution of oral diseases (ODs) are helpful in estimating the prevalence of oral diagnoses in the population, and thus help in preventive and curative services. Prevalence and frequency data for ODs are available from many countries, but information from Chile is scarce.

METHODS

This study investigated the frequency of ODs in a Chilean population. For this, we included all patients treated at the University of Talca (UTALCA, Chile) between 2001 and 2014. Patient characteristics were retrieved from medical files. To contextualize our results, we conducted a systematic review (SystRev) using Publish or Perish software (PoP), Google Scholar and MEDLINE/PubMed.

RESULTS

One hundred sixty-six ODs were diagnosed, and the most prevalent groups were soft tissue tumours, epithelial pathology and salivary gland pathology. Individually, irritation fibroma, oral lichen planus (OLP) and mucocele were the most common diagnoses. ODs frequently affected unspecified parts of the mouth (including cheek, vestibule and retromolar area), gum, lips, tongue and palate. In the SystRev, the more studied diagnoses were leukoplakia, OLP and recurrent aphthous stomatitis; prevalent lesions included Fordyce’s spots, recurrent aphthous stomatitis and fissured tongue. Chilean patients and SistRev shared almost all ODs.

CONCLUSION

The results reflect ODs diagnosed in a specialized service of oral pathology and medicine in Chile and will allow the establishment of preventive/curative policies, adequate health services and dentistry curriculum.
Organ-specific NLR resistance gene expression varies with plant symbiotic status
Authors: Munch David , Gupta Vikas , Bachmann Asger , Busch Wolfgang , Kelly Simon , Mun Terry , Andersen Stig Uggerhøj
Published: May 2017

Nucleotide-binding site leucine-rich repeat resistance genes (NLRs) allow plants to detect microbial effectors. We hypothesized that NLR expression patterns would reflect organ-specific differences in effector challenge and tested this by carrying out a meta-analysis of expression data for 1,235 NLRs from 9 plant species. We found stable NLR root/shoot expression ratios within species, suggesting organ-specific hardwiring of NLR expression patterns in anticipation of distinct challenges. Most monocot and dicot plant species preferentially expressed NLRs in roots. In contrast,Brassicaceaespecies, including oilseed rape and the model plantArabidopsis thaliana, were unique in showing NLR expression skewed towards the shoot across multiple phylogenetically distinct groups of NLRs. TheBrassicaceaeNLR expression shift coincides with loss of the endomycorrhization pathway, which enables intracellular root infection by symbionts. We propose that its loss offer two likely explanations for the unusualBrassicaceaeNLR expression pattern: loss of NLR-guarded symbiotic components and elimination of constraints on general root defences associated with exempting symbionts from targeting. This hypothesis is consistent with the existence ofBrassicaceae-specific receptors for conserved microbial molecules and suggests thatBrassicaceaespecies are rich sources of unique antimicrobial root defences.
Oxidative-phosphorylation genes from the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes co-express in all human tissues except for the ancient brain
Authors: Barshad Gilad , Blumberg Amit , Mishmar Dan
Published: May 2017

In humans, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), the cellular energy producer, harbors ∼90 nuclear DNA (nDNA)- and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-encoded subunits. Although nDNA- and mtDNA-encoded OXPHOS proteins physically interact, their transcriptional regulation profoundly diverges, thus questioning their co-regulation. To address mtDNA-nDNA gene co-expression, we analyzed ∼8,500 RNA-seq Gene-Tissue-Expression (GTEx) experiments encompassing 48 human tissues. We found overall positive cross-tissue mtDNA-nDNA OXPHOS gene co-expression. Nevertheless, alternatively-spliced variants, as well as certain OXPHOS genes, did not converge into the main OXPHOS gene cluster, suggesting tissue-specific flavor of OXPHOS gene expression. Finally, unlike non-brain body sites, and neocortex and cerebellum (‘mammalian’ brain), negative mito-nuclear expression correlation was found in the hypothalamus, basal ganglia and amygdala (‘ancient brain’). Analyses of co-expression, DNase-seq and ChIP-seq experiments identified candidate RNA-binding genes and CEBPb as best explaining this phenomenon. We suggest that evolutionary convergence of the ‘mammalian’ brain into positive mtDNA-nDNA OXPHOS co-expression reflects adjustment to novel bioenergetics needs.
No compelling evidence that preferences for facial masculinity track changes in women’s hormonal status
Authors: Jones Benedict C , Hahn Amanda C , Fisher Claire I , Wang Hongyi , Kandrik Michal , Han Chengyang , Fasolt Vanessa , Morrison Danielle , Lee Anthony J , Holzleitner Iris J , O’Shea Kieran J , Roberts Craig , Little Anthony C , DeBruine Lisa M
Published: May 2017

Although widely cited as strong evidence that sexual selection has shaped human facial attractiveness judgments, evidence that preferences for masculine characteristics in men’s faces are related to women’s hormonal status is equivocal and controversial. Consequently, we conducted the largest ever longitudinal study of the hormonal correlates of women’s preferences for facial masculinity (N=584). Analyses showed no compelling evidence that preferences for facial masculinity were related to changes in women’s salivary steroid hormone levels. Furthermore, both within-subject and between-subject comparisons showed no evidence that oral contraceptive use decreased masculinity preferences. However, women generally preferred masculinized over feminized versions of men’s faces, particularly when assessing men’s attractiveness for short-term, rather than long-term, relationships. Our results do not support the hypothesized link between women’s preferences for facial masculinity and their hormonal status.