bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological, clinical and prognostic profile of childhood acute bacterial meningitis in a resource poor setting
Authors: Kuti Bankole Peter , Bello Emmanuel Olasehinde , Jegede Tolulope Opeoluwa , Olubosede Omolayo
Published: September 2015

Background: Childhood bacterial meningitis is a neurologic emergency that continues to kill and maims children particularly in developing countries with poor immunization coverage. Objective: This study set out to assess the hospital incidence, pattern of presentation, etiologic agents, outcome and determinants of mortality among the children admitted with bacterial meningitis at the Wesley Guild Hospital (WGH), Ilesa. Patients and Methods: We carried out a retrospective review of admitted cases of bacterial meningitis in children aged one month to 15 years at the WGH, Ilesa over a three year period by looking at the hospital records. Factors in the history and examinations were compared among survivors and those that died to determine factors significantly associated with mortality in these children. Results: Eighty-one (5.5%) of the 1470 childhood admissions during the study period had bacterial meningitis. Male preponderance was observed and two-thirds of the children were infants. More cases were admitted during the wet rainy season than during the dry harmattan season. Haemophilus influenzae type B and Streptococcus pneumoniae were the leading etiologic agents and ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone adequately cover for these organisms. Twenty-two (27.2%) of the 81 children died, while 34 (42.0%) survived with neurologic deficits. Children with multiple seizures, coma, neck retraction, hyponatremia, hypoglycorrhachia, turbid CSF as well as Gram positive meningitis at presentation were found to more likely to die (P < 0.05). None of these factors however independently predict mortality. Conclusion: Childhood bacterial meningitis often results in death and neurologic deficit among infants and young children admitted at the WGH, Ilesa. Children diagnosed with meningitis who in addition had multiple seizures, neck retraction and coma at presentation are at increased risk of dying.
Infratentorial posterior circulation stroke in a Nigerian population: Clinical characteristics, risk factors, and predictors of outcome
Authors: Owolabi Lukman Femi , Ibrahim Aliyu , Musa Ibrahim
Published: September 2015

Background: Posterior circulation stroke (PCS), though less common, differs from stroke in anterior circulation in many aspects. Relatively, it portends a poorer prognosis. However, there is a paucity of data from African countries, in particular, where stroke is a menace. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the etiology, clinical characteristics, outcome, and predictors of outcome in a cohort of patients with IPCS in Northwestern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Out of 595 patients with stroke, we prospectively analyzed 57 patients with PCS in a Tertiary Care Center in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria. Patients were analyzed for demographic data, risk factors, clinical characteristics, stroke subtypes, mortality, and predictors of mortality. Results: Posterior circulation ischemic stroke accounted for 57 (9.6%) of 595 of all strokes seen in the study period. They comprised 44 males (mean age 47.8 ± 17.7) and 13 females (mean age 46.3 ± 13.7). Overall, their age ranged between 24 and 90 (mean age 47.4 ± 16.7). However, 52.7% of the patients were < 45 years of age. The most common site affected was the cerebellum seen in 33 (57.9%) patients. Hypertension was the most common risk factor (86%). Headache and vertigo were the most common features accounting for 83.6% and 86.3%, respectively. Thirty-eight (66.7%) patients had an ischemic stroke. Twenty-one (36.8%) of the patients died during the 1-month period of follow-up. Independent predictors of death in the study were hyperglycemia on admission and hemorrhagic stroke. Conclusions: IPCS occurred in a relatively younger age group. Headache and vertigo were the most common symptoms. The independent predictors of death in the study were hyperglycemia at presentation and hemorrhagic stroke.
Isolated intermittent vertigo: A presenting feature of persistent trigeminal artery
Authors: Parthasarathy Rajsrinivas , Derksen Carol , Saqqur Maher , Khan Khurshid
Published: September 2015

Embryonic carotid – basilar anastomosis when persistent in adult life can present with a variety of neurological symptoms. We present a patient with isolated intermittent vertigo attributable to the embryonic anastomosis and describe the different types of persistent trigeminal artery. A 76-year-old Caucasian man presented with isolated intermittent vertigo and symptoms suggestive of anterior and posterior circulation strokes. Impaired vasomotor reactivity was demonstrated on insonation of the anterior and posterior cerebral arteries in this patient with a persistent left trigeminal artery and 75% stenosis of the left internal carotid artery (ICA). The symptom of intermittent vertigo resolved with carotid endarterectomy. Decreased flow across the stenotic segment of the ICA which subserved the posterior circulation resulted in basilar insufficiency. Hypoperfusion to the flocculonodular lobe supplied by the anterior inferior cerebellar artery is a likely cause for the intermittent vertigo.
Geomorphic analysis of transient landscapes from the Sierra Madre de Chiapas and Maya Mountains (northern Central America): implications for the North American–Caribbean–Cocos plate boundary
Authors: Andreani L. , Gloaguen R.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. We use a geomorphic approach in order to unravel the recent evolution of the diffuse triple junction between the North American, Caribbean, and Cocos plates in northern Central America. The complex tectonic setting produced an intricate pattern of landscapes that we try to systemize using remote sensing tectonic geomorphology and available geological and geophysical data. We classify regions with specific relief characteristics and highlight uplifted relict landscapes in northern Central America. We also analyze the drainage network from the Sierra Madre de Chiapas and Maya Mountains in order to extract information about potential vertical displacements. Our results suggest that most of the landscapes of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas and Maya Mountains are in transient stage. Topographic profiles and morphometric maps highlight elevated relict surfaces that are characterized by a low amplitude relief. The river longitudinal profiles display upper reaches witnessing these relict landscapes while lower segments characterized by multiple knickpoints, that adjust to new base-level conditions. These results backed by published GPS and seismotectonic data allow us to refine and extend existing geodynamic models of the triple junction. Relict landscapes are delimited by faults and thus result from a tectonic control. The topography of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas evolved as the result of (1) the inland migration of deformation related to the coupling between the Chiapas Massif and the Cocos fore-arc sliver, and (2) the compression along the northern tip of the Central America Volcanic Arc. Although most of the shortening between the Cocos fore-arc sliver and the North American plate is accommodated within the Sierra de Chiapas and Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, a small part may be still transmitted to the Maya Mountains and the Belize margin through a "rigid" Petén basin.
Design of compound curves adapted to the satellite measurements
Authors: Koc Władysław
Published: September 2015

The paper deals with a novelty related to the design of a region for an alternative railway track direction adequate for mobile satellite measurements. The new approach may become particularly useful in the design of the existing track axis control when the determination of both the main track directions becomes impossible. The only solution in that case is to apply to the geometrical system two circular arcs of a different radius, namely, to take advantage of compound curves. In the presented method the design of a new system is carried out by the use of the local system of coordinates. The solution of the design problem is aided by mathematical recording and is based on the determination of some universal equations describing the entire geometrical system. This procedure takes place sequentially involving consecutive parts of the system. The method has been illustrated by an appropriate calculation example.
Oriented Zinc Oxide Nanocrystalline Thin Films Grown from Sol-Gel Solution
Authors: Pokharel Jyotshna , Shrestha Maheshwar , Zhou Li Qin , Neto Victor , Fan Qi Hua
Published: September 2015

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a wide band gap (~3.37 eV) semiconductor. Thin film ZnO has many attractive applications in optoelectronics and sensors. Recently, nanostructured ZnO (e.g. ZnO quantum dot) has been demonstrated as a hyperbolic material; its dielectric function has opposite signs along different crystal axes within the mid-infrared, making it an interesting material for metamaterials and nanophotonics. Conventional sputtering deposition usually leads to the formation of polycrystalline ZnO films with randomly oriented grains and rough surface. This work demonstrated a solution-based process to grow ZnO thin films with highly oriented nanocrystals. Low-temperature plasmas were employed to modulate the microstructure and optical properties of the films. Such highly anisotropic nanostructured transparent semiconductor films may lead to interesting material properties in developing new optoelectronic devices.
Phosphodiesterase 4D acts downstream of Neuropilin to control Hedgehog signal transduction and the growth of medulloblastoma
Authors: Ge Xuecai , Milenkovic Ljiljana , Suyama Kaye , Hartl Tom , Purzner Teresa , Winans Amy , Meyer Tobias , Scott Matthew P
Published: September 2015

Alterations in Hedgehog (Hh) signaling lead to birth defects and cancers including medulloblastoma, the most common pediatric brain tumor. Although inhibitors targeting the membrane protein Smoothened suppress Hh signaling, acquired drug resistance and tumor relapse call for additional therapeutic targets. Here we show that phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D) acts downstream of Neuropilins to control Hh transduction and medulloblastoma growth. PDE4D interacts directly with Neuropilins, positive regulators of Hh pathway. The Neuropilin ligand Semaphorin3 enhances this interaction, promoting PDE4D translocation to the plasma membrane and cAMP degradation. The consequent inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA) enhances Hh transduction. In the developing cerebellum, genetic removal of Neuropilins reduces Hh signaling activity and suppresses proliferation of granule neuron precursors. In mouse medulloblastoma allografts, PDE4D inhibitors suppress Hh transduction and inhibit tumor growth. Our findings reveal a new regulatory mechanism of Hh transduction, and highlight PDE4D as a promising target to treat Hh-related tumors.
GnT1IP-L specifically inhibits MGAT1 in the Golgi via its luminal domain
Authors: Huang Hung-Hsiang , Hassinen Antti , Sundaram Subha , Spiess Andrej-Nikolai , Kellokumpu Sakari , Stanley Pamela
Published: September 2015

Mouse GnT1IP-L, and membrane-bound GnT1IP-S (MGAT4D) expressed in cultured cells inhibit MGAT1, the N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase that initiates the synthesis of hybrid and complex N-glycans. However, it is not known where in the secretory pathway GnT1IP-L inhibits MGAT1, nor whether GnT1IP-L inhibits other N-glycan branching N-acetylglucosaminyltransferases of the medial Golgi. We show here that the luminal domain of GnT1IP-L contains its inhibitory activity. Retention of GnT1IP-L in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) via the N-terminal region of human invariant chain p33, with or without C-terminal KDEL, markedly reduced inhibitory activity. Dynamic fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays revealed homomeric interactions for GnT1IP-L in the ER, and heteromeric interactions with MGAT1 in the Golgi. GnT1IP-L did not generate a FRET signal with MGAT2, MGAT3, MGAT4B or MGAT5 medial Golgi GlcNAc-tranferases. GnT1IP/Mgat4d transcripts are expressed predominantly in spermatocytes and spermatids in mouse, and are reduced in men with impaired spermatogenesis.
Codon-level information improves predictions of inter-residue contacts in proteins by correlated mutation analysis
Authors: Jacob Etai , Unger Ron , Horovitz Amnon
Published: September 2015

Methods for analysing correlated mutations in proteins are becoming an increasingly powerful tool for predicting contacts within and between proteins. Nevertheless, limitations remain due to the requirement for large multiple sequence alignments (MSA) and the fact that, in general, only the relatively small number of top-ranking predictions are reliable. To date, methods for analysing correlated mutations have relied exclusively on amino acid MSAs as inputs. Here, we describe a new approach for analysing correlated mutations that is based on combined analysis of amino acid and codon MSAs. We show that a direct contact is more likely to be present when the correlation between the positions is strong at the amino acid level but weak at the codon level. The performance of different methods for analysing correlated mutations in predicting contacts is shown to be enhanced significantly when amino acid and codon data are combined.
The primary σ factor in Escherichia coli can access the transcription elongation complex from solution in vivo
Authors: Goldman Seth R , Nair Nikhil U , Wells Christopher D , Nickels Bryce E , Hochschild Ann
Published: September 2015

The σ subunit of bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) confers on the enzyme the ability to initiate promoter-specific transcription. Although σ factors are generally classified as initiation factors, σ can also remain associated with, and modulate the behavior of, RNAP during elongation. Here we establish that the primary σ factor in Escherichia coli, σ70, can function as an elongation factor in vivo by loading directly onto the transcription elongation complex (TEC) in trans. We demonstrate that σ70 can bind in trans to TECs that emanate from either a σ70-dependent promoter or a promoter that is controlled by an alternative σ factor. We further demonstrate that binding of σ70 to the TEC in trans can have a particularly large impact on the dynamics of transcription elongation during stationary phase. Our findings establish a mechanism whereby the primary σ factor can exert direct effects on the composition of the entire transcriptome, not just that portion that is produced under the control of σ70-dependent promoters.
Sopas Creativas Para el Alma: Historias de Recuperación Comunitaria en Talca, Chile, Después del Terremoto de 2010
Authors: Bender Brooke , S. Metzl Einat , Selman Trinidad , Gloger Daniela , Moreno Nancy
Published: September 2015

Este estudio, desarrollado en Talca, Chile, un año y medio después de un desastre natural masivo, se centró en el pensamiento creativo y la producción artística, como manifestaciones de resiliencia. Se usó un muestreo intencional para reclutar a los participantes, a través de programas y líderes comunitarios. Diez sobrevivientes cuyas casas fueron destruidas o dañadas durante el terremoto de 2010 accedieron a participar en entrevistas semi estructuradas, las que incluyeron narrativas verbales y una respuesta artística. Un análisis sistemático iluminó los contenidos psicológicos, tanto conscientes como latentes. Tres temas principales fueron identificados como centrales en el proceso de recuperación de los sobrevivientes y fueron luego contrastados con datos obtenidos en New Orleans posterior al huracán Katrina, explorando universalidad y factores contextuales en la creatividad y resiliencia post desastre. En concreto, en Talca se observó la creación artística para la venta en lugar de la creación artística para la expresión emocional observada en New Orleans; el idealismo y pensamiento orientado en el futuro se acentuó en Talca, mientras que en New Orleans pareció pronunciarse más el humor y la espiritualidad; y las conexiones con el entorno natural en Talca se yuxtaponen con fuertes afiliaciones vecinales y festividades culturales en los residentes de New Orleans.
The Alien Test: An Outside View of Human Responses to Mental Distress
Authors: O'Hagan Mary
Published: September 2015

This commentary imagines what responses to mental distress on Planet Earth might look like to a rational, humane alien from a planet where responses to people with mental distress are compassionate and just. The alien visits Canada and New Zealand and concludes that discrimination skews social and service responses and that the narrow, deficits approach to services does not improve outcomes. Despite this, the alien perceives little sense of urgency for change. The alien then describes the recovery-oriented responses on their own planet and makes recommendations for system change on Planet Earth. The alien points out that deep change in a system with finite resources will require removing the “control” elements of services, closing hospitals, and reducing the dominance of biological psychiatry. The alien emphasizes that it is not sufficient just to build the leadership of people with mental distress, provide a broader range of services for diverse cultures and communities, and promote social inclusion if the failed elements of the old system remain.
Underwater Acoustic Communication
Authors: Stojanovic Milica
Published: September 2015

Underwater wireless communications over distances in excess of about 100 m are established using acoustic signals. Acoustic signals propagate as pressure waves, whose energy absorption limits the available bandwidth. As a result, existing technology provides bit rates on the order of several kilobits per second for transmission over distances on the order of several kilometers. Additional challenges are presented by multipath propagation that causes frequency selectivity, random time variation, and Doppler effects that occur due to low speed of sound (1500 m/s). This article overviews the development of acoustic modem technology, which evolved over the past several decades from noncoherent modulation/detection techniques to bandwidth‐efficient phase‐coherent modulation/detection. A survey of techniques for channel equalization in single‐carrier systems as well as recent advances in multicarrier acoustic communications is also presented.
Teleseismic P wave spectra from USArray and implications for upper mantle attenuation and scattering
Authors: Cafferky Samantha , Schmandt Brandon
Published: September 2015

Teleseismic P wave amplitude spectra from deep earthquakes recorded by USArray are inverted for maps of upper mantle Δt* for multiple frequency bands within 0.08–2 Hz. All frequency bands show high Δt* regions in the southwestern U.S., southern Rocky Mountains, and Appalachian margin. Low Δt* is more common across the cratonic interior. Inversions with narrower frequency bands yield similar patterns, but greater Δt* magnitudes. Even the two standard deviation Δt* magnitude for the widest band is ∼2–7 times greater than predicted by global QS tomography or an anelastic olivine thermal model, suggesting that much of the Δt* signal is nonthermal in origin. Nonthermal contributions are further indicated by only a moderate correlation between Δt* and P travel times. Some geographic variations, such as high Δt* in parts of the cratonic interior with high mantle velocities and low heat flow, demonstrate that the influence of temperature is regionally overwhelmed. Transverse spectra are used to investigate the importance of scattering because they would receive no P energy in the absence of 3‐D heterogeneity or anisotropy. Transverse to vertical (T/Z) spectral ratios for stations with high Δt* are higher and exhibit steeper increases with frequency compared to T/Z spectra for low Δt* stations. The large magnitude of Δt* estimates and the T/Z spectra are consistent with major contributions to Δt* from scattering. A weak positive correlation between intrinsic attenuation and apparent attenuation due to scattering may contribute to Δt* magnitude and the moderate correlation of Δt* with travel times.
Global‐scale convective aggregation: Implications for the Madden‐Julian Oscillation
Authors: Arnold Nathan P. , Randall David A.
Published: September 2015

Previous work has shown that convection will self‐organize in cloud‐system‐resolving model simulations of radiative‐convective equilibrium, and it has been suggested that the convective envelope of the Madden‐Julian oscillation (MJO) may be organized by similar processes on a much larger scale. Here we present support for that hypothesis based on simulations with SP‐CAM with globally uniform SST. Without rotation, convection self‐organizes into large (∼4000 km) clusters surrounded by dry regions, while with Earth‐like rotation the model produces a robust MJO. The nonrotating aggregation and MJO are found to have similar budgets of moist static energy, both being supported by diabatic feedbacks, particularly cloud‐longwave interaction. Mechanism denial experiments show that longwave heating anomalies associated with high clouds are essential to the nonrotating aggregation, and amplify the MJO. Simulations using the conventional CAM show a weaker MJO and a much weaker tendency for nonrotating aggregation, and both MJO activity and aggregation intensity are found to increase with the entrainment rate in the deep convection parameterization.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Self‐Fluorescent Hyaluronic Acid–Based Gel for Dermal Applications
Authors: Menegatti Stefano , Ruocco Nino , Kumar Sunny , Zakrewsky Michael , Sanchez De Oliveira Joshua , Helgeson Matthew. E. , Leal Gary L. , Mitragotri Samir
Published: September 2015

Combinations of polymer conjugates affording in situ gelation hold promise for treatment of pathological cavities (e.g., arthritis) and sustained drug release. In particular, hyaluronic acid (HA) functionalized with reactive groups is regarded as an excellent biomaterial due to its tunable cross‐linking kinetics and mechanical properties. HA‐based reagents, however, can be irritating to surrounding tissues due to the reactivity of pendant groups, and their fast gelation kinetics can result in poor cavity filling. In this study, a biocompatible “click” reaction between cyanobenzothiazole (CBT) and d‐cysteine (d‐Cys) is employed to produce HA‐based conjugates for in situ gelation. Rheological studies conducted on a gel obtained from the combination of HA‐CBT and HA‐d‐Cys indicate optimal gelation time and mechanical properties. Further, in vitro studies on porcine skin demonstrate the ability of the gel to form in situ upon subcutaneous injection or topical application, and to act as a reservoir for sustained release of protein therapeutics. Finally, the safety of the HA‐based conjugates is demonstrated on human keratinocytes. The presented results demonstrate the applicability of the binary mixture for in situ gelation and the potential of the proposed system for a variety of biomedical applications.
Three‐Dimensional μ‐Printing: An Enabling Technology
Authors: Hohmann Judith K. , Renner Michael , Waller Erik H. , von Freymann Georg
Published: September 2015

In this progress report the development of three‐dimensional μ‐printing and its impact as an enabling technology onto different scientific fields is reviewed. Driven by direct laser writing via two‐photon absorption, the technology has reached a level of maturity and ease of application such that 3D printing on the micrometer scale can now be considered. While the underlying technology is still developing towards higher resolution and increasing speed of fabrication, the last five years have seen new fields rising that were obviously enabled by 3D μ‐printing. Among the recent technological developments discussed in this progress report are the fields of super‐resolution lithography and spatial light modulator‐based lithography. Novel fields relying on these technological advances like aperiodic photonic structures, mechanical metamaterials, and structures for biological studies will be reviewed. A glimpse into developing research directions will also be provided.
Incidence and risk factors for myelofibrotic transformation among 272 Chinese patients with JAK2‐mutated polycythemia vera
Authors: Bai Jie , Ai Limei , Zhang Lei , Yang Feng‐Chun , Zhou Yuan , Xue Yanping
Published: September 2015

Post‐polycythemia vera myelofibrosis (post‐PV MF) is a critical hematologic evolution of polycythemia vera (PV). The main purpose of the present study was to identify the possible risk factors for the occurrence and prognosis of post‐PV MF in Chinese patients with PV. A cohort of 272 Chinese PV patients with JAK2V617F or exon12 mutation was retrospectively analyzed. Of the 272 patients with PV, 63 developed post‐PV MF. Platelet count >550 × 109/L and splenomegaly were identified as independent risk factors for post‐PV MF. The median duration of survival for post‐PV MF patients was 8 years. Anemia and age >65 years at diagnosis of post‐PV MF were identified as significant predictors for the poor prognosis of post‐PV MF. In conclusion, platelet counts and splenomegaly were significant predictors for the transformation to post‐PV MF, while anemia (hemoglobin levels <100 g/L) and age>65 years were significant predictors for poor prognosis of post‐PV MF in Chinese PV patients with JAK2V617F or exon12 mutation. Am. J. Hematol. 90:1116–1121, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea: an evidence‐based review with recommendations
Authors: Oakley Gretchen M. , Alt Jeremiah A. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Harvey Richard J. , Orlandi Richard R.
Published: September 2015

Background

Diagnostic strategies employed for cases of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea vary widely due to limited evidence‐based guidance.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from January 1990 through September 2014, to examine 9 diagnostic and localization modalities for CSF rhinorrhea. Benefit‐harm assessments, value judgments and recommendations were made based on the available evidence. Study exclusion criteria were language other than English, pre‐1990 studies, case reports, and nonrhinologic leak. All authors agreed on recommendations through an iterative process.

Results

We reviewed 68 studies examining 9 practices pertinent to the diagnosis of CSF rhinorrhea, with a highest aggregate grade of evidence of C. The literature does not support the use of the ring sign, glucose testing, radionuclide cisternography (RNC), or computed tomography cisternography (CTC) for identification of CSF leak. Beta‐2 transferrin is the most reliable confirmatory test for CSF leak. High‐resolution CT (HRCT) is then recommended as the first‐line study for localization. Magnetic resonance cisternography (MRC) should be used for CSF leak identification as a second line for each of these if beta‐2 transferrin is not available or if HRCT is ambiguous. Intrathecal fluorescein (IF) may also be of benefit in certain clinical scenarios.

Conclusion

Despite relatively low levels of evidence, recommendations for the diagnosis and management of CSF rhinorrhea can be made based on the current literature. Higher‐level studies are needed to better determine optimal diagnostic and clinical management approaches.
Endoscopic sphenopalatine ganglion blockade efficacy in pain control after endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Al‐Qudah Mohannad
Published: September 2015

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of bilateral endoscopic injection of lidocaine with epinephrine in the sphenopalatine ganglion at the end of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in controlling postoperative pain and rescue analgesic requirements.

Methods

A prospective, double blinded, placebo‐controlled clinical trial of 60 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) undergoing general anesthesia for ESS was undertaken. Patients were randomized to receive injection of 2 mL of 2% lidocaine with epinephrine or 2 mL saline at the end of surgery. Postoperatively, patients were observed for 24 hours. Pain severity was reported immediately, 6 hours, and 24 hours after surgery using a 10‐cm visual analog scale (VAS). The need of rescue analgesia was recorded and compared between the 2 groups.

Results

The 2 groups were matched in demographic and intraoperative details. Postoperative pain severity average was 3.4, 3.0, and 1.6 in the saline group compared to 1.6, 1.7, and 1.0 in the lidocaine group. These differences reached statically significant for the first 2 follow‐up intervals. Also, there was significant difference in the whole‐day postoperative average score between the 2 groups (2.6 vs 1.4). Twelve patients in the saline group required rescue analgesia compared to 5 in the lidocaine group. The average rescue analgesia dose was 27.5 mg of tramadol in the saline group vs 11.6 in the lidocaine group. These differences were statistically significant. No complications were reported in either group.

Conclusion

Sphenopalatine ganglion injection of lidocaine at the end of surgery is safe, simple, noninvasive, and an effective method of short‐term pain control after sinus surgery.
Genotype–phenotype correlation and course of transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathies in France
Authors: Mariani Louise‐Laure , Lozeron Pierre , Théaudin Marie , Mincheva Zoia , Signate Aissatou , Ducot Beatrice , Algalarrondo Vincent , Denier Christian , Adam Clovis , Nicolas Guillaume , Samuel Didier , Slama Michel S. , Lacroix Catherine , Misrahi Micheline , Adams David ,   on behalf of the French Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathies Network (CORNAMYL) Study Group
Published: September 2015

Objective

To compare the natural history of familial transthyretin amyloid polyneuropathies (FAP) due to the Val30Met, Ser77Tyr, and Ile107Val mutations in France with the classical Portuguese Val30Met FAP.

Methods

We compared 84 French patients with a control group of 110 Portuguese patients carrying the Val30Met mutation also living in France, all referred to and followed at the French National FAP Reference Center from 1988 to 2010. Clinical examination, functional and walking disability scores, nerve conduction studies, and muscle biopsies are reported. We also conducted a comprehensive literature review to further determine the range of phenotypic expression.

Results

By comparison with Portuguese Val30Met FAP, French Ile107Val, Ser77Tyr, and LateVal30Met FAP showed more rapid and severe disease progression; onset of gait disorders was 3 times more rapid (p < 0.0001) and the rate of modified Norris test decline was up to 40 times faster in Ile107Val patients (p < 0.0001). Median survival was much shorter in Ile107Val and in Val30Met mutation with late onset (>50 years; LateMet30) FAP (p = 0.0005). Other distinctive features relative to the Portuguese patients included atypical clinical presentations, demyelination on nerve conduction studies (p = 0.0005), and difficult identification of amyloid deposits in nerve and muscle biopsies.

Interpretation

Ile107Val and LateMet30 mutations are associated with the most debilitating and severe FAP ever described, with rapid onset of tetraparesis and shorter median survival. It could be explained by frequent large‐fiber involvement and associated demyelination and more severe axonal loss. These findings have major implications for genetic counseling and patient management as new therapeutic options are being assessed in clinical trials (TTR gene silencing). Ann Neurol 2015;78:901–916
Morphogenesis of the Inner Ear at Different Stages of Normal Human Development
Authors: Toyoda Saki , Shiraki Naoto , Yamada Shigehito , Uwabe Chigako , Imai Hirohiko , Matsuda Tetsuya , Yoneyama Akio , Takeda Tohoru , Takakuwa Tetsuya
Published: September 2015

This study examined the external morphology and morphometry of the human embryonic inner ear membranous labyrinth and documented its three‐dimensional position in the developing embryo using phase‐contrast X‐ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. A total of 27 samples between Carnegie stage (CS) 17 and the postembryonic phase during trimester 1 (approximately 6–10 weeks after fertilization) were included. The otic vesicle elongated along the dorso‐ventral axis and differentiated into the end lymphatic appendage and cochlear duct (CD) at CS 17. The spiral course of the CD began at CS18, with anterior and posterior semicircular ducts (SDs) forming prominent circles with a common crus. The spiral course of the CD comprised more than two turns at the postembryonic phase, at which time the height of the CD was evident. A linear increase was observed in the length of anterior, posterior, and lateral SDs, in that order, and the length of the CD increased exponentially over the course of development. Bending in the medial direction was observed between the cochlear and vestibular parts from the latero‐caudal view, with the angle decreasing during development. The position of the inner ear was stable throughout the period of observation on the lateral to ventral side of the rhombencephalon, caudal to the pontine flexure, and adjacent to the auditory ganglia. The plane of the lateral semicircular canal was approximately 8.0°–14.6° with respect to the cranial caudal (z‐)axis, indicating that the orientation of the inner ear changes during growth to adulthood. Anat Rec, 298:2081–2090, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcriptomics‐based strain optimization tool for designing secondary metabolite overproducing strains of Streptomyces coelicolor
Authors: Kim Minsuk , Yi Jeong Sang , Lakshmanan Meiyappan , Lee Dong‐Yup , Kim Byung‐Gee
Published: September 2015

In silico model‐driven analysis using genome‐scale model of metabolism (GEM) has been recognized as a promising method for microbial strain improvement. However, most of the current GEM‐based strain design algorithms based on flux balance analysis (FBA) heavily rely on the steady‐state and optimality assumptions without considering any regulatory information. Thus, their practical usage is quite limited, especially in its application to secondary metabolites overproduction. In this study, we developed a transcriptomics‐based strain optimization tool (tSOT) in order to overcome such limitations by integrating transcriptomic data into GEM. Initially, we evaluated existing algorithms for integrating transcriptomic data into GEM using Streptomyces coelicolor dataset, and identified iMAT algorithm as the only and the best algorithm for characterizing the secondary metabolism of S. coelicolor. Subsequently, we developed tSOT platform where iMAT is adopted to predict the reaction states, and successfully demonstrated its applicability to secondary metabolites overproduction by designing actinorhodin (ACT), a polyketide antibiotic, overproducing strain of S. coelicolor. Mutants overexpressing tSOT targets such as ribulose 5‐phosphate 3‐epimerase and NADP‐dependent malic enzyme showed 2 and 1.8‐fold increase in ACT production, thereby validating the tSOT prediction. It is expected that tSOT can be used for solving other metabolic engineering problems which could not be addressed by current strain design algorithms, especially for the secondary metabolite overproductions. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 651–660. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antifouling activity of enzyme‐functionalized silica nanobeads
Authors: Zanoni Michele , Habimana Olivier , Amadio Jessica , Casey Eoin
Published: September 2015

The amelioration of biofouling in industrial processing equipment is critical for performance and reliability. While conventional biocides are effective in biofouling control, they are potentially hazardous to the environment and in some cases corrosive to materials. Enzymatic approaches have been shown to be effective and can overcome the disadvantages of traditional biocides, however they are typically uneconomic for routine biofouling control. The aim of this study was to design a robust and reusable enzyme‐functionalized nano‐bead system having biofilm dispersion properties. This work describes the biochemical covalent functionalization of silica‐based nanobeads (hereafter referred to as Si‐NanoB) with Proteinase K (PK). Results showed that PK‐functionalized Si‐NanoB are effective in dispersing both protein‐based model biofilms and structurally altering Pseudomonas fluorescens biofilms, with significant decreases in surface coverage and thickness of 30.1% and 38.85%, respectively, while increasing surface roughness by 19 % following 24 h treatments on bacterial biofilms. This study shows that enzyme‐functionalized nanobeads may potentially be an environmentally friendly and cost effective alternative to pure enzyme and chemical treatments. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 501–512. © 2015 The Authors. Biotechnology and Bioengineering Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is high pressure postdilation safe in bioresorbable vascular scaffolds? Optical coherence tomography observations after noncompliant balloons inflated at more than 24 atmospheres
Authors: Fabris Enrico , Caiazzo Gianluca , Kilic Ismail Dogu , Serdoz Roberta , Secco Gioel Gabrio , Sinagra Gianfranco , Lee Renick , Foin Nicolas , Di Mario Carlo
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to investigate integrity and expansion of bioresorbable drug‐eluting scaffolds (BVS) after high‐pressure postdilation (HPPD).

Background

Because of concerns about the risk of BVS damage, postdilation was not recommended and applied in the existing randomized studies and most registries. Recent real world data suggest incomplete BVS expansion cause higher rates of thrombosis. In vivo confirmation of the safety of high pressure postdilation is of paramount importance.

Methods

Data from final OCT examination of consecutive implanted BVS, postdilated with noncompliant (NC) balloons at pressure ≥24 atm were analyzed. The following stent performance indices were assessed with OCT: mean and minimal lumen and scaffold area, residual area stenosis (RAS), incomplete strut apposition (ISA), tissue prolapse, eccentricity index (EI), symmetry index (SI), strut fractures, and edge dissections.

Result

Twenty‐two BVS postdilated at high pressure were analyzed. The average maximal postdilation balloon inflation (maxPD) was 28 ± 3 atm. High pressure OPN NC Balloon (SIS Medical AG, Winterthur Switzerland) was used in 41% of postdilations with a maximal PD of 30 ± 4.7 atm. Final mean and minimal lumen area were 6.8 ± 1.4 and 5.5 ± 1.4 mm2, respectively. OCT showed low percentage of RAS (16 ± 9.6%), and low percentage of ISA (1.8 ± 2.4%). Mean EI was 0.86 ± 0.02 and SI 0.35 ± 0.14. OCT analysis showed one edge dissection and no scaffold fractures.

Conclusions

BVS deployment optimization using HPPD does not cause BVS disruption and is associated with a good BVS expansion, low rate of strut malapposition and edge dissections. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enantioseparation of Mandelic Acid Enantiomers With Magnetic Nano‐Sorbent Modified by a Chiral Selector
Authors: Tarhan Tuba , Tural Bilsen , Tural Servet , Topal Giray
Published: September 2015

In this study,R(+)‐α‐methylbenzylamine‐modified magnetic chiral sorbent was synthesized and assessed as a new enantioselective solid phase sorbent for separation of mandelic acid enantiomers from aqueous solutions. The chemical structures and magnetic properties of the new sorbent were characterized by vibrating sample magnetometry, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The effects of different variables such as the initial concentration of racemic mandelic acid, dosage of sorbent, and contact time upon sorption characteristics of mandelic acid enantiomers on magnetic chiral sorbent were investigated. The sorption of mandelic acid enantiomers followed a pseudo‐second‐order reaction and equilibrium experiments were well fitted to a Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity of racemic mandelic acid on to the magnetic chiral sorbent was found to be 405 mg g−1. The magnetic chiral sorbent has a greater affinity for (S)‐(+)‐mandelic acid compared to(R)‐(−)‐mandelic acid. The optimum resolution was achieved with 10 mL 30 mM of racemic mandelic acid and 110 mg of magnetic chiral sorbent. The best percent enantiomeric excess values (up to 64%) were obtained by use of a chiralpak AD‐H column.Chirality 27:835–842, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Psychological effects of androgen‐deprivation therapy on men with prostate cancer and their partners
Authors: Donovan Kristine A. , Walker Lauren M. , Wassersug Richard J. , Thompson Lora M. A. , Robinson John W.
Published: September 2015

The clinical benefits of androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) for men with prostate cancer (PC) have been well documented and include living free from the symptoms of metastases for longer periods and improved quality of life. However, ADT comes with a host of its own serious side effects. There is considerable evidence of the adverse cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal effects of ADT. Far less has been written about the psychological effects of ADT. This review highlights several adverse psychological effects of ADT. The authors provide evidence for the effect of ADT on men's sexual function, their partner, and their sexual relationship. Evidence of increased emotional lability and depressed mood in men who receive ADT is also presented, and the risk of depression in the patient's partner is discussed. The evidence for adverse cognitive effects with ADT is still emerging but suggests that ADT is associated with impairment in multiple cognitive domains. Finally, the available literature is reviewed on interventions to mitigate the psychological effects of ADT. Across the array of adverse effects, physical exercise appears to have the greatest potential to address the psychological effects of ADT both in men who are receiving ADT and in their partners. Cancer 2015;121:4286–99. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Pretreatment depression as a prognostic indicator of survival and nutritional status in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Kim Shin‐Ae , Roh Jong‐Lyel , Lee Sang‐Ah , Lee Sang‐wook , Kim Sung‐Bae , Choi Seung‐Ho , Nam Soon Yuhl , Kim Sang Yoon
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

The emotional status of cancer patients is associated with disease course and treatment outcomes. In this study, the authors evaluated associations between the presence of pretreatment depression and pretreatment quality of life (QOL), nutritional status, and survival outcomes in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

METHODS

For this prospective study, 241 patients with previously untreated HNSCC who underwent curative treatments were enrolled. Patients completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)‐II, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 30‐item Core QOL Questionnaire (QLQ‐C30), and the EORTC QLQ Head and Neck Cancer module (QLQ‐H&N35). EORTC QLQ scores were compared between depressive and nondepressive patients, as determined according to pretreatment BDI‐II scores ≥14 and <14, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess whether the presence of depression was associated with overall survival, disease‐free survival (DFS), or posttreatment changes in nutritional status and laboratory data.

RESULTS

Pretreatment depression was present in 60 patients (24.9%). In depressive and nondepressive patients, the 3‐year overall survival rates were 70.8% and 82.7%, respectively (P = .045), and the 3‐year DFS rates were 63.5% and 79.1%, respectively (P = .015). After controlling for clinical factors, the presence of depression was predictive of 3‐year DFS (P = .032). EORTC QLQ‐C30 and QLQ‐HN35 scores on all items except feeding tube, nutritional supplement, and problem with mouth opening differed between depressive and nondepressive patients (P < .05). Depressive patients had lower pretreatment serum albumin levels than nondepressive patients (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

There was a significant correlation between pretreatment depression and pretreatment QOL, nutritional status, and survival outcomes in patients with HNSCC. Cancer 2016;122:131–140. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Earth‐Abundant Cu2CoSnS4 Nanofibers for Highly Efficient H2 Evolution at Soft Interfaces
Authors: Ozel Faruk , Yar Adem , Aslan Emre , Arkan Emre , Aljabour Abdalaziz , Can Mustafa , Patir Imren Hatay , Kus Mahmut , Ersoz Mustafa
Published: September 2015

Cu2CoSnS4 (CCTS) nanofibers have been fabricated by electrospinning and exhibit an excellent morphology with an average nanofiber diameter of 150 nm. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was used as templating polymer that leads to a decrease in imperfections in the crystalline nanofibers. CCTS and Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) nanofibers, based on abundant and environmental friendly elements, efficiently enhanced the rates of biphasic proton reduction in the presence of an organic solubilized electron donor, decamethylferrocene (DMFc). This work paves the way for the exploration of copper‐based chalcogenides as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction to replace noble metal Pt.
Encourage students to register with your office
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: September 2015

Studies show that, despite having had special education services and accommodations throughout most of their education, some students do not register with their college's disability services office. They give numerous reasons for this — ignorance about the availability of services, a sense that registering will be time‐consuming, a sense of shame or stigma, and others. In their 2012 study, Kirsten L. Lightner, Deborah Kipps‐Vaughan, Timothy Schulte and Ashton D. Trice found that the GPAs and credits completed by students who registered with DS in the first, second and third semester of college declined for both of these indicators with every semester's delay (http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ994283.pdf). Knowing that students' reluctance to register or lack of knowledge about services can have a cost, consider the multiple opportunities you may have to encourage students to register as soon as possible.
Avoid the word ‘reasonable’ in accommodations policy
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: September 2015

Disability services for students policies must meet the sometimes differing linguistic requirements of Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Otherwise, language permissible under the ADA but not under Section 504 can trigger an Office for Civil Rights complaint. A Finlandia University student who claimed to have been improperly denied academic adjustments filed an OCR complaint (Letter to: Finlandia University, No. 15‐14‐2014 (OCR 05/30/14)). In investigating the complaint, OCR discovered that Finlandia published a disability services policy in which it offered to assist students in obtaining “reasonable exam accommodations” and other “reasonable” academic accommodations. Both OCR's determination letter and its resolution agreement with Finlandia University highlight the danger in using the word “reasonable” in a policy that seeks to address a school's obligations under both Section 504 and the ADA.