bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Myostatin Inhibition Using ActRIIB-mFc Does Not Produce Weight Gain or Strength in the Nebulin Conditional KO Mouse
Authors: Tinklenberg Jennifer A , Siebers Emily M , Beatka Margaret J , Fickau Brittany A , Ayres Samuel , Meng Hui , Yang Lin , Simpson Pippa , Granzier Henk L , Lawlor Michael W 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Mutations in at least 12 genes are responsible for a group of congenital skeletal muscle diseases known as nemaline myopathies (NMs). NMs are associated with a range of clinical symptoms and pathological changes often including the presence of cytoplasmic rod-like structures (nemaline bodies) and myofiber hypotrophy. Our recent work has identified a variable degree of behavioral benefit when treating 2 NM mouse models due to mutations in Acta1 with myostatin inhibition. This study is focused on the effects of delivering ActRIIB-mFc (Acceleron; a myostatin inhibitor) to the nebulin conditional knockout KO (Neb cKO) mouse model of NM. Treatment of Neb cKO mice with ActRIIB-mFc did not produce increases in weight gain, strength, myofiber size, or hypertrophic pathway signaling. Overall, our studies demonstrate a lack of response in Neb cKO mice to myostatin inhibition, which differs from the response observed when treating other NM models.
Basophil activation testing in occupational respiratory allergy to low molecular weight compounds
Authors: Vera-Berrios Rosialzira Natasha , Feary Johanna , Cullinan Paul 
Published: December 2018

Purpose of review
There is an unmet need for better immunological tests in cases of suspected occupational asthma to many workplace chemicals; here we consider the basophil activation test (BAT), a potential alternative to the detection of specific IgE antibodies.

Recent findings
BAT is fairly widely used in general allergy services; and there is increasing experience of its use in the diagnosis of occupational allergy to low molecular weight agents and chemicals including wood dusts, persulphates, antibiotics and latex.

Summary
There is potential for BAT to become a useful tool in the clinical consideration of occupational asthma and of its mechanisms, and even to take a place in a Bayesian-based diagnostic algorithm. Further development will only occur if specialist centres with appropriate facilities, and preferably in collaboration, contemplate its use.
Effect of Audibility and Suprathreshold Deficits on Speech Recognition for Listeners With Unilateral Hearing Loss
Authors: Bost Tim J. M. , Versfeld Niek J. , Goverts S. Theo 
Published: December 2018

Objectives:
We examined the influence of impaired processing (audibility and suprathreshold processes) on speech recognition in cases of sensorineural hearing loss. The influence of differences in central, or top-down, processing was reduced by comparing the performance of both ears in participants with a unilateral hearing loss (UHL). We examined the influence of reduced audibility and suprathreshold deficits on speech recognition in quiet and in noise.

Design:
We measured speech recognition in quiet and stationary speech-shaped noise with consonant–vowel–consonant words and digital triplets in groups of adults with UHL (n = 19), normal hearing (n = 15), and bilateral hearing loss (n = 9). By comparing the scores of the unaffected ear (UHL+) and the affected ear (UHL−) in the UHL group, we were able to isolate the influence of peripheral hearing loss from individual top-down factors such as cognition, linguistic skills, age, and sex.

Results:
Audibility is a very strong predictor for speech recognition in quiet. Audibility has a less pronounced influence on speech recognition in noise. We found that, for the current sample of listeners, more speech information is required for UHL− than for UHL+ to achieve the same performance. For digit triplets at 80 dBA, the speech recognition threshold in noise (SRT) for UHL− is on average 5.2 dB signal to noise ratio (SNR) poorer than UHL+. Analysis using the speech intelligibility index (SII) indicates that on average 2.1 dB SNR of this decrease can be attributed to suprathreshold deficits and 3.1 dB SNR to audibility. Furthermore, scores for speech recognition in quiet and in noise for UHL+ are comparable to those of normal-hearing listeners.

Conclusions:
Our data showed that suprathreshold deficits in addition to audibility play a considerable role in speech recognition in noise even at intensities well above hearing threshold.
High-glucose Induced Mitochondrial Dynamics Disorder of Spinal Cord Neurons in Diabetic Rats and its Effect on Mitochondrial Spatial Distribution
Authors: Chen Ling , Huang Jie , Li Xiao-Cheng , Liu Si-Yang , Li Yun-Hong , Wang Qiang , Yang Ji-juan , Cao Hui-Mei , Hu Qi-Kuan , He Lan-Jie 
Published: December 2018

Study Design.
A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.

Objective.
Few studies have investigated the changes in mitochondrial dynamics in spinal cord neurons. Meanwhile, the distribution of mitochondria in axons remains unclear. In the present study, the investigators attempted to clarify these questions and focused in observing the changes in mitochondrial spatial distribution under a high-glucose environment.

Summary of Background Data.
Mitochondrial dynamics disorder is one of the main mechanisms that lead to nervous system diseases due to its adverse effects on mitochondrial morphology, function, and axon distribution. High-glucose stress can promote the increase in mitochondrial fission of various types of cells.

Methods.
The lumbar spinal cord of type 1 diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats at 4 weeks was observed. VSC4.1 cells were cultured and divided into three groups: normal control group, high-glucose intervention group, and high-glucose intervention combined with mitochondrial fission inhibitor Mdivi-1 intervention group. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence methods were used to detect the expression of mitochondrial marker VDAC-1 in the spinal cord. An electron microscope was used to observe the number, structure, and distribution of mitochondria. Western blot was used to detect VDAC-1, fusion protein MFN1, MFN2, and OPA1, and fission protein FIS1 and DRP1. Living cell mitochondrial staining was performed using MitoTracker. Laser confocal microscopy and an Olympus live cell workstation were used to observe the mitochondrial changes.

Results.
The mitochondrial dynamics of spinal cord related neurons under an acute high-glucose environment were significantly unbalanced, including a reduction of fusion and increase of fission. Hence, mitochondrial fission has the absolute advantage. The total number of mitochondria in neuronal axons significantly decreased.

Conclusion.
Increased mitochondrial fission and abnormal distribution occurred in spinal cord related neurons in a high-glucose environment. Mdivi-1 could significantly improve these disorders of mitochondria in VSC4.1 cells. Mitochondrial division inhibitors had a positive significance on diabetic neuropathy.

Level of Evidence: N/A
Sex Differences in Opioid Use in Patients With Symptomatic Lumbar Stenosis or Spondylolisthesis Undergoing Lumbar Decompression and Fusion
Authors: Adogwa Owoicho , Davison Mark A. , Vuong Victoria , Desai Shyam A. , Lilly Daniel T. , Moreno Jessica , Cheng Joseph , Bagley Carlos 
Published: December 2018

Study Design.
Retrospective analysis.

Objective.
To investigate sex differences in opioid use after lumbar decompression and fusion surgery for patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis or spondylolisthesis.

Summary of Background Data.
Recent studies have demonstrated higher prevalence of chronic pain states and greater pain sensitivity among women compared with men. Furthermore, differences in responsivity to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments have been observed. Whether sex differences in perioperative opioid use exists in patients undergoing lumbar fusion for symptomatic stenosis or spondylolisthesis remains unknown.

Methods.
An insurance database, including private/commercially insured and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries, was queried for patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis or spondylolisthesis undergoing index 1,2, or 3-level index lumbar decompression and fusion procedures between 2007 and 2016. Records were searchable by International Classification of diseases diagnosis and procedure codes, and generic drug codes specific to Humana. Opioid use 6-months prior to through 2-years after index surgery was assessed. The primary outcome was sex differences in opioid use after index lumbar surgery. The secondary outcome was independent predictors of prolonged opioid use after lumbar fusion.

Results.
Of the 13,257 participants (females: 7871, 59.8%), 58.4% of women used opioids compared with 56.9% of men prior to index surgery. At 1-year after surgery, continuous opioid use was observed in 67.1% of women compared with 64.2% of men (P < 0.001). Within 2-years postoperatively, opioid use was observed in 83.1% of women versus 82.5% men. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, female sex (odds ration [OR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.058–1.237), obesity (OR 1.10, 95% CI: 1.004–1.212), and preoperative narcotic use (OR 3.43, 95% CI: 3.179–3.708) was independently associated with prolonged (>1 yr) opioid use after index surgery.

Conclusion.
We observed a higher prevalence of chronic opioid use among women following lumbar fusion surgery. Female sex was independently associated with prolonged opioid use after index surgery.

Level of Evidence: 3
Short article: Willingness to undergo colonoscopy with virtual reality instead of procedural sedation and analgesia
Authors: Blokzijl Susanne J. , Lamberts Kirsten F. , van der Waaij Laurens A. , Spikman Jacoba M. 
Published: December 2018

Objective
This study explored the willingness of patients to start colonoscopy with virtual reality (VR) instead of procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA), as well as their motives and characteristics. There is a growing interest in colonoscopy without PSA. Offering VR as a distraction technique instead of PSA may increase the percentage of colonoscopies without PSA.

Patients and methods
A survey with demographic, colonoscopy-related and psychology-related questions was completed by 326 adults referred for colonoscopy with PSA.

Results
Overall, 25.7% reported to be willing to start with VR instead of PSA. Main reasons for this choice were receiving as little medication as possible, resuming daily life activities faster and participating in traffic independently afterwards. Logistic regression analysis showed that significant predictors of the willingness to use VR were male sex, higher educational level and absence of worries about the outcome of the colonoscopy.

Conclusion
If VR turns out to be effective in the future, present results may be useful to customize patient information to help patients choosing VR.
Management of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Hyer Warren , Cohen Shlomi , Attard Thomas , Vila‐Miravet Victor , Pienar Corina , Auth Marcus , Septer Seth , Hawkins Jackie , Durno Carol , Latchford Andrew 
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACTFamilial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a well‐described inherited syndrome, characterized by the development of hundreds to thousands of adenomas in the colorectum, with implications in children and adolescents. Almost all adult patients will develop colorectal cancer if they are not identified and treated early enough. Identifying and screening for FAP commences in adolescence. The syndrome is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait and caused by mutations in the adenomatous polyposis (APC) gene. This European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) position paper provides a guide for diagnosis, assessment, and management of FAP in children and adolescents.This is the first position paper regarding FAP published by ESPGHAN. Literature from PubMed, Medline, and Embase was reviewed and in the absence of evidence, recommendations reflect the opinion of paediatric and adult experts involved in the care of polyposis syndromes. Because many of the studies that form the basis for the recommendations were descriptive and/or retrospective in nature, these of the recommendations are supported on expert opinion. This position paper will instruct on the appropriate management and timing of procedures in children and adolescents with FAP.
Transcranial Doppler Evaluation in Takayasu Arteritis With Oculo-Cerebrovascular Complications
Authors: Christiansen Michael E. , O’Carroll Cumara B. , Kumar Gyanendra , Larsen Brandon T. , Dumitrascu Oana M. 
Published: December 2018

Introduction:
Takayasu arteritis is a large-vessel vasculitis that may cause oculo-cerebral ischemia. We report a patient with visual loss as initial manifestation, and discuss transcranial Doppler (TCD) findings before and after surgical revascularization.

Case Description:
A 19-year-old female developed episodes of transient positional right vision loss, progressing to permanent right vision loss and bright light-induced left amaurosis. Examination demonstrated subclavian bruits, palpable epigastrium aortic pulsation, faint radial pulses, right retinal pallor, arteriolar narrowing, and bilateral boxcarring. Head and neck computed tomography angiogram demonstrated left subclavian origin and right common carotid artery occlusion, and severe innominate and left common carotid artery stenosis. TCD demonstrated right ophthalmic artery flow reversal and nonpulsatile waveforms with dampened spectra in the right anterior circulation. Corticosteroids, methotrexate, infliximab, and dual-antiplatelet therapy were initiated. Eleven weeks later, the patient underwent ascending aortic aneurysm repair and bilateral carotid artery bypass with an aortic graft. Pathology was consistent with chronic active Takayasu arteritis. Two weeks postoperatively, left eye visual symptoms resolved; right visual loss persisted. Postoperative TCD showed marked improvement in cerebral perfusion.

Conclusions:
Retinal ischemia in young women should prompt emergent inflammatory and systemic vascular evaluation. In our subject, prolonged right retinal ischemia had dismal prognosis despite carotid-aortic revascularization, whereas left retinal boxcarring reversed. Surgical revascularization is recommended for severely symptomatic oculo-cerebrovascular disease, once inflammation is better controlled with immunosuppressive therapy. TCD documented the presence and monitored the subsequent resolution of blood flow changes causing retinal and brain hypoxia.
Radiologic and Histopathologic Features in an Intracranial Localized Castleman Disease
Authors: Escribano Paredes J. Bernardo , Carrasco Moro Rodrigo , López Gutiérrez María , Arias Héctor Pian , García-Cosío Mónica , García Madrona Sebastián , Nedkova Hristova Velina , Martínez Poles Javier , Francisco Javier Buisán Catevilla 
Published: December 2018

Introduction:
Castleman disease (CD) is a rare pathologic process of unknown etiology, characterized by non-neoplastic lymph node enlargement. Two distinct histologic patterns are recognized; the hyaline-vascular type and the less common plasma cells type. Another intermediate type has been described. The clinical features are classified into 2 categories, localized (unicentric) and generalized (multicentric), the later associated with systemic manifestations and poor prognosis. CD affecting the central nervous system is extremely rare. We report a new case of localized intracranial CD and we accomplish a review of the literature.

Case Report:
A 30-year-old man presented with a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed a small mass in the right temporoparietal convexity with homogenous enhancement after contrast administration. Extensive vasogenic edema in comparison with the size of the mass was also identified and based on the neuroradiologic finding, a suspected diagnosis of meningoangiomatosis was formulated. The mass was completely resected and his histologic examination identified the hyaline-vascular type of CD. One year after surgery, the patient remains seizure free, without evidence of systemic involvement or recurrence of the mass.

Conclusions:
Our case and review of the literature show the value of the extensive brain edema on neuroimaging finding to the differential diagnosis for a solitary mass arising from the meninges. We emphasize on the need for histologic examination when the diagnosis of meningioma is not entirely clear.
Type and Duration of Exercise in the SAMMPRIS Trial
Authors: Turan Tanya N. , Al Kasab Sami , Nizam Azhar , Hannah Jessica , Gordon Neil , Lynn Michael J. , Derdeyn Colin P. , Fiorella David , Janis L. Scott , Lane Bethany F. , Montgomery Jean , Chimowitz Marc I. 
Published: December 2018

Background:
Analyses from the Stenting and Aggressive Medical management for prevention of Recurrent Stroke in Intracranial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) trial showed that good control of vascular risk factors (systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein, and exercise) was associated with fewer vascular events and exercise had the biggest impact on the outcome. We sought to determine the type and duration of exercise performed by SAMMPRIS patients during the trial.

Methods:
SAMMPRIS aggressive medical management included a telephonic lifestyle modification program, INTERVENT, that was provided free of charge to all subjects during the study. We analyzed self-reported data collected by INTERVENT on the patients’ type and duration of exercise from baseline (n=394) to 3 years (n=132). We calculated the mean duration for each exercise type at each time period and then compared the change in exercise duration from baseline using paired t tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.

Results:
Walking was the most common form of exercise at all time points, as measured by both the duration of exercise and the number of patients performing the exercise. The mean duration of walking and other aerobic activities increased significantly from baseline to all other time points.

Conclusions:
The type of self-reported exercise performed by SAMMPRIS patients included mostly walking or other aerobic activity and increased significantly during follow-up.
Can Admission BNP Level Predict Outcome After Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke?
Authors: Gupta Harsh V. , Finlay Christopher W. , Jacob Sajish , Raina Sunil K. , Lee Ricky W. , Hinduja Archana 
Published: December 2018

Objective:
Our study aimed to determine the prognostic value of elevated Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) among patients who received intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Background:
The elevation in BNP level is correlated with infarct size, poststroke mortality, and CHADS2 score. Currently, there is a lack of validated biomarker to predict the outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke, and there is a complex interaction amongst multiple variables.

Design/Methods:
A retrospective review of medical records of patients admitted to our institution with acute ischemic stroke was performed. The patients who received intravenous thrombolysis were selected for analysis and divided into 2 groups based on the level of BNP. We compared the baseline demographics, past medical history, stroke etiology, discharge disposition, and 3-month mRS between both groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of poor outcome following intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke.

Results:
A total of 90 patients were recruited in the study; 53 patients were found to have an elevated BNP (high BNP was defined as >100 pg/mL) level, whereas 37 had low BNP levels. Our study showed that patients with elevated BNP were more likely to have an elevation in admission and discharge NIHSS, serum creatinine, left atrial size, and blood glucose (P<0.05). Atrial fibrillation and cardioembolic strokes were seen most often in the population with elevated BNP (P<0.05). The patients with elevated BNP were less likely to be discharged home, and 3-month mRS was found to be higher, but these were not significant. On multivariate analysis, elevated BNP was not found to be an independent factor for poor outcome.

Conclusions:
Elevated BNP level was not found to be an independent marker of poor outcome in AIS patients following IVT.
A Novel Method for Optical Distortion Quantification
Authors: Gerton Katherine M. , Novar Brenda J. , Brockmeier William , Putnam Christopher 
Published: December 2018

SIGNIFICANCE
Optical distortion is the image degradation of a visual target induced by a transparent material. Current Air Force evaluation of distortion is an entirely qualitative assessment of the acceptability of image distortion. The novel, quantitative technique described here is capable of identifying 0.1% distortion across an array of optical samples.

PURPOSE
Optical distortion is the effect by which a transparent object spatially warps the perception of a visual target. All U.S. Air Force visors are required to pass military standards outlined in MIL-DTL-43511D (2006). Although specifications for the optical distortion setup and critical areas of vision are outlined, the evaluation technique is entirely qualitative, with a panel of several human evaluators assessing the distortion acceptability. The evaluation is not explicitly tied to a visual acceptability rating and has variable levels of consistency over time or across evaluators and a fabrication tolerance limit of 3% distortion.

METHODS
The technique proposed in this article is a modification to the recommended optical tester used to analyze distortion patterns. An image-processing algorithm was developed to analyze patterns of Ronchi grid distortion mathematically to provide a quantitative approach that can subsequently be tied to visual metrics.

RESULTS
This effort developed and refined an algorithm that allowed for a standardized assessment creation of high-resolution distortion maps from digital images. A 1-inch-diameter region imaged through ophthalmic material allowed for two-dimensional median filtering down to 15-pixel areas with enhanced contrast between grid lines leading to possible resolution capabilities of 0.10% distortion.

CONCLUSIONS
Quantification of the standard for measuring optical distortion is the initial step toward determining the effects of distortions on human visual performance metrics. The future goal for this effort will focus on obtaining empirical results from human experimental efforts and relating the distortion location and magnitude to effects on visual performance activities.