Unmet Health Care Needs for Syrian Refugees in Canada: A Follow-up Study

Abstract

Unmet health care needs are under explored among refugees. Previously we found unmet health care needs in Syrian refugees may be higher than in the general Canadian population (Oda et al. CMAJ Open 5(2):E354–E358, 2017; Oda et al. J Immigr Minor Health, 2018. http://bit.ly/2VCP6SH). This follow-up study with Syrian refugees who entered Canada between July 2015 and July 2016 aimed to understand if there are changes in unmet health care needs 6 months to a year after baseline collection. The number reporting unmet needs was high (42.6%). Although some refugees had their needs met, unmet health needs persist, and it seems that they are linked with sponsorship pathway and post-migration socio-economic position. While caution should be used generalizing these results, they do suggest that greater coordination between services may be needed as many of the refugees report unmet needs within months of arriving and continue to report needs after being here for a period up to 2 years.

http://bit.ly/2QsEX7r

Geospatial Analysis of Refugee Access to Primary Care Physicians in San Antonio, Texas

Abstract

This study investigated refugee access to primary care physicians (PCP) in San Antonio, Texas. Catholic Charities of San Antonio (CCSA) is the primary agency responsible for connecting refugees to a PCP. Data on refugees were collected from CCSA between May to September 2013 (N = 547). PCPs information was accessed at the Texas Medicaid and Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) website. The 2SFCA method was used in geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze the ratio of healthcare providers relative to refugees within varying walking distances. The highest concentration of accessibility was at 20 min distance in the Medical Center area. The highest concentration of accessibility at all walking distances were also in the Medical Center area. The univariate and multivariate analyses did not result in significant findings for the association between demographic variables and the accessibility scores. These findings recommend building new and more relationships with healthcare providers where PCPs access is low.

http://bit.ly/2RttoSb

RNA polymerase II ChIP-seq—a powerful and highly affordable method for studying fungal genomics and physiology

http://bit.ly/2D5Vlat

A review of big data applications of physiological signal data

Abstract

The proliferation of smart physiological signal monitoring sensors, combined with the advancement of telemetry and intelligent communication systems, has led to an explosion in healthcare data in the past few years. Additionally, access to cheaper and more effective power and storage mechanisms has significantly increased the availability of healthcare data for the development of big data applications. Big data applications in healthcare are concerned with the analysis of datasets which are too big, too fast, and too complex for healthcare providers to process and interpret with existing tools. The driver for the development of such systems is the continuing effort in making healthcare services more efficient and sustainable. In this paper, we provide a review of current big data applications which utilize physiological waveforms or derived measurements in order to provide medical decision support, often in real time, in the clinical and home environment. We focus mainly on systems developed for continuous patient monitoring in critical care and discuss the challenges that need to be overcome such that these systems can be incorporated into clinical practice. Once these challenges are overcome, big data systems have the potential to transform healthcare management in the hospital of the future.

http://bit.ly/2TPBD8J

Host and microbiome multi-omics integration: applications and methodologies

Abstract

The study of the microbial community—the microbiome—associated with a human host is a maturing research field. It is increasingly clear that the composition of the human's microbiome is associated with various diseases such as gastrointestinal diseases, liver diseases and metabolic diseases. Using high-throughput technologies such as next-generation sequencing and mass spectrometry–based metabolomics, we are able to comprehensively sequence the microbiome—the metagenome—and associate these data with the genomic, epigenomics, transcriptomic and metabolic profile of the host. Our review summarises the application of integrating host omics with microbiome as well as the analytical methods and related tools applied in these studies. In addition, potential future directions are discussed.

http://bit.ly/2D5yR9R

The rise of the distributions: why non-normality is important for understanding the transcriptome and beyond

Abstract

The application of statistics has been instrumental in clarifying our understanding of the genome. While insights have been derived for almost all levels of genome function, most importantly, statistics has had the greatest impact on improving our knowledge of transcriptional regulation. But the drive to extract the most meaningful inferences from big data can often force us to overlook the fundamental role that statistics plays, and specifically, the basic assumptions that we make about big data. Normality is a statistical property that is often swept up into an assumption that we may or may not be consciously aware of making. This review highlights the inherent value of non-normal distributions to big data analysis by discussing use cases of non-normality that focus on gene expression data. Collectively, these examples help to motivate the premise of why at this stage, now more than ever, non-normality is important for learning about gene regulation, transcriptomics, and more.

http://bit.ly/2TPBy4V

Methotrexate-induced toxic leukoencephalopathy: an uncommon stroke mimic

http://bit.ly/2snK1Ao

Mortality risk from heat stress expected to hit poorest nations the hardest

Abstract

Anthropogenic climate warming has increased the likelihood of extreme hot summers. To facilitate mitigation and adaptation planning, it is essential to quantify and synthesize climate change impacts and characterize the associated uncertainties. By synergistically using projections of climate scenarios from an ensemble of regional climate models and a spatially explicit version of an empirical health risk model, here we quantify the mortality risk associated with excessive heat stress for people aged over 65 years old across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Our results show that mortality risk is expected to intensify by a factor of 8–20 in the last 30 years of the twenty-first century with respect to the historical period (1951–2005) if no climate change mitigation planning is undertaken. If global warming is limited to 2 °C, the mortality risk is expected to rise by a factor of 3–7 for the same period. Further analyses reveal that much of the increase in mortality risk is due to the increase in frequency of warm days rather than their intensity. Unfortunately, the poorest countries with least contribution to climate change are expected to be most impacted by it, as they will experience higher mortality risks compared to wealthier nations.

http://bit.ly/2D5AqEu

Synthesis, evaluation and aqueous solution behavior of the cationic fluorinated hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide

Abstract

Hydroxypropyl acrylate-N-diethyl-perfluorooctane sulfonamide (HAF), a novel surface active cationic fluorinated monomer, is designed and synthesized in this study. The structure of HAF and its intermediate product are characterized by FT-IR and ¹H-NMR. Then the hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide (PMHAF) is prepared by free radical polymerization of acrylamide, 2-Acrylamido-2- methylpropane sulfonic acid and HAF in an aqueous solution. The structure and composition of PMHAF are characterized by FT-IR, ¹H-NMR, XPS and Tg. Macroscopic and microscopic self-assembly associative properties in solutions of PMHAF are studied via viscosimetry, SEM and AFM. The result show that with the polymer concentration increase, the viscosity increased and the critical association concentration (CAC) is about 1.09 g.L⁻¹. Moreover, the active of PMHAF solution are examined with surface tension, interfacial tension (IFT) and contact angle. The CAC values of PMHAF in water and in salt from surface tension are 1.39 g.L⁻¹ and 1.22 g.L⁻¹ respectively. Copolymers can reduce the interfacial tension between crude oil from Xinjiang Oilfield /water, and the final values of IFT is around 0.0243 mN.m⁻¹ and PMHAF solution has good potential on change of wettability. All of these properties indicate that the fluorinated hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide is an excellent chemical for chemical enhanced oil recovery.

http://bit.ly/2Hjk9jk

Inducers of post-apneic blood pressure fluctuation monitored by pulse transfer time measurement in obstructive sleep apnea varied with syndrome severity

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigated the properties of blood pressure (BP) fluctuation and sympathovagal imbalance with the severity of OSAS.

Methods

Nocturnal BP was continuously monitored by polysomnography for mild (n = 33), moderate (n = 34), and severe (n = 37) OSAS patients. Apnea-related systolic BP elevation (△SBP) indicated the amplitude of BP fluctuation. The SBP index, number of △SBP > 10 mmHg/h of sleep, indicated the frequency of significant BP fluctuations. The low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) ratios indicated heart rate variability and sympathovagal imbalance.

Results

△SBP and the SBP index were the highest in severe OSAS (12.9 ± 2.3 mmHg and 33.7 ± 14.7/h), followed by moderate OSAS (9.5 ± 2.6 mmHg and 7.1 ± 4.4/h), and mild OSAS (8.3 ± 1.6 mmHg and 3.4 ± 2.1/h). The LF/HF ratios in severe OSAS were significantly higher than that in moderate and mild OSAS. In mild OSAS, arousal played a more important role in BP fluctuation. In moderate OSAS, the oxygen desaturation index (ODI) and the SBP index were correlated. The difference in △SBP induced by hypoxia or by arousal was not significant. In severe OSAS, the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and LF/HF ratio were correlated with the SBP index, and △SBP was larger with hypoxia than arousal.

Conclusions

BP fluctuation and sympathovagal imbalance were both related to obstructive sleep apnea severity. The influence of arousal and hypoxia on BP fluctuation varied with OSAS severity.

Trial registration

NCT02876471

http://bit.ly/2SOYrFh

Long-Term Efficacy of Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors for the Treatment of Methotrexate-Naïve Rheumatoid Arthritis: Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction

Synthesis of evidence on the long-term use of first-line biologic therapy in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is required. We compared the efficacy of up to 5 years' treatment with first-line tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFis) versus other treatment strategies in this population.

Methods

Previous systematic reviews, PubMed and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving treatment of methotrexate-naïve RA patients with first-line TNFis. Literature was synthesized qualitatively, and a meta-analysis conducted to evaluate American College of Rheumatology (ACR) responses, clinical remission defined by any standard measure, and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ) at Years 2 and/or 5.

Results

Ten RCTs involving 4306 patients [first-line TNFi, n = 2234; other treatment strategies (control), n = 2072] were included in the meta-analysis. Three studies were double-blind for the first 2 years, while seven were partly/completely open label during this period. Five studies reported data at Year 5; all were open label at this time point. At Year 2, ACR50 response, ACR70 response and remission rates were significantly improved with first-line TNFi versus control in double-blind RCTs [log-odds ratio (OR) 0.32 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.02, 0.62; p = 0.035], log-OR 0.48 (95% CI 0.20, 0.77; p = 0.001), and log-OR 0.44 (95% CI 0.13, 0.74; p = 0.005), respectively], but not in open-label studies. No significant between-group differences were observed in mean HAQ at Year 2 in double-blind or open-label RCTs or in ACR response or remission outcomes at Year 5.

Conclusion

In double-blind studies, 2-year efficacy outcomes were significantly improved with first-line TNFi versus other treatment strategies in patients with MTX-naïve RA. No significant differences in these outcomes were observed when data from open-label RCTs were considered on their own. Further data on the efficacy of TNFi therapy over ≥ 2 years in patients with methotrexate-naïve RA are required.

Plain Language Summary

Plain language summary available for this article.

http://bit.ly/2Rrxon1

Uncertainty representations of mean sea-level change: a telephone game?

Abstract

For the long-term management of coastal flood risks, investment and policy strategies need to be developed in light of the full range of uncertainties associated with mean sea-level rise (SLR). This, however, remains a challenge due to deep uncertainties involved in SLR assessments, many ways of representing uncertainties and a lack of common terminology for referring to these. To contribute to addressing these limitations, this paper first develops a typology of representations of SLR uncertainty by categorising these at three levels: (i) SLR scenarios versus SLR predictions, (ii) the type of variable that is used to represent SLR uncertainty, and (iii) partial versus complete uncertainty representations. Next, it is analysed how mean SLR uncertainty is represented and how representations are converted within the following three strands of literature: SLR assessments, impact assessments and decision analyses. We find that SLR assessments mostly produce partial or complete precise probabilistic scenarios. The likely ranges in the report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change are a noteworthy example of partial imprecise probabilistic scenarios. SLR impact assessments and decision analyses mostly use deterministic scenarios. In conversions of uncertainty representations, a range of arbitrary assumptions are made, for example on functional forms of probability distributions and relevant confidence levels. The loss of quality and the loss of information can be reduced by disregarding deterministic and complete precise probabilistic predictions for decisions with time horizons of several decades or centuries and by constructing imprecise probabilistic predictions and using these in approaches for robust decision-making.

http://bit.ly/2smsysh

Applications of cellulose and chitin/chitosan derivatives and composites as antibacterial materials: current state and perspectives

Abstract

The bacterial infections have always a serious problem to public health. Scientists are developing new antibacterial materials to overcome this problem. Polysaccharides are promising biopolymers due to their diverse biological functions, low toxicity, and high biodegradability. Chitin and chitosan have antibacterial properties due to their cationic nature, while cellulose/bacterial cellulose does not possess any antibacterial activity. Moreover, the insolubility of chitin in common solvents, the poor solubility of chitosan in water, and the low mechanical properties of chitosan have restricted their biomedical applications. In order to solve these problems, chemical modifications such as quaternization, carboxymethylation, cationization, or surface modification of these polymers with different antimicrobial agents, including metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, are carried out to obtain new materials with improved physiochemical and biological properties. This mini review describes the recent progress in such derivatives and composites with potential antibacterial applications.

http://bit.ly/2Ro1h7B

Synthesis of o-aminophenol- m -phenylenediamine copolymer: an eco-friendly approach

Abstract

Poly (o-aminophenol-co-m-phenylenediamine) P(oAP-mPDA) as a copolymer is successfully synthesized by mechanochemical solid state polymerization (MCSSP) as a green and simple method. The mechanochemical solid state polymerization is achieved by a developed Mortar Grinder RM200 without using any solvents during the preparation process. The copolymer was also prepared by traditional interfacial polymerization method (IP). A comparison between the resulting copolymers of the two methods is conducted by various analyses including, Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), ultra violet, visible spectra (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The analyses revealed that there is a good agreement between the two copolymers synthesized by MCSSP and IP method. The energy band gap was determined and found to be 2.19 eV and 2.09 eV for the copolymer synthesized by MCSSP method and the IP method, respectively. The investigated copolymers are located in the semiconductor material range and displayed a good thermal stability.

http://bit.ly/2Fr1Ypz

Letter: Celiac Disease Presenting After a Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy

http://bit.ly/2RmKFgu

Deep hypothermic preservation of autologous skin in the treatment of large-area circumferential multi-plane degloving trauma: a pilot study of 2 cases

Abstract

To evaluate the clinical outcome of deep hypothermic preservation of autologous skin in the treatment of large-area skin avulsion. Medium or full thickness-skin slices were harvested from large avulsion flaps between July and November 2017. They were stored in liquid nitrogen by vitrification. After the patient's condition became stable and the growth of the wound granulation tissue was satisfactory, the frozen skin slices were reheated quickly and replanted to the wound. Autologous skin that had been kept by deep cryopreservation had a high survival rate when grafted. It did not create new trauma or bring additional pain to patients. Yet it could shorten the course of treatment and reduce the medical cost for patients. It is an effective and economical way to treat large-area skin avulsion.

http://bit.ly/2TIezsf

Approaches for the study of epigenetic modifications in the inner ear and related tissues

Publication date: Available online 12 January 2019

Source: Hearing Research

Author(s): Bradley J. Waters, Brandon C. Cox

Abstract

DNA methylation and histone modifications such as methylation, acetylation, and phosphorylation, are two types of epigenetic modifications that alter gene expression. These additions to DNA regulatory elements or to the tails of histones can be inherited or can also occur de novo. Since epigenetic modifications can have significant effects on various processes at both the cellular and organismal level, there has been a rapid increase in research on this topic throughout all fields of biology in recent years. However, epigenetic research is relativity new for the inner ear field, likely due to the limited number of cells present and their quiescent nature. Here, we provide an overview of methods used to detect DNA methylation and histone modifications with a focus on those that have been validated for use with limited cell numbers and a discussion of the strengths and limitations for each. We also provide examples for how these methods have been used to investigate the epigenetic landscape in the inner ear and related tissues.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2AHu9gB

Approaches for the study of epigenetic modifications in the inner ear and related tissues

Publication date: Available online 12 January 2019

Source: Hearing Research

Author(s): Bradley J. Waters, Brandon C. Cox

Abstract

DNA methylation and histone modifications such as methylation, acetylation, and phosphorylation, are two types of epigenetic modifications that alter gene expression. These additions to DNA regulatory elements or to the tails of histones can be inherited or can also occur de novo. Since epigenetic modifications can have significant effects on various processes at both the cellular and organismal level, there has been a rapid increase in research on this topic throughout all fields of biology in recent years. However, epigenetic research is relativity new for the inner ear field, likely due to the limited number of cells present and their quiescent nature. Here, we provide an overview of methods used to detect DNA methylation and histone modifications with a focus on those that have been validated for use with limited cell numbers and a discussion of the strengths and limitations for each. We also provide examples for how these methods have been used to investigate the epigenetic landscape in the inner ear and related tissues.

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Approaches for the study of epigenetic modifications in the inner ear and related tissues

Publication date: Available online 12 January 2019

Source: Hearing Research

Author(s): Bradley J. Waters, Brandon C. Cox

Abstract

DNA methylation and histone modifications such as methylation, acetylation, and phosphorylation, are two types of epigenetic modifications that alter gene expression. These additions to DNA regulatory elements or to the tails of histones can be inherited or can also occur de novo. Since epigenetic modifications can have significant effects on various processes at both the cellular and organismal level, there has been a rapid increase in research on this topic throughout all fields of biology in recent years. However, epigenetic research is relativity new for the inner ear field, likely due to the limited number of cells present and their quiescent nature. Here, we provide an overview of methods used to detect DNA methylation and histone modifications with a focus on those that have been validated for use with limited cell numbers and a discussion of the strengths and limitations for each. We also provide examples for how these methods have been used to investigate the epigenetic landscape in the inner ear and related tissues.

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Establishment and characterization of an immortalized renal cell line of the Chinese tree shrew ( Tupaia belangeri chinesis )

Abstract

The Chinese tree shrew holds a great potential as a viable animal model in biomedical research, especially for infectious diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders. A thorough understanding of the innate immunity, which represents the first line that defends the host against viral infection, of the Chinese tree shrew, is needed. However, the progress is hindered by the lack of a proper cell line for research usage. In this study, we established a cell line that is applicable to the study of tree shrew innate immune responses against viral infections. The Chinese tree shrew primary renal cells (TSPRCs) were immortalized by simian virus 40 large T antigen (SV40LT) transduction, and the immortalized cells were termed TSR6 (tree shrew renal cell #6). TSR6 showed a similar morphology to TSPRCs and expressed the epithelial cell-specific marker cytokeratin 18 (KRT18). In addition, TSR6 could be transfected by transfection reagent and was suitable for CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing. Infection of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) or herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) in TSR6 induced the mRNA expression of tree shrew interferon-β (tIFNB1) and myxovirus resistance protein 1 (tMx1) in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Collectively, we successfully established a tree shrew renal cell line and demonstrated that this cell line was suitable for the study of the innate immune response to viral infections.

http://bit.ly/2RslJ7h

Treatment of multi-loculated hydrocephalus using endoscopic cyst fenestration and endoscopic guided VP shunt insertion

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the role of endoscopic cyst fenestration and endoscopic guided VP shunt insertion in multi-loculated hydrocephalus in children.

Method

A retrospective analysis was performed on 20 patients with multi-loculated hydrocephalus who underwent endoscopic cyst fenestration (ECF) alone or in combination with VP shunt revision or insertion between August 2014 and December 2016 with the extended follow-up period to December 2017.

Results

Thirty-one ECFs were performed: ECF alone, 10 operations in 8 cases, and 21 ECFs with shunt insertion in 12 cases. Eighteen of 20 patients required a VP shunt, 7 cases required multiple shunts. All patients with a previous shunt remained shunt dependent; and 6 cases with no prior shunt underwent endoscopic guided ventricular catheter insertion after ECF; only 2 cases did not require a shunt after ECF. The rate of repeated ECFs was 0.25 operations/year and the shunt revision rate was 0.11 operations/year. VP shunt or cystoperitoneal shunt without repeat ECF was used in 7 cases (35%). Mean duration between operations was 71 days in repeated ECF and 16 days in added-on shunt. The most common cause of re-operations was new formation of intraventricular fibrosis or compartmentalization causing ventricular catheter blockage.

Conclusion

Endoscopic cyst fenestration and endoscopic assisted VP shunt insertion minimize shunt complications in multi-loculated hydrocephalus. Shunt independence is unusual.

http://bit.ly/2FskRIB

Reference data on hand grip and lower limb strength using the Nintendo Wii balance board: a cross-sectional study of 354 subjects from 20 to 99 years of age

Abstract

Background

Accurate assessment of isometric hand grip strength (HGS) and isometric lower limb strength (LS) are often limited to specialized clinics due to high costs and need for specialized equipment and personnel. A mobile and user-friendly device would facilitate a wider use of these measures in the clinical setting. The Nintendo Wii Balance Board (WBB) is a novel and pragmatic tool that has been validated for measuring muscle strength and other clinically relevant physiological variables. However, reference data for HGS and LS are lacking. The purpose of the current study is to establish reference data for HGS and LS in individuals ≥20 years of age using the WBB method, and to characterize the effects of age in these measurements.

Method

Healthy participants were recruited at various locations and their HGS and LS were tested by six assessors using the WBB. Reference data were analysed and presented in age-groups, while the age-related change in HGS and LS was tested and characterized with linear regression models.

Results

Three hundred and fifty-four participants between 20 and 99 years of age were tested. Data are presented separately according to gender and the following age categories: 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70–79, and 80+, and presented in absolute values as well as percentiles. The main findings were; (1) Significantly higher HGS and LS among males compared to females and for the dominant limb compared to the non-dominant limb, (2) a significant decline in strength with increasing age, and (3) the rate of decline increased significantly (i.e. it was non-linear) with age for HGS, but not for LS.

Conclusion

This study reported reference data with percentiles for a novel method for assessing HGS and LS. Data were consistent with previously known effects of age and gender on HGS and LS. The presented data may supplement future trials using the WBB in research or in the clinical setting.

http://bit.ly/2M6DZgF

The Topographical Relationship between Visual Field Loss and Peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer Thinning Arising from Long-Term Exposure to Vigabatrin

Abstract

Background

The antiepileptic drug vigabatrin is associated with characteristic visual field loss (VAVFL) and thinning of the peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (PPRNFL); however, the relationship is equivocal.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the function–structure relationship associated with long-term exposure to vigabatrin, thereby improving the risk/benefit analysis of the drug.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational design identified 40 adults who had received long-term vigabatrin for refractory seizures, who had no evidence of co-existing retino-geniculo-cortical visual pathway abnormality, and who had undergone a standardized protocol of perimetry and of optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the PPRNFL. Vigabatrin toxicity was defined as the presence of VAVFL. The function–structure relationship for the superior and inferior retinal quadrants was evaluated by two established models applicable to other optic neuropathies.

Results

The function–structure relationship for each model was consistent with an optic neuropathy. PPRNFL thinning, expressed in micrometres, asymptoted at an equivalent visual field loss of worse than approximately − 10.0 dB, thereby preventing assessment of more substantial thinning. Transformation of the outcomes to retinal ganglion cell soma and axon estimates, respectively, resulted in a linear relationship.

Conclusions

Functional and structural abnormality is strongly related in individuals with vigabatrin toxicity and no evidence of visual pathway comorbidity, thereby implicating retinal ganglion cell dysfunction. OCT affords a limited measurement range compared with perimetry: severity cannot be directly assessed when the PPRNFL quadrant thickness is less than approximately 65 µm, depending on the tomographer. This limitation can be overcome by transformation of thickness to remaining axons, an outcome requiring input from perimetry.

http://bit.ly/2CftYJF

Mechanical Energy Efficiency for Stepping Up and Down in Persons with Medial Knee Osteoarthritis

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): Yumiko Koyama, Hiroshige Tateuchi, Koujiro Araki, Kosuke Fujita, Jun Umehara, Masashi Kobayashi, Noriaki Ichihashi

Abstract

Background

Energetic cost contributes to movement impairments observed during stair negotiation in persons with knee osteoarthritis. Specifically, the intersegmental mechanical energy exchange may be diminished in the presence of pathologies.

Research question

The purpose of this study was to evaluate mechanical energy efficiency in persons with knee osteoarthritis during stepping up and down based on mechanical energy analysis.

Methods

Sixteen patients with medial knee osteoarthritis and 16 age-matched

controls participated. A three-dimensional motion analysis system and force platforms were used to acquire biomechanical data. The participants were instructed to ascend/descend a 2-step staircase. The mechanical power exhibited during the stance phase at the lower step of the staircase were computed. Mechanical Energy Expenditure (MEE) was calculated as the integral of net joint power at each joint. Mechanical Energy Compensation (MEC) was defined as the proportion of muscle energy compensated by inter-segmental energy transfer. According to energy transfer modes, MEE and MEC were determined separately as three phases: concentric and eccentric transfer phases and no-transfer phase.

Results

While stepping up, the patient group performed the task with less MEC at the ankle joint, which was observed prior to push-off. The patient group displayed less mechanical energy transfer from the shank to the foot segment. The concentric MEC at the hip joint in the late-stance phase of stepping down was lower in the patient group, which meant patients demonstrated less mechanical energy transfer from the pelvis to the thigh segment.

Significance

: It was disclosed that persons with knee osteoarthritis demonstrated less mechanical energy transfer while stepping up and down.

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Influence of dance training on challenging postural control task

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): M Maheu, L Behtany, M Nooristani, B Jemel, A Delcenserie, F Champoux

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have shown that dance training affects postural control, particularly during challenging tasks. However, it is still unknown whether dance training also affects the ability to use vestibular, somatosensory, and visual cues, thus leading to postural control differences.

Objective

The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the influence of dance training on sensory weighting during static postural control.

Method

The center of pressure of 24 participants was recorded (12 dancers and 12 control non-dancers) using a force platform as well as the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Organization in Balance (mCTISB).

Results

The results suggest that dancers perform significantly better than controls in conditions where somatosensory cues are disturbed. Moreover, a significant negative correlation between vestibular frequency band and training intensity was observed, along with, a significant positive correlation between visual frequency band and training intensity.

Significance

This research outlines dancers’ increased ability to modulate sensory weighting differently than non-dancers during postural task where somatosensory cues are reduced.

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via IFTTT

Mechanical Energy Efficiency for Stepping Up and Down in Persons with Medial Knee Osteoarthritis

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): Yumiko Koyama, Hiroshige Tateuchi, Koujiro Araki, Kosuke Fujita, Jun Umehara, Masashi Kobayashi, Noriaki Ichihashi

Abstract

Background

Energetic cost contributes to movement impairments observed during stair negotiation in persons with knee osteoarthritis. Specifically, the intersegmental mechanical energy exchange may be diminished in the presence of pathologies.

Research question

The purpose of this study was to evaluate mechanical energy efficiency in persons with knee osteoarthritis during stepping up and down based on mechanical energy analysis.

Methods

Sixteen patients with medial knee osteoarthritis and 16 age-matched

controls participated. A three-dimensional motion analysis system and force platforms were used to acquire biomechanical data. The participants were instructed to ascend/descend a 2-step staircase. The mechanical power exhibited during the stance phase at the lower step of the staircase were computed. Mechanical Energy Expenditure (MEE) was calculated as the integral of net joint power at each joint. Mechanical Energy Compensation (MEC) was defined as the proportion of muscle energy compensated by inter-segmental energy transfer. According to energy transfer modes, MEE and MEC were determined separately as three phases: concentric and eccentric transfer phases and no-transfer phase.

Results

While stepping up, the patient group performed the task with less MEC at the ankle joint, which was observed prior to push-off. The patient group displayed less mechanical energy transfer from the shank to the foot segment. The concentric MEC at the hip joint in the late-stance phase of stepping down was lower in the patient group, which meant patients demonstrated less mechanical energy transfer from the pelvis to the thigh segment.

Significance

: It was disclosed that persons with knee osteoarthritis demonstrated less mechanical energy transfer while stepping up and down.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2FunXMf

Influence of dance training on challenging postural control task

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): M Maheu, L Behtany, M Nooristani, B Jemel, A Delcenserie, F Champoux

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have shown that dance training affects postural control, particularly during challenging tasks. However, it is still unknown whether dance training also affects the ability to use vestibular, somatosensory, and visual cues, thus leading to postural control differences.

Objective

The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the influence of dance training on sensory weighting during static postural control.

Method

The center of pressure of 24 participants was recorded (12 dancers and 12 control non-dancers) using a force platform as well as the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Organization in Balance (mCTISB).

Results

The results suggest that dancers perform significantly better than controls in conditions where somatosensory cues are disturbed. Moreover, a significant negative correlation between vestibular frequency band and training intensity was observed, along with, a significant positive correlation between visual frequency band and training intensity.

Significance

This research outlines dancers' increased ability to modulate sensory weighting differently than non-dancers during postural task where somatosensory cues are reduced.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Fm7hY8

Mechanical Energy Efficiency for Stepping Up and Down in Persons with Medial Knee Osteoarthritis

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): Yumiko Koyama, Hiroshige Tateuchi, Koujiro Araki, Kosuke Fujita, Jun Umehara, Masashi Kobayashi, Noriaki Ichihashi

Abstract

Background

Energetic cost contributes to movement impairments observed during stair negotiation in persons with knee osteoarthritis. Specifically, the intersegmental mechanical energy exchange may be diminished in the presence of pathologies.

Research question

The purpose of this study was to evaluate mechanical energy efficiency in persons with knee osteoarthritis during stepping up and down based on mechanical energy analysis.

Methods

Sixteen patients with medial knee osteoarthritis and 16 age-matched

controls participated. A three-dimensional motion analysis system and force platforms were used to acquire biomechanical data. The participants were instructed to ascend/descend a 2-step staircase. The mechanical power exhibited during the stance phase at the lower step of the staircase were computed. Mechanical Energy Expenditure (MEE) was calculated as the integral of net joint power at each joint. Mechanical Energy Compensation (MEC) was defined as the proportion of muscle energy compensated by inter-segmental energy transfer. According to energy transfer modes, MEE and MEC were determined separately as three phases: concentric and eccentric transfer phases and no-transfer phase.

Results

While stepping up, the patient group performed the task with less MEC at the ankle joint, which was observed prior to push-off. The patient group displayed less mechanical energy transfer from the shank to the foot segment. The concentric MEC at the hip joint in the late-stance phase of stepping down was lower in the patient group, which meant patients demonstrated less mechanical energy transfer from the pelvis to the thigh segment.

Significance

: It was disclosed that persons with knee osteoarthritis demonstrated less mechanical energy transfer while stepping up and down.

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Influence of dance training on challenging postural control task

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2019

Source: Gait & Posture

Author(s): M Maheu, L Behtany, M Nooristani, B Jemel, A Delcenserie, F Champoux

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have shown that dance training affects postural control, particularly during challenging tasks. However, it is still unknown whether dance training also affects the ability to use vestibular, somatosensory, and visual cues, thus leading to postural control differences.

Objective

The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the influence of dance training on sensory weighting during static postural control.

Method

The center of pressure of 24 participants was recorded (12 dancers and 12 control non-dancers) using a force platform as well as the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Organization in Balance (mCTISB).

Results

The results suggest that dancers perform significantly better than controls in conditions where somatosensory cues are disturbed. Moreover, a significant negative correlation between vestibular frequency band and training intensity was observed, along with, a significant positive correlation between visual frequency band and training intensity.

Significance

This research outlines dancers’ increased ability to modulate sensory weighting differently than non-dancers during postural task where somatosensory cues are reduced.

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Understanding m 6 A Function Through Uncovering the Diversity Roles of YTH Domain-Containing Proteins

Abstract

N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) is the most abundant—internal modification of eukaryotic mRNA. m⁶A can be installed and removed by specific enzymes. The "writer," "eraser," and "reader" of m⁶A modification have been reported. These discoveries facilitate our understanding of the functional significance of m⁶A. m⁶A plays an essential role in diverse biological processes by recruiting the corresponding YTH domain-containing proteins, as well as recruiting additional translation initiation factors. Here, we provide an update on the various aspects of YTH domain-containing proteins, including an introduction to the YTH domain, the categories, distribution in cells, and biological roles of YTH proteins. Then we focus on the mechanisms that YTH proteins recognize m⁶A and mediate the fate of methylated-RNAs in eukaryotic cells.

http://bit.ly/2VLyxnU

A new CFAR algorithm based on variable window for ship target detection in SAR images

Abstract

Target detection in the multiscale situation where there exit multiple ship targets with different sizes is a challenging task due to the mismatch of the sizes of ship targets and fixed windows. A new constant false alarm rate (CFAR) algorithm based on variable window for ship target detection in SAR images is proposed. First, the multiscale local contrast measure is introduced to estimate the ship target size without any prior knowledge about ships. Second, the size of neighborhood area is adaptively set and a transform algorithm is designed to enhance the contrast between targets and background. Finally, CFAR detection is implemented by adopting variable window to gain the accurate ship targets. Experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm has better performance compared with other CFAR detection algorithms.

http://bit.ly/2QIvzg0

Sampling with level set for pigmented skin lesion segmentation

Abstract

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and its incidence is increasing. The first step in automated melanoma analysis of dermoscopy images is to segment the area of the lesion from the surrounding skin. To improve the accuracy and adaptability of segmentation, an algorithm called sampling with level set by integrating color and texture (SLS-CT) is proposed that not only designs a new way to incorporate textural and color features in the definition of the energy functional but also utilizes an index called texture level, proposed in this work, to automatically decide the weight of each feature in the combined energies. First, at the preprocessing stage, hair and black frame removal is applied, and a potential lesion area is then obtained using Otsu thresholding and entropy maximization. Thereafter, the probability distribution of prior color in this potential lesion area is calculated as well. Second, Gabor wavelet-based texture features are extracted and integrated with the prior color into the evolving energies of the level set based on the texture level. To achieve global optimization, a Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling approach guided by the combined energy is adopted in evolving the level set, which ultimately defines a border in the image to segment a lesion from normal skin. Finally, morphological operations are used for postprocessing. The experimental results of the proposed algorithm are compared with those of other state-of-the-art algorithms, demonstrating that the proposed algorithm outperforms the other tested ones in terms of accuracy and adaptability to different databases.

http://bit.ly/2RKQVhr

Genome-wide identification and expression analyses of WRKY transcription factor family members from chickpea ( Cicer arietinum L.) reveal their role in abiotic stress-responses

Abstract

Background

WRKY proteins play a vital role in the regulation of several imperative plant metabolic processes and pathways, especially under biotic and abiotic stresses. Although WRKY genes have been characterized in various major crop plants, their identification and characterization in pulse legumes is still in its infancy. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is the most important pulse legume grown in arid and semi-arid tropics.

Objective

In silico identification and characterization of WRKY transcription factor-encoding genes in chickpea genome.

Methods

For this purpose, a systematic genome-wide analysis was carried out to identify the non-redundant WRKY transcription factors in the chickpea genome.

Results

We have computationally identified 70 WRKY-encoding non-redundant genes which were randomly distributed on all the chickpea chromosomes except chromosome 8. The evolutionary phylogenetic analysis classified the WRKY proteins into three major groups (I, II and III) and seven sub-groups (IN, IC, IIa, IIb, IIc, IId and IIe). The gene structure analysis revealed the presence of 2–7 introns among the family members. Along with the presence of absolutely conserved signatory WRKY domain, 19 different domains were also found to be conserved in a group-specific manner. Insights of gene duplication analysis revealed the predominant role of segmental duplications for the expansion of WRKY genes in chickpea. Purifying selection seems to be operated during the evolution and expansion of paralogous WRKY genes. The transcriptome data-based in silico expression analysis revealed the differential expression of CarWRKY genes in root and shoot tissues under salt, drought, and cold stress conditions. Moreover, some of these genes showed identical expression pattern under these stresses, revealing the possibility of involvement of these genes in conserved abiotic stress–response pathways.

Conclusion

This genome-wide computational analysis will serve as a base to accelerate the functional characterization of WRKY TFs especially under biotic and abiotic stresses.

http://bit.ly/2Rmr5kH

Recent advancements in high-level synthesis of the promising clinical drug, prodigiosin

Abstract

Prodigiosin, a red linear tripyrrole pigment and a member of the prodiginine family, is normally secreted by the human pathogen Serratia marcescens as a secondary metabolite. Studies on prodigiosin have received renewed attention as a result of reported immunosuppressive, antimicrobial and anticancer properties. High-level synthesis of prodigiosin and the bioengineering of strains to synthesise useful prodiginine derivatives have also been a subject of investigation. To exploit the potential use of prodigiosin as a clinical drug targeting bacteria or as a dye for textiles, high-level synthesis of prodigiosin is a prerequisite. This review presents an overview on the biosynthesis of prodigiosin from its natural host Serratia marcescens and through recombinant approaches as well as highlighting the beneficial properties of prodigiosin. We also discuss the prospect of adopting a synthetic biology approach for safe and cost-effective production of prodigiosin in a more industrially compliant surrogate host.

http://bit.ly/2TIDTOM

Correction to: Unexpected Benefit from Alpelisib and Fulvestrant in a Woman with Highly Pre-treated ER-Positive, HER2-Negative PIK3CA Mutant Metastatic Breast Cancer

Dr. Arteaga serves on an Advisory Board for Novartis and was a consultant for AstraZeneca from 2015 to 2016. All other authors declare that they have no competing interests.

http://bit.ly/2QGavqz

Regulation of CCl 4 -induced liver cirrhosis by hepatically differentiated human dental pulp stem cells

Abstract

Liver transplantation is the most effective treatment for treating liver cirrhosis. However, a limited number of donors, graft rejection, and other complications can undermine transplant success. It is considered that cell transplantation is an alternative approach of liver transplantation. We previously developed a protocol for hepatic differentiation of cluster of differentiation 117+ stem cells isolated from human exfoliated deciduous tooth pulp (SHEDs) under hydrogen sulfide exposure. These cells showed excellent hepatic function. Here, we investigated whether hepatocyte-like cell transplantation is effective for treating carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver cirrhosis. SHEDs were hepatically differentiated, which was confirmed via immunological analyses and albumin concentration determination in the medium. Rats were intraperitoneally injected with CCl₄ for and the differentiated cells were injected into rat spleen. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed. Liver functions were serologically and pathologically determined. Quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction was implemented to clarify the treatment procedure of liver cirrhosis. In vitro-differentiated hepatocyte-like cells were positive for all examined hepatic markers. SHED-derived hepatocyte transplantation eliminated liver fibrosis and restored liver structure in rats. Liver immunohistochemical analyses showed the presence of human-specific hepatic markers, i.e., a large amount of human hepatic cells were very active in the liver and spleen. Serological tests revealed significant liver function recovery in the transplantation group. Expression of genes promoting fibrosis increased after cirrhosis induction but was suppressed after transplantation. Our results suggest that xenotransplantation of hepatocyte-like cells of human origin can treat cirrhosis. Moreover, cell-based therapy of chronic liver conditions may be an effective option.

http://bit.ly/2QHKSWf