bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic landscape of granulocytes and monocytes by multiparametric flow cytometry: A prospective study of a 1‐tube panel strategy for diagnosis and prognosis of patients with MDS
Authors: Barreau Sylvain , Green Alexa S. , Dussiau Charles , Alary Anne‐Sophie , Raimbault Anna , Mathis Stephanie , Willems Lise , Bouscary Didier , Kosmider Olivier , Bardet Valerie , Fontenay Michaela , Chapuis Nicolas
Published: September 2019

Background

Multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) was recently reported to be a helpful additional tool in the diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). However, numerous aberrancies have been reported that makes their evaluation difficult as part of a routine diagnosis.

Methods

Here, we validated a 1‐tube panel for the evaluation of granulocytic and monocytic maturation by MFC and correlated our findings with diagnosis and prognosis of MDS. A total of 251 samples with MDS suspicion were prospectively analyzed and compared to an internal reference database leading to the calculation of the Diff score.

Results

The associated specificity and sensitivity values of this scoring system were 92.1% and 60.4% in a first learning cohort and 96.7% and 65.2% in a second independent validation cohort. The combination of the Diff score with the concomitantly calculated Ogata score increased the sensitivity to 74.2% and 78.3% in the learning and validation cohorts, respectively. Finally, a normal Diff score in MDS patients was associated with a significant prolonged progression‐free survival.

Conclusions

Taken together, the present data indicate that our strategy is a sensitive and specific MFC tool for the diagnosis of MDS‐related cytopenia(s) which could be also useful for predicting evolution of these diseases.
Coverage analysis of cell‐edge users in heterogeneous wireless networks using Stienen's model and RFA scheme
Authors: Haroon Muhammad Sajid , Abbas Ziaul Haq , Muhammad Fazal , Abbas Ghulam
Published: September 2019

In heterogeneous wireless networks, signal‐to‐interference‐plus‐noise ratio (SINR) suffers degradation due to strong interference received by users from offloaded macro base station (mBS). Similarly, cell‐edge users experience low SINR due to their distant locations. Moreover, small base stations (sBSs) located in the vicinity of mBS experience reduced coverage due to the high transmit power of mBS. To overcome these limitations, we use Stienen's model as a base station deployment strategy to improve network performance gain. More specifically, we use reverse frequency allocation (RFA) as an interference management scheme together with Stienen's model to significantly improve SINR, enhance edge user coverage, and avoid sBS deployment near the mBS. In the proposed set‐up, the available coverage region is divided into two noncontiguous regions, ie, center region and outer region. Furthermore, mBSs are uniformly distributed throughout the coverage region using independent Poisson point processes, while sBSs are deployed only in outer region using Poisson hole process (PHP). Closed‐form expressions for coverage probabilities are characterized for the proposed model. Numerical results show that the proposed scheme yields improved SINR with enhanced edge user coverage and requires fewer number of sBSs.
Assessing different components of diversity across a river network using eDNA
Authors: Mächler Elvira , Little Chelsea J. , Wüthrich Remo , Alther Roman , Fronhofer Emanuel A. , Gounand Isabelle , Harvey Eric , Hürlemann Samuel , Walser Jean‐Claude , Altermatt Florian
Published: September 2019

Assessing individual components of biodiversity, such as local or regional taxon richness, and differences in community composition is a long‐standing challenge in ecology. It is especially relevant in spatially structured and diverse ecosystems. Environmental DNA (eDNA) has been suggested as a novel technique to detect taxa and therefore may allow to accurately measure biodiversity. However, we do not yet fully understand the comparability of eDNA‐based assessments to classical morphological approaches. We assessed may‐, stone‐, and caddisfly genera with two contemporary methods, namely eDNA sampling followed by molecular identification and kicknet sampling followed by morphological identification. We sampled 61 sites distributed over a large river network, allowing a comparison of various diversity measures from the catchment to site levels and providing insights into how these measures relate to network properties. We extended our data with historical morphological records of total diversity at the catchment level. At the catchment scale, identification based on eDNA and kicknet samples detected similar proportions of the overall and cumulative historically documented richness (gamma diversity), 42% and 46%, respectively. We detected a good overlap (62%) between genera identified from eDNA and kicknet samples at the regional scale. At the local scale, we found highly congruent values of local taxon richness (alpha diversity) between eDNA and kicknet samples. Richness of eDNA was positively related to discharge, a descriptor of network position, while kicknet was not. Beta diversity, a measure of dissimilarity between sites, was comparable for the two contemporary methods and is driven by species replacement and not by nestedness. Although eDNA approaches are still in their infancy and optimization regarding sampling design and laboratory work is still needed, our results indicate that it can capture different components of diversity, proving its potential utility as a new tool for large sampling campaigns across hitherto understudied complete river catchments.
Redox‐Activated Drug Delivery Properties and Cytotoxicity of Cobalt Complexes Based on a Fluorescent Coumarin‐β‐Keto Ester Hybrid
Authors: Areas Esther Saraiva , de Assunção Paiva Jéssica Lohanne , Ribeiro Felipe Vitório , Pereira Thiago Moreira , Kummerle Arthur Eugen , Silva Heveline , Guedes Guilherme Pereira , Cellis do Nascimento Ana Carolina , da Silva Miranda Fabio , Neves Amanda Porto
Published: September 2019

The search for new CoIII‐based drug delivery systems has attracted considerable attention in recent years. In this work, two cobalt complexes with general formula [Co(L)Am](ClO4)n were synthesized, in which L– = (ethyl‐3‐(7‐(diethylamino)‐2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐3‐oxopropanoate), a coumarin‐β‐keto ester ligand, and Am is the auxiliary amine TPA (tris‐(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine) or Py2en (2‐pyridylmethyl)‐1,2‐diamine). Complexation reactions yielded [CoII(L)TPA]ClO4 (1) and [CoIII(L)Py2en](ClO4)2 (2), and the CoIII complex (2) was investigated as a potential hypoxia‐activated prodrug prototype. The redox potential of the CoIII/CoII couple (+ 0.152 V vs. standard hydrogen electrode – SHE) was outside the suggested range for activation by cellular reductases. However, (2) was successfully able to release L– in the presence of sodium ascorbate, which was found to be slightly dependent on the O2 concentration. In terms of cytotoxicity, (2) and HL were the least toxic compounds against the tumor cells tested (IC50 > 40 and 100 µm) and nontoxic against normal cells. The results show that complex (2) is a reductively activated non‐toxic carrier system.
Deuterium Isotope Effects Upon the Redox‐switching of the Viscosity of DNA Layers Observed by Electrochemical Quartz Crystal Micro‐balance
Authors: Galagedera Sarasi K. K. , Flechsig Gerd‐Uwe
Published: September 2019

We report on H/D isotope effects observed upon quick redox‐switching of the viscoelasticity of self‐assembled monolayers of single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA‐SAM) observed by electrochemical quartz‐crystal micro‐balance (EQCM) of three redox‐active small molecules that travel through the DNA layer on gold electrodes. We have recently reported hexammine cobalt(III) (CoHex) to have the largest voltammetric isotope effect while hexammine ruthenium(III) (RuHex) does not show this effect. Daunomycin, on the other hand showed a significant redox potential shift up to −80 mV. A thin‐layer model may explain this voltammetric behavior. RuHex covers the negatively charged DNA strand and provides considerable conductivity, while CoHex and daunomycin do not. Latest results regarding the reproducible frequency responses indicate considerable isotope effects also in EQCM measurements depending on the redox molecule interacting with the ssDNA‐SAM. These effects will provide new opportunities in drug screening and studies of DNA damage by toxic chemicals.
Quantitative monitoring of His and Asp phosphorylation in a bacterial signaling system by using Phos‐tag Magenta/Cyan fluorescent dyes
Authors: Kinoshita‐Kikuta Emiko , Kusamoto Hiroshi , Ono Syogo , Akayama Keisuke , Eguchi Yoko , Igarashi Masayuki , Okajima Toshihide , Utsumi Ryutaro , Kinoshita Eiji , Koike Tohru
Published: September 2019

In the bacterial signaling mechanisms known as two‐component systems (TCSs), signals are generally conveyed by means of a His–Asp phosphorelay. Each system consists of a histidine kinase (HK) and its cognate response regulator. Because of the labile nature of phosphorylated His and Asp residues, few approaches are available that permit a quantitative analysis of their phosphorylation status. Here, we show that the Phos‐tag dye technology is suitable for the fluorescent detection of His‐ and Asp‐phosphorylated proteins separated by SDS‐PAGE. The dynamics of the His–Asp phosphorelay of recombinant EnvZ‐OmpR, a TCS derived from Escherichia coli, were examined by SDS‐PAGE followed by simple rapid staining with Phos‐tag Magenta fluorescent dye. The technique permitted not only the quantitative monitoring of the autophosphorylation reactions of EnvZ and OmpR in the presence of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or acetyl phosphate, respectively, but also that of the phosphotransfer reaction from EnvZ to OmpR, which occurs within 1 min in the presence of ATP. Furthermore, we demonstrate profiling of waldiomycin, an HK inhibitor, by using the Phos‐tag Cyan gel staining. We believe that the Phos‐tag dye technology provides a simple and convenient fluorometric approach for screening of HK inhibitors that have potential as new antimicrobial agents.
A Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki Biopesticide Does Not Reduce Hatching Success or Tadpole Survival at Environmentally Relevant Concentrations in Southern Leopard Frogs (Lithobates sphenocephalus)
Authors: Weeks Denita Mychele , Parris Matthew James
Published: September 2019

Amphibians are in global decline, and anthropogenic activities are known leading causes of their demise. Thus the interaction between agriculture and amphibian health has been examined for decades. Many facets of amphibian physiology and ecology place them at high risk among the nontarget organisms affected by agricultural byproducts. Research has shown that many chemicals and fertilizers affect amphibian growth, reproduction, and survival. The impacts differ based on the type of agricultural byproduct (e.g., chemical pesticide or nutrient-heavy fertilizer) and amphibian species, but the effects are usually negative. However, minimal research exists on how organic biopesticides interact with amphibian populations. Biopesticides utilize insecticidal bacteria as the active ingredient in lieu of synthetic chemicals. The inert ingredients present in biopesticide commercial products are considered safe to nontarget organisms. The present study tested the impacts of a commercial biopesticide on the survival of amphibian embryos and larvae. We found that expected environmental concentrations of the microbial biopesticide Monterrey B.t. did not significantly reduce survival in embryos or larvae. However, the higher doses used to assess threshold toxicity levels caused significant mortality. Our data suggest that biopesticides are not directly harmful to amphibian embryos or larvae in concentrations regularly applied for pest control. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;39:155–161. © 2019 SETAC
Sequence effects in time trade‐off valuation of hypothetical health states
Authors: Pinto‐Prades José Luis , McHugh Neil , Donaldson Cam , Manoukian Sarkis
Published: September 2019

Choice‐based stated preference methods, such as time trade‐offs (TTOs), are used to establish health state utilities informing healthcare allocation. However, little is known about the presence of (position‐dependent and precedent‐dependent) sequence effects in the valuation of health states, despite techniques requiring respondents to evaluate several health states in a sequence. This paper is the first to explicitly test for the presence of sequence effects in the health domain using a new explanation based on contrast effects and preference imprecision; the implication being that randomisation cannot avoid sequence effects.

Six TTO questions were designed using the EQ‐5D‐3L descriptive system. These were grouped into two blocks of three and within each block four sequences were used. In an online survey, 1,197 Spanish respondents answered one grouping of three TTO questions. Results indicate that sequence effects can affect preferences as utilities of health states are biased downwards if preceded by a better health state and biased upwards if preceded by a worse health state.

This study informs our understanding of how context effects interact with preference elicitation methods, which is essential for interpreting survey results used to inform policy.
Application of laparoscopic tourniquet in myomectomy
Authors: Li Weifeng , Wang Gang , Lin Tiecheng
Published: September 2019

During laparoscopic myomectomy, the placing of a tourniquet in the lower part of the uterus is a safe and simple approach for controlling hemorrhage.
The Current State of Gerontological Counseling Research: A 26‐Year Content Analysis
Authors: Fullen Matthew C. , Gorby Sean , Chan Christian D. , Dobmeier Robert A. , Jordan Justin
Published: September 2019

Because of demographic changes and the prioritization of Medicare reimbursement, there is greater attention to the mental health needs of older adults. To better understand the current state of gerontological counseling research, the authors completed a content analysis of counseling scholarship spanning 26 years. Only 1.68% of the articles reviewed focused on topics related to gerontological counseling. The authors analyzed publishing patterns, topics explored, and the roles of theory and empirical research in gerontological counseling research.
Assessing Life Balance and Work Addiction in High‐Pressure, High‐Demand Careers
Authors: Reiner Summer M. , Balkin Richard S. , Gotham Kerry R. , Hunter Quentin , Juhnke Gerald A. , Davis R. J.
Published: September 2019

Life balance is indicative of creating and sustaining a meaningful and satisfying quality of living. Contrarily, work addiction is overinvesting in work‐related behaviors, thereby truncating important life‐balance domains. Given a growing body of literature specific to life balance and the increasing incidence of work addiction and burnout among professionals, the authors evaluated life balance and work addiction among 409 professionals in high‐pressure, high‐demand careers. A strong relationship between life‐balance domains and the propensity toward work addiction was noted. Specifically, stress/anxiety and sleep disturbances were identified as work addiction indicators reducing perceptions of life balance. Counselors should assess these critical domains with clients working in high‐pressure, high‐demand careers and be prepared to support these professionals as they restructure their lives to improve life‐balance domains.
MicroRNA‐96 is a potential tumor repressor by inhibiting NPTX2 in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Xiang Wei , Han Lintao , Mo Guoyan , Lin Li , Yu Xiaoming , Chen Shaowen , Gao Tiexiang , Huang Chunhua
Published: September 2019

MicroRNA‐96 (miR‐96) is a vertebrate conserved microRNA which plays important roles in various cancers including renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, its function and mechanism in RCC are still unclear. In this study, miR‐96 was found to be downregulated in RCC based on The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets analyses, and its target genes, which predicted by TargetScan, were investigated. Among these target genes, neuronal pentraxin 2 (NPTX2) was upregulated more than 15‐fold in RCC, and moreover, closely related to patient survival. To validate its targeting of NPTX2 experimentally, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and dual‐luciferase assays were performed, and results of these assays demonstrated that miR‐96 inhibited expression of NPTX2 through a single 3′‐untranslated region targeting site. Furthermore, transfection assays in RenCa and 786‐O cells showed miR‐96 and small interfering RNA of NPTX2 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and overexpression of NPTX2 recovered the inhibition of miR‐96. In conclusion, the present study reveals a novel regulatory mechanism of miR‐96 on NPTX2 expression in RCC, and the potential of miR‐96 as a RCC tumor repressor deserves further investigation.
CLDN1 induces autophagy to promote proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous carcinoma through AMPK/STAT1/ULK1 signaling
Authors: Wu Jian , Gao FengXia , Xu Tao , Li Jun , Hu Zhi , Wang Chao , Long Yang , He XueMei , Deng Xin , Ren DeLian , Zhou Biao , Dai TianYang
Published: September 2019

Tight junction is a structural constitution in cell–cell adhesion and play an important role in the maintenance of permeability and integrity of normal epithelial cell barrier. The protein encoded by Claudin 1 (CLDN1), a member of the claudin family, is an integral membrane protein and a component of tight junction strands. CLDN1 has been proved to regulate the proliferation and metastasis of multiple tumors, but little is known about its role in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Here, we found that CLDN1 was aberrantly increased in ESCC tissues and cell lines, and mainly distributed in the nucleus of tumor cells. Furthermore, we confirmed that CLDN1 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of ESCC by triggering autophagy both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanically, we validated that CLDN1‐induced autophagy via increasing Unc‐51 like autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1) expression through AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) signaling pathway in ESCC cells. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that aberrant expression and distribution of CLDN1 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous carcinoma by triggering autophagy through AMPK/STAT1/ULK1 signaling pathway.
Transcriptome analysis reveals GPNMB as a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer
Authors: Ren Feifei , Zhao Qitai , Liu Bin , Sun Xiangdong , Tang Youcai , Huang Huang , Mei Lu , Yu Yong , Mo Hui , Dong Haibin , Zheng Pengyuan , Mi Yang
Published: September 2019

Gastric cancer has the fifth highest incidence of disease and is the third leading cause of cancer‐associated mortality in the world. The etiology of gastric cancer is complex and needs to be fully elucidated. Thus, it is necessary to explore potential pathogenic genes and pathways that contribute to gastric cancer. Gene expression profiles of the GSE33335 and GSE54129 datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were compared and identified using R software. The DEGs were then subjected to gene set enrichment analysis and Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. Survival analyses based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database were used to further screen the essential DEGs. A knockdown assay was performed to determine the function of the candidate gene in gastric cancer. Finally, the association between the candidate gene and immune‐related genes was investigated. We found that GPNMB serves as an essential gene, with a high expression level, and predicts a worse outcome of gastric cancer. Knockdown of GPNMB inhibited gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration. In addition, GPNMB may augment the immunosuppressive ability of gastric cancer by recruiting immunosuppressive cells and promoting immune cell exhaustion through PI3K/AKT/CCL4 signaling axis. Collectively, these data suggest that GPNMB acts as an important positive mediator of tumor progression in gastric cancer, and GPNMB could exert multimodality modulation of gastric cancer‐mediated immune suppression.
Biodrying of dewatered secondary sludge: behavior of dynamic respiration index (DRI) and energy release under different operating conditions
Authors: Huiliñir César , Leiva Estefanía , Stegmaier Francisco , Castillo Antonio , Cottet Luis , Montalvo Silvio
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Biological activity monitored through the dynamic respiration index (DRI) and the calculation of biological heat generation (Qbio) through O2 consumption has been reported only scarcely in the case of biodrying. Therefore, the present work studies the DRI and Qbio for a dewatered secondary sewage sludge biodrying process under different operating conditions: airflow rate (AFR) and initial moisture content (IMC).

RESULTS

It was found that AFR has an important effect on oxygen consumption, with higher DRI (≤6 gO2 kgVS–1 h–1) at higher AFR for different studied IMCs. IMC also affects the DRI, with higher values of DRI at higher IMC. Determination of the Qbio indicated that its calculation through O2 consumption provided better explanations of the water removal of the process. AFR also affects water removal and volatile solids (VS) degradation, with greater water removal (c. 30%) and lower VS degradation (c. 3.6%) at lower AFR.

CONCLUSIONS

AFR strongly affects the DRI, with higher DRI at low AFR. The calculation of Qbio through O2 consumption is recommended. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Corticostriatal synaptic plasticity alterations in the R6/1 transgenic mouse model of Huntington's disease
Authors: Ghiglieri Veronica , Campanelli Federica , Marino Gioia , Natale Giuseppina , Picconi Barbara , Calabresi Paolo
Published: September 2019

Huntington's disease (HD) is a genetic neurodegenerative condition characterized by abnormal dopamine (DA)–glutamate interactions, severe alterations in motor control, and reduced behavioral flexibility. Experimental models of disease show that during symptomatic phases, HD shares with other hyperkinetic disorders the loss of synaptic depotentiation in the striatal spiny projection neurons (SPNs). Here we test the hypothesis that corticostriatal long‐term depression (LTD), a well‐conserved synaptic scaling down response to environmental stimuli, is also altered in symptomatic male R6/1 mice, a HD model with gradual development of symptoms. In vitro patch‐clamp and intracellular recordings of corticostriatal slices from R6/1 mice confirm that, similar to other models characterized by hyperkinesia and striatal DA D1 receptor pathway dysregulation, once long‐term potentiation (LTP) is induced, synaptic depotentiation is lost. Our new observations show that activity‐dependent LTD was abolished in SPNs of mutant mice. In an experimental condition in which N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors are normally not recruited, in vitro bath application of DA revealed an abnormal response of D1 receptors that caused a shift in synaptic plasticity direction resulting in an NMDA‐dependent LTP. Our results demonstrate that corticostriatal LTD is lost in R6/1 mouse model and confirm the role of aberrant DA–glutamate interactions in the alterations of synaptic scaling down associated with HD symptoms.
The new insights into human brain imaging after stroke
Authors: Sagnier Sharmila , Sibon Igor
Published: September 2019

Over the last two decades, developments of human brain stroke imaging have raised several questions about the place of new MRI biomarkers in the acute management of stroke and the prediction of poststroke outcome. Recent studies have demonstrated the main role of perfusion‐weighted imaging in the identification of the best cerebral perfusion profile for a better response after reperfusion therapies in acute ischemic stroke. A major issue remains the early prediction of stroke outcome. While voxel‐based lesion‐symptom mapping emphasized the influence of stroke location, the analysis of the brain parenchyma underpinning the stroke lesion showed the relevance of prestroke cerebral status, including cortical atrophy, white matter integrity, or presence of chronic cortical cerebral microinfarcts. Moreover, besides the evaluation of the visually abnormal brain tissue, the analysis of normal‐appearing brain parenchyma using diffusion tensor imaging and magnetization transfer imaging or spectroscopy offered new biomarkers to improve the prediction of the prognosis and new targets to follow in therapeutic trials. The aim of this review was to depict the main new radiological biomarkers reported in the last two decades that will provide a more thorough prediction of functional, motor, and neuropsychological outcome following the stroke. These new developments in neuroimaging might be a cornerstone in the emerging personalized medicine for stroke patients.
Safety and Efficacy of Teduglutide in Pediatric Patients With Intestinal Failure due to Short Bowel Syndrome: A 24‐Week, Phase III Study
Authors: Kocoshis Samuel A. , Merritt Russell J. , Hill Susan , Protheroe Susan , Carter Beth A. , Horslen Simon , Hu Simin , Kaufman Stuart S. , Mercer David F. , Pakarinen Mikko P. , Venick Robert S. , Wales Paul W. , Grimm Andrew A.
Published: September 2019

Background

This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of teduglutide in pediatric patients with short bowel syndrome–associated intestinal failure (SBS‐IF).

Methods

A 24‐week, phase III trial with 2 randomized, double‐blind teduglutide dose groups and a nonblinded standard of care (SOC) arm was used; patients received 0.025 mg/kg or 0.05 mg/kg teduglutide once daily. Safety end points included treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and growth parameters. The primary efficacy/pharmacodynamic end point was the number of patients who achieved a ≥20% reduction in parenteral support (PS) from baseline at week 24.

Results

All 59 enrolled patients completed the study (0.025 mg/kg, n = 24; 0.05 mg/kg, n = 26; SOC, n = 9). Baseline demographics and disease characteristics were comparable among groups. TEAEs were reported by 98% and 100% of patients in the teduglutide and SOC groups, respectively. The most common TEAEs in the teduglutide‐treated groups were pyrexia and vomiting. The primary end point was achieved by 13 (54.2%), 18 (69.2%), and 1 (11.1%) patients who received 0.025 mg/kg teduglutide, 0.05 mg/kg teduglutide, and SOC, respectively (P < 0.05 vs SOC). Both 0.025‐mg/kg and 0.05‐mg/kg teduglutide groups showed clinically significant reductions in PS volume (P < 0.05 vs SOC), PS calories, days per week and hours per day of PS infusions, and increases in enteral nutrition and plasma citrulline at week 24 compared with baseline. Two (8.3%, 0.025 mg/kg teduglutide) and 3 patients (11.5%, 0.05 mg/kg teduglutide) achieved enteral autonomy.

Conclusion

The safety profile of teduglutide was similar to that reported previously in children and adults. Treatment with teduglutide was associated with significant reductions in PS for pediatric patients with SBS‐IF over 24 weeks.
Detection and classification of volatile fatty acids using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering and density functional theory calculations
Authors: Botta Raju , Chindaudon Pongpan , Eiamchai Pitak , Horprathum Mati , Limwichean Saksorn , Chananonnawathorn Chanunthorn , Patthanasettakul Viyapol , Jomphoak Apichai , Nuntawong Noppadon
Published: September 2019

Volatile fatty acids of acetic, butyric, lactic, and propionic acids play an important role in the methane fermentation process. Particularly significant amount of propionic acid presence in the process will influence the methane fermentation efficiency. Herein, zigzag‐aligned silver nanorods were designed as surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)‐active substrates to establish the classification of volatile fatty acids against the traditional poor sensitive and time‐consuming titration and gas chromatography methods. SERS and chemometric method of principal component analysis is used for the detection and classification of volatile fatty acids. Density functional theory calculations were performed to understand the Raman vibrations and compare with experimental observations and to aid in the assignments of spectral lines. For the first time, the authors have used SERS technique to classify the acids. The findings suggest that this method is of great potential in the field of methane fermentation from industrial waste.
Perioperative outcomes after tracheoplasty: A NSQIP analysis 2014–2016
Authors: Johnson Romaine F. , Eaviz Nathan , Truelson John M. , Day Andrew T.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

Tracheoplasty or tracheal resection and are essential components of the care of patients with severe tracheal stenosis. We aimed to study the perioperative outcomes of patients after tracheoplasty or resection using a national surgical registry.

Methods

We analyzed the 2014 to 2016 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) participant use file for patients who underwent tracheal resection or tracheoplasty (CPT codes 31750, 31760, 31780, and 31781). We analyzed the perioperative outcomes including length of stay (LOS), dehiscence, unplanned reintubations, unplanned surgeries, and 30‐day readmission rates. A random 4:1 sample of non‐tracheoplasty patients served as the control group.

Results

From 2014 to 2016, 126 patients underwent tracheoplasty. The median age was 56 years (IQR = 45–63). There were 93 (74%) females, 88 (70%) white, and 3.2% (4/126) Hispanic. The median LOS was 7 days (IQR = 5–10 days). Of these, 4.8% (6/126) developed wound infections and 3/126 (2.4%) developed wound dehiscence. Five out of 126 required unplanned reintubation (4.0%) and 16/126 (13%) had an unplanned reoperation. The 30‐day unplanned readmission rate was 16% (20/126). The wound infection, unplanned intubations, and readmission rates were significantly higher (P < .005) than the control group.

Conclusions

The 30‐day perioperative outcomes of adult patients undergoing tracheoplasty showed that adverse events are common, but severe adverse events such as death are rare. Continued research into risk mitigation among these patients is warranted.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:1514–1519, 2020
Pathophysiology of iatrogenic and idiopathic vocal fold paralysis may be distinct
Authors: Mau Ted , Husain Solomon , Sulica Lucian
Published: September 2019

Objective

Spontaneous vocal recovery from idiopathic vocal fold paralysis (VFP) appears to differ in time course from recovery in iatrogenic VFP. This study aimed to determine if this difference could be explained by differing mechanisms causing recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) dysfunction, specifically whether idiopathic VFP is consistent with a focal RLN axonal lesion.

Study Design

Case series with mathematical modeling.

Methods

A review of 1267 cases of unilateral VFP over a 10‐year period yielded 114 subjects (35 idiopathic, 79 iatrogenic) with a discrete onset of spontaneous vocal recovery. The time‐to‐recovery data were fit to a previously described two‐phase model that incorporates the Seddon classification of neuropraxia and higher grades of axonal injury. Alternatively, the data were fit to a single phase model that does not assume a focal axonal lesion.

Results

Time to vocal recovery in iatrogenic VFP can be reliably modeled by the assumption of a focal axonal lesion, with an early recovery group corresponding to neuropraxia and a late recovery group with more severe nerve damage. Time to recovery in idiopathic VFP can be more simply modeled in a single phase, with a time course that mirrors those in diverse biological processes such as transcription and microtubule growth.

Conclusion

Idiopathic VFP may not be caused by a focal axonal lesion. Neuritis may be a compatible mechanism. The iatrogenic VFP data lend further support to the concept that the severity of RLN injury, not the length of axon to regenerate, is the chief determinant of recovery time after iatrogenic injury.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:1520–1524, 2020
Laryngeal afferent modulation of swallowing interneurons in the dorsal medulla in perfused rats
Authors: Fuse Shinya , Sugiyama Yoichiro , Hashimoto Keiko , Umezaki Toshiro , Oku Yoshitaka , Dutschmann Mathias , Hirano Shigeru
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of laryngeal afferent inputs on brainstem circuits that mediate and transmit swallowing activity to the orofacial musculature.

Methods

Experiments were performed on 19 arterially perfused juvenile rats. The activities of swallowing interneurons in relation to their respective motor outputs in the hypoglossal and vagus nerves were assessed during fictive swallowing with or without concurrent laryngeal sensory stimulation at intensities of 20, 40, and 60 μA.

Results

The hypoglossal nerve activity was gradually enhanced with increasing intensity of the sensory stimulation, while the vagus nerve activity was not altered. The activities of various interneurons were modulated by the laryngeal stimulation, but more than 50% of the recorded neurons were inhibited by the stimulation. Some interneurons demonstrated no obvious change in their discharge rates with laryngeal sensory stimulation during fictive swallowing.

Conclusion

Laryngeal afferent inputs partially modulated the swallowing motor activity via enhanced or suppressed activities of the swallowing interneurons, while the essential motor pattern underlying the pharyngeal stage of swallowing remained basically unchanged. Thus, the output patterns of the complex sequential movements of swallowing could be basically predetermined and further adjusted according to sensory information related to the properties of the ingested food by a swallowing central pattern generator.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130: 1885–1893, 2020
New insights into the variation of dissolved organic matter components in different latitudinal lakes of northeast China
Authors: Zhu Longji , Zhao Yue , Bai Sicong , Zhou Haixuan , Chen Xiaomeng , Wei Zimin
Published: September 2019

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) plays a key role in the carbon cycle of freshwater ecosystems. We explored DOM composition from six lakes encompassing a typical latitudinal gradient of lakes in northeast of China (41.9°N–48.6°N). Generally, the relative contents of protein‐like components decreased while humic‐like components increased with increasing latitude. Additionally, the results from modified two‐dimensional correlation spectroscopy indicated that humic‐like components with relatively simple structure were formed earlier than those with relatively complex structure. Furthermore, structural equation models suggested that at higher latitude, lake DOM tended to stabilize as protein‐like component was transformed into humic‐like component. We also found that nutrients (e.g., nitrogen and phosphorus) were key factors affecting DOM composition in low‐latitudinal lakes, whereas temperature was the key factor affecting DOM composition in high‐latitudinal lakes. In conclusion, this study identified the factors which explained the observed latitudinal pattern of DOM in northeast lakes of China. This study provided a theoretical basis for DOM management of lakes at different latitudes.
Eukaryotic influence on the oceanic biological carbon pump in the Scotia Sea as revealed by 18S rRNA gene sequencing of suspended and sinking particles
Authors: Duret Manon T. , Lampitt Richard S. , Lam Phyllis
Published: September 2019

Suspended marine particles constitute most of the particulate organic matter pool in the oceans, thereby providing substantial substrates for heterotrophs, especially in the mesopelagic. Conversely, sinking particles are major contributors to carbon fluxes defining the strength of the biological carbon pump (BCP). This study is the first to investigate the differential influence of eukaryotic communities to suspended and sinking particles, using 18S rRNA gene sequencing on particles collected with a marine snow catcher in the mixed layer and upper mesopelagic of the Scotia Sea, Southern Ocean. In the upper mesopelagic, most eukaryotic phytoplankton sequences belonged to chain‐forming diatoms in sinking particles and to prymnesiophytes in suspended particles. This suggests that diatom‐enriched particles are more efficient in carbon transfer to the upper mesopelagic than those enriched in prymnesiophytes in the Scotia Sea, the latter more easily disintegrating into suspended particles. In the upper mesopelagic, copepods appeared most influential on sinking particles whereas soft‐tissue metazoan sequences contributed more to suspended particles. Heterotrophic protists and fungi communities were distinct between mixed layer and upper mesopelagic, implying that few protists ride along sinking particles. Furthermore, differences between predatory flagellates and radiolarians between suspended and sinking particles implied different ecological conditions between the two particles pools, and roles in the BCP. Molecular analyses of sinking and suspended particles constitute powerful diagnostic tools to study the eukaryotic influence on the BCP in a more holistic manner compared to classic carbon export studies focusing on sinking particles.
Enhancing Photoluminescence of Nonconventional Luminescent Polymers by Increasing Chain Flexibility
Authors: Shang Cong , Zhao Yaxin , Wei Nan , Zhuo Hongmei , Shao Yumei , Wang Huiliang
Published: September 2019

Many nonconventional luminescent polymers are found to exhibit intrinsic photoluminescence and “aggregation‐induced emission” (AIE) behavior. Strong physical interactions among polymer chains and/or a rigid molecular conformation of polymer chains are thought to be beneficial to boost stronger emissions. The purpose of this work is to prove that increasing chain flexibility is, at least in some cases, beneficial to enhance the photoluminescence of nonconventional luminescent polymers. Poly(itaconic anhydride) (PITA) and poly[(1‐octene)‐co‐(itaconic anhydride)] (POITA) synthesized in this work are highly emissive in concentrated solutions and in solid state, exhibiting typical AIE characteristics, and very interestingly, the copolymer POITA exhibits stronger and red‐shifted emissions than the homopolymer PITA in both solutions and in the solid state. These results are explained by the increase of chain flexibility, which makes the nonconventional chromophores adopt proper conformations for strong intra‐ and/or interchain n‐π* and/or π–π* interactions. This study sheds some light on designing nonconventional luminescent materials with high emission efficiency and long wavelength emission.
Mass spectrometry‐based forest tree metabolomics
Authors: Rodrigues Ana Margarida , Miguel Célia , Chaves Inês , António Carla
Published: September 2019

Research in forest tree species has advanced slowly when compared with other agricultural crops and model organisms, mainly due to the long‐life cycles, large genome sizes, and lack of genomic tools. Additionally, trees are complex matrices, and the presence of interferents (e.g., oleoresins and cellulose) challenges the analysis of tree tissues with mass spectrometry (MS)‐based analytical platforms. In this review, advances in MS‐based forest tree metabolomics are discussed. Given their economic and ecological significance, particular focus is given to Pinus, Quercus, and Eucalyptus forest tree species to better understand their metabolite responses to abiotic and biotic stresses in the current climate change scenario. Furthermore, MS‐based metabolomics technologies produce large and complex datasets that require expertize to adequately manage, process, analyze, and store the data in dedicated repositories. To ensure that the full potential of forest tree metabolomics data are translated into new knowledge, these data should comply with the FAIR principles (i.e., Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Re‐usable). It is essential that adequate standards are implemented to annotate metadata from forest tree metabolomics studies as is already required by many science and governmental agencies and some major scientific publishers. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Mass Spec Rev 40:126–157, 2021.
Impacts of layout, surface condition and alloying elements on diffusion welding of micro process devices
Authors: Gietzelt T. , Toth V. , Weingaertner T.
Published: September 2019

The formation of a monolithic part during diffusion bonding is accompanied by the diffusion of atoms across the bonding planes. At sufficient low roughness, it mainly depends on the temperature and dwell time. At the same time, the diffusion process competes against grain growth. By adjusting an appropriate level of bearing pressure, it is possible to control deformation taking into account additional parameters resulting from mechanical microstructures and the design and aspect ratio of the part. Furthermore, material properties, such as the content of alloying elements, the degree of cold work hardening and the grain size, have an impact on diffusion and deformation behavior. Also the surface condition of mating surfaces is important to diffusion kinetics and the quality of the joint. Especially passivation layers of corrosion‐resistant alloys, such as stainless steels and nickel‐based alloys, impair diffusion. In contrast to this, cold work hardening at low depth below the surface, e. g. by means of a blasting processes, may facilitate formation of a good bond and help to limit grain size. For oxide dispersion‐strengthened materials, additional impacts on diffusion bonding behavior applies.
Allosteric modulation of G protein‐coupled receptors by amiloride and its derivatives. Perspectives for drug discovery?
Authors: Massink Arnault , Amelia Tasia , Karamychev Alex , IJzerman Adriaan P.
Published: September 2019

The function of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) can be modulated by compounds that bind to other sites than the endogenous orthosteric binding site, so‐called allosteric sites. Structure elucidation of a number of GPCRs has revealed the presence of a sodium ion bound in a conserved allosteric site. The small molecule amiloride and analogs thereof have been proposed to bind in this same sodium ion site. Hence, this review seeks to summarize and reflect on the current knowledge of allosteric effects by amiloride and its analogs on GPCRs. Amiloride is known to modulate adenosine, adrenergic, dopamine, chemokine, muscarinic, serotonin, gonadotropin‐releasing hormone, GABAB, and taste receptors. Amiloride analogs with lipophilic substituents tend to be more potent modulators than amiloride itself. Adenosine, α‐adrenergic and dopamine receptors are most strongly modulated by amiloride analogs. In addition, for a few GPCRs, more than one binding site for amiloride has been postulated. Interestingly, the nature of the allosteric effect of amiloride and derivatives varies considerably between GPCRs, with both negative and positive allosteric modulation occurring. Since the sodium ion binding site is strongly conserved among class A GPCRs it is to be expected that amiloride also binds to class A GPCRs not evaluated yet. Investigating this typical amiloride‐GPCR interaction further may yield general insight in the allosteric mechanisms of GPCR ligand binding and function, and possibly provide new opportunities for drug discovery.
Technical Note: Rotational positional error corrected intrafraction set‐up margins in stereotactic radiotherapy: A spatial assessment for coplanar and noncoplanar geometry
Authors: Sarkar Biplab , Munshi Anusheel , Ganesh Tharmarnadar , Manikandan Arjunan , Krishnankutty Saneg , Chitral Latika , Pradhan Anirudh , Kalyan Mohanti Bidhu
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The aim of this study is to calculate setup margin based on six‐dimensional (6D) corrected residual positional errors from kV cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and from intrafraction projection kV imaging in coplanar and in noncoplanar couch positions in stereotactic radiotherapy.

Methods

Six dimensional positional corrections were carried out before patient treatments, using a robotic couch and CBCT matching. A CBCT and stereoscopic ExacTrac image were acquired post‐table position correction. Further, a series of intrafraction ExacTrac images were obtained for the variable couch position. Translational and rotational errors were identified as lateral (X), longitudinal (Y), vertical (Z); roll (Ɵ°), pitch (Φ°) and yaw (Ψ°). A total of 699 intrafraction image sets (361 coplanar and 338 noncoplanar) for 51 SRS/SRT patients were analysed. Rotational errors were corrected in terms of translational coordinates. Residual set‐up margins were calculated from CBCT shifts. ExacTrac shifts give residual + intrafraction setup margins as a function of coplanar and noncoplanar couch positions.

Results

The average residual positional error obtained from CBCT in X, Y, Z, Ɵ, Φ, Ψ were 0.1 ± 0.4 mm, 0.0 ± 0.6 mm, 0.0 ± 0.5 mm, 0.2 ± 0.8°, 0.1 ± 0.6° and −0.1 ± 0.7° respectively. For ExacTrac, the shits were −0.5 ± 0.9 mm, −0.0 ± 1mm, −0.6 ± 1.0mm, 0.4 ± 0.9°, −0.2 ± 0.6°, and −0.0 ± 0.8°.

CBCT calculated linear setup margins in X, Y, Z direction were 0.5, 1.2, and 1 mm respectively. ExacTrac yielded coplanar and noncoplanar linear setup margins were 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 1.4, 1.5, and 2.1 mm respectively.

Conclusion

CBCT‐based gross residual set‐up margin is equal to 1 mm. ExacTrac calculated residual plus intrafraction setup margin falls within a 2 mm range; attributed to intrafraction patient movement, table position inaccuracies, and poor image fusion in noncoplanar geometry. There could be variations in the required additional margin between centers and between machines, which require further studies.
Taking the eye road: A new access method for powered mobility in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Geronimo Andrew M.
Published: September 2019

See article on pages 513–519 in this issue.
Asthma status moderates the relationship between neighbourhood disadvantage and obesity in African American adolescent females
Authors: Cahill Laura M. , Fisher Kiva A. , Robinson William T. , Beiter Kaylin J. , Zabaleta Jovanny , Tseng Tung S. , Kepper Maura M. , Skizim Meg K. , Griffiths Lauren A. , Uddo Robert B. , Pelligrino Nicole E. , Maronge Jacob M. , Happel Kyle , Scribner Richard , Sothern Melinda S.
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Significant health disparities exist in asthma and obesity for African American youths. Successful interventions present an opportunity to address these disparities but require detailed study in order to ensure generalizability. This study investigated the intersection of obesity, neighbourhood disadvantage, and asthma.

Methods

Data were extracted from 129 African American females ages 13 to 19 years (mean = 15.6 years [SD = 1.9]). Obesity was measured via body mass index (BMI). Asthma status was based on clinical diagnosis and/or results of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies during Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire. The concentrated disadvantage index (CDI) assessed neighbourhood disadvantage.

Results

Findings showed that 21.5% (n = 28) of participants were clinically defined as having asthma, 76.2% (n = 99) had obesity, and 24.9% (n = 31) were classified without obesity. The mean BMI was 35.1 (SD = 9.1) and the mean CDI was 1.0 (SD = 0.9). CDI and obesity were significantly associated in participants without asthma, but not in those with asthma. Multivariable linear regression results showed a significant interaction between CDI and asthma (t value = 2.2, P = .03).

Conclusion

In sum, results from this study found that asthma moderated the relationship between neighbourhood disadvantage and obesity.