bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid mitochondrial genome sequencing based on Oxford Nanopore Sequencing and a proxy for vertebrate species identification
Authors: Franco‐Sierra Nicolás D. , Díaz‐Nieto Juan F.
Published: March 2020

Molecular information is crucial for species identification when facing challenging morphology‐based specimen identifications. The use of DNA barcodes partially solves this problem, but in some cases when PCR is not an option (i.e., primers are not available, problems in reaction standardization), amplification‐free approaches could be an optimal alternative. Recent advances in DNA sequencing, like the MinION device from Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), allow to obtain genomic data with low laboratory and technical requirements, and at a relatively low cost. In this study, we explore ONT sequencing for molecular species identification from a total DNA sample obtained from a neotropical rodent and we also test the technology for complete mitochondrial genome reconstruction via genome skimming. We were able to obtain “de novo” the complete mitogenome of a specimen from the genus Melanomys (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) with average depth coverage of 78X using ONT‐only data and by combining multiple assembly routines. Our pipeline for an automated species identification was able to identify the sample using unassembled sequence data (raw) in a reasonable computing time, which was substantially reduced when a priori information related to the organism identity was known. Our findings suggest ONT sequencing as a suitable candidate to solve species identification problems in metazoan nonmodel organisms and generate complete mtDNA datasets.
Effect of fish oil on circulating asymmetric dimethylarginine and adiponectin in overweight or obese patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Khorrami Elnaz , Hosseinzadeh‐Attar Mohammad Javad , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad , Alipoor Elham , Hosseini Mostafa , Emkanjou Zahra , Kolahdouz Mohammadi Roya , Moradmand Sina
Published: March 2020

Obesity and adipose‐derived peptides might be involved in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Adiponectin plays a major role in the modulation of several metabolic pathways, and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) has been suggested to be predictive of AF and associated adverse events. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of fish oil supplementation on circulating adiponectin and ADMA in overweight or obese patients with persistent AF. In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 80 overweight or obese (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2) patients with persistent AF were randomly assigned to two groups to receive either 2 g/day fish oil or placebo, for 8 weeks. Serum levels of adiponectin and ADMA, and anthropometric indexes were measured. This study showed that serum adiponectin concentrations increased significantly following fish oil supplementation compared with the placebo group (13.15 ± 7.33 vs. 11.88 ± 6.94 µg/ml; p = .026). A significant reduction was also observed in serum ADMA levels in the fish oil compared with the placebo group following the intervention (0.6 ± 0.13 vs. 0.72 ± 0.15 µmol/L; p = .001). The changes in serum adiponectin and ADMA concentrations remained significant after adjustments for baseline values, age, sex, and changes of BMI and waist circumference (p = .011 and p = .001, respectively). In conclusion,  8 weeks supplementation with fish oil increased serum adiponectin and decreased ADMA concentrations in overweight or obese patients with persistent AF. As adiponectin and ADMA are suggested to be involved in many pathways associated with AF, the current findings might be promising in the clinical management of this disease, an issue that needs further investigations.
Vancomycin therapeutic drug monitoring service quality indices and clinical effectiveness outcomes: A retrospective cohort and clinical audit
Authors: Al‐Sulaiti Fatima K. , Nader Ahmed , El‐Mekaty Eman , Elewa Hazem , Al‐Badriyeh Daoud , El‐Zubair Ahmed , Saad Mohamed O. , Awaisu Ahmed
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Vancomycin is commonly used for the treatment of complicated infections caused by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The impact of vancomycin therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) quality indices on clinical outcomes has not been previously explored.

Objectives

This study aims to relate routine vancomycin TDM service quality indices to clinical effectiveness outcomes and to develop a pragmatic vancomycin‐specific TDM quality assessment tool that can be used in quality audits.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on adult non‐dialysis vancomycin TDM records documented between January 2014 and October 2016 in three tertiary care hospitals under Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) in Qatar. Evidence‐based criteria and pilot‐testing were applied to develop a quality assessment tool. The appropriateness of vancomycin TDM service and clinical outcomes were simultaneously evaluated.

Results

A 13‐criterion vancomycin TDM quality assessment tool was developed and used to evaluate 208 TDM records involving 99 patients. The indications for TDM requests were judged appropriate in 77.4% (n = 161) of the records. However, most of the blood samples were deemed to be incorrectly timed (70.7%, n = 147). Inappropriate vancomycin TDM practices compared with appropriate practices were associated with lower therapeutic cure (47.3% vs 75%, P‐value = .009).

Conclusions

Vancomycin TDM requests were justified at HMC. However, inappropriate practices were associated with suboptimal clinical outcomes, signifying the importance of routine quality audits using rigorous evaluation tools. The developed tool can be used to determine setting‐specific deficiencies in routine vancomycin TDM practices.
Achieving enhanced bone regeneration using monetite granules with bone anabolic drug conjugates (C3 and C6) in rat mandibular defects
Authors: Sheikh Zeeshan , Abdallah Mohamed‐Nur , Al‐Jaf Faik , Chen Gang , Hamdan Nader , Young Robert N. , Grynpas Marc D. , Glogauer Michael
Published: March 2020

Bone grafting procedures are commonly used to manage bone defects in the craniofacial region. Monetite is an excellent biomaterial option for bone grafting, however, it is limited by lack of osteoinduction. Several molecules can be incorporated within the monetite matrix to promote bone regeneration. The aim was to investigate whether incorporating bone forming drug conjugates (C3 and C6) within monetite can improve their ability to regenerate bone in bone defects. Bilateral bone defects were created in the mandible of 24 Sprague–Dawley rats and were then packed with monetite control, monetite+C3 or monetite+C6. After 2 and 4 weeks, post‐mortem samples were analyzed using microcomputed tomography, histology and back‐scattered electron microscopy to calculate the percentages of bone formation and remaining graft material. At 2 and 4 weeks, monetite with C3 and C6 demonstrated higher bone formation than monetite control, while monetite+C6 had the highest bone formation percentage at 4 weeks. There were no significant differences in the remaining graft material between the groups at 2 or 4 weeks. Incorporating these anabolic drug conjugates within the degradable matrix of monetite present a promising bone graft alternative for bone regeneration and repair in orthopedic as well as oral and maxillofacial applications.
Diagnostic accuracy of LAMP assay for HBV infection
Authors: Chen Chu‐Mao , Ouyang Shi , Lin Li‐Ying , Wu Li‐Juan , Xie Tian‐Ao , Chen Juan‐Jiang , Li Zhen‐Xing , Zhu Guo‐Dong , Ji Tian‐Xing , Pan Zhi‐Yong , Xia Yong , Guo Xu‐Guang
Published: March 2020

Background

Detection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is vital for the diagnosis of hepatitis B infection. A novel test loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has been successfully applied to detect various pathogens. However, the accuracy of LAMP in diagnosing HBV remains unclear. Therefore, in the present study, the accuracy of LAMP for HBV detection was evaluated systematically.

Methods

Embase, Cochrane Library, and PubMed databases were searched for studies using LAMP to detect HBV. Then, two researchers extracted data and assessed the quality of literature using the QUADAS‐2 tool independently. I2 statistic and chi‐square test were analyzed to investigate the heterogeneity, and Deek's funnel plot assessed the publication bias. The pooled sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), positive LR (PLR), negative LR (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and 95% confidence intervals were displayed in forest plots. We calculated the area under the curve (AUC) to assess the overall efficiency of LAMP for HBV detection.

Results

A total of nine studies with 1298 samples were finally included in this evaluation. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of HBV detection were 0.91 (95% CI: 0.89 ~ 0.92) and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.94 ~ 0.99), respectively. The PLR, NLR, and DOR were 16.93 (95% CI: 6.15 ~ 46.55), 0.08 (95% CI: 0.05 ~ 0.14), and 397.57 (95% CI: 145.41 ~ 1087.07). Besides, the AUC was 0.9872, and Deek's plot suggested that there existed publication bias in the studies.

Conclusion

Compared with PCR, LAMP is a simple, rapid, and effective assay to diagnose HBV. However, additional evidence is essential to confirm that LAMP can replace other methods in diagnosing HBV infection.
MicroRNA‐34c suppresses proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cell via modulating high mobility group box protein 1
Authors: Chen Li‐Bo , An Zhe , Zheng Hai‐Kuo , Wang Xin‐Peng , Shan Rui‐Ting , Mao Cui‐Ying , Zhang Wen‐Qi
Published: March 2020

Background

Atherosclerosis is the most frequent pathological process that causes cardiovascular diseases.

Objective

The present study aimed to confirm miRNAs associated with atherosclerosis and explore the molecular mechanism of miR‐34c and its target high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) in the control of growth of smooth muscle cells in the development of atherosclerosis.

Methods

Real‐time PCR was firstly performed to confirm miRNA correlation with atherosclerosis, and computational analysis and luciferase assay were performed to explore the target of miR‐34c, Western blot, and real‐time PCR were also utilized to reveal the effect of whether high glucose (HG) and miR‐34c affect miR‐34c, HMGB1 levels, NF‐κB p65 and TNF‐α levels, and the role of miR‐34c on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) viability induced by HG. Students' unpaired t test was performed to compare data between two groups.

Results

MiR‐34c level was associated with atherosclerosis with different expression between VSMCs treated with high glucose or normal VSMCs. Then, HMGB1 is a virtual target of miR‐34c with predicted binding site resided in HMGB1 3′UTR and further verified by that miR‐34c remarkably reduced luciferase activity of wild HMGB1 3′UTR under a concentration‐dependent fashion, and miR‐34c cannot influence luciferase activity of mutant HMGB1 3′UTR.

Conclusions

The results suggested miR‐34c might be a novel therapeutic strategy in the management of atherosclerosis by suppressing the expression of HGMB1 and its downstream effectors.
Targeting RAGE prevents muscle wasting and prolongs survival in cancer cachexia
Authors: Chiappalupi Sara , Sorci Guglielmo , Vukasinovic Aleksandra , Salvadori Laura , Sagheddu Roberta , Coletti Dario , Renga Giorgia , Romani Luigina , Donato Rosario , Riuzzi Francesca
Published: March 2020

Background

Cachexia, a multifactorial syndrome affecting more than 50% of patients with advanced cancer and responsible for ~20% of cancer‐associated deaths, is still a poorly understood process without a standard cure available. Skeletal muscle atrophy caused by systemic inflammation is a major clinical feature of cachexia, leading to weight loss, dampening patients' quality of life, and reducing patients' response to anticancer therapy. RAGE (receptor for advanced glycation end‐products) is a multiligand receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily and a mediator of muscle regeneration, inflammation, and cancer.

Methods

By using murine models consisting in the injection of colon 26 murine adenocarcinoma (C26‐ADK) or Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells in BALB/c and C57BL/6 or Ager−/− (RAGE‐null) mice, respectively, we investigated the involvement of RAGE signalling in the main features of cancer cachexia, including the inflammatory state. In vitro experiments were performed using myotubes derived from C2C12 myoblasts or primary myoblasts isolated from C57BL/6 wild type and Ager−/− mice treated with the RAGE ligand, S100B (S100 calcium‐binding protein B), TNF (tumor necrosis factor)α±IFN (interferon) γ, and tumour cell‐ or masses‐conditioned media to analyse hallmarks of muscle atrophy. Finally, muscles of wild type and Ager−/− mice were injected with TNFα/IFNγ or S100B in a tumour‐free environment.

Results

We demonstrate that RAGE is determinant to activate signalling pathways leading to muscle protein degradation in the presence of proinflammatory cytokines and/or tumour‐derived cachexia‐inducing factors. We identify the RAGE ligand, S100B, as a novel factor able to induce muscle atrophy per se via a p38 MAPK (p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase)/myogenin axis and STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3)‐dependent MyoD (myoblast determination protein 1) degradation. Lastly, we found that in cancer conditions, an increase in serum levels of tumour‐derived S100B and HMGB1 (high mobility group box 1) occurs leading to chronic activation/overexpression of RAGE, which induces hallmarks of cancer cachexia (i.e. muscle wasting, systemic inflammation, and release of tumour‐derived pro‐cachectic factors). Absence of RAGE in mice translates into reduced serum levels of cachexia‐inducing factors, delayed loss of muscle mass and strength, reduced tumour progression, and increased survival.

Conclusions

RAGE is a molecular determinant in inducing the hallmarks of cancer cachexia, and molecular targeting of RAGE might represent a therapeutic strategy to prevent or counteract the cachectic syndrome.
The effect of different obturation methods on sealer penetration alongside apically separated rotary nickel–titanium instruments: A confocal laser scanning microscopy study
Authors: Aktemur Türker Sevinç , Uzunoğlu Özyürek Emel , Tek Vildan
Published: March 2020

The effects of different obturation techniques on calcium silicate‐based sealer penetration in the presence of apically separated rotary files were evaluated. Forty‐eight extracted mandibular incisors were used. ProTaper F2 rotary files were separated at the apical thirds. Samples were divided into four groups (n = 12) according to obturation technique used: (a) cold lateral compaction (CLC); (b) single cone; (c) bulk‐fill (BF) without a core material; and (d) thermoplastic injection (TI). Specimens were sectioned horizontally at 1 and 3 mm from the apex and studied using a confocal scanning laser microscope. The maximum tubule penetration depth and percentage of penetration were measured. Data were statistically analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests with a significance level of 5%. Regarding penetration depth, a significant difference was found at 1 mm (p < .05), while no significant difference was found at 3 mm (p > .05). At the 3 mm level, all of the obturation techniques showed similar penetration depths. Regarding penetration percentage, the values of the CLC and TI groups were statistically less when compared with the BF group at 1 and 3 mm levels, respectively (p < .05). Under the limitations of this in vitro study, results suggest that the obturation technique may present a significant effect on sealer penetration.
Interpreters’ perceptions of culture bumps in genetic counseling
Authors: Rosenbaum Marc , Dineen Richard , Schmitz Karen , Stoll Jessica , Hsu Melissa , Hodges Priscila D.
Published: March 2020

Culture bump theory provides a practical and goal‐oriented framework for addressing cultural differences that can impact communication and patient care. Differences in language and culture, coupled with a lack of knowledge or competency regarding these differences, often contribute to ‘culture bumps’ between healthcare providers and patients. Interpreters serve the unique role of ‘cultural brokers’, going beyond bridging the linguistic divide to close cultural gaps. Research from the perspective of interpreters focused on culture bumps and cultural competency within genetic counseling sessions is lacking. We aimed to assess interpreters’ experiences with significant ‘culture bumps’ in genetic counseling sessions, obtain interpreters’ perspectives regarding genetic counselors’ gaps in cultural competency, and explore interpreters’ perceptions of the impact of cultural competency on the genetic counseling sessions. Spanish and Polish interpreters experienced in working in person with genetic counselors were recruited through interpreter supervisors at medical centers, hospitals, and interpreter training and service agencies in the Chicagoland area. Using a semi‐structured interview guide, phone interviews were conducted with eligible participants and transcribed verbatim. A codebook was developed between two coders, and inter‐rater reliability was assessed (κ = 0.82). Grounded theory was used as a guiding principle to code data. The results of this study revealed significant culture bumps identified by interpreters in genetic counseling sessions in the areas of exchange of information, gender and family dynamics, and incorporation of religious and faith beliefs. Interpreters identified the impact on rapport, both negative and positive, due to gaps and strengths in cultural competency, respectively. These responses offer useful insight for training and providing practicing genetic counselors with tools to promote cultural competency, in order to provide optimal care for patients with limited English proficiency (LEP). Further research is necessary to explore these concepts within other languages and cultures, as well as to determine the most appropriate methods for implementing these suggestions for improvement.
Pathogenic variants in SQOR encoding sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase are a potentially treatable cause of Leigh disease
Authors: Friederich Marisa W. , Elias Abdallah F. , Kuster Alice , Laugwitz Lucia , Larson Austin A. , Landry Aaron P. , Ellwood‐Digel Logan , Mirsky David M. , Dimmock David , Haven Jaclyn , Jiang Hua , MacLean Kenneth N. , Styren Katie , Schoof Jonathan , Goujon Louise , Lefrancois Thomas , Friederich Maike , Coughlin Curtis R. , Banerjee Ruma , Haack Tobias B. , Van Hove Johan L. K.
Published: March 2020

Hydrogen sulfide, a signaling molecule formed mainly from cysteine, is catabolized by sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (gene SQOR). Toxic hydrogen sulfide exposure inhibits complex IV. We describe children of two families with pathogenic variants in SQOR. Exome sequencing identified variants; SQOR enzyme activity was measured spectrophotometrically, protein levels evaluated by western blotting, and mitochondrial function was assayed. In family A, following a brief illness, a 4‐year‐old girl presented comatose with lactic acidosis and multiorgan failure. After stabilization, she remained comatose, hypotonic, had neurostorming episodes, elevated lactate, and Leigh‐like lesions on brain imaging. She died shortly after. Her 8‐year‐old sister presented with a rapidly fatal episode of coma with lactic acidosis, and lesions in the basal ganglia and left cortex. Muscle and liver tissue had isolated decreased complex IV activity, but normal complex IV protein levels and complex formation. Both patients were homozygous for c.637G > A, which we identified as a founder mutation in the Lehrerleut Hutterite with a carrier frequency of 1 in 13. The resulting p.Glu213Lys change disrupts hydrogen bonding with neighboring residues, resulting in severely reduced SQOR protein and enzyme activity, whereas sulfide generating enzyme levels were unchanged. In family B, a boy had episodes of encephalopathy and basal ganglia lesions. He was homozygous for c.446delT and had severely reduced fibroblast SQOR enzyme activity and protein levels. SQOR dysfunction can result in hydrogen sulfide accumulation, which, consistent with its known toxicity, inhibits complex IV resulting in energy failure. In conclusion, SQOR deficiency represents a new, potentially treatable, cause of Leigh disease.
The brightest colors: A Fourier‐transform Raman, surface‐enhanced Raman, and thin‐layer chromatography‐surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy study of fluorescent artists' paints
Authors: Boscacci Maddalena , Francone Serena , Galli Katia , Bruni Silvia
Published: March 2020

Among the so‐called “special effect” pigments, fluorescent ones play an important role, thanks to their application to a wide range of objects in everyday life. Also in the artistic field, they have been exploited since 1950s by several painters (among others Andy Warhol and Frank Stella), thus representing a particular class of materials with which conservators must confront themselves.

Not much information is available about the complete composition of commercial fluorescent paints that are based on fluorescent dyes dispersed in a transparent and brittle resin. Herein, Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) were used to recognize the main dye components of the paints, whereas thin‐layer chromatography was coupled with SERS to better distinguish further chromophore mixes responsible for the color and/or the fluorescence emission due to the presence of optical brighteners. This methodology results suitable to more fully define the composition of such fluorescent paints originally used by artists in their works, thus providing valuable information to conservators for restoration and retouching efforts.
Liquid chromatographic separation of alkaloids in herbal medicines: Current status and perspectives
Authors: Zhao Wen‐Jing , Chen Xu‐Yan , Liu Yu‐Qian , Li Ping , Li Hui‐Jun
Published: March 2020

Alkaloids are a widespread group of basic compounds in herbal medicines and have attracted great interest due to various pharmaceutical activities and desirable druggability. Their distinctive structures make chromatographic separation fairly difficult. Peak tailing, poor resolution, and inferior column‐to‐column reproducibility are common obstacles to overcome. In order to provide a valuable reference, the methodologies and/or strategies on liquid chromatographic separation of alkaloids in herbal medicines proposed from 2012 to 2019 are thoroughly summarized.
Laryngeal Mucosa Alterations in Mice Model of Gastroesophageal Reflux: Effects of Topical Protection
Authors: Figueiredo Aline A. , Sales Thiago M. A. L. , Nicolau Lucas A. D. , Nunes André A. A. , Costa‐Filho Humberto B. , Moreira Rhubens L. R. , Nascimento Renata R. , Sousa Maria K. A. , Silva Lorena D. , Carmo‐Neto João P. , Sidou Flávio M. N. O. , Paula Suliana M. , Medeiros Jand V. R. , Silva Durcilene A. , Sifrim Daniel , Souza Marcellus H. L. P.
Published: March 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

The objectives of this study were to evaluate laryngeal inflammation and mucosal integrity in a murine model of reflux disease and to assess the protective effects of topical agents including alginate, hyaluronic acid, and cashew gum.

Study Design

Animal study.

Methods

A surgical murine model of reflux disease was evaluated at 3 or 7 days postsurgery, and laryngeal samples were collected to measure inflammation (wet weight and myeloperoxidase [MPO]) and mucosal integrity (transepithelial resistance [TER] and mucosal permeability to fluorescein). Additional groups of animals were administered one of several topical agents (alginate, hyaluronic acid, or cashew gum) daily, and laryngeal inflammation and mucosal integrity were evaluated at 3 days postsurgery.

Results

At 3 days, and not 7 days postsurgery, we observed increased laryngeal wet weight and MPO, decreased laryngeal TER, and increased laryngeal mucosa permeability. Alginate partially decreased laryngeal inflammation (wet weight and not MPO) and dramatically improved laryngeal mucosal integrity. Conversely, hyaluronic acid eliminated the inflammation; however, it had no effect on laryngeal mucosal integrity impairment. Cashew gum eliminated laryngeal inflammation as well as the impairment in laryngeal mucosal integrity.

Conclusions

This study shows that a surgical model of reflux disease induced laryngeal inflammation and impairment in laryngeal barrier function. These observed alterations were partially attenuated by alginate and hyaluronic acid and completely reversed by cashew gum.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2020
In‐Office Tympanostomy Tube Placement in Children Using Iontophoresis and Automated Tube Delivery
Authors: Lustig Lawrence R. , Ingram Amy , Vidrine D. Macy , Gould Andrew R. , Zeiders Jacob W. , Ow Randall A. , Thompson Christopher R. , Moss Jonathan R. , Mehta Ritvik , McClay John E. , Brenski Amy , Gavin John , Waldman Erik H. , Ansley John , Yen David M. , Chadha Neil K. , Murray Michael T. , Kozak Frederick K. , York Christopher , Brown David M. , Grunstein Eli , Sprecher Robert C. , Sherman Denise A. , Schoem Scott R. , Puchalski Robert , Hills Susannah , Calzada Audrey , Harfe Dan , England Laura J. , Syms Charles A.
Published: March 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Evaluate technical success, tolerability, and safety of lidocaine iontophoresis and tympanostomy tube placement for children in an office setting.

Study Design

Prospective individual cohort study.

Methods

This prospective multicenter study evaluated in‐office tube placement in children ages 6 months through 12 years of age. Anesthesia was achieved via lidocaine/epinephrine iontophoresis. Tube placement was conducted using an integrated and automated myringotomy and tube delivery system. Anxiolytics, sedation, and papoose board were not used. Technical success and safety were evaluated. Patients 5 to 12 years old self‐reported tube placement pain using the Faces Pain Scale–Revised (FPS‐R) instrument, which ranges from 0 (no pain) to 10 (very much pain).

Results

Children were enrolled into three cohorts with 68, 47, and 222 children in the Operating Room (OR) Lead‐In, Office Lead‐In, and Pivotal cohorts, respectively. In the Pivotal cohort, there were 120 and 102 children in the <5 and 5‐ to 12‐year‐old age groups, respectively, with a mean age of 2.3 and 7.6 years, respectively. Bilateral tube placement was indicated for 94.2% of children <5 and 88.2% of children 5 to 12 years old. Tubes were successfully placed in all indicated ears in 85.8% (103/120) of children <5 and 89.2% (91/102) of children 5 to 12 years old. Mean FPS‐R score was 3.30 (standard deviation [SD] = 3.39) for tube placement and 1.69 (SD = 2.43) at 5 minutes postprocedure. There were no serious adverse events. Nonserious adverse events occurred at rates similar to standard tympanostomy procedures.

Conclusions

In‐office tube placement in selected patients can be successfully achieved without requiring sedatives, anxiolytics, or papoose restraints via lidocaine iontophoresis local anesthesia and an automated myringotomy and tube delivery system.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 130:S1–S9, 2020
An Easy‐to‐Fabricate Hydrogel Platform with Tunable Stiffness and Cell Anchorage: Validation of Its Feasibility in Modulating Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway Physically
Authors: Yu Tingting , Hu Ke , Xu Qiufan , Xu Xueqin , Du Chunyue , Zhao Yinyi , Yan Sen , Wang Wei , Tang Shijia , Yue Shen , Zhang Xiya , Wang Danlei , Zhang Feimin , Cheng Steven Yan , Gu Ning
Published: March 2020

The biophysical factors of microenvironments have increasingly been recognized as playing key roles in driving cell functions along with biochemical cues. However, current synthetic extracellular matrix materials with tunable biophysical properties are both costly and technically complicated to prepare, therefore limiting their application in the molecular biology field. Herein, an interpenetration hydrogel group with gradient stiffness and cell anchor points is developed, and the matrix stiffness and adhesion property functions as key regulators to determine the final output of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling is reported. Specifically, it is shown that the spreading areas of mouse embryonic fibroblasts are mainly regulated by stiffness of the matrix. The Shh‐induced Gli1 expression also increases with the cell spreading area. Finally, this work shows that b1‐integrin and focal adhesion kinase, respectively, act as sensors of matrix stiffness and adhesion properties, demonstrating the significance of the precise regulation of Shh signaling by cellular microenvironments. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using this hydrogel platform to study the impact of biophysical changes of the microenvironment on particular cellular signal pathways, and can potentially be applied in low‐cost, high throughput screening of signal pathways which are responsive to the biophysical changes of microenvironments.
A Case of Bilaterally Synchronized Faciobrachial Dystonic Seizures in Anti‐Leucine‐Rich Glioma Inactivated‐1 Encephalitis
Authors: Mikami Takahisa , Amano Eiichiro , Iizuka Takahiro , Machida Akira
Published: March 2020

View Supplementary Video 1
Highly linear fundamental up‐converter in InP DHBT technology for W‐band applications
Authors: Hossain Maruf , Stoppel Dimitri , Boppel Sebastian , Heinrich Wolfgang , Krozer Viktor
Published: March 2020

A fundamental up‐converter with high linearity is presented, realized as full Gilbert cell (GC) mixer using a 800 nm transferred substrate (TS) InP‐DHBT technology. The LO input of the Gilbert cell conducts from 75 to 100 GHz and requires 5 dBm of input power. The GC attains a single sideband (SSB) conversion gain of 10 ± 1 dB within the frequency from 82 to 95 GHz with a saturated output power of −1 dBm at 86 GHz and >5 dB conversion gain between 75 and 100 GHz. The up‐converter exhibits 25 GHz of IF bandwidth. The DC power consumption is only 51 mW.
Association Between Fetal Exposure to Famine and Anthropometric Measures in Adulthood: A Regression Discontinuity Approach
Authors: Fang Zhe , Chen Chuanbo , Wang Hanyu , Tang Kun
Published: March 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in six anthropometric measurements of people born during and immediately after the 1959 to 1961 Great Chinese Famine using a regression discontinuity approach.

Methods

Data were drawn from the baseline of the China Kadoorie Biobank study, and a subset of data from 76,912 participants was analyzed. We performed regression discontinuity among participants who were born during the famine (October 1959 to October 1962) and immediately after the famine period (November 1962 to October 1964) by using local linear and parametric regressions. All analyses were conducted by sex and study area.

Results

Significantly, there were increases of 0.30 kg/m2 (P = 0.007) in BMI, 0.81 kg (P = 0.028) in weight, 8.57 mm (P = 0.004) in waist circumference, and 5.07 mm (P = 0.004) in hip circumference for rural women who were exposed to famine during their fetal period compared with those who were not exposed to famine in utero. However, such statistically significant increases in anthropometric values were not observed in local linear regression and most parametric models among rural men or in the urban population.

Conclusions

Rural Chinese women who were exposed to famine during the fetal period were observed to have higher levels of BMI, weight, waist circumference, and hip circumference in adulthood.
Outpatient low toxic regimen with bortezomib in relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia in pediatrics and AYA patients: Single‐center Mexican experience
Authors: Colunga‐Pedraza Julia E. , González‐Llano Oscar , González‐Martinez Carlos Eugenio , Gómez‐Almaguer David , Yáñez‐Reyes José Miguel , Jiménez‐Antolinez Valentine , Colunga‐Pedraza Perla R.
Published: March 2020

Relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia represents a major challenge in low‐ and middle‐income countries where new therapies are not easily accessible. Combinations of cost‐effective drugs should be considered as a bridge for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We retrospectively analyzed pediatric and adolescent and young adult patients who received reinduction with a protocol based on l‐asparaginase, doxorubicin, vincristine, dexamethasone, and bortezomib (BZ). Fifteen patients were included. Total complete response (CR) was achieved by nine of 15 patients (60%); five patients achieved CR with negative minimal residual disease, two achieved complete morphological response (CR), and two complete morphological response without platelet recovery. Eleven patients (73%) were not hospitalized and 10 (66%) did not require any blood component transfusions. There were no cases of serious toxicity or mortality. Nine patients (60%) underwent transplant. Five‐year overall survival was 40%. This BZ‐based protocol is effective and safe when administered as an outpatient regimen and feasible in a low resource setting.
Plasmas for additive manufacturing
Authors: Sui Yongkun , Zorman Christian A. , Sankaran R. Mohan
Published: March 2020

Additive methods for manufacturing materials have recently emerged, particularly for the fabrication of three‐dimensional architectures. Because of their long history in thin‐film etching and deposition, plasmas offer unique advantages for many of the materials and surface processes associated with additive manufacturing. Here, we review recent efforts that have been primarily focused on the direct writing of patterned structures and the post‐treatment of printed materials. Different configurations, materials, and applications are presented. Current challenges and a future outlook are also provided.
Differential Protein Expression between Cystic and Solid Vestibular Schwannoma Using Tandem Mass Tag‐Based Quantitative Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Xu Jianhui , Ma Jing , Shi Yuxuan , Yin Dongming , Zhang Yang , Dai Peidong , Zhao Weidong , Zhang Tianyu
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Cystic vestibular schwannoma (CVS) and solid vestibular schwannoma (SVS) are subgroups of vestibular schwannoma (VS). The tumorigenesis of CVS and SVS have not been fully elucidated, and this study is designed to identify differentially expressed proteins involved in the tumorigenesis of CVS and SVS.

Experimental Design

Tandem mass tag‐based proteomics is used to determine the protein expression profiles from CVS and SVS tissues.

Results

A total of 30 differentially expressed proteins are identified between CVS and SVS, with 6 being upregulated and 24 being downregulated. Bioinformatics analyses are performed according to Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses. These results indicate that two selected proteins (COL1A1 and COL1A2) are potential biomarkers for distinguishing CVS and SVS.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Differentially expressed proteins linked to CVS and SVS are identified, and these proteins might provide potential biomarkers for human VS diagnosis. Furthermore, the present study supports the notion that decreased collagen might be the reason for bleeding associated with CVS.
Atomic‐Scale Interface Structure in Domain Matching Epitaxial BaBiO3 Thin Films Grown on SrTiO3 Substrates
Authors: Jin Lei , Zapf Michael , Stübinger Martin , Kamp Martin , Sing Michael , Claessen Ralph , Jia Chun-Lin
Published: March 2020

The electronic structures of BaBiO3 (BBO) thin films grown on SrTiO3 substrates are found to be thickness dependent. The origin of this behavior remains under debate and has been suggested to be attributed to the structural and compositional modifications at the BBO/SrTiO3 interface during the first stage of film growth. Though a wetting layer with thickness of ≈1 nm has been experimentally identified at the interface, details on the microstructures of such a layer and their effect on the subsequent film growth are lacking so far, particularly at the atomic scale. Herein, atomic‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy is used to study the interface structure of a 30 nm‐thick BBO film grown on an Nb‐doped SrTiO3 (STO) substrate through domain matching epitaxy. An interfacial δ‐Bi2O3 (BO)‐like phase with fluorite structure is identified, showing a layer‐by‐layer spacing of ≈3.2 Å along the growth direction. The orientation relationship between the BO‐like phase and surrounding perovskites (P) is found to be <001>BO||<001>P and <110>BO||<100>P. The presence of the BO‐like phase results in two types of interfaces, i.e., a coherent BO/STO and a semicoherent BBO/BO interface. Thickness variations are observed in the BO‐like layer, resulting in the formation of antiphase domains in the BBO films.
Predictive factors influencing pregnancy rate in frozen embryo transfer
Authors: Hayashi Nao , Enatsu Noritoshi , Iwasaki Toshiro , Otsuki Junko , Matsumoto Yukiko , Kokeguchi Shoji , Shiotani Masahide
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the outcomes of embryo transfer (ET) and to identify the parameters influencing pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This study included 938 ET cycles involving single frozen and thawed good‐quality blastocyst (Gardner grade ≥3BB) between August 2017 and January 2018. The significance of several parameters including endometrial thickness, position of the transferred air bubble, self‐evaluation score by physicians, and uterus direction at ET as predictors of clinical pregnancy was evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Among 938 ET cycles, 462 (49.3%) resulted in a clinical pregnancy. Endometrial thickness was positively associated with clinical pregnancy in a linear trend. Between the variable position of the transferred air bubble and clinical pregnancy rate showed a curvilinear relationship. Clinical pregnancy rate was higher in cases with good self‐evaluation score, whereas there was no difference between groups with different uterus directions. Univariate analysis of predictive parameters identified endometrial thickness, self‐evaluation score by physicians, and position of air bubbles as significant predictors of clinical pregnancy, of which endometrial thickness and position of air bubbles appeared to be independently related to clinical pregnancy.

Conclusion

Endometrial thickness and the position of transferred air bubbles influenced clinical pregnancy in ET cycles.
Synthesis, In Silico Studies, Antiprotozoal and Cytotoxic Activities of Quinoline‐Biphenyl Hybrids
Authors: Coa Juan Carlos , Yepes Andrés , Carda Miguel , Conesa‐Milián Laura , Upegui Yulieth , Robledo Sara M. , Cardona‐G Wilson
Published: March 2020

The synthesis, in silico studies, antiprotozoal and cytotoxic activities of eleven quinoline‐biphenyl hybrids are described herein. The structure of the synthesized products was elucidated by a combination of spectrometric analyses. The synthesized compounds were evaluated against Plasmodium falciparum, and amastigotes forms both Leishmania (V) panamensis and Trypanosoma cruzi. Cytotoxicity was evaluated against human U‐937 macrophages. 8‐phenylquinoline (4 a) showed similar activity than meglumine antimoniate and 4‐(quinolin‐8‐yl)phenol (4 b) exhibited an activity similar to that of benznidazole. 8‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl) quinoline (4 k) showed the best activity against P. falciparum. Although these compounds were toxic for mammalian U‐937 cells, however they may still have potential to be considered as candidates for drug development because of their antiparasite activity. Molecular docking was used to determine the in silico inhibition of some of the designed compounds against PfLDH and cruzipain, two important pharmacological targets involved in antiparasitic diseases. All hybrids were docked to the three‐dimensional structures of PfLDH and T. cruzi cruzipain as enzymes using AutoDock Vina. Notably, the docking results showed that the most active compounds 4‐(quinolin‐8‐yl)phenol (4 b, CE50: 11.33 μg/mL for T. cruzi) and 8‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl) quinoline (4 k, CE50: 8.84 μg/mL for P. falciparum) exhibited the highest scoring pose (−7.5 and −7.7 kcal/mol, respectively). This result shows a good correlation between the predicted scores with the experimental data profile, suggesting that these ligands could act as competitive inhibitors of PfLDH or T. cruzi cruzipain enzymes, respectively. Finally, in silico ADME studies of the quinoline hybrids showed that these novel compounds have suitable drug‐like properties, making them potentially promising agents for antiprotozoal therapy.
Innovative Flame Retardant and Antibacterial Fabrics Coating Based on Inorganic Nanotubes
Authors: Elsayed Enam M. , Attia Nour F. , Alshehri L. A.
Published: March 2020

Novel and cost‐effective flame retardant and antibacterial textile fabrics coating was developed. Green coating was facilely synthesized using one pot method on the surface of cotton and polyacrylic textile fabrics converting them to multifunctional smart textiles. Polyaniline were polymerized in the presence of dispersed halloysite nanotubes, as the polyaniline chains were polymerized on the surface of the nanotubes which are aligned on the surface of textile fibers. Furthermore, TiO2NPs were also incorporated in the coating layer by decoration on nanotubes and textile fibers surfaces followed by wrapping with polymer chains. Additionally, polyaniline was polymerized alone on the surface of textile fabrics for comparison. The mass loading of nanotubes was varied. The flammability, mechanical and antibacterial properties of the developed coated textile fabrics were studied. The flame retardancy properties of the smart developed coated textile fabrics were improved as the rate of burning of coated textile fabrics was reduced achieved 72% reduction compared to uncoated one. The antibacterial properties were enhanced as the clear antibacterial inhibition zone was recorded 6 mm for developed coated sample compared to zero for uncoated and polyaniline coated samples. Additionally, the tensile strength of the coated samples was maintained. Furthermore, the flame retardancy mechanism of the smart developed textile fabrics was studied.
Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Coupled with Production of Value‐Added Chemicals
Authors: Xia Bingquan , Zhang Yanzhao , Shi Bingyang , Ran Jingrun , Davey Kenneth , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: March 2020

The conversion of water into clean hydrogen fuel using renewable solar energy can potentially be used to address global energy and environmental issues. However, conventional photocatalytic H2 evolution from water splitting has low efficiency and poor stability. Hole scavengers are therefore added to boost separation efficiency of photoexcited electron–hole pairs and improve stability by consuming the strongly oxidative photoexcited holes. The drawbacks of this approach are increased cost and production of waste. Recently, researchers have reported the use of abundantly available hole scavengers, including biomass, biomass‐derived intermediates, plastic wastes, and a range of alcohols for H2 evolution, coupled with value‐added chemicals production using semiconductor‐based photocatalysts. It is timely, therefore, to comprehensively summarize the properties, performances, and mechanisms of these photocatalysts, and critically review recent advances, challenges, and opportunities in this emerging area. Herein, this paper: 1) outlines reaction mechanisms of photocatalysts for H2 evolution coupled with selective oxidation, C–H activation and C–C coupling, together with nonselective oxidation, using hole‐scavengers; 2) introduces equations to compute conversion/selectivity of selective oxidation; 3) summarizes and critically compares recently reported photocatalysts with particular emphasis on correlation between physicochemical characteristics and performances, together with photocatalytic mechanisms, and; 4) appraises current advances and challenges.
Selective killing of leukemia cells: Yamanaka factors’ new trick
Authors: Xie Huafeng , Graf Thomas
Published: March 2020

The four transcription factors of the Yamanaka cocktail (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and Myc, termed OSKM) are famously capable of reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In an article recently published in Nature Communications, Wang et al describe the unexpected discovery that short-term activation of OSKM expression in acute myeloid leukemia cells in vivo induces apoptosis while negligibly affecting normal hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (Nat Commun 2019;10:5594). These findings have potential implications for novel anticancer strategies.
Activation of the RhoA-YAP-β-catenin signaling axis promotes the expansion of inner ear progenitor cells in 3D culture
Authors: Xia Mingyu , Chen Yan , He Yingzi , Li Huawei , Li Wenyan
Published: March 2020

Cellular mechanotransduction plays an essential role in the development and differentiation of many cell types, but if and how mechanical cues from the extracellular matrix (ECM) influence the fate determination of inner ear progenitor cells (IEPCs) remains largely unknown. In the current study, we compared the biological behavior of IEPCs in Matrigel-based suspension and encapsulated culture systems, and we found that the mechanical cues from the ECM promote the survival and expansion of IEPCs. Furthermore, we found that the mechanical cues from the ECM induced the accumulation of Ras homolog family member A (RhoA) and caused the polymerization of actin cytoskeleton in IEPCs. These changes in turn resulted in increased Yes-associated protein (YAP) nuclear localization and enhanced expansion of IEPCs, at least partially through upregulating the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. We therefore provide the first demonstration that the RhoA-YAP-β-catenin signaling axis senses and transduces mechanical cues from the ECM and plays crucial roles in promoting the expansion of IEPCs.
Effects of soil on the energy response of equipment–structure systems with different connection types between the equipment and structure
Authors: Jiang Nan , Luo Lanfang , Bi Jihong
Published: March 2020

In equipment–structure systems, the soil–structure interaction and connection types between the equipment and structure significantly affect the seismic response. To understand this effect, in this study, the motion equation of an equipment–structure–soil system was derived, and energy balance equations for each part of the coupled system were obtained. Further, the effects of the soil on the energy response were analyzed based on the results of shaking table tests of an equipment–structure system and real‐time substructure shaking table tests of equipment–structure–soil systems with different connection types. The energy response of the equipment–structure system with a rigid ground was compared with that of the equipment–structure–soil systems. The analysis results showed that the energy response of the equipment–structure–soil system with different connections was quite different from that of the system with a rigid ground. The soil decreased the total energy input to the equipment and structure and significantly changed the time distribution characteristics of the input energy. Additionally, the soil weakened the energy consumption of the connections. Therefore, the influence of the soil should be considered in the design of equipment–structure systems with connections.