bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution and density of mixed‐input ON bipolar cells of the goldfish (Carassius auratus) during growth
Authors: Corredor Vitor H. , da Silva Flávio T. , Baran Luiz C. P. , Ventura Dora F. , Joselevitch Christina
Published: November 2018

Neurons are continuously produced at different rates and locations in the teleost retina. Goldfish rods are homogeneously distributed and maintain a stable density throughout growth, whereas little is known about their postsynaptic partners. We examined the distribution and density of mixed‐input ON bipolar cells (ON mBCs) in 57 goldfish of various sizes by immunolabeling their retinas with an antibody against PKCα and counting PKCα‐positive neurons in wholemounts. Cell densities were correlated with morphometric data for the same animals, and the spatial resolution of the ON mBC mosaic was calculated in each case. The distribution of ON mBCs is homogeneous throughout growth. For a 10‐fold change in body size (i.e., from 20 to 200 mm), the total number of ON mBCs increases 2.8 times, while retinal area expands around 10 times. As a consequence, the density of ON mBCs in large fish falls to ∼1/3 of that of small animals, and intercellular spacing doubles. The eye and the lens become around three times larger from small to large fish. This causes the retinal magnification factor (and thereby the image projected onto retina) to augment by the same amount. Because the retinal magnification factor rises more than the intercellular spacing in the same animals, the spatial resolution of the ON mBC mosaic improves from 0.8 to 1.4 cycles/degree as the body size increases from 20 to 200 mm. As ON mBCs are mostly rod‐driven, our results suggest that the scotopic acuity of the goldfish may improve as the animal grows.
Review and evaluation of color spaces for image/video compression
Authors: Kahu Samruddhi Y. , Raut Rajesh B. , Bhurchandi Kishor M.
Published: November 2018

A color space plays an important role in color image processing and color vision applications. While compressing images/videos, properties of the human visual system are used to remove image details unperceivable by the human eye, appropriately called psychovisual redundancies. This is where the effect of the color spaces' properties on compression efficiency is introduced. In this work, we study the suitability of various color spaces for compression of images and videos. This review work is undertaken in two stages. Initially, a comprehensive review of the published color spaces is done. These color spaces are classified and their advantages, limitations, and applications are also highlighted. Next, the color spaces are quantitatively analyzed and benchmarked in the perspective of image and video compression algorithms, to identify and evaluate crucial color space parameters for image and video compression algorithms.
Advances in Chimeric Antigen Receptor T‐Cell Therapies for Solid Tumors
Authors: Baybutt Trevor R. , Flickinger John C. , Caparosa Ellen M. , Snook Adam E.
Published: November 2018

In 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first two novel cellular immunotherapies using synthetic, engineered receptors known as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), tisagenlecleucel (Kymriah) and axicabtagene ciloleucel (Yescarta), expressed by patient‐derived T cells for the treatment of hematological malignancies expressing the B‐cell surface antigen CD19 in both pediatric and adult patients. This approval marked a major milestone in the use of antigen‐directed “living drugs” for the treatment of relapsed or refractory blood cancers, and with these two approvals, there is increased impetus to expand not only the target antigens but also the tumor types that can be targeted. This state‐of‐the‐art review will focus on the challenges, advances, and novel approaches being used to implement CAR T‐cell immunotherapy for the treatment of solid tumors.
Catalytic Upgrading of Biomass‐Derived Sugars with Acidic Nanoporous Materials: Structural Role in Carbon‐Chain Length Variation
Authors: He Jian , Li Hu , Saravanamurugan Shunmugavel , Yang Song
Published: November 2018

Shifting from petroleum‐based resources to inedible biomass for the production of valuable chemicals and fuels is one of the significant aspects in sustainable chemistry for realizing the sustainable development of our society. Various renowned biobased platform molecules, such as 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, furfural, levulinic acid, and lactic acid, are successfully accessible from the transformation of biobased sugars. To achieve the specific reaction routes, heterogeneous nanoporous acidic materials have served as promising catalysts for the conversion of bio‐sugars in the past decade. This Review summarizes advances in various nanoporous acidic materials for bio‐sugar conversion, in which the number of carbon atoms is variable and controllable with the assistance of the switchable structure of nanoporous materials. The major focus of this Review is on possible reaction pathways/mechanisms and the relationships between catalyst structure and catalytic performance. Moreover, representative examples of catalytic upgrading of biobased platform molecules to biochemicals and fuels through selective C−C cleavage and coupling strategies over nanoporous acidic materials are also discussed.
N1 lateralization and dyslexia: An event‐related potential study in children with a familial risk of dyslexia
Authors: van Setten Ellie R.H. , Maurits Natasha M. , Maassen Ben A.M.
Published: November 2018

The rapid automatic specialized processing of printed words is signalled by the left‐lateralization of the N1 component in the visual event‐related potential (ERP). In the present study, we have investigated whether differences in N1 lateralization can be observed between Dutch children with and without (a familial risk of) dyslexia around the age of 12 years using a linguistic judgement task. Forty‐five participants were included in the ERP analysis, 18 in the low familial risk group without dyslexia, 15 in the high familial risk group without dyslexia, and 12 in the high familial risk group with dyslexia. The results showed that although the N1 peaked slightly earlier in the left hemisphere, the N1 amplitude was right‐lateralized in all groups. Moreover, there were no group differences in N1 amplitude or latency, and there was no relationship between reading (related) test scores and N1 characteristics. The results of the present study and our previous findings in adults suggest that print‐tuning lateralization is a process that is still developing in adolescence. Because other studies did find N1 lateralization in younger readers with a print versus nonprint contrast, the current results seem to indicate that differences in N1 lateralization also depend on the experimental paradigm.
Hydrological and thermal properties of moss and lichen species on rock barrens: Implications for turtle nesting habitat
Authors: Moore Paul A. , Smolarz Alanna G. , Markle Chantel E. , Waddington James M.
Published: November 2018

In central Ontario, Canadian Shield rock barrens are a dominant geographic feature supporting at‐risk reptiles near their northern range limit. To better understand the characteristics of the organic soil that make Canadian Shield rock barrens suitable turtle nesting habitat, we measured moisture retention and evaporative potential and calculated the thermal properties of lichen (Cladonia) mats and moss (Sphagnum and Polytrichum) cushions, as well as their underlying mineral–organic soils. The upper soil profile consisted almost entirely of low density (14–49 kg m−3), high porosity (72–98%) organic matter (loss on ignition [LOI] of 84–99%), which transitioned rapidly to comparatively high density (304–815 kg m−3) mineral–organic soil (LOI of 10–85%). In contrast to Sphagnum and Cladonia, under laboratory conditions, Polytrichum was able to maintain an evaporation rate well above the open‐water potential for several days during a drying experiment. Overall, contrasts in composition and water retention between soil layers are likely to dampen diurnal temperature fluctuations. However, differences in potential water loss between species will have a direct impact on soil thermal dynamics, particularly if substantial water loss occurs in the mineral–organic layer. Because soil depth and temperature regulation by moisture content and soil composition are an important component of nesting habitat, this research provides evidence for the need to conserve moss/lichen‐dominated habitats within turtle species' home ranges. Understanding the ecohydrological controls and limits to how these key moss/lichen species develop and influence primary peat formation represents a critical research need for habitat restoration strategies.
Obesity and dysregulated central and peripheral macrophage–neuron cross‐talk
Authors: Boura‐Halfon Sigalit , Pecht Tal , Jung Steffen , Rudich Assaf
Published: November 2018

The involvement of macrophages in the pathogenesis of obesity has been recognized since 2003. Early studies mostly focused on the role of macrophages in adipose tissue (AT) and in obesity‐associated chronic low‐grade inflammation. Lately, AT macrophages were shown to undergo intrinsic metabolic changes that affect their immune function (i.e., immunometabolism), corresponding to their unique properties along the range of pro‐ versus anti‐inflammatory activity. In parallel, recent studies in mice revealed critical neuronal–macrophage interactions, both in the CNS and in peripheral tissues, including in white and brown AT. These intercellular activities impinge on energy and metabolic homeostasis, partially by also engaging adipocytes in a neuronal–macrophage–adipocyte ménage à trois. Finally, neuropeptides (NP), such as NPY and appetite‐reducing NPFF, may prove as mediators in such intercellular network. In this concise review, we highlight some of these recent insights on adipose macrophage immunometabolism, as well as central and peripheral neuronal–macrophage interactions with emphasis on their impact on adipocyte biology and whole‐body metabolism. We also discuss the expanding view on the role of the NP, NPY and NPFF, in obesity.
Notes on the identities of the new genera and species published by Domenico (Domingos) Vandelli in the Florae Lusitanicae et Brasiliensis specimen
Authors: de Moraes Pedro Luís Rodrigues
Published: November 2018

The Florae Lusitanicae et Brasiliensis specimen, published in 1788, is revisited here after encountering three manuscripts that proved to be directly related to the new genera described by Domenico Vandelli. One of them is a bound folio of watercolor drawings with 133 plates containing sketches of branches, inflorescences and/or fruits of each species, as well as drawing of dissections of their flowers and/or fruits. Those drawings had been copied from original material collected and sent to Portugal from Brazil by Joaquim Vellozo de Miranda. Vandelli used them as the basis for his descriptions of new Brazilian taxa. Examinations of the drawings have allowed the identification of 21 new genera (most of them to the species level) out of 25, thus clarifying the taxonomic status of several taxa that had remained unresolved since the 1788 publication date. A significant nomenclatural discovery is that Tapanhuacanga Vand. has now been shown to be Psyllocarpus laricoides Mart. & Zucc. Therefore, Tapanhuacanga has priority over Psyllocarpus, which has required 12 new combinations undertaken here. Three new synonymies, typification of five genera and 18 lectotypifications are proposed.
Hybridizing kernel‐based fuzzy c‐means with hierarchical selective neural network ensemble model for business failure prediction
Authors: Liu Jiaming , Wu Chong
Published: November 2018

More and more ensemble models are used to forecast business failure. It is generally known that the performance of an ensemble relies heavily on the diversity between each base classifier. To achieve diversity, this study uses kernel‐based fuzzy c‐means (KFCM) to organize firm samples and designs a hierarchical selective ensemble model for business failure prediction (BFP). First, three KFCM methods—Gaussian KFCM (GFCM), polynomial KFCM (PFCM), and Hyper‐tangent KFCM (HFCM)—are employed to partition the financial data set into three data sets. A neural network (NN) is then adopted as a basis classifier for BFP, and three sets, which are derived from three KFCM methods, are used to build three classifier pools. Next, classifiers are fused by the two‐layer hierarchical selective ensemble method. In the first layer, classifiers are ranked based on their prediction accuracy. The stepwise forward selection method is employed to selectively integrate classifiers according to their accuracy. In the second layer, three selective ensembles in the first layer are integrated again to acquire the final verdict. This study employs financial data from Chinese listed companies to conduct empirical research, and makes a comparative analysis with other ensemble models and all its component models. It is the conclusion that the two‐layer hierarchical selective ensemble is good at forecasting business failure.
Anti‐fibrotic activity of Euglena gracilis and paramylon in a mouse model of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Nakashima Ayaka , Sugimoto Ryota , Suzuki Kengo , Shirakata Yuka , Hashiguchi Taishi , Yoshida Chikara , Nakano Yoshihisa
Published: November 2018

Progression to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) manifests as hepatitis, fibrosis, and sometimes carcinoma, resulting in liver failure. Various clinical trials have indicated that several pharmacological agents, including angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) or farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists, are effective in NASH treatment. In addition, functional foods are expected to be important alternatives for treating or preventing NASH. Recently, focus has been directed toward microalgae as dietary supplements, mainly for lifestyle‐related diseases, because they contain various nutrients and functional ingredients. Specifically, a unicellular microalga Euglena gracilis stores a unique β‐1,3‐glucan particle called paramylon that stimulates the immune system. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Euglena and paramylon on NASH in Stelic Animal Model (STAM) mice using Sirius red staining and confirmed that oral administration of Euglena or paramylon inhibits the process of liver fibrosis. Moreover, compared with controls, paramylon decreased non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity scores related to inflammation. These results indicate that the oral administration of Euglena and paramylon inhibits fibrosis and ameliorates NASH.
Effect of chitosan‐based coatings enriched with savory and/or tarragon essential oils on postharvest maintenance of kumquat (Fortunella sp.) fruit
Authors: Hosseini Seyed F. , Amraie Milad , Salehi Mohammad , Mohseni Maedeh , Aloui Hajer
Published: November 2018

The present study assessed the ability of chitosan‐based coatings incorporating savory and/or tarragon essential oils (EOs) to preserve the postharvest quality of kumquats. Changes in weight loss, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, and vitamin C content were determined over 30 days of storage at 7°C. Savory (Satureja hortensias L.) essential oil was characterized by thymol (29.1%), carvacrol (26.6%), and γ‐terpinene (24.72%) as major constituents. While, in the tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) essential oil, estragol (81.89%), β‐cis‐Ocimene (4.62%), and β‐trans‐Ocimene (3.44%) were the main ones. The CH‐EOs coatings were effective in reducing weight loss of kumquats fruits during storage. Moreover, the tested composite coatings showed positive effects in maintaining vitamin C and fruits treated with CH‐oil coatings retained good sensory acceptability. The obtained results demonstrate the potential of the combined application of chitosan and savory and/or tarragon EOs as a promising postharvest treatment for maintaining the postharvest quality of kumquats fruits.
Key parameters of the structure and evolution of the Okinawa Trough: Modelling results constrained by heat flow observations
Authors: Zhang Liang , Luan Xiwu , Zeng Zhigang , Liu Hong
Published: November 2018

Heat flow data (664 measurements) in the Okinawa Trough and adjacent areas are edited and analysed in this study. The distribution of heat flow in the study area is obviously correlated with tectonic zones. The heat flow is extremely high and variable in the back‐arc basin and extremely low in the trench. A 2D transient heat conduction‐advection model is used to test and determine the thermal structure and evolution of the Okinawa Trough under the heat flow distribution constraint. The results show that (a) high sedimentation rates can reduce heat flow by 30–35%; lower heat flow in the southern than in the central‐northern Okinawa Trough might be caused by the thick sediment covering due to the Taiwan orogenic uplift. (b) Heat flow can be enhanced dramatically by mantle upwelling, but magma intrusion accompanied by ascending fluid is necessary for the extremely high heat flow along the central Okinawa Trough axis. A magma intrusion age of 0.5 Ma, an intrusion depth of 1 km, and a fluid flow speed in the magma of 9 cm/year are the best fit parameters for the central Okinawa Trough. (c) Given the distribution of heat flow, we suggest that the evolutionary model differs between the central‐northern and the southern Okinawa Trough. The rifting in the central‐northern Okinawa Trough began at 10 Ma with a mean rate of 0.4 cm/a, while the rifting in the south Okinawa Trough started at 6 Ma with a higher rate of 0.6 cm/a. (d) A double magma chamber may exist underneath the axis of the Okinawa Trough at depths of 10 and 24–30 km beneath the seafloor. The temperatures and pressures at these depths support the existence of partial melting, which became the primary basis for maintaining the extremely high heat flow currently observed in the Okinawa Trough.
Challenges of implementation: Strategic purchasing in Iran Health Insurance Organization
Authors: Kalantari Ali Reza , Jafari Sirizi Mohammad , Mehrolhassani Mohammad Hossein , Dehnavieh Reza
Published: November 2018

Background

Strategic purchasing has been introduced as a key strategy for solving the problems faced by insurance companies. In Iran, the government has mandated the Iran Health Insurance Organization (IHIO) to implement this strategy. However, there are serious challenges to achieving that. The present study aims to identify these challenges.

Methods

In this qualitative study, a semi‐structured interview was conducted on 27 health managers and experts at the national level. The dimensions of the A. Preker model were used to analyze the data.

Results

Challenges of strategic purchasing in the IHIO were categorized into five concepts—political economy, policy design, organizational structure, organizational environment, and management capacity; within these concepts, 22 challenges were identified.

Conclusions

Improving strategic purchasing in Iran requires adopting a coherent approach and taking into account all the affecting factors. By revising some policies, and modifying and defining the rules needed to solve the infrastructural problems, the success of strategic purchasing can be obtained.
The ethnographer as health service leader: An insider's view of organisational change
Authors: Ong Bie Nio
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The conceptual presentation of a detailed case study of structural reorganisation in the English NHS illustrates what factors lead to productive or unproductive organisational change.

Findings

This autoethnography of a NHS Trust chair provides an account of two reorganisations over an 8‐year period. The paper is based on diaries that allow for the presentation of examples that highlight different processes and outcomes. The various actors in the two reorganisations gave complex and multilayered meanings to structural changes and their impact. Two theoretical frameworks helped to analyse the dynamics of productive and unproductive changes.

Conclusion

It is argued that structural change rarely delivers and that working through people and paying due attention to their motivations and moral imperatives will more likely produce benefits to organisations, staff, and patients.
Sustainability in the Chemistry Curriculum: A Call for Action
Authors: Middlecamp Catherine H.
Published: November 2018

Sustainable development and sustainability are two widely used umbrella concepts, both “brilliantly ambiguous.” Many fields of study, including engineering, business, the humanities, and the sciences offer opportunities for instructors to connect content with sustainability. As the central science, chemistry is surely one of them. This paper issues a call for action to chemistry instructors to build stronger connections in the college chemistry curriculum to the local, regional and global challenges that we face on our planet. These challenges, multi‐faceted and multi‐disciplinary, include providing clean energy, protecting the environment and stewarding its resources, employing wise agricultural practices to supply food, and insuring clean water and clean air to those in all communities. As a chemical concept, the carbon cycle connects to challenges such as these. It is presented as a possibility for building stronger connections to sustainability in the curriculum.
Digitising Teaching and Learning – Additional Perspectives for Chemistry Education
Authors: Bernholt Sascha , Broman Karolina , Siebert Sara , Parchmann Ilka
Published: November 2018

Chemistry requires and combines both observable and mental representations. Still we know that learners often struggle in combining these perspectives successfully, especially when experimental observations contradict the model‐based explanations, e. g. in interpreting the chemical equilibrium as dynamic processes while observing a static system without any visible changes. Digital media offer potentials that might not have been accessible to this degree until now. However, we do not know enough with regard to the degree and effects these media tools have in supporting learning processes but perhaps also in hindering them. This article presents four approaches on how to potentially make use of digital media in learning processes based on theoretical considerations and empirical investigations. The projects will explore applications of media as visualization, learning and investigation tools in chemistry education, embracing techniques from virtual realities to eye‐tracking.
Effect of body mass index on the outcome of IVF cycles among patients with poor ovarian response
Authors: Maged Ahmed M. , Fahmy Radwa M. , Rashwan Hamsa , Mahmood Maryam , Hassan Sarah M. , Nabil Hala , Hany Ayman , Lotfy Rehab , Lasheen Yossra S. , Dahab Sherif , Darwish Mohamed
Published: November 2018

Objective

To assess the effects of body mass index (BMI) on the outcome of IVF cycles among poor responders.

Methods

A prospective cohort study in Egypt enrolled 185 poor responders who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection via an antagonist protocol between 2012 and 2017. Participants were classified into three groups by BMI (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters): 18.5–24.9 (normal, n=48); 25–29.9 (overweight, n=54); 30 or higher (obese, n=83). Outcomes were clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, chemical pregnancy rate, gonadotropin dose, number of oocytes and embryos, and cancellation rate.

Results

There was no significant difference among the three groups in gonadotropin dose; duration of stimulation; endometrial thickness on trigger day; number of oocytes retrieved, injected, or fertilized; number of embryos, transferred embryos, or frozen embryos; or day of embryo transfer. Frequency of implantation (11/81 [14%] vs 6/96 [6%] or 5/155 [3%]), chemical pregnancy (20 [42%] vs 14 [30%] or 12 [14%]) and clinical pregnancy (15 [31%] vs 12 [22%] and 9 [11%]) was significantly higher for normal than for overweight or obese women, respectively.

Conclusion

Implantation, chemical pregnancy, and clinical pregnancy rates were inversely related to increasing BMI.

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03457233
Corrosion behavior and biocompatibility evaluation of a novel zinc‐based alloy stent in rabbit carotid artery model
Authors: Lin Song , Ran Xiaolin , Yan Xinhao , Yan Wenhua , Wang Qilong , Yin Tieying , Zhou Jack G , Hu Tingzhang , Wang Guixue
Published: November 2018

Zinc (Zn) and its alloys have been proved to be promising candidate materials for biodegradable cardiovascular stents. In this study, a novel extruded Zn–0.02 Mg–0.02Cu alloy was prepared. Compared with pure Zn, the Zn‐based alloy showed higher mechanical properties, and the Zn‐based alloy could significantly accelerate Zn2+ release, reaching 0.61 ± 0.11 μg/mL at 15 days of immersion. In vitro biocompatibility studies demonstrated that the Zn‐based alloy had excellent cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility, including low hemolysis rate (0.63 ± 0.12%) and strong inhibitory effect on platelet adhesion. Subsequently, the Zn‐based alloy stent was implanted into the left carotid arteries of New Zealand white rabbits for 12 months. All the rabbits survived without any adverse clinical events, and all the stented arteries were patent during the study period. Rapid endothelialization at 1 week of implantation was observed, suggesting a low cytotoxicity and thrombosis risk. The stent corroded slowly and no obvious intimal hyperplasia was observed for 6 months, after which corrosion accelerated at 12 months. In addition, no obvious thrombosis and systemic toxicity during implantation period were observed, indicating its potential as the backbone of biodegradable cardiovascular stents. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1814–1823, 2019.
Influence of vascular access devices upon efficiency of therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Ritzenthaler Thomas , Beraud Mickael , Gobert Florent , Dailler Frédéric
Published: November 2018

Background

An efficient vascular access is mandatory for the proper conduction of therapeutic plasma exchanges (TPE). Peripheral and central venous catheters may be used, with respective advantages and limitations. In this study, vascular access devices (IV catheter, dialysis cannula, central venous catheter) and anatomic vein characteristics were evaluated.

Method

From January to June 2016, 162 TPE in 29 patients were reviewed. Only TPE using centrifugation method (Spectra Optia apheresis system) were evaluated. Volume exchanged, procedure duration, mean flow rate, number of inlet, and return pressure pauses were recorded. Site, width, and depth of punctured veins were studied.

Results

Median exchange volume planned was 3500 mL, and 152 (94%) procedures could be completed. Peripheral venous catheter was inserted in 103 (64%) cases (IV catheter: 61, dialysis cannulae: 42). Ultrasound guidance was used in 12 (11%) cases. Median procedure duration was shorter with central venous catheter (94 minutes), rather than dialysis cannula (133 minutes) or IV catheter (133 minutes). Median numbers of inlet pressure pauses were lower with central venous catheter (0) and dialysis cannulae (6), rather than IV catheter (10). There were no complications with peripheral venous access. There were no anatomic differences between catheterized veins with IV catheter or dialysis cannula.

Conclusion

The use of peripheral venous access is possible in most of TPE, for emergency and during maintenance therapy. Dialysis cannulae are good compromise between classic IV catheters and central venous catheters, as it allows high flow rates, are easy to insert and associated with few complications.
Cultural values, coping, and hope in Yup'ik communities facing rapid cultural change
Authors: Rivkin Inna , Lopez Ellen D. S. , Trimble Joseph E. , Johnson Samuel , Orr Eliza , Quaintance Tonie
Published: November 2018

Historical trauma and rapid cultural change contribute to a high burden of stress in Alaska Native communities. The goal of the Yup'ik Experiences of Stress and Coping Project was to better understand stress and coping in Yup'ik communities and the role of cultural values and practices in coping. Sixty Yup'ik adults aged 18–84 years took part in semistructured interviews. They discussed how they coped with salient stressful experiences and shared the things that bought them hope and peace. Interview themes were identified and inter‐relationships between themes were explored through social network analysis. Participants discussed the importance of cultural traditions in coping, including subsistence, dancing and drumming, intergenerational transmission of knowledge, and reflective awareness of interconnections with others. Participants found strength in family relationships, spirituality, helping others, and coming together as a community. Three coping clusters emerged: Ilaliurucaraq (be welcoming) involved opening one's frame of mind and building connections; Yuuyaraq (Yup'ik way of life) focused on Yup'ik traditions and values; and Assircaarturluni Yuuyaraq (try to live a better life) involved healing from historical trauma. Findings illustrate the resilience and evolving strengths of rural Yup'ik communities facing a continually changing cultural landscape and provide information for developing community‐driven culturally based interventions.
Compare the microscopic characteristics of stems of the 24 Dendrobium species utilized in the traditional Chinese medicine “Shihu”
Authors: Zhao Yujiao , Zha Liangping , Han Bangxing , Peng Huasheng
Published: November 2018

Shihu is a famous Chinese Materia Medica derived from species of the Dendrobium. In order to differentiate 24 Dendrobium species, microscopic features of the 24 Dendrobium species were systemically observed, including the trend of vascular bundle number with different internodes and the transverse section characteristics of stem. The results indicate that the thickness of cuticle, the level of thickening of epidermal cells and cell types, the number of vascular bundles, the shape of vascular bundle sheath, the type and distribution of calcium oxalate crystals, the presence or absence of silica masses can be used to authenticate the 24 Dendrobium species. In addition, the number of vascular bundles in stems of 24 Dendrobium species also have changed at different internodes, and showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. For some specific species, the vascular bundle numbers had typical differences, which can provide some support for the identification of Dendrobium plants. Thus, using the multiple microscopic characteristics of stems can identify the Dendrobium plants effectively and quickly.
Phytochemical analysis of Ononis arvensis L. by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry
Authors: Gampe Nóra , Darcsi András , Nagyné Nedves Andrea , Boldizsár Imre , Kursinszki László , Béni Szabolcs
Published: November 2018

Ononis arvensis L. can be found overall in Europe and is used to treat infections of the urinary tract and skin diseases in ethnopharmacology. Flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acids, oxycoumarin, scopoletin and scopolin, phytosterols, lectins, and some selected isoflavonoids were identified in O. arvensis till date; however, there is a lack of the detailed investigation of the isoflavonoid profile of the plant. With the application of high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry, the fragmentation patterns of isoflavonoid derivatives found in O. arvensis roots and aerial parts were investigated and discussed. Isoflavonoid glucosides, glucoside malonates, aglycones, and beta amino acid derivatives were characterized, among which homoproline isoflavonoid glucoside esters were described for the first time. Besides the known isoflavonoid aglycones described earlier in other Ononis species, two 2′‐methoxy isoflavonoid derivatives were detected. The presence of licoagroside B was verified, and its structure was also corroborated by NMR experiments. Altogether, the high‐resolution fragmentation pattern of 47 isoflavonoids and glycosides is presented, and their relative quantity in the roots and the aerial parts can be evaluated. Based on this information, the chemotaxonomic relation of Ononis species and the biosynthesis of their compounds could be comprehended to a greater depth.
The preparation and antibacterial effect of egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) against the outer membrane proteins of Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Hu Bochao , Yang Xiaodong , Guo Erpeng , Zhou Peizhan , Xu Ding , Qi Zhenqiang , Deng Li
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Vibrio parahaemolyticus causes not only various diseases in aquaculture animals but also seafood‐borne illness in humans. Outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are species‐specific proteins found in bilayer membranes of gram‐negative bacteria. Egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) has been reported to serve as oral administration of antibodies against bacteria and virus.

RESULTS

The present research extracted and identified OMPs from V. parahaemolyticus, and then the extracted OMPs were used to immunize hens to obtain specific IgY. The efficacy of IgY against V. parahaemolyticus were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The specific IgY effectively inhibited the growth of V. parahaemolyticus in liquid medium rather than Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Specific IgY antibodies were incorporated into extruded food pellets and fed to bacteria‐challenged white pacific shrimp to observe the anti‐bacterial effect in vivo. The bacterial loads in muscles of V. parahaemolyticus infected shrimp fed with specific IgY‐included diets were significantly fewer than those fed with non‐specific IgY‐included diets. The superoxide dismutase activities in muscles of infected shrimp fed with specific IgY‐included diets were significantly higher than the control group.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that the specific IgY effectively inhibited the growth of V. parahaemolyticus and introduced passive immunity to shrimp. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Decision aid prototype for treatment of pediatric sleep disordered breathing: A randomized pilot study
Authors: Meier Jeremy D. , Chorney Jill M. , Fox Samuel D. , Hong Paul
Published: November 2018

Objectives

1) To examine the feasibility and usability of a decision aid prototype (DA) for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). 2) to estimate parameters for a future randomized controlled trial.

Study Design

Multicenter randomized pilot trial.

Methods

Ninety‐nine parents of children ( < 6 years of age) undergoing consultation for adenotonsillectomy for sleep‐disordered breathing were prospectively enrolled. Families were randomly assigned to receive the DA or to follow standard care procedures. All consultations were video‐recorded and coded with the observing patient involvement in decision making (OPTION) instrument. Following the consultation, parents completed the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) and Shared Decision‐Making Questionnaire (SDM‐Q‐9), whereas otolaryngologists completed the physician version (SDM‐Q‐Doc). A subset of parents and surgeons were interviewed to assess the usability of the DA.

Results: Overall, a significantly negative correlation between DCS and SDM‐Q‐9 was observed (P < 0.001). Interviews showed that parents found the DA helpful but wanted more time to read and contemplate the information. Both parents and surgeons indicated that instructions on how to use the DA would be beneficial. For parents receiving the DA, the mean total OPTION score was 13.83 out of 40 (standard deviation 5.24), compared to 11.95 (standard deviation 5.21) in those not receiving the DA (P = 0.11). There were no significant differences in the decisional conflict or shared decision making when using the DA.

Conclusion: The DA was feasible but used differently among surgeons. The need to improve SDM techniques was suggested by both surgeons and parents. Future studies training otolaryngologists on effective SDM techniques and how to appropriately utilize decision aids may improve SDM for pediatric OSA.

Level of Evidence

1b Laryngoscope, 129:229–234, 2019
Topical Application of 5‐Aminolevulinic Acid Is Sufficient for Photodynamic Therapy on Vocal Folds
Authors: Zhang Chi , Gong Ting , Wang Jiajia , Chou Adriana , Jiang Jack J.
Published: November 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) for vocal fold leukoplakia.

Study Design

Ex vivo and in vivo.

Methods

5‐ALA was applied topically as a 20% solution to ex vivo canine vocal folds. The penetration depth and concentrations of 5‐ALA in tissue were quantified using frozen sectioning and fluorescamine derivatization after 5‐ALA contact incubation or topical spraying. Then, 5‐ALA solution was sprayed on leporine vocal folds once, twice, or given systemically in vivo. Protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) location was visualized using fluorescence microscopy, and PPIX concentrations were measured using a fluorescent quantitative method. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was performed to visualize the histological changes of vocal folds after PDT for each group.

Results

Topical incubation of 15 minutes with 5‐ALA achieved a penetration depth of over 2 mm and similar concentrations within the superficial 500 μm of epithelium, compared with longer incubation times. Topical spraying of 5‐ALA produced sufficient concentrations in vocal folds, but the retention time is short. An in vivo leporine model showed that laryngeal spraying of 20% 5‐ALA induced similar penetration depth and concentrations of PPIX compared to systemic administration of 5‐ALA. Two sprays of 20% 5‐ALA solution with an interval of 30 minutes are needed to produce complete exfoliation of vocal fold epithelium.

Conclusion

Topical PDT with laryngeal spraying of 20% 5‐ALA solution achieves sufficient therapeutic effects and is potentially applicable for the treatment of vocal fold leukoplakia.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:E80–E86, 2019
Optimal resection margin for head and neck cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Han Albert Y. , Dhanjani Suraj , Pettijohn Kelly , Patel Pratik B. , John Maie A. St.
Published: November 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

The objective of this study was to examine the difference between a narrow (between 1 and 2 cm) and a wide (>2 cm) margin in the surgical resection of head and neck cutaneous melanoma.

Study Design

Population‐based cohort analysis.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was employed to identify patients who had cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck from 2004 to 2014. Outcome measures were overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS).

Results

Among the total of 3,583 cases of cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck with known resection margins, 2,641 individuals had narrow resection margins, and 942 patients had wide margins. Most of the tumors presented in the skin of the scalp and neck, followed by the face, external ear, and other areas. The 5‐year and 10‐year Kaplan‐Meier OS probabilities for narrow and wide margins were 65% and 66%, respectively, compared with 49% and 48%, respectively. The DSS probabilities exhibited similar trends between the two groups at these time points. In the Cox regression model, the patients who received narrow margins had similar OS (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.918‐1.217) and DSS (95% CI: 0.856‐1.352) compared with the wide resection margin group, even when controlled for age, sex, T stage, and histology.

Conclusions

The survival of patients with cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck depends on age, depth of tumor invasion, and histology. Within the head and neck, a wider resection margin of >2 cm does not confer any additional survival benefit compared with a narrower margin. Future studies should examine whether wider surgical margins would confer survival benefit in local or recurrent melanoma.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:1386–1394, 2019
Modified endoscopic endonasal approach with a minimally invasive transoral approach—an adjunct to infrapetrous approaches
Authors: Maza Guillermo , Omar Ali M. Moustafa , Subramaniam Somasundram , Otto Bradley A. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Carrau Ricardo L.
Published: November 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the potential of a minimally invasive transoral–transpalatal approach (MITA) to the retrocarotid petrous apex, as an adjunct to endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs).

Study Design

Cadaver study.

Methods

Five cadaveric specimens were dissected raising an inverted U‐shaped palatal mucoperiosteal flap, and drilling a rectangular palatotomy (between the greater palatine foramens, and just anterior to the palatine aponeurosis). This allowed a transpterygoid EEA with cross‐court access (contralateral line of sight), followed by an extradural clivectomy that exposed the petroclival junction bilaterally. Surgical targets were marked on the posterior and medial surface of the petrous internal carotid artery (ICA), at its anterior genu, midhorizontal portion, and posterior genu. For each target and approach, the surgical freedom and angles of approach (in the horizontal and vertical planes) were calculated and statistically compared.

Results

Compared to EEA, the MITA resulted in greater surgical freedom for all targets, with the highest values at the anterior genu (1,661.37 mm2 vs. 312.76 mm2, P <.001), and maintaining superiority in this regard all the way to the posterior genu (847.84 mm3 vs. 138.91 mm3, P < .005). MITA also offered greater angles of approach for all targets.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the MITA may be indicated to supplement the exposure provided by a transpterygoid EEA. This technique, associated with low potential morbidity, offers an alternative to internal carotid lateralization while managing extradural lesions that are adjacent to the petrous ICA.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:339–343, 2019
I dream of Gini: Quantifying inequality in otolaryngology residency interviews
Authors: Lee Andrew H. , Young Patrick , Liao Ross , Yi Paul H. , Reh Douglas , Best Simon R.
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Otolaryngology applicants routinely decry conflicting interview dates because this limits the number of interviews that one can attend, despite being offered an interview. Conversely, applicants also perceive that a large number of interviews are offered to a minority of applicants. We sought to verify and quantify the inequality in distribution of interviews attended.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) 2016 Charting Outcomes in the Match and Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) historic specialty data.

Methods

The Gini coefficient, a commonly used indicator of economic inequality, was calculated using data from the 2016 Charting Outcomes in the Match to estimate the distribution of interviews attended. This data was compared to nine other specialties, comprising a wide range of competitiveness and specialty size.

Results

26% (110 of 416) of otolaryngology applicants accounted for half (1,721 of 3,426) of all possible interview positions. The Gini coefficient ranged from 0.43 to 0.84 across 10 specialties, with a higher coefficient indicating higher inequality. The Gini coefficient among otolaryngology applicants was 0.43, indicating lower inequality than most other specialties. When including only applicants who interviewed, the Gini coefficient was 0.23.

Conclusion

There is an unequal distribution of interview invitations, which likely reflects the reality of asymmetry in applicant competitiveness. Otolaryngology demonstrates the greatest equality in distribution, which may stem from a greater burden of hoarding. The specialty's perceived competitiveness mitigates factors such as cost and time, essentially encouraging more people to take as many interviews as they can.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:627–633, 2019
Glottic exposure for transoral laser microsurgery: Proposal of a mini‐version of the laryngoscore
Authors: Incandela Fabiola , Paderno Alberto , Missale Francesco , Laborai Andrea , Filauro Marta , Mora Francesco , Del Bon Francesca , Piazza Cesare , Peretti Giorgio
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Good laryngeal exposure (GLE) is typically regarded as an essential prerequisite for transoral laser microsurgery (TLM). The Laryngoscore is a preoperative scoring system aimed at predicting glottic visualization through the laryngoscope using easy patient‐derived parameters. However, the presence of subjective variables may hamper its reliability and reproducibility. The aim of the present study was to provide a validation of the Laryngoscore and to develop a revised mini‐version of the same, called mini‐Laryngoscore (mLS), which could allow even quicker, yet sufficiently accurate, preoperative prediction of GLE.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated 310 consecutive patients submitted to TLM between 2014 and 2017, grading each patient according to the variables considered in the Laryngoscore.

Results

Among the 11 variables of the previous Laryngoscore, three were confirmed as statistically significant at validation: interincisors gap, thyromental distance, and upper jaw dental status. We chose these three variables as part of the revised mLS (ranging from 0 to 4). In our cohort, 30% of the patients obtained a score of 0, 57% a score of 1, 11% a score of 2, and 2% a score of ≥3. GLE was achieved in 97%, 85%, 65%, and 20% of cases, respectively.

Conclusion

Our validation confirmed the predictive ability of the Laryngoscore. Furthermore, although composed of only three clinical parameters, the mLS was still able to convey useful information regarding the possibility of obtaining GLE.

Level of Evidence

2

Laryngoscope, 129:1617–1622, 2019
Spatial simulation of soil‐water content in dry and wet conditions in a hectometer‐scale degraded alpine meadow
Authors: Zhu Xu‐Chao , Cao Rui‐Xue , Shao Ming‐An
Published: November 2018

Soil‐water content (SWC) is a key factor in restoring degraded vegetation in alpine meadow ecosystems, but it has rarely been spatially simulated on a hectometer scale. We simulated SWC for typical dry and wet days in an alpine meadow using multivariate linear regression and autoregressive state‐space equations based on SWC and other soil, terrain, and vegetation parameters to evaluate the efficiency of these two methods in dry and wet soil‐moisture conditions. SWC measured on a typical dry day (SWC‐D) and a wet day (SWC‐W) increased and decreased with depth, respectively, and SWC‐D was similar to SWC‐W at a depth of 50 cm. Both SWC‐D and SWC‐W were significantly correlated with soil bulk density (BD), capillary porosity, silt content (Silt), gravel and stone content (GSC), pH, and organic carbon density (OCD), and both SWC‐D and SWC‐W were significantly auto‐correlated and cross‐correlated with BD, Silt, GSC, pH, and OCD at more than one lag distance. Multivariate linear regression using three variables in both dry and wet conditions had the highest accuracy, and the accuracy was generally higher for dry conditions than it was for wet conditions. The bivariate state‐space model was the most accurate for both dry and wet soil conditions, but the expression variables were totally different, with pH and OCD for dry day and BD and Silt for wet day. The conditions of soil moisture should thus be considered when choosing variables with which to simulate SWC, instead of only considering the relationships between SWC and other variables.