bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in dietary niche and foraging behavior of sympatric mule and white‐tailed deer
Authors: Berry Stephanie L. , Shipley Lisa A. , Long Ryan A. , Loggers Chris
Published: July 2019

Mule (Odocoileus hemionus) and white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are congeneric and share similar life histories, yet their distribution is segregated across much of North America. Extensive research on both species within and outside their zone of co‐occurrence has not fully explained these distribution patterns, especially the potential role of diet and foraging behavior. Therefore, we used a common garden experiment to compare diet composition, diet quality, foraging behavior, and intake of tractable mule and white‐tailed deer foraging together within the dry Douglas‐fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)/ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forests of northeastern Washington. We sampled at 21 0.5‐ha sites from June to August 2016. We used standard bite count techniques coupled with forage biomass sampling, behavioral observations, and nutritional analyses to compare the foraging ecology of the two species. Mule and white‐tailed deer had similar activity patterns. However, mule deer took larger bites and harvested food faster than white‐tailed deer, and white‐tailed deer consumed more diverse but higher‐quality diets than mule deer. These differences resulted in mule deer acquiring ~25% more dry matter and digestible energy per day. About 90% of the diets consumed by both deer species consisted of deciduous shrubs and forbs, and they selected many of the same plant species. However, overall diet composition was 38% dissimilar, with mule deer consuming diets that were more likely to contain shrubs with higher levels of tannins and lower levels of dry matter digestibility than diets eaten by white‐tailed deer. Dietary overlap was greatest at both very low and very high forage biomass, indicating potential for modest resource competition or partitioning. Our research provides evidence that differences in diet composition of mule and white‐tailed deer do not merely reflect differences in habitat selection, but also suggest the species differ in their fundamental nutritional niches.
Leaf venation networks of Bornean trees: images and hand‐traced segmentations
Authors: Blonder Benjamin , Both Sabine , Jodra Miguel , Majalap Noreen , Burslem David , Teh Yit Arn , Malhi Yadvinder
Published: July 2019

The data set contains images of leaf venation networks obtained from tree species in Malaysian Borneo. The data set contains 726 leaves from 295 species comprising 50 families, sampled from eight forest plots in Sabah. Image extents are approximately 1 × 1 cm, or 50 megapixels. All images contain a region of interest in which all veins have been hand traced. The complete data set includes over 30 billion pixels, of which more than 600 million have been validated by hand tracing. These images are suitable for morphological characterization of these species, as well as for training of machine‐learning algorithms that segment biological networks from images. Data are made available under the Open Data Commons Attribution License. You are free to copy, distribute, and use the database; to produce works from the database; and to modify, transform, and build upon the database. You must attribute any public use of the database, or works produced from the database, in the manner specified in the license. For any use or redistribution of the database, or works produced from it, you must make clear to others the license of the database and keep intact any notices on the original database.
Oral administration of lipoteichoic acid from Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG overcomes UVB‐induced immunosuppression and impairs skin tumor growth in mice
Authors: Friedrich Adrián D. , Campo Valeria E. , Cela Eliana M. , Morelli Adrian E. , Shufesky William J. , Tckacheva Olga A. , Leoni Juliana , Paz Mariela L. , Larregina Adriana T. , González Maglio Daniel H.
Published: July 2019

There is increasing evidence of the relevant connection and regulation between the gut and skin immune axis. In fact, oral administration of lipoteichoic acid (LTA) from Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) prevents the development of UV‐induced skin tumors in chronically exposed mice. Here we aim to evaluate whether this LTA is able to revert UV‐induced immunosuppression as a mechanism involved in its anti‐tumor effect and whether it has an immunotherapeutic effect against cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Using a mouse model of contact hypersensitivity, we demonstrate that LTA overcomes UV‐induced skin immunosuppression. This effect was in part achieved by modulating the phenotype of lymph node resident dendritic cells (DC) and the homing of skin migratory DC. Importantly, oral LTA reduced significantly the growth of established skin tumors once UV radiation was discontinued, demonstrating that it has a therapeutic, besides the already demonstrated preventive antitumor effect. The data presented here strongly indicates that oral administration of LTA represents a promising immunotherapeutic approach for different conditions in which the skin immune system is compromised.
IL‐33‐activated murine mast cells control the dichotomy between RORγt+ and Helios+Tregs via the MK2/3‐mediated IL‐6 production in vitro
Authors: Andreas Nico , Weber Franziska , Meininger Isabel , Templin Nicole , Gaestel Matthias , Kamradt Thomas , Drube Sebastian
Published: July 2019

In mast cells, IL‐33 typically induces the activation of NF‐κB, which results in the production of cytokines such as IL‐6 and IL‐2. Here, we demonstrate that the IL‐33‐induced IL‐6 production in murine mast cells and the formation of RORγt+ Tregs essentially depends on the MAPKAPs, MK2, and MK3 (MK2/3) downstream of MyD88. In contrast to this, the IL‐33‐induced and MyD88‐dependent IL‐2 production in mast cells contributes to the maintenance of Helios+ Tregs. Thereby, the IL‐33‐induced IL‐2 response and, thus, the maintenance of Helios+ Tregs are limited by an IL‐6‐mediated autocrine negative feedback stimulation acting on mast cells. Collectively, we present MK2/3 in IL‐33‐activated mast cells as a signaling node, which controls the dichotomy between RORγt+ Treg and Helios+ Treg in vitro.
Probing the interactions between hardness and sensory of pistachio nuts during storage using principal component analysis
Authors: Habibi Najafi Mohammad B. , Leufven Anders , Edalatian Dovom Mohammad Reza , Sedaghat Naser , Pourfarzad Amir
Published: July 2019

Instrumental hardness and sensory characteristics of pistachio nuts such as flavor, texture, and overall acceptability were measured in three different packages (atmosphere, vacuum, and oxygen scavenger), at three different conditions temperatures (20, 35, and 50˚C) during 12 weeks’ storage. Results showed that the effect of temperature, storage time, and interaction effects of packaging and temperature, and packaging and storage time, and packaging and temperature and stoarge time on instrumental hardness were significant (p < 0.01). In sensory evaluation, the effect of treatments on sensory attributes was not significant. Instrumental hardness and sensory texture had a high correlation with each other. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the data obtained for the samples permitted the reduction of the variables to two principal components, which together explained 60.7% of the total variability.
A multivariate neuroimaging biomarker of individual outcome to transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression
Authors: Cash Robin F. H. , Cocchi Luca , Anderson Rodney , Rogachov Anton , Kucyi Aaron , Barnett Alexander J. , Zalesky Andrew , Fitzgerald Paul B.
Published: July 2019

The neurobiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) remains incompletely understood, and many individuals fail to respond to standard treatments. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has emerged as a promising antidepressant therapy. However, the heterogeneity of response underscores a pressing need for biomarkers of treatment outcome. We acquired resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) data in 47 MDD individuals prior to 5–8 weeks of rTMS treatment targeted using the F3 beam approach and in 29 healthy comparison subjects. The caudate, prefrontal cortex, and thalamus showed significantly lower blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) signal power in MDD individuals at baseline. Critically, individuals who responded best to treatment were associated with lower pre‐treatment BOLD power in these regions. Additionally, functional connectivity (FC) in the default mode and affective networks was associated with treatment response. We leveraged these findings to train support vector machines (SVMs) to predict individual treatment responses, based on learned patterns of baseline FC, BOLD signal power and clinical features. Treatment response (responder vs. nonresponder) was predicted with 85–95% accuracy. Reduction in symptoms was predicted to within a mean error of ±16% (r = .68, p < .001). These preliminary findings suggest that therapeutic outcome to DLPFC‐rTMS could be predicted at a clinically meaningful level using only a small number of core neurobiological features of MDD, warranting prospective testing to ascertain generalizability. This provides a novel, transparent and physiologically plausible multivariate approach for classification of individual response to what has become the most commonly employed rTMS treatment worldwide. This study utilizes data from a larger clinical study (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: Investigating Predictors of Response to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Depression; ACTRN12610001071011; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=336262).
Graph theory analysis of resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging in essential tremor
Authors: Benito‐León Julián , Sanz‐Morales Emilio , Melero Helena , Louis Elan D. , Romero Juan P. , Rocon Eduardo , Malpica Norberto
Published: July 2019

Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological disease with both motor and nonmotor manifestations; however, little is known about its underlying brain basis. Furthermore, the overall organization of the brain network in ET remains largely unexplored. We investigated the topological properties of brain functional network, derived from resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, in 23 ET patients versus 23 healthy controls. Graph theory analysis was used to assess the functional network organization. At the global level, the functional network of ET patients was characterized by lower small‐worldness values than healthy controls—less clustered functionality of the brain. At the regional level, compared with the healthy controls, ET patients showed significantly higher values of global efficiency, cost and degree, and a shorter average path length in the left inferior frontal gyrus (pars opercularis), right inferior temporal gyrus (posterior division and temporo‐occipital part), right inferior lateral occipital cortex, left paracingulate, bilateral precuneus bilaterally, left lingual gyrus, right hippocampus, left amygdala, nucleus accumbens bilaterally, and left middle temporal gyrus (posterior part). In addition, ET patients showed significant higher local efficiency and clustering coefficient values in frontal medial cortex bilaterally, subcallosal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, parahippocampal gyri bilaterally (posterior division), right lingual gyrus, right cerebellar flocculus, right postcentral gyrus, right inferior semilunar lobule of cerebellum and culmen of vermis. Finally, the right intracalcarine cortex and the left orbitofrontal cortex showed a shorter average path length in ET patients, while the left frontal operculum and the right planum polare showed a higher betweenness centrality in ET patients. In conclusion, the efficiency of the overall brain functional network in ET is disrupted. Further, our results support the concept that ET is a disorder that disrupts widespread brain regions, including those outside of the brain regions responsible for tremor.
Zinc Maintenance Therapy for Wilson Disease: A Comparison Between Zinc Acetate and Alternative Zinc Preparations
Authors: Camarata Michelle A. , Ala Aftab , Schilsky Michael L.
Published: July 2019

We evaluate Wilson disease (WD) treatment with zinc acetate (U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved) and alternative zinc salts. Studies examining zinc therapy in WD are few, and data on alternative zinc salts are limited. We describe one of the largest recent studies of zinc therapy in WD. First, we conducted a single‐center retrospective review of 59 patients with WD (age 6‐88 years, 32 female patients) treated with zinc (50‐150 mg) for 0.8 to 52 years (median, 26 years); most were on prior chelation therapy (n = 39). Second, we developed a survey to explore patients' zinc therapy experience. Primary endpoints were alamine aminotransferase (ALT) and urine copper excretion (µg/24 hours). Urine copper was categorized as low <25 μg (possible overtreatment), target 25‐100 μg, or elevated >100 μg (possible noncompliance or treatment failure). The target range was reached in 81% of patients on zinc acetate, 73% on zinc gluconate, and 57% on alternative zinc. Low urine copper was not associated with a high ALT. ALT was normal in 77% of patients with target urine copper but only in 16% with urine copper >100 µg. ALT elevations were not significantly different between zinc salts (Kruskal‐Wallis, P = 0.26). Our survey demonstrated the mean age of starting zinc was 26.8 years (3.5‐65 years); most were treated with zinc acetate (45%) and zinc gluconate (42%). Before zinc treatment, 45% of patients were symptomatic; the majority of patients (80%) were asymptomatic on zinc. Gastrointestinal side effects were the predominant reason for changing zinc salts (38%), but most reported no side effects on current zinc therapy (67%). Conclusion: Effective treatment with zinc is possible in many patients with WD. The potential for treatment failure suggests close monitoring and consideration of alternative treatments are paramount for those without both a normal serum ALT and appropriate urine copper excretion.
The role of hippocampal subfield volume and fornix microstructure in episodic memory across the lifespan
Authors: Foster Chris M. , Kennedy Kristen M. , Hoagey David A. , Rodrigue Karen M.
Published: July 2019

Advancing age is associated with both declines in episodic memory and degradation of medial temporal lobe (MTL) structure. The contribution of MTL to episodic memory is complex and depends upon the interplay among hippocampal subfields and surrounding structures that participate in anatomical connectivity to the cortex through inputs (parahippocampal and entorhinal cortices) and outputs (fornix). However, the differential contributions of MTL system components in mediating age effects on memory remain unclear. In a sample of 177 healthy individuals aged 20–94 we collected high‐resolution T1‐weighted, ultrahigh‐resolution T2/PD, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) MRI sequences on a 3T Phillips Achieva scanner. Hippocampal subfield and entorhinal cortex (ERC) volumes were measured from T2/PD scans using a combination of manual tracings and training of a semiautomated pipeline. Parahippocampal gyrus volume was estimated using Freesurfer and DTI scans were used to obtain diffusion metrics from tractography of the fornix. Item and associative episodic memory constructs were formed from multiple tests. Competing structural equation models estimating differential association among these structural variables were specified and tested to investigate whether and how fornix diffusion and volume of parahippocampal gyrus, ERC, and hippocampal subfields mediate age effects on associative and/or item memory. The most parsimonious, best‐fitting model included an anatomically based path through the MTL as well as a single hippocampal construct which combined all subfields. Results indicated that fornix microstructure independently mediated the effect of age on associative memory, but not item memory. Additionally, all regions and estimated paths (including fornix) combined to significantly mediate the age‐associative memory relationship. These findings suggest that preservation of fornix connectivity and MTL structure with aging is important for maintenance of associative memory performance across the lifespan.
Abiotic Factors Influence Surface Water Herbicide Concentrations Following Silvicultural Aerial Application in Oregon's North Coast Range
Authors: Caldwell Lucius K , Courter Lauren A
Published: July 2019

Nontarget impacts of routine aerial silvicultural practices on surface water quality are not well documented. Thus, uncertainty remains regarding herbicide treatment effects on ecological and human health. To investigate factors that influence silvicultural herbicide concentrations in surface water and identify any potential risks, we conducted a 2-year study that monitored multiple streams for herbicide residues following aerial application of glyphosate, clopyralid, sulfometuron methyl (SMM), and metsulfuron methyl (MSM). The monitored streams drain recently harvested forest lands that also serve as municipal water sources for nearby communities in western Oregon's north coast range. A paired watershed design targeted predicted episodic pulses with water samples collected before, during, and after herbicide application, and during the first posttreatment storm events. We report no relic herbicide detections in control or test streams. Aerial application of glyphosate, clopyralid, SMM, and MSM resulted in no detections in control streams and only trace, episodic concentrations in test streams. Across all test streams from both study years, maximum SMM and MSM detections (≤0.030 μg/L) consistently occurred during the first storm event at sampling locations closest to the treated harvest unit. Results indicate that proximity to the treatment site, time from application, and rainfall influence herbicide presence and concentrations in surface water. Furthermore, detections of trace SMM and MSM concentrations were more than 25 000-fold and 60 000-fold below federal human health safety benchmarks for chronic exposure, respectively. We provide empirical context for understanding surface water herbicide presence following aerial silviculture application under modern forestry best management practices and identify potential risk to ecological and human health. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2019;00:1–14. © 2019 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)
Laparoscopic management for a psoas abscess caused by migrated urolithiasis
Authors: Kaneko Go , Katsui Masahiro , Hattori Seiya , Hara Satoshi
Published: July 2019

Introduction

To describe laparoscopic surgery for psoas abscess caused by migrated urolithiasis.

Case presentation

A 64‐year‐old female had renal stones in the right kidney for 5 years. She developed right back pain. Her body temperature was 37.4°C, and right costovertebral angle tenderness was detected. In blood examination, her C‐reactive protein level was elevated. Computed tomography revealed that one stone had migrated into the right psoas muscle and caused psoas abscess. Another stone was detected in the renal parenchyma. Percutaneous drainage and antibiotic treatment were performed until her symptoms and inflammation improved. However, psoas abscess recurred after removal of the drainage tube. The migrated stone was laparoscopically removed after fenestration of psoas abscess, and laparoscopic nephrolithotomy was simultaneously performed for the other stone.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of psoas abscess caused by migrated urolithiasis that was managed by minimally invasive surgery.
Folic acid conjugated polymeric drug delivery vehicle for targeted cancer detection in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Koirala Nischal , Das Dola , Fayazzadeh Ehsan , Sen Sanghamitra , McClain Andrew , Puskas Judit E. , Drazba Judith A. , McLennan Gordon
Published: July 2019

Targeted therapies provide increased efficiency for the detection and treatment of cancer with reduced side effects. Folate receptor (alpha subunit) is overexpressed in multiple tumors including liver cancer. In this study, we evaluated the specificity and toxicity of a folic acid‐containing drug delivery vehicle (DDV) in a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) model. The DDV was prepared with two units each of folic acid (FA) and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) molecules and conjugated to a central poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) core via a modified chemo‐enzymatic synthetic process. Rat hepatoma (N1S1) and human monocytic (U937) cell lines were used for cell culture‐based assays and tested for DDV uptake and toxicity. Folate receptor expressions in liver tissues and cell lines were verified using standard immunohistochemistry techniques. Rat HCC model was used for in vivo assessment. The DDV was injected via intra‐arterial or intravenous methods and imaged with IVIS spectrum in vivo imaging system. Strong signals of FITC in the liver tumor region correlated to targeted DDV uptake. The use of PEG enhanced water‐solubility and provided flexibility for the interaction of FA ligands with multiple cell surface folate receptors that resulted in increased specific uptake. Our study suggested that PEG incorporation and folate targeting via intra‐arterial approach is an efficient strategy for targeted delivery in HCC therapy.
β‐Hydroxybutyrate exacerbates lipopolysaccharide/d‐galactosamine‐induced inflammatory response and hepatocyte apoptosis in mice
Authors: Yang Yongqiang , Shao Ruyue , Jiang Rong , Zhu Min , Tang Li , Li Longjiang , Zhang Li
Published: July 2019

β‐Hydroxybutyrate (BHB), one of ketone body, has been traditionally regarded as an alternative carrier of energy, but recent studies found that BHB plays versatile roles in inflammation. It has been previously reported that the level BHB declined in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/d‐galactosamine (d‐Gal)‐induced liver damage, but the pathological significance remains unclear. In the present study, the pathophysiological roles of BHB in LPS/d‐Gal‐induced hepatic damage has been investigated. The results indicated pretreatment with BHB further enhanced LPS/d‐Gal‐induced elevation of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, exacerbated the histological abnormalities and increased the mortality. Pretreatment with BHB upregulated the level of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin‐6 in plasma, promoted the activities of caspase‐3, caspase‐8, and caspase‐9 and increased the count of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling‐positive cells. In addition, post‐insult supplement with BHB also potentiated LPS/d‐Gal‐induced apoptotic liver damage. Therefore, BHB might be a detrimental factor in LPS/d‐Gal‐induced liver injury via enhancing the inflammation and the apoptosis in the liver.
LOX‐1: Its cytotopographical variance and disease stress
Authors: Zeya Bushra , Chandra Nimai C.
Published: July 2019

Lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐1 (LOX‐1) is a canonical receptor for oxidized LDL (oxLDL) among the known modified LDL particles. Topographical variance on LOX‐1 expression in different cell types and its influence on the atherogenic potential of the particular cell type is the main focus of this review. Characteristic features of LOX‐1 on the atherogenic potential of aortic endothelial cells, macrophages, platelets, and vascular smooth muscle cells have been discussed. Nonspecificity of ligands, besides oxLDL, is also the highlight of this review to show the chameleon characteristics in the functional activity of the receptor protein. Induction of LOX‐1 has been reported in diseases like atherosclerosis, diabetes, and hypertension, as well as in the inflammatory response of immune reactions. The expression of LOX‐1 is upregulated by the vicious cycle of stimulatory response from proatherogenic molecules.
Hydroxytyrosol prevents dermal papilla cells inflammation under oxidative stress by inducing autophagy
Authors: Chen Qian , Sun Tian , Wang Jin , Jia James , Yi Yan‐Hua , Chen Yu‐Xin , Miao Yong , Hu Zhi‐Qi
Published: July 2019

Hydroxytyrosol (HT), a primary phenolic antioxidant in olive oil, can afford protection from oxidative stress (OS) in different cells, including skin cells. In particular, it regulates several inflammation‐associated processes as well as in improving the antioxidant defense system. However, there is no information about HT used in the treatment of hair loss. This work aimed at exploring the potential protective actions of HT against OS in rat dermal papilla cells. After treatment, the related expression of protein and messenger RNA were detected using morphological and molecular analyses. The results showed that HT significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species level, apoptotic markers and inflammation induced by OS and enhanced cell survival by regulating autophagy. Furthermore, HT enhanced the secretion of hair growth factors in the anti‐inflammation process. These results suggest that HT has a significant protective ability against OS and encourage the use of this biological ingredient as a possible tool to prevent alopecia.
Ondansetron enhanced diclofenac‐induced nephrotoxicity in mice
Authors: Shakibaie Mojtaba , Forootanfar Hamid , Ghaseminejad Atoosa , Salimi Azad , Ameri Atefeh , Doostmohammadi Mohsen , Jafari Elham , Rahimi Hamid‐Reza
Published: July 2019

This study was performed to investigate the effect of ondansetron, a serotonin receptor (5‐HT3) antagonist, in the alleviation of diclofenac‐induced kidney injuries. NMRI mice were randomly divided into six groups and treated with (A) untreated control group, (B) diclofenac (100 mg/kg), (C) ondansetron (1 mg/kg), (D to F) ondansetron (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg, respectively) and diclofenac (100 mg/kg) for last 3 days of experiment. The oxidative stress tests strongly demonstrated the negative synergistic effects of diclofenac and ondansetron, regarding the observation of dose‐dependent enhancement of malondialdehyde concentration, and reduction of glutathione content, and superoxide dismutase and catalase activity. Histopathological analyses revealed dose‐dependent tubular epithelial cells degeneration, outstanding mononuclear cells infiltration, clear necrosis at the papillary region of kidney, dilation, and vascular hyperemia in mice kidney tissues treated with ondansetron and diclofenac. Conclusively, these findings suggested the possible ondansetron‐diclofenac interaction through the induction of oxidative stress.
An appraisal of investigative psychology and the applications to suspicious approaches to children in the Irish criminal justice system
Authors: O'Meara Padraig , Coyne Angela , Brassil Mary
Published: July 2019

Policymakers have a duty to base their decision making in the best available evidence relevant to the question at hand. This paper discusses why it is important for policymakers to recognize the valuable contributions to be made from within the fields of investigative and forensic psychology and particularly to inform the process of policymaking and legislative frameworks currently in place regarding suspicious approaches to children offences in the Irish Criminal Justice System. Discrepancies between legal and psychological considerations infer potential issues with policymaking; resulting in evidence‐based concerns regarding how suspicious approaches to children are handled. It is argued that in cases of suspicious approaches to children, important research is available within the fields of investigative and forensic psychology that warrants adequate consideration by policymakers. Additionally, the need for further collaboration between policymakers, researchers and front‐line enforcement agencies to ensure evidence‐based approaches for dealing with suspicious approaches to children and other criminal behaviours within the Irish criminal justice system is highlighted.
Lysophosphatidic acid up-regulates IL-10 production to inhibit TNF-α synthesis in Mϕs stimulated with LPS
Authors: Ciesielska Anna , Hromada-Judycka Aneta , Ziemlińska Ewelina , Kwiatkowska Katarzyna
Published: July 2019

Bacterial LPS strongly induces pro-inflammatory responses of Mϕs after binding to CD14 protein and the TLR4/MD-2 receptor complex. The LPS-triggered signaling can be modulated by extracellular lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), which is of substantial importance for Mϕ functioning under specific pathophysiological conditions, such as atherosclerosis. The molecular mechanisms of the crosstalk between the LPS- and LPA-induced signaling, and the LPA receptors involved, are poorly known. In this report, we show that LPA strongly inhibits the LPS-induced TNF-α production at the mRNA and protein levels in primary Mϕs and Mϕ-like J774 cells. The decreased TNF-α production in LPA/LPS-stimulated cells is to high extent independent of NF-κB but is preceded by enhanced expression and secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The IL-10 elevation and TNF-α reduction are both abrogated upon depletion of the LPA5 and LPA6 receptors in J774 cells and can be linked with LPA-mediated activation of p38. We propose that the binding of LPA to LPA5 and LPA6 fine-tunes the LPS-induced inflammatory response by activating p38, and up-regulating IL-10 and down-regulating TNF-α production.
Gonadal cnidocytes in the cubozoan Tripedalia cystophora Conant, 1897 (Cnidaria: Cubozoa)
Authors: Helmark Sandra , Garm Anders
Published: July 2019

Cubozoans have a complex lifecycle in many ways similar to the scyphozoan lifecycle. The sexual reproduction within cubozoans varies between species with one clade having copulation and internal fertilization and the release of planula larvae. This cubozoan clade, the family Tripedaliidae, includes three species, Copula sivickisi, Tripedalia cystophora, and Tripedalia binata. In a recent study, it was suggested that in C. sivickisi cnidocytes play a new and important role during the sexual reproduction. Male derived cnidocytes anchor sperm packages to the female gonads and female derived cnidocytes protect the externalized embryo strand. Here, we have examined the gonads and gametes of T. cystophora and our results reveal that the male produced spermatozeugmata have a high number of isorhiza type cnidocytes, which are transferred along with the sperm during copulation. This adds further support to our hypothesis that they are important for sperm anchorage. The female gonads are lacking cnidocytes all together showing that cnidocyte production is not just a default state of the epithelium in these animals.
Magnetic Particle Imaging: Current Applications in Biomedical Research
Authors: Talebloo Nazanin , Gudi Mithil , Robertson Neil , Wang Ping
Published: July 2019

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is a new imaging modality with the potential for high‐resolution imaging while retaining the noninvasive nature of other current modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). It is able to track location and quantities of special superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles without tracing any background signal. MPI utilizes the unique, intrinsic aspects of the nanoparticles: how they react in the presence of the magnetic field, and the subsequent turning off of the field. The current group of nanoparticles that are used in MPI are usually commercially available for MRI. Special MPI tracers are in development by many groups that utilize an iron‐oxide core encompassed by various coatings. These tracers would solve the current obstacles by altering the size and material of the nanoparticles to what is required by MPI. In this review, the theory behind and the development of these tracers are discussed. In addition, applications such as cell tracking, oncology imaging, neuroimaging, and vascular imaging, among others, stemming from the implementation of MPI into the standard are discussed.

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy Stage: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1659–1668.
Left atrial vortex size and velocity distributions by 4D flow MRI in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: Associations with age and CHA2DS2‐VASc risk score
Authors: Garcia Julio , Sheitt Hana , Bristow Michael S. , Lydell Carmen , Howarth Andrew G. , Heydari Bobak , Prato Frank S. , Drangova Maria , Thornhill Rebecca E. , Nery Pablo , Wilton Stephen B. , Skanes Allan , White James A.
Published: July 2019

Background

Characterization of left atrial (LA) hemodynamics in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) may provide valuable insights for thromboembolic risk.

Purpose

To evaluate LA vortex formation and velocity distributions by 4D flow MRI and identify associations with age, LA/LV (left ventricle) function, and established risk scores.

Study Type

Prospective clinical.

Population

Patients with PAF (n = 45, 46 ± 14 years) and healthy controls (n = 15, 54 ± 9 years) were enrolled.

MRI Sequences

3T standardized cardiac MRI protocol inclusive of 4D flow MRI.

Assessment

Flow analysis planes were prescribed at each pulmonary vein. Velocity distribution analysis and vortex size quantification by the Lambda2 (λ2) method were performed in the LA.

Statistics

Pearson or Spearman's correlation coefficients, r, were calculated to identify relationships between 4D flow‐derived LA parameters and age, LA/LV function, and CHA2DS2‐VASc stroke risk score. Univariate and multivariate determinants of stroke risk were assessed using linear regressions. To compare parameters within multiple groups, one‐way analysis of variance or Kruskal–Wallis was used.

Results

LA vortice sizes were observed in all subjects using λ2 showing inverse correlations with peak pulmonary vein inflow velocities (P < 0.05), and positive correlations with LA volume (P < 0.05). Vortex size was elevated in PAF at all phases of the cardiac cycle, being most prominent at end early diastole (3.98 ± 1.84 cm3 vs. 6.93 ± 3.11 cm3, P = 0.001). Velocity distribution analysis showed a greater incidence of flow stasis among patients with PAF (P < 0.05). In univariate regression, vortex size was associated with the CHA2DS2‐VASc risk score at peak systole (0.457 ± 0.038, P ≤ 0.001). However, in multivariate regression age was the dominant determinant of stroke risk (0.348 ± 0.012, P = 0.006).

Data Conclusion

This study demonstrated that LA vortex size is increased among low‐risk patients with PAF and is associated with the CHA2DS2‐VASc risk score. Age remained the dominant determinant of stroke risk.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:871–884.
The factors contributing to the total radiation exposure of patients during uterine artery embolisation
Authors: Nocum Don J. , Robinson John , Liang Eisen , Thompson Nadine , Reed Warren
Published: July 2019

Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is an interventional angiography procedure for the treatment of symptomatic fibroids and/or adenomyosis in women. UAE is a less invasive and non‐surgical alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy. However, ionising radiation is used for both fluoroscopic and angiographic image guidance to visualise and access the uterine arteries for embolisation and treatment of these benign conditions. Identifying the contributors and implementing dose reduction techniques are particularly important as UAE patients are usually of child‐bearing age. The purpose of this review was to examine the progression of literature on radiation exposure measurements and identifying the factors contributing to the total radiation exposure of female patients undergoing UAE. A Medline, ProQuest Central, ScienceDirect and Scopus database search from 2000 to 2018 was performed and forty articles were deemed acceptable for review following the inclusion and exclusion criteria set. UAE is a viable alternative to hysterectomy and myomectomy, as the reviewed literature demonstrated that the reported radiation exposure doses appear to be below the threshold for any deterministic radiation risks. The total radiation exposure of UAE patients is affected independently by multiple patient, operator expertise and technique, angiographic imaging and x‐ray unit variables. Uterus preservation can be attained post‐UAE with dose reduction and optimisation, however, a longitudinal study on UAE patients and their risk of radiation‐induced deterministic and/or stochastic effects is recommended.
Modulation of boreal extended summer tropical cyclogenesis over the northwest Pacific by the quasi‐biweekly oscillation under different El Niño‐southern oscillation phases
Authors: Han Xiang , Zhao Haikun , Li Xun , Raga Graciela B. , Wang Chao , Li Qingqing
Published: July 2019

The study of the interannual and intraseasonal modulation of tropical cyclogenesis (TCG) in the northwest Pacific (NWP) basin has received significant attention in the past. Most previous studies have focused on the individual impact of El Niño‐southern oscillation (ENSO) or Madden–Julian Oscillation on TCG, whereas the combined effect of ENSO and another leading intraseasonal oscillation mode, quasi‐biweekly oscillation (QBWO), on NWP TCG has rarely been studied. Therefore, this study systemically investigates the modulation of NWP TCG by the QBWO under different ENSO phases. A significant modulation of TCG by QBWO in the ENSO neutral years is observed, with significantly increased (decreased) TCG over the NWP in QBWO active (inactive) phases. Moreover, during El Niño years and La Niña years, the modulation of TCG by QBWO is not significant and no distinctive difference in the TCG frequency can be detected. Further analyses show that the modulation of TCG by the QBWO is mainly related to the changes in large‐scale environment and energy that affect TCG associated with active or inactive phases of the QBWO under different ENSO phases. Large‐scale environmental factors and energy are more favourable for TCG during ENSO neutral years compared with El Niño and La Niña years. These results are associated with QBWO cycle under the impact of background (e.g., boundary layer moisture and zonal wind shear) which is determined by ENSO conditions.
Effects of Loading Conditions on Articular Cartilage in a Metal‐on‐Cartilage Pairing
Authors: Stotter Christoph , Stojanović Bojana , Bauer Christoph , Rodríguez Ripoll Manel , Franek Friedrich , Klestil Thomas , Nehrer Stefan
Published: July 2019

The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the response of articular cartilage to frictional load when sliding against a metal implant, and identify potential mechanisms of damage to articular cartilage in a metal‐on‐cartilage pairing. Bovine osteochondral cylinders were reciprocally slid against metal cylinders (cobalt–chromium–molybdenum alloy) with several variations of load and sliding velocity using a microtribometer. The effects of different loads and velocities, and the resulting friction coefficients on articular cartilage, were evaluated by measuring histological and metabolic outcomes. Moreover, the biotribocorrosion of the metal was determined. Chondrocytes stimulated with high load and velocity showed increased metabolic activity and cartilage‐specific gene expression. In addition, higher load and velocity resulted in biotribocorrosion of the metal implant and damage to the surface of the articular cartilage, whereas low velocity and a high coefficient of friction increased the expression of catabolic genes. Articular cartilage showed particular responses to load and velocity when sliding against a metal implant. Moreover, metal implants showed tribocorrosion. Therefore, corrosion particles may play a role in the mechano‐biochemical wear of articular cartilage after implantation of a metal implant. These findings may be useful to surgeons performing resurfacing procedures and total knee arthroplasty. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society J Orthop Res 37:2531–2539, 2019
Nitrogen turnover in a repeatedly manured arid subtropical soil: Incubation studies with 15N isotopes
Authors: Khanal Gunadhish , Wachendorf Christine , Dittert Klaus , Willich Melanie , Dietz Herbert , Buerkert Andreas , Ingold Mariko
Published: July 2019

Under the hot and moist conditions of irrigated agriculture in the arid subtropics, turnover of organic matter is high, which can lead to considerable carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) losses. Therefore, sustainable use of these soils requires regular manure application at high rates. To investigate the contribution of consecutive manure applications to an arid sandy soil to various soil N pools, goat manure was isotopically labeled by feeding 15N‐enriched Rhodes grass hay and applied to the soil during a two‐year field experiment. In the first year, soils received 15N‐labeled manure to distinguish between soil‐derived and manure‐derived N. In the second year, these plots were split for the application of either 15N‐labeled or unlabeled manure to discriminate N derived from previous (first year) and recent (second year) manure application. Soil samples (of control and 15N‐manured soil) were collected at the end of the first and the second year, and incubated in two laboratory experiments with labeled or unlabeled manure. At the beginning of Experiment 1, 7% of total N, 11% of K2SO4 extractable N, and 16% of microbial biomass N were derived from previously field‐applied manure. While the application of manure during incubation increased microbial biomass N by 225% and 410% in the control soil and the previously field‐manured soil, respectively, N2O emissions were more affected on the control soil, releasing considerable amounts of the soil N‐pool (80% of total emissions). In Experiment 2, 4% of total N, 7% of K2SO4 extractable N, and 7% of microbial biomass N derived from previously applied manure, and 4%, 8%, and 3% from recently applied manure, respectively. Microbial biomass N and N2O‐N derived from manure declined with time after manure application, whereas in Experiment 1 this tendency was only observed for microbial biomass N.
Plunging Ranulas and Prevalence of the “Tail Sign” in 126 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Jain Prabha
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Plunging (or diving) ranulas are extravasation pseudocysts arising from the sublingual gland that present as soft submandibular swelling. The “tail sign” has been widely reported as pathognomonic for their diagnosis. It is described as a smooth tapering comet‐shaped unilocular fluid mass with its “tail” in the collapsed sublingual space (SLS) and its “head” in the posterior submandibular space. This sign is based on the premise that extravasated saliva from the sublingual gland in the SLS escapes and plunges, over the posterior edge of the mylohyoid muscle into the submandibular space. Therefore, some fluid must be present in the posterior SLS in almost all patients with plunging ranulas. This study aimed to determine the frequency of fluid seen with ultrasound (US) in the posterior SLS to corroborate the tail sign.

Methods

A total of 126 consecutive cases of surgically proven plunging ranulas were investigated with US over 13 years. The findings were reviewed retrospectively for the prevalence of fluid in the posterior SLS.

Results

Thirteen patients (10.3%) showed SLS fluid on US images. Most showed fluid extension through a mylohyoid dehiscence. Only 2 patients (1.6%) showed fluid within the posterior SLS, and 1 patient alone in this entire study showed all of the components of the classically described tail sign.

Conclusions

This largest ever radiologic study showed low prevalence of the tail sign in 2 of 126 patients. A mylohyoid dehiscence was the more common route for extravasation. Absence of the tail sign does not exclude the diagnosis of a plunging ranula.
Selective stimulation of human intrinsic laryngeal muscles: Analysis in a mathematical three‐dimensional space
Authors: Broniatowski Michael , Grundfest‐Broniatowski Sharon , Schiefer Matthew , Ludlow David H. , Broniatowski David A. , Tucker Harvey M.
Published: July 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Standard stimulating methods using square waves do not appropriately restore physiological control of individual intrinsic laryngeal muscles (ILMs). To further explore our earlier study of evoked orderly recruitment by quasitrapezoidal (QT) currents, we integrated the contribution of the cricothyroideus (CT) with attention to mutual activation in an additional patient, based on recent studies of appropriate responses via strict recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) stimulation.

Study Design

Basic science study.

Methods

The patient received functional electrical stimulation (FES) with QT pulses at 5 Hz, 60 to 2,000 μAmp, 100 to 500 μs pulse width, 0 to 500 μs decay. Ipsilateral electromyography (EMG) responses were calculated using the average maximum amplitude, area under the curve, and the root mean square of the rectified amplitude waveforms. The thyroarytenoideus (TA), posterior cricoarytenoideus (PCA), lateral cricothyroideus (LCA), and the CT were each interrogated via two monopolar electrodes, values were recorded in MATLAB, exported to Excel, and analyzed. Individual and mutual recruitment configurations and activation delays with stimulation were explored using multiple regression and exploration factor analyses.

Results

A total of 868 EMG data points based on 18 trials and up to 11 subtrials were captured from each of the four ILMs. Various combinations of pulse amplitude, pulse width, and exponential decay were found to produce significant (P ≤ .001) individual ILM responses. CT mirrored the LCA, whereas the TA and PCA exhibited separate interactions along shared trajectories in a three‐dimensional space.

Conclusions

FES calibrated to individual and coupled ILMs offers promise for restoring normal and pathological contraction patterns via strict RLN stimulation.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 130:967–973, 2020
Is the gender gap closing in otolaryngology subspecialties? An analysis of research productivity
Authors: Okafor Somtochi , Tibbetts Kathleen , Shah Gopi , Tillman Brittny , Agan Ashley , Halderman Ashleigh A.
Published: July 2019

Objective

The proportion of women specializing in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (Oto–HNS) and seeking fellowship training has steadily increased over the last several years. In academic Oto–HNS, gender differences exist in research productivity, scholarly impact, and funding. This study aims to evaluate gender differences in academic productivity between otolaryngologists in early, mid‐, and later careers stages and within various subspecialties.

Methods

Departmental websites for all Oto–HNS residency programs were accessed, and data including gender, academic rank, and fellowship training/subspecialty field was collected. Bibliometric data including h‐index, publication years, number of citations, documents, and coauthors was obtained from the Scopus database. Career groups were defined as early (1–5 years), mid‐ (6–15 years), and later (16+ years). Continuous data was compared using the t test.

Results

Data was collected on 1,754 academic otolaryngologists (412 women, 1,342 men). Overall, men exhibited significantly higher h‐indices, number of documents, citations, and coauthors and actively published for more years compared to women (P < 0.0001 for all variables). Similar trends persisted across all subspecialties. When authors were broken down into career groups, women and men showed similar research productivity across all career groups in the subspecialties of otology, facial plastics, and rhinology; however, in head and neck, laryngology, and pediatrics, women continued to lag behind men.

Conclusion

This study suggests that female otolaryngologists within certain subspecialties are keeping pace with their male counterparts in publication productivity in the early career time frame. This represents a change from prior studies which have shown women to be less productive in the early career period.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:1144–1150, 2020