bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opioid prescription patterns and use among patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Sethi Rosh K. V. , Miller Ashley L. , Bartholomew Ryan A. , Lehmann Ashton E. , Bergmark Regan W. , Sedaghat Ahmad R. , Gray Stacey T.
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Opioid‐related deaths in the United States have increased 200% since 2000, in part due to prescription diversion from patients who had a surgical procedure. The purpose of this study was to characterize provider prescription patterns and assess patient‐reported opioid use after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Patients who underwent ESS between May 2017 and May 2018 were included. Opioid prescription, operative details, and postoperative opioid use data were extracted. The Massachusetts Prescription Awareness Tool (MassPAT) was queried to determine if patients filled their prescription.

Results

One hundred fifty‐five patients were included. Nearly all patients received an opioid prescription (94.8%). An average of 15.6 tablets was prescribed per patient. Among 116 patients with MassPAT data, 91.4% filled their prescription. Among 67 patients who reported the number of tablets they had used at the time of first follow‐up appointment, 73.1% reported taking no opioids. Mean number of tablets prescribed was significantly greater among patients who underwent primary versus revision surgery (16.5 vs. 13.5, P = .0111) and those who had splints placed (21.5 vs. 15.1, P = .0037). Predictors of opioid use included concurrent turbinate reduction (58.3% vs. 14.3%, P < .0001) and concurrent septoplasty (45.5% vs. 21.6%, P = .039).

Conclusions

Nearly all patients who underwent ESS were prescribed an opioid, and nearly all patients filled their prescription. However, the vast majority of patients did not require any opioid medication for postoperative pain control. As the opioid epidemic continues to persist, these findings have immediate relevance to current prescribing patterns and pain management practices.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:1046–1052, 2019
Systemic safety of serial intralesional steroid injection for subglottic stenosis
Authors: Woliansky Jonathan , Phyland Debra , Paddle Paul
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Serial intralesional steroid injection (SILSI) has recently been proposed as an effective scar‐modifying therapy for subglottic stenosis (SGS). We aimed to explore the systemic absorption of steroid following SILSI and to characterize the magnitude and chronicity of any effect observed. Specifically, we aimed to show that any effect resolves prior to the next intralesional injection.

Study Design

Prospective, observational pilot study.

Methods

Patients were injected intralesionally with 40 to 200 mg triamcinolone. Serum cortisol, as well as white cell counts and inflammatory markers were measured at day 0 (baseline), 1, 7, and 28. Salivary cortisol was measured at baseline and for 7 consecutive days following injection.

Results

Six patients with idiopathic SGS were recruited. At baseline, serum cortisol measured 284.0 ± 61.4 nmol/L and fell significantly to 15.5 ± 4.3 nmol/L 1 day following triamcinolone injection (P = .03). At day 7, serum steroid levels showed significant recovery to 221.8 ± 78.9 nmol/L (P = .03) and further rose to 279.5 ± 29.9 nmol/L at 28 days (P = .07). Salivary cortisol exhibited a similar pattern with significant recovery by day 6 (P = .04) and suggestion of exponential clearance of triamcinolone systemically. White cell counts were also affected by systemic absorption of exogenous steroid. No significant change in inflammatory markers was observed.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate systemic absorption of steroid following SILSI, with acute hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis suppression. However, normalization of HPA axis function by day 7 suggests that although acute steroid side effects should be discussed with patients, no cumulative systemic steroid side effect would occur with serial injections.

Level of Evidence

2

Laryngoscope, 129:1634–1639, 2019
Implication of Fusobacterium necrophorum in recurrence of peritonsillar abscess
Authors: Ali S. Ahmed , Kovatch Kevin J. , Smith Josh , Bellile Emily L. , Hanks John E. , Hoff Paul T.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a common infectious complication of pharyngeal infection managed by otolaryngologists and emergency room physicians. Streptococcus and Fusobacterium (e.g., Fusobacterium necrophorum, FN) species are commonly isolated pathogens. The aim of this study was to determine the implication of culture results on abscess recurrence following drainage.

Methods

Single‐institution retrospective review of patients treated at the University of Michigan between 2000 and 2017. Demographic and clinical outcome data were analyzed, including treatment details, culture data, and recurrence.

Results

One hundred fifty‐six of the 990 patients in our study developed recurrence of their abscess (16%). The age ranges most susceptible to recurrence included adolescent (22.9%) and young adult groups (17.1%). Recurrent patients were more likely to have experienced acute progression of symptoms (79% vs. 71%, P = 0.03), trismus (67% vs. 55%, P = 0.006), voice changes (65% vs. 57%, P = 0.04), and dysphagia (72% vs. 61%, P = 0.01) compared to nonrecurrent patients. They were also more likely to have clinical lymphadenopathy noted on initial examination (67% vs. 56%, P = 0.009). Culture data was sent for 852 patients (86%). The presence of FN was significantly more prevalent in the recurrent group (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

There is a high observed prevalence of FN species within PTA aspirates in the recurrent PTA population. PTA aspirate should be sent for anaerobic growth to screen for Fusobacterium species. In addition, follow‐up and lower threshold for subsequent tonsillectomy should be considered in this at‐risk group.

Level of Evidence

3

Laryngoscope, 129:1567–1571, 2019
Laryngeal manifestations of cranial nerve IX/X compression at the brainstem
Authors: Taylor Robert J. , Lowe Stephen R. , Ellis Nic , Abdullah Evan , Patel Sunil , Halstead Lucinda A.
Published: December 2018

Objective

We report an association between lower cranial nerve (CN IX/X) vascular compression at the brainstem with laryngeal symptoms utilizing a stepwise algorithm that systematically evaluates and eliminates all other common etiologies. Our experiences with retromastoid craniectomy with lower cranial nerve (LCN) decompression versus non‐neurosurgical treatments are detailed.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review at a tertiary care academic medical center with follow‐up telephone survey.

Methods

Baseline demographics, clinical characteristics, quality‐of‐life surveys, and treatment outcomes were recorded for patients with laryngeal symptoms associated with LCN compression at the brainstem.

Results

Forty‐nine patients demonstrated LCN compression at the brainstem on imaging and presented with chief complaints of dysphonia (25 of 49, 51%), chronic cough (19 of 49, 39%), dysphoric breathing (3 of 49, 6%), and dysphagia (2 of 49, 4%). Poor initial scores were noted for Voice‐Related Quality of Life (V‐RQOL), Reflux Symptom Index, and Glottal Closure Index. Twenty‐four patients underwent LCN decompression, of which 21 of 24 (88%) reported partial, near‐complete, or complete improvement. Major perioperative complications occurred in four of 24 patients (17%). Patients who had undergone decompression were more likely to obtain complete/near‐complete symptom resolution (10 of 24 patients, 42%) compared to those undergoing conservative treatments (2 of 25 patients, 8%) (P = 0.02). V‐RQOL scores improved more in surgical patients [mean change score, 33.0 (standard deviation [SD], 31.2) than nonsurgical patients (mean change score 9.6, SD 20.9) (P = 0.03) (mean follow‐up 3.0 years, SD 2.0).

Conclusion

Lower cranial nerve compression at the brainstem should be considered when all other etiologies are excluded. Retromastoid craniectomy with LCN decompression demonstrates an acceptable safety profile.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:2105–2111, 2019
Subacute acrolein exposure to rat larynx in vivo
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Durkes Abigail C. , Schrock William , Zheng Wei , Sivasankar M. Preeti
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Inhaled pollutants can contact vocal fold tissue and induce detrimental voice changes. Acrolein is a pollutant in cigarette smoke and can also be inhaled during the combustion of fossil fuels, animal fats, and plastics in the environment. However, the vocal fold pathological changes induced by acrolein and the underlying inflammatory pathways are not well understood. These biologic data are needed to understand why voice problems may result from pollutant exposure.

Study Design

In vivo prospective design with experimental and control groups.

Methods

Sprague‐Dawley male rats (N = 36) were exposed to acrolein (3 ppm) or filtered air (control) through a whole‐body exposure system for 5 hours/day, for 5 days/week, over 4 weeks. Histopathological changes, presence of edema, expression of proinflammatory cytokines and markers, and the phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) were investigated.

Results

Histological evaluation and quantification demonstrated that subacute acrolein exposure induced significant vocal fold edema. Acrolein exposure also induced epithelial sloughing and cell death. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed a significant upregulation of genes encoding interferon regulatory factor and chitinase‐3‐like protein 3. Western blot revealed a 76.8% increase in phosphorylation of NF‐κB P65 after subacute acrolein exposure.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that 4‐week exposures to 3 ppm acrolein induce vocal fold inflammation manifested as edema, related to the activation of NF‐κB signaling. The edema may underlie the voice changes reported in speakers exposed to pollutants.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:E313–E317, 2019
Common practices in botulinum toxin injection for spasmodic dysphonia treatment: A national survey
Authors: Shoffel‐Havakuk Hagit , Rosow David E. , Lava Christian X. , Hapner Edie R. , Johns Michael M.
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Although no clear guidelines exist, protocols in the treatment of spasmodic dysphonia (SD) vary among physicians. Previously published work comes from relatively few centers.

Study Design

A descriptive survey among experts (laryngologists who practice Botulinum toxin injections for SD).

Methods

An online 58‐item survey was sent to all otolaryngologists who self‐identify as laryngologists on the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery website. Items surveyed included botulinum toxin injection technique, laterality, and dosage.

Results

An 80% response rate was achieved (70 completed the survey). Participants collectively reported treating >4,000 SD patients in the past year (mean, 71 ± 68 patients/laryngologist). Eighty‐seven percent perform injections exclusively in the office; the remainder both in the office and operating room. For adductor SD injections, 88% use electromyographic (EMG) guidance alone via cricothyroid approach. The remainder use anatomical landmarks alone (9%) or EMG with endoscopic guidance (3%). Sitting is the preferred patient position (70%; supine, 30%). A substantial majority (87%) begin with bilateral injections (starting dosage mode, 1.25 units/side). For abductor SD injections, 67% use EMG guidance alone and 31% use endoscopic guidance with or without EMG. Sitting is the preferred patient position (84%; supine, 16%). The preferred approach is anterior‐translaryngeal (51%), followed by lateral‐retrolaryngeal with rotation (34%). A considerable majority (79%) begin with unilateral injections (starting dosage mode, 5 units). When deciding on initial dosage, the most influential factor was balancing patients' desire/needs, followed by patients' frailty and risk of aspiration. The typical planned interval between injections is 3 to 4 months.

Conclusions

Laryngologists follow fairly uniform protocols in the treatment of SD with some important and previously unpublished differences. This study documents areas of agreement and discordance among laryngologists in the United States for the treatment of SD.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:1650–1656, 2019
Recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis after thyroid cancer surgery and intraoperative nerve monitoring
Authors: Mizuno Kayoko , Takeuchi Masato , Kanazawa Yuji , Kitamura Morimasa , Ide Kazuki , Omori Koichi , Kawakami Koji
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

This study aimed to investigate the risk of postoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis (RLNP) with and without the use of intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) during thyroid cancer surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

This study utilized a nationwide claims database in Japan. Patients who underwent thyroid cancer surgery with and without IONM were included, and postoperative RLNP incidence was compared.

Results

The study included 5,804 patients. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that use of IONM was not associated with increased RLNP risk (odds ratio: 1.15; 95% confidence interval: 0.67‐1.96). There was no significant effect on RLNP prevention when stratified by tumor or nodal classification. Rather, the patients who had T4 or N1b classifications who received IONM had higher incidences of RLNP.

Conclusions

Use of IONM did not significantly reduce the risk of RLNP. The results for the T4 and N1b populations may be explained by indication bias or unmeasured confounders.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:1954–1960, 2019
Drug‐induced sleep endoscopy: new insights in lateral head rotation compared to lateral head and trunk rotation in (non)positional obstructive sleep apnea patients
Authors: Vonk Patty E. , van de Beek Megan J. , Ravesloot Madeline J.L. , de Vries Nico
Published: December 2018

Objective

To compare the effect of lateral head rotation to lateral head and trunk rotation on upper airway patency during drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) in nonpositional obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients (NPP) and positional OSA patients (PP).

Methods

Prospective cohort study.

Results

In total 92 patients were included. Seventy‐five patients were male (82%) with a mean age of 47.2 ± 11.3 years, a body mass index of 27.0 ± 3.3 kg/m2, and a median apnea–hypopnea index of 16.7 per hour (8.7, 26,5). Of all patients, 75% were PP. Lateral head rotation and lateral head and trunk rotation findings are similar in NPP at each possible level of obstruction, with exception of the oropharynx but not in PP. In PP, lateral head rotation and both lateral head and trunk observations were different at every possible obstruction site.

Conclusion

The effect of lateral head rotation and lateral head and trunk rotation on upper airway patency during DISE is significantly different in PP. In NPP, similar results regarding the degree of upper airway obstruction were found at the level of the velum, tongue base, and epiglottis.

Level of Evidence

2b

Laryngoscope, 129:2430–2435, 2019
Adult epiglottitis: Trends and predictors of mortality in over 30 thousand cases from 2007 to 2014
Authors: Hanna Jonathan , Brauer Philip R. , Berson Elisa , Mehra Saral
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To characterize trends of adult epiglottitis presenting to the emergency department (ED) and analyze mortality.

Methods

We utilized the National Emergency Department Sample to characterize adult epiglottitis from 2007 to 2014 and used provided weights to obtain nationally representative data (all presented data are weighted). Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine predictors of mortality.

Results

A total of 33,549 cases were identified (weighted). Over the study period, the average patient age increased significantly from 47 to 51 (R2 > 0.5), with an overall mean age of 49. A total of 11.8% of patients were coded as having obstruction, and 68.3% of cases were admitted to the hospital. Across all years, < 1% received laryngoscopic or airway procedures in the ED. Utilization of both X‐ray and computed tomography was <10%. Over the 8 years, there were an average of 42 deaths per year (1.01% overall mortality). No clinical factors, except obstruction, were significant on univariate analysis (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that patient age, degree of hospital urbanization, and smoking status also were nonsignificant.

Conclusions

Epiglottitis is still a significant pathology seen in EDs, is stable over the study period, and carries a mortality risk. There is an exceptionally low rate of documented clinical interventions in the ED, especially compared with inpatient studies of epiglottis. This suggests a lack of recognition of the need and utilization of critical airway interventions early in the patient encounter. Future research is needed to characterize the reasons for the low rate of early airway visualization and intervention of epiglottitis in the ED.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:1107–1112, 2019
Camphor white oil induces tumor regression through cytotoxic T cell‐dependent mechanisms
Authors: Moayedi Yalda , Greenberg Sophie A. , Jenkins Blair A. , Marshall Kara L. , Dimitrov Lina V. , Nelson Aislyn M. , Owens David M. , Lumpkin Ellen A.
Published: December 2018

Bioactive derivatives from the camphor laurel tree, Cinnamomum camphora, are posited to exhibit chemopreventive properties but the efficacy and mechanism of these natural products are not fully understood. We tested an essential‐oil derivative, camphor white oil (CWO), for anti‐tumor activity in a mouse model of keratinocyte‐derived skin cancer. Daily topical treatment with CWO induced dramatic regression of pre‐malignant skin tumors and a two‐fold reduction in cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. We next investigated underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. In cultured keratinocytes, CWO stimulated calcium signaling, resulting in calcineurin‐dependent activation of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). In vivo, CWO induced transcriptional changes in immune‐related genes identified by RNA‐sequencing, resulting in cytotoxic T cell‐dependent tumor regression. Finally, we identified chemical constituents of CWO that recapitulated effects of the admixture. Together, these studies identify T cell‐mediated tumor regression as a mechanism through which a plant‐derived essential oil diminishes established tumor burden.
A Scale to Assess Activities of Daily Living in Pantothenate Kinase‐Associated Neurodegeneration
Authors: Marshall Randall D. , Collins Abigail , Escolar Maria L. , Jinnah H.A. , Klopstock Thomas , Kruer Michael C. , Videnovic Aleksandar , Robichaux‐Viehoever Amy , Swett Laura , Revicki Dennis A. , Bender Randall H. , Lenderking William R.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is an autosomal‐recessive, neurodegenerative disorder with a mixed‐motor phenotype caused by a defective PanK2 enzyme, for which there are few adequate treatment options. Clinimetrically sound measures of patient‐reported outcomes are necessary to facilitate therapeutic development for this debilitating disease. This study's objective was to develop such a scale and assess its clinimetric properties.

Methods

A conceptually driven, iterative, content development process incorporating input from experts, caregivers, and patients was used. Scale items were initially adapted from the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Part II resulting in the 12‐item Pantothenate Kinase‐Associated Neurodegeneration Activities of Daily Living (PKAN‐ADL). The PKAN‐ADL scale was administered to caregivers (n = 37) and patients (n = 2) twice over 2 weeks, along with selected Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders (Neuro‐QoL) measures, selected attributes of the Health Utilities Index (HUI)‐2/3, and the Stroke Aphasia Depression Questionnaire (SADQ‐10) to assess construct validity.

Results

Internal consistency was 0.93, with excellent test‐retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.99). Of the 12 items, 25% (n = 3) showed a ceiling effect >30% (range, 31–54) and 42% (n = 5) showed a floor effect >30% (range, 31–46), reflecting disease heterogeneity. Convergent validity was shown with Neuro‐QoL measures (rs > 0.90) and HUI‐2/3 attributes (rs ≥ 0.48); divergent validity was demonstrated with the SADQ‐10 (r = 0.11). Participants reported a high level of comprehension (98%), and average item relevance ratings (0–10 scale) ranged from 7.0 to 9.9.

Conclusion

The PKAN‐ADL scale demonstrated acceptable content validity, with evidence of construct validity and excellent reliability. Overall results support the use of the PKAN‐ADL scale in clinical trials.
Weaving carbon fiber/recycled polypropylene selvages to reinforce the polymer‐based protective composite fabrics: Manufacturing techniques and electromagnetic shielding effectiveness
Authors: Lin Ting An , Chuang Yu‐Chun , Lin Jan‐Yi , Lin Mei‐Chen , Lou Ching‐Wen , Lin Jia‐Horng
Published: December 2018

This study aims to investigate the effect of carbon fibers (CFs), recycled polypropylene (PP) selvages, and glass fibers (GFs) on the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness and mechanical properties of composite polyester (PET)‐wrapped yarns and composite PET woven fabrics. The PET/PP‐, PET/PP/CF‐, and PET/PP/GF‐wrapped yarns are manufactured via a rotor twister with various rotary rate. A looming machine is used to fabricate the mentioned wrapped yarns into woven fabrics, and thus the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness and mechanical properties are examined. The results show that various rotary rates influence the diameter and wrapped angle of the wrapped yarns, as well as their tensile strength and elongation. Woven fabrics that are composed of the wrapped yarns with a small diameter have a dense fabric structure, which in turn results in a decrease in air permeability and an increase in tensile strength. The woven fabrics are composed of PET yarns and CFs, in an attempt to be used in industrial or everyday protective clothes that secure the safety and standard of living. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1910–E1917, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Exosomes Derived from Human Primary and Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Cells Contribute to Functional Heterogeneity of Activated Fibroblasts by Reprogramming Their Proteome
Authors: Rai Alin , Greening David W. , Chen Maoshan , Xu Rong , Ji Hong , Simpson Richard J.
Published: December 2018

Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogeneous population of activated fibroblasts that constitute a dominant cellular component of the tumor microenvironment (TME) performing distinct functions. Here, the role of tumor‐derived exosomes (Exos) in activating quiescent fibroblasts into distinct functional subtypes is investigated. Proteomic profiling and functional dissection reveal that early‐ (SW480) and late‐stage (SW620) colorectal cancer (CRC) cell‐derived Exos both activated normal quiescent fibroblasts (α‐SMA−, CAV+, FAP+, VIM+) into CAF‐like fibroblasts (α‐SMA+, CAV−, FAP+, VIM+). Fibroblasts activated by early‐stage cancer‐exosomes (SW480‐Exos) are highly pro‐proliferative and pro‐angiogenic and display elevated expression of pro‐angiogenic (IL8, RAB10, NDRG1) and pro‐proliferative (SA1008, FFPS) proteins. In contrast, fibroblasts activated by late‐stage cancer‐exosomes (SW620‐Exos) display a striking ability to invade through extracellular matrix through upregulation of pro‐invasive regulators of membrane protrusion (PDLIM1, MYO1B) and matrix‐remodeling proteins (MMP11, EMMPRIN, ADAM10). Conserved features of Exos‐mediated fibroblast activation include enhanced ECM secretion (COL1A1, Tenascin‐C/X), oncogenic transformation, and metabolic reprogramming (downregulation of CAV‐1, upregulation of glycogen metabolism (GAA), amino acid biosynthesis (SHMT2, IDH2) and membrane transporters of glucose (GLUT1), lactate (MCT4), and amino acids (SLC1A5/3A5)). This study highlights the role of primary and metastatic CRC tumor‐derived Exos in generating phenotypically and functionally distinct subsets of CAFs that may facilitate tumor progression.
Chinese Social Media and Big Data: Big Data, Big Brother, Big Profit?
Authors: Jiang Min , Fu King‐Wa
Published: December 2018

Chinese social media and big data represent an important share of the global Internet, but have received relatively less attention. This editorial examines three dominant discourses based on China's distinctive and complex political, economic and social realities: “Big Data” (technical focus), “Big Brother” (political focus), and “Big Profit” (economic focus). We argue that the prevailing discourse and practice of big data in China is largely technocentric, decontextualized and nonreflexive, and much less attuned to the social, political, cultural, epistemological, and ethical implications of big data that a humancentric approach would demand. Second, the authoritarian Chinese state poses incredible political challenges to big data research and practice. Third, the practice of Chinese social media and big data is imbued with a discourse of technological nationalism, driven by a handful of monopolistic “national champions.” Despite contention, the state and market players have formed a largely mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship to maximize their political and economic gains. We argue a comparative perspective to foster a global conversation on social media and big data is necessary in order to formulate collective responses to such challenges.
Exploring protein‐protein interactions using the site‐identification by ligand competitive saturation methodology
Authors: Yu Wenbo , Jo Sunhwan , Lakkaraju Sirish Kaushik , Weber David J. , MacKerell Alexander D.
Published: December 2018

Protein docking methods are powerful computational tools to study protein‐protein interactions (PPI). While a significant number of docking algorithms have been developed, they are usually based on rigid protein models or with limited considerations of protein flexibility and the desolvation effect is rarely considered in docking energy functions, which may lower the accuracy of the predictions. To address these issues, we introduce a PPI energy function based on the site‐identification by ligand competitive saturation (SILCS) framework and utilize the fast Fourier transform (FFT) correlation approach. The free energy content of the SILCS FragMaps represent an alternative to traditional energy grids and they can be efficiently utilized to guide FFT‐based protein docking. Application of the approach to eight diverse test cases, including seven from Protein Docking Benchmark 5.0, showed the PPI prediction using SILCS approach (SILCS‐PPI) to be competitive with several commonly used protein docking methods indicating that the method has the ability to both qualitatively and quantitatively inform the prediction of PPI. Results show the utility of the SILCS‐PPI docking approach for determination of probability distributions of PPI interactions over the surface of both partner proteins, allowing for identification of alternate binding poses. Such binding poses are confirmed by experimental crystal contacts in our test cases. While more computationally demanding than available PPI docking technologies, we anticipate that the SILCS‐PPI docking approach will offer an alternative methodology for improved evaluation of PPIs that could be used in a variety of fields from systems biology to excipient design for biologics‐based drugs.
Rigidity and flexibility characteristics of DD[E/D]‐transposases Mos1 and Sleeping Beauty
Authors: Singer Christopher M. , Joy Diana , Jacobs Donald J. , Nesmelova Irina V.
Published: December 2018

DD[E/D]‐transposases catalyze the multistep reaction of cut‐and‐paste DNA transposition. Structurally, several DD[E/D]‐transposases have been characterized, revealing a multi‐domain structure with the catalytic domain possessing the RNase H‐like structural motif that brings three catalytic residues (D, D, and E or D) into close proximity for the catalysis. However, the dynamic behavior of DD[E/D]‐transposases during transposition remains poorly understood. Here, we analyze the rigidity and flexibility characteristics of two representative DD[E/D]‐transposases Mos1 and Sleeping Beauty (SB) using the minimal distance constraint model (mDCM). We find that the catalytic domain of both transposases is globally rigid, with the notable exception of the clamp loop being flexible in the DNA‐unbound form. Within this globally rigid structure, the central β‐sheet of the RNase H‐like motif is much less rigid in comparison to its surrounding α‐helices, forming a cage‐like structure. The comparison of the original SB transposase to its hyperactive version SB100X reveals the region where the change in flexibility/rigidity correlates with increased activity. This region is found to be within the RNase H‐like structural motif and comprise the loop leading from beta‐strand B3 to helix H1, helices H1 and H2, which are located on the same side of the central beta‐sheet, and the loop between helix H3 and beta‐strand B5. We further identify the RKEN214‐217DAVQ mutations of the set of hyperactive mutations within the catalytic domain of SB transposase to be the driving factor that induces change in residue‐pair rigidity correlations within SB transposase. Given that a signature RNase H‐like structural motif is found in DD[E/D]‐transposases and, more broadly, in a large superfamily of polynucleotidyl transferases, our results are relevant to these proteins as well.
Barotropic growth of monsoon depressions
Authors: Diaz Michael , Boos William R.
Published: December 2018

Although monsoon depressions are a principal synoptic‐scale element of the South Asian monsoon, producing extreme rainfall over India and surrounding regions, there exists no widely accepted mechanism explaining their occurrence. This study presents a hierarchy of numerical experiments aimed at finding such an explanation. Using a perturbation‐basic state decomposition, we derive an anelastic system of equations that can represent disturbances growing in the complex, three‐dimensional monsoon basic state. We find that modal solutions to these equations linearized about this basic state can explain many features of observed monsoon depressions, including their warm‐over‐cold core structure, westward propagation, and lower‐tropospheric wind maximum. For the zonally symmetric case, these modes are barotropically unstable, drawing energy from the meridional shear of the monsoon trough. For the zonally varying basic state, modal solutions still derive energy from barotropic conversion, but fail to achieve positive net growth rates when dissipative processes are included. For the nonlinear equation set, these modes can be excited by a heating impulse, and their energy then remains roughly constant over several days as barotropic energy transfers oppose dissipative losses. Our results support the idea that the general concept of barotropic instability can explain the structure, propagation, and geographic distribution of monsoon depressions, but not their rapid growth rates. We speculate that condensational heating coupled to these waves is needed to obtain a positive growth rate.
Treatment with 1‐benzylpiperazine (BZP) during adolescence of male and female hooded rats exposed to environmental enrichment: Subsequent behavioral outcomes
Authors: Dixon Ellen I. , Hughes Robert N.
Published: December 2018

From 30 days after birth until the completion of the study, male and female rats were caged in same‐sexed twos or threes either with (enriched cages, EC) or without several objects for them to explore (standard cages, SC). From 41 to 50 days of age (late adolescence), they received a daily intraperitoneal injection of saline, or 10 or 20 mg/kg of the monoaminergic agonist drug of abuse, 1‐benzylpiperazine (BZP). Ten days later (PND60+), their behavior was observed over several days in an open field, an elevated plus maze, a light‐dark box and (to assess short‐term memory) a Y maze in which one of the arms had been changed in brightness between two trials. These tests were repeated from 40 days after PND60+, namely PND100+. While open‐arm occupancy at PND100+ in the plus maze was lower following both doses of the drug for SC rats only, other examples of BZP‐related heightened anxiety were confined to EC rats. This suggested that enrichment had enhanced rather than reduced any anxiogenic effects of the drug treatment. There was no plausible evidence of BZP‐associated impaired spatial memory required to recognize the changed novel Y‐maze arm. Instead, changes in novelty preferences or neophobia‐related anxiety were most likely. While there were also some examples of sex and age differences in the later effects of BZP, in most cases these were evident at both ages following treatment with both BZP doses. A number of overall BZP, cage, sex and age differences, independent of enrichment effects, were also observed.
MOTIVES FOR MUSIC: LONDON, MAY 2018
Authors: Whittall Arnold
Published: December 2018

‘Motive’ or ‘motif’ has long been a familiar term in writing about music, not least because many writers enjoy the word-play available when a composer's possible motivation for inventing and elaborating specific motivic materials is under discussion. The extent to which motives reach beyond melody into harmony has arguably become a more conscious concern of composers who have moved beyond traditional tonality, and some of the consequences of such concerns are considered here, in relation to recent works by two leading British composers, George Benjamin (b. 1960) and his one-time student Christian Mason (b. 1984).
TOUCH AS A MODEL FOR EXPANDED MUSICAL FORM
Authors: Cole William Davy
Published: December 2018

Touch is world-directed, temporally extended, exploratory contact and movement. It was by modelling his theory of perception on touch that Alva Noë was able to show (inAction in Perception, 2006) that perceptual experience acquires content through our physical interactions with the world, that the detail we perceive in the world ‘is experienced by us asout there, not asin our minds’ (p. 33). In this essay, I share some thoughts on how understanding musical experience on these terms, as touch-like, may be a useful means of looking past the work-concept to the wider field of musical possibilities beyond. I begin by briefly considering the phenomenology of touch, which serves as the basis for the argument that follows.
MUSCLE MEMORY: THE INIMITABLE FEEL OF THE RECORD
Authors: Rennie Tullis
Published: December 2018

Muscle Memory is a new record I have made in collaboration with pianist Matthew Bourne (playing Memorymoog) and trumpeter Graham South. Comprising two composed sound pieces, it was released on vinyl in 2017. The pieces are structured around recordings made in the houses of each collaborator, documenting the act of listening to records. The compositions include conversation between composer and collaborators, samples of music from records heard/discussed, improvised instrumental sections, and electronically manipulated materials. Muscle Memory has since been presented to a number of audiences attending ‘living-room’ listening sessions – held in small, intimate and domestic spaces across the UK. Participative listening of this type is understood through Simon Frith and Christopher Small as an inclusive, collaborative, compositional action. The tactility (Mike D'Errico) and ‘objectness’ (David Grubbs) of records is also of importance. This text is a document of that listening experience.
Pharmacodynamic and urinary metabolomics studies on the mechanism of Schisandra polysaccharide in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Zhongying , Wei Mengying , Hu Mingxin , Yue Kexin , Bi Rongbing , Zhai Shan , Pi Zifeng , Song Fengrui , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: December 2018

This study was designed to investigate the antagonism of SCP in Aβ25–35-induced AD rats by intervening in neurotransmitters and metabolites.
Solvent-free oxidative cleavage of epoxy fatty acid methyl esters by a “release and capture” catalytic system
Authors: Lu Meizhen , Peng Libo , Xie Qinglong , Yang Ni , Jin Hailun , Wu Zhenyu , Nie Yong , Liu Xuejun , Lu Xianghong , Ji Jianbing
Published: December 2018

A green synthesis of bio-aldehydes from vegetable oil derivatives is provided by a WO3/H2O2-based “release and capture” catalytic system.
Vacuum-dried flexible hydrophobic aerogels using bridged methylsiloxane as reinforcement: performance regulation with alkylorthosilicate or alkyltrimethoxysilane co-precursors
Authors: Chen Dangjia , Dong Keyi , Gao Hongyi , Zhuang Tao , Huang Xiubing , Wang Ge
Published: December 2018

Aerogels prepared by the co-precursor method show good flexibility.
Nanographene favors electronic interactions with an electron acceptor rather than an electron donor in a planar fused push–pull conjugate
Authors: Volland Michel , Zhou Ping , Wibmer Leonie , Häner Robert , Decurtins Silvio , Liu Shi-Xia , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: December 2018

A combination of a preexfoliated nanographene (NG) dispersion and fused electron donor–acceptor tetrathiafulvalene–perylenediimide (TTF–PDI) results in a noncovalent functionalization of NG.
The convenient Michael addition of imidazoles to acrylates catalyzed by Lipozyme TL IM from Thermomyces lanuginosus in a continuous flow microreactor
Authors: Du Li-Hua , Dong Zhen , Long Rui-Jie , Chen Ping-Feng , Xue Miao , Luo Xi-Ping
Published: December 2018

A fast and green Michael addition based protocol in a continuous flow microreactor was developed, an innovation which may open up the use of enzymatic microreactors in imidazole analogue biotransformations.
Synthesis and photophysical properties of water-soluble fluorinated poly(aryleneethynylene)s
Authors: Nose K. , Noji K. , Iyoda T. , Sanji T.
Published: December 2018

Reported are the synthesis of water-soluble fluorinated conjugated polymers, and photophysical properties, and fluorescence quenching response to arylamines.
Enhanced antiferroelectric phase stability in La-doped AgNbO3: perspectives from the microstructure to energy storage properties
Authors: Gao Jing , Zhang Yichi , Zhao Lei , Lee Kai-Yang , Liu Qing , Studer Andrew , Hinterstein Manuel , Zhang Shujun , Li Jing-Feng
Published: December 2018

High energy density was achieved in lead-free La-doped AgNbO3 antiferroelectric ceramics.
CuO/TiO2 heterojunction composites: an efficient photocatalyst for selective oxidation of methanol to methyl formate
Authors: Shi Quanquan , Ping Guicheng , Wang Xiaojia , Xu Hui , Li Jingmei , Cui Jiaqi , Abroshan Hadi , Ding Hongjing , Li Gao
Published: December 2018

This study demonstrates the synthesis of an efficient photocatalyst, CuO/TiO2 heterojunction, for selective aerobic photo-oxidation of methanol to methyl formate.
Ab initio study of the dynamics of electron trapping and detrapping processes in the CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite
Authors: Zhang Linghai , Sit Patrick H.-L.
Published: December 2018

Charge trapping and detrapping are responsible for a number of unusual properties in the CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPbI3) perovskite such as photoinduced ion migration, photodegradation, and current density–voltage hysteresis.
Unassisted solar water splitting with 9.8% efficiency and over 100 h stability based on Si solar cells and photoelectrodes catalyzed by bifunctional Ni–Mo/Ni
Authors: Fan Ronglei , Cheng Shaobo , Huang Guanping , Wang Yongjie , Zhang Yazhou , Vanka Srinivas , Botton Gianluigi A. , Mi Zetian , Shen Mingrong
Published: December 2018

Designing a highly efficient and stable photoelectrochemical (PEC) tandem cell for unassisted solar water splitting is considered a promising approach for large-scale solar energy storage.
Visualizing cellular sodium hydrosulfite (Na2S2O4) using azo-based fluorescent probes with a high signal-to-noise ratio
Authors: Dong Baoli , Song Wenhui , Kong Xiuqi , Zhang Nan , Lin Weiying
Published: December 2018

Developing a reliable method to detect Na2S2O4in real time is of great importance for the in-depth study of its toxicity to humans and to allow it to be safely handled.
Enhancement of human adipose-derived stem cell spheroid differentiation in an in situ enzyme-crosslinked gelatin hydrogel
Authors: Tsai Ching-Cheng , Hong Yu-Jun , Lee Randall J. , Cheng Nai-Chen , Yu Jiashing
Published: December 2018

Standardized human adipose-derived stem cell spheroids can be harvested abundantly and the differentiation capability of cell spheroids performed well in the enzyme-crosslinked gelatin hydrogel.
Room-temperature photopatternable low-dielectric cured resins derived from siloxane–carbosilane hybridized polymers
Authors: Fan Li , Zhang Shengbo , Li Xian , Hu Huan , Huang Yawen , Ma Jiajun , Yang Junxiao
Published: December 2018

Siloxane–carbosilane hybridized resins with room-temperature photopatternability, high thermal resistance and a low dielectric constant (2.51–2.74).
Electrospun Janus nanofibers for white-light emission through efficient spatial isolation to control two-step energy transfer
Authors: Qin Zhen , Wang Qiutong , Wang Chengzhong , Xu Dongfeng , Ma Guiping , Pan Kai
Published: December 2018

The Janus structure enabled an efficient spatial separation of the RGB fluorescent molecules in the nanofiber while rationally regulating the two-step energy transfer effect between the RGB fluorescent molecules, resulting in the emission of uniform white-light from every individual microscopic-sized nanofiber.
Investigations of electronic and nonlinear optical properties of single alkali metal adsorbed graphene, graphyne and graphdiyne systems by first-principles calculations
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Li Shikun
Published: December 2018

Novel carbon-based nonlinear optical (NLO) materials were designed by doping single alkali metal atoms into the surface of graphdiyne (GDY), rather than graphene and graphyne, because AM@GDY (AM = Li, Na, K) possesses an exceptionally high first hyperpolarizability (βtot), especially in the case of K@GDY.
The OTELO survey
Authors: Ramón-Pérez Marina , Bongiovanni Ángel , Pérez García Ana María , Cepa Jordi , Lara-López Maritza A. , de Diego José A. , Alfaro Emilio , Castañeda Héctor O. , Cerviño Miguel , Fernández-Lorenzo Mirian , Gallego Jesús , González J. Jesús , González-Serrano J. Ignacio , Nadolny Jakub , Oteo Gómez Iván , Pérez Martínez Ricardo , Pintos-Castro Irene , Pović Mirjana , Sánchez-Portal Miguel
Published: December 2018

Aims. We take advantage of the capability of the OTELO survey to obtain the Hαluminosity function (LF) at z ∼ 0.40. Because of the deepest coverage of OTELO, we are able to determine the faint end of the LF, and thus better constrain the star formation rate and the number of galaxies at low luminosities. The AGN contribution to this LF is estimated as well.

Methods. We make use of the multiwavelength catalogue of objects in the field compiled by the OTELO survey, which is unique in terms of minimum flux and equivalent width. We also take advantage of the pseudo-spectra built for each source, which allow the identification of emission lines and the discrimination of different types of objects.

Results. The Hαluminosity function atz ∼ 0.40 is obtained, which extends the current faint end by almost 1 dex, reaching minimal luminosities of log10Llim = 38.5 erg s−1(or ∼0.002 M⊙yr−1). The AGN contribution to the total Hαluminosity is estimated. We find that no AGN should be expected below a luminosity of log10L = 38.6 erg s−1. From the sample of non-AGN (presumably, pure SFG) atz ∼ 0.40 we estimated a star formation rate density ofρSFR = 0.012 ± 0.005M⊙ yr−1 Mpc−3.
Study of the velocity of upper canine retraction after alveolar corticotomy
Authors: Mezari A. , Si Ahmed F.
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of alveolar corticotomy on orthodontic tooth movement when retracting upper canines compared with the conventionnal treatment. The sample consisted of 30 patients with a mean age of 21 ± 2 years requiring the therapeutic extraction of the maxillary first premolars, with subsequent retraction of the maxillary canines. The subjects were divided into two groups, one receiving orthodontic treatment assisted corticotomy (experimental group) and the other conventional treatment (control group). The velocity of the retraction of the upper canine was evaluated by measuring the distance between the canine and second premolar on each side of the mouth for both groups at 2 months, and 4 months after canine retraction. Results: the velocity of canine was significantly higher on the experimental group than the control group by two times during the first two months after canine retraction. This rate declined to 1.25 times higher after four months. Conclusion: alveolar corticotomy increased orthodontic tooth movement when retracting upper canines.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Diskectomy using an Interlaminar Approach Based on 3D CT/MR Fusion Imaging
Authors: Hashimoto Masayuki , Hirayama Jiro
Published: December 2018

Background With effective preoperative planning, percutaneous endoscopic diskectomy (PED) via an interlaminar approach (PED-IL) can reduce the need for partial laminectomy. Our aim was to assess the clinical outcomes of PED-IL, planned using three-dimensional fusion of computed tomography and magnetic resonance (3D CT/MR) images.

Material and Methods Our retrospective analysis was based on data from 102 patients (66 were men) treated by PED-IL. Preoperative planning was based on the positional relationship between the nerve root and the lumbar disk herniation, visualized on 3D CT/MR fusion images through a simulated IL window. Two approaches were planned: type I, via a partial window opening of the ligamentum flavum, and type II, via a partial IL window opening and partial laminectomy. Decisions were then made to approach the herniation from the shoulder (subtype s) or axillary (subtype a) portion of the nerve, or we used a combination of both approaches (subtype a + s). Operative time and the pre- to postsurgical change in pain and pain-related disability scores (Japanese Orthopaedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire scores) were evaluated. The number of cases in which the preoperative planned surgery was modified intraoperatively and the incidence of complications were also evaluated.

Results A type I approach was planned in 30 cases (29.4%) and type II in 72 cases (70.6%). Intraoperative change from type I to type II was required in two cases. The mean operative time was longer for type II than type I procedures. Pain and pain-related disability scores improved in all patients, and only one case of dural sleeve damage was identified.

Conclusions Preoperative planning using a simulated IL window to visualize the 3D regional anatomy is effective in predicting the feasibility of a PED-IL.