bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms underlying the enhancement of γ‐aminobutyric acid responses in the external globus pallidus of R6/2 Huntington’s disease model mice
Authors: Barry Joshua , Sarafian Theodore A. , Watson Joseph B. , Cepeda Carlos , Levine Michael S.
Published: August 2020

In Huntington's disease (HD), the output of striatal indirect pathway medium‐sized spiny neurons (MSNs) is altered in its target region, the external globus pallidus (GPe). In a previous study we demonstrated that selective optogenetic stimulation of indirect pathway MSNs induced prolonged decay time of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) responses in GPe neurons. Here we identified the mechanism underlying this alteration. Electrophysiological recordings in slices from symptomatic R6/2 and wildtype (WT) mice were used to evaluate, primarily, the effects of GABA transporter (GAT) antagonists on responses evoked by optogenetic activation of indirect pathway MSNs. In addition, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blots (WBs) were used to examine GAT‐3 expression in HD and WT mice. A GAT‐3 blocker (SNAP5114) increased decay time of GABA responses in WT and HD GPe neurons, but the effect was significantly greater in WT neurons. In contrast, a GAT‐1 antagonist (NO‐711) or a GABAB receptor antagonist (CGP 54626) produced small increases in decay time but no differential effects between genotypes. IHC and WBs showed reduction of GAT‐3 expression in the GPe of HD mice. Thus, reduced expression or dysfunction of GAT‐3 could underlie alterations of GPe responses to GABA inputs from striatum and could be a target for therapeutic intervention.
Combination of acamprosate and baclofen (PXT864) as a potential new therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Boussicault Lydie , Laffaire Julien , Schmitt Peter , Rinaudo Philippe , Callizot Noëlle , Nabirotchkin Serguei , Hajj Rodolphe , Cohen Daniel
Published: August 2020

There is currently no therapy impacting the course of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The only approved treatments are riluzole and edaravone, but their efficacy is modest and short‐lasting, highlighting the need for innovative therapies. We previously demonstrated the ability of PXT864, a combination of low doses of acamprosate and baclofen, to synergistically restore cellular and behavioral activity in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease models. The overlapping genetic, molecular, and cellular characteristics of these neurodegenerative diseases supported investigating the effectiveness of PXT864 in ALS. As neuromuscular junction (NMJ) alterations is a key feature of ALS, the effects of PXT864 in primary neuron‐muscle cocultures injured by glutamate were studied. PXT864 significantly and synergistically preserved NMJ and motoneuron integrity following glutamate excitotoxicity. PXT864 added to riluzole significantly improved such protection. PXT864 activity was then assessed in primary cultures of motoneurons derived from SOD1G93A rat embryos. These motoneurons presented severe maturation defects that were significantly improved by PXT864. In this model, glutamate application induced an accumulation of TDP‐43 protein in the cytoplasm, a hallmark that was completely prevented by PXT864. The anti‐TDP‐43 aggregation effect was also confirmed in a cell line expressing TDP‐43 fused to GFP. These results demonstrate the value of PXT864 as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ALS.
Role of CD14‐positive cells in inflammatory cytokine and pain‐related molecule expression in human degenerated intervertebral discs
Authors: Miyagi Masayuki , Uchida Kentaro , Takano Shotaro , Nakawaki Mitsufumi , Sekiguchi Hiroyuki , Nakazawa Toshiyuki , Imura Takayuki , Saito Wataru , Shirasawa Eiki , Kawakubo Ayumu , Akazawa Tsutomu , Inoue Gen , Takaso Masashi
Published: August 2020

Multiple human and animal studies suggest that the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines and other pain‐related molecules in degenerated or injured intervertebral discs (IVDs) may cause discogenic low back pain (LBP). We previously reported that macrophages in injured IVD in mice produced inflammatory cytokines, but not other pain‐related molecules. CD14 is a monocyte marker expressed mainly by macrophages. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the role of CD14‐positive cells in inflammatory cytokine and pain‐related molecule expression in human degenerated IVD. IVD samples were harvested from 14 patients, including 10 with lumbar spinal stenosis, four with adult spinal deformity, and one with lumbar disc herniation during spinal interbody fusion surgery. Harvested IVD‐derived mononuclear cells were obtained and CD14‐positive (+) and CD14‐negative (−) cells were separated using CD14 antibody and streptavidin‐labeled magnetic beads. Inflammatory cytokines messenger RNA (mRNA) in the CD14(+) and CD14(−) cells, including tumor necrosis factor ɑ (TNFA), in, terleukin‐1β (IL1B) and IL6, were determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and their expression levels were compared. To evaluate factors controlling the regulation of pain‐related molecules mRNA expression, cultured CD14(−) and CD14(+) cells from IVDs were stimulated with recombinant human TNF‐ɑ and IL‐1β and levels of pain‐related molecules, including calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and nerve growth factor (NGF) were determined using qPCR. Levels of TNFA, IL1B, IL6, and NGF in CD14(+) cells were significantly increased compared with those in CD14(−) cells (TNFA, p = 0.006; IL1B, p = .017; IL6, p = .010; NGF, p = .027). Following TNFA stimulation, NGF levels were significantly increased in CD14(−) and CD14(+) cells (CD14(−), p = .003; CD14(+), p < .001) and CGRP was significantly increased in CD14(−) IVD cells (p = .040). Following IL1B stimulation, NGF levels were significantly increased in CD14(−) cells (p = .004). CD14(+) cells had higher TNFA, IL1B, IL6, and NGF expressions than CD14(−) cells in human degenerated IVDs. Additionally, TNFA stimulation promoted the upregulation of NGF and CGRP in CD14(−) cells. These findings suggested that CD14(+) cells directly and indirectly contributed to inflammatory cytokine and pain‐related molecule expression in human degenerated IVD. CD14(+) cells might be important in the pathological mechanism of chronic discogenic LBP in humans.
Soybean‐Oil Lipid Minimization for Prevention of Intestinal Failure–Associated Liver Disease in Late‐Preterm and Term Infants With Gastrointestinal Surgical Disorders
Authors: Gupta Kunal , Wang Hongyue , Amin Sanjiv B.
Published: August 2020

Background

Intestinal failure‐associated liver disease (IFALD), a multifactorial disease, is common among infants with gastrointestinal surgical disorders (GISDs). Prolonged soy‐based intravenous lipid emulsion (S‐ILE) intake is associated with IFALD, but preventive studies of limiting S‐ILE have been inconclusive. Furthermore, a double–blind, randomized preventive trial (DBRPT) of S‐ILE intake has not been performed in infants with GISDs. Our objective was to compare the effect of 1 g/kg/d vs 2 g/kg/d S‐ILE intake for 6 weeks on the incidence of IFALD and the rate of rise of direct bilirubin (DB) in infants with GISDs.

Methods

A DBRPT was conducted in infants with GISDs at ≥34 weeks’ gestational age (GA) admitted to the NICU within 72 hours after birth. Infants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 1 or 2 g/kg/d S‐ILE for 6 weeks. IFALD was defined as DB ≥2 mg/dL.

Results

Forty infants were studied. The 2 groups had similar clinical characteristics except for GA and blood group incompatibility. Thirty percent of infants in each group developed IFALD (P = .94). However, infants in the group receiving 1 g/kg/d S‐ILE (n = 20) had a lower rate of rise of DB compared with infants in the group receiving 2 g/kg/d S‐ILE (n = 20).

Conclusions

Reducing S‐ILE intake for 6 weeks in infants with GISD at ≥34 weeks’ GA may not prevent IFALD. The extrapolated data on the rate of rise of DB suggest a possible risk of earlier development of IFALD with S‐ILE intake of 2 g/kg/d, as compared with 1 g/kg/d, beyond the 6‐week study period.
Decontamination of rough implant surfaces colonized by multispecies oral biofilm by application of leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin
Authors: Schuldt Luisa , Bi Jiarui , Owen Gethin , Shen Ya , Haapasalo Markus , Häkkinen Lari , Larjava Hannu
Published: August 2020

Background

Decontamination of biofilm‐infected rough implant surfaces is challenging. Platelet rich blood products have been shown to have anti‐microbial properties against periodontal pathogens. Our aim was to investigate the effect of a potential biological implant surface disinfectant, leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF), on a mature oral multispecies biofilm on a rough titanium surface.

Methods

Sandblasted, large grit, acid‐etched (SLA) titanium disks were inoculated with subgingival dental plaque and cultured anaerobically for 21 days. The L‐PRF membranes were collected from 12 donors in three trials (four donors in each trial). The disks were rinsed with 0.9% NaCl and exposed to the cell‐rich portion of the L‐PRF membranes for 48 hours followed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis immediately or after rinsing with 0.9% NaCl prior to fixation. The presence of platelet factor‐4 in the rinse samples was analyzed by Western blotting. Remaining bacteria were quantified from SEM images of the implant surfaces and their numbers statistically compared.

Results

The L‐PRF‐treated samples without rinsing displayed numerous cells with multiple pseudopodia in immediate contact with bacteria that appeared perforated and increased in size. The cells were identified as platelets based on morphological criteria and by positive reaction for platelet factor‐4 by Western blotting. After post‐treatment rinsing, the L‐PRF‐treated disks displayed a significant reduction in bacterial counts (in average 92% reduction).

Conclusion

Application of L‐PRF significantly reduced bacterial counts on contaminated SLA titanium surface, most likely through anti‐microbial action by platelets.
HPLC coupled with electrospray ionization multistage MS/MS and TLC analysis of flavones‐C‐glycosides and bibenzyl of Dendrobium hercoglossum
Authors: Hu Li , Zhou Chujuan , Huang Yue‐Chun , Wang Yawen , Wei Gang , Liang Zhiyun , Zhou Chunhua
Published: August 2020

Dendrobium hercoglossum Rchb. f. (D. hercoglossum), as one of the origins of medicinal Dendrobium, has been widely used as a health food and nutrient source promoting fluid production. Due to a lack of quality control, it is often counterfeited or mixed with other Dendrobium. In this study, a high‐performance liquid chromatography characteristic chromatogram method is established for the quality evaluation of D. hercoglossum. Based on the high‐performance liquid chromatography characteristic chromatogram, D. hercoglossum is divided into two classes, each with different flavone peaks. These flavone peaks were identified using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization multistage tandem mass spectrometry. Among them, the acylated (3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl, p‐coumaroyl, feruloyl, or sinapoyl) flavones‐C‐glycosides are first found in D. hercoglossum in this study. In addition, one unique band was found in D. hercoglossum by thin‐layer chromatography, which can be used to distinguish it from other Dendrobium species as a characteristic marker of this plant. Combining the high‐performance liquid chromatography characteristic chromatogram and high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization multistage tandem mass spectrometry, the unique band was identified as 4,5‐dihydroxy‐3,3′‐dimethoxybibenzyl. These analysis methods can be applied for the quality control and identification of D. hercoglossum as well as providing reference for the identification of similar constituents in other Dendrobium species.
Lung Ultrasound for COVID‐19 Patchy Pneumonia
Authors: Smargiassi Andrea , Soldati Gino , Torri Elena , Mento Federico , Milardi Domenico , Del Giacomo Paola , De Matteis Giuseppe , Burzo Maria Livia , Larici Anna Rita , Pompili Maurizio , Demi Libertario , Inchingolo Riccardo
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The 2019 novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) is causing cases of severe pneumonia. Lung ultrasound (LUS) could be a useful tool for physicians detecting a bilateral heterogeneous patchy distribution of pathologic findings in a symptomatic suggestive context. The aim of this study was to focus on the implications of limiting LUS examinations to specific regions of the chest.

Methods

Patients were evaluated with a standard sequence of LUS scans in 14 anatomic areas. A scoring system of LUS findings was reported, ranging from 0 to 3 (worst score, 3). The scores reported on anterior, lateral, and posterior landmarks were analyzed separately and compared with each other and with the global findings.

Results

Thirty‐eight patients were enrolled. A higher prevalence of score 0 was observed in the anterior region (44.08%). On the contrary, 21.05% of posterior regions and 13.62% of lateral regions were evaluated as score 3, whereas only 5.92% of anterior regions were classified as score 3. Findings from chest computed tomography performed in 16 patients with coronavirus disease 2019 correlated with and matched the distribution of findings from LUS.

Conclusions

To assess the quantity and severity of lung disease, a comprehensive LUS examination is recommended. Omitting areas of the chest misses involved lung.
Does Vaginal Parity Alter the Association Between Symptoms and Signs of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Authors: Dietz Hans Peter , Rozsa Daniella , Subramaniam Nishamini , Friedman Talia
Published: August 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate whether the number of vaginal births a woman has alters the association between symptoms and signs of pelvic organ prolapse.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we investigated data on 1748 women seen between April 2012 and January 2016. To elucidate whether the number of vaginal births is a confounder of this relationship, we used receiver operating characteristic statistics to investigate the association between symptoms and signs of prolapse in women of different vaginal parity.

Results

A higher number of vaginal births was associated with a higher likelihood of symptoms of prolapse for any given degree of prolapse. Multivariate modeling, however, showed this confounding effect to be due to higher vaginal parity in older women (P < .001). Receiver operating characteristic curves obtained for the association between symptoms and signs of prolapse were near identical regardless of whether vaginal parity was included in the modeling. This was true for both clinical and imaging assessments of prolapse.

Conclusions

Although vaginal childbirth is associated with symptoms of prolapse, the number of vaginal births does not alter the relationship between symptoms and signs of prolapse among individuals presenting to a tertiary care center for evaluation. Previously published limits for “normal” pelvic organ mobility can be used irrespective of vaginal parity.
The Impact of Hemorrhagic Shock on Lung Ultrasound–Induced Pulmonary Capillary Hemorrhage
Authors: Miller Douglas L. , Dou Chunyan , Raghavendran Krishnan , Dong Zhihong
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Lung ultrasound (LUS) exposure can induce pulmonary capillary hemorrhage (PCH), depending on biological and physical exposure parameters. This study was designed to investigate the variation in the LUS induction of PCH due to hemorrhagic shock, which itself can engender pulmonary injury.

Methods

Male rats were anesthetized with isoflurane in air. Shock was induced by withdrawal of 40% of the blood volume and assessed by the blood pressure detected by a femoral artery catheter and by blood glucose tests. B‐mode ultrasound was delivered at 7.3 MHz with a low output (−20 dB) for aiming and with the maximal output (0 dB) for exposure. Pulmonary capillary hemorrhage was quantified by an assessment of comet tail artifacts in the LUS images and by measurement of PCH areas on the surface of fresh lung samples.

Results

Tests without shock or catheterization surgery gave results for PCH similar to those of previous studies using different methods. Exposure before hemorrhagic shock gave a mean PCH area ± SE of 24.8 ± 9.2 mm2 on the ultrasound scan plane, whereas exposure after shock gave 0 PCH (P < .001; n = 7).

Conclusions

The presence of hemorrhagic shock significantly reduces the occurrence of LUS‐induced PCH.
An experimental and modeling study of the oxidation of n‐heptane, ethylbenzene, and n‐butylbenzene in a jet‐stirred reactor at pressures up to 10 bar
Authors: Herbinet Olivier , Husson Benoit , Le Gall Hervé , Battin‐Leclerc Frédérique
Published: August 2020

In the context of better understanding pollutant formation from internal combustion engines, new experimental speciation data were obtained in a high‐pressure jet‐stirred reactor for the oxidation of three molecules, which are considered in surrogates of diesel fuel, n‐heptane, ethylbenzene, and n‐butylbenzene. These experiments were performed at pressures up to 10 bar, at temperatures ranging from 500 to 1 100 K, and for a residence time of 2 s. Based on results previously obtained close to the atmospheric pressure for the same molecules, the pressure effect on fuel conversion and product selectivity was discussed. In addition, for the three fuels, the experimental temperature dependence of species mole fractions was compared with simulations using recent literature models with generally a good agreement. For n‐heptane, the obtained experimental data, at 10 bar for stoichiometric mixtures, included the temperature dependence of the mole fractions of the reactants and those of 21 products. Interestingly, the formation of species previously identified as C7 diones was found significantly enhanced at 10 bar compared with lower pressures. The oxidation of ethyl‐ and n‐butylbenzenes was investigated at 10 bar for equivalence ratios of 0.5, 1, and 2. The obtained experimental data included the temperature dependence of the mole fractions of the reactants and those of 13 products for the C8 fuels and of 19 products for the C10 one. For ethylbenzene under stoichiometric conditions, the pressure dependence (from 1 to 10 bar) of species mole fraction was also recorded and compared with simulations with more deviations obtained than for temperature dependence. For both aromatic reactants, a flow rate analysis was used to discuss the main pressure influence on product selectivities.
Effect of the ionic strength on the redox reaction of dicyanobis(bipyridine)iron(III)‐iodide in binary and ternary solvent systems
Authors: Khattak Rozina , Khan Muhammad Sufaid , Ullah Rizwan , Zainab  , Sony  , Ali Mahnoor , Rahman Wajeeha , Hakeem Faryal , Ayaz Kainat , Bibi Zainab
Published: August 2020

The redox reaction between dicyanobis(bipyridine)iron(III) and iodide ion follows first‐order kinetics in 10% (v/v) tertiary butyl alcohol‐water. The reaction was found first and zero order in iodide and dicyanobis(bipyridine)iron(III), respectively, at 0.06 M ionic strength and 293 ± 1 K. The thermodynamic parameters of activation such as EA (16.07 kJ mol−1), A (1 × 10−4 M s−1), ΔH# (13.6 kJ mol−1), ΔS# (−329.81 J K−1 mol−1), and ΔG# (90.1 kJ mol−1) were determined. The effect of the ionic strength on the rate constant leads to recognizing the stabilization or destabilization of the transition state complex that forms during the rate‐determining step of the reaction. The value of the zero‐order rate constant was decreased with increasing ionic strength that yielded a negative value of the slope in each binary and ternary solvent systems. This negative sign refers to the electron transfer between opposite charge carriers such as [FeIII(bpy)2(CN)2]+ and I− during the rate‐determining step. The destabilization of the transition state complex is surfaced by the increasing slope, that is, 5 < 10 < 15% (v/v) tertiary butyl alcohol‐water with a gradual decrease in the rate constant. However, its stability emerges by relatively small values of the slope in 17.5 < 25 ≤ 30% (v/v) tertiary butyl alcohol‐water and 8:2:90 < 6:4:90% (v/v) dioxane: tertiary butyl alcohol: water with reasonably fast rate of reaction.
M2 Macrophages Promote Collagen Expression and Synthesis in Laryngotracheal Stenosis Fibroblasts
Authors: Motz Kevin , Lina Ioan , Murphy Michael K. , Drake Virginia , Davis Ruth , Tsai Hsiu‐Wen , Feeley Michael , Yin Linda X. , Ding Dacheng , Hillel Alexander
Published: August 2020

Objective

Macrophages exhibit distinct phenotypes and are dysregulated in a model of iatrogenic laryngotracheal stenosis (iLTS). Increased populations of alternatively activated or M2 macrophages have been demonstrated. However, the role of these macrophages is unknown. The aims of this study are: 1) define the macrophage population in iLTS in the context of classically activated or M1 and M2 macrophage phenotypes, and 2) characterize the effect of monocyte‐derived M1 and M2 macrophages on normal airway and LTS‐derived fibroblasts (FBs) in vitro.

Study Design

Comparative analysis; in vitro controlled study.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analysis of human iLTS and control specimens was performed to define the macrophage population. In vitro, M1, and M2 macrophages were polarized using M‐CSF + Interferon‐gamma and lipopolysaccharide or Interleukin‐4, respectively. FBs isolated from laryngotracheal scar (LTS‐FBs) and normal tracheal airway (NA‐FBs) in eight patients with iLTS were cocultured with polarized macrophages. Fibrosis gene expression, soluble collagen production, and proliferation were assessed.

Results

Immunohistochemical analysis revealed increased CD11b + cells (macrophage marker) in laryngotracheal scar specimens (18.3% vs. 8.5%, P = .03) and predominant CD206 (M2) costaining versus CD86 (M1) (51.5% vs. 9.8%, n = 10, P = .001). In vitro, NA‐FBs cultured with M2 macrophages demonstrated a 2.41‐fold increase in collagen‐1 expression (P = .05, n = 8) and an increase in soluble collagen (9.98 vs. 8.875, mean difference: 1.11 95%, confidence interval 0.024–2.192, n = 8, P = .015).

Conclusion

Increased populations of CD11b cells are present in iLTS specimens and are predominantly CD206+, indicating an M2 phenotype. In vitro, M2 macrophages promoted collagen expression in airway FBs. Targeting macrophages may represent a therapeutic strategy for attenuating fibrosis in iLTS.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E346–E353, 2021
Occult Lymph Node Metastasis in Early‐Stage Glottic Cancer in the National Cancer Database
Authors: Patel Tirth R. , Eggerstedt Michael , Toor Jaijeet , Tajudeen Bobby A. , Husain Inna , Stenson Kerstin , Al‐Khudari Samer
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Early‐stage glottic cancer (cT1–T2 cN0) may be treated by primary surgery or radiation. Elective treatment of the neck in clinically N0 disease is usually not performed due to low rates of regional lymph node metastasis. This study examines the role of elective neck dissection (END) and rate of occult nodal metastasis in cT1–T2 cN0 glottic cancer treated with primary surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was used to identify patients treated for early‐stage glottic cancer. Demographic variables, disease characteristics, and overall survival were compared between the subgroups of patients who did and did not receive END. Factors predictive of occult lymph node metastasis were also identified using a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results

Thirty‐eight percent of the 991 patients in this cohort underwent END. Younger age, treatment at an academic facility, advanced T‐stage, and higher tumor grade were associated with receiving END. Sixteen percent of the 372 patients undergoing END had occult nodal metastasis. Higher tumor histopathologic grade was associated with occult metastasis (P = .004). While undergoing END did not affect significantly survival, those with occult metastasis had poorer survival (P < .001).

Conclusions

END should be considered in cT1–T2 N0 glottic cancers with poorly differentiated or undifferentiated tumor histopathology. While END itself may not improve overall survival, identification of occult nodal metastasis is an important finding for prognostication.

Level of Evidence

Level 3 Laryngoscope, 131:E1139–E1146, 2021
Predicting the Premorbid Shape of a Diseased Mandible
Authors: Wang Edward , Tran Khanh Linh , D'heygere Emmanuel , Prisman Eitan
Published: August 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Virtual surgical planning (VSP) for reconstructions of advanced mandibular neoplasms that have distorted the contour of the mandible is challenging, as the premorbid shape of the mandible is unknown. We introduce a novel modeling technique, based on a statistical shape model (SSM), that has learned the shape of a normal mandible from a set of 84 mandibles, such that given a diseased mandible, the model can determine its premorbid shape.

Methods

Eighty‐four control mandibles were used to generate an SSM. Various mandibular defects were created, and the SSM was applied to predict the shape of the original mandible. The predicted and original shape of the defect were compared for accuracy using volumetric overlap and Hausdorff distance. All mandibular VSP cases in the past 2 years were reviewed to identify those that required virtual preprocessing due to significantly distorted mandibular contours. The SSM was compared to those cases requiring preprocessing and highlighted in one prospective VSP.

Results

The average volumetric overlap and Hausdorff distance between the defect replacement and the defect are 73.9% ± 13.3% and 4.51 mm ± 2.65 mm, respectively. The SSM is more accurate for smaller defects, and those not including the condyle. Ten out of 40 VSP cases required preprocessing using four different techniques. Qualitatively, the SSM outperformed those preprocessing techniques applied in the retrospective cases.

Conclusions

The SSM can accurately predict the premorbid shape of a distorted mandible and is superior to current preprocessing techniques. The SSM was successfully applied to a retrospective series and one prospective index case.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E781–E786, 2021
IVORY Guidelines (Instructional Videos in Otorhinolaryngology by YO‐IFOS): A Consensus on Surgical Videos in Ear, Nose, and Throat
Authors: Simon François , Peer Shazia , Michel Justin , Bruce Iain A. , Cherkes Maryana , Denoyelle Françoise , Fagan Johannes J. , Harish Muraleedharan , Hong Paul , James Adrian , Jia Huan , Krishnan P. Vijaya , Maunsell Rebecca , Modi Vikash K. , Nguyen Yann , Parikh Sanjay R. , Patel Nirmal , Pullens Bas , Russo Gennaro , Rutter Michael J. , Sargi Zoukaa , Shaye David , Sowerby Leigh J. , Yung Matthew , Zdanski Carlton J. , Teissier Natacha , Fakhry Nicolas
Published: August 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Otolaryngology instructional videos available online are often of poor quality. The objective of this article was to establish international consensus recommendations for the production of educational surgical videos in otolaryngology.

Study Design

DELPHI survey.

Methods

Twenty‐seven international respondents participated in this study from 12 countries. Consensus was reached after three rounds of questionnaires following the Delphi methodology. The proposals having reached the 80% agreement threshold in the third round were retained.

Results

The main recommendations are as follows: 1) Ethics: patients must be anonymized and unrecognizable (apart from plastic surgery if necessary). A signed authorization must be obtained if the person is recognizable. 2) Technical aspects: videos should be edited and in high‐definition (HD) quality if possible. Narration or subtitles and didactic illustrations are recommended. 3) Case presentation: name of pathology and procedure must be specified; the case should be presented with relevant workup. 4) Surgery: surgical procedures should be divided into several distinct stages and include tips and pitfalls. Pathology should be shown if relevant. Key points should be detailed at the end of the procedure. 5) Organ‐specific: type of approach and bilateral audiometry should be specified in otology. Coronal plane computed tomography scans should be shown in endonasal surgery. It is recommended to show pre‐ and postoperative videos in voice surgery and preoperative drawings and photos of scars in plastic surgery, as well as the ventilation method in airway surgery.

Conclusions

International recommendations have been determined to assist in the creation and standardization of educational surgical videos in otolaryngology and head and neck surgery.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 131:E732–E737, 2021
Environmental change and human land‐use over the past 200 years in the Great Hinggan Mountains, Northeastern China
Authors: Mackenzie Lydia L. , Bao Kunshan , Pratte Steve , Klamt Anna‐Marie , Liu Rongqin , Aquino‐López Marco A. , Zawadzki Atun , Amiri Bahman Jabbarian , Shen Ji , Le Roux Gaël
Published: August 2020

Mountain ecosystems are sensitive to environmental changes and are affected by direct and indirect anthropogenic activities. This study sought to understand the impacts of human occupation, environmental and climate change on the Great Hinggan Mountains (GHM) in Northeastern China. The last 200 years of environmental changes are reconstructed by analyzing sediment cores from five small mountain lakes. Cores were dated using 210Pb and 137Cs radioisotopes, microscopic charcoal identified regional fire activity and fossil pollen analysis reconstructed temporal and spatial changes in vegetation. Peaks in 137Cs, 226Ra and microscopic charcoal flux were found to follow similar trends between sites. The radioisotope records reflect redistribution processes, such as erosion and fire events, which overwhelm the atmospheric fallout signal in the GHM. Microscopic charcoal increased from 1950 CE and peaked at all sites after 2000 CE suggesting that current fire management, coupled with a warmer climate due to global warming, may be leading to more wildfire events in the region. Pinus, Quercus and Betula declined at all sites as human occupation occurred in the early 1900s. Initially, open forest and grassland expanded in response to overexploitation of forests, followed by arboreal pollen reaching maximum values after 2000 CE. This study concludes that the present‐day mixed coniferous broad‐leaved forest dominating the southern region of the GHM is a product of changing fire activity, excessive logging and, more recently, forestry management and vegetation regeneration. Results suggest further management strategies are needed to address land degradation and wildfire events in mountain regions of Northeastern China.
Snapshot of epigenetic regulation in legumes
Authors: Windels David , Dang Thu Thi , Chen Zhijuan , Verdier Jerome
Published: August 2020

In the current context of food security and increase in plant protein demand, legumes have an important role in facing challenges of climate change. With the recent improvement of sequencing technologies and the emergence of new knowledge related to plant epigenetic regulation in response to developmental and environmental changes, legume epigenetics is an emerging field with high potential for improving legume crop productivity and adaptability. The objective of this review is to provide a snapshot of epigenetic studies in different legume species. We have summarized the state‐of‐the‐art regarding legume epigenetic regulation controlling or participating in developmental aspects such as nodule, flower, and seed development and related to biotic and abiotic stresses. This extensive view of the different studies on legume epigenetics provides a baseline for identifying common and distinct mechanisms, and key players in epigenetic regulation from those of model species, such Arabidopsis, and highlights the impact that a better understanding of these mechanisms in legumes could have in order to improve plant productivity and adaptability.
The Potential of Genome Editing for Improving Seed Oil Content and Fatty Acid Composition in Oilseed Crops
Authors: Subedi Udaya , Jayawardhane Kethmi N. , Pan Xue , Ozga Jocelyn , Chen Guanqun , Foroud Nora A. , Singer Stacy D.
Published: August 2020

A continuous rise in demand for vegetable oils, which comprise mainly the storage lipid triacylglycerol, is fueling a surge in research efforts to increase seed oil content and improve fatty acid composition in oilseed crops. Progress in this area has been achieved using both conventional breeding and transgenic approaches to date. However, further advancements using traditional breeding methods will be complicated by the polyploid nature of many oilseed crops and associated time constraints, while public perception and the prohibitive cost of regulatory processes hinders the commercialization of transgenic oilseed crops. As such, genome editing using CRISPR/Cas is emerging as a breakthrough breeding tool that could provide a platform to keep pace with escalating demand while potentially minimizing regulatory burden. In this review, we discuss the technology itself and progress that has been made thus far with respect to its use in oilseed crops to improve seed oil content and quality. Furthermore, we examine a number of genes that may provide ideal targets for genome editing in this context, as well as new CRISPR‐related tools that have the potential to be applied to oilseed plants and may allow additional gains to be made in the future.
Physiological and molecular responses to ocean acidification among strains of a model diatom
Authors: Huang Ruiping , Ding Jiancheng , Sun Jiazhen , Tian Yang , Bowler Chris , Lin Xin , Gao Kunshan
Published: August 2020

Differential responses of diatoms, an important group of marine primary producers to ocean acidification, have been well documented. However, studies so far are based on limited representative strains from key species. Investigation of strain level responses will help us better understand the contrasting discrepancy in diatom responses to ocean acidification. Here, we selected four strains of the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum isolated from different regions of the global ocean, representing all genotypes based on internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences, and investigated strain‐specific responses to ocean acidification. In response to ocean acidification, changes in carbon metabolism varied among strains, although no significant effects of ocean acidification on growth rates or pigments were observed in any strains. The expression of genes encoding plasma membrane bicarbonate transporters was downregulated in strain Pt4, reflecting a potential decrease in active uptake, which was not observed in the other strains. Reduction of CO2 concentrating mechanism efficiency was also indicated by the regulated expression of genes encoding carbonic anhydrases that catalyze the interconversion of and CO2 in the pyrenoids and pyrenoid‐penetrating thylakoid, which exhibited different patterns among the strains. Under ocean acidification conditions, C4‐like metabolism appeared to redistribute carbon flux to gluconeogenesis in strain Pt1, and lipid synthesis in strains Pt8 and Pt11, rather than participating in net photosynthetic carbon fixation. These variations were incompletely correlated with phylogenetic relationship in different strains, implying that the habitat‐adapted imprints of the different strains could also be responsible for their differential responses to ocean acidification.
Biofabrication and Characterization of Alginate Dialdehyde‐Gelatin Microcapsules Incorporating Bioactive Glass for Cell Delivery Application
Authors: Reakasame Supachai , Jin Anbang , Zheng Kai , Qu Muchao , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: August 2020

The effect of the incorporation of 45S5 bioactive glass (BG) microparticles (mean particle size ≈ 2 µm) on the fabrication and physicochemical properties of alginate dialdehyde‐gelatin hydrogel capsules is investigated. The addition of BG particles decreases the hydrogel gelation time by ≈79% and 91% for the samples containing 0.1% w/v and 0.5% w/v BG, respectively. Moreover, it results in increasing average diameter of hydrogel capsules produced via a pressure‐driven extrusion technique from about 1000 µm for the samples without BG to about 1700 and 1900 µm for the samples containing BG at concentrations of 0.1% w/v and 0.5% w/v, respectively. The presence of BG particles in the capsules decreases the degradation rate and improves the bioactivity of the materials. The viability of MG‐63 cells encapsulated in all samples increases during the first 7 d of cultivation and maintains the same level during 21 d of cultivation. The early cell viability in samples containing BG is lower than that in samples without BG. The results show that 45S5 BG can positively regulate the osteogenic activity of cells incorporated in hydrogel capsules. The fabricated composite capsules exhibit promising potential for cell delivery in bone regeneration applications.
Supramolecular Gelatin Networks Based on Inclusion Complexes
Authors: Löwenberg Candy , Tripodo Giuseppe , Julich‐Gruner Konstanze K. , Neffe Axel T. , Lendlein Andreas
Published: August 2020

Hydrogel forming physical networks based on gelatin are an attractive approach toward multifunctional biomaterials with the option of reshaping, self‐healing, and stimuli‐sensitivity. However, it is challenging to design such gelatin‐based hydrogels to be stable at body temperature. Here, gelatin functionalized with desaminotyrosine (DAT) or desaminotyrosyl tyrosine (DATT) side chains is crosslinked with cyclodextrin (CD) dimers under formation of inclusions complexes. The supramolecular networks displayed at room temperature decreased water uptake (200–600 wt% for DAT‐based systems, 200 wt% for DATT based systems), and increased storage moduli up to 25.6 kPa determined by rheology compared to DAT(T) gelatin. The gel–sol transition temperature increased from 33 up to 42 °C. The presented system that is completely based on natural building blocks may form the basis for materials that may potentially respond by dissolution or changes of properties to changes in environmental conditions or to the presence of CD guest molecules.
Determination of Head‐Addition Incidence of Methyl Acrylate and Temperature Dependence in Radical Polymerization by Coupling Reversible Addition‐Fragmentation Chain Transfer Block Polymerization Derivatization and Gradient Polymer Elution Chromatography
Authors: Zhang Mengyuan , Xue Yang , Zhang Shixian , Zhang Jianhua , Guo Ruiwei
Published: August 2020

Regioselective addition of nonsymmetrical monomers in radical polymerization is a basic issue for control of the reaction kinetics and structure of the resulting products. In reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, head addition generates primary alkyl adducts when trapped by RAFT agents. Due to the low leaving ability of primary alkyl radicals, this kind of adduct in RAFT polymerization will become nonactive macro‐RAFT agents, that is, dead dormant species (DDS). Based on the previously‐developed equation for the correlation of DDS content (α) with head‐addition incidence (ρ1) in RAFT polymerization and the quantitative determination method of DDS content by coupling a block‐polymerization derivatization with gradient polymer elution chromatography analysis, the ρ1 values of methyl acrylate (MA) at different temperatures are determined with benzyl N‐carbazolecarbodithioate (BCBD) as RAFT agent and 2‐methyloxyethyl acrylate as the second monomer for block‐polymerization derivatization. The results show that the ρ1 values of MA at 60, 70, 80, and 90 °C are 2.04 × 10−3, 2.37 × 10−3, 2.72 × 10−3, and 3.28 × 10−3, respectively, and the activation energy for ρ1 is 15.8 kJ mol−1. The DDS in BCBD‐mediated RAFT polymerization of MA is separated by column chromatography and characterized by 1H‐NMR and MALDI‐TOF MS.
Radiation Synthesis of Rapidly Self‐Healing Hydrogel Derived from Poly(acrylic acid) with Good Mechanical Strength
Authors: Ghobashy Mohamed Mohamady , El‐Sattar Nour E. A. Abd
Published: August 2020

This article aims at designing a new self‐healing hydrogel with good mechanical strength. A new class of carbamothioyl monomer of N‐((2‐((2‐aminoethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamothioyl)acrylamide (AECAm) is derived from acrylic acid monomer in mild conditions. The copolymerization of acrylic acid (30%) with 10% of AECAm is performed in aqueous media via radical polymerization induced by gamma irradiation at a dose of 30 kGy. The obtained p(AAc/AECAm) hydrogel exhibits rapid self‐healing in 3 s without any external agent assistance (host interaction) because of the electrostatic interactions and intermolecular hydrogen bonding formation between PAAc and PAECAm matrices. The AECAm is containing carbamothioyl and acrylamide moieties that are performed using 1H NMR, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV spectroscopy measurements. The reactivity descriptors for AECAm monomer in keto form using density functional theory are investigated. The experimental results indicate that the AECAm molecules form enol and keto tautomeric structures when it converts from monomer to polymer form. This interesting feature gives p(AAc/AECAm) hydrogel the rapid self‐healing property (3 s) and a good mechanical strength (8.48–107.9 kPa) under the successive loading conditions. These results indicate that the p(AAc/AECAm) hydrogel can find application in biomaterial proposal and may function as a template for generating artificial articular cartilage.
Polymers in the Blender
Authors: Junkers Tanja
Published: August 2020

Ever since the birth of controlled polymerizations, polymer synthesis always strived toward distributions that are as narrowly dispersed as possible. Yet, such polymers are not always advantageous, and only recently methods have started to develop that allow to create polymers with controllable molecular weight and dispersity. Stretching beyond that, there are also now tools to create distributions of any shape. This level of control, even if this is just the start of these endeavors, has tremendous potential for developing materials with superior and more precise physical properties. The principles for the synthesis of different molecular weight distributions shapes are introduced and discussed.
Dot Nanopattern Self‐Assembled from Rod‐Coil Block Copolymer on Substrate
Authors: Sun Bo , Xu Zhanwen , Tang Zhengmin , Cai Chunhua , Lin Jiaping
Published: August 2020

Nanoscale dot patterns are important in various fields. However, it is still a challenge to fabricate ordered nanopatterns on substrates through a polymer self‐assembly approach. In this work, it is reported that polypeptide‐based rod‐coil block copolymers can self‐assemble into surface micelles on substrates, thus forming dot nanopatterns. The size of the surface micelles is readily adjusted by the degree of the polymerization of the block copolymers. It is found that most of the surface micelles are in a sixfold coordinated lattice, indicating an ordered array feature. Defects such as fivefold coordination arrays and sevenfold coordination arrays are also observed, which are derived from the nonuniform size of the micelles and the existence of nonspherical micelles. The experimental findings are well modelled by dissipative particle dynamics theoretical simulations, and the simulations provide more detailed information, such as the packing manner of the polymer chain in the surface micelles.
Dual Action Antimicrobial Surfaces: Alternating Photopatterns Maintain Contact‐Killing Properties with Reduced Biofilm Formation
Authors: Blackman Lewis D. , Fros Marion K. , Welch Nicholas G. , Gengenbach Thomas R. , Qu Yue , Pasic Paul , Gunatillake Pathiraja A. , Thissen Helmut , Cass Peter , Locock Katherine E. S.
Published: August 2020

Contact‐killing antimicrobial coatings are important for reducing medical device related nosocomial bacterial infections, yet they inadvertently suffer from rapid bacterial colonization. To lessen the extent of biofilm formation on such surfaces, it is hypothesized that coatings containing alternating regions of a low‐fouling polymer incorporated into a contact‐killing surface would reduce bacterial colonization, while still allowing for the contact‐killing properties to be retained. To this end, photopatterned surfaces are developed with alternating regions comprised of a crosslinked low‐fouling zwitterionic copolymer and regions containing the antimicrobial peptide nisin for contact‐killing. The surfaces are characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements and assessed for their efficacy against Staphylococcus epidermidis colonization. The dual antimicrobial action surfaces present the synergistic advantages of both classes of coatings against the prolific biofilm‐forming bacterium, reducing the biofilm surface coverage by 70% relative to the nonpatterned control, while still retaining their contact‐killing activity. The results suggest that patterned surfaces, which combine nonadhesive regions with contact killing regions, have the potential to provide improved control over bacterial colonization, biofilm formation, and medical device‐associated infections.
Strong Exciton–Photon Coupling in Dye‐Doped Polymer Microcavities
Authors: Tang Ji , Ren Ang , Zhou Zhonghao , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: August 2020

Organic strongly coupled microcavities are of crucial importance in broad application fields, ranging from creation of Bose–Einstein condensates to control of chemistry reactions. Generally, strong coupling occurs in microcavities containing large ensembles of molecules, which, however, may suffer from molecular aggregation and luminescence quenching, restricting the optical applications of the microcavities. Here, the emission properties of dye‐doped polymer microcavities in strong coupling regime are investigated. The dispersion of dye molecules suppresses the aggregation‐caused quenching, and therefore the microcavities exhibit strong photoluminescence (PL) corresponding to the polariton branches. The time‐resolved PL measurement results reveal that the observed long PL lifetimes of the microcavities are dominated by the rates of the slow relaxation from the exciton reservoir to the polariton branches. The results will provide a useful enlightenment for using dye‐doped polymer microcavities to investigate strong coupling and construct polaritonic devices.
Synthesis and Structural Studies of Zn0.95Cu0.05Mn2O4 Ceramics
Authors: Shashidharagowda H. , Kulkarni Akshay , Mathad Shridhar N.
Published: August 2020

The fabrication of Zn0.95Cu0.05Mn2O4 ceramic material is obtained by simple chemical route (co‐precipitation method) at 600˚C. The sample is characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The diffraction pattern in comparison with the JCPDS card #96‐901‐2843, confirms the spinel tetragonal structure with lattice parameters a = 5.9365 Å and c = 8.6422 Å, unit cell volume of 304.573 Å3. The other possible parameters like crystallite size, X‐ray density, dislocation density, micro strain, and texture co‐efficient are reported using XRD analysis. The micro strain and crystallite size are correlated with the respective values got from Williamson–Hall and size‐strain analysis method. The SEM image showed the clouds like algae structure with grain size 3.934 µm. The effect of copper doping on structure and morphology of zinc manganite is evidenced.