bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internal electric field engineering for steering photogenerated charge separation and enhancing photoactivity
Authors: Guo Yan , Shi Wenxin , Zhu Yongfa
Published: November 2019

Photocatalysis as a desirable technology shows great potential in environmental remediation and renewable energy generation, but the recombination of photogenerated carriers is a key limiting factor for efficiency in artificial photosynthesis. Internal electric field (IEF, also known as built‐in electric field) engineering acts an emerging and clearly viable route to increase photocatalytic efficiency by facilitating charge separation and transfer. This review summarizes the basic principles of IEF including the source, the strategies for the enhancement and the measurement of IEF. Highlight is the recent progress in steering photogenerated charge separation of photocatalysts by IEF engineering and related mechanisms. Finally, the challenges in IEF engineering and exciting opportunities to further enhancing charge separation and photocatalytic performance are discussed.

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Biomimetic organohydrogel electrolytes for high‐environmental adaptive energy storage devices
Authors: Mo Funian , Liang Guojin , Wang Donghong , Tang Zijie , Li Hongfei , Zhi Chunyi
Published: November 2019

Conventional hydrogel electrolytes suffer from the following notable defects: (a) water molecules inevitably evaporate from hydrogels under ambient conditions, and high temperature accelerates the dehydration process, leading to deterioration of electrochemical performance; (b) at subzero temperatures, the water existed in gel matrix would freeze and inhibit the ion transportation of hydrogel electrolyte; (c) while operating under water, the gel electrolyte absorbs water and swells, resulting in the loss of adhesion between electrodes and electrolyte. The exchange of solutes causes the decrease of ion concentration and depresses the device performance. These environmental effects fundamentally limit the long‐term stability and utilization of aqueous flexible energy storage devices under severe conditions. Hence, inspired by epidermal tissue of mammalian skin, we propose a biomimetic organohydrogel (BM‐gel) electrolyte with extreme temperature tolerance and long‐term moisture lock‐in property, which is synthesized in an ethylene glycol/water solvent system with a chemically elastomeric coating on the surface. The BM‐gel electrolyte exhibits high ionic conductivity when containing different ions, such as Zn2+, Li+, H+, and Na+ ions. A rechargeable Zn‐MnO2 battery is constructed with the BM‐gel electrolyte, which exhibits excellent electrochemical performance over the temperature range from −20°C to 80°C. The specific capacity retains over 70% and coulombic efficiencies approach ~100% in full temperature scale. Even after a prolonged storage of 30 days without package, 84.6% capacity is retained benefiting from the superior antidehydration property bestowed by the thin elastomer coating. Furthermore, another two types of energy storage devices were also fabricated with the novel hydrogel, demonstrating the universal feature of our strategy.

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Reaching Underserved Populations through a Fisheries Education Program
Authors: Clark Kalysha , Pender Danielle , Peterson M Nils , Stevenson Kathryn , Lawson Danielle , Szczytko Rachel
Published: November 2019

Environmentally literate citizens capable of making informed decisions are essential to successfully managed fisheries. Fisheries-focused environmental education programs may help build environmental literacy, but experimental evaluations are needed to determine the effectiveness of fisheries education programs. We begin addressing this need with a study of “Shad in the Classroom.” The program engages students in American Shad Alosa sapidissima restoration through rearing and releasing fry. We used a pre/post, treatment (n = 777)/control (n = 57) evaluation during the 2016–2017 academic year. Participation in the program created large improvements in American Shad knowledge between tests (P < 0.001). All students gained knowledge, but African Americans (P < 0.001) and students identifying as “other” races and ethnicities (P = 0.003) fell behind their peers. Shad in the Classroom is an effective tool for teaching children about fisheries management but, may help ethnic minorities the least, suggesting a need to tailor content for diverse students.
Investigating the flavor compounds in the cocoa powder production process
Authors: Mohamadi Alasti Fariba , Asefi Narmela , Maleki Ramin , SeiiedlouHeris Seiied Sadegh
Published: November 2019

Flavor is one of the most important quality properties of cacao beans, playing a key role in the admissibility of cocoa products, such as cocoa powder. This study examined the industrial processes influencing the flavor of cacao beans. The Ivory Coast cacao beans were used after their alkaline treatment with potassium carbonate (up to pH 7.5–8) and being roasted at 115–120°C for 60–70 min. The volatile components were extracted using Likens–Nickerson simultaneous distillation–extraction (SDE) apparatus. The volatile compound profiles were identified by means of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), as a result of which several compounds (alcohols, carboxylic acids, aldehydes, ketones, esters, and pyrazines) were recognized. Alkalization and roasting were shown to be two important steps in the cacao beans processing that can affect the final cocoa powder flavor. In addition, pyrazines and esters were two major groups of flavor compounds formed during the roasting stage by the Maillard reaction. The percentage of 2,3,5,6‐tetramethylpyrazine was detected in the cacao beans equal to 0.5%. After the liquor pressing stage, tetramethylpyrazine increased to its highest amount (3%) in cocoa powder. It was found that the cocoa powder contained 2.69% of tetramethylpyrazine, 3.22% isobutyl benzoate, and 1.38% linalool. The highest percentage of increase in the mean amounts of 2,3,5,6‐tetramethylpyrazine, isobutyl benzoate, and linalool were observed in the roasting stage, after which the percentages diminished.
Disrupting insulin signaling in Schwann cells impairs myelination and induces a sensory neuropathy
Authors: Hackett Amber R. , Strickland Amy , Milbrandt Jeffrey
Published: November 2019

Although diabetic mice have been studied for decades, little is known about the cell type specific contributions to diabetic neuropathy (DN). Schwann cells (SCs) myelinate and provide trophic support to peripheral nervous system axons. Altered SC metabolism leads to myelin defects, which can be seen both in inherited and DNs. How SC metabolism is altered in DN is not fully understood, but it is clear that insulin resistance underlies impaired lipid metabolism in many cell types throughout the body via the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinase b (PKB)/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway. Here, we created an insulin resistant SC by deleting both insulin receptor (INSR) and insulin‐like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R), to determine the role of this signaling pathway in development and response to injury in order to understand SC defects in DN. We found that myelin is thinner throughout development and adulthood in INSR/IGF1R Schwann cell specific knock out mice. The nerves of these mutant mice had reduced expression of key genes that mediate fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis due to reduced mTOR–sterol regulatory element‐binding protein signaling. In adulthood, these mice show sensory neuropathy phenotypes reminiscent of diabetic mice. Altogether, these data suggest that SCs may play an important role in DN and targeting their metabolism could lead to new therapies for DN.
Predicting escitalopram monotherapy response in depression: The role of anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Tian Shui , Sun Yurong , Shao Junneng , Zhang Siqi , Mo Zhaoqi , Liu Xiaoxue , Wang Qiang , Wang Li , Zhao Peng , Chattun Mohammad Ridwan , Yao Zhijian , Si Tianmei , Lu Qing
Published: November 2019

Neuroimaging biomarkers of treatment efficacy can be used to guide personalized treatment in major depressive disorder (MDD). Escitalopram is recommended as first‐line therapy for MDD and severe depression. An interesting hypothesis suggests that the reconfiguration of dynamic brain networks might provide important insights into antidepressant mechanisms. The present study assesses whether the spatiotemporal modulation across functional brain networks could serve as a predictor of effective antidepressant treatment with escitalopram. A total of 106 first‐episode, drug‐naïve patients and 109 healthy controls from three different multicenters underwent resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were considered as responders if they had a reduction of at least 50% in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression scores at endpoint (>2 weeks). Multilayer modularity framework was applied on the whole brain to construct features in relation to network dynamic characters that were used for multivariate pattern analysis. Linear soft‐threshold support vector machine models were used to separate responders from nonresponders. The permutation tests demonstrated the robustness of discrimination performances. The discriminative regions formed a spatially distributed pattern with anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) as the hub in the default mode subnetwork. Interestingly, a significantly larger module allegiance of ACC was also found in treatment responders compared to nonresponders, suggesting high interactivities of ACC to other regions may be beneficial for the recovery after treatment. Consistent results across multicenters confirmed that ACC could serve as a predictor of escitalopram monotherapy treatment outcome, implying strong likelihood of replication in the future.
Hyperoxidized Albumin Modulates Platelets and Promotes Inflammation Through CD36 Receptor in Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Bhat Adil , Das Sukanta , Yadav Gaurav , Chaudhary Sudrishti , Vyas Ashish , Islam Mojahidul , Gupta Abhishak C. , Bajpai Meenu , Maiwall Rakhi , Maras Jaswinder Singh , Sarin Shiv K.
Published: November 2019

Hyperoxidized albumin promotes inflammation and modulates several immune cells in severe alcoholic hepatitis (SAH). Platelets mediate inflammation by interacting with immune cells, endothelium, and other cells. The role of hyperoxidized albumin in platelet activation and alteration of platelet phenotype/functions is not known. Quantitative platelet proteomics performed in 10 patients with SAH was compared with 10 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and 10 healthy controls, respectively. Dysregulated pathways were identified and validated in a separate cohort (n = 40). Healthy platelets were exposed to patient plasma or purified albumin or ex vivo modified albumin (human‐mercaptalbumin, humannonmercaptalbumin‐1, and human nonmercaptalbumin 2) in the presence or absence of CD36 blockade, and platelet secretome was analyzed. Two hundred and two up‐regulated proteins linked to platelet activation, complement regulation, lipid transportation, and 321 down‐regulated proteins related to platelet hemostasis and coagulation (fold change ± 1.5, P < 0.01) were identified. Blood transcription module enrichment showed an inflammatory phenotype of SAH platelet. Increased level of platelet factor‐4, P‐selectin, and soluble cluster of differentiation‐40 ligand correlated with severity (Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score, r > 0.3, P < 0.05) in SAH. Transcripts linked to platelet activation (increased) and granular secretions (decreased in SAH) correlated with disease severity. SNARE (soluble‐N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive‐factor‐activating‐protein‐receptor) complex proteins (SNAP‐23 [synaptosomal‐associated protein 23] and VAMP‐8 [vesicle‐associated membrane protein 3]) were down‐regulated in SAH platelets (P < 0.05). In vitro stimulation of healthy platelets showed enhanced activation with patient plasma, or purified albumin‐treatment blocking of CD36 blunted this effect (P < 0.05). Ex vivo modified albumin (primarily nonmercaptalbumin–human nonmercaptalbumin 2 [HNA2; 1 mg/mL]) showed high activation and aggregation and intracellular reactive oxygen species production in healthy platelets (P < 0.05), which significantly reduced after CD36 neutralization. Platelet secretome showed reduced inflammatory mediators and increased repair proteins. Conclusion: Hyperoxidized albumin triggers platelet activation (possibly through the CD36 receptor), promotes inflammation and oxidative stress, and contributes to disease severity in patients with SAH.
Spatial variations of valley splitting in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide
Authors: Zou Chenji , Zhang Hongbo , Chen Yu , Feng Shun , Wu Lishu , Zhang Jing , Yu Ting , Shang Jingzhi , Cong Chunxiao
Published: November 2019

In monolayer group‐VI transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), valley splitting features have received a lot of attention since it can be potentially utilized for information storing and processing. Among the known two‐dimensional (2D) TMDs, monolayer WSe2 or MoSe2 has been mostly selected for excitonic and valleytronic physics studies because of its sharp and well‐resolved excitonic spectral features. Meanwhile, their high optical quality leads to a tremendous desire for developing promising WSe2‐ and MoSe2‐based valleytronic devices. Toward this goal, exploring the uniformity of valley features crossing an entire piece of monolayer becomes necessary and critical. Here, we performed the systematic magneto‐photoluminescence mapping measurements on mechanically exfoliated monolayer WSe2 and observed unconventional spatial variations of valley splitting. The observed nonuniformity is attributed to the modulated doping, which is probably due to the different distributions of unintentional absorbates across the sample. Such an unexpected doping effect shows the nonnegligible influence on the valley Zeeman splitting of the trion emission (XT) while affecting that of the neutral exciton emission (X0) trivially, evidencing for the large valleytronic sensitivity of the charged exciton. This work not only enriches the understanding of the doping effect on valley splitting but also is meaningful for developing 2D valleytronics.

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Fog‐enabled vehicular networks: A new challenge for mobility management
Authors: Aljeri Noura , Boukerche Azzedine
Published: November 2019

With the increasing presence of latency‐critical applications and services along with the high demand for ubiquitous connectivity, a new challenge arise in the design of the next generation of vehicular networks. The requirements of low latency services and powerful computational functionalities have decreased the performance of cloud centers, being unable to satisfy the fast growing number of vehicles on roads and road assistance based applications. Vehicular Fog Networks is an emerging network architecture that elevates the burden on the cloud and shifts Cloud services to the edge of the network. However, the integration of fog‐computing and vehicular networks raises several issues and challenges, including mobility management. In this paper, we provide insights into the latest solutions for mobility management protocols in fog‐enabled vehicular networks. Then, we explore related open issues and point out future research directions.
A review of investigations of operant renewal with human participants: Implications for theory and practice
Authors: Saini Valdeep , Mitteer Daniel R.
Published: November 2019

Operant renewal is the recurrence of a previously eliminated target behavior as a function of changing stimulus contexts. Renewal as a model of treatment relapse in humans suggests that a change in stimulus conditions or context is sufficient to produce relapse of a previously eliminated maladaptive behavior. The extent to which general findings from operant renewal studies involving nonhuman animal subjects are supported by relapse studies involving human participants is unknown. We conducted a systematic review of studies demonstrating or mitigating operant renewal in human participants in peer‐reviewed studies found in PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, and Scopus between 1980 and 2019. We identified 12 studies involving 61 participants and 93 cases of operant renewal. We coded descriptive data on participant and study characteristics and calculated summary statistics. Results indicated that the renewal effect was a robust phenomenon, supported by demonstrations in both clinical and human‐laboratory studies, and across a variety of variables and experimental preparations. However, there were relatively few studies involving human participants that attempted to reduce or eliminate renewal of clinically meaningful behavior. We discuss variables relevant for studying renewal in socially meaningful contexts, practical limitations of observing the renewal effect in real‐world settings, implications for theoretical models of renewal, and identify barriers to methodology unique to human participants. We provide directions for future research related to implementing and translating nonhuman animal studies of renewal to applied settings.
High body mass index is not associated with increased treatment failure in infliximab treated pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Rodin Isaac , Chan Justin , Meleady Laura , Hii Clare , Lawrence Sally , Jacobson Kevan
Published: November 2019

Background and Aim

While weight gain during infliximab therapy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is common, there has been limited research evaluating its impact on infliximab efficacy.

Methods

Primary aims of this study were to determine the frequency of excess weight gain (body mass index [BMI] > 25 kg/m2) in children with IBD on maintenance infliximab and evaluate the impact on infliximab dosing, serum trough levels, and treatment failure. Secondary aims were to determine differences in weight gain, treatment characteristics, and clinical/biochemical variables between patients with therapeutic and subtherapeutic maintenance therapy trough levels. We performed a retrospective study of 253 pediatric IBD (75.1% Crohn's disease, 23.3% ulcerative colitis, 1.6% IBD‐unclassified) patients on infliximab followed at BC Children's Hospital between January 2013 and January 2018.

Results

Median age at infliximab initiation was 13.9 years, median length of follow up was 56.9 months, and 55.7% were males; 10.3% of the cohort demonstrated excess weight gain (7.5% overweight, 2.8% obese). Average mg/kg dosing was not statistically different between groups (normal, overweight, and obese: 6.7, 6.4, and 6.7 mg/kg, respectively, P = 0.52). Median BMI of patients with therapeutic and subtherapeutic trough levels was similar at 19.9 kg/m2 (interquartile range [IQR], 17.3–23.8) and 19.7 kg/m2 (IQR, 17.4–21.9), respectively. BMI had no effect on secondary loss of response to infliximab, with no significant difference between normal and high BMI subgroups (13.4 vs. 16.7%, P = 0.9).

Conclusions

In a subgroup of pediatric IBD patients on maintenance infliximab, excess weight gain was not associated with higher weight‐based dosing, lower serum trough levels, or increased risk of treatment failure.
GBX2, as a tumor promoter in lung adenocarcinoma, enhances cells viability, invasion and migration by regulating the AKT/ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Yuanchun , Hui Jianping , Li Renting , Fu Qiaoqiao , Yang Pu , Xiao Yingchun , Hui Jianrong
Published: November 2019

Background

Increasing evidence shows that gastrulation brain homeobox 2 (GBX2) is involved in multiple cancers. However, whether GBX2 has an effect on the lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the functions of GBX2 on lung adenocarcinoma and explored the underlying mechanism.

Methods

Public data were obtained from the TCGA (https://cancergenome.nih.gov) and Oncomine (http://www.oncomine.org) databases. GBX2 expression and its prognostic value were analyzed by bioinformatics methods. Relative mRNA and protein expression levels of GBX2 in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines were evaluated via a quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Lung adenocarcinoma cell lines LTEP‐a‐2 and A549, respectively, were selected for gain and loss function of GBX2 assays. Cell viability was detected by CCK8 and clone formation experiments. Cell invasion and migration were assessed by Transwell assays. The effect of GBX2 on the AKT/extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathway was tested by western blotting.

Results

Compared to adjacent tissues, GBX2 expression was up‐regulated in lung adenocarcinoma tissues. High expression of GBX2 led to a poor survival and could be seen as an independent predictor for lung adenocarcinoma patients. Furthermore, down‐regulation of GBX2 notably restrained the viability, invasion and migration abilities of A549 cells, whereas up‐regulation of GBX2 in LTEP‐a‐2 cells presented the opposite outcomes. Furthermore, western blot indicated that down‐regulation of GBX2 decreases the protein levels of phosphorylated (p)‐AKT and p‐ERK in A549 cells, whereas up‐regulation of GBX2 shows the opposite effects in LTEP‐a‐2 cells.

Conclusions

The results of present study indicate that GBX2 acts a cancer‐promoting role to accelerate cell proliferation, invasion and migration partly by modulation of the AKT/ERK pathway in lung adenocarcinoma.
The Kendrick analysis for polymer mass spectrometry
Authors: Fouquet Thierry N.J.
Published: November 2019

The mass spectrum of a polymer often displays repetitive patterns with peak series spaced by the repeating unit(s) of the polymeric backbones, sometimes complexified with different adducts, chain terminations, or charge states. Exploring the complex mass spectral data or filtering the unwanted signal is tedious whether performed manually or automatically. In contrast, the now 60‐year‐old Kendrick (mass defect) analysis, when adapted to polymer ions, produces visual two‐dimensional maps with intuitive alignments of the repetitive patterns and favourable deconvolution of features overlaid in the one‐dimensional mass spectrum. This special feature article reports on an up‐to‐date and theoretically sound use of Kendrick plots as a data processing tool. The approach requires no prior knowledge of the sample but offers promising dynamic capabilities for visualizing, filtering, and sometimes assigning congested mass spectra. Examples of applications of the approach to polymers are discussed throughout the text, but the same tools can be readily extended to other applications, including the analysis of polymers present as pollutants/contaminants, and to other analytes incorporating a repetitive moiety, for example, oils or lipids. In each of these instances, data processing can benefit from the application of an updated and interactive Kendrick analysis.
Dysfunction of the corticostriatal pathway in autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Li Wei , Pozzo‐Miller Lucas
Published: November 2019

The corticostriatal pathway that carries sensory, motor, and limbic information to the striatum plays a critical role in motor control, action selection, and reward. Dysfunction of this pathway is associated with many neurological and psychiatric disorders. Corticostriatal synapses have unique features in their cortical origins and striatal targets. In this review, we first describe axonal growth and synaptogenesis in the corticostriatal pathway during development, and then summarize the current understanding of the molecular bases of synaptic transmission and plasticity at mature corticostriatal synapses. Genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been implicated in axonal growth abnormalities, imbalance of the synaptic excitation/inhibition ratio, and altered long‐term synaptic plasticity in the corticostriatal pathway. Here, we review a number of ASD‐associated high‐confidence genes, including FMR1, KMT2A, GRIN2B, SCN2A, NLGN1, NLGN3, MET, CNTNAP2, FOXP2, TSHZ3, SHANK3, PTEN, CHD8, MECP2, DYRK1A, RELN, FOXP1, SYNGAP1, and NRXN, and discuss their relevance to proper corticostriatal function.
Dryness/wetness pattern over the Three‐River Headwater Region: Variation characteristic, causes, and drought risks
Authors: Li Sisi , Yao Zhijun , Wang Rui , Liu Zhaofei
Published: November 2019

The dryness/wetness patterns are a significant reference for stakeholders in developing reasonable strategies in regard to water resource management, prediction, prevention of extreme events, and management of agricultural activities; however, no attempts have been made to systematically quantify the dryness/wetness patterns and drought conditions over the Three‐River Headwater Region (TRHR) of China, where the ecosystem is highly sensitive to climate change. The spatio‐temporal characteristics of dryness/wetness for TRHR, as well as the reference evapotranspiration (ETr), precipitation (Pre), and drought risk, were all investigated for the period of 1961–2015. Using the methods of FAO‐56 Penman–Monteith (FAO‐56), standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), the Manner–Kendall (M–K) test, Pettitt test, factor contribution rate, and correlation analysis, the variation in the patterns of dryness/wetness, ETr, and Pre, and the causes behind dryness/wetness were discussed. Results indicated that the TRHR underwent a wetting tendency, which was characterized by decreasing ETr and increasing Pre based on the SPEI‐12M during 1961–2015. Moreover, 1971–1980 was the driest period, while 2001–2015 was the wettest period. A significant difference between seasons was detected in the dryness/wetness patterns during all study periods, as well as in extreme droughts. The TRHR underwent an overall wetting trend with 85% of the stations' SPEI‐3M showing increased variation during spring, in contrast with the north–south distribution pattern of the dryness/wetness with variation in the SPEI during summer. Moreover, it can be seen that droughts with higher longest drought duration (LDD) and total drought duration (TDD) were mostly located on the edge of the eastern and northern TRHR. The influencing factors demonstrate the vital roles of Pre and ETr in generating variation in the dryness/wetness patterns of the southern and northern parts of the TRHR, respectively. There is evidence indicating that Niño3.4, North Atlantic oscillation, and Arctic oscillation played more important roles in the variation of dryness/wetness patterns and Pre in TRHR.
Individual participant data meta‐analysis of intervention studies with time‐to‐event outcomes: A review of the methodology and an applied example
Authors: de Jong Valentijn M.T. , Moons Karel G.M. , Riley Richard D. , Tudur Smith Catrin , Marson Anthony G. , Eijkemans Marinus J.C. , Debray Thomas P.A.
Published: November 2019

Many randomized trials evaluate an intervention effect on time‐to‐event outcomes. Individual participant data (IPD) from such trials can be obtained and combined in a so‐called IPD meta‐analysis (IPD‐MA), to summarize the overall intervention effect. We performed a narrative literature review to provide an overview of methods for conducting an IPD‐MA of randomized intervention studies with a time‐to‐event outcome. We focused on identifying good methodological practice for modeling frailty of trial participants across trials, modeling heterogeneity of intervention effects, choosing appropriate association measures, dealing with (trial differences in) censoring and follow‐up times, and addressing time‐varying intervention effects and effect modification (interactions).We discuss how to achieve this using parametric and semi‐parametric methods, and describe how to implement these in a one‐stage or two‐stage IPD‐MA framework. We recommend exploring heterogeneity of the effect(s) through interaction and non‐linear effects. Random effects should be applied to account for residual heterogeneity of the intervention effect. We provide further recommendations, many of which specific to IPD‐MA of time‐to‐event data from randomized trials examining an intervention effect.We illustrate several key methods in a real IPD‐MA, where IPD of 1225 participants from 5 randomized clinical trials were combined to compare the effects of Carbamazepine and Valproate on the incidence of epileptic seizures.
Piezosurgery versus conventional osteotomy in rhinoplasty: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mirza Ahmad A. , Alandejani Talal A. , Al‐Sayed Ahmed A.
Published: November 2019

Objective

Piezosurgery, used in different otolaryngology procedures, was a breakthrough in surgery. We systematically reviewed the differences in outcomes after lateral nasal osteotomy with peizosurgery and conventional osteotome and quantified the differences through a meta‐analysis.

Methods

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library databases were selected to search for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published before January 2019 that detailed differences between piezosurgery and conventional osteotomy. The key search terms included “rhinoplasty" and “piezosurgery.” Only RCTs in English with patients >18 years who underwent lateral osteotomy by percutaneous or internal approaches were included. PRISMA guidelines were followed in data extraction and study inclusion. Two independent reviewers assessed the relevance of the studies. The point of estimate in the meta‐analysis was the standardized mean difference and was pooled with the random‐effects model. The measured outcomes were ecchymosis, edema, postoperative pain, and duration of surgery.

Results

Five RCTs met our criteria and were analyzed in primary subsequent meta‐analyses. Piezosurgery demonstrated significantly lower edema (SMD = ‐0.75; 95% CI, ‐1.26, ‐0.24) and ecchymosis scores (SMD = ‐0.85; 95% CI, ‐1.49, ‐0.20) on postoperative days (POD) 2 or 3 than conventional surgery. They were also significantly lower with piezosurgery than conventional surgery on POD 7 (SMD = ‐0.64; 95% CI, ‐1.21, ‐0.06; and SMD = ‐0.64; 95% CI, ‐1.14, ‐0.14, respectively). Two studies that estimated the degree of pain showed that after piezosurgery, patients experienced lesser pain than after conventional surgery. The mean difference was ‐0.73 (95% CI, ‐1.06, ‐0.39).

Conclusions

Piezosurgery causes less ecchymosis, edema, and pain than conventional osteotomy, without extending the duration of surgery.

Laryngoscope, 130:1158–1165, 2020
Impact of Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Lateral Skull Base Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repair
Authors: Yancey Kristen L. , Manzoor Nauman F. , Kelly Patrick D. , Yawn Robert J. , O’Malley Matthew , Rivas Alejandro , Haynes David S. , Bennett Marc L.
Published: November 2019

Objective

To investigate the prevalence and impact of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity in lateral skull base cerebrospinal fluid leak repair (LSBR) of various etiologies.

Methods

Retrospective case review at a tertiary skull base center was conducted of consecutive adults undergoing LSBR via transmastoid, middle cranial fossa, or combined approach between 2013–2018. The following data were collected: demographics, comorbidities, radiology and intraoperative findings, and surgical outcomes including complications and need for revision surgery or shunt placement. Patients with incomplete data or leaks following skull base surgery, trauma or chronic ear disease were excluded.

Results

Ninety‐four patients (67.4% female, mean age 53.5 ± 12.9 years) underwent repair for

spontaneous (sCSFL, 44%) and other etiology (nsCSFL) leaks. nsCSFL served as a comparison

group consisting of leaks status‐post lateral skull base surgery, temporal bone fractures, and

chronic ear disease. Class III obesity (P = .02), OSA (P = .03), and imaging findings of empty sella (OR = 3.32, P = .02), and skull base thinning including contralateral tegmen thinning (31%, OR = 4.3, P = .02), arachnoid granulations (26%, OR = 4.35, P = .02), and superior canal dehiscence (15.8%, OR = 8.57, P = .04) were more common in sCSFL. Four patients (4.2%) required surgical revision for recurrence, and another four (4.2%) resolved with shunting. Evidence of elevated intracranial hypertension was present in nine patients with sCSF leaks and was predictive of need for revision or shunt procedures (P < .01).

Conclusion

Obesity, OSA, and imaging consistent with elevated intracranial pressures were more common among patients with sCSFL. Elevated intracranial pressure predicted outcomes following multilayer repair of spontaneous CSF leaks

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:2234–2240, 2020
Patterns of suspended and salp‐ingested microplastic debris in the North Pacific investigated with epifluorescence microscopy
Authors: Brandon Jennifer A. , Freibott Alexandra , Sala Linsey M.
Published: November 2019

Microplastics (< 5 mm) have long been a concern in marine debris research, but quantifying the smallest microplastics (< 333 μm) has been hampered by appropriate collection methods, like net tows. We modified standard epifluorescence microscopy methods to develop a new technique to enumerate < 333 μm microplastics (mini‐microplastics) from filtered surface seawater samples and salp stomach contents. This permitted us to distinguish mini‐microplastics from phytoplankton and suspended particles. We found seawater mini‐microplastic concentrations that were 5–7 orders of magnitude higher than published concentrations of > 333 μm microplastics. Mini‐microplastics were the most abundant in nearshore waters and more evenly distributed from the California Current through the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre. Every salp examined had ingested mini‐microplastics, regardless of species, life history stage, or oceanic region. Salps ingested significantly smaller plastic particles than were available in ambient surface seawater. The blastozooid stage of salps had higher ingestion rates than oozooids.
Microvascular Effects of Pulsed Dye Laser in Combination With Oxymetazoline
Authors: Kelly Alexis , Pai Alexander , Lertsakdadet Ben , Choi Bernard , Kelly Kristen M.
Published: November 2019

Background and Objective

Oxymetazoline, an α‐1A agonist, is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of persistent facial erythema associated with rosacea and induces vasoconstriction by interacting with α receptors. The objective of our study was to study the microvascular effects of oxymetazoline and pulsed dye laser (PDL).

Materials and Methods

A dorsal window chamber was surgically installed on 20 mice. Each animal was assigned to one of four experimental groups: saline alone, oxymetazoline alone (10 μl applied once daily × 7 days), saline + PDL (saline applied 5 minutes before PDL irradiation [10 mm spot, 1.5 ms pulse duration, 7 J/cm2 delivered to epidermis]), or oxymetazoline + PDL (10 μl oxymetazoline applied 5 minutes before PDL and then once daily × 7 days). Brightfield and laser speckle imaging were performed for 7 days to monitor vascular architectural and functional changes.

Results

We observed persistent blood flow in all of the saline‐only and oxymetazoline‐only experiments. A higher rate of vascular shutdown was observed with oxymetazoline + PDL (66.7%) compared with saline + PDL alone (16.7%). Oxymetazoline application increased venule diameter at 5 minutes post‐application and decreased both arteriole and venule diameters at 60 minutes post‐application.

Conclusion

The combination protocol of oxymetazoline + PDL induces persistent vascular shutdown observed 7 days after irradiation. This result may be associated with the acute vascular effects of oxymetazoline. Oxymetazoline + PDL should be evaluated as a treatment for cutaneous vascular disease, including rosacea and port wine birthmarks. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of Impact of Humidity and Temperature on Excimer Laser Ablation of Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polymethylmethacrylate, and Porcine Corneal Tissue
Authors: Verma Shwetabh , Kehrer Tobias , Hesser Jürgen , Arba Mosquera Samuel
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

To analyze the impact of humidity and temperature on excimer laser ablation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and porcine corneal tissue, and an ablation model to compensate for the temperature and humidity changes on ablation efficiency.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The study was conducted using an AMARIS 1050RS (Schwind eye‐tech‐solutions) placed inside a climate chamber at ACTS. Ablations were performed on PET, PMMA, and porcine cornea. The impact of a wide range of temperature (~18°C to ~30°C) and relative humidity (~25% to ~80%) on laser ablation outcomes was tested using nine climate test settings. For porcine eyes, change in defocus was calculated from the difference of post‐ablation to pre‐ablation average keratometry readings. Laser scanning deflectometry was performed to measure refractive change achieved in PMMA. Multiple linear regression was performed using the least square method with predictive factors: temperature, relative humidity, time stamp. Influence of climate settings was modeled for pulse energy, pulse fluence, ablation efficiency on PMMA and porcine cornea tissue.

Results

Temperature changes did not affect laser pulse energy, pulse fluence (PET), and ablation efficiency (on PMMA or porcine corneal tissue) significantly. Changes in relative humidity were critical and significantly affected laser pulse energy, high fluence and low fluence. The opposite trend was observed between the ablation performance on PMMA and porcine cornea.

Conclusions

The proposed well‐fitting multi‐linear model can be utilized for compensation of temperature and humidity changes on ablation efficiency. Based on this model, a working window for optimum operation has been found (temperature 18°C to 28°C and relative humidity 25% to 65%) for a maximum deviation of ±2.5% in ablation efficiency in PMMA and porcine corneal tissue. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theta‐alpha Oscillations Characterize Emotional Subregion in the Human Ventral Subthalamic Nucleus
Authors: Rappel Pnina , Grosberg Shai , Arkadir David , Linetsky Eduard , Abu Snineh Muneer , Bick Atira S. , Tamir Idit , Valsky Dan , Marmor Odeya , Abo Foul Yasmin , Peled Or , Gilad Moran , Daudi Chen , Ben‐Naim Shiri , Bergman Hagai , Israel Zvi , Eitan Renana
Published: November 2019

Background

Therapeutic outcomes of STN‐DBS for movement and psychiatric disorders depend on electrode location within the STN. Electrophysiological and functional mapping of the STN has progressed considerably in the past years, identifying beta‐band oscillatory activity in the dorsal STN as a motor biomarker. It also has been suggested that STN theta‐alpha oscillations, involved in impulse control and action inhibition, have a ventral source. However, STN local field potential mapping of motor, associative, and limbic areas is often limited by poor spatial resolution.

Objectives

Providing a high‐resolution electrophysiological map of the motor, associative and limbic anatomical sub‐areas of the subthalamic nucleus.

Methods

We have analyzed high‐spatial‐resolution STN microelectrode electrophysiology recordings of PD patients (n = 303) that underwent DBS surgery. The patients’ STN intraoperative recordings of spiking activity (933 electrode trajectories) were combined with their imaging data (n = 83 patients, 151 trajectories).

Results

We found a high theta‐alpha (7–10 Hz) oscillatory area, located near the STN ventromedial border in 29% of the PD patients. Theta‐alpha activity in this area has higher power and lower central frequency in comparison to theta‐alpha activity in more dorsal subthalamic areas. When projected on the DISTAL functional atlas, the theta‐alpha oscillatory area overlaps with the STN limbic subarea.

Conclusions

We suggest that theta‐alpha oscillations can serve as an electrophysiological marker for the ventral subthalamic nucleus limbic subarea. Therefore, theta‐alpha oscillations can guide optimal electrode placement in neuropsychiatric STN‐DBS procedures and provide a reliable biomarker input for future closed‐loop DBS device. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Identification of a novel compound heterozygous IDUA mutation underlies Mucopolysaccharidoses type I in a Chinese pedigree
Authors: Zhou Yong‐An , Li Ping , Zhang Yanping , Xiong Qiuhong , Li Chao , Zhao Zhonghua , Wang Yuxian , Xiao Han
Published: November 2019

Background

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is a rare autosomal storage disorder resulting from the defective alpha‐L‐iduronidase (encoded by IDUA) enzyme activity and accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in lysosomes. So far, more than 100 IDUA causative mutations have been identified leading to three MPS I phenotypic subtypes: Hurler syndrome (severe form), Hurler/Scheie syndrome (intermediate form), and Scheie syndrome (mild form).

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify the underlying genetic mutations. To verify the identified variations, Sanger sequencing was performed for all available family members following PCR amplification. The impact on IDUA protein was analyzed by sequential analysis and homology modeling.

Results

A novel IDUA heterozygous single base insertion (c.1815dupT, p.V606Cfs51*) and a known missence mutation (c.T1037G, p.L346R) were detected in our patient diagnosed as congenital heart disease with heart valve abnormalities. The novel frameshift mutation results in a complete loss of 48 amino acids in the Ig‐like domain and causes the formation of a putative protein product which might affect the IDUA enzyme activity.

Conclusions

A novel compound heterozygous IDUA mutation (c.1815dupT, p.V606Cfs51*) was found in a Chinese MPS I family. The identification of the mutation facilitated accurate genetic counseling and precise medical intervention for MPS I in China.
A planar eight‐way compact substrate integrated waveguide based radial power divider with broadband performance
Authors: Guha Mallick Souma , Gande Arun Kumar , Biswas Bijit , Chatterjee Sayan , Poddar D. R.
Published: November 2019

A compact broadband eight‐way substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) based radial power divider at C‐band is presented in the article. Bandwidth enhancement is achieved by employing planar impedance transformer consisting of an annular slot and circular patch at the input and output feed positions. The equivalent circuit analysis helps in the optimization of the annular slot and circular patch on the substrate. The proposed compact power divider has fractional bandwidth of 53.5% for 15 dB input return loss. Broadband characteristics are achieved without using any bulky mechanical arrangement for feed matching. It has a size of 0.72 λg2 and the measured amplitude imbalance is within 0.5 dB at the center frequency of 6.6 GHz.
Quantum mechanical modeling and validation of photoconductive switches for RF and antenna applications
Authors: Zanella Fernando , Nobrega Kleber Z. , Dartora Cesar A. , Sodré Arismar Cerqueira
Published: November 2019

Photoconductive switches have been recently exploited as a promising replacement to active RF switches in reconfigurable antennas, since they provide unique properties, such as the absence of bias circuits, fast switching time, thermal stability, and easy integration with optical backhauls and fronthauls. Although lumped element models already exist, an accurate mathematical approach based on the physical background behind the switch operation is still lacking. We bestow a mathematical model based on quantum mechanics to analyze the photoconductive switches behavior, aiming to enhance the performance of photonics‐based RF devices and optically controlled reconfigurable antennas. The theoretical analysis has been properly validated by comparisons with experimental results of the photoconductive switch characterization at microwaves frequency range.
Quasi‐lumped multimode stripline resonator and filter with good stopband performance
Authors: Belyaev Boris Afanasievich , Serzhantov Alexey Mikhailovich , Leksikov Aleksandr Aleksandrovich , Bal'va Yaroslav Fedorovich , Leksikov Andrey Aleksandrovich
Published: November 2019

A novel multimode resonator is proposed, containing five resonant modes that are incorporated in the passband forming. The structure is based on a dielectric substrate suspended in a metallic case that allows solving the problem of electromagnetic compatibility. Due to features of the resonator's structure, several higher modes do not excite that significantly improves the performance of the filter's stopband. The resonator advantages are proved on the bandpass filter (3.1…10.6 GHz) with a small overall size (0.19λ0 × 0.11λ0 × 0.11λ0) and a good stopband performance (first spurious band locates at 29 GHz and suppression is 70 dB).
Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) functional rating scale: PLS‐specific clinimetric scale
Authors: Mitsumoto Hiroshi , Chiuzan Codruta , Gilmore Madison , Zhang Yuan , Simmons Zachary , Paganoni Sabrina , Kisanuki Yasushi Y. , Zinman Lorne , Jawdat Omar , Sorenson Eric , Floeter Mary Kay , Pioro Erik P. , Fernandes Filho J. Americo M. , Heitzman Daragh , Fournier Christina Nicole , Oskarsson Bjorn , Heiman‐Patterson Terry , Maragakis Nicholas , Joyce Nanette , Hayat Ghazala , Nations Sharon , Scelsa Stephen , Walk David , Elman Lauren , Hupf Jonathan , McHale Brittany ,   the PLSFRS study group
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Our research aim was to develop a novel clinimetric scale sensitive enough to detect disease progression in primary lateral sclerosis (PLS).

Methods

A prototype of the PLS Functional Rating Scale (PLSFRS) was generated. Seventy‐seven participants with PLS were enrolled and evaluated at 21 sites that comprised the PLSFRS study group. Participants were assessed using the PLSFRS, Neuro‐Quality of Life (QoL), Schwab‐England Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and the Clinical Global Impression of Change scales. Participants completed telephone assessments at 12, 24, and 48 weeks after enrollment.

Results

The PLSFRS demonstrated internal consistency as well as intrarater, interrater, telephone test‐retest reliability, and construct validity. Significant changes in disease progression were detected at 6 and 12 months; changes measured by the PLSFRS vs the ALSFRS‐R were significantly higher.

Discussion

The PLSFRS is a valid tool to assess the natural history of PLS in a shorter study period.