bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An attainable global vision for conservation and human well‐being
Authors: Tallis Heather M , Hawthorne Peter L , Polasky Stephen , Reid Joseph , Beck Michael W , Brauman Kate , Bielicki Jeffrey M , Binder Seth , Burgess Matthew G , Cassidy Emily , Clark Adam , Fargione Joseph , Game Edward T , Gerber James , Isbell Forest , Kiesecker Joseph , McDonald Robert , Metian Marc , Molnar Jennifer L , Mueller Nathan D , O'Connell Christine , Ovando Daniel , Troell Max , Boucher Timothy M , McPeek Brian
Published: October 2018

A hopeful vision of the future is a world in which both people and nature thrive, but there is little evidence to support the feasibility of such a vision. We used a global, spatially explicit, systems modeling approach to explore the possibility of meeting the demands of increased populations and economic growth in 2050 while simultaneously advancing multiple conservation goals. Our results demonstrate that if, instead of “business as usual” practices, the world changes how and where food and energy are produced, this could help to meet projected increases in food (54%) and energy (56%) demand while achieving habitat protection (>50% of natural habitat remains unconverted in most biomes globally; 17% area of each ecoregion protected in each country), reducing atmospheric greenhouse‐gas emissions consistent with the Paris Climate Agreement (≤1.6°C warming by 2100), ending overfishing, and reducing water stress and particulate air pollution. Achieving this hopeful vision for people and nature is attainable with existing technology and consumption patterns. However, success will require major shifts in production methods and an ability to overcome substantial economic, social, and political challenges.
Genetic determinants of telomere length and risk of pancreatic cancer: A PANDoRA study
Authors: Campa Daniele , Matarazzi Martina , Greenhalf William , Bijlsma Maarten , Saum Kai‐Uwe , Pasquali Claudio , van Laarhoven Hanneke , Szentesi Andrea , Federici Francesca , Vodicka Pavel , Funel Niccola , Pezzilli Raffaele , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. Bas , Vodickova Ludmila , Basso Daniela , Obazee Ofure , Hackert Thilo , Soucek Pavel , Cuk Katarina , Kaiser Jörg , Sperti Cosimo , Lovecek Martin , Capurso Gabriele , Mohelnikova‐Duchonova Beatrice , Khaw Kay‐Tee , König Anna‐Katharina , Kupcinskas Juozas , Kaaks Rudolf , Bambi Franco , Archibugi Livia , Mambrini Andrea , Cavestro Giulia Martina , Landi Stefano , Hegyi Péter , Izbicki Jakob R. , Gioffreda Domenica , Zambon Carlo Federico , Tavano Francesca , Talar‐Wojnarowska Renata , Jamroziak Krzysztof , Key Timothy J. , Fave Gianfranco Delle , Strobel Oliver , Jonaitis Laimas , Andriulli Angelo , Lawlor Rita T. , Pirozzi Felice , Katzke Verena , Valsuani Chiara , Vashist Yogesh K. , Brenner Hermann , Canzian Federico
Published: October 2018

Telomere deregulation is a hallmark of cancer. Telomere length measured in lymphocytes (LTL) has been shown to be a risk marker for several cancers. For pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) consensus is lacking whether risk is associated with long or short telomeres. Mendelian randomization approaches have shown that a score built from SNPs associated with LTL could be used as a robust risk marker. We explored this approach in a large scale study within the PANcreatic Disease ReseArch (PANDoRA) consortium. We analyzed 10 SNPs (ZNF676‐rs409627, TERT‐rs2736100, CTC1‐rs3027234, DHX35‐rs6028466, PXK‐rs6772228, NAF1‐rs7675998, ZNF208‐rs8105767, OBFC1‐rs9420907, ACYP2‐rs11125529 and TERC‐rs10936599) alone and combined in a LTL genetic score (“teloscore”, which explains 2.2% of the telomere variability) in relation to PDAC risk in 2,374 cases and 4,326 controls. We identified several associations with PDAC risk, among which the strongest were with the TERT‐rs2736100 SNP (OR = 1.54; 95%CI 1.35–1.76; p = 1.54 × 10−10) and a novel one with the NAF1‐rs7675998 SNP (OR = 0.80; 95%CI 0.73–0.88; p = 1.87 × 10−6, ptrend = 3.27 × 10−7). The association of short LTL, measured by the teloscore, with PDAC risk reached genome‐wide significance (p = 2.98 × 10−9 for highest vs. lowest quintile; p = 1.82 × 10−10 as a continuous variable). In conclusion, we present a novel genome‐wide candidate SNP for PDAC risk (TERT‐rs2736100), a completely new signal (NAF1‐rs7675998) approaching genome‐wide significance and we report a strong association between the teloscore and risk of pancreatic cancer, suggesting that telomeres are a potential risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
Hybrid density functional study on the electronic structures and properties of P3HT‐PbS and P3HT‐CdS hybrid interface for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Nguyen Thao P. , Shim Ji Hoon
Published: October 2018

The efficiency of charge transport mainly depends on the interfacial energy level alignment between the conjugated polymer and the inorganic substrate. It provides an accurate understanding, predicting as well as controlling the optimal power conversion efficiency of various type of hybrid photovoltaic systems. In this article, we use hybrid functional (HSE06) to study the electronic structures and properties at the interface of poly(3‐hexylthiophene)(P3HT)/CdS and P3HT/PbS for solar cell applications. We found that the dangling bonds at the inorganic surface introduce in‐gap states and greatly reduce the device performance. We used pseudo‐hydrogen atoms as the passivation agent to remove the dangling bonds and eliminate the in‐gap states to construct the energy alignment at the hybrid interface. The calculated interfacial density of states reveal a better performance in P3HT/CdS, compared to P3HT/PbS. P3HT/CdS possesses a LUMOP3HT/CBMCdS and HOMOP3HT/VBMCdS energy offset large enough for sufficient exciton separation across the interface and prevents charge recombination. In contrast, the reason for low power conversion efficiency in P3HT/PbS lies on its HOMOP3HT/VBMPbS offset which is too small to break the exciton binding energy for charge separation. Moreover, we reported the dependency of the energy level alignment and open circuit voltage on the interfacial molecular orientations. Our DFT calculation can be used to predict candidate materials for the development of efficiency optoelectronic devices. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thiazolo[3,2‐a] Pyrimidones as a Novel Anti‐TB Agents
Authors: Jadhav Sunil B. , Fatema Samreen , Bhagat Sunil S. , Farooqui Mazahar
Published: October 2018

A series of novel thiazolo pyrimidine derivatives were designed, synthesized, and assessed for their in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities. All hybrids displayed considerable antitubercular activities against primary Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2 155 screening and successive Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. In particular, the hybrid entities 13 and 14 (minimum inhibitory concentration: 47 and 39 μg/mL) were found to be equipotent candidates with first‐line antitubercular agent rifampicin, which could act as a lead for further optimization.
Evaluation of Breast Cancer Morphology Using Diffusion‐Weighted and Dynamic Contrast‐Enhanced MRI: Intermethod and Interobserver Agreement
Authors: Radovic Niko , Ivanac Gordana , Divjak Eugen , Biondic Iva , Bulum Antonio , Brkljacic Boris
Published: October 2018

Background

The capability of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) for morphological analysis of breast lesions is underexplored.

Purpose

To evaluate the utility of DWI for assessment of morphological features of breast cancer by comparing DWI and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI findings to determine intermethod and interobserver agreement.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Seventy‐eight women with pathohistologically proven breast cancer.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T. DWI and DCE images.

Assessment

Diffusion‐weighted and DCE images were placed in two separate case sets. Three radiologists, blinded to all other information, independently evaluated each case set on two separate occasions. Lesions were interpreted according to the fifth edition of the ACR BI‐RADS lexicon.

Statistical Analysis

Kappa (κ) statistics were calculated in order to assess intermethod and interobserver agreement.

Results

For values that attained statistical significance (P < 0.05), intermethod agreement ranged from fair (κ = 0.22) for nonmass internal patterns to significant (κ = 0.8) for lesion type. On DWI, interobserver agreement varied from fair (κ = 0.34) for mass shape to significant (κ = 0.75) for lesion type. On DCE MRI, interobserver agreement varied from fair (κ = 0.27) for irregular vs. spiculated mass margin to perfect (κ = 1) for circumscribed vs. noncircumscribed mass margin.

Data Conclusion

On the whole, there was moderate intermethod agreement. The values of interobserver agreement were mostly similar between DWI and DCE MRI. This suggests that DWI is applicable for morphological assessment of breast cancer, notwithstanding substantially inferior spatial resolution compared to DCE MRI.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1381–1390.
Effect of epicardial fat and metabolic syndrome on reverse atrial remodeling after ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Monno Koyuru , Okumura Yasuo , Saito Yuki , Aizawa Yoshihiro , Nagashima Koichi , Arai Masaru , Watanabe Ryuta , Wakamatsu Yuji , Otsuka Naoto , Yoda Shunichi , Hiro Takafumi , Watanabe Ichiro , Hirayama Atsushi
Published: October 2018

Background

Metabolic syndrome/epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) plays an important role in atrial fibrillation (AF). Although reverse atrial remodeling (RAR) often occurs after AF ablation, the effects of EAT on RAR remain unknown.

Methods

Study subjects were 104 patients in whom transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed before AF ablation and 3, 6, and 12 months afterward. EAT was assessed in terms of its thickness adjacent to the right ventricular anterior wall in the TTE parasternal view. RAR was defined as >10% reduction in the left atrial volume (LAV) index by the 3‐month follow‐up examination.

Results

Postablation RAR occurred in 57/104 (55%) patients. RAR absence was associated with a relatively thick EAT (4.92 ± 1.65 vs. 3.92 ± 1.17 mm, P = 0.0005), small LAV index (24.6 ± 7.5 vs. 28.8 ± 10.6 mL/m2, P = 0.0233), and metabolic syndrome (62% vs. 28%, P = 0.0006). Metabolic syndrome and EAT were shown to be independent predictors of RAR absence. Thick EAT was significantly associated with AF recurrence after ablation (5.05 ± 2.19 mm vs. 4.17 ± 1.16 mm for no AF recurrence group, P = 0.0116), but metabolic syndrome was not (48% vs. 42%, P = 0.6189). Despite no change in body weight, EAT thickness decreased significantly by 12 months in patients without AF recurrence (4.17 ± 1.16 vs. 3.65 ± 1.16 mm, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

EAT and metabolic syndrome appear to be strongly associated with RAR absence, but only the thick EAT was significantly associated with the postablation AF recurrence. Our findings, especially the thinning of EAT, suggest that thick EAT lead to AF vulnerability but that EAT reduction favorably affects ablation outcome.
Clouding Behavior of C13EOx (x = 10–19) Micelles in a Wide Range of Salinity and Hardness: Concomitant Effects of Salinity and Degree of Ethoxylation
Authors: Souayeh Maissa , Aoudia Mohamed , Al‐Maamari Rashid S.
Published: October 2018

The effect of salinity and degree of ethoxylation on the cloud point, Tcp, in C13EOx (x = 10–19) micelles was investigated in distilled water and in the salinity range S = 1.96–196 g L−1. At a fixed x value, the rate dTcp/dS was given by dTcp/dS = α
b + β
bS with α
b < 0 and β
b > 0. This trend suggests that dTcp/dS is the result of two opposing effects, an entirely (negative) surfactant‐dependent effect (α
b) and a combined (positive) surfactant‐solvent (β
bS)‐dependent effect. In addition, the rate dTcp/dS was found to become increasingly less negative with increasing salinity (dTcp/dS) < 0), suggesting an overwhelming contribution of the α
b effect as compared to the β
bS effect. On the other hand, at fixed S, the rate was given by dTcp/dx = α
x + β
xx with α
x > 0 and β
x < 0. This trend also suggests the existence of two opposing effects, a strictly (positive) solvent‐dependent effect (α
x) and a concomitant solvent (β
x)‐surfactant (x)‐dependent effect. Contrary to dTcp/dS, the rate dTcp/dx was found to become increasingly less positive with increasing x values (dTcp/dx > 0), suggesting that α
x is the dominant factor in the surfactants’ susceptibility to be salted in. Both constants αb and α
x were attributed to a dual temperature‐salinity effect on the structure of water molecules not involved in surfactant's hydration. On the other hand, β
b and β
x were associated with the change in the structure of water due to the dehydration of surfactants’ oxyethylene moieties with increasing temperature.
Structural and quantitative changes of saponins in fresh alfalfa compared to alfalfa silage
Authors: Szumacher‐Strabel Malgorzata , Stochmal Anna , Cieslak Adam , Kozłowska Martyna , Kuznicki Dawid , Kowalczyk Mariusz , Oleszek Wieslaw
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is an important legume used in animal feed. The primary objective of the present study was to analyze and trace the individual saponins in fresh and ensiled alfalfa of ten varieties, with the aim of evaluating the structural changes that saponins undergo during ensiling. A secondary objective was to examine whether any of the changes in saponin content were associated with changes in the basic nutrient composition of the ensiled alfalfa.

RESULTS

The total saponin concentration increased when the fresh alfalfa was processed into silage. Three of the zanhic acid glycosides were degraded substantially, whereas the other two increased in all the tested varieties. Five of the seven medicagenic acid glycosides were not changed, whereas the remaining saponins completely disappeared. Finally, two glycosides of soyasapogenol B displayed an inverse relationship to each other.

CONCLUSION

The nutrient content of fresh material and silages remained relatively constant, with some variations in the crude protein content of the selected alfalfa varieties. The total concentration of saponins increased two‐ to three‐fold after ensilation over the levels present in fresh alfalfa material. The increases in saponin concentration showed a negative linear relationship between protein on a dry matter basis and saponin content. These findings are significant because no known published data have shown this transformation in the ensiling of alfalfa. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinical and cost utility of an intraoperative endoscopic second look in cholesteatoma surgery
Authors: Bennett Marc , Wanna George , Francis David , Murfee Jack , O'Connell Brendan , Haynes David
Published: October 2018

Objective/Hypothesis

This study aimed to determine the clinical and cost‐effectiveness of endoscopes during cholesteatoma surgery. More specifically, this study hypothesized that endoscope use would reduce cholesteatoma recurrence rates and cost.

Study Design

Case series involving the prospective enrollment of 110 consecutive cholesteatoma patients over a 2‐year period.

Methods

Patients underwent cholesteatoma surgery with microscopy. During dissection, the location of the cholesteatoma was assessed. At the end of dissection and before reconstruction, the same subunits were visualized with straight and angled endoscopes for residual cholesteatoma. Hearing was analyzed before surgery and at the last possible examination. Costs were analyzed using Medicare reimbursement rates from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Results

Intraoperative endoscopic surveillance was able to detect residual cholesteatoma in 18 patients. With a 0° endoscope, residual cholesteatoma was noted in the epitympanum (two patients), sinus tympani (one patient), and the supratubal air cells (one patient). With a 45° endoscope, residual cholesteatoma was noted in the epitympanum (three patients), sinus tympani (nine patients), the supratubal air cells (two patients), and the mesotympanum (two patients). From a cost analysis, endoscopic surveillance ($6110.36 per patient) are less expensive than second look surgeries ($11,829.83 per patient), observation ($7097.20 per patient), and observation with annual magnetic resonance imaging studies ($9891.95 per patient). The patients hearing improved after surgery, consistent with previous studies. No complications were noted from the use of endoscopes.

Conclusions

Intraoperative endoscopic surveillance reduced recurrence in our series of 110 patients. Endoscopes are particularly useful in evaluating the epitympanum, mesotympanum, sinus tympani, and supratubal air cells. Moreover, endoscopic surveillance is cost‐effective.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 128:2867–2871, 2018
Maternity and paternity leave in otolaryngology residency training in the United States
Authors: Tang Alice L. , Miller Adam , Hauff Samantha , Myer Charles M. , Takiar Vinita , Howell Rebecca J. , Mark Jonathan R.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

This study evaluates the existence and nature of maternity and paternity leave policies for residents during otolaryngology training. The study sought to survey program directors (PDs) on the impact of parental leave.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to 103 otolaryngology residency PDs. A link to a 10‐page, 30‐question survey was provided. Descriptive statistics and comments were collected.

Results

Forty‐one respondents (39.8%) completed the survey, all of whom were from university‐based programs. Programs from the Midwest (n = 11, 26.8%), Northeast (n = 12, 29.3%), South (n = 12, 29.3%) and West (n = 6, 14.6%) were represented. Sixteen (42%) programs reported having a written formal maternity leave policy for trainees, and 13 (32%) programs had a paternity‐specific policy. Four programs reported using short‐term disability, whereas 11 programs reported using the Family Medical Leave Act to accommodate parental leave. Policies primarily followed the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and American Board of Otolaryngology guidelines, with factors such as clinical duties and call schedules left to the programs' discretion. Although the majority of PDs (56%) reported support of residents who planned to become pregnant during training, many expressed concerns regarding the burden on co‐residents and the difficulty of fulfilling training obligations for the resident taking leave.

Conclusions

Many institutions do not have parental leave policies and logistics regarding leave are left to the discretion of individual programs. Surveyed PDs addressed the challenges of becoming a parent during training and the potential burden placed on the program when trainees take leave.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:1093–1099, 2019
Epistaxis in the setting of antithrombotic therapy: A comparison between factor Xa inhibitors, warfarin, and antiplatelet agents
Authors: Glikson Eran , Chavkin Uri , Madgar Ory , Sagiv Doron , Nakache Gabriel , Yakirevitch Arkadi , Wolf Michael , Alon Eran E.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe the characteristics and severity of epistaxis in patients taking factor Xa inhibitors novel anticoagulants.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

A study of adult patients hospitalized due to spontaneous epistaxis under the treatment of warfarin, rivaroxaban, or apixaban between the years 2011 and 2017 was performed. A control group of patients under antiplatelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid, clopidogrel) was included. The mean follow‐up periods in the warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and antiplatelet groups were 18, 14.5, 13.5, and 18.2 months, respectively.

We compared demographics, location and severity of bleeding, treatment methods, and outcome between the groups.

Results

The study included 109 patients (35 under factor Xa inhibitors), the majority of whom presented with anterior epistaxis (68%). The antiplatelet group had more episodes of epistaxis prior to admission, and required endoscopic surgical control of bleeding more often, in comparison with anticoagulants (2.23 vs. 1.44, P < .05 and 23% vs. 6%, respectively, P < .05). Among anticoagulants, combined therapy (cauterization and packing) was required more frequently in the apixaban group compared to the rivaroxaban and warfarin groups (64% vs. 25% and 33%, respectively, P < .05). The rate of readmissions due to epistaxis, within 1 year of follow‐up was lower in the factor Xa inhibitor groups compared with the warfarin and antiplatelet groups (16% vs. 9% and 4%, respectively, P < .05). Cessation of factor Xa inhibitor therapy was effective and uneventful with no further epistaxis events.

Conclusions

Epistaxis under factor Xa inhibitors was effectively treated with no worse and perhaps even a better outcome when compared to other anticlotting medications.

Level of Evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 129:119–123, 2019
How does aging affect recognition of spectrally degraded speech?
Authors: Moberly Aaron C. , Vasil Kara J. , Wucinich Taylor L. , Safdar Natalie , Boyce Lauren , Roup Christina , Holt Rachael Frush , Adunka Oliver F. , Castellanos Irina , Shafiro Valeriy , Houston Derek M. , Pisoni David B.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Cochlear implants (CIs) restore auditory sensation to patients with moderate‐to‐profound sensorineural hearing loss. However, the benefits to speech recognition vary considerably among patients. Advancing age contributes to this variability in postlingual adult CI users. Similarly, older individuals with normal hearing (NH) perform more poorly on tasks of recognition of spectrally degraded speech. The overarching hypothesis of this study was that the detrimental effects of advancing age on speech recognition can be attributed both to declines in auditory spectral resolution as well as declines in cognitive functions.

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Methods

Speech recognition was assessed in CI users (in the clear) and NH controls (spectrally degraded using noise‐vocoding), along with auditory spectral resolution using the Spectral–Temporally Modulated Ripple Test. Cognitive skills were assessed using nonauditory visual measures of working memory, inhibitory control, speed of lexical/phonological access, nonverbal reasoning, and perceptual closure. Linear regression models were tested for mediation to explain aging effects on speech recognition performance.

Results

For both groups, older age predicted poorer sentence and word recognition. The detrimental effects of advancing age on speech recognition were partially mediated by declines in spectral resolution and in some measures of cognitive function.

Conclusions

Advancing age contributes to poorer recognition of degraded speech for CI users and NH controls through declines in both auditory spectral resolution and cognitive functions. Findings suggest that improvements in spectral resolution as well as cognitive improvements may serve as therapeutic targets to optimize CI speech recognition outcomes.

Level of Evidence

3b Laryngoscope, 2018
Predictors of Short‐term Morbidity and Mortality in Open Anterior Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Kuan Edward C. , Badran Karam W. , Yoo Frederick , Bhandarkar Naveen D. , Haidar Yarah M. , Tjoa Tjoson , Armstrong William B. , Palmer James N. , Adappa Nithin D. , Wang Marilene B. , John Maie A. St.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe rates of complications and mortality within 30 days of open anterior skull base surgery using a large, multi‐institutional outcomes database.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The study included patients who underwent open anterior skull base surgery as listed in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database from 2007 through 2014.

Results

A total of 336 open anterior skull base surgeries were identified. One hundred nine (32.4%) patients experienced a complication, reoperation, or mortality. The most common events were postoperative transfusion (15.8%), reoperation (10.1%), and readmission (8.0%). Significant independent predictors of any adverse event included higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and increased total operative time (both P < .05). The only predictor of mortality was higher ASA score (P = .02). Predictors of increased hospital stay included impaired sensorium (P = .04), coma >24 hours (P < .001), lower preoperative hematocrit (P = .02), higher ASA score (P = .04), and increased total operative time (P < .001).

Conclusions

Open anterior skull base surgery is understandably complex, and is thus associated with a relatively high adverse event rate. Knowledge of factors associated with adverse events has the potential to improve preoperative optimization of controllable variables and translate into improved surgical outcomes for patients.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:1407–1412, 2019
Junior otolaryngology resident in‐service exams predict written board exam passage
Authors: Puscas Liana
Published: October 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between the Otolaryngology Training Examination (OTE) taken during residency and the passage rate of first‐time examinees on the American Board of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Written Qualifying Examination (WQE).

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using a de‐identified database containing information on examinees who took the WQE in 2007 through 2014, and examinees who took the OTE exam 2005 through 2014. A total of 2,214 otolaryngology residents took the WQE for the first time in 2007 through 2014 after taking the OTE during residency training. Data were analyzed using one‐way frequencies and table analyses. Logistic regression was used to model the relationship between the pass/fail WQE result and the OTE stanine. Data transformations were used to analyze WQE passage as a function of OTE scores.

Results

There is a significant relationship between OTE score and passage of the WQE on the first attempt, evident even for junior residents. The probability of passing the WQE on the first attempt is 97% if the resident scores in the top six stanines of the OTE during residency training compared to 71% to 79% if the examinee scores in the bottom three stanines.

Conclusion

There is a significant relationship between performance on the OTE and passing the WQE on the first attempt. Because this relationship is evident even in the first years of residency, it allows early identification of those with a higher chance of failing the WQE so that extra efforts can be undertaken to prepare for the WQE.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 129:124–128, 2019
Phosphorylation of the glucocorticoid receptor alters SMAD signaling in vocal fold fibroblasts
Authors: Mukudai Shigeyuki , Hiwatashi Nao , Bing Renjie , Garabedian Michael , Branski Ryan C.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Direct glucocorticoid (GC) injection for vocal fold (VF) scarring has evolved as a therapeutic strategy, but the mechanisms underlying the antifibrotic effects remain unclear. GCs act via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which is phosphorylated at multiple serine residues in a hormone‐dependent manner to affect bioactivity. We hypothesize that GCs regulate SMAD signaling via GR phosphorylation in vocal fold fibroblasts (VFFs).

Study Design

In vitro.

Methods

Human VFFs were treated with dexamethasone (DM; 10−5–10−7M) ± transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 (10 ng/mL). RU486 (10−6M) was employed to isolate the regulatory effects of GR. Total GR, Ser211, and Ser203 phosphorylation was examined via sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunocytochemistry. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was employed to determine GR‐mediated effects of DM on genes related to fibrosis.

Results

Total GR and Ser211 phosphorylation was observed predominantly in the nucleus 1 hour after DM administration. DM decreased total GR expression, but Ser203 and Ser211 phosphorylation increased. RU486 limited the effects of DM. SMAD3 and SMAD7 mRNA expression significantly decreased 4 hours after DM administration (P < 0.05); this response was negated by RU486. COL1A1 remained unchanged, and ACTA2 significantly increased following 24 hours of DM treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

DM regulated TGF‐β1 signaling via altered SMAD3 and SMAD7 expression. This response was associated with altered GR phosphorylation. These findings provide insight into the mechanisms of steroidal effects on vocal fold repair; ultimately, we seek to enhance therapeutic strategies for these challenging patients.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:E187–E193, 2019
Advantages of mixed tree stands in restoration of upper soil layers on postmining sites: A five‐year leaf litter decomposition experiment
Authors: Horodecki Paweł , Nowiński Mirosław , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: October 2018

No in‐depth studies covering litter decomposition were previously conducted on afforested postmining sites despite the importance of litter decomposition on soil formation, especially in degraded areas. We aimed to compare leaf litter decomposition rates of 14 tree species growing in mixed stands on a postmining spoil heap, and to compare their decay rates with those obtained in pure stands of tree species that are very often planted in postmining areas. The study was conducted on the Bełchatów Lignite Mine spoil heap, central Poland. We studied litter decomposition rates over 5 years using the litterbag method. Leaf litter decomposition rates (k constants; yr−1) after 5 years of the experiment were arranged from highest to lowest as follows: Prunus serotina (1.04), Alnus glutinosa (0.86), Fraxinus excelsior (0.81), Ulmus laevis (0.73), Acer pseudoplatanus (0.68), Populus tremula (0.63), Populus × canadensis (0.59), Betula pendula (0.54), Populus nigra ‘Italica’ (0.38), Quercus rubra (0.36), Pinus sylvestris (0.34), Robinia pseudoacacia (0.34), Fagus sylvatica (0.25), and Quercus robur (0.22). Decomposition rates increased with Mg, Ca, and summed Mg + Ca + P + K contents in freshly fallen leaves (%). All species‐specific decomposition rates were higher in mixed than in Scots pine stands. Half of them were also higher than in pure stands of other tree species. Our results indicate that tree species composition could significantly affect the physiochemical properties of upper soil horizons on reclaimed areas. Based on these findings, we recommend planting high share of not only A. pseudoplatanus, A. glutinosa, and U. laevis but also F. sylvatica and Q. robur in stands on postmining spoil heaps, because mixed stands can accelerate soil development more than pure stands.
Optimizing the Use of Geriatric Livers for Transplantation in the Eurotransplant Region
Authors: de Boer Jacob D. , Blok Joris J. , Putter Hein , Koopman Jacob J. E. , van Hoek Bart , Samuel Undine , van Rosmalen Marieke , Metselaar Herold J. , Alwayn Ian P. J. , Guba Markus , Braat Andries E. ,   for the Eurotransplant Liver and Intestine Advisory Committee
Published: October 2018

Acceptance criteria for liver allografts are ever more expanding because of a persisting wait‐list mortality. Older livers are therefore offered and used more frequently for transplantation. This study aims to analyze the use and longterm outcome of these transplantations. Data were included on 17,811 first liver transplantations (LTs) and information on livers that were reported for allocation but not transplanted from 2000 to 2015 in the Eurotransplant (ET) region. Graft survival was defined as the period between transplantation and date of retransplantation or date of recipient death. In the study period, 2394 (13%) transplantations were performed with livers ≥70 years old. Graft survival was 74%, 57%, and 41% at 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐year follow‐up, respectively. A history of diabetes mellitus in the donor (hazard ratio [HR], 1.3; P = 0.01) and positive hepatitis C virus antibody in the recipient (HR, 1.5; P < 0.001) are specific risk factors for transplantations with livers ≥70 years old. Although donor age is associated with a linearly increasing risk of graft loss between 25 and 80 years old, no difference in graft survival could be observed when “preferred” recipients were transplanted with a liver <70 or ≥70 years old (HR 1.1; CI 0.92‐1.23, P = 0.40) or with a donor <40 or ≥70 years old (HR 1.2; CI 0.96‐1.37, P = 0.13). Utilization of reported livers ≥70 years old increased from 42% in 2000‐2003 to 76% in 2013‐2015 without a decrease in graft survival (P = 0.45). In conclusion, an important proportion of LTs in the ET region are performed with livers ≥70 years old. The risk of donor age on graft loss increases linearly between 25 and 80 years old. Livers ≥70 years old can, however, be transplanted safely in preferred patients and are to be used more frequently to further reduce wait‐list mortality.
Relationship of Nocturnal Sleep Dysfunction and Pain Subtypes in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Rizos Alexandra M. , Wetmore John B. , Antonini Angelo , Odin Per , Pal Suvankar , Sophia Rani , Carroll Camille , Martino Davide , Falup‐Pecurariu Cristian , Kessel Belinda , Andrews Thomasin , Paviour Dominic , Trenkwalder Claudia , Chaudhuri Kallol Ray ,   on behalf of EUROPAR & MDS Non‐Motor PD Study Group
Published: October 2018

Background

Little research has been conducted regarding the relationship between sleep disorders and different pain types in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objective

To explore the influence of the various pain subtypes experienced by PD patients on sleep.

Methods

Three hundred consecutive PD patients were assessed with the PD Sleep Scale‐Version 2 (PDSS‐2), King's PD Pain Scale (KPPS), King's PD Pain Questionnaire (KPPQ), Visual Analog Scales for Pain (VAS‐Pain), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

Results

According to the PDSS‐2, 99.3% of our sample suffered from at least one sleep issue. Those who reported experiencing any modality of pain suffered significantly more from sleep disorders than those who did not (all, P < 0.003). The PDSS‐2 showed moderate‐to‐high correlations with the KPPS (rS = 0.57), KPPQ (0.57), and VAS‐Pain (0.35). When PDSS‐2 items 10 to 12 (pain‐related) were excluded, the correlation values decreased to 0.50, 0.51, and 0.28, respectively, while these items showed moderate‐to‐high correlations with KPPS (0.56), KPPQ (0.54), and VAS‐Pain (0.42). Among the variables analyzed, multiple linear regression models suggested that KPPS and KPPQ were the most relevant predictors of sleep disorders (as per the PDSS‐2), although following exclusion of PDSS‐2 pain items, depression was the relevant predictor. Depression and anxiety were the most relevant predictors in the analysis involving the VAS‐Pain. Regression analysis, considering only the KPPS domains, showed that nocturnal and musculoskeletal pains were the best predictors of overall nocturnal sleep disorder.

Conclusions

Pain showed a moderate association with nocturnal sleep dysfunction in PD. Some pain subtypes had a greater effect on sleep than others.
Setting matters: Associations of nurses’ attitudes towards people with dementia
Authors: Blaser Regula , Berset Jeanne
Published: October 2018

Aim

Identify associations between attitudes of nurses towards people with dementia and their socio‐demographic (age and gender) and work‐related characteristics (employment, work experience, nursing degree, care setting).

Design

The study was designed in a cross‐sectional way, collecting self‐reported questionnaire data.

Methods

Nurses (N = 417) completed the 20‐item Dementia Attitude Scale questionnaire, including socio‐demographic and work characteristics. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, group mean comparison, correlation and regression analysis.

Results

The attitudes of nurses towards people with dementia were only related to the care setting. Attitudes of nurses working in dementia‐specialized long‐term care institutions were significantly more positive compared with those working in mixed long‐term care institutions and in the homecare setting. The other variables, such as age, gender, employment, nursing degree and work experience, were not associated with the attitudes.
Effects of graphite and boron nitride based fillers on mechanical, thermal conductive, and thermo‐physical properties in solution styrene–butadiene rubber
Authors: Fan Yuan , Cho Ur Ryong
Published: October 2018

In the present work, graphite and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) are studied as fillers in order to reinforce physical properties of the solution styrene–butadiene rubber (SSBR). Composites based on SSBR and these two fillers are prepared via kneading followed by hot compression method, and these two hybrid fillers with different wt% into the SSBR composites are also produced. The effects of different wt% on the morphology, tensile strength, thermal conductivity, and thermal properties are investigated. From the test results, using each of the filler can increase the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity, whereas the effectiveness of graphite remarkably increased the tensile strength and thermal conductivity. The composites of the hybrid filler systems have better mechanical performance compared to the SSBR filled with BN, and they are all inferior to the SSBR filled with graphite. In addition, the test showed that the thermal conductivity of the composites of the hybrid filler systems is comparable with SSBR filled with BN. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1426–E1433, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Optimised Accelerated Solvent Extraction of Hexahydro‐1,3,5‐Trinitro‐1,3,5‐Triazine (RDX) from Polymer Bonded Explosives
Authors: Temple Tracey , Goodwin Catherine , Ladyman Melissa K. , Mai Nathalie , Coulon Frederic
Published: October 2018

An Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE) method was developed and optimised to extract hexahydro‐1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazine (RDX) from a polyurethane matrix. The ASE method development was benchmarked against Soxhlet extraction with a view to improving extraction efficiency in terms of time and solvent volume. Key parameters for the ASE method development involved selecting the most appropriate solvent, optimising static time, ensuring a safe oven temperature for explosives, determination of a sufficient number of rinse cycles and effective sample preparation. To achieve optimal extraction, cutting the PBX samples to maximise solvent exposure was essential. The use of acetone with a static time of 10 minutes at 100 °C with three rinse cycles achieved 97 %±10 % extraction of RDX from PBX in 40 minutes using 72 mL solvent. Extraction time was reduced from 48 hours and solvent use by half compared to the standard Soxhlet extraction. To validate the developed ASE method, two other PBX samples containing different quantities of explosive were also fully extracted using the same parameters. Overall, ASE efficiency was comparable to Soxhlet, which places the ASE as a good alternative and shows potential for implementation as a standard method for other polymer based explosives.
The influence of timing the application of nitrogen fertilizer on early blight (Alternaria solani)
Authors: Abuley Isaac K , Nielsen Bent J , Hansen Hans H
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Field experiments were carried out in 2016 and 2017 to study the influence of timing the application of nitrogen fertilizer (N‐fertilizer) on the susceptibility of potatoes to early blight. We hypothesized that potatoes that receive N‐fertilizer as split applications or a one‐time application at emergence will have a higher N content and be less susceptible to early blight than those that receive N‐fertilizer as a one‐time application before planting. N‐fertilizer was applied either as a one‐time application before planting or at emergence and as split applications.

RESULTS

Potatoes that did not receive N‐fertilizer were more susceptible to early blight [high area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC)] than those that did receive N‐fertilizer (low AUDPC). The timing of N‐fertilizer application had a significant effect on the susceptibility of potatoes to early blight. Potatoes that received the entire quantity of N‐fertilizer at emergence or as split applications had higher N contents and were less susceptible to early blight than those that received the entire quantity of N‐fertilizer before planting. Potatoes that did not receive N‐fertilizer had a markedly lower starch yield than potatoes that received N‐fertilizer. Potatoes that received the entire quantity of N‐fertilizer before planting had a lower starch yield than potatoes that received the entire quantity of N‐fertilizer at emergence or as split applications.

CONCLUSION

N‐fertilizer applied as a one‐time application at emergence or as a split application was the best treatment to ensure both high N content and lower attack of early blight, which confirms our hypothesis. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Alternative splicing and expression analysis ofHSF1in diapause pupal brains in the cotton bollworm,Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Chen Wei , Geng Shao‐Lei , Song Zhe , Li Yu‐Juan , Wang Hui , Cao Jian‐Yun
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Diapause is the arrest of the development of insects and can be used for the development of effective agricultural pest management strategies. Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) is reported to be up‐regulated during diapause to maintain survival in some insect species. However, its regulatory mechanism is unknown.

RESULTS

Expression ofhsp70inHelicoverpa armigerawas found to be up‐regulated in diapause pupal brains. To elucidate the molecular regulatory mechanisms ofhsp70, we focused our attention on its transcription factor, heat shock factor 1 (HSF1). Four alternative splicing variants ofHSF1from pupal brains ofH. armigerawere identified, and subcellular localization analysis indicated that these variants were exclusively expressed in the nucleus. Real‐time PCR analysis showed that all of these variants were up‐regulated in diapause pupal brains, and their expression patterns were consistent with that ofhsp70. Finally, promoter activity assay and Western blotting detection demonstrated thathsp70was activated and up‐regulated by these variants.

CONCLUSION

Expression ofhsp70inH. armigeraduring diapause is regulated by multiple alternatively spliced isoforms of HSF1. The results of this study may provide important information for understanding the regulatory mechanisms ofhspsduring insect diapause. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Criticizing resilience thinking: A political ecology analysis of droughts in nineteenth‐century East Africa
Authors: Håkansson N. Thomas
Published: October 2018

The looming alteration in climate has spurred a veritable industry over the past two decades of overly simplistic scenario modeling and theoretical predictions of future changes brought about by global warming, some based on research on human responses to fluctuations in rainfall and temperature in the past. Scholars who stress the complexity of climate and social processes have critiqued such crude models from two different approaches: resilience thinking and political ecology. In this article, I assess the resilience framework through an analysis of the effects of droughts over a long time perspective, between circa 1800 and 1950, in two East African communities: the Kamba of Kenya and the Gogo of Tanzania. My conclusion is that political ecology theory provides a better explanation than the resilience approach. In both cases, rather than primarily adapting to climate events, the ability of communities and households to cope with droughts varied depending on how they were integrated into regional economies and the world system when those droughts occurred. The effects of droughts and long‐term fluctuations in precipitation were mediated through exchange networks, the flow of currencies, and the processes of stratification in local resource control, which in turn affected land use and settlement patterns.
Crypto‐miners: Digital labor and the power of blockchain technology
Authors: Calvão Filipe
Published: October 2018

This article examines the labor power of digital miners. Though an obscure and still incipient facet of the digital economy, crypto‐mining powers and secures transactions across blockchains, or public distributed digital ledgers. Drawing from interviews with cryptocurrency enthusiasts, blockchain advocates, and developers; participation in online and offline discussions; and a survey with small‐scale crypto‐miners, this article takes on the material and technoscientific valuation of crypto‐mining to understand how a future of open, decentralized accountability implicates human labor alongside automated processes. The work of digital mining, performed in the work of inscribing, registering, and politically organizing mining operations, enables the formation of democratic communities in the digital economy and remains inevitably embedded in social relations as a mode of productive, meaningful action.
Incorporation of Modified Regenerated Starch Nanoparticles in Emulsion Polymer Latexes
Authors: Cummings Shidan , Trevino Esther , Zhang Yujie , Cunningham Michael , Dubé Marc A.
Published: October 2018

Emulsion polymerization produces a water‐borne latex (without the use of solvents), and requires low catalyst concentrations to proceed, making it a more sustainable way to produce polymers than many alternatives. The addition of bio‐sourced materials to the formulation further increases sustainability. Vinyl functionalized regenerated starch nanoparticles (RSNPs) are used in semi‐batch emulsion polymerizations to prepare starch‐incorporated latexes with reduced synthetic polymer content. Nanoparticles with 3 wt% concentration of a polymerizable functionalized sugar‐based monomer (FSM) of medium hydrophobicity are incorporated with the polymer particles. Latexes with 15 wt% RSNP loading (dry RSNP/total solids) and 40 wt% total solids achieved an RSNP incorporation with the latex particles of up to 10 wt% of the total RSNPs added to the emulsion formulation, or 1.5 wt% of total solids. A modified RSNP feed strategy at higher loadings of 40 and 50 wt% results in 10 wt% incorporation of the total RSNPs, or 4 and 5 wt% of total solids, respectively. With RSNPs produced using a higher concentration of FSM (6 wt%), 20 wt% RSNP incorporation with the latex particles (8 wt% of total solids) is achieved at 40 wt% RSNP loading. Strategies are successfully developed to incorporate a certain amount of the RSNPs with the synthetic polymer particles at high overall RSNP loadings.
Ameliorative effects of Saussurea lappa root aqueous extract against Ethephon‐induced reproductive toxicity in male rats
Authors: Abd Eldaim Mabrouk Attia , Tousson Ehab , El Sayed Ibrahim El Tantawy , Awd Walaa Mohamed
Published: October 2018

This study was designed to evaluate protective effect of Saussurea lappa root aqueous extract against Ethephon (2‐chloroethylphosphonic acid)‐induced reproductive toxicity in rats. Control group received distilled water. Second group was given S. lappa extract at a dose 50 mg/kg bw. Third group was given Ethephon at a dose 200 mg/kg bw. Fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were given S. lappa extract before, with or after Ethephon administration, respectively. Ethephon intoxication significantly decreased serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and prolactin. Also, it significantly decreased sperms count, vitality, morphology index, total motility, progressive motility, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen protein expressions in spermatogonia. However, it significantly increased sperms abnormalities, testicular tissue and DNA damages, P53 protein expressions, noprogressive motility, and immotile sperms. In contrast, S. lappa extract ameliorated these alterations. These results indicated that S. lappa had potential preventive and curative effects against Ethephon‐induced reproductive toxicity in rats.