bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lotus seeds (Nelumbinis semen) as an emerging therapeutic seed: A comprehensive review
Authors: Arooj Muzalfa , Imran Saira , Inam‐ur‐Raheem Muhammad , Rajoka Muhammad Shahid Riaz , Sameen Aysha , Siddique Rabia , Sahar Amna , Tariq Shiza , Riaz Ayesha , Hussain Abid , Siddeeg Azhari , Aadil Rana Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Nelumbinis semen is commonly known as lotus seeds that have been used as a vegetable, functional food, and medicine for 7,000 years. These are low caloric, a rich source of multiple nutrients and bioactive constituents, which make it a unique therapeutic food. N. semen plays an important part in the physiological functions of the body. Nowadays, people are more conscious about their health and desire to treat disease naturally with minimal side effects. So, functional foods are getting popularity due to a wide range of essential constituents, which are associated to decrease the risk of chronic diseases. These bioactive compounds from seeds are involved in anti‐adipogenic, antioxidant, antitumor, cardiovascular, hepato‐protective, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐fertility, anti‐microbial, anti‐viral, hypoglycemic, etc. Moreover, the relationship between functional compounds along with their mechanism of action in the body, their extraction from the seeds for further research would be of great interest.
p70S6K on astrocytes protects dopamine neurons from 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium neurotoxicity
Authors: Kim Kyoung In , Baek Jeong Yeob , Chung Young Cheul , Nam Jin Han , Shin Won‐Ho , Jin Byung Kwan
Published: May 2021

Our recent finding has demonstrated that astrocytes confer neuroprotection by endogenously producing ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) via transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) in Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, the possible molecular target for TRPV1‐mediated CNTF production and its neuroprotective effects on dopamine neurons were further investigated. For comparison, glial cell‐line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) was also examined. The results show that TRPV1‐ribosomal protein 70 S6 kinase (p70S6K) signaling on astrocytes produces endogenous CNTF in the SN of MPP+‐lesioned rat. By marked contrast, the expression of GDNF on astrocytes is independent of TRPV1‐p70S6K signaling. Administration of a TRPV1 agonist, capsaicin, increases levels of phosphorylated p70S6K (p‐p70S6K; activation of p70S6K) on astrocytes, resulting in the survival of dopamine neurons and behavioral recovery through endogenous production of CNTF in the MPP+‐lesioned rat model of PD. Immunohistochemical analysis reveals expression of p‐p70S6K on astrocytes in the SN of PD patients, indicating relevance to human PD. The present in vivo data is the first to demonstrate that astrocytic TRPV1‐p70S6K signaling plays a pivotal role as endogenous neuroprotective, and it may constitute a novel therapeutic target for treating PD.
Surface‐Based Connectivity Integration: An atlas‐free approach to jointly study functional and structural connectivity
Authors: Cole Martin , Murray Kyle , St‐Onge Etienne , Risk Benjamin , Zhong Jianhui , Schifitto Giovanni , Descoteaux Maxime , Zhang Zhengwu
Published: May 2021

There has been increasing interest in jointly studying structural connectivity (SC) and functional connectivity (FC) derived from diffusion and functional MRI. Previous connectome integration studies almost exclusively required predefined atlases. However, there are many potential atlases to choose from and this choice heavily affects all subsequent analyses. To avoid such an arbitrary choice, we propose a novel atlas‐free approach, named Surface‐Based Connectivity Integration (SBCI), to more accurately study the relationships between SC and FC throughout the intra‐cortical gray matter. SBCI represents both SC and FC in a continuous manner on the white surface, avoiding the need for prespecified atlases. The continuous SC is represented as a probability density function and is smoothed for better facilitation of its integration with FC. To infer the relationship between SC and FC, three novel sets of SC‐FC coupling (SFC) measures are derived. Using data from the Human Connectome Project, we introduce the high‐quality SFC measures produced by SBCI and demonstrate the use of these measures to study sex differences in a cohort of young adults. Compared with atlas‐based methods, this atlas‐free framework produces more reproducible SFC features and shows greater predictive power in distinguishing biological sex. This opens promising new directions for all connectomics studies.
The role of family confidants and caregivers in the care of older cancer patients: Extending the concept of “shared decision‐making”
Authors: Gieseler Frank , Heidenreich Andreas , Schubert Jacqueline , Frielitz Fabian , Rehmann‐Sutter Christoph , Wörler Frank , Schües Christina , Hübner Joachim , Elsner Susanne , Block Katarina , Rody Achim , von Bubnoff Nikolas , Keck Tobias , Steimann Monika , Endsin Gero , Katalinic Alexander
Published: May 2021

Background and aims

Family caregivers play an important role in assisting their family members with cancer, but their influence on the treatment decision‐making process has not yet been adequately investigated. This exploratory study approached this topic via reconstructive methodology, focusing on assessing patient‐caregiver relationships.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 37 mostly elderly cancer patients (median age: 74 years) about the context of their diagnosis, treatment decision, and family support. Additionally, we interviewed 34 caregivers of cancer patients. Of these, 25 were related to patients interviewed. We analyzed the interviews via a multi‐step coding method informed by Grounded Theory methodology toward characterizing patient‐caregiver relationships, the treatment decision‐making process, and the caregivers' role therein.

Results

In the majority of cases (86%), patients were being supported by caregivers. We categorized patient‐caregiver relationships in regards to the caregivers' involvement in the therapy decision‐making process. We found patient‐caregiver interaction patterns that indicate the potential of caregivers to decidedly influence the therapy decision‐making process. Yet, only in 38% of cases, a caregiver attended relevant patient‐physician‐consultations.

Conclusion

Depending on the nature of the patient‐caregiver relationship, the traditional concept of shared decision‐making, which assumes a dyadic relationship, needs to be extended toward a more dynamic concept in which caregivers should be involved more frequently. This could enable physicians to better understand a patient's reasons for or against a therapy proposal and ensure that the patient's wishes are communicated and considered. On the other hand, strong caregiver‐involvement bears risks of over‐stepping elderly patients' wishes, thus violating patient autonomy.
Issues in generating stochastic observables for hydrological models
Authors: Beven Keith
Published: May 2021

This paper provides a historical review and critique of stochastic generating models for hydrological observables, from early generation of monthly discharge series, through flood frequency estimation by continuous simulation, to current weather generators. There are a number of issues that arise in such models, from uncertainties in the observational data on which such models must be based, to the potential persistence effects in hydroclimatic systems, the proper representation of tail behaviour in the underlying distributions, and the interpretation of future scenarios.
Longitudinal associations between metaphor understanding and peer relationships in middle childhood
Authors: Del Sette Paola , Ronchi Luca , Bambini Valentina , Lecce Serena
Published: May 2021

Metaphor understanding is a pragmatic inferential skill that serves a social function in adulthood. The present longitudinal study was designed to investigate the existence and the direction of the associations between metaphor understanding and peer relationships in children. One‐hundred twenty‐six typically developing 9‐year‐old children were tested at baseline and a year later for their ability to understand metaphors (via the physical and mental metaphors task) and their peer relationships (through peer acceptance and rejection). Results showed a longitudinal and bidirectional association between metaphor understanding and peer rejection, but not peer acceptance. Children who were more rejected were less able to understand metaphors 1 year later and children who struggled in understanding metaphors were more rejected 1 year later. Results are discussed in light of existing theoretical models. Overall, these findings show that the social nature of metaphor traces back to peer relationships in children.
Factors affecting the adoption of BYOD in South African small and medium enterprises
Authors: Akin‐Adetoro Adedolapo , Kabanda Salah
Published: May 2021

The advancement in technological development is now altering the conventional order in the diffusion of Information Technology innovation from a top‐down approach (organization to employees) to a bottom‐up approach (employees to organization). This change is more notable in developed economies and has led to the bring your own device (BYOD) phenomenon, which promises increased productivity for employees and their organizations. There have been several studies on the corporate adoption of BYOD, but few have investigated this phenomenon from a small and medium enterprise (SME) perspective and from developing countries specifically. This study investigated the BYOD phenomenon in South African SMEs. The goal was to identify contextual factors influencing BYOD adoption. A conceptual framework using the Perceived EReadiness Model (PERM) was adopted. The study took an interpretive stance and was qualitative. Data was collected from SMEs using semi‐structured interviews and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The findings show that for BYOD to be adopted and institutionalized in an SME, there needs to be organizational and environmental readiness. Organizational readiness in terms of awareness, management support, business resources, human resources, employees' pressure, formal governance, and technological readiness. Environmental readiness in terms of market forces, support from industry, government readiness and the socio‐cultural factor. These readiness factors present both opportunities and challenges that SMEs in developing countries need to concentrate on as they prepare for and use BYOD.
Modulation of injectable hydrogel properties for slow co‐delivery of influenza subunit vaccine components enhance the potency of humoral immunity
Authors: Saouaf Olivia M. , Roth Gillie A. , Ou Ben S. , Smith Anton A. A. , Yu Anthony C. , Gale Emily C. , Grosskopf Abigail K. , Picece Vittoria C.T.M. , Appel Eric A.
Published: May 2021

Vaccines are critical for combating infectious diseases across the globe. Influenza, for example, kills roughly 500,000 people annually worldwide, despite annual vaccination campaigns. Efficacious vaccines must elicit a robust and durable antibody response, and poor efficacy often arises from inappropriate temporal control over antigen and adjuvant presentation to the immune system. In this work, we sought to exploit the immune system's natural response to extended pathogen exposure during infection by designing an easily administered slow‐delivery influenza vaccine platform. We utilized an injectable and self‐healing polymer‐nanoparticle (PNP) hydrogel platform to prolong the co‐delivery of vaccine components to the immune system. We demonstrated that these hydrogels exhibit unique dynamic physical characteristics whereby physicochemically distinct influenza hemagglutinin antigen and a toll‐like receptor 7/8 agonist adjuvant could be co‐delivered over prolonged timeframes that were tunable through simple alteration of the gel formulation. We show a relationship between hydrogel physical properties and the resulting immune response to immunization. When administered in mice, hydrogel‐based vaccines demonstrated enhancements in the magnitude and duration of humoral immune responses compared to alum, a widely used clinical adjuvant system. We found stiffer hydrogel formulations exhibited slower release and resulted in the greatest improvements to the antibody response while also enabling significant adjuvant dose sparing. In summary, this work introduces a simple and effective vaccine delivery platform that increases the potency and durability of influenza subunit vaccines.
Virtual screening of natural compounds for potential inhibitors of Sterol C‐24 methyltransferase of Leishmania donovani to overcome leishmaniasis
Authors: Rahman Fazlur , Tabrez Shams , Ali Rahat , Akand Sajjadul Kadir , Zahid Mariya , Alaidarous Mohammed A. , Alsaweed Mohammed , Alshehri Bader Mohammed , Banawas Saeed , Bin Dukhyil Abdul Aziz , Rub Abdur
Published: May 2021

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by trypanosomatid parasite belonging to the genera Leishmania. Leishmaniasis is transmitted from one human to other through the bite of sandflies. It is endemic in around 98 countries including tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, Southern America, and the Mediterranean region. Sterol C‐24 methyltransferase (LdSMT) of Leishmania donovani (L. donovani) mediates the transfer of CH3‐group from S‐adenosyl methionine to C‐24 position of sterol side chain which makes the ergosterol different from cholesterol. Absence of ortholog in human made it potential druggable target. Here, we performed virtual screening of library of natural compounds against LdSMT to identify the potential inhibitor for it and to fight leishmaniasis. Gigantol, flavan‐3‐ol, and parthenolide showed the best binding affinity towards LdSMT. Further, based on absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion properties and biological activity prediction, gigantol showed the best lead‐likeness and drug‐likeness properties. Therefore, we further elucidated its antileishmanial properties. We found that gigantol inhibited the growth and proliferation of promastigotes as well as intra‐macrophagic amastigotes. Gigantol exerted its antileishmanial action through the induction of reactive oxygen species in dose‐dependent manner. Our study, suggested the possible use of gigantol as antileishmanial drug after further validations to overcome leishmaniasis.
Specialized nutrition improves muscle function and physical activity without affecting chemotherapy efficacy in C26 tumour‐bearing mice
Authors: Wijler Liza A. , Raats Danielle A.E. , Elias Sjoerd G. , Dijk Francina J. , Quirindongo Hanil , May Anne M. , Furber Matthew J.W. , Dorresteijn Bram , van Dijk Miriam , Kranenburg Onno
Published: May 2021

Background

Skeletal muscle wasting and fatigue are commonly observed in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and associated with reduced treatment outcome and quality of life. Nutritional support may mitigate these side effects, but potential interference with chemotherapy efficacy could be of concern. Here, we investigated the effects of an ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid), leucine‐enriched, high‐protein (100% whey), additional vitamin D, and prebiotic fibres ‘specific nutritional composition’ (SNC) and chemotherapy on state‐of‐the‐art tumour organoids and muscle cells and studied muscle function, physical activity, systemic inflammation, and chemotherapy efficacy in a mouse model of aggressive colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

Tumour‐bearing mice received a diet with or without SNC. Chemotherapy treatment consisted of oxaliplatin and 5‐fluorouracil. Tumour formation was monitored by calliper measurements. Physical activity was continuously monitored by infrared imaging. Ex vivo muscle performance was determined by myography, muscle fatty acid composition by gas chromatography, and plasma cytokine levels by Luminex xMAP technology. Patient‐derived CRC organoids and C2C12 myotubes were used to determine whether SNC affects chemotherapy sensitivity in vitro.

Results

Specific nutritional composition increased muscle contraction capacity of chemotherapy‐treated tumour‐bearing mice (P < 0.05) and enriched ω‐3 fatty acid composition in muscle without affecting treatment efficacy (P < 0.0001). Mice receiving SNC maintained physical activity after chemotherapy and showed decreased systemic inflammation. Therapeutic response of CRC organoids was unaffected by SNC nutrients, while cell viability and protein synthesis of muscle cells significantly improved.

Conclusions

The results show that specialized nutritional support can be used to maintain muscle function and physical activity levels during chemotherapy without increasing tumour viability. Therefore, nutritional strategies have potential value in promoting cancer and chemotherapy tolerance.
Effect of sprayingl‐menthol on peristalsis resumption during endoscopic submucosal dissection of gastric tumors
Authors: Ishiyama Akiyoshi , Namikawa Ken , Tokai Yoshitaka , Yoshimizu Shoichi , Horiuchi Yusuke , Yoshio Toshiyuki , Hirasawa Toshiaki , Tsuchida Tomohiro , Itoh Fumio , Fujisaki Junko
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim

l‐Menthol has smooth muscle‐relaxing and antiperistaltic effects. We examined its effectiveness against peristalsis resumption during endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of gastric tumors.

Methods

We retrospectively examined clinical data of 485 patients (501 lesions) who underwent ESD for upper gastrointestinal tumors in 2017. We included 119 patients (127 lesions) in whom peristaltic movement resumed during ESD andl‐menthol was applied; 366 patients (374 lesions) withoutl‐menthol application were used as controls. Video recordings were reviewed to determine whetherl‐menthol suppressed peristalsis resumption.

Results

In cases withl‐menthol application, 2 (2.9%), 36 (14.3%), and 89 (71.2%) lesions were found in the upper (U), middle (M), and lower (L) regions, respectively. In the control group, the corresponding values were 66 (17.6%), 215 (57.5%), and 93 (24.9%), respectively.l‐Menthol efficacy was observed in 116 of the 127 treated lesions (91.3%), over 90% of which were in the posterior wall of the U region, anterior wall and greater curvature of the M region, and anterior wall and lesser curvature of the L region. The most and least effective areas forl‐menthol application were the anterior wall of gastric antrum and posterior wall of the M region, respectively. The mean time from application to peristalsis inhibition was 8.7 s. No adverse effects were observed; perforation and secondary hemorrhage were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion

Directl‐menthol application to the submucosal layer during mucosal resection affects smooth muscles and rapidly inhibits peristalsis resumption. Clinically,l‐Menthol can be used to suppress peristalsis recurrence during ESD, without adverse effects.
Personal social capital and voluntary participation in the Village Development Programme in rural Sri Lanka
Authors: Hulugalla Niranjala , Yamada Kyohei , Kakinaka Makoto
Published: May 2021

This study examines whether voluntary participation in the Village Development Programme in rural Sri Lanka promotes personal social capital. We use an original survey of 595 households in six rural villages in Kalutara district, Sri Lanka, and apply matching methods. The analysis finds a positive effect of voluntary participation on personal social capital. However, once we consider the degree of participation by classifying participants into nominal and active participants, status changes from nonparticipants to nominal participants nurture personal social capital, but status changes from nominal to active participants fail to enhance personal social capital. Our findings suggest that increasing the level of participation does not necessarily contribute to social capital development in a linear way because active participation may bring about not just positive features—such as frequent interactions with others or experiences of successful collaboration—but also conflict among community members.
Multi‐Parametric Evaluation of Cerebral Hemodynamics in Neonatal Piglets Using Non‐Contrast‐Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Methods
Authors: Liu Dapeng , Jiang Dengrong , Tekes Aylin , Kulikowicz Ewa , Martin Lee J. , Lee Jennifer K. , Liu Peiying , Qin Qin
Published: May 2021

Background

Disruption of brain oxygen delivery and consumption after hypoxic–ischemic injury contributes to neonatal mortality and neurological impairment. Measuring cerebral hemodynamic parameters, including cerebral blood flow (CBF), oxygen extraction fraction (OEF), and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2), is clinically important.

Purpose

Phase‐contrast (PC), velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling (VSASL), and T2‐relaxation‐under‐phase‐contrast (TRUPC) are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques that have shown promising results in assessing cerebral hemodynamics in humans. We aimed to test their feasibility in quantifying CBF, OEF, and CMRO2 in piglets.

Study Type

Prospective.

Animal Model

Ten neonatal piglets subacutely recovered from global hypoxia‐ischemia (N = 2), excitotoxic brain injury (N = 6), or sham procedure (N = 2).

Field Strength/Sequence

VSASL, TRUPC, and PC MRI acquired at 3.0 T.

Assessment

Regional CBF was measured by VSASL. Global CBF was quantified by both PC and VSASL. TRUPC assessed OEF at the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) and internal cerebral veins (ICVs). CMRO2 was calculated from global CBF and SSS‐derived OEF. End‐tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) levels of the piglets were also measured. Brain damage was assessed in tissue sections postmortem by counting damaged neurons.

Statistical Tests

Spearman correlations were performed to evaluate associations among CBF (by PC or VSASL), OEF, CMRO2, EtCO2, and the pathological neuron counts. Paired t‐test was used to compare OEF at SSS with OEF at ICV.

Results

Global CBF was 32.1 ± 14.9 mL/100 g/minute and 30.9 ± 8.3 mL/100 g/minute for PC and VSASL, respectively, showing a significant correlation (r = 0.82, P < 0.05). OEF was 54.9 ± 8.8% at SSS and 46.1 ± 5.6% at ICV, showing a significant difference (P < 0.05). Global CMRO2 was 79.1 ± 26.2 μmol/100 g/minute and 77.2 ± 12.2 μmol/100 g/minute using PC and VSASL‐derived CBF, respectively. EtCO2 correlated positively with PC‐based CBF (r = 0.81, P < 0.05) but negatively with OEF at SSS (r = −0.84, P < 0.05). Relative CBF of subcortical brain regions and OEF at ICV did not significantly correlate, respectively, with the ratios of degenerating‐to‐total neurons (P = 0.30, P = 0.10).

Data Conclusion

Non‐contrast MRI can quantify cerebral hemodynamic parameters in normal and brain‐injured neonatal piglets.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Real‐time echocardiographic guidance for confirming septal placement of right ventricular leads: A pilot study
Authors: Yan Manshu , Contractor Tahmeed , Guran Elyse , McCabe Melissa , Kim Uoo
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Accuracy of fluoroscopy in predicting septal placement of the right ventricular (RV) leads is poor. This pilot study evaluated the feasibility and impact of real‐time transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) during RV lead placement.

Method

Consecutive patients undergoing transvenous RV lead placement and had a point of care ultrasound team available for TTE guidance were included in the study. TTE was performed to confirm or refute the septal position of RV lead initially positioned using fluoroscopy; leads were repositioned until a septal position was confirmed on TTE. The primary outcome measured was whether the use of TTE resulted in lead repositioning.

Result

Among the 26 patients included in the study, real‐time TTE during RV lead placement resulted in reposition of the lead to a septal position in 38.5% of patients.

Conclusion

Use of real‐time TTE guidance during fluoroscopic RV lead placement is feasible and can aid in confirming a septal position.
Seasonal Shifts in Nocturnal Habitat Use by Coastal Bat Species
Authors: Shute Kyle E. , Loeb Susan C. , Jachowski David S.
Published: May 2021

Sensitivity of bats to land use change depends on their foraging ecology, which varies among species based on ecomorphological traits. Additionally, because prey availability, vegetative clutter, and temperature change throughout the year, some species may display seasonal shifts in their nocturnal habitat use. In the Coastal Plain of South Carolina, USA, the northern long‐eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), southeastern myotis (Myotis austroriparius), tri‐colored bat (Perimyotis subflavus), and northern yellow bat (Lasiurus intermedius) are species of conservation concern that are threatened by habitat loss. Our objective was to identify characteristics of habitat used by these species during their nightly active period and compare use between summer and winter. We conducted acoustic surveys at 125 sites during May–August and at 121 of the same 125 sites December–March 2018 and 2019 in upland forests, bottomland forests, fields, ponds, and salt marsh and used occupancy models to assess habitat use. The northern long‐eared bat and southeastern myotis (i.e., myotis bats) used sites that were closer to hardwood stands, pine stands, and fresh water year‐round. We did not identify any strong predictors of tri‐colored bat habitat use in summer, but during winter they used bottomland forests, fields, and ponds more than salt marsh and upland forests. During summer and winter, northern yellow bats used sites close to fresh water and salt marsh. Additionally, during summer they used fields, ponds, and salt marsh more than upland and bottomland forests, but in winter they used bottomland forests, fields, and ponds more than upland forest and salt marsh. Our results highlight important land cover types for bats in this area (e.g., bottomland forests, ponds, and salt marsh), and that habitat use changes between seasons. Accounting for and understanding how habitat use changes throughout the year will inform managers about how critical habitat features may vary in their importance to bats throughout the year. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Intubation‐Related Laryngeal Deficiency and Vocal Fold Immobility in Pediatric Premature Patients
Authors: Zur Karen B. , Douglas Jennifer , Carroll Linda M.
Published: May 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

We report a posterior laryngeal rating system and measures of voice disability in pediatric patients undergoing phonosurgery for vocal fold paralysis. Posterior glottic deficiency may account for persistent voice disability.

Study Design

Retrospective Study.

Methods

Retrospective analyses of 66 subjects with primary unilateral vocal fold paralysis were reviewed for the status of posterior glottis and voice disability (Pediatric Voice Handicap Index [pVHI]). Gestation age (GA), weight, and medical/surgical history were reviewed. The width, length, and depth of the larynx were analyzed to create a reproducible rating scale.

Results

Mean GA was 29 weeks, with an intubation history for all subjects, with 90% having a left vocal fold immobility. Cardiac surgery was performed in 92% of subjects. A progressive rating (type 0–3) Benjamin Defect Severity Scale (BDSS) was developed to rate the absence or presence of a posterior abnormality. BDSS‐2 and BDSS‐3 subjects were more likely to have low birth weight. Extremely preterm GA was more likely to be associated with BDSS‐1 (mild) or BDSS‐2. History of multiple and prolonged intubations were seen more frequently in BDSS‐2 or BDSS‐3. Post‐op pVHI reduced an average of 15 points for BDSS‐0 to BDSS‐2, but only 3 points for BDSS‐3. Post‐op pVHI matched normal values for preintervention dysphonic children.

Conclusions

The presence of a persistent breathy voice after intervention for unilateral vocal fold immobility is potentially associated with posterior glottic defects. Low birth weight with multiple/prolonged intubation is more likely to be present with higher‐grade BDs, whereas low GA is more likely to be associated with BDSS‐1 to BDSS‐2.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:2550–2557, 2021
Impact of face masks in public spaces during COVID‐19 pandemic on daily life communication of cochlear implant users
Authors: Homans Nienke C. , Vroegop Jantien L.
Published: May 2021

Objective/Hypothesis

Investigate potential problems in the daily life communication of cochlear implant (CI) patients due to the widespread use of face masks in public places during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Study design

Prospective survey study.

Methods

This study used an online questionnaire about the effects of face masks on daily life communication of adult CI users. The questionnaire consists of three parts: (a) A face mask questionnaire, (b) loneliness question (c) three subdomains of the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire to assess quality of life. The questionnaires were send out on October 20, 2020. Four hundred and seven adult CI users were invited to participate in the study. The survey inclusion was closed on November 5, 2020. The study setting was the Rotterdam Cochlear Implant Center, Erasmus MC, a tertiary referral center in The Netherlands. The loneliness question and Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire were analyzed for possible differences between the current situation with masks and the situation before, when masks were not commonly used.

Results

Two hundred and twenty one adult CI users (54% female, mean age 62 years) participated in the study. The face mask questionnaire showed that face masks cause considerable problems in daily life communication of 80% of the participants. Also, CI users tend to feel more lonely and all used subdomains of the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire worsened due to the use of face masks.

Conclusion

The widespread use of face masks greatly complicates the daily life communication of CI users and reduces quality of life.

Level of Evidence

3.
Macrofauna as a major driver of bentho‐pelagic exchange in the southern North Sea
Authors: Neumann Andreas , van Beusekom Justus E. E. , Eisele Annika , Emeis Kay‐Christian , Friedrich Jana , Kröncke Ingrid , Logemann Ella Lu , Meyer Julia , Naderipour Céline , Schückel Ulrike , Wrede Alexa , Zettler Michael L.
Published: May 2021

The contribution of sediments to nutrient cycling of the coastal North Sea is strongly controlled by the intensity of fluxes across the sediment water interface. Pore‐water advection is one major exchange mechanism that is well described by models, as it is determined by physical parameters. In contrast, biotransport (i.e., bioirrigation, bioturbation) as the other major transport mechanism is much more complex. Observational data reflecting biotransport, from the German Bight for example, is scarce. We sampled the major sediment provinces of the German Bight repeatedly over the years from 2013 to 2019. By employing ex situ whole core incubations, we established the seasonal and spatial variability of macrofauna‐sustained benthic fluxes of oxygen and nutrients. A multivariate, partial least squares analysis identified faunal activity, in specifically bioturbation and bioirrigation, alongside temperature, as the most important drivers of oxygen and nutrient fluxes. Their combined effect explained 63% of the observed variability in oxygen fluxes, and 36–48% of variability in nutrient fluxes. Additional 10% of the observed variability of fluxes were explained by sediment type and the availability of plankton biomass. Based on our extrapolation by sediment provinces, we conclude that pore‐water advection and macrofaunal activity contributed equally to the total benthic oxygen uptake in the German Bight.
Isotopic approaches to estimating the contribution of heterotrophic sources to Hawaiian corals
Authors: Price James T. , McLachlan Rowan H. , Jury Christopher P. , Toonen Robert J. , Grottoli Andréa G.
Published: May 2021

Corals obtain nutrition from the photosynthetic products of their algal endosymbionts and the ingestion of organic material and zooplankton from the water column. Here, we use stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotopes to assess the proportionate contribution of photoautotrophic and heterotrophic sources to seven Hawaiian coral species collected from six locations around the island of O‘ahu, Hawaiʻi. We analyzed the δ13C and δ15N of coral tissues and their algal endosymbionts, as well as that of dissolved inorganic matter, particulate organic matter, and zooplankton from each site. Estimates of heterotrophic contribution varied among coral species and sites. Bayesian mixing models revealed that heterotrophic sources (particulate organic material and zooplankton) contributed the most to Pocillopora acuta and Montipora patula coral tissues at 49.3% and 48.0%, respectively, and the least to Porites lobata at 28.7%, on average. Estimates of heterotrophic contribution based on the difference between δ13C of the host and algal endosymbiont (δ13Ch–e) and isotopic niche overlap often differed, while estimates based on δ15Nh–e were slightly more aligned with the estimates produced using Bayesian mixing models. These findings suggest that the utility of each approach may vary with coral health status, regions, and coral species. Overall, we find that the mean heterotrophic contribution to Hawaiian coral tissues ranges from 20% to 50%, suggesting a variety of trophic strategies. However, these findings did not always match past direct measurements of heterotrophic feeding, indicating that heterotrophically acquired nutrition does not necessarily get incorporated into tissues but can be respired or exuded in mucus.
Molecular basis of various forms of maple syrup urine disease in Chilean patients
Authors: Campanholi Diana Ruffato Resende , Margutti Ana Vitoria Barban , Silva Wilson A. , Garcia Daniel F. , Molfetta Greice A. , Marques Adriana A. , Schwartz Ida Vanessa Döederlein , Cornejo V. , Hamilton Valerie , Castro Gabriela , Sperb‐Ludwig Fernanda , Borges Ester S. , Camelo José S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is an autosomal recessive inherited metabolic disorder caused by the deficient activity of the branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKD) enzymatic complex. BCKD is a mitochondrial complex encoded by four genes: BCKDHA, BCKDHB, DBT, and DLD. MSUD is predominantly caused by mutations in the BCKDHA, BCKDHB, and DBT genes which encode the E1α, E1β, and E2 subunits of the BCKD complex, respectively. The aim of this study was to characterize the genetic basis of MSUD in a cohort of Chilean MSUD patients by identifying point mutations in the BCKDHA, BCKDHB, and DBT genes and to describe their impact on the phenotypic heterogeneity of these patients.

Methods

This manuscript describes a cross‐sectional study of 18 MSUD patients carried out using PCR and DNA sequencing.

Results

Four novel pathogenic mutations were identified: one in BCKDHA (p.Thr338Ile), two in BCKDHB (p.Gly336Ser e p.Pro240Thr), and one in DBT (p.Gly406Asp). Four additional pathogenic mutations found in this study have been described previously. There were no correlations between the genotype and phenotype of the patients.

Conclusion

If MSUD is diagnosed earlier, with a newborn screening approach, it might be possible to establish genotype‐phenotype relationships more efficiently.
Detection of a mosaic CDKL5 deletion and inversion by optical genome mapping ends an exhaustive diagnostic odyssey
Authors: Cope Heidi , Barseghyan Hayk , Bhattacharya Surajit , Fu Yulong , Hoppman Nicole , Marcou Cherisse , Walley Nicole , Rehder Catherine , Deak Kristen , Alkelai Anna ,   Undiagnosed Diseases Network, Vilain Eric , Shashi Vandana
Published: May 2021

Background

Currently available structural variant (SV) detection methods do not span the complete spectrum of disease‐causing SVs. Optical genome mapping (OGM), an emerging technology with the potential to resolve diagnostic dilemmas, was performed to investigate clinically‐relevant SVs in a 4‐year‐old male with an epileptic encephalopathy of undiagnosed molecular origin.

Methods

OGM was utilized to image long, megabase‐size DNA molecules, fluorescently labeled at specific sequence motifs throughout the genome with high sensitivity for detection of SVs greater than 500 bp in size. OGM results were confirmed in a CLIA‐certified laboratory via mate‐pair sequencing.

Results

OGM identified a mosaic, de novo 90 kb deletion and inversion on the X chromosome disrupting the CDKL5 gene. Detection of the mosaic deletion, which had been previously undetected by chromosomal microarray, an infantile epilepsy panel including exon‐level microarray for CDKL5, exome sequencing as well as genome sequencing, resulted in a diagnosis of X‐linked dominant early infantile epileptic encephalopathy‐2.

Conclusion

OGM affords an effective technology for the detection of SVs, especially those that are mosaic, since these remain difficult to detect with current NGS technologies and with conventional chromosomal microarrays. Further research in undiagnosed populations with OGM is warranted.
Three‐dimensional whole‐brain mapping of cerebral blood volume and venous cerebral blood volume using Fourier transform–based velocity‐selective pulse trains
Authors: Li Wenbo , Liu Dapeng , van Zijl Peter C. M. , Qin Qin
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To develop 3D MRI methods for cerebral blood volume (CBV) and venous cerebral blood volume (vCBV) estimation with whole‐brain coverage using Fourier transform–based velocity‐selective (FT‐VS) pulse trains.

Methods

For CBV measurement, FT‐VS saturation pulse trains were used to suppress static tissue, whereas CSF contamination was corrected voxel‐by‐voxel using a multi‐readout acquisition and a fast CSF T2 scan. The vCBV mapping was achieved by inserting an arterial‐nulling module that included a FT‐VS inversion pulse train. Using these methods, CBV and vCBV maps were obtained on 6 healthy volunteers at 3 T.

Results

The mean CBV and vCBV values in gray matter and white matter in different areas of the brain showed high correlation (r = 0.95 and P < .0001). The averaged CBV and vCBV values of the whole brain were 5.4 ± 0.6 mL/100 g and 2.5 ± 0.3 mL/100 g in gray matter, and 2.6 ± 0.5 mL/100 g and 1.5 ± 0.2 mL/100 g in white matter, respectively, comparable to the literature.

Conclusion

The feasibility of FT‐VS‐based CBV and vCBV estimation was demonstrated for 3D acquisition with large spatial coverage.
“Pacing does help you get your life back”: The acceptability of a newly developed activity pacing framework for chronic pain/fatigue
Authors: Antcliff Deborah , Keenan Anne‐Maree , Keeley Philip , Woby Steve , McGowan Linda
Published: May 2021

Objectives

We have developed and feasibility tested an activity pacing framework for clinicians to standardise their recommendations of activity pacing to patients with chronic pain/fatigue. This study aimed to explore the acceptability and fidelity to this framework in preparation for a future trial of activity pacing.

Design

Acceptability and fidelity were explored using semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using framework analysis.

Participants

Patients who attended a rehabilitation programme for chronic pain/fatigue underpinned by the framework, and clinicians (physiotherapists and psychological wellbeing practitioners) who led the programmes.

Results

Seventeen interviews were conducted, involving 12 patients with chronic pain/fatigue and five clinicians. The framework analysis revealed four deductive themes: (1) Acceptability of the activity pacing framework, (2) Acceptability of the feasibility study methods, (3) Processes of change and (4) Barriers and facilitators to activity pacing; and one inductive theme: (5) Perspectives of patients and clinicians.

Conclusions

The activity pacing framework appeared acceptable to patients and clinicians, and adherence to the framework was demonstrated. Processes of behaviour change included patients' regulation of activities through activity pacing. Barriers to pacing included work/social commitments and facilitators included identifying the benefits of pacing on symptoms. Different perspectives emerged between clinicians and patients regarding interpretations of symptom‐contingent and quota‐contingent strategies. The framework recognises fluctuations in symptoms of chronic pain/fatigue and encourages a quota‐contingent approach with flexibility. Future work will develop a patient friendly guide ahead of a clinical trial to explore the effects of pacing.
Modeling Distribution of Endemic Bartram’s Bass Micropterus sp. cf. coosae: Disturbance and Proximity to Invasion Source Increase Hybridization with Invasive Alabama Bass
Authors: Peoples Brandon K. , Judson Emily , Darden Tanya L. , Farrae Daniel J. , Kubach Kevin , Leitner Jean , Scott Mark C.
Published: May 2021

“Bartram’s Bass” Micropterus sp. cf. coosae is endemic to the upper Savannah River basin of the southeastern United States and is threatened by hybridization with invasive Alabama Bass Micropterus henshalli. Bartram’s Bass have been functionally extirpated from reservoirs, and hybrid individuals have been detected in several tributaries. However, the extent of introgression in tributaries is currently unknown. Our objectives were to (1) assess the distribution of Bartram’s Bass, native Largemouth Bass M. salmoides, invasive Alabama Bass, and their hybrids in streams of the upper Savannah River basin and (2) quantify effects of abiotic variables on the distribution of each species. We sampled 154 locations in 2017 and 2018 and assigned genetic identity using hydrolysis probes and microsatellites. We␣used conditional inference trees to quantify variables affecting the occurrence of each species and hybrids. We observed widespread hybridization across the basin. Pure Bartram’s Bass were collected at 27% (42) of sites, among which only 12 sites contained pure Bartram’s Bass and no other congeners. Thirty sites where pure Bartram’s Bass were collected contained hybrids. In the montane Blue Ridge ecoregion, occurrence of pure Bartram’s Bass was negatively affected by low levels of local-scale developed land cover. In the lower-relief Piedmont ecoregion, pure Bartram’s Bass were positively associated with watershed-scale forest land cover and stream gradient. Distance from a reservoir was positively associated with occurrence of pure Bartram’s Bass in both ecoregions. Pure Bartram’s Bass are likely to occur with high probability in only 16% of nonimpounded stream segments; this represents a conservative estimate, and the true number is likely lower. However, future work accounting for incomplete detection of Bartram’s Bass will help to improve confidence in true extirpations. Conservation efforts may be more successful if implemented on stream segments farther from reservoirs or upstream of dispersal barriers preventing colonization of Alabama Bass.
Chasing Northern Pike under Ice: Long-Distance Movements Following Catch-and-Release Ice Angling
Authors: Somers Christopher M. , Goncin Una , Hamilton Shayna , Chupik Michelle , Fisher Ryan
Published: May 2021

Catch-and-release ice angling is a popular recreational activity, but little is known about the postrelease behavior of fish in the winter. Cold water temperatures and an ambush hunting strategy may constrain Northern Pike Esox lucius, limiting their postrelease movements to a small area near the capture location. We used manual acoustic telemetry to track 15 Northern Pike ranging from 56 to 98.5 cm total length for up to 7 d after catch-and-release ice angling in Buffalo Pound Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada. All of the fish but one moved unexpectedly long distances of several km over the tracking period. For the fish that were tracked over all 7 d, path lengths traveled ranged from 1.4 to 18.4 km. The minimum daily distance traveled ranged from 0 to 4.6 km and varied significantly by tracking day; the fish moved shorter distances on day 4 postrelease. There was a significant interaction between fish size and day postrelease; larger fish moved shorter minimum daily distances and dispersed shorter distances from the release site over the first 2 d of tracking. In contrast, by 5 d after release, both the largest and smallest fish had dispersed the longest distances from the release site and intermediate-sized fish dispersed the least. The cumulative path length traveled by day 5 of tracking did not reveal any significant size-based patterns. Our study raises the possibility that relatively large movements may be common for Northern Pike in the winter despite cold water temperatures and their expected foraging behavior. In addition, postrelease behavior varies with fish size. Habitat and space requirements for Northern Pike in the winter can encompass much larger areas and more habitat features than has been previously envisioned.
Multi‐functional magnetic hydrogel: Design strategies and applications
Authors: Gang Fangli , Jiang Le , Xiao Yi , Zhang Jiwen , Sun Xiaodan
Published: May 2021

Hydrogel is one of the hottest biomaterials in recent years. Especially, magnetic hydrogels (MHs) prepared by combining unique magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with hydrogels have attracted wide attention due to their excellent biocompatibility, mechanical properties, absorbability and rich magnetic properties (magnetocaloric, magnetic resonance imaging and intelligent response, etc.). However, the current literature mainly focuses on the application of MHs, without fully understanding the relationship between the design strategies and applications of each function in MHs. This review highlights six major functional properties of MHs, including mechanical properties, adsorption, magnetocaloric effect, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, intelligent response and biocompatibility. Principles and design strategies of each performance are thoroughly analyzed. Furthermore, the latest applications of MHs in biomedicine, soft actuators, environmental protection, chemistry and engineering in recent 5 years are introduced from the perspective of each function. In the carefully selected representative cases, the design strategies and application principle of multi‐functional MHs are detailed, respectively. The classical fabrication processing of MHs is summarized. At last, we discuss the unmet needs and potential future challenges in MHs development and highlight its emerging strategies.
Hippocampal single‐voxel MR spectroscopy with a long echo time at 3 T using semi‐LASER sequence
Authors: Gajdošík Martin , Landheer Karl , Swanberg Kelley M. , Adlparvar Fatemeh , Madelin Guillaume , Bogner Wolfgang , Juchem Christoph , Kirov Ivan I.
Published: May 2021

The hippocampus is one of the most challenging brain regions for proton MR spectroscopy (MRS) applications. Moreover, quantification of J‐coupled species such as myo‐inositol (m‐Ins) and glutamate + glutamine (Glx) is affected by the presence of macromolecular background. While long echo time (TE) MRS eliminates the macromolecules, it also decreases the m‐Ins and Glx signal and, as a result, these metabolites are studied mainly with short TE. Here, we investigate the feasibility of reproducibly measuring their concentrations at a long TE of 120 ms, using a semi‐adiabatic localization by adiabatic selective refocusing (sLASER) sequence, as this sequence was recently recommended as a standard for clinical MRS. Gradient offset‐independent adiabatic refocusing pulses were implemented, and an optimal long TE for the detection of m‐Ins and Glx was determined using the T2 relaxation times of macromolecules. Metabolite concentrations and their coefficients of variation (CVs) were obtained for a 3.4‐mL voxel centered on the left hippocampus on 3‐T MR systems at two different sites with three healthy subjects (aged 32.5 ± 10.2 years [mean ± standard deviation]) per site, with each subject scanned over two sessions, and with each session comprising three scans. Concentrations of m‐Ins, choline, creatine, Glx and N‐acetyl‐aspartate were 5.4 ± 1.5, 1.7 ± 0.2, 5.8 ± 0.3, 11.6 ± 1.2 and 5.9 ± 0.4 mM (mean ± standard deviation), respectively. Their respective mean within‐session CVs were 14.5% ± 5.9%, 6.5% ± 5.3%, 6.0% ± 3.4%, 10.6% ± 6.2% and 3.5% ± 1.4%, and their mean within‐subject CVs were 17.8% ± 18.2%, 7.5% ± 6.3%, 7.4% ± 6.4%, 12.4% ± 5.3% and 4.8% ± 3.0%. The between‐subject CVs were 25.0%, 12.3%, 5.3%, 10.7% and 6.4%, respectively. Hippocampal long‐TE sLASER single voxel spectroscopy can provide macromolecule‐independent assessment of all major metabolites including Glx and m‐Ins.