bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iterative l‐Tryptophan Methylation in Psilocybe Evolved by Subdomain Duplication
Authors: Blei Felix , Fricke Janis , Wick Jonas , Slot Jason C. , Hoffmeister Dirk
Published: August 2018

Psilocybe mushrooms are best known for their l‐tryptophan‐derived psychotropic alkaloid psilocybin. Dimethylation of norbaeocystin, the precursor of psilocybin, by the enzyme PsiM is a critical step during the biosynthesis of psilocybin. However, the “magic” mushroom Psilocybe serbica also mono‐ and dimethylates l‐tryptophan, which is incompatible with the specificity of PsiM. Here, a second methyltransferase, TrpM, was identified and functionally characterized. Mono‐ and dimethylation activity on l‐tryptophan was reconstituted in vitro, whereas tryptamine was rejected as a substrate. Therefore, we describe a second l‐tryptophan‐dependent pathway in Psilocybe that is not part of the biosynthesis of psilocybin. TrpM is unrelated to PsiM but originates from a retained ancient duplication event of a portion of the egtDB gene that encodes an ergothioneine biosynthesis enzyme. During mushroom evolution, this duplicated gene was widely lost but re‐evolved sporadically and independently in various genera. We propose a new secondary metabolism evolvability mechanism, in which weakly selected genes are retained through preservation in a widely distributed, conserved pathway.
Tocols and oil content in whole grain, brewer's spent grain, and pearling fractions of malting, feed, and food barley genotypes
Authors: Badea Ana , Carter Adam , Legge William G. , Swallow Kevin , Johnston Stuart P. , Izydorczyk Marta S.
Published: August 2018

Background and objectives

Vitamin E is an important dietary component found mainly in plants and is a group of compounds including tocopherols and tocotrienols, collectively known as tocols. In this study, tocols and oil content was evaluated in whole grain, brewer's spent grain, and pearling fractions from various barley genotypes grown at two sites in 2014, and at three sites in 2015 in Manitoba, Canada.

Findings

Mean tocols and oil content was much higher in brewer's spent grain than in whole grain of malting genotypes. Pearling fractions had higher tocols and oil content than whole grain of six distinct feed/food genotypes, with the highest tocols and oil content observed in the 5%–10% pearling fraction.

Conclusions

Brewer's spent grain and the 5%–10% pearling fraction could be used as novel functional food ingredients or be valuable sources for extraction of health‐promoting tocols and/or oil.

Significance and novelty

Using barley processing by‐products like brewer's spent grain and pearling fractions in value‐added products with beneficial health properties may offer unique economic and waste management opportunities. A relatively large number of malting and feed/food barley genotypes were screened for all eight tocol vitamers and oil content. This study serves as a valuable resource for barley research scientists and the barley industry as a whole.
Atypical onset of nephropathic infantile cystinosis in a Russian patient with rare CTNS mutation
Authors: Anastasiya Kozina A. , Elena Okuneva G. , Natalia Baryshnikova V. , Anna Krasnenko Yu. , Kirill Tsukanov Yu. , Olesya Klimchuk I. , Tatiana Nikishina A. , Inessa Fedoniuk D. , Ekaterina Surkova I. , Peter Shatalov A. , Valery Ilinsky V.
Published: August 2018

Key Clinical Message

We report a Russian patient with atypical onset of infantile nephropathic cystinosis. The disease debuted with vomiting and loss of weight and motor skills. Nephropathic changes appeared 6 months after onset of disease. Exome sequencing can be useful for diagnosing cystinosis in patients with neurological abnormalities before onset of nephropathic symptoms.
Efficient Nanoporous Hematite Photoanodes Prepared by Electron Beam Evaporation and Au Modification
Authors: Eftekharinia Behrooz , Moshaii Ahmad , Sobhkhiz Vayghan Nader , Dabirian Ali
Published: August 2018

The water oxidation efficiency of hematite photoanodes is mainly limited by low visible light absorption and short hole diffusion length. Herein, we report on production of nanoporous columnar hematite films modified with Au nanoparticles (NPs) to overcome these drawbacks. The hematite films are prepared by electron beam evaporation. By optimization of deposition conditions including film thickness, annealing and performing the evaporation under oblique angle, an efficient photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance is achieved from the pristine hematite photoanode. Then, Au NPs are infiltrated into the hematite films by a spin coating process. The water oxidation of hematite films is further enhanced after Au modification. The most efficient electrode generates a photocurrent density of 2.7 mA cm−2 at 1.5 V (RHE), showing about two‐fold improvement relative to that of bare hematite. Optical and electrochemical analyses suggest that the improvement after Au modification can be attributed to plasmonic and facilitating surface charge transfer. The contributions of different plasmonic mechanisms to the photocurrent enhancement are qualitatively discussed based on optical characterization and electromagnetic simulations. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is carried out to confirm the improvement of surface charge transport by the Au NPs. Our findings show that Au modification is a favorable strategy to improve the PEC performance of hematite photoanodes prepared by PVD methods.
Oxide‐Supported Gold Clusters and Nanoparticles in Catalysis: A Computational Chemistry Perspective
Authors: Tosoni Sergio , Pacchioni Gianfranco
Published: August 2018

This review provides an insight into the simulation of gold nanoparticles supported on oxide surfaces, with particular emphasis on the applications in heterogeneous catalysis. Some important methodological issues are firstly addressed: the polymorphism of small gold clusters, the difficulty in determining the actual charge state of adsorbed gold atoms, the relevance of long‐range dispersion and relativistic effects and the size‐effects in modelling Au nanoparticles. Then, the adsorption of Au species on oxides is addressed by comparing bulk oxides to ultrathin oxide films supported on metals. The role of defects as nucleation centres is also discussed. Finally, this review addresses the contribution from computational studies on the mechanisms involving Au‐based heterogeneous catalysts in important reactions such as the CO oxidation, the water‐gas shift reaction and the CO2 hydrogenation to methanol.
HIV/AIDS Vaccines: 2018
Authors: Robinson Harriet L.
Published: August 2018

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has infected 76 million people and killed an estimated 35 million. During its 40‐year history, remarkable progress has been made on antiretroviral drugs. Progress toward a vaccine has also been made, although this has yet to deliver a licensed product. In 2007, I wrote a review, HIV AIDS Vaccines: 2007. This review, HIV AIDS Vaccines: 2018, focuses on the progress in the past 11 years. I begin with key challenges for the development of an AIDS vaccine and the lessons learned from the six completed efficacy trials, only one of which has met with some success.
Cyclophane‐Based Fluorescence Tuning Induced by Hydrostatic Pressure Changes
Authors: Sagara Yoshimitsu , Tamaoki Nobuyuki , Fukuhara Gaku
Published: August 2018

In contrast to a standard steady fluorescence intensity increase of a chloroform solution of a linear chromophore unit under high pressure, a fluorescent cyclophane solution shows significant fluorescence quenching under elevated pressure. A pressure‐induced enhancement of the formation of an intramolecular π‐stacked conformation is proposed to be responsible.
Hydrogenation of Inorganic Metal Carbonates: A Review on Its Potential for Carbon Dioxide Utilization and Emission Reduction
Authors: Lux Susanne , Baldauf‐Sommerbauer Georg , Siebenhofer Matthäus
Published: August 2018

Carbonaceous minerals represent a valuable and abundant resource. Their exploitation is based on decarboxylation at elevated temperature and under oxidizing conditions, which inevitably release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Hydrogenation of inorganic metal carbonates opens up a new pathway for processing several metal carbonates. Preliminary experimental studies revealed significant advantages over conventional isolation technologies. Under a reducing hydrogen atmosphere, the temperature of decarboxylation is significantly lower. Carbon dioxide is not directly released into the atmosphere, but may be reduced to carbon monoxide, methane, and higher hydrocarbons, which adds value to the overall process. Apart from metal oxides in different oxidation states, metals in their elemental form may also be obtained if transition‐metal carbonates are processed under a hydrogen atmosphere. This review summarizes the most important findings and fields of the application of metal carbonate hydrogenation to elucidate the need for a detailed investigation into optimized process conditions for large‐scale applications.
Compound‐specific 15N analysis of amino acids: A tool to estimate the trophic position of tropical seabirds in the South China Sea
Authors: Wu Libin , Liu Xiaodong , Xu Liqiang , Li Linjie , Fu Pingqing
Published: August 2018

Compound‐specific 15N analysis of amino acids (AAs) is a powerful tool to determine the trophic position (TP) of organisms. However, it has only been used in a few studies of avian ecology because the AA patterns in the consumer‐diet nitrogen trophic discrimination factor (TDFGlu‐Phe = ∆15NGlu−∆15NPhe) were unknown in birds until recently, and tropical seabirds have never been investigated with this methodology. Here, we explore the application of this method to tropical seabirds. In this study, we recovered the fossilized bones of tropical seabirds from ornithogenic sediments on two coral islands in the Xisha Islands, South China Sea, as well as the bones and muscle of their predominant food source, flying fish (Exocoetus volitans). Compound‐specific 15N and 13C analyses of AAs in both seabird and fish bone collagen were conducted. The TP of flying fish was calculated based on a widely used single TDFGlu‐Phe approach. We then calculated the TP of tropical seabirds in three different ways: (a) according to the composition of their diet; (b) based on the single TDFGlu‐Phe approach; and (c) using a multi‐TDFGlu‐Phe approach. The results of the multi‐TDFGlu‐Phe approach were much closer to the results based on the composition of the seabird diet than the results of the single TDFGlu‐Phe approach, confirming its applicability for tropical seabirds. For seabird bone samples of different ages, TP determined from the multi‐TDFGlu‐Phe approach was most similar to that of bulk δ15N of bird collagen, with seabirds occupying higher TPs during the Little Ice Age, as previously shown. In addition, the 13C Suess effect was reflected in the AAs δ13C in our samples. This study applied a compound‐specific 15N analysis of AAs to determine the TP of tropical seabirds that has potential to extend to all tropical seabirds many of which are widely distributed and play a key role in the evolution of coral island ecosystems.
Reproductive effort and future parental competitive ability: A nest box removal experiment
Authors: Fokkema Rienk W. , Ubels Richard , Both Christiaan , de Felici Livia , Tinbergen Joost M.
Published: August 2018

The life history trade‐off between current and future reproduction is a theoretically well‐established concept. However, empirical evidence for the occurrence of a fitness cost of reproduction is mixed. Evidence indicates that parents only pay a cost of reproduction when local competition is high. In line with this, recent experimental work on a small passerine bird, the Great tit (Parus major) showed that reproductive effort negatively affected the competitive ability of parents, estimated through competition for high quality breeding sites in spring. In the current study, we further investigate the negative causal relationship between reproductive effort and future parental competitive ability, with the aim to quantify the consequences for parental fitness, when breeding sites are scarce. To this end, we (a) manipulated the family size of Great tit parents and (b) induced severe competition for nest boxes among the parents just before the following breeding season by means of a large‐scale nest box removal experiment. Parents increased their feeding effort in response to our family size manipulation and we successfully induced competition among the parents the following spring. Against our expectation, we found no effect of last season's family size on the ability of parents to secure a scarce nest box for breeding. In previous years, if detected, the survival cost of reproduction was always paid after midwinter. In this year, parents did pay a survival cost of reproduction before midwinter and thus before the onset of the experiment in early spring. Winter food availability during our study year was exceptionally low, and thus, competition in early winter may have been extraordinarily high. We hypothesize that differences in parental competitive ability due to their previous reproductive effort might have played a role, but before the onset of our experiment and resulted in the payment of the survival cost of reproduction.
Moving window growth—A method to characterize the dynamic growth of crops in the context of bird abundance dynamics with the example of Skylark (Alauda arvensis)
Authors: Hoffmann Jörg , Wittchen Udo , Berger Gert , Stachow Ulrich
Published: August 2018

Agricultural field crops differ in their vegetation height, coverage, and temporal development, affecting the abundances of bird species, which are often used as bioindicators. Although this relationship has been observed, no significant methodology exists to describe the dynamics of field crop growth on a landscape scale in connection with the abundance of indicator bird species that allows meaningful interpretation of bird abundance data with respect to crop vegetation parameters during the breeding season. In a field observation program, we monitored 2,900 ha of agricultural landscape to represent both the crop growth processes and the bird abundances. We measured these two parameters in the study area, dominated by winter wheat, winter rapeseed, maize, and fallow fields, and adapted the moving window approach to a new method of “moving window growth” to describe the dynamic development of height and coverage of the crops over time. Simultaneously, Skylarks (Alauda arvensis) territorial behavior was measured concurrently on the same fields and crops. Their dynamic abundance was documented over the breeding season. To test the relationship between crop growth and development and bird abundance, we applied a generalized linear model (GLM) in two ways: (a) without differentiation of crop species and (b) with differentiation of crop species. We found significant relationships between bird abundance and vegetation height and coverage with respect to both individual parameters and their interactions, even without differentiation of the agricultural crops. In general, increasing vegetation height and coverage, especially the interaction, led to decreasing bird abundance values. The model quality increased significantly by including differentiation of specific crops as an explanatory variable indicating a non‐homogenous situation between crops. Separate models for individual crop species revealed larger differences in model quality with best and least goodness of fit values for fallow fields and winter rapeseed, respectively. Because of the clear interactions between bird abundance, type of field crop, and vegetation height and coverage, it follows that both habitat suitability assessments of arable fields and the definition of favorable vegetation structures for farmland birds should be crop species‐specific.
Cooccurrence of prey species alters the impact of predators on prey performance through multiple mechanisms
Authors: Ruehl Clifton B. , Vance‐Chalcraft Heather , Chalcraft David R.
Published: August 2018

When prey are differentially affected by intra and interspecific competition, the cooccurrence of multiple prey species alters the per capita availability of food for a particular prey species which could alter how prey respond to the threat of predation, and hence the overall‐effect of predators. We conducted an experiment to examine the extent to which the nonconsumptive and overall effect of predatory water bugs on snail and tadpole traits (performance and morphology) depended on whether tadpoles and snails cooccurred. Tadpoles and snails differed in their relative susceptibility to intraspecific and interspecific competition, and predators affected both prey species via consumptive and nonconsumptive mechanisms. Furthermore, the overall effect of predators often depended on whether another prey species was present. The reasoning for why the overall effect of predators depended on whether prey species cooccurred, however, differed for each of the response variables. Predators affected snail body growth via nonconsumptive mechanisms, but the change in the overall effect of predators on snail body growth was attributable to how snails responded to competition in the absence of predators, rather than a change in how snails responded to the threat of predation. Predators did not affect tadpole body growth via nonconsumptive mechanisms, but the greater vulnerability of competitively superior prey (snails) to predators increased the strength of consumptive mechanisms (and hence the overall effect) through which predators affected tadpole growth. Predators affected tadpole morphology via nonconsumptive mechanisms, but the greater propensity for predators to kill competitively superior prey (snails) enhanced the ability of tadpoles to alter their morphology in response to the threat of predation by creating an environment where tadpoles had a higher per capita supply of food available to invest in the development of morphological defenses. Our work indicates that the mechanisms through which predators affect prey depends on the other members of the community.
The selective ROCK2 inhibitor KD025 reduces IL‐17 secretion in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells independent of IL‐1 and IL‐6
Authors: Tengesdal Isak W. , Kitzenberg David , Li Suzhao , Nyuydzefe Melanie S. , Chen Wei , Weiss Jonathan M. , Zhang Jingya , Waksal Samuel D. , Zanin‐Zhorov Alexandra , Dinarello Charles A.
Published: August 2018

Reducing the activities of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐17 is an effective treatment strategy for several chronic autoimmune disorders. Rho‐associated coiled‐coil containing kinase 2 (ROCK2) is a member of the serine‐threonine protein kinase family that regulates IL‐17 secretion in T cells via signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)‐dependent mechanism. We reported here that the selective ROCK2 inhibitor KD025 significantly reduced in vitro production of IL‐17 in unfractionated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with the dectin‐1 agonist Candida albicans. C. albicans induced IL‐17 was reduced by 70% (p < 0.0001); a similar reduction (80%) was observed in PBMC stimulated with the Toll‐like receptor 2 agonist Staphylococcus epidermidis (p < 0.0001). Treatment of PBMC with KD025 was not associated with a reduction in IL‐1β, IL‐6 or IL‐1α levels; in contrast, a 1.5 fold increase in the level of IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) was observed (p < 0.001). KD025 down‐regulated C. albicans‐induced Myosin Light Chain and STAT3, whereas STAT5 phosphorylation increased. Using anti‐CD3/CD28 activation of the TCR, KD025 similarly suppressed IL‐17 independent of a reduction in IL‐1β. Thus, ROCK2 directly regulates IL‐17 secretion independent of endogenous IL‐1 and IL‐6 supporting development of selective ROCK2 inhibitors for treatment of IL‐17‐driven inflammatory diseases.
3D Nickel Scaffolded MoS2 Nanoflakes as Sodium Battery Anode with Improved Cycling Life and Rate Capability
Authors: Zhu Xiuting , Ren Weina , Yang Yaping , Cheng Chuanwei
Published: August 2018

We report the design and fabrication of 3D nickel inverse opals scaffolded MoS2 nanoflakes (MoS2@Ni IO) by a combination of colloid spheres template, electrochemical deposition, and hydrothermal growth routes. The MoS2@Ni IO is further evaluated as sodium ion battery anode, which exhibits a high specific capacity (696.9 mAh/g of the second cycle), long cycling life stability (620.1 mAh/g after 200 cycles at 200 mA/g) and excellent rate capability. The excellent electrochemical performance of the electrode can be attributed to the unique 3D electrode design, in which the 3D ordered Ni scaffold shortens the ion diffusion paths, improves the electronic conductivity and mechanical stability, while the ultrathin MoS2 nanoflakes are involving in the Na+ insertion/extraction.
Synthesis of 4‐aryl‐ and 4‐acyl‐1,3‐dithiole‐2‐thiones via deprotonative zincation of 1,3‐dithiole‐2‐thione
Authors: Otsuka Shinya , Yorimitsu Hideki
Published: August 2018

We have developed deprotonative zincation of 1,3‐dithiole‐2‐thione at the 4‐position. Addition of lithium diisopropylamide to a THF solution of 1,3‐dithiole‐2‐thione containing ZnI2 and LiI generated the corresponding organozinc species. After this zincation, various aryl and acyl groups were installed at the 4‐position by Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction with aryl iodides and Cu‐catalyzed acylation with acyl chlorides, respectively.
Hippocampal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor determines recruitment of anatomically connected networks after stress in diabetic mice
Authors: Wosiski‐Kuhn Marlena , Bota Mihail , Snider Christina A. , Wilson Steven P. , Venkataraju Kannan U. , Osten Pavel , Stranahan Alexis M.
Published: August 2018

Diabetes increases adrenal steroids in humans and animal models, but potential interactions with psychological stress remain poorly understood. Diabetic rodents exhibit anxiety and reductions in hippocampal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, and these studies investigated whether loss of BDNF‐driven hippocampal activity promotes anxiety and disinhibits the HPA axis. Mice with genetic obesity and diabetes (db/db) received intrahippocampal injections of lentivirus for BDNF overexpression (db/db‐BDNFOE), and Wt mice received lentiviral constructs for BDNF knockdown (Wt‐BDNFKD). Behavioral anxiety and glucocorticoid responses to acute restraint were compared with mice that received a fluorescent reporter (Wt‐GFP, db/db‐GFP). These experiments revealed that changes in hippocampal BDNF were necessary and sufficient for behavioral anxiety and HPA axis disinhibition. To examine patterns of stress‐induced regional activity, we used algorithmic detection of cFos and automated segmentation of forebrain regions to generate maps of functional covariance, which were subsequently aligned with anatomical connectivity weights from the Brain Architecture Management database. db/db‐GFP mice exhibited reduced activation of the hippocampal ventral subiculum (vSub) and anterior bed nucleus of stria terminalis (aBNST), and increases in the paraventricular hypothalamus (PVH), relative to Wt‐GFP. BDNFKD recapitulated this pattern in Wt mice, and BDNFOE normalized activation of the vSub > aBNST > PVH pathway in db/db mice. Analysis of forebrain activation revealed largely overlapping patterns of network disruption in db/db‐GFP and Wt‐BDNFKD mice, implicating BDNF‐driven hippocampal activity as a determinant of stress vulnerability in both the intact and diabetic brain.
Breast ultrasonography (BU) in the screening protocol for women at hereditary‐familial risk of breast cancer: has the time come to rethink the role of BU according to different risk categories?
Authors: Cortesi Laura , Canossi Barbara , Battista Rachele , Pecchi Annarita , Drago Antonella , Dal Molin Chiara , Toss Angela , De Matteis Elisabetta , Marchi Isabella , Torricelli Pietro , Cascinu Stefano
Published: August 2018

This article evaluates the breast cancer (BC) screening efficacy of biannual ultrasound (US) in three different risk categories. In a single‐center, prospective, nonrandomized comparison study, BRCA mutation carriers and women with high risk (HR) or intermediate risk (IR) received mammography (MMG), ultrasound, (US) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), scheduled according to the risk categories. Single and combined sensitivity were evaluated in specific groups of risk and the US performance at six‐monthly interval was notably considered. Among 2,313 asymptomatic women at different risk (136 mutation carriers, 1,749 at HR and 428 at IR) 211 developed a BC, of which 193 (91.5%) were screen detected BC (SDBC) and 18 (8.5%) were interval BC (IBC). The SDBC detection rate (DR) was 11.2 per 1.000 person‐years (37.9, 8.5 and 16.1 for BRCA, HR and IR, respectively); 116 BC were detected by MMG (DR = 6.6 × 1,000 persons‐years), 62 by US (DR = 3.6 × 1,000 persons‐years) and 15 by MRI, that was applied only in 60 BRCA women (DR = 37 × 1,000 persons‐years). At the six‐monthly US, 52 BC were detected (DR = 3.0 × 1,000 persons/years), of which 8 were BRCA‐related. The most sensitive technique was MRI (93.7%) followed by MMG (55%) and US (29.4%). Combined sensitivity for MMG plus US was 100% in HR and 80.4% for IR women (p < 0.01). In BRCA mutated patients, MRI alone with annual US performed after six months, could be offered. In HR patients, MMG plus biannual US provide the most sensitive diagnosis and for IR group an annual MMG could be sufficient.
The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Domain‐Specific and Domain‐General Creativity
Authors: Tu Cuiping , Guo Jiajun , Hatcher Ryan C. , Kaufman James C.
Published: August 2018

The Amusement Park Theory of Creativity, which represents both domain‐specific and domain‐general perspectives of creativity, calls for more research on how individual difference constructs are related to creativity at all ends of the domain‐specificity and general spectrum. Toward this goal, this study examined emotional intelligence (using the Emotional Intelligence Scale) in relationship with both a domain‐general measure (the Abbreviated Torrance Test for Adults) and a domain‐specific measure (Kaufman Domains of Creativity Scale) in a sample of 281 Chinese undergraduates. Although emotional intelligence demonstrated no relationship with divergent thinking, it did positively predict all five domains of creativity on the self‐report measure (ranging from .52 to .77). These findings add to the nuanced relationship between emotional intelligence and creativity and serve as a call for more work of this nature.
Translating External Knowledge to Team Creativity in Turbulent Environments: The Role of Absorptive Capacity and Knowledge Integration
Authors: Men Chenghao , Luo Jinlian , Fong Patrick S. W. , Zhong Jing , Huo Weiwei
Published: August 2018

In seeking to understand factors contributing to team creativity in dynamic environments, we explored the role of external knowledge search on team creativity through absorptive capacity and knowledge integration. We tested our hypotheses with a sample of 96 teams involving 421 employees in China. Results demonstrated that external knowledge search related positively to team creativity, fully mediated by both absorptive capacity and knowledge integration. In addition, environmental dynamism played a moderating role in the relation between external knowledge search and absorptive capacity, as well as in the relation between external knowledge search and knowledge integration. We discussed the implications of these findings for research and practice.
Complex mixture quantification without calibration using gas chromatography and a comprehensive carbon reactor in conjunction with flame ionization detection
Authors: Bai Ling , Carlton Doug D. , Schug Kevin A.
Published: August 2018

Quantification of complex carbon‐containing mixtures is typically a very time‐intensive task with regards to the calibration process. A gas chromatograph with a flame ionization detector yields strong responses to organic compounds and provides a wide linear range over many orders of magnitude; however, responses for highly functionalized and heteroatom‐containing compounds can be variable. Here, a commercial Polyarc microreactor unit, placed before the flame ionization detector, was investigated as a means of normalizing carbon response across all compounds. The device includes two catalytic reaction chambers, ultimately converting all carbon atoms to methane evenly for flame ionization detection. Three groups of different complex mixtures from n‐alkane to terpene and polymer mixtures were analyzed to evaluate the potential for calibration‐free quantitation of the new detector arrangement. We have obtained accurate quantification results without time‐consuming calibration processes. The quantification of a terpene mixture and a polymer mixture confirms the ability of the detector for analyzing samples that either have complex physical or structural properties or wide concentration range. In summary, compared to other detectors, this methanizer – flame ionization detection system provides a simplified workflow, which can eliminate calibration steps and increase throughput.
A miniaturized solid‐phase extraction adsorbent of calix[4]arene‐functionalized graphene oxide/polydopamine‐coated cellulose acetate for the analysis of aflatoxins in corn
Authors: Nurerk Piyaluk , Bunkoed Warapon , Kanatharana Proespichaya , Bunkoed Opas
Published: August 2018

A calix[4]arene‐functionalized graphene oxide/polydopamine‐coated cellulose acetate adsorbent was fabricated for the pre‐concentration of aflatoxins. The highly porous developed adsorbent does not produce the high backpressure that normally occurs in particle‐packed cartridges and its large surface area helps to improve adsorption. The highly efficient adsorption of aflatoxins by the hybrid adsorbent is facilitated via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic and π‐π interactions. Polymerization time, amount of calix[4]arene‐functionalized graphene oxide, type and volume of desorption solvent, sample pH, sample volume, and sample flow rate were optimized. The linearity of aflatoxin B1 was in the range of 0.01–10.0 μg/kg, aflatoxin B2 was in the range of 0.02–10.0 μg/kg and aflatoxin G1 and aflatoxin G2 were in the range of 0.050–10.0 μg/kg. The limits of detection were 0.01 μg/kg for aflatoxin B1, 0.02 μg/kg for aflatoxin B2 and 0.05 μg/kg for aflatoxin G1 and aflatoxin G2. The developed calix[4]arene‐functionalized graphene oxide/polydopamine‐coated cellulose acetate adsorbent was successfully utilized for the analysis of aflatoxins from corn samples and the extraction efficiency was satisfactory with obtained recoveries from 83.0 to 106.7%. Moreover, fabricated adsorbent is easy to prepare, inexpensive, and can be reused.
Ultrasonographic Characteristics of Pyriform Sinus Fistulas Involving the Thyroid Gland
Authors: Ahn Dongbin , Lee Gil Joon , Sohn Jin Ho
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Ultrasonography (US) has been considered to have a more limited role in the diagnosis of pyriform sinus fistulas than computed tomography. The aim of this study was to evaluate the US characteristics of pyriform sinus fistulas involving the thyroid gland in an attempt to improve our ability to diagnose this condition using US.

Methods

Between 2005 and 2016, 14 patients with pyriform sinus fistulas presenting as suppurative thyroiditis or as thyroid nodules were enrolled in the study. Their US images were reviewed to identify US characteristics indicating the presence of an underlying pyriform sinus fistula and compared with the computed tomographic images.

Results

A hypoechoic tubular lesion across the thyroid gland was identified in 9 patients (64.3%). Hyperechoic foci or echogenic lines were found within the lesion in 10 patients (71.4%). A hypoechoic rim was found at the boundary of the lesion in 7 patients (50.0%). A lesion emerging from the posterolateral aspect of the thyroid cartilage was found in 4 patients (28.6%). Thirteen (92.9%) of the 14 patients had 1 of these 4 findings.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography would be a useful diagnostic modality for indicating the presence of an underlying pyriform sinus fistula in patients with suppurative thyroiditis or a thyroid nodule and can be used as a first‐line diagnostic tool to screen for pyriform sinus fistulas.
Current Experience of Ultrasound Training in Otolaryngology Residency Programs
Authors: Meister Kara D. , Vila Peter M. , Bonilla‐Velez Juliana , Sebelik Merry , Orloff Lisa A.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

The applications of using ultrasound for the evaluation and management of otolaryngologic diagnoses are expanding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the current experience of ultrasound training in otolaryngology residency programs.

Methods

All allopathic and osteopathic otolaryngology residency programs in the United States were surveyed online via an e‐mailed survey link to the resident representatives of the Section for Residents and Fellows in Training of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. We present a descriptive analysis of the survey results.

Results

A total of 110 responses were obtained from resident representatives at MD and DO otolaryngology residency programs, representing a response rate of 94.8%. Forty‐four percent of residents reported that they would not feel comfortable with performing ultrasound‐guided procedures after residency; 43% reported that they do not perform ultrasound procedures as a part of their residency training; and 60% of those trainees performing ultrasound procedures do not log the procedures. Twenty‐three percent of residents did not have access to an ultrasound machine. Most respondents (71%) desired more exposure to diagnostic and/or interventional ultrasound training during residency.

Conclusions

Although current experience is variable, there is a strong interest in increasing resident skill acquisition in ultrasound training among otolaryngology residents. Some barriers to these goals may be a lack of trained faculty members using ultrasound and insufficient recording mechanisms for residents performing ultrasound procedures.
Utility of the 3‐Vessel and 3‐Vessel and Trachea Views in Prenatal Diagnosis of a Pulmonary Artery Sling
Authors: Peng Yuan , Li Yuman , Cao Haiyan , Hong Liu , Wang Yu , Xie Mingxing
Published: August 2018

A pulmonary artery (PA) sling is a very rare congenital cardiovascular anomaly, and only a few studies have reported PA slings in fetuses. The relationship of the PA, aorta, ductus arteriosus, and trachea can be evaluated in the 3‐vessel and 3‐vessel and trachea views during fetal echocardiography. A PA sling can be detected by abnormal positioning of the left PA in relation to the trachea when sweeping from the 3‐vessel view cranially to the 3‐vessel and trachea view. Here we report 3 cases of fetal PA slings and their follow‐ups. Two cases were confirmed by postnatal echocardiography, and the other case was confirmed by a cardiovascular cast after pregnancy termination. We emphasize that the 3‐vessel and 3‐vessel and trachea views are of crucial importance in the prenatal diagnosis of a PA sling.
Comparison of Ultrasound‐Guided and Landmark‐Based Lumbar Punctures in Inexperienced Resident Physicians
Authors: Evans David P. , Tozer Jordan , Joyce Michael , Vitto Michael J.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

We sought to determine whether US‐guided lumbar puncture reduced the rate of lumbar puncture failures for providers at an academic teaching hospital with variable lumbar puncture and US experience compared to the traditional landmark‐based technique.

Methods

We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to compare US‐guided lumbar puncture to the traditional landmark technique in an academic emergency department. Thirty‐five patients were randomized to either have their lumbar puncture performed either via the landmark or US‐guided technique. All procedures were completed by an emergency medicine resident with variable lumbar puncture and US experience. Procedural failures, the number of attempts, the time to completion, and patient pain scores were all recorded.

Results

The adjusted odds ratio of successfully obtaining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the US‐guided lumbar puncture group was 2.31 compared to the landmark‐based lumbar puncture group (P = .377). It took 1.54 times more attempts to obtain CSF in the landmark group as it did in the US group (P = .046). It seemed to have no effect on postprocedural pain or the time to obtain CSF.

Conclusions

The use of US guidance to assist in lumbar punctures did not improve the procedural success rate over traditional landmark techniques in an academic setting with novice providers. Although using US for procedural guidance significantly decreased the number of attempts, it seemed to have no effect on postprocedural pain or the time to obtain CSF.
Minimally Invasive Treatment of Cesarean Scar and Cervical Pregnancies Using a Cervical Ripening Double Balloon Catheter: Expanding the Clinical Series
Authors: Monteagudo Ana , Calì Giuseppe , Rebarber Andrei , Cordoba Marcos , Fox Nathan S. , Bornstein Eran , Dar Peer , Johnson Anthony , Rebolos Mark , Timor‐Tritsch Ilan E.
Published: August 2018

The efficacy of treating cesarean scar pregnancies and cervical pregnancies with the Cook® cervical ripening balloon catheter, in a multicenter office‐based setting is reported. Thirty‐eight women were treated. Insertion of the catheter was performed under real‐time ultrasound guidance. Patients received adjuvant systemic methotrexate, prophylactic oral antibiotics, and oral pain medication. Serum human chorionic gonadotropin and ultrasound scans were followed serially until resolution. Thirty‐seven patients were successfully treated, requiring no further procedures. We found that the Cook cervical ripening balloon technique is a simple, effective, outpatient, minimally invasive treatment with few complications noted in this expanded series.
Kinetic study of methoxycarbonylation of 1,6‐hexanediamine with dimethyl carbonate using Mn(OAc)2 catalyst
Authors: Cao Yan , Zhao Liyan , Zhu Ganyu , Wang Liguo , He Peng , Li Huiquan
Published: August 2018

Clean synthesis of dimethylhexane‐1,6‐dicarbamate (HDC) from methoxycarbonylation of 1,6‐hexanediamine (HDA) with dimethyl carbonate (DMC) was studied. Among several heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts, Mn(OAc)2 was screened as the most effective catalyst over which the kinetic balance could be reached within 2–3 h. Then the kinetic model of the methoxycarbonylation of HDA with DMC using Mn(OAc)2 catalyst, under the real reaction conditions was established. Results indicated that the reaction orders were confirmed to be 4.5 for the first step reaction and 4.3 for the second step reaction by the numerical differential method. In addition, the activation energies for the first and second step reaction were 47.0514 and 60.4504 kJ·mol−1 and the frequency factors were 1.4645 × 102 and 3.6519 × 104 min−1, respectively. Moreover, the kinetic model correlated well with experimental data. This study not only provides a highly efficient catalyst for the methoxycarbonylation of HDA with DMC but also gives the guidance for the design of the reactor by studying its kinetic under real reaction conditions.
Fluorescent Reporter Mice for Nerve Guidance Conduit Assessment: A High‐Throughput in vivo Model
Authors: Mohan Suresh , Hernández Iván Coto , Wang Wenjin , Yin Kaiyang , Sundback Cathryn A. , Wegst Ulrike G.K. , Jowett Nate
Published: August 2018

Objective

Use of cell culture and conventional in vivo mammalian models to assess nerve regeneration across guidance conduits is resource‐intensive. Herein we describe a high‐throughput platform utilizing transgenic mice for stain‐free axon visualization paired with rapid cryosection techniques for low‐cost screening of novel bioengineered nerve guidance conduit performance.

Methods

Interposition repair of sciatic nerve transection in mice expressing yellow fluorescent protein in peripheral neurons (Thy1.2 YFP‐16) was performed with various bioengineered neural conduit compositions using a rapid sutureless entubulation technique under isoflurane anesthesia. Axonal ingrowth was assessed at 3 and 6 weeks using epifluorescent microscopy following cryosectioning.

Results

Mean procedure time (incision‐to‐closure) was less than 2½ minutes. Direct operational costs of a 3‐week experiment was calculated at $21.47 per animal. Tissue processing steps were minimized to aldehyde fixation, cryoprotection and sectioning, and rapid fluorescent dye staining for conduit visualization. Fluorescent microscopy readily resolved robust axonal sprouting at 3 weeks, with clear elucidation of ingrowth‐permissive, semipermissive, or restrictive nerve guidance conduit environments.

Conclusion

A rapid and cost‐efficient in vivo platform for screening of nerve guidance conduit performance has been described.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, E392–E392, 2018
GlaR (YugA)—a novel RpiR‐family transcription activator of the Leloir pathway of galactose utilization in Lactococcus lactis IL1403
Authors: Aleksandrzak‐Piekarczyk Tamara , Szatraj Katarzyna , Kosiorek Katarzyna
Published: August 2018

Bacteria can utilize diverse sugars as carbon and energy source, but the regulatory mechanisms directing the choice of the preferred substrate are often poorly understood. Here, we analyzed the role of the YugA protein (now designated GlaR—Galactose–lactose operon Regulatory protein) of the RpiR family as a transcriptional activator of galactose (gal genes) and lactose (lac genes) utilization genes in Lactococcus lactis IL1403. In this bacterium, gal genes forming the Leloir operon are combined with lac genes in a single so‐called gal–lac operon. The first gene of this operon is the lacS gene encoding galactose permease. The glaR gene encoding GlaR lies directly upstream of the gal–lac gene cluster and is transcribed in the same direction. This genetic layout and the presence of glaR homologues in the closest neighborhood to the Leloir or gal–lac operons are highly conserved only among Lactococcus species. Deletion of glaR disabled galactose utilization and abrogated or decreased expression of the gal–lac genes. The GlaR‐dependent regulation of the gal–lac operon depends on its specific binding to a DNA region upstream of the lacS gene activating lacS expression and increasing the expression of the operon genes localized downstream. Notably, expression of lacS‐downstream genes, namely galMKTE, thgA and lacZ, is partially independent of the GlaR‐driven activation likely due to the presence of additional promoters. The glaR transcription itself is not subject to catabolite control protein A (CcpA) carbon catabolite repression (CRR) and is induced by galactose. Up to date, no similar mechanism has been reported in other lactic acid bacteria species. These results reveal a novel regulatory protein and shed new light on the regulation of carbohydrate catabolism in L. lactis IL1403, and by similarity, probably also in other lactococci.
A Co‐occurrence of Trinucleotide Repeat Disorders
Authors: Margolesky Jason , Starosta‐Rubenstein Simon , Verma Ashok , Singer Carlos
Published: August 2018

View Supplementary Video 1
The 10‐year Landscape of United States‐Registered Parkinson Disease Clinical Trials: 2007–2016
Authors: Wyant Kara J. , Yasuda Erika , Kotagal Vikas
Published: August 2018

Background

We know little about how well the goals and results of clinical trials in Parkinson disease (PD) reflect the priorities of patients and the broader PD community.

Objectives

We conducted a review of registered trials on clincialtrials.gov from 2007 to 2016 to explore whether PD trials have moved closer to the therapeutic priority goals articulated by the PD community.

Methods

Using the search terms: Parkinson, interventional trials, phase “0‐4,” we categorized therapeutic PD studies from clinicaltrials.gov between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2016. Seven hundred and sixty‐six trials met the criteria for analysis. We explored temporal trends in the utilization of balance problems and falls; mood symptoms, including stress and anxiety; cognitive dysfunction, including dementia; and dyskinesias as primary outcomes. We analyzed trials where recruitment was listed as “completed” (n = 391) to explore publication rates.

Results

Balance problems and falls were listed as primary outcome measures in 125 studies (16.3%), cognitive measures in 48 (6.3%), mood features in 37 (4.8%), and dyskinesias in 30 (3.9%). Trials using balance problems and falls as a primary outcome increased in frequency per year between 2007 and 2016 (Z = ‐2.128, p = 0.033) unlike the proportion of trials evaluating cognitive dysfunction including dementia (Z = ‐0.380, p = 0.704), mood symptoms including stress and anxiety (Z = 0.345, p = 0.730), or dyskinesias (Z = 0.340, p = 0.734), which did not show temporal changes. 231 (59.1%) completed trials had results published in manuscript form as of 5/1/2017, leaving 40.9% of trials unpublished.

Conclusions

PD trials focusing on balance problems and falls are becoming more common. About 40% of completed PD trials are unpublished, reflecting suboptimal utilization of participant efforts.
Video Review of Baseline Performance on Global Ratings in a Double‐Blind Placebo Surgery Trial
Authors: McRae Cynthia , Caspari Jennifer , Russell Daniel , Ellgring Heiner , Bezzant Chris , Greene Paul , Fahn Stanley
Published: August 2018

Background

A randomized controlled double‐blind sham surgery trial was conducted to determine the effectiveness of implantation of human embryonic dopamine neurons into the putamen of patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). The present analyses determined whether patients viewing a video of them performing motor activities off medications at baseline would affect self‐ratings 12 months later on the Global Rating Scale (GRS).

Objectives

To examine changes in GRS scores pre‐ and post‐video review for the total sample; to examine differences in scores between actual implant and sham groups, as well as perceived groups pre‐ and post‐video review; to examine differences among four subgroups of patients based on actual and perceived treatment (i.e., actual implant/perceived implant).

Methods

Forty participants were recruited and randomly assigned to receive either neural implantation or sham surgery. The primary outcome variable was a one‐item GRS ranging from −3 (much worse since surgery) to +3 (much improved since surgery). At 12 months (before the blind was lifted) patients rated themselves on the GRS before and after viewing the baseline video.

Results

Total sample GRS scores improved after the video (P = .001). There were no differences between the actual implant and sham groups before or after the video, but there were differences between perceived groups at both times (P < .001). Among subgroups, improvement after the video was found only in the group receiving the implant but who thought sham (P = .011).

Conclusions

When self‐ratings are an outcome variable, review of baseline videos is recommended before making comparative ratings.