bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the impact of compliance with governance recommendations on firm performance: The case of Spain
Authors: Núñez Izquierdo Manuel E. , Garcia‐Blandon Josep , Baum Christopher F.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we empirically examine whether higher levels of compliance with the recommendations included in the Spanish Unified Good Governance Code (UGGC) have an impact on firm performance using a unique hand‐collected panel data set of 145 listed companies for the research period between 2007 and 2012. We find that, in spite of the increasing compliance trend, there is no conclusive evidence that adherence to the UGGC guidelines is a performance relevant factor. This result seems to be robust, as it holds in the main analysis as well as in all the additional analyses conducted. Therefore, our findings would further support the lack of consensus in this line of research regarding the true impact of compliance with the globally disseminated codes of best corporate governance practices on firm performance. The generally inconclusive findings should suggest to shareholders and stock analysts that high scores on these measures do not necessarily translate into higher performance, despite the notion that “good governance” ought to be beneficial.
The COVID‐19 pandemic and patients with endometriosis: A survey‐based study conducted in Turkey
Authors: Yalçın Bahat Pınar , Kaya Cihan , Selçuki Nura F.T. , Polat İbrahim , Usta Taner , Oral Engin
Published: August 2020

Objective

To apply rapid online surveying to determine the knowledge and perceptions of the COVID‐19 pandemic on patients with endometriosis in Turkey.

Methods

An online survey was conducted by the Turkish Endometriosis & Adenomyosis Society and administered to patients with endometriosis who agreed to participate in the study. The survey included 25 questions prepared by an expert committee of four professionals (two gynecologists and two endometriosis specialists).

Results

Of the 290 questionnaires sent out, 261 (90%) were returned. A total of 213 (83.86%) patients reported that they were afraid of having endometriosis‐related problems during the pandemic period. In addition, 133 (53.63%) patients thought the management of their endometriosis was affected because of the pandemic.

Conclusion

Clinical studies clearly indicate that endometriosis is a condition associated with high levels of chronic stress. The COVID‐19 pandemic has led the public to experience psychological problems such as post‐traumatic stress disorder, psychological distress, depression, and anxiety. The majority of patients with endometriosis were afraid of having endometriosis‐related problems during the pandemic period. The majority of elective endometriosis surgeries have not been postponed. Patients were highly aware of the pandemic and practiced social distancing and hygiene. Only 4 (1.59%) patients with endometriosis required hospitalization.
Strain and elasticity imaging in compression optical coherence elastography: The two‐decade perspective and recent advances
Authors: Zaitsev Vladimir Y. , Matveyev Alexander L. , Matveev Lev A. , Sovetsky Alexander A. , Hepburn Matt S. , Mowla Alireza , Kennedy Brendan F.
Published: August 2020

Quantitative mapping of deformation and elasticity in optical coherence tomography has attracted much attention of researchers during the last two decades. However, despite intense effort it took ~15 years to demonstrate optical coherence elastography (OCE) as a practically useful technique. Similarly to medical ultrasound, where elastography was first realized using the quasi‐static compression principle and later shear‐wave‐based systems were developed, in OCE these two approaches also developed in parallel. However, although the compression OCE (C‐OCE) was proposed historically earlier in the seminal paper by J. Schmitt in 1998, breakthroughs in quantitative mapping of genuine local strains and the Young's modulus in C‐OCE have been reported only recently and have not yet obtained sufficient attention in reviews. In this overview, we focus on underlying principles of C‐OCE; discuss various practical challenges in its realization and present examples of biomedical applications of C‐OCE. The figure demonstrates OCE‐visualization of complex transient strains in a corneal sample heated by an infrared laser beam.
Load‐bearing biodegradable PCL‐PGA‐beta TCP scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Kumar Alok , Mir Mohammad , Aldulijan Ibrahim , Mahajan Agrim , Anwar Aneela , Leon Carlos H. , Terracciano Amalia , Zhao Xiao , Su Tsan‐Liang , Kalyon Dilhan M. , Kumbar Sangamesh G. , Yu Xiaojun
Published: August 2020

A biocompatible and biodegradable scaffold with load‐bearing ability is required to enhance the repair of bone defects by facilitating the attachment, and proliferation of cells, and vascularization during new bone formation. However, it is challenging to maintain the porosity and biodegradability, as well as mechanical properties (especially compressive strength), at the same time. Therefore, in the present work, a biodegradable composite structure of poly(caprolactone) (PCL) was designed using compression molding with varying amounts of poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) (25, 50, 75 wt%) and fixed amount (20 wt%) of beta tricalcium phosphate (beta TCP). It was hypothesized that the fabricated composite structure will develop porosity during the degradation of the PGA and that the corresponding decrease in mechanical properties will be compensated by new bone formation and ingrowth, in vivo. Accordingly, we have systematically studied the effects of sample composition on time‐dependent dissolution and mechanical properties of the PGA/beta TCP scaffolds. The compressive strength increased up to ~92 MPa at 50% compression of the designed PCL‐PGA samples. Furthermore, the dissolution rate, as well as weight loss, was observed to increase with an increase in the PGA amount in PCL. Based on the mechanical properties and dissolution data, it is concluded that the PCL‐PGA scaffolds with beta TCP can be suitable candidates for bone tissue engineering applications, specifically for the reconstruction of bone defects, where strength and biodegradation are both important characteristics.
Potential energy function for a photo‐switchable lipid molecule
Authors: Klaja Oskar , Frank James A. , Trauner Dirk , Bondar Ana‐Nicoleta
Published: August 2020

Photo‐switchable lipids are synthetic lipid molecules used in photo‐pharmacology to alter membrane lateral pressure and thus control opening and closing of mechanosensitive ion channels. The molecular picture of how photo‐switchable lipids interact with membranes or ion channels is poorly understood. To facilitate all‐atom simulations that could provide a molecular picture of membranes with photo‐switchable lipids, we derived force field parameters for atomistic computations of the azobenzene‐based fatty acid FAAzo‐4. We implemented a Phyton‐based algorithm to make the optimization of atomic partial charges more efficient. Overall, the parameters we derived give good description of the equilibrium structure, torsional properties, and non‐bonded interactions for the photo‐switchable lipid in its trans and cis intermediate states, and crystal lattice parameters for trans‐FAAzo‐4. These parameters can be extended to all‐atom descriptions of various photo‐switchable lipids that have an azobenzene moiety.
Narrow H3K4me2 is required for chicken PGC formation
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zuo Qisheng , Wang Man , Chen Hao , He Nana , Jin Jing , Li Tingting , Jiang Jingyi , Yuan Xia , Li Jiancheng , Shi Xiang , Zhang Ming , Bai Hao , Zhang Yang , Xu Qi , Cui Hengmi , Chang Guobin , Song Jiuzhou , Sun Hongyan , Zhang Yani , Chen Guohong , Li Bichun
Published: August 2020

The development of primordial germ cells (PGCs) undergoes epigenetic modifications. The study of histone methylation in regulating PGCs is beneficial to understand the development and differentiation mechanism of germ stem cells. Notably, it provides a theoretical basis for directed induction and mass acquisition in vitro. However, little is known about the regulation of PGC formation by histone methylation. Here, we found the high enrichment of H3K4me2 in the blastoderm, genital ridges, and testis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing was performed and the results revealed that genomic H3K4me2 is dynamic in embryonic stem cells, PGCs, and spermatogonial stem cells. This trend was consistent with the H3K4me2 enrichment in the gene promoter region. Additionally, narrow region triggered PGC‐related genes (Bmp4, Wnt5a, and Tcf7l2) and signaling pathways (Wnt and transforming growth factor‐β). After knocking down histone methylase Mll2 in vitro and vivo, the level of H3K4me2 decreased, inhibiting Cvh and Blimp1 expression, then repressing the formation of PGCs. Taken together, our study revealed the whole genome map of H3K4me2 in the formation of PGCs, contributing to improve the epigenetic study in PGC formation and providing materials for bird gene editing and rescue of endangered birds.
Towards analyzing the potential of exosomes to deliver microRNA therapeutics
Authors: Giassafaki Lefki‐Pavlina N. , Siqueira Scheyla , Panteris Emmanuel , Psatha Konstantina , Chatzopoulou Fani , Aivaliotis Michalis , Tzimagiorgis Georgios , Müllertz Anette , Fatouros Dimitrios G. , Vizirianakis Ioannis S.
Published: August 2020

Exosome selectivity mechanisms underlying exosome–target cell interactions and the specific traits affecting their capability to communicate still remain unclear. Moreover, the capacity of exosomes to efficiently deliver their molecular cargos intracellularly needs precise investigation towards establishing functional exosome‐based delivery platforms exploitable in the clinical practice. The current study focuses on: (a) exosome production from normal MRC‐5 and Vero cells growing in culture, (b) physicochemical characterization by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and cryo‐transmission electron microscopy; (c) cellular uptake studies of rhodamine‐labeled exosomes in normal and cancer cells, providing to exosomes either “autologous” or “heterologous” cellular delivery environments; and (d) loading exogenous Alexa Fluor 488‐labeled siRNA into exosomes for the assessment of their delivering capacity by immunofluorescence in a panel of recipient cells. The data obtained thus far indicate that MRC‐5 and Vero exosomes, indeed exhibit an interesting delivering profile, as promising “bio‐shuttles,” being pharmacologically exploitable in the context of theranostic applications.
YEATS2 is a target of HIF1α and promotes pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Zeng Zhirui , Lei Shan , He Zhiwei , Chen Tengxiang , Jiang Jianxin
Published: August 2020

Hypoxia is involved in the development of pancreatic cancer (PC). The responses of hypoxia‐associated genes and their regulated mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, through bioinformatic analysis and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, the YEATS domain containing 2 (YEATS2) was determined to be a key hypoxia‐associated gene. It was increased in PC cells under hypoxia, upregulated in PC tissues, and predicted poor outcome. YEATS2 inhibition decreased the proliferation and migration of PC cells under both normoxia and hypoxia in vitro as well as proliferation and metastasis in vivo. We found that hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) regulated the expression of YEATS2 via binding to the hypoxia response element (HRE) of YEATS2 and coexpressed with YEATS2 in PC tissues. Overexpression of YEATS2 blocked the inhibitory effects of HIF1α silence on PC cell proliferation and migration under hypoxia. Collectively, our study revealed that YEATS2 is a target gene of HIF1α and promotes PC development under hypoxia.
Frail older adults show a distinct plasma microvesicle profile suggesting a prothrombotic and proinflammatory phenotype
Authors: Arauna Diego , Chiva‐Blanch Gemma , Padró Teresa , Fuentes Eduardo , Palomo Iván , Badimon Lina
Published: August 2020

In a global context of advanced aging, geriatric diseases such as frailty syndrome face challenges in the search for biomarkers and preventive strategies. Frailty has been associated with atherothrombotic pathologies. Circulating microvesicles (cMVs), phospholipid‐rich vesicles with a size of 0.1–1.0 μm, have been shown to participate in atherothrombosis onset and progression. We have hypothesized that cMVs from platelets, and vascular and immune cells, are increased in frail older adults. To verify this, a prevalent‐case control study was designed with 28 frail older and 27 nonfrail older adults older than 64 years. Frailty was defined by Fried's phenotype. Total cMVs, annexin V positive (AV+)‐cMVs, and annexin V negative (AV−)‐cMVs derived from blood and vascular cells were measured by flow cytometry. In the analysis of total cMVs, the frail group presented higher levels of CD14+/CD142+ (p = .042), CD41a+/CD142+ (p = .041), and CD56+ (p = .025), CD14+cMVs (p = .043), and CD16+/CD14+ (p = .019) cMVs levels. Within the phosphatidylserine‐exposing cMVs (AV+), the frail group showed higher CD14+/AV+ (p = .044), CD9+/AV+ (p = .031), P2RY12+/AV+ (p = .028), and CD235a+/AV+ (p = .043) cMVs concentrations. Finally, within AV− cMVs, the frail group showed higher CD142+/CD41a+/AV− cMVs concentrations originated from platelets (p = .027), CD56+/AV− originated from natural killer cells (p = .022), and CD34+/AV− cMVs from hematopoietic stem cells (p = .037). In summary, frail older adults present higher concentrations of platelet‐, leukocyte‐, and hematopoietic cell‐derived cMVs compared to robust age‐matched older adults. These cMVs may be involved in the deregulation of the immune system, endothelial damage, and increased risk of thrombosis associated with frailty.
Congenitally corrected transposition and mitral atresia complicated by restrictive atrial septum
Authors: Pradhan Sarah , Strainic James
Published: August 2020

Congenitally corrected transposition (ccTGA), also known as L‐transposition of the great arteries (L‐TGA), is a rare cardiac malformation accounting for approximately 0.05% of congenital heart disease, characterized by ventricular inversion, discordant ventriculo‐arterial connections with a normal visceroatrial relationship. It was first described by Baron Rokitansky in 1875, and prenatal sonographic diagnosis can be difficult. Symptomatology and clinical presentation of this malformation are related to the associated intracardiac defects. We report a rare case of severe, complex cardiac disease: prenatally diagnosed ccTGA with atrial restriction, mitral atresia, Ebsteinoid tricuspid valve, and severe pulmonary valve stenosis, who subsequently developed left pulmonary vein stenosis.
miR‐587 promotes cervical cancer by repressing interferon regulatory factor 6
Authors: Ren Yuefang , Dong Jie , He Pingya , Liang Yufei , Wu Lifang , Wang Jiajian , Chu Boliang
Published: August 2020

Background

Interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) exhibits tumor‐suppressive functions in several cancer types. In the present study, the antitumor properties and related pathway mechanism of IRF6 were investigated in cervical cancer.

Methods

Forty‐one pairs of cervical cancer specimens and para‐carcinoma tissues were collected to evaluate IRF6 expression using immunohistochemical staining and miR‐587. The effects of miR‐587 and IRF6 on cervical cancer cell growth were explored by MTT assays and in a HeLa tumor xenograft mouse model. The migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells were monitored using transwell assays.

Results

IRF6 expression in cervical cancer specimens and cell lines was significantly reduced compared to that in the corresponding control group. In addition, IRF6 expression was negatively correlated with miR‐587 in cervical cancer tissues. Bioinformatics algorithms and luciferase assays revealed that IRF6 is a potential target of miR‐587, and miR‐587 mimic transfection led to a significant repression of IRF6 protein levels in cervical cancer cells. We also discovered that the antineoplastic properties of IRF6 could be reversed by overexpressing miR‐587 in cervical cancer cells. The up‐regulation of miR‐587 was correlated with poor overall survival in cervical cancer. In an in vivo experiment, miR‐587 silencing induced HeLa tumor growth inhibition, which was associated with the up‐regulation of IRF6 protein in the tumor.

Conclusions

miR‐587 post‐transcriptionally represses IRF6 protein expression to abrogate the antineoplastic activity of IRF6. The miR‐587/IRF6 signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the progression of cervical cancer and serves as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of cervical cancer.
Decompensated cirrhosis and liver transplantation negatively impact in DAA treatment response: Real‐world experience from HCV‐LALREAN cohort
Authors: Ridruejo Ezequiel , Piñero Federico , Mendizabal Manuel , Cheinquer Hugo , Wolff Fernando Herz , Anders Margarita , Reggiardo Virginia , Ameigeiras Beatriz , Palazzo Ana , Alonso Cristina , Schinoni María Isabel , Zuain María Grazia Videla , Tanno Federico , Figueroa Sebastián , Santos Luisa , Peralta Mirta , Soza Alejandro , Vistarini Cecilia , Adrover Raúl , Fernández Nora , Perez Daniela , Hernández Nelia , Estepo Claudio , Bruno Andres , Descalzi Valeria , Sixto Marcela , Borzi Silvia , Cocozzella Daniel , Zerega Alina , de Araujo Alexandre , Varón Adriana , Silva Marcelo ,   Latin American Liver Research Educational and Awareness Network (LALREAN)
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Although the effectiveness of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been reported in real‐world settings, predictive factors of treatment failure are lacking. Therefore, we sought to explore the baseline predictors of treatment response to DAAs.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter cohort study from the Latin American Liver Research Educational and Awareness Network (LALREAN) including patients who received DAA treatment from May 2016 to April 2019. A multivariate logistic regression model was conducted to identify variables associated with unachieved sustained virological response (SVR), defined as treatment failure (odds ratios [OR] and 95% confidence intervals [CIs]).

Results

From 2167 patients (55.2% with cirrhosis) who initiated DAA therapy, 89.4% completed a full‐course treatment (n = 1938). Median treatment duration was 12 weeks, and 50% received ribavirin. Definitive suspension due to intolerance or other causes was observed in only 1.0% cases (n = 20). Overall non‐SVR12 was 4.5% (95% CI, 3.5‐5.7). There were no significant differences in treatment failure according to HCV genotypes and the degree of fibrosis. Independently associated variables with DAA failure were liver function impairment according to the Child‐Pugh score B OR, 2.09 (P = .06), Child‐Pugh C OR, 11.7 (P < .0001); and liver transplant (LT) recipient OR, 3.75 (P = .01).

Conclusion

In this real‐life setting, higher DAA treatment failure rates were observed in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and in LT recipients. These predictive baseline factors should be addressed to individualize the appropriate time‐point of DAA treatment (NCT03775798; www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Distinguishing between COVID‐19 and influenza during the early stages by measurement of peripheral blood parameters
Authors: Chen Jiangnan , Pan Yong , Li Gangfeng , Xu Wenfang , Zhang Lihong , Yuan Shijin , Xia Yan , Lu Pei , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. This study aims to examine the changes in peripheral blood parameters during the early stages of COVID‐19 and influenza. We analyzed the peripheral blood parameters of 169 COVID‐19 patients and 131 influenza patients during the early‐onset stage. Results from the patients with COVID‐19 were compared with those from healthy controls and influenza patients. In addition, results from patients with common and severe COVID‐19 were further compared. There were significant differences between COVID‐19 and influenza patients in terms of age, white blood cell count, platelet count, percentage of neutrophils, percentage of lymphocytes, percentage of monocytes, percentage of eosinophils, percentage of basophils, neutrophil, count and monocyte count. Two parameters (monocyte count and percentage of basophils) were combined to clarify the diagnostic efficacy of COVID‐19 and influenza and the area under the curve was found to be 0.772. Comparison of peripheral blood parameters from common COVID‐19, severe COVID‐19, and influenza patients revealed many differences during the early disease stages. The diagnostic formula developed by this study will be of benefit for physicians in the differentiation of COVID‐19 and influenza.
The effect of smoking on COVID‐19 severity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Reddy Rohin K. , Charles Walton N. , Sklavounos Alexandros , Dutt Atul , Seed Paul T. , Khajuria Ankur
Published: August 2020

Various comorbidities represent risk factors for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The impact of smoking on COVID‐19 severity has been previously reported in several meta‐analyses limited by small sample sizes and poor methodology. We aimed to rigorously and definitively quantify the effects of smoking on COVID‐19 severity. MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched between 1 December 2019 and 2 June 2020. Studies reporting smoking status of hospitalized patients with different severities of disease and/or at least one clinical endpoint of interest (disease progression, intensive care unit admission, need for mechanical ventilation, and mortality) were included. Data were pooled using a random‐effects model. This study was registered on PROSPERO: CRD42020180920. We analyzed 47 eligible studies reporting on 32 849 hospitalized COVID‐19 patients, with 8417 (25.6%) reporting a smoking history, comprising 1501 current smokers, 5676 former smokers, and 1240 unspecified smokers. Current smokers had an increased risk of severe COVID‐19 (risk ratios [RR]: 1.80; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14‐2.85; P = .012), and severe or critical COVID‐19 (RR: 1.98; CI: 1.16‐3.38; P = .012). Patients with a smoking history had a significantly increased risk of severe COVID‐19 (RR: 1.31; CI: 1.12‐1.54; P = .001), severe or critical COVID‐19 (RR: 1.35; CI: 1.19‐1.53; P < .0001), in‐hospital mortality (RR: 1.26; CI: 1.20‐1.32; P < .0001), disease progression (RR: 2.18; CI: 1.06‐4.49; P = .035), and need for mechanical ventilation (RR: 1.20; CI: 1.01‐1.42; P = .043). Patients with any smoking history are vulnerable to severe COVID‐19 and worse in‐hospital outcomes. In the absence of current targeted therapies, preventative, and supportive strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality in current and former smokers are crucial.
Asymmetric least‐squares baseline algorithm with peak screening for automatic processing of the Raman spectra
Authors: Korepanov Vitaly I.
Published: August 2020

The signal in Raman spectroscopy has three components: vibrational bands, noise, and luminescence. Although the noise can be easily separated from the Raman bands either by a variety of algorithms or by adjusting the measurement conditions, to distinguish between the luminescence and the Raman peaks is a challenging task. Even though a number of algorithms have been proposed for this purpose, most of them show poor performance when applied to broad overlapping Raman bands with extended tails. A practical example of such a case can be found in many carbon‐based nanoscale materials with some degree of disorder, where the two close‐lying D and G bands dominate the spectrum. Conventional asymmetric least‐squares algorithms generate a baseline with penalizing the second derivative of the baseline itself. Instead, the approach suggested in the present work is based on an assumption that the vibrational bands can be “detected” and “masked” by their first and second derivatives of the raw spectrum. This makes it possible to handle the broad tails and superimposed bands very efficiently. The proposed algorithm was compared to several state‐of‐the‐art approaches including original and recently proposed ALS implementations, wavelet‐transform, and morphological algorithms. The “quality” of different algorithms was quantitatively estimated by adding random smooth curves to the spectrum. It was found that among the tested approaches, the peak‐screened ALS algorithm shows the best separation of the broad superimposed Raman peaks from the smooth random baselines. The Python code of the algorithm is provided.
An investigation of comparative substitution behavior of bifunctional trans‐platinum(II) complexes with symmetric and asymmetric alkylamine ligands
Authors: Olusegun Moses Ariyo , Reddy Desigan , Jaganyi Deogratius
Published: August 2020

This study was undertaken to investigate the comparative substitution behavior of mononuclear trans‐platinum(II) complexes with symmetric and asymmetric amine ligands. The rate of substitution of the aqua moeities from the complexes trans‐[Pt(NH3)2(H2O)2](ClO4)2 (tPt), trans‐[Pt(NH3)(NH2C2H5)(H2O)2](ClO4)2 (tPt2H2O), trans‐[Pt(NH3)(NH2C3H7)(H2O)2](ClO4)2 (tPt3H2O), [trans‐Pt(OH2)2(NH2CH3)2](ClO4)2 (tPtM), and [trans‐Pt(OH2)2{NH2CH(CH3)2}2](ClO4)2 (tPtR), by three nucleophiles, namely thiourea (TU), 1,3‐dimethylthiourea (DMTU), and 1,1,3,3‐tetramethylthiourea (TMTU) was studied under pseudo–first‐order conditions as a function of concentration and temperature by stopped‐flow spectrophotometry. All the substitution reactions of each of the trans‐platinum(II) complexes proceeds by a stepwise mechanism involving rate‐determining substitution of the first aqua ligand followed by a fast second substitution step, without any intermediates formed. The reactions were second order overall (rate = kobs[complex] where kobs = k2[nucleophile]), first order in both [complex] and [nucleophile]. The reactivity of the complexes was essentially governed by both steric and electronic factors. Comparing the second‐order rate constants for the substitution reactions of the mononuclear diaqua trans‐platinum(II) complexes with the thiourea‐based nucleophiles, the observed trend follows: tPt > tPt2H2O > tPtM > tPt3H2O > tPtR. This reactivity trend is consistent with the pKa values obtained for the first deprotonation step. The reactivity of the nucleophiles with the complexes decreases with an increase in steric demand in the following order: TU > DMTU > TMTU. The low positive values of activation enthalpy and large negative values of activation entropy indicate an associative mechanism of substitution in all the complexes. The computational modeling using density functional theory calculations was employed to provide theoretical interpretation of kinetic data.
A Novel Presentation of the Acute Airway: Anti‐IgLON5 Disease
Authors: Chen Jennifer , Vasani Sarju
Published: August 2020

Anti‐IgLON5 disease is a newly discovered novel sleep disorder at the crossroads of neurology and immunology. In addition to the underlying sleep disorder, anti‐IgLON5 manifests with progressive aerodigestive symptoms such as dysphagia, stridor, and vocal cord paresis in 90% cases and may present to the otolaryngologist. Herein we present a case of a patient with anti‐IgLON5 disease who presented to the hospital with an acute airway including marked stridor and respiratory failure requiring intubation and subsequently a tracheostomy. Laryngoscope, 131:E724–E726, 2021
Case Report: Lateral Chest Placement of IPG for Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator Implantation
Authors: Weiner Jordan S.
Published: August 2020

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea is an increasingly common procedure. The hypoglossal nerve is stimulated by an implanted pulse generator that is placed in a subcutaneous pocket in the upper chest over the pectoralis muscle. A pressure sensor is placed through a separate incision between two ribs to detect respiratory effort. This case reports an alternative implantation of the device and pressure sensor through a single shared incision lateral to the breast in a thin patient with a previous history of breast cancer, mastectomy, and subpectoral breast implant reconstruction. Laryngoscope, 131:E1010–E1012, 2021
Pressure abnormalities in patients with Zenker's diverticulum using pharyngeal high‐resolution manometry
Authors: Rosen Sarah P. , Jones Corinne A. , Hoffman Matthew R. , Knigge Molly A. , McCulloch Timothy M.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Zenker's diverticulum is associated with reduced cricopharyngeal compliance and abnormal intrabolus pressure. However, it is unclear how the pharynx compensates for these deficits. Developments in manometric technology have improved our ability to capture pharyngeal pressure events. This study aims to describe the pharyngeal‐upper esophageal sphincter (UES) pressure profile during swallowing in patients with Zenker's diverticulum.

Methods

High‐resolution manometry was performed on 11 patients with symptomatic Zenker's diverticulum and 11 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls during 10 mL liquid swallowing tasks. Pharyngeal and UES pressure magnitudes, durations, and integrals were compared between patients and controls using independent t tests. Other manometric parameters, including residual UES pressure at the time of maximum tongue base pressure and pharyngeal‐UES pressure gradient, were also evaluated. A case example using three‐dimensional high‐resolution manometry is presented.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, patients with Zenker's diverticulum exhibited pressure abnormalities in the UES region. While baseline and pre‐opening maximum pressures were not different, residual pressures were elevated (P = .001). Pharyngeal‐UES pressure gradients did not differ between the two groups.

Conclusion

This study used high‐resolution manometry to characterize pharyngeal pressure dynamics in patients with Zenker's diverticulum. The changes occurring at the cricopharyngeus appear to result in persistent UES pressurization during UES opening, rather than high tonic resting pressure. Pharyngeal‐UES pressure gradients, critical to bolus passage, were also preserved in this patient population.

Level of Evidence

3b.
Differential Impact of Extended Criteria Donors After Brain Death or Circulatory Death in Adult Liver Transplantation
Authors: Pandya Keval , Sastry Vinay , Panlilio Mara T. , Yip Terry C. F. , Salimi Shirin , West Claire , Virtue Susan , Wells Mark , Crawford Michael , Pulitano Carlo , Strasser Simone I. , McCaughan Geoffrey W. , Majumdar Avik , Liu Ken
Published: August 2020

Using grafts from extended criteria donors (ECDs) and donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors is a strategy to address organ shortage in liver transplantation (LT). We studied the characteristics and outcomes of ECD and DCD grafts. We retrospectively studied consecutive adults who underwent deceased donor LT between 2006 and 2019. ECD was defined using modified Eurotransplant criteria. Our primary outcomes were graft and patient survival. A total of 798 grafts were used for LT, of which 93.1% were donation after brain death (DBD; 59.9% were also ECD) and 6.9% were DCD grafts (49.1% were also ECD). Among DBD graft recipients, donors having >33% liver steatosis or 3 ECD criteria resulted in poorer graft survival. Otherwise ECD graft recipients had similar graft and patient survival compared with non‐ECD graft recipients. DCD graft recipients also had similar patient survival compared with DBD recipients. However, DCD grafts from an ECD appeared to have worse outcomes. DCD graft recipients experienced higher rates of early allograft dysfunction (50.9% versus 24.7%; P < 0.001) and ischemic biliopathy (16.4% versus 1.5%; P < 0.001) compared with DBD graft recipients. Use of DBD grafts from ECDs did not impact outcomes unless there was significant donor steatosis or 3 Eurotransplant criteria were met. DCD graft recipients have similar patient survival compared with DBD graft recipients as long as the donor was not an ECD. We recommend that DBD donors with 3 or more ECD features or >33% steatosis and DCD donors with any ECD features be used with caution in adult LT.
Efficient Flame Retardancy, Smoke Suppression, and Mechanical Enhancement of β‐FeOOH@Metallo‐Supramolecular Polymer Core–Shell Nanorod Modified Epoxy Resin
Authors: Chen Ting , Wang Xiu , Peng Chaohua , Chen Guorong , Yuan Conghui , Xu Yiting , Zeng Birong , Luo Weiang , Balaji Krishnasamy , Petri Denise F. S. , Dai Lizong
Published: August 2020

A metallo‐supramolecular polymer poly{4‐(((3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)(6‐oxidodibenzo[c,e][1,2]oxaphosphinin‐6‐yl)methyl)amino)phenyl‐2,2‐dimethylbutanoate} (HP) is synthesized through a Kabachnik–Fields reaction. Then HP is coated on the surface of β‐FeOOH by coordination interaction to generate organic–inorganic hybrid β‐FeOOH@HP (Fe@P) nanorods, which are used for preparing flame retardant epoxy resin (EP) nanocomposites. The structure of HP is characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the morphology and composition of β‐FeOOH and Fe@P nanorods are also studied by scanning electron micrograph and transmission electron microscope instruments. With the presence of 2 wt% of Fe@P, the limiting oxygen index value of EP nanocomposite increased to 32.8% with UL‐94 vertical burning V‐1 rating, and 31.4% of flexural strength enhancement, indicating the improvement of both flame retardant and mechanical properties with low loading amount. The reduction of total smoke production, average CO and CO2 yield for EP nanocomposites with 0.5 wt% of Fe@P reflected the good smoke suppression. The flame retardant mechanism of Fe@P is also discussed.
Rare deleterious variants of NOTCH1, GATA4, SMAD6, and ROBO4 are enriched in BAV with early onset complications but not in BAV with heritable thoracic aortic disease
Authors: Musfee Fadi I. , Guo Dongchuan , Pinard Amélie C. , Hostetler Ellen M. , Blue Elizabeth E. , Nickerson Deborah A. ,   University of Washington Center for Mendelian Genomics (UW‐CMG), Bamshad Michael J. , Milewicz Dianna M. , Prakash Siddharth K.
Published: August 2020

Background

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common cardiovascular malformation in adults, with a prevalence of 0.5%–2%. The prevalence of BAV in cohorts who were ascertained due to thoracic aortic aneurysms or acute aortic dissections (TAD) is as high as 20%. However, the contribution of causal BAV genes to TAD is not known. Therefore, we evaluated rare deleterious variants of GATA4, NOTCH1, SMAD6, or ROBO4 in patients with BAV who presented with TAD.

Methods

Our cohort consisted of 487 probands with Heritable Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms or Dissections (HTAD, 12% BAV, 29% female) and 63 probands with Early onset complications of Bicuspid Aortic Valve disease (EBAV, 63% TAD, 34% female). After whole exome sequencing, we functionally annotated GATA4, NOTCH1, SMAD6, and ROBO4 variants and compared the prevalence of rare variants in these genes to controls without HTAD.

Results

We identified 11 rare deleterious variants of GATA4, SMAD6, or ROBO4 in 12 (18%) EBAV cases. The burden of rare SMAD6 and GATA4 variants was significantly enriched in EBAV but not in HTAD cases, even among HTAD cases with BAV (p < .003).

Conclusion

Rare variants of NOTCH1, ROBO4, SMAD6, or GATA4 do not significantly contribute to BAV in cohorts with HTAD. We conclude that BAV patients who present with HTAD are a genetically distinct subgroup with implications for genetic testing and prognosis.
On a class of coupled critical Hartree system with deepening potential
Authors: Zheng Yu , Gao Fashun , Shen Zifei , Yang Minbo
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we are interested in the following coupled critical Hartree system

where λ > 0, β ≥ 0,
, 0 < μ < N, N ≥ 4,
are the upper critical exponents due to the Hardy‐Littlewood‐Sobolev inequality and the nonnegative potential function
has potential as well. By using variational methods, we prove the existence of ground state solutions and also characterize the asymptotic behavior of the solutions as the parameter λ goes to infinity. Furthermore, we are able to find the existence of multiple semitrivial weak solutions by the Lusternik‐Schnirelmann category theory.
Maximal ℓp‐regularity of multiterm fractional equations with delay
Authors: Girona Ivan , Murillo‐Arcila Marina
Published: August 2020

We provide a characterization for the existence and uniqueness of solutions in the space of vector‐valued sequences
for the multiterm fractional delayed model in the form

where X is a Banach space, A is a closed linear operator with domain D(A) defined on X,
and ΔΓ denotes the Grünwald–Letkinov fractional derivative of order Γ > 0. We also give some conditions to ensure the existence of solutions when adding nonlinearities. Finally, we illustrate our results with an example given by a general abstract nonlinear model that includes the fractional Fisher equation with delay.
Implementation of an optical wireless communication system deploying a novel post‐equalization circuit for indoor application
Authors: Thao Adam , Kang Xinwei , Lee Ghang‐Ho
Published: August 2020

This paper experimentally demonstrates an optical wireless communication (OWC) system with commercially available LED and PD for lighting purpose by optimizing the performance of the OWC system with a newly proposed post‐equalization circuit. We used non‐return to zero (NRZ) on‐off keying (OOK) modulating at 622 Mbps with operating carrier wavelength of 636 nm, which corresponds to red visible light. The free space transmission length of the system was set at 50 cm and the LED emitted 9.1 lx. Different post‐equalization gains were tested to optimize proposed post‐equalization circuit by using the frequency response characteristics at different modulating frequencies and the bit‐error rate (BER) of the OWC system. For the optimized case, we were able to achieve error‐free transmission at 622 Mbps and a maximum achievable data rate of 636.6 Mbps with a BER of 9.9 × 10−6.
Evaluation of the thermal sensitivity of porcine liver in CT‐guided cryoablation: an initial study
Authors: Hübner Frank , Schreiner Roland , Panahi Bita , Vogl Thomas Josef
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To evaluate computed tomography (CT)‐based thermometry in cryoablation, the thermal sensitivity of an ex‐vivo porcine liver was determined in an initial study design.

Methods

The CT‐guided cryoablation was performed in three porcine liver samples over a period of 10 min. Fiber optic temperature probes were positioned parallel to the shaft of the cryoprobe in an axial slice orientation. During ablation, temperature measurements were performed simultaneously with CT imaging at 5 s intervals. On the CT images, the average CT number was calculated for a region of interest of 3 × 3 pixels just below the tip of each temperature probe. A linear regression analysis was performed using eleven data sets to determine the dependence of the CT number on the temperature.

Results

With decreasing temperature, an increasing hypodense area around the tip of the cryoprobe was observed on the CT images and decreasing values of the CT number were determined. Starting at a temperature of − 40°C a linear relation between the CT number and the temperature was determined and a thermal sensitivity of 0.95 HU/°C (R2 = 0.73) was obtained. The thermal sensitivity was used to calculate color‐coded temperature maps. The calculated temperature distribution corresponds quantitatively to the increasing hypodense area.

Conclusions

A noninvasive CT‐based temperature determination during cryoablation in a normal ex vivo porcine liver is feasible. A thermal sensitivity of 0.95 HU/°C was determined by linear regression analysis. A color‐coded map of the temperature distribution was presented.
Changes in porcine cauda epididymal fluid proteome by disrupting the HPT axis: Unveiling potential mechanisms of male infertility
Authors: Souza Ana P. B. , Lopes Tayná N. , da Silva Anna F. T. , Santi Lucélia , Beys‐da‐Silva Walter O. , Yates John R. , Bustamante‐Filho Ivan C.
Published: August 2020

Male infertility or subfertility is frequently associated with disruption of the hypothalamic–pituitary–testis axis events, like secondary hypogonadism. However, little is known how this condition affects the proteomic composition of the epididymal fluid. In the present study, we evaluated the proteomic changes in the cauda epididymal fluid (CEF) in a swine model of secondary hypogonadism induced by anti‐GnRH immunization using multidimensional protein identification technology. Seven hundred and eighteen proteins were identified in both GnRH‐immunized and control groups. GnRH immunization doubled the number of proteins in the CEF, with 417 proteins being found exclusively in samples from GnRH‐immunized boars. CEF from GnRH‐immunized boars presented an increase in the number of proteins related to cellular and metabolic processes, with affinity to organic cyclic compounds, small molecules, and heterocyclic compounds, as well changed the enzymatic profile of the CEF. Also, a significant increase in the number of proteins associated to the ubiquitin–proteasome system was identified in CEF from GnRH‐immunized animals. These results bring strong evidence of the impact of secondary hypogonadism on the epididymal environment, which is responsible for sperm maturation and storage prior ejaculation. Finally, the differently expressed proteins in the CEF are putative seminal biomarkers for testicular and epididymal disorders caused by secondary hypogonadism.
Myocardial T1 mapping using SMART1Map and MOLLI mapping in asymptomatic patients with recent extracardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Panovský Roman , Doubková Martina , Holeček Tomáš , Máchal Jan , Feitová Věra , Masárová Lucia , Opatřil Lukáš , Mojica‐Pisciotti Mary Luz , Kincl Vladimír
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease affecting in particular the respiratory tract. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), including a measurement of T1 relaxation time, could potentially detect early stadia of sarcoidosis of the heart. The study aims to assess T1 mapping in the detection of early cardiac involvement in asymptomatic patients with sarcoidosis.

Methods

One hundred and twenty patients with extracardiac sarcoidosis and without any heart disease history were included. One hundred and thirteen of them underwent a CMR examination. The mean time from the diagnosis of sarcoidosis was 0.8 (0.2‐3.3) years. Cine images for the assessment of left ventricular (LV) functional parameters and pre‐ and post‐contrast saturation method using adaptive recovery times for cardiac T1 mapping (SMART1Map) and modified Look‐Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) images were acquired for the assessment of native T1 relaxation time and extracellular volume (ECV). The measured parameters were compared between sarcoidosis patients and 22 controls.

Results

The sarcoidosis patients had normal global and regional systolic LV function—LV ejection fraction 65 ± 5% versus 66 ± 7% (p NS). The mean native T1 relaxation times were not prolonged—1465 ± 93 ms versus 1480 ± 88 ms (p NS) measured by SMART1Map and 1317 ± 60 ms versus 1313 ± 83 ms (p NS) measured using a MOLLI sequence. Similarly, the mean ECV values did not increase—16.9 ± 3.9% versus 17.9 ± 3.7% (p NS) measured by SMART1Map and 30.9 ± 2.9% versus 31.6 ± 8.3% (p NS) measured using a MOLLI sequence.

Conclusion

Myocardial native T1 relaxation times were not prolonged and ECV was not increased in asymptomatic patients with extracardiac sarcoidosis.
Computing the matrix geometric mean: Riemannian versus Euclidean conditioning, implementation techniques, and a Riemannian BFGS method
Authors: Yuan Xinru , Huang Wen , Absil P.‐A. , Gallivan Kyle A.
Published: August 2020

This paper addresses the problem of computing the Riemannian center of mass of a collection of symmetric positive definite matrices. We show in detail that the condition number of the Riemannian Hessian of the underlying optimization problem is never very ill conditioned in practice, which explains why the Riemannian steepest descent approach has been observed to perform well. We also show theoretically and empirically that this property is not shared by the Euclidean Hessian. We then present a limited‐memory Riemannian BFGS method to handle this computational task. We also provide methods to produce efficient numerical representations of geometric objects that are required for Riemannian optimization methods on the manifold of symmetric positive definite matrices. Through empirical results and a computational complexity analysis, we demonstrate the robust behavior of the limited‐memory Riemannian BFGS method and the efficiency of our implementation when compared to state‐of‐the‐art algorithms.
Mediating effect of coping style between empathy and burnout among Chinese nurses working in medical and surgical wards
Authors: Cheng Li , Yang Jiao , Li Mengyuan , Wang Wenru
Published: August 2020

Aim

This study aimed to investigate burnout, coping style and empathy among Chinese nurses working in medical and surgical wards and to examine the mediating effect of coping style between empathy and burnout among this group of nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional questionnaire survey.

Method

The study recruited a convenience sample of 363 nurses from three university‐affiliated tertiary hospitals in Shiyan City, Hubei, China. A set of self‐administered questionnaires was used to measure the variables of burnout, coping style and empathy. Structural equation modelling was performed using AMOS 20.0.

Results

Nurse burnout was prevalent among Chinese nurses in medical and surgical wards, and coping style and empathy were significantly associated with burnout. Positive coping strategies and high levels of empathy could reduce burnout in nurses. Coping strategies were found to play a partial mediating role between empathy and burnout among this group of nurses.
Modeling exposures of medications used episodically during pregnancy: Triptans as a motivating example
Authors: Harris Gerd‐Marie Eskerud , Wood Mollie , Nordeng Hedvig
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To assess the validity of dispensed prescription to classify exposure to medications used episodically during pregnancy, and to explore individual trajectories of episodic medication use across pregnancy, using triptans for migraine as the motivating example.

Methods

We compared self‐reported triptan use during pregnancy in The Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa) to dispensed prescriptions in The Norwegian Prescription Database and calculated Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ), sensitivity, specificity and predictive values using MoBa as reference standard. We used group‐based trajectory modeling to estimate exposure trajectories in MoBa according to probability of triptan use across pregnancy.

Results

We identified 6051 pregnancies where mothers filled at least one triptan prescription or reported migraine or triptan use in the 6 months before or during pregnancy. Sensitivity of prescribed triptans during pregnancy was low (39.1%), but specificity was quite high (95.4%). Agreement between the two data sources was fair (κ 0.36). We identified three trajectory groups in MoBa including constant‐high, decreasing‐medium and decreasing‐low probability of triptan use across pregnancy.

Conclusions

Using dispensed prescriptions rather than self‐report to classify exposure to triptans during pregnancy is likely to result in substantial under‐estimation of exposure. In this study, traditional definitions of ever‐exposed vs never‐exposed failed to capture variations in drug utilization during pregnancy.