bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resumption of postpartum sexual activity and menses among HIV‐infected women on lifelong antiretroviral treatment compared to HIV‐uninfected women in Africa
Authors: Dadabhai Sufia , Makanani Bonus , Hua Nan , Kawalazira Rachel , Taulo Frank , Gadama Luis , Taha Taha E.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To determine time from delivery to resumption of sexual activity and menses among HIV‐infected women on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and HIV‐uninfected women.

Methods

HIV‐infected women on ART and HIV‐uninfected women were recruited from five health facilities at delivery and followed prospectively for a maximum of 1 year in Blantyre, Malawi from January 2016 to September 2017. Sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected at delivery and 1.5, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Descriptive, time to event Kaplan‐Meier, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses were conducted.

Results

Data on 878 women (460 [52.4%] HIV‐uninfected and 418 [47.6%] HIV‐infected, P=0.156) who attended at least one follow‐up visit were analyzed. Among HIV‐uninfected compared to HIV‐infected women, respectively, the median number of days to resumption of sexual activity was 180 vs 181; to irregular menses was 82 vs 71; and to regular menses was 245 vs 366. In multivariable models, being married was associated with early resumption of sexual activity (hazard ratio [HR] 1.91, P<0.001), and being HIV‐infected and use of an effective method of family planning were associated with later start of regular menses (HR<1.0, P<0.050).

Conclusion

Counseling of women on reproductive intentions should start early irrespective of HIV infection or use of ART.
Circ‐HOMER1 enhances the inhibition of miR‐1322 on CXCL6 to regulate the growth and aggressiveness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Zhao Mingyu , Dong Guanglong , Meng Qingyu , Lin Shusen , Li Xichun
Published: February 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common liver malignancy worldwide accompanying with the high rate of recurrence. Accumulating reports have documented the significance of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in carcinogenesis and development of HCC. This study aimed to establish the mechanism underlying circ‐HOMER1 involvement in HCC. To this end, we identified a binding site for miR‐1322 via bioinformatics, quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and dual‐luciferase reporter assays providing evidence of a direct link between circ‐HOMER1 and miR‐1322. Similarly, the target gene of miR‐1322 was investigated. Moreover, we determined the specific function of circ‐HOMER1 in HCC with the aid of qRT‐PCR based on patient clinical records, Cell Counting Kit‐8, acridine orange/ethidium bromide double fluorescence staining, flow cytometry, and wound‐healing and transwell assays. Notably, circ‐HOMER1 was upregulated in both HCC cells and tissues. This aberrant expression pattern was closely correlated with larger tumor size, higher tumor‐node‐metastasis stage, and poorer prognosis for the patients with HCC. Moreover, silenced circ‐HOMER1 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion concomitant with the promotion of apoptosis in HCC cells, and vice versa. Mechanistically, circ‐HOMER1 enhanced the inhibition of miR‐1322 on CXCL6 in HCC. Furthermore, we found that circ‐HOMER1 promoted HCC cell growth and aggressiveness by miR‐1322/CXCL6 axis. This study may provide a potential prognostic indicator and therapeutic target for patients with HCC.
The existence of large set of symmetric partitioned incomplete latin squares
Authors: Shen Cong , Cao Haitao , Ji Lijun
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we investigate the existence of large sets of symmetric partitioned incomplete latin squares of type gu (LSSPILSs) which can be viewed as a generalization of the well‐known golf designs. Constructions for LSSPILSs are presented from some other large sets, such as golf designs, large sets of group divisible designs, and large sets of Room frames. We prove that there exists an LSSPILS(gu) if and only if u ≥ 3, g(u − 1) ≡ 0 (mod 2), and (g, u) ≠ (1, 5).
Mesenchymal stem cells alter the frequency and cytokine profile of natural killer cells in abortion‐prone mice
Authors: Rezaei Kahmini Fatemeh , Shahgaldi Shahab , Moazzeni Seyed Mohammad
Published: February 2020

Natural killer cells, which play a pivotal role in the establishment and maintenance of normal pregnancy, are the most abundant leukocytes at the fetomaternal interface that their subsets frequencies and cytokine profile are influential factors in the preservation of the decidual tolerogenic microenvironment. Any imbalance in NK cells' frequency and functions could be associated with pregnancy failure. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are shown to have immunomodulatory effects on NK cells and their cytokine profile. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of MSCs therapy on the cytokine profiles and subpopulations of NK cells in a murine model of recurrent pregnancy loss. Adipose‐derived MSCs were injected intraperitoneally to the abortion‐prone mice on Day 4.5 of gestation. The abortion rate was determined after MSCs administration and the frequency and cytokine profiles of the different subsets of NK cells were determined using the flow cytometry. Our results showed that, in abortion‐prone mice, the frequency of CD49b+ NK cells was significantly higher than normal pregnant mice that decreased after therapy. We also demonstrated that MSCs downregulated the production of IFN‐γ and upregulated IL‐4 and IL‐10 production by uNK cells. These findings indicate that MSCs can decrease the infiltration of CD49b+ NK cells to the fetomaternal interface and modulate the cytokine profile of NK cells from inflammatory to tolerogenic profile and thereby improve the tolerogenic microenvironment at the fetomaternal interface in benefit of pregnancy maintenance.
Modulation of the in vitro angiogenic potential of human mesenchymal stromal cells from different tissue sources
Authors: Pinto Diogo S. , Ahsan Tabassum , Serra Joana , Fernandes‐Platzgummer Ana , Cabral Joaquim M. S. , da Silva Cláudia L.
Published: February 2020

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been widely exploited for the treatment of several conditions due to their intrinsic regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. MSC have demonstrated to be particularly relevant for the treatment of ischemic diseases, where MSC‐based therapies can stimulate angiogenesis and induce tissue regeneration. Regardless of the condition targeted, recent analyses of MSC‐based clinical trials have demonstrated limited benefits indicating a need to improve the efficacy of this cell product. Preconditioning MSC ex vivo through microenvironment modulation was found to improve MSC survival rate and thus prolong their therapeutic effect. This workstudy aims at enhancing the in vitro angiogenic capacity of a potential MSC‐based medicinal product by comparing different sources of MSC and culture conditions. MSC from three different sources (bone marrow [BM], adipose tissue [AT], and umbilical cord matrix [UCM]) were cultured with xenogeneic‐/serum‐free culture medium under static conditions and their angiogenic potential was studied. Results indicated a higher in vitro angiogenic capacity of UCM MSC, compared with cells derived from BM and AT. Physicochemical preconditioning of UCM MSC through a microcarrier‐based culture platform and low oxygen concentration (2% O2, compared with atmospheric air) increased the in vitro angiogenic potential of the cultured cells. Envisaging the clinical manufacturing of an allogeneic, off‐the‐shelf MSC‐based product, preconditioned UCM MSC maintain the angiogenic gene expression profile upon cryopreservation and delivery processes in the conditions of our study. These results are expected to contribute to the development of MSC‐based therapies in the context of angiogenesis.
A mutation in the Na‐K‐2Cl cotransporter‐1 leads to changes in cellular metabolism
Authors: Omer Salma , Koumangoye Rainelli , Delpire Eric
Published: February 2020

The Na‐K‐Cl cotransporter‐1 (NKCC1), by mediating the electroneutral transport of Na+, K+, and Cl− plays an important role in cell volume regulation, epithelial transport, and the control of neuronal excitability. Recently, we reported the first known human mutation in SLC12A2, the gene encoding NKCC1. The 17‐year old patient suffers from multiorgan failure. Laboratory tests conducted on muscle and liver biopsies of the patient showed abnormal increase in mitochondrial DNA copy number and increased glycogen levels, indicating the possibility that the transporter may play a role in energy metabolism. Here, we show that fibroblasts isolated from the patient demonstrate a significant increase in mitochondrial respiration, compared to fibroblasts isolated from healthy individuals. Similarly, Madin Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells transfected with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)‐tagged mutant NKCC1 DNA demonstrated increased mitochondrial respiration when compared to MDCK cells expressing EGFP‐tagged wild‐type (WT) cotransporter. Direct inhibition of the cotransporter through addition of bumetanide did not change the rate of basal respiration, but led to increased maximal mitochondrial respiration. Fibroblasts extracted from NKCC1WT/DFX and NKCC1DFX/DFX mice also demonstrated a significant elevation in mitochondrial respiration, compared to fibroblasts isolated from their WT littermates. Expression of the mutant protein was associated with an increase in hydrogen peroxide and peroxidase activity and a decrease in messenger RNA transcript levels for protein involved in the unfolded protein response. These data reveal that cells expressing the mutant cotransporter demonstrate increased mitochondrial respiration and behave like they are experiencing a state of starvation.
miR‐212‐5p exerts tumor promoter function by regulating the Id3/PI3K/Akt axis in lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Chen Fang‐fang , Sun Ning , Wang Yin , Xi Hai‐yan , Yang Yang , Yu Bai‐zeng , Li Xiao‐jun
Published: February 2020

microRNAs may function as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes that play crucial roles in human carcinogenesis and cancer development. Growing evidence revealed that the tumor suppressor Id3 is involved in tumor progression, carcinogenesis, and the tumor microenvironment. We identified miR‐212‐5p as a negative posttranscriptional modulator of Id3. Dual luciferase reporter assay was used to verify that Id3 is a direct target gene of miR‐212‐5p. Id3 was lowly expressed and miR‐212‐5p was highly expressed in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues and cells. In addition, we found that NSCLC patients having a higher level of miR‐212‐5p expression had a shorter survival time. Besides this, miR‐212‐5p could directly target Id3 and reduce its expression. miR‐212‐5p overexpression significantly accelerated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by reversing the effects of Id3. Id3 overexpression by silencing miR‐212‐5p expression suppressed phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt activity and consequently promoted apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation in lung cancer cells. Consistent with the in vitro results, a xenograft mouse model was used to validate the fact that miR‐212‐5p could promote tumorigenesis by targeting Id3 and activate the PI3K/Akt pathway in vivo as well. Taken together, the present results indicated that miR‐212‐5p may be involved in progression of NSCLC through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway by targeting Id3.
MCTR1 alleviates lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute lung injury by protecting lung endothelial glycocalyx
Authors: Li Hui , Hao Yu , Yang Li‐Li , Wang Xin‐Yang , Li Xin‐Yu , Bhandari Suwas , Han Jun , Liu Yong‐Jian , Gong Yu‐Qiang , Scott Aaron , Smith Fang Gao , Jin Sheng‐Wei
Published: February 2020

Endothelial glycocalyx degradation, critical for increased pulmonary vascular permeability, is thought to facilitate the development of sepsis into the multiple organ failure. Maresin conjugates in tissue regeneration 1 (MCTR1), a macrophage‐derived lipid mediator, which exhibits potentially beneficial effects via the regulation of bacterial phagocytosis, promotion of inflammation resolution, and regeneration of tissue. In this study, we show that MCTR1 (100 ng/mouse) enhances the survival of mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced (15 mg/kg) sepsis. MCTR1 alleviates LPS (10 mg/kg)‐induced lung dysfunction and lung tissue inflammatory response by decreasing inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β [IL‐1β], and IL‐6) expression in serum and reducing the serum levels of heparan sulfate (HS) and syndecan‐1. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) experiments, MCTR1 (100 nM) was added to the culture medium with LPS for 6 hr. MCTR1 treatment markedly inhibited HS degradation by downregulating heparanase (HPA) protein expression in vivo and in vitro. Further analyses indicated that MCTR1 upregulates sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression and decreases NF‐κB p65 phosphorylation. In the presence of BOC‐2 or EX527, the above effects of MCTR1 were abolished. These results suggest that MCTR1 protects against LPS‐induced sepsis in mice by attenuating pulmonary endothelial glycocalyx injury via the ALX/SIRT1/NF‐κB/HPA pathway.
A novel role of SIRT2 in regulating gap junction communications via connexin‐43 in bovine cumulus‐oocyte complexes
Authors: Xu Dejun , He Huanshan , Liu Dingbang , Geng Guoxia , Li Qingwang
Published: February 2020

SIRT2, the predominantly cytosolic sirtuin, plays important role in multiple biological processes, including metabolism, stress response, and aging. However, the function of SIRT2 in gap junction intercellular communications (GJICs) of cumulus‐oocyte complexes (COCs) is not yet known. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect and underlining mechanism of SIRT2 on GJICs in COCs. Here, we found that treatment with SIRT2 inhibitors (SirReal2 or TM) inhibited bovine oocyte nuclear maturation. Further analysis revealed that SIRT2 inactivation disturbed the GJICs of COCs during in vitro maturation. Correspondingly, both the Cx43 phosphorylation levels and MEK/MER signaling pathways were induced by SIRT2 inhibition. Importantly, SIRT2‐mediated Cx43 phosphorylation was completely abolished by treatment with MEK1/2 inhibitor (Trametinib). Furthermore, treatment with SIRT2 inhibitors resulted in the high levels of MEK1/2 acetylation. Functionally, downregulating the MER/ERK pathways with inhibitors (Trametinib or SCH772984) could attenuate the closure of GJICs caused by SIRT2 inactivation in partly. In addition, inhibition of SIRT2 activity significantly decreased the membrane and zona pellucida localization of Cx43 by upregulating the levels of Cx43 acetylation. Taken together, these results demonstrated a novel role that SIRT2 regulates GJICs via modulating the phosphorylation and deacetylation of Cx43 in COCs.
Antagonistic relationship between the unfolded protein response and myocardin‐driven transcription in smooth muscle
Authors: Zhu Baoyi , Daoud Fatima , Zeng Shaohua , Matic Ljubica , Hedin Ulf , Uvelius Bengt , Rippe Catarina , Albinsson Sebastian , Swärd Karl
Published: February 2020

Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are characterized by a high degree of phenotypic plasticity. Contractile differentiation is governed by myocardin‐related transcription factors (MRTFs), in particular myocardin (MYOCD), and when their drive is lost, the cells become proliferative and synthetic with an expanded endoplasmic reticulum (ER). ER is responsible for assembly and folding of secreted proteins. When the load on the ER surpasses its capacity, three stress sensors (activating transcription factor 6 [ATF6], inositol‐requiring enzyme 1α [IRE1α]/X‐box binding protein 1 [XBP1], and PERK/ATF4) are activated to expand the ER and increase its folding capacity. This is referred to as the unfolded protein response (UPR). Here, we hypothesized that there is a reciprocal relationship between SMC differentiation and the UPR. Tight negative correlations between SMC markers (MYH11, MYOCD, KCNMB1, SYNPO2) and UPR markers (SDF2L1, CALR, MANF, PDIA4) were seen in microarray data sets from carotid arterial injury, partial bladder outlet obstruction, and bladder denervation, respectively. The UPR activators dithiothreitol (DTT) and tunicamycin (TN) activated the UPR and reduced MYOCD along with SMC markers in vitro. The IRE1α inhibitor 4μ8C counteracted the effect of DTT and TN on SMC markers and MYOCD expression. Transfection of active XBP1s was sufficient to reduce both MYOCD and the SMC markers. MRTFs also antagonized the UPR as indicated by reduced TN and DTT‐mediated induction of CRELD2, MANF, PDIA4, and SDF2L1 following overexpression of MRTFs. The latter effect did not involve the newly identified MYOCD/SRF target MSRB3, or reduced production of either XBP1s or cleaved ATF6. The UPR thus counteracts SMC differentiation via the IRE1α/XBP1 arm of the UPR and MYOCD repression.
Matching theory and induction explain operant performance
Authors: Baum William M. , Grace Randolph C.
Published: February 2020

Matching theory is a general framework for understanding allocation of behavior among activities. It applies to choice in concurrent schedules and was extended to single schedules by assuming that other unrecorded behavior competes with operant behavior. Baum and Davison (2014) found that the competing activities apparently are induced by the “reinforcers” (phylogenetically important events, e.g., food) according to power functions. Combined with power‐function induction, matching theory provides new equations with greater explanatory power. Four pigeons were exposed to conditions in which 7 different schedules of food delivery were presented within each experimental session. We replicated earlier results with variable‐interval schedules: (a) a negatively accelerated increase of peck rate as food rate increased in the low range of food rates; (b) an upturn in pecking at higher rates; and (c) a downturn in pecking at extremely high food rates. When the contingency between pecking and food was removed, the food continued to induce pecking, even after 20 sessions with no contingency. A ratio schedule inserted in place of 1 variable‐interval schedule maintained peck rates comparable to peck rates maintained by short interval schedules. We explained the results by fitting equations that combined matching theory, competition, and induction.
Two insulin‐like peptides may regulate egg production in opposite directions via juvenile hormone signaling in the queenless ant Pristomyrmex punctatus
Authors: Araki Marina , Miyakawa Misato O. , Suzuki Tomohiro , Miyakawa Hitoshi
Published: February 2020

In the major eusocial species of Hymenoptera, the regulatory mechanisms controlling queen/worker differentiation and exclusive reproduction by queens have been studied extensively. These studies have shown that insulin/insulin‐like growth factors and juvenile hormones (JHs) act as key endocrine factors. However, although considerable knowledge has accumulated in this area, large disparities in the regulatory mechanisms governing caste differentiation have been observed in different hymenopteran taxa to date. We focused on the queenless ant Pristomyrmex punctatus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), which exhibits the simplest type of sociality and in which reproductive tasks (egg production) are distributed among morphologically and genetically identical workers. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying reproduction in P. punctatus, we analyzed the correlations between the gene expression profiles of a reproductive marker gene, vitellogenin (PripuVTG1), and candidate regulatory genes comprising the major components of the JH and insulin/insulin‐like growth factor signaling pathways that are involved in the regulation of reproduction upstream of JH signaling. Expression of insulin‐like peptide 1 (PripuILP1) and JH signaling‐related genes was negatively correlated with PripuVTG1 expression. On the contrary, insulin‐like peptide 2 (PripuILP2a) was positively correlated with PripuVTG1. These findings suggest that an equilibrium perhaps controlled by switches in JH signaling exists between these two ILP paralogs, and that these interactions are important for regulating reproduction. Our findings are expected to be useful for understanding how various modes of sociality have evolved in insects.
Updated Australian diagnostic reference levels for adult CT
Authors: Lee Kam L. , Beveridge Toby , Sanagou Masoumeh , Thomas Peter
Published: February 2020

Introduction

In 2018, ARPANSA published updated national DRLs for adult CT, which were first published in 2012, and augmented the national DRL categories. This paper presents the updated national DRLs and describes the process by which they were produced.

Methods

Examine patient survey data submitted to the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) National Diagnostic Reference Level Service (NDRLS). Determine the quartiles of the distributions of median survey dose metrics with categorisation by procedure type. Engage a liaison panel representing the radiology professions to review procedure categories and recommend revised national DRLs. The revised NDRL procedure categories are: head (non‐contrast brain (trauma/headache)), cervical spine (Non‐contrast (trauma)), soft‐tissue neck (post‐contrast (oncology)), chest (post‐contrast (oncology)), abdomen–pelvis (post‐contrast (oncology)), kidney–ureter–bladder (non‐contrast (suspected renal colic)), chest–abdomen–pelvis (post‐contrast (oncology)) and lumbar spine (non‐contrast (degenerative pain)).

Results

The existing six procedure categories were revised and refined. Updated Australian national diagnostic reference levels for adult CT were recommended and endorsed for eight procedure categories: head (52 mGy/880 mGycm), cervical spine (23 mGy/470 mGycm),soft‐tissue neck (17 mGy/450 mGycm), chest (10 mGy/390 mGycm), abdomen–pelvis (13 mGy/600 mGycm), kidney–ureter–bladder (13 mGy/600 mGycm), chest–abdomen–pelvis (11 mGy/940 mGycm) and lumbar spine (26 mGy/670 mGycm). The updated national DRLs are between 12 and 26% lower than the previous DRLs for dose‐length product and between 13 and 63% lower for volume computed tomography dose index.

Conclusions

Australian national DRLs for adult CT have been reviewed and revised. The revised national DRLs are lower, better reflecting current practice among imaging facilities in Australia. The revised Australian national DRLs are similar to those in other developed countries.
Differential Resource Use between Native and Introduced Gray Squirrels
Authors: Johnston Aaron N. , Vander Haegen W. Matthew , West Stephen D.
Published: February 2020

Differences in habitat requirements and the spatial distribution of habitat for native and introduced species can determine outcomes of biological invasions. Introduced eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) have displaced native red squirrels (S. vulgaris) in Europe and have been implicated as a contributing factor to the decline of western gray squirrels (S. griseus) in North America. Eastern and western gray squirrels are associated with oak (Quercus spp.), but little is known about how these species interact. From April 2007 to April 2012, we radio‐tracked sympatric eastern and western gray squirrels in western Washington to compare habitat use and evaluate competitive interactions. We developed resource utilization functions for each species and evaluated distribution of habitat on Joint Base Lewis‐McChord, Washington, USA. Both species shared affinity for closed canopy forests and oaks; however, important differences in relationships with riparian areas and shrub cover resulted in low overlap in habitat distribution, which likely limited potential competitive interactions. Eastern gray squirrels appeared restricted to areas around wetlands likely because they supported the deciduous tree species that comprise habitat for this species in its native range. Use by western gray squirrels, but not eastern gray squirrels, significantly decreased with increasing shrub cover. Forestry practices that promote mixed oak‐conifer with little shrub cover in uplands can benefit western gray squirrels and minimize interactions with eastern gray squirrels. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Social media in knowledge management: A holistic knowledge funnel based on a retrospective 10‐year study in top‐tier journals
Authors: Narazaki Rosana Sue , Chaves Marcirio Silveira , Pedron Cristiane Drebes
Published: February 2020

To date, research on stand‐alone social media (SM) in isolated knowledge management (KM) processes has been lacking. Due to the fact that a complex and multifaceted link exists between SM and KM, this gap can be filled by holistic research. This article investigated this issue by employing a systematic literature review comprising articles published over the last 10 years, in top‐tier KM journals. The results generated the following six dimensions or roles of SM in KM: (a) ideological and technological foundations, (b) effort, (c) KM process, (d) infrastructure, (e) systematization, and (f) SM application. In addition to highlighting the role of SM in KM dynamics, this research also generated a holistic knowledge funnel, which is a three‐dimensional knowledge funnel that presents integrative knowledge with organizational structure, technological infrastructure, people, and knowledge flow.
The Relationship between Croup and Gastroesophageal Reflux: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Coughran Alanna , Balakrishnan Karthik , Ma Yifei , Vaezeafshar Reza , Capdarest‐Arest Nicole , Hamdi Osama , Sidell Douglas R.
Published: February 2020

Objective

The mechanism by which recurrent croup occurs is unknown. Gastroesophageal reflux is commonly implicated, although this relationship is only loosely documented. We conducted a systematic review with a meta‐analysis component to evaluate the relationship between recurrent croup and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and to assess for evidence of improvement in croup symptoms when treated.

Style Design

Systematic Review and Meta Analysis.

Methods

We searched five separate databases. Studies were included if they discussed the relationship between croup and GERD in children, >5 subjects, and available in English. Literature retrieved was assessed according to pre‐specified criteria. Retrieved articles were reviewed by two independent authors and decisions mediated by a third author. If there was a difference of opinion after first review, a second review was performed to obtain consensus. Heterogeneity was calculated and summarized in forest plots.

Results

Of 346 initial records, 15 met inclusion criteria. These were two retrospective cohort and 13 cross‐sectional studies. Thirteen of 15 articles support an association between recurrent croup and GERD. Although heterogeneity is high among studies that reported prevalence of GERD, there is less uncertainty in results for improvement to recurrent croup after GERD treatment. Most studies lacked a control group and all carry a moderate‐to‐high risk of bias.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence linking GERD to recurrent croup; Further research is needed to assess for causality as most studies are retrospective, lack a control group, and have a study design exposing them to bias. Patients treated with reflux medication appear to demonstrate a reduced incidence of croup symptoms.

Level of Evidence

1 Laryngoscope, 131:209–217, 2021
No Shortage of Decibels in Music City: Evaluation of Noise Exposure in Urban Music Venues
Authors: Tittman Sarah M. , Yawn Robert J. , Manzoor Nauman , Dedmon Matthew M. , Haynes David S. , Rivas Alejandro
Published: February 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To measure and report noise exposure at urban music venues and assess the risk of noise‐induced hearing loss by comparing these measures to the National Institute of Occupations Safety and Health (NIOSH) guidelines.

Study Design

Observational study.

Methods

A commercially available smartphone and external calibrated microphone were used to measure sound levels at urban music venues. The maximum sound level, equivalent continuous sound level, and statistical noise levels (L10, L50, L75, L90) were recorded.

Results

The average equivalent continuous sound level was 112.0 (±4.9) dBA, and the average maximum sound level was 127.0 (±3.2) dBA. The L90 average (sound levels at or above this loudness for 90% of measured exposure time) was 101.1 (±5.5) dBA, and the L10 average was 115.2 (±5.0) dBA. Based off of NIOSH guidelines, noise exposure duration at the L10 average should not exceed 28 seconds, and those at the L90 average should not exceed 12 minutes.

Conclusions

Smartphone applications using external calibrated microphones can provide useful sound measurements. Data show that randomly sampled music venues may have noise levels that place patrons without hearing protection at risk for noise‐induced hearing loss with prolonged exposure.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:25–27, 2021
Gut microbial fatty acid metabolites (KetoA and KetoC) affect the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and reverse cholesterol transport metabolism in mouse model
Authors: Sofyana Neng Tanty , Zheng Jiawen , Manabe Yuki , Yamamoto Yuta , Kishino Shigenobu , Ogawa Jun , Sugawara Tatsuya
Published: February 2020

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common liver disease that occurs in both alcoholics and nonalcoholics. Oxidative stress is a possible causative factor for liver diseases including NASH. Gut microorganisms, especially lactic acid bacteria, can produce unique fatty acids, including hydroxy, oxo, conjugated, and partially saturated fatty acids. The oxo fatty acid 10‐oxo‐11(E)‐octadecenoic acid (KetoC) provides potent cytoprotective effects against oxidative stress through activation of Nrf2‐ARE pathway. The aim of this study was to explore the preventive and therapeutic effects of gut microbial fatty acid metabolites in a NASH mouse model. The mice were divided into 3 experimental groups and fed as follows: (1) high‐fat diet (HFD) (2) HFD mixed with 0.1% KetoA (10‐oxo‐12(Z)‐octadecenoic acid), and (3) HFD mixed with 0.1% KetoC. After 3 weeks of feeding, plasma parameters, liver histology, and mRNA expression of multiple genes were assessed. There was hardly any difference in fat accumulation in the histological study; however, no ballooning occurred in 2/5 mice of KetoC group. Bridging fibrosis was not observed in the KetoA group, although KetoA administration did not significantly suppress fibrosis score (p = 0.10). In addition, KetoC increased the expression level of HDL related genes and HDL cholesterol levels in the plasma. These results indicated that KetoA and KetoC may partly affect the progression of NASH in mice models.
Tying Polarization‐Switchable Optical Vortex Knots and Links via Holographic All‐Dielectric Metasurfaces
Authors: Guo Xuyue , Li Peng , Zhong Jinzhan , Liu Sheng , Wei Bingyan , Zhu Wei , Qi Shuxia , Cheng Huachao , Zhao Jianlin
Published: February 2020

Tailoring the spatial structure of light field in multiple degrees of freedom is a research hotspot in recent years. The topology of light field, as one of the most fascinating structures, such as vortex knots and links associated with the phase singularities, is evoking increasing attention both in fundamental research and practical application. Here, an all‐dielectric metasurface device is proposed and experimentally demonstrated that can construct vortex knots and links in light field at the micro scale. These two distinct topological configurations can be switched by changing the incident polarization. Utilizing the digital holographic interference method, these topological configurations of vorticity lines are accurately characterized in three‐dimensions, and the topology‐preserving evolution of such ultra‐small fields is demonstrated. These two classical configurations exemplify the capability of multichannel manipulating topology by compact metadevice. The work may promote the application of structured light filed at the micro scale and even the creation of other physical fields with ultra‐small size.
Inhibition effect and theoretical investigation of dicarboxylic acid derivatives as corrosion inhibitor for aluminium alloy
Authors: Zhang Daquan , Yang Hanxue , Li Xiaohui , Chen ShiLin , Gao Lixin , Lin Tong
Published: February 2020

The corrosion inhibition ability of l‐malic acid (MaA) and l‐aspartate acid (AsA) against corrosion of the AA5052 alloy in 4 M sodium hydroxide–ethylene glycol solution is investigated. The presence of MaA and AsA in corrosion solution shows a remarkable inhibition of hydrogen evolution of the AA5052 alloy. AsA has the better inhibition effect for the self‐corrosion of the AA5052 alloy and its max protection efficiency is 82.1%. This shows that the Mulliken charges of the nitrogen atom of the amine group on the AsA is lower than the Mulliken charge of the oxygen atom of the hydroxyl group on the MaA; the total Mulliken charge of AsA is lower than MaA, and AsA has a higher EHOMO and a lower energy gap, ΔN. The amine group and carboxyl group on the AsA is easier to coordinate with Al3+ ions to form a stable complex.
A Transparent, High Refractive, Shape‐Memory, Healable, and Recyclable Phenolic Polyurethane Thermoset: Unexpected Roles of Bromine Substituents and Tertiary Amine Catalysts
Authors: Bai Lu , Zheng Junping
Published: February 2020

The applications of polyurethane (PU) thermosets are limited by the lack of plasticity after curing due to permanent crosslinks. Besides, the low refractive index is insufficient for optical devices. Here, a transparent, high refractive, recyclable, and healable PU thermoset is developed based on dynamic bromined phenyl‐carbamate bonds (BPCB). It exhibits tensile strength of ≈52 MPa, good shape‐memory ability, and can be reprocessed or healed nearly completely at 110 °C in 30 min. Tertiary amine catalysts and bromine substituents jointly play unexpected roles to promote the forward and reverse reactions significantly, leading to high bond‐exchange efficiency of BPCB. Furthermore, the introducing of BPCB can endow the material with higher refractive index (nD = 1.5850) simultaneously. In summary, this material is of potential as dynamic PU thermoset in various fields, especially in advanced optical devices.
Comprehensive analysis of somatic copy number alterations in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Tsuyukubo Takashi , Ishida Kazuyuki , Osakabe Mitsumasa , Shiomi Ei , Kato Renpei , Takata Ryo , Obara Wataru , Sugai Tamotsu
Published: February 2020

Somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) are important biological characteristics that can identify genome‐wide alterations in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Recent studies have shown that SCNAs have potential value for determining the prognosis of RCC. We examined SCNAs using the Affymetrix platform to analyze samples from 59 patients with clear cell RCCs (ccRCCs) including first cohort (30 cases) and second cohort (validation cohort, 29 cases). We stratified SCNAs in the ccRCCs using a hierarchical cluster analysis based on SCNA types, including gain, loss of heterozygosity (LOH), copy neutral LOH, mosaic, and mixed types. In this way, the examined two cohorts were categorized into two subgroups (1 and 2). Although the frequency of mixed type was higher in subgroup 1 than in subgroup 2 in the two cohorts, the association did not reach statistical significance. There was a significant difference in the frequency of metachronous metastasis between subgroups 1 and 2 (subgroup 2 > 1). In addition, subgroup 2 was retained in multivariate analysis of both cohorts. We examined whether there were specific alleles differing between subgroups 1 and 2 in both cohorts. We found that there was indeed a statistically significant difference in the 3p mixed types. Among the 3p mixed type, we found that 3p24.3 mixed type was inversely correlated with the presence of metachronous metastasis in ccRCC. The association was also retained in multivariate analysis in second cohort. We suggest that the 3p24.3 mixed type may be a novel marker to predict a favorable prognosis in ccRCC.
Spotlighting the hypoxia‐centrosome amplification axis
Authors: Mittal Karuna , Aneja Ritu
Published: February 2020

The abysmal success rate of anticancer drugs in clinical trials, is in part, attributable to discordance between cultured cancer cells and patient tumors. While tumors in vivo, display a lower mitotic index, patient tumors portray much higher centrosomal aberrations, relative to in vitro cultured cells. The microenvironment too differs considerably between the in vitro and in vivo scenarios. Notably, another hallmark of cancer, hypoxia, is not recapitulated in cell lines cultured under normoxic conditions. These observations raise the possibility that hypoxia may be the missing link that explains the discordance between cell biological phenomena in vitro versus physiological conditions. Further, the interplay between hypoxia and centrosome amplification (CA) is relatively understudied. Recent research from our laboratory, geared toward examining the biological link between the two, has uncovered that hypoxia induces the expression of proteins (Plk4, Aurora A, Cyclin D) implicated in CA, in a hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α)‐dependent context. Our studies evidence that hypoxia fuels CA that underlie intratumoral heterogeneity and metastatic potential of cancer cells. Given the advent of HIF‐1α inhibitors, this research has ramifications in aiding patient risk stratification and designing new cancer drug therapies to facilitate clinical decision‐making.
Technical Note: Benchmarking automated eye tracking and human detection for motion monitoring in ocular proton therapy
Authors: Via Riccardo , Hennings Fabian , Fattori Giovanni , Pica Alessia , Lomax Antony , Weber Damien Charles , Baroni Guido , Hrbacek Jan
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Ocular proton therapy is an effective therapeutic option for patients affected with uveal melanomas. An optical eye‐tracking system (ETS) aiming at noninvasive motion monitoring was developed and tested in a clinical scenario.

Materials and methods

The ETS estimates eye position and orientation at 25 frames per second using the three‐dimensional position of pupil and cornea curvature centers identified, in the treatment room, through stereoscopic optical imaging and infrared eye illumination. Its capabilities for automatic detection of eye motion were retrospectively evaluated on 60 treatment fractions. Then, the ETS performance was benchmarked against the clinical standard based on visual control and manual beam interruption.

Results

Eye‐tracking system detected eye position successfully in 97% of all available frames. Eye‐tracking system‐based eye monitoring during therapy guarantees quicker response to involuntary eye motions than manual beam interruptions and avoids unnecessary beam interruptions.

Conclusions

Eye‐tracking system shows promise for on‐line monitoring of eye motion. Its introduction in the clinical workflow will guarantee a swifter treatment course for the patient and the clinical personnel.
Semiconductor Quantum Dots as Components of Photoactive Supramolecular Architectures
Authors: La Rosa Marcello , Payne Emily H. , Credi Alberto
Published: February 2020

Luminescent quantum dots (QDs) are colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals consisting of an inorganic core covered by a molecular layer of organic surfactants. Although QDs have been known for more than thirty years, they are still attracting the interest of researchers because of their unique size‐tunable optical and electrical properties arising from quantum confinement. Moreover, the controlled decoration of the QD surface with suitable molecular species enables the rational design of inorganic‐organic multicomponent architectures that can show a vast array of functionalities. This minireview highlights the recent progress in the use of surface‐modified QDs – in particular, those based on cadmium chalcogenides – as supramolecular platforms for light‐related applications such as optical sensing, triplet photosensitization, photocatalysis and phototherapy.
The role of prenatal diagnosis following preimplantation genetic testing for single‐gene conditions: A historical overview of evolving technologies and clinical practice
Authors: Hardy Tristan
Published: February 2020

Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic conditions (PGT‐M) has become a valued reproductive option for couples at risk of having a child with a single gene condition. In line with developments in molecular genetics, there has been an overall trend toward laboratory techniques with higher accuracy in comparison to earlier PGT‐M techniques. The recommendation for confirmatory prenatal diagnostic testing has remained a standard component of PGT‐M counseling, reflecting the inherent difficulties of testing the limited number of cells obtained from embryo biopsy, as well as recognition of the biological and human factors that may lead to misdiagnosis in a PGT‐M cycle. Reported misdiagnosis rates are less than 1 in 200 pregnancies following PGT‐M, although updated data regarding newer methods of PGT‐M are required. There is limited evidence available regarding clinician and patient behavior in pregnancies resulting from PGT‐M cycles. It remains essential that clinicians involved in the care of patients undergoing PGT‐M provide appropriate counseling regarding the risks of misdiagnosis and the importance of confirmatory prenatal diagnosis. The nature of PGT‐M test design lends itself to cell‐free DNA‐based noninvasive prenatal testing for monogenic conditions (NIPT‐M), which is likely to become a popular method in the near future.
Memory lapses in daily life among breast cancer survivors and women without cancer history
Authors: Scott Stacey B. , Mogle Jacqueline A. , Sliwinski Martin J. , Jim Heather S. L. , Small Brent J.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Cancer‐associated cognitive decline is a concern among cancer survivors. Survivors' memory lapses (eg, location of keys, names, and reason entered room) may negatively impact quality of life. This study used smartphone‐based surveys to compare cancer survivors to those without cancer history on frequency of, severity of, and affective response to daily memory lapses.

Methods

For 14 evenings, breast cancer survivors (N = 47, M age = 52.9) and women without a cancer history (N = 105, M age = 51.8) completed smartphone‐based surveys on memory lapse occurrence and severity and negative and positive affect.

Results

Survivors were nearly three times more likely to report a daily memory lapse but did not differ from comparison group on memory lapse severity. Negative affect was significantly higher on days with memory lapses associated with doing something in the future (eg, appointments) but this did not differ across groups. Positive affect was not significantly related to survivorship status or the occurrence of daily memory lapses.

Conclusion

Survivors may be at‐risk for more frequent memory lapses. Both survivors and women without a history of cancer reported greater negative affect on days when memory lapses occurred, suggesting that daily cognitive functioning may have important implications for quality of life.
Strained VO2 Nanostructure Thin Films with an Unaffected Insulator–Metal Transition
Authors: Huang Tiantian , Wang Shuxia , Wei Wei , Yang Yan , Yang Wanli , Yuan Menghui , Zhang Rui , Zhang Tianning , Chen Xiren , Sun Yan , Zhou Xiaohao , Shao Jun , Chen Xin , Dai Ning
Published: February 2020

Insulator–metal transition (IMT) brings some fantastic physical changes and accompanies structure phase transition (SPT) in correlated vanadium dioxide (VO2) materials. It is still in dispute whether the electron–phonon interaction induced by the lattice deformation or the electron–electron correlation drives the IMT transition. An alternative and challenging way to understand the mechanism is to separate SPT from IMT in VO2. Understanding and manipulating strain and defect in VO2 is important to regulate the IMT behavior. Herein, strained VO2 nanostructure thin films with unaffected IMT behavior are presented. The shifted phonon modes and the decreased interplanar spacing indicate the presence of the in‐plane strain in VO2 nanostructure thin films. Such structural strains do not affect the transition temperature but provide a platform for the light modulation. It is believed that the unaffected IMT is beneficial for in‐depth understanding of the IMT and SPT behaviors in VO2 and even the creation of advanced electronic devices.
Nuclear quantum and H/D isotope effects on three‐centered bonding diborane: Path integral molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Daengngern Rathawat , Kobayashi Osamu , Kungwan Nawee , Ngaojampa Chanisorn , Tachikawa Masanori
Published: February 2020

Nuclear quantum and H/D isotope effects of bridging and terminal hydrogen atoms of diborane (B2H6) molecules were systematically studied by classical ab initio molecular dynamics (CLMD) and ab initio path integral molecular dynamics (PIMD) simulations with BHandHLYP/6‐31++G** level of theory at room temperature (298.15 K). Calculated results clearly show that H/D isotope effect appears in the distribution of hydrogen (deuterium) of B2H6 (B2D6). Geometry of B2H6 also plays a significant role in the nuclear quantum effect proved by PIMD simulations, but slightly deviated from its equilibrium structure when simulated via CLMD simulation. The bond lengths between boron atoms R (B1 … B2) and the bridging hydrogen atoms RHH (HB1 … HB2) of the B2H6 molecule obtained from PIMD simulations are slightly longer than those of the deuterated form of the diborane (B2D6) molecule. The principal component analysis (PCA) was also employed to distinguish the important modes of bridging hydrogen as related to the nuclear quantum and H/D isotope effects. The highest level of contribution obtained from PCA of PIMD simulations is bending, while various mixed vibrations with less contribution were also found. Therefore, the nuclear quantum and H/D isotope effects need to be taken into account for a better understanding of diborane geometry.
A multi‐targeted treatment approach to cancer cachexia: Auckland's Cancer Cachexia evaluating Resistance Training (ACCeRT) trial
Authors: Rogers Elaine S. , Sasidharan Rita , Sequeira Graeme M. , Wood Matthew R. , Bird Stephen P. , Keogh Justin W.L. , Arroll Bruce , Stewart Joanna , MacLeod Roderick D.
Published: February 2020

Background

Cancer cachexia is a condition often seen at diagnosis, throughout anti‐cancer treatments and in end‐stage non‐small‐cell lung cancer patients.

Methods and results

Participants with late‐stage non‐small‐cell lung cancer and cachexia (defined as ≥5% weight loss within 12 months) were randomly assigned 1:2 to 2.09 g of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 300 mg of cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 inhibitor celecoxib orally once daily vs. same dosing of EPA, celecoxib, plus two sessions per week of progressive resistance training and 20 g of oral essential amino acids high in leucine in a split dose over 3 days, after each session. Primary endpoint was the acceptability of the earlier multi‐targeted approach. Main secondary endpoints included change in body weight and fat‐free mass, by bioelectric impedance analysis and total quadriceps muscle volume by magnetic resonance imaging over 20 weeks. Sixty‐nine patients were screened resulting in 20 patients being enrolled. Acceptability scored high, with 4.5/5 (Arm A) and 5/5 (Arm B) for EPA and 5/5 for celecoxib within both arms and 4.8/5 for progressive resistance training sessions and 4.5/5 for essential amino acids within Arm B, all at Week 20. Results showed a net gain in bioelectric impedance analysis fat‐free mass of +1.3 kg, n = 2 (Arm A), compared with +0.7 kg, n = 7 (Arm B) at Week 12, and —1.5 kg, n = 2 (Arm A), compared with —1.7 kg, n = 4 (Arm B) at Week 20. Trends in efficacy in terms of improvement and/or stability in cachexia markers were seen within magnetic resonance imaging muscle volume, albumin, and C‐reactive protein levels within both arms. There were no exercise‐related adverse events, with one possible related adverse event of asymptomatic atrial fibrillation in one participant within Arm A.

Conclusions

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer cachectic patients are willing to be enrolled onto a multi‐targeted treatment regimen and may benefit from cachexia symptom management even during the late/refractory stage.