bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colon Cancer‐Associated Transcripts 1 and 2: Roles and functions in human cancers
Authors: Ghafouri‐Fard Soudeh , Taheri Mohammad
Published: January 2019

The long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) Colon Cancer‐Associated Transcripts 1 and 2 (CCAT1 and CCAT2) are located in a recurrently amplified region in cancers. Their proximity with the Myc oncogene and their interactions with its promoter provided further evidence for their contribution in the tumorigenesis processes. Several cell line and clinical studies have shown upregulation of these lncRNAs in diverse malignancies. Moreover, some single nucleotide variants within these genes have been associated with cancer risk or therapeutic response in different populations. Besides, these two lncRNAs act as sponges for some tumor suppressor microRNAs (miRNAs), thus promoting cancer evolution. In the current study, we review recent literature about their expression level, interaction with cancer‐related pathways, their role in determination of cell fate and their contribution in malignant phenotype characteristics. Taken together, the current literature shows that these lncRNAs are putative targets for design of novel treatment strategies. Moreover, their expression levels in biopsied samples, exosomes, and sera of patients might be applied as diagnostic biomarkers or markers for patient follow‐up.
Suppression of OSCC malignancy by oral glands derived‐PIP identified by iTRAQ combined with 2D LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Wang Qibo , Zhi Yuan , Ren Wenhao , Li Shaoming , Dou Zhichao , Xing Xiaoming , Quan Xinyu , Wang Yuting , Jiang Chunmiao , Liang Xiao , Gao Ling , Zhi Keqian
Published: January 2019

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy in head and neck cancer and a global cause of cancer‐related death. Due to the poor survival rates associated with OSCC, there is a growing need to develop novel technologies and predictive biomarkers to improve disease diagnosis. The identification of new cellular targets in OSCC tumors will benefit such developments. In this study, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)‐based proteomics analysis combined with 2‐dimensional liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (2D LC‐MS/MS) were used to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between tumor and normal tissues. Of the DEPs detected, the most significantly downregulated protein in OSCC tissue was prolactin‐inducible protein (PIP). Clonogenic and 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) experiments showed that the proliferation capacity of OSCC cells overexpressing PIP decreased due to cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 checkpoint. Wound‐healing and transwell assay further showed that PIP overexpression also reduced the migration and invasion of OSCC cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to analyze the expression in OSCC, indicating that PIP may be secreted by glandular cells and have an inhibitory effect on OSCC cells to produce. In western blot analysis, silencing studies confirmed that PIP mediates these effects through the AKT/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling axis in OSCC cells. Taken together, this study reveals PIP as a key mediator of OSCC cell growth, migration, and invasion through its effect on AKT/MAPK signaling.
Wnt signaling pathway in osteoporosis: Epigenetic regulation, interaction with other signaling pathways, and therapeutic promises
Authors: Amjadi‐Moheb Fatemeh , Akhavan‐Niaki Haleh
Published: January 2019

Wnt is a major signaling pathway involved in multifaceted roles of various biological processes. Bones are dynamic tissues which are able to remodel and maintain the tissue homeostasis. Wnt signaling cascade leads to the promotion of bone formation and suppression of bone resorption, leading to a balance in bone remodeling. Recent evidence has reinforced the inevitable role of Wnt signaling in osteoporosis. The complex genetic and epigenetic regulations of Wnt signaling factors and their interaction with other master signaling pathways such as TGF‐β, BMP, PI3K/AKT, and Hedgehog outline their importance in diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. In this review, we highlighted the recent advances in function of Wnt signaling‐related epigenetic regulation, different signaling pathways interacting with Wnt, and their roles in osteoporosis. Finally, we discussed novel promises in molecular targeted therapy of osteoporosis.
miR‐9: From function to therapeutic potential in cancer
Authors: Khafaei Mostafa , Rezaie Ehsan , Mohammadi Ali , Shahnazi Gerdehsang Payam , Ghavidel Sara , Kadkhoda Sepideh , Zorrieh Zahra Atieh , Forouzanfar Narjes , Arabameri Hossein , Tavallaie Mahmood
Published: January 2019

Malignant neoplasms are regarded as the main cause of death around the world; hence, many research studies were conducted to further perceive molecular mechanisms, treatment, and cancer prognosis. Cancer is known as a major factor for health‐related problems in the world. The main challenges associated with these diseases are prompt diagnosis, disease remission classification and treatment status forecast. Therefore, progressing in such areas by developing new and optimized methods with the help of minimally invasive biological markers such as circular microRNAs (miRNAs) can be considered important. miRNA interactions with target genes have specified their role in development, apoptosis, differentiation, and proliferation and also, confirm direct miRNA function in cancer. Different miRNAs expression levels in various types of malignant neoplasms have been observed to be associated with prognosis of various carcinomas. miR‐9 seems to implement opposite practices in different tissues or under various cancer incidences by influencing different genes. Aberrant miR‐9 levels have been observed in many cancer types. Therefore, we intended to investigate the precise role of miR‐9 in patients with malignant neoplasms. To this end, in this study, we attempted to examine different studies to clarify the overall role of miR‐9 as a prognostic marker in several human tumors. The presented data in this study can help us to find the novel therapeutic avenues for treatment of human cancers.
Exploring differences in Statics Concept Inventory scores among students and practitioners
Authors: Brown Shane , Lutz Ben , Perova‐Mello Natasha , Ha Oai
Published: January 2019

Background

Conceptual understanding is critical to both engineering education and practice. In fact, many undergraduate courses focus on developing students' knowledge and understanding of core engineering concepts. At the same time, a growing body of literature points to substantial gaps across educational and professional practice contexts, including how problems are embodied and solved.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore potential differences in conceptual understanding across engineering students and professional engineers. To do so, we compared the responses of civil engineering practitioners to the Statics Concept Inventory (SCI) to those of engineering students enrolled in statics courses.

Design/Method

We administered the SCI to 95 practicing civil engineers and compared their responses to an existing dataset from 1,372 engineering students. We conducted three comparisons: overall SCI score, concept subscores, and item‐by‐item.

Results

Students generally outperformed engineers on the SCI in terms of overall performance. However, on closer inspection, students' superior performance appears to be driven by differences in knowledge or understanding of specific statics concepts rather than a stronger understanding in general.

Conclusions

We caution against interpretations that imply students have a better understanding of statics concepts. Instead, our results suggest that differences in the way concepts are situated and applied across school and workplace contexts might account for the differences in the performance observed. These findings raise critical questions regarding the nature of concepts and the immutability of common academic representations, and point to the need for further qualitative and exploratory work investigating concepts in practice.
Multicomponent Efficient Synthesis of New [1,2,4]Triazolo[3,4]thiadiazines
Authors: Sujatha Kodam , Vedula Rajeswar Rao
Published: January 2019

A series of novel triazolo thiadiazines were synthesized by a simple, highly efficient, one‐pot pseudo four component approach involving the condensation of 4‐amino‐5‐hydrazinyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thiol (1), aromatic aldehydes (2), and various phenacyl bromides (3) with good yields. The structures of compounds were confirmed by analytical and spectral (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR) data.
One‐pot, Multicomponent Cascade Reaction for the Synthesis of Various Aralkyl/alkylthio‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazolyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐amine and Their Docking Studies
Authors: Jilloju Parameshwara Chary , Vinaykumar Allam , Shyam Perugu , Vedula Rajeswar Rao
Published: January 2019

A facile and simple one‐pot procedure for the synthesis of various aralkyl/alkylthio‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazolyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐amines has been described via a multicomponent reaction of 4‐amino‐5‐hydrazinyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thiol, acetylacetone, and various aryl/alkyl halides in good yields. All the newly synthesized compounds were characterized by using analytical and spectral studies. Our in silico studies confirmed that 4e, 4f, 4g, and 4j have the best inhibition activity among the synthesized compounds with a high selective index against the Tubulin protein and showed best interactions with receptor structure. The present study provides a novel series of compounds with a promising inhibitor to prevent on Tubulin protein.
Interleukin-5 induces apoptotic defects in CD4+ T cells of patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Luo Xiang-Qian , Ma Fei , Wang Shuai , Zhao Mei-Zhen , Shao Jian-Bo , Geng Xiao-Rui , Liu Jiang-Qi , Mo Li-Hua , Guan Li , Liu Zhi-Gang , Liu Da-Bo , Yang Ping-Chang
Published: January 2019

T helper (Th)2 polarization plays an important role in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases; the underlying mechanism remains to be further investigated. B cell lymphoma protein-2 like protein-12 (Bcl2L12) has the anti-apoptotic function. This study aims to elucidate the contribution of Bcl2L12 to Th2 polarization in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). In this study, human CD4+ T cells were isolated from blood samples collected from AR patients and healthy control (HC) subjects. The immune response profiles of CD4+ T cells were analyzed by immunologic approaches. The results showed that AR CD4+ T cells (CD4+ T cells collected from AR patients) showed defects of apoptosis. The expression of FasL in AR CD4+ T cells was lower than that of HC CD4+ T cells. Serum IL-5 levels were negatively correlated with the expression of FasL in AR CD4+ T cells. Exposure of CD4+ T cells to IL-5 in the culture suppressed the expression of FasL and increased the expression of Bcl2L12. IL-5 increased the levels of Bcl2L12 in CD4+ T cells, the latter bound to the FasL promoter to prevent FasL gene transcription. Inhibition of Bcl2L12 restored the apoptosis machinery in AR CD4+ T cells. In conclusion, overexpression of Bcl2L12 in CD4+ T cells compromises the apoptosis machinery; the latter can be restored by inhibition of Bcl2L12. BcL2L12 in CD4+ T cells may be a novel target for the treatment of AR and other allergic disorders.
Loss of RHBDF2 results in an early-onset spontaneous murine colitis
Authors: Geesala Ramasatyaveni , Schanz Willow , Biggs Mikayla , Dixit Garima , Skurski Joseph , Gurung Prajwal , Meyerholz David K , Elliott David , Issuree Priya D , Maretzky Thorsten
Published: January 2019

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a heterogeneous group of inflammation-mediated pathologies that include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and primarily affects the colon and small intestine. Previous studies have shown that a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) 17, a membrane-bound sheddase, capable of cleaving the proinflammatory cytokine TNF and epidermal growth factor receptor ligands, plays a critical role in maintaining gut homeostasis and modulating intestinal inflammation during IBD. Rhomboid 5 homolog 2 (RHBDF2), a catalytically inactive member of the rhomboid family of intramembrane serine proteases, was recently identified as a crucial regulator of ADAM17. Here, we assessed the role of RHBDF2 in the development of colitis in the context of IL10 deficiency. Il10−/−/Rhbdf2−/− mice developed spontaneous colitis and experienced severe weight loss starting at 8 wk of age, without the need for exogenous triggers. Severity of disease pathology in Il10−/−/Rhbdf2−/− mice correlated with a dysbiotic gut microbiota and elevated Th1-associated immune responses with increased interferon gamma and IL2 production. In addition, Il10−/−/Rhbdf2−/− mice failed to maintain their epithelial cell homeostasis, although the intestinal epithelial barrier of Rhbdf2−/− mice is intact and loss of Rhbdf2 did not significantly exacerbate sensitivity to dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis, suggesting differences in the underlying disease pathway of intestinal inflammation in this model. Taken together, our results demonstrate a critical regulatory role for RHBDF2 in the maintenance of the unique homeostasis between intestinal microbiota and host immune responses in the gut that is dysregulated during the pathogenesis of IBD.
Evaluation of the distribution and progression of intraluminal thrombus in abdominal aortic aneurysms using high‐resolution MRI
Authors: Zhu Chengcheng , Leach Joseph R. , Tian Bing , Cao Lizhen , Wen Zhaoying , Wang Yan , Liu Xinke , Liu Qi , Lu Jianping , Saloner David , Hope Michael D.
Published: January 2019

Background

Intraluminal thrombus (ILT) signal intensity on MRI has been studied as a potential marker of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression.

Purpose

1) To characterize the relationship between ILT signal intensity and AAA diameter; 2) to evaluate ILT change over time; and 3) to assess the relationship between ILT features and AAA growth.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Eighty AAA patients were imaged, and a subset (n = 41) were followed with repeated MRI for 16 ± 9 months.

Field Strength/Sequence

3D black‐blood fast‐spin‐echo sequence at 3 T.

Assessment

ILT was designated as "bright" if the signal was greater than 1.2 times that of adjacent psoas muscle. AAAs were divided into three groups based on ILT: Type 1: bright ILT; Type 2: isointense ILT; Type 3: no ILT. During follow‐up, an active ILT change was defined as new ILT formation or an increase in ILT signal intensity to bright; stable ILT was defined as no change in ILT type or ILT became isointense from bright previously.

Statistical Tests

Shapiro–Wilk test; Mann–Whitney U‐test; Fisher's exact test; Kruskal‐Wallis test; Spearman's r; intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Cohen's kappa.

Results

AAAs with Type 1 ILT were larger than those with Types 2 and 3 ILT (5.1 ± 1.1 cm, 4.4 ± 0.9 cm, 4.2 ± 0.8 cm, P = 0.008). The growth rate of AAAs with Type 1 ILT was significantly greater than that of AAAs with Types 2 and 3 ILT (2.6 ± 2.5, 0.6 ± 1.3, 1.5 ± 0.6 mm/year, P = 0.01). During follow‐up, AAAs with active ILT changes had a 3‐fold increased growth rate compared with AAAs with stable ILT (3.6 ± 3.0 mm/year vs. 1.2 ± 1.5 mm/year, P = 0.008).

Data Conclusion

AAAs with bright ILT are larger in diameter and grow faster. Active ILT change is associated with faster AAA growth. Black‐blood MRI can characterize ILT features and monitor their change over time, which may provide new insights into AAA risk assessment.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage: 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:994–1001.
Biodegradation analysis of polyvinyl alcohol during the compost burial course
Authors: Liu Yalan , Deng Yiling , Chen Ping , Duan Mengjie , Lin Xiaoshan , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2019

To discuss the microbial structure that develops during the course of compost burials of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based material and analyze the effect of the degree of PVA alcoholysis on the PVA‐degrading ability of each strain. Two bacterial strains exhibiting a high level of PVA‐degrading ability and two mixed cultures were isolated from compost loaded with PVA‐based material. The rod‐shaped Gram‐positive bacterium DG22 was identified by 16S rDNA sequencing analysis as Bacillus sp. DG22, and the rod‐shaped Gram‐negative bacterium DG14 was identified as Paenibacillus sp. DG14. Biodegradation rates were determined by iodometric analysis within 8 days of culturing on selective media. The biodegradation rates for PVA1799 by DG22, DG14, T1 (mixed culture from a 36‐month burial), and T2 (mixed culture from a 24‐month burial) were 54.47, 46.59, 69.62, and 79.04%, respectively, and those of PVA1788 were 74.99, 67.27, 54.43, and 50.76%, respectively. DG22 and DG14 are the first known Bacillus sp. and Paenibacillus sp. able to utilize PVA solely. However, the higher degree of PVA alcoholysis (AD) had a negative effect on the biodegradation of PVA.
Effect of osteochondral graft orientation in a biotribological test system
Authors: Bauer Christoph , Göçerler Hakan , Niculescu‐Morzsa Eugenia , Jeyakumar Vivek , Stotter Christoph , Tóth Ivana , Klestil Thomas , Franek Friedrich , Nehrer Stefan
Published: January 2019

Autologous osteochondral transplantation (AOT) utilizing autografts is a widely used technique for the treatment of small‐to‐medium cartilage defects occurring in knee and ankle joints. The application of viable cartilage and bone ensures proper integration, early weight bearing, as well as restoration of biomechanical and biotribological properties. However, alignment of the autografts onto the defect site remains a pivotal aspect of reinstating the properties of the joint toward successful autograft integration. This is the first study to perform tests with different orientations of osteochondral grafts in a cartilage‐on‐cartilage test system. The objective was to estimate if there are differences between aligned and 90°‐rotated grafts concerning molecular biological and biomechanical parameters. Tissue viability, assessed by XTT assay indicated lower metabolic activity in tested osteochondral grafts (aligned, p = 0.0148 and 90°‐rotated, p = 0.0760) in favor of a higher anabolic gene expression (aligned, p = 0.0030 and 90°‐rotated, 0.0027). Tissue structure was evaluated by Safranin O histology and microscopic images of the surface. Aligned and 90°‐rotated grafts revealed no apparent differences between proteoglycan content or cracks and fissures on the cartilage surface. Test medium analyzed after tribological tests for their sulfated glycosaminoglycan content revealed no differences (p = 0.3282). During the tests, both the friction coefficient and the relative displacement between the two cartilage surfaces were measured, with no significant difference in both parameters (COF, p = 0.2232 and relative displacement, p = 0.3185). From the methods we deployed, this study can infer that there are no differences between aligned and 90°‐rotated osteochondral grafts after tribological tests in the used ex vivo tissue model. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res
Non‐clinical factors associated with referral to periodontal specialists
Authors: Kraatz Jennifer , Hoang Ha , Ivanovski Saso , Ware Robert S. , Crocombe Leonard A.
Published: January 2019

Background

There is a limited body of literature exploring referral relationships between general dental practitioners and periodontists. Clinical and non‐clinical factors associated with the referral process are rarely considered however a better understanding of these will improve the general dentist practitioner and periodontal specialist relationship and benefit patient management. This study investigated which non‐clinical factors have an association with the referral of patients by general dental practitioners to periodontists in Tasmania, Australia.

Methods

A questionnaire was emailed to registered general dental practitioners in Tasmania, Australia and information collected on demographics, referral patterns, and potential factors which may influence referral.

Results

Response rate was 44.5%. Non‐clinical factors that influenced referral were previous treatment by a periodontist (70.8%), a complex medical history (56.8%), the patient's reluctance to undergo periodontal treatment, medico‐legal reasons, patient awareness of periodontal disease (47.3%), and lack of training (43.2%). Patients frequently declined periodontal referral due to cost (66.2%), oral health not being a priority (55.4%), or inconvenience (46.6%). The most important periodontist qualities were their reputation (84.0%), patient feedback (81.3%), ease of communication (72.0%), report quality (68.0%), and location (62.7%).

Conclusion

Non‐clinical factors, such as practice type‐, general dental practitioner‐, patient‐, periodontist‐related factors are associated with referral by general dental practitioners to periodontists for periodontal management.
High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasonography and Radiofrequency Ablation of Renal Cell Carcinoma Arisen in Transplanted Kidneys: Single‐Center Experience With Long‐Term Follow‐Up and Review of Literature
Authors: Di Candio Giulio , Porcelli Francesco , Campatelli Alessandro , Guadagni Simone , Vistoli Fabio , Morelli Luca
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this article is to retrospectively evaluate the long‐term outcome of patients treated with percutaneous thermoablation for renal cell carcinomas that have arisen in kidney grafts. Between April 2008 and February 2011, we treated 3 patients with renal cell carcinoma on a transplanted kidney: 2 cases were treated with high‐intensity focused ultrasonography and 1 patient with radio frequency ablation. Postprocedural ultrasonography did not reveal any complications, and contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography showed an avascular area in the treated nodules. None of the patients had recurrent tumors during a long‐term clinical and radiologic follow‐up (81, 73, and 43 months, respectively).
Painful Traumatic Neuromas in Subcutaneous Fat: Visibility and Morphologic Features With Ultrasound
Authors: Causeret Anne , Lapègue Franck , Bruneau Bertrand , Dreano Thierry , Ropars Mickaël , Guillin Raphaël
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Subcutaneous neuromas usually result from trauma and may lead to dissatisfaction in patients with a trigger point, loss of sensitivity in the relevant territory of innervation, and spontaneous neuropathic pain. Confirming clinically suspected cases of neuroma may prove difficult. The objective of this study was to evaluate the visibility and morphologic features of traumatic subcutaneous neuromas of the limbs with ultrasound (US).

Methods

Between January 2012 and August 2016, 38 consecutive patients clinically suspected of having subcutaneous neuromas were investigated with US. The diagnosis was confirmed on the basis of a focal morphologic abnormality of the nerve associated with trigger pain. Each neuroma was classified into 1 of 3 subtypes based on its injury pattern. The subtypes were terminal neuroma, spindle neuroma, and scar encasement, either isolated or associated with these subtypes.

Results

Forty‐four lesions were found in the 38 patients, including 29 spindle neuromas (65.9%), 14 terminal neuromas (31.8%) and 1 scar encasement with no nerve caliber abnormality (2.3%). Fifteen neuromas (35% of all neuromas) were associated with scar encasement. In 13 cases that required surgery, the diagnosis of neuroma or scar encasement could be surgically proven and confirmed the validity of the US findings.

Conclusions

Ultrasound can be used to show and classify subcutaneous nerves of the upper and lower limbs with high accuracy. The US trigger sign provides an indication of neuroma involvement in pain. This modality can play a substantial role both in the preoperative planning of neuroma surgery and in therapeutic US‐guided procedures.
Kinetic study of the reaction of nucleophilic cyclopropanation of C60 fullerene with halogenated maleopimarimide
Authors: Biglova Yulya N. , Malikova Rauilya N. , Petrova Svetlana F. , Ivanov Sergey P. , Sakhautdinov Ilshat M. , Mustafin Akhat G.
Published: January 2019

The kinetics of nucleophilic fullerene cyclopropanation by halomethyl ketones with a diterpene fragment has been studied by the Bingel method, and the influence of the biologically active cyclopropanating agent on the process has been estimated. It has been revealed that favorable conditions for carrying out the reaction result in maximum monofunctionalized methanofullerenes formation with the maximum yield.
Positive airway pressure ventilation and complications in pediatric tracheocutaneous fistula repair
Authors: Smith Joshua D. , Thorne Marc C. , Thatcher Aaron L.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Surgical repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in children may be complicated by tracheal air leak with resultant subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and/or pneumothorax. We first sought to identify clinical risk factors for postoperative complications after primary repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in children. Second, the type and frequency of complications in patients administered positive airway pressure ventilation (e.g., bag‐valve mask ventilation, continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP], or bilevel positive airway pressure [BiPAP]) postoperatively was determined and compared to a control population.

Methods

This was a retrospective investigation of all pediatric patients (n = 108) undergoing surgical repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula from January 2000 and April 2016 at a tertiary, academic referral center. Type and frequency of postoperative complications were compared among patients who were administered positive airway pressure ventilation postoperatively versus those who were not.

Results

Of 108 pediatric patients, complications after tracheocutaneous fistula repair occurred in 22 (20.4%) patients. These included symptoms of respiratory distress requiring intervention (e.g., supplemental O2, racemic epinephrine, intubation), subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum and/or pneumothorax, bleeding, wound infection, and readmission. Frequency of all postoperative complications was significantly higher in patients administered positive airway pressure ventilation versus those who were not (50.0% vs. 16.7%, P = 0.015), as were rates of subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and/or pneumothorax (33.3% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Positive airway pressure ventilation after primary repair of persistent tracheocutaneous fistula in children may increase risk of serious respiratory complications. In practice, we advocate for avoidance of bag‐valve mask ventilation and caution when utilizing CPAP or BiPAP postoperatively in these patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:E30–E34, 2020
Vocal cord paralysis as primary and secondary results of malignancy. A prospective descriptive study
Authors: Knudsen Roi , Gaunsbaek Maria Q. , Schultz Joyce H. , Nilsson Anna Christine , Madsen Jonna S. , Asgari Nasrin
Published: January 2019

Objective

Vocal cord paralysis (VCP) may be caused by a primary malignancy and associated immune cross‐reactivity. We aimed to illuminate underlying causes of VCP and to assess if onconeural antibodies occur in association to VCP as an early predictor of cancer.

Methods

A prospective study was performed in patients with newly diagnosed VCP from 2014 to 2016. All patients underwent fiberoptic laryngoscopy, ultrasound of the neck and computed tomography (CT) of the neck and thorax. Patients with idiopathic VCP underwent neurological examination, positron emission tomography/CT, and serum analysis for onconeural antibodies. All patients were offered a one‐year clinical follow‐up.

Results

In total 53 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Left VCP occurred in 37 (70%), right in 15 (28%), and bilateral in one patient (2%). The cause of VCP was cancer in 27 (51%) patients, of those 15 (56%) had VCP as the primary symptom, including all cases with laryngeal and esophageal cancer. Median time interval between VCP and cancer was 7 days (range 1–30). In 12 (23%) VCP was a secondary symptom. Lung cancer was the most common etiology, 14 of 27 (52%), 12 patients (86%) with non‐small cell lung cancer. Idiopathic VCP was diagnosed in 18 (34%) patients, of those nine patients had a neurological examination and were screened for well‐known onconeural antibodies, which were not detected. Reactions against Purkinje cell nuclei were seen in three patients, none showed symptoms or signs of cancer at follow‐up.

Conclusions

The causes of VCP were described. VCP was frequently the primary symptom, and also occurred as a secondary symptom of cancer. Exclusion of malignancy is important in patients with VCP.

Level of Evidence

1b
Relationship Between Respiratory Sensory Perception, Speech, and Swallow in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Hegland Karen W. , Troche Michelle , Brandimore Alexandra
Published: January 2019

Background

It has been suggested that sensory impairments contribute significantly to the motor deficits secondary to impaired sensorimotor integration in Parkinson's disease. Speech and swallowing are likely to become disordered in PD, and there is evidence that impaired upper airway sensation also contributes to these disorders.

Objectives

The goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between perception of general respiratory sensation, speech, and swallowing in PD.

Methods

Thirteen people with PD and 14 age‐equivalent controls volunteered to participate. Randomized blocks of inspiratory resistive loads were delivered, and participants gauged the magnitude of the loads using a modified Borg scale. The magnitude estimates were then compared to results of speech and swallowing evaluations using multivariate analysis of variance and a stepwise linear regression model.

Results

There was a significant overall interaction between the participant group (PD versus control) and respiratory load (F [10, 300] = 2.138; P = .022). A significant regression equation containing a predictor speech variable respiratory rating was found (F [1,22] = 6.946), P = .023), with a moderate effect size of R2 = .387.

Conclusions

People with PD have blunted perception of respiratory resistive loads when compared with age‐equivalent healthy adults. Results also suggest that blunted ME of resistive loads could contribute to changes in respiratory drive for speech (i.e., loudness).
Alternative oxidase inhibitors: Mitochondrion‐targeting as a strategy for new drugs against pathogenic parasites and fungi
Authors: Ebiloma Godwin U. , Balogun Emmanuel O. , Cueto‐Díaz Eduardo J. , de Koning Harry P. , Dardonville Christophe
Published: January 2019

The alternative oxidase (AOX) is a ubiquitous terminal oxidase of plants and many fungi, catalyzing the four‐electron reduction of oxygen to water alongside the cytochrome‐based electron transfer chain. Unlike the classical electron transfer chain, however, the activity of AOX does not generate adenosine triphosphate but has functions such as thermogenesis and stress response. As it lacks a mammalian counterpart, it has been investigated intensely in pathogenic fungi. However, it is in African trypanosomes, which lack cytochrome‐based respiration in their infective stages, that trypanosome alternative oxidase (TAO) plays the central and essential role in their energy metabolism. TAO was validated as a drug target decades ago and among the first inhibitors to be identified was salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM), which produced the expected trypanocidal effects, especially when potentiated by coadministration with glycerol to inhibit anaerobic energy metabolism as well. However, the efficacy of this combination was too low to be of practical clinical use. The antibiotic ascofuranone (AF) proved a much stronger TAO inhibitor and was able to cure Trypanosoma vivax infections in mice without glycerol and at much lower doses, providing an important proof of concept milestone. Systematic efforts to improve the SHAM and AF scaffolds, aided with the elucidation of the TAO crystal structure, provided detailed structure‐activity relationship information and reinvigorated the drug discovery effort. Recently, the coupling of mitochondrion‐targeting lipophilic cations to TAO inhibitors has dramatically improved drug targeting and trypanocidal activity while retaining target protein potency. These developments appear to have finally signposted the way to preclinical development of TAO inhibitors.
Is interstitial 8p23 microdeletion responsible of 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis? One case report from birth to puberty
Authors: Wagner‐Mahler Kathy , Kurzenne Jean‐Yves , Gastaud Frederique , Hoflack Marie , Panaia Ferrari Patricia , Berard Etienne , Giuliano Fabienne , Karmous‐Benailly Houda , Moceri Pamela , Jouannelle Celine , Bourcier Marine , Robart Elise , Morel Yves
Published: January 2019

Background

Chromosome 8p deletions are associated with a variety of conditions, including cardiac abnormalities, mental, behavioral problems with variable morphotype and genitourinary anomalies in boys.

Methods

We describe the follow‐up over almost 15 years of a boy who initially presented with perineal hypospadias with a micropenis and cryptorchidism with 46,XY DSD.

Results

Imaging, pathology, and hormonal exploration suggested gonadal dysgenesis. Further genetic studies were deemed necessary during follow‐up. The child's further development recommended further genetic analyses. High‐resolution analysis showed an interstitial deletion on the short arm of a chromosome 8: 46,XY,del(8)(p23.1p23.1). We reviewed the literature and found 102 cases including 54 boys: 62.7% had mental problems, 50.9% a dysmorphic disorder, 55.9% cardiac anomalies, and 46.3% of the boys had genitourinary anomalies. Our patient's genital abnormalities can be explained by the haploinsufficiency of the genes, such as GATA4 (OMIM 600576) that are included in the deleted area.

Conclusion

This case of severe 46,XY DSD raises the question of the role played by 8p23 microdeletion in gonadal dysgenesis. Clinicians are encouraged to look for this anomaly on chromosome 8 in cases of unexplained gonadal dysgenesis even when few signs suggestive of this anomaly are present.
Prenatal diagnosis for de novo mutations: Experience from a tertiary center over a 10‐year period
Authors: Eyal Ori , Berkenstadt Michal , Reznik‐Wolf Haike , Poran Hana , Ziv‐Baran Tomer , Greenbaum Lior , Yonath Hagit , Pras Elon
Published: January 2019

Background

This study summarizes the results of prenatal diagnosis due to a history of de novo mutation in a previous pregnancy, in a tertiary center in Israel, over a 10‐year period.

Methods

We sorted all cases of de novo mutations from a pool of 2,260 pregnancies for which prenatal molecular diagnosis was applied, between the years 2008 and 2017. We identified 122 molecular prenatal diagnosis performed for de novo mutations, in 90 women.

Results

While the total number of yearly prenatal diagnoses stayed stable, a linear increase was detected in the number of cases for which the procedure was done due to a previous de novo mutation: from 3 cases in 2008 to 24 cases in 2017. The most common diseases were Rett syndrome (19), neurofibromatosis Type‐1 (12) and Tuberous sclerosis (5). Recurrence occurred in 3 of the 90 women (3.3%) and hotspot mutations were identified in two genes accounting for 11 cases. We did not find a difference in paternal age at first occurrence of the de novo mutation between the study group and the control group.

Conclusion

The large increase in the annual number of prenatal diagnoses performed due to a previous pregnancy with a de novo mutation reflects the growing understanding regarding the role of these mutations in the pathogenesis of genetic diseases.
Successful free flap salvage upon venous congestion in bilateral breast reconstruction using a venous cross‐over bypass: A case report
Authors: Steiner Dominik , Horch Raymund E. , Ludolph Ingo , Arkudas Andreas
Published: January 2019

Abdominal free flaps such as the muscle sparing transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (ms‐TRAM) or deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap represent the gold standard in autologous breast reconstruction. We describe a salvage procedure during bilateral free flap breast reconstruction due to insufficient venous drainage using a venous cross‐over bypass. A 54‐year‐old woman with a thrombosis of the left subclavian port‐system in the medical history was elected for simultaneous bilateral breast reconstruction with ms‐TRAM and DIEP flaps. Intraoperatively, a venous congestion of the DIEP flap, which was connected to the left cranial internal mammary vessels, appeared. In the absence of sufficient ipsilateral venous recipient vessels, we performed a salvage procedure requiring a 15 cm small saphenous vein graft and presternal subcutaneous tunneling. The flap vein was anastomosed end‐to‐end with the contralateral caudal internal mammary vein using a coupler system. The postoperative course was uneventful and both flaps survived. We describe the cross‐over venous emergency bypass as a useful tool in unexpected venous thrombosis during bilateral free flap breast reconstruction.
Circularly polarized wave beamforming using one‐dimensional Fresnel zone plate
Authors: Youn Youngno , Hong Wonbin
Published: January 2019

This letter entails a methodology to steer circularly polarized (CP) wave main beam in the near‐field region. The letter first demonstrates a planar circular polarizer which can convert an incoming linearly polarized wave into a CP wave from 24.0 to 40.0 GHz. Afterwards a one‐dimensional Fresnel zone plate consisting of electrically opaque and transparent regions is devised to formulate constructive interference for CP near‐field beamsteering at 22°. Measurement ascertains that the axial ratio and TE/TM phase difference at the aforementioned angle is 0.36 dB and 87.1°.
Improved stimulated echo in diffusion magnetic resonance imaging: introducing a π pulse for SNR enhancement
Authors: Cao Yupeng , Zhang Yan , Wang Yuqing , Liu Wentao , Han Dong
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Anomalous diffusion in biological tissues can be examined by diffusion MRI for various applications, including tumor diagnosis and measurement of brain fiber pathways. However, the measurement of anomalous diffusion requires high b‐values for the diffusion gradient in MRI, and current MRI methods cannot provide a high SNR. This study aimed to improve on the standard stimulated echo (STE) to enhance the SNR in diffusion MRI with high b‐values.

Methods

Because of hardware limitations and human safety considerations, prolonging the diffusion time (Δ) is 1 of the few methods available to realize high b‐values. Here, we propose a new echo mechanism for diffusion MRI to enhance SNRs under long Δ. By introducing a π pulse at the midpoint between 2nd and 3rd π/2 pulses of STE, we refocus the magnetic moment vectors in the longitudinal plane before the third π/2 pulse is applied, which preserves the full echo signals. This sequence was compared with STE and spin echo (SE). Nine Δs were tested in a phantom. Multi b‐values with 2 Δs were tested in a mouse liver, brain, and tumor.

Results

Compared with STE and SE, the proposed improved STE (ISTE) exhibited an improved SNR in the phantom experiment and improved performance in the in vivo experiments.

Conclusion

By using the proposed echo mechanism in diffusion MRI, we enhanced the SNR of the images, which enables us to investigate diffusion behavior at higher b‐values and further facilitates the development of quantitative diffusion MRI and radiomics.
Magnetic resonance elastography of the human brain using a multiphase DENSE acquisition
Authors: Strasser Johannes , Haindl Michaela Tanja , Stollberger Rudolf , Fazekas Franz , Ropele Stefan
Published: January 2019

Purpose

In magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), a series of time‐shifted images is acquired at specific phase offsets in relation to an induced mechanical excitation. To efficiently gather the set of phase offset images and to overcome limitations due to prolonged TEs and related susceptibility artifacts at low‐frequency MRE, we developed an improved displacement encoding with a stimulated echoes (DENSE) method.

Methods

The proposed multiphase DENSE‐MRE acquisition scheme allows full sampling of the wave propagation in 1 encoding direction during each TR using multiple readouts at specific phase offsets. With this approach, all phase offsets can be imaged in 1 TR without the need for whole sequence repetitions at time‐shifted offsets relative to the excitation motion. We tested this technique in phantom experiments with 60 Hz and in the brain of 4 volunteers using 20‐Hz harmonic excitation.

Results

Three‐dimensional wave propagation could be acquired in 7 minutes 30 seconds. Following background phase elimination, clear wave images were obtained, showing the propagation of the waves over time. Calculated shear modulus maps of the phantom matched well to the maps obtained by conventional gradient‐echo MRE. In the brain, low‐frequency DENSE‐MRE images were free of susceptibility‐induced artifacts and the calculated maps showed a median global complex shear modulus magnitude of 0.72 kPa and phase angle of 1.03 rad across volunteers.

Conclusion

The proposed multiphase DENSE approach allows efficient low‐frequency MRE with short TEs and is well‐suited for low‐frequency MRE of the human brain.
MRI and MRS of intact perfused cancer cell metabolism, invasion, and stromal cell interactions
Authors: Penet Marie‐France , Shah Tariq , Wildes Flonne , Krishnamachary Balaji , Bharti Santosh K. , Pacheco‐Torres Jesus , Artemov Dmitri , Bhujwalla Zaver M.
Published: January 2019

Because of the spatial and temporal heterogeneities of cancers, technologies to investigate cancer cells and the consequences of their interactions with abnormal physiological environments, such as hypoxia and acidic extracellular pH, with stromal cells, and with the extracellular matrix, under controlled conditions, are valuable to gain insights into the functioning of cancers. These insights can lead to an understanding of why cancers invade and metastasize, and identify effective treatment strategies. Here we have provided an overview of the applications of MRI/MRS/MRSI to investigate intact perfused cancer cells, their metabolism and invasion, and their interactions with stromal cells and the extracellular matrix.
Exploring the Differences Between Early and Traditional Diet Advancement in Postoperative Feeding Outcomes in Patients With an Ileostomy or Colostomy
Authors: Toledano Sabrina , Sackey Joachim , Willcutts Kate , Parrott J. Scott , Tomesko Jennifer , Al‐Mazrou Ahmed M. , Kiran Ravi P. , Brody Rebecca A.
Published: January 2019

Background

We assessed the differences in postoperative feeding outcomes when comparing early and traditional diet advancement in patients who had an ostomy creation.

Methods

At a U.S. tertiary care hospital, data from patients who underwent an ileostomy or colostomy creation from June 1, 2013, to April 30, 2017 were extracted from an institutional database. Patients who received early diet advancement (postoperative days 0 and 1) were compared with traditional diet advancement (postoperative day 2 and later) for demographics, preoperative risk factors, and operative features. The postoperative feeding outcomes included time to first flatus and ostomy output. Mann‐Whitney U tests determined bivariate differences in postoperative feeding outcomes between groups. Poisson regression was used to adjust for unequal baseline characteristics.

Results

Data from 255 patients were included; 204 (80.0%) received early diet advancement, and 51 (20.0%) had traditional diet advancement. Time to first flatus and time to first ostomy output were significantly shorter in the early compared with traditional diet advancement group (median difference of 1 day for both flatus and ostomy output, P < 0.001). Adjusting for baseline group differences (American Society for Anesthesiology Physical Status Classification System, surgical approach, resection and ostomy type) maintained the significant findings for both time to first flatus (β = 1.32, P = 0.01) and time to first ostomy output (β = 1.41, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Early diet advancement is associated with earlier return of flatus and first ostomy output compared with traditional diet advancement after the creation of an ileostomy or colostomy.
Changes in indigenous population structure in colonial Mexico City and Morelos
Authors: Ragsdale Corey S. , Willermet Cathy , Edgar Heather J.H.
Published: January 2019

The Spanish conquest and colonization of Mexico had disastrous effects on indigenous people. Disease, coupled with drastic changes in the economic, political, and religious structures, led to an enormous depopulation event throughout the colony of New Spain. What remains unclear in historic and archeological accounts of Spanish colonization in Mexico is the effects of these changes on indigenous population structure and variation. In this study, we use biological distance and population structure analyses of two Mexico City church ossuary samples from the 16th to 17th centuries, as well as a sample of burials from a convent in nearby Morelos, to investigate these relationships at the center of the Spanish colony in Central Mexico. Colonial samples are compared with a large data set of precontact samples from Central Mexico and the surrounding regions, to evaluate changes in population structures. We compare colonial and precontact samples using biological distance analysis and a population structure program commonly applied in genetic analyses and modified for phenotypic data. Our results show that the colonial Mexico City samples are more biologically similar to the precontact samples from Veracruz, Toluca Valley, and West Mexico than to other precontact samples from the Valley of Mexico. The sample from Yecapixtla in Morelos is also most similar to the Veracruz, Toluca Valley, and West Mexico samples but is also somewhat similar to the precontact sample from Morelos and the nearby Oaxaca Valley. Generally, biological similarities among colonial samples and precontact samples do not correlate with geographic proximity or population size but coincide with cultural changes. Our study provides bioarcheological evidence of some degree of population replacement, resulting either from forced migration from surrounding areas for labor or through indigenous alliances with the Spanish conquerors. Our results also show concordance between traditional biodistance analysis and nontraditional analyses employed in population genetics studies.