bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining natal origin for improved management of Atlantic bluefin tuna
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ezpeleta Naiara , Díaz‐Arce Natalia , Walter John F , Richardson David E , Rooker Jay R , Nøttestad Leif , Hanke Alex R , Franks James S , Deguara Simeon , Lauretta Matthew V , Addis Piero , Varela Jose Luis , Fraile Igaratza , Goñi Nicolas , Abid Noureddine , Alemany Francisco , Oray Isik K , Quattro Joseph M , Sow Fambaye N , Itoh Tomoyuki , Karakulak F Saadet , Pascual‐Alayón Pedro J , Santos Miguel N , Tsukahara Yohei , Lutcavage Molly , Fromentin Jean‐Marc , Arrizabalaga Haritz
Published: July 2019

Effective sustainable management of marine fisheries requires that assessed management units (that is, fish stocks) correspond to biological populations. This issue has long been discussed in the context of Atlantic bluefin tuna (ABFT, Thunnus thynnus) management, which currently considers two unmixed stocks but does not take into account how individuals born in each of the two main spawning grounds (Gulf of Mexico and Mediterranean Sea) mix in feeding aggregations throughout the Atlantic Ocean. Using thousands of genome‐wide molecular markers obtained from larvae and young of the year collected at the species’ main spawning grounds, we provide what is, to the best of our knowledge, the first direct genetic evidence for “natal homing” in ABFT. This has facilitated the development of an accurate, cost‐effective, and non‐invasive tool for tracing the genetic origin of ABFT that allows for the assignment of catches to their population of origin, which is crucial for ensuring that ABFT management is based on biologically meaningful stock units rather than simply on catch location.
Determination of the protein quality of almonds (Prunus dulcis L.) as assessed by in vitro and in vivo methodologies
Authors: House James D. , Hill Kristen , Neufeld Jason , Franczyk Adam , Nosworthy Matthew G.
Published: July 2019

Almonds (Prunus dulcis), such as all nuts, are positioned within the protein foods grouping within the current U.S. Dietary Guidelines. The ability to make claims related to the protein content of almonds, within the United States, requires substantiation via the use of the Protein Digestibility‐Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS). The present study was designed to provide current estimates of PDCAAS, using both in vivo and in vitro assays, of key almond varietals from the 2017 California harvest. Additionally, historical protein and amino acid composition data on 73 separate analyses, performed from 2000 to 2014, were analyzed. Amino acid analysis confirmed lysine as the first‐limiting amino acid, generating amino acid scores of 0.53, 0.52, 0.49, and 0.56 for Butte, Independence, Monterey, and Nonpareil varietals, respectively. True fecal protein digestibility coefficients ranged from 85.7% to 89.9% yielding PDCAAS values of 44.3–47.8, being highest for Nonpareil. Similar, albeit lower, results were obtained from the in vitro assessment protocol. Analysis of the historical data again positioned lysine as the limiting amino acid and yielded information on the natural variability present within the protein and amino acid profiles of almonds. Comparison of the 2017 AA profile, averaged across almond varietals, to the historical data provided strong evidence of persistence of amino acid composition and indices of protein quality over time.
Study on the shelf life and quality characteristics of highland barley fresh noodles as affected by microwave treatment and food preservatives
Authors: Tuersuntuoheti Tuohetisayipu , Wang Zhenhua , Zheng Yanyan , Wang Shuai , Wang Ziyuan , Wu Yan , Liang Shan , Li Xinping , Zhang Min
Published: July 2019

In this work, the effect of microwave (MW), ε‐poly‐L‐lysine (ε‐PL), calcium propionate (CP), and their combinations on the shelf life and quality characteristics of highland barley fresh noodle (HBFN) was studied. Firstly, the mixed flour was treated by MW (800 W) for different time. Subsequently, HBFN was prepared by mixing flour and sterilized water with addition of 0.04% ε‐PL combined with different concentrations of CP (0.025%, 0.020%, 0.015%) and stored at 25 ± 1°C. Changes of total plate count (TPC), moisture content, water state, textural properties, color, and pH in HBFN were monitored during storage. The results indicated that microwave treatment (40 s) provided 30% reduction of initial TPC of the flour without decline of noodle quality. Shelf life of HBFN treated with MW + ε‐PL (0.04%) + CP (0.02%/0.025%) reached 80 and 88 hr, respectively, and had good edible qualities during storage.
Sensorimotor, language, and working memory representation within the human cerebellum
Authors: Ashida Reiko , Cerminara Nadia L. , Edwards Richard J. , Apps Richard , Brooks Jonathan C. W.
Published: July 2019

The cerebellum is involved in a wide range of behaviours. A key organisational principle from animal studies is that somatotopically corresponding sensory input and motor output reside in the same cerebellar cortical areas. However, compelling evidence for a similar arrangement in humans and whether it extends to cognitive functions is lacking. To address this, we applied cerebellar optimised whole‐brain functional MRI in 20 healthy subjects. To assess spatial overlap within the sensorimotor and cognitive domains, we recorded activity to a sensory stimulus (vibrotactile) and a motor task; the Sternberg verbal working memory (VWM) task; and a verb generation paradigm. Consistent with animal data, sensory and motor activity overlapped with a somatotopic arrangement in ipsilateral areas of the anterior and posterior cerebellum. During the maintenance phase of the Sternberg task, a positive linear relationship between VWM load and activity was observed in right Lobule VI, extending into Crus I bilaterally. Articulatory movement gave rise to bilateral activity in medial Lobule VI. A conjunction of two independent language tasks localised activity during verb generation in right Lobule VI‐Crus I, which overlapped with activity during VWM. These results demonstrate spatial compartmentalisation of sensorimotor and cognitive function in the human cerebellum, with each area involved in more than one aspect of a given behaviour, consistent with an integrative function. Sensorimotor localisation was uniform across individuals, but the representation of cognitive tasks was more variable, highlighting the importance of individual scans for mapping higher order functions within the cerebellum.
Disrupted brain functional networks in drug‐naïve children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder assessed using graph theory analysis
Authors: Chen Ying , Huang Xiaoqi , Wu Min , Li Kaiming , Hu Xinyu , Jiang Ping , Chen Lizhou , He Ning , Dai Jing , Wang Song , He Manxi , Guo Lanting , Sweeney John A. , Gong Qiyong
Published: July 2019

Neuroimaging studies have revealed functional brain network abnormalities in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the results have been inconsistent, potentially related to confounding medication effects. Furthermore, specific topological alterations in functional networks and their role in behavioral inhibition dysfunction remain to be established. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 51 drug‐naïve children with ADHD and 55 age‐matched healthy controls. Brain functional networks were constructed by thresholding the partial correlation matrices of 90 brain regions, and graph theory was used to analyze network topological properties. The Stroop test was used to assess cognitive inhibitory abilities. Nonparametric permutation tests were used to compare the topological architectures in the two groups. Compared with healthy subjects, brain networks in ADHD patients demonstrated altered topological characteristics, including lower global (FDR q = 0.01) and local efficiency (p = 0.032, uncorrected) and a longer path length (FDR q = 0.01). Lower nodal efficiencies were found in the left inferior frontal gyrus and anterior cingulate cortex in the ADHD group (FDR both q < 0.05). Altered global and nodal topological efficiencies were associated with the severity of inhibitory cognitive control deficits and hyperactivity symptoms in ADHD (p <0 .05). Alterations in network topologies in drug‐naïve ADHD patients indicate weaker small‐worldization with decreased segregation and integration of functional brain networks. Deficits in the cingulo‐fronto‐parietal attention network were associated with inhibitory control deficits.
Electronic medical records and medical procedure choice: Evidence from cesarean sections
Authors: Freedman Seth , Hammarlund Noah
Published: July 2019

This paper examines how hospital adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs) impacts medical procedure choice in the context of cesarean section deliveries. It provides a unique contribution by tying the literature on EMR diffusion to the literature on the utilization of expensive medical technology and provider practice style. Exploiting within‐hospital variation in three types of EMR adoption, we find that computerized physician order entry, an advanced EMR system that typically incorporates decision support, reduces C‐section rates for low‐risk mothers by 2.5%. Obstetric‐specific EMR systems and physician documentation have no statistically significant effect on C‐section rates. In addition, we find that the computerized practitioner order entry effect occurs predominantly in hospitals that were already performing fewer C‐sections and does not change the behavior of already high‐intensity providers.
Nitrate subsurface transport and losses in response to its initial distributions in sloped soils: An experimental and modelling study
Authors: Xie Meixiang , Šimůnek Jirka , Zhang Zhanyu , Zhang Pingcang , Xu Jinxin , Lin Qingming
Published: July 2019

Transport and losses of nitrate from sloped soils are closely linked to nitrogen fertilizer management. Previous studies have always focused on different types of fertilizer applications and rarely analysed various initial nitrate distributions as a result of nitrogen fertilizer applications. Under certain conditions, both subsurface lateral saturated flow and vertical leaching dominate nitrate losses. Soil tank experiments and HYDRUS‐2D modelling were used to better understand the subsurface nitrate transport and losses through lateral saturated flow and vertical leaching under various initial nitrate distributions. Low (L: 180 mg L−1), normal (N: 350 mg L−1), and high (H: 500 mg L−1) nitrate concentrations were used in five different distributions (NNNN, NLLN, LHHL, LNLN, and HNHN) along the slope of the tank. The first two treatments (NNNN and NLLN) were analysed both experimentally and numerically. Experiments were conducted under 12 rainfall events at intervals of 3 days. The HYDRUS‐2D model was calibrated and validated against the experimental data and demonstrated good model performance. The other three treatments (LHHL, LNLN, and HNHN) were investigated using the calibrated model. Nitrate concentrations in purple sloped soils declined exponentially with time under intermittent rainfalls, predominantly in the upper soil layers. Non‐uniform initial nitrate distributions contributed to larger differences between four locations along the slope in deeper soil layers. The non‐uniform nitrate distribution either enhanced or reduced decreases in nitrate concentrations in areas with higher or lower initial nitrate concentrations, respectively. Higher nitrate concentrations at the slope foot and along the slope were reduced mainly by lateral flow and vertical leaching, respectively. Increasing nitrogen application rates increased subsurface nitrate losses. Mean subsurface lateral nitrate fluxes were twice as large as mean vertical leaching nitrate fluxes. However, due to longer leaching durations, total nitrate losses due to vertical leaching were comparable with those due to lateral flow, which indicated comparable environmental risks to surface waters and groundwater.
Treasuries variance decomposition and the impact of monetary policy
Authors: Kontonikas Alexandros , Nolan Charles , Zekaite Zivile , Lamla Michael
Published: July 2019

This paper investigates the effect of monetary policy shifts on Treasuries over the last three decades. We decompose unexpected excess returns on 2‐, 5‐, and 10‐year Treasuries in three components related to revisions in expectations (news) about future excess returns, inflation, and real interest rates. We evaluate the impact of conventional and unconventional monetary policy shocks on returns and their components. Our results indicate that expansionary monetary policy shocks are associated with declining inflation expectations and higher Treasuries' returns.
Crystal structure of the flagellin protein FlaG from Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Tsai Jia‐Yin , Yeh Yi‐Hung , Lin Lun‐Der , Sun Yuh‐Ju , Hsiao Chwan‐Deng
Published: July 2019

Flagella, comprising flagellin proteins, are essential virulence factors for Helicobacter pylori to colonize human stomach mucosa. The flagellin‐associated flaG operon of H. pylori consists of the flaG, fliD, and fliS genes under the control of a σ28‐dependent promoter. The flaG gene is involved in chemotaxis and motility. We cloned, expressed, and purified the H. pylori flaG gene encoding the flagellin protein HpFlaG. Sequence alignment revealed that HpFlaG exhibits low sequence identity with other FlaG proteins. Overall, N‐terminal sequences of FlaG proteins are mostly divergent, and C‐terminal regions might be important for dimer interactions between protein subunits. Here, we report the crystal structure of the N‐terminal truncated protein (NT‐HpFlaG), as determined by multiwavelength anomalous dispersion at a resolution of 2.7 å. The overall structure of NT‐HpFlaG consists of two helices and three strands, folded into a palm‐like conformation. Two monomers strongly interact as a dimer by hydrophobic coiled‐coil interactions. Based on our structure, we suggest that the functional state of HpFlaG is as a dimer.
Relationships of protein biomarkers of the urokinase plasminogen activator system with expression of their cognate genes in primary breast carcinomas
Authors: Sereff Seth B. , Daniels Michael W. , Wittliff James L.
Published: July 2019

Background

uPA, its receptor uPAR, and inhibitors PAI‐1 and PAI‐2 play key roles in membrane remodeling/invasion and in predicting response to chemotherapy. We identified novel relationships of these biomarkers with ER/PR that indicate clinical utility for assessing breast carcinoma outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective studies were performed with de‐identified results of (a) uPA, uPAR, and PAI‐1; (b) estrogen (ER) and progestin receptor (PR); and (c) clinical outcomes. Relative expression of 22 000 genes from microarray of RNA from LCM‐procured breast cancer cells was used with R Studio version 3.4.1.

Results

Primary ER/PR status was related to uPA, uPAR, or PAI‐1 levels. ER− or PR− cancers expressed elevateduPA,uPAR, andPAI2mRNA compared to ER+ or PR+ cells. Inverse relationships between ER/PR protein and expression ofuPA,uPAR, andPAI‐2were observed, whereas HER2 status was unrelated. qPCR analyses showedRERGandNQO‐1expressions were elevated in uPA− lesions, whileCD34andEDG‐1were elevated in uPAR− cancers.ERBB4was overexpressed in PAI‐1+ carcinomas. Cox regression analyses revealed relationships of ER/PR status and uPA system members with regard to clinical outcomes of breast cancer.

Conclusions

uPA, uPAR, PAI1, orPAI2expression was increased in either ER− or PR− cancers similar to that of protein content in ER−/PR− carcinomas, suggesting sex hormones regulate the uPA system in breast cancer. Results revealed protein content of uPA system members was related to ER/PR status of primary lesions. Use of LCM‐procured carcinoma cells uncovered relationships between expression of known cancer−associated genes and protein content of uPA system members. Collectively, results indicate evaluation of ER and PR protein of primary breast cancers combined with analyses of uPA, uPAR, and PAI‐1 protein content improves assessment of clinical outcomes.
Establishing the minimum clinically important difference for the Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale (GCOS‐24)
Authors: Thomas Charlene , McAllister Marion
Published: July 2019

To establish the smallest change in genetic counseling outcome that is meaningful for patients, the aim of this study was to establish the Minimum Clinically Important Difference (MCID) for the Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale (GCOS‐24). GCOS‐24 is a patient‐reported outcome measure for clinical genetics services. Secondary aims included understanding what patients deem important for reaching this score. Participants were 74 new patients recruited from the All Wales Medical Genetics Service, between April 2016 and December 2016. An anchor‐based, global transition question methodology was used to identify the MCID, by asking participants how much meaningful change they experienced following their genetics appointment, and comparing this with GCOS‐24 change scores. This ensured that the established score was clinically meaningful to patients. Comments from a free text response box were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. The mean score of the group who felt “a little better” was determined to be the MCID. The MCID was established to be a GCOS‐24 score increase of 10.3 points after a clinical genetics appointment. This score was significantly different from the group “neutral” (0.64 points), using an independent samples t test. Themes identified as important for reaching the MCID included “future and family”. These findings contribute to interpretability of GCOS‐24 and provide some useful insights for genetic counseling service development.
Synthesis and In Vitro Urease Inhibition of Some Novel Benzimidazole‐based Hydrazones
Authors: Menteşe Emre , Sökmen Bahar Bilgin
Published: July 2019

A novel series of N′‐(substituted benzylidene)‐2‐(5,6‐dichloro‐2‐methyl‐1H‐benzimidazol‐1‐yl)acetohydrazides and N′‐(1‐(substituted phenyl)ethylidene)‐2‐(5,6‐dichloro‐2‐methyl‐1H‐benzimidazol‐1‐yl)acetohydrazides were synthesized and then studied for their urease inhibitory activities using thiourea as a standard drug. All newly synthesized compounds were found to exhibit potent inhibitory properties against urease enzyme in the range of IC50 = 0.0155 ± 0.0039–0.0602 ± 0.0071 μM, when compared with the thiourea as standard (IC50 = 0.5115 ± 0.0233 μM). All target molecules were characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, IR, and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.
Discovery of Novel Sulfonamide‐Based 5‐Arylidenerhodanines as Effective Carbonic Anhydrase (II) Inhibitors: Microwave‐Assisted and Ultrasound‐Assisted One‐Pot Four‐Component Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Anti‐CA II Screening Studies
Authors: Mermer Arif , Demirbas Neslihan , Cakmak Ummuhan , Colak Ahmet , Demirbas Ahmet , Alagumuthu Manikandan , Arumugam Sivakumar
Published: July 2019

The synthesis of N‐substituted‐5‐arylidenerhodanines was carried out by the optimized one‐pot sequential four‐component procedure with the condensation between 4‐aminobenzenesulfonamide, suitable aldehyde, ethyl bromoacetate, and carbon disulfide. In addition to traditional method, microwave‐irradiated and ultrasound‐irradiated techniques were implemented in water at ambitious conditions, and the target compounds were obtained in high yields and purity without purification methods. The enzyme inhibition activity of newly synthesized compounds on carbonic anhydrase (II) was also evaluated. The reference inhibitor molecule was sulfanilamide, the IC50 value of which was 3.5 μM. It was also found that the IC50 values of all examined molecules were in nanomolar level and much smaller than those of sulfanilamide. The inhibition between 93.5 and 99.6% was observed in the presence of new compounds synthesized in the present study at the accessible maximum concentration in the reaction mixtures. 5j, among the tested compounds possessing the lowest IC50 value, was found to be the most potent carbonic anhydrase (II) inhibitor.
Ginkgo biloba extract may alleviate viral myocarditis by suppression of S100A4 and MMP‐3
Authors: Wang Wei , Ma Ke , Liu Jiangtao , Li Feng
Published: July 2019

Viral myocarditis (VMC) is an inflammatory cardiac disease caused by coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) that leads to heart failure or sudden death. However, efficient therapeutic strategies for VMC remain lacking. Ginkgo biloba extract was previously demonstrated to have anti‐inflammatory activity and had been used in prevention and therapy of some cardiovascular diseases (ie myocardial infarction), indicating Ginkgo biloba extract may be a potential drug for the treatment of VMC. This study was, for the first time, to investigate the intervention effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on VMC model mice and explore its potential mechanisms. As a result, VMC mice model was successfully established by CVB3 infection, exhibiting significantly higher viral titer, serum creatine kinase isoenzyme level, heart weight/body weight ratio, histopathologic scores, collagen volume fraction (CVF), and significantly increased expression of S100A4 and matrix metalloproteinase‐3 (MMP‐3) at protein and messenger RNA levels compared with the control group. Also, the expression of S100A4 and MMP‐3/CVF was positively correlated. Ginkgo biloba extract treatment significantly reversed the trend in all the above parameters. Thus, Ginkgo biloba extract may be a promising therapeutic approach against VMC because it improved myocardial injury and alleviated the degree of myocardial fibrosis through suppression of S100A4 and MMP‐3.
Root coverage procedures for treating single and multiple recession‐type defects: An updated Cochrane systematic review
Authors: Chambrone Leandro , Ortega Maria Aparecida Salinas , Sukekava Flávia , Rotundo Roberto , Kalemaj Zamira , Buti Jacopo , Prato Giovan Paolo Pini
Published: July 2019

Background

This updated Cochrane systematic review (SR) evaluated the efficacy of different root coverage (RC) procedures in the treatment of single and multiple gingival recessions (GR).

Methods

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) only of at least 6 months’ duration evaluating Miller's Class I or II GR (≥3 mm) treated by means of RC procedures. Five databases were searched up to January 16, 2018. Random effects meta‐analyses were conducted thoroughly.

Results

We included 48 RCTs in the SR. The results indicated a greater GR reduction for subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) + coronally advanced flap (CAF) compared to guided tissue regeneration with resorbable membranes (GTR rm) + CAF (mean difference [MD]: −0.37 mm). There was insufficient evidence of a difference in GR reduction between acellular dermal matrix grafts (ADMG) + CAF and SCTG + CAF or between enamel matrix derivative (EMD) + CAF and SCTG + CAF. Greater gains in the keratinized tissue width (KTW) were found for SCTG + CAF when compared to EMD + CAF (MD: −1.06 mm), and SCTG + CAF when compared to GTR rm + CAF (MD: −1.77 mm). There was insufficient evidence of a difference in KTW gain between ADMG + CAF and SCTG + CAF.

Conclusions

SCTG, CAF alone or associated with another biomaterial may be used for treating single or multiple GR. There is also some evidence suggesting that ADMG appear as the soft tissue substitute that may provide the most similar outcomes to those achieved by SCTG.
Unresolved–Disorganized Attachment is Associated With Smaller Hippocampus and Increased Functional Connectivity Beyond Psychopathology
Authors: van Hoof Marie‐José , Riem Madelon , Garrett Amy , Pannekoek Nienke , van der Wee Nic , van IJzendoorn Marinus , Vermeiren Robert
Published: July 2019

Loss and abuse in children can lead to unresolved–disorganized (UD) attachment. How this condition relates to brain structure and functional connectivity (FC) is unknown. We therefore aimed to investigate gray matter volume (GMV) and resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) correlates of UD attachment in adolescents. Based on previous neuroimaging studies of trauma effects, we hypothesized that the structure of the amygdala and hippocampus and the FC of the latter would be linked to UD attachment. Anatomical and RSFC data were collected from a mixed group of adolescents (N = 74) with symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to childhood sexual abuse (CSA), anxiety/depressive symptoms, and without psychiatric disorder as part of the Emotional Pathways’ Imaging Study in Clinical Adolescents (EPISCA). Bilateral volumes of the amygdala and hippocampus were measured using the FMRIB Software Library, and RSFC of the hippocampus was assessed using seed‐based correlation. UD attachment was measured using the Adult Attachment Interview. Hierarchical regression and correlation were used to assess the associations between UD status (continuous and categorical), brain structure, and FC, adjusting for a general psychopathology factor, puberty stage, gender, age, and IQ. UD attachment was associated with a smaller left hippocampal volume, R2 = .23, and a higher level of FC between the hippocampus and the middle temporal gyrus and lateral occipital cortex. The associations among UD attachment, specific brain structure, and FC across psychopathological classifications shows promise for dimensional complements to the dominant classificatory approach in clinical research and practice.
Increased prevalence of neural monitoring during thyroidectomy: Global surgical survey
Authors: Feng Allen L. , Puram Sidharth V. , Singer Michael C. , Modi Rahul , Kamani Dipti , Randolph Gregory W.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To investigate intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) use among thyroid surgeons.

Methods

A 25‐question survey was used to assess attitudes regarding IONM use. Surveys were sent to surgeons registered to the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, International Association of Endocrine Surgeons, and American Head and Neck Society.

Results

Among 1,015 respondents, 83% reported using IONM (65.1% always using IONM and 18.1% reporting selective use). For selective users, a majority reported using IONM for reoperative cases (95.1%) and in cases with preoperative vocal cord paralysis (59.8%). When comparing location, there was a significant difference in IONM implementation (P < 0.001), with 70.4% of North American responders using it ubiquitously compared to 27.4% of non‐North American responders. Preoperative laryngeal exam was performed more universally by North American surgeons and more selectively by non‐North American surgeons (P < 0.001). Other attitudes toward their implementation and the postoperative laryngeal exam were similar. Surgeons ≤45 years of age and those with ≤15 years of practice used IONM more than their peers (P < 0.001). Thyroid surgery volume, fellowship training, and type of practice had no bearing on IONM use.

Conclusion

The prevalence of IONM in thyroid and parathyroid surgeries has increased significantly over the past decade, with 83% of surgeons using IONM in some or all cases. Although IONM use may be more ubiquitous in North America, attitudes toward its implementation and pre‐ and postoperative laryngeal exams are fairly uniform. IONM use is more prevalent among younger surgeons, whereas its use has no correlation with thyroid surgery volume or type of practice.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:1097–1104, 2020
Optimizing international otolaryngology service trips: Perceptions from learners versus volunteers
Authors: Worden Cameron P. , Stephenson Elizabeth D. , Senior Brent A.
Published: July 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Optimizing value of medical service trips (MSTs) requires alignment of the services provided with the needs and desires of hosts. Our aim was to understand which MST services Vietnamese otolaryngologists find most beneficial and contrast to those believed most important by volunteers.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Otolaryngologists from a tertiary care institution travel to Vietnam yearly. In March 2018, surveys were distributed to Vietnamese otolaryngology faculty, residents, and US otolaryngology volunteers. The value of 11 MST‐provided services were graded on a five‐point Likert scale. Services included observing US otolaryngology volunteers perform surgery, US otolaryngology volunteer lectures, paper/electronic lecture material, instrument donation, minifellowships in the United States, among others. Respondents also voted for the single most important service. Responses were analyzed via Kruskal‐Wallis analysis of variance and Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Results

A total of 153 survey responses were recorded. There were 52% respondents who identified as male and 39% as female. The highest‐valued services by Vietnamese otolaryngologists were didactic lectures given by US otolaryngology volunteers (4.6/5 ± 0.6), and reviewing cases with US otolaryngology volunteers in the clinic (4.4/5 ± 0.9). The least important services were instrument donation and seeing US otolaryngology volunteers assist with surgery (≤4.1/5). The highest‐value services perceived by US otolaryngology volunteers were reviewing cases in the clinic and sponsoring minifellowships (4.9 ± 0.4). Vietnamese faculty perceived the single most important service to be US volunteer lectures (20/74 votes), whereas Vietnamese residents perceived minifellowships to be most important (13/34 votes)

Conclusions

Vietnamese otolaryngologists desire an education‐focused relationship with US otolaryngology volunteers, with didactic lectures and sponsored US fellowships having the highest value and performance of surgeries having less value.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 130:E305–E310, 2020
Peptide‐Thiophene Hybrids as Self‐Assembling Conductive Hydrogels
Authors: James Ellie I. , Jenkins Lauren D. , Murphy Amanda R.
Published: July 2019

A bottom‐up approach is taken to confer multidimensional structure to conductive polymers by attaching thiophene monomers to peptides predicted to self‐assemble into a biomimetic, fibrous nanostructure. A library of 12 peptides containing covalently attached thiophene monomers are synthesized. Peptide sequences capable of robust self‐assembly and hydrogel formation in aqueous media are further polymerized in situ and the physical and electrical properties are characterized. The resulting hybrid materials have conductivities in the range of 10−2 to 10−3 S cm−1 and possess moduli in the range of several tissue types, making them potential candidates for use in tissue engineering and bioelectronic applications.
It's about our values: How founder's stories influence brand authenticity
Authors: Hamby Anne , Brinberg David , Daniloski Kim
Published: July 2019

Companies increasingly share the stories behind their brand's founding to engage consumers. The current studies explore how the motives that underlie business formation in founder's stories influence consumer brand perceptions. Specifically, stories that highlight self‐transcendence (vs. self‐enhancement) founder values enhance the perceived authenticity of the focal brand. We examine narrative co fidelity as a mechanism of narrative persuasion through which the audience judges whether the motives underlying character actions represent “good reasons” for action. Across three studies, we show that the values underlying a founder's motivation to start a business influence the perceived authenticity of the associated brand, and this relationship is mediated by narrative fidelity. Further, reader's personal values moderate the influence of founder's values on narrative fidelity judgments, and the relationship between narrative fidelity and brand authenticity is attenuated by a merger between the original company and another company, demonstrating a boundary condition of the observed relationships.
Insensitivity to loss predicts apathy in huntington's disease
Authors: McLauchlan Duncan J. , Lancaster Thomas , Craufurd David , Linden David E.J. , Rosser Anne E.
Published: July 2019

Background

Apathy is a deficit in goal‐directed behavior that significantly affects quality of life and function. It is common in Huntington's disease and other disorders affecting corticostriatal pathways. Deficits in processing of reward, altered effort, and executive dysfunction are associated with apathy in other disorders, but the cognitive processes leading to apathy in Huntington's disease remain largely unknown. A previously reported deficit in learning from losses in Huntington's disease raises the possibility of a hitherto unrecognized mechanism leading to apathy. This study's objective was to delineate the cognitive processes associated with apathy in HD.

Methods

We tested 51 Huntington's disease participants and 26 controls on a battery of novel and established measures to assess the contribution to apathy in Huntington's disease of executive function, reward value, reward‐effort calculations, instrumental learning, and response to reward and loss.

Results

Huntington's disase participants had deficits in instrumental learning with impaired response to loss, but no evidence to suggest altered reward‐related behavior or effort. We also saw an executive dysfunction contribution to apathy in Huntington's disease.

Discussion

We report the novel finding that apathy in Huntington's disease is associated with blunted responses to losses and impaired instrumental learning. This association is consistent with the known early degeneration of the indirect pathway and amygdala involvement in apathy in Huntington's disease, but is previously unreported in any disorder. In keeping with the comparative preservation of the ventral striatum and orbitofrontal cortex in Huntington's disease, reward valuation and reward‐effort calculations did not contribute to apathy. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Longitudinal analyses of cerebrospinal fluid α‐Synuclein in prodromal and early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Mollenhauer Brit , Caspell‐Garcia Chelsea J. , Coffey Christopher S. , Taylor Peggy , Singleton Andy , Shaw Leslie M. , Trojanowski John Q. , Frasier Mark , Simuni Tanya , Iranzo Alex , Oertel Wolfgang , Siderowf Andrew , Weintraub Daniel , Seibyl John , Toga Arthur W. , Tanner Caroline M. , Kieburtz Karl , Chahine Lana M. , Marek Kenneth , Galasko Douglas ,   for the PPMI study
Published: July 2019

Background

Aggregation of α‐synuclein is central to the pathophysiology of PD. Biomarkers related to α‐synuclein may be informative for PD diagnosis/progression.

Objectives

To analyze α‐synuclein in CSF in drug‐naïve PD, healthy controls, and prodromal PD in the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative.

Methods

Over up to 36‐month follow‐up, CSF total α‐synuclein and its association with MDS‐UPDRS motor scores, cognitive assessments, and dopamine transporter imaging were assessed.

Results

The inception cohort included PD (n = 376; age [mean {standard deviation} years]: 61.7 [9.62]), healthy controls (n = 173; age, 60.9 [11.3]), hyposmics (n = 16; age, 68.3 [6.15]), and idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (n = 32; age, 69.3 [4.83]). Baseline CSF α‐synuclein was lower in manifest and prodromal PD versus healthy controls. Longitudinal α‐synuclein decreased significantly in PD at 24 and 36 months, did not change in prodromal PD over 12 months, and trended toward an increase in healthy controls. The decrease in PD was not shown when CSF samples with high hemoglobin concentration were removed from the analysis. CSF α‐synuclein changes did not correlate with longitudinal MDS‐UPDRS motor scores or dopamine transporter scan.

Conclusions

CSF α‐synuclein decreases early in the disease, preceding motor PD. CSF α‐synuclein does not correlate with progression and therefore does not reflect ongoing dopaminergic neurodegeneration. Decreased CSF α‐synuclein may be an indirect index of changes in the balance between α‐synuclein secretion, solubility, or aggregation in the brain, reflecting its overall turnover. Additional biomarkers more directly related to α‐synuclein pathophysiology and disease progression and other markers to be identified by, for example, proteomics and metabolomics are needed. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Design and synthesis of glycomimetics: Recent advances
Authors: Tamburrini Alice , Colombo Cinzia , Bernardi Anna
Published: July 2019

In the past few decades, our understanding of glycan information‐encoding power has notably increased, thus leading to a significant growth also in the design and synthesis of glycomimetic probes. Combining data from multiple analytical sources, such as crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and other biophysical methods (eg, surface plasmon resonance and carbohydrate microarrays) has allowed to shed light on the key interaction events between carbohydrates and their protein‐targets. However, the low metabolic stability of carbohydrates and their high hydrophilicity, which translates in low bioavailability, undermine their development as drugs. In this framework, the design of chemically modified analogues (called carbohydrate mimics or glycomimetics) appears as a valid alternative for the development of therapeutic agents. Glycomimetics, as structural and functional mimics of carbohydrates, can replace the native ligands in the interaction with target proteins, but are designed to show enhanced enzymatic stability and bioavailability and, possibly, an improved affinity and selectivity toward the target. In the present account, we specifically focus on the most recent advances in the design and synthesis of glycomimetics. In particular, we highlight the efforts of the scientific community in the development of straightforward synthetic procedures for the preparation of sugar mimics and in their preliminary biological evaluation.
Genetic polymorphisms analysis of pharmacogenomic VIP variants in Bai ethnic group from China
Authors: Chen Wanlu , Ding Heng , Cheng Yujing , Li Qi , Dai Run , Yang Xin , Zhang Chan
Published: July 2019

Background

The pharmacogenomics study has been widely used for the study of very important pharmacogenetic (VIP) variants among different ethnic groups. However, there is little known about the pharmacogenomics information regarding Bai family. Our study aimed to screen the polymorphism of the VIP gene in Bai nationality.

Methods

We genotyped 81 VIP variants (selected from the PharmGKB database) in the Bai population and then compared them to the other 11 major HapMap populations by chi‐square test, structure and F‐statistics (Fst) analysis.

Results

Our results indicated that rs20417 (PTGS2), rs4148323 (UGT1A), and rs1131596 (SLC19A1) were most different in Bai compared with most of the 11 populations from the HapMap data set. Furthermore, population structure and F‐statistics (Fst) analysis also demonstrated that the Bai population has the closest genetic relationship with Han Chinese in Beijing, China (CHB), followed by Japanese in Tokyo, Japan (JPT), and the farthest population from the Yoruba in Ibadan, Nigeria (YRI).

Conclusions

Our study not only presented the genotype frequency difference between the selected population of the Bai population and the other 11 populations, but also showed that the Bai population is most similar to the CHB populations, followed by JPT. These findings would contribute to the development of individualized medicine for the Bai population.
Validation of Annuli and Identification of Discontinuities in Sagittal Otoliths of Juvenile Alligator Gar
Authors: Buckmeier David L. , Smith Nathan G.
Published: July 2019

Annual increment periodicity has been validated in sagittal otoliths of Alligator Gar Atractosteus spatula; however, discontinuities (often referred to as false annuli or checks) are common in early years, potentially affecting both accuracy and precision. We used up to four injections of oxytetracycline (OTC) to induce time stamps associated with annuli (opaque zones) in the otoliths of juvenile Alligator Gar (ages 2–6; n = 68). These OTC marks allowed us to test a reader's ability to distinguish discontinuities (hereafter, “checks”) from annuli by using established criteria. In addition, the OTC marks were used to infer the timing of translucent zone and opaque zone formation. Although the reader's error rate was low (6%), some checks were essentially indistinguishable from annuli. Checks were common, occurring in over half of the otoliths examined and within all annual increments in these juvenile fish. The association of all OTC marks with the opaque zones of the annual increment further validates annulus formation in juvenile Alligator Gar and indicates that these narrow zones formed approximately between November and June. Subsequently, it can be inferred that the much wider translucent zones formed from about June to November. Although opaque zone formation was complete by June, new annuli were not distinguishable from the ventral edge of the otolith until translucent material was deposited beyond the annuli. In our samples, only 22.2% of the otoliths from fish sacrificed on June 30 (n = 9) had fully visible annuli along the edge of the otolith. Based on multiple studies, it is apparent that annual increments form in the sagittal otoliths of Alligator Gar throughout their lives; however, the interpretation of these increments can be very difficult. In our experience, the OTC marking of fish can provide a valuable tool for training and verification programs needed for this species and for other long-lived fishes that pose difficulties in age estimation.
An implicit dual‐based approach to couple peridynamics with classical continuum mechanics
Authors: Bie Yehui , Li She , Hu Xin , Cui Xiangyang
Published: July 2019

A general local/nonlocal implicit coupling technique called the dual‐based approach is proposed to couple peridynamics (PD) with classical continuum mechanics. In the present method, physical information is transmitted mutually from local to nonlocal regions through the coupling elements; no transition region is introduced. For different mesh discretizations, two coupling methods are achieved with simplicity and effectivity. To obtain the stiffness matrix of the coupled model, without loss of generality, the implicit dual‐horizon ordinary state‐based peridynamic model is proposed, in which the linearization of dual‐horizon ordinary state‐based PD is derived and the dual assembly algorithm of the peridynamic stiffness matrix is developed. It will be seen that the implicit dual‐based coupling approach provides a new implicit coupling method that is easy to implement and makes full use of the internal connection between PD and classical continuum mechanics. Several numerical examples involving static crack propagation are investigated, and the satisfactory results show both quantitative and qualitative agreement with either the analytic solution or the available experiment.
Role of epoxidized natural Eucommia ulmoides gum in modifying the interface of styrene‐butadiene rubber/silica composites
Authors: Wang Yan , Liu Jinhui , Xia Lin , Shen Mei , Xin Zhenxiang , Kim Jinkuk
Published: July 2019

Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) is a renewable and sustainable polymer, which could be used as rubber or plastic by altering its crosslinking density while the complicated extracting process and nonpolar molecular chains limited its application. In this effort, a novel extraction method was introduced, which could simplify the extraction process of EUG. Then, the extracted EUG‐chloroform (CHCl3) solution was directly used to prepare epoxidized EUG (EEUG) with an epoxy degree of 40.0% to improve its polarity. The epoxidized natural EUG exhibiting both polar and nonpolar motives had an advantage in working as an interfacial compatibilizer for polymer composites, especially bio‐based composites due to its inherent biocompatibility. Accordingly, the role of EEUG in modifying the interface of styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR)/silica composites were explored. The results showed that EEUG in SBR/silica composites acted not only as a compatibilizer but also as a constructure generating better mechanical properties than other compatibilizers, such as silane couplings, Si‐69 and KH‐550, and epoxidized natural rubber (ENR). The simplified extracting process and the epoxy modification of EUG would extend its application in rubber materials, medical materials, and biopolymer materials.
An investigation into resorcinol formaldehyde carbon aerogel/epoxy coatings: Exploring mechanical properties, ultraviolet stability, and corrosion resistance
Authors: Naderi Mehdi , Aghabararpour Mohammad , Najafi Mohammad , Motahari Siamak
Published: July 2019

In the present study, carbon aerogels (CAs) are prepared through the pyrolysis of resorcinol‐formaldehyde aerogel and are then used as reinforcement in epoxy resin (ER) for coating applications. In order to reduce the viscosity of ER and enhance the dispersion and wetting of CA particles in the epoxy matrix, a reactive diluent is used. ER coatings containing different contents of CAs were synthesized and analyzed in terms of mechanical, morphological, ultraviolet (UV) resistance, adhesion, and anticorrosion properties. Applying only 3 wt% of CAs could significantly improve the mechanical properties, impact strength, and the joint shear strength of the ER. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy data before and after UV degradation were used for investigating the effect of CAs on UV stability; it was confirmed that CAs particles improved the UV resistance of the epoxy coatings. Moreover, the results of salt spray test and electro impedance spectroscopy proved that CAs enhanced the corrosion resistance of the epoxy coatings efficiently.
Biomass‐derived furanic polycarbonates: Mild synthesis and control of the glass transition temperature
Authors: Choi Eun Ho , Lee Juhyen , Son Seung Uk , Song Changsik
Published: July 2019

Bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF) is a promising biomass‐derived polymer platform, but it is incompatible with traditional methods used for synthesizing polycarbonates (PCs) owing to its thermal instability. In this study, BHMF‐based furanic (FR) PCs were prepared successfully at a relatively low temperature through the mediation of carbonyldiimidazole. The low Tg of aliphatic FR‐PCs was controlled elaborately, exploiting the reactivity of furan in the Diels–Alder reactions and the molecular rigidity of the resulting oxabicycles. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1796–1800
Older‐Age Social Pensions and Poverty: Revisiting Assumptions on Targeting and Universalism
Authors: Cruz‐Martínez Gibrán
Published: July 2019

Whether social protection benefits should be assigned to all (universal) or kept only for those who meet specific criteria (targeting) remains one of the most contentious questions in social policy research. The purpose of this article is to revisit three assumptions on the two main social policy options for the provision of social benefits to older persons. Each assumption is assessed through counterfactual reasoning using a combination of literature review and statistical analysis with a global perspective. The study finds that (i) 79 countries would be economically able to shift from targeted noncontributory pensions to basic universal noncontributory pensions with less than 1.2 percent of the respective national gross domestic products; (ii) 16 countries have means‐tested/region‐tested noncontributory pensions more expensive than a hypothetical basic universal social pension; (iii) an arbitrary threshold of “economic development” is not a limitation for implementing social pensions; and (iv) at least 17 countries with relatively low economic development have successfully implemented social pensions without means targeting. Therefore, contrary to what several international organizations and scholars have argued, universal social pensions are politically and economically viable and efficient strategies to alleviate income poverty.