bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of lung ultrasound in patients hospitalized for heart disease irrespective of symptoms and ejection fraction
Authors: Gargani Luna , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo , Frassi Francesca , Frumento Paolo , Poggianti Elisa , Mazzola Matteo , De Biase Nicolò , Landi Patrizia , Masi Stefano , Taddei Stefano , Pang Peter S. , Sicari Rosa
Published: May 2021

Aims

Lung ultrasound B‐lines are the sonographic sign of pulmonary congestion and can be used in the differential diagnosis of dyspnoea to rule in or rule out acute heart failure (AHF). Our aim was to assess the prognostic value of B‐lines, integrated with echocardiography, in patients admitted to a cardiology department, independently of the initial clinical presentation, thus in patients with and without AHF, and in AHF with reduced and preserved ejection fraction (HFrEF and HFpEF).

Methods and results

We enrolled consecutive patients admitted for various cardiac conditions. Patients were classified into three groups: (i) acute HFrEF; (ii) acute HFpEF; and (iii) non‐AHF. All patients underwent an echocardiogram coupled with lung ultrasound at admission, according to standardized protocols. We followed up 1021 consecutive inpatients (69 ± 12 years) for a median of 14.4 months (interquartile range 4.6–24.3) for death and rehospitalization for AHF. During the follow‐up, 126 events occurred. Admission B‐lines > 30, ejection fraction < 50%, tricuspid regurgitation velocity > 2.8 m/s, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion < 17 mm were independent predictors at multivariable analysis. B‐lines > 30 had a strong predictive value in HFpEF and non‐AHF, but not in HFrEF.

Conclusions

Ultrasound B‐lines can detect subclinical pulmonary interstitial oedema in patients thought to be free of congestion and provide useful information not only for the diagnosis but also for the prognosis in different cardiac conditions. Their added prognostic value among standard echocardiographic parameters is more robust in patients with HFpEF compared with HFrEF.
Women with peripartum cardiomyopathy have normal ejection fraction, but abnormal systolic strain, during pregnancy
Authors: Tamrat Ruth , Kang Yu , Scherrer‐Crosbie Marielle , Levine Lisa D. , Arany Zoltan , Lewey Jennifer
Published: May 2021

We report a case series of six women with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) who incidentally underwent echocardiography prior to the clinical presentation of PPCM. For comparison, we identified controls, matched 2:1 on age, race, body mass index, gestational age, and hypertensive disorder. Among the six cases, all were diagnosed with PPCM during the post‐partum period. Pre‐PPCM echocardiograms were performed between 17.7 weeks of gestation and 13 days post‐partum. Baseline left ventricular ejection fraction and size were normal and similar to the 12 matched controls (60% ± 6.6% vs. 61.4% ± 6.3%, P = 0.63) or left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension (4.6 cm ± 0.2 cm vs. 4.5 cm ± 0.4 cm, P = 0.689). There was a trend towards a less negative (more abnormal) mean global longitudinal strain in cases compared with controls (−14% ± 4% vs. −18.3% ± 4.5%, P = 0.0658). Mean global circumferential strain was significantly less negative (more abnormal) in cases compared with controls (−21.5% ± 5% vs. −29.3% ± 7.6%, P = 0.0329). We conclude that women who develop PPCM have normal left ventricular ejection fraction during gestation preceding PPCM, indicating that the disease develops acutely in the peripartum period. Abnormal strain can be detected, however, suggesting that strain imaging could represent a screening method in populations at high risk for PPCM if confirmed in future studies.
Patient profiling in heart failure for tailoring medical therapy. A consensus document of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Moura Brenda , Metra Marco , Böhm Michael , Bauersachs Johann , Ben Gal Tuvia , Adamopoulos Stamatis , Abdelhamid Magdy , Bistola Vasiliki , Čelutkienė Jelena , Chioncel Ovidiu , Farmakis Dimitrios , Ferrari Roberto , Filippatos Gerasimos , Hill Loreena , Jankowska Ewa A. , Jaarsma Tiny , Jhund Pardeep , Lainscak Mitja , Lopatin Yuri , Lund Lars H. , Milicic Davor , Mullens Wilfried , Pinto Fausto , Ponikowski Piotr , Savarese Gianluigi , Thum Thomas , Volterrani Maurizio , Anker Stefan D. , Seferovic Petar M. , Coats Andrew J.S.
Published: May 2021

Despite guideline recommendations and available evidence, implementation of treatment in heart failure (HF) is poor. The majority of patients are not prescribed drugs at target doses that have been proven to positively impact morbidity and mortality. Among others, tolerability issues related to low blood pressure, heart rate, impaired renal function or hyperkalaemia are responsible. Chronic kidney disease plays an important role as it affects up to 50% of patients with HF. Also, dynamic changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate may occur during the course of HF, resulting in inappropriate dose reduction or even discontinuation of decongestive or neurohormonal modulating therapy in clinical practice. As patients with HF are rarely naïve to pharmacologic therapies, the challenge is to adequately prioritize or select the most appropriate up‐titration schedule according to patient profile. In this consensus document, we identified nine patient profiles that may be relevant for treatment implementation in HF patients with a reduced ejection fraction. These profiles take into account heart rate (<60 bpm or >70 bpm), the presence of atrial fibrillation, symptomatic low blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate (<30 or >30 mL/min/1.73 m2) or hyperkalaemia. The pre‐discharge patient, frequently still congestive, is also addressed. A personalized approach, adjusting guideline‐directed medical therapy to patient profile, may allow to achieve a better and more comprehensive therapy for each individual patient than the more traditional, forced titration of each drug class before initiating treatment with the next.
Facilitating higher photovoltaic penetration in residential distribution networks using demand side management and active voltage control
Authors: Pillai Gobind , Allison Michael , Tun Thet Paing , Chandrakumar Jyothi Kiran , Kollonoor Babu Eaby
Published: May 2021

Future power networks are certain to have high penetrations of renewable distributed generation such as photovoltaics (PV). At times of high PV generation and low customer demand (e.g., summer), network voltage is likely to rise beyond limits mandated by grid codes resulting in a curtailment of PV generation, unless appropriate control means are used. This leads to a reduction in energy yield and consequently reduces the economic viability of PV systems. This work focuses on scenario‐based impact assessments underpinned by a net prosumer load forecasting framework as part of power system planning to aid sustainable energy policymaking. Based on use‐case scenarios, the efficacy of smart grid solutions demand side management (DSM) and Active Voltage Control in maximizing PV energy yield and therefore revenue returns for prosumers and avoided costs for distribution networks between a developed country (the UK) and developing country (India) is analyzed. The results showed that while DSM could be a preferred means because of its potential for deployment via holistic demand response schemes for India and similar developing nations, technically the combination of the weaker low voltage network with significantly higher solar resource meant that it is not effective in preventing PV energy curtailment.
How changes in human activities during the lockdown impacted air quality parameters: A review
Authors: Marinello Samuele , Butturi Maria Angela , Gamberini Rita
Published: May 2021

The health emergency linked to the spread of COVID‐19 has led to important reduction in industrial and logistics activities, as well as to a drastic changes in citizens' behaviors and habits. The restrictions on working activities, journeys and relationships imposed by the lockdown have had important consequences, including for environmental quality. This review aims to provide a structured and critical evaluation of the recent scientific bibliography that analyzed and described the impact of lockdown on human activities and on air quality. The results indicate an important effect of the lockdown during the first few months of 2020 on air pollution levels, compared to previous periods. The concentrations of particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide have decreased. Tropospheric ozone, on the other hand, has significantly increased. These results are important indicators that can become decision drivers for future policies and strategies in industrial and logistics activities (including the mobility sector) aimed at their environmental sustainability. The scenario imposed by COVID‐19 has supported the understanding of the link between the reduction of polluting emissions and the state of air quality and will be able to support strategic choices for the future sustainable growth of the industrial and logistics sector.
Energy storage and reuse in biological systems: Case studies
Authors: Ulu Gizem , Semerciöz Ayşe Selcen , Özilgen Mustafa
Published: May 2021

The consequences of energy storage in the body as fat and then reusing it in the metabolism are assessed for seven cases by referring to entropy generation as the criterion for assessment: Case 1: Glycogen and lipids are stored by a person by dieting and then reused. Case 2: Glucose is converted into fat and then reconverted it into glucose spontaneously. Case 3: 2400 kcal of high‐fat diet induced fatty liver disease and then a low‐fat diet is consumed to recover. Case 4: Intermittent fasting by skipping a meal up to 30 days/year. Case 5: Salmon store fat in its body and reuse it later during its journey back to its spawning place. Case 6: Entropic assessment of the female arctic squirrels in hibernation is done. Case 7: Mean exergy cost of active field metabolism of homeothermic/endothermic birds and mammals is compared. Assessments show that energy storage and its reuse generated negligible aging entropy in humans, intermittent caloric restriction via skipping a meal for 30 days in a year may extend the life span approximately 3%. Migrant or hibernating animals store energy and then reuse it with absolutely different purposes than the humans and generate most of their life span entropy.
A Review of Water Quality Factors that Affect Nickel Bioavailability to Aquatic Organisms: Refinement of the Biotic Ligand Model for Nickel in Acute and Chronic Exposures
Authors: Santore Robert C. , Croteau Kelly , Ryan Adam C. , Schlekat Christian , Middleton Elizabeth , Garman Emily , Hoang Tham
Published: May 2021

A review of nickel (Ni) toxicity to aquatic organisms was conducted to determine the primary water quality factors that affect Ni toxicity and to provide information for the development and testing of a biotic ligand model (BLM) for Ni. Acute and chronic data for 66 aquatic species were compiled for the present review. The present review found that dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and hardness act as toxicity-modifying factors (TMFs) because they reduced Ni toxicity to fish and aquatic invertebrates, and these effects were consistent in acute and chronic exposures. The effects of pH on Ni toxicity were inconsistent, and for most organisms there was either no effect of pH or, in some cases, a reduction in toxicity at low pH. There appears to be a unique pH effect on Ceriodaphnia dubia that results in increased toxicity at pHs above 8, but otherwise the effects of TMFs were consistent enough across all organisms and endpoints that a single set of parameters in the Ni BLM worked well with all acute and chronic toxicity data for fish, amphibians, aquatic invertebrates, and aquatic plants and algae. The unique effects of pH on C. dubia may be due to mixture toxicity involving both Ni and bicarbonate. The implications of this mixture effect on BLM modeling and a proposed set of BLM parameters for C. dubia are addressed in the review. Other than this exception, the Ni BLM with a single set of parameters could successfully predict toxicity to all acute and chronic data compiled in the present review. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2121–2134. © 2021 SETAC
A farming system typology for the adoption of new technology in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Mamunur Rashid , Galdos Marcelo Valadares , Challinor Andrew J. , Hossain Akbar
Published: May 2021

Over the last three decades, few studies have been conducted to tackle the complexity and heterogeneity of Bangladesh farming systems. We address these research gaps with a new survey. Accordingly, a survey was conducted in North‐Western Bangladesh to understand how socio‐economic traits influence technology adoption and to identify and characterize key farm types. The survey was based on farm household characteristics, farm structure, farming practices and livestock as well as the economic performance of the farm. Principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) were used to establish the different farm typologies, and the data set based on 27 variables was carefully analysed. The findings confirmed that the key variables that significantly affect the adoption of new agricultural technologies relate to age, farming experience, level of education of the household head, income, access to markets, land ownership, the proportion of hired labour, savings, food self‐sufficiency and income from off‐farm activities. Four main farm types were identified in the study area based on resource endowment and livelihood orientation. These are (1) well‐resourced farmers entirely dependent on agriculture and less reliant on off‐farm activities; (2) moderately resourced households, which are headed by an older male with greater farming experience and which are engaged in both on‐farm and off‐farm activities; (3) resource‐constrained households with cattle as the main livestock and with income generated by the sale of livestock products; and (4) severely resource‐constrained households which are headed by young farmers/men and where income is generated by off‐farm activities. These four farm categories represent the heterogeneity of farms in North‐West Bangladesh, and it is hoped that the development of this farm household typology will help particularly the extension service, to set up appropriate extension advice that will benefit the farming community.
A novel process to improve the characteristics of low‐fat ice cream using date fiber powder
Authors: Mansour Ali I. A. , Ahmed Mahmoud A. , Elfaruk Mohamed Salem , Alsaleem Khalid A. , Hammam Ahmed R. A. , El‐Derwy Yaser M. A.
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to improve the characteristics of low‐fat ice cream (LFIC) using date fiber powder (DFP). DFP was added to LFIC mix (3% fat, 14% milk solids nonfat, 15% sucrose, 0.3% stabilizer, and 0.1% vanilla) at a rate of 1.5%, 2.5%, and 3.5%. Control treatment with no DFP was also manufactured for comparison. The LFIC mix was analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological analyses. After manufacture, microbiological, rheological, and sensory characteristics of LFIC were evaluated during storage at −18˚C for 30 days. The addition of DFP to the LFIC mix led to increasing (p < .05) the density and weight per gallon (lb) of final product. Thus, a 3.5% of DFP led to increasing the density of LFIC from 0.6 to 1.0 g/cm3 and weight per gallon from 5.2 to 9.0 lb, while the overrun of LFIC was decreased (p < .05) from 50.0% to 24.0%. Additionally, the melting resistance of LFIC made with DFP was higher (p < .05) as compared to control. Approximately 60% of LFIC made with DFP was melted after 50 min compared to 100% in control. The total bacterial count (TBC) and yeast and molds' count slightly increased in LFIC with adding DFP. However, there was a slight decrease in these counts during storage for 30 days. Psychrotrophic and coliform bacteria were not detected in the LFIC. Organoleptically, LFIC made with DFP showed higher scores (p < .05) of body and texture, melting quality, and appearance as compared to control during the 30 days of storage. However, the flavor was slightly decreased (p < .05) as the concentration of DFP was increased. The overall scores were increased with increasing the DFP concentrations up to 15 days as compared to control, followed by a decrease at 30 days of storage.
Validated HPTLC and antioxidant activities for quality control of catechin in a fermented tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica)
Authors: Thammarat Phanit , Sirilun Sasithorn , Phongpradist Rungsinee , Raiwa Araya , Pandith Hataichanok , Jiaranaikulwanitch Jutamas
Published: May 2021

Miang, a Thai traditional fermented tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica), is exploited as nutraceutical and cosmeceutical ingredients despite limited standardization studies. Thus, this research aimed to develop a simple and rapid method for miang quality control using catechin and high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) validated according to the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) and the Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC). The developing solvent consisting of toluene: ethyl acetate: acetone: formic acid (6:6:6:1 v/v/v/v) showed acceptable specificity with Rf value of 0.54 ± 0.02 and linearity with correlation coefficient of 0.9951. The recovery was 98.84%–103.53%, and the RSD of intra‐ and inter‐day precision was 0.70%–3.00% and 1.93%–4.94%, respectively. Miang ethyl acetate fraction is suggested to be attractive ingredient due to rich catechin (25.78 ± 0.53%), prolonged stability at 40 ◦C, and strong antioxidants determined by the assays of ABTS (IC50 = 3.32 ± 0.74 mg/ml), FRAP (89.05 ± 15.49 mg equivalent of FeSO4/g), and inhibition of lipid peroxidation (IC50 = 4.36 ± 0.67 mg/ml).
The potential of Quercetin to protect against loperamide‐induced constipation in rats
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Zhi Aimin
Published: May 2021

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint all over the world, and it is a risk factor of colorectal cancer. In this study, the protective of Quercetin against loperamide‐induced constipation and its potential mechanism in a rat model were investigated. Results showed that Quercetin at 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg could significantly (p < .05) increase the intestinal transit rate, motilin, gastrin, substance P levels, and concentration of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), reduce the somatostatin levels, and improve the gastrointestinal peristalsis of rats. In addition, the expression levels of enteric nerve‐related factors, glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), c‐Kit, stem cell factor (SCF), and aquaporin 3 (AQP3) were examined by RT‐qPCR and/or Western blot analysis. The results suggest that Quercetin relieves loperamide‐induced constipation by increasing the levels of interstitial cells of Cajal markers (c‐Kit and SCF), as well as AQP3. In conclusion, the present study suggested that Quercetin exerted a protective effect against loperamide‐induced constipation, which may be associated with its role in regulation of multiple signal pathways.
Antioxidant vitamins promote anticancer effects on low‐concentration methotrexate‐treated glioblastoma cells via enhancing the caspase‐3 death pathway
Authors: Yiang Giou‐Teng , Chen Tsu‐Yi , Chen Cian , Hung Yu‐Ting , Hsueh Kuan‐Chun , Wu Tsai‐Kun , Pan Ying‐Ru , Chien Yi‐Chung , Chen Chao‐Hsuan , Yu Yung‑Lung , Wei Chyou‐Wei
Published: May 2021

Vitamin C and vitamin E are well‐known antioxidant vitamins, both of which are also applied as adjunct treatments for cancer therapy. Methotrexate (MTX) is a clinical drug that is used widely for rheumatoid arthritis and cancer treatment. Human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive malignant brain tumor; the mean survival time for GBM patients is <2 years with traditional therapies. Developing and investigating novel treatments are important for clinical GBM therapy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether combined treatment with vitamin C/E and MTX can display anticancer activities on GBM. Our studies showed that MTX displays anticancer effects on GBM in a dose‐dependent manner, while vitamins C and E are not cytotoxic to glioblastoma. Importantly, this study showed that vitamins C and E can promote anticancer effects on low‐concentration methotrexate‐treated glioblastoma. Additionally, this study suggested that MTX alone or combined with vitamins C/E inhibits GBM cell growth via the caspase‐3 death pathway.
Geoscience data publication: Practices and perspectives on enabling the FAIR guiding principles
Authors: Kinkade Danie , Shepherd Adam
Published: May 2021

Introduced in 2016, the FAIR Guiding Principles endeavour to significantly improve the process of today's data‐driven research. The Principles present a concise set of fundamental concepts that can facilitate the findability, accessibility, interoperability and reuse (FAIR) of digital research objects by both machines and human beings. The emergence of FAIR has initiated a flurry of activity within the broader data publication community, yet the principles are still not fully understood by many community stakeholders. This has led to challenges such as misinterpretation and co‐opted use, along with persistent gaps in current data publication culture, practices and infrastructure that need to be addressed to achieve a FAIR data end‐state. This paper presents an overview of the practices and perspectives related to the FAIR Principles within the Geosciences and offers discussion on the value of the principles in the larger context of what they are trying to achieve. The authors of this article recommend using the principles as a tool to bring awareness to the types of actions that can improve the practice of data publication to meet the needs of all data consumers. FAIR Guiding Principles should be interpreted as an aspirational guide to focus behaviours that lead towards a more FAIR data environment. The intentional discussions and incremental changes that bring us closer to these aspirations provide the best value to our community as we build the capacity that will support and facilitate new discovery of earth systems.
Microstates in complex and dynamical environments: Unraveling situational awareness in critical helicopter landing maneuvers
Authors: Deolindo Camila S. , Ribeiro Mauricio W. , de Aratanha Maria A. A. , Scarpari José R. S. , Forster Carlos H. Q. , da Silva Roberto G. A. , Machado Birajara S. , Amaro Junior Edson , König Thomas , Kozasa Elisa H.
Published: May 2021

Understanding decision‐making in complex and dynamic environments is relevant for designing strategies targeting safety improvements and error rate reductions. However, studies evaluating brain dynamics in realistic situations are scarce in the literature. Given the evidence that specific microstates may be associated with perception and attention, in this work we explored for the first time the application of the microstate model in an ecological, dynamic and complex scenario. More specifically, we evaluated elite helicopter pilots during engine‐failure missions in the vicinity of the so called “dead man's curve,” which establishes the operational limits for a safe landing after the execution of a recovery maneuver (autorotation). Pilots from the Brazilian Air Force flew a AS‐350 helicopter in a certified aerodrome and physiological sensor data were synchronized with the aircraft's flight test instrumentation. We assessed these neural correlates during maneuver execution, by comparing their modulations and source reconstructed activity with baseline epochs before and after flights. We show that the topographies of our microstate templates with 4, 5, and 6 classes resemble the literature, and that a distinct modulation characterizes decision‐making intervals. Moreover, the source reconstruction result points to a differential activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, which is associated to emotional regulation circuits in the brain. Our results suggest that microstates are promising neural correlates to evaluate realistic situations, even in a challenging and intrinsically noisy environment. Furthermore, it strengthens their usage and expands their application for studying cognition under more realistic conditions.
Functional brain plasticity during L1 training on complex sentences: Changes in gamma‐band oscillatory activity
Authors: Wang Peng , Knösche Thomas R. , Chen Luyao , Brauer Jens , Friederici Angela D. , Maess Burkhard
Published: May 2021

The adult human brain remains plastic even after puberty. However, whether first language (L1) training in adults can alter the language network is yet largely unknown. Thus, we conducted a longitudinal training experiment on syntactically complex German sentence comprehension. Sentence complexity was varied by the depth of the center embedded relative clauses (i.e., single or double embedded). Comprehension was tested after each sentence with a question on the thematic role assignment. Thirty adult, native German speakers were recruited for 4 days of training. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) data were recorded and subjected to spectral power analysis covering the classical frequency bands (i.e., theta, alpha, beta, low gamma, and gamma). Normalized spectral power, time‐locked to the final closure of the relative clause, was subjected to a two‐factor analysis (“sentence complexity” and “training days”). Results showed that for the more complex sentences, the interaction of sentence complexity and training days was observed in Brodmann area 44 (BA 44) as a decrease of gamma power with training. Moreover, in the gamma band (55–95 Hz) functional connectivity between BA 44 and other brain regions such as the inferior frontal sulcus and the inferior parietal cortex were correlated with behavioral performance increase due to training. These results show that even for native speakers, complex L1 sentence training improves language performance and alters neural activities of the left hemispheric language network. Training strengthens the use of the dorsal processing stream with working‐memory‐related brain regions for syntactically complex sentences, thereby demonstrating the brain's functional plasticity for L1 training.
Measuring pure health inequality and mobility during a health insurance expansion: Evidence from Mexico
Authors: Costa‐Font Joan , Cowell Frank A. , Saenz de Miera Belen
Published: May 2021

The association of insurance expansions and the distribution of health status is still a matter we know little about. This paper draws upon new measures of pure (univariate) inequality and mobility which accommodate categorical data to understand how an expansion of public insurance may be related to both health inequality and mobility. These measures require a definition of individual's status that is either “downward looking” or “upward looking”. Using data from the Mexican Family Life Survey, a nationally representative longitudinal survey, we find that the distribution of health has worsened in Mexico between 2002 and 2009, although the change is only consistent for an upward looking definition status. Together with the lack of mobility in self‐reported health, we can thus conclude that Mexico has become more rigid over time despite the rapid public health expansion that took place over the 2000s decade. While further research on the potential drivers of health inequalities is needed, our findings suggest that insurance coverage alone may be not enough to reduce health disparities and promote health mobility. Indeed, health inequality and mobility likely depend on a myriad of factors beyond health care.
Margin status, local control, and disease‐specific survival in surgically resected parotid carcinomas with parapharyngeal extension
Authors: Li Hao , McGill Marlena , Putri Natascha , Yuan Avery , Wong Richard J. , Patel Snehal G. , Ganly Ian
Published: May 2021

Background

Resection of parotid carcinomas involving the parapharyngeal space is challenging. How this affects tumor margin control, recurrence, and survival is unclear.

Methods

Patients who underwent resection of parotid carcinomas between 1985 and 2015 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center were evaluated for the impact of parapharyngeal extension (PPE) on margin status, local recurrence‐free probability (LRFP), and disease‐specific survival (DSS).

Results

Out of 214 patients in whom preoperative imaging was available for review, 22 (10.3%) had PPE. Matched by histotypes, carcinomas with PPE had comparable margin positivity (p = 0.479), T classification (p = 0.316), pathologic risk (p = 0.936), and adjuvant therapy (p = 0.617) to those without PPE. The 3‐year LRFP was 88.9% versus 95.4% (hazard ratio [HR] 2.23 after adjusting for pT classification, p = 0.342) and the 5‐year DSS was 74.2% versus 69.5% (adjusted HR 0.45, p = 0.232) in patients with and without PPE.

Conclusion

PPE does not appear to worsen oncologic outcomes in the resection of parotid carcinomas.
Supracricoid partial laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy for patients with laryngeal cicatricial stenosis: Safety and efficacy
Authors: Yu Lingyu , Zheng Meijun , Ren Jia , Hu Juanjuan , Lu Dan , Yang Hui
Published: May 2021

Background

We assessed the safety and efficacy of supracricoid partial laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglottopexy (SCL‐CHEP) in patients with laryngeal cicatricial stenosis.

Methods

Sixteen patients receiving SCL‐CHEP for severe laryngeal cicatricial stenosis between 2017 and 2018 were reviewed. Decannulation rate and tracheostomy closure time were used to evaluate efficacy. The Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10), Voice‐related Quality of Life (V‐RQOL) scale and Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, and Strain (GRBAS) scale were used to assess vocal function. Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) was performed and the Penetration‐Aspiration Scale (PAS), Eating Assessment Tool‐10 (EAT‐10), and Swallow Quality of Life Questionnaire (SWAL‐QOL) were used to assess swallowing function.

Results

Thirteen patients (81.25%) were decannulated successfully. The average tracheostomy closure time was 45.15 days. There was no observed postoperative complications or recurrence of stenosis. VHI‐10 and V‐RQOL scores showed significantly improved V‐RQOL (p < 0.05). FEES‐PAS, EAT‐10, and SWAL‐QOL showed no swallowing function damage.

Conclusions

SCL‐CHEP is effective and safe for patients with severe laryngeal cicatricial stenosis. Accurate pre‐procedure evaluation is especially important for patient selection and surgical success.
Postdiagnosis Aspirin Use Associated With Decreased Biliary Tract Cancer–Specific Mortality in a Large Nationwide Cohort
Authors: Liao Shu‐Fen , Koshiol Jill , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Jackson Sarah S. , Huang Yu‐Han , Chan Chi , Huang Claire , Liu Po‐Chun , Chen Yen‐Ju , Hsieh Rebecca J. , Huang Ching‐Po , Lu Sheng‐Nan , Chen Chien‐Jen , Shen Chen‐Yang , Lee Mei‐Hsuan
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is rare and has limited treatment options. We aimed to examine aspirin use on cancer‐specific survival in various BTC subtypes, including gallbladder cancer, ampulla of Vater cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma.

Approach and Results

Nationwide prospective cohort of newly diagnosed BTC between 2007 and 2015 were included and followed until December 31, 2017. Three nationwide databases, namely the Cancer Registration, National Health Insurance, and Death Certification System, were used for computerized data linkage. Aspirin use was defined as one or more prescriptions, and the maximum defined daily dose was used to evaluate the dose–response relationship. Cox’s proportional hazards models were applied for estimating HRs and 95% CIs. Analyses accounted for competing risk of cardiovascular deaths, and landmark analyses to avoid immortal time bias were performed. In total, 2,519 of patients with BTC were exposed to aspirin after their diagnosis (15.7%). After a mean follow‐up of 1.59 years, the 5‐year survival rate was 27.4%. The multivariate‐adjusted HR for postdiagnosis aspirin users, as compared with nonusers, was 0.55 (95% CI: 0.51 to 0.58) for BTC‐specific death. Adjusted HRs for BTC‐specific death were 0.53 (95% CI: 0.48 to 0.59) and 0.42 (95% CI: 0.31 to 0.58) for ≤ 1 and > 1 maximum defined daily dose, respectively, and showed a dose–response trend (P < 0.001; nonusers as a reference). Cancer‐specific mortality was lower with postdiagnosis aspirin use in patients with all major BTC subtypes.

Conclusions

The nationwide study revealed that postdiagnosis aspirin use was associated with improved BTC‐specific mortality of various subtypes. The findings suggest that additional randomized trials are required to investigate aspirin’s efficacy in BTC.
Object and object‐memory representations across the proximodistal axis of CA1
Authors: Vandrey Brianna , Duncan Stephen , Ainge James A.
Published: May 2021

Episodic memory requires information about objects to be integrated into a spatial framework. Place cells in the hippocampus encode spatial representations of objects that could be generated through signaling from the entorhinal cortex. Projections from lateral (LEC) and medial entorhinal cortex (MEC) to the hippocampus terminate in distal and proximal CA1, respectively. We recorded place cells in distal and proximal CA1 as rats explored an environment that contained objects. Place cells in distal CA1 demonstrated higher measures of spatial tuning, stability, and closer proximity of place fields to objects. Furthermore, remapping to object displacement was modulated by place field proximity to objects in distal, but not proximal CA1. Finally, representations of previous object locations were closer to those locations in distal CA1 than proximal CA1. Our data suggest that in cue‐rich environments, LEC inputs to the hippocampus support spatial representations with higher spatial tuning, closer proximity to objects, and greater stability than those receiving inputs from MEC. This is consistent with functional segregation in the entorhinal–hippocampal circuits underlying object‐place memory.
Recent advancements in halide perovskite nanomaterials and their optoelectronic applications
Authors: VanOrman Zachary A. , Nienhaus Lea
Published: May 2021

Lead halide perovskite nanomaterials are among the forefront of developing materials for energy harvesting and light‐emitting applications. Their unique defect tolerance, high photoluminescent quantum yields, and vast synthetic tunability make them attractive for many optoelectronic applications. In this review article, the broad synthetic toolbox of these materials is discussed, including how synthetic conditions can tune the optical properties and dimensionality of the resulting perovskite nanomaterial. Additionally, we discuss the brief history, current state, and bright future of these materials, in tune with their optoelectronic applications, namely in light‐emitting diodes, lasing, photovoltaics, photon interconversion applications, and in photodetectors.

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Low‐dose photodynamic therapy effect on closure of scratch wounds of normal and diabetic fibroblast cells: An in vitro study
Authors: Khorsandi Khatereh , Fekrazad Reza , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: May 2021

Chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers are a serious public health problem. Extensive research is needed to find new alternatives for wound treatment. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non‐invasive method, which has been studied for several decades to treat cancer, infections, and other diseases. PDT involves the administration of a photosensitizer compound followed by irradiation with using light at specific wavelength to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) using molecular oxygen. It is possible that low dose photodynamic therapy (LDPDT) could improve wound healing and stimulates the cell repair process. This study we explored the effect of LDPDT on wound healing in vitro using normal and diabetic cellular wound models. The effects of different concentrations of 5‐ALA and different energy densities (dark or light) on the cell viability of human fibroblast cells were studied using the MTT assay. After ascertaining the optimum parameters, a scratch wound assay was performed on both normal and diabetic cells and then cells treated with 1 and 5 μg/mL of 5‐ALA at 1 J/cm2 energy density. ROS production and morphological alteration of the cells were studied. The mortality of normal fibroblast cells increased with increasing 5‐ALA concentration and also increasing energy density (up to 3 J/cm2). However, in diabetic cells, the mortality rate did not decrease. Diabetic cells showed increased migration and closure of the scratch compared to normal cells under similar conditions. A low concentration of 5‐ALA (5 μg/mL) and low energy density of 1 J/cm2 in both normal and diabetic cells gave a small increase in ROS levels compared to controls. This may explain the positive effects of LDPDT on wound healing. The findings of this study suggest that LDPDT may have a potential effect on the wound healing of diabetic wounds.
Chronobiology and Chronotherapy of Osteoporosis
Authors: Winter Elizabeth M , Kooijman Sander , Appelman‐Dijkstra Natasha M , Meijer Onno C , Rensen Patrick CN , Schilperoort Maaike
Published: May 2021

Physiological circadian (ie, 24‐hour) rhythms are critical for bone health. Animal studies have shown that genes involved in the intrinsic molecular clock demonstrate potent circadian expression patterns in bone and that genetic disruption of these clock genes results in a disturbed bone structure and quality. More importantly, circulating markers of bone remodeling show diurnal variation in mice as well as humans, and circadian disruption by, eg, working night shifts is associated with the bone remodeling disorder osteoporosis. In this review, we provide an overview of the current literature on rhythmic bone remodeling and its underlying mechanisms and identify critical knowledge gaps. In addition, we discuss novel (chrono)therapeutic strategies to reduce osteoporosis by utilizing our knowledge on circadian regulation of bone. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Super‐enhancer–associated long noncoding RNA RP11‐569A11.1 inhibited cell progression and metastasis by regulating IFIT2 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Chen Huanhuan , Zheng Junyu , Yan Linping , Zhou Xin , Jiang Pan , Yan Feng
Published: May 2021

Background

Recent studies have revealed that super‐enhancer–associated long noncoding RNAs (SE‐LncRNAs) act pivotal roles in carcinogenesis. This study aimed to report the identification of a novel SE‐LncRNA, RP11‐569A11.1, and its functional role in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression.

Methods

Arraystar human SE‐LncRNA microarray was performed to detect differentially expressed SE‐LncRNAs in CRC tissues. RT‐qPCR was conducted to detect the expression level of RP11‐569A11.1 in CRC tissues and cells. The ROC curve was used to analyze the sensitivity and specificity of RP11‐569A11.1 in CRC diagnosis. CCK‐8 assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry assay, and transwell assay were used to study the function of RP11‐569A11.1. RNA‐seq array was performed to analyze the potential downstream target gene of RP11‐569A11.1. Western blot assay was conducted to measure the protein level of interferon‐induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeat 2 (IFIT2).

Results

A total of 23 (15 up‐ and 8 downregulated) significantly expressed SE‐LncRNAs were identified in CRC tissues. The top 8 upregulated SE‐LncRNAs were RP11‐893F2.9, PTCSC1, RP11‐803D5.4, AC005592.2, LINC00152, LINC01232, AC017002.1, and RP4‐673M15.1, and the top 8 downregulated SE‐LncRNAs were RP11‐569A11.1, RP11‐245G13.2, RP11‐556N21.1, U91328.19, AX748340, CTD‐2337J16.1, CATG00000108830.1, and RP11‐670E13.2. Of which, RP11‐569A11.1 was found to be significantly downregulated in CRC tissues and cells. ROC curve analysis showed the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.77 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.660–0.884, p < 0.001], and the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were 74.29% and 71.43%, respectively. Functionally, overexpression of RP11‐569A11.1 inhibited CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced cell apoptosis, while knockdown of RP11‐569A11.1 generated an opposite effect. Mechanistically, RP11‐569A11.1 positively regulated IFIT2 expression in CRC cells.

Conclusion

RP11‐569A11.1 inhibited CRC tumorigenesis by IFIT2‐dependent and could serve as a promising diagnostic biomarker in CRC.
Feasibility of convalescent plasma therapy in severe COVID‐19 patients with persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 viremia
Authors: Camou Fabrice , Tinevez Claire , Beguet‐Yachine Mathilde , Bellecave Pantxika , Ratiarison Diana , Tumiotto Camille , Lafarge Xavier , Guisset Olivier , Mourissoux Gaëlle , Lafon Marie‐Edith , Bonnet Fabrice , Issa Nahéma
Published: May 2021

This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of convalescent plasma therapy (CPT) in COVID‐19 critically ill patients with protracted severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) RNAemia. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in intensive care unit (ICU). All patients with severe COVID‐19 pneumonia for whom RNAemia remained positive more than 14 days after onset of the infection were included and given CPT. The primary objective was to evaluate SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia 7 days (D7) after CPT. A total of 14 patients were included and they received a median CPT volume of 828 ml (range: 817–960). CPT was administered in a median time of 14 days after ICU admission. At D7, 13/14 patients had negative SARS‐CoV‐2 blood PCR and one patient had negative blood PCR 11 days after CPT. At D7 and at D14, the clinical status was improved in 7/14 and 11/14 patients, respectively. The 28‐day mortality rate was 14%. No CPT‐related adverse effects had been reported. CPT is safe and may be efficient in patients with protracted RNAemia admitted in ICU for severe COVID‐19 pneumonia. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these results.
Influenza season 2020–2021 did not begin in Finland despite the looser social restrictions during the second wave of COVID‐19: A nationwide register study
Authors: Kuitunen Ilari
Published: May 2021

The nationwide lockdowns ended influenza seasons rapidly in Northern Hemisphere in Spring 2020. The strategy during the second wave was to minimize the restrictions set for children. Children spread influenza and therefore simultaneous influenza and COVID‐19 surges were feared. The aim of this report is to analyze the epidemiology of influenza season 2020–2021 in Finland. Data for this retrospective register‐based study were gathered from the National Infectious Disease Register, all laboratory‐confirmed influenza cases from August 2017 to March 2021 were included. The positive influenza findings were stratified by age, and incidences per 100 000 persons were calculated. Only 41 influenza A and B cases have been reported in this season from August 2020 to March 2021, which adds up to an incidence of 0.9 per 100 000 person‐years. In the three preceding years, the numbers and corresponding incidences from August to March were 12 461 (282 per 100 000 person‐years) in 2019–2020, 15 276 (346 per 100 000 person‐years) in 2018–2019, and 33 659 (761 per 100 000 person‐years) in 2017–2018. Nonpharmaceutical interventions combined with the lockdown measures interrupted the influenza season in Finland in March 2020. Despite looser restrictions, alongside traveling restrictions and facial masks, failing to prevent the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus, these restrictions have proved to be effective against seasonal influenza.
Effect of the coronavirus pandemic on tumor markers
Authors: Purut Yunus Emre , Giray Burak , Gurbuz Esra
Published: May 2021

The new type of coronavirus could cause severe acute respiratory syndrome and injuries in other systems as well. Multiple organ damage can occur rapidly in patients infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Previous studies have shown that many laboratory biomarkers were not within the normal ranges in COVID‐19 patients. We aimed to summarize laboratory parameters and the tumor markers in COVID‐19 patients. This is a retrospective cohort study conducted on 53 women between the ages of 19–85 years infected with COVID‐19 at a training and research hospital between May 2020 and August 2020. Of the 53 women, 16 (30.2%) had leukopenia. The mean C‐reactive protein level was 18.42 ± 59.33 mg/L. The mean procalcitonin level was 0.1 ± 0.21 µg/L. The liver function tests were within normal limits. The mean creatinine level was 0.58 ± 0.37 mg/dl. Elevated levels of α‐fetoprotein (AFP) in 1 patient, elevated levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in 2 patients, elevated levels of cancer antigen 125 (CA125) in 4 patients, elevated levels of CA19‐9 in 2 patients, and elevated levels of CA15‐3 in 2 patients were detected. One of 4 patients who were taken to the intensive care unit had elevated levels of AFP. In addition, 2 of 4 patients who were taken to the intensive care unit had elevated levels of CA125 and CA15‐3. Except for AFP, levels of all tumor markers of the patient who died were high. We found that COVID‐19 had no effect on tumor markers (CA125, CA19‐9, CA15‐3, AFP, and CEA).
Lymphopenia and lung complications in patients with coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19): A retrospective study based on clinical data
Authors: Zaboli Ehsan , Majidi Hadi , Alizadeh‐Navaei Reza , Hedayatizadeh‐Omran Akbar , Asgarian‐Omran Hossein , Vahedi Larijani Laleh , Khodaverdi Vahid , Amjadi Omolbanin
Published: May 2021

A rapid outbreak of novel coronavirus, coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19), has made it a global pandemic. This study focused on the possible association between lymphopenia and computed tomography (CT) scan features and COVID‐19 patient mortality. The clinical data of 596 COVID‐19 patients were collected from February 2020 to September 2020. The patients' serological survey and CT scan features were retrospectively explored. The median age of the patients was 56.7 ± 16.4 years old. Lung involvement was more than 50% in 214 COVID‐19 patients (35.9%). The average blood lymphocyte percentage was 20.35 ± 10.16 (normal range, 20%–50%). Although the levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were high in more than 80% of COVID‐19 patients; CRP, ESR, and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) may not indicate the in‐hospital mortality of COVID‐19. Patients with severe lung involvement and lymphopenia were found to be significantly associated with increased odds of death (odds ratio, 9.24; 95% confidence interval, 4.32–19.78). These results indicated that lymphopenia < 20% along with pulmonary involvement >50% impose a multiplicative effect on the risk of mortality. The in‐hospital mortality rate of this group was significantly higher than other COVID‐19 hospitalized cases. Furthermore, they meaningfully experienced a prolonged stay in the hospital (p = .00). Lymphocyte count less than 20% and chest CT scan findings with more than 50% involvement might be related to the patient's mortality. These could act as laboratory and clinical indicators of disease severity, mortality, and outcome.