bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of nail psoriasis with pulsed dye laser versus combined pulsed dye and Nd:YAG lasers—An intrapatient left‐to‐right study
Authors: Roter Gustaw , Szczerkowska‐Dobosz Aneta , Nowicki Roman J.
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

There are limited treatment options for nail psoriasis. It is important to find new therapies and improve existing ones. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of pulsed dye laser (PDL) versus combined PDL and Nd:YAG lasers in patients with nail psoriasis.

Methods

Fourteen patients (with a total of 126 nails affected by nail psoriasis) were treated with PDL (6 J/cm2, 7 mm, 0.45 milliseconds) on both hands and additionally with Nd:YAG (10 J/cm2, 6 mm, 15 milliseconds) on the right hand. Three treatment sessions were applied at 4‐week intervals and patients were followed up for 6 months after the last session. Disease severity was assessed using the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index, both 8‐ and 32‐point variant. Additionally, Dermatology Life Quality Index was assessed before and after treatment.

Results

Overall, there was a statistical difference in 8‐ and 32‐point NAPSI score before and after treatment for both hands. However, there was no statistical difference between the score for the right and left hands based on both scale variants. Some aspects of patients' lives showed improvement due to the treatment.

Conclusions

Both PDL in monotherapy and combined Nd:Yag+PDL lasers are safe and effective in treatment of nail psoriasis, although combined therapy shows no advantage over the use of a single laser.
Ilex paraguariensis Extracts Prevent Oxidative Damage in a Mouse Model of Age‐Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Tate Pablo S. , Marquioni‐Ramella Melisa D. , Cerchiaro Constanza , Suburo Angela M.
Published: March 2022

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), a chronic disease of the retina, leads to severe visual loss. AMD affects the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the visual cells (photoreceptors). RPE failure, the first step of this disease, is associated with oxidative stress. Since antioxidants can slow down AMD progression, the intake of foods and drinks rich in antioxidant compounds may reduce retinal damage. Ilex paraguariensis (yerba mate, YM) extracts reduce oxidative damage of RPE cells in vitro as shown in previous study. Here, the effects of YM drinking on RPE and photoreceptor survival after oxidative damage with sodium iodate (NaIO3; SI) in a murine AMD model are described. Funduscopy and histology show that YM treatment prevents RPE and photoreceptor damage. YM also increases the expression of NRF2, the master antioxidant gene, and its effectors HO‐1 and SOD2. In mice receiving YM and SI, the antioxidant response is larger than in mice receiving YM or SI alone. The YM drink also increases expression of RPE65, a gene that is involved in the functionality and survival of photoreceptors and RPE cells. The results suggest YM can play an important role in the prevention of retinal damage associated with oxidative stress, such as AMD.
Cardioprotective Properties of Phenolic Compounds: A Role for Biological Rhythms
Authors: Torres‐Fuentes Cristina , Suárez Manuel , Aragonès Gerard , Mulero Miquel , Ávila‐Román Javier , Arola‐Arnal Anna , Salvadó Maria Josepa , Arola Lluís , Bravo Francisca Isabel , Muguerza Begoña
Published: March 2022

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of deaths worldwide and their prevalence is continuously increasing. Available treatments may present several side effects and therefore the development of new safer therapeutics is of interest. Phenolic compounds have shown several cardioprotective properties helpful in reducing different CVD risk factors such as inflammation, elevated blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, or endothelial dysfunction. These factors are significantly influenced by biological rhythms which are in fact emerging as key modulators of important metabolic and physiological processes. Thus, increased events of CVD have been observed under circadian rhythm disruption or in winter versus other seasons. These rhythms can also affect the functionality of phenolic compounds. Indeed, different effects have been observed depending on the administration time or under different photoperiods. Therefore, in this review the focus will be on the potential of phenolic compounds as therapeutics to prevent CVD via biological rhythm modulation.
Effects of Cobalt Sources and Levels on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Metabolic Activities, and Cobalt Contents in the Tissue of Juvenile Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Li Xuehe , Lin Huaxing , Zhu Zhanhao , Watson Ray Gyan , Zhou Shuangyan , Yang Qihui , Tan Beiping
Published: March 2022

This two-factorial study was designed to evaluate the influence of cobalt (Co) sources (cobalt chloride hexahydrate [Cl-Co] and methionine Co [M-Co]) and levels (a control and two sets of five Co diets) on the growth performance, serum biochemistry, metabolic activities, and Co contents in the tissue of juvenile Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei. A total of 1,320 juvenile shrimp (0.49 ± 0.01 g [mean ± SD]) were randomized into 11 groups (three replicates of each group) and reared for 8 weeks. The results showed that final body weight, weight gain rate, and specific growth rate were significantly affected by Co level, Co source, and their interaction. Different dietary sources and Co levels had significant interaction effects on the triglyceride, total protein, and cholesterol contents but not on the glucose content. The results showed that Co sources and levels had interaction effects on the activities of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase in serum. The interaction had a notable influence on the Co content of the muscle and hepatopancreas. The Co content increased significantly with increased Co recruitment, and the value for the M-Co group was higher than that for the Cl-Co group when the dietary Co level was 40 mg/kg. According to the weight gain rate, the optimal requirements of M-Co and Cl-Co through broken-line regression analysis for juvenile Pacific white shrimp were 6.10 and 37.64 mg Co/kg, respectively. The growth promotion effect of M-Co on juvenile Pacific white shrimp was higher than that of Cl-Co.
Clinical effectiveness of focal muscle vibration on gait and postural stability in individuals with neurological disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Alashram Anas R. , Padua Elvira , Romagnoli Cristian , Raju Manikandan , Annino Giuseppe
Published: March 2022

Background

Gait deficits and postural instability are common impairments among patients with neurological disorders. These impairments limit function independence and decrease activities of daily living. Focal muscle vibration (FMV) produces vibration signals affecting the nervous system. No systematic review has been published examining the influence of FMV on gait ability and postural stability in individuals with neurological disorders.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effects of FMV on gait and postural stability parameters in individuals with neurological disorders.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, PEDro, REHABDATA, web of science, CHAINAL, EMBASE, and MEDLINE were searched from inception to July 2021. The methodological quality of the selected studies was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the eligibility criteria. The scores on the PEDro scale ranged from seven to nine, with a median score of eight. The results showed evidence for the benefits and non‐benefits of the FMV intervention on gait and postural stability in individuals with neurological disorders.

Conclusions

The FMV intervention is safe and well‐tolerated in individuals with neurological disorders. The evidence for the effects of FMV on individuals with neurological disorders was limited. Further high‐quality studies with long‐term follow‐up are strongly needed.
Structured Ultra‐Flyweight Aerogels by Interfacial Complexation: Self‐Assembly Enabling Multiscale Designs
Authors: Kamkar Milad , Ghaffarkhah Ahmadreza , Ajdary Rubina , Lu Yi , Ahmadijokani Farhad , Mhatre Sameer E. , Erfanian Elnaz , Sundararaj Uttandaraman , Arjmand Mohammad , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: March 2022

The rapid co‐assembly of graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets and a surfactant at the oil/water (O/W) interface is harnessed to develop a new class of soft materials comprising continuous, multilayer, interpenetrated, and tubular structures. The process uses a microfluidic approach that enables interfacial complexation of two‐phase systems, herein, termed as “liquid streaming” (LS). LS is demonstrated as a general method to design multifunctional soft materials of specific hierarchical order and morphology, conveniently controlled by the nature of the oil phase and extrusion's injection pressure, print‐head speed, and nozzle diameter. The as‐obtained LS systems can be readily converted into ultra‐flyweight aerogels displaying worm‐like morphologies with multiscale porosities (micro‐ and macro‐scaled). The presence of reduced GO nanosheets in such large surface area systems renders materials with outstanding mechanical compressibility and tailorable electrical activity. This platform for engineering soft materials and solid constructs opens up new horizons toward advanced functionality and tunability, as demonstrated here for ultralight printed conductive circuits and electromagnetic interference shields.
Solid‐State Na Metal Batteries with Superior Cycling Stability Enabled by Ferroelectric Enhanced Na/Na3Zr2Si2PO12 Interface
Authors: Sun Zheng , Zhao Yongjie , Ni Qing , Liu Yang , Sun Chen , Li Jingbo , Jin Haibo
Published: March 2022

Solid‐state metal batteries are attracting unprecedented concern because of their high energy density and safety. However, their service life, especially at high specific density, is hindered by the undesirable reversibility of metal anodes, owing to the inhomogeneous ion distribution and awkward charge transfer dynamics at the electrode/electrolyte interface. In this work, it is well demonstrated that ferroelectric phase BaTiO3 reinforced Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic electrolyte can deconcentrate the distribution of charge transfer and self‐accelerate Na+ migration at the Na/Na3Zr2Si2PO12 interface upon cycling, realizing a compact Na deposition morphology together with a high critical current density (1.05 mA cm‐2 at ambient conditions). Assembled symmetric cells based on the proposed composite electrolyte render stable cycling up to 1000 h at 0.3 mA cm‐2. Specifically, the all solid‐state sodium metal batteries paired with Na3V1.5Cr0.5(PO4)3 cathode material can deliver a capacity of 95 mAh g‐1 at 100 mA g‐1 and maintain 84.4% of the initial capacity after 400 cycles. This excellent electrochemical performance clearly confirm the feasibility of the introduction of ferroelectric BaTiO3 to suppress the dendrite nucleation and Na propagation within ceramic electrolyte. This research offers new insight into the rational design of inorganic electrolyte, revealing dendrite‐free and long‐term all‐solid‐state sodium batteries.
Recent Progress on Semiconductor Heterojunction‐Based Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Li Shengnan , Xu Weiwei , Meng Linxing , Tian Wei , Li Liang
Published: March 2022

For photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, the utilization of semiconductor heterojunctions as building blocks for photoanodes allows for high light absorption, effective charge separation, and superior redox capability, greatly boosting the solar energy conversion efficiency. This review mainly focuses on the construction of heterojunction photoanodes, improvement strategies of carrier transmission, and their application in PEC water splitting. First, a series of carrier dynamics characterization methods are introduced to reveal the principle and significance of promoting carrier transport in heterojunctions. Then, from the perspective of the mechanism of promoting the separation and transport of charge carriers, several strategies are summarized and analyzed, including the micro/nanostructure, energy band structure, photothermal effect, piezoelectric effect, pyroelectric effect, ferroelectric effect, and intermediate layer. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for heterojunction photoanodes in PEC reactions are explained clearly, which points the way forward for the development of heterojunctions.
Oridonin Inhibits SARS‐CoV‐2 by Targeting Its 3C‐Like Protease
Authors: Zhong Baisen , Peng Weiyu , Du Shan , Chen Bingyi , Feng Yajuan , Hu Xinfeng , Lai Qi , Liu Shujie , Zhou Zhong-Wei , Fang Pengfei , Wu Yan , Gao Feng , Zhou Huihao , Sun Litao
Published: March 2022

The current COVID‐19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), is an enormous threat to public health. The SARS‐CoV‐2 3C‐like protease (3CLpro), which is critical for viral replication and transcription, has been recognized as an ideal drug target. Herein, it is identified that three herbal compounds, Salvianolic acid A (SAA), (–)‐Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and Oridonin, directly inhibit the activity of SARS‐CoV‐2 3CLpro. Further, blocking SARS‐CoV‐2 infectivity by Oridonin is confirmed in cell‐based experiments. By solving the crystal structure of 3CLpro in complex with Oridonin and comparing it to that of other ligands with 3CLpro, it is identified that Oridonin binds at the 3CLpro catalytic site by forming a CS covalent bond, which is confirmed by mass spectrometry and kinetic study, blocking substrate binding through a nonpeptidomimetic covalent binding mode. Thus, Oridonin is a novel candidate to develop a new antiviral treatment for COVID‐19.
Revealing the Correlation of Light Soaking Effect with Ion Migration in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Biao , Lin Minshen , Kan Chenxia , Hang Pengjie , Yao Yuxin , Hu Zechen , Wang Ying , Zhang Yiqiang , Zhong Wenxing , Yang Deren , Yu Xuegong
Published: March 2022

Light soaking (LS) effect of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), i.e., the power conversion efficiency (PCE) increases under continuous light illumination (CLI), has attracted a lot of attention recently. Herein, it is reported that a strong LS effect occurs in the FAxMA1‐xPbI3 (FAMA) PSC for its PCE increases from 7.5% to 20.5% under CLI. Based on the dynamics of the LS effect, drift‐diffusion simulations, and external voltage experiments, it is found that the underlying process for the LS effect is that the generated photovoltage under CLI modulates the distribution of mobile ions in absorber layers increasing charge extraction ability and then alleviating interface recombination, which directly results in the LS effect in FAMA PSCs. In addition, the introduction of Cs+ into perovskite films can reduce the density of accumulated mobile ions at the interface between absorber layers and charge‐transporting layers in FAMA PSCs. As a result, the PCE of the Cs+‐doped device increases from 18.7% to 22.4% under CLI demonstrating that the LS effect in the Cs+‐doped device is suppressed notably. This work reveals the correlation of the LS effect with ion migration and suppresses the LS effect in FAMA PSCs.
Dementia diagnosis and utilization patterns in a racially diverse population within an integrated health care delivery system
Authors: Nguyen Huong Q. , Borson Soo , Khang Peter , Langer‐Gould Annette , Wang Susan E. , Carrol Jarrod , Lee Janet S.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

In an effort to identify improvement opportunities for earlier dementia detection and care within a large, integrated health care system serving diverse Medicare Advantage (MA) beneficiaries, we examined where, when, and by whom Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) diagnoses are recorded as well as downstream health care utilization and life care planning.

Methods

Patients 65 years and older, continuously enrolled in the Kaiser Foundation health plan for at least 2 years, and with a first ADRD diagnosis between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2018, comprised the incident cohort. Electronic health record data were used to identify site and source of the initial diagnosis (clinic vs hospital‐based, provider type), health care utilization in the year before and after diagnosis, and end‐of‐life care.

Results

ADRD prevalence was 5.5%. A total of 25,278 individuals had an incident ADRD code (rate: 1.2%) over the study period—nearly half during a hospital‐based encounter. Hospital‐diagnosed patients had higher comorbidities, acute care use before and after diagnosis, and 1‐year mortality than clinic‐diagnosed individuals (36% vs 11%). Many decedents (58%‐72%) received palliative care or hospice. Of the 55% diagnosed as outpatients, nearly two‐thirds were diagnosed by dementia specialists; when used, standardized cognitive assessments indicated moderate stage ADRD. Despite increases in advance care planning and visits to dementia specialists in the year after diagnosis, acute care use also increased for both clinic‐ and hospital‐diagnosed cohorts.

Discussion

Similar to other MA plans, ADRD is under‐diagnosed in this health system, compared to traditional Medicare, and diagnosed well beyond the early stages, when opportunities to improve overall outcomes are presumed to be better. Dementia specialists function primarily as consultants whose care does not appear to mitigate acute care use. Strategic targets for ADRD care improvement could focus on generating pragmatic evidence on the value of proactive detection and tracking, care planning, and the role of specialists in chronic care management.
Early Alzheimer's disease‐like reductions in gray matter and cognitive function with aging in nonhuman primates
Authors: Frye Brett M. , Craft Suzanne , Register Thomas C. , Kim Jeongchul , Whitlow Christopher T. , Barcus Richard A. , Lockhart Samuel N. , Sai Kiran Kumar Solingapuram , Shively Carol A.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Age‐related neuropathology associated with sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) often develops well before the onset of symptoms. Given AD's long preclinical period, translational models are needed to identify early signatures of pathological decline.

Methods

Using structural magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive assessments, we examined the relationships among age, cognitive performance, and neuroanatomy in 48 vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) ranging from young adults to very old.

Results

We found negative associations of age with cortical gray matter volume (P = .003) and the temporal‐parietal cortical thickness meta‐region of interest (P = .001). Additionally, cortical gray matter volumes predicted working memory at approximately 1‐year follow‐up (correct trials at the 20s delay [P = .008]; correct responses after longer delays [P = .004]).

Discussion

Cortical gray matter diminishes with age in vervets in regions relevant to AD, which may increase risk of cognitive impairment. This study lays the groundwork for future investigations to test therapeutics to delay or slow pathological decline.
Piloting an approach to scab control on Welsh sheep farms
Authors: Paton Neil , Burgess Stewart , Bartley Kathryn , Griffiths John , Jones Edgar
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Sheep scab caused by Psoroptes ovis, is a disease of concern to many stakeholders in Wales due to its welfare implications. There are good diagnostic tests and treatments available to deal with the disease. Even so, it remains a problem in Welsh flocks. As such a coordinated approach is required to deal with this issue in a more sustainable manner.

Pilot design

Sheep scab positive ‘index’ farms were initially diagnosed using a skin scrape to identify P. ovis mites. Contiguous farms were identified and antibody responses used to confirm onward infestation. All infested farms were treated by either dipping with an organophosphate (OP) dip or injecting with a licensed macrocyclic lactone (ML) product depending on farmer choice.

Results

Three positive ‘index’ farms were identified along with 12 contiguous properties. Positive serological responses were observed in seven of the 12 contiguous farms; four of which were treated by OP dip and three by an injectable ML product.

Discussion

To avoid reinfestation of treated farms, dealing with disease on contiguous properties is crucial. Through the project coordinating team, three local outbreaks of scab were dealt with in a short space of time with appropriate diagnosis and treatment being carried out. Some farmers were uncooperative and strategies such as providing additional external support and veterinary involvement might alleviate these issues in the future. This coordinated approach is recommended to veterinary surgeons in the field when dealing with scab on farm.
Hematopoietic responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Elahi Shokrollah
Published: March 2022

Under physiological conditions, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in the bone marrow niches are responsible for the highly regulated and interconnected hematopoiesis process. At the same time, they must recognize potential threats and respond promptly to protect the host. A wide spectrum of microbial agents/products and the consequences of infection-induced mediators (e.g. cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors) can have prominent impact on HSPCs. While COVID-19 starts as a respiratory tract infection, it is considered a systemic disease which profoundly alters the hematopoietic system. Lymphopenia, neutrophilia, thrombocytopenia, and stress erythropoiesis are the hallmark of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, thrombocytopenia and blood hypercoagulability are common among COVID‐19 patients with severe disease. Notably, the invasion of erythroid precursors and progenitors by SARS-CoV-2 is a cardinal feature of COVID-19 disease which may in part explain the mechanism underlying hypoxia. These pieces of evidence support the notion of skewed steady-state hematopoiesis to stress hematopoiesis following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The functional consequences of these alterations depend on the magnitude of the effect, which launches a unique hematopoietic response that is associated with increased myeloid at the expense of decreased lymphoid cells. This article reviews some of the key pathways including the infectious and inflammatory processes that control hematopoiesis, followed by a comprehensive review that summarizes the latest evidence and discusses how SARS-CoV-2 infection impacts hematopoiesis.
The grade of instability in fragility fractures of the pelvis correlates with impaired early mobilization
Authors: Faust Leon Marcel , Keppler Alexander Martin , Suero Eduardo , Gleich Johannes , Lisitano Leonard , Böcker Wolfgang , Neuerburg Carl , Pfeufer Daniel
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate whether gait patterns of patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) comply with the grade of fracture instability, defined by radiological patterns.

Patients and methods

This prospective, single-center, observational study included 39 patients with an FFP. Gait analysis was performed with a wearable insole force sensor (Loadsol® by Novel, Munich, Germany) 4–7 days after admission. Patients were divided in two groups: Group A included FFP type 1 fractures, which affect the anterior pelvic ring only, Group B contained FFP type 2–4 fractures with an involvement of the posterior pelvic ring. Primary outcome parameter was the FTI ratio (force–time integral (N*s)).

Results

The mean age was 85.08 years (SD ± 6.45), 94.9% (37/39) of the patients were female. The most common fracture type was an FFP 2b (64.1%, 25/39). Group A showed a significantly higher FTI ratio (45.12%, SD ± 4.19%) than Group B (38.45%, SD ± 5.97%, p = 0.002). Further, a significant correlation of the FTI ratio and the average (r = 0.570, p < 0.001) and maximum (r = 0.394, p = 0.013) peak force was observed.

Conclusion

The gait pattern of patients with an FFP type 2–4 was more imbalanced than of patients with an FFP type 1 fracture. These findings match with the radiological classification of FFP, which indicates higher instability, when the posterior pelvis is affected. Gait analysis might offer earlier functional diagnostics and may accelerate the treatment decision with shorter periods of immobility in future. Especially in cross-border cases, early gait analysis could be beneficial to clarify the indication for or against surgery.
Systemic quinolones and risk of retinal detachment III: a nested case–control study using a US electronic health records database
Authors: Taher Mohamed Kadry , Crispo James A. G. , Fortin Yannick , Moog Ryan , McNair Douglas , Bjerre Lise M. , Momoli Franco , Mattison Donald , Krewski Daniel
Published: March 2022

Background

Quinolones are popular antibiotics that are known for their potency, broad coverage, and reasonable safety. Concerns have been raised about a possible association between quinolones and retinal detachment (RD).

Methods

We conducted a nested case–control study using electronic health records (EHR) from the Health Facts® Database. The initial cohort included all patients who were admitted between 2000 and 2016, with no history of eye disease, and had a minimum medical history of one year. Eligible cases comprised inpatients who were first admitted with a primary diagnosis of RD between 2010 and 2015. Each eligible case was matched without replacement to five unique controls by sex, race, age, and period-at-risk. We used conditional logistic regression to calculate RD risk, adjusting for exposure to other medications, and major risk factors.

Results

We identified 772 cases and 3860 controls. Whereas our primary analysis of all subjects revealed no quinolone-associated RD risk, elevated but non-significant risks were noted in African Americans (ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin), those aged 56–70 years old (moxifloxacin), and women (ciprofloxacin).

Conclusion

Our study did not identify an elevated RD risk within 30 days following systemic administration of quinolone antibiotics. Suggestions of increased risk observed in some population subgroups warrant further investigation.
Schizotypal traits across the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis–frontotemporal dementia spectrum: pathomechanistic insights
Authors: Tse Nga Yan , Tu Sicong , Chen Yu , Caga Jashelle , Dobson-Stone Carol , Kwok John B. , Halliday Glenda M. , Ahmed Rebekah M. , Hodges John R. , Piguet Olivier , Kiernan Matthew C. , Devenney Emma M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Psychiatric presentations similar to that observed in primary psychiatric disorders are well described across the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis–frontotemporal dementia (ALS–FTD) spectrum. Despite this, schizotypal personality traits associated with increased risks of clinical psychosis development and poor psychosocial outcomes have never been examined. The current study aimed to provide the first exploration of schizotypal traits and its neural underpinnings in the ALS–FTD spectrum to gain insights into a broader spectrum of psychiatric overlap with psychiatric disorders.

Methods

Schizotypal traits were assessed using the targeted Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire in 99 participants (35 behavioural variant FTD, 10 ALS–FTD and 37 ALS patients, and 17 age-, sex- and education-matched healthy controls). Voxel-based morphometry analysis of whole-brain grey matter volume was conducted.

Results

Relative to controls, pervasive schizotypal personality traits across positive and negative schizotypy and disorganised thought disorders were identified in behavioural variant FTD, ALS (with the exception of negative schizotypy) and ALS–FTDALS–FTD patients (all p < .013), suggesting the presence of a wide spectrum of subclinical schizotypal symptoms beyond classic psychotic symptoms. Atrophy in frontal, anterior cingulate and insular cortices, and caudate and thalamus was involved in positive schizotypy, while integrity of the cerebellum was associated with disorganised thought disorder traits.

Conclusions

The frontal–striatal–limbic regions underpinning manifestation of schizotypy in the ALS–FTDALS–FTD spectrum are similar to that established in previous schizophrenia research. This finding expands the concept of a psychiatric overlap in ALS–FTD and schizophrenia, and suggests potentially common underlying mechanisms involving disruptions to frontal-striatal-limbic networks, warranting a transdiagnostic approach for future investigations.
A compound score to screen patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Tozza Stefano , Severi Daniele , Spina Emanuele , Di Paolantonio Andrea , Iovino Aniello , Guglielmino Valeria , Aruta Francesco , Nolano Maria , Sabatelli Mario , Santoro Lucio , Luigetti Marco , Manganelli Fiore
Published: March 2022

Background

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) is a rare, debilitating and fatal disease, mostly characterized by progressive axonal peripheral neuropathy. Diagnosis is still challenging and diagnostic delay in non-endemic area is about 3–4 years. The aim of this study was to arrange a clinical and electrophysiological score to select patients with axonal neuropathy that deserve screening for TTR mutation.

Methods

Thirty-five ATTRv patients and 55 patients with chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (CIAP) were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and electrophysiological findings at first evaluation were collected. Based on significant results between the two groups, a compound (clinical and electrophysiological) score was arranged, and ROC analysis was performed to identify the ideal cut-off able to discriminate between the two groups.

Results

ATTRv patients presented a later age at onset, more frequent muscle weakness and carpal tunnel syndrome history. On the other hand, electrophysiological analysis showed that ATTRv patients had lower CMAP and SAP amplitude in all examined nerves. We arranged a compound score constituted by 7 total items, ranging from 0 to 12. ROC analysis showed an Area Under the Curve = 0.8655 and we set the cut-off ≥ 5 points to discriminate ATTRv patients with a sensitivity of 96.6% and a specificity of 63.6%.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that our compound score with cut-off ≥ 5 allows to discriminate ATTRv patients among subject affected by axonal polyneuropathy with a sensitivity > 95%. Thus, our compound score is a quick, easy and effective screening tool.
Macrostructural brain alterations at midlife are connected to cardiovascular and not inherited risk of future dementia: the PREVENT-Dementia study
Authors: Dounavi Maria-Eleni , Newton Coco , Jenkins Natalie , Mak Elijah , Low Audrey , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Williams Guy B. , Lawlor Brian , Naci Lorina , Malhotra Paresh , Mackay Clare E. , Koychev Ivan , Ritchie Karen , Ritchie Craig W. , Su Li , O’Brien John T.
Published: March 2022

Background

Macrostructural brain alterations in the form of brain atrophy or cortical thinning typically occur during the prodromal Alzheimer’s disease stage. Mixed findings largely dependent on the age of the examined cohorts have been reported during the preclinical, asymptomatic disease stage. In the present study, our aim was to examine the association of midlife dementia risk with brain macrostructural alterations.

Methods

Structural 3T MRI scans were acquired for 647 cognitively normal middle-aged (40–59 years old) participants in the PREVENT-Dementia study. Cortical thickness, volumes of subcortical structures, the hippocampus and hippocampal subfields were quantified using Freesurfer version 7.1. The clarity of the hippocampal molecular layer was evaluated based on T2-weighted hippocampal scans. Associations of structural measures with apolipoprotein ε4 (APOE4) genotype and dementia family history (FHD), were investigated using linear regression. Correlations between the CAIDE dementia risk score (incorporating information about blood pressure, cholesterol, physical activity, body mass index, education, age and sex) and structural measures were further investigated.

Results

A higher CAIDE score was associated with thinner cortex and a larger hippocampal fissure. APOE4 genotype was associated with reduced molecular layer clarity.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that a higher CAIDE score is associated with widespread cortical thinning. Conversely, APOE4 carriers and participants with FHD do not demonstrate prominent macrostructural alterations at this age range. These findings indicate that cardiovascular and not inherited risk factors for dementia are associated with macrostructural brain alterations at midlife.
HOchwasserRisikozonierung Austria 3.0 (HORA 3.0)
Authors: Blöschl Günter , Waser Jürgen , Buttinger-Kreuzhuber Andreas , Cornel Daniel , Eisl Julia , Hofer Michael , Hollaus Markus , Horváth Zsolt , Komma Jürgen , Konev Artem , Parajka Juraj , Pfeifer Norbert , Reithofer Andreas , Salinas José , Valent Peter , Viglione Alberto , Wimmer Michael H. , Stiefelmeyer Heinz
Published: March 2022

Der vorliegende Beitrag beschreibt die Konzeption und die methodischen Schritte des Projekts HORA 3.0, in dem Hochwasserrisikoflächen für ganz Österreich berechnet wurden. Die Analyseschritte umfassen: Qualitätskontrolle und Korrektur des Gewässernetzes und der Einzugsgebietsgrenzen; Berechnung der Abflussscheitel und Frachten gegebener Jährlichkeit; Erstellung eines digitalen Höhenmodells, das mit allen relevanten Hochwasserinformationen, einschließlich der Flussbettgeometrie, übereinstimmt; instationäre, zweidimensionale Simulation der Überflutungsflächen mit konsistenter Jährlichkeit. In jedem Schritt werden automatische und manuelle Verfahren kombiniert, um die lokalen hydrologischen und hydraulischen Bedingungen in einem bundesweiten Projekt möglichst zutreffend abzubilden. Die Hochwasserrisikoflächen mit einer Auflösung von 2 m für eine Gesamtflusslänge von 32.000 km sind bereits auf der HORA-Plattform (www.hora.gv.at) veröffentlicht. Das entwickelte Instrumentarium kann für weiterführende Projekte verwendet werden, wie z. B. für Visualisierungen, Schadensauswertungen und in Zukunft für die Berechnung pluvialer Hochwassergefahren.
Multicenter, prospective, observational study of chemotherapy-induced dysgeusia in gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Ito Ken , Yuki Satoshi , Nakatsumi Hiroshi , Kawamoto Yasuyuki , Harada Kazuaki , Nakano Shintaro , Saito Rika , Ando Takayuki , Sawada Kentaro , Yagisawa Masataka , Ishiguro Atsushi , Dazai Masayoshi , Iwanaga Ichiro , Hatanaka Kazuteru , Sato Atsushi , Matsumoto Ryusuke , Shindo Yoshiaki , Tateyama Miki , Muranaka Tetsuhito , Katagiri Masaki , Yokota Isao , Sakata Yuh , Sakamoto Naoya , Komatsu Yoshito
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Dysgeusia is an adverse event caused by chemotherapy. Although retrospective studies have shown zinc administration improves dysgeusia, there have been no prospective studies. The present study examined effects of zinc therapy on dysgeusia in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective, observational study enrolled patients with dysgeusia during chemotherapy treatment. Patients received no intervention (control), polaprezinc p.o., or zinc acetate hydrate p.o., and serum zinc levels were measured at 0 (baseline), 6, and 12 weeks. Dysgeusia was assessed using CTCAE v5.0 and subjective total taste acuity (STTA) criteria using questionnaires at baseline and 12 weeks.

Results

From February 2020 to June 2021, 180 patients were enrolled from 17 institutes. There were no differences in mean baseline serum zinc levels among the groups (67.3, 66.6, and 67.5 μg/dL in the no intervention, polaprezinc, and zinc acetate hydrate groups, respectively. P = 0.846). The changes in mean serum zinc levels after 12 weeks were − 3.8, + 14.3, and + 46.6 μg/dL, and the efficacy rates of dysgeusia were 33.3%, 36.8%, and 34.6% using CTCAE and 33.3%, 52.6%, 32.7% using STTA in the no intervention, polaprezinc, and zinc acetate hydrate groups, respectively. The STTA scores improved in all groups, with significant improvement observed in the polaprezinc group compared with the no intervention group (P = 0.045).

Conclusion

There was no significant correlation between the degree of serum zinc elevation and improvement in dysgeusia, suggesting that polaprezinc, but not zinc acetate hydrate, was effective in improving chemotherapy-induced dysgeusia.

Trial registration.

UMIN000039653. Date of registration: March 2, 2020.
All-dummy k-anonymous privacy protection algorithm based on location offset
Authors: Liu Jianghui , Wang Shengxiang
Published: March 2022

While k-anonymous algorithms can effectively protect users’ private location information, the problem of selecting an appropriate location in the anonymous area to construct the k-anonymous area remains a significant one. When selecting real users from the surrounding area to co-construct anonymous regions, it is easy to cause the leakage of user location information. Moreover, using false addresses to construct a region requires calculating the probability of location queries, which increases the computational complexity. In this paper, an all-dummy k-anonymous algorithm based on location offset is proposed to construct anonymous regions. This algorithm randomly selects k−1 locations and real users in the selected anonymous compose an anonymous group at first. Subsequently, these coordinates are centered on migration, generating multiple dummy addresses of each location migration, such that the dummy address distance is greater than the radius of the user's query, with the dummy address location information used for the location server queries. Through experimental verification, compared with the circle-based dummy address generation algorithm and the random k-anonymous algorithm, the all-dummy k-anonymous algorithm is found to achieve an entropy value and tracking success rate closer to the optimal k-anonymous algorithm without increasing the communication cost.
Ontological databases with faceted queries
Authors: Pankowski Tadeusz
Published: March 2022

The success of the use of ontology-based systems depends on efficient and user-friendly methods of formulating queries against the ontology. We propose a method to query a class of ontologies, called facet ontologies (fac-ontologies), using a faceted human-oriented approach. A fac-ontology has two important features: (a) a hierarchical view of it can be defined as a nested facet over this ontology and the view can be used as a faceted interface to create queries and to explore the ontology; (b) the ontology can be converted into an ontological database, the ABox of which is stored in a database, and the faceted queries are evaluated against this database. We show that the proposed faceted interface makes it possible to formulate queries that are semantically equivalent to $${\mathcal {SROIQ}}^{Fac}$$

SROIQ

Fac

, a limited version of the $${\mathcal {SROIQ}}$$
SROIQ
description logic. The TBox of a fac-ontology is divided into a set of rules defining intensional predicates and a set of constraint rules to be satisfied by the database. We identify a class of so-called reflexive weak cycles in a set of constraint rules and propose a method to deal with them in the chase procedure. The considerations are illustrated with solutions implemented in the DAFO system (data access based on faceted queries over ontologies).
Stability of the effects of a social competence training program for children with oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder: a 10-month follow-up
Authors: Giudice Teresa Del , Lindenschmidt Timo , Hellmich Martin , Hautmann Christopher , Döpfner Manfred , Görtz-Dorten Anja
Published: March 2022

The stability and effectiveness of the Treatment Program for Children with Aggressive Behavior (THAV) in terms of reducing behavioral problems in children with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD) were examined at a 10-month follow-up (FU). A total of 76 families and their children (boys aged 6–12 years), who previously participated in a randomized controlled trial comparing THAV with an active control group, took part in the 10-month FU assessment. Outcome measures were rated by parents and included the evaluation of child aggressive behavior, prosocial behavior, problem-maintaining and problem-moderating factors, and comorbid symptoms. Linear mixed models for repeated measures (MMRM) were conducted. The results revealed that THAV effects remained stable (problem-maintaining and problem-moderating factors; comorbid symptoms) and even partially improved (aggressive behavior; ADHD symptoms) over the FU period. Additionally, the differences between the THAV intervention group and the control group, which were apparent at the end of the treatment (post), mainly also remained at the FU assessment. It can be concluded that THAV is an effective and stable intervention for boys aged 6–12 years with ODD/CD.
Reference surface excess isotherms for carbon dioxide adsorption on ammonium ZSM-5 at various temperatures
Authors: Nguyen Huong Giang T. , Toman Blaza , Colon Martinez Julie , Siderius Daniel W. , van Zee Roger D.
Published: March 2022

This work is part of the effort at the Facility for Adsorbent Characterization and Testing (FACT lab) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop reference materials, reference data, and measurement best practices for adsorption metrology. High-pressure surface excess isotherms for CO2 adsorption on NIST Reference Material 8852 (ammonium ZSM-5) at 15 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C are reported, expanding on a FACT Lab-organized international interlaboratory study on this sorbent/sorbate pair at 20 °C. The range of temperatures of the present study is of interest for many CO2 adsorption measurements and applications. Measurements were made using five different adsorption instruments, both manometric and gravimetric. Excellent agreement in the measured isotherms among the instruments was found. An empirical reference equation of the form,

$${n}_{ex,ref}({P}_{eq})=\frac{c}{\{{1+\mathrm{exp}[\left(-\mathrm{ln}\left(P\right)+a\right)/b ]\}}^{b }} ,$$

n

e
x
,
r
e
f

(

P

eq

)

=

c

{

1
+
exp
[

-
ln

P

+
a

/
b
]
}

b

,

[nex,ref is surface excess uptake (mmol/g); Peq is equilibrium pressure (MPa); P is (Peq)/(1 MPa)]; a, b, c are constants] and the 95% uncertainty interval were determined for the isotherms at each of the temperatures. Lastly, the isosteric heat of adsorption is estimated from absolute isotherms derived from the surface excess reference data.
Characterisation of riverine dissolved organic matter using a complementary suite of chromatographic and mass spectrometric methods
Authors: Lloyd C. E. M. , Mena-Rivera L. A. , Pemberton J. A. , Johnes P. J. , Jones D. L. , Yates C. A. , Brailsford F. L. , Glanville H. C. , McIntyre C. A. , Evershed R. P.
Published: March 2022

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) plays a fundamental role in nutrient cycling dynamics in riverine systems. Recent research has confirmed that the concentration of riverine DOM is not the only factor regulating its functional significance; the need to define the chemical composition of DOM is a priority. Past studies of riverine DOM rested on bulk quantification, however technological advancements have meant there has been a shift towards analytical methods which allow the characterisation of DOM either at compound class or more recently molecular level. However, it is important to consider that all analytical methods only consider a defined analytical window. Thus, herein, we explore the use of a hierarchy of methods which can be used in combination for the investigation of a wide range of DOM chemistries. By using these methods to investigate the DOM composition of a range of streams draining catchments of contrasting environmental character, a wide range of compounds were identified across a range of polarities and molecular weight, thereby extending the analytical window. Through the elucidation of the DOM character in stream samples, information can be collected about likely the sources of DOM. The identification of individual key compounds within the DOM pool is a key step in the design of robust and informative bioassay experiments, used to understand in-stream ecosystem responses. This is critical if we are to assess the role of DOM as a bioavailable nutrient resource and/or ecotoxicological factor in freshwater.
Health care professionals overestimate the risk for locoregional recurrences after breast cancer treatment depending on their specialty
Authors: Ankersmid Jet W. , Spronk Pauline E. R. , Zeillemaker Anneke M. , Siesling Sabine
Published: March 2022

Purpose

For the implementation of personalised surveillance, it is important to create more awareness among HCPs with regard to the risk for locoregional recurrences (LRRs). The aim of this study is to evaluate the current awareness and estimations of individual risks for LRRs after completion of primary treatment for breast cancer among health care professionals (HCPs) in the Netherlands, without using any prediction tools.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was performed among 60 HCPs working in breast cancer care in seven Dutch hospitals and 25 general practitioners (GPs). The survey consisted of eleven realistic surgically treated breast cancer cases. HCPs were asked to estimate the 5-year risk for LRRs for each case, which was compared to the estimations by the INFLUENCE-nomogram using one-sample Wilcoxon tests. Differences in estimations between HCPs with different specialities were determined using Kruskal–Wallis tests and Dunn tests.

Results

HCPs tended to structurally overestimate the 5-year risk for LRR on each case. Average overestimations ranged from 4.8 to 26.1%. Groups of HCPs with varying specialities differed significantly in risk estimations. GPs tended to overestimate the risk for LRRs on average the most (15.0%) and medical oncologists had the lowest average overestimation (2.7%).

Conclusions

It is important to create more awareness of the risk for LRRs, which is a pre-requisite for the implementation of personalised surveillance after breast cancer. Besides education for HCPs, the use of prediction models such as the INFLUENCE-nomogram can support in estimating an objective estimate of each individual patient’s risk.
How Leaders Influence (un)Ethical Behaviors Within Organizations: A Laboratory Experiment on Reporting Choices
Authors: Amore Mario Daniele , Garofalo Orsola , Guerra Alice
Published: March 2022

We use a lab experiment to examine whether and how leaders influence workers’ (un)ethical behavior through financial reporting choices. We randomly assign the role of leaders or workers to subjects, who can choose to report an outcome via automatic or self-reporting. Self-reporting allows for profitable and undetectable earnings manipulation. We vary the leaders’ ability to choose the reporting method and to punish workers. We show that workers are more likely to choose automatic reporting when their leader voluntarily does so and can assign punishment. Even workers who choose self-reporting tend to cheat less when their leader chooses automatic reporting. Nonetheless, most leaders do not opt for automatic reporting in the first place: they often choose self-reporting and punish workers who rather choose automatic reporting. Collectively, our results reveal a dual effect of leadership on ethical behaviors in organizations: workers behave more ethically if their leader makes ethical choices, but often leaders do not make ethical choices in the first place. Hence, leading by example can backfire.