bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of dirty mass volume and APACHE II score predicts mortality in patients with colorectal perforation
Authors: Ishikawa Daichi , Takehara Yukako , Takata Atsushi , Takamura Kazuhito , Sato Hirohiko
Published: February 2021

Background: “Dirty mass” is a specific computed tomography (CT) finding that is seen frequently in colorectal perforation. The prognostic significance of this finding for mortality is unclear.Methods: Fifty-eight consecutive patients with colorectal perforation who underwent emergency surgery were retrospectively reviewed in the study. Dirty mass identified on multi-detector row CT (MDCT) was 3D-reconstructed and its volume was calculated using Ziostation software. Dirty mass volume and other clinical characteristics were compared between survivor (n = 45) and mortality groups (n = 13) to identify predictive factors for mortality. Mann–Whitney U test and Χ2 test were used in univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis was used in multivariate analysis.Results: Dirty mass was identified in 36/58 patients (62.1%) and located next to perforated colorectum in all cases. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified the highest peak at 96.3 cm3, with sensitivity of 0.643 and specificity of 0.864. Univariate analysis revealed dirty mass volume, acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) score, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) score, and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score as prognostic markers for mortality (p<0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed dirty mass volume and APACHE II score as independent prognostic indicators for mortality. Mortality was stratified by dividing patients into four groups according to dirty mass volume and APACHE II score. Conclusions: The combination of dirty mass volume and APACHE II score could stratify the postoperative mortality risk in patients with colorectal perforation. According to the risk stratification, surgeons might be able to decide the surgical procedures and intensity of postoperative management.
Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Qiao Yu-chen , Chang Hong , Wang Rui , Wang Jia-Mei , Wang Xiao-ying , Yu Yan , Yang Xin , Liu Jia
Published: February 2021

Background: Individual cognitive stimulation therapy (ICST) can benefit cognition and quality of life for people with dementia, but the evidence for nurses-led individual cognitive stimulation interventions is limited.Objectives: The current study aimed to develop the process of planning and implementing ICST, and evaluate the effect of ICST on cognitive function and therapeutic effect in patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: It was a randomized controlled trial lasting for a half year. 38 patients with mild AD were recruited. The control group was given the “Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Manual for AD” to deliver the sessions at home. The intervention group was given 90 minutes ‘cognitive stimulation sessions, completed up to three times weekly over 24 weeks. The outcomes were measured at baseline and 24weeks by the scales widely used in AD evaluation (MMSE, MoCA and ADL).Results: There were statistical signiﬁcance between the two groups, especially the scores of memory, delayed memory in MMSE and scores of memory, delayed memory, immediate memory, attention in MoCA were significantly improved in the intervention group compared with control group. ICST show positive effects that may help preserve memory in mild AD.Conclusions: The ICST can improve the memory and attention cognitive domains in patients with mild AD. And the feedback from patient and caregiver in ICST was favorable.
Influenza and Anosmia: Important Prediction Factors for Severity and Death of COVID-19 
Authors: Kim Doo Hwan , Lee Eun Jung , Kim Min Gul , Yang Seong J. , Yeom Sang Woo , Lee Min Hee , Noh Sang Jae , Yoo Yeon Seok , Kim Jong Seung
Published: February 2021

Many people are being hospitalized and are dying from COVID-19 as the right treatment has not yet been identified. We investigate the factors related to the severity and mortality of COVID-19 using big data-machine learning techniques. This retrospective study included 8070 SARS-CoV-2 confirmed patients of the 129,120 SARS-CoV-2 RNA tested patients in South Korea between January and July 2020, and whose data were available from the National Health Insurance Service. Primary endpoint was comorbidity, severity and mortality rate in COVID-19. Machine learning algorithms were performed to evaluate the effects of comorbidities on severity and mortality rate of COVID-19. The most common comorbidities of COVID-19 were pulmonary inflammation followed by anosmia. The model that best predicted severity was a neural network (AUC: 85.06%). The most important variable for predicting severity in the neural network model was a history of influenza (relative importance: 0.129). The model that best predicted mortality was the logistic regression elastic net (EN) model (AUC: 93.86%). The most important variables for mortality in the EN model were age (coefficient: 2.136) and anosmia (coefficient: –1.438). Through the state-of-the-art machine learning algorithm and 8070 patients of COVID-19 patients in South Korea, influenza was found to be a major adverse factor in addition to old age and male sex. In addition, anosmia was found to be a major factor associated with lower severity and mortality rates. The patient’s history of influenza and anosmia will be an important indicator for predicting the severity and mortality of COVID-19 patients.
Result of Intravitreal Aflibercept Injection for Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization
Authors: Chen Shih-Lin , Wu Tsung-Tien , Tang Pei-Ling
Published: February 2021

Background: The current study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept injections as the primary treatment for subfoveal/juxtafoveal myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to detect the changes in shape, size, and flow area pertaining to CNV, with a minimum duration of follow-up of one year. Methods: In the present study, 21 treatment-naive eyes of 21 patients with subfoveal/juxtafoveal myopic CNV received primary intravitreal aflibercept injections and were under follow-up for a minimum duration of 12 months. Among the 21 patients, 12 underwent OCTA to evaluate the changes in central foveal thickness, selected CNV area, and flow area. Results: The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) pertaining to all the patients significantly improved from the baseline value of 0.7 to 0.3 logMAR after treatment for 12 months (P = 0.001). However, the improvements in the median BCVA after treatment for three and twelve months were not statistically significant in the younger group (< 50 years), compared to the older group (≥ 50 years). A single aflibercept injection resolved the CNV in 47.6% (10/21) of the patients. The younger group displayed greater improvement in the median central foveal thickness, compared to the older group. OCTA revealed interlacing or disorganized patterns at the level of the outer retinal layer in 12 among the 21 subjects with myopic CNV. After three months of treatment, both the groups displayed a decrease in the size of the selected CNV area and flow area. The interlacing group displayed a trend towards better anatomical improvements. Conclusion: Intravitreal aflibercept injection provides long-term improvement in visual acuity in patients with myopic CNV. A single aflibercept injection was observed to resolve myopic CNV in approximately half of the patients. The interlacing group displayed greater resolution of the selected CNV area and flow area after aflibercept injection. Trial registration: Before data collection, written informed consent was obtained from each participant, whose identity information was protected by encryption and conversion to a non-identifiable format and removing data links. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital (KSVGH21-CT1-17).
A human antibody against pathologic IAPP aggregates protects beta cells in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Heitz Fabrice , Wirth Fabian , Seeger Christine , Combaluzier Ioana , Breu Karin , Denroche Heather , Thevenet Julien , Osto Melania , Arosio Paolo , Kerr-Conte Julie , Verchere C. , Pattou François , Lutz Thomas , Donath Marc , Hock Christoph , Nitsch Roger , Grimm Jan
Published: February 2021

In patients with type 2 diabetes, pancreatic beta cells progressively degenerate and gradually lose their ability to produce insulin and regulate blood glucose. Beta cell dysfunction and loss is associated with an accumulation of aggregated forms of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) consisting of soluble prefibrillar IAPP oligomers as well as insoluble IAPP fibrils in pancreatic islets. Here, we describe a novel human monoclonal antibody selectively targeting IAPP oligomers and neutralizing IAPP aggregate toxicity by preventing membrane disruption and apoptosis in vitro. Antibody treatment in rats and mice transgenic for human IAPP, and human islet-engrafted mouse models of type 2 diabetes triggered clearance of IAPP oligomers resulting in beta cell protection and improved glucose control. These results provide new evidence for the pathological role of IAPP oligomers and suggest that antibody-mediated removal of IAPP oligomers could be a pharmaceutical strategy to support beta cell function in type 2 diabetes.
Methylprednisolone or Dexamethasone, Which One Is the Superior Corticosteroid in the Treatment of Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: A Triple-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ranjbar Keivan , Shahriarirad Reza , Erfani Amirhossein , Khodamoradi Zohre , Saadi Mohammad Hasan Gholampoor , Mirahmadizadeh Alireza , Fallahi Mohammad Javad , Khaloo Vahid , Moghadami Mohsen
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAlthough almost a year has passed since the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and promising reports of vaccines have been presented, we still have a long way until these measures are available for all. Furthermore, unsolved issues remained to choose appropriate corticosteroids treatment for COVID-19. We conducted a study to assess the effectiveness of methylprednisolone treatment versus dexamethasone for hospitalized COVID-19 patients.MethodIn this prospective triple-blinded randomized controlled trial, we enrolled 86 hospitalized COVID-19 patients from August to November 2020, in Shiraz, Iran. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either methylprednisolone (2mg/kg/day) or dexamethasone (6mg/kg/day). Data was assessed based on a 9-point WHO ordinal scale extending from uninfected (point 0) to death (point 8).ResultsThere was no significant variation among the groups on the admission. However, the intervention group demonstrated significantly better clinical status compared to the control group at day 5 (4.02 vs. 5.21, P = 0.002) and day 10 (2.90 vs. 4.71, P = 0.001) of admission. There was also a significant difference in the overall mean score between the intervention group, and the control group, (3.909 vs. 4.873 respectively, P = 0.004). The mean length of hospital stay was 7.43 ± 3.64 and 10.52 ± 5.47 days in the intervention and control groups, respectively (P = 0.015). The need for a ventilator was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (18.2% vs 38.1% P = 0.040).ConclusionIn the context of treating hospitalized hypoxic COVID-19 patients, methylprednisolone demonstrated better results compared to dexamethasone.Trial Registration:The trial was registered with IRCT.IR (08/04/2020-No. IRCT20200204046369N1).
Challenges and limits of Mechanical Stability in 3D Direct Laser Writing
Authors: Sedghamiz Elaheh , Liu Modan , Wenzel Wolfgang
Published: February 2021

Direct laser writing is an effective technique for fabrication of complex polymeric 3D polymer networks using ultrashort laser pulses. Practically, it remains a challenge to design and fabricate high performance materials with different functions that possess a combination of high strength, substantial ductility, and tailored functionality, in particular for small feature sizes. To date, it is difficult to obtain a time-resolved microscopic picture of the printing process in operando. To close this gap, we herewith present a molecular dynamics simulation approach to model direct laser writing and investigate the effect of writing condition and aspect ratio on the mechanical properties of the printed polymer network. We show that writing condition provides a possibility to tune the mechanical properties and an optimum writing condition can be applied to fabricate structures with improved mechanical properties. We reveal that beyond the writing parameters, aspect ratio plays an important role to tune the stiffness of the printed structures.
Stochastic Expression of Invasion Genes in Plasmodium falciparum Schizonts
Authors: Tripathi Jaishree , Zhu Lei , Nayak Sourav , Stoklasa Michal , Bozdech Zbynek
Published: February 2021

Genetically identical cells are known to exhibit differential phenotypes in the same environmental conditions. These phenotypic variants are linked to transcriptional stochasticity and have been shown to contribute towards adaptive flexibility of a wide range of unicellular organisms. Here, we investigated transcriptional heterogeneity and stochastic gene expression in P. falciparum by performing single cell RNA sequencing on blood stage schizonts. Our data reveals significant transcriptional variations in the schizonts stage with a distinct group of highly variable invasion gene transcripts being identified. Moreover, our data reflected several diversification processes including putative developmental “checkpoint”; transcriptomically distinct parasite sub-populations and transcriptional switches in variable gene families (var, rifin, phist). Most of these features of transcriptional variability were preserved in isogenic parasite cell populations (albeit with a lesser amplitude) suggesting a role of epigenetic factors in cell-to-cell transcriptional variations in human malaria parasites. Lastly, we applied quantitative RT-PCR and RNA-FISH approach and confirmed stochastic expression of merozoites surface proteins encoding msp1, msp3, msp7, rhoptry protein encoding rhopH2 and erythrocyte binding antigen encoding eba181, some of which represent key candidates for invasion blocking vaccines.
Revolutionary High-entropy Zr-Y-Yb-Ta-Nb-O Oxides for Next Generation Thermal Barrier Coating Applications
Authors: Yao Yao , Yang Fan , Zhao Xiaofeng , Xiao Ping
Published: February 2021

We report a revolutionary ceramic material with exceptional high temperature stability and superior thermo-mechanical properties for next generation thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for aeroengines. The multicomponent oxides (Zr1 − 4xYxYbxTaxNbxO2) designed via a high entropy concept could exhibit a double tetragonal phase. The optimized composition breaks the limitation of intrinsic brittleness in previously reported TBC candidate materials and shows a superior toughness up to ~ 4.59 MPa m1/2 due to ferroelastic and phase transformation toughening mechanisms. It also shows a remarkable high temperature stability at 1600 ºC, which is almost 400 ºC higher than the state-of-the-art yttria stabilized zirconia TBC material. In addition, it also exhibits a significantly lower thermal conductivity (~ 1.37 W∙m− 1∙K− 1 at 900 ºC) and a higher coefficient of thermal expansion (~ 11.3 × 10− 6 K− 1 at 1000 ºC), as well as excellent corrosion resistance to molten silicate (~ 2.9 µm/h at 1300 ºC). This work provides a new approach to design ceramics by extending the high-entropy concept to both medium-entropy and high-entropy compositions searching for multifunctional properties.
Fertility Awareness and Subclinical Infertility Among Women Trying to Get Pregnant at Home 
Authors: iino kaori , Fukuhara Rie , Yokota Megumi , Yokoyama Yoshihito
Published: February 2021

Background: Recent studies on fertility awareness in the reproductive population have reported the lack of accurate knowledge about fertility and assisted reproductive technologies. However, these researches were conducted among university students or fertility patients. Therefore, there was little information among women trying to get pregnant at home on the following aspects: (i) the presence of adequate fertility knowledge, (ii) the prevalence of subclinical infertility, and (iii) reasons for not visiting the clinic to identify the possibility of infertility. The aim of this study was to explore fertility awareness and subclinical infertility among women trying to get pregnant at home.Methods: A total of 2,084 Japanese women responded to this online survey. We selected 1,541 women according to the study criteria. By the results of 61 questions, we evaluated knowledge about fertility, prevalence of subclinical infertility, and reasons for visiting the clinic.Results: Despite the desire of the participants to get pregnant, they had an apparent tendency to overestimate the age limit of childbearing. A total of 338 (21.9%) women thought that those aged over 45 years could have children. Approximately 40% of the women had a possibility of subclinical infertility, despite being unaware of the fact. In addition, about 70% of the women considered themselves to suffer from infertility problems. Women who were informed about the possibility of infertility hesitated to visit the clinic for the following reasons: unfamiliarity with a gynecologist or clinic and apprehensions about the gynecologic examination.Conclusions: Several women require treatment for infertility. Nonetheless, they hesitate to visit the clinic. Sexual health education, together with proper accessibility to gynecology clinics are necessary to avoid involuntary childlessness.
Relationship Between Pain Intensity, Pain Catastrophizing, Self-efficacy in Patients With a Frozen Shoulder
Authors: Hirata Junya , Tomiyama Minori , Koike Yasuhiro , Yoshimura Manabu , Inoue Keiko
Published: February 2021

Background: The evaluation of pain catastrophizing and self-efficacy is useful for predicting pain and is also associated with shoulder pain. The purposes of our study were to examine the relationship between pain catastrophizing, self-efficacy, and pain intensity in patients with a frozen shoulder.Methods: Ninety-three patients who were diagnosed with frozen shoulder were included in this study. Pain intensity (Numerical Rating Scale: NRS), pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale: PCS), and self-efficacy (Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire: PSEQ) were measured at the first examination, and the relationship was examined using Bayesian estimation method. We developed a hypothesis model in which self-efficacy affects pain catastrophizing and pain catastrophizing affects pain intensity.Results: The path coefficients from the PSEQ score to the PCS score and from the PCS score to the NRS score were significant. The convergence of the hypothesized model was confirmed and validated (posterior prediction p-value 0.35). Conclusion: Our results suggest that self-efficacy affects pain catastrophizing, and pain catastrophizing affects pain intensity.
The Role of Serum Fibrinogen in Predicting Reinfection after DAIR (debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention) Treatment of Periprosthetic Joint Infections
Authors: Zhao Dacheng , Jinwen He , Xingwen Wang , Xiaobing Zhao , Geng Bin , Xia Yayi
Published: February 2021

Background

Fibrinogen (FIB) has been used to differentiate periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) from aseptic loosening. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of FIB in predicting postoperative reinfection in patients with debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR).
Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the patients who were admitted to DAIR from January 2013 to August 2019 for consideration of PJI readmission. Subgroups were divided into subgroups based on whether there was reinfection after DAIR treatment, and the diagnostic value of serum fibrinogen, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) before DAIR treatment was analyzed by receiver operating Characteristic curve (ROC). To evaluate the diagnostic value of FIB in predicting postoperative reinfection in DAIR patients.
Results

FIB expression was different in acute PJI patients and chronic PJI patients treated with DAIR (4.03 VS 3.08; P < .05, 4.28 VS 3.68; P < .05). In patients with acute PJI treated with DAIR, the sensitivity and specificity of FIB were 81.82% and 83.33%, respectively, significantly higher than CRP (sensitivity, 72.73%; Specificity, 50%; P < .05), while the specificity was higher than ESR (specificity,41.67%; P < .05). In patients with chronic PJI treated with DAIR, the sensitivity and specificity of FIB were 80.00% and 66.66%, respectively, significantly higher than CRP (sensitivity, 53.33%; Specificity, 66.66%; P < .05), ESR (sensitivity was 66.00%; Specificity, 16.66 %; P < .05).
Conclusion

FIB can predict reinfection after DAIR treatment for acute or chronic PJI. Considering the low success rate of DAIR treatment for chronic PJI, it should be chosen carefully.
The role of membrane destabilisation and protein dynamics in BAM catalysed OMP folding.
Authors: White Paul , Haysom Samuel , Iadanza Matthew , Higgins Anna , Machin Jonathan , Horne Jim , Schiffrin Bob , Carpenter-Platt Charlotte , Whitehouse James , Storek Kelly , Rutherford Steven , Brockwell David , Ranson Neil , Radford Sheena
Published: February 2021

The folding of β-barrel outer membrane proteins (OMPs) in Gram-negative bacteria is catalysed by the β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM). How lateral opening in the β-barrel of the major subunit BamA assists in OMP folding, and the contribution of membrane disruption to BAM catalysis remain unresolved. Here, we use an anti-BamA monoclonal antibody fragment (Fab1) and two disulphide-crosslinked BAM variants (lid-locked (LL), and POTRA-5-locked (P5L)) to dissect these roles. Despite being lethal in vivo, we show that all complexes catalyse folding in vitro, albeit less efficiently than wild-type BAM. CryoEM revealed that while Fab1 and BAM-P5L trap an open-barrel state, BAM-LL contains a mixture of closed and contorted, partially-open structures. Finally, all three complexes globally destabilise the lipid bilayer, while BamA does not, revealing that the BAM lipoproteins are required for this function. Together the results provide new insights into the role of BAM structure and lipid dynamics in OMP folding.
No-Touch Sequential Saphenous Venous Harvesting Technique in Off-Pump Bypass Surgery: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hou Xuejian , Zhang Kui , Liu Taoshuai , Li Yang , Zhao Yang , Song Bangrong , Huang Zhuhui , Zheng Jubing , Dong Ran
Published: February 2021

Background
In the mid-1990s, the Swedish expert team proposed saphenous vein graft (SVG) harvesting with pedicle tissue. The short-term and long-term patency rates of the great saphenous vein obtained by the no-touch technique (NT) were higher than those obtained by the conventional technique (CON). In the past, NT technology was mainly used in on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and vein grafts were mostly single vein grafts. In this study, we retrospectively analysed the safety and effectiveness of sequential vein grafts using NT technology in off-pump CABG.
Methods
From 2017 to 2019, a total of 505 patients were included in the study. There were 150 patients in the NT group and 355 patients in the CON group. After applying propensity score matching (1:1 matching), 148 patients were included in each group. Baseline data, graft patency, postoperative complications, leg wound complications and 1-year major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) were compared between the two groups.
Results
There was no significant difference in the patency rate of sequential venous grafts between the two groups one year after the operation either before (NT: 7.1% (10/141) vs CON: 11.5% (38/331), p = 0.149) or after matching (NT: 7.1% (10/140) vs CON: 7.3% (9/124), p = 0.971). There was no significant difference in the composite clinical endpoint between the two groups either before (NT: 3 (2.3%) vs CON: 9 (2.8%), p = 1.000) or after matching (NT: 3 (2.3%) vs CON: 3 (2.5%), p = 1.000). There were differences in leg wound complications between the two groups both before (NT: 9 (6.9%) vs CON: 6 (1.9%), p = 0.007) and after matching (NT: 9 (6.9%) vs CON: 2 (1.7%), p = 0.043).
Conclusions
The application of the NT technique in off-pump CABG with sequential vein grafts is safe and effective. Leg wound complications are more common with the NT technique than with the conventional technique.
Polymorphism of Aspergillus Fumigatus Major Allergen Genes Associating with Their Isolated Sites Affects Their IgE Epitope Structures
Authors: Konuma Rumi , Watanabe Maiko , Irikura Daisuke , Sugita-Konishi Yoshiko , Yamazaki Akiko , Yanagi U , Yahia Doha , Kobayashi Naoki , Chibana Hiroji , Onami Jun-ichi , Kamata Yoichi
Published: February 2021

The circumstances in which organisms live induce polymorphism in their genes, including fungal allergen genes, leading to altered structures and functions of proteins, related to their pathogenicity. Major allergen genes of Aspergillus fumigatus, Asp f 1, Asp f 2, and Asp f 3, were examined in 59 strains [environment and animal/human-body origin] to determine their nucleotide sequences, and then categorized. The location and number of IgE epitopes on the allergen molecules were predicted using a computer software. The Asp f 1 gene was classified into two groups (f1-1 and f1-2). One of the groups possessed one-nucleotide mutation point with one amino-acid substitution. The mutated Asp f 2 gene accompanying 6-amino acid substitution was classified into 7 groups (f2-1 to f2-7). Six of the groups possessed a newborn IgE epitope. The Asp f 3 gene contained two mutations, resulted in three groups (f3-1 to f3-3) without any amino-acid substitutions. Category E, consisting of groups f1-1, f2-5, and f3-2, was specific to an environmental origin. Our findings suggest that nucleotide mutation of the fungal allergen genes, associated with the origin of the fungus, modifies the structure of proteins, and affects their pathogenic properties, such as the localization of IgE epitopes.
Usefulness of the Modified Videofluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale in Choosing the Feeding Method for Stroke Patients with Dysphagia
Authors: Lee Byung Joo , Eo Hyoshin , Lee Changbae , Park Donghwi
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The Videofluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale (VDS) is used to predict the long-term prognosis of dysphagia in patients with stroke. However, the inter-rater reliability of the VDS was low in a previous study. To overcome the mentioned limitations of the VDS, the modified version of the VDS (mVDS) was created and clinically applied to evaluate its usefulness in choosing the feeding method for stroke patients with dysphagia.Methods: The videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) data of 56 stroke patients with dysphagia were collected retrospectively. We investigated the presence of aspiration pneumonia and the selected feeding method. We also evaluated the correlations between the mVDS and the selected feeding method, and between the mVDS and the presence of aspiration pneumonia after stroke. Univariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analyses were used in the data analysis.Results: The inter-rater reliability (Cronbach α value) of the total score of the mVDS was 0.886, which was consistent with very good inter-rater reliability. In all patients, the supratentorial stroke subgroup, and the infratentorial stroke subgroup, the mVDS scores were statistically correlated with the feeding method selected (p<0.05) and the presence of aspiration pneumonia (p<0.05).Conclusions: The mVDS can be a useful scale for quantifying the severity of dysphagia, and it can be a useful tool in the clinical setting and in studies for interpreting the VFSS findings in stroke patients with dysphagia. Further studies with a greater number of patients and various stroke etiologies are required for more generalized application of the mVDS.
Sequential Congruency Effects of Reverse Stroop Interference On Event-Related Potential Components For Go- and Nogo-Stimuli
Authors: Suzuki Kota
Published: February 2021

Sequential congruency effects are observed in interference tasks, in which RTs are shorter for congruent stimuli preceded by congruent (cC) than incongruent stimuli (iC), and RTs are longer for incongruent stimuli preceded by congruent (cI) than incongruent stimuli (iI). These effects are interpreted as resulting from incongruent stimuli triggering attentional control in the next trial, which reduces cognitive control. The aim of this study was to examine sequential congruency effects on ERP components for Go- and Nogo-stimuli using the hybrid reverse Stroop Go/Nogo task. Results indicated that the Nogo-N1 was reduced by trials preceded by incongruent stimuli compared to congruent ones, suggesting that color processing was inhibited by attentional control. However, there was no reduction in the Go-N1. Moreover, the Nogo-N2 amplitudes were larger for cI than iI and iC than cC. On the other hand, the Go-N2 was not modulated by sequential modulation effects, which was lower for incongruent stimuli than congruent stimuli. These results indicate that the Nogo-N2 is involved in cognitive control, whereas the Go-N2 is associated with selection processing. Therefore, it was suggested that response inhibition task demands are necessary for modulating the ERP components by sequential congruency effects.
Mitochondrial Structure and Polarity in Dendrites and the Axon Initial Segment are Regulated by Homeostatic Plasticity and Dysregulated in Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Bülow Pernille , Wenner Peter A , Faundez Victor , Bassell Gary J
Published: February 2021

Mitochondrial dysfunction has long been overlooked in neurodevelopmental disorders, but recent studies have provided new links to genetic forms of autism, including Rett syndrome and Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). In parallel, recent studies have uncovered important basic functions of mitochondria to power protein synthesis, synaptic plasticity and neuronal maturation. The mitochondrion also responds to neuronal activity by altering its morphology and function, and this plasticity of the mitochondrion appear important for proper neuronal plasticity. Previous research has reported disease induced changes in mitochondrial morphology and function, but it remains unknown how such abnormalities affect the ability of mitochondria to express activity dependent plasticity. This study addresses this gap in knowledge using a mouse model of FXS. We previously reported abnormalities in one type of homeostatic plasticity, called homeostatic intrinsic plasticity, which is known to involve structural changes in the axon initial segment (AIS). Another form of homeostatic plasticity, called synaptic scaling, which involves postsynaptic changes in dendrites, is also impaired in FXS. It remains unknown if or how homeostatic plasticity affects mitochondria in axons and/or dendrites and whether impairments occur in neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we test the hypothesis that mitochondria are structurally and functionally modified in a compartment specific manner during homeostatic plasticity in cortical neurons from wild type mice, and that this plasticity-induced regulation is altered in Fmr1 KO neurons, as a model of FXS. We uncovered dendritic specific regulation of mitochondrial surface area, whereas AIS mitochondria show changes in polarity; both responses are lost in Fmr1 KO. Taken together our results demonstrate impairments in mitochondrial plasticity in FXS, which has not previously been reported. These results suggest that mitochondrial dysregulation in FXS contributes to abnormal neuronal plasticity, with broader implications to other neurodevelopmental disorders and therapeutic strategies.
An Amino Acid Ester of Menthol Elicits Defense Responses in Plants
Authors: Tsuzuki Chisato , Hachisu Masakazu , Iwabe Rihoko , Nakayama Yuna , Nonaga Yoko , Sukegawa Satoru , Horito Shigeomi , Arimura Gen-ichiro
Published: February 2021

Terpenoids, including menthol, exhibit potent abilities as plant defense potentiators in agriculture and horticulture. In the current study, we developed new terpene derivatives that consisted of menthol and various amino acids and that were expected to act as powerful plant defense potentiators. We used 6 amino acids possessing low-reactive sidechains to synthesize an array of amino acid ester of menthol (ment-aa) compounds. Transcript levels of two defense genes (pathogenesis-related 1 [PR1] and trypsin inhibitor [TI]) were evaluated in leaves of soybean plants 24 h after application of aquatic solution of menthol or menthol-aa, and revealed that the menthol menthyl ester of valine (ment-Val) alone elevated the transcript level of defense genes, and it did so only at the low dose of 1 µM, not at higher or lower doses tested. Moreover, it appeared that histone acetylation was involved in this effect. Application of ment-Val enabled soybean plants to sustain the increased transcript levels in their leaves for up to 3 days. Moreover, when ment-Val was additionally applied at day 4, at which time the transcript level had declined to the basal level, the transcript level was re-elevated, indicating the possibility that ment-Val could be repeatedly used to sustain pest control. Ment-Val was found to be chemically stable and effective for defense of several crop species. Collectively, these data show that terpenoid conjugates are useful for pest control instead of or in addition to pesticides.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 Expression in Human Type II Pneumocytes is Influenced by Renin-Angiotensin System Blockade
Authors: Silva Mauro G , Falcoff Nora L , Corradi Gerardo C , Alfie José , Seguel Rolando F. , Tabaj Gabriela , Iglesias Laura , Nuñez Myriam , Guman Gabriela R. , Gironacci Mariela M.
Published: February 2021

Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) acts as the receptor for the type 2 coronavirus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV2), the etiological agent of coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19). There has been a growing concern that renin-angiotensin (RAS) blockade increases the expression of ACE2 and then elevate patient susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. Here, we report that age, smoking and RAS blockade influence on the percentage of human ACE2-expressing type II pneumocytes. These findings may explain the increased susceptibility to COVID-19 with age and in subjects with treated cardiovascular-related pathologies. Enhanced ACE2-expressing type II pneumonocytes would facilitate SARS-CoV2 infection, thus increasing patient susceptibility to acute respiratory distress syndrome development because of an unbalance between the pressor and depressor axis of the RAS due to ACE2 sequestration by the virus.
Calvarial Lesions: Overview of Imaging Features and Neurosurgical Management
Authors: Nasi-Kordhishti Isabella , Hempel Johann-Martin , Ebner Florian Heinrich , Tatagiba Marcos
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveCalvarial lesions are rare and can present as a variety of different diseases. The lesions can be palpable on the skin, cause local pain and paraesthesia and, depending on the location, neurological deficits can also occur. This research aims to present an overview of typical imaging features as well as neurosurgical management. MethodsWe examined the charts of patients who underwent surgery on a calvarial lesion in our department between 2004 and 2017 (n=133). Retrospectively, the pre-, intra- and postoperative data were analyzed with morphological and histological findings and compared with each other.ResultsPain, swelling, cosmetically disturbing and neurological deficits were the main complaints. Seventy-seven lesions were limited to the bone, while another 56 lesions showed an infiltrating growth in the adjacent tissue. Depending on the clinical signs and suspected diagnosis, a biopsy, a partial removal or a complete resection was performed. Histiocytosis (n=20), meningiomas (n=20), metastases (n=19) and osteomas (n=16) were the most common lesions. Fibrous dysplasia (n=6) and intraosseous hemangioma (n=9) were less common; other lesions were present only in isolated cases. ConclusionImaging gives a hint, but the diagnosis can be only confirmed by histological examination. The surgical strategy depends on the complaints, location of the lesion and suspected diagnosis. Adjuvant treatment should be initiated according to the histological findings.
Effectiveness of Attachment-Based Family Therapy compared to Treatment as Usual for Depressed Adolescents in Community Mental Health Clinics
Authors: Waraan Luxsiya , Rognli Erling W. , Czajkowski Nikolai Olavi , Aalberg Marianne , Mehlum Lars
Published: February 2021

Background: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a disabling mood disorder, profoundly affecting a large number of adolescent’s quality of life. To date, no obvious treatment of choice for MDD in adolescents is available and progress in the treatment of depressed adolescents will have important public health implications. Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT), as the only empirically supported family therapy model designed to treat adolescent depression, aims to repair interpersonal ruptures and rebuild an emotionally protective parent-child relationship. Objective: To study the effectiveness of ABFT compared with treatment as usual (TAU) delivered within child- and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) to adolescents with MDD.Method: Sixty adolescents (86.7% girls), aged 13-18 years (M = 14.9, SD = 1.35), with MDD referred to two CAMHS were randomized to 16 weeks of ABFT or TAU. ABFT consisted of weekly therapy sessions (family/individual or both) according to the treatment manual. TAU was not monitored. Primary outcomes were assessed by blinded evaluators at baseline and post-treatment with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD). Self-reported (Beck Depression Inventory-II, BDI-II) depressive symptoms were assessed at baseline, and after 4, 6, 8, 10,12, 14, and 16 weeks. Analyses were performed according to intent-to-treat principles. Results: At post-treatment, clinician-rated remission rates on the HAMD (5 % in ABFT and 3.33% in TAU, p =1, OR=1.54, Fisher’s exact test) and self-reported symptoms of depression on the BDI-II did not differ significantly between groups (X2[2, N = 60] =0.06 , p = 0.97). In both treatment groups participants reported significantly reduced depressive symptoms, but the majority (63.3 %) of adolescents were still in the clinical range after 16 weeks of treatment. Conclusion: ABFT was not superior to TAU. Remission and response rates were low in both groups, suggesting none of the treatments were effective in treating MDD in adolescents. Findings must be viewed in the context of the study’s small sample size, missing data, and implementation challenges. Continued efforts to improve treatment for MDD in outpatient clinics are warranted . Future research should examine moderators of and mechanisms for individual differences to treatment response, as well as the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of implementing treatment models which may require extensive training and expertise to yield clinically meaningful improvements in non-research settings. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01830088 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01830088?term=Villab%C3%B8&draw=2&rank=1 Date of registration: April 12, 2013
A Nomogram-Based Model to Predict Neoplastic Risk For Patients With Gallbladder Polyps
Authors: Zhang Xudong , Wang Jin-Cheng , Wu Baoqiang , Li Tao , Jin Lei , Wu Yong , Gao Peng , Zhang Zhen , Qin Xihu , Zhu Chunfu
Published: February 2021

Background: Gallbladder polyps (GBPs) assessment seeks to identify early-stage gallbladder carcinoma (GBC). Many studies have analyzed the risk factors for malignant GBPs, and we try to establish a more accurate predictive model for potential neoplastic polyps in patients with GBPs.Methods: This retrospective study developed a nomogram-based model in a training cohort of 233 GBP patients. Clinical information, ultrasonographic findings, and blood tests were retrospectively analyzed. Spearman correlation and logistic regression analysis were used to identify independent predictors and establish a nomogram model. An internal validation was conducted in 225 consecutive patients. Performance of models was evaluated through the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: Age, cholelithiasis, CEA, polyp size and sessile were confirmed as independent predictors for neoplastic potential of GBPs in the training group. Compared with other proposed prediction methods, the established nomogram model presented good discrimination ability in the training cohort (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.845) and the validation cohort (AUC: 0.836). DCA demonstrated the most clinical benefits can be provided by the nomogram. Conclusions: Our developed preoperative nomogram model can successfully evaluate the neoplastic potential of GBPs based on simple clinical variables, that maybe useful for clinical decision-making.
A Nomogram Model for Predicting Prognosis of Obstructive Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Lv Jian , Liu YuanYuan , Jia YiTao , He JingLi , Dai GuangYao , Guo Peng , Zhao ZhaoLong , Zhang YanNi , Li ZhongXin
Published: February 2021

Background: The prognosis of obstructive colorectal cancer (oCRC) is worse than non-obstructive CRC, but the individualized prediction model for the prognosis of oCRC patients has not been established. The aim of this study was to select prognostic predictors to built a Nomogram model to predic the prognosis of oCRC patients. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 181 oCRC partients between February 2012 to December 2017 from three medical hospitals. 129 patients in one of the hospitals were assigned to the training chort.Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to select independent prognostic indicators in a training cohort and a Nomogram model was constructed. 52 patients foom another two hospital were used as the testing cohort to validate the model.Results: Multivariate analysis illustrated the CEA [p=0.037, HR=2.872 (1.065-7.740)], N stage [N1 vs. N0, p=0.028, HR=3.187 (1.137-8.938) ; N2 vs. N0, p=0.010, HR=4.098 (1.393-12.051)] and surgical procedure [p=0.002, HR=0.299 (0.139-0.643)] were independent prognostic factors for OS of oCRC patients. These factors were used to construct the Nomogram model. Both internal and external validation shows it relatively accuracy.Conclusions: CEA, N stage and surgical procedure were independent prognostic factors for OS of oCRC patients, Which can be visually exhibited by Nomogram model.
Evaluating Ecosystems Services Values due to Land use Transformation in the Gojeb Sub-basin, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Shiferaw Hailu , Alamirew Tena , Kassawmar Tibebu , Zeleke Gete
Published: February 2021

BackgroundLand use land cover (LULC) transformation and ecosystems service valuation (ESVs) play important roles for vegetation restoration and payment for ecosystems service (PES) programs. The objective of this work was to quantify LULC transformations and associated ESVs in the Gojeb sub-basin by analyzing LULC between 1986 and 2016 using satellite images, field observations and ancillary datasets. ResultsThe summarized LULC classes are: bareland, cropland, grassland, forest, plantation, settlement, shrub, water-body and woodland. The ESVs were evaluated for each LULC based on these LULC classes. Forests had the highest cover (> 423000ha ~60%) in 1986 but it reduced to 317000ha (~45%) in 2016. About >56000ha of forests were changed to cultivated land, and >105000ha to different classes. Cultivated land increased from >258000ha (~37%) in 2016 compared to 150000ha (~21.5%) in 1986. The sub-basin had ESVs of US$2.52 billion in 1986 but decreased to US$1.97 billion in 2016; losing about US$0.551 billion within the last 30 years (annual loss rate of US$18.4 million). Potential drivers would be agricultural expansion, land degradation/erosion, landslide and deforestation, indicating that requires concerted effort to restore and manage landscapes for sustainable socio-ecological and economic uses.ConclusionThis study is meaningful for management of natural resources in the catchment, improvement of hydropower production and lifespan of the hydropower reservoir on one hand and productivity of small holder farmers and inhabitants in the basin on the other besides to the lesson learned to other similar basins. Hence, payment for ecosystems service scheme is recommended as a win-win approach to be implemented between upper and downstream users for sustainable use of resources. This study assist policy makers in designing evidence-based solutions for PES programs in the study area and elsewhere.
Therapeutic efficacy of macrolides in management of patients with mild COVID-19
Authors: Rashad Alaa , Nafady Asmaa , Hassan Mohammed H. , Mansour Haggagy , Taya Usama , Bazeed Shamardan Ezzeldin S. , Aref Zaki F. , Sayed Mennatallah Ali Abdelrahman , Nafady-Hego Hanaa , Abdelmaksoud Aida A.
Published: February 2021

Evidence on the efficacy of adding macrolides (azithromycin or clarithromycin) to the treatment regimen for COVID-19 is limited. We testify whether adding azithromycin or clarithromycin to a standard of care regimen was superior to standard of supportive care alone in patients with mild COVID-19.The study included three groups of patients with COVID-19. The azithromycin group included, 107 patients who received azithromycin 500 mg/24 h for 7 days, the clarithromycin group included 99 patients who received clarithromycin 500 /12 h for 7 days, and the control group included 99 patients who received standard care only. All three groups received only symptomatic treatment for control of fever and cough .Clinical and laboratory evaluations of the study participants including assessment of the symptoms duration, real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum ferritin, D-dimer, complete blood count (CBC), non-contrast chest computed tomography (CT), were performed.The overall results revealed significant early improvement of symptoms (fever, dyspnea and cough) in patients treated with either azithromycin or clarithromycin compared to control group, also there was significant early conversion of SARS-CoV-2 PCR to negative in patients treated with either azithromycin or clarithromycin compared to control group (p˂0.05 for all).There was no significant difference in time to improvement of fever, cough, dyspnea, anosmia, GIT symptoms and time to PCR negative conversion between patients treated with azithromycin compared to patients treated with clarithromycin (p˃0.05 for all). Follow up chest CT done after 2 weeks of start of treatment showed significant improvement in patients treated with either azithromycin or clarithromycin compared to control group (p˂0.05 for all).Adding Clarithromycin or Azithromycin to the therapeutic protocols for COVID-19 could be beneficial for early control of fever and early PCR negative conversion in Mild COVID-19