bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of protein extraction and ELISA immunodetection from protein-based paint models with mesoporous silica nanoparticles and MCM41
Authors: Goyal Aditya Sandeep , Salvador Cátia , Mathe Carole , Candeias António , Caldeira Ana Teresa
Published: June 2021

Protein-based biological materials such as albumin, casein and collagen are found in various cultural heritage (CH) artefacts. This study focuses on the study of protein binders from easel paintings media. Proteins have complex structures which are difficult to identify with non-invasive spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, Raman, UV). Immunoassays such as ELISA determine the protein’s source of origin which is necessary for art objects. To increase the detection and identification of proteins by immunoassays, the efficiency of micro-extraction of proteins from heritage materials is a crucial step. Extractions mediated by cycles of orbital agitation and ultrasonic radiation give the possibility to extract proteins from easel painting sample. In this work, protein-based paint models coupled with silica nanoparticles were used for micro-extraction. Nanoparticles possess high surface-to-volume ratios that can attach bioactive molecules such as proteins and increase the total protein recovered from microsamples. Protein extracts were quantified with Bradford Assay in the presence of Coomassie blue. The protein recovery results were statistically computed, and the SPSS analysis shows significant (p < 0.05) increase in protein recovery, above 1.3 times for NPSiO2 and above 1.6 times for MCM-41. The statistical data shows evidence that silica nanoparticles intensify the total protein recovered from paint microsamples. Finally, ELISA was realized on the protein extracts to verify and compare the immunodetection of protein from the paint models with and without the use of silica nanoparticles.
Spatial organization of connectivity in functional climate networks describing event synchrony of heavy precipitation
Authors: Wolf Frederik , Donner Reik V.
Published: June 2021

In the past years, there has been an increasing number of applications of functional climate networks to studying the spatio-temporal organization of heavy rainfall events or similar types of extreme behavior in some climate variable of interest. Nearly all existing studies have employed the concept of event synchronization (ES) to statistically measure similarity in the timing of events at different grid points. Recently, it has been pointed out that this measure can however lead to biases in the presence of events that are heavily clustered in time. Here, we present an analysis of the effects of event declustering on the resulting functional climate network properties describing spatio-temporal patterns of heavy rainfall events during the South American monsoon season based on ES and a conceptually similar method, event coincidence analysis (ECA). As examples for widely employed local (per-node) network characteristics of different type, we study the degree, local clustering coefficient and average link distance patterns, as well as their mutual interdependency, for three different values of the link density. Our results demonstrate that the link density can markedly affect the resulting spatial patterns. Specifically, we find the qualitative inversion of the degree pattern with rising link density in one of the studied settings. To our best knowledge, such crossover behavior has not been described before in event synchrony based networks. In addition, declustering relieves differences between ES and ECA based network properties in some measures while not in others. This underlines the need for a careful choice of the methodological settings in functional climate network studies of extreme events and associated interpretation of the obtained results, especially when higher-order network properties are considered.
Laser assisted synthesis of WS2 nanorods by pulsed laser ablation in liquid environment
Authors: Koinkar Pankaj , Sasaki Kohei , Katayama Tetsuro , Furube Akihiro , Sugano Satoshi
Published: June 2021

Two dimensional (2D) materials are widely attracting the interest of researchers due to their unique crystal structure and diverse properties. In the present work, tungsten disulfide (WS[Formula: see text] nanorods were synthesized by a simple method of pulsed laser ablation in liquid (PLAL) environment. The prepared WS2 are analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) and Raman spectroscopy to confirm the surface morphology, phase and structure. A possible growth mechanism of WS2 is proposed. This study indicates new door for the preparation of 2D materials with specific morphology.
TIJA Forum on Replication: An Overview
Authors: Radhakrishnan Suresh
Published: June 2021

I provide a framework that will help evaluate the value of for replication studies. I then provide a discussion of the fourm papers.
A Modified Helmholtz Equation Least Squares Method for Reconstructing Vibroacoustic Quantities on an Arbitrarily Shaped Vibrating Structure
Authors: Chen Lingguang , Wu Sean F.
Published: June 2021

A modified Helmholtz equation least-square (HELS) method is developed to reconstruct vibroacoustic quantities on an arbitrarily shaped vibrating structure. Unlike the traditional nearfield acoustical holography that relies on the acoustic pressures collected on a hologram surface at a short stand-off distance to a target structure, this modified HELS method takes the partial normal surface velocities and partial acoustic pressures as the input data. The advantages of this approach include but not limited to: (1) The normal surface velocities that represent the nearfield effects are collected directly, which lead to a more accurate reconstruction of the normal surface velocity distribution; (2) The field acoustic pressures are also measured, which leads to a more accurate reconstruction of the acoustic pressure on the source surface as well as in the field; and (3) There is no need to measure the normal surface velocities over the entire surface, which makes this approach quite appealing in practice because most vibrating structures do not allow for measuring the normal surface velocities over the entire source surface as there are always obstacles or constrains around a target structure. Needless to say, regularization is necessary in reconstruction process since all inverse problems are mathematically ill-posed. To validate this approach, both numerical simulations and experimental results are presented. An optimal reconstruction scheme is developed via numerical simulations to achieve the most cost-effective reconstruction results for practical applications.
Evaluation of the contributions of gold derived from hypogene, supergene and surficial processes in the formation of placer gold deposits
Authors: Chapman Rob J. , Craw Dave , Moles Norman Robert , Banks David Archibald , Grimshaw Matthew Russel
Published: June 2021

Placer gold particles have traditionally been considered as either detrital products of weathering or authigenic minerals growing within placers. Recent advances in understanding of gold chemistry/bio-geochemistry demonstrate that gold growth in specific environments is plausible, but opinions differ on the importance of ‘new’ gold in the overall placer inventory. Here we draw upon visual inspection over 40 000 polished gold particle sections from locations worldwide to evaluate the implications of gold alloy composition and particle heterogeneity in determining the contributions of detrital and authigenic gold to fluvial placers. We conclude that: (1) the detrital model of placer gold formation is widespread and demonstrable; (2) supergene gold may be a locally important constituent of fluvial placers; (3) gold-rich rims on placer gold particles comprise two distinct components – a surface micron-scale addition of pure Au and a tens-of-microns-scale inner rim formed by Ag depletion; and (4) the importance to placer inventories of gold particle formation and modification by biogenic processes is considerably overstated.
Carrington Events
Authors: Hudson Hugh S.
Published: June 2021

The Carrington event in 1859, a solar flare with an associated geomagnetic storm, has served as a prototype of possible superflare occurrence on the Sun. Recent geophysical (14C signatures in tree rings) and precise time-series photometry [the bolometric total solar irradiance (TSI) for the Sun, and the broadband photometry from Kepler and Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, for the stars] have broadened our perspective on extreme events and the threats that they pose for Earth and for Earth-like exoplanets. This review assesses the mutual solar and/or stellar lessons learned and the status of our theoretical understanding of the new data, both stellar and solar, as they relate to the physics of the Carrington event. The discussion includes the event's implied coronal mass ejection, its potential “solar cosmic ray” production, and the observed geomagnetic disturbances based on the multimessenger information already available in that era. Taking the Carrington event as an exemplar of the most extreme solar event, and in the context of our rich modern knowledge of solar flare and/or coronal mass ejection events, we discuss the aspects of these processes that might be relevant to activity on solar-type stars, and in particular their superflares. ▪  The Carrington flare of 1859, though powerful, did not significantly exceed the magnitudes of the greatest events observed in the modern era. ▪  Stellar “superflare” events on solar-type stars may share common paradigms, and also suggest the possibility of a more extreme solar event at some time in the future. ▪  We benefit from comparing the better-known microphysics of solar flares and coronal mass ejections with the diversity of related stellar phenomena.
Food Systems for Human and Planetary Health: Economic Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Fan Shenggen , Headey Derek , Rue Christopher , Thomas Timothy
Published: June 2021

Food systems are currently facing unprecedented challenges. More than 690 million people still suffer hunger while climate change, rapid depletion of natural resources, and loss of biodiversity further threaten future food systems. Influential global reports emphasize the need for fundamental transformations of food systems for human and planetary health, but few incorporate economic considerations. This review adopts an economic lens to assessing potential transitions to ideal food systems that are productive, sustainable, nutritious, resilient, and inclusive. Our findings show that new technologies, policies, institutions, and behavior changes can leverage synergies for achieving multiple food system targets, but rigorous economic analysis is needed to further analyze trade-offs and to overcome complex behavioral, institutional, and political barriers. This review also points to important knowledge gaps that economists and other social scientists must address to contribute to the radical transformation of food systems.
A Model Study on Collaborative Learning and Exploration of RBAC Roles
Authors: Yang Jiyong , Shen Xiajiong , Chen Wan , Ge Qiang , Zhang Lei , Chen HaoLin
Published: June 2021

Role‐based access control (RBAC) can effectively guarantee the security of user system data. With its good flexibility and security, RBAC occupies a mainstream position in the field of access control. However, the complexity and time‐consuming of the role establishment process seriously hinder the development and application of the RBAC model. The introduction of the assistant interactive question answering algorithm based on attribute exploration (semiautomatic heuristic way to build an RBAC system) greatly reduces the complexity of building a role system. However, there are some defects in the auxiliary interactive Q&A algorithm based on attribute exploration. The algorithm is not only unable to support multiperson collaborative work but also difficult to find qualified Q&A experts in practical work. Aiming at the above problems, this paper proposes a model collaborative learning and exploration of RBAC roles under the framework of attribute exploration. In this model, after interactive Q&A with experts in different permissions systems by using attribute exploration, the obtained results are merged and calculated to get the correct role system. This model not only avoids the time‐consuming process of role requirement analysis but also provides a feasible scheme for collaborative role discovery in multidepartment permissions.
Identification and Validation of Autophagy-Related Gene Nomograms to Predict the Prognostic Value of Patients with Cervical Cancer
Authors: Jiang Jinqun , Xu HongYan , Wang YiHao , Lu Hai
Published: June 2021

Autophagy is a process of engulfing one’s own cytoplasmic proteins or organelles and coating them into vesicles, fusing with lysosomes to form autophagic lysosomes, and degrading the contents it encapsulates. Increasing studies have shown that autophagy disorders are closely related to the occurrence of tumors. However, the prognostic role of autophagy genes in cervical cancer is still unclear. In this study, we constructed risk signatures of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) to predict the prognosis of cervical cancer. The expression profiles and clinical information of autophagy gene sets were downloaded from TCGA and GSE52903 queues as training and validation sets. The normal cervical tissue expression profile data from the UCSC XENA website (obtained from GTEx) were used as a supplement to the TCGA normal cervical tissue. Univariate COX regression analysis of 17 different autophagy genes was performed with the consensus approach. Tumor samples from TCGA were divided into six subtypes, and the clinical traits of the six subtypes had different distributions. Further absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariable COX regression yielded an autophagy genetic risk model consisting of eight genes. In the training set, the survival rate of the high-risk group was lower than that of the low-risk group (

p

 < 0.0001). In the validation set, the AUC area of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.772 for the training set and 0.889 for the verification set. We found that high and low risk scores were closely related to TNM stage (

p

 < 0.05). The nomogram shows that the risk score combined with other indicators, such as G, T, M, and N, better predicts 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates. Decline curve analysis (DCA) shows that the risk model combined with other indicators produces better clinical efficacy. Immune cells with an enrichment score of 28 showed statistically significant differences related to high and low risk. GSEA enrichment analysis showed the main enrichment being in KRAS activation, genes defining epithelial and mesenchymal transition (EMT), raised in response to the low oxygen level (hypoxia) gene and NF-kB in response to TNF. These pathways are closely related to the occurrence of tumors. Our constructed autophagy risk signature may be a prognostic tool for cervical cancer.
Multiple Wirelessly Powered Sensing Platform Scheduling Algorithm Based on Dynamic Priority Preemption
Authors: Xie Zhijun , Zhang Tao , Wang Chenlu , Yu Jiancheng , Zarei Roozbeh
Published: June 2021

The available energy of a wirelessly powered sensing platform is not enough, and there are constant real‐time tasks to join the wirelessly powered sensing platform to run. So the wirelessly powered sensing system composed of many wirelessly powered sensing platforms is easy to enter the overloaded state, which may cause some tasks not to be executed on time. Therefore, to obtain as much task value as possible for the wirelessly powered sensing system when it is under the overloaded state, it is essential to design a reasonable task scheduling algorithm to arrange the task execution order. In this paper, we propose a policy named Wirelessly Dynamic Allocation Priority (WDAP) policy suitable for the wirelessly powered sensing system. The proposed WDAP is divided into a dynamic task priority allocation policy and a dynamic node priority allocation policy. Firstly, this paper analyzes the dynamic value density based on task value and execution time, studies the urgency of execution according to the execution time and the remaining idle time, and proposes the energy intensity through the task energy consumption and execution time. Based on the three impact factors of dynamic value density, urgency, and energy intensity, a policy for dynamic task priority allocation is proposed. Then, a policy for dynamic node priority allocation is proposed by combining the available energy and the energy acquisition speed of the nodes. Finally, the algorithm suitable for the wirelessly powered sensing system is proposed named Wirelessly Dynamic Real‐time Task Scheduling (WDRTS) algorithm based on the WDAP. The algorithm clarifies the execution order of each task, responds to high‐priority tasks first, and effectively guarantees task benefits. The experimental results show that compared with the main algorithms used in the literature among which is Generalized Earliest Deadline First, the WDRTS algorithm reduces the number of preemptive tasks by at least 36.49% and increases the successful scheduling rate of tasks by at least 15.17% and the overall system task income by at least 16.37% under high load.
Biology, Taxonomy, and Management of the Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in Sweet Potato
Authors: Yigezu Wendimu Gebissa
Published: June 2021

Sweet potato is the seventh-ranked food crop produced after wheat, rice, maize, potato, barley, and cassava in the world. It is the most important root tuber crop in temperate, subtropical, and tropical areas of the world. It is grown for food, income-generating, and jobs for farmers and retailers. The important nutritional substances of sweet potatoes are ß-carotene and anthocyanins. However, the production and its valuable products are limited due to root-knot nematode parasitism. One of the most important destructive species of root-knot nematode to this crop is Meloidogyne incognita. The most destructive stage to sweet potato is at its second juvenile stage (J2). At this stage, it invades the roots and tubers of sweet potato highly in warm sandy soil conditions. It is an obligate plant-parasitic nematode. M. incognita caused significant yield loss to sweet potato in terms of quality, quantity, disturbing the process of photosynthesis and nutrient uptake through the formation of galling, establishing of its feeding sites, or induced galls that contain giant-feeding cells, and cracking of tubers and roots directly. It also reduces the market values of the infected tuber of sweet potato by downgrading the production values. The problem of quality and quantity losses to sweet potato by this pest is one of the major problems nowadays. It caused this problem alone or interaction with other plant-parasitic pathogens or through synergistic of fungi, bacteria, viruses, and others. Therefore, this review paper is focused on the sweet potato M. incognita biology, taxonomy, geographical distribution, and management measures.
Pathogenic Characterization of a Porcine Circovirus Type 3 Isolate from Heilongjiang, China
Authors: Wang Menghang , Yu Ying , Wu Jianan , Meng Fandan , Tang Yandong , Wang Shujie , Wang Yu , Cui Hongliang , He Xijun , Tu Yabin , Wang Gang , Cai Xuehui
Published: June 2021

The clinical outcome of porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) infection is still controversial. Herein, a novel PCV3 isolate (PCV3-China/DB-1/2017) with the molecular characterization of 24A and 27K in the Cap protein was used to inoculate three-week-old cesarean-derived, colostrum-deprived piglets. The nine PCV3 DB-1 inoculated piglets exhibited no obvious clinical symptoms or macroscopic lesions. PCV3 displayed a broad histotropism, including the heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, brain, lymph nodes, and tonsil, and the lungs and lymph nodes contained a higher quantity of viral genomes compared to that of the other organs. From 7 days after PCV3 DB-1 inoculation, the piglets showed obvious IgG antibody responses against PCV3 rCap-VLPs. The cumulative results demonstrated that PCV3 trend to low pathogenicity.
Natural Formulations: Novel Viewpoint for Scleroderma Adjunct Treatment
Authors: Assar Shirin , Khazaei Hosna , Naseri Maryam , El-Senduny Fardous , Momtaz Saeideh , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Echeverría Javier
Published: June 2021

Background. Scleroderma is a complex disease involving autoimmune, vascular, and connective tissues, with unknown etiology that can progress through any organ systems. Objective. Yet, no cure is available; the thorough treatment of scleroderma and current treatments are based on controlling inflammation. Nowadays, medicinal plants/natural-based formulations are emerging as important regulators of many diseases, including autoimmune diseases. Here, we provided an overview of scleroderma, also focused on recent studies on medicinal plants/natural-based formulations that are beneficial in scleroderma treatment/prevention. Methods. This study is the result of a search in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library with “scleroderma”, “systemic sclerosis”, “plant”, “herb”, and “phytochemical” keywords. Finally, 22 articles were selected from a total of 1513 results entered in this study. Results. Natural products can modulate the inflammatory and/or oxidative mediators, regulate the production or function of the immune cells, and control the collagen synthesis, thereby attenuating the experimental and clinical manifestation of the disease. Conclusion. Natural compounds can be considered an adjunct treatment for scleroderma to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from this disease.
Modulating Thyroid Hormone Levels in Adult Mice: Impact on Behavior and Compensatory Brain Changes
Authors: Niedowicz Dana M. , Wang Wang-Xia , Price Doug A. , Nelson Peter T.
Published: June 2021

Thyroid hormone (TH) perturbation is a common medical problem. Because of substantial public health impact, prior researchers have studied hyper- and hypothyroidism in animal models. Although most prior research focused on in utero and/or developmental effects, changes in circulating TH levels are commonly seen in elderly individuals: approximately 20% of persons older than 80 years have clinically impactful hypothyroidism and up to 5% have clinical hyperthyroidism, with women being more often affected than men. TH disease model methodology in mice have varied but usually focus on a single sex, and the impact(s) of TH perturbation on the adult brain are not well understood. We administered thyroxine to middle-aged (13 to 14 months) male and female mice to model hyperthyroidism and TH-lowering drugs propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole, to induce hypothyroidism. These pharmacological agents are used commonly in adult humans. Circulating TH-level changes were observed when thyroxine was dosed at 20 µg/mL in drinking water for two weeks. By contrast, PTU and methimazole did not elicit a consistent reproducible effect until two months of treatment. No substantial changes in TH levels were detected in brain tissues of treated animals; however, pronounced changes in gene expression, specifically for TH-processing transcripts, were observed following the treatment with thyroxine. Our study indicated a robust compensatory mechanism by which the brain tissue/cells minimize the TH fluctuation in CNS by altering gene expression. Neurobehavioral changes were related to the TH perturbation and suggested potential associations between cognitive status and hyper- and hypothyroidism.
Design and Performance Analysis for Edge Intelligence‐Based F‐PMIPv6 Mobility Support for Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Park ByungJun , Moon Junhyung , Lee Jaeen , Jeong Jongpil
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we propose a new mobility management network, i‐FP, to be used in the smart factory that continues to develop in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. i‐FP was created to solve the current local mobility management problem of legacy frameworks. MN (mobile node) refers to a mobile device in a manufacturing environment that includes workers, production facilities, and AGV. To allow mobile nodes (MNs) to move from one domain to another, i‐FP uses three network entities: LFA (Local Factory Anchor), FAG (Factory Access Gateway), and MN, as an extended concept of PMIPv6. Among the three network entities in i‐FP, LFA and FAG can act as edge intelligence devices to reduce the handover latency of the MNs. i‐FP also uses IP header‐swapping mechanisms to prevent traffic overhead and enhance network throughput. We evaluate new framework i‐FP, PMIPv6, and HMIPv6, which are legacy protocols of local mobility management, in various ways and evaluate three schemes. We confirm that i‐FP works better than do the other network methods used in the smart factory.
PGC1α-Mediated Metabolic Reprogramming Drives the Stemness of Pancreatic Precursor Lesions
Authors: Nimmakayala Rama Krishna , Rauth Sanchita , Chirravuri Venkata Ramakanth , Marimuthu Saravanakumar , Nallasamy Palanisamy , Vengoji Raghupathy , Lele Subodh M. , Rachagani Satyanarayana , Mallya Kavita , Malafa Mokenge P. , Ponnusamy Moorthy P. , Batra Surinder K.
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

Metabolic reprogramming and cancer stem cells drive the aggressiveness of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the metabolic and stemness programs of pancreatic precursor lesions (PPL), considered early PDAC development events, have not been thoroughly explored.

Experimental Design:

Meta-analyses using gene expression profile data from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus and IHC on tissue microarrays (TMA) were performed. The following animal and cellular models were used: cerulean-induced KrasG12D; Pdx1 Cre (KC) acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM) mice, KrasG12D; Smad4Loss; Pdx-1 Cre (KCSmad4−) intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) mice, LGKC1 cell line derived from the doxycycline-inducible Gnas IPMN model, and human IPMN organoids. Flow cytometry, Seahorse extracellular flux analyzer, qRT-PCR, and sphere assay were used to analyze metabolic and stemness features. SR18292 was used to inhibit PGC1α, and short hairpin RNA was used to knockdown (KD) PGC1α.

Results:

The meta-analysis revealed a significant upregulation of specific stemness genes in ADM-mediated pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms (PanIN) and IPMN. Meta- and TMA analyses followed by in vitro and in vivo validation revealed that ADM/PanIN exhibit increased PGC1α and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPhos) but reduced CPT1A. IPMN showed elevated PGC1α, fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) gene expression, and FAO-OXPhos. PGC1α was co-overexpressed with its coactivator NRF1 in ADM/PanINs and with PPARγ in IPMN. PGC1α KD or SR18292 inhibited the specific metabolic and stemness features of PPLs and repressed IPMN organoid growth.

Conclusions:

ADM/PanINs and IPMNs show specific stemness signatures with unique metabolisms. Inhibition of PGC1α using SR18292 diminishes the specific stemness by targeting FAO-independent and FAO-dependent OXPhos of ADM/PanINs and IPMNs, respectively.
Quality of Life Assessment in Older Adults with Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Burks Helen B. , des Bordes Jude K.A. , Chadha Riya , Holmes Holly M. , Rianon Nahid J.
Published: June 2021

Introduction: In the absence of a cure, dementia is often managed by minimizing risk factors contributing to quality of life (QOL). Attitudes to dementia in older adults may differ from those in relatively younger adults. The aim was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to determine how QOL was assessed in adults, 65 years and older with dementia, and identify factors that influence the reported scores. Methods: A systematic review of full-text articles addressing QOL in older adults with dementia, published in English from January 1995 to September 2020, was conducted using PubMed and PsycINFO. We included studies that assessed QOL and involved participants 65 years and older. Studies were evaluated for inclusion by 2 independent pairs of reviewers. We assessed the quality of the studies using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s Critical Appraisal Checklist. Study characteristics and findings were summarized. Analysis was by narrative synthesis. We identified social and clinical factors influencing QOL scores. Results: Of the 1,010 articles identified, 19 met the inclusion criteria. These 19 studies involved 6,279 persons with dementia, with sample sizes from 32 to 1,366. Mean age of participants ranged from 77.1 to 86.6 years. Five measurement tools were identified; Quality of Life in Alzheimer Disease (QOL-AD), Alzheimer Disease-Related Quality of Life (ADRQL), Quality of Life in Late-Stage Dementia (QUALID), QUALIDEM (a dementia-specific QOL tool), and DEMQOL (health-related QOL for people with dementia). Self-ratings of QOL were higher than proxy ratings. Factors commonly influencing self-ratings of QOL included depression, functional impairment, and polypharmacy. Common factors that influenced proxy ratings included functional impairment, presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment, and caregiver burden. Conclusion: In evaluating QOL in dementia, self- and proxy reports may complement each other to ensure that all perspectives are addressed.
Prognostic Analysis and Risk Factors Associated with Fetal Ventriculomegaly
Authors: Li Qi-Ming , Liao Hong-Zhan , Wang Wen-Bo , Zeng Shi-Yi , Qiu Xian-Sheng , Ke Shuai , Xiao Jing , Li Qing-Hua , Xia Xue-Wei , Li Yong
Published: June 2021

Background: This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcome and related risk factors of fetal lateral ventriculomegaly (VM). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 255 cases diagnosed as fetal VM. Prenatal imaging examination was carried out. The pregnancy outcomes were investigated through follow-up. According to the prognosis of children, they were divided into case group and control group. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the factors influencing the prognosis of hydrocephalus. Results: After excluding the cases with either loss of follow-up or incomplete information, 102 cases were followed up. Twelve cases with poor prognosis were set as the case group. According to the maternal age, gestational age, gender of children, and follow-up time, 3 cases were selected from the other 90 cases for each child in the case group, respectively, and selected as the control group. Paired comparative analysis was performed on 48 cases. Using prognosis as a dependent variable, multivariate logistic regression analysis of the statistically significant factors indicated that the change speed of width ratio (CSWR) and maximum lateral ventricular width (MW) were associated with fetal prognosis. Conclusions: Our results suggested that CSWR and MW may have the value of predicting fetal prognosis.
How Many People Live with Dementia in Portugal? A Discussion Paper of National Estimates
Authors: Gonçalves-Pereira Manuel , Verdelho Ana , Prina Matthew , Marques Maria João , Xavier Miguel
Published: June 2021

Dementia poses major public health challenges, and high-quality epidemiological data are needed for service planning. Published estimates of numbers of people with dementia in Portugal have been based, in most cases, on prevalence rates derived from international studies or expert consensus. As in many other countries, Portuguese community prevalence studies’ results are nongeneralizable to a country level. Moreover, their prevalence estimates differ (not surprisingly, owing to different methodologies, e.g., design, sampling, and diagnostic criteria). Regardless, the Portuguese 10/66 Dementia Research Group (10/66 DRG) population-based survey fulfilled 10 out of 11 Alzheimer’s Disease International quality criteria for prevalence studies. It relied on cross-culturally validated methods, fostering a wide comparability of results. Therefore, we can provide rough estimates of 217,549 community dwellers with dementia in Portugal according to the 10/66 DRG criteria (that would be only 85,162 according to DSM-IV criteria). This refers to people aged 65 years or older who are not institutionalized. Although broadly consistent with international projections, these estimates must be cautiously interpreted. Particularly in the context of scarce funding, which will probably last for years, we need more efficient, evidence-based dementia policies. Concerning further epidemiological studies, high-quality methods are needed but also their comparability potential should be improved at national and international levels. Most of all, fund allocation in Portugal should now privilege routine dementia information systems in both health and social services.
Intracardiac EUS-B-Guided FNA for Diagnosing Cardiac Tumors
Authors: Martinez Haizea Alvarez , Kuijvenhoven Jolanda C. , Annema Jouke T.
Published: June 2021

Primary cardiac tumors are extremely rare. Obtaining a tissue diagnosis is difficult and commonly requires open-heart surgery with associated morbidity. Esophageal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS with the EBUS scope (EUS-B) provide real-time sampling of centrally located lung tumors and mediastinal lymph nodes. They also provide an excellent view of the left atrium, since it is located adjacent to the esophagus. To date, left atrium tumor diagnostics by endosonography is poorly explored. We describe 2 exceptional diagnostic cases of left atrium tumors in which cardiac surgery was hazardous due to the clinical condition or previous surgical interventions. During EUS-B-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA), the left atrial masses were successfully and safely sampled, revealing a Burkitt lymphoma and a synovial sarcoma. FNA including cell block analysis enabled specific tumor diagnosis and molecular subtyping. Our findings suggest that in selected cases, linear endosonography qualifies as a minimally invasive technique for intracardiac tumor diagnostics.
Accuracy and Reproducibility of Endoscopic Ultrasound B-Mode Features for Observer-Based Lymph Nodal Malignancy Prediction
Authors: Verhoeven Roel L.J. , Leoncini Fausto , Slotman Jorik , de Korte Chris , Trisolini Rocco , van der Heijden Erik H.F.M. ,   on behalf of the E-predict Study Group
Published: June 2021

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound routinely guides lymph node evaluation for the staging of a known or suspected lung cancer. Characteristics seen on B-mode imaging might help the observer decide on the lymph nodes of risk. The influence of nodal size on the predictivity of these characteristics and the agreement with which operators can combine these for malignancy risk prediction is to be determined. Objectives: We evaluated (1) if prospectively scored individual B-mode ultrasound features predict malignancy when further divided by size and (2) assessed if observers were able to reproducibly agree on still lymph node image malignancy risk. Methods: Lymph nodes as visualized by EBUS were prospectively scored for B-mode characteristics. Still B-mode images were furthermore collected. After collection, a repeated scoring of a subset of lymph nodes was retrospectively performed (n = 11 observers). Results: Analysis of 490 lymph nodes revealed the short axis size is an objective measure for stratifying risk of malignancy (ROC area under the curve 0.78). With ≥8-mm size, 210/237 malignant lymph nodes were correctly identified (89% sensitivity, 46% specificity, 61% PPV, and 81% NPV). Secondary addition of B-mode features in <8-mm nodes had limited value. Retrospective analysis of intra- and interobserver scoring furthermore revealed significant disagreement. Conclusions: Lymph nodes of ≥8-mm size and preferably even smaller should be aspirated regardless of other B-mode features. Observer disagreement in scoring both small and large lymph nodes suggests it is infeasible to include subjective features for stratification. Future research should focus on (integrating) other (semi)quantitative values for improving prediction.
Defining AKD: The Spectrum of AKI, AKD, and CKD
Authors: Levey Andrew S.
Published: June 2021

Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines address the definition, classification, and management of acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In practice, some clinical presentations of acute kidney diseases and disorders (AKD) do not meet the criteria for AKI or CKD. In principle, these presentations may be caused by the same diseases that cause AKI or CKD, which could be detected, evaluated, and treated before they evolve to AKI or CKD. In 2020, KDIGO convened a consensus conference to review recent evidence on the epidemiology of AKD and harmonize the definition and classification of AKD to be consistent with KDIGO definitions and classifications of AKI and CKD.
Longitudinal Timed Up and Go Assessment in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sukockienė Eglė , Ferfoglia Ruxandra Iancu , Poncet Antoine , Janssens Jean-Paul , Allali Gilles
Published: June 2021

Progressive loss of walking ability in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been scarcely studied as a potential predictive factor for survival in motor neuron disease. We aimed to assess the progression of gait decline and its association with mortality in ALS using the Timed Up and Go test (TUG). Patients were followed up prospectively at the Centre for ALS and Related Disorders in Geneva University Hospitals between 2012 and 2016. The TUG was performed at baseline and subsequent evaluations occurred every 3 months. At inclusion, patients were classified as unable to perform the TUG, “slow TUG” (>10.6 s), and “fast TUG” (≤10.6 s). In total, 68 patients with ALS (mean ± SD age: 68.6 ± 11.9 years; 50% female) were included. Baseline TUG was negatively correlated with the total ALSFRS-R score (r = −0.63, p < 0.001). At baseline, ALS patients with bulbar onset performed the TUG faster (9.9 ± 3.7 s) than the non-bulbar ones (17.3 ± 14.9 s, p = 0.008). Thirty of 68 (44%) patients died by the end of the follow-up period. The TUG performance at the first visit did not predict mortality. While we did not find any association with mortality in ALS and gait quantification, the TUG was feasible in a majority of ALS patients, was correlated with functional status, and could be of interest in the follow-up of non-bulbar ALS patients.
Does Chronic Kidney Disease Have an Impact on the Use of Oral Anticoagulants after Stroke? An Observational Follow-Up Study
Authors: Laible Mona , Horstmann Solveig , Ringleb Peter Arthur , Veltkamp Roland , Jenetzky Ekkehart , Rizos Timolaos
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease is common in patients with acute ischemic stroke. We investigated whether chronic kidney disease has an impact on anticoagulation treatment recommendations after ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) related with atrial fibrillation (AF). Materials and Methods: We extracted treatment-related data concerning stroke/TIA patients with AF and available estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) from a monocentric prospective German stroke registry. Chronic kidney disease was defined as eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Using uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses, we investigated whether chronic kidney disease was associated with a lower probability to be treated with anticoagulation early after stroke. Results: A total of 273 patients entered the analysis. In 242 AF patients (88.6%), oral anticoagulation was recommended after stroke. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, chronic kidney disease was not identified as an independent factor for the decision against anticoagulation (OR 1.63, 95% CI: 0.50–5.31, p = 0.421); only increasing age (OR 1.10, 95% CI: 1.00–1.21, p = 0.061) and a modified Rankin Scale >3 at discharge (OR 3.41, 95% CI: 0.88–13.24, p = 0.077) showed a nonsignificant trend for the decision to omit anticoagulation. A total of 155 of 167 patients (92.8%) were still anticoagulated at follow-up. A total of 44 patients with chronic kidney disease completed follow-up, and of those, 37 were still anticoagulated (84%). In patients without chronic kidney disease, 118/167 (70.7%) had continued anticoagulation (p = 0.310). Conclusion: Our results show that chronic kidney disease was not the main factor in the decision to withhold oral anticoagulation in patients with recent stroke/TIA and AF.
Glial Metabolic Reprogramming in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Cassina Patricia , Miquel Ernesto , Martínez-Palma Laura , Cassina Adriana
Published: June 2021

ALS is a human neurodegenerative disorder that induces a progressive paralysis of voluntary muscles due to motor neuron loss. The causes are unknown, and there is no curative treatment available. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of ALS pathology; however, it is currently unknown whether it is a cause or a consequence of disease progression. Recent evidence indicates that glial mitochondrial function changes to cope with energy demands and critically influences neuronal death and disease progression. Aberrant glial cells detected in the spinal cord of diseased animals are characterized by increased proliferation rate and reduced mitochondrial bioenergetics. These features can be compared with cancer cell behavior of adapting to nutrient microenvironment by altering energy metabolism, a concept known as metabolic reprogramming. We focus on data that suggest that aberrant glial cells in ALS undergo metabolic reprogramming and profound changes in glial mitochondrial activity, which are associated with motor neuron death in ALS. This review article emphasizes on the association between metabolic reprogramming and glial reactivity, bringing new paradigms from the area of cancer research into neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting glial mitochondrial function and metabolic reprogramming may result in promising therapeutic strategies for ALS.
Evaluation of the Clinical and Laboratory Findings of Asthmatic Children with SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Metbulut Azize Pınar , Mustafaoğlu Özlem , Şen Gülşah , Kanık Yüksek Saliha , Külhaş Çelik İlknur , Akça Halise , Dibek Mısırlıoğlu Emine
Published: June 2021

Introduction: There are a limited number of studies about the clinical findings of coronavirus infection in pediatric patients with asthma. We aimed to evaluate the clinical and laboratory characteristics of pediatric patients with asthma and healthy children without chronic disease who infected with SARS-CoV-2. Methods: This is a retrospective, case-control study comparing the asthma diagnosed and healthy children who were diagnosed as COVID-19 in our hospital between March 11 and November 10, 2020. Results: During the study period, 6,205 children were diagnosed with CO­VID-19 in our hospital. Only 54 (0.87%) patients had a diagnosis of asthma. The mean of the age was 10.5 years and 53.7% (n:29) of the patients with asthma were male. Cough, shortness of breath, emesis, and diarrhea were found to be significantly higher in asthma group than in the control group (respectively p = 0.002, 0.000, 0.002, 0.019, 0.015). Patients who were given SABA was significantly higher in asthma diagnosed patients (p = 0.000). Hospitalization was significantly higher in asthma group (p = 0.025), and the duration of hospitalization was significantly higher in control group (p = 0.034). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of requiring oxygen treatment and in laboratory findings between groups. Conclusion: This study revealed that pediatric patients diagnosed with asthma were in a mild clinic. According to these findings, asthma may not affect the course of the COVID-19 in children.
Microstructural Macular Changes after Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
Authors: Mete Maurizio , Maggio Emilia , Ramanzini Francesca , Guerriero Massimo , Airaghi Giulia , Pertile Grazia
Published: June 2021

Purpose: This study aimed to describe foveal microstructural changes after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with air tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Methods: External limiting membrane (ELM) and ellipsoid zone (EZ) integrity, cystoid macular edema (CME), and subretinal fluid bleb (SB) development were analyzed using optical coherence tomography in 59 eyes over a 6-month follow-up period after PPV surgery for RRD. Eyes were grouped as macula-on (n = 30) or macula-off (n = 29), and the association between ELM and EZ recovery and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was investigated. Predictive factors for ELM and EZ recovery were also identified. Results: The interval between symptom onset and surgery did not significantly differ between the macula-on and macula-off groups. Macula-on patients showed ELM and EZ integrity throughout, whereas macula-off patients had ELM and EZ integrity restored in 89.7% and 86.2% cases, respectively, with a resultant increase in final BCVA. Significant associations were found between preoperative macular involvement and ELM/EZ restoration. ELM/EZ recovery was also inversely associated with CME development. Significant associations were also found between final BCVA and preoperative BCVA and EZ recovery. CME and SB development were equally distributed between the 2 groups. Conclusion: Prompt surgery for macula-off RRD allows the progressive recovery of outer retinal layers and significant visual gain.
Excimer Laser Coronary Angioplasty in Coronary Lesions: Use and Safety From the NCDR/CATH PCI Registry
Authors: Sintek Marc , Coverstone Edward , Bach Richard , Zajarias Alan , Lasala John , Kurz Howard , Kennedy Kevin , Singh Jasvindar
Published: June 2021

Background:

Excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA) uses an ultraviolet laser catheter for the treatment of coronary artery disease. ELCA has been used for various coronary lesions, but current safety and frequency of use are unknown.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective, registry-based study of ELCA use during coronary interventions reported to the National Cardiovascular Data Registry/CATH percutaneous coronary intervention registry from 2009 to 2018 (n=6 043 596 total interventions evaluated). The primary safety end point was the combination of any perforation, dissection, tamponade, or death. ELCA use per 10 000 interventions was evaluated for the study duration. Subgroups of interest were identified including in-stent restenosis lesions, saphenous vein graft lesions, chronic total occlusions, and thrombotic lesions.

Results:

A total of 19 688 lesions were identified with ELCA use (0.3% of all lesions). The rate of ELCA use increased across the study period from 14 ELCAs performed per 10 000 interventions in 2009 to 70 ELCAs performed per 10 000 interventions in 2018. The primary safety end point occurred in 4.2% of lesions and was higher than in cases where no ELCA was used (3.0%
P
<0.001). After adjusting for baseline differences among the subgroups who received ELCA, the in-stent restenosis group had the lowest rate of complications (odds ratio, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.42–0.63]), followed by the saphenous vein graft group (odds ratio, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.5–1]). The chronic total occlusion group had a higher risk for complications (odds ratio, 2.01 [95% CI, 1.61–2.40]).

Conclusions:

The use of ELCA has remained low but has increased in recent years. Complications are significantly higher when ELCA is used, but this effect is variable with respect to lesion subtype. ELCA is frequently used to treat in-stent restenosis with a low risk of complication. ELCA use during chronic total occlusion interventions is associated with a 2-fold increased risk of complications. Together these findings provide guidance for lesion selection to optimize safety with ELCA use.