bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management strategies and outcome of ureterovaginal fistulae: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bahuguna Gunjan , Panwar Vikas K. , Mittal Ankur , Talwar Harkirat S. , Mandal Arup K. , Bhadoria Ajeet S. , Chapple Christopher
Published: January 2022

Background

Genitourinary fistula is a distressful condition involving mental, social, marital, and financial repercussions.

Objective

The objective of this study is to systematically evaluate etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, the timing of repair, and perform a meta‐analysis evaluating the success rate of various treatment modalities with respect to time taken to seek treatment.

Search strategy

We performed a critical review of PubMed/Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library in April 2020 according to the PRISMA statement. Seventeen studies were included in the final analysis and all were retrospective in design.

Selection criteria

Each article was rated by the evidence‐based medicine levels of evidence scale and the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies scale for assessment of bias among nonrandomized studies.

Main results

Of the 799 fistulae reported in 17 studies, endoscopic management was done in 35.6% (12 studies), whereas surgical management was preferred in 85.6% fistulae (15 studies). The pooled success of endoscopic stenting was 32% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7–64) and 100% (95% CI: 98–100) in operated patients. Patients who underwent stenting within 2 weeks (20%), 2–6 weeks (21%), and >6 weeks (40%) had pooled success rates of 95% (95% CI: 87–100), 46% (95% CI: 0–100), and 20% (95% CI: 1–49), respectively. Patients who underwent surgical management <6 weeks (15.9%) and >6 weeks (22%) of diagnosis had pooled success rates of 100% (95% CI: 99–100) and 100% (95% CI: 99–100), respectively.

Conclusions

Stent placement as early as <6 weeks (preferably < 2 weeks) had better outcomes as compared to >6 weeks. Proceeding to surgery regardless of timing in cases of stent failure seems to be a feasible option.
Prediction of recurrence from metabolites and expression of TOP2A and EZH2 in prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy
Authors: Hansen Ailin Falkmo , Høiem Therese Stork , Selnæs Kirsten Margrete , Bofin Anna Mary , Størkersen Øystein , Bertilsson Helena , Wright Alan J. , Giskeødegård Guro Fanneløb , Bathen Tone Frost , Rye Morten Beck , Tessem May‐Britt
Published: January 2022

Background

The dual upregulation of TOP2A and EZH2 gene expression has been proposed as a biomarker for recurrence in prostate cancer patients to be treated with radical prostatectomy. A low tissue level of the metabolite citrate has additionally been connected to aggressive disease and recurrence in this patient group. However, for radiotherapy prostate cancer patients, few prognostic biomarkers have been suggested. The main aim of this study was to use an integrated tissue analysis to evaluate metabolites and expression of TOP2A and EZH2 as predictors for recurrence among radiotherapy patients.

Methods

From 90 prostate cancer patients (56 received neoadjuvant hormonal treatment), 172 transrectal ultrasound‐guided (TRUS) biopsies were collected prior to radiotherapy. Metabolic profiles were acquired from fresh frozen TRUS biopsies using high resolution‐magic angle spinning MRS. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry staining for TOP2A and EZH2 were performed on TRUS biopsies containing cancer cells (n = 65) from 46 patients, where 24 of these patients (n = 31 samples) received hormonal treatment. Eleven radical prostatectomy cohorts of a total of 2059 patients were used for validation in a meta‐analysis.

Results

Among radiotherapy patients with up to 11 years of follow‐up, a low level of citrate was found to predict recurrence,p = 0.001 (C‐index = 0.74). Citrate had a higher predictive ability compared with individual clinical variables, highlighting its strength as a potential biomarker for recurrence. The dual upregulation of TOP2A and EZH2 was suggested as a biomarker for recurrence, particularly for patients not receiving neoadjuvant hormonal treatment,p = 0.001 (C‐index = 0.84). While citrate was a statistically significant biomarker independent of hormonal treatment status, the current study indicated a potential of glutamine, glutamate and choline as biomarkers for recurrence among patients receiving neoadjuvant hormonal treatment, and glucose among patients not receiving neoadjuvant hormonal treatment.

Conclusion

Using an integrated approach, our study shows the potential of citrate and the dual upregulation of TOP2A and EZH2 as biomarkers for recurrence among radiotherapy patients.
Calibrationless multi‐slice Cartesian MRI via orthogonally alternating phase encoding direction and joint low‐rank tensor completion
Authors: Zhao Yujiao , Yi Zheyuan , Liu Yilong , Chen Fei , Xiao Linfang , Leong Alex T. L. , Wu Ed X.
Published: January 2022

We propose a multi‐slice acquisition with orthogonally alternating phase encoding (PE) direction and subsequent joint calibrationless reconstruction for accelerated multiple individual 2D slices or multi‐slice 2D Cartesian MRI. Specifically, multi‐slice multi‐channel data are first acquired with random or uniform PE undersampling while orthogonally alternating PE direction between adjacent slices. They are then jointly reconstructed through a recently developed low‐rank multi‐slice Hankel tensor completion (MS‐HTC) approach. The proposed acquisition and reconstruction strategy was evaluated with human brain MR data. It effectively suppressed aliasing artifacts even at high acceleration factor, outperforming the existing MS‐HTC approach, where PE direction is the same between adjacent slices. More importantly, the new strategy worked robustly with uniform undersampling or random undersampling without any consecutive centralk‐space lines. In summary, our proposed multi‐slice MRI strategy exploits both coil sensitivity and image content similarities across adjacent slices. Orthogonally alternating PE direction among slices substantially facilitates the low‐rank completion process and improves image reconstruction quality. This new strategy is applicable to uniform and random PE undersampling. It can be easily implemented in practice for Cartesian parallel imaging of multiple individual 2D slices without any coil sensitivity calibration.
Impact of transition from face‐to‐face to telehealth on behavioral obesity treatment during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ross Kathryn M. , Carpenter Chelsea A. , Arroyo Kelsey M. , Shankar Meena N. , Yi Fan , Qiu Peihua , Anthony Lisa , Ruiz Jaime , Perri Michael G.
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study evaluated whether the transition of a face‐to‐face behavioral intervention to videoconferencing‐based telehealth delivery during the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in significantly smaller weight losses than those typically observed in gold‐standard, face‐to‐face programs.

Methods

Participants were 160 adults with obesity (mean [SD] age = 49.2 [11.9] years, BMI = 36.1 [4.2] kg/m2) enrolled in two cohorts of a 16‐week comprehensive weight‐management program. Cohort 1 began in person and transitioned to telehealth (Zoom) delivery during week 11 of the intervention because of COVID‐19; Cohort 2 was conducted completely remotely. A noninferiority approach (using a clinically relevant noninferiority margin of 2.5%) was used to assess whether the weight losses observed were inferior to the 8% losses from baseline typically produced by gold‐standard, face‐to‐face lifestyle interventions.

Results

From baseline to postintervention, participants lost an average of 7.4 [4.9] kg, representing a reduction of 7.2% [4.6%]. This magnitude of weight change was significantly greater than 5.5% (t[159] = 4.7, p < 0.001), and, thus, was within the proposed noninferiority margin.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that the results of behavioral weight‐management interventions are robust, whether delivered in person or remotely, and that individuals can achieve clinically meaningful benefits from behavioral treatment even during a global pandemic. Pragmatic “lessons learned,” including modified trial recruitment techniques, are discussed.
The prevalence of prenatal sonographic findings in postnatal diagnostic exome sequencing performed for neurocognitive phenotypes: A cohort study
Authors: Sukenik‐Halevy Rivka , Perlman Sharon , Ruhrman‐Shahar Noa , Engel Offra , Orenstein Naama , Gonzaga‐Jauregui Claudia , Shuldiner Alan R. ,   Regeneron Genetics Center, Magal Nurit , Hagari Ofir , Azulay Noy , Lidzbarsky Gabriel Arie , Bazak Lily , Basel‐Salmon Lina
Published: January 2022

Objective

Prenatal exome sequencing (ES) is currently indicated for fetal malformations. Some neurocognitive genetic disorders may not have a prenatal phenotype. We assessed the prevalence of prenatally detectable phenotypes among patients with neurocognitive syndromes diagnosed postnatally by ES.

Methods

The medical files of a cohort of 138 patients diagnosed postnatally with a neurocognitive disorder using ES were reviewed for prenatal sonographic data. The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database was searched for prenatally detectable phenotypes for all genes identified.

Results

Prenatal imaging data were available for 122 cases. Of these, 29 (23.75%) had fetal structural abnormalities and another 29 had other ultrasound abnormalities (fetal growth restriction, polyhydramnios, elevated nuchal translucency). In 30 patients, structural aberrations that were not diagnosed prenatally were detected at birth; in 21 (17.2%), the abnormalities could theoretically be detected prenatally by third‐trimester/targeted scans. According to OMIM, 55.9% of the diagnosed genes were not associated with structural anomalies.

Conclusions

Most patients (52.5%) with postnatally diagnosed neurocognitive disorders did not have prenatal sonographic findings indicating prenatal ES should be considered. The prevalence of specific prenatal phenotypes such as fetal growth restriction and polyhydramnios in our cohort suggests that additional prenatal findings should be assessed as possible indications for prenatal ES.
A review of upper extremity peripheral nerve injuries in throwing athletes
Authors: Bowers Robert L. , Cherian Chris , Zaremski Jason L.
Published: January 2022

Peripheral nerve injuries in the upper extremities may be common in throwing athletes as the throwing motion places extreme stress on the dominant arm. The combination of extreme stress along with repetitive microtrauma from throwing uniquely places the throwing athlete at elevated risk of upper extremity peripheral nerve injury. However, because symptoms can be nonspecific and frequently coexist with pathology in the upper extremity, the diagnosis of peripheral nerve injury is often delayed. Diagnosis of peripheral nerve injuries may require a combination of history and physical examination, diagnostic imaging, electrodiagnostic testing, and diagnostic ultrasound‐guided injections. The primary management should include physical therapy focusing on throwing mechanics and kinetic chain evaluation. However, some athletes require surgical intervention if symptoms do not improve with conservative management. The purpose of this focused narrative review is to highlight upper extremity peripheral neuropathies reported in throwing athletes and to provide an overview of the appropriate clinical diagnosis and management of the throwing athlete with a peripheral nerve injury.
Predicting post‐stroke motor recovery of upper extremity using clinical variables and performance assays: A prospective cohort study protocol
Authors: Sardesai Sanjukta , Solomon M John , Arumugam Ashokan , Guddattu Vasudeva , Gorthi Sankar Prasad , Pai Aparna , Kumaran D Senthil
Published: January 2022

Background and Purpose

Measurement of movement quality is essential to distinguish motor recovery patterns and optimize rehabilitation strategies post‐stroke. Recently, the Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable Taskforce (SRRR) recommended four kinetic and kinematic performance assays to measure upper extremity (UE) movements and distinguish behavioral restitution and compensation mechanisms early post‐stroke. The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a prediction model to analyze the added prognostic value of performance assays over clinical variables assessed up to 1‐month post stroke for predicting recovery of UE motor impairment, capacity and quality of movement (QoM) measured at 3 months post‐stroke onset.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 120 stroke survivors will be recruited within seven days post‐stroke. Candidate predictors such as baseline characteristics, demographics and performance assays as per SRRR recommendations along with tonic stretch reflex threshold will be measured up to 1‐month post‐stroke. Upper extremity motor recovery will be evaluated in terms of motor impairment (Fugl‐Meyer assessment for UE), UE capacity measured with Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) and QoM (movement smoothness in the form of peak metrics [PM]) assessed with a reach‐to‐grasp‐to‐mouth task (mimicking a drinking task) at 3 months post‐stroke. Three multivariable linear regression models will be developed to predict factors responsible for the outcomes of Fugl‐Meyer assessment for upper extremity (FM‐UE), ARAT and movement quality. The developed models will be internally validated using a split‐sample method.

Discussion

This study will provide a validated prediction model inclusive of clinical and performance assays that may assist in prediction of UE motor recovery. Predicting the amount of recovery and differentiating between behavioral restitution and compensation (as reflected by the FM‐UE, QoM and ARAT) would enable us in realistic goal formation and planning rehabilitation. It would also help in encouraging patients to partake in early post‐stroke rehabilitation thus improving the recovery potential.
PFAS Experts Symposium 2: PFAS Remediation research – Evolution from past to present, current efforts, and potential futures
Authors: Newell Charles J. , DiGuiseppi William H. , Cassidy Daniel P. , Divine Craig E. , Fenstermacher James M. , Hagelin Nathan W. , Thomas Ryan A. , Tomiczek Paul , Warner Scott D. , Xiong Zhong John , Hatzinger Paul B.
Published: January 2022

Due to the diverse chemistries of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and their apparent recalcitrance to natural biological and abiotic transformation processes, remediation of this class of compounds in groundwater environments is much more challenging than that of other common contaminants such as chlorinated solvents, hydrocarbons, methyl tert‐butyl ether, and 1,4‐dioxane. Overall, the groundwater remediation community is faced with substantial challenges that will require both continued enhancement of existing technologies and development of new technologies and strategies to manage PFAS‐impacted sites. Fortunately, an extraordinary breadth and depth of ongoing research in PFAS remediation is funded through a variety of different agencies and organizations. This research can be organized into three main categories: (1) nondestructive approaches that remove PFAS from water and other matrices; (2) destructive technologies that break carbon–fluorine and carbon–carbon bonds to create nontoxic products; and (3) coupled systems that concentrate and then destroy PFAS. As with previous groundwater contaminants, an initial focus on ex situ PFAS treatment is now slowly evolving to include more in situ research. However, as of 2021, there are no practical groundwater remediation technologies that have been shown to destroy target PFAS (i.e., mineralize and/or create nontoxic products) in situ at full‐scale field application. While the historical goal of in situ treatment for most contaminants has been destruction, practitioners, facility owners, and regulators may need to alter their expectations and objectives for PFAS, at least in the short term, to management strategies that include treatment at receptor locations to avoid exposures and adsorption‐based attenuation strategies for some plumes. These approaches can be used as practical alternatives to PFAS destruction or to buy time until promising technologies become both commercially available and accepted by the industry. The success of any remedial effort typically depends upon meeting regulatory criteria, which in the case of PFAS, are currently in flux at the federal level and differ by orders of magnitude among state regulatory bodies. While this is understandable given the uncertainty and complexity of this issue, setting firm, consistent, and attainable regulatory standards is necessary to provide researchers and practitioners with necessary benchmarks for remediation technology development and commercialization.
Water Determination in Aromatic Sulfonyl Chlorides Using the Karl Fischer Titration Method: Scope and Limitations
Authors: Radchenko Olga B. , Radchenko Dmytro S. , Konovets Angelika I. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: January 2022

The scope and limitations of the Karl Fischer titration was studied for various aromatic sulfonyl chlorides. Standard addition determination of water content was performed using p‐toluenesulfonyl chloride samples; it was confirmed that the method had high accuracy. A set of substituted aromatic sulfonyl chlorides (95 compounds) was subjected to the Karl Fischer titration in order to establish the relevance of the method depending on the compound structure. It was shown that the method gave satisfactory results and was applicable to most aromatic sulfonyl chlorides, except the compounds possessing strong electron‐withdrawing substituents.
Synthesis and In Vitro Analysis of 1‐Deoxysphingolipid Ceramide Analogues via UGI Reaction as Potential Anti‐cancer Agents
Authors: Kaur Parleen , Sihag Swati , Chauhan Monika , Dhingra Neelima , Agnihotri Navneet , Kaur Ramandeep , Singh Vasundhara
Published: January 2022

In the present work, a small library of few 1‐deoxysphingolipid ceramides has been designed and synthesized via an efficient UGI multicomponent reaction. The deoxy sphingosine intermediate (10) synthesized via Grignard reaction and olefin metathesis reaction was used as the amine component with cyclohexyl isocyanide and various aldehydes. The butyric acid has been used as an acid component which may turn out be an advantage due to the chemo preventive properties of the acid formed after the partial hydrolysis of the ceramide. Compounds (1‐6) has been synthesised via a short and facile route in high purity and yield. Molecular docking of all the analogues has been carried out with protein Sphingosine Kinase I using BiopredictaVlife MDS tool to determine the relative docking score and ligand‐protein interactions. Further in vitro studies were performed on PC‐3 (prostate cancer) and HCT‐116 (colon cancer) cell lines in which four compounds (1‐4) showed reasonable anti‐cancer activity against both the cell lines while compound (3) showed highest activity with IC50 value of 0.344 μM against PC‐3 (prostate cancer) cell lines and 0.624 μM against HCT‐116 (colon cancer) cell lines. Compound (4) showed IC50 value of 0.472 μM against HCT‐116 (colon cancer) cell lines.
5‐Indolylidene‐2‐iminothiazolidin‐4‐ones – Convenient Starting Compounds for Stereoselective Synthesis of Novel Dispirooxindole Derivatives
Authors: Izmest'ev Alexei N. , Streltsov Andrey A. , Karnoukhova Valentina A. , Kolotyrkina Natalya G. , Strelenko Yurii A. , Kravchenko Angelina N. , Gazieva Galina A.
Published: January 2022

A convenient method for the synthesis of novel dispirooxindoles containing 2‐iminothiazolidin‐4‐one moiety has been proposed. The method relies on a 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides generated in situ from paraformaldehyde and N‐alkyl amino acids including chiral ones to 5‐indolylidene‐2‐iminothiazolidin‐4‐ones. The method is suitable for preparing enantiomerically pure derivatives.
Highly selective and efficient electroreduction of CO2 in water by quaterpyridine derivative‐based molecular catalyst noncovalently tethered to carbon nanotubes
Authors: Reddu Vikas , Sun Libo , Li Xiaogang , Jin Huile , Wang Shun , Wang Xin
Published: January 2022

A disubstituted quaterpyridine based cobalt complex non‐covalently tethered to multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) substrate, forming a hybrid catalyst, Co‐qpyCOOH/CNT, catalyzed the conversion of CO2 to CO under aqueous conditions. At an optimal and uniform loading, it exhibited remarkable catalytic activity, near‐exclusive selectivity, and high stability towards the formation of CO. At a mere cathodic potential of −0.65 V versus RHE (η = 0.54 V), it achieved a high partial current density of −6.7 mA/cm2 and a F.E.CO = 100%. In addition, with 20 h of stable operation, hydrogen evolution remained practically undetected. Its hybrid structure due to noncovalent immobilization on MWCNT imparted the intrinsic activity and much‐needed stability in performance whereas ‒COOH groups may stabilize the intermediates by acting as H‐bond donors, promoting catalytic activity. Tethering to a conductive solid substrate and tuning of the second sphere of coordination played an important role in its performance to achieve desired reduction product with high selectivity and activity.
Influence of Strength Mismatch on Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Behaviors for Q390/Q690 Ferritic Steel Dissimilar Welded Joints
Authors: Zhang Yiting , Lan Liangyun , Shao Guoqing
Published: January 2022

For the structural integrity of weldments, it is necessary to ascertain acceptable strength mismatch mode when dissimilar parent materials are welded together. Herein, multilayer and multi‐pass CO2 gas shielded welding is carried out to manufacture two dissimilar welded joints of Q390 and Q690 steels using two filler materials with different strength levels. A comparative assessment of both strength mismatch modes is done based on microstructural characterization and mechanical testing. The results show that the weld metal (WM) with predominantly fine acicular ferrite (about 80 pct) and granular bainite has a more excellent combination of strength and toughness compared to the WM mainly composed of polygonal ferrite and degenerated pearlite, and the weakest link of the welded joint has transferred from the WM to the Q390‐side heat‐affected zone. The acceptable strength mismatch relationship of the dissimilar welded structures is revealed, e.g., the hardness in the welded joint should present a uniform gradient distribution. Herein, the gradient difference in the equivalent yield strength (calculated from their hardness) between adjacent areas is ≈170 MPa.
Cross‐sectional study on the in‐herd prevalence ofMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeat different stages of pig production
Authors: Deffner Pauline , Maurer Roland , Cvjetković Vojislav , Sipos Wolfgang , Krejci Roman , Ritzmann Mathias , Eddicks Matthias
Published: January 2022

Background

A cross‐sectional study was carried out to assess the prevalence ofMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeinfections before vaccination in 3‐week‐old piglets and to gain information about infection dynamics.

Methods

In 13 German and three Austrian farms with a known history of enzootic pneumonia, 790 piglets and 158 sows were sampled (blood samples, tracheobronchial swabs [TBS] [piglets], laryngeal swabs [LS] [sows]), and 525 pen‐based oral fluids (OFs) were collected in growing and fattening pigs. Laboratory diagnostics included enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses.

Results

Antibodies toM. hyopneumoniaewere present in 87.5 per cent of all herds. Seroprevalence ranged from 0.0 to 100.0 per cent and 0.0 to 88.0 per cent in sows and piglets, respectively.M. hyopneumoniae‐deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was present in 3.8 and 0.4 per cent of LS and TBS, respectively. Gilts had a 10.9 times higher chance beingM. hyopneumoniaePCR‐positive than older sows. In 75.0 per cent of all farms,M. hyopneumoniae‐DNA was present in OFs. Detection rate was significantly higher in OFs of 20‐week‐old than in younger pigs (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Results indicate thatM. hyopneumoniaeinfections of the lower respiratory tract in piglets are rare but highlight the role of gilts in maintaining infection in the herd. Collecting OFs seems promising for surveillance, if coughing occurs simultaneously.
Promoting action of vitamin E and black seed oil on reproductive hormones and organ histoarchitecture of Swiss albino mice
Authors: Mustari Afrina , Nooruzzaman Mohammed , Miah Mohammad Alam , Sujan Khaled Mahmud , Chowdhury Emdadul Hauqe
Published: January 2022

Background

Vitamin E and black seed oil are two powerful antioxidants with several health benefits.

Objective

The effect of vitamin E and black seed oil on reproductive performance of Swiss albino mice was studied.

Methods

A total of 80 (40 male and 40 female) mice of 25–28 days old were randomly divided into four groups viz., A, B, C and D consisting of 10 mice in each group. Mice from the group A served as vehicle control and received normal mice ration whereas mice from the group B, C and D received feed supplemented with either black seed oil (0.5 ml/kg), vitamin E (200 mg/kg) or combination of black seed oil (0.5 ml/kg) and vitamin E (200 mg/kg), respectively daily for 16 weeks. At the end point of the study, blood samples were collected and sera were separated for hormonal analysis. At the same time, mice were sacrificed and testes and ovaries were collected for histomorphological examination.

Results

In male mice, the level of testosterone increased significantly in mice receiving black seed oil only, whereas the thyroxin increased significantly in all treated groups when compared to the control mice. Histomorphological examination revealed a significant increase in the diameter of seminiferous tubules in male mice fed with either black seed oil or vitamin E or both. On the other hand, the oestradiol and thyroxin concentration in female mice showed no significant changes in both control and treated groups. However, ovaries of mice fed with black seed oil or vitamin E or both showed an increased number of the follicles of different stages than the control mice.

Conclusions

The findings highlighted the promoting action of vitamin E and black seed oil on reproductive functions of mice and that can be used to treat infertility in man and animals.
Pneumopericardium with concomitant pericardial effusion following peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia repair in a dog
Authors: Lohinger Christian , Gumpenberger Michaela , Kolm Ursula Susanne , Degasperi Brigitte
Published: January 2022

Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH) is a congenital defect allowing communication between the peritoneal cavity and the pericardial sac, through which abdominal organs may herniate into the pericardial space. The condition can be asymptomatic or symptomatic, and if symptomatic, accompanied mostly with non‐specific gastrointestinal or respiratory clinical signs. A 2‐year‐old, male, neutered mixed breed dog was referred due to fever, lethargy and decreased food intake over the last 2 weeks. Abdominal ultrasound was performed and a transposition of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity was suspected. Further diagnostic imaging confirmed PPDH with herniation of the gall bladder and spleen into the pericardial sac. The dog underwent surgery for hernia repair. Severe pneumopericardium subsequently complicated by pericardial effusion developed postoperatively. Both complications resolved without intervention. The dog never showed signs of haemodynamic instability or cardiac tamponade.
Use of human intravenous immunoglobulin for treatment of immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia in two cats
Authors: Baptista Lara Filipa Mendes de Morais , Kelly Darren
Published: January 2022

A 2‐year‐old male neutered Maine Coon cat (Cat 1) presented to a referral centre with a 1‐day history of lethargy. A 3‐year‐old male neutered domestic shorthair cat (Cat 2) presented with a 1‐week history of inappetence and lethargy. Complete blood count revealed a severe, mildly regenerative, normocytic, normochromic anaemia for Cat 1, and a severe, non‐regenerative normocytic normochromic anaemia for Cat 2. Following further investigations, a diagnosis of non‐associative immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia was made. Treatment with immunosuppressive dosages of glucocorticoids was started; however, given the lack of response and severity of disease in both cases, it was decided to administer human intravenous immunoglobulin. There was improvement of haematocrit 2 days following the infusion for Cat 1, and 5 days after for Cat 2. Both cats were discharged from the hospital. Cat 1 remained in remission 6 months following the diagnosis, and Cat 2 was lost to follow‐up.
Local Well-Posedness of Skew Mean Curvature Flow for Small Data in $$d\ge 4$$ Dimensions
Authors: Huang Jiaxi , Tataru Daniel
Published: January 2022

The skew mean curvature flow is an evolution equation for d dimensional manifolds embedded in $${{\mathbb {R}}}^{d+2}$$

R

d
+
2

(or more generally, in a Riemannian manifold). It can be viewed as a Schrödinger analogue of the mean curvature flow, or alternatively as a quasilinear version of the Schrödinger Map equation. In this article, we prove small data local well-posedness in low-regularity Sobolev spaces for the skew mean curvature flow in dimension $$d\ge 4$$

d
≥
4

.
Comparing two artificial intelligence software packages for normative brain volumetry in memory clinic imaging
Authors: Zaki Lara A. M. , Vernooij Meike W. , Smits Marion , Tolman Christine , Papma Janne M. , Visser Jacob J. , Steketee Rebecca M. E.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To compare two artificial intelligence software packages performing normative brain volumetry and explore whether they could differently impact dementia diagnostics in a clinical context.

Methods

Sixty patients (20 Alzheimer’s disease, 20 frontotemporal dementia, 20 mild cognitive impairment) and 20 controls were included retrospectively. One MRI per subject was processed by software packages from two proprietary manufacturers, producing two quantitative reports per subject. Two neuroradiologists assigned forced-choice diagnoses using only the normative volumetry data in these reports. They classified the volumetric profile as “normal,” or “abnormal”, and if “abnormal,” they specified the most likely dementia subtype. Differences between the packages’ clinical impact were assessed by comparing (1) agreement between diagnoses based on software output; (2) diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity; and (3) diagnostic confidence. Quantitative outputs were also compared to provide context to any diagnostic differences.

Results

Diagnostic agreement between packages was moderate, for distinguishing normal and abnormal volumetry (K = .41–.43) and for specific diagnoses (K = .36–.38). However, each package yielded high inter-observer agreement when distinguishing normal and abnormal profiles (K = .73–.82). Accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were not different between packages. Diagnostic confidence was different between packages for one rater. Whole brain intracranial volume output differed between software packages (10.73%, p < .001), and normative regional data interpreted for diagnosis correlated weakly to moderately (rs = .12–.80).

Conclusion

Different artificial intelligence software packages for quantitative normative assessment of brain MRI can produce distinct effects at the level of clinical interpretation. Clinics should not assume that different packages are interchangeable, thus recommending internal evaluation of packages before adoption.
Enrichment of phosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) in a microfluidic model biofilm system by mimicking a typical aerobic granular sludge feast/famine regime
Authors: Klein Edina , Weiler Janek , Wagner Michael , Čelikić Minja , Niemeyer Christof M. , Horn Harald , Gescher Johannes
Published: January 2022

Wastewater treatment using aerobic granular sludge has gained increasing interest due to its advantages compared to conventional activated sludge. The technology allows simultaneous removal of organic carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in a single reactor system and is independent of space-intensive settling tanks. However, due to the microscale, an analysis of processes and microbial population along the radius of granules is challenging. Here, we introduce a model system for aerobic granular sludge on a small scale by using a machine-assisted microfluidic cultivation platform. With an implemented logic module that controls solenoid valves, we realized alternating oxic hunger and anoxic feeding phases for the biofilms growing within. Sampling during ongoing anoxic cultivation directly from the cultivation channel was achieved with a robotic sampling device. Analysis of the biofilms was conducted using optical coherence tomography, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and amplicon sequencing. Using this setup, it was possible to significantly enrich the percentage of polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAO) belonging to the family Rhodocyclaceae in the community compared to the starting inoculum. With the aid of this miniature model system, it is now possible to investigate the influence of a multitude of process parameters in a highly parallel way to understand and efficiently optimize aerobic granular sludge-based wastewater treatment systems.

Key points

• Development of a microfluidic model to study EBPR.

• Feast-famine regime enriches polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs).

• Microfluidics replace sequencing batch reactors for aerobic granular sludge research.
Antecubital Fossa Perforator Flaps for Soft‐Tissue Defect Repair of the Anterior Elbow: Anatomical Study and Clinical Application
Authors: Gao Ya‐Shan , Liu Cai‐Yue , Zhu Hai‐Nan , Zhou Feng , Zhang Ying‐Fan , Hu De‐Qing , Li Qing‐Feng , Lin Jian
Published: January 2022

Background

The antecubital fossa is a main perforator cluster region located beside the anterior elbow defect, rendering it crucial to harvest the perforator pedicled flaps for the anterior elbow defects.

Patients and methods

A total of 30 preserved cadaveric forearms were dissected in order to describe the perforator anatomy in the antecubital fossa. For each perforator, the number, the site of origin, the diameter at its origin, and the trajectory were recorded. In addition, all the patients treated for anterior elbow defects using inferior cubital artery (ICA) perforator pedicled flaps between June 2013 and June 2018 were reviewed in this retrospective study.

Results

A total of 85 perforators were dissected in the antecubital fossa area from the 30 specimens. Among these, 65 perforators originated from the radial artery, 6 from the recurrent radial artery, 13 from the brachial artery, and 1 from the ulnar artery. Each forearm specimen had a constant and large ICA perforator. All perforators originated from source vessels 2–5 cm distal from the interepicondylar line and could be harvested as perforator pedicled flap for anterior elbow reconstruction. In the clinical study, 11 patients with anterior elbow defects were treated with ICA perforator pedicled flaps with satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusion

The antecubital fossa has a constant and dominant ICA perforator and many other perforators. The pedicled antecubital fossa perforator flaps could be harvested flexibly with a reliable blood supply for anterior elbow reconstruction.
Dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitor (DPP4i) confers increased odds of bullous pemphigoid even years after drug initiation
Authors: Kridin Khalaf , Avni Orly , Damiani Giovanni , Tzur Bitan Dana , Onn Erez , Weinstein Orly , Cohen Arnon D.
Published: January 2022

The timing pattern in which dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitors (DPP4i) confer the risk of bullous pemphigoid (BP) is unknown. To investigate the odds of BP following exposure to DPP4i and to perform a duration-response analysis evaluating the risk of BP in relation to the duration of exposure to the culprit drug. A population-based nested case–control study was performed comparing diabetic patients with BP (n = 1458) with age-, sex- and ethnicity-matched diabetic control subjects (n = 6051) with respect to the prevalence of exposure to DPP4i. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated by logistic regression. Overall exposure to DPP4i was associated with an 80% increase in the odds of subsequent BP (OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.46–2.08;P < 0.001). In an intraclass analysis, the odds of BP were increased in association with vildagliptin (OR, 3.40; 95% CI, 2.69–4.29;P < 0.001) and sitagliptin (OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.33–1.84;P < 0.001). In a duration-response analysis, the highest likelihood of BP was found 1–2 years after commencing the drug (OR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.97–3.59;P < 0.001). The odds of BP were increased across all time periods and retained its statistical significance even ≥ 6 years after the drug initiation (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.09–1.91;P = 0.011). Relative to other diabetic patients with BP, patients with DPP4i-associated BP were more likely to be admitted to inpatient dermatologic wards (OR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.30–2.13;P < 0.001) and had higher mean(SD) numbers of outpatient dermatologist visits (14.7[14.8] vs. 12.3[13.2], respectively;P = 0.006). DPP4i should be suspected as a predisposing factor for BP even numerous years after the drug initiation.
Magnesium alginate versus proton pump inhibitors for the treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux: a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pizzorni Nicole , Ambrogi Federico , Eplite Angelo , Rama Sibora , Robotti Carlo , Lechien Jerome , Schindler Antonio
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), but their efficacy remains debated. Alginates is an option for the treatment of LPR with few adverse effects. The study aimed to investigate the non-inferiority of an alginate suspension (Gastrotuss®) compared to PPIs (Omeprazole) in reducing LPR symptoms and signs.

Methods

A non-inferiority randomized controlled trial was conducted. Fifty patients with laryngopharyngeal symptoms (Reflux Symptom Index -RSI- ≥ 13) and signs (Reflux Finding Score -RFS- ≥ 7) were randomized in two treatment groups: (A) Gastrotuss® (20 ml, three daily doses) and, (B) Omeprazole (20 mg, once daily). The RSI and the RFS were assessed at baseline and after 2 months of treatment.

Results

Groups had similar RSI and RFS scores at baseline. From pre- to 2-month posttreatment, the mean RSI significantly decreased (p = 0.001) in alginate and PPI group (p = 0.003). The difference between groups in the RSI change was not significant (95%CI:  − 4.2–6.7, p = 0.639). The mean RFS significantly decreased in alginate (p = 0.006) and PPI groups (p = 0.006). The difference between groups in the mean change RFS was not significant (95%CI:  − 0.8; 1.4, p = 0.608).

Conclusion

After 2 months of treatment, LPR symptoms and signs are significantly reduced irrespective of the treatment. Alginate was non-inferior to PPIs and may represent an alternative treatment to PPIs for the treatment of LPR.
Determining concentric and eccentric force–velocity profiles during squatting
Authors: Armstrong R. , Baltzopoulos V. , Langan-Evans C. , Clark D. , Jarvis J. , Stewart C. , O’Brien T. D.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The force–velocity relationship of muscular contraction has been extensively studied. However, previous research has focussed either on isolated muscle or single-joint movements, whereas human movement consists of multi-joint movements (e.g. squatting). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the force–velocity relationship of isovelocity squatting.

Methods

Fifteen male participants (24 ± 2 years, 79.8 ± 9.1 kg, 177.5 ± 6 cm) performed isovelocity squats on a novel motorised isovelocity device (Kineo Training System) at three concentric (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 m s−1) and three eccentric velocities (− 0.25, − 0.5, and − 0.75 m s−1). Peak vertical ground reaction forces, that occurred during the isovelocity phase, were collected using dual force plates (2000 Hz) (Kistler, Switzerland).

Results

The group mean squat force–velocity profile conformed to the typical in vivo profile, with peak vertical ground reaction forces during eccentric squatting being 9.5 ± 19% greater than isometric (P = 0.037), and occurring between − 0.5 and − 0.75 m s−1. However, large inter-participant variability was identified (0.84–1.62 × isometric force), with some participants being unable to produce eccentric forces greater than isometric. Sub-group analyses could not identify differences between individuals who could/could not produce eccentric forces above isometric, although those who could not tended to be taller.

Conclusions

These finding suggest that variability exists between participants in the ability to generate maximum eccentric forces during squatting, and the magnitude of eccentric increase above isometric cannot be predicted solely based on a concentric assessment. Therefore, an assessment of eccentric capabilities may be required prior to prescribing eccentric-specific resistance training.
Vitamin E protects from lipid peroxidation during winter stress in the seagrass Cymodocea nodosa
Authors: Munné-Bosch Sergi , Puig Sandra , Fenollosa Erola , Casadesús Andrea , Fernández Estrella
Published: January 2022

Main conclusion

Adjustments in the antenna size and α-tocopherol contents provide protection from sustained damage in leaves of a seagrass, while low vitamin E contents appear to be enough to protect rhizomes (which appear to be more cold tolerant than leaves).

Despite low temperatures can adversely affect the proper growth and development of marine angiosperms, by, among other processes, increasing reactive oxygen species production and causing oxidative damage to lipid membranes, the role of vitamin E in seagrasses, such as Cymodocea nodosa has not been explored thus far. Here, we aimed to better understand the possible role of this chain-breaking (peroxyl radical-trapping) antioxidant in response to low temperatures, and most particularly in relation to the occurrence of photo-inhibition and lipid peroxidation. Low temperatures caused an important desiccation of leaves, but not of rhizomes, which were much more tolerant to cold stress than leaves. Cold stress during winter was associated with chlorophyll loss and transient photo-inhibition, as indicated by reversible reductions in the Fv/Fm ratio. Adjustments in pigment antenna size and vitamin E contents per unit of chlorophyll during winter may help protect the photosynthetic apparatus from sustained photo-inhibitory damage and lipid peroxidation events in leaves. Rhizomes also accumulated significant amounts of vitamin E, although to a much lesser extent than leaves, and kept protected from lipid peroxidation during winter, as indicated by malondialdehyde contents, a product from secondary lipid peroxidation. It is concluded that vitamin E can help protect both leaves and rhizomes from lipid peroxidation, although cold stress during winter can cause transient photo-inhibition of the photosynthetic apparatus, in C. nodosa.
Ketogenic diet impairs neurological development of neonatal rats and affects biochemical composition of maternal brains: evidence of functional recovery in pups
Authors: Kosiek Wojciech , Rauk Zuzanna , Szulc Piotr , Cichy Anna , Rugieł Marzena , Chwiej Joanna , Janeczko Krzysztof , Setkowicz Zuzanna
Published: January 2022

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a type of diet in which the intake of fats significantly increases at the cost of carbohydrates while maintaining an adequate amount of proteins. This kind of diet has been successfully used in clinical therapies of drug-resistant epilepsy, but there is still insufficient evidence on its safety when used in pregnancy. To assess KD effects on the course of gestation and fetal development, pregnant females were fed with: (i) KD during pregnancy and lactation periods (KD group), (ii) KD during pregnancy replaced with ND from the day 2 postpartum (KDND group) and (iii) normal diet alone (ND group). The body mass, ketone and glucose blood levels, and food intake were monitored. In brains of KD-fed females, FTIR biochemical analyses revealed increased concentrations of lipids and ketone groups containing molecules. In offspring of these females, significant reduction of the body mass and delays in neurological development were detected. However, replacement of KD with ND in these females at the beginning of lactation period led to regainment of the body mass in their pups as early as on the postnatal day 14. Moreover, the vast majority of our neurological tests detected functional recovery up to the normal level. It could be concluded that the ketogenic diet undoubtedly affects the brain of pregnant females and impairs the somatic and neurological development of their offspring. However, early postnatal withdrawal of this diet may initiate compensatory processes and considerable functional restitution of the nervous system based on still unrecognized mechanisms.
First records of Aedes pulcritarsis (Rondani, 1872) (Diptera: Culicidae) in Austria
Authors: Bakran-Lebl Karin , Jerrentrup Hans , Daroglou Eleni , Pfitzner Wolf Peter , Fuehrer Hans-Peter , Allerberger Franz
Published: January 2022

Aedes pulcritarsis is a tree-hole breeding species with its main distribution in the Mediterranean area. Within the scope of two independent monitoring programmes, this mosquito species was detected for the first time in Austria, in the province of Lower Austria (2018, districts Mistelbach and Gaenserndorf; 2020, district Bruck an der Leitha). As the climatic and habitat situation in Central Europe seems to be generally suitable for this species, the most likely explanation for the species not being recorded previously is that it might have been overlooked in the past due to its specialized breeding habitat. However, further research on the distribution of Ae. pulcritarsis in Austria would be needed to support this hypothesis. The results from this study will contribute to the investigation of the northern distribution limit of Ae. pulcritarsis in Europe and possible changes thereof.
Niche partitioning in an assemblage of granivorous rodents, and the challenge of community-level conservation
Authors: Chock Rachel Y. , Shier Debra M. , Grether Gregory F.
Published: January 2022

Coexistence of competing species in the same foraging guild has long puzzled ecologists. In particular, how do small subordinate species persist with larger dominant competitors? This question becomes particularly important when conservation interventions, such as reintroduction or translocation, become necessary for the smaller species. Exclusion of dominant competitors might be necessary to establish populations of some endangered species. Ultimately, however, the goal should be to conserve whole communities. Determining how subordinate species escape competitive exclusion in intact communities could inform conservation decisions by clarifying the ecological conditions and processes required for coexistence at local or regional scales. We tested for spatial and temporal partitioning among six species of native, granivorous rodents using null models, and characterized the microhabitat of each species using resource-selection models. We found that the species’ nightly activity patterns are aggregated temporally but segregated spatially. As expected, we found clear evidence that the larger-bodied kangaroo rats drive spatial partitioning, but we also found species-specific microhabitat associations, which suggests that habitat heterogeneity is part of what enables these species to coexist. Restoration of natural disturbance regimes that create habitat heterogeneity, and selection of translocation sites without specific competitors, are among the management recommendations to consider in this case. More generally, this study highlights the need for a community-level approach to conservation and the usefulness of basic ecological data for guiding management decisions.