bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear absorption‐based analysis of energy deposition in melanosomes for 532‐nm short‐pulsed laser skin treatment
Authors: Shimojo Yu , Nishimura Takahiro , Ozawa Toshiyuki , Tsuruta Daisuke , Awazu Kunio
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives

The clinical use of 532‐nm short‐pulsed lasers has provided effective treatment of epidermal pigmented lesions. However, the detection of significant differences in treatment effects between picosecond and nanosecond lasers has still varied among clinical studies. For robust evaluation of the differences based on the treatment mechanism, this study presents a nonlinear absorption‐based analysis of energy deposition in melanosomes for 532‐nm short‐pulsed laser treatment.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Nonlinear absorption by melanin is modeled based on sequential two‐photon absorption. Absorption cross‐sections and nonradiative lifetimes of melanin, which are necessary for the nonlinear absorption‐based analysis, are determined from transmittance measurement. Using the model and parameters, energy deposition in melanosomes was calculated with varying fluence and pulse width settings, including actual clinical parameters.

Results

The energy deposition in melanosomes increased with shorter laser pulses, and subnanosecond laser pulses were found to be most efficient. The comparison of energy deposition calculated using clinical parameters demonstrated the differences in treatment effects between picosecond and nanosecond lasers reported in clinical studies.

Conclusion

The nonlinear absorption‐based analysis provides quantitative evidence for the safety and efficacy evaluation of short‐pulsed laser treatments, which may lead to the establishment of numerical indices for determining treatment conditions. Future studies considering the effects of the surrounding tissue on energy deposition in melanosomes will be needed.
Dynamic‐Covalent Crosslinking of Benzenetricarboxamide–Phenylboronate Conjugates
Authors: VandenBerg Michael A. , Xian Sijie , Xiang Yuanhui , Webber Matthew J.
Published: February 2023

In an effort to augment the function of supramolecular biomaterials, recent efforts have explored the creation of hybrid materials that couple supramolecular and covalent components. Here, the benzenetricarboxamide (BTA) supramolecular polymer motif is modified to present a phenylboronic acid (PBA) in order to promote the crosslinking of 1D BTA stacks by PBA–diol dynamic‐covalent bonds through the addition of a multi‐arm diol‐bearing crosslinker. Interestingly, the combination of these two motifs serves to frustrate the resulting assembly process, yielding hydrogels with worse mechanical properties than those prepared without the multi‐arm diol crosslinker. Both systems with and without the crosslinker do, however, respond to the presence of a physiological level of glucose with a reduction in their mechanical integrity; repulsive electrostatic interactions in the BTA stacks occur in both cases upon glucose binding, with added competition from glucose with PBA–diol bonds amplifying glucose response in the hybrid material. Accordingly, the present results point to an unexpected outcome of reduced hydrogel mechanics, yet increased glucose response, when two disparate dynamic motifs of BTA supramolecular polymerization and PBA–diol crosslinking are combined, offering a vision for future preparation of glucose‐responsive supramolecular biomaterials.
Accurate Detection of α‐Synuclein Seeds in Cerebrospinal Fluid from Isolated Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder and Patients with Parkinson's Disease in the DeNovo Parkinson (DeNoPa) Cohort
Authors: Concha‐Marambio Luis , Weber Sandrina , Farris Carly M. , Dakna Mohammed , Lang Elisabeth , Wicke Tamara , Ma Yihua , Starke Maritta , Ebentheuer Jens , Sixel‐Döring Friederike , Muntean Maria‐Lucia , Schade Sebastian , Trenkwalder Claudia , Soto Claudio , Mollenhauer Brit
Published: February 2023

Background

Misfolded α‐synuclein (αSyn) aggregates (αSyn‐seeds) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are biomarkers for synucleinopathies such as Parkinson's disease (PD). αSyn‐seeds have been detected in prodromal cases with isolated rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD).

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of the αSyn–seed amplification assay (αS‐SAA) in a comprehensively characterized cohort with a high proportion of PD and iRBD CSF samples collected at baseline.

Methods

We used a high‐throughput αS‐SAA to analyze 233 blinded CSF samples from 206 participants of the DeNovo Parkinson Cohort (DeNoPa) (113 de novo PD, 64 healthy controls, 29 iRBD confirmed by video polysomnography). Results were compared with the final diagnosis, which was determined after up to 10 years of longitudinal clinical evaluations, including dopamine‐transporter–single‐photon emission computed tomography (DAT‐SPECT) at baseline, CSF proteins, Movement Disorder Society–Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, and various cognitive and nonmotor scales.

Results

αS‐SAA detected αSyn‐seeds in baseline PD‐CSF with 98% accuracy. αSyn‐seeds were detected in 93% of the iRBD cases. αS‐SAA results showed higher agreement with the final than the initial diagnosis, as 14 patients were rediagnosed as non‐αSyn aggregation disorder. For synucleinopathies, αS‐SAA showed higher concordance with the final diagnosis than DAT‐SPECT. Statistically significant correlations were found between assay parameters and disease progression.

Conclusions

Our results confirm αS‐SAA accuracy at the first clinical evaluation when a definite diagnosis is most consequential. αS‐SAA conditions reported here are highly sensitive, enabling the detection of αSyn‐seeds in CSF from iRBD just months after the first symptoms, suggesting that αSyn‐seeds are present in the very early prodromal phase of synucleinopathies. Therefore, αSyn‐seeds are clear risk markers for synuclein‐related disorders, but not for time of phenoconversion. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Peri‐Urethral and Anterior Vaginal Wall Masses: Does Radiological Imaging Change the Predicted Diagnosis?
Authors: Touma Nawar , Yao Henry H. , Shamout Samer , Shaw Jordyn , Baverstock Richard J. , Carlson Kevin V.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

This study aims to determine the accuracy of radiological imaging compared with surgical pathology in patients with periurethral (PU) and anterior vaginal wall (AVW) lesions.

Methods

This study is a retrospective analysis of 126 women who underwent surgical treatment for PU and AVW masses between 2011 and 2020. Clinicopathological data were extracted along with radiological findings from medical records. The primary outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of preoperative imaging compared to the gold standard, pathological diagnosis. The secondary outcome was the rate of imaging correcting the clinical diagnosis.

Results

A total of 126 women with a median age of 42 underwent surgical treatment for PU and AVW masses. The most diagnoses were periurethral cysts (PUC) (52%) and urethral diverticulum (UD) (39%). Clinical diagnosis was accurate in 102 cases (81%) for the group of pathological diagnoses. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transvaginal ultrasound (TV US) were performed in 82 (65%) and 22 (17%) cases. The accuracy of MRI and TV US for the diagnosis of PU and AVW lesions was 76% and 82%, respectively. MRI and TV US corrected the clinical diagnosis in five (6%) and two (9%) cases, respectively. Voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and double balloon urethrography (DBU), each performed in six (5%) cases, were accurate in four (67%) and three (50%) cases. No statistical difference was found for any imaging modality compared to clinical diagnosis.

Conclusion

Clinical diagnosis based on pelvic and cystoscopy examinations was sufficient for diagnosing PU and AVW masses and was not significantly different from imaging diagnosis. Imaging may be helpful with preoperative surgical planning in selected cases.
Neuroimaging of mild behavioral impairment: A systematic review
Authors: Matsuoka Teruyuki , Imai Ayu , Narumoto Jin
Published: February 2023

There are many neuroimaging studies of mild behavioral impairment (MBI), but the results have been somewhat inconsistent. Moreover, it remains unclear whether MBI is a risk factor or prodromal symptom of dementia. Therefore, a systematic review was conducted to summarize the results of neuroimaging studies of MBI and consider whether MBI is a prodromal symptom of dementia in terms of its neural correlates. A systematic review supported by a JSPS Grant‐in‐Aid for Scientific Research (C) was conducted using MBI neuroimaging studies identified using PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Google Scholar on November 1, 2022. The inclusion criteria were (i) neuroimaging study; (ii) research on human subjects; (iii) papers written in English; and (iv) not a case study, review, book, comments, or abstract only. Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists were used to assess the quality of selected studies, and 23 structural and functional imaging studies were ultimately included in the systematic review. The structural studies suggested an association of MBI with atrophy in the hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, entorhinal cortex, and temporal lobe, whereas the functional studies indicated involvement of an altered default mode network, frontoparietal control network, and salience network in MBI. A limitation in many studies was the use of region‐of‐interest analysis. The brain areas detected as neural correlates of MBI are considered to be alterations in the early stage of each dementia. Therefore, MBI may emerge against a background of pathological changes in dementia.
Evaluation of right ventricular strain in two separate cohorts with precapillary pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Crossman Lauren M. , Rajaram Priyanka , Hart Charles Michael , Pernetz Maria A. , Sahu Anurag , Jokhadar Maan , Book Wendy M. , Fisher Micah R. , Trammell Aaron W.
Published: February 2023

Evaluation for right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is an important part of risk assessment in care of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) as it is associated with morbidity and mortality. Echocardiography provides a widely available and acceptable method to assess RV function. RV global longitudinal strain (RVGLS), a measure of longitudinal shortening of RV deep muscle fibers obtained by two‐dimensional echocardiography, was previously shown to predict short‐term mortality in patients with PH. The purpose of the current study was to assess the performance of RVGLS in predicting 1‐year outcomes in PH. We retrospectively identified 83 subjects with precapillary PH and then enrolled 50 consecutive prevalent pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) subjects into a prospective validation cohort. Death as well as combined morbidity and mortality events at 1 year were assessed as outcomes. In the retrospective cohort, 84% of patients had PAH and the overall 1‐year mortality rate was 16%. Less negative RVGLS was marginally better than tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) as a predictor for death. However, in the prospective cohort, 1‐year mortality was only 2%, and RVGLS was not predictive of death or a combined morbidity and mortality outcome. This study supports that RV strain and TAPSE have similar 1‐year outcome predictions but highlights that low TAPSE or less negative RV strain measures are often false‐positive in a cohort with low baseline mortality risk. While RV failure is considered the final common pathway for disease progression in PAH, echocardiographic measures of RV function may be less informative of risk in serial follow‐up of treated PAH patients.
Upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage caused by duodenal metastasis from primary lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Jellali Maissa , Chaouch Mohamed Ali , Ben Jabra Sadok , Moussa Amani , Zenati Hanene , Zouari Khadija , Noomen Faouzi
Published: February 2023

Duodenal metastases from primary lung carcinoma are uncommon. They usually occur in terminal‐stage disease. Bleeding, as the first presentation of duodenal metastases, is rare. This case reports a rare mechanism of upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to a metastatic involvement of the duodenum and gastroduodenal artery. A 58‐year‐old man with a past medical history of pulmonary carcinoma presented an episode of hematemesis of great abundance with melena. On physical examination, he was afebrile and pale. The biological data found an anaemia with haemoglobin at 6 g/dL. The upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a congestive duodenal lesion with signs of recent bleeding. An angio CT scan localized the bleeding from the gastroduodenal artery. A few hours later, the patient presented a recurrent episode of hematemesis with deglobalization. So we performed a radiologic embolization of the gastroduodenal artery. Haemorrhage as the first presentation of small bowel metastases is rare, especially when these are located in the duodenum, with a poor prognosis. Radiological embolisation could be the best choice for treatment.
The characteristics of diagrams in scientific explanations: Multimodal integration of written and visual modes of representation in junior high school textbooks
Authors: Tang Kok‐Sing
Published: February 2023

There is a growing research examining the use of visual diagrams in scientific explanations. However, current research in this area is mostly based on case studies involving a few explanations from one or two topics in science. There are few systematic studies that examine more broadly how diagrams are used in relation to scientific explanations across a range of scientific texts. The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of diagrams in scientific explanations found in Grade 7–10 science textbooks covering many topics in biology, chemistry, earth and space sciences, and physics. The study is informed by the theories of systemic functional linguistics and social semiotics and applies a mixed methods approach to textbook analysis. A content analysis was first carried out to systematically identify the image functions (e.g., narrative, analytical, classificational) in all the diagrams (N = 749) and compare their distributions across different genres (e.g., explanation, information, experiment). This is followed by a multimodal discourse analysis to understand how the various image functions are combined with the linguistic features of the written text in the construction of scientific explanations. Quantitative results reveal explanation diagrams are characteristically different from diagrams used in other genres in terms of a higher usage of narrative function, temporal function, and annotated caption. Qualitative results further show how these image functions are typically used to support the reasoning of the explanation focusing on dynamic processes and time‐bounded sequences. This study has implications to our understanding of how diagrams are used to support the construction of scientific explanations.
Encoding microcarriers for biomedicine
Authors: Wei Xiaowei , Shang Yixuan , Zhu Yefei , Gu Zhuxiao , Zhang Dagan
Published: February 2023

High throughput biological analysis has become an important topic in modern biomedical research and clinical diagnosis. The flow encoding scheme based on the encoding microcarriers provides a feasible strategy for the multiplexed biological analysis. Different encoding characteristics invest the microcarriers with different encoding mechanisms. Biosensor analysis, drug screening, cell culture, and the construction and evaluation of bionic organ chips can be realized by decoding the microcarriers and quantifying the detection signal intensity. In this review, the encoding strategy of microcarriers was divided into the optical and non‐optical encoding approaches according to their encoding elements, and the research progress of the microcarrier encoding strategy was elaborated. Finally, we summarized the biomedical applications and predicted their future prospects.
Liquid Structures and Ion Dynamics of Ionic Liquids Viewed from Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Tsuzuki Seiji , Shinoda Wataru
Published: February 2023

The elucidation of the factors determining liquid structures and transport properties of ionic liquids is important for the design and development of ionic liquid electrolytes. This personal account introduces the importance of computational methods for studying ionic liquids. Molecular dynamics simulations provide detailed information on liquid structures of ionic liquid such as the structures of solvated cation complexes in equimolar mixtures of glymes and Li[TFSA] and the effects of the charges of electrode on liquid structure near the electrode. Ab initio calculations reveal that the magnitude of the attraction between ions and conformational flexibility ions play important roles in determining transport properties of ionic liquids. First principle molecular dynamics simulations elucidate why solvated cation complex is stable in the equimolar mixtures, although the Li+‐[TFSA]− interaction is greater than Li+‐glyme interaction.
Cement Composites with Carbon‐Based Nanomaterials for 3D Concrete Printing Applications – A Review
Authors: Inayath Basha Shaik , Ur Rehman Atta , Aziz Md. Abdul , Kim Jung‐Hoon
Published: February 2023

3D concrete printing (3DCP) is an emerging additive manufacturing technology in the construction industry. Its challenges lie in the development of high‐performance printable materials and printing processes. Recently developed carbon‐based nanomaterials (CBNs) such as graphene, graphene oxide, graphene nanoplatelets, and carbon nanotubes, have various applications due to their exceptional mechanical, chemical, thermal, and electrical characteristics. CBNs also have found potential applications as a concrete ingredient as they enhance the microstructure and modify concrete properties at the molecular level. This paper focuses on state‐of‐the‐art studies on CBNs, 3DCP technology, and CBNs in conventional and 3D printable cement‐based composites including CBN dispersion techniques, concrete mixing methods, and fresh and hardened properties of concrete. Furthermore, the current limitations and future perspectives of 3DCP using CBNs to produce high‐quality composite mixtures are discussed.
Proximity and Tactile Sensor Combining Multiple ToF Sensors and a Self‐Capacitance Proximity and Tactile Sensor
Authors: Tsuji Satoshi , Kohama Teruhiko
Published: February 2023

Future labor forces are anticipated to include collaborative robots that work alongside humans in the same environment. Proximity and tactile sensors are among the most important devices for collaborative robots to operate safely. In this paper, we propose a proximity and tactile sensor for a collaborative robot that combines multiple time‐of‐flight (ToF) sensors and a self‐capacitating proximity and tactile sensor. ToF sensors can detect the distance to an object and have a long measurement range. However, at close distances, their detection accuracy deteriorates, and blind spots may likely not be detected. Conversely, the self‐capacitance proximity and tactile sensor detect objects within the blind spots of ToF sensors and contact conditions because the sensor can detect an object before and after contact, being highly sensitive in the proximity range. In the proposed sensor, the electrodes of the self‐capacitance are enlarged, and multiple ToF sensors are used to expand the measurement range and reduce blind spots. A prototype sensor was seamlessly able to measure objects from approximately 400 mm to contact conditions. In addition, the robot arm with the prototype sensor could be controlled in real time using the measured data of the sensor. Therefore, we believe that the proposed sensor can be potentially used as a proximity and tactile sensor for collaborative robots. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A conceptual reappraisal of risks in the implementation of BRI after COVID‐19: Best strategies to learn for CMNEs in BRI projects
Authors: Sheetal  , Narang Daviender , Singh Gursimranjit
Published: February 2023

This study is aimed to propose a quantitatively supported framework regarding different types of risks involved in BRI and strategic solutions to neutralize the risks. The conceptual model and related propositions are advanced, based on bibliometric and science mapping analysis of 367 articles published over 6 years about risk, success, failure and dissent about the projects, and strategies to mitigate these risks. The descriptive statistics and science mapping approaches using co‐citation analysis were performed with VOSviewer software. A co‐citation analysis, coupled with content analysis of most co‐cited articles, uncovered four underlying research streams, including “Infrastructural expansion and political & economical risks,” “Investment choice through impact assessment and cultural risks,” “Environmental risks,” and “Real outcomes of BRI projects and viewpoint of host countries.” Among the four strategies identified, developing trust in the Chinese system can be created through National Branding by Chinese MNEs to mitigate the geo‐political risks. Second, Guanxi neutralizes the reputation risks and cultural friction in collaborative projects and positively affects BRI project implementation. Third, the localization of management and processes can also help in offsetting the environmental risks in post COVID scenario. Lastly, increasing multilateral funding for sustainable infrastructure can be used to boost financial capacity building and mitigate financial risk to a certain extent. The present study has been a novel attempt to relate current research themes to emerging areas under BRI. This study is one of its kind which focuses on reshaping the views of practitioners, researchers, and policymakers on the multifaceted areas and themes in the BRI research field, to examine the risks and a roadmap for future research.
Prioritising practical skills for farm animal veterinary graduates using a Delphi technique
Authors: Wood Sarah , Sellers Ellie , Vallis Rebecca , Baillie Sarah
Published: February 2023

Background

As farm animal clinical practice continues to evolve, it is timely to gather expert opinion on and form an evidence base for the practical skill requirements for new graduates entering farm animal practice to ensure that undergraduate training maps to the needs of the profession.

Methods

Existing lists of practical skills for cattle and sheep were reviewed. Practitioners were recruited from UK farm and mixed veterinary practices to take part in a Delphi process to gain consensus on the most (and least) important skills for day 1 in practice.

Results

The results indicate that students need skills that build trust and credibility with clients, in particular, animal handling, examining and treating sick animals and coping in an emergency until support arrives. Practitioners also acknowledged that new graduates would receive further training once in employment.

Limitations

This study was limited to practical skills, although it was clear from the qualitative data that professional attributes are of key importance to employers and necessary for the success of graduates starting in practice.

Conclusion

The findings of this project will enable veterinary educators and practitioners within educational partnerships to review and update current curricula and prioritise teaching of appropriate learning objectives for farm practical skills.
Analysis of Key Points of Steel Structure Construction Technology in Film Engineering Projects
Authors: Alashoub Turki Sulaiman M. , Liang Chunyu
Published: February 2023

According to the soil conditions of high-rise buildings and foundation pits of steel structure projects, the technical analysis of steel structure projects is carried out. Because the project is located at an earthquake-resistant fortification intensity of 8 degrees, and the design basic seismic acceleration value is 0.30 g, the high-rise building adopts steel structure structure to ensure the performance of seismic performance, safety level, bearing capacity and other aspects. This paper introduces the steel structure construction technology in detail from the five links of steel structure deepening, construction sequence, component manufacturing process, fire prevention and anti-corrosion, and component hoisting, and analyzes the construction process and the key points of quality control in construction. Practice shows that the application effect of this technology is good and the economy is reasonable.
Structural Seismic Performance of Prefabricated Steel Plate Shear Wall with High Energy Dissipation
Authors: Ma Xiaofei , Yu Yinquan , Wang Zhe
Published: February 2023

China is located at the intersection of the Pacific Rim seismic belt and the Alpine Mountain-Himalayan seismic belt. Earthquakes occur frequently and with high intensity in China, and the structural damage caused by earthquakes leads to huge casualties and serious economic losses. Steel plate shear wall exhibits satisfying seismic performance which is the key to its application in high-rise buildings and high intensity areas. Meanwhile, the industrialization of new construction requires prefabricated steel plate shear wall structure. In this paper, a kind of prefabricated steel plate shear wall with high energy dissipation is proposed. The finite element study on the seismic performance of the prefabricated steel plate shear wall under low cyclic load was carried out by varying the width-to-thickness ratio of steel connecting plate belt and width-to-thickness ratio of ring damper. The failure modes, hysteresis curves, skeleton curves, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation and displacement ductility coefficients were analyzed. The results showed that the hysteretic curves of the prefabricated steel plate shear wall are relatively full under low cyclic load, and the displacement ductility coefficients are above 8. It is noted that the seismic performance of the prefabricated steel plate shear wall is advantageous. It is suggested that width-to-thickness ratio of the steel connecting plate belt and the width-to-thickness ratio of the ring damper are 3.75 for engineering practice.
Causal factors underlying diabetes risk informed by Mendelian randomisation analysis: evidence, opportunities and challenges
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Merino Jordi , Larsson Susanna C.
Published: February 2023

Diabetes and its complications cause a heavy disease burden globally. Identifying exposures, risk factors and molecular processes causally associated with the development of diabetes can provide important evidence bases for disease prevention and spur novel therapeutic strategies. Mendelian randomisation (MR), an epidemiological approach that uses genetic instruments to infer causal associations between an exposure and an outcome, can be leveraged to complement evidence from observational and clinical studies. This narrative review aims to summarise the evidence on potential causal risk factors for diabetes by integrating published MR studies on type 1 and 2 diabetes, and to reflect on future perspectives of MR studies on diabetes. Despite the genetic influence on type 1 diabetes, few MR studies have been conducted to identify causal exposures or molecular processes leading to increased disease risk. In type 2 diabetes, MR analyses support causal associations of somatic, mental and lifestyle factors with development of the disease. These studies have also identified biomarkers, some of them derived from the gut microbiota, and molecular processes leading to increased disease risk. These studies provide valuable data to better understand disease pathophysiology and explore potential therapeutic targets. Because genetic association studies have mostly been restricted to participants of European descent, multi-ancestry cohorts are needed to examine the role of different types of physical activity, dietary components, metabolites, protein biomarkers and gut microbiome in diabetes development.

Graphical abstract
Towers, mad families, and unboundedness
Authors: Fischer Vera , Koelbing Marlene , Wohofsky Wolfgang
Published: February 2023

We show that Hechler’s forcings for adding a tower and for adding a mad family can be represented as finite support iterations of Mathias forcings with respect to filters and that these filters are $${\mathcal {B}}$$
B
-Canjar for any countably directed unbounded family $${\mathcal {B}}$$
B
of the ground model. In particular, they preserve the unboundedness of any unbounded scale of the ground model. Moreover, we show that $${\mathfrak {b}}=\omega _1$$

b
=

ω
1

in every extension by the above forcing notions.
Diagnosis and management of mineral and bone disorders in infants with CKD: clinical practice points from the ESPN CKD-MBD and Dialysis working groups and the Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce
Authors: Bacchetta Justine , Schmitt Claus Peter , Bakkaloglu Sevcan A. , Cleghorn Shelley , Leifheit-Nestler Maren , Prytula Agnieszka , Ranchin Bruno , Schön Anne , Stabouli Stella , Van de Walle Johan , Vidal Enrico , Haffner Dieter , Shroff Rukshana
Published: February 2023

Background

Infants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) form a vulnerable population who are highly prone to mineral and bone disorders (MBD) including biochemical abnormalities, growth retardation, bone deformities, and fractures. We present a position paper on the diagnosis and management of CKD-MBD in infants based on available evidence and the opinion of experts from the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology (ESPN) CKD-MBD and Dialysis working groups and the Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce.

Methods

PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes) questions were generated, and relevant literature searches performed covering a population of infants below 2 years of age with CKD stages 2–5 or on dialysis. Clinical practice points (CPPs) were developed and leveled using the American Academy of Pediatrics grading matrix. A Delphi consensus approach was followed.

Results

We present 34 CPPs for diagnosis and management of CKD-MBD in infants, including dietary control of calcium and phosphate, and medications to prevent and treat CKD-MBD (native and active vitamin D, calcium supplementation, phosphate binders).

Conclusion

As there are few high-quality studies in this field, the strength of most statements is weak to moderate, and may need to be adapted to individual patient needs by the treating physician. Research recommendations to study key outcome measures in this unique population are suggested.

Graphical Abstract
Feasibility of an embedded palliative care clinic model for patients with an advanced thoracic malignancy
Authors: Bertino Erin M. , Grogan Madison M. , Benedict Jason A. , Agne Julia L. , Janse Sarah , Eastep Christine , Sullivan Diana , Gast Kelly C. , Naughton Michelle J. , Presley Carolyn J.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Early palliative care (PC) with standard oncology care has demonstrated improved patient outcomes, but multiple care delivery models are utilized. This study prospectively evaluated the feasibility of an embedded PC clinic model and collected patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and caregiver needs.

Methods

In this observational study of embedded outpatient PC for patients with advanced thoracic malignancies treated at The Ohio State University Thoracic Oncology clinic, patients received same-day coordinated oncology and palliative care visits at one clinic location. PC encounters included comprehensive symptom assessment and management, advanced care planning, and goals of care discussion. Multiple study assessments were utilized. We describe the feasibility of evaluating PROs and caregiver needs in an embedded PC model.

Results

Forty patients and 28 caregivers were enrolled. PROs were collected at baseline and follow-up visits. Over a 12-month follow-up, 36 patients discontinued study participation due to hospice enrollment, death, study withdrawal, or COVID restrictions. At baseline, 32 patients (80%) rated distress as moderate-severe with clinically significant depression (44%) and anxiety (36%). Survey completion rates significantly decreased over time: 3 months (24 eligible, 66% completed), 6 months (17 eligible; 41% completed), 9 months (9 eligible; 44% completed), and 12 months (4 eligible; 50% completed).

Conclusion

We found that an embedded PC clinic was feasible, although there were challenges encountered in longitudinal collection of PROs due to high study attrition. Ongoing assessment and expansion of this embedded PC model will continue to identify strengths and challenges to improve patient and caregiver outcomes.
Imaging of intracranial aneurysms in animals: a systematic review of modalities
Authors: Cayron Anne F. , Morel Sandrine , Allémann Eric , Bijlenga Philippe , Kwak Brenda R.
Published: February 2023

Intracranial
aneurysm (IA) animal models are paramount to study IA pathophysiology and to test new endovascular treatments. A number of in vivo imaging modalities are available to characterize IAs at different stages of development in these animal models. This review describes existing in vivo imaging techniques used so far to visualize IAs in animal models. We systematically searched for studies containing in vivo imaging of induced IAs in animal models in PubMed and SPIE Digital library databases between 1 January 1945 and 13 July 2022. A total of 170 studies were retrieved and reviewed in detail, and information on the IA animal model, the objective of the study, and the imaging modality used was collected. A variety of methods to surgically construct or endogenously induce IAs in animals were identified, and 88% of the reviewed studies used surgical methods. The large majority of IA imaging in animals was performed for 4 reasons: basic research for IA models, testing of new IA treatment modalities, research on IA in vivo imaging of IAs, and research on IA pathophysiology. Six different imaging techniques were identified: conventional catheter angiography, computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, hemodynamic imaging, optical coherence tomography, and fluorescence imaging. This review presents and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of all in vivo IA imaging techniques used in animal models to help future IA studies finding the most appropriate IA imaging modality and animal model to answer their research question.
Early Surgery: Le Fort I Advancement in a 6-Year-Old Patient—A Therapeutic Approach Using a Modified Le Fort I Osteotomy
Authors: Kater Wolfgang , Trommlitz Martin , Karnaus Dorian
Published: February 2023

Orthognathic surgery in young patients before completion of skeletal growth is still sharply discussed today. In the following case report of a 6-year-old patient, however, there was a vital indication for treatment. The main clinical symptoms were characterized by impaired hearing as a result of constantly recurring seromucotympanum and adenoids, persistent rhinorrhea and otorrhea, chronic tonsillitis and chronic otitis media. ENT interventions such as the partial C-tonsillectomy, paracentesis with tympanic drainage, adenotomy and tube dilation with balloon catheter did not bring lasting success. Despite antibiotic therapy with aminopenicillins and cephalosporins in ß-hemolytic streptococci, no improvement in the symptoms could ultimately be achieved, so that there was a life-threatening risk of endocarditis with previous pulmonary valve replacement. In our orthognathic consultation, a maxillary retrognathism with a frontal crossbite was diagnosed. With an interdisciplinary consideration of the risks and side effects, an early surgical treatment in the sense of an upper jaw advancement with dilatation of the airways and evacuation of the maxillary sinuses was carried out. The operative challenge consisted of determining an ideal osteotomy line so as not to damage permanent tooth structures. Furthermore, the patient and his family had to understand the expected outcomes, potential risks, and possible complications that might arise from early surgical interventions, such as a subsequent maxillary growth discrepancy. After successful surgery the patient could already be discharged on the 2nd postoperative day and soon no longer showed any complaints or symptoms with regard to the tube ventilation disorder and the seromucotympanum—also no dental or skeletal recurrence has been evident up to now. With 25 years of experience in “Early surgery,” we have learned that orthognathic operations in children and adolescents might have decisive effects on life quality.
Interstitiële cystitis, voorbij BPS/IC. Etiologie, epidemiologie en klinische presentatie. Een overzicht vanuit praktijk en literatuur
Authors: Weidenaar Alida C. , Schout Barbara M. A. , Glas Afina S.
Published: February 2023

Samenvatting

Interstitiële cystitis (IC) is een inflammatoire aandoening van de blaas, gekenmerkt door de zogenaamde Hunnerse laesies die worden gezien bij cystoscopie, en een typisch histopathologisch beeld. De symptomen zijn meestal heftig, vooral pijn in de blaasstreek bij vullen van de blaas en vaak moeten plassen. Er is geen genezende behandeling. Ablatie van de laesies vermindert meestal tijdelijk de klachten. IC kan leiden tot een verminderde blaascapaciteit met uiteindelijk een afvloedbelemmering van de nieren. Jarenlang werd het ziektebeeld onder het blaas(bekken)pijnsyndroom (BPS) geschaard vanwege de overeenkomstige symptomen, zoals pijn bij vullen van de blaas en vaak plassen. De laatste jaren is duidelijk geworden dat IC een aparte ziekte-entiteit is. De oorzaak van IC is nog onbekend, maar algemeen aangenomen wordt dat IC berust op een stoornis in het immuunsysteem.
Comparing SARS-CoV-2 variants among children and adolescents in Germany: relative risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization, ICU admission and mortality
Authors: Jank Marietta , Oechsle Anna-Lisa , Armann Jakob , Behrends Uta , Berner Reinhard , Chao Cho-Ming , Diffloth Natalie , Doenhardt Maren , Hansen Gesine , Hufnagel Markus , Lander Fabian , Liese Johannes G. , Muntau Ania C. , Niehues Tim , von Both Ulrich , Verjans Eva , Weil Katharina , von Kries Rüdiger , Schroten Horst
Published: February 2023

Purpose

SARS-CoV-2 infections cause COVID-19 and have a wide spectrum of morbidity. Severe disease courses among children are rare. To date, data on the variability of morbidity in relation to variant of concern (VOC) in children has been sparse and inconclusive. We compare the clinical severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection among children and adolescents in Germany during the Wildtype and Alpha combined, Delta and Omicron phases of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Comparing risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and death due to COVID-19 in children and adolescents, we used: (1) a multi-center seroprevalence study (SARS-CoV-2-KIDS study); (2) a nationwide registry of pediatric patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infections; and (3) compulsory national reporting for RT-PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections in Germany.

Results

During the Delta predominant phase, risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization among all SARS-CoV-2 seropositive children was 3.35, ICU admission 1.19 and fatality 0.09 per 10,000; hence about halved for hospitalization and ICU admission and unchanged for deaths as compared to the Wildtype- and Alpha-dominant period. The relative risk for COVID-19-related hospitalization and ICU admission compared to the alpha period decreased during Delta [0.60 (95% CI 0.54; 0.67) and 0.51 (95% CI 0.42; 0.61)] and Omicron [0.27 (95% CI 0.24; 0.30) and 0.06 (95% CI 0.05; 0.08)] period except for the < 5-year-olds. The rate of case fatalities decreased slightly during Delta, and substantially during Omicron phase.

Conclusion

Morbidity caused by SARS-CoV-2 infections among children and adolescents in Germany decreased over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, as different VOCs) emerged.
Predict, diagnose, and treat chronic kidney disease with machine learning: a systematic literature review
Authors: Sanmarchi Francesco , Fanconi Claudio , Golinelli Davide , Gori Davide , Hernandez-Boussard Tina , Capodici Angelo
Published: February 2023

Objectives

In this systematic review we aimed at assessing how artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) techniques have been deployed to predict, diagnose, and treat chronic kidney disease (CKD). We systematically reviewed the available evidence on these innovative techniques to improve CKD diagnosis and patient management.

Methods

We included English language studies retrieved from PubMed. The review is therefore to be classified as a “rapid review”, since it includes one database only, and has language restrictions; the novelty and importance of the issue make missing relevant papers unlikely. We extracted 16 variables, including: main aim, studied population, data source, sample size, problem type (regression, classification), predictors used, and performance metrics. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) approach; all main steps were done in duplicate.

Results

From a total of 648 studies initially retrieved, 68 articles met the inclusion criteria.

Models, as reported by authors, performed well, but the reported metrics were not homogeneous across articles and therefore direct comparison was not feasible. The most common aim was prediction of prognosis, followed by diagnosis of CKD. Algorithm generalizability, and testing on diverse populations was rarely taken into account. Furthermore, the clinical evaluation and validation of the models/algorithms was perused; only a fraction of the included studies, 6 out of 68, were performed in a clinical context.

Conclusions

Machine learning is a promising tool for the prediction of risk, diagnosis, and therapy management for CKD patients. Nonetheless, future work is needed to address the interpretability, generalizability, and fairness of the models to ensure the safe application of such technologies in routine clinical practice.

Graphical abstract
Biogenic Mg doped CeO2 nanoparticles via Hibiscus sabdariffa and its potential biological applications
Authors: Alghamdi Abdullah A. A.
Published: February 2023

Cancer and inflammation are important challenges and leading causes of death worldwide. Development of nanomaterial based therapeutic compounds obtained from natural products is thought to be a pillar in drug discovery. The present research describes the cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of cerium oxide (CeO2) and magnesium (Mg) doped CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs). Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) flower extract is used to bio-fabricate Mg doped CeO2 nanoparticles in an eco-friendly and cost-effective manner. The morphological and structural characteristics of the bioengineered CeO2 and Mg doped CeO2 NPs were investigated using complementary characterization techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with Electron Dispersive X-rays Spectroscopy (EDS). SEM analysis showed that the NPs possess spherical shape and particle size of around 100 nm. The cytotoxicity results demonstrated that CeO2 and Mg doped CeO2 NPs caused potent toxicity on MCF-7, HepG2 and A-549 cancer cells. The highest toxicity was observed in A-549 cells with an IC50 = 79.19 ± 3.07 µg/mL and maximum cell inhibition of ~ 96%. Furthermore, Mg doped CeO2 NPs also depicted DPPH and H2O2 scavenging potential with maximum % of inhibition = 79.43 ± 1.51 and 72.43 ± 1.51 respectively at 1000 µg/mL. Interestingly, these NPs inhibited inflammatory markers, COX-1 enzyme with IC50 = 25.98 ± 1.76 µg/mL and protein denaturation with IC50= 14.85 ± 0.97 µg/mL, respectively. The outcome of the present study revealed that the biosynthesized Mg doped CeO2 NPs using HS flower extract possess promising biomedical potential.
An effective environmental enrichment framework for the continual improvement of production animal welfare
Authors: Taylor Peta S , Schrobback Peggy , Verdon Megan , Lee Caroline
Published: February 2023

Substrates and objects are provided to farm animals on the assumption that they improve animal welfare by enriching the environment, but these often fail to consider the extent to which an environmental enrichment (EE) improves animal welfare, if at all. Furthermore, there are numerous definitions of EE, each with a unique expectation. If expectations of animal welfare improvement are set too high, industry uptake may be thwarted, but if thresholds are set too low it will not result in meaningful improvements to animal welfare. We propose an EE framework based on revised definitions of EE that reflect improvements to various components of animal welfare: (i) pseudo-enrichment; (ii) EE for meeting basic needs; (iii) EE for pleasure; and (iv) EE for positive welfare balance. This framework requires short- and long-term assessments to determine the impact of the EE, although many are lacking in the production animal literature. Redefining EE with a focus on specific animal welfare outcomes will assist producers in identifying the optimal EE for their enterprise. Subsequently, we encourage dialogue between farmers, researchers and industry stakeholders when designing environmental enrichment programmes. This framework is a science-based tool that can be used to inform the development of clear EE assessment protocols and requirements for animal welfare legislation, assurance programmes and industry. This evidence-based framework ensures that the focus is on the outcome of EE programmes rather than the intent. Importantly, this framework has the flexibility to adapt even as baseline environments evolve, ensuring the continual improvement to production animal welfare.
Adherence to Infection Prevention and Control Measures Among Health-Care Workers Serving in COVID-19 Treatment Centers in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Mustafa Zia Ul , Majeed Hafiza Kiran , Latif Shaiza , Salman Muhammad , Hayat Khezar , Mallhi Tauqeer Hussain , Khan Yusra Habib , Khan Amer Hayat , Abubakar Usman , Sultana Kishwar , Godman Brian
Published: February 2023

Objective:

Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are easily adoptable activities to prevent the spread of infection to patients as well as among health-care workers (HCWs).

Methods:

This cross-sectional study evaluated the adherence to IPC measures among HCWs working at coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatment centers in Punjab, Pakistan. HCWs were recruited by means of convenient sampling through Google Form® using the World Health Organization risk assessment tool. All data were analyzed using SPSS 20.

Results:

A total of 414 HCWs completed the survey (response rate = 67.8%), and majority of them were males (56.3%). Most of the HCWs were nurses (39.6%) followed by medical doctors (27.3%). Approximately 53% reported insufficiency of personal protective equipment (PPE), 58.2% did not receive IPC training and 40.8% did not have functional IPC team at their health facilities. The majority of HCWs (90%) used disposable gloves and N95 facemasks while interacting with COVID-19 patients. Nearly 45% used protective face shields and gowns before providing care to their patients. Hand hygiene practices while touching, and performing any aseptic procedure was adopted by 70.5% and 74.1% of HCWs, respectively.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the adherence to IPC measures among Pakistani HCWs working in COVID-19 treatment centers is good despite the limited availability of PPEs. Their practices can be optimized by establishing institutional IPC teams, periodic provision of IPC training, and necessary PPE.