bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Management of Chiari 1 Malformation in the Paediatric Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-analyses of Observational Studies
Authors: Taiwo Akhigbe, , Ardalan Zolnourian,
Published: April 2022

Background: Chiari 1 malformation (C1M) is a congenital malformation in the paediatric population is commonly encountered and often requires surgical management. Currently there is no agreed consensus on the appropriate and specific surgical technique for management of paediatric cases of C1M. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare the clinical outcomes of posterior fossa decompression with duraplasty (PFDD) to posterior fossa decompression alone (PFD) in paediatric patients.

Methodology: Systematic review of electronic literature databases searched from January 1997 to March 2017 of paediatric patients that had posterior fossa decompression with comparative analysis of PFD and PFDD were considered for inclusion. A Meta-analyses on the retrieved data was performed.

Results: Nine reports of eligible studies involving 3404 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of the 3404 patients, 1965 were treated with PFD alone while 1439 were treated with PFDD. Mean age range of 9.6 year to 11.1 years. Patients undergoing PFDD has significantly higher rates of pseudomeningocele formation OR 1.91, 95% C1 (1.30, 2.82) and lower complication rates OR 1.30, 95% CI (1.06, 1.61) than PFD. No significant difference in clinical improvement, reoperation rates, CSF leaks, wound infection and incidence of aseptic meningitis were observed.

Conclusion: PFDD is associated with fewer complications when compared to PFD alone. However the incidence of pseudomeningocoele formation is more commonly encountered following PFDD compared to PFD. PFDD is also more commonly performed following a failed improvement in symptomatology following PFD. Multicentre randomised controlled studies are needed to definitively identify the gold-standard technique for the management of  answer to best surgical technique.
Study of Soluble CD52 as a Tumor Marker and Indicator of Disease Activity in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Swadan Fatma ElSaid , Elserogy Hesham Ahmed , Attiaa Mohamed Attia Saad , ElAshtokhy Hussam ElDin Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Background: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is non-curable disease and has variable course among patients. In some patients it progresses fast despite sever treatment and is fatal within 2 to 3 years whereas others require no or minimal treatment and die due to cause other than CLL. The aim of this work was to investigate the circulating soluble CD52 in blood of CLL patients to explore its usefulness as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.

Methods: This study included 40 cases who were divided into four equal groups; group 1 was patients who were newly diagnosed with CLL, group 2 was cases of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia with complete remission after treatment, group 3 was cases of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and group 4 was the control group. All patients were subjected to clinical examinations ,laboratory investigations including: (complete blood counting, liver function tests, kidney function test, LDH Immunophenotyping) and specific laboratory investigation of soluble CD52 using ELISA.

Results: ROC curve for SCD52 to discriminate between newly diagnosed cases and control group with cut of point 201(ng / ml) and AUC 0.890 with p value 0.003 with sensitivity and specificity 80% and to discriminate between relapsed cases from complete remission cases with cutoff point 345 (ng / ml) and AUC 0.840 with (p value 0.010) with sensitivity 80% and specificity 90%. In group 1and group 3, there were positive correlation between SCD52 and staging system,  absolute lymphocytic count and LDH, significant negative correlation between SCD52 and platelet count.

Conclusions: The role ofsCD52 as diagnostic and prognostic marker for CLL due to its relation to CLL disease activity.
A Mass Occupied in Neck Carotid Bifurcation Territory Diagnosed Sebaceous Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Jiang Donghui , Wu Xiaoguang , Jia Yanxuan , Ni Shilin , He Xiaoguang
Published: April 2022

Aims: To describe a rare case presenting with pulsing mass stumbled across the right upper neck.

Presentation of Case: The patient was presented to the outpatient department of ENT due to a pulsing mass stumbled across the right upper neck for half a year. Cervical enhancement CT scan was performed, which disclosed a lesion at the bifurcation of the right carotid artery and possessed insignificant blood supply. Hospitalization was arranged for a full examination, and culminating in a diagnostic resection.

Discussion: This case was challenging for clinicians to differentially diagnose the placeholder at the carotid artery bifurcation, and the pathological results in this case was extremely rare and have never been reported in the literature. Extraocular SGC is strongly associated with Muir–Torre syndrome (MTS), a phenotypic variant of Lynch syndrome and results from mutations in DNA MMR genes. It suggests all patients presenting with sebaceous neoplasms should be screened for MTS.

Conclusion: Our case creates a paradigm for otolaryngologists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
18F-FES PET-CT Scan in Patients of Histopathologically Proven Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Carcinoma at a Tertiary Care Facility
Authors: Adnan Sadia , Younis Muhammad Numair , Yasmin Tahira , Fatima Arzoo , Khan Irfan Ullah , Masood Misbah , Shahid Abubaker
Published: April 2022

Aims: To ascertain successful labeling and image performance of 18F-FES PET-CT scan in patients who have histopathologically diagnosed estrogen positive breast cancer.

Study Design: Histopathologically proven estrogen receptor positive patients were enrolled for 18F-FES PET-CT scan.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiopharmacy and Department of Oncology, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Lahore- INMOL. Duration of the study including planning phase and performance of imaging was 6 weeks spanning between July till Aug 2021.

Methodology: 18F-FES was produced by direct nucleophilic radio-fluorination of 3-O-methoxymethyl-16,17 O sulfuryl-16-epiestriol followed by acidic hydrolysis at INMOL. After quality control tests, 18F-FES was injected to the patients. At 60 minutes post injection, each patient underwent PET-CT imaging in supine position as per standard protocol given in the published literature. Image interpretation and processing was performed.

Results: Study was performed on 2 patients. The first patient had estrogen receptor positive breast tumour on trucut biopsy and the second patient presented after excision biopsy. The second patient demonstrated skeletal, nodal and pulmonary metastases.18F-FES uptake was observed in the primary tumour as well as in all metastatic sites.

Conclusion: 18F-FES can successfully be labeled and 18-FES PET-CT can be performed in estrogen receptor positive breast cancer patients to take appropriate treatment decisions.
Based on the US Independent Director System-Problems of China's Independent Director System and Countermeasures
Authors: Yiyang Lei , Zhili Li
Published: April 2022

The independent director system first appeared in the Investment Company Act of the United States in 1940, and the main purpose of the system is to check and supervise the major shareholders and executives of enterprises, while playing a positive role in the normal operation and higher profits of the company. In 2001, the Securities Regulatory Commission of China officially issued the Guidance on the Establishment of Independent Director System in Listed Companies, which also explored the way of independent directors’ the system. China's independent director system was implemented late and it is not mature enough. For example, there are still problems such as lack of independence professionalism of independent directors. Although China belongs to the socialist legal system, which is essentially different from the common law system, the independent director system in China is essentially an imported product, so the independent director system in the United Kingdom and the United States has a strong significance to learn from. This paper compares the current independent directorship in China with that in the U.S. through a controlled variables approach in the hope of drawing substantive suggestions and inspiration. Our proposal is divided into two parts firstly, from the perspective of addressing the independence of independent directors themselves, and then analyzing the possible upgrading of the operating environment of independent directors. In particular, we emphasize the advantages of the U.S. independent director system in terms of comprehensive talent training, selection and recruitment mechanisms, so as to provide implications and solution strategies for Chinese independent director system, in order to improve the role of the Chinese independent director system in corporate governance.
Preliminary Phytochemical Screening and Antimicrobial Studies on the Aerial Parts Extracts of Crinum latifolium L. (Amaryllidaceae)
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Mishra Manoj Kumar , Agrawal O.P.
Published: April 2022

The present study was undertaken to find the antimicrobial activities, phytochemical presence in various aerial parts extract of Crinum latifolium (C. latifolium). Qualitative analysis of various phytochemical constituents and quantitative analysis of total phenolics, flavonoids and alkaloids was determined by the well-known test protocol available in the literature. Quantitative analysis of phenolic, flavonoids and alkaloids was carried out by Folins Ciocalteau reagent, aluminium chloride and bromocresol green method respectively. The in vitro antimicrobial activity was done by well diffusion assay method against S. mutans and S. bongori using standard ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin (10-30μg/ml). The antimicrobial activity was determined by measuring the diameter of the zone of inhibition in term of millimeter (mm). The phytochemical analysis showed the presence of tannins, glycosides, flavonoids and alkaloids ect. The antimicrobial activity of hydroalcoholic extract of aerial parts against all microorganisms was concentration dependent manner but less than standard drug. It is concluded that the antimicrobial activity showed by the plant is due to the presence of these phytochemicals. For future studies, phytochemcials responsible for these activities can be isolated and modified for pharmacological purpose.
Isolation of Active Molecules from the Stems of Passion Vine
Authors: Antony N. Michael , Fernandes Jennifer , Mathew Jane
Published: April 2022

Plants contain large number of phytochemical components which are bioactive and useful in the treatment of various disease conditions. But there is a need to investigate the constituents present in medicinal plants responsible for their pharmacological action. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, glycosides and steroids in the stems of Passiflora foetida L commonly known as Passion fruit. The present work aims at extraction, isolation & characterization of active constituents present in the stems of Passiflora foetida L. The ethanolic extract of stems was subjected to preliminary phytochemical tests. Extraction was carried by a Soxhlet extractor and the following compounds were isolated from different solvents. Three constituents were isolated, Kaempferol is a polyphenol isolated from from n- butanol extract. A flavonoid, Apigenin from ethyl acetate extract and Beta- Sitosterol a phytosterol was isolated from petroleum ether extract. All the components isolated were characterized by IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR and mass spectroscopical data.
Facile and Green Synthesis of Carboxy Methyl Cellulose Stabilized Bio-Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles and Its Catalytic Activity
Authors: Padmavathi K. V. , Padma M. , Annapurna Nowduri
Published: April 2022

Gold nanoparticles (AuNP’s)are synthesized in sustainable green method using Carboxy Methyl Cellulose (CMC) and employed as catalyst in the reduction of p-nitro aniline with NaBH4 to p-phenylene diamine. It is observed that the speed of reaction was fast due to their size, as particle size decreases surface area increases. It is also observed that the rate of reaction is fast with comparison with the other catalyst. This is because the nanoparticles have more effective surface area and posses less steric hindrance with p-nitro aniline and NaBH4 when compared to nanoparticles due to their shape. The recyclability of nanoparticles shows it is potential recyclable catalyst for industrial applications.
Review on the Development Dilemma and Strategy of Hip-Hop Dance Enter into College Physical Education Curriculum
Authors: Xuanmin Zhu , Qingjian Liu , Qiaoting Hou
Published: April 2022

Hip-hop dance in colleges and universities is not only the need of physical education curriculum reform, but also an important way for students to improve their character, improve their comprehensive ability and exercise their psychological quality. Based on the research methods of literature and text analysis, it is found that there are four problems: single teaching content and form, lack of clear teaching objectives, lack of training and reward systems, and lack of professional teachers. Accordingly, four countermeasures are put forward: adding Chinese elements into hip-hop teaching, establishing hip-hop teaching objectives, constructing a complete system from teaching to competition, and strengthening the professional skills and cultural literacy of teachers.
Microbial Assessment of Kunu Sold in Awka Metropolis
Authors: Ezemba C. C. , Obinabo C. C. , Archibong E. J. , Mbah O. M.
Published: April 2022

Kunu is a non-alcoholic Nigerian beverage produced locally from cereals and has been widely accepted as a nutritional drink. The need for evaluation of its nutritional and safety status is very much essential. This work was carried out to determine the microbiological quality of “kunu-zaki” beverages sold in Awka metropolis. Three samples of “kunu-zaki” beverages were obtained from three different locations in Awka, Anambra state namely; Amansea, Eke-Akwa and Amawbia, labelled P, Q and R, respectively. These samples were tested for both bacterial and fungal contamination. The results show that for the colony counts from the Kunu samples ranged from 0.5×105 to 3.2 ×105 for total coliform bacteria, 2.5×105 to 4.2×105 for total heterotrophic fungi for the three samples analyzed. Bacterial isolates identification revealed the presence of Bacillus sp, Pseudomonas sp., Escherichia coli and Streptococcus sp, while the fungal isolates include; Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp, Fusarium sp and Saccharomyces sp. The data revealed that all the Kunu drinks sold within the study area were contaminated and also contained different pathogenic microorganisms which can serve as sources of infections to human. Therefore, proper hygienic and sanitary measures need to be enforced during production, processing and packaging of this local beverage drink.
Fiducial marker position affects target volume in stereotactic lung irradiation
Authors: Akasaka Hiroaki , Mizonobe Kazufusa , Oki Yuya , Uehara Kazuyuki , Nakayama Masao , Tamura Shuhei , Munetomo Yoshiki , Kawaguchi Haruna , Ishida Jun , Harada Aya , Ishihara Takeaki , Kubota Hikaru , Kawaguchi Hiroki , Sasaki Ryohei , Mayahara Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Real‐time tracking systems of moving respiratory targets such as CyberKnife, Radixact, or Vero4DRT are an advanced robotic radiotherapy device used to deliver stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). The internal target volume (ITV) of lung tumors is assessed through a fiducial marker fusion using four‐dimensional computed tomography (CT). It is important to minimize the ITV to protect normal lung tissue from exposure to radiation and the associated side effects post SBRT. However, the ITV may alter if there is a change in the position of the fiducial marker with respect to the tumor. This study investigated the relationship between fiducial marker position and the ITV in order to prevent radiation exposure of normal lung tissue, and correct target coverage.

Materials and methods

This study retrospectively reviewed 230 lung cancer patients who received a fiducial marker for SBRT between April 2015 and September 2021. The distance of the fiducial marker to the gross tumor volume (GTV) in the expiratory (dex) and inspiratory (din) CT, and the ratio of the ITV/V(GTVex), were investigated.

Results

Upon comparing each lobe, although there was no significant difference in the ddiff and the ITV/V(GTVex) between all lobes for dex < 10 mm, there was significant difference in the ddiff and the ITV/V(GTVex) between the lower and upper lobes for dex ≥ 10 mm (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was significant difference in the ddiff and the ITV/V(GTVex) between dex ≥10 mm and dex < 10 mm in all lung regions (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The ITV that had no margin from GTVs increased when dex was ≥10 mm for all lung regions (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the increase in ITV tended to be greater in the lower lung lobe. These findings can help decrease the possibility of adverse events post SBRT, and correct target coverage.
Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Strategies toward Precision Medicine
Authors: Mohd Isa Isma Liza , Mokhtar Sabarul Afian , Abbah Sunny A. , Fauzi Mh Busra , Devitt Aiden , Pandit Abhay
Published: April 2022

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a common cause of discogenic low back pain resulting in significant disability. Current conservative or surgical intervention treatments do not reverse the underlying disc degeneration or regenerate the disc. Biomaterial‐based tissue engineering strategies exhibit the potential to regenerate the disc due to their capacity to modulate local tissue responses, maintain the disc phenotype, attain biochemical homeostasis, promote anatomical tissue repair, and provide functional mechanical support. Despite preliminary positive results in preclinical models, these approaches have limited success in clinical trials as they fail to address discogenic pain. This review gives insights into the understanding of intervertebral disc pathology, the emerging concept of precision medicine, and the rationale of personalized biomaterial‐based tissue engineering tailored to the severity of the disease targeting early, mild, or severe degeneration, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the treatment for disc regeneration and ultimately to alleviate discogenic pain. Further research is required to assess the relationship between disc degeneration and lower back pain for developing future clinically relevant therapeutic interventions targeted towards the subgroup of degenerative disc disease patients.
Photo‐Enhanced‐Coordination Triggered Unprecedented Bistable AIE for Long‐Term Optical Memories
Authors: Jin Hongjun , Cai Yiteng , Li Hongpeng , Liao Peilong , Wu Tongyue , Ma Cheng , Chen Qinghua , Qian Qingrong , Huang Jianbin , Yan Yun
Published: April 2022

Photo‐triggered chromism has emerged as critically important in materials for advanced soft photonic devices. The conventional photochromic units with reversible color change between two isomers are unstable either thermally or photochemically, which is an important challenge for long‐standing optical devices. Here, a novel photo‐enhanced coordination mechanism leading to stable chromism is reported. Upon tethering the aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) moiety diphenyldibenzofulvene (PBF) to a dicarboxylic pyridine group, photo‐irradiation triggers the coordination transition between the carbonate groups and Mg2+ from bidentate to the more stable bridging mode, which further influences the conformation of the remote PBF group, leading to transition of the emission color from cyan to yellow. Under ambient conditions, both coordinating isomers display excellent thermal and photochemical stability. As a result, the photo writings on the films based on the coordinating AIE materials exhibit the long‐term stability, which barely fades even upon heating, vapor fuming, or day‐light exposure. This photo‐enhanced‐coordination enabled bistable chromism is expected to open a new vista in the study of chromism and high durable optical memories.
Modeling and Experimental Verification of Surface Roughness for Grinding Monocrystalline Silicon Lens
Authors: Yang Fanxuan , Sun Yuli , Wang Yaji , Mo Honglei , Zhu Limin , Yuan Hang , Lu Bo , Zhang Guiguan , Zuo Dunwen
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this paper is to study the formation mechanism of aspheric surface roughness and reveal the influence of processing parameters on the surface roughness. Aiming at the normal grinding method of aspheric surface, taking into account the geometric and kinematic characteristics of the grinding process of aspherical components, the surface roughness model of aspherical parts grinding is established and verified based on the theory of grinding technology. The relative error between the calculated value of the developed grinding surface roughness model and the actual measured value is within 20%. The model and experiments show that when the grinding wheel speed is 6000 r min−1, the workpiece speed is 70 r min−1, and the grinding depth is 70 μm, the aspheric surface roughness increases from about Ra0.1 μm at the center of the workpiece to about Ra0.4 μm at the outer edge of the workpiece. Increasing the grinding wheel speed, reducing the grinding depth and the workpiece speed can significantly reduce the surface roughness and make the aspheric surface roughness distribution tend to be uniform. The theoretical model proposed in this paper provides theoretical guidance for the controllable and efficient machining of aspheric components.
Development and Challenges of Biphasic Membrane‐Less Redox Batteries
Authors: Li Xinyu , Qin Zhenbo , Deng Yida , Wu Zhong , Hu Wenbin
Published: April 2022

Ion exchange membranes (IEMs) play important roles in energy generation and storage field, such as fuel cell, flow battery, however, a major barrier in the way of large‐scale application is the high cost of membranes (e.g., Nafion membranes price generally exceeds USD$ 200 m−2). The membrane‐less technology is one of the promising approaches to solve the problem and thus has attracted much attention and been explored in a variety of research paths. This review introduces one of the representative membrane‐less battery types, Biphasic membrane‐less redox batteries that eliminate the IEMs according to the principle of solvent immiscibility and realizes the phase splitting in a thermodynamically stable state. It is systematically classified and summarizes their performances as well as the problems they are suffering from, and then several effective solutions are proposed based on the modification of electrodes and electrolytes. Finally, special attention is given to the challenges and prospects of Biphasic membrane‐less redox batteries, which could contribute to the development of membrane‐less batteries.
Distinct Stress‐Dependent Signatures of Cellular and Extracellular tRNA‐Derived Small RNAs
Authors: Li Guoping , Manning Aidan C. , Bagi Alex , Yang Xinyu , Gokulnath Priyanka , Spanos Michail , Howard Jonathan , Chan Patricia P. , Sweeney Thadryan , Kitchen Robert , Li Haobo , Laurent Brice D. , Aranki Sary F. , Kontaridis Maria I. , Laurent Louise C. , Van Keuren‐Jensen Kendall , Muehlschlegel Jochen , Lowe Todd M. , Das Saumya
Published: April 2022

The cellular response to stress is an important determinant of disease pathogenesis. Uncovering the molecular fingerprints of distinct stress responses may identify novel biomarkers and key signaling pathways for different diseases. Emerging evidence shows that transfer RNA‐derived small RNAs (tDRs) play pivotal roles in stress responses. However, RNA modifications present on tDRs are barriers to accurately quantifying tDRs using traditional small RNA sequencing. Here, AlkB‐facilitated methylation sequencing is used to generate a comprehensive landscape of cellular and extracellular tDR abundances in various cell types during different stress responses. Extracellular tDRs are found to have distinct fragmentation signatures from intracellular tDRs and these tDR signatures are better indicators of different stress responses than miRNAs. These distinct extracellular tDR fragmentation patterns and signatures are also observed in plasma from patients on cardiopulmonary bypass. It is additionally demonstrated that angiogenin and RNASE1 are themselves regulated by stressors and contribute to the stress‐modulated abundance of sub‐populations of cellular and extracellular tDRs. Finally, a sub‐population of extracellular tDRs is identified for which AGO2 appears to be required for their expression. Together, these findings provide a detailed profile of stress‐responsive tDRs and provide insight about tDR biogenesis and stability in response to cellular stressors.
Smith Magenis syndrome: First case of congenital heart defect in a patient with Rai1 mutation
Authors: Onesimo Roberta , Delogu Angelica Bibiana , Blandino Rita , Leoni Chiara , Rosati Jessica , Zollino Marcella , Zampino Giuseppe
Published: April 2022

Smith Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a rare neurobehavioral disorder caused by 17p11.2 microdeletion encompassing Retinoic Acid‐Induced 1 (RAI1) gene (90% of cases) or by RAI1 point mutation (10% of cases). The neuropsychological phenotype of individuals with 17p11.2 deletion and in those with RAI1 variants mostly overlaps. However, cardiac defects have been described only in patients with a deletion so far. Here, we present the first case of a patient affected by SMS caused by RAI1 variant in whom a severe congenital pulmonary valve stenosis was diagnosed at birth, requiring trans catheter dilatation in the first month of life. This case expands the phenotypic spectrum associated with RAI1 variants in SMS, describing a previously unreported association with a congenital heart disease.
Bardet–Biedl syndrome: The pleiotropic role of the chaperonin‐like BBS6, 10, and 12 proteins
Authors: Gupta Neha , D'Acierno Mariavittoria , Zona Enrica , Capasso Giovambattista , Zacchia Miriam
Published: April 2022

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare pleiotropic disorder known as a ciliopathy. Despite significant genetic heterogeneity, BBS1 and BBS10 are responsible for major diagnosis in western countries. It is well established that eight BBS proteins, namely BBS1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, and 18, form the BBSome, a multiprotein complex serving as a regulator of ciliary membrane protein composition. Less information is available for BBS6, BBS10, and BBS12, three proteins showing sequence homology with the CCT/TRiC family of group II chaperonins. Even though their chaperonin function is debated, scientific evidence demonstrated that they are required for initial BBSome assembly in vitro. Recent studies suggest that genotype may partially predict clinical outcomes. Indeed, patients carrying truncating mutations in any gene show the most severe phenotype; moreover, mutations in chaperonin‐like BBS proteins correlated with severe kidney impairment. This study is a critical review of the literature on genetics, expression level, cellular localization and function of BBS proteins, focusing primarily on the chaperonin‐like BBS proteins, and aiming to provide some clues to understand the pathomechanisms of disease in this setting.
International consensus statement on allergy and rhinology: Olfaction
Authors: Patel Zara M. , Holbrook Eric H. , Turner Justin H. , Adappa Nithin D. , Albers Mark W. , Altundag Aytug , Appenzeller Simone , Costanzo Richard M. , Croy Ilona , Davis Greg E. , Dehgani‐Mobaraki Puya , Doty Richard L. , Duffy Valerie B. , Goldstein Bradley J. , Gudis David A. , Haehner Antje , Higgins Thomas S. , Hopkins Claire , Huart Caroline , Hummel Thomas , Jitaroon Kawinyarat , Kern Robert C. , Khanwalkar Ashoke R. , Kobayashi Masayoshi , Kondo Kenji , Lane Andrew P. , Lechner Matt , Leopold Donald A. , Levy Joshua M. , Marmura Michael J. , Mclelland Lisha , Miwa Takaki , Moberg Paul J. , Mueller Christian A. , Nigwekar Sagar U. , O'Brien Erin K. , Paunescu Teodor G. , Pellegrino Robert , Philpott Carl , Pinto Jayant M. , Reiter Evan R. , Roalf David R. , Rowan Nicholas R. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Schwob James , Seiden Allen M. , Smith Timothy L. , Soler Zachary M. , Sowerby Leigh , Tan Bruce K. , Thamboo Andrew , Wrobel Bozena , Yan Carol H.
Published: April 2022

Background

The literature regarding clinical olfaction, olfactory loss, and olfactory dysfunction has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, with an exponential rise in the past year. There is substantial variability in the quality of this literature and a need to consolidate and critically review the evidence. It is with that aim that we have gathered experts from around the world to produce this International Consensus on Allergy and Rhinology: Olfaction (ICAR:O).

Methods

Using previously described methodology, specific topics were developed relating to olfaction. Each topic was assigned a literature review, evidence‐based review, or evidence‐based review with recommendations format as dictated by available evidence and scope within the ICAR:O document. Following iterative reviews of each topic, the ICAR:O document was integrated and reviewed by all authors for final consensus.

Results

The ICAR:O document reviews nearly 100 separate topics within the realm of olfaction, including diagnosis, epidemiology, disease burden, diagnosis, testing, etiology, treatment, and associated pathologies.

Conclusion

This critical review of the existing clinical olfaction literature provides much needed insight and clarity into the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with olfactory dysfunction, while also clearly delineating gaps in our knowledge and evidence base that we should investigate further.
Clinical outcomes of COVID‐19 infection among patients with Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Wang Ying , Li Mingfei , Kazis Lewis E. , Xia Weiming
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and COVID‐19 share common risk factors including hypertension. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) are frequently prescribed antihypertension medications.

Methods

This study analyzed 436,823 veterans tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. We conducted both classical and propensity score weighted logistic models to compare COVID‐19 outcomes between patients with AD or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to those without cognitive impairment, and examined effect of ACEI/ARB prescription.

Results

There was a statistically significant association between AD and increased odds of infection and mortality. MCI was not found to be a risk factor for infection. Subjects with MCI exhibited poor clinical outcomes. Prescribing ARBs but not ACEIs was significantly associated with a lower risk of COVID‐19 occurrence among AD and MCI patients.

Discussion

Exploring beneficial effects of existing medications to reduce the impact of COVID‐19 on patients with AD or MCI is highly significant.

Highlights

There is significant association between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and increased risk of COVID‐19 infection and odds of mortality.

Subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) defined by claims data exhibit poor clinical outcomes, but MCI was not found to be a risk factor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection.

Prescribing angiotensin II receptor blockers was significantly associated with a lower risk of COVID‐19 occurrence among AD/MCI patients.
Association of Apolipoprotein E ɛ4 Allele with Enlarged Perivascular Spaces
Authors: Pinheiro Adlin , Demissie Serkalem , Scruton Ashlea , Charidimou Andreas , Parva Pedram , DeCarli Charles , Seshadri Sudha , Romero José R.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Enlarged perivascular spaces have emerged as markers of cerebral small vessel disease and are linked to perivascular drainage dysfunction. The apolipoprotein E‐ɛ4 (APOE‐ɛ4) allele is the strongest genetic risk factor for cerebral amyloid angiopathy and Alzheimer's neuropathology, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We studied the relationship between APOE‐ɛ4 and the topography and burden of enlarged perivascular spaces to elucidate underlying mechanisms between APOE‐ɛ4 and adverse clinical outcomes.

Methods

We included 3,564 Framingham Heart Study participants with available genotypes and magnetic resonance imaging. Enlarged perivascular spaces in the basal ganglia and centrum semiovale were rated using a validated scale. We related APOE‐ɛ4 allele presence to high burden of enlarged perivascular spaces in each region and a mixed score reflecting high burden in both regions using multivariable logistic regression. Exploratory analyses incorporated presence of cerebral microbleeds and assessed effect modification by hypertension.

Results

Mean age was 60.7 years (SD = 14.6), 1,644 (46.1%) were men, 1,486 (41.8%) were hypertensive, and 836 (23.5%) participants were APOE‐ɛ4 carriers. APOE‐ɛ4 was associated with high burden of enlarged perivascular spaces in the centrum semiovale (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16, 1.81) and mixed regions (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.11, 1.68). Associations were slightly stronger in hypertensive subjects.

Interpretation

The APOE‐ɛ4 allele plays a modest role in the burden of enlarged perivascular spaces in the centrum semiovale. Further studies are needed to clarify the underlying small vessel disease type in community‐dwelling individuals with predominant centrum semiovale enlarged perivascular spaces, which may be hypertensive angiopathy in our sample. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:23–31
Temperature‐Controlled and Photoexcited Multitasking Janus Metasurface in the Terahertz Region
Authors: Guo Zi‐Han , Sun Yuan‐Zhe , Zeng Li , Zhang Hai‐Feng
Published: April 2022

In this paper, a photoexcited multitasking Janus metasurface (MJM) based on the phase‐changed material vanadium dioxide and the photosensitive materials silicon and germanium in the terahertz (THz) region is proposed, which also exploits the directionality feature of electromagnetic waves. The MJM can switch its functionalities between working band shifting and full‐space polarized wave control, and six functions can be implemented by exciting the switchable materials. By regulating the power of the incident pump beam, it is feasible to complete band adjustment in terms of normal incidence, i.e. the band range of polarization conversion ratio >0.9 changing from 1.23 THz–1.91 THz to 0.98 THz–1.91 THz in the reflection state and axial ratio (AR) <3 dB band range toggling between 0.69 THz–1.08 THz and 0.67 THz–0.96 THz in the transmission state. However, for the backward incidence,, it presents reflective linear‐to‐circle (LTC) polarization conversion (PC), with AR <3 dB domain of 0.99 THz–1.63 THz. The multiple reflection interference theory and electric field distributions are introduced to interpret the high performance. Moreover, the designed device exhibits a high angular tolerance for achieving LTC PC. The integration of numerous functions in a single structure endows the MJM with the great benefit for efficient polarization‐controlled applications.
Ternary copper molybdenum sulfide (Cu2MoS4) nanoparticles anchored on PANI/rGO as electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER)
Authors: Singh Ayushi , Singh Amita , Kociok‐Köhn Gabriele , Bhimireddi Rajasekhar , Singh Anar , Singh Ashish Kumar , Kumar Abhinav , Muddassir Mohd.
Published: April 2022

A trinuclear heterobimetallic complex with general formula [Cu(PPh3)S2MoS2Cu(PPh3)2]·CHCl3 (SSP) has been synthesized, and its characterization executed using FTIR, NMR, electronic absorption spectroscopies, and single‐crystal X‐ray technique. The complex is solvothermally decomposed in octadecylamine (ODA) to yield ternary copper molybdenum sulfide nanoparticles and successfully grafted onto 2D materials, namely, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) or polyaniline (PANI), and these composites are utilized for oxygen evolution half‐cell reaction (OER). The copper molybdenum sulfide nanoparticles as well as their composites with rGO and PANI and rGO + PANI were characterized using powder X‐ray diffraction, SEM, and EDX analyses. Electrochemical measurements suggested that the modified electrodes have notable electrocatalytic activity toward OER with onset overpotential 400 mV for CMS + PANI and 395 mV for CMS + rGO + PANI. This is the first study on the use of copper molybdenum sulfide nanoparticles composites with rGO and PANI as electrocatalysts for OER displaying substantial synergistic activity.
Synthesis, spectroscopic, CO‐releasing ability, and anticancer activity studies of [Mn(CO)3(L–L)Br] complexes: Experimental and density functional theory studies
Authors: Thomas Jisha Mary , Vidhyapriya Pitchavel , Sivan Akhil K. , Sakthivel Natarajan , Sivasankar Chinnappan
Published: April 2022

Two different series of manganese(I) tricarbonyl complexes containing phosphine‐based (1–5) and 4′‐substituted 2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine‐based ligands (6–10) have been synthesized in order to study their CO‐releasing ability and to investigate their anticancer activity. All the synthesized complexes (1–10) have been fully characterized using standard spectroscopic and analytical techniques. Further 5, 7, and 9 have also been characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Although both the sets of ligands are π‐acceptors, they tend to change the Mn—CO bond strength upon complexation, thus affecting the CO release. Photoactivation of 1–5 and 6–10 has been achieved using 365 nm UV irradiation and low intensity visible light, respectively. The MnCO bond strength has been examined using the density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT (TD‐DFT) calculations. In order to find the therapeutic viability of the visible light activated complexes, their cytotoxicity has been investigated both in the dark and under irradiation. The MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay reveals the potential application of some of the synthesized complexes especially towards the lung cancer cells in the dark condition.
Small no‐take areas benefit hard corals more than regulation through fishing permits
Authors: Wright Luka Seamus
Published: April 2022

Situated in the coral triangle, the Philippines hosts some of the world's most diverse coral reefs. Yet there are few national marine protected areas (MPAs) in place that coincide with these reefs. Municipal MPAs partially alleviate this issue but a controlled comparison of the effects of different small‐scale management strategies on coral reefs is lacking.

Danjugan Island Marine Reserve and Sanctuaries (DIMRS) is one of these community‐based MPAs that encompasses a collection of small (0.3–0.34 km2) marine reserves situated in a larger MPA where fishing is regulated through permits. The unique juxtaposition of different management strategies within DIMRS was used as a model system to test whether reserves are better for corals than limited fishing permits by comparing ecosystem indicators (coral cover, bleaching, disease, and morphological diversity).

Total and live hard corals were 169% and 204% more abundant inside than outside no‐take zones in 2016. This distinction increased between 2002 and 2016 as a result of a more marked decrease in coral cover over time in the partially protected zones. A 70% higher coral community evenness outside the reserves further suggests that scleractinian coral communities on fished reefs are more disturbed.

Live coral cover within the MPAs of DIMRS in 2016 (39 ± 4%) is above the current mean for Philippine reefs (23%) and is comparable with the long‐term average for reefs situated within Philippine MPAs (36%). This study suggests that exceptionally small reserves may benefit hard corals more than regulation via fishing permits.
A reconstruction of the occupation layer of archaeological sites according to a statistical analysis of multispectral imaging
Authors: Zhurbin Igor V. , Zlobina Anna G. , Shaura Alexander S. , Bazhenova Aigul I.
Published: April 2022

In the modern era and especially in the 20th century, the territory with most of the archaeological sites in central Russia and the Urals was used as agricultural land. The history of long‐term studies of medieval Finno‐Ugric settlements (Cis‐Urals) makes it possible to distinguish segments of an occupation layer in various states of preservation: superficially disrupted, replaced and transported. Superficially disrupted and replaced layers are found at the settlement site and are believed to be residential and economic areas​​. The transported layer is mainly transported to the slopes of the terraces to which the sites of the Chepetskaya culture are assigned. Therefore, it is necessary to study not only the site of the settlement itself but also the adjacent territory. To reconstruct the boundaries and structure of medieval settlements, a new methodological approach has been proposed. Initially, a statistical analysis of multispectral aerial photography data was carried out: the calculation of Haralick's textural features; the reduction in the number of features by principal component analysis and the segmentation of images based on the obtained features using the k‐means method. This makes it possible to divide the settlement site and the surrounding area into areas with fundamentally different vegetation intensities. A comparison with the geophysical, soil and archaeological survey data allows the interpretation of the identified areas. The research was carried out at the settlement of Kushman‐3 (9th–13th centuries AD). Two lines of defensive structures, which are not manifested in the relief, were identified; the structural parts of the settlement were determined and an interpretation of the way they were used in the Middle Ages was proposed. As a result of the application of the new statistical algorithm, the locations of occupation layer segments in different states of preservation were determined, and the boundaries of the Kushman‐3 settlement were substantiated.
Faster Intercalation Pseudocapacitance Enabled by Adjustable Amorphous Titania Where Tunable Isomorphic Architectures Reveal Accelerated Lithium Diffusivity
Authors: van den Bergh Wessel , Larison Taylor , Jesus Jara Fornerod Maximiliano , Guldin Stefan , Stefik Morgan
Published: April 2022

Intercalation pseudocapacitance is a faradaic electrochemical phenomenon with high power and energy densities, combining the attractive features of capacitors and batteries, respectively. Intercalation pseudocapacitive responses exhibit surface‐limited kinetics by definition, without restriction from the collective of diffusion‐based processes. The surface‐limited threshold (SLT) corresponds to the maximum voltage sweep rate (vSLT) exhibiting a predominantly surface‐limited current response prior to the onset of diffusion‐limitations. Prior studies showed increased lithium diffusivity for amorphous titania compared to anatase. Going beyond prior binary comparisons, here a continuum of amorphous titania configurations were prepared using a series of calcination temperatures to tailor both amorphous character and content. The corresponding amorphous‐phase vSLT increased monotonically by 317 % with lowered calcination temperatures. Subsequent isomorphic comparisons varying a single transport parameter at a time identified solid‐state lithium diffusion as the dominant diffusive constraint. Thus, performance improvements were linked to increasing the lithium diffusivity of the amorphous phase with decreased calcination temperature. This remarkably enabled 95 % capacity retention (483±17 C/g) with 30 s of delithiation (120 C equivalent). These results highlight how isomorphic sample series can reveal previously unidentified trends by reducing ambiguity and reiterate the potential of amorphization to realize increased performance in known materials.
Volatility of the US stock market and business strategy during COVID‐19
Authors: Chowdhury Emon Kalyan , Dhar Bablu Kumar , Stasi Alessandro
Published: April 2022

This paper aims to measure the impact of COVID‐19 and changes in economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on the US stock market volatility using Event Study, Stepwise Regression, and Vector Autoregression (VAR) models. The impact has been examined under three contexts namely inside the US, outside the US and the whole world. This study finds negative cumulative abnormal returns of the market in response to the announcement of new cases and death records whereas the market reacts positively to the announcement of the financial bailout. The negative and significant impact of reported deaths and cases on the volatility of stock indices indicates that the US stock market is highly sensitive to the COVID‐19. EPU has a significant and positive impact on the volatility of the US stock market. The COVID‐19, EPU, and volatility variables are cointegrated and move in a unidirectional way. This study considers the presence of a long‐run relationship among the variables and concludes that the US stock market is more exposed to COVID‐19 compared with the rest of the world.
Association of miRNA targetome variants in LAMC1 and GNB3 genes with colorectal cancer and obesity
Authors: Gholami Morteza , Zoughi Marziyeh , Behboo Roobic , Taslimi Reza , Kazemeini Alireza , Bastami Milad , Hasani‐Ranjbar Shirin , Larijani Bagher , Amoli Mahsa M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common obesity‐associated cancers. Inflammation is also considered the most important factor between obesity and CRC. This study aimed to examine miRNAs binding sites variants on inflammatory genes identified using bioinformatics and systematic approach on clinical samples that were collected from CRC patients and controls.

Methods

The candidate variants related to CRC inflammatory genes were obtained from genome‐wide association studies and their population‐specific haplotypes. The variants were analyzed according to their genomic position on the miRNA targetome. Targetome variants in inflammation‐related genes were selected for genetic association study by TaqMan genotyping assay.

Results

The GG genotype of rs7473 decreased the risk of obesity (p < 0.05). Heterozygous genotype (GA) of rs1547715 decreased the risk of CRC (p < 0.05). In the rs7473/rs1547715 genotype and haplotype, the frequencies of AA/GA and GG/AA lessened in CRC and obesity, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The variants of rs7473 and rs1547715 were associated with obesity and CRC, respectively. The above‐mentioned associations could be made based on the interactions of these variants with miRNAs.
Reaffirmation: The critical partner to a resolution
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: April 2022

While 2020 and 2021 were incredibly difficult in many ways, I look back at 2021 with a particular amount of pride for a rather important personal achievement.
Did court dismiss student‐athlete's free speech claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: April 2022

A female student accepted a partial scholarship to play on Delaware State University women's golf team. During her freshmen year, the student‐athlete attended a party hosted by upperclassmen members of the tennis team. Her roommate became sick after drinking too much alcohol and needed help getting home. The student‐athlete called her mother to seek advice on what to do. The mother later called the golf team coach to report the party and drinking incident.
The great imposter: A case report of IgG4‐RD hypertrophic pachymeningitis with skull lytic lesion and pulmonary nodules
Authors: Wadiwala Muhammad Faisal , Ali Liaquat , Khan Adnan , Alhatou Mohammad
Published: April 2022

Immunoglobulin G4‐related disease (Ig4RD) is an inflammatory condition with unique clinical, serological, and pathological features. In this study, we report a challenging diagnostic clinical case of Ig4RD diagnosed based on histopathology. This unique imitating nature reinforces that it is crucial to consider the diagnosis of IgG4‐RD in those presenting with pachymeningitis.