bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conducting ITO Nanoparticle-Based Aerogels—Nonaqueous One-Pot Synthesis vs. Particle Assembly Routes
Authors: Sang Bastian Samira , Rechberger Felix , Zellmer Sabrina , Niederberger Markus , Garnweitner Georg
Published: March 2023

Indium tin oxide (ITO) aerogels offer a combination of high surface area, porosity and conductive properties and could therefore be a promising material for electrodes in the fields of batteries, solar cells and fuel cells, as well as for optoelectronic applications. In this study, ITO aerogels were synthesized via two different approaches, followed by critical point drying (CPD) with liquid CO2. During the nonaqueous one-pot sol–gel synthesis in benzylamine (BnNH2), the ITO nanoparticles arranged to form a gel, which could be directly processed into an aerogel via solvent exchange, followed by CPD. Alternatively, for the analogous nonaqueous sol–gel synthesis in benzyl alcohol (BnOH), ITO nanoparticles were obtained and assembled into macroscopic aerogels with centimeter dimensions by controlled destabilization of a concentrated dispersion and CPD. As-synthesized ITO aerogels showed low electrical conductivities, but an improvement of two to three orders of magnitude was achieved by annealing, resulting in an electrical resistivity of 64.5–1.6 kΩ·cm. Annealing in a N2 atmosphere led to an even lower resistivity of 0.2–0.6 kΩ·cm. Concurrently, the BET surface area decreased from 106.2 to 55.6 m2/g with increasing annealing temperature. In essence, both synthesis strategies resulted in aerogels with attractive properties, showing great potential for many applications in energy storage and for optoelectronic devices.
ATRX/DAXX: Guarding the Genome against the Hazards of ALT
Authors: Clatterbuck Soper Sarah F. , Meltzer Paul S.
Published: March 2023

Proliferating cells must enact a telomere maintenance mechanism to ensure genomic stability. In a subset of tumors, telomeres are maintained not by telomerase, but through a homologous recombination-based mechanism termed Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres or ALT. The ALT process is linked to mutations in the ATRX/DAXX/H3.3 histone chaperone complex. This complex is responsible for depositing non-replicative histone variant H3.3 at pericentric and telomeric heterochromatin but has also been found to have roles in ameliorating replication in repeat sequences and in promoting DNA repair. In this review, we will discuss ways in which ATRX/DAXX helps to protect the genome, and how loss of this complex allows ALT to take hold.
Adaptively Integrative Association between Multivariate Phenotypes and Transcriptomic Data for Complex Diseases
Authors: Li Yujia , Fang Yusi , Chang Hung-Ching , Gorczyca Michael , Liu Peng , Tseng George C.
Published: March 2023

Phenotype–gene association studies can uncover disease mechanisms for translational research. Association with multiple phenotypes or clinical variables in complex diseases has the advantage of increasing statistical power and offering a holistic view. Existing multi-variate association methods mostly focus on SNP-based genetic associations. In this paper, we extend and evaluate two adaptive Fisher’s methods, namely AFp and AFz, from the p-value combination perspective for phenotype–mRNA association analysis. The proposed method effectively aggregates heterogeneous phenotype–gene effects, allows association with different data types of phenotypes, and performs the selection of the associated phenotypes. Variability indices of the phenotype–gene effect selection are calculated by bootstrap analysis, and the resulting co-membership matrix identifies gene modules clustered by phenotype–gene effect. Extensive simulations demonstrate the superior performance of AFp compared to existing methods in terms of type I error control, statistical power and biological interpretation. Finally, the method is separately applied to three sets of transcriptomic and clinical datasets from lung disease, breast cancer, and brain aging and generates intriguing biological findings.
Genome-Wide Association Studies of Live Weight at First Breeding at Eight Months of Age and Pregnancy Status of Ewe Lambs
Authors: Haslin Emmanuelle , Pettigrew Emma J. , Hickson Rebecca E. , Kenyon Paul R. , Gedye Kristene R. , Lopez-Villalobos Nicolas , Jayawardana J. M. D. R. , Morris Stephen T. , Blair Hugh T.
Published: March 2023

This study estimated genetic parameters and identified candidate genes associated with live weight, and the occurrence of pregnancy in 1327 Romney ewe lambs using genome-wide association studies. Phenotypic traits considered were the occurrence of pregnancy in ewe lambs and live weight at eight months of age. Genetic parameters were estimated, and genomic variation was assessed using 13,500 single-nucleotide polymorphic markers (SNPs). Ewe lamb live weight had medium genomic heritability and was positively genetically correlated with occurrence of pregnancy. This suggests that selection for heavier ewe lambs is possible and would likely improve the occurrence of pregnancy in ewe lambs. No SNPs were associated with the occurrence of pregnancy; however, three candidate genes were associated with ewe lamb live weight. Tenascin C (TNC), TNF superfamily member 8 (TNFSF8) and Collagen type XXVIII alpha 1 chain (COL28A1) are involved in extracellular matrix organization and regulation of cell fate in the immune system. TNC may be involved in ewe lamb growth, and therefore, could be of interest for selection of ewe lamb replacements. The association between ewe lamb live weight and TNFSF8 and COL28A1 is unclear. Further research is needed using a larger population to determine whether the genes identified can be used for genomic selection of replacement ewe lambs.
Evolution of Coastal Subarctic Lakes in the Context of Climatic and Geological Changes and Human Occupation (North-Central Labrador, Canada)
Authors: Latourelle-Vigeant Camille , Pienitz Reinhard , Bhiry Najat
Published: March 2023

Climate fluctuations and landscape evolution, with their associated impacts on northern coastal ecosystems, likely influenced human populations of Nunatsiavut who have inhabited the region for nearly 7000 years. As part of an interdisciplinary research initiative within the Nain Archipelago on the subarctic coast of Labrador, this project sought to reconstruct the postglacial palaeoclimatic and palaeoenvironmental variability of Dog Island and document its impacts on the evolution of lakes located in the vicinity of significant archaeological sites. To address these questions, we analysed physical, geochemical, and biological indicators preserved in sediment cores of two lakes. Results from Oakes Bay West Lake revealed gradual acidification since ca. 4900 cal. yr BP, coherent with terrestrial vegetation development and/or neoglacial cooling, interrupted by periods of milder climatic conditions (ca. 4900–3640 cal. yr BP and ca. 1520 cal. yr BP—present) that favoured large sediment inputs. Evilik Lake revealed the classic sequence of isolation of the basin in three major phases in response to glacio-isostatic rebound. These complementary results allowed for the development of a local palaeoenvironmental framework that contributes to a better understanding of how landscape evolution and climate have influenced human societies through site availability and proximity to marine resources, and how, in turn, they impacted their immediate environment through activities, such as wood harvesting and its associated effects on nutrients and lake sediment inputs.
IL-6 Enhances the Negative Impact of Cortisol on Cognition among Community-Dwelling Older People without Dementia
Authors: Koutentaki Eirini , Basta Maria , Antypa Despina , Zaganas Ioannis , Panagiotakis Symeon , Simos Panagiotis , Vgontzas Alexandros N.
Published: March 2023

There is growing evidence that high basal cortisol levels and systemic inflammation independently contribute to cognitive decline among older people without dementia. The present cross-sectional study examined (a) the potential synergistic effect of cortisol levels and systemic inflammation on executive function and (b) whether this effect is more prominent among older people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A sub-sample of 99 patients with MCI and 84 older people without cognitive impairment (CNI) (aged 73.8 ± 7.0 years) were recruited from a large population-based cohort in Crete, Greece, and underwent comprehensive neuropsychiatric and neuropsychological evaluation and a single morning measurement of cortisol and IL-6 plasma levels. Using moderated regression models, we found that the relation between cortisol and executive function in the total sample was moderated by IL-6 levels (b = −0.994, p = 0.044) and diagnostic group separately (b = −0.632, p < 0.001). Moreover, the interaction between cortisol and IL-6 levels was significant only among persons with MCI (b = −0.562, p < 0.001). The synergistic effect of stress hormones and systemic inflammation on cognitive status appears to be stronger among older people who already display signs of cognitive decline. Targeting hypercortisolemia and inflammation may be a promising strategy toward improving the course of cognitive decline.
The Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture on Suicidal Behavior: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kwon Chan-Young , Lee Boram
Published: March 2023

In situations where death by suicide is a major global issue and effective prevention and management approaches are lacking, acupuncture improves some risk factors for suicide, including depression, and it has been used for a long time in clinical settings. Herein, we aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of suicidal behaviors. Fourteen electronic databases were searched for studies published up to 7 September 2022. Original interventional studies of acupuncture in suicide prevention were included. The primary outcome was the validated measure of suicidal ideation. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using an appropriate assessment tool. Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies, only qualitative analyses were conducted. Eight studies on manual acupuncture (50%), electro-acupuncture (37.5%), and acupressure (12.5%) were included. In particular, three studies (37.5%) used the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association protocol to stimulate the bilateral sympathetic, Shenmen, kidney, liver, and lung auricular points. Acupuncture was effective in direct and indirect outcomes related to suicidal behavior, not only for participants with suicidal behavior, but also for those with other conditions, including depression. A decrease in salivary cortisol was the only biological indicator of acupuncture in patients with suicidal ideation. However, the methodological quality of the included studies was not optimal. In conclusion, acupuncture may reduce the risk of suicidal behavior in clinical and non-clinical populations. Owing to clinical heterogeneity, low methodological quality, and the small number of included studies, further high-quality studies should assess the effectiveness of acupuncture.
Relationship between Flower Color and Cellular Physicochemical Factors in Bletilla striata
Authors: Xie Chengzhi , Hu Chao , Deng Xinyan , Shao Wen , Gao Yanping , Huang Weichang , Song Xiqiang
Published: March 2023

Flower color not only determines the quality and commercial value of ornamental plants, but it also plays a vital role in ecological processes such as pollinator attraction. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between flower color and the cellular physicochemical factors of Bletilla striata. The color space values of 21 samples were initially determined, followed by a selection of five samples with significant color differences for testing cell shape, total flavonoid content (ranging from 1.86 to 5.42 mg/g), total anthocyanin content (ranging from 0.52 to 292.62 (A530 − 0.25 ∗ A657)/g), cell pH (varying between 5.03 and 5.74), and metal ion content (including Al3+, Ca2+, Fe3+, K+, Mg2+, Na+, P5+, Zn2+, Mo6+, Cu2+, and Mn2+). The flowers of Bletilla were predominantly purple, pink, and yellow; and distributed in quadrants I, II, and IV on the a* and b* rectangular coordinate. The a* value was identified as the primary color indicator for this species. Total anthocyanin content and Zn2+ showed a significant positive correlation with a*, while Al3+, Ca2+, Fe3+, Mg2+, Na+, and Mn2+ demonstrated negative correlations. Cell shape, flavonoid content, and pH had nonsignificant correlations with a*. In conclusion, the total anthocyanin content and metal ions play crucial roles in determining the flower color of B. striata, which can have implications for pollinator attraction. Future research should focus on understanding the complex interactions between these factors to develop novel ornamental plant varieties with desirable flower colors and enhanced ecological functions.
Comparative Analysis of Gene Expression between Early Maturation Mutant ‘Beni Shogun’ and ‘Fuji’ Cultivars during Fruit Development and Ripening
Authors: Kim Yu Jin , Ban Seunghyun , Cho Hye Jeong , Han A Reum , Choi Cheol
Published: March 2023

We aimed to compare the maturation and ripening characteristics of two apple cultivars, early maturation mutant ‘Beni Shogun’ and ‘Fuji’. The study revealed that both cultivars reached full bloom on the same day, but ‘Beni Shogun’ matured earlier than ‘Fuji’. In addition, differences were observed in fruit size, length, width, sweetness, acidity, and ethylene production levels. The study also examined the expression patterns of genes involved in ethylene biosynthesis and signal transduction, as well as those involved in auxin signal transduction and transcriptional regulation, to investigate the putative molecular mechanism behind the distinct fruit development, maturation, and ripening. The expression of the MdACO1 gene showed a sharp increase after the maturation date, whereas the expression of the MdACO7 gene was higher in the early and middle stages of fruit development. The clustering analysis provided insights into the correlation between the phenotypic traits and expression levels of the key genes. They were categorized into three clusters, and the third cluster consisted of six phenotypes, including fruit size, length, width, sweetness, starch content, and ethylene production, as well as the one gene MdACO1. These findings suggest that ‘Beni Shogun’ and ‘Fuji’ have distinct fruit development and ripening behaviors, with ‘Beni Shogun’ maturing earlier than ‘Fuji’.
Evaluating Methods of Streamflow Timing to Approximate Snowmelt Contribution in High-Elevation Mountain Watersheds
Authors: Pfohl Anna K. D. , Fassnacht Steven R.
Published: March 2023

Current streamflow timing metrics, such as the center of volume, or COV, use flow days, which are days at which a specific total streamflow volume, such as 50% for COV, has passed a given point. These metrics have been used as indicators for changes in the timings of snowmelt contributions to streamflow, but they may not be indicating changes to snowmelt timings as they have a fixed volume. Using manually extracted start and end days for high-elevation, mountainous watersheds, which are regarded as true values, we developed a new method to estimate when snowmelt is entering streams. Based on RMSE and NSE values, this new method is a better model for snowmelt-driven streamflow than using flow days or the COV. In general, the trend analysis results from the different timing metrics indicate an earlier timing in the year. This method was suitable for 40 different-sized watersheds in Colorado, USA; these are all snow-dominated watersheds in a semi-arid climate. This method could be used to assess watersheds in different climates, including those that are not as snow-dominated.
Assessing Completeness of OpenStreetMap Building Footprints Using MapSwipe
Authors: Ullah Tahira , Lautenbach Sven , Herfort Benjamin , Reinmuth Marcel , Schorlemmer Danijel
Published: March 2023

Natural hazards threaten millions of people all over the world. To address this risk, exposure and vulnerability models with high resolution data are essential. However, in many areas of the world, exposure models are rather coarse and are aggregated over large areas. Although OpenStreetMap (OSM) offers great potential to assess risk at a detailed building-by-building level, the completeness of OSM building footprints is still heterogeneous. We present an approach to close this gap by means of crowd-sourcing based on the mobile app MapSwipe, where volunteers swipe through satellite images of a region collecting user feedback on classification tasks. For our application, MapSwipe was extended by a completeness feature that allows to classify a tile as “no building”, “complete” or “incomplete”. To assess the quality of the produced data, the completeness feature was applied to four regions. The MapSwipe-based assessment was compared with an intrinsic approach to quantify completeness and with the prediction of an existing model. Our results show that the crowd-sourced approach yields a reasonable classification performance of the completeness of OSM building footprints. Results showed that the MapSwipe-based assessment produced consistent estimates for the case study regions while the other two approaches showed a higher variability. Our study also revealed that volunteers tend to classify nearly completely mapped tiles as “complete”, especially in areas with a high OSM building density. Another factor that influenced the classification performance was the level of alignment of the OSM layer with the satellite imagery.
On the Importance of Fresh Stock Solutions for Surfactant-Free Colloidal Syntheses of Gold Nanoparticles in Alkaline Alcohol and Water Mixtures
Authors: Quinson Jonathan
Published: March 2023

A room temperature surfactant-free synthesis of gold nanoparticles in the size range 10–20 nm that only requires HAuCl4 as the precursor, NaOH as the base, water as the solvent and a mono-alcohol such as methanol or ethanol as the reducing agent, has recently been detailed. This approach is promisingly simple to obtain colloids stable for months. Here, it is shown that the use of fresh stock solutions of base is one key to ensure the formation of stable surfactant-free small-sized gold nanoparticles. The need for relatively freshly prepared stock solutions of base does not appear to be as crucial for syntheses using stabilizers and/or viscous solvents such as glycerol. The possibly overlooked importance of the age of the stock solution of base might account for the limited interest to date for the simple room temperature synthesis in low viscosity mono-alcohols highlighted.
Parasitization of Aphis gossypii Glover by Binodoxys communis Gahan Causes Shifts in the Ovarian Bacterial Microbiota
Authors: Li Jinming , An Zhe , Luo Junyu , Zhu Xiangzhen , Wang Li , Zhang Kaixin , Li Dongyang , Ji Jichao , Niu Lin , Gao Xueke , Cui Jinjie
Published: March 2023

Background: Aphis gossypii Glover is an important agricultural pest distributed worldwide. Binodoxys communis Gahan is the main parasitoid wasp of A. gossypii. Previous studies have shown that parasitization causes reduced egg production in A. gossypii, but the effects of parasitism on the symbiotic bacteria in the host ovaries are unknown. Results: In this study, we analyzed the microbial communities in the ovaries of A. gossypii without and after parasitization. Whether parasitized or not, Buchnera was the dominant genus of symbiotic bacteria in the ovaries, followed by facultative symbionts including Arsenophonus, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. The relative abundance of Buchnera in the aphid ovary increased after parasitization for 1 d in both third-instar nymph and adult stages, but decreased after parasitization for 3 d. The shifts in the relative abundance of Arsenophonus in both stages were the same as those observed for Buchnera. In addition, the relative abundance of Serratia remarkably decreased after parasitization for 1 d and increased after parasitization for 3 d. A functional predictive analysis of the control and parasitized ovary microbiomes revealed that pathways primarily enriched in parasitization were “amino acid transport and metabolism” and “energy production and conversion.” Finally, RT-qPCR analysis was performed on Buchnera, Arsenophonus, and Serratia. The results of RT-qPCR were the same as the results of 16S rDNA sequencing. Conclusions: These results provide a framework for investigating shifts in the microbial communities in host ovaries, which may be responsible for reduced egg production in aphids. These findings also broaden our understanding of the interactions among aphids, parasitoid wasps, and endosymbionts.
Stage Transitions in Lucilia sericata and Phormia regina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Implications for Forensic Science
Authors: Roe Amanda L. , Higley Leon G.
Published: March 2023

Blow fly development rates have become a key factor in estimating the postmortem interval where blow flies are among the first decomposers to occur on a body. Because the use of blow fly development requires short time durations and high accuracy, stage transition distributions are essential for proper development modeling. However, detailed examinations of stage transitions are not available for any blow fly species. Consequently, we examined this issue in two blow fly species: Lucilia sericata and Phormia regina. Transitions for all life stages across all measured temperatures were normally distributed. Use of probit analysis allowed determination of 50% transition points and associated measures of variation (i.e., standard errors). The greatest variation was noted for the L2-L3, L3-L3m, and L3m-P stage transitions. These results invalidate the notion that largest maggots should be preferentially collected for determining current maggot population stage, and further call into question the relationship between intrinsic variation and potential geographic variation in development rates.
Feeding Behavior Comparison of Bean Bugs, Riptortus pedestris and Halyomorpha halys on Different Soybean Cultivars
Authors: Park Seong-Bin , Koo Hyun-Na , Seok Seung-Ju , Kim Hyun-Kyung , Yi Hwi-Jong , Kim Gil-Hah
Published: March 2023

Riptortus pedestris (Fabricius) and Halyomorpha halys (Stål) are the major pests that feed on soybean pods, seeds, and fruits. Higher populations and damage occur during the soybean maturity stages (podding to harvest). To compare the feeding behavior of R. pedestris and H. halys, we used the six most cultivated cultivars (Daepung-2ho, Daechan, Pungsannamul, Daewon, Seonpung, and Seoritae) in Korea using the electropenetrography (EPG) technique. Both R. pedestris and H. halys, the NP (non-penetration), a non-probing waveform, was the shortest in the Pungsannamul (298 and 268 min) and the longest in the Daepung-2ho (334 and 339 min), respectively. The feeding waveforms Pb (phloem feeding: E1-Salivation and E2-Sap feeding) and G (xylem feeding) were the longest in Pungsannamul and the shortest in Daepung-2ho. In addition, as a result of investigating the damage rate by planting six cultivars of beans in the field, as expected, the proportions of damage types B and C were highest in Pungsannamul and lowest in Daepung-2ho. These results reveal that both bug species ingest xylem sap from leaflets and stems using a salivary sheath strategy to acquire water and nutrients from soybean pods/seeds with cell-rupture tactics. This study provides perceptive information to understand the feeding behavior, field occurrence, and damage patterns of R. pedestris and H. halys, which may have key implications for the management of hemipteran pests by determining the specificity and susceptibility of host plants.
Optimization of Extraction Parameters of Anthocyanin Compounds and Antioxidant Properties from Red Grape (Băbească neagră) Peels
Authors: Serea Daniela , Constantin Oana Emilia , Horincar Georgiana , Stănciuc Nicoleta , Aprodu Iuliana , Bahrim Gabriela Elena , Râpeanu Gabriela
Published: March 2023

Using a Central Composite Design, the extraction of bioactive compounds from red grape Băbească neagră peels was optimized by applying a conventional solvent extraction. On the anthocyanin content, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity (using the DPPH method), the effects of extraction factors, including ethanol and citric acid concentrations, extraction temperature, and duration, were investigated. For each of the investigated parameters, a quadratic model was suggested. The maximum and minimum variables investigated in the coded form of the experimental plan are the concentrations of citric acid (0.10–2.64%), ethanol (38.06–96.93%), operating temperature (13.06–71.90 °C), and extraction time (11.36–78.63 min). The optimal mixture for recovering the most significant amount of polyphenol content and antioxidant activity was 85% ethanol, 0.85% citric acid, 52.14 min, and 57 °C. Based on the experimental approach, the anthocyanin content ranged from 1.71 to 2.74 mg C3G/g DW, the total phenolic content ranged from 24.67 to 43.97 mg/g, and the antioxidant activity ranged from 15.95 to 20.98 mM TE/g DW. Overall, it should be stressed that establishing operating factors to maximize model responses can improve the extraction process and the obtaining of red grape peel value-added extracts for creating functional food products.
IABP versus Impella Support in Cardiogenic Shock: “In Silico” Study
Authors: De Lazzari Beatrice , Capoccia Massimo , Badagliacca Roberto , Bozkurt Selim , De Lazzari Claudio
Published: March 2023

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is part of a clinical syndrome consisting of acute left ventricular failure causing severe hypotension leading to inadequate organ and tissue perfusion. The most commonly used devices to support patients affected by CS are Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP), Impella 2.5 pump and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. The aim of this study is the comparison between Impella and IABP using CARDIOSIM© software simulator of the cardiovascular system. The results of the simulations included baseline conditions from a virtual patient in CS followed by IABP assistance in synchronised mode with different driving and vacuum pressures. Subsequently, the same baseline conditions were supported by the Impella 2.5 with different rotational speeds. The percentage variation with respect to baseline conditions was calculated for haemodynamic and energetic variables during IABP and Impella assistance. The Impella pump driven with a rotational speed of 50,000 rpm increased the total flow by 4.36% with a reduction in left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) by ≅15% to ≅30%. A reduction in left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) by ≅10% to ≅18% (≅12% to ≅33%) was observed with IABP (Impella) assistance. The simulation outcome suggests that assistance with the Impella device leads to higher reduction in LVESV, LVEDV, left ventricular external work and left atrial pressure-volume loop area compared to IABP support.
A Narrative Review of Commercial Platforms Offering Tracking of Heart Rate Variability in Corporate Employees to Detect and Manage Stress
Authors: McLachlan Craig S. , Truong Hang
Published: March 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in employees being at risk of significant stress. There is increased interest by employers to offer employees stress monitoring via third party commercial sensor-based devices. These devices assess physiological parameters such as heart rate variability and are marketed as an indirect measure of the cardiac autonomic nervous system. Stress is correlated with an increase in sympathetic nervous activity that may be associated with an acute or chronic stress response. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that individuals affected with COVID will have some residual autonomic dysfunction that will likely render it difficult to track both stress and stress reduction using heart rate variability. The aims of the present study are to explore web and blog information using five operational commercial technology solution platforms that offer heart rate variability for stress detection. Across five platforms we found a number that combined HRV with other biometrics to assess stress. The type of stress being measured was not defined. Importantly, no company considered cardiac autonomic dysfunction because of post-COVID infection and only one other company mentioned other factors affecting the cardiac autonomic nervous system and how this may impact HRV accuracy. All companies suggested they could only assess associations with stress and were careful not to claim HRV could diagnosis stress. We recommend that managers think carefully about whether HRV is accurate enough for their employees to manage their stress during COVID.
App-Based Mindfulness Meditation Training and an Audiobook Intervention Reduce Symptom Severity but Do Not Modify Backward Inhibition in Adolescent Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Evidence from an EEG Study
Authors: Rempel Sarah , Backhausen Lea L. , McDonald Maria , Roessner Veit , Vetter Nora C. , Beste Christian , Wolff Nicole
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: 1–2% of children and adolescents are affected by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The rigid, repetitive features of OCD and an assumed disability to inhibit recent mental representations are assumed to have led to a paradoxical advantage in that the Backward Inhibition (BI) effect was recently found to be lower in adolescents with OCD as compared to healthy controls. It was hypothesized that app-based mindfulness meditation training could reduce the disability to inhibit recent mental representations and thus increase the BI-effect by adapting cognitive flexibility and inhibition abilities according to healthy controls. (2) Methods: 58 adolescents (10–19 years) with OCD were included in the final sample of this interviewer-blind, randomized controlled study. Participants were allocated to an intervention group (app-based mindfulness meditation training) or an (active) control group (app-based audiobook) for eight weeks. Symptom (CY-BOCS), behavioral (reaction times and mean accuracy), and neurophysiological changes (in EEG) of the BI-effect were analyzed in a pre-post design. (3) Results: The intervention and the control group showed an intervention effect (Reliable Change Index: 67%) with a significant symptom reduction. Contrary to the hypothesis, the BI-effect did not differ between pre vs. post app-based mindfulness meditation training. In addition, as expected the audiobook application showed no effects. Thus, we observed no intervention-specific differences with respect to behavioral (reaction times and mean accuracy) or with respect to neurophysiological (perceptual [P1], attentional [N1], conflict monitoring [N2] or updating and response selection [P3]) processes. However, in an exploratory approach, we revealed that the BI-effect decreased in participants who did not benefit from using an app, regardless of group. (4) Conclusions: Both listening to an app-based mindfulness meditation training and to an audiobook reduce symptom severity in adolescent OCD as measured by the CY-BOCS; however, they have no specific effect on BI. The extent of the baseline BI-effect might be considered as an intra-individual component to predict the benefit of both mindfulness meditation training and listening to an audiobook.
Genetic Testing and Counselling in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Frequently Asked Questions
Authors: Girolami Francesca , Gozzini Alessia , Pálinkás Eszter Dalma , Ballerini Adelaide , Tomberli Alessia , Baldini Katia , Marchi Alberto , Zampieri Mattia , Passantino Silvia , Porcedda Giulio , Calabri Giovanni Battista , Bennati Elena , Spaziani Gaia , Crotti Lia , Cecchi Franco , Favilli Silvia , Olivotto Iacopo
Published: March 2023

Genetic counselling and genetic testing in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) represent an integral part of the diagnostic algorithm to confirm the diagnosis, distinguish it from phenocopies, and suggest tailored therapeutic intervention strategies. Additionally, they enable cascade genetic testing in the family. With the implementation of Next Generation Sequencing technologies (NGS), the interpretation of genetic data has become more complex. In this regard, cardiologists play a central role, aiding geneticists to correctly evaluate the pathogenicity of the identified genetic alterations. In the ideal setting, geneticists and cardiologists must work side by side to diagnose HCM as well as convey the correct information to patients in response to their many questions and concerns. After a brief overview of the role of genetics in the diagnosis of HCM, we present and discuss the frequently asked questions by HCM patients throughout our 20-year genetic counselling experience. Appropriate communication between the team and the families is key to the goal of delivering the full potential of genetic testing to our patients.
How Useful Is the SSN–Nipple Distance? An Analytical Questionnaire Survey on Anthropometric Measurements for the Aesthetically Ideal Positioning of the Nipple–Areolar Complex
Authors: Loucas Rafael , Loucas Marios , Leitsch Sebastian , Mayer Julius Michael , Alberti Andrea , Haroon Omar , Petrus Marlon , Koban Konstantin Christoph , Holzbach Thomas
Published: March 2023

Several studies have attempted to identify the optimal anthropometric measurement for the aesthetically ideal positioning of the nipple–areolar complex. However, no standardised solutions and measurements for planning surgical procedures have been reached. The aim of this study is to identify the optimal anthropometric measurement between the suprasternal notch (SSN)–nipple distance and mid-clavicle (MC)–nipple distance for the aesthetic position of the nipple–areola complex (NAC) on the breast. A detailed online survey was sent to 300 board-certified plastic surgeons and residents of plastic surgery departments of hospitals in German, Austrian, and Swiss. A similar survey was also provided to 100 patients who had planned or had already undergone breast surgery. All participants were asked to rank the attractiveness of a series of women’s breasts in images with different NAC position measurements. The images showed breasts from two different measurements and distances: all the breasts had equal dimensions and proportions and the same areola size. Complete datasets were obtained from 203 of the 300 board-certified plastic surgeons and residents of plastic surgery departments in German-speaking countries (recall 68%) and from 100 patients. The majority of doctors and patients find a symmetrical breast with a mirrored position of the nipple–areola complex more attractive than a non-symmetrical breast. In cases with minor measurement differences, such as 0.5 cm (SSN vs. MC), there is no relevant difference in the breast symmetry. However, at larger distances, the MC-to-nipple distance is superior for achieving aesthetically appealing symmetry compared with the SSN-to-nipple distance. Using the MC-to-nipple distance seems to be superior for correct nipple positioning than the SSN-to-nipple distance and is a valuable preoperative measurement option for breast symmetry with correct nipple height. Further studies on this topic involving a more general population should be conducted to confirm the improvements in perception with the preoperative measurements using the anatomical landmarks.
Can Steam Sterilization Affect the Accuracy of Point-of-Care 3D Printed Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Customized Cranial Implants? An Investigative Analysis
Authors: Sharma Neha , Zubizarreta-Oteiza Jokin , Tourbier Céline , Thieringer Florian M.
Published: March 2023

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has become the biomaterial of choice for repairing craniofacial defects over time. Prospects for the point-of-care (POC) fabrication of PEEK customized implants have surfaced thanks to the developments in three-dimensional (3D) printing systems. Consequently, it has become essential to investigate the characteristics of these in-house fabricated implants so that they meet the necessary standards and eventually provide the intended clinical benefits. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the steam sterilization method on the dimensional accuracy of POC 3D-printed PEEK customized cranial implants. The objective was to assess the influence of standard sterilization procedures on material extrusion-based 3D-printed PEEK customized implants with non-destructive material testing. Fifteen PEEK customized cranial implants were fabricated using an in-house material extrusion-based 3D printer. After fabrication, the cranial implants were digitalized with a professional-grade optical scanner before and after sterilization. The dimensional changes for the 3D-printed PEEK cranial implants were analyzed using medically certified 3D image-based engineering software. The material extrusion 3D-printed PEEK customized cranial implants displayed no statistically significant dimensional difference with steam sterilization (p > 0.05). Evaluation of the cranial implants’ accuracy revealed that the dimensions were within the clinically acceptable accuracy level with deviations under 1.00 mm. Steam sterilization does not significantly alter the dimensional accuracy of the in-house 3D-printed PEEK customized cranial implants.
Systematic Review on In Situ Laser Fenestrated Repair for the Endovascular Management of Aortic Arch Pathologies
Authors: Houérou Thomas Le , Nana Petroula , Pernot Mathieu , Guihaire Julien , Gaudin Antoine , Lerisson Erol , Costanzo Alessandro , Fabre Dominique , Haulon Stephan
Published: March 2023

Background: In situ laser-fenestrated thoracic aortic endovascular repair (FTEVAR) has emerged as a valuable alternative for aortic arch management. This review assessed the early and follow-up outcomes of in situ laser-FTEVAR in aortic arch pathologies. Methods: The PRISMA statement was followed. The English literature was searched, via Ovid, until 15 October 2022. Observational studies, published after 2000, reporting on early and follow-up outcomes for the in situ laser-FTEVAR were eligible. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of bias. Primary outcomes were the technical success, stroke, and mortality at 30-days, and the secondary were the mortality and reintervention during follow-up. Results: Six retrospective studies from 591 and 247 patients were included. Fifty-nine (23.9%) patients were managed for aortic arch aneurysms and 146 (59.1%) for dissections; 22.6% of them for type A. Technical success was at 98% (range 90–100%). Eight patients died (3.2%) and 11 cases presented any type of stroke (4.5%) during the 30-day follow-up. The mean follow-up was 15 months (1–40 months). Ten deaths were reported (4.2%); one was aortic-related (10%). Thirteen re-interventions (6.0%) were performed. Conclusions: In situ laser-FTEVAR for aortic arch repair may be performed with high technical success and low 30-day and midterm follow-up mortality, stroke, and re-intervention rates when applied in well selected patients and performed by experienced teams.
Evaluation of Event-Related Potentials in Assessing Cognitive Functions of Adult Patients with Epilepsy of Unknown Etiology
Authors: Jeżowska-Jurczyk Klaudia , Jurczyk Piotr , Budrewicz Sławomir , Pokryszko-Dragan Anna
Published: March 2023

Background: Cognitive impairment (CI) is an important consequence of epilepsy. The aim of the study was to assess cognitive performance in patients with epilepsy, using neuropsychological tests (NT) and event-related potentials (ERPs), with regard to demographic and clinical data. Methods: The study comprised 50 patients with epilepsy of unknown etiology and 46 healthy controls. Based on the NT results, the patients were divided into subgroups with/without CI. Parameters of P300 potential were compared between the patients and controls. P300 parameters and NT results were referred to demographics and clinical characteristics of epilepsy. Results: Based on the NT, 66% of patients were assigned as cognitively impaired. Median P300 latency was significantly (p < 0.0002) prolonged in the study group. Subgroups of patients with and without CI significantly (p < 0.034) differed in education level and vocational activity, duration of epilepsy, age at its onset and frequency of polytherapy. P300 parameters showed significant (p < 0.03) relationships with duration of epilepsy, type and frequency of seizures and polytherapy. Conclusions: Cognitive impairment and ERPs abnormalities occur in a majority of patients with epilepsy of unknown etiology. Characteristics of epilepsy and socioeconomic status are related to cognitive performance. ERPs may complement neuropsychological methods in the assessment of cognition in patients with epilepsy.
Prognostic Impact of Baseline Six-Minute Walk Distance following Trans-Catheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Imamura Teruhiko , Narang Nikhil , Ushijima Ryuichi , Sobajima Mitsuo , Fukuda Nobuyuki , Ueno Hiroshi , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: March 2023

Background: The six-minute walk test is a practical tool for assessing functional capacity in patients with a variety of etiologies including pulmonary disease and heart failure. Six-minute walk distance (6MWD) is associated with mortality and morbidity in patients with a variety of comorbidities. We aimed to assess the prognostic impact of baseline 6MWD in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing trans-catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods: Patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent a six-minute walk test after index admission and underwent TAVR between 2015 and 2022 were included in this retrospective study. Patients were followed up for two years or until November 2022 following TAVR. The impact of baseline 6MWD on the primary composite outcome, defined as all-cause death and all-cause readmission during the 2-year observation period following index discharge, was assessed. Results: A total of 299 patients (median age 86 years old, 85 men) were included. They received a 6-min walk test prior to TAVR, underwent successful TAVR procedures, and were discharged alive. The median baseline 6MWD was 204 (143, 282) meters. Shorter baseline 6MWD was associated with higher cumulative incidence of the primary outcome with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.76 (95% confidence interval 0.58–1.01, p = 0.055) with a cutoff 6MWD of 178 m during the 2-year observation period after index discharge. Conclusions: Overall, functional capacity was impaired in the elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis prior to TAVR. Patients with severe aortic stenosis having shorter baseline 6MWD tended to have higher rates of morbidity and mortality after successful TAVR. The clinical implication of aggressive cardiac rehabilitation to improve patients’ functional capacity and 6MWD-guided optimal patient selection remain the future concerns.
Clinical Effects of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Very Old Patients with COPD
Authors: Spielmanns Marc , Schulze Sofia-Theresia , Guenes Erhan , Pekacka-Falkowska Katarzyna , Windisch Wolfram , Pekacka-Egli Anna Maria
Published: March 2023

Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves physical and mental performance as well as quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, data on outcomes in very old patients are insufficient. We analyzed whether the elderly with COPD benefit in a similar way to younger patients from participation in an inpatient PR according to the assessments usually collected. Methods: Data from 3173 patients with COPD were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were referred to PR at the Zurich RehaZentren, Switzerland, between January 2013 and December 2019. PR was performed 6 days per week with an average duration of 18.85 days. Functional Independence Measurement (FIM), Feeling Thermometer (FT), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) were recorded on admission and discharge. Results: In all age groups, the 6MWT and FT improved significantly. FIM results also showed a significant increase. The results of the different age groups showed no significant differences in percentage improvements according to the assessments that were considered. Conclusions: All patient groups with COPD, even the oldest (>85 years), benefited from PR regardless of their age and according to the assessments. Prospective studies are needed to support this hypothesis.
Median Nerve Stimulation for Treatment of Tics: Randomized, Controlled, Crossover Trial
Authors: Iverson Ann M. , Arbuckle Amanda L. , Ueda Keisuke , Song David Y. , Bihun Emily C. , Koller Jonathan M. , Wallendorf Michael , Black Kevin J.
Published: March 2023

A prior study showed that rhythmic, but not arrhythmic, 12 Hz stimulation of the median nerve (MNS) entrained the sensorimotor cortex EEG signal and found that 10 Hz MNS improved tics in Tourette syndrome (TS). However, no control condition was tested, and stimulation blocks lasted only 1 min. We set out to replicate the TS results and to test whether tic improvement occurs by the proposed cortical entrainment mechanism. Preregistration was completed at ClinicalTrials.gov, under number NCT04731714. Thirty-two people with TS, age 15–64, completed two study visits with repeated MNS on and off blocks in random order, one visit for rhythmic and one for arrhythmic MNS. Subjects and staff were blind to order; a video rater was additionally blind to stimulation and to the order of visits and blocks. Rhythmic MNS at 10 Hz improved tics. Both rhythmic and arrhythmic 12 Hz MNS improved tic frequency, intensity, and urges, but the two treatments did not differ significantly. Participant masking was effective, and there was no carryover effect. Several participants described a dramatic benefit. Discomfort was minimal. There was no evidence that the MNS benefit persisted after stimulation ended. These results replicate the tic benefit from MNS but show that the EEG entrainment hypothesis cannot explain that benefit. Another electrophysiological mechanism may explain the benefit; alternatively, these data do not exclude a placebo effect.