bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Approximations based on density-matrix embedding theory for density-functional theories
Authors: Theophilou Iris , Reinhard Teresa E , Rubio Angel , Ruggenthaler Michael 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Recently a novel approach to find approximate exchange–correlation functionals in density-functional theory was presented (Mordovina et al 2019 J. Chem. Theory Comput.
15 5209), which relies on approximations to the interacting wave function using density-matrix embedding theory (DMET). This approximate interacting wave function is constructed by using a projection determined by an iterative procedure that makes parts of the reduced density matrix of an auxiliary system the same as the approximate interacting density matrix. If only the diagonal of both systems are connected this leads to an approximation of the interacting-to-non-interacting mapping of the Kohn–Sham approach to density-functional theory. Yet other choices are possible and allow to connect DMET with other density-functional theories such as kinetic-energy density functional theory or reduced density-matrix functional theory. In this work we give a detailed review of the basics of the DMET procedure from a density-functional perspective and show how both approaches can be used to supplement each other. We do not present a specific realization of combining density-functional methods with DMET but rather provide common grounds to facilitate future developments that encompass both approaches. We do so explicitly for the case of a one-dimensional lattice system, as this is the simplest setting where we can apply DMET and the one that was originally presented. Among others we highlight how the mappings of density-functional theories can be used to identify uniquely defined auxiliary systems and projections in DMET and how to construct approximations for different density-functional theories using DMET inspired projections. Such alternative approximation strategies become especially important for density-functional theories that are based on non-linearly coupled observables such as kinetic-energy density-functional theory, where the Kohn–Sham fields are no longer obtainable by functional differentiation of an energy expression, or for reduced density-matrix functional theories, where a straightforward Kohn–Sham construction is not feasible.
A Randomized, Crossover-Controlled Evaluator-Blinded Trial Evaluating Cannula- vs Needle-Assisted Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Infraorbital Deformities
Authors: Nikolis Andreas , Berros Philippe , Enright Kaitlyn M , Cordoba Magdalena , Nguyen Quynh 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundPeriorbital deformities can be corrected utilizing hyaluronic acid injections. However, previous studies have not evaluated the effect of utilizing different injection techniques (eg, a needle vs cannula) on efficacy and safety.ObjectivesThe authors sought to investigate the efficacy and safety of HA for the correction of periorbital deformities when utilizing either needle or cannula-assisted injections.MethodsThis was a prospective, randomized-controlled (with crossover), evaluator-blinded study. Forty-two patients with a mean age of 44.82 ± 11.62 years were recruited. Patients underwent 2 treatment sessions, spaced 2 weeks apart, and attended 1 follow-up visit at Week 4, following the last treatment. Patients were randomized in a 3:3:1 ratio, whereby 18 patients received injections by needle, 18 received injections by cannula, and 6 were randomized to act as their own control at baseline. Those in the control group were randomized (n = 3) to needle or cannula injections at Week 4 and proceeded with the same visit schedule as those treated at baseline. At Weeks 2 and 4 posttreatment, patient satisfaction was evaluated and information on adverse effects was collected. A blinded reviewer assessed patient imagery utilizing standardized efficacy scales.ResultsChi-square tests did not reveal any associations between treatment group and efficacy, safety, or patient satisfaction scores (P ≥ 0.05). Adverse effects reported in patient diaries were mild to moderate in nature and expected.ConclusionsFor the treatment of infraorbital deformities, hyaluronic acid injections performed utilizing either a cannula or needle result in similarly high efficacy and safety ratios.Level of Evidence: 2
A comparison of the efficiency of RNA extraction from extracellular vesicles using the Qiagen RNeasy MinElute versus Enzymax LLC RNA Tini Spin columns and qPCR of miRNA
Authors: Dunlop Rachael Anne , Banack Sandra Anne , Cox Paul Alan 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
One consequence of the current severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is an interruption to the supply of laboratory consumables, particularly those used for RNA extraction. This category includes column-based RNA extraction kits designed to retain short RNA species (defined as having fewer than 200 nucleotides), from small sample volumes, e.g. exosomes or extracellular vesicles (EVs). Qiagen manufactures several kits for the extraction and enrichment of short RNA species, such as microRNA (miRNA), which contain silica-membrane columns called “RNeasy MinElute Spin Columns.” These kits, which also contain buffers and collection tubes, range in price from USD380 to greater than USD1000 and have been subject to fulfillment delays. Scientists seeking to reduce single-use plastics and costs may wish to order the columns separately; however, Qiagen does not sell the RNeasy MinElute Spin Columns (in reasonable quantities) as an individual item. Thus, we sought an alternative product and found RNA Tini Spin columns from Enzymax LLC. We conducted a systematic comparison of the efficiency of RNA extraction for miRNA quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) using the Qiagen RNeasy MinElute Spin Columns and Enzymax LLC RNA Tini Spin columns and the Qiagen total RNA extraction protocol that enriches for short RNA species. We compared the efficiency of extraction of five spike-in control miRNAs, six sample signal miRNAs, and nine low- to medium-abundance miRNAs by qPCR. The RNA was extracted from EV preparations purified from human plasma using CD81 immunoprecipitation. We report no statistically significant differences in extraction efficiencies between the two columns for any of the miRNAs examined. Therefore, we conclude that the Enzymax RNA Tini Spin columns are adequate substitutes for the Qiagen RNeasy MinElute Spin Columns for short RNA species enrichment and downstream qPCR from EVs in the miRNAs we examined.
Live integration of comprehensive cardiac CT for myocardial fibrosis and coronary anatomy with electroanatomical mapping in patients with refractory ventricular tachycardia: a pilot study
Authors: Conte E , Carbucicchio C , Catto V , Kochi AN , Mushtaq S , Sattin T , De Iuliis P , Pontone G , Pepi M , Tondo C , Andreini D 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.
Aim of the study was to verify the feasibility and accuracy of live integration of myocardial fibrosis evaluated at CCT with EAM. The present is the first report of live integration of cardiac computed tomography (CCT) data for myocardial fibrosis and coronary anatomy with electroanatomical mapping (EAM).
We prospectively enrolled all patients admitted with a clinical indication to endocardial and epicardial EAM before radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT) and an absolute contraindication to cardiac magnetic resonance. All patients underwent per protocol CCT for myocardial fibrosis and coronary anatomy evaluation, before RFCA procedures. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value and diagnostic accuracy were assessed for myocardial fibrosis evaluation with CCT vs EAM on a per segment-basis taking into consideration both any type of fibrosis and ischemic vs non ischemic subtypes. Live integration feasibility of CCT vs EAM was evaluated for every patients.
Live integration feasibility and diagnostic performance of CCT vs EAM for myocardial fibrosis identification was evaluated for every patients. EAM adverse events were recorded as well.
In all patients CCT data were successfully integrated with EAM during RFCA procedure. All patients had myocardial fibrosis correctly identified at CCT vs EAM on a per-patients basis. A diagnostic accuracy of 94.1% for detection of any type of myocardial fibrosis at CCT vs EAM was recorded. No pericardial tamponade and/or pericardial effusion were recorded.
CCT identification of myocardial fibrosis is feasible and accurate vs EAM in a very selected high risk patients with clinical indication to RFCA of VT and contraindication to CMR. CCT images integration during EAM is feasible and enable to provide electrophysiologist useful information regarding myocardial fibrosis and coronary arteries location, possibly avoiding invasive coronary angiography.
Long-term prognosis of zero coronary artery calcium score in symptomatic low to intermediate risk patients
Authors: Kamerman M , Timmer JR , Ottervanger JP , Van Dijk JD , Knollema S , Jager PL , Nasir K , Mouden M 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Purpose/background
Absence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) has shown an excellent long-term prognosis with a low number of events in asymptomatic patients. However, long-term prognosis in stable symptomatic patients undergoing SPECT MPI with a zero CAC score remains unknown.

Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 1600 low- to intermediate risk symptomatic patients referred for clinically indicated cardiac SPECT/CT imaging with a CAC score of zero. Long-term follow-up data were collected for the occurrence of all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac events (MACE: any revascularization, non-fatal myocardial infarction or cardiac death).

Results
The mean age was 54.7 ± 11 years and 71% were female. More than half of the patients (51%) had 2 or more traditional risk factors, mainly a positive family history (55%) and/or hypertension (49%). Overall 12% had perfusion abnormalities, 98% of them were mild. During a mean follow-up of 8.6 ± 1.9 years MACE occurred in 42 patients (0.3% per year) and 85 patients died (0.6% per year). The predominant cause of death was cancer (40%). Cox proportional hazard model revealed that increasing age (HR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02-1.09) and current smoking status (HR: 3.58, 95% CI: 1.72-7.37) were independent predictors of MACE. Pre-test probability (HR: 1.52, 95% CI: 0.82-2.82) and abnormal SPECT result (HR: 1.72, 95% CI: 0.88-3.37) were not associated with an increased risk of MACE.

Conclusion
Overall, stable symptomatic patients with a low-to intermediate risk and a CAC score of 0 have a) low likelihood of abnormal SPECT, and b) excellent long-term prognosis of 0.3%/year irrespective of baseline pre-test probability and SPECT abnormalities. These findings support notion of CAC as gatekeeper for appropriate patient selection to avoid un-necessary downstream testing.
Routine clinical use of 15O-water cardiac PET: Initial experience with a novel automated solution
Authors: Tolbod LP , Gormsen LC 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction
While considered the gold standard for cardiac perfusion imaging and myocardial blood flow quantitation, the use of 15O-water has been largely restricted to research purposes. The practical hurdles associated with the ultra-short half-life of the tracer and the lack of dedicated software have hampered the routine clinical use of 15O-water and novel solutions have been sought to obviate the issues limiting its use. An innovative bedside 15O-water generator designed for simple push button operation and high patient through-put has been developed and recently installed at our institution and utilized clinically under a magistral exception. The system also includes an infusion device and a dedicated display and analysis software. We report the initial experience utilizing such solution for routine clinical use of 15O-water.

Methods
The first routine human myocardial perfusion imaging tests with PET 15O-water were conducted at our institution in December 2020. The 15O-water was produced and infused using the bed-side water generator. The activity per scan was 400 MBq in 20-35 mL of saline infused at a speed of 1-2 mL/s. Each exam consisted of a low-dose CT followed by a 4 min rest dynamic PET scan and, finally, a 4 min stress dynamic PET scan. Pharmacological stress was induced using a 6 min infusion of adenosine (0.14 mg/kg/min) starting 2 min prior to the stress PET scan. The exam time (time from initiation of the low dose CT to the end of the stress PET scan) was monitored. Images were analyzed using the dedicated software.

Results
Since its implementation on December 7, 2020 and as of February 23, 2021, all patients referred to the hospital for cardiac perfusion imaging have been studied with this approach. Over this period of time, a total of 295 patients have been imaged with an average of 6 patients per day (a total of 50 scan days, 3-8 patients per day). The median total exam time was 22 min (85% of the exams were within 25 min and 95% below 30 min).

Conclusion
Routine clinical use of 15O-water PET has been practically implemented utilizing a novel bedside generator and infusion solution. The system has proven to be reliable and efficient. This initial experience suggests that a very high patient throughput is achievable with improved resource utilization. The expected high diagnostic accuracy of the test is being evaluated with the dedicated imaging software.
Comparison of intravenous and buccal caffeine for reversal of adverse effects of regadenason
Authors: Stringer BF , Elsadany M , Bote J , Duvall WL 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background/Introduction
Regadenason is a common coronary vasodilator for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Use has been associated with side effects including dyspnea, gastrointestinal upset and chest discomfort. Aminophylline is a common reversal agent. Due to frequent shortages caffeine has emerged as an alternative treatment.

Purpose
Our study aimed to compare the efficacy of intravenous (IV) caffeine and buccal caffeine strips for reversal of regadenason adverse effects.

Methods
Consecutive patients undergoing regadenoson stress SPECT MPI were assessed for the occurrence of symptoms during testing over an 11 week period at a single metropolitan hospital. Adverse symptoms, including their severity and duration, were recorded at the time of testing. Patient satisfaction was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the most satisfied). Patients received reversal with caffeine if symptoms were felt to be significant enough by the patient and physician performing the test. The treatment received alternated week to week between IV caffeine (60mg) or 100 mg buccal caffeine strips. Caffeine was given at least 3 minutes after tracer injection. A rescue dose of IV caffeine was offered 10 minutes later if indicated.

Results
Of the 122 patients enrolled in the study, 70 (57%) were included during buccal caffeine weeks and 52 (43%) during IV caffeine weeks, and only 28 (23.9%) received reversal with a caffeine agent. Seven (5.7%) received IV caffeine and 21 (17.2%) received buccal caffeine. The most common adverse symptom reported was dyspnea, which occurred in 54 patients (44.3%). There was no significant difference in symptom duration between IV and buccal caffeine after treatment (152.8 vs 163.4 sec, p = 0.87). There was no significant difference in initial and final symptom severity between groups. Only 2 patients in the buccal group required rescue IV caffeine for ongoing symptoms and emesis. None of the IV group required rescue dose. There was no significant difference in patient satisfaction between the groups (2.8 vs 3.2, p = 0.38). Interestingly, patients were more likely to receive treatment on buccal caffeine weeks compared to IV weeks (30.0% vs 13.5%, p = 0.049)

Conclusion(s)
Buccal caffeine is an effective alternative to IV caffeine for the management of adverse effects from regadenason and may be a more cost effective option. Buccal caffeine is easier to store and prepare than IV caffeine, and compared to other oral caffeine alternatives provides consistent dosing and easier consumption.
Relationship between coronary artery calcium score and myocardial blood flow reserve in patients with suspected coronary artery disease
Authors: Qarajeh R , Peri-Okonny P , Sperry BW , Chan PS , Spertus JA , Thompson RC , Bateman TM , Patel FS , Mcghie AI , Patel KK 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background
Both the Coronary Artery Calcium Score (CACS), a non-invasive surrogate for atherosclerotic burden, and reduced myocardial blood flow reserve (MBFR) with normal perfusion, a non-invasive surrogate for coronary vasomotor dysfunction, independently predict future cardiovascular events. The relationship between CACS and MBFR, and potential clinical factors affecting it, is not well understood.

Methods
Among 9467 consecutive patients without known history of CAD who had normal perfusion on 82Rb PET-CT and a concomitantly measured CACS between 01/2010 - 06/2020 within our health system, we assessed the relationship between CACS and MBFR. Multiple linear regression was used to predict MBFR using CACS, adjusted for age, sex, BMI, risk factors, symptoms, resting LVEF and vital signs. Interactions of age, sex, diabetes, and symptoms with CACS were assessed to evaluate if they modified the relationship of CACS with MBFR.

Results
Mean age (SD) of the study cohort was 66.4 (12.6) years, 64% were women, 64% had chest pain and 47% had dyspnea. Reduced MBFR (&lt;2) was present in 44% and CAC &gt;0 in 74% of patients. There was a modest inverse correlation between MBFR and CACS, r= - 0.18, p = &lt; 0.0001 (Figure). In adjusted analyses, CACS (β for CAC per 100 = -0.013 [95% CI: -0.015, -0.010]) was weakly associated with MBFR, and age, sex, diabetes, or symptoms did not modify this relationship (all interaction p-values &gt;0.1). Older age, female sex, presence of hypertension, diabetes, dyspnea, lower LVEF, higher baseline HR and higher CACS independently predicted reduced MBFR, but explained only 20% of the variance in MBFR (R2 =0.20).

Conclusion
There is a weak relationship between CACS and MBFR, which is not modified by age, sex, symptoms, or other CV risk factors. Coronary calcium burden does not completely reflect the overall disease activity within the coronary circulation, and measures of coronary vasomotor function such as MBFR may offer complementary information on CAD risk to that provided by the total burden of calcified atherosclerosis.
Cardiac microcalcification burden is associated with cardiac fat variables in high cardiovascular risk patients
Authors: Borges-Rosa J , Oliveira-Santos M , Silva R , Pereira Da Silva N , Abrunhosa A , Castelo-Branco M , Goncalves L , Ferreira MJ 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction
Calcification plays a major role in coronary atherogenesis. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with fluorine-18 sodium fluoride (Na[18F]F) is able to detect microcalcification and is associated with cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. Thoracic fat volume (TFV) and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) are associated with atherosclerosis, pro-inflammatory state, and CV events.

Purpose
We aimed to evaluate the association between Na[18F]F uptake and cardiac fat variables.

Methods
Cardiac Na[18F]F uptake was assessed as global molecular calcification score (GMCS): the sum of the product of the mean standardized uptake value times the area of the cardiac regions of interest times the slice thickness for all cardiac transaxial slices, divided by the total number of slices. TFV was assessed in computed tomography (CT) using automated software to sum the voxels consisting of fat (threshold of -190 to -30 Hounsfield units) between the bifurcation of pulmonary artery and the end of pericardial sac. EAT was segmented manually tracing the counter of the pericardium with 3DSlicer and the final volume calculated using the dedicated software. Coronary artery calcium score (CAC) was measured with dedicated software for calcium scoring (GE Healthcare Advantage Workstation 4.2).

Results
Thirty-four high CV risk individuals without previous CV events (50% with ≥5 CV risk factors) were retrospectively scanned with Na[18F]F PET-CT. Mean age is 63.5 ± 7.8 years and 62% male. Median values are: GMCS 320.9 (240.8-402.8), TFV 167.8 (131.4-211.3) mL, EAT 81.3 (60.7-107.2) cm3, and CAC 0.0 (2.5-20.0). There is a positive correlation between GMCS and abdominal perimeter (rs = 0.74), weight (rs = 0.61), TFV (rs = 0.47), and EAT (rs = 0.41), all with p ≤ 0.01. Thoracic and epicardial fat volumes are strongly correlated (rs = 0.80, p &lt; 0.01). Both TFV and EAT are correlated with abdominal perimeter (rs = 0.60, p &lt; 0.01 and rs = 0.46, p &lt; 0.01, respectively) and weight (rs = 0.47, p &lt; 0.01 and rs = 0.42, p = 0.01, respectively). GMCS [356.7 (321.0-409.6) vs. 261.1 (225.6-342.1), p = 0.01] and thoracic fat volume [184.3 (153.2-303.7) vs. 142.1 (90.0-173.1) mL, p = 0.01] are higher in patients with ≥5 CV risk factors, but not EAT [92.5 (62.0-145.7) vs. 76.7 (56.2-86.8) cm3, p = 0.14]. Neither GMCS (rs=-0.06, p = 0.77), TFV (rs = 0.20, p &lt; 0.32) nor EAT (rs = 0.06, p &lt; 0.76) are correlated with CAC score.

Conclusions
In this exploratory analysis with high CV risk patients, the global cardiac microcalcification burden assessed by GMCS is associated with TFV and EAT, but there was no correlation between these variables and CAC. We hypothesize that both GMCS and cardiac fat variables might help to identify higher-risk patients in earlier phases than traditional CT.