Alternative Technique Research Articles

Probabilistic steady-state and short-term voltage stability assessment considering correlated system uncertainties

As correlated uncertainties in power grids become more prevalent, modeling of stochastic dependencies is becoming increasingly necessary. Independent probability distributions disregard these correlated uncertainties, potentially leading to significant errors, underscoring the necessity of dependence structures. This paper presents a probabilistic approach for modeling uncertain system parameters with their inherent correlations. The proposed approach is validated through various aspects of system voltage measures, including voltage profile and static and dynamic voltage stability. In total, nine alternative sampling generation techniques are employed, and their accuracy is measured based on real-world data using root mean square error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R2) criteria. The result suggests that multivariate (Gaussian and Student's) copula techniques accurately represent the real system data, consistently achieving high accuracy rates of 98 % for voltage profiles, 97 % for static voltage stability, and 93 % for dynamic voltage stability. In contrast, the independent sampling technique failed to follow the real-world system data for the different aspects of system voltage measures.

Deciphering the Roles of the Key Oligomerization Domains in Amyloid‐β to Design Amyloid Aggregation Inhibitors

AbstractBackgroundProtein folding issues are significant difficulties since they are linked to various diseases, including dementia. Fibrillar amyloid aggregates composed of misfolded proteins are pathological features of several neurodegenerative diseases. Numerous attempts have been made to treat neurodegenerative diseases by focusing on amyloid aggregates of pathologically disordered proteins. The first Alzheimer’s disease (AD) curative drug was introduced as a consequence of attempts to combat the most frequent kind of dementia. Even though antibody strategies reduce clinical deterioration in mild cognitive disease, alternate techniques must be developed over a single approach (i.e., antibody treatment). Recent studies have attempted to rationally design candidate drugs to improve existing therapeutic approaches or suppress the fibrillar amyloid aggregation process altogether. Prompted by previous findings, we rationally designed amyloid‐β (1‐42) point mutants to inhibit amyloid aggregation.MethodWe investigated the structural ensembles of the monomers using small‐angle X‐ray scattering. In addition, we performed hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (MS) and ion mobility MS to elucidate the molecular principles governing Aβ42‐inhibitor interactions. We also used microsecond‐scale molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the structures and interactions, and combined them with electron transfer dissociation MS analysis to tackle challenges in identifying the multiple binding sites of intrinsically disordered protein complexes.ResultSpecifically designed mutations disrupt not only amyloid aggregation but reduce its cytotoxicity. Furthermore, we proposed minimal mutation sites to control amyloid‐β (1‐42) self‐assembly behavior. We are now determining the key domains of amyloid‐β (1‐42) that facilitate its self‐assembly to design aggregation inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents. We identified three critical hydrophobic domains (17LVF19, 32IGL34, and 41IA42) on amyloid‐β (1‐42) and investigated their role in the protein’s self‐assembly process. Our results suggest that interchain interactions in the central hydrophobic region (17LVF19) of amyloid‐β (1‐42) are essential for fibrillar aggregation and that their interaction with other domains is related to the accessibility of the central hydrophobic region for initiating the pathological cascade. Our findings shed light on the mechanisms underlying amyloid‐β (1‐42) self‐assembly and reveal key structural domains that aid in this process.ConclusionOur findings can be used to improve the rational design of amyloid‐β (1‐42) aggregation inhibitors in the future.

Versatile MRI acquisition and processing protocol for population‐based neuroimaging

AbstractBackgroundNeuroimaging plays an essential role in epidemiological studies and a special focus is directed towards the employment of versatile MRI acquisition and processing. The proposed multi‐purpose MRI protocol was designed for large‐scale and long‐term population neuroimaging and includes structural, diffusion‐weighted, and functional MRI modalities. It directly links the acquisition of an extensive set of MRI contrasts with fully automated data processing pipelines and quality assurance of the MRI data and image‐derived phenotypes.MethodThe MRI acquisition protocol is largely based on in‐house developed MR sequences. With a total scan time below one hour per participant, it allows to acquire multiple MR contrasts at 3T with whole‐brain coverage and high isotropic image resolution, while keeping potential subject discomfort and motion artifacts at manageable levels. Designed to be kept constant, but also adaptive, the scan protocol separates into a core imaging protocol with MR contrasts of high relevance acquired for all study participants, and a free protocol to accommodate alternative promising MRI techniques in smaller sub‐populations. The analysis protocol handles large‐scale imaging data by means of fast and fully automated processing pipelines that incorporate state‐of‐the‐art image analysis tools and innovative machine learning methods, particularly using deep learning. Dedicated quality assessment (QA) includes visual rating and inspection for incidental findings on structural MRI and QA workflows tailored for each postprocessing pipeline to automatically identify problematic data based on the distribution of subject‐specific QA metrics with respect to the population average.ResultThe MRI protocol has been successfully applied in the Rhineland Study, a prospective cohort study in Bonn, Germany, with currently over 10,000 participants. Image‐derived phenotypes include: global and regional brain tissue volume, thickness and surface measures from multi‐modal structural MRI, global and regional microstructural measures based on diffusion‐weighted MRI, brain functional connectivity using resting‐state functional MRI, and volumes of subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue based on a single‐breathhold abdominal MRI (Figure 1).ConclusionWe present a versatile MRI protocol with acquisition and analysis methods that are generally applicable and not geared towards a specific disease or research question. Thus, this protocol may be of specific interest for many neuroimaging applications including population imaging studies.

A New Workflow for Assessment of Fluid Components and Pore Volumes From 2D NMR Measurements in Formations With Complex Mineralogy and Pore Structure

It is challenging to reliably identify fluid components and estimate their saturations in formations with complex lithology, complex pore structure, or varying wettability conditions. Common practices for assessing fluid saturations rely on the interpretation of resistivity measurements. These techniques require model calibration, which is time consuming/expensive and can only differentiate conductive and nonconductive fluids. Interpretation of 2D NMR maps provides a viable alternative for identifying fluid components and fluid volumes. However, conventional techniques for the interpretation of 2D NMR rely on cutoffs in the T1-T2 or D-T2 maps. The application of cutoffs is prone to inaccuracies when fluid-component relaxation responses overlap. To address these shortcomings, we introduce a new workflow for identifying/tracking fluid components and estimating their volumes from the interpretation of 2D NMR measurements. We developed a workflow that approximates 2D NMR maps with a superposition of 2D Gaussian distributions. The algorithm automatically determines the optimum number of Gaussian distributions and their corresponding properties (i.e., amplitudes, variances, and means). Next, a clustering technique is implemented to the dataspace containing the Gaussian distribution parameters obtained for the entire logged interval. Each Gaussian is assigned to a cluster corresponding to different pore/fluid components. We then calculate the volumes under the Gaussian distributions corresponding to each cluster at each depth. The volumes associated with each cluster translate directly into the pore volumes corresponding to the different fluid components (e.g., heavy/light hydrocarbon, bound/free water) at each depth. A highlighted contribution of this work is that, in contrast to the alternative petrophysical interpretation techniques for fluid characterization, the introduced workflow does not require calibration efforts, user-defined cutoffs, or proprietary data sets. Furthermore, approximating 2D NMR data with a superposition of Gaussian distributions improves the accuracy of estimated pore volumes of fluid components with overlapping NMR responses. The clustering using the Gaussian distribution parameters as inputs enables depth tracking of different fluid components without making use of user-defined 2D cutoffs. Finally, the multidimensional nature of the introduced clustering provides the unique capability of identifying different fluid components with 2D NMR response located in the same range of coordinates in a T1-T2 map. We successfully verified the reliability and robustness of the new workflow for enhancing petrophysical interpretation in two organic-rich mudrock formations with complex mineralogy and pore structure.

Achilles Tendon Ruptures: Limited Incision Repair

Achilles tendon ruptures are a common injury, and a steadily rising incidence has been noted since the middle of the 20th century. Conservative management is a recognized treatment method, but it bears a higher risk of tendon rerupture compared with surgical treatment. Standard open surgery, however, can lead to complications, such as wound complications and surgical site infection. Hence, efforts have been put into the development of alternative surgical techniques to lower the risk of complications. In the 1970s, Ma and Griffith introduced percutaneous tendon repair by limiting the incision to 6 stab wounds. Subsequently, the open and percutaneous approaches have been merged into limited incision procedures, which include the advantages of both: visual control as well as smaller incisions. The primary limited incision approach consisted in using twisted Kirschner wires as suture guides. They were replaced by specific guiding instruments, such as the Achillon and Percutaneous Achilles Repair System (PARS) device, which rendered the limited incision procedure safer and more standardized. The instruments consist of 4 arms: The outer arms facilitate needle introduction by predetermined holes, the inner arms allow for suture passage exclusively underneath the tendon sheath. The minimally invasive procedures may reduce complication rates, especially regarding wound healing and infection. Limited incision techniques also may reduce sural nerve injury. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V—expert opinion. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Abdominal compartment syndrome: what radiologist needs to know.

The intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and the abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) are life-threatening conditions with a significant rate of mortality; therefore, early detection is paramount in their optimal management. IAH is diagnosed when the intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is more than 12mmHg. It can occur when the intra-abdominal volume increases (ileus, ascites, trauma, pancreatitis, etc.) and/or the abdominal wall compliance decreases. IAH can cause decreased venous flow, low cardiac output, renal impairment, and decreased respiratory compliance. Consequently, these complications can lead to multiple organ failure and induce the abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) when IAP rises above 20mmHg. The diagnosis is usually made with intravesical pressure measurement. However, this measurement was not always possible to obtain; therefore, alternative diagnostic techniques should be considered. In this setting, computed tomography (CT) may play a crucial role, allowing the detection and characterization of pathological conditions that may lead to IAH. This review is focused on the pathogenesis, clinical features, and radiological findings of ACS, because their presence allows radiologists to raise the suspicion of IAH/ACS in critically ill patients, guiding the most appropriate treatment.

Versatile MRI acquisition and processing protocol for population‐based neuroimaging

AbstractBackgroundNeuroimaging plays an essential role in epidemiological studies and a special focus is directed towards the employment of versatile MRI acquisition and processing. The proposed multi‐purpose MRI protocol was designed for large‐scale and long‐term population neuroimaging and includes structural, diffusion‐weighted, and functional MRI modalities. It directly links the acquisition of an extensive set of MRI contrasts with fully automated data processing pipelines and quality assurance of the MRI data and image‐derived phenotypes.MethodThe MRI acquisition protocol is largely based on in‐house developed MR sequences. With a total scan time below one hour per participant, it allows to acquire multiple MR contrasts at 3T with whole‐brain coverage and high isotropic image resolution, while keeping potential subject discomfort and motion artifacts at manageable levels. Designed to be kept constant, but also adaptive, the scan protocol separates into a core imaging protocol with MR contrasts of high relevance acquired for all study participants, and a free protocol to accommodate alternative promising MRI techniques in smaller sub‐populations. The analysis protocol handles large‐scale imaging data by means of fast and fully automated processing pipelines that incorporate state‐of‐the‐art image analysis tools and innovative machine learning methods, particularly using deep learning. Dedicated quality assessment (QA) includes visual rating and inspection for incidental findings on structural MRI and QA workflows tailored for each postprocessing pipeline to automatically identify problematic data based on the distribution of subject‐specific QA metrics with respect to the population average.ResultThe MRI protocol has been successfully applied in the Rhineland Study, a prospective cohort study in Bonn, Germany, with currently over 10,000 participants. Image‐derived phenotypes include: global and regional brain tissue volume, thickness and surface measures from multi‐modal structural MRI, global and regional microstructural measures based on diffusion‐weighted MRI, brain functional connectivity using resting‐state functional MRI, and volumes of subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue based on a single‐breathhold abdominal MRI (Figure 1).ConclusionWe present a versatile MRI protocol with acquisition and analysis methods that are generally applicable and not geared towards a specific disease or research question. Thus, this protocol may be of specific interest for many neuroimaging applications including population imaging studies.

Clip Dislodgement After Full-Thickness Endoscopic Resection Device Removal of Scarred Gastric Subepithelial Lesion Leading to Delayed Perforation

ABSTRACT Endoscopic full-thickness resection using a full-thickness resection device is a newer technique for endoscopic removal of submucosal lesions not amenable to endoscopic mucosal resection or endoscopic submucosal dissection. There is a low rate of complications reported, although we report 2 cases of delayed perforation caused by dislodgement of a full-thickness resection device clip after removal of scarred gastric lesions. Both were managed endoscopically with good outcomes. However, special attention and consideration of alternative closure techniques should be considered with scarred gastric lesions and possible changes to the clip design could be considered.

Image-guided video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (iVATS): a single center experience and review.

Lung cancer screening techniques using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans have improved over the last decade. This means that there is an increased rate of detection of small, often non-palpable, nodules and ground-glass opacities. Obtaining a definitive diagnosis of these nodules using techniques such as percutaneous image-guided biopsy or intraoperative localization is challenging, and these nodules have traditionally undergone routine surveillance. Image-guided video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (iVATS), which is performed in a hybrid operating room, has made it more feasible to biopsy and resect these nodules. The first thoracic surgery hybrid operative room was introduced at our institution at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Herein, we describe our experience implementing this technique including the methods we used to train key personnel such as radiologists, surgeons, and anesthesiologists to ensure that this technique successfully translated to a clinical setting. We review the benefits of iVATS, which includes decreased rate of fiducial dislodgement, real-time imaging which facilitates successful fiducial placement, and smaller sized resection of lung parenchyma. We will also describe the comparisons between traditional diagnostic methods and iVATS, patient selection criteria and important technical details. Some centers describe alternative techniques for several of the technical aspects, including patient positioning, which we also mention. Lastly, we describe adverse events after iVATS, which are comparable to those seen after a standard VATS.

INTRAVITREAL CHOPPING OF DROPPED NUCLEUS WITH A NITINOL INTRAOCULAR FOREIGN BODY FORCEPS: AN ALTERNATIVE TECHNIQUE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RETAINED NUCLEUS FRAGMENTS.

To evaluate the efficiency and safety of using an intraocular foreign body forceps with two nitinol loops at its tip to capture and chop dropped nucleus (DN) during vitrectomy as an alternative method and to evaluate the outcomes and complications of this surgical technique. The eyes that underwent 23-gauge vitrectomy with removal of DN using nitinol forceps with a minimum follow-up time of 1 year are included in this study. The efficiency of surgical technique and anatomical and functional results with complications is recorded. Nine patients with a mean age of 73.11 ± 2.15 years were included in this study. The mean time between DN and vitrectomy was 7.67 ± 3.74 (5-14) days. In all eyes, DN was easily chopped and removed with aspiration. Argon laser photocoagulation was performed in 4 eyes (44.44%) during surgery. All eyes were followed up for a mean time of 21.11 ± 12.36 (12-48) months. The mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity increased significantly during the postoperative follow-up ( P < 0.001). No complications related to the cataract surgery or DN removal were observed. Surgical removal of DN with the help of these forceps with nitinol loops is found to be safe and effective in this study. This method avoids ultrasonographic energy and enables 23-gauge vitrectomy without a fragmatome.

Percutaneous Sonoguided Pulsed Radiofrequency Ablation for Managing Pain associated with Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a sudden, unilateral, recurrent, and intense paroxysmal pain in the region of distribution of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. TN can be effectively treated by minimally invasive techniques such as microvascular decompression, balloon compression, and conventional radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the Gasserian ganglion. The three divisions of the trigeminal nerve can also be individually targeted for pain relief. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is an alternate technique for treating pain along specific branches and has been proven to be a minimally invasive, safe, and effective interventional treatment choice for such patients. A 36-year-old female presented with pain on the left side of the cheek and upper lip part in the infraorbital nerve distribution (V2) and was diagnosed with TN. A neurological examination and magnetic resonance imaging were done. Medical treatment was prescribed initially but showed minimal improvement. Her pain was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Score. PRF ablation (PRFA) was done using short bursts of radiofrequency for 2 min each cycle with silent phases in between. Adequate pain relief was achieved with no complications postprocedure.

Graphene quantum dots based fluorescent biosensor for nitrogen detection of urea fertilizer

A simple and fast fabrication of fluorescent biosensor based on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) for agricultural application is presented. Graphene oxide was used as a starting material for GQDs synthesis by hydrothermal method. Optical properties and morphology of the synthesized GQDs were characterized by UV-Vis, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the synthesized GQDs exhibited spherical shape with their average diameter of 5.70 nm. The UV-Vis and PL spectra showed typical adsorption peak and maximum emission peak of the synthesized GQDs at 330 nm and 472 nm, respectively. To study sensing performance of fluorescent biosensor for nitrogen detection, aqueous solution of GQDs was mixed with different concentrations of nitrogen solution. According to PL spectra result, it is found that PL intensity of GQDs solution significantly increased corresponding to higher concentrations of nitrogen solution. This result suggests that fluorescent biosensor based on GQDs may be an alternative technique for primary nutrient detection in soils.

Enhanced Production of Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis using Solid State Fermentation Technique

Vectors play an important role in disease transmission, globally. Despite various advancements in vector management, mosquitoes are still prime vectors of dreadful diseases which influences human health and economy as well. Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) is a major bacterium that produces δ-endotoxin, which can kill the certain strains of mosquito larvae. Bti based biopesticides can be used as an alternative technique to control insects. Biopesticides derived from Bti are the most prominent biological agents for selective control of insect pests. In this study we aim to produce Bti using different cost-effective medias based on the fruit, pulses and sea food waste and other such materials using solid state fermentation techniques (SSF). SSF has been described as the process that takes place in solid matrix in the absence or near absence of water, and the substrate requires less moisture to support the growth and metabolic activity of organisms. Here, in the present study we use different fruit wastes as carbon sources and other wastes as nitrogen source to optimize cost effective and efficient media for the growth and sporulation of Bti. Fruit juices of rotten fruits like pineapple, grapes, watermelon etc were used as a substrate for the production of Bti. Nitrogenous supplements like prawn peel powder, peanut meal extract, poultry manure was also used for the overproduction of Bti. Finally, the larvicidal efficiency of the novel media was also determined. This method was found to be cost effective and is functional also, and it can solve the problems caused by fruit waste accumulation. It can also reduce the problems inflicted by disease carrying vectors like mosquitoes.

Analysis of neutron monitor count rates and timing distributions from latitude surveys

Neutron monitors continuously record the hadronic part of secondary atmospheric radiation on the ground, which originates from primary cosmic rays. In Thailand, we developed a mobile neutron monitor housed inside a standard-size shipping container named “Changvan.” It contains three neutron-sensitive proportional counters set up in the typical NM64 layout. However, the central counter doesn’t have the lead producer, leading us to refer to it as a “semi-leaded” neutron monitor. We examined cosmic ray spectral variations on two latitude surveys during 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. This work examines the ratio of count rates between leaded and unleaded setups, which shows notable variation based on geomagnetic cutoff rigidity, suggesting a sensitivity to the cosmic ray spectrum. This measurement could be implemented at stationary stations. The unleaded counter, shielded by the reflector with a higher count from nearby lead, may have advantages over a bare one. Furthermore, we explore alternative techniques to identify spectral changes in Galactic cosmic rays using Changvan data. We analyze using time delay histograms to determine the leader fraction (L) of neutrons that are not preceded by another neutron from the same primary cosmic ray. We also examine other parameters, including the alpha (α) parameter and pulse rate (PR), which can be compared with count rates (CR). Our findings indicate that the ratios of L and α are not significantly affected by geomagnetic cutoff rigidity. In contrast, CR and PR exhibit significant dependency and show opposite trends.

Alternative Techniques To Remove Retained Silicone Oil Droplets On IOLs.

To describe several modified approaches to remove retained silicone oil droplets on intraocular lens (IOLs). Four novel techniques for removing retained silicone oil droplets on IOLs were described. All four techniques led to an improved IOL with a good view to the posterior segment. No intraoperative or long-term postoperative complications have been seen in any of these eyes. These modified approaches are safe, efficient, low cost, and use existing vitreoretinal operating room supplies to add to the vitreoretinal surgeon's armamentarium to clear retained IOL silicone droplets. It is advocated for having multiple techniques at the disposal of the vitreoretinal surgeon to address retained silicone oil on IOLs. Being able to use multiple techniques may not be superior than a single approach but is often necessary to accomplish the surgical goal of removing these adherent droplets.

Improving Social Skills Using Pop-Up Media for Elementary School Students

Students' social skills can be honed with various teaching techniques, including using learning media. The use of pop-up media is an option to help students develop social skills that are responsive to environmental issues. Thus, this study aims to analyze social skills using pop-up media in elementary schools. This study used a nonequivalent control group design and a quasi-experimental approach, treating the experimental and control groups differently. All 48 participants in this study were fourth graders, constituting the study population. The sample of this research is 48 people and based on the saturated sample technique. The data collection technique for this study used a closed questionnaire and observation. Descriptive and inferential data analysis methods include homogeneity, normality, and hypothesis analysis. Analysis of descriptive data on the influence of pop-up media on children's social skills development in social studies learning determined that the value of P = 0.005 is more diminutive than = 0.05. So, using pop-up media impacts how students build their social skills. Therefore, pop-up media can improve students' social skills in elementary schools, especially in responding to environmental issues and can be used as an alternative teaching technique for developing students' social skills.

Equibiaxial flexural strength determination of UO2 using a ball-on-ring test

To increase nuclear fuel performance and reliability, their mechanical properties require an accurate and statistically relevant assessment. Biaxial flexural strength tests provide an alternative to bend bar techniques for assessing mechanical behavior; namely, the transverse rupture strength (TRS) of ceramic samples. Biaxial test samples require simple geometries and minimal surface preparation, reducing fabrication costs and handling hazards. This study investigated the TRS of polycrystalline UO2 fuel forms at room temperature using a ball-on-ring test fixture. Pellets were fabricated from UO2 powder using conventional powder processing and sintering techniques. The TRS and Weibull parameters were obtained through Weibull statistics on over 60 UO2 samples tested under equibiaxial flexure. The larger sample size in this study enabled a more robust Weibull statistical analysis than alternative test methods, which may not capture the stochastic failure of typical ceramics. Furthermore, two different loading ball diameters were employed to assess the impact of contact damage on fracture strength. While Hertzian contact damage was observed with the smaller loading ball, the fracture strength remained unaffected. A fracture analysis of the tested UO2 samples indicated a mixture of intergranular and transgranular fracture that transitions to transgranular fracture with increasing distance from the fracture origin. The characteristic strength of the combined data sets was determined to be 148 MPa, and the Weibull modulus was determined to be 9.1. The TRS values and Weibull parameters were close to values found in the literature for alternative testing techniques using samples with similar microstructure and density. The findings in this study validate the ball-on-ring method used to obtain the TRS of UO2 with a sample geometry more representative of nuclear fuels. Additionally, experimental TRS results from this study can be implemented in modeling codes to predict fuel performance, which is critical to fuel burnup extension and advanced nuclear fuel technologies.

Biotransformation approaches using solid-state fermentation and germination with high-intensity ultrasound to produce added-value hemp protein nanoaggregates

Hemp protein, with superior nutritional content and high digestibility, has attracted significant interest in recent years. However, like other plant protein sources, hemp protein has still suffered from underutilization in industrial applications due to its poor solubility attributes. To overcome this limitation, this study aimed to use biotechnological approaches such as germination (1, 3, 5 days) and solid-state fermentation using Lactobacillusplantarum and Bacillus subtilis to enhance the physicochemical, functional, and bioactive properties of hemp protein. The high-intensity ultrasound combined with these treatments for further modifications. The protein recovery in the defatted flour increased by 42% in germinated isolates compared to the untreated isolate. The primary structure changes were proven by degrading high molecular weight proteins to lower weights in SDS-PAGE. The secondary and tertiary structure changes of isolates were observed in FTIR, CD spectra, DSC, and free SH groups. While the particle sizes of isolates were reduced by 83%, solubility increased by 133% in fermented and ultrasonicated isolates. Water, oil absorption capacities and emulsion activities were increased by 103%, 194%, and 300%, respectively, in modified isolates compared to the untreated isolate. Total phenolic and antioxidant activities of isolates improved in germinated and fermented isolates. Fermentation, germination, and ultrasonication are promising, green, safe, alternative biomodification techniques that may effectively improve protein functionality. These clean-labeled proteins can also be used as bioactive agents in the food industry.

Imaging swallowing function and the mechanisms driving dysphagia in inclusion body myositis.

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM) is a progressive condition which commonly affects patients aged above 40. IBM does not respond to immunosuppression and no proven treatments are available. Up to 80% of patients develop some degree of swallowing impairment during the disease course. Dysphagia is a source of marked morbidity in IBM and predisposes patients to life-threatening complications such as aspiration pneumonia. The pathophysiology behind dysphagia in IBM is not fully understood. Evidence from imaging demonstrates that impaired swallowing is predominantly underpinned by oropharyngeal deficits. Changes in cricopharyngeal physiology is thought to be an important factor influencing dysphagia in IBM. However, it is unclear whether this is secondary to structural changes within the cricopharyngeus itself or driven by impairment of the muscles promoting pharyngeal clearance. The approach to dysphagia in IBM patients is limited by a lack of validated instruments to reliably assess swallowing function and an absence of effective therapeutic interventions derived from controlled trials targeting dysphagia. Imaging modalities such as the video fluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) are commonly used to evaluate dysphagia in IBM. Whilst VFSS is a commonly used technique in clinical practice; cumulative radiation exposure with repeated testing can be a limitation. Alternative imaging techniques could be developed further as outcome measures for assessing swallowing.In this review, we provide an overview of imaging techniques used to assess swallowing and the insight provided from such investigations into the mechanisms behind dysphagia in IBM. We suggest future directions for evaluation and outcome measurement of dysphagia in this population.

Is There Still a Role for Urine Cytology in Kidney Transplantation? Experience Report in a Teaching Hospital

Introduction: Urinary cytology has been used as a monitoring strategy for kidney transplant patients, live under chronic immunosuppression, as it is a non-invasive and low-cost method. The early detection of infections can prevent possible dysfunction and graft loss. However, its use has been decreased. Methods: We conducted a prospective study on voided urine samples from 29 consecutive patients undergoing kidney transplantation over a continuous period of 17 months, collected during their first-year post-transplantation. One technician prepared the samples by cytocentrifugation, Papanicolaou staining, and one pathologist analyzed them. Decoy cells (DCs) positive samples were prepared, by other two technicians, for contrast phase analysis, ultrastructural study, and immunofluorescence for SV40 T antigen. Results: We evaluated 252 urine samples from 26 patients. Two consecutive samples (0.8%) out of five, from the same patient (3.8%), referring to the fourth- and fifth-week post-transplant, showed low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions; only rare epithelial cells with atypia of undetermined significance were detected (0.4%) in the sample corresponding to the sixth month post-transplant. The patient’s subsequent gynecological examination and Pap smear revealed no changes. Pseudohyphae and fungus yeasts were found in five samples (2.0%) from four patients (15.4%). Trichosporon sp. was identified in the urine of one of these patients. Decoy cells were detected in 25 samples (9.9 %) from six patients (23.1%). Two patients had sustained DCs shedding; one of them, presenting dirty background smears, developed Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy. Ultrastructural study of DCs showed icosahedral viral particles. Immunofluorescence (SV40 T antigen) was positive in DCs nuclei. Analysis by contrast phase was successful in samples with numerous DCs. Conclusion: Systematic urinary cytology after transplantation helps detect some infection signs. Patients with sustained DCs shedding and dirty background smears deserve special clinical attention. Electron microscopy and immunofluorescence (SV40 T antigen) are alternative techniques to detect polyomavirus reactivation. The findings suggest that urinary cytology still plays a role in kidney transplantation.