Lower Mean Volume Research Articles

Cross-sectional associations between multisensory impairment and brain volumes in older adults: Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging

Sensory impairment and brain atrophy is common among older adults, increasing the risk of dementia. Yet, the degree to which multiple co-occurring sensory impairments (MSI across vision, proprioception, vestibular function, olfactory, and hearing) are associated with brain morphometry remain unexplored. Data were from 208 cognitively unimpaired participants (mean age 72 ± 10 years; 59% women) enrolled in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Multiple linear regression models were used to estimate cross-sectional associations between MSI and regional brain imaging volumes. For each additional sensory impairment, there were associated lower orbitofrontal gyrus and entorhinal cortex volumes but higher caudate and putamen volumes. Participants with MSI had lower mean volumes in the superior frontal gyrus, orbitofrontal gyrus, superior parietal lobe, and precuneus compared to participants with < 2 impairments. While MSI was largely associated with lower brain volumes, our results suggest the possibility that MSI was associated with higher basal ganglia volumes. Longitudinal analyses are needed to evaluate the temporality and directionality of these associations.

Equine grass sickness is associated with major abnormalities in the ultrastructure of skeletal neuromuscular junctions.

Equine grass sickness (EGS) is a frequently fatal multisystem neuropathy of equids. The aetiology is unknown; proposed causes include toxicoinfection with Clostridium botulinum and a mycotoxicosis. The effect of EGS on the organisation and structural integrity of the skeletal neuromuscular junction (NMJ), the target of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), is unknown. To compare the organisation and structural integrity of skeletal NMJs from EGS horses, control horses and one horse with a presumptive diagnosis of botulism. Blinded, retrospective case control. NMJs in samples of diaphragm or intercostal muscle from six EGS horses, three control horses and one equine botulism case were compared using electron microscopy, morphometry and confocal light microscopy. A significantly higher percentage of EGS NMJs had abnormal morphology (EGS 72.2%, 95% CI 55.6-84.4; Controls 6.9%, 1.7-23.8; OR 35.1, 8.47-244.8; p < 0.001). EGS NMJs had a significantly lower mean volume fraction occupied by synaptic vesicles (SVs) (EGS 18.7%, 12.6-28.0; Controls 36.3%, 20.8-63.4; p = 0.024). EGS NMJs had evidence of accelerated SV exocytosis and SV depletion, accumulation of neurofilament-like material in terminal boutons and/or bouton degeneration. NMJs from the botulism horse had dense packing of SVs towards the presynaptic membrane active zone, consistent with BoNT intoxication, but had absence of the abnormalities identified in EGS NMJs. Group sizes were limited by difficulties obtaining suitably processed samples. Ages of control and EGS horses differed. Botulism was diagnosed based on clinical and post mortem findings. EGS is associated with major changes in skeletal NMJ ultrastructure that are inconsistent with the effects of BoNTs. SV depletion may reflect increased exocytosis coupled with reduced repopulation of SVs via anterograde axonal transport and endocytosis, consistent with the action of an excitatory presynaptic toxin and/or neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitor. Skeletal NMJs represent a previously unrecognised target for the toxin that causes EGS.

The effect of psychoactive bacteria, Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1, on brain proteome profiles in mice

RationaleThe gut microbiota may play an important role in the development and functioning of the mammalian central nervous system. The assumption of the experiment was to prove that the use of probiotic bacterial strains in the diet of mice modifies the expression of brain proteins involved in metabolic and immunological processes.Objectives and resultsAlbino Swiss mice were administered with Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 or Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1 every 24 h for 28 days. Protein maps were prepared from hippocampal homogenates of euthanized mice. Selected proteins that were statistically significant were purified and concentrated and identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Among the analysed samples, 13 proteins were identified. The mean volumes of calcyon, secreted frizzled-associated protein 3, and catalase in the hippocampus of mice from both experimental groups were statistically significantly higher than in the control group. In mice supplemented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1, a lower mean volume of fragrance binding protein 2, shadow of prion protein, and glycine receptor α4 subunit was observed compared to the control.ConclusionThe psychobiotics Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus JB-1enhances expression of proteins involved in the activation and maturation of nerve cells, as well as myelination and homeostatic regulation of neurogenesis in mice. The tested psychobiotics cause a decrease in the expression of proteins associated with CNS development and in synaptic transmission, thereby reducing the capacity for communication between nerve cells. The results of the study indicate that psychobiotic bacteria can be used in auxiliary treatment of neurological disorders.

Emerging role of MRI to assess the Volume of Pineal Glands in Schizophrenia and Mood Disorders: Literature Review

Most patients with manic depression and diseases have issues with their circadian rhythms and sleep. Melatonin, which is vital for circadian rhythm and sleep, is secreted by pineal gland. This study evaluated and compared the volume of pineal gland in individuals with psychotic symptoms and manic depression. The aim of study is to find out volume of Pineal glands in Schizophrenic Patients. The data included in this literature review were found using several search engines. Using magnetic resonance imaging, the total mean pineal volume compared with the total pineal gland volume of all patients. In this research's literature evaluation, only 26 articles were used for extraction of data related to topic statement. The current study looked role of MRI to assess volume of pineal gland in in Schizophrenic patients. Patients with manic depression had considerably lower mean volume of pineal gland than the other groups. It is concluded that although more research is needed to fully understand the aspects of medications and more mediating agents on the volume of pineal gland. This difference is not present in patients with manic depression. Pineal gland abnormalities in schizophrenia patients may contribute to the disease's etiology.

Optimal fluid volume for detecting malignancy in serous effusions: a single institution experience

Detection of malignant cells in serous fluids is an indicator of advanced stage of malignancy and is critical in clinical management decisions and prompt treatment initiation. The minimum volume which is ideal for detecting malignancy in serous fluid is not well established. In this study, we aim to identify optimal volume that will be ideal for adequate cytopathological diagnosis. A total of 1597 samples of serous fluids from 1134 patients were included in the study. Samples were diagnosed based on International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytopathology (ISRSFC). Clinicopathologic results from different diagnostic groups were compared and statistically analyzed. Pleural fluids comprised 890 (55.7%) specimens, followed by 456 (28.6%) peritoneal, 128 (8%) ascites, and 123 (7.7%) pericardial fluid specimens. The majority were negative for malignancy (1138, 71.3%), followed by malignant (376, 23.5%), atypical (59, 3.7%), and suspicious for malignancy (24, 1.5%). Malignancy was identified in sample with volumes from 5 mL to 5000 mL. Rate of detection of malignant cells increased significantly with higher sample volumes. For malignancy detection the optimal volume for overall serous fluid is 70 mL. Pericardial fluid is an exception, with lower mean volume and significantly lower proportion of cases with malignant diagnosis. Our study indicates that higher fluid volumes have a higher rate of malignancy detection and a low false-negative rate. We recommend a minimum of 70 mL of serous fluid for optimal cytopathologic examination and malignancy detection. Pericardial fluid is an exception, with lower mean volume and thus lower requirement.

Staged treatment of placenta accreta spectrum: A combined surgical and radiological approach.

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to determine maternal and neonatal outcomes following a combined surgical and interventional radiology (IR) approach to managing PAS, and the risks associated with this technique. Retrospective cohort study of all cases of PAS in a tertiary maternity centre between January 2001 and July 2020. Women who underwent caesarean hysterectomy for histologically confirmed PAS with a staged surgical and IR approach were compared with those who underwent caesarean hysterectomy without IR. Maternal, neonatal outcomes, surgical and radiological complications were assessed. Forty-six women were included in the study, and 30/46 (65.2%) underwent the staged surgical and IR approach. Women in the staged group had less overall blood loss (1794 mL vs 3713 mL; P < 0.001), less requirement for blood transfusion (40% vs 75%; P < 0.001), and a lower mean volume of packed red cells transfused (2.5 vs 6.1 units). Anaesthetic and operative times were longer for the staged group (468 vs 189 min: 272 vs 141 min P < 0.001), respectively. There were no differences in rates of neonatal or maternal complications between the two groups. This study demonstrates that a staged procedure combining surgery and IR for PAS results in a considerable reduction in blood loss, need for transfusion, and units of packed red cells transfused compared with surgery alone. The staged procedure required significantly longer anaesthetic and operative times; however, there were no differences in maternal and neonatal morbidity.

Changing temporal trends in patient volumes in a pediatric emergency department during a COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: A retrospective cohort study.

ObjectiveEmergency department (ED) teams have had to adjust limited staffing resources to meet the fluctuating levels of patient volume and acuity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, Mondays have had the highest reported ED volumes. We are unaware of any studies reporting on the change of this Monday effect during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThis retrospective, observational study of a single pediatric ED compared a pandemic lockdown period (3/23/2020-11/1/2020) with a seasonally comparative period (3/25/2019-11/3/2019). We compared the mean number of patients who arrived on Monday versus any other specific weekday (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday) and the aggregate of other weekdays (Tuesday to Friday) for both study periods. Secondary analyses investigated overall mean volumes, admission rates, and differences in triage acuity levels.ResultsThere were 31,377 and 18,098 patients in the comparative and pandemic periods. The mean number of ED visits on Mondays in the comparative period was significantly more than any other weekday and the aggregate of weekdays (latter p<0.001). In contrast, there were no significant differences in the mean number of ED visits on Mondays in the pandemic period relative to any other weekday and the aggregate of weekdays (all p>0.05). The pandemic period had significantly lower mean volumes, higher admission rates, and more patients with higher acuity levels.ConclusionThe previously experienced Monday effect of increased relative ED patient volumes was not seen during the pandemic period. This change has operational implications for scheduling ED staffing resources. Larger database studies are needed to determine the generalizability of these findings.

Correlations between sleep disturbance and brain structures associated with neurodegeneration in the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set

This study aimed to 1) determine the association between sleep disturbance and brain structure volumes, 2) the moderation effect of apolipoprotein ε4 genotype on sleep disturbance and brain structures, and 3) the moderation effect of sleep disturbance on cognitive status and regional brain volumes.Using the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set (n = 1,533), multiple linear regressions were used to evaluate the association between sleep disturbance and brain volumes. Sleep disturbance was measured using one question from the NPI-Q.After controlling for intracranial volume, age, sex, years of education, race, ethnicity, and applying the FDR correction, total cerebrospinal fluid volume, left lateral ventricle volume, total lateral ventricle volume, and total third ventricle volume demonstrated significantly higher means for those with sleep disturbance. Total brain volume, total white and gray matter volume, total cerebrum brain volume (including gray but not white matter), left hippocampus volume, total hippocampal volume, the left, right, and total frontal lobe cortical gray matter volume, and the left, right, and total temporal lobe cortical gray matter volume demonstrated significantly lower mean volumes for those with sleep disturbance. Sleep disturbance moderated the association between cognitive status and lateral ventricular volumes. These findings suggest that disrupted sleep is associated with atrophy across multiple brain regions and ventricular hydrocephalus ex vacuo.

Analysis of Clinical Traits Associated With Cardiovascular Health, Genomic Profiles, and Neuroimaging Markers of Brain Health in Adults Without Stroke or Dementia

The American Heart Association (AHA) Life's Simple 7 (LS7) score captures 7 biological and lifestyle factors associated with promoting cardiovascular health. To test whether healthier LS7 profiles are associated with significant brain health benefits in persons without stroke or dementia, and to evaluate whether genomic information can recapitulate the observed LS7. This genetic association study was a nested neuroimaging study within the UK Biobank, a large population-based cohort study in the United Kingdom. Between March 2006 and October 2010, the UK Biobank enrolled 502 480 community-dwelling persons aged 40 to 69 years at recruitment. This study focused on a subset of 35 914 participants without stroke or dementia who completed research brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and had available genome-wide data. All analyses were conducted between March 2021 and March 2022. The LS7 (blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, smoking, exercise, diet, and body mass index) profiles were ascertained clinically and genomically. Independent genetic variants known to influence each of the traits included in the LS7 were assessed. The total LS7 score ranges from 0 (worst) to 14 (best) and was categorized as poor (≤4), average (>4 to 9) and optimal (>9). The outcomes of interest were 2 neuroimaging markers of brain health: white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume and brain volume (BV). The final analytical sample included 35 914 participants (mean [SD] age 64.1 [7.6] years; 18 830 [52.4%] women). For WMH, compared with persons with poor observed LS7 profiles, those with average profiles had 16% (β = -0.18; SE, 0.03; P < .001) lower mean volume and those with optimal profiles had 39% (β = -0.39; SE, 0.03; P < .001) lower mean volume. Similar results were obtained using the genomic LS7 for WMH (average LS7 profile: β = -0.06; SE, 0.014; P < .001; optimal LS7 profile: β = -0.08; SE, 0.018; P < .001). For BV, compared with persons with poor observed LS7 profiles, those with average LS7 profiles had 0.55% (β = 0.09; SE, 0.02; P < .001) higher volume, and those with optimal LS7 profiles had 1.9% (β = 0.14; SE, 0.02; P < .001) higher volume. The genomic LS7 profiles were not associated with BV. These findings suggest that healthier LS7 profiles were associated with better profiles of 2 neuroimaging markers of brain health in persons without stroke or dementia, indicating that cardiovascular health optimization was associated with improved brain health in asymptomatic persons. Genomic information appropriately recapitulated 1 of these associations, confirming the feasibility of modeling the LS7 genomically and pointing to an important role of genetic predisposition in the observed association among cardiometabolic and lifestyle factors and brain health.

MP26-08 MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING-TARGETED BIOPSY FOR PRIMARY DETECTION OF PROSTATE CANCER: MRI IN-BORE VERSUS MRI-TRUS FUSION TECHNIQUE PERFORMED BY THE SAME OPERATORS' TEAM

You have accessJournal of UrologyProstate Cancer: Detection & Screening II (MP26)1 Sep 2021MP26-08 MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING-TARGETED BIOPSY FOR PRIMARY DETECTION OF PROSTATE CANCER: MRI IN-BORE VERSUS MRI-TRUS FUSION TECHNIQUE PERFORMED BY THE SAME OPERATORS' TEAM Martina Pecoraro, Francesco Del Giudice, Riccardo Campa, Maurizio Del Monte, Emanuele Messina, Marco Bicchetti, Alessandro Sciarra, Carlo Catalano, and Valeria Panebianco Martina PecoraroMartina Pecoraro More articles by this author , Francesco Del GiudiceFrancesco Del Giudice More articles by this author , Riccardo CampaRiccardo Campa More articles by this author , Maurizio Del MonteMaurizio Del Monte More articles by this author , Emanuele MessinaEmanuele Messina More articles by this author , Marco BicchettiMarco Bicchetti More articles by this author , Alessandro SciarraAlessandro Sciarra More articles by this author , Carlo CatalanoCarlo Catalano More articles by this author , and Valeria PanebiancoValeria Panebianco More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002023.08AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: (I) To compare the difference in the detection of overall PCa and csPCa between MRI-guided In-bore and MRI-TRUS targeted biopsy (TBx), performed by the same operators’ team. (II) To compare the two MR-directed biopsy (MRDB) techniques in terms of median percentage of cancer per biopsy core. METHODS: Retrospective single-center study. 263 patients enrolled. Prostate mpMRI was performed for the entire cohort. MRDB was performed when a PI-RADS score ≥3 was reported. For PCa and csPCa detection rate (DR), 2x2 contingency tables were tested via the Pearson’s chi-squared to explore the variance of the outcome distribution. The % of positive malignant cores was tested with a two-tailed Mann-Withney test.A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to assess the relative influence of MRI-TRUS vs. In-Bore TBx for both the outcome of PCa and csPCa diagnosis. Moreover, according to available literature and to the cohort quantitative descriptive distribution, after having assumed, as per secondary outcome, a relevant threshold of neoplastic median per-core percentage ≥50%, we implemented the same regression model to test the ability of one technique over the other to better characterize the overall sampled tumor tissue within the biopsy cores. RESULTS: Overall, per-patient PCa and csPCa detection rate was 140/223 (62.8%) and 97/223 (43.5%), respectively. PCa-DR was 73/117 (62.4%) and 67/106 (63.2%) for MRI-TRUS and MRI In-Bore TBx (p=0.9), while csPCa detection rate reached 50/117 (42.7%) and 47/106 (44.3%), respectively (p=0.81). The median overall per-patient percentage of malignant tissue within the total biopsy cores was 50% (IQR: 27–65%) for PCa and 60% (IQR: 35–68%) for csPCa, with a significant discrepancy between the two techniques. MRI In-Bore TBx was independently associated with more than 3-fold ability to reach the outcome in the case of PCa but not for csPCa (ORPCa: 3.34, 95%CI: 1.46–7.6, and ORcsPCa: 2.21, 95%CI: 0.86–5.7 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: No statistically significant difference was detected in terms of cancer DR comparing MRI In-Bore and TRUS TBx. MRI-TB showed highest per-core malignant cells percentage and lower mean volume of the targets compared to MRI-TRUS TBx. Source of Funding: None © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e465-e465 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Martina Pecoraro More articles by this author Francesco Del Giudice More articles by this author Riccardo Campa More articles by this author Maurizio Del Monte More articles by this author Emanuele Messina More articles by this author Marco Bicchetti More articles by this author Alessandro Sciarra More articles by this author Carlo Catalano More articles by this author Valeria Panebianco More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

Volumetric MRI Analysis of Brain Structures in Patients with History of First and Repeated Suicide Attempts: A Cross Sectional Study.

Structural brain changes are found in suicide attempters and in patients with mental disorders. It remains unclear whether the suicidal behaviors are related to atrophy of brain regions and how the morphology of specific brain areas is changing with each suicide attempt. The sample consisted of 56 patients hospitalized after first suicide attempt (first SA) (n = 29), more than one suicide attempt (SA > 1) (n = 27) and 54 healthy controls (HC). Brain volume was measured using FreeSurfer 6.0 automatic segmentation technique. In comparison to HC, patients with first SA had significantly lower cortical thickness of the superior and rostral middle frontal areas, the inferior, middle and superior temporal areas of the left hemisphere and superior frontal area of the right hemisphere. In comparison to HC, patients after SA > 1 had a significantly lower cortical thickness in ten areas of frontal cortex of the left hemisphere and seven areas of the right hemisphere. The comparison of hippocampus volume showed a significantly lower mean volume of left and right parts in patients with SA > 1, but not in patients with first SA. The atrophy of frontal, temporal cortex and hippocampus parts was significantly higher in repeated suicide attempters than in patients with first suicide attempt.

COMPARISON OF HEMOSTASIS WITH TRANEXAMIC ACID IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY.

ABSTRACTObjective: To compare the use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid (TXA) in unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in relation to blood loss and complications inherent to the medication.Method: Three groups with 14 patients each were constituted, and all of them were operated using the same surgical technique. In Group 1, usual measures for bleeding control were performed. Group 2 patients received TXA topically on the joint surface. In Group 3, intravenous TXA was used. Hemoglobin (HB), hematocrit (HTC), platelets (PLAT), prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and volume of blood drained observed 24 hours after arthroplasty were compared to the values of tests found before surgery.Results: There was a decrease in the concentration of HB, HTC and PLAT in all groups in relation to the preoperative, however without significant difference. Group 3 had a lower mean volume of drained blood than the other groups, with statistical significance. No adverse effects or thromboembolic events were observed in the groups that received TXA.Conclusion: This study showed superiority in the use of intravenous TXA in decreasing the volume of bleeding, without increasing the risk of thromboembolic events. Level of Evidence I, High quality randomized trial with statistically significant difference or no statistically significant difference but narrow confidence intervals.

The Impact of Sleep Disturbance on Regional Brain Volumes

Sleep disruption has been associated with increased beta-amyloid deposition and greater risk for later development of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies indicate that sleep disturbance correlates with regional brain volumes, but data are limited. We sought to determine the effect of sleep disturbance on regional brain volumes by cognitive and apolipoprotein e (APOE) e4 status. We conducted a secondary analysis of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) Uniform Data Set using complete structural imaging data from 1,371 participants (mean age: 70.5; SD: 11.7). Multiple linear regression was used to estimate the adjusted effect of sleep disturbance (via Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire) on regional brain volumes through measurement of 30 structural MRI biomarkers. Sleep disruption was associated with greater volumes in the right and left lateral ventricles and greater volume of total white matter hyperintensities (p<.05). Lower mean volumes in total brain, total gray matter, and total cerebrum grey matter volumes, and in 12 hippocampal, frontal, parietal, and temporal lobe volumes were observed among participants who reported sleep disturbance. Males, Hispanic participants, and those with less education were more likely to report sleep disruption. Cognitive status moderated the relationship between sleep disturbance and lateral ventricular volumes, while APOE e4 moderated the effect between sleep disturbance and parietal lobe volumes. These findings suggest that disrupted sleep is associated with atrophy across multiple brain regions and ventricular hydrocephalus ex vacuo, after controlling for intracranial volume and demographic covariates. The influence of cognition and APOE e4 status indicates that this relationship is affected by co-occurring physiological processes.

The Effect of Anxiety on Regional Brain Volumes in the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set

Anxiety has been associated with greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and existing research has identified structural differences in regional brain tissue in anxious compared to healthy samples, but results have been variable and somewhat inconsistent. We sought to determine the effect of anxiety on regional brain volumes by cognitive and apolipoprotein e (APOE) e4 status using data from a large, national dataset. A secondary analysis of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform (NACC) Data Set was conducted using complete MRI data from 1,371 participants (mean age: 70.5; SD: 11.7). Multiple linear regression was used to estimate the adjusted effect of anxiety (via the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire) on regional brain volumes through measurement of 30 structural MRI biomarkers. Anxiety was associated with lower total brain and total cortical gray matter volumes and increased lateral ventricular volume (p<.05). Lower mean volumes were also observed in all hippocampal, frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and right occipital lobe volumes among participants who reported anxiety. Conversely, greater ventricular volumes were also correlated with anxiety. Findings suggest that anxiety is associated with significant atrophy in multiple brain regions and ventricular enlargement, even after controlling for intracranial volume and demographic covariates. Anxiety-related changes to brain morphology may contribute to greater AD risk.

Regional Brain Volumes Associated With Depression in the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set

Depression has been associated with greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and existing research has identified structural differences in brain regions in depressed subjects compared to healthy samples, but results have been heterogeneous. We sought to determine the effect of depression on regional brain volumes by cognitive and APOE e4 status. Secondary analysis of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) Uniform Data Set was conducted using complete MRI data from 1,371 participants (mean age: 70.5; SD: 11.7). Multiple linear regression was used to estimate the adjusted effect of depression (via the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire) on regional brain volumes through measurement of 30 structural MRIs. Depression in the prior two years was associated with lower total brain, cerebrum,, and gray matter volumes and greater total brain white matter hyperintensities (p<.05). Greater volumes were also observed in all ventricular volume measures. Lower mean volumes were observed in six additional frontal lobe and parietal lobe cortical regions. Alternately, depression antecedent to the past 2 years correlated only with occipital lobe gray matter volumes (right, left, total). Our findings suggest that depression in the prior two years is associated with atrophy across multiple brain regions and related ventricular enlargement, even after controlling for intracranial volume and demographic covariates. The duration of depression influences results, however, as depression prior to 2 years before assessment was correlated with significantly fewer and different regional brain volume changes.

Effect of half-digital workflows on the adaptation of custom CAD-CAM composite post-and-cores

Statement of problemEven without the use of an intraoral scanner, post-and-cores can be obtained by using a part-digital fabrication workflow that requires pattern modeling (direct, indirect, or impression); however, studies on the adaptation of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) composite resin post-and-cores in comparison with metal cast post-and-cores are sparse. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to analyze the adaptation of CAD-CAM composite resin post-and-cores fabricated through a part-digital fabrication workflow and to compare it with that of metal cast post-and-cores fabricated through conventional methods. Method and materialsEight extracted human premolars were endodontically treated and prepared for custom post-and-cores. Metal cast post-and-cores were fabricated with Ni-Cr alloy (Fit Cast-Sb Plus; Talmax) and conventional resin pattern modeling methods directly in the root canal (conventional direct modeling) or indirectly in a stone cast (conventional indirect modeling). Composite resin post-and-cores were milled from nanohybrid glass-ceramic composite resin CAD-CAM blocks (Brava Block; FGM) by using the part-digital workflow. A laboratory scanner was used to digitalize polyvinyl siloxane impressions (part-digital scanned impression direct CAD-CAM [PSC]) of the root canals and resin patterns fabricated directly (part-digital direct CAD-CAM [PDC]) or indirectly (part-digital indirect CAD-CAM [PIC]). All post-and-cores were placed in the respectively prepared root canals, scanned with microcomputed tomography, and measured in terms of volume of the cementation space, the luting cement film thickness in each root third, and the apical gap between the apical end of the post-and-cores and remaining gutta percha (apical gap). The groups were compared for each adaptation parameter by using 2-way (volume of the cementation space and apical gap) and 3-way (film thickness) ANOVA, and the Games-Howell multicomparison post hoc test (α=.05). ResultsThe conventional direct modeling group had lower mean volume of the cementation space than all CAD-CAM composite resin post-and-cores (P<.041). The conventional indirect modeling group had a lower volume of the cementation space mean than PDC (P<.024) but was not significantly different from PIC (P=.577) or PSC (P=.221). Regardless of the fabrication workflow, no differences were observed among the CAD-CAM composite resin post-and-cores (P>.05). At the apical root third, conventional direct modeling and conventional indirect modeling had lower film thickness means than PSC or PDC (P<.05). In the middle third, conventional direct modeling and conventional indirect modeling had lower film thickness means than PDC (P≤.001). At the cervical third, no differences in film thickness means were observed among the groups (P>.05). PDC had a lower apical gap mean than PSC (P=.013), while no significant differences were found for other pair comparisons (P>.05). ConclusionsMetal post-and-cores had slightly better adaptation than the CAD-CAM composite resin post-and-cores; however, the part-digital fabrication workflow of CAD-CAM composite resin post-and-cores provided adaptation parameters within a clinically acceptable range and is less time consuming.

COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT METHODS OF MEASURING TREE VOLUMES IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF ANAPU, PARÁ, BRAZIL

The objective of this study was to compare three methods of measuring the volume of individual trees used extensively as a basis for adjusting volumetric functions in areas under forest management in the Brazilian Amazon, and verify the influence of species and diameter classes in obtaining the volume of individual trees. A total of 53 sample trees belonging to five species were analyzed and separated into three diametric classes. The real volume (VR) was obtained using Smalian’s method on fixed sections of 2 meters intervals along the stem; the geometric volume (VG) was also obtained by Smalian’s method, but with the lengths of the various sections along the stem. Volume loss (VP) was subtracted from the VR to obtain the usable volume (VA). An ANOVA in a factorial design (5 x 3 x 3) was performed to verify the effect of 5 species, 3 diameter classes, and 3 volume measurement methods (VR, VG, and VA) on the different volumes obtained. The 3 factors did affect the outcome of the analysis, but there were no interactions found between these variables. The volumes obtained by cubic scaling with different lengths (VG) presented a lower mean volume than VR. Although there was no difference between the means of VA and VR, wood loss was 6.5% of the total volume. There is a relationship between section length and volume loss, according to the presence of hollows, twists and cracks in the logs in the largest diameter classes.

Validation of a 3D CBCT-based protocol for the follow-up of mandibular condyle remodeling.

Objectives:Three-dimensional models of mandibular condyles provide a way for condylar remodeling follow-up. The overall aim was to develop and validate a user-friendly workflow for cone beam CT (CBCT)-based semi-automatic condylar registration and segmentation.Methods:A rigid voxel-based registration (VBR) technique for registration of two post-operative CBCT-scans was tested. Two modified mandibular rami, with or without gonial angle, were investigated as the volume of interest for registration. Inter- and intraoperator reproducibility of this technique was tested on 10 mandibular rami of orthognathic patients by means of intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC’s) and descriptive statistics of the transformation values from the VBR. The difference in reproducibility between the two modified rami was evaluated using a paired t-test (p < 0.05). For the segmentation, eight fresh frozen cadaver heads were scanned with CBCT and micro-CT. These data were used to test the inter- and intraoperator reproducibility (ICC’s) and accuracy (Bland–Altman plot) of a newly designed workflow based on semi-automated contour enhancement.Results:Excellent ICC’s (0.94–0.99) were obtained for the voxel-based registration technique using both modified rami. If the gonial angle was not included in the volume of interest, there was a trend of increased operator error suggested by significant higher interoperator differences in translation values (p = 0,0036). The segmentation workflow proved to be highly reproducible with excellent ICC’s (0.99), low absolute mean volume differences between operators (23.19 mm3), within operators (28.93 mm3) and low surface distances between models of different operators (<0.20 mm). Regarding the accuracy, CBCT-models slightly overestimate the condylar volume compared to micro-CT.Conclusions:This study provides a validated user-friendly and reproducible method of creating three-dimensional-surface models of mandibular condyles out of longitudinal CBCT-scans.

Association of Cavum Septum Pellucidum and Cavum Vergae With Cognition, Mood, and Brain Volumes in Professional Fighters

Many studies have investigated the imaging findings showing sequelae of repetitive head trauma, with mixed results. To determine whether fighters (boxers and mixed martial arts fighters) with cavum septum pellucidum (CSP) and cavum vergae (CV) have reduced volumes in various brain structures or worse clinical outcomes on cognitive and mood testing. This cohort study assessed participants from the Professional Fighters Brain Health Study. Data were collected from April 14, 2011, to January 17, 2018, and were analyzed from September 1, 2018, to May 23, 2019. This study involved a referred sample of 476 active and retired professional fighters. Eligible participants were at least 18 years of age and had at least a fourth-grade reading level. Healthy age-matched controls with no history of trauma were also enrolled. Presence of CSP, CV, and their total (additive) length (CSPV length). Information regarding depression, impulsivity, and sleepiness among study participants was obtained using the Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale, Barrett Impulsiveness Scale, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Cognition was assessed using raw scores from CNS Vital Signs. Volumes of various brain structures were measured via magnetic resonance imaging. A total of 476 fighters (440 men, 36 women; mean [SD] age, 30.0 [8.2] years [range, 18-72 years]) and 63 control participants (57 men, 6 women; mean [SD] age, 30.8 [9.6] years [range, 18-58 years]) were enrolled in the study. Compared with fighters without CV, fighters with CV had significantly lower mean psychomotor speed (estimated difference, -11.3; 95% CI, -17.4 to -5.2; P = .004) and lower mean volumes in the supratentorium (estimated difference, -31 191 mm3; 95% CI, -61 903 to -479 mm3; P = .05) and other structures. Longer CSPV length was associated with lower processing speed (slope, -0.39; 95% CI, -0.49 to -0.28; P < .001), psychomotor speed (slope, -0.43; 95% CI, -0.53 to -0.32; P < .001), and lower brain volumes in the supratentorium (slope, -1072 mm3 for every 1-mm increase in CSPV length; 95% CI, -1655 to -489 mm3; P < .001) and other structures. This study suggests that the presence of CSP and CV is associated with lower regional brain volumes and cognitive performance in a cohort exposed to repetitive head trauma.

Root-associated fungi increase male fitness, while high simulated herbivory decreases indirect defenses in Croton lachnostachyus plants

Plants interact with a diverse array of organisms below and above ground; some interactions with ants allow plants to be protected against herbivorous insects, influencing their growth or reproduction. In addition, indirect plant defenses—such as those mediated by extrafloral nectaries (EFNs)—could be affected by plant root symbionts. However, it is not clear how the suppression of root symbionts might affect extrafloral nectar (EFN) production and plant reproductive output. We made an experimental study with a shrub species with EFNs. Firstly, we tested if root-associated fungi (i.e., comparing plants with and without fungicide) increased the production of pollen (male function) and EFN (volume, nectar concentration, and total sugar content) in Croton lachnostachyus. Subsequently, we implemented a second experiment on the same plants, adding different levels of simulated herbivory (none, low, high) to assess the combined effects of root-associated fungi and herbivory. While we found high levels of mycorrhizal colonization, we found no signs of pathogenic fungi and negligible values of dark septate endophytes in roots so we attributed our results mostly to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The first experiment showed that plants without the fungicide treatment increased pollen production and secreted a lower mean volume of EFN with higher concentration of dissolved soluble solids. In the second experiment, high levels of simulated herbivory showed a diminution on EFN variables; also, we detected a lower shoot dry mass on plants with low levels of herbivory and no interactions with AMF. Our results suggest complex ecological responses related to the root-associated fungal community and simulated herbivory.