bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of a calcium‐phosphate/fluoride varnish and ionomeric sealant on cervical dentin hypersensitivity: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical study
Authors: Machado Alana Cristina , Maximiano Vinícius , Yoshida Mirian Lumi , Freitas Julia Gomes , Mendes Fausto Medeiros , Aranha Ana Cecilia Corrêa , Scaramucci Taís
Published: October 2021

Background

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a common problem in the population that can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from the condition.

Objectives

Compare the efficacy of two treatments for DH: Ca/PO4−/F− varnish (Clinpro White Varnish) and ionomeric sealant (IS) (Clinpro XT Varnish) with a placebo.

Methods

Participants (121) with at least one tooth with visual analogue scale (VAS) score of 4 and above were randomly and blindly allocated to the groups. Treatments were performed by a trained researcher. DH was evaluated by another blind researcher after the treatment and after 1 week, 4 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. After 4 weeks, placebo received the DH treatment with IS; thus, the participants were not assessed after 3 and 6 months. Primary outcome was DH reduction after 4 weeks. Differences in VAS scores in the other time intervals and entire values of VAS were considered secondary outcomes. Comparisons were made among the groups (α = 0.05).

Results

IS showed the highest VAS value difference between baseline and 4 weeks (mean ± SD: 3.7 ± 2.2), differing significantly from placebo (2.3 ± 1.7) and Ca/PO4/F− varnish (2.6 ± 2.0). Ca/PO4−/F− varnish did not differ from placebo. In all time intervals, VAS values of all groups were significantly lower than the baseline value, without differences among groups. For the long‐term differences in VAS values (3 and 6 months), the IS exhibited significantly higher values than Ca/PO4−/F− varnish.

Conclusions

The IS was the most efficacious product for reducing DH, whereas Ca/PO4−/F− varnish did not differ from placebo. Registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04591444).
The World Health Organization as actor in international environmental law? An analysis by example of the global waste challenge
Authors: Zimmermann Rahel
Published: October 2021

In recent years, it has proven increasingly difficult to persuade states to adopt new environmental commitments and to comply with their obligations already agreed upon under international environmental law. This begs the question how international environmental law could gain new momentum. This article suggests that a stronger emphasis on the health aspects of environmental problems could drive the international community to better respond to environmental problems. Such a shift of perspective could best be illustrated at the international level if the World Health Organization (WHO) takes on environmental issues. Therefore, this article analyses, by example of the global waste challenge, the WHO's Constitution and the International Health Regulations (2005) to determine its potential and limitations as an actor in international environmental law. The article argues that the WHO should use the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic to step up its commitment towards the environment, strengthen the ‘One Health’ approach and thereby help international environmental law regain momentum.
Micro-Asperity Contact Area Considering Strain Hardening for Metallic Materials
Authors: Xu Jinli , Zhu Jiwei , Xia Wei , Liu Baolei
Published: October 2021

A novel micro-asperity contact area model, which considers influences of strain hardening, is proposed to describe contact area between a deformable sphere and a rigid flat for metallic materials. First, a generalized formula considering work-hardening behaviors (Pilling-up or Sinking-in) between contact area and interference is proposed for fully plastic regime based on the definition of plastic contact area index. Then a relationship to calculate the critical interference at the inception of fully plastic deformation is derived. In order to incorporate the transition from elastic regime to fully plastic regime, a quadratic rational form formula is proposed based on volume conservation model for mixed elastoplastic regime. Therewith a modification is conducted to ensure continuity of contact area model at critical interference for fully plastic regime. Ultimately several representative models and experiment results are exhibited to analyze the availability of the present model. It is noted considering work-hardening fully plastic contact area index is not a constant value of two for any metallic materials, which is a function of strain hardening exponent. Demonstration testifies that smoothness constraint is not necessary at the critical interferences. The prediction data of present model are consistent with experiment results contrasting that of other models. Current generalized contact area model considering influence of work-hardening results in a better understanding of the contact area between a deformable sphere and a rigid flat and indicates a probability to analyze contact characteristics of two mating rough surfaces accurately.
The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Health-Related Quality of Life in People With Dementia: An Observational Study
Authors: Farina Nicolas , Hughes Laura J. , Thomas Serena , Lowry Ruth G. , Banerjee Sube
Published: October 2021

Recent research suggests the positive effect of physical activity on health-related quality of life in people with dementia may be mediated through improved activities of daily living and reduced depressive symptoms. One hundred and twenty-four people with dementia and their informal carers were recruited from the South East of England for this observational study. A subset of participants wore an accelerometer for 30 days. A series of bivariate analyses were completed, alongside mediation analyses. In people with mild to moderate severity dementia, weak positive associations were widely reported between physical activity indices and health-related quality of life, though only a single association reached statistical significance (rs = .25, p = .03). Mediation analysis revealed no significant indirect effects across the models after controlling for cognition. Future research needs to explore such relationships with a greater emphasis on the modality and psychosocial components of physical activity rather than just frequency, duration, and intensity.
A Method of Prolonging the Action of Penicillin
Authors: Romansky Monroe J. , Rittman George E.
Published: October 2021

(1) Single injections of penicillin in beeswax-peanut oil mixture will produce and maintain levels of penicillin in the blood for 7 or more hours.

(2) These mixtures have maintained their potency at room, incubator and refrigerator temperatures for 30 to 62 days and show no signs of deterioration to date.

(3) Eleven of twelve patients with gonorrhoea have been cured by a single injection of penicillin beeswax-peanut oil mixture.
Effect of Alloxan Diabetes on the Growing Rat
Authors: Chesler Annette , Tislowitz R.
Published: October 2021

Severe alloxan diabetes dwarfed the immature rat.
Erratum
Authors: Plough H. H.
Published: October 2021

May I point out a confusing error that occurs in the last line of Table 1 in our recent short paper (H. H. Plough and Madelon R. Grimm, "Reversal to Penicillin Sensitivity in a Cysteine-requiring Mutant of
Salmonella
,"
Science
, February 18, 1949, pp. 173-4). This should read: "S. D. alone- - - - - - -," that is, seven minus signs instead of one minus and six plus signs. I had to correct in galley an error of the original manuscript under a similar heading five lines above, and I assume that somehow the last line got shifted too.
Erratum: The Effect of Choline-Deficiency on Uterine Activity of Rats
Authors: Kraatz Charles P.
Published: October 2021

In the paper "The Effect of Choline-Deficiency on Uterine Activity of Rats," by Kraatz and Gruber (
Science
, March 25), the tenth line from the end, p. 312, ". . . choline every second" should be amended to read "...choline every second day."
Desert Tortoise
Gopherus agassizii
: Cutaneous Water Loss
Authors: Schmidt-Nielse Knut , Bentley P. J.
Published: October 2021

Evaporative water loss from the integument of the desert tortoise
Gopherus agassizii
constitutes a major proportion of the water loss, but is far less than in tortoises from wetter regions. Respiratory water loss also is less.
Hyperbaric Oxygen: Toxicity to Fish at Pressures Present in Their Swimbladders
Authors: D'Aoust Brian G.
Published: October 2021

When juvenile Pacific rockfish,
Sebastodes miniatus
, are exposed to oxygen tensions equal to those in their swimbladders, they exhibit symptoms characteristic of oxygen poisoning in mammals and ultimately die. Thus their central nervous system appears to be as sensitive to elevated oxygen pressure as that of higher vertebrates, whereas the cells of the gas gland tissue inside the swimbladder must be insensitive to the partial pressure of oxygen which they help to produce.
Correction
Authors: Stokoe David
Published: October 2021

In our report "Activation of Raf as a result of recruitment to the plasma membrane" (3 June, p. 1463) (
1
), panels E and F of figure 1 on page 1464 were incorrect. The correct photographs appear below. In addition, the

[See figure in the PDF file]

second sentence of the legend to figure 1 should have read, "The Raf constructs were tagged at the COOH-terminus with a Glu-Glu epitope (MEYMPME) (24) for c-Raf, or at the NH
2
-terminus with both the Glu-Glu and the Myc (MEQKLISEEDL) (23) epitopes for RafCAAX"; the next-to-the-last sentence of the legend to figure 1 should have read, "The c-Raf constructs in (A through D) are Glu-Glu-tagged and were detected by using an anti Glu-Glu antibody, and the RafCAAX and Raf6QCAAX constructs used in E and F were detected by using the antibody to Raf COOH-terminal peptide"; and the third sentence of note 26 should have read, "After blocking with 5% milk in phosphate-buffered saline (M-PBS), cells were incubated with a mouse monoclonal antibody to Glu-Glu or a rabbit polyclonal antibody to a 20-amino acid COOH-terminal peptide of Raf-1 (Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Santa Cruz, California), washed, and incubated with donkey antibodies to mouse or rabbit IgG combined with Texas Red (Jackson) in M-PBS, washed, and mounted in FITC-Guard (Testog)."
Correction
Authors: Davis Roger J.
Published: October 2021

The following sentence was omitted from the acknowledgment section of our report "Independent human MAP kinase signal transduction pathways defined by MEK and MKK isoforms" (3 Feb., p. 682)(1) because of an error. "A. Lin and M. Karin are acknowledged for informing us about the presence of an upstream in-frame initiation codon in the sequence of human MKK4/JNKK/SEK1 before publication."
Reanalysis Confirms Results of `Tainted' Study
Authors: Marshall Eliot
Published: October 2021

An audit and reanalysis of the data in a massive trial of breast cancer treatments, which had been tainted when a researcher falsified some patient records, has confirmed the original results: Lumpectomy is as effective as more radical mastectomy in reducing mortality.
Panel to Feds: Hands Off Radioisotopes
Authors: Wolfgang Lori
Published: October 2021

The deregulation fever gripping Washington has spread to the radioisotopes used in medicine and biomedical research. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has monitored these isotopes for the past 40 years as part of its oversight of the nuclear reactors where they are produced, but a panel of experts convened by the Institute of Medicine has now recommended that it turn over its authority to the states. The panel deemed many of the NRC's regulations burdensome and unnecessary.
Correction
Authors: Patton A. R.
Published: October 2021

THE 1942 U.S.D.A. Yearbook, "Keeping Livestock Healthy," page 1096, fails to give proper
credit to the research workers responsible for the experimental production of goiter in
poultry. This was first accomplished in 1938 by A. R. Patton, H. S. Wilgus, Jr., and G. S.
Harshfield (SCIENCE, 89: 162, 1939).
A Progress Report on the Construction of Population and Physiographic Maps for the State of Missouri
Authors: Odell Clarence Burt
Published: October 2021

In addition to the two wall maps and the accompanying isopleth map of population distribution the project calls for a detailed analysis of the distribution of the population of the state in terms of the physiography. The two maps on the same scale may be published as twin wall maps in order to portray the geographic distribution of population. In a state with such variety in land forms it is hoped that a close relationship between population distribution and physiography can be brought out with great emphasis. It is hoped that this brief report will record the good intentions of the author to provide new maps useful in the field of geographic teaching and research.
Socioeconomic impacts of marine heatwaves: Global issues and opportunities
Authors: Smith Kathryn E. , Burrows Michael T. , Hobday Alistair J. , Sen Gupta Alex , Moore Pippa J. , Thomsen Mads , Wernberg Thomas , Smale Dan A.
Published: October 2021

The impacts of marine heatwaves

Extreme warming events in the world’s oceans are becoming more widespread and frequent; 8 of the 10 most severe recorded events have taken place in the past decade. Smith
et al
. review how these marine heatwaves are severely altering ecosystem service provision, with widespread socioeconomic impacts. Heatwave effects, including range shifts and mass mortality of marine species and harmful algal blooms, have knock-on economic consequences that already run into billions of US dollars. As well as reviewing the impacts of these events, the authors discuss the mitigation and adaptation measures that are needed to alleviate the risks and damaging impacts. —AMS
Iron-catalyzed coupling of three reactants
Authors: Lefèvre Guillaume
Published: October 2021

Vinyl boronates couple under mild conditions to two partners through carbon-carbon bonds
The myth of healthy smoking
Pushing Cool
Keith Wailoo
University of Chicago Press, 2021. 392 pp.
The Devil’s Playbook
Lauren Etter
Crown, 2021. 496 pp.
Authors: Parascandola Mark
Published: October 2021

Two books examine timeworn tactics employed by the tobacco industry to attract new customers
An improved water-harvesting cycle
Authors: Öhrström Lars , Amombo Noa Francoise M.
Published: October 2021

Tuning metal-organic frameworks at the atomic level helps release trapped water molecules
In Science Journals
Authors: Osborne Ian S. , Vinson Valda , Grocholski Brent , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Ash Caroline , Szuromi Phil , Warren Warren , Olingy Claire , Scanlon Seth Thomas , Vignieri Sacha , Yeston Jake , Fogg Christiana N. , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Alderton Gemma , Sugden Andrew M.
Published: October 2021

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
A golden menace
Authors: Moutinho Sofia
Published: October 2021

An invasive mussel is devastating ecosystems as it spreads through South American rivers, threatening the Amazon basin
Polio vaccination to resume across Afghanistan
Authors: Roberts Leslie
Published: October 2021

Success depends on shoring up the country’s health system
Red blood cells may be immune sentinels
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: October 2021

Oxygen-carrying cells also capture DNA from pathogens and damaged cells
What tore apart
The Lancet
’s COVID-19 origin probe?
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: October 2021

Former members cite confidentiality dispute and challenge concerns over conflicts of interest that derailed effort
Guyot's ‘Creation’
Authors:   Writer of the Notice
Published: October 2021

In the notice of Guyot's 'Creation' 'there is an error which makes me say precisely the opposite of my meaning. On p. 601, first column, fifth line, for 'only' read '
more than
'.
Bone Necrosis – An Occupational Hazard of Diving
Authors: Elliott D. H. , Harrison J. A. B.
Published: October 2021

Aseptic bone necrosis occurs in naval divers and has been found in symptomless cases. The incidence is much lower than in other published series. The results and implications of a radiological survey of 350 naval divers are discussed and radiological features and techniques are described.
The Sailor’s Stomach
Authors: Watt James
Published: October 2021

The incidence of peptic ulceration in the Royal Navy is higher than in a comparable civilian population and has been rising. It is highest in sedentary groups and lowest in active groups in which physical activity and job satisfaction appear to be important. Four factors appear directly responsible for the high incidence of peptic ulceration in sailors: the personality of those attracted to a seagoing life; operational conditions associated with tension, responsibility and manpower shortages; inadequate physical activity; a diet rich in refined carbohydrates. Contributory factors are smoking, alcohol, noise, domestic unhappiness and intestinal parasites. Job satisfaction and physical fitness appear to reduce the risk. A link appears to exist between peptic ulceration and urolithiasis in the Royal Navy. Gastric secretory studies have failed to provide meaningful information and high acid levels have been found in groups with the lowest incidence of peptic ulceration. Changes in catering arrangements, diet and conditions of service are unlikely to reduce the incidence of peptic ulceration.
Service Psychotherapy Special Aspects of the Therapeutic Relationship
Authors: Scott-Brown A. W.
Published: October 2021

Psychotherapy is the treatment of psychological illness by purely psychological methods.

This form of treatment is complex involving a number of techniques. It is affected by a number of variable and ill-defined factors whose effects are difficult to quantify (Davies, 1972).

In the opinion of the author a major factor in treatment is the doctor patient relationship which is here described as the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is of necessity modified by the society within which it operates. The Service social situation imposes its own specific modifications on the relationship. These modifications affect the psychotherapeutic relationships of all Service doctors and not just the specialist psychotherapists.
Feminising Interstitial Cell Tumour of the Testis
Authors: Gray S. P. , Chandler H. , Bouskill K. C. , Blacklock N. J.
Published: October 2021

A case of an interstitial cell tumour of the testis associated with bilateral gynae-comastia is described. The patient excreted excessive amounts of oestrogen in the urine whilst the 17-oxosteroids were within normal limits. Analysis of the testicular tumour removed at operation showed that it contained much more oestrone, andros-terone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and aetiocholanolone, than did the non neoplastic testicular tissue surrounding the tumour.

It is suggested that these steroids produced by the tumour were the cause of the patient’s feminisation, and that there were two effects reinforcing each other, viz, the excess of oestrogen itself and the presence of sufficient amounts of weakly androgenic steroids to lower the normal level of testosterone production by the testis.

These effects could have been mediated in two different ways; indirectly by stimulation of the negative feedback mechanism of the pituitary causing less ICSH to reach the testis, and directly by the inhibition of the enzymes concerned with the normal biosynthesis of testosterone in the testis.
The Anterior Maxillary Osteotomy
Authors: Hall T. J. C.
Published: October 2021

The aetiology of dental malocclusion is described and the indications for the surgical correction of an incisor prolusion are considered. The technique of anterior maxillary osteotomy is outlined and possible treatment complications are mentioned.
A Case of Idiopathic Respiratory Distress Syndrome (IRDS) Treated with Continuous Positive Airways Pressure (CPAP)
Authors: Hunt Richard H. , Burtles R.
Published: October 2021

A case of Idiopathic Respiratory Distress Syndrome (IRDS) is reported where the neonate was successfully treated with an improvised method for applying continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP) which employed an East Radcliffe Ventilator and Oxygenaire mask. The Idiopathic Respiratory Distress Syndrome is described and the rationale for continuous positive airways pressure is briefly discussed with regard to the present knowledge of the aetiology of IRDS. The apparatus and techniques that were used in this case are described.
Pityriasis Lichenoides et Varioliformis Acuta and Suspected Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lowe Nicholas J.
Published: October 2021

A case of Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLV A) is reported in whom evidence of a cardiomyopathy developed during the early stages of the disease.
Is Myringoplasty Worth While?
Authors: Jackson P. D.
Published: October 2021

This paper analyses a series of 100 consecutive myringoplasties carried out at the Royal Naval Hospital, Plymouth, by the author.
Evaluation of standardized mixture of synbiotic-glyconutrients supplemented in lambs finished during summer season in tropical environment: growth performance, dietary energetics, and carcass characteristics
Authors: Castro-Pérez Beatriz I. , Núñez-Benítez Víctor H. , Estrada-Angulo Alfredo , Urías-Estrada Jesús D. , Gaxiola-Camacho Soila M. , Rodríguez-Gaxiola Miguel A. , Angulo-Montoya Claudio , Barreras Alberto , Zinn Richard A. , Perea-Domínguez Xiomara P. , Plascencia Alejandro
Published: October 2021

Twenty-four Pelibuey × Katahdin lambs (36.4 ± 2.9 kg initial weight) were used in a 77 d feeding trial in a randomized complete block design to evaluate the influence of a standardized synbiotic-glyconutrient combination (GLY) on growth performance, dietary energetic, and carcass characteristics of lambs finished during a period of high ambient temperature. Dietary treatments consisted of a high-energy basal diet supplemented (% of diet dry matter basis) with 0% versus 0.4% GLY. Throughout the study, the average temperature humidity index (THI) was 76.23, corresponding to the “alert” range, but daily maximum THI exceeded 80 for 2 to 6 h of each day of the 77 d study. Daily GLY intake averaged 0.10 g GLY·kg−1 live weight. Supplemental GLY increased (P = 0.04) daily water intake, but dry matter intake was not affected. Supplemental GLY increased (P < 0.03) initial 56-d, and overall (77-d) average daily gain, gain efficiency and estimated dietary net energy. Lambs fed GLY had greater (P ≤ 0.05) hot carcass weight and fat thickness, and decreased (P = 0.02) kidney-pelvic-heart fat. Supplemental GLY did not affect (P ≥ 0.16) shoulder tissue composition or relative weight of visceral mass. Synbiotic-glyconutrient combination improved growth performance, dietary energy, and carcass weight in lambs finished in high ambient temperatures. Enhancements in growth performance and dietary energetics were most appreciable during the first 56 d of the 77 d finishing period.
The timing of snowmelt and amount of winter precipitation have limited influence on flowering phenology in a tallgrass prairie
Authors: Chandler Emma K. , Travers Steven E.
Published: October 2021

A growing body of work indicates that the timing of flowering of temperate angiosperms has been affected by shifts in climate since the 1970s. Sensitivity in flowering phenology to changing temperatures has been particularly well-documented, but widespread phenological sensitivity to changing precipitation patterns in temperate communities has only been shown in a few studies. The exception is relationships between snowpack and early flowering in alpine environments, whereby the timing of flowering herbs had strong associations with winter precipitation and the snowmelt timing. Based on these results, we hypothesized that populations in temperate latitudes characterized by strong seasonality and winter snowfall would demonstrate associations between timing of snowmelt and flowering phenology. We combined a historical dataset of first flowering dates in a Minnesota tallgrass prairie with climatic data to construct a structural equation model, testing hypotheses on the relationships between winter precipitation, temperature, and flowering phenology. While temperature had a strong effect on flowering phenology, winter precipitation had a significant relationship with only a few species. The species affected by snow were later flowering species, which is inconsistent with our prediction that winter precipitation affects early flowering phenology. These results suggest future changes in precipitation will have differing consequences depending on region.
NOVEL APPROACH FOR FRACTAL NONLINEAR OSCILLATORS WITH DISCONTINUITIES BY FOURIER SERIES
Authors: WANG KANG-LE
Published: October 2021

This paper argues that in the microgravity space, the fractal nonlinear oscillators’ models with discontinuities are established by the fractal calculus, and their fractal variational principles are obtained via using the fractal semi-inverse method. Finally, a novel technology is proposed to find the frequency of the fractal nonlinear oscillators’ model by using the Fourier series. The results illustrate that the proposed method is efficient and accurate.
Results From Invoking Artificial Neural Networks to Measure Insider Threat Detection & Mitigation
Authors: Williams Adam D. , Abbott Shannon N. , Shoman Nathan , Charlton William S.
Published: October 2021

Advances on differentiating between malicious intent and natural “organizational evolution” to explain observed anomalies in operational workplace patterns suggest benefit from evaluating collective behaviors observed in the facilities to improve
insider threat detection and mitigation (ITDM).
Advances in
artificial neural networks (ANN)
provide more robust pathways for capturing, analyzing, and collating disparate data signals into quantitative descriptions of operational workplace patterns. In response, a joint study by Sandia National Laboratories and the University of Texas at Austin explored the effectiveness of commercial artificial neural network (ANN) software to improve ITDM. This research demonstrates the benefit of learning patterns of organizational behaviors, detecting off-normal (or anomalous) deviations from these patterns, and alerting when certain types, frequencies, or quantities of deviations emerge for improving ITDM. Evaluating nearly 33,000 access control data points and over 1,600 intrusion sensor data points collected over a nearly twelve-month period, this study's results demonstrated the ANN could recognize operational patterns at the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory (NETL) and detect off-normal behaviors—suggesting that ANNs can be used to support a data-analytic approach to ITDM. Several representative experiments were conducted to further evaluate these conclusions, with the resultant insights supporting collective behavior-based analytical approaches to quantitatively describe insider threat detection and mitigation.
Vertical Suspension Optimization for a High‐Speed Train with PSO Intelligent Method
Authors: Qiu Zhongcheng , Han Shichang , Na Jing , Wang Chen
Published: October 2021

Intelligent methods and algorithms have promoted the development of the intelligent transportation system in many ways. In the rail transportation, the vertical performance of a high‐speed train suspension system has a great impact on the riding comfort of the train. Based on the intelligent optimization method of particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, different inerter‐spring‐damper (ISD) suspension layouts are proposed for better riding comfort. A 10‐degree‐of‐freedom (10‐DOF) vertical dynamic model of a high‐speed train is established, and the new suspension layouts are applied to the primary and secondary suspension of the train at the same time. Optimizations are carried out for the suspension parameters of the high‐speed train. Performances of different suspension layouts at different running speeds are analysed and compared. The best layout for suspension is concluded. What is more, the virtual prototype simulation and analysis of a high‐speed train with consideration of nonlinear inerters are carried out. Friction of a rack‐pinion inerter is simulated in the virtual prototype simulation. And the influence of nonlinearity is discussed compared with the ideal suspensions. All the results can represent a guidance for future train suspension design and help the intelligent rail transportation system to be more comfortable.
Primary Multifocal Recurrent Urinary Bladder Amyloidosis: A Rare Case Report from Syria
Authors: Doya Leen Jamel , Doya Lama , Al-Yousef Khaled , Adib Ali , Al Shamali Abedallah , Al Deeb Basel , Kanan Mohamad
Published: October 2021

Primary urinary bladder amyloidosis is a rare disorder of protein metabolism characterized by the extracellular deposition of fibrillin. To date, fewer than 200 cases have been reported in the literature. We herein present a case of 59-year-old female with primary multifocal recurrent urinary bladder amyloidosis. The patient was treated with a new method (laser therapy) mentioned for the first time in the literature. After 18 months of treatment, the patient has no complaints. Our case illustrates a new procedure in the treatment of primary multifocal bladder amyloidosis.
Efficacy and Safety of Sarilumab in COVID-19: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chamlagain Rajan , Shah Sangam , Sharma Paudel Basanta , Dhital Roman , Kandel Bipin
Published: October 2021

Background. It has been found that there is overactivation of immune response in patients with COVID-19. Several studies are going on to assess the role of immunomodulation. IL-6 antibodies such as tocilizumab have been found to have efficacy in the treatment of COVID-19. We aim to assess the role of sarilumab in the treatment of COVID-19 through this review. Main Body. Functional outcomes were assessed on the basis of PaO2/FiO2 ratio, mortality, and ventilation. Adverse events of studies were also noted. Five studies were included in the study. There was improvement in PaO2/FiO2 ratio, reduction in the mortality of the patients, and less number of patients were on ventilation, but there were no significant differences among the comparison and sarilumab group. Sarilumab did not have notable adverse events and can be considered a safe drug. Conclusion. Sarilumab is a safe drug with good clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19 and, hence, could be used as an alternative regimen for the treatment. Further prospective studies exploring the relations with baseline biomarkers of inflammation commonly measured such as C-reactive protein and IL-6 would be necessary for a correlation with the treatment.
Balloon-Augmented Leaflet Modification With Bioprosthetic or Native Aortic Scallop Intentional Laceration to Prevent Iatrogenic Coronary Artery Obstruction and Laceration of the Anterior Mitral Leaflet to Prevent Outflow Obstruction: Benchtop Validation and First In-Man Experience
Authors: Perdoncin Emily , Bruce Christopher G. , Babaliaros Vasilis C. , Yildirim Dursun Korel , Depta Jeremiah P. , McCabe James M. , Gleason Patrick T. , Xie Joe , Grubb Kendra J. , Paone Gaetano , Kohli Keshav , Kamioka Norihiko , Khan Jaffar M. , Rogers Toby , Lederman Robert J. , Greenbaum Adam B.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Bioprosthetic or native aortic scallop intentional laceration to prevent iatrogenic coronary artery obstruction (BASILICA) and laceration of the anterior mitral leaflet to prevent outflow obstruction (LAMPOON) reduce the risk of coronary and left ventricular outflow obstruction obstruction during transcatheter aortic valve replacement and transcatheter mitral valve replacement. Despite successful laceration, BASILICA or LAMPOON may fail to prevent obstruction caused by inadequate leaflet splay in patients having challenging anatomy such as very small valve-to-coronary distance, diffusely calcified, rigid leaflets, or undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement inside existing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. We describe a novel technique of balloon-augmented (BA) leaflet laceration to enhance leaflet splay.

Methods:

We measured the incremental leaflet splay from BA-BASILICA in vitro. From November 2019 to March 2021, 16 patients underwent BA-BASILICA and 4 BA-LAMPOON at 3 centers.

Results:

BA-BASILICA increased benchtop leaflet tip splay 17%, maximum splay angle 30%, and splay area 23%, resulting in a more rounded apex and larger effective area. Sixteen patients at risk for inadequate BASILICA leaflet splay, including 4 transcatheter aortic valve replacement inside existing transcatheter aortic valve replacement, underwent BA-BASILICA. All had successful leaflet laceration. One had coronary obstruction requiring immediate orthotopic stenting. Two underwent elective orthotopic coronary stenting through the transcatheter valve cells for leaflet prolapse without coronary ischemia. There were no deaths during the procedure or at 30 days. Four patients at risk for inadequate anterior mitral leaflet splay underwent BA-LAMPOON. All had successful target leaflet laceration without left ventricular outflow obstruction obstruction or procedural death. One died within 30 days.

Conclusions:

BA leaflet laceration enhances leaflet splay in vitro and may allow transcatheter aortic valve replacement and transcatheter mitral valve replacement in patients otherwise ineligible for traditional BASILICA or LAMPOON due to challenging anatomy.

Graphic Abstract:

A
graphic abstract
is available for this article.
Bulbophyllum hamatum (Orchidaceae), a new species from Hubei, central China
Authors: YAN QI , LI XIN-WEI , WU JIN-QING
Published: October 2021

N/A
Temperature Sensors Based on AlN/4H-SiC Diodes
Authors: Shin Myeong-Cheol , Kim Dong-Hyeon , Jung Seong-Woo , Schweitz Michael A. , Koo Sang-Mo
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTThis study report on the formation of AlN/SiC heterostructure Schottky diodes for use of temperature sensing applications enhance the sensitivity. We analyzed the sensitivity of the AlN/SiC Schottky diode sensor depending on the annealing temperature. AlN/4H-SiC Schottky
diodes were fabricated by depositing aluminum nitride (AlN) thin film on 4H/SiC by radio frequency sputtering. The forward bias electrical characteristics were determined under DC bias (in the voltage range of 0–1.5 V). The ideality factor, barrier height, and sensitivity were derived
through current–voltage–temperature (I–V–T) measurements in the temperature range of 300–500 K. The sensitivity of the AlN/4H-SiC Schottky barrier diode ranged from 2.5–5.0 mV/K.
Multi-Scale Analysis of Changes in Crack-Free Flattened Moso Bamboo After Saturated Steam Treatment and Flattening Process
Authors: Yuan Tiancheng , Xiao Xiao , Xin-Han  , Wu Yifei , Wang Xinzhou , Liu Xianmiao , Li Yanjun
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTIn this study, Moso bamboo was firstly softened by saturated steam and then pressed flat by a machine. The modification effect (high-temperature saturated steam) was characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, and wet chemistry. The dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was used
to investigate the effects of three variables (temperature, time, and moisture content) on the thermal-mechanical properties of Moso bamboo. The results indicated that high-temperature saturated steam can effectively soften bamboo cells under high pressure at high temperature. As expected,
in comparison with reference samples, the content of hemicellulose and cellulose decreased, while that of relative lignin increased. The results of the changes in main chemical composition were further confirmed by FTIR, which showed that the intensity of the main peak belongs to hemicellulose
decreased, so the polysaccharide such as hemicellulose went through the process of hydrolysis and pyrolysis. An increase in the moisture content of bamboo led to a decrement in storage modulus value, which can be attributed to the plasticizing effect. Both temperature and time had a positive
effect on the reduction in glass transition temperature. This conclusion not only helps to understand the relationship between bamboo and water, but also provides guide for the utilization and production process of crack-free flattened bamboo board and its products in the construction and
building fields.
Biological Activity Test of Dendrobium Huoshanense and Its Application in the Detection of Environmental Pollutant Phenols
Authors: Wang Yujuan , Dai Jun , Wei Peipei , Cai Yongping , Han Bangxing
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTIn this research, a new type of carbon quantum dot was prepared from Dendrobium huoshanense via one-step hydrothermal reaction at 200 °C for 6 h. The as-derived carbon quantum dots exhibited good fluorescence properties, with quantum yield of 23.57%. The extraction
and determination of Dendrobium huoshanense enzymes activity were performed for different incubation times to study the theoretical reference for the dynamic changes of the main enzyme activity in the process of Dendrobium huoshanense growth and the solid processing industry. The results demonstrated
that Dendrobium huoshanense was a low toxic carbon source material. Moreover, the prepared carbon quantum dots exhibited high sensitivity for the detection of nonylphenol, allowing a range of linear response of 0.5–50 µM (R2 = 0.9997). The detection limit
was a slow as 95.32 nM. These results indicated that fluorescence internal filtration effect influenced nonylphenol-induced quenching of the Dendrobium huoshanense-carbon quantum dots fluorescence. The Dendrobium huoshanense-carbon quantum dots were successfully used to track nonylphenol in
environmental samples. Therefore, their exploitation offers a promising approach for environmental pollutant detection.
“It is the fear of exercise that stops me” – attitudes and dimensions influencing physical activity in pulmonary hypertension patients
Authors: McCormack Ciara , Cullivan Sarah , Kehoe Brona , McCaffrey Noel , Gaine Sean , McCullagh Brian , Moyna Niall M. , Hardcastle Sarah J.
Published: October 2021

Pulmonary hypertension is a progressive cardiorespiratory disease that is characterized by considerable morbidity and mortality. While physical activity can improve symptoms and quality of life, engagement in this population is suboptimal. The aim of this study was to explore attitudes towards exercise and the dimensions that influence physical activity participation in individuals with pulmonary hypertension. Virtual, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with individuals, with a formal diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension. Participants were recruited through the Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Ireland. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Nineteen patients were interviewed (n = 19). There was a female preponderance (n = 13) and the mean age was 50 ± 12 years. Three themes were identified and included fear, perceived value of exercise and environmental factors. Fear was the primary theme and included three sub‐themes of fear of (i) over‐exertion, (ii) physical damage and (iii) breathlessness. The perceived value of exercise encompassed two distinct sub‐themes of perceived (i) exercise importance and (ii) benefits of exercise. Environmental factors included the terrain, weather conditions and location. Fear of overexertion, harm and dyspnoea strongly influenced attitudes to and engagement in physical activity. This study revealed heterogenous patient perspectives regarding the importance of physical activity and exercise. Future interventions that mitigate fear and promote the value of physical activity for individuals with pulmonary hypertension may have considerable benefits in promoting physical activity engagement. Such interventions require multidisciplinary involvement, including specialised pulmonary hypertension clinicians and exercise and behaviour change specialists.
Application of a protective sleeve is associated with decreased occupational anxiety during endotracheal intubation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Chaojin , Shen Ning , Chen Liubing , Luo Tongsen , Lu Tianyou , Liu Dezhao , Zhang Qi , Hei Ziqing
Published: October 2021

Background

The high risk of cross-infection during tracheal intubation has caused excessive occupational anxiety for anaesthesiologists amid the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Currently, there is no effective way to attenuate their anxiety in clinical practice. We found that anaesthesiologist with better protective equipment might experience decreased levels of anxiety during intubation.

Methods

In this study, 60 patients who underwent intubation and extubation in the operating room were enrolled, and then randomized 1:1 to either wear protective sleeves (protective sleeve group) or not (control group). Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to measure the anxiety level of anaesthesiologists during intubation. The respiratory droplets of patients on the sleeve, and the anaesthesiologists’ perception including the patient’s oral malodour, exertion, satisfaction degree, waist discomfort and shoulder discomfort were recorded. The patients’ anxiety, oppressed feelings and hypoxia and postoperative complications were all measured and recorded.

Results

Compared with the control group, the anaesthesiologists in protective sleeve group achieved lower anxiety scores and better satisfaction degrees during the process of intubation and extubation (all P < 0.05). Respiratory droplets were observed only on the inner side, but not the external side, of the protective sleeves (P < 0.001). The incidence of the anaesthesiologists’ perception of patients’ oral malodour was significantly lower in the protective sleeve group (P = 0.02) and no patients developed hypoxemia or intubation-related complications in the protective sleeve group.

Conclusion

Using protective devices for intubation might eliminate droplet transmission from patients to anaesthesiologists, while also decreasing their anxiety in a controlled operating room environment.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial. no. ChiCTR2000030705. Registry at www.chictr.org.cn on 10/03/2020.
Trends in antipsychotic prescribing for approved and unapproved indications to Medicaid-enrolled youth in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania between 2014 and 2018
Authors: Candon Molly , Shen Siyuan , Fadeyibi Oluwatoyin , Smith Joseph L , Rothbard Aileen
Published: October 2021

Background

Antipsychotic prescribing to Medicaid-enrolled youth has been the target of numerous policy initiatives, including prior authorization and quality monitoring programs, which often target specific populations. Whether these efforts have changed the level or composition of antipsychotic prescribing is unclear.

Methods

Using 2014–2018 administrative claims data for Medicaid enrollees aged 21 years and under in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,

we measured antipsychotic prescription fills overall and for youth without an approved indication (autism, bipolar disorder, or psychosis). We then assessed whether trends differed for populations that have been targeted by policy initiatives, including younger children and foster care-enrolled youth. We also identified the most common approved and unapproved indications and examined whether the treatment duration of antipsychotic prescriptions differed based on whether the youth had an approved or unapproved indication.

Results

Overall, the number of Medicaid youth with an antipsychotic prescription fill halved between 2014 and 2018. Youth aged 17 years and under and foster care-enrolled youth, who were targeted by prior authorization and quality improvement efforts, experienced larger declines. Roughly half of prescriptions were for unapproved indications in both 2014 and 2018; the most common unapproved indication was ADHD, and the treatment duration was shorter for unapproved indications compared to approved indications.

Conclusions

Antipsychotic prescribing to Medicaid-enrolled youth is declining, particularly among populations that have been targeted by policy initiatives like prior authorization and quality monitoring programs. Despite the fact that these initiatives often assess diagnostic criteria, half of antipsychotic prescriptions were for unapproved indications in both 2014 and 2018. More research is needed to gauge whether this prescribing is appropriate.
Famotidine promotes inflammation by triggering cell pyroptosis in gastric cancer cells
Authors: Huang Jin , Fan Pingsheng , Liu Miao , Weng Chengtao , Fan Gaofei , Zhang Tengyue , Duan Xiaohong , Wu Yang , Tang Lili , Yang Guohong , Liu Yabei
Published: October 2021

Background

Cell pyroptosis has been characterized by cell swelling and pro-inflammatory factors release to aggravate inflammatory reaction., such as interlukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interlukin18 (IL-18). However, the function of famotidine, an antagonist of histamine H2-receptor antagonists, in cell pyroptosis remained unknown.

Methods

Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), western blotting (WB), LDH release assay and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (Elisa) combined with inhibitor were performed to analyze the effect of famotidine on cell pyroptosis-related gene expression.

Results

In this study, we found that famotidine (300 μm) treatment led to a phenomenon of cell pyroptosis as confirmed by LDH assay. Further results showed that famotidine triggered cell pyroptosis in gastric cancer cells by activation of NLPR3 inflammasomes including ASC, Caspase-1 and NLRP, leading to enhanced IL-18, not IL-1β, mature and secretion. What’s more, the results also showed GSDME, not GSDMD, was increased in response to famotidine stimulation in BGC823 and AGS cells. Mechanically, phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was drastically enhanced in present with famotidine treatment, while inhibition of ERK1/2 activity by U0126 could reverse the promotion of famotidine in IL-18 secretion.

Conclusion

These findings revealed a novel role of famotidine in cell pyroptosis in patients with gastric cancer, a comprehensive consideration is needed in treatment of gastric cancer.
Porucznik dr Grzegorz Fedorowski „Gryf” – w służbie medycyny i ojczyzny
Authors: Lusek Joanna
Published: October 2021

LIEUTENANT DR GRZEGORZ FEDOROWSKI “GRYF”: IN THE SERVICE OF THE MEDICINE AND HOMELAND Grzegorz Fedorowski, the code name “Gryf” (1901-1983) – a doctor born in Warsaw into a family with Jewish traditions. He was, like his father, a graduate of the Medical Faculty of the University of Warsaw. During his studies, as a volunteer, he took part in the Polish-Bolshevik war. In the interwar period, he continued his military career. Professionally he was associated with the Infant Jesus Hospital, Society for Emergency Medical Assistance, Social Insurance Company, and finally – as a factory doctor – with the Special Ammunition Workshop and the laboratory of Pharmaceutical Industrial Plants of Aleksander Wieniewicz. As World War II broke out, he was mobilised as a lieutenant and assigned to the 85th Infantry Regiment. His Jewish origin, despite his joining the Evangelical- Augsburg Church, meant that he was verified by the German authorities as a Jewish doctor. Initially, he was sent to work in the camp hospital in the Sawina labour camp, then he and his family were imprisoned in the Warsaw ghetto. After getting out of the ghetto, he was active in the underground for some time, and then, in 1943, he was transferred to Volhynia, where he served as a military doctor in the partisan unit “Gromada”, then in the 27th Volhynian Infantry Division of the Home Army. In 1944, he was interned in prisoner-of-war camps in the USSR. He returned to Poland in 1947. He continued his work as a doctor, and he also devoted himself to writing.