bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cochlear Implant Failure in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Ozer Fulya , Yavuz Haluk , Yilmaz Ismail , Ozluoglu Levent N.
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: In cochlear implant (CI) surgery, the results and causes of revision and reimplantation may guide surgeons in establishing surgical protocols for revision surgery with safe audiological outcomes. The aim of this study was to review our experience in terms of etiology, surgical strategy, and hearing outcomes in pediatric patients who underwent CI removal and reimplantation.Subjects and Methods: All patients received implants of the same brand. Pre and postoperative Categories of Auditory Performance score and aided free-field pure tone audiometry thresholds were noted. In vivo integrity tests were performed for each patient and the results of ex vivo tests of each implant were obtained from manufacturer.Results: A total of 149 CIs were placed in 121 patients aged <18 years. The revision rate in children was 6.7% (10/121 children). Six patients had a history of head injury leading to a hard failure. The causes of reimplantation in others were soft failure (n=1), electrode migration (n=1), infection (n=1), and other (n=1). All patients showed better or similar postreimplantation audiological performance compared with pre-reimplantation results.Conclusions: It is very important to provide a safe school and home environment and educate the family for reducing reimplantation due to trauma. Especially for active children, psychiatric consultation should be continued postoperatively.
Kinetics of Crude Peroxidase from the Rind of Watermelon Fruit
Authors: Iniaghe O. M. , Ibukun O. , Giwa R. E.
Published: September 2021

Aims: To study the kinetics of crude peroxidase from the rind of watermelon fruit in various assay conditions.

Study Design: In vitro enzyme assay.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria between October 2015 and January 2016.

Methodology: The activity of the crude peroxidase extracted from the rind of watermelon was determined by measuring the rate of oxidation of KI at 25oC in a 3.0 ml reaction mixture which contained 2.3 ml of 25 mM - 400 mM sodium acetate buffer (pH 3.5-6.0), 0.2 ml of 2 mM KI, 0.1ml of the crude peroxidase, and 0.2 ml of varying concentrations of chlorpromazine (0.01 mM - 0.1 mM). In all cases, 0.2 ml of 0.01 mM – 1 mM H2O2 was added last to initiate the reaction. Only one parameter was varied per assay. Assays were done in five replicates. The initial velocity of the crude peroxidase for KI oxidation was determined using the absorbance at 353 nm.

Results: The concentration of H2O2 that generated an optimal activity for the crude peroxidase extracted was 0.2 mM, while a pH of 5.5 was optimal for the crude enzyme. The activity of the crude enzyme increased proportionately within a buffer concentration range of 25 mM and 400 mM. Chlorpromazine (0.01 mM - 0.1 mM) proportionately increased the enzyme activity, while promethazine within a range of 0.01 mM and 0.06 mM proportionally increased the enzyme activity. Further increase in promethazine concentration beyond 0.6 mM resulted in a decreased activity of the enzyme.

Conclusion: This study suggests that the Rind of watermelon is an alternative source of peroxidase. The activity of this peroxidase can be enhanced by high buffer concentrations in the presence of some redox mediators like promethazine and chlorpromazine at a pH of 5.5.
Prevalence of Genotype 3a in Different Regions of Pakistan: A systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sherwani Rehan Ahmad Khan , Aslam Maria , Saleem Kanwal , Jadoon Atif Khan , Nawaz Hafiz Muhammad
Published: September 2021

The present study aims to explore the prevalence of genotype 3a under hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among all the provinces of Pakistan. It is alarming to note that Pakistan stands in the second position for having a large number of cases of HCV every year. Six major genotypes characterize HCV. To study the overall prevalence of HCV and its associated genotype 3a in all the provinces of Pakistan, a systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using STATA version 14.2. The published studies conducted in all the regions of Pakistan reported the incidence of HCV genotype 3a were shortlisted. The pooled summary estimates were calculated along with their confidence interval by using the "Metaprop" command. The literature review showed that the prevalence of HCV genotype 3a is most common in all the provinces of Pakistan. It is revealed that the prevalence of HCV genotype 3a was 86.46% in Punjab, which is the highest among all the regions.
Evaluation on Safety and Efficacy of Selective Anti-Hypertensive Drugs in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease at a Tertiary Care Hospital, India-an Observational Study
Authors: Ugandar R. E. , Iluru Umadevi , Bethe Mariamma , Reddy C. Bhargava , Nilugal Kiran C.
Published: September 2021

Background: Hypertension means persistent elevation of Blood Pressure in arteries. It is the second leading cause of death. The symptoms include Severe Headache, Drowsiness, Vision problem, Nose bleed, fatigue, Confusion. It may lead to various types of Cardiovascular disorders such as Myocardial Infarction, Coronary Artery Disease, Heart Failure. The treatment of Hypertension can be done by Anti-Hypertensive Drugs which include Angiotensin -II Receptor Blockers, Beta Blockers, Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors etc.

Results: We have done the study to find out the safe and effective drug among various categories of Anti-Hypertensive drugs to treat hypertension in various cardiovascular disease patients. We have collected sample size of 220 out of which 100 were Myocardial Infarction patients,100 were coronary artery disease patients and 20 were Heart Failure patients.

The categories of anti-hypertensive drugs selected for our study were Angiotensin-II Receptor Blockers, Beta Blockers and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors. Angiotensin-II Receptor Blockers were prescribed to 31 Myocardial Infarction patients, 31 coronary artery disease patients,8 Heart Failure patients. Beta Blockers were prescribed to 58 Myocardial Infarction patients,58 coronary artery disease patients,7 Heart Failure patients. Angiotensin Converting.

Enzyme Inhibitors were prescribed to 10 Myocardial Infarction patients,10 Coronary Artery Disease patients,5 Heart Failure patients.

Conclusion: From all the observations, Beta Blockers were observed to be the drugs with maximum efficacy and maximum safety.
The Relationship between Visual Discomfort and Academic Performance among Medical Students at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljawi Anan A. , Alahmari Albandri A. , Alharbi Amaal M. , Baflah Aseel T. , Alhaddad Fatimah A. , Alhibshi Nizar M.
Published: September 2021

Background: Visual discomfort or asthenopia is presented through unpleasant somatic and perceptual symptoms including headaches, fatigue, light sensitivity, blurred text, diplopia, movement of letters, and fading and impaired reading performance. Its etiology can be prolonged exposure to near work tasks such as reading or computer use. The American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus stated that vision problems could negatively affect learning.

Objectives: To measure the prevalence of visual discomfort among the medical students at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) and evaluate its effect on their academic performance.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018 at KAU in the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia with 417 medical students. The data were collected using an electronic questionnaire that was sent to their phone numbers. The statistical analyses were done using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software version 21.

Results: The visual discomfort symptom scores demonstrated that 87% of the participants scored low, while 12.2% scored moderately; none of the participants scored high. We did not find any significant relationship between visual discomfort and students' cumulative GPA or GPA of the last semester. We noted that the most common visual discomfort symptoms were associated with reading and light sensitivity.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that visual discomfort symptoms did not affect the cumulative or last semester GPA.
Method Development for the Control of Potential Genotoxic Impurities in Vigabatrin Using Gas Chromatography Techniques and Mass Spectroscopy Detector
Authors: Srikanth D. , Ganapaty S. , Reddy P. Manik , Sunitha K. , Sowjanya G.
Published: September 2021

Aim: To develop a sensitive headspace GC-MS method for the determination of potential genotoxic impurities in Vigabatrin.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was performed in SIONC Pharmaceuticals, Visakhapatnam from June 2020 to March 2021.

Methodology: The impurities were determined by selected ion monitoring mode using VF -WAXms (30 mts length, 0.25 mm internal diameter, 1.0 µ film thickness) column. Helium gas was used as carrier gas with a column flow of 1.0 mL/min. and injector temperature maintained at 220 0C. Oven Temperature, loop temperature and transfer line temperature were maintained in the head space at 70oC, 90oC and 100oC respectively.

Results: The linearity of the method was proposed in the range of LOQ to 150 % for the genotoxic impurities by subjecting the data obtained to statistical analysis using linear regression model (r2 > 0.99). The method also gave acceptable recovery of all the four impurities at each level and was found to be accurate. The % RSD obtained in the method precision and intermediate precision were less than 11% depicting the precision of the method. The LOD and LOQ values were calculated based on the signal to noise ratio and are indicating the sensitivity of the method. The specificity of the method was checked for blank interference at the retention time of respective impurities.

Conclusion: The results proved that the proposed headspace GC-MS method for the study of potential genotoxic impurities of Vigabatrin was sensitive, precise and accurate and could be routinely used in the quality control testing of the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Biological Evaluation of Novel 2-[(2-{[5-(Pyridin-4-yl)-1, 3, 4-Oxadiazol-2-yl]Sulfanyl}Ethyl)Sulfanyl]-1,3-Benzoxazole
Authors: Fathima Anees , Vagdevi H. M. , Jayanna N. D. , Shafeeulla R. Mohammed , Subbaraju .
Published: September 2021

In the present communication, a simple and facile method was adopted to synthesize  a series of novel 2-[(2-{[5-(pyridin-4-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]sulfanyl}ethyl)sulfanyl]-1,3-benzoxazole by fusing 5-(pyridin-4-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol with substituted 2-[(2-bromoethyl)sulfanyl]-1,3-benzoxazole and 2-[(2-chloroethyl)sulfanyl]-1,3-benzoxazole to obtain heterocyclic ring systems of 1,3,4 oxadiazole linked benzoxazole  moiety. The synthesized compounds were characterized by the aid of LCMS, IR, 1H NMR, 13CNMR, and C, H, N analysis technique. All the newly synthesized compounds were assessed for antimicrobial, antioxidant and antitubercular activities against standard strains. Microbiological results showed that the compounds showcased a wide range of activities and further the results of antimicrobial, antioxidant and molecular docking studies revealed that the compounds 6c, 6d and 6e are more potent and displays excellent docking scores with various amino acids interaction like alkyl-alkyl, pi-alkyl and hydrogen bonding of antitubercular receptor H37R with benzoxazole moieties and displayed encouraging antitubercular results to 6c, 6d and 6e molecules. The structural activity relationship studies illuminated the obtained results.
Etiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Authors: Hussein Mohammed Salah , Nujaiman Majed Talal Al , Mohammed H. Althomali, Abdullah , Alsehli Marwan Naif , Mujarribi Laila Mohammed , Mukhtar Mohammed Wasel A. , Alsharif Abdullah Saad A. , Alim Safwan Mohammed M. , Alshamrani Bandar Hamdan Jasi
Published: September 2021

Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome (FM) that is prevalent all over the world with different prevalence rates in each country. The etiology and pathogenesis of fibromyalgia are still unknown, unclear, and with uncertain pathophysiology. Diagnosis of fibromyalgia is not that easy because the disease is described as multifactorial, and very little information is known about the causes of the disease. Treatment of fibromyalgia is not totally curative; treatment aims to improve and alleviate the symptoms as easing pain, improving sleep, develop the physical function. The main problem with fibromyalgia is not only difficulty of diagnosis or poor prognosis, but also the treatment is not adequate or satisfactory, so it is of great importance to educate the patients about their illness and giving them advice on how to limit the risk factors that aggravate the case, besides educating patients to use non-pharmacological strategies for better management.
ALÉM DO GÊNERO BINÁRIO: REPENSANDO O DIREITO AO RECONHECIMENTO LEGAL DE GÊNERO
Authors: Cunha Leandro Reinaldo da
Published: September 2021

Sociedades ocidentais têm tradicionalmente reconhecido apenas dois gêneros, masculino e feminino. Contudo, como recente julgamento proferido pelo Tribunal Federal Constitucional alemão mostrou, isso vem começando a mudar e o pleito pelo reconhecimento legal do gênero por pessoas não-binárias vem crescendo de maneira considerável. Baseado na compreensão acerca do direito comparado, esse artigo argumenta que serem os movimentos legais que vão além do binarismo desejáveis ou não depende, em boa parte, da lógica que lhes dá sustentação, bem como examina inúmeras outras possíveis justificativas. No mínimo o reconhecimento legal de gênero de pessoas não-binárias deve se prestar a promover a autodeterminação dentro de um tecido social amplo de existência, apoiando pessoas não-binárias nas interações do dia-a-dia por desafiarem a auto-evidência do gênero binário. Com base na jurisprudência do Tribunal Europeu Direitos Humanos quanto aos direitos transgêneros, o artigo examina se essa lógica já se mostra latente na jurisprudência europeia.
Developing a multimorbidity prognostic score in elderly patients with solid cancer using administrative databases from Italy
Authors: Franchi Matteo , Rea Federico , Santucci Claudia , La Vecchia Carlo , Boffetta Paolo , Corrao Giovanni
Published: September 2021

Aims

To develop and to validate a Cancer Multimorbidity Score (CMS) predictive of mortality in elderly patients affected by solid tumor, by using population‐based administrative Italian databases.

Methods

Through administrative databases of Lombardy Region (Northern Italy), a cohort of patients aged ≥65 years with a new diagnosis of solid tumor during the period 2009–2014 was identified. Sixty‐one conditions and diseases, measured from hospital inpatient diagnosis and outpatient drug prescription within 2 years before cancer diagnosis in a training set randomly including 70% of the cohort patients were tested to predict 5‐year mortality using a Cox regression model. Regression coefficients were used for assigning a weight to the predictive conditions, selected by the LASSO method. Weights were summed up in order to produce an aggregate score (the CMS). CMS performance was evaluated on a validation set, including the remaining 30% of the cohort patients, in terms of discrimination and calibration.

Results

The study cohort included 148,242 cancer patients. Thirty conditions were selected as independent predictors of 5‐year mortality and were included in the computation of the CMS. The area under the receiving operating characteristics curve was 0.68, becoming 0.71 when considering 1‐year mortality as outcome and reaching values of 0.74 and 0.81 when focusing on patients with breast and prostate cancer, respectively. A strong increasing trend in mortality was observed with increasing CMS value.

Conclusions

CMS represents a new useful tool for identifying high‐risk elderly cancer patients in everyday clinical practice, as well as for risk adjustment in clinical and epidemiological studies.
How emotion influences the details recalled in autobiographical memory
Authors: Wardell Victoria , Madan Christopher R. , Jameson Taylyn J. , Cocquyt Chantelle M. , Checknita Katherine , Liu Hallie , Palombo Daniela J.
Published: September 2021

A wealth of research suggests that emotion enhances memory. Yet, this enhancement is not uniform. While some theories posit that emotion enhances memory for sensory/perceptual information, such an enhancement has not been observed in mnemonic detail production. However, a focus on remote events (often more semanticized) may be masking an effect. Focusing on perceptual details, we examined the effects of emotion on mnemonic detail, sampling both remote and recent autobiographical events. We administered the Autobiographical Interview, a protocol that parses autobiographical details into categories (perceptual, event, emotion/thoughts, place, and time). Participants (N = 56) recalled memories that were positive, negative, and neutral from recent (≲3 months old) and remote (~1–5 years old) time periods. Recollection of perceptual details did not differ for emotional versus neutral memories at either retention interval. However, emotion affected memory for other detail types, contingent on time period. Our findings enrich our understanding of the nuance of emotional memory.
Procedural skill maintenance: Perspectives and motivations of pediatric emergency medicine faculty
Authors: Lin‐Martore Margaret , Kant Shruti , O’Brien Bridget C.
Published: September 2021

Background

Pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physicians receive training in critical procedures, but these procedures are rare in practice. The literature on maintenance of procedural skills focuses on ways to practice (e.g., via simulation) and pays little attention to motivation's role. Understanding what motivates PEM physicians to maintain procedural skills can inform the design of supportive policies and interventions. Our study explores how PEM physicians conceptualize maintenance of procedural skills, what motivates them to maintain procedural skills, and barriers to procedural skill maintenance.

Methods

This was a qualitative study of 12 PEM faculty guided by the self‐determination theory (SDT) of motivation. SDT describes a typology that distinguishes extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, with intrinsic motivation based on autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Interviews were transcribed and coded using constant‐comparative technique, and interviews continued until thematic sufficiency was achieved.

Results

Participants had difficulty defining procedural skill maintenance by specific criteria and expressed ambivalence about external standards for competence, noting the need to account for individual and local practice factors. Three themes characterizing participants’ motivation for procedural skills maintenance included: (1) desire to provide optimal patient care and fear of unsuccessful performance (competence), (2) procedural competence as part of the identity of a PEM physician who teaches and performs procedures (competence and relatedness), and (3) desire for accessibility and choice of options in maintaining procedural skills (autonomy). Participants identified lack of opportunities, time, and support as barriers to motivation and skills maintenance.

Conclusion

SDT concepts were integral to understanding faculty motivation, and this highlights the need for prioritizing faculty autonomy, competence, and relatedness in designing supports for procedural skill maintenance. Our findings regarding the difficulty in defining maintenance of skills emphasize the need for further discussion and study of this topic.
Subsurface drainage and subirrigation for increased corn production in riverbottom soils
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Nelson Kelly A. , Singh Gurbir
Published: September 2021

Subsurface (tile) drained agricultural landscapes within the U.S. Midwest are challenged with addressing both deficit and excess water conditions while minimizing negative impacts on water quality. Drainage water recycling (DWR) provides an opportunity to improve water quality along with potential increased crop yield resiliency. This research evaluated the effect of drainage water recycling (DWR) using drainage plus subirrigation and free drainage (FD) on grain yield production and crop nutrient removal compared to nondrained (ND) soil under a continuous corn (Zea mays L.) cropping system in upstate Missouri. A 26 and 20% increase in corn grain yield with DWR (9.3 Mg ha−1) and FD (8.6 Mg ha−1) was observed over the 6‐yr study compared to ND (6.9 Mg ha−1). A significant (P = .04) year × treatment interaction showed the substantial effect of variable precipitation on yields within a growing season and over the study period. No significant effect of treatment was found on grain nutrient concentration or grain quality (oil, protein, or starch concentrations). Plant biomass (P = .85), nutrient concentrations, and plant nutrient uptake (P > .05) were similar among drainage water management treatments; however, grain nutrient (total nitrogen [TN], total carbon [TC], P, and K) removal with DWR and FD was greater than ND. As farmers experience more extreme weather conditions, such as drought and more intense rainfall events, improved drainage and DWR can increase corn grain yield resiliency.
Heterogeneous distribution of mature olfactory sensory neurons in human olfactory epithelium
Authors: Omura Kazuhiro , Han Bing , Nishijima Hironobu , Aoki Satoshi , Ebihara Teru , Kondo Kenji , Otori Nobuyoshi , Kojima Hiromi , Yamasoba Tatsuya , Kikuta Shu
Published: September 2021

Background

The olfactory cleft (OC) comprising the olfactory epithelium (OE) is the most important anatomical location for olfactory function. Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is used to treat diseases related to the OC and improve olfactory dysfunction. However, iatrogenic OE injury occasionally occurs. Comprehensive knowledge of the olfactory region is required to avoid damage to the OE during endoscopic procedures.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed on olfactory mucosa obtained from the unaffected side of olfactory neuroblastoma surgical specimens. The OE was defined as the epithelium containing mature olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). The distribution and cell kinetics of the OE were examined.

Results

The OE was selectively localized to the anterior two‐thirds of the superior turbinate (ST) and in the nasal septum (NS) just opposite to the ST; the OE was not detected within the mucosa of the superior meatus. The density of mature OSNs was high at the ethmoid tegmen but gradually decreased with distance from the ethmoid tegmen. The extent of cell death and proliferation was relatively even across the OE. Analysis of airflow profiles revealed that resection of inferior ST does not decrease airflow to the OC.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the distribution and degree of differentiation of mature OSNs are heterogenous throughout the OE. Epithelial resection of the anterior or superior ST has the potential to damage olfactory function. Resection of the inferior or posterior ST or widening of the superior meatus is a safer alternative that does not damage mature OSNs or alter airflow to the OC.
Effect of oil unsaturation and wax composition on stability, properties and food applicability of oleogels
Authors: Holey Snehal Ashokrao , Sekhar Kanaparedu P. C. , Mishra Shalini Sanjay , Kanjilal Sanjit , Nayak Rati Ranjan
Published: September 2021

Oleogelation is emerging as one of the most exigent oil structuring technique. The main objective of this study was to formulate and characterize rice bran/sunflower wax‐based oleogels using eight refined food grade oils such as sunflower oil, mustard oil, soybean oil, sesame oil, groundnut oil, rice bran oil, palm oil, and coconut oil. Stability and properties of these oleogels with respect to oil unsaturation and wax composition were explored. Sunflower wax exhibited excellent gelation ability even at 1%–1.5% (w/v) concentration compared to rice bran wax (8%–10% w/v). As the oleogelator concentration increased, peak melting temperature also increased with increase in strength of oleogels as per rheological studies. X‐ray diffraction and morphological studies revealed that oleogel microstructure has major influence of wax composition only. Sunflower wax oleogels unveiled rapid crystal formation with maximum oil binding capacity of 99.46% in highly unsaturated sunflower oil with maximum polyunsaturated fatty acid content. Further, the applicability of this wax based oleogels as solid fat substitute in marketed butter products was also scrutinized. The lowest value of solid fat content (SFC) in oleogel was 0.20% at 25°C, resembling closely with the marketed butter products. With increase in oil unsaturation, oleogels displayed remarkable reduction in SFC. Depending upon prerequisite, oleogel properties can be modulated by tuning wax type and oil unsaturation. In conclusion, this wax‐based oleogel can be used as solid fat substitute in food products with extensive applications in other fields too.
Current and potential use of fresh frozen cadaver in surgical training and anatomical education
Authors: Song Yong Keun , Jo Dong Hyun
Published: September 2021

As surgical procedures continue to be more complex, the need for more effective training in anatomy has increased. The study of anatomy plays a significant role in the understanding of the human body as well as in basic and advanced clinical training. Among the different cadaver models, fresh frozen cadavers (FFCs) are known for their realistic tissue quality. The purpose of this article was to review and summarize the preparation procedures for and reported cases involving FFCs. PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Web of Science were searched for relevant studies. The preparation procedures were divided into five steps: washing, irrigation, freezing, defrosting, and arterial infusion. Not all steps were reported to be mandatory, but omitting one or more could result in a loss of quality. FFCs were reported to be used for various purposes: undergraduate education, general surgery training, vascular surgery training, minimal access surgery (laparoscopic surgery) training, and microsurgery training. In all categories, expert opinions and statistical analyses indicated successful outcomes. The reasons for high satisfaction with FFCs included realistic texture, capability of reenacting actual operations, and accuracy of anatomical locations. The results also revealed the importance and advantages of the dissection courses in surgical training. Since the direct comparison between cadaver models is insufficient, future studies regarding this topic are deemed necessary. In addition, it would be advantageous to develop methods to improve FFC quality, or ideas to optimize this model for certain purposes.
Building Information Modeling – zur Attribuierung des Fachmodells Baugrund
Authors: Beck Johannes , Henke Sascha
Published: September 2021

Mit dem Stufenplan des BMVI wurde bei öffentlichen Infrastrukturprojekten der Einsatz von Building Information Modeling (BIM) ab 2020 verpflichtend, obgleich diese Forderung in der Praxis noch nicht vollumfänglich erfüllt wird. Der Sachverständige für Geotechnik erstellt im BIM‐basierten Planungsprozess das Fachmodell Baugrund. Dieser Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit dem Aufbau des Fachmodells Baugrund aus Submodellen und deren Inhalt. Der Fokus liegt dabei auf der Darstellung der relevanten Schritte zur Findung einer zielführenden und BIM‐konformen Attribuierung unter Berücksichtigung der Besonderheiten des Fachmodells. Hierfür werden dessen Lebenszyklus und die Besonderheiten gegenüber anderen Fachmodellen beleuchtet. Ein Vorschlag zum Umgang mit der Boden‐Bauwerks‐Interaktion im BIM‐gestützten Planungsprozess wird unterbreitet. Abschließend werden die Notwendigkeit von Attributkatalogen diskutiert und Ideen zu ihrer Ausgestaltung vorgestellt.
A ribonucleoprotein‐based decaplex CRISPR/Cas9 knockout strategy for CHO host engineering
Authors: Carver Joseph , Kern Marie , Ko Peggy , Greenwood‐Goodwin Midori , Yu X. Christopher , Duan Dana , Tang Danming , Misaghi Shahram , Auslaender Simon , Haley Ben , Yuk Inn H. , Shen Amy
Published: September 2021

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell engineering based on CRISPR/Cas9 knockout (KO) technology requires the delivery of guide RNA (gRNA) and Cas9 enzyme for efficient gene targeting. With an ever‐increasing list of promising gene targets, developing, and optimizing a multiplex gene KO protocol is crucial for rapid CHO cell engineering. Here, we describe a method that can support efficient targeting and KO of up to 10 genes through sequential transfections. This method utilizes Cas9 protein to first screen multiple synthetic gRNAs per gene, followed by Sanger sequencing indel analysis, to identify effective gRNA sequences. Using sequential transfections of these potent gRNAs led to the isolation of single cell clones with the targeted deletion of all 10 genes (as confirmed by Sanger sequencing at the DNA level and mass spectrometry at the protein level). Screening 704 single cell clones yielded 6 clones in which all 10 genes were deleted through sequential transfections, demonstrating the success of this decaplex gene editing strategy. This pragmatic approach substantially reduces the time and effort required to generate multiple gene knockouts in CHO cells.
The importance of anatomical localization of non‐small cell lung carcinoma in predicting mediastinal lymph node metastasis
Authors: Kucuker Merve , Kucuker Kadir Alper , Guney Isa Burak , Durgun Behice
Published: September 2021

Bronchopulmonary segmental location of non‐small lung carcinomas is closely related to metastatic lymph node foci in the mediastinum. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between the anatomical locations of pulmonary masses on the bronchopulmonary segmental base and metastatic lymph node regions in non‐small cell lung cancer using preoperative 18F‐FDG PET/CT images. Ninety patients newly diagnosed with non‐small cell lung carcinoma and referred to PET/CT imaging for staging were included in the study. Tumoral masses that could be evaluated visually and mediastinal node metastases were identified in 18F‐FDG PET/CT images, then the relationship between them was investigated statistically. The diagnostic power of 18F‐FDG PET/CT of mediastinal nodes was also revealed. Seventy‐four males (82.2%) and sixteen females (17.8%) were enrolled in the study. Half of the patients were diagnosed as adenocarcinoma (50%). Investigation of the tumor location and mediastinal metastatic nodes revealed a statistically significant relationship between the apicoposterior segment of the left superior lobe and the left upper and lower paratracheal, subaortic, paraaortic, and left hilar regions according to the IASLC map. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 18F‐FDG PET/CT in the mediastinal nodes were 69.2%, 66.6%, and 68%, respectively. There was no statistically significant relationship between tumor location and 8th TNM Stage. Anatomical locations of non‐small cell lung carcinomas can affect the disease stage and prognosis because of their tendency to metastasize to some mediastinal regions. However, this relationship needs to be investigated in larger study groups.
A Superhydrophobic Hydrogel for Self‐Healing and Robust Strain Sensor with Liquid Impalement Resistance
Authors: Wang Peng , Chen Tao , Zhang Xuesong , Duan Wei , Zhang Chongyuan , Han Huilong , Xie Qing
Published: September 2021

Main observation and conclusion

The superhydrophobic strain sensor is a fantastic direction, which could protect the strain sensor in harsh environment. Nevertheless, the self‐healing superhydrophobic strain sensor has not been reported. In this research, we developed a superhydrophobic strain sensor, which demonstrated excellent self‐healing, mechanical robustness, and liquid impalement resistance simultaneously. The key innovation is to partially embed hydrophobic graphene and carbon nanotubes into the hydrogel matrix. The hodrogel substrate endows the sample with self‐healing property. The graphene, carbon nanotubes and hydrogel together lead to an accurate and real‐time monitoring of human motion. Furthermore, the prepared sample demonstrated super‐robust superhydrophobicity, which retained superhydrophobicity after many kinds of damage (such as 1000% stretch, 10000 stretching‐releasing cycles, hand‐rub, tape‐peeling, and high‐speed drop/jet impact).
Validity, reliability, and responsiveness of daily monitoring visual analog scales in MASK‐air®
Authors: Sousa‐Pinto Bernardo , Eklund Patrik , Pfaar Oliver , Klimek Ludger , Zuberbier Torsten , Czarlewski Wienczyslawa , Bédard Annabelle , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten , Bedbrook Anna , Bosnic‐Anticevich Sinthia , Brussino Luisa , Cardona Victoria , Cruz Alvaro A. , de Vries Govert , Devillier Philippe , Fokkens Wytske J. , Fuentes‐Pérez José Miguel , Gemicioğlu Bilun , Haahtela Tari , Huerta‐Villalobos Yunen Rocío , Ivancevich Juan Carlos , Kull Inger , Kuna Piotr , Kvedariene Violeta , Larenas Linnemann Désirée E. , Laune Daniel , Makris Michael , Melén Erik , Morais‐Almeida Mário , Mösges Ralph , Mullol Joaquim , O'Hehir Robyn E. , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Pereira Ana Margarida , Prokopakis Emmanuel P. , Psarros Fotis , Regateiro Frederico S. , Reitsma Sietze , Samolinski Boleslaw , Scichilone Nicola , da Silva Jane , Stellato Cristiana , Todo‐Bom Ana , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Salmi Sanna Toppila , Valero Antonio , Valiulis Arunas , Valovirta Erkka , van Eerd Michiel , Ventura Maria Teresa , Yorgancioglu Arzu , Basagaña Xavier , Antó Josep M. , Bousquet Jean , Fonseca João Almeida
Published: September 2021

Background

MASK‐air® is an app that supports allergic rhinitis patients in disease control. Users register daily allergy symptoms and their impact on activities using visual analog scales (VASs). We aimed to assess the concurrent validity, reliability, and responsiveness of these daily VASs.

Methods

Daily monitoring VAS data were assessed in MASK‐air® users with allergic rhinitis. Concurrent validity was assessed by correlating daily VAS values with those of the EuroQol‐5 Dimensions (EQ‐5D) VAS, the Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test (CARAT) score, and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Allergic Specific (WPAI‐AS) Questionnaire (work and activity impairment scores). Intra‐rater reliability was assessed in users providing multiple daily VASs within the same day. Test–retest reliability was tested in clinically stable users, as defined by the EQ‐5D VAS, CARAT, or “VAS Work” (i.e., VAS assessing the impact of allergy on work). Responsiveness was determined in users with two consecutive measurements of EQ‐5D‐VAS or “VAS Work” indicating clinical change.

Results

A total of 17,780 MASK‐air® users, with 317,176 VAS days, were assessed. Concurrent validity was moderate–high (Spearman correlation coefficient range: 0.437–0.716). Intra‐rater reliability intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranged between 0.870 (VAS assessing global allergy symptoms) and 0.937 (VAS assessing allergy symptoms on sleep). Test–retest reliability ICCs ranged between 0.604 and 0.878—“VAS Work” and “VAS asthma” presented the highest ICCs. Moderate/large responsiveness effect sizes were observed—the sleep VAS was associated with lower responsiveness, while the global allergy symptoms VAS demonstrated higher responsiveness.

Conclusion

In MASK‐air®, daily monitoring VASs have high intra‐rater reliability and moderate–high validity, reliability, and responsiveness, pointing to a reliable measure of symptom loads.
Serum retinol‐binding protein 4 levels and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: A nested case‐control study in Chinese women and an updated meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Ping , Wang Yi , Ye Yi , Yang Xue , Lu Qi , Liu Yan , Zeng Huayan , Song Xingyue , Yan Shijiao , Wen Ying , Qi Xiaorong , Yang Chun‐Xia , Liu Gang , Lv Chuanzhu , Pan Xiong‐Fei , Pan An
Published: September 2021

Aims

We prospectively evaluated the association of circulating retinol‐binding protein 4 (RBP4) levels in early pregnancy and risk of incident gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in pregnant women.

Methods

A nested case‐control study was conducted among 332 women who developed GDM and 664 matched controls based on the Tongji‐Shuangliu Birth Cohort. GDM was diagnosed during 24–28 weeks of gestation according to the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Group criteria. Serum RBP4 levels in early pregnancy (6–15 weeks of gestation) were determined by ELISA assay. Multivariable conditional logistic regression models were used to analyse the association and generated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). EMBASE and PubMed were searched up to 30 November 2020 to identify studies investigating the association between blood RBP4 levels in early pregnancy and incident GDM.

Results

In the multivariable model with adjustment of potential risk factors, the OR comparing the extreme quartiles of serum RBP4 levels was 2.26 (95% CI: 1.34, 3.81; p for trend <0.001), and each standard deviation (SD) increment of RBP4 was associated with 1.39‐fold (95% CI: 1.15, 1.69) higher risk of GDM. The results were confirmed in a meta‐analysis that included additional four studies with an overall OR of 1.47 (95% CI: 1.18, 1.83) per 1‐SD increment of RBP4.

Conclusions

Serum RBP4 levels in early pregnancy, independent of metabolic risk factors, are positively associated with the risk of GDM in pregnant women. Our findings may provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying the aetiology of GDM.
Reciprocal interactions between transforming growth factor beta signaling and collagens: Insights from Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Goodman Miriam B. , Savage‐Dunn Cathy
Published: September 2021

Studies in genetically tractable organisms such as the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have led to pioneering insights into conserved developmental regulatory mechanisms. For example, Smad signal transducers for the transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) superfamily were first identified in C. elegans and in the fruit fly Drosophila. Recent studies of TGF‐β signaling and the extracellular matrix (ECM) in C. elegans have forged unexpected links between signaling and the ECM, yielding novel insights into the reciprocal interactions that occur across tissues and spatial scales, and potentially providing new opportunities for the study of biomechanical regulation of gene expression.
The Effects of Omega‐3 Supplementation on Serum Oxidative Stress Parameters in Experimental Periodontitis in an Animal Model
Authors: Doğan Burak , Kemer Doğan Esra Sinem
Published: September 2021

Experimental studies suggest that omega‐3 may be beneficial at preventing alveolar bone loss (ABL) by modulating host immune response. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of omega‐3 supplementation on ABL and serum oxidative biomarkers in a ligature‐induced periodontitis model. Twenty‐four Wistar albino rats are divided into 3 groups: control (C, n = 8); ligature‐induced periodontitis (L, n = 8); and omega‐3 plus ligature‐induced periodontitis (O+L, n = 8). All rats are fed with ad libitum diet, and O+L group is additionally supplemented with omega‐3 fish oil by oral gavage for 44 days. Experimental periodontitis is induced by placement of ligatures around the maxillary second molars of rats in L and O+L groups. ABL is measured histomorphometrically and serum 8‐hydroxy‐2'‐deoxyguanosine, total antioxidant capacity, and total oxidant status (TOS) are analyzed. ABL is higher in L and O+L groups than the C group. Omega‐3 supplementation is significantly reduced ABL in group O+L, compared to L group. Furthermore, TOS levels are lower in O+L group than L group. It is suggested that omega‐3 administration may reduce ABL and serum TOS levels, which supports the antioxidant role of omega‐3 on periodontal disease pathogenesis.

Practical applications: Adjunctive use of omega‐3 supplementation in periodontitis seems beneficial, although biochemical mechanisms underlying the conflicting results have not been completely understood. On the other hand, oxidative stress has been used as an appropriate target for host modulation therapies in periodontal disease. Omega‐3 supplementation in ligature‐induced periodontitis in an animal model successfully reduces alveolar bone loss by modulating serum total oxidant status, which may provide a novel pathway in periodontal disease pathogenesis.
Porous polyimide separator promotes uniform lithium plating for lithium‐free cells
Authors: Pai Jui‐Yu , Ku Hao‐Yu , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Chiang Chien‐Wei , Hardwick Laurence J. , Hu Chi‐Chang
Published: September 2021

Electrospun polyimide (PI) separators were found to reduce the charge‐transfer resistance of Li plating/stripping and the overpotentials of Li nucleation/growth onto Cu foils in the 1.2 M LiPF6/(ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate = 1/1) electrolyte without any additives in comparison with polyethylene (PE) separators. Lithium deposition through the PI separator led to the formation of a granular morphology of 15–30 µm in diameter compared to lithium dendrites using PE. A similar trend of lithium deposition was observed in LiFePO4//Cu cells. The PI separator was found to enhance the discharge capacity and cycle life of Li plating/stripping in the Li//Cu and LiFePO4//Cu cells containing 40 µl electrolytes, verifying that the PI separator provides dendrite inhibition capability for the lithium‐metal‐free cells.
An investigation on corrosion properties of bright Zn‐Ni alloy coated mild steel
Authors: Kavirajwar Jyoti S. , Basavanna S. , Devendra Bharath K.
Published: September 2021

In the present work, the electrodeposition of Zn–Ni alloy from Sulfate bath was carried out in presence of a novel brightener (CG), the condensation product of Cysteine Hydrochloride and Glutaraldehyde. The corrosion studies were carried out using Electrochemical Impedance spectroscopy and Potentiostatic techniques. They confirmed an increase in corrosion resistance and protection ability of bright zinc–nickel alloy coatings. Surface morphology was studied using SEM, FTIR, and reflectance spectroscopy that revealed fine‐grained nature of Zn‐Ni alloy crystallites. X‐ray diffraction studies were used for phase identification and preferred orientation of Zn–Ni alloy crystallites. The preferred orientation of the Zn‐Ni alloy crystallites along (630) planes was configured for bright appearance of the coating. CG was successful in giving an even, homogeneous, refined, and bright Zn‐Ni alloy deposit.
A preliminary electrochemical study of crosslinked albumin and collagen membranes as diffusion barriers for potentially degradable chronic wound biosensors
Authors: Raja Mohammad , Lopes Ilanna Campelo , Vadgama Pankaj
Published: September 2021

The biochemical monitoring of chronic wounds may help to tailor therapy with better clinical outcomes. Wound surface sensors would be appropriate for this, but their adhesion to the wound is likely to lead to tissue damage on retrieval. Degradable sensors offer a practical solution to this, but this would necessitate external degradable diffusion control membranes. In this study, we evaluated glutaraldehyde crosslinked albumen and collagen as potentially biodegradable barrier membranes. The diffusional transport of H2O2, ascorbate, and glucose was studied electrochemically. Albumin proved more selective for H2O2 against ascorbate, possibly due to its net negative charge. The thick (500–700 μm) membranes produced led to long response times (half‐life [t0.5], 500–700 s) but had the advantage of stabilizing the response in unstirred solution. This was possibly because the thicker membrane on the electrode surface moved the developing diffusion layer in solution further away from the electrode surface. A dense albumin layer was produced using sebacoyl chloride as a crosslinker which was impermeable to solute and could be used in future as a degradable sensor base. Also, non‐toxic poly(2,3‐dihydrothieno‐1,4‐dioxin)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) dispersed in crosslinked albumin furnished a conducting membrane able to function as a working electrode. Thus, crosslinked proteins offer scope for diverse membrane properties that might be useful for future, degradable wound monitoring sensors.
On the impedance spectroscopy of field‐effect biosensors
Authors: Bausells Joan , Ben Halima Hamdi , Bellagambi Francesca G. , Alcacer Albert , Pfeiffer Norman , Hangouët Marie , Zine Nadia , Errachid Abdelhamid
Published: September 2021

Impedance spectroscopy is an electrochemical technique widely used for the electrical characterization of the behavior of biomaterials in all kinds of biosensors. Field‐effect devices, and in particular ion‐sensitive field‐effect transistors (ISFETs), have been extensively studied as transducers for biosensing. They however have not been much analyzed with impedance spectroscopy, because they typically generate non‐Faradaic capacitance measurements, since there is no charge transfer through the insulating gate in contact with the liquid solution. We have recently experimentally shown that Faradaic‐like impedance spectroscopy spectra can be obtained with ISFET devices, allowing high‐sensitivity measurements for different pH and biomarker concentrations. In this paper, we report that both Faradaic‐like and non‐Faradaic impedance behavior can be well understood by a DC and small‐signal AC model of the ISFET working in different conditions. Faradaic‐like impedance measurements are described by the operation of the ISFET in subthreshold conditions. A Nyquist plot semicircle is obtained, corresponding to the transimpedance 1/gmof the ISFET in parallel to the gate capacitances. We show that this behavior is independent of the presence of membrane material on the gate surface. In these conditions, the change in the semicircle diameter for different pH or biomarker concentrations can be understood by the change of 1/gmcorresponding to a threshold voltage shift of the transistor. This description is illustrated with our recent results for pH measurements and the detection of tumor necrosis factor‐α with functionalized devices in standard solutions in the concentration range of 1–20 pg/ml. The use of the impedance spectroscopy technique takes advantage of the exponential behavior of thegm(VGS) curves in the subthreshold (weak inversion) operation of the ISFET. This results in a large signal amplification, where a small change in the threshold voltage results in a large change in the impedance spectrum, thus achieving an increased precision in the measurement of the device response to changes in the analyte concentration.
ZeoPTES: Zeotropic Pumped Thermal Energy Storage with an Ammonia–Water Mixture as Working Fluid
Authors: Bernehed Aiko
Published: September 2021

The rapid rise of renewable energy production necessitates the development of large‐scale electricity storage systems. Pumped thermal energy storage (PTES), where electricity is stored in hot and cold storage units, has recently garnered a lot of interest. Previously proposed PTES systems rely on pure fluids as working fluids in Brayton‐ or Rankine‐based power cycles. Herein, ZeoPTES, a PTES system using a zeotropic mixture of ammonia and water as working fluid, is introduced. The mixture exhibits nonisothermal evaporation and condensation, which allows utilization of industrially available sensible storage units, like water or molten salt, to store the thermal energy from these phase changes. A simulation using the REFPROP 10.0 database is written to analyze the cycle. Eight parameters are identified as having an effect on system round‐trip efficiency and 30 000 simulations with random values for these parameters are run to identify the impact of all. Although efficient compressors and expanders are necessary to reach a high power‐to‐power round‐trip efficiency, the largest system‐wide losses arise from entropy generation and thermal stream mismatch in the cold and hot side heat exchangers. Using state‐of‐the‐art microchannel heat exchangers with extremely low pinch points allows for round‐trip efficiencies in excess of 70%.