bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FOXP1 Haploinsufficiency Contributes to the Development of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Pendleton Katherine E. , Hernandez-Garcia Andres , Lyu Jennifer M. , Campbell Ian M. , Shaw Chad A. , Vogt Julie , High Frances A. , Donahoe Patricia K. , Chung Wendy K. , Scott Daryl A.
Published: March 2023

FOXP1 encodes a transcription factor involved in tissue regulation and cell-type-specific functions. Haploinsufficiency of FOXP1 is associated with a neurodevelopmental disorder: autosomal dominant mental retardation with language impairment with or without autistic features. More recently, heterozygous FOXP1 variants have also been shown to cause a variety of structural birth defects including central nervous system (CNS) anomalies, congenital heart defects, congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract, cryptorchidism, and hypospadias. In this report, we present a previously unpublished case of an individual with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) who carries an approximately 3.8 Mb deletion. Based on this deletion, and deletions previously reported in two other individuals with CDH, we define a CDH critical region on chromosome 3p13 that includes FOXP1 and four other protein-coding genes. We also provide detailed clinical descriptions of two previously reported individuals with CDH who carry de novo, pathogenic variants in FOXP1 that are predicted to trigger nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. A subset of individuals with putatively deleterious FOXP4 variants has also been shown to develop CDH. Since FOXP proteins function as homo- or heterodimers and the homologs of FOXP1 and FOXP4 are expressed at the same time points in the embryonic mouse diaphragm, they may function together as a dimer, or in parallel as homodimers, to regulate gene expression during diaphragm development. Not all individuals with heterozygous, loss-of-function changes in FOXP1 develop CDH. Hence, we conclude that FOXP1 acts as a susceptibility factor that contributes to the development of CDH in conjunction with other genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and/or stochastic factors.
Thickness dependent microstructural and magnetic studies of iron embedded PVA nanocomposite films
Authors: Joshi Aruna , Mukherjee G. S. , Gupta Mukul , Banerjee M.
Published: March 2023

This paper presents the structural and magnetic properties of polyvinyl alcohol/iron (PVA/Fe) nanocomposite films. Iron (Fe) films of different thicknesses were deposited on a PVA substrate using ion beam sputtering. The Fe nanoparticle layer thickness ranges from 3 to 50 nm on the PVA substrate. Grazing incidence x-ray diffraction has been carried out to study the structural behavior of the prepared films. An atomic force microscope records the indicated remarkable change in the roughness of the nanocomposite film as a result of initiation of vertical growth of sputtered Fe nanoparticles.Magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) magnetometry and MOKE spectroscopy have been employed to evaluate the magnetic property and simultaneously study the real time growth of the magnetic domain structure for both 0° and 90° azimuthal angles. MOKE microscopic images indicated the magnetization reversal commensurate with the hysteresis loop of the nanocomposites. All the films show soft ferromagnetic behavior. Gradual development of the domain structure is observed in the MOKE micrograph with the increase in the thickness of Fe nanoparticle deposition. Ex situ magnetic force micrographs of the magnetic domain structures supported the observation of MOKE microscopic studies, which indicated switching of in-plane magnetization to out-of-plane magnetization near an Fe nanoparticle deposition thickness of 40 nm. The PVA matrix appears to be an effective material to support the growth of magnetic properties in the PVA/Fe nanocomposite system. The evolution of Fe nanostructures on PVA and the resulting magnetic behavior have been discussed.
Numerical simulation of streamer discharge with different electrode shapes in C4F7N
Authors: Yan Xinfeng , Zhou Xiaoli , Li Ze , Qian Yong , Sheng Gehao
Published: March 2023

In recent years, the environmentally friendly gas, C4F7N, has been recognized as a potential SF6 alternative gas due to its excellent insulation. To study the streamer discharge characteristics of different electrode shapes in C4F7N, a fluid model was established by COMSOL, and simulations were performed. Streamer discharge as a function of varying electrode shapes was analyzed, and the variation law of electric field intensity and photon flux was obtained, which serves as a theoretical basis for optical detection and reliable diagnosis of partial discharge. Simulation results demonstrate that under the same discharge conditions, the electric field inhomogeneity of the needle–plane model, rod–plane model, and ball–plane model decreased successively and the breakdown difficulty increased. With the increase in the applied voltage, the peak electric field intensity of the streamer head was found to increase, whereas an increase in the electrode spacing was found to decrease this property. The change in photon flux was found to be similar to the change in the electric field intensity.
Preparation and performance study of corrosion-resistant surfaces of magnesium alloys
Authors: Li Shimeng , Wu Jianmao , Zhu Jiyuan , Dai Xuanjun
Published: March 2023

Magnesium alloy has good application prospects in high-precision industries such as electronics and aerospace due to its low density, high stiffness, and excellent properties. However, the poor corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy limits its wide application. In this study, a corrosion-resistant protective coating of magnesium hydroxide doped with nano-silica was grown in situ on a magnesium alloy substrate by the hydrothermal method. The morphology, composition, structure, and corrosion resistance of the coating were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, FTIR, XRD, and electrochemical processes, respectively. The results showed that the prepared coating had good corrosion resistance, as the corrosion current of the magnesium alloy was reduced by about four orders of magnitude for the bare magnesium alloy substrate.
Influence of C28H58 on the structure and phase change of C28H58/C22H46 n-alkane mixtures
Authors: Long Yue , Wang Zhengzheng , Cao Yaran , Du Peipei , Xu Bo
Published: March 2023

This study adopted molecular dynamics to investigate the influence of C28H58 mass fraction on the structure and phase change of C28H58/C22H46 n-alkane mixtures at different temperatures; systematically analyzed the C–H and C–C bond lengths, changes in the H–C–H bond angle and C–C–C–C torsion angle, and energy conversions within the mixture during heating of C28H58/C22H46 n-alkane mixtures; calculated the self-diffusion coefficient (D) by combining the Einstein relation and mean squared displacement; and determined the phase change temperature of each mixture according to the relationship between D and temperature. The results show that, at 280 K, changing the mass fraction of C28H58 does not affect the C–H and C–C bond lengths and the H–C–H bond angle. At 350 K, the C–H bond length decreases with the increase in the mass fraction of C28H58, the C–C bond length increases slightly when the mass fraction is 65.2% and remains unchanged for other mass fractions, and the H–C–H bond angle slightly decreases. With an increase in temperature, the peak intensity of the stretched conformation at ±180° gradually decreases, while the peak of the twisted conformation appears around ±70°, and the degree of twist of the C–C–C–C dihedral angle in the mixture increases. The phase change temperature begins to increase slowly with the increase in the mass fraction of C28H58, and the phase change temperature increases rapidly when the mass fraction exceeds 65.2%. The kinetic and potential energies of the mixture tend to increase with the increasing mass fraction of C28H58.
Germination enhancement of mustard (Brassica nigra) seeds using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD)
Authors: Guragain Rajesh Prakash , Baniya Hom Bahadur , Shrestha Bikash , Guragain Deepesh Prakash , Subedi Deepak Prasad
Published: March 2023

There have been continual attempts to identify alternatives to increase the agricultural output to improve the living standards of farmers, meet the current demand, and promote sustainability in commercial agriculture. Within this paradigm, low-temperature plasma (LTP) treatments have piqued the attention of investigators and are presently being extensively researched in the agriculture sector. A preliminary study was conducted on mustard seeds (Brassica nigra) to examine the potential of LTP in agriculture to enhance germination and productivity. The seeds were subjected to LTP treatment for 1 to 4 min in an argon environment (11.7 kV, 50 Hz, and Q = 3 L/min) at atmospheric pressure. The germination and growth parameters of the untreated and treated seeds were calculated on the 16th day of the seeds’ germination and compared. All germination and growth-related parameters were found to be improved in LTP-exposed seeds up to 3 min. However, the germination and growth-related parameters deteriorated in 4-min LTP-treated seeds compared to those of control and other treatment time seeds. The water contact angle and scanning electron micrograph images clearly indicated that there is a significant change in the seed coat after being exposed to LTP for a specific time period. The treated seed’s texture was significantly rougher than that of the control, which is directly related to the hydrophilicity of seeds. The findings of this study suggest that using seeds exposed to LTP for a suitable time results in a considerable increase in the germination percentage of sown seeds while also hastening seedling growth and development.
The effectivity of the law protection on the sustainability of Yellow-Crested Cockatoos (cacatua sulphurea) in Indonesia
Authors: Purwanto E , Susanto
Published: March 2023

Yellow-crested cockatoos (Cacatua sulphurea) is one of 435 species protected by law and of 512 endemic species in Indonesia. This study aimed to assess whether law enforcement to protect the Yellow-crested cockatoos (Cacatua Sulphurea) from extinction was maximal. This research method applied normative juridical research, in which the court decision is the primary legal material. The later decision of the East Kalimantan High Court Number 6/PID/2018/PT.SMR is the primary legal data or materials that be analyzed in this study. The results of this study assess that law enforcement to protect the sustainability of Yellow-crested cockatoos in Indonesia is still not optimal. Furthermore, law enforcement related to corporate violations that are more dangerous to the extinction of these species is still a problem that needs to be studied further. This study will contribute to law enforcement realizing that the protection of endemic species in Indonesia relies heavily on their firmness and fair decisions according to law. Socialization related to the law on the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Its Ecosystems to the people needs to be improved. Most likely, people are still not aware of protected species because they are on the verge of extinction or endemic. The research limitation of the study is that the study analyzes high court decisions that do not yet have permanent legal force (Inkracht). There is still an opportunity for both the convict and the public prosecutor to appeal to the Supreme Court of Cassation if the court’s decision is deemed not right.
Drought monitoring techniques for climate change in the Northern part of Thailand
Authors: Yuttaphan A , Chuenchooklin S , Baimoung S
Published: March 2023

Occurrence of drought is due to climate variability and climate change. Drought affected on agriculture, economic, social and environment. The suitable technique in detecting and monitoring drought events can provide useful information for prevention and mitigation planning from their impacts. The study objective was to investigate the change of rainfall and temperate as well as find out the appropriate drought index and its trend for the Northern part of Thailand. These drought indices were calculated by using meteorological data during 1951-2020 of 10 stations comparing with historical drought records between January and May during 2011-2016 in the same areas. The drought indices consisted of Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Deciles index and Moisture Available index (MAI) at 1-, 3- and 6-month timescales and Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI). It was found that PDSI was the most appropriate index. The Mann-Kendal test was used to investigate the trend of rainfall, temperature and PDSI. The results showed an increasing of temperature. There was no trend of drought intensity for long-term (40 years) periods but was in 4 stations for short-term (20 years) periods. The PDSI can be used for drought monitoring and predicting in advance by using numerical weather prediction products.
Indications of transtensional strike slip fault in the Mount Anak Krakatau based on earthquake focal mechanism data
Authors: Mahbub R M , Ragil C , Qoyyibi D S
Published: March 2023

Anak Krakatau volcano in the Sunda Strait was through pyroclastic materials landslide phenomenon that caused by a tsunami wave at the end of December 2018. Tsunami wave hit the west coast of Pandeglang and part of the coast of Lampung. Recent tectonic activity produces an epicenter around Anak Krakatau volcano, a shallow earthquake depth of 10 - 15 km below the surface. These data were collected by the interpretation of remote sensing DEM SRTM images, focal mechanism, bathymetry, and hillslope analysis. Quantitative analysis in determining the movement mechanism of strike slip faults and the damage zone as the trigger for landslides on the southwestern volcano sidewall. The main fault has N153°E / 74°E rake 9° is related to the surface of stress and strain results of synthetic and antithetic faults. It is suspected that the post-eruption caldera of Krakatau Volcano is the remaining surface openings in the 1883 while erupted. Knowledge of the causes of landslides to be prepared to anticipate broken infrastructure, victims, and tourism along the coast of Banten and Lampung.
Mineralogical and geochemical characterization of the Wonosari formation limestone at Gunungkidul Indonesia as preliminary investigation of Portland cement raw material
Authors: Qodri M F , Sopamena R A
Published: March 2023

Mineralogical and geochemical investigations were carried out to determine the characteristics of limestone in the Wonosari Formation and to suggest its depositional environment and a preliminary study for the properties of Portland Cement. The study was conducted at Ponjong Area, Gunungkidul Regency, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The outcrop in this study area is composed of Wonosari layered limestone. Based on the facies interpretation in the research area, there are three depositional units: packstone, wackstone, and grainstone. This area’s depositional environment is the back reef lagoon and sand apron zones that are not related to the open sea. According to XRF data, limestone showed a reasonably high composition of CaO compounds, about 53.78% - 59.09%. Most limestone samples were classified as good quality as Portland Cement Raw Material due to CaO content >49%. The MgO, SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, SO3, K2O, Na2O, TiO2, and P2O5 compounds also fulfil the Indonesian National Standard (SNI-15-2049-2004). Geochemical content shows limestone has a higher grain percentage than the matrix. The utilization of limestone in research area are expected to be a reference for the development of natural resources in the future that pay attention to the environment for mutual sustainability.
Estimation of PM2.5 surface concentrations in the North-eastern and Eastern regions of Thailand from NASA’s MERRA2 satellite data
Authors: Chidburee P , Nusit K , Tantanee S
Published: March 2023

The study aims to monitor PM2.5 concentrations in the north-eastern and eastern regions of Thailand for the past 5 years (from 2017 to 2021) from satellite observations for monitoring air quality. To ensure the PM2.5 concentrations from satellite data of NASA’s MEERA2 products, it is necessary to evaluate and analyze the relationship between PM2.5 data from satellite observations and higher precision data from ground-based stations of the Pollution Control Department (PCD) in terms of various statistical values, such as squared correlation coefficient (R2), mean (Bias) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). Then, the estimation of the monthly average for PM2.5 concentrations was performed using satellite data of MERRA2 products by bias correction method with twenty PCD’s ground stations. The result shows that before correcting the relationship value is relatively low, the performance of estimating PM2.5 concentrations from satellite data needs to be improved from the monthly average using the bias correction method. After bias-corrected, a correlation coefficient (R2) value of 0.73 was improved from 0.56. A mean (Bias) of 0.03 µg/m3 and an RMSE of 6.39 µg/m3 were decreased. It is clear that bias correction can help to improve estimating PM2.5 concentrations from MEERA2 products.
Development of web-based spatial decision support system using landslide hazard mapping outcomes: an example of GIS-based hazard assessment
Authors: Tantanee S , Long G , Nusit K
Published: March 2023

Presently, the risk of natural hazards is continuously increasing which may cause noticeable casualties and destruction under the influence of climate change. Information regarding the hazard characteristics, capacity, susceptibility, and vulnerability in pre-disaster phases is critical in realizing efficient disaster management. There are numerous GIS-based hazard assessment studies have been done by researchers every year; however, most of their GIS-based outcomes have rarely been effectively used for supporting the decision-making processes in real situations. The objective of the study is to propose an appropriate way of using these GIS-based hazard assessment outcomes to develop a Web-based platform to effectively support the decision-making processes. The GIS-based hazard assessment outcomes from previous work are used in this study to develop a Web-based spatial decision support system as an example of practicing the proposed approach. Finally, there are 3 modules including general module, thematic single factor maps module, and results module have been designed and developed in the system. This approach provides a new way of making better use of all kinds of GIS-based hazard assessment outcomes, which can be used as an effective decision-making support tool. In addition, it can be used as a guideline for future research.
Sustainability assessment of palm oil mills effluent utilization for electricity conversion
Authors: Lestari F , Prasetya H , Mahmud J , Hambali E , Yani M , Machfud  , Faroha F A , Putri N S , Marimin
Published: March 2023

The sustainability of the palm oil agroindustry development has been widely discussed. Currently, there has been an issue regarding the sustainability of palm oil agroindustry in certain parts with specific systems. Thus, aspects and indicators built in general need to be adjusted. This study assesses the sustainability of the palm oil mill effluent utilization for electricity conversion. The adjustment of sustainability indicators on economic, social, and environmental aspects has been studied through expert discussions. The selected indicators are weighted using the analytical hierarchy process method which a competent expert assesses. The aggregated sustainability value is determined by a decision matrix calculated using the composite performance index. The proposed method has been tested with field data on two palm oil mills that convert liquid waste into electrical energy involving Palm Oil Mill A and Palm Oil Mill C and a palm oil mill that still uses co-firing technology, Palm Oil Mill B. The results of the analysis show that the sustainability status of case A is Sustainable, B is Less Sustainable, and C is less Sustainable. Further research is needed to formulate strategies for improving the sustainability status and efforts to generalize the sustainability assessment model.
Study of low cost of microalgae chlorella sp. harvesting using cationic starch flocculation technique for biodiesel production
Authors: Dewayanto N , Adhi K , Negara N A K , Sadewo B R , Nisya A F , Prakoso O , Hariyadi  , Sigit U , Suyono E A , Budiman A
Published: March 2023

The crisis of energy has become the main concern for human civilization. Microalgae is an attractive source of biomass for energy production because it has high productivity, does not compete with food, do not require a large area and its ability to absorb CO2. Chlorella sp. has the potential to be used as raw material for biodiesel due an oil content of 28-32% and easily developed in Indonesia. Harvesting is a very cost-determining step in converting algal biomass into biodiesel. Cationic starch has a strong potential as a flocculant agent because of its abundance and low price. This research aims to identify the potential of cation starch as a flocculant agent and obtain optimum the condition for harvesting Chlorella sp. Based on this study, cationic starch can be used as an alternative organic flocculant for Chlorella sp. The optimum dose and flocculation are 1 g/L dosage, 400 rpm flocculation speed and 15 minute flocculation time. With the optimum condition, harvesting efficiency on the laboratory scale is 98.23% and the pilot scale is 96.05%. This difference in harvesting efficiency values indicates that the efficiency tends to decrease with a larger volume of Chlorella sp.
The influence of calcination temperature on crystallographic and chemical characteristics of NiO-CeO2 powder for PCFC anodes
Authors: Yusoff N F , Jamil Z , Osman N
Published: March 2023

Ceria-based materials have the potential to be used as catalysts in electrochemical devices, especially ceramic fuel cells. Their incorporation into nickel-based catalysts promotes metallic dispersion, minimises particle agglomeration, and enhances metal-support interaction at the anode site of proton ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs). In this study, a methodical approach to investigate and analyse the effect of calcination temperature on the crystallographic structure and chemical properties of a nanostructured NiO-CeO2 powder that will be used as catalysts at the anode site of proton ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) for cleaner power generation. The calcination temperature profile of the was varied from 300 °C to 600 °C. XRD and FTIR were used to investigate crystallinity and chemical properties of the prepared NiO-CeO2 powder. The XRD investigation results show that such increasing calcination temperature may increase the size of nanoparticles powder and phase purity. Following that, the FTIR analysis shows that the absorption bands formed at less than 800 cm−1 represent the metal-oxygen stretching (Ce-O and Ni-O stretch) which confirms the existence of NiO-CeO2 particles, thus, confirms the purity of NiO and CeO2 composite particles and suitable materials for PCFC anodes.
The Early Chemical Characteristics of Geothermal Surface Features of Mount Lompobattang-Bawakaraeng, Gowa and Bantaeng Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Yushantarti Anna , Hermawan Dudi
Published: March 2023

The Early study of surface geothermal features characteristics, based on surface chemical characteristics fluids is compulsory for understanding the geothermal system. The geothermal area of Mount Lompobattang-Bawakaraeng is mostly located in Gowa and Bantaeng Regency, South Sulawesi and these data were taken in 2018. The stratigraphy is composed of Tertiary Volcanic Sediments and Lompobattang-Bawakaraeng Quaternary Volcanic. The geological structures consist of caldera rim on the peak of Mount Lompobatang-Bawakaraeng and the fault structure of southwest-northeast and northwest-southeast which controls the appearance of geothermal manifestations on the surface. The active thermal manifestations are only warm springs, i.e., Batu Belerang, Pencong, and Parangloe warm springs. Batu Belerang warm spring is situated at an altitude of around 1400 masl, while Pencong and Parangloe warm springs are about 24 km from Batu Belerang warm springs with a lower altitude of around 168 masl. The temperature of the warm springs is around 31- 49.2 °C. There is one inactive surface geothermal manifestation, i.e., the Cold Acid Crater Lake Blue Luraya (Danau Biru Luraya) at the elevation of 1561 masl, the water temperature of 17 °C. The result of water analysis shows that warm springs Pencong and Parangloe have more dominant HCO3. The Batu Belerang and the Cold Acid Crater Lake Blue Luraya (Danau Biru luraya) are more dominated by SO4. In the triangular diagram that compares the relative concentrations of Na, K, Mg shows that the Pencong group (Pencong and Parangloe warm springs) is plotted in the lower boundary zone of partial equilibrium, while Lompobattang group (Batu Belerang warm springs and Cold Acid Crater Lake Blue Luraya (Danau Biru Luraya) is plotted in the corner of Mg (immature waters zone). The temperature of the system is probably only estimated at the shallow part of the system by SiO2 geothermometer about 125 °C and the Batu Belerang could be more than 125 °C.
Heat Source Identification by Reprocessing Geoscience Data to Update Conceptual Model of Pentadio Geothermal Prospect Area
Authors: Pasaribu After Helfert , Pratama Angga Bakti , Pramudityo Dedy
Published: March 2023

The Pentadio Geothermal Prospect Area, Gorontalo, has been studied for geothermal development in the exploration stage. The previous conceptual model that has been produced shows that magma is the heat source of the geothermal system only based on geochemistry of manifestations that had high SO4
2- concentrations. However, the presence of tertiary intrusion based on regional geological data and high SO4
2- concentration cannot be strong evidence to prove the heat source is associated with magmatic system. The purposes of this research are updating the conceptual model, defining the heat source, and producing a different perspective from the previous study for the geothermal system in Pentadio Geothermal Prospect Area by providing a further analysis based on geoscience data reprocessing that had been acquired before. The methods consist of geological structure analysis that involves defining the permeability and geochemistry analysis for interpreting the type of reservoir fluid. Gravity data were reprocessing produced the regional and residual maps, and 3D modelling analysis for determining subsurface condition and heat source possibility in Pentadio Geothermal Prospect Area. The Pentadio Geothermal System is correlated with Gorontalo Graben which controls the permeability in the system. The fluid from geothermal manifestations near Limboto Lake has alkaline pH even though it has high SO4
2- content and low magnesium content. Gravity data shows the regional fault (NW-SE) has a depth of more than 4 km and seems to have the possibility of producing heat influx to the near surface. It is suspected as a heat source of the geothermal system in this area. There is no evidence for magma intrusion to be a heat source in the subsurface by geology and geophysics model. The high concentration of SO4
− in manifestations was influenced by sediment contamination in this area.
Feasibility evaluation to expand a collaborative practice agreement and discontinue antibiotics after an emergency department or urgent care visit
Authors: Geyer Abigail C , Draper Heather M , Wolf Lauren M , Buss Paige M , Dumkow Lisa E
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The impact of pharmacist-led culture follow-up programs for positive cultures is well established. The benefits and feasibility of evaluating negative cultures and deprescribing unnecessary antibiotics after emergency department (ED) and urgent care (UC) visits are unknown; therefore, this evaluation characterized the burden of negative urine cultures and chlamydia tests and estimated how many potential antibiotic days could be saved with deprescribing.

Methods

This retrospective, descriptive study evaluated patients discharged from an ED or UC location with a pharmacist-led culture follow-up program. The primary objective was to characterize the proportion of patients with a negative urine culture or chlamydia test where an opportunity would exist to deprescribe antibiotics at follow-up. Secondary endpoints included estimating the number of potential antibiotic days that could be saved, postvisit healthcare utilization, and documented adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Results

For a 1-month period, pharmacists reviewed 398 cultures, of which 208 (52%) were urine cultures or chlamydia tests with negative results. Fifty patients (24%) with negative results had been prescribed empiric antibiotics. The median duration of antibiotic treatment was 7 days (interquartile range [IQR], 5-7 days), while the median time to culture finalization was 2 days (IQR, 1-2 days). There was an opportunity to save a median of 5 antibiotic days per patient. Thirty-two patients (15.3%) followed up with their primary care physician within 7 days; of these patients, 1 (0.05%) had their antibiotic prescription discontinued by the primary care physician. There were no documented ADRs.

Conclusion

Expansion of pharmacist-led culture follow-up programs to deprescribe antibiotics for patients with negative cultures has the potential to save significant antibiotic exposure.
National screening practices in vulval extramammary Paget disease: a multicentre UK audit
Authors: Khan Sabrina , Jarrett Rachael , Cooper Susan
Published: March 2023

National audit on screening practices on vulval extramammary Paget disease.
Tell me more, tell me more: repeated personal data requests increase disclosure
Authors: Fleming Piers , Edwards S Gareth , Bayliss Andrew P , Seger Charles R
Published: March 2023

Personal data is of great commercial benefit and potential sensitivity. However, for the consumers who provide their personal data, doing so comes with potential costs, benefits and security risks. Typically, consumers have the option to consent to the use of personal/sensitive data but existing research suggests consumer choices may only be weakly related to their concerns (the privacy paradox). Here, we examine if the repetitive nature of data requests alters behaviour but not concern, therefore, explaining the divergence. This work is theoretically grounded in ‘Foot in the door’ research in which small initial requests facilitate subsequent larger requests. An initial laboratory study asking for real, personal data demonstrated increased information disclosure at a subsequent request. A second online study replicated the increased information disclosure effect and found no change in associated privacy concern. We find this supports foot-in-the-door as one explanation of the privacy paradox. We suggest ways for businesses and consumers to encourage an acceptable level of disclosure to match personal beliefs for mutual trust and benefit.
A double-chambered left ventricle with a giant thrombus: a case report
Authors: Nie Weixia , He Jian , Lu Minjie
Published: March 2023

Background

A double-chambered left ventricle (DCLV) is an extremely rare congenital disease that is often asymptomatic and undiagnosed until adulthood. The incidence of a double-chambered right ventricle is estimated to be 1 in 36000 patients, while the incidence of DCLV is certainly even lower. To date, only a handful of cases of DCLV have been reported.

Case summary

A 4-year-old boy was admitted to the local hospital in 2019 due to chest discomfort. He had mild tachypnoea and wheezing. Upon physical examination, his heart was found to be enlarged without any obvious cardiac murmur. Cardiac percussion also revealed an enlargement of the heart, and further echocardiography confirmed a diagnosis of a ‘dual-chamber left ventricle’. No other cardiac or systemic abnormalities were observed. In January 2022, the patient came to our hospital for further diagnosis and treatment. The laboratory results including coagulation testing showed no obvious abnormality. The 24-hour Holter monitor revealed a sinus rhythm with a left bundle branch block (I°). The bedside chest X-ray indicated an abnormal protrusion of the left margin of the heart. Transthoracic echocardiography showed that the left ventricle was divided into main and accessory chambers by a thick muscle bundle in the middle of the left ventricular cavity. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging confirmed this, and additionally found a giant thrombus in the accessory cavity.

Discussion

A DCLV is an extremely rare congenital heart disease that is often asymptomatic and undiagnosed until adulthood. The aetiology of DCLV is still unclear; however, some reports have suggested that it may be related to a hypoplasia of the regional myocardial intra-trabecular sinusoids or an intra-myocardial aneurysm during the embryonic period. Additionally, some cases have indicated that DCLV may be a subtype of genetic cardiomyopathies. A DCLV is characterized by a subdivision of the left ventricle into two chambers by an abnormal septum or by muscle bands. This case report introduces a patient with DCLV and a giant thrombus, in which CMR imaging plays an important role in both diagnosis and differential diagnosis.
Confusion in a patient with premature ventricular complexes originating in the left ventricular summit
Authors: Luani Blerim , Schmeisser Alexander , Wiemer Marcus , Braun-Dullaeus Rüdiger C
Published: March 2023

Background

Premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) originating in the ventricular outflow tracts are mostly of benign character.

Case Summary

We describe a rare case of pulmonary hypertension with severe hypoxaemia and confusion caused by a significant mitral regurgitation (MR) during PVC originating in the left ventricle summit. After successful PVC ablation, all above-mentioned clinical parameters had normalized.

Discussion

Premature ventricular complexes originating in the outflow tracts should be considered as a potential though rare cause of severe MR and pulmonary hypertension.
Cardiovascular disease risk assessment using a deep-learning-based retinal biomarker: a comparison with existing risk scores
Authors: Yi Joseph Keunhong , Rim Tyler Hyungtaek , Park Sungha , Kim Sung Soo , Kim Hyeon Chang , Lee Chan Joo , Kim Hyeonmin , Lee Geunyoung , Lim James Soo Ghim , Tan Yong Yu , Yu Marco , Tham Yih-Chung , Bakhai Ameet , Shantsila Eduard , Leeson Paul , Lip Gregory Y H , Chin Calvin W L , Cheng Ching-Yu
Published: March 2023

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the ability of a deep-learning-based cardiovascular disease (CVD) retinal biomarker, Reti-CVD, to identify individuals with intermediate- and high-risk for CVD.

Methods and results

We defined the intermediate- and high-risk groups according to Pooled Cohort Equation (PCE), QRISK3, and modified Framingham Risk Score (FRS). Reti-CVD’s prediction was compared to the number of individuals identified as intermediate- and high-risk according to standard CVD risk assessment tools, and sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated to assess the results. In the UK Biobank, among 48 260 participants, 20 643 (42.8%) and 7192 (14.9%) were classified into the intermediate- and high-risk groups according to PCE, and QRISK3, respectively. In the Singapore Epidemiology of Eye Diseases study, among 6810 participants, 3799 (55.8%) were classified as intermediate- and high-risk group according to modified FRS. Reti-CVD identified PCE-based intermediate- and high-risk groups with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 82.7%, 87.6%, 86.5%, and 84.0%, respectively. Reti-CVD identified QRISK3-based intermediate- and high-risk groups with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 82.6%, 85.5%, 49.9%, and 96.6%, respectively. Reti-CVD identified intermediate- and high-risk groups according to the modified FRS with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 82.1%, 80.6%, 76.4%, and 85.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

The retinal photograph biomarker (Reti-CVD) was able to identify individuals with intermediate and high-risk for CVD, in accordance with existing risk assessment tools.
Combining the third molar mineralization to further improve the accuracy of the Kvaal’s method in dental age estimation of subadults in northern China
Authors: Qu Weifeng , Cai Jifeng , Jiang Bowei , Wen Dan , He Wei , Wang Chudong , Xing Hao , Yang Zedeng , Li Jienan , Zha Lagabaiyila , Liu Ying , Zhou Jian
Published: March 2023

The morphological changes based on deposition of secondary dentin and mineralization of the third molar have been proven to be related to chronological age. However, Kvaal’s method on the theory of deposition of secondary dentin was controversial with respect to dental age estimation in the recent research. The aim of this study was to combine the parameters of Kvaal’s method with relatively high correlation coefficients and mineralization stages of the third molar to improve the accuracy of predicting the dental age of subadults in northern China. A total of 340 digital orthopantomograms of subadults aged from 15 to 21 years were analysed. A training group was used to test the accuracy of the original Kvaal’s method and to establish novel methods for subadults in northern China. A testing group was used to compare the accuracy of the newly established methods with the Kvaal’s original method and with published method specifically used in northern China. To increase the feasibility of our estimation model, we combined the mineralization of the third molar to build a combined specific formula. The results showed that the combined specific model increased the coefficient of determination to 0.513, and the standard error of the estimate was reduced to 1.482 years. We concluded that the combined specific model based on the deposition of secondary dentin and mineralization of the third molar could improve the accuracy of dental age assessment of subadults in northern China.

Key Points
Differences in solitary and dyadic sexual desire and sexual satisfaction in heterosexual and nonheterosexual cisgender men and women
Authors: Peixoto Maria Manuela
Published: March 2023

Background

Gender differences in sexual desire have been documented in the literature, with sexual desire being correlated with sexual satisfaction; however, data on sexual desire and sexual satisfaction among nonheterosexual samples are more limited, as are data examining sexual desire toward oneself (solitary) and another person (dyadic).

Aim

To examine differences between men and women, between heterosexuals and nonheterosexuals, and the interaction of gender and sexual orientation in solitary and dyadic sexual desire (partner and attractive person related) and sexual satisfaction, and to explore the predictive role of solitary and dyadic sexual desire on sexual satisfaction, controlling for gender and sexual orientation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with an online sample of 1013 participants recruited between 2017 and 2020 (552 women, 54.5%; 461 men, 45.5%; 802 heterosexuals, 79.2%; 211 nonheterosexuals, 20.8%).

Outcomes

Participants completed a web survey with a sociodemographic sheet, the Sexual Desire Inventory–2, and the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction.

Results

Current findings indicated that men scored significantly higher on solitary sexual desire (P < .001, partial η2 = 0.015) and attractive person–related desire (P < .001, partial η2 = 0.015) when compared with women. Likewise, nonheterosexuals scored significantly higher on solitary sexual desire (P < .001, partial η2 = 0.053) and attractive person–related desire (P < .001, partial η2 = 0.033) vs heterosexuals. In addition, partner-related desire (β = 0.33, P < .001) was a positive and significant predictor of sexual satisfaction, whereas solitary desire (β = −0.18, P < .001) and attractive person–related desire (β = −0.23, P < .001) were negative predictors.

Clinical Implications

Sexual desire toward an intimate partner appears to be experienced in similar levels among heterosexual and nonheterosexual men and women, while solitary and attractive person–related sexual desire appears to be more strong among men and nonheterosexual individuals.

Strengths and Limitations

The current study did not use a dyadic-centered approach, only individual perceptions and experiences. However, it explored solitary sexual desire and partner– and attractive person–related sexual desire in a large sample of heterosexual and nonheterosexual men and women as predictors of sexual satisfaction.

Conclusion

Overall, men and nonheterosexual individuals experienced more solitary and attractive person–related sexual desire. In addition, partner–related sexual desire was a positive predictor of sexual satisfaction, whereas solitary sexual desire and attractive person–related desire were negative predictors of sexual satisfaction.
Efficacy of laser interstitial thermal therapy for biopsy-proven radiation necrosis in radiographically recurrent brain metastases
Authors: Chan Michael , Tatter Steven , Chiang Veronica , Fecci Peter , Strowd Roy , Prabhu Sujit , Hadjipanayis Constantinos , Kirkpatrick John , Sun David , Sinicrope Kaylyn , Mohammadi Alireza M , Sevak Parag , Abram Steven , Kim Albert H , Leuthardt Eric , Chao Samuel , Phillips John , Lacroix Michel , Williams Brian , Placantonakis Dimitris , Silverman Joshua , Baumgartner James , Piccioni David , Laxton Adrian
Published: March 2023

Background

Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) in the setting of post-SRS radiation necrosis (RN) for patients with brain metastases has growing evidence for efficacy. However, questions remain regarding hospitalization, local control, symptom control, and concurrent use of therapies.

Methods

Demographics, intraprocedural data, safety, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), and survival data were prospectively collected and then analyzed on patients who consented between 2016–2020 and who were undergoing LITT for biopsy-proven RN at one of 14 US centers. Data were monitored for accuracy. Statistical analysis included individual variable summaries, multivariable Fine and Gray analysis, and Kaplan–Meier estimated survival.

Results

Ninety patients met the inclusion criteria. Four patients underwent 2 ablations on the same day. Median hospitalization time was 32.5 hours. The median time to corticosteroid cessation after LITT was 13.0 days (0.0, 1229.0) and cumulative incidence of lesional progression was 19% at 1 year. Median post-procedure overall survival was 2.55 years [1.66, infinity] and 77.1% at one year as estimated by KaplanMeier. Median KPS remained at 80 through 2-year follow-up. Seizure prevalence was 12% within 1-month post-LITT and 7.9% at 3 months; down from 34.4% within 60-day prior to procedure.

Conclusions

LITT for RN was not only again found to be safe with low patient morbidity but was also a highly effective treatment for RN for both local control and symptom management (including seizures). In addition to averting expected neurological death, LITT facilitates ongoing systemic therapy (in particular immunotherapy) by enabling the rapid cessation of steroids, thereby facilitating maximal possible survival for these patients.
Oral iron replacement vs. IV iron treatment in bariatric surgery patients with anemia
Authors: Connors Angelyn , Watkins Elyse J.
Published: March 2023

Bariatric surgery has become a recognized tool to reduce weight and resolve or improve comorbid conditions associated with obesity. Patients with obesity are at risk for nutritional deficiencies because of poor-quality diets and the chronic inflammatory state of obesity. Iron deficiency is common in these patients, with incidence rates as high as 21.5% preoperatively and 49% postoperatively. Iron deficiency is often overlooked and not treated, leading to increased complications. This article reviews the risk factors for developing iron-deficiency anemia, diagnosis, and treatment considerations for oral versus IV iron replacement for patients undergoing bariatric surgery.
Botulinum neurotoxin
Authors: Aldridge Jamie H. R.
Published: March 2023

Clostridium botulinum is a Gram-positive bacterium that produces one of the most deadly chemodenervating toxins in the world. To date, six distinct neurotoxins are available for prescription use in the United States. Decades of data across aesthetic therapeutic areas and therapeutic disease states support the safety and efficacy of C. botulinum, providing good symptom management and improved quality of life in appropriately chosen patients. Unfortunately, many clinicians are slow to progress patients to toxin therapy from more conservative measures, and others wrongly interchange the products despite characteristics unique to each. Commensurate with an improved understanding of the complex pharmacology and clinical implications of botulinum neurotoxins is the importance for clinicians to appropriately identify, educate, refer, and/or treat candidate patients. This article provides an overview of the history, mechanism of action, differentiation, indications, and uses for botulinum neurotoxins.
Clinical update on dementia with Lewy bodies for primary care NPs
Authors: Parish Abby Luck , Kim Jennifer
Published: March 2023

Dementia with Lewy bodies is the second most common type of neurodegenerative dementia in older adults. NPs in primary care must have a thorough understanding of this complex disease in order to ensure appropriate referrals, provide patient and caregiver education, and comanage this disease with other healthcare professionals.
Inflammation macrophages contribute to cardiac homeostasis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Tu Junchu , Li Yujie , Wang Yanli , Lu Lin , Wu Chengjie , Yu Xi-yong , Li Yangxin
Published: March 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have high morbidity. Many endogenous and exogenous factors provoke the innate immune response causing tissue damage and accelerating the progression of the diseases. The macrophages are the major cells mediating the inflammatory response. Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes that recognize danger signals, activate cytokines, and participate in the inflammatory response. Both macrophages and inflammasomes play a critical role in the development and progression of CVDs, such as myocardial infarction, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. This review will summarize the studies on macrophages and inflammasomes and discuss potential therapeutic interventions. Moreover, macrophages and inflammasomes play distinct role in the inflammation process, but closely linked. The inflammasome system occur in macrophages, and macrophage pyroptosis may be provoked by inflammasome activation. The cytokines secreted by macrophages may be related to the activation of inflammasomes, and further activate macrophages in the heart and cause the interconversion of M1 phenotype and M2 phenotype. The mechanism of inflammasomes regulating macrophage polarization remains to be further investigated.