bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey of neurotransmitter receptor gene expression into and out of parental care in the burying beetleNicrophorus vespilloides
Authors: Cunningham Christopher B. , Khana Daven , Carter Annika , McKinney Elizabeth C. , Moore Allen J.
Published: September 2021

Understanding the genetic influences of traits of nonmodel organisms is crucial to understanding how novel traits arise. Do new traits require new genes or are old genes repurposed? How predictable is this process? Here, we examine this question for gene expression influencing parenting behavior in a beetle,Nicrophorus vespilloides. Parental care, produced from many individual behaviors, should be influenced by changes of expression of multiple genes, and one suggestion is that the genes can be predicted based on knowledge of behavior expected to be precursors to parental care, such as aggression, resource defense, and mating on a resource. Thus, testing gene expression during parental care allows us to test expectations of this “precursor hypothesis” for multiple genes and traits. We tested for changes of the expression of serotonin, octopamine/tyramine, and dopamine receptors, as well as one glutamate receptor, predicting that these gene families would be differentially expressed during social interactions with offspring and associated resource defense. We found that serotonin receptors were strongly associated with social and aggression behavioral transitions. Octopamine receptors produced a complex picture of gene expression over a reproductive cycle. Dopamine was not associated with the behavioral transitions sampled here, while the glutamate receptor was most consistent with a behavioral change of resource defense/aggression. Our results generate new hypotheses, refine candidate lists for further studies, and inform the genetic mechanisms that are co‐opted during the evolution of parent–offspring interactions, a likely evolutionary path for many lineages that become fully social. The precursor hypothesis, while not perfect, does provide a starting point for identifying candidate genes.
Standardizing the haemoglobin glycation index
Authors: Hempe James M. , Yang Shengping , Liu Shuqian , Hsia Daniel S.
Published: September 2021

Aims

A high haemoglobin glycation index (HGI) is associated with greater risk for hypoglycaemia and chronic vascular disease. Standardizing how the HGI is calculated would normalize results between research studies and hospital laboratories and facilitate the clinical use of HGI for assessing risk.

Methods

The HGI is the difference between an observed HbA1c and a predicted HbA1c obtained by inserting fasting plasma glucose (FPG) into a regression equation describing the linear relationship between FPG and HbA1c in a reference population. We used data from the 2005–2016 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to identify a reference population of 18,675 diabetes treatment–naïve adults without self‐reported diabetes. The reference population regression equation (predicted HbA1c = 0.024 FPG + 3.1) was then used to calculate the HGI and divide participants into low (<−0.150), moderate (−0.150 to <0.150) and high (≥0.150) HGI subgroups. Diabetes status was classified by OGTTs.

Results

As previously reported in multiple studies, a high HGI was associated with black race independent of diabetes status, and with older age, higher BMI and higher CRP in normal and prediabetic but not diabetic participants. The mean HGI was 0.6% higher in self‐reported diabetic adults. The HGI was not associated with plasma insulin, HOMA‐IR or 2 h OGTT in participants classified as normal, prediabetic or diabetic.

Conclusions

The regression equation derived from this demographically diverse diabetes treatment–naïve adult NHANES reference population is suitable for standardizing how the HGI is calculated for both clinical use and in research to mechanistically explain population variation in the HGI and why a high HGI is associated with greater risk for chronic vascular disease.
Novel electroosmotic micromixer configuration based on ion‐selective microsphere
Authors: Schiffbauer Jarrod , Ganchenko Georgy , Nikitin Nikolay , Alekseev Maxim , Demekhin Evgeny
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a micromixer of a new configuration is presented, consisting of a spherical chamber in the center of which an ion‐selective microsphere is placed. Stratified liquid is introduced through the chamber via inlet and outlet holes under an external pressure gradient and an external electric field is directed in such a way that the resulting electroosmotic flow is directed against the pressure‐driven flow, resulting in mixing. The investigation is carried out by direct numerical simulation on a super‐computer. Optimal values of the applied electric field are determined to yield strong mixing. Above this optimal mixing regime, a number of instabilities and bifurcations are realized, which qualitatively coincide with those occurring during electrophoresis of an ion‐selective microgranule. As shown by our calculation, these instabilities do not lead to an enhanced mixing. The resulting electroconvective vortices remain confined near the surface of the microgranule, and do not sufficiently perturb the stratified fluid flow further from the granule. On the other hand, another type of instability caused by the salt concentration gradient can generate sufficiently strong oscillations to enhance mixing. However, this only occurs when the external electric field is sufficiently high that the electroosmotic flow is comparable to the pressure‐driven flow. This ultimately leads to creation of reverse flows of the liquid and cessation of the device operation. Thus, it was shown that the best mixing occurs in the absence of electrokinetic instability. Based on the data obtained, it is possible to select the necessary geometric characteristics of the micromixer to achieve the optimal mixing mode for a given set of liquids, which may be ten times more effective than passive mixers at the same flow rates. A comparison with the experimental data of the other authors confirms the effectiveness of this device and its other capabilities. Furthermore, the basic device design can be operated in other modes, for example, an electrohydrodynamic pump, a streaming current generator, or even a micro‐reactor, depending on the system parameters and choice of an ion‐selective granule.
Effect of software implementation on the result of computational fluid dynamics simulation of circulating fluidized bed risers
Authors: Nikku Markku , Niemi Timo , Kallio Sirpa , Daikeler Alexander
Published: September 2021

While in scientific literature much focus is directed toward model validation, comparison, and even parametric investigations on individual model parameters, the possible effects of the used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software on the results are largely neglected. In this article, CFD modeling of circulating fluidized beds (CFB) are performed with Ansys Fluent and OpenFOAM to investigate the effect of software implementation on the simulation results. Transient Eulerian–Eulerian simulations are performed of two different laboratory‐scale CFB cold models in turbulent and circulating fluidized bed conditions. The same mesh and as identical models and settings as possible are utilized on both software. The obtained time‐average profiles of pressure, velocity, and solids volume fraction are compared between the software and with available measurements. A difference in the granular energy equation was identified between the software, and a modification was made to achieve the same formulation. The effect of boundary conditions was also investigated. It was found that depending on the case, the software could have a notable effect on the results. These differences are found especially in particle distribution, visible in the vertical pressure and solids volume fraction profiles as well as in external circulation mass flow rates.
Depositional environment and sediment provenance of the third member of the Palaeogene Shahejie Formation in the Nanpu Sag of the Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China: Evidence from trace and rare earth element geochemistry
Authors: Lei Chuang , Yin Shiyan , Shi Shengbao , Meng Lingjian
Published: September 2021

The depositional environment and sediment provenance of the third member of Palaeogene Shahejie Formation (Es3) in the Nanpu Sag of the Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China, are reconstructed by analysing trace element and rare earth element (REE), and the formation mechanism of organic‐matter‐rich shales of the same member is also evaluated. These results show that the terrigenous detrital supply in the Nanpu Sag was relatively sufficient during the Es3 interval, and the total REE contents range from 148.23 to 319.28 ppm, close to or higher than that of the upper crust. The Sr concentrations are 214.22–525.54 ppm and the Sr/Ba ratios are 0.31–0.74, which represent the coexistence of fresh, brackish, and saline waters during the Es3 interval. The V/(V + Ni) ratios of 0.71–0.82, Th/U ratios of 0.82–4.05, and positive δCe anomaly confirm that the water column was suboxic condition, with moderate stratification during the Es3 interval. Comparison of REE behaviours suggests that the Es3 sediments were primarily derived from Yanshanian granites at the Yanshanian fold belt at the active continental margin. The development of organic‐matter‐rich shales in the Es3 member in the Nanpu Sag was closely related to major palaeoenvironmental and palaeogeographical variations in that time, which can be summarized: (a) suitable palaeosalinity as well as sufficient nutrients in water column contributed to the boom of various planktonic algae, improving the production efficiency of aquatic organic matter; (b) suboxic water column slowed down the degradation of oxygen‐sensitive materials during the burial process, enhancing the preservation efficiency of aquatic organic matter.
Association of COVID‐19 with lifestyle behaviours and socio‐economic variables in Turkey: An analysis of Google Trends
Authors: Bayın Donar Gamze , Aydan Seda
Published: September 2021

This study aims to examine the relationship between COVID‐19 cases/deaths and Google data on lifestyle behaviours and socio‐economic variables in Turkey. The data of the research are composed of Google Trends search volume for various words related to socio‐economic conditions, nutritional attitudes, indoor behaviour, outdoor activities and confirmed COVID‐19 case and death data from the Ministry of Health from 31 December 2019 to 31 January 2021. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to evaluate the relationship between the Google search volumes of selected keywords and COVID‐19 case and deaths. In addition, repeated ANOVA and Bonferroni post‐hoc tests were performed to compare the differences in search volumes of selected keywords before and during the COVID‐19 outbreak. Correlation analysis showed that the strongest variables in each category were vitamin C, zinc, Zoom, online shopping, hotel, market, gym, unemployment and unemployment benefit. Compared to previous years, during the pandemic, there was a significant increase or decrease in the search volumes of almost all words. These results showed that the COVID‐19 significantly changed people's online interests regarding lifestyle behaviours and socio‐economic conditions. It is thought that the findings can guide health policies to be followed in reducing the effects of both behavioural changes and negative socio‐economic consequences.
Urethrovaginal fistula 11 years after a bone anchor sling using woven polyester and treatment with a Martius flap
Authors: Kato Kumiko , Suzuki Akitaka , Hayashi Yuji , Matsuyama Aika , Sai Hiroki , Ishiyama Akinobu , Kato Takashi , Inoue Satoshi , Hirabayashi Hiroki , Suzuki Shoji
Published: September 2021

Introduction

We encountered a urethrovaginal fistula diagnosed 11 years after a bone anchor sling.

Case presentation

A 58‐year‐old woman underwent a bone anchor sling to treat stress urinary incontinence. At age 69, mid‐urethral sling was planned because of a recurrent stress urinary incontinence diagnosis, but a urethrovaginal fistula was found immediately before the procedure. After removing woven polyester, the previous sling material, simple fistula closure was carried out but failed. Usage of a vaginal speculum and powerful medical lamps during a stress test revealed leakage from both the urethrovaginal fistula and the external urethral meatus. She underwent another fistula closure using a Martius flap. Subsequently, a 1‐h pad test improved from 195 to 5.1 g/h. The remaining mild stress urinary incontinence did not necessitate further treatment.

Conclusion

Anti‐incontinence procedures using synthetic materials can cause urethrovaginal fistula. Attention must be paid to the possibility of urethrovaginal fistula when patients complain of worsened incontinence postoperatively.
Implementation of a pharmacist‐managed population health monitoring tool for disease modifying therapies in treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis in a veterans affairs medical center
Authors: Martin Alison W. , Isaac Julianne , Furbish Amelia
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that requires treatment with disease modifying therapies (DMTs). Use of DMTs has been associated with potential safety concerns dictating the need for medication monitoring.

Objectives

The purpose of this project was to (1) establish specific guidelines for DMT monitoring that would be used to create a population health management (PHM) tool via electronic dashboard to allow targeted patient interventions by the neurology clinical pharmacy specialist, and (2) describe pharmacist interventions before and after dashboard implementation.

Methods

Medication safety monitoring parameters were developed and utilized to implement a dashboard for DMT monitoring at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). Qualifying DMTs included interferon beta‐1a/1b formulations, fingolimod, teriflunomide, and dimethyl fumarate. A standardized DMT medication ordering menu and note template were also developed. A retrospective chart review was conducted to assess compliance with recommended monitoring in the 6 months prior to dashboard implementation (descriptive phase) and 6 months after dashboard implementation (implementation phase).

Results

Prior to dashboard implementation, 40 patients were identified with a qualifying DMT prescription. Of those, 8 (20%) had an abnormal laboratory result, 26 (65%) lacked baseline testing, mostly complete blood counts (CBCs) and liver function tests (LFTs), and 17 (42.5%) lacked follow‐up monitoring. Of the 39 patients with a qualifying DMT prescription after dashboard implementation, 4 (10%) had an abnormal laboratory result and 4 (10%) lacked follow‐up monitoring. Eight patients were started on a new DMT, and of those 1 (12.5%) lacked baseline monitoring. Total pharmacist interventions decreased from 128 to 67 after process improvements and dashboard implementation.

Conclusion

Development of standardized DMT monitoring guidelines and dashboard implementation resulted in improved DMT monitoring at this VAMC. This PHM approach to patient care allowed for targeted pharmacist interventions to improve patient safety and medication adherence.
From concept to reality: Building an ambulatory antimicrobial stewardship program
Authors: Jensen Kelsey L. , Rivera Christina G. , Draper Evan W. , Ausman Sara E. , Anderson Benjamin J. , Dinnes Laura M. , Christopherson Darrin R. , Prigge Kimberly A. , Rajapakse Nipunie S. , Vergidis Paschalis , Virk Abinash , Stevens Ryan W.
Published: September 2021

Human antimicrobial consumption largely occurs in the ambulatory setting, with inappropriate or unnecessary antimicrobial prescribing well documented in the literature. In 2020, The Joint Commission implemented a regulatory standard requiring the development and implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) in those institutions surveyed under the ambulatory accreditation standard. While experience with inpatient antimicrobial stewardship has continued to increase, ambulatory ASPs are programmatically distinct and can present unique challenges with regards to operationalizing regulatory components. Herein, we lay a framework for addressing the task of developing an ambulatory ASP for a large health system by reviewing the regulatory requirements, examining relevant recent publications, and describing our institutional experience.
Impact of a pharmacist‐inclusive post‐discharge clinic on outcomes in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction: Rates of hospital readmission, emergency department visits, or death
Authors: Upton Addison J. , Tilton Ryan , Ogedengbe Opeyemi , Bankieris Kaitlyn R. , Smith LaVone , Trichon Benjamin , Thohan Vinay , Kiser Tyree H. , Sleater Laura Kiser
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Heart failure hospitalization is a hallmark of disease progression associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Benefits of multidisciplinary clinics have been established in the care of heart failure patients and can be particularly impactful post‐hospital discharge.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the impact of a clinical pharmacist‐integrated model of care within a Heart Failure Bridge Clinic (HFBC) at a large tertiary care referral center.

Methods

In this single‐center retrospective study, patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤40% discharged from Mission Hospital (Asheville, North Carolina) between August 2018 and July 2019 were screened. Patients in the HFBC arm had a clinic visit inclusive of a clinical pharmacist within 30 days of hospital discharge and were compared with a control group of patients with a usual care provider clinic visit. The HFBC provided clinical assessment, detailed heart failure education, and medication reconciliation and adjustment with an emphasis on optimization of Guideline Directed Medical Therapy (GDMT). Patients were followed for 90 days for the primary end point of hospitalization, emergency department (ED) visit, or death.

Results

A total of 1463 patients (HFBC, n = 307; control, n = 1156) comprised our final cohort. After accounting for baseline variables, 90‐day cumulative probability of hospitalization, ED visit, or death favored HFBC patients (26% vs 32%, P = .0275). Comprehensive review of medications prior to and after HFBC appointment demonstrated significant alterations to therapies (30% GDMT addition, 27% GDMT titration, 7.2% discontinuation of medications associated with worsening heart failure, and 28% loop diuretic adjustment).

Conclusion

Clinical pharmacist‐integrated HFBC allows for focused medication review and optimization and is associated with a 19% relative risk reduction in hospitalization, ED visit, or death at 90 days.
Pharmacist‐driven methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus screening protocol and the impact on vancomycin exposure in hospitalized patients with pneumonia
Authors: Evans Will , Paciullo Kristen , Trible Ronald
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Although methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a rarely identified pathogen of pneumonia, providers are often compelled to use anti‐MRSA antibiotics empirically. As a result, patients may be exposed to unnecessary anti‐MRSA antibiotic therapy. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) nares screening for MRSA colonization has repeatedly shown a negative predictive value of >95% for MRSA pneumonia. Therefore, nares screenings have the potential to serve as a valuable tool to de‐escalate anti‐MRSA antibiotics for patients with pneumonia. Our institution implemented a protocol whereby pharmacists order a MRSA PCR screen for patients with suspected MRSA pneumonia at the time of vancomycin initiation. For negative MRSA PCR results, pharmacists contact the provider and recommend discontinuation of vancomycin.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of pharmacist‐driven MRSA PCR nares screening on duration of vancomycin therapy for patients with pneumonia.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study of patients with suspected MRSA pneumonia pre‐ and post‐protocol implementation. The study was conducted at a community teaching hospital September 1, 2017 through November 30, 2017 (control) and September 1, 2018 through November 30, 2018 (intervention). Patients were excluded for the following: concomitant non‐pulmonary MRSA infection, septic shock requiring vasopressors, confirmed MRSA infection within the last 30 days, cystic fibrosis, or bronchiectasis. The primary endpoint was duration of vancomycin therapy.

Results

Our institutional review board‐approved study included 196 patients (n = 81 pre‐protocol, n = 115 post‐protocol). Post implementation of the MRSA nares screen protocol, patients received a significant reduction in median hours of vancomycin (38 vs 23.5 hours, P = .002). Reduction in vancomycin exposure was not found to adversely affect clinical outcomes such as length of stay or readmission at 30 days.

Conclusions

Implementation of a pharmacist‐driven MRSA nares screen significantly and safely reduces unnecessary vancomycin exposure in patients with suspected pneumonia.
Impact of pharmacists on identification of immune checkpoint inhibitor toxicities
Authors: Linger Caitlin M. , Trinh Van A. , Ma Junsheng , Bassett Roland , Zobniw Chrystia M.
Published: September 2021

Background

The use of novel immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) has changed the face of management for cutaneous malignancies since their introduction. While these agents are associated with exciting outcomes, they are also associated with unique toxicities, referred to as immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). Early recognition and management of these adverse reactions is important to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with these agents. At our institution, patients who receive every two‐week CPIs are eligible for enrollment into the telephone toxicity monitoring program led by the skin center clinical pharmacists. Our intention for this study is to review the departmental experience and impact to patient care with the implementation of pharmacist telephone follow‐up calls.

Methods

This is a retrospective, observational cohort study of all adult skin center clinic patients who received every two‐week dosing of nivolumab and avelumab with a documented telephone follow‐up encounter from June 1, 2015 to September 30, 2019. Patients were identified via the skin center telephone call patient database.

Results

A total of 726 follow up calls were conducted among 177 patients. There were 278 (38.3%) calls with at least one intervention. Of these interventions, 59.4% were considered clinically non‐significant and 40.6% were clinically significant which are considered irAE‐related. The most commonly identified irAEs were gastrointestinal, dermatologic, and endocrine, and most irAEs were low grade. The median time to complete a toxicity assessment for both clinically non‐significant and significant was 30 minutes.

Conclusions

Our data show that a pharmacist‐driven telephone toxicity assessment program in a skin center clinic over a four‐year time span can lead to the identification of clinically significant irAEs and beneficial interventions to patients. However, this process is time consuming and will need further evaluation in order to determine pharmacist full‐time equivalents needed to carry out this program.
Behavioral ephemera, difficult discriminations, and behavioral stability
Authors: Baum William M.
Published: September 2021

Every species possesses abilities for successfully interacting with its environment. These result from phylogeny. In the laboratory, one may arrange artificial conditions that thwart an organism's abilities. The result may be a “phenomenon.” With sufficient training, however, the phenomenon may prove to be ephemeral, as the organism's basic abilities reassert themselves. Pigeons respond extremely well to differences and nondifferences in rate of obtaining food. This ability may be thwarted in a variety of ways, but the results tend to be ephemeral. An example is an experiment that pitted pigeons' preference for unimpeded responding against their ability to respond to food rate. In a concurrent‐chains procedure, the terminal links were identical variable‐interval schedules, but in one terminal link, every response produced a timeout. The duration of the timeout varied, and preference varied with it, but the relation vanished with training, in keeping with the equality of food rate across the 2 terminal links. Some other examples of “phenomena” that tend to disappear with sufficient training and sufficient variation in experimental parameters are behavioral contrast, conditioned reinforcement, resistance to extinction, and suboptimal choice. These “phenomena” depend on pigeons' failing to make difficult discriminations. They appear to be behavioral ephemera.
Extrinsic parameter's adjustment and potential implications in Plasmodium falciparum malaria diagnosis
Authors: A Vijayalakshmi , B Rajesh Kanna , C Vijayalakshmi
Published: September 2021

Malaria is a major public health concern, affecting over 3.2 billion people in 91 countries. The advent of digital microscopy and Machine learning with the aim of automating Plasmodium falciparum diagnosis extensively depends on the extracted image features. The color of the cells, plasma, and stained artifacts influence the topological, geometrical, and statistical parameters being used to extract image features. During microscopic image acquisition, custom adjustments to the condenser and color temperature controls often have an influence on the extracted statistical features. But, our human visual system sub‐consciously adjusts the color and retains the originality in a different lighting environment. Despite the use of appropriate image preprocessing, findings from the literature indicate that statistical feature variations exist, allowing the risk of P. falciparum misinterpretation. In order to eliminate this pervasive variation, the current work focuses on preprocessing the extracted statistical features rather than the prepossessing of the source image. It begins with the augmentation of series images for a microscopic field by inducing illumination variations during the microscopic image acquisition stage. A set of such image series is analyzed using a Nonlinear Regression Model to generalize the relationship between microscopic images acquired with variable ambient brightness and a specific feature. The projection point of the centroid feature onto the brightness parameter is identified in the model and it is denoted as the optimum brightness factor (OBF). Using the model, the feature correction factor (CF) is calculated from the rate of change of feature values over the interval OBF, and the brightness of the test image is processed. The present work has investigated OBF for selected image textural features, namely Contrast, Homogeneity, Entropy, Energy, and Correlation individually from its co‐occurrence matrices. For performance analysis, the best state‐of‐the‐art method uses selected texture as a subset feature to evaluate the effectiveness of P. falciparum malaria classification. Then, the impact of proposed feature processing is evaluated on 274 blood smear images with and without Feature Correction (FC). As a result, the “p” value is less than .05, which leads to the result that it is highly significant and the classification accuracy and F‐score of P. falciparum malaria are increased.
Histological, transmission electron microscopic, and immunohistochemical study of the adrenal gland in the Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus)
Authors: Johnny Mahshid , Goodarzi Nader , Bazm Mohsen Akbari
Published: September 2021

This research was aimed to present the histological and ultrastructure properties of the adrenal gland in the Persian squirrel. Two male and female animals were included in the study. The adrenal gland was bean‐shaped and located on the cranial pole of kidney. The enveloping capsule was dense connective tissue that reacted positively with Periodic‐Acid Schiff (PAS) and Masson trichrome stainings. The parenchyma of the gland consisted of two‐part, namely cortex and medulla; the cortex had three layers: zona glomerulosa (ZG), zona fasciculata (ZF), and zona reticularis (ZR). The cells of the ZG were mainly spherical and ovoid with circular arrangement and few lipid droplets in TEM micrographs. The cells of the ZF were columnar and spherical that were arranged in cord‐like rows. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated conspicuous lipid droplets and mitochondria in this zone. The cells of the ZR were arranged in a tangled networks and were almost similar to those in the ZF. TEM images showed fewer lipid vesicles in the ZR compared to the ZF and ZG. Chromaffin cells were located in the medulla of the adrenal gland in two layers. TEM images showed that some of them were smaller and contained fewer secretory granules; other cells were larger and contained more electron‐dense secretory granules. Immunofluorescence staining showed that steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) expressed from cortex to the corticomedullary junction (CMJ) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expressed in the medulla. In conclusion, the results indicated both similarities and differences between the adrenal gland of the Persian squirrel and other animals such as mammals and rodents.
A case of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy in which a disease‐specific question led to the diagnosis
Authors: Maita Hiroki , Kobayashi Tadashi , Akimoto Takashi , Osawa Hiroshi , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: September 2021

A 17‐year‐old female patient presented to our hospital with repeated transient loss of consciousness lasting less than 10 min. After regaining consciousness, she experienced no disorientation, confusion, tongue‐biting, or incontinence. Physical findings, blood tests, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram showed no obvious abnormalities. On being asked whether she had experienced sudden rapid body movements, she answered “yes.” Therefore, we suspected juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) and obtained an electroencephalogram, which showed diffuse bilateral bursts of spike‐and‐wave complexes, confirming the diagnosis. In adolescent patients with transient loss of consciousness, myoclonic jerks should be actively confirmed for the diagnosis of JME.
Lipid residue analysis of ceramic vessels from the Liujiawa site of the Rui State (early Iron Age, north China)
Authors: Han Bin , Sun Zhanwei , Chong Jianrong , Lyu Nanning , Rao Huiyun , Yang Yimin
Published: September 2021

The Liujiawa site is located in the Agricultural–Nomadic Transitional Zone in Northern China (ANTZNC), inhabited during the early Spring and Autumn Period (770–476 bc). Little is known about the diets of its inhabitants or agricultural management practices due to scant historical descriptions. In this study, lipid analysis was conducted on pottery sherds collected from two residential areas within the Liujiawa site. The results offer direct evidence for the processing of millet and ruminant and non‐ruminant carcass products by the commoners of the Liujiawa community. The individual δ13C values of fatty acids with positive fluctuation indicate that some ruminant animals and pigs were fed C4 plants as fodder. The routine consumption of ruminant meat by the common inhabitants also reflects a more diverse food source than that proposed in historical descriptions that have suggested dietary heterogeneity between the upper and lower classes: cattle or ovicaprid meat was not a singular privilege enjoyed by the noble classes. On the contrary, commoners also consumed the meat as a food source. Moreover, direct evidence of dairy processing has been found for the first time in pottery residues from an archaeological site within ANTZNC, strongly indicating that milk had been incorporated into the diet as an additional source of food.
Effects of background music on evaluations of visual images
Authors: Klein Kristina , Melnyk Valentyna , Völckner Franziska
Published: September 2021

Consumers are increasingly exposed to simultaneous auditory and visual stimulation in retail environments. Consistently, there is rising practitioner interest in how to interact the visual appearance of products and packaging with music sounds. This study addresses the intriguing question whether music systematically changes how people like what they see. We propose a cross‐modal homeostasis effect that explains how music changes the inverted‐U relationship between the perceived complexity of visuals and how much people like them. We show that the presence of music (irrespective of its complexity) shifts the optimal level of visual complexity towards liking of relatively simple visuals. Thus, while the mere presence of music decreases consumers' liking of complex visuals, it increases their liking of simpler visuals. Given the omnipresence of background music across business environments, the results have important implications, as music can have unexpected cross‐modal consequences for the evaluation of visuals.
Reconstruction after complete mandibular avulsion with double‐paddle fibular free flap. A case report
Authors: Innocenti Marco , Menichini Giulio , Lucattelli Elena , Fidanza Anastasia , Innocenti Alessandro
Published: September 2021

Reconstruction after maxillofacial trauma is extremely challenging. During the past several decades, the chimeric fibular‐free flap has emerged as a leading reconstructive option for head and neck compound defects. This report describes a unique case of total mandibular reconstruction using a double‐paddle osteocutaneous fibular free flap after facial traumatic injury. A 45‐year‐old man presented a severe maxillofacial trauma with complete mandibular avulsion. The shortest segment of a 24‐cm fibular flap was used to reconstruct the symphysis while the longest segments were placed to rebuild the mandibular body. Microvascular anastomoses were performed with the external jugular vein and facial artery. The distal skin island (10 × 5 cm) was sutured to cover the endo‐oral defect while the proximal one (12 × 6 cm) to restore the external tissues continuity of the facial lower third. The postoperative course was uneventful. One year after flap reconstruction, a first commissuroplasty was performed. After 3 months, secondary commissuroplasty was performed with an Estlander flap to rebuild the right lower lip. At latest follow‐up, 60 months postoperatively, the patient was able to tolerate soft diet with maximal mouth opening of more than 4 cm; no impairment to mastication, deglutition, or phonation was observed. Speech was normal and the aesthetic outcome was judged good. Double‐paddle fibular free flap allows reconstruction of extremely challenging defects, such in case of complete mandibular avulsion. The proximal perforator can provide extended soft‐tissue coverage and greater volume than traditional osteocutaneous flaps, avoiding two flaps simultaneous harvest.
A miniaturized 35 GHz 65‐nm CMOS digital‐controlled differential variable gain amplifier
Authors: Cheng Wei‐Chung , Tsai Zuo‐Min
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a 35 GHz differential variable gain amplifier (VGA) with 4‐bit digital‐controlled gain‐tuning using 65‐nm CMOS process. Using the proposed miniaturized differential matching inductors, a core size of the VGA is only 0.53   0.26 mm. The digital gain control mechanism is achieved using the digital version current steering topology. The measured gain control range of the VGA is from 17.4 to 9 dB at 35 GHz with 16 different linear‐in‐dB gain states. Thus, this work achieves the maximum peak gain per unit core size and maintains a much better gain control range per unit core size. The measured root mean square gain error is <0.29 dB and phase error is < from 34 to 36.5 GHz.
Evaluation of the key prescription sequence symmetry analysis assumption using the calcium channel blocker: Loop diuretic prescribing cascade
Authors: Vouri Scott M. , Morris Earl J. , Usmani Silken A. , Reise Rachel , Jiang Xinyi , Pepine Carl J. , Manini Todd M. , Malone Daniel C. , Winterstein Almut G.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the prescription sequence symmetry analysis assumption regarding balance between marker drug (i.e., medication used to treat a drug‐induced adverse event) initiation rates before and after initiation of an index drug (i.e., medication that is potentially associated with the drug‐induced adverse event) in the absence of prescribing cascades, we used a well‐described example of loop diuretic initiation to treat dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (DH CCB)‐induced edema.

Study design and setting

The University of Florida Health Integrated Data Repository from June 2011 and July 2018 was used to assess temporal prescribing of DH CCB and loop diuretics within the prescription sequence symmetry analysis framework. Validation of the prescribing cascade was performed via clinical expert chart review.

Results

Among patients without heart failure who were initiated on DH CCB, 26 and 64 loop diuretics initiators started within 360 days before versus after DH CCB initiation, respectively, resulting in an adjusted sequence ratio (aSR) of 2.27 (95% CI, 1.44–3.58). Overall, 35 (54.7%) patients were determined to have a prescribing cascade. Removing patients who experienced a prescribing cascade resulted in an aSR of 1.05, 95% CI 0.62–1.78).

Conclusion

Loop diuretic initiation rates before and after DH CCB initiation for reasons other a prescribing cascade were similar, thus confirming the prescription sequence symmetry analysis assumption.
The protection of Salicornia rubra from ultraviolet radiation by betacyanins and phenolic compounds
Authors: Jensen Katherine , Koide Roger T.
Published: September 2021

Salicornia rubra is a commonly occurring annual species of the salt playas of the Great Basin Desert of the western United States. In such habitats, plants experience high levels of ultraviolet radiation, which could potentially damage DNA. As a member of the Amaranthaceae (Caryophyllales), S. rubra shoots typically contain high concentrations of the red‐violet pigments called betacyanins, which are ultraviolet‐absorbing compounds. Nevertheless, some specimens of S. rubra are green even when growing with full exposure to the sun. We, therefore, tested several hypotheses regarding the causes of variation among S. rubra plants in betacyanin concentration and the role of betacyanins in the absorption of ultraviolet radiation. We measured ultraviolet radiation absorption and the concentrations of betacyanins and phenolic compounds of the cell sap expressed from red and green plants growing in full sun, as well as plants grown under various levels of shade. We found that while betacyanin concentrations were predictable from plant color (red plants contained more betacyanins than green plants), the ability to absorb ultraviolet radiation was determined primarily by the concentration of phenolic compounds, which was determined by the level of exposure to the sun. Therefore, the DNA of green plants growing in full sun appears to be at no greater risk than the DNA of red plants.
Preparation and structural analysis of a comb‐like polymer through functional monomer design
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Wang Ruolan , Jiang Feng , Pu Wanfen
Published: September 2021

Partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) is the most extensively used polymer for enhanced oil recovery due to its accessibility and low cost. However, HPAM shows inadequacies in high mineralization and high‐temperature reservoirs. To solve this problem, a comb‐like polymer with superior salt‐resistance and stability named CHPAM was prepared via direct free‐radical copolymerization of acrylamide (AM) and acrylic acid (AA) with the self‐designed monomer (Acryloyl‐MPEG‐1000). The chemical structures of CHPAM and monomers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Static light scattering (SLS) was adopted to measure the molecular weights of CHPAM and HPAM. The solution properties of CHPAM and HPAM were comparatively studied. It was found that CHPAM showed better thermal‐salt stability and salt‐resistance than HPAM, especially in Ca2+solution. This work paves a new way for the preparation of novel polymers.
Mindfulness training for borderline personality disorder: A systematic review of contemporary literature
Authors: Kounidas Georgios , Kastora Stavroula
Published: September 2021

Mindfulness is a component of several psychotherapies. Nonetheless, its effectiveness in borderline personality disorder (BPD) management remains obscure. This systematic review examined the effect of mindfulness training in BPD patients. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CAB Abstracts, Embase, MEDLINE and APA PsycInfo were searched until 30 June 2021. Five trials with 294 participants were included. Improvements were reported in participants' levels of impulsivity, in their emotion dysregulation patterns, in their attention skills and in their mindfulness‐related capacities including decentering and nonjudging. The findings suggest that mindfulness training may be an effective tool for alleviating certain aspects of BPD symptomatology. More research is needed before definitive conclusions can be reached about the effectiveness of mindfulness training in the treatment of BPD patients, and this remains to be elucidated in larger structured clinical trials, with longer follow‐ups.
Upregulated bone morphogenetic protein 5 enhances proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition process in benign prostatic hyperplasia via BMP/Smad signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Daoquan , Liu Jianmin , Li Yan , Liu Huan , Hassan Hassan M. , He Weixiang , Li Mingzhou , Zhou Yongying , Fu Xun , Zhan Junfeng , Wang Zhen , Yang Shu , Chen Ping , Xu Deqiang , Wang Xinhuan , DiSanto Michael E. , Zeng Guang , Zhang Xinhua
Published: September 2021

Background

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common illnesses in aging men. Recent studies found that bone morphogenetic protein 5 (BMP5) is upregulated in BPH tissues, however, the role of BMP5 in the development of BPH has not been examined. The current study aims to elucidate the potential roles of BMP5 and related signaling pathways in BPH.

Methods

Human prostate cell lines (BPH‐1, WPMY‐1) and human/rat hyperplastic prostate tissues were utilized. Western blot, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescent staining, and immunohistochemical staining were performed. BMP5‐silenced and ‐overexpressed cell models were generated and then cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and proliferation were determined. The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) was also quantitated. And rescue experiments by BMP/Smad signaling pathway agonist or antagonist were accomplished. Moreover, BPH‐related tissue microarray analysis was performed and associations between clinical parameters and expression of BMP5 were analyzed.

Results

Our study demonstrated that BMP5 was upregulated in human and rat hyperplastic tissues and localized both in the epithelial and stromal compartments of the prostate tissues. E‐cadherin was downregulated in hyperplastic tissues, while N‐cadherin and vimentin were upregulated. Overexpression of BMP5 enhanced cell proliferation and the EMT process via phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8, while knockdown of BMP5 induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and blocked the EMT process. Moreover, a BMP/Smad signaling pathway agonist and antagonist reversed the effects of BMP5 silencing and overexpression, respectively. In addition, BMP5 expression positively correlated with prostate volume and total prostate‐specific antigen.

Conclusion

Our novel data suggest that BMP5 modulated cell proliferation and the EMT process through the BMP/Smad signaling pathway which could contribute to the development of BPH. However, further studies are required to determine the exact mechanism. Our study also indicated that BMP/Smad signaling may be rediscovered as a promising new therapeutic target for the treatment of BPH.
The Fabrication of Lead‐Free Cs2SnI6 Perovskite Films Using Iodine‐Rich Strategy for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Ullah Saad , Yang Peixin , Wang Jiaming , Liu Linlin , Li YuQiao , Zafar Faisal , Yang Shi-E. , Xia Tianyu , Guo Haizhong , Chen Yongsheng
Published: September 2021

Parallel to the booming of all‐inorganic CsPbX3 halide perovskites, the growth of lead‐free perovskites is accelerating, with the efficiency values of over 10% being realized. Eco‐friendly and stable halide double perovskites with superior stability are considered as an encouraging alternative to address the stability concerns related to the lead halide perovskites. Recently, Cs2SnI6 with defect perovskite structure has appeared as a “superstar” material owing to its environmental friendliness and exceptional stability. Herein, an iodine‐rich strategy (IRS) is developed based on the modified two‐step method for the fabrication of lead‐free Cs2SnI6 films. In addition, the impact of the reaction temperature on the properties of the resultant films is systematically investigated. The results reveal the improvement in the crystallinity and phase stability of the films, suggesting that the proposed IRS successfully inhibits the decomposition of Cs2SnI6 films. The optical measurements confirm the n‐type nature of Cs2SnI6 with bandgap varying from 1.23 to 1.38 eV. The photoluminescence of the films increases gradually with the addition of I2, presumably owing to the reduction of nonrecombination sites. The current work provides valuable direction for the fabrication of Cs2SnI6 devices for green energy applications.
The Electronic, Structural, and Optical Properties of CaNb2O6 Compound: Theoretical Study
Authors: Duman Ubeyt , Aycibin Murat , Özdemir Ömer Faruk
Published: September 2021

Based on the density functional theory (DFT) as incorporated in the Wien2k package, the lattice parameters and atomic position of calcium niobate (CaNb2O6) were optimized. Furthermore, the electronic, optical, and structural properties of the relaxed compound were calculated. Relaxed calcium niobate presents a direct band gap with 3.5 eV, which makes it a good candidate for photovoltaic applications. The DFT calculation reveals that the O atoms make the major contributions in the valence band, while Nb and Ca atoms are the dominant contributors in lower and upper portions of the conduction band, respectively. Moreover, the optical properties of compounds such as refractivity, dielectric constant, reflectivity, etc. are calculated and discussed in detail.