bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of posterior wall isolation in catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Clarke John‐Ross D. , Piccini Jonathan P. , Friedman Daniel J.
Published: July 2021

The left atrial posterior wall has many embryologic, anatomic, and electrophysiologic characteristics, that are important for the initiation and maintenance of persistent atrial fibrillation. The left atrial posterior wall is a potential target for ablation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation, a population in whom pulmonary vein isolation alone has resulted in unsatisfactory recurrence rates. Published clinical studies report conflicting results on the safety and efficacy of posterior wall isolation. Emerging technologies including optimized use of radiofrequency ablation, pulse field ablation, and combined endocardial/epicardial ablation may optimize approaches to posterior wall isolation and reduce the risk of injury to nearby structures such as the esophagus. Critical evaluation of future and ongoing clinical studies of posterior wall isolation requires careful scrutiny of many characteristics, including intraprocedural definition of posterior wall isolation, concomitant extrapulmonary vein ablation, and study endpoints.
Spatial and temporal variability of rotational, focal, and irregular activity: Practical implications for mapping of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Pope Michael TB , Kuklik Pawel , Briosa e Gala Andre , Leo Milena , Mahmoudi Michael , Paisey John , Betts Timothy R
Published: July 2021

Background

Charge density mapping of atrial fibrillation (AF) reveals dynamic localized rotational activation (LRA), irregular activation (LIA) and focal firing (FF). Their spatial stability, conduction characteristics and the optimal duration of mapping required to reveal these phenomena and has not been explored.

Methods

Bi‐atrial mapping of AF propagation was undertaken using AcQMap (Acutus Medical) and variability of activation patterns quantified up to a duration of 30 s. The frequency of each pattern was quantified at each unique point of the chamber over two separate 30‐s recordings before ablation and R2 calculated to quantify spatial stability. Regions with the highest frequency were identified at increasing time durations and compared to the result over 30 s using Cohen's kappa. Properties of regions with the most stable patterns were assessed during sinus rhythm and extrastimulus pacing.

Results

In 21 patients, 62 paired LA and RA maps were obtained. LIA was highly spatially stable with R2 between maps of 0.83 (0.71–0.88) compared to 0.39 (0.24–0.57), and 0.64 (0.54–0.73) for LRA and FF, respectively. LIA was most temporally stable with a kappa of >0.8 reached by 12 s. LRA showed greatest variability with kappa >0.8 only after 22 s. Regions of LIA were of normal voltage amplitude (1.09 mv) but showed increased conduction heterogeneity during extrastimulus pacing (p = .0480).

Conclusion

Irregular activation patterns characterized by changing wavefront direction are temporally and spatially stable in contrast with LRA that is transient with least spatial stability. Focal activation appears of intermediate stability. Regions of LIA show increased heterogeneity following extrastimulus pacing and may represent fixed anatomical substrate.
Using ensemble of ensemble machine learning methods to predict outcomes of cardiac resynchronization
Authors: Cai Cheng , Tafti Ahmad P. , Ngufor Che , Zhang Pei , Xiao Peilin , Dai Mingyan , Liu Hongfang , Noseworthy Peter , Chen Minglong , Friedman Paul A. , Cha Yong‐Mei
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The efficacy of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been widely studied in the medical literature; however, about 30% of candidates fail to respond to this treatment strategy. Smart computational approaches based on clinical data can help expose hidden patterns useful for identifying CRT responders.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the electronic health records of 1664 patients who underwent CRT procedures from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2017. An ensemble of ensemble (EoE) machine learning (ML) system composed of a supervised and an unsupervised ML layers was developed to generate a prediction model for CRT response.

Results

We compared the performance of EoE against traditional ML methods and the state‐of‐the‐art convolutional neural network (CNN) model trained on raw electrocardiographic (ECG) waveforms. We observed that the models exhibited improvement in performance as more features were incrementally used for training. Using the most comprehensive set of predictors, the performance of the EoE model in terms of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and F1‐score were 0.76 and 0.73, respectively. Direct application of the CNN model on the raw ECG waveforms did not generate promising results.

Conclusion

The proposed CRT risk calculator effectively discriminates which heart failure (HF) patient is likely to respond to CRT significantly better than using clinical guidelines and traditional ML methods, thus suggesting that the tool can enhanced care management of HF patients by helping to identify high‐risk patients.
Feeling like the sky is falling down: Experiences of parents of adolescents diagnosed with cancer in one‐child families in China – A qualitative study
Authors: Chen Huaying , He Qing , Zeng Yuanyuan , Wang Lei , Yu Huaqin , Yin Wenrong , Jiang Yan , Liu Lei
Published: July 2021

Background

As a result of the one‐child policy of 1979, today there are numerous one‐child families with adolescents in Mainland China. Little is known about the experiences of parents of such adolescents diagnosed with cancer.

Objectives

This study explored the experiences of parents whose adolescent child was diagnosed with cancer in one‐child families in China.

Methods

A qualitative methodology based on hermeneutic phenomenology was employed. The participants were parents of adolescent cancer patients in one‐child families. Data were collected using in‐depth semi‐structured interviews and analysed using van Manen's hermeneutic phenomenological approach. The COREQ checklist was used for this study.

Results

Fourteen parents (eleven mothers, three fathers) participated in the study. One overarching theme emerged: feeling like the sky is falling down. In addition, there were five related themes: self‐condemnation; ‘white lies’ – that is, difficulty in telling the truth; struggling with a sense of collapse; fear of losing the child and hopelessness. Almost all the participants experienced insomnia after learning about the diagnosis. In a few cases, hopelessness‐induced suicidal ideation or even suicidal behaviour.

Conclusions

Parents of adolescents diagnosed with cancer in one‐child families in China experienced extremely painful emotions. The truth about their child's condition not only caused immense psychological trauma but also induced pessimism about their own future.

Implications for clinical practice

The experiences of parents in one‐child families where an adolescent child has been diagnosed with cancer should be taken seriously. In addition, support should be provided to help parents maintain a normal life and feel hopeful for their future.
Modeling consumer satisfaction to identify drivers for liking: An online survey based on images of Habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.)
Authors: Peralta‐Cruz Claudia , Rodríguez‐Buenfil Ingrid Mayanin , Cabal‐Prieto Adán , Cuervo‐Osorio Víctor Daniel , Oney‐Montalvo Julio Enrique , Herrera‐Corredor José Andrés , Ramírez‐Sucre Manuel Octavio , Ramírez‐Rivera Emmanuel de Jesús
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of factors that influence consumer satisfaction (CSAT) and how emotions and sensory attributes are related to the consumer's preference for Habanero pepper. In Phase 1: A total of 202 Habanero pepper consumers responded to a structured survey to determine the influence of factors on satisfaction using the Partial Least Squares (PLS)‐Path modeling technique. In Phase 2: A total of 498 pepper consumers evaluated images of immature, intermediate‐ripened, and ripened Habanero peppers assigning emotions, sensory attributes, and liking level for each chili image. Results showed that the relationship between intrinsic, extrinsic quality, and consumer safety influenced CSAT. Immature and ripened chili peppers were most preferred. Immature chilies elicited calm, bored, tame, and mild emotions that were related to attributes green vegetable, fresh leaf, and crunchiness. Ripened Habanero peppers elicited emotions such as loving, pleasant, active, worried, satisfied, happy, guilty, wild, aggressive, and joyful that were related to attributes mouth heat, mouth hardness, mouth numbness, and pungency. Satisfaction of Habanero pepper consumers is influenced by safety, extrinsic and intrinsic quality which includes emotions and sensory aspects such as color and texture.

Practical Applications

The use of online questionnaires is an effective tool to collect data for the explanation of the relationships between intrinsic and extrinsic factors from the consumer's point of view and for the evaluation of sensory attributes and emotions evoked through images of Habanero pepper. This makes it possible to identify different patterns of consumer liking levels that can be a key element in the generation of marketing strategies. Results from this research are important for the chili industry, producers, gastronomes and international and nationals' researchers dedicated to the production, processing, use, and research of the Habanero pepper.
Skin‐to‐skin contact to improve premature mothers' anxiety and stress state: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Cong Shengnan , Wang Rui , Fan Xuemei , Song Xiaowei , Sha Lijuan , Zhu Zhu , Zhou Hui , Liu Ying , Zhang Aixia
Published: July 2021

Premature mothers present more anxiety and stress after delivery, which may be caused by mother–infant separation while hospitalised. Skin‐to‐skin contact (SSC), a mitigating factor for mother–infant separation, can benefit infants and mothers in many ways, but few studies focused on its efficacy on maternal anxiety and stress states. Therefore, this review aims to evaluate the effect of SSC on anxiety and stress. Comprehensive research was conducted in nine databases. Meta‐analysis was conducted to investigate the effect of SSC, and subgroup analyses were performed to explain the sources of heterogeneity. Eight randomised controlled trials with 728 participants were included, and SSC significantly reduced the level of anxiety ([standardised mean difference, SMD] −0.72; 95% CI −1.08 to −0.35) and stress state ([SMD] −0.84; 95% CI −1.59 to −0.09). One subgroup analysis revealed that SSC can relieve anxiety if performing SSC no less than 1 h per day ([SMD] −0.94; 95% CI −1.34 to −0.53). Another subgroup analysis suggested that applying SSC repeatedly and lasting less than 1 week ([SMD] −1.49; 95% CI −2.31 to −0.66) or for 1 week to 2 weeks ([SMD] −1.04; 95% CI −1.29 to −0.79) can significantly reduce maternal anxiety level but no significance if lasting over 2 weeks ([SMD] −0.33; 95% CI −0.67 to 0.01). SSC can effectively improve anxiety and stress states among premature mothers after delivery, and not definitive finding presents that only SSC that was performed no less than 60 min could improve postpartum anxiety states, while SSC alone was not as effective when carried out over 2 weeks.
Tooth development in the Early Devonian sarcopterygian Powichthys and the evolution of the crown osteichthyan dentition
Authors: King Benedict , Marone Federica , Rücklin Martin
Published: July 2021

In osteichthyans (bony fishes) the dentition is characterized by marginal tooth rows replaced by basal resorption. Basal resorption was present in the stem osteichthyan Andreolepis, which also possessed overgrowing tooth‐shaped odontodes, a possible intermediate state between external odontodes and teeth. Andreolepis, however, lacked the enlarged marginal tooth rows found in more advanced osteichthyans, and how these evolved from the stem osteichthyan condition is unknown. Here we present computed tomography and synchrotron‐based x‐ray phase‐contrast imaging of the jaws and teeth of the Early Devonian sarcopterygian Powichthys. We reveal the presence of fields of overgrowing tooth‐like odontodes, resembling the dentitions of stem‐group osteichthyans, alongside the marginal tooth row. In the inner dental arcade, we show a continuous variation between regions of tooth‐like and external odontode‐like replacement, apparently driven by variations in the relative rates of bone growth, odontode addition and odontode size. These results suggest that there is a degree of plasticity in oral odontode development. We propose that the tooth rows of crown osteichthyans develop in an essentially similar manner to the teeth of stem osteichthyans, with differences explained by increased resorption activity linked to the larger size of the teeth. Therefore, the external odontodes and teeth of both stem and crown osteichthyan lie on the same developmental continuum.
Editing homologous copies of an essential gene affords crop resistance against two cosmopolitan necrotrophic pathogens
Authors: Zhang Xuekun , Cheng Jiasen , Lin Yang , Fu Yanping , Xie Jiatao , Li Bo , Bian Xuefeng , Feng Yanbo , Liang Weibo , Tang Qian , Zhang Hongxiang , Liu Xiaofan , Zhang Yu , Liu Changxing , Jiang Daohong
Published: July 2021

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Botrytis cinerea are typical necrotrophic pathogens that can attack more than 700 and 3000 plant species, respectively, and cause huge economic losses across numerous crops. In particular, the absence of resistant cultivars makes the stem rot because of S. sclerotiorum the major threat of rapeseed (Brassica napus) worldwide along with Botrytis. Previously, we identified an effector‐like protein (SsSSVP1) from S. sclerotiorum and a homologue of SsSSVP1 on B. cinerea genome and found that SsSSVP1 could interact with BnQCR8 of rapeseed, a subunit of the cytochrome b‐c1 complex. In this study, we found that BnQCR8 has eight homologous copies in rapeseed cultivar Westar and reduced the copy number of BnQCR8 using CRISPR/Cas9 to improve rapeseed resistance against S. sclerotiorum. Mutants with one or more copies of BnQCR8 edited showed strong resistance against S. sclerotiorum and B. cinerea. BnQCR8‐edited mutants did not show significant difference from Westar in terms of respiration and agronomic traits tested, including the plant shape, flowering time, silique size, seed number, thousand seed weight and seed oil content. These traits make it possible to use these mutants directly for commercial production. Our study highlights a common gene for breeding of rapeseed to unravel the key hindrance of rapeseed production caused by S. sclerotiorum and B. cinerea. In contrast to previously established methodologies, our findings provide a novel strategy to develop crops with high resistance against multiple pathogens by editing only a single gene that encodes the common target of pathogen effectors.
A genome‐wide analysis of the molecular alterations occurring in the adenomatous and carcinomatous components of the same tumor based on the adenoma–carcinoma sequence
Authors: Sugai Tamotsu , Osakabe Mitsumasa , Habano Wataru , Tanaka Yoshihito , Eizuka Makoto , Sugimoto Ryo , Yanagawa Naoki , Matsumoto Takayuki , Suzuki Hiromu
Published: July 2021

Identification of molecular alterations occurring in the adenomatous and carcinomatous components within the same tumor would greatly enhance understanding of the neoplastic progression of colorectal cancer. We examined somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) and mRNA expression at the corresponding loci involved in the adenoma–carcinoma sequence in the isolated adenomatous and cancer glands of the same tumor in 15 cases of microsatellite‐stable “carcinoma in adenoma,” using genome‐wide SNP and global gene expression arrays. Multiple copy‐neutral loss of heterozygosity events were detected at 4q13.2, 15q15.1, and 14q24.3 in the adenomatous component and at 4q13.2, 15q15.1, and 14q24.3 in the carcinomatous component. There were significant differences in the copy number (CN) gain frequencies at 20q11.21–q13.33, 8q13.3, 8p23.1, and 8q21.2–q22.2 between the adenomatous and carcinomatous components. Finally, we found a high frequency of five genotypes involving CN gain with upregulated expression of the corresponding gene (RPS21, MIR3654, RSP20, SNORD54, or ASPH) in the carcinomatous component, whereas none of these genotypes were detected in the adenomatous component. This finding is interesting in that CN gain with upregulated gene expression may enhance gene function and play a crucial role in the progression of an adenoma into a carcinomatous lesion.
Drought stress triggers differential survival and functional trait responses in the establishment of Arnica montana seedlings
Authors: Stanik N. , Lampei C. , Rosenthal G.
Published: July 2021

The establishment and survival of seedlings are critical stages in the life cycle of plants and therefore usually well timed to humid and favourable conditions. Climate projections suggest that the threatened mountain grassland species Arnica montana may be increasingly exposed to drought stress. However, studies that focus on the species’ early development are missing. We evaluated impacts of drought‐induced stress on A. montana seedlings in their early establishment phase and identified traits that could cause the species’ fitness to decline.

In a greenhouse experiment, we tested the response of A. montana seedlings to different drought levels (moderate, strong, extreme). To assess their fitness under increasing drought, we evaluated survival of the seedlings based on four senescence stages and measured the performance of above‐ and belowground morphological and physiological functional traits.

Arnica montana seedlings showed high resistance to drought. Senescence accelerated and survival declined only under strong and extreme drought conditions. However, the seedlings’ vegetative performance decreased even with moderate drought, as indicated by smaller values of most leaf traits and some root traits. Physiological trait response was less sensitive.

Drought stress hinders the establishment and survival of A. montana seedlings. Following the functional trait responses to drought and their association with survival, we suggest declining leaf length, leaf width, and leaf number are sensitive traits that can lead to a decline in performance.
Infaq Of Expertise For The Post Crisis Of Covid-19: Risk Taker Proposition
Authors: Ab. Aziz Muhammad Ridhwan
Published: July 2021

The economic risk of a pandemic such as crisis of Covid-19 is very distinct from the health risk. Since the economic and public health risks are distinct, the evaluation and design of policies to ameliorate them should be pursued separately. One of the measures to minimize the Covid-19 risk is through infaq mechanisme which has been mandated in Islam. Infaq is a kind of alms giving intended to assist the needs of a man in his daily life. The spirit of giving is promoted by Islam as a means to develop the ummah in the economic and social sector. Some Muslim classical jurists are of the view that the properties endowed or infaq may not necessarily be in physical or tangible forms, but they may be in intangible and various forms. In today’s world, our societies demand the contribution in wider forms including contribution in the form of skills and expertise from the professional experts. Infaq of professional expertise aims to utilize professional experts in order to fulfil those demands craved by the society in many fields such as medical, accounting, law, engineering and architecture. The objective of this case is to expose students on the benefit and potential of infaq of expertise. The purpose is not to disclose weaknesses nor the incompetency on any of the individual or organization, but to provide basis for academic discussion.  The methodology of research used is qualitative method using case study approach with related to the Manual of Infaq and Waqf of Expertise. The general finding of this article shows that a good comprehension and application of the unique concept of Infaq of Expertise able to provide various benefits to many people.
Adaptations in gastrointestinal nutrient absorption and its determinants during pregnancy in monogastric mammals: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Overduin Teunis Sebastian , Page Amanda J. , Young Richard L. , Gatford Kathryn L.
Published: July 2021

Objective:

The aim of this review is to characterize the current state of literature and knowledge regarding adaptations of gastrointestinal nutrient absorption, and the determinants of this absorption during pregnancy in monogastric mammals.

Introduction:

Energy demands increase significantly during pregnancy due to the metabolic demands associated with placental and fetal growth, and the deposition of fat stores that support postnatal lactation. Previous studies have examined anatomical changes within the small intestine, but have focused on specific pregnancy stages or specific regions of the small intestine. Importantly, little is known about changes in nutrient absorption during pregnancy, and the underlying mechanisms that lead to these changes. An understanding of these adaptations will inform research to improve pregnancy outcomes for both mothers and newborns in the future.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include primary literature that describes gastrointestinal nutrient absorption and/or its determinants during pregnancy in monogastric mammals, including humans and rodents. Only data for normal pregnancies will be included, and models of pathology and illness will be excluded. Studies must include comparisons between pregnant animals at known stages of pregnancy, and non-pregnant controls, or compare animals at different stages of pregnancy.

Methods:

The following databases will be searched for literature on this topic: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, MEDLINE, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. Evidence screening and selection will be carried out independently by two reviewers, and conflicts will be resolved through discussion with additional members of the review team. Data will be extracted and presented in tables and/or figures, together with a narrative summary.
A passively pumped vacuum package sustaining cold atoms for more than 200 days
Authors: Little Bethany J. , Hoth Gregory W. , Christensen Justin , Walker Chuck , De Smet Dennis J. , Biedermann Grant W. , Lee Jongmin , Schwindt Peter D. D.
Published: July 2021

Compact cold-atom sensors depend on vacuum technology. One of the major limitations to miniaturizing these sensors is the active pumps—typically ion pumps—that are required to sustain the low pressure needed for laser cooling. Although passively pumped chambers have been proposed as a solution to this problem, technical challenges have prevented successful operation at the levels needed for cold-atom experiments. The authors present the first demonstration of a vacuum package successfully independent of ion pumps for more than a week; their vacuum package is capable of sustaining a cloud of cold atoms in a magneto-optical trap (MOT) for greater than 200 days using only non-evaporable getters and a rubidium dispenser. Measurements of the MOT lifetime indicate that the package maintains a pressure of better than 2×10−7 Torr. This result will significantly enable the development of compact atomic sensors, including those sensitive to magnetic fields, where the absence of an ion pump will be advantageous.
Low intensity ultrasound enhances cisplatin uptake in vitro by cochlear hair cells
Authors: Chu Ya-Cherng , Chan Yen-Hui , Lim Jormay , Ho Chien-Ying , Lin Pei-Hsuan , Lu Ying-Chang , Wu Chen-Chi , Wang Jaw-Lin
Published: July 2021

Drug delivery to the inner ear has been challenging due to the blood-labyrinth barrier. Intracochlear drug delivery is an invasive alternative with less pharmacokinetic variables. In this study, the effect of low intensity ultrasound on drug uptake by hair cells is investigated. Cochlear explants harvested from newborn mice were cultured in a medium containing cisplatin to emulate drug delivered to the endolymph. The results demonstrated the exposure to ultrasound stimulation effectively enhanced cisplatin uptake by hair cells. The uptake started from the apical side of the hair cells and progressed inward as the exposure time increased.
Protein structure prediction now easier, faster
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

AI approach is accessible to all structural biology, drug discovery researchers.
Brain signals ‘speak’ for person with paralysis
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: July 2021

Algorithm creates words, sentences from neural activity.
Astronomers lay high-energy particle traps in Greenland's ice
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: July 2021

Deep-space neutrinos caught by buried radio antennas could point to powerful cosmic accelerators.
Design and applications of surfaces that control the accretion of matter
Authors: Dhyani Abhishek , Wang Jing , Halvey Alex Kate , Macdonald Brian , Mehta Geeta , Tuteja Anish
Published: July 2021

The benefits of being repellent

The accumulation of foreign substances on a surface, whether it is dirt on a window or ice on an airplane wing, can lead to hazardous conditions. Many surfaces have been engineered to resist the accumulation of one type of fluid or matter in a particular state, but engineering broader resistivity has remained a challenge. For example, surfaces that repel water droplets may still be susceptible to fog accumulation. Dhyani
et al.
review the wetting performance and fouling resistance of different liquid-repellent coatings, focusing on superhydrophobic, superomniphobic, lubricant-infused, and liquid-like surfaces. Two key aspects are the performance of the surface to different foulants and the relevance of considering different length scales.

Science
, aba5010, this issue p.
eaba5010
A human apolipoprotein L with detergent-like activity kills intracellular pathogens
Authors: Gaudet Ryan G. , Zhu Shiwei , Halder Anushka , Kim Bae-Hoon , Bradfield Clinton J. , Huang Shuai , Xu Dijin , Mamiñska Agnieszka , Nguyen Thanh Ngoc , Lazarou Michael , Karatekin Erdem , Gupta Kallol , MacMicking John D.
Published: July 2021

Cleansing the cytosol

Most human cells, not just those belonging to the immune system, mount protective responses to infection when activated by the immune cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). How IFN-γ confers this function in nonimmune cells and tissues is poorly understood. Gaudet
et al.
used genome-scale CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to identify apolipoprotein L-3 (APOL3) as an IFN-γ–induced bactericidal protein that protects human epithelium, endothelium, and fibroblasts against infection (see the Perspective by Nathan). APOL3 directly targets bacteria in the host cell cytosol and kills them by dissolving their anionic membranes into lipoprotein complexes. This work reveals a detergent-like mechanism enlisted during human cell-autonomous immunity to combat intracellular pathogens.

Science
, abf8113, this issue p.
eabf8113
; see also abj5637, p.
276
Chromatin landscape signals differentially dictate the activities of mSWI/SNF family complexes
Authors: Mashtalir Nazar , Dao Hai T. , Sankar Akshay , Liu Hengyuan , Corin Aaron J. , Bagert John D. , Ge Eva J. , D’Avino Andrew R. , Filipovski Martin , Michel Brittany C. , Dann Geoffrey P. , Muir Tom W. , Kadoch Cigall
Published: July 2021

Chromatin landscape dictates remodeling

Large, multicomponent molecular machines known as mammalian SWI/SNF (mSWI/SNF) chromatin-remodeling complexes play critical roles in governing the architecture of our genomes. These entities bind to chromatin (DNA assembled on proteins) inside the nucleus and dictate which regions of DNA, and thus which genes in our genome, are made accessible. It is critical that this process happens at the right times and for the right genes in cells, because disruptions cause diseases such as cancers and neurodevelopmental disorders. Mashtalir
et al.
uncovered molecular cues that direct complex activities on chromatin, informing specific interactions that may be amenable to therapeutic targeting. This combinatorial approach, which considers many factors involved in determining mSWI/SNF activity, provides a valuable resource for understanding the binding and activity of chromatin-remodeling complexes.

Science
, abf8705, this issue p.
306
Autonomous self-repair in piezoelectric molecular crystals
Authors: Bhunia Surojit , Chandel Shubham , Karan Sumanta Kumar , Dey Somnath , Tiwari Akash , Das Susobhan , Kumar Nishkarsh , Chowdhury Rituparno , Mondal Saikat , Ghosh Ishita , Mondal Amit , Khatua Bhanu Bhusan , Ghosh Nirmalya , Reddy C. Malla
Published: July 2021

Autonomous self-healing

The ability to autonomously restore shape or self-heal are useful properties that have been incorporated into a range of materials, including metals and polymers. Bhunia
et al.
found that both of these abilities could be achieved in piezoelectric molecular crystals, specifically bipyrazole organic crystals. When the crystals are fractured, they develop charged surfaces that attract each other, drawing the two faces together to enable self-repair as long as they remain within a critical distance of each other. The effect can also be seen in other noncentrosymmetric piezoelectric crystals.

Science
, abg3886, this issue p.
321
Researchers behaving badly
The Icepick Surgeon: Murder, Fraud, Sabotage, Piracy, and Other Dastardly Deeds Perpetrated in the Name of Science
Sam Kean
Little, Brown, 2021. 368 pp.
Authors: Blum Deborah
Published: July 2021

A collection of vivid historical tales reveals scientists at their most fallible
Draft Genome Sequence of Janthinobacterium lividum ID1246, Isolated from a Rainbow Trout Hatchery Biofilm
Authors: Testerman Todd , Reichley Stephen R. , King Stacy , Graf Joerg
Published: July 2021

We present a draft genome sequence of
Janthinobacterium lividum
strain ID1246, isolated from within a rainbow trout hatchery raceway.
Janthinobacterium
spp. are well-known producers of antimicrobial compounds. Due to the unique isolation source, this genome may yield novel biosynthetic gene clusters.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Bison-Type and Two Sheep-Type Strains of Mycobacterium avium subsp.
paratuberculosis
Authors: Bannantine John P. , Bayles Darrell O.
Published: July 2021

Genome sequences of two type B and two type S strains of
Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
are presented. These strains were isolated in the United States from sheep, bison, and cattle suffering from Johne’s disease. These genomes will increase our understanding of the minor differences that exist among this genetically stable subspecies.
The Inflammatory Effects of Dietary Lipids Regulate Growth of Parasites during Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Kiser Ellen T. , Wacker Mark A. , Dixit Upasna Gaur , Batra-Sharma Hemali , Chen Yani , Wilson Mary E.
Published: July 2021

Leishmaniasis is a spectrum of diseases caused byLeishmaniaspecies protozoa that is most common in warm climates, coinciding with impoverished regions. Visceral leishmaniasis is a potentially fatal disease in which parasites infect reticuloendothelial organs and cause progressive wasting and immunocompromise.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Dried Blood Spots Collected on HemaSpot HF Devices Compared to Venous Blood Specimens To Estimate Measles and Rubella Seroprevalence
Authors: Prosperi Christine , Kaduskar Ojas , Bhatt Vaishali , Hasan Alvira Z. , Vivian Thangaraj Jeromie W. , Kumar Muthusamy S. , Sabarinathan R. , Kumar Saravana , Duraiswamy Augustine , Deshpande Gururaj Rao , Padinjaremattathil Thankappan Ullas , Chauhan Sanjay L. , Kulkarni Ragini N. , Bansal Avi Kumar , Chaaithanya Itta K. , Salvi Neha R. , Sharma Sandeep , Moss William J. , Sangal Lucky , Gupta Nivedita , Murherkar Manoj V. , Mehendale Sanjay M. , Sapkal Gajanan N. , Hayford Kyla
Published: July 2021

Dried blood spot (DBS) collection provides an easy, practical, and acceptable alternative to venous blood collection, especially for community-based studies, provided that results from DBS are accurate. We demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for measles- and rubella-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) with DBS collected via HemaSpot HF devices compared to serum samples.
Supplemental Material: Heterogenous late Miocene extension in the northern Walker Lane (California-Nevada, USA) demonstrates vertically decoupled crustal extension
Authors: Say M.C. , Zuza A.V.
Published: July 2021

Figures S1–S3: Geochemical plots, photomicrographs of representative volcanic rocks dated in this study, and field photographs of alteration in the study region. Table S1: Geochemical analyses. Table S2: Argon dating analyses.
Head circumference, total cerebral volume and neurodevelopment in preterm neonates
Authors: Selvanathan Thiviya , Guo Ting , Kwan Eddie , Chau Vann , Brant Rollin , Synnes Anne R , Grunau Ruth E , Miller Steven P
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To assess the association of head circumference (HC) <10th percentile at birth and discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with neurodevelopment in very preterm (24–32 weeks’ gestational age) neonates, and to compare the association of HC and total cerebral volume (TCV) with neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Design

In a prospective cohort, semiautomatically segmented TCV and manually segmented white matter injury (WMI) volumes were obtained. Multivariable regressions were used to study the association of HC and TCV with neurodevelopmental outcomes, accounting for birth gestational age, WMI and postnatal illness.

Setting

Participants born in 2006–2013 at British Columbia Women’s Hospital were recruited.

Patients

168 neonates had HC measurements at birth and discharge and MRI at term-equivalent age (TEA). 143 children were assessed at 4.5 years.

Main outcome measures

Motor, cognitive and language outcomes at 4.5 years were assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children Second Edition (M-ABC) and Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence Third Edition Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) and Verbal IQ (VIQ).

Results

Small birth HC was associated with lower M-ABC and FSIQ scores. In children with small birth HC, small discharge HC was associated with lower M-ABC, FSIQ and VIQ scores, while normal HC at discharge was no longer associated with adverse outcomes. HC strongly correlated with TCV at TEA. TCV did not correlate with outcomes.

Conclusions

Small birth HC is associated with poorer neurodevelopment, independent of postnatal illness and WMI. Normalisation of HC during NICU care appears to moderate this risk.
Creation of skin grafts from traumatic avulsed skin
Authors: El Haddi Salah James , Kragel Marjorie , Klapper Andrew
Published: July 2021

As the proportion of geriatric patients increases, so too does the incidence of geriatric trauma. Trauma centres must develop protocols to reduce the risk of complications from injuries in this specialised patient population. From a soft tissue standpoint, open wounds tend to heal slower in these patients and have a significant impact on their quality of life. In this case report, we describe our protocol for managing traumatic skin tears using a combination of traumatic skin grafts and minced expansion grafts with photographic documentation of the healing from significant wounds in an elderly patient involved in a high-energy blunt traumatic injury.
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome following Miller-Fisher syndrome
Authors: Bernardes Catarina , Silva Cristiana , Santo Gustavo , Correia Inês
Published: July 2021

A 71-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with dysphonia, diplopia, dysphagia and generalised weakness since that day. Neurological examination revealed eye adduction limitation, ptosis, hypoactive reflexes and gait ataxia. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid analysis and brain CT were normal. Electromyography revealed a sensory axonal polyneuropathy. She was diagnosed with Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS) and started on intravenous immunoglobulin. Two days after intravenous immunoglobulin treatment was completed, she developed a sustained hypertensive profile and presented a generalised tonic-clonic seizure. Brain MRI was suggestive of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and supportive treatment was implemented with progressive improvement. PRES may be a possible complication of MFS not only due to autonomic and inflammatory dysfunctions, but also as a consequence of its treatment. Patients with MFS should be maintained under close surveillance, especially in the first days and preferably in intermediate care units.
Early presentation of pembrolizumab-associated pneumonitis
Authors: Christy Joshua , Rafae Abdul , Kandah Emad , Kunadi Arvind
Published: July 2021

Pembrolizumab is a selective anti-PD-L1 humanised monoclonal antibody approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating multiple cancers, including cervical cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), renal cell carcinoma, bladder cancer, and squamous head and neck cancer. Pneumonitis is a rare but known complication of pembrolizumab treatment for NSCLC. The median time frame of its appearance is 2.8 months. However, we present a case of pneumonitis appearing within 48 hours. The patient presented with rapidly progressive respiratory failure, and imaging demonstrated diffuse bilateral patchy involvement of the upper lung lobe and pre-hilar regions, which likely indicate pneumonitis. Because of likely grade 3 pneumonitis, he was treated with steroids and showed immediate improvement of symptoms. Repeated CT imaging showed resolution of bilateral patchy infiltrates. He was discharged to the rehabilitation unit. Rapid recognition of pneumonitis as a side effect of pembrolizumab is important because early treatment can help prevent respiratory failure and possible death.
Gender-affirming hormone therapy associated with multiple meningiomas and atypical histology in a transgender woman
Authors: Millward Christopher Paul , Phillips Eleri , Alalade Andrew Folusho , Gilkes Catherine Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

We present a 69-year-old transgender woman who underwent gender-affirming surgery in 1998 and gender-affirming hormone therapy (cyproterone acetate (CPA) and estradiol) since this time. Following an MRI scan to investigate tremor in 2013, an incidental left anterior clinoid and right petrous meningioma were identified. Subtotal surgical resection was achieved for the anterior clinoid meningioma (WHO grade 1, meningothelial subtype). At follow-up in 2016, an olfactory groove meningioma and left greater wing of sphenoid meningioma were identified. By 2017, both tumours, along with the petrous meningioma, demonstrated significant growth. In 2018, clinical decline was evident and MRI demonstrated further tumour growth. Surgery was scheduled and the olfactory groove meningioma was completely resected (WHO grade 2, chordoid subtype). Hormones were stopped, after which regression of the petrous meningioma was observed. This case demonstrates an association between high-dose CPA and estradiol and the development, growth and regression of meningiomas in a transgender woman.
Effect of spin in the abstract of a randomised controlled trial on physiotherapists’ perception of treatment benefit: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Khanpara Heppy , Prakash V
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess the effect of spin in the abstract of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) on physiotherapists’ perception of treatment benefit evaluated in the trial.

Design

Parallel-group RCT.

Setting

Physiotherapy departments in hospitals and clinics in India.

Participants

Physiotherapists working in clinical settings.

Interventions

We selected one abstract with high level of spin published in one of the core journals of physiotherapy and created two versions of the abstract, that is, with and without spin. We randomly assigned physiotherapists working in clinical settings (N=128) to read one version of the selected abstract, with or without spin. Participants were blinded to the study design, objectives and randomisation.

Main outcome measures

Physiotherapists’ interpretation of beneficial effect of the experimental treatment (0–10 scale) reported in the abstract. The secondary outcomes were clinicians’ perception of methodological rigour and the study importance, their interest in reading the full text, and their interest in running another trial evaluating this treatment.

Results

We found a medium reduction in confidence of beneficial effect of the experimental treatment among physiotherapists who read the abstract without spin (mean score 4.3±2.8) compared with those who read the abstract with spin (mean score 6.14±2.6). The mean difference in scores between abstracts with and without spin was 1.8 (95% CI 0.8 to 2.8; p<0.001). For other outcomes measures studied there was no statistically significant effect.

Conclusions

Removal of spin in the abstract of RCT reporting statistically non-significant results have medium effect in improving physiotherapists’ accuracy of interpretation of study results. Spin contributes to clinicians’ positive perception about the benefit of experimental intervention tested in the trial despite the evidence showing no superiority of experimental intervention.

Trial registration number

CTRI/2020/02/023557.
A pilot study of the depression, anxiety and stress in Greek military personnel during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kotoulas Athanasios S , Karamanavis D , Lambrou G Ι , Karanikas P
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is a global health crisis which poses many psychological research challenges. The objective of this study was to evaluate the responsiveness and validity of depression, anxiety and stress in a representative cohort of Hellenic military personnel using the short version of the Greek military version of the Depression–Anxiety–Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) questionnaire.

Methods

A total of 158 participants were voluntarily surveyed using an electronically developed structured questionnaire. The anonymous e-questionnaire included a social demographic section and the DASS-21 scale section. It was distributed in September 2020 to the military personnel of the Hellenic Tactical Air Force Units using an intranet network during government restrictive measures due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Results

Our DASS-21 survey indicated a positive outcome at the psychometric level of our military sample population. Age, sex and systemic medications were statistically correlated with anxiety. Inter-correlations between the DASS-21 statements showed that individuals with low-level depression also experienced some degree of stress. Factor analysis indicated the reliability and validity of the questionnaire.

Conclusions

The low levels of depression and stress among our military sample population demonstrate the importance of periodic monitoring of the psychometric items of the DASS-21 subscales to design and implement psychological prevention strategies, especially during the ongoing and future healthcare crises.
Associations of coprescribed medications for chronic comorbid conditions in very old adults with clinical dementia: a retrospective cohort study using insurance claims data
Authors: Handa Nobuhiro , Mitsutake Seigo , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Nakabayashi Tetsuo , Akishita Masahiro , Tamiya Nanako , Yoshie Satoru , Iijima Katsuya
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess the association of coprescribed medications for chronic comorbid conditions with clinical dementia in older adults, as indicated by the initiation of a new prescription of antidementia medication (NPADM).

Design

Retrospective enumeration cohort study.

Setting

A Japanese city in Tokyo Metropolitan Area.

Participants

A total of 42 024 adults aged ≥77 years residing in Kashiwa City, a suburban city of Tokyo Metropolitan Area, who did not have any prscription of antidementia medication from 1 April to 30 June 2012.

Main outcome measure

The primary outcome was NPADM during follow-up period until 31 March 2015 (35 months). Subjects were categorised into four age groups: group 1 (77–81 years), group 2 (82–86 years), group 3 (87–91 years) and group 4 (≥92 years). In addition to age and sex, 14 sets of medications prescribed during the initial background period (from 1 April 2012 and 31 June 2012) were used as covariates in a Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

In a follow-up period of 1 345 457 person-months (mean=32.0±7.5 months, median 35 months), NPADM occurred in 2365 subjects. NPADM incidence at 12 months was 1.9%±0.1% (group 1: 0.9%±0.1%, group 2: 2.1%±0.1%, group 3: 3.2%±0.2% and group 4: 3.6%±0.3%; p<0.0001). In addition to older age and female sex, use of the following medications was significantly associated with NPADM: statins (HR: 0.82, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.92; p=0.001), antihypertensives (HR: 0.80, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.85; p<0.0001), non-steroidal bronchodilators (HR: 0.72, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.88; p=0.002), antidepressants (HR: 1.79, 95% CI 1.47 to 2.18; p<0.0001), poststroke medications (HR: 1.45, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.82; p=0.002), insulin (HR: 1.34, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.78; p=0.046) and antineoplastics (HR: 1.12, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.24; p=0.035).

Conclusions

This retrospective cohort study identified the associations of coprescribed medications for chronic comorbid conditions with NPADM in older adults. These findings would be helpful in understanding the current clinical practice for dementia in real-world setting and potentially contribute to healthcare policymaking.

Trial registration number

UMIN000039040.
Correlations of impulsivity and aggressive behaviours among adolescents in Shanghai, China using bioecological model: cross-sectional data from Global Early Adolescent Study
Authors: Yu Chunyan , Zhang Jiashuai , Zuo Xiayun , Lian Qiguo , Tu Xiaowen , Lou Chaohua
Published: July 2021

Objective

To examine the correlations between impulsivity and aggressive behaviours among Chinese adolescents.

Design

A school-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Three primary middle schools located in less developed communities of Shanghai.

Participants

1524 adolescents aged 11–16 years.

Measures

The impulsivity was measured by Barratt Impulsivity Scale, and the aggressive behaviours were determined by self-reports. Data were collected through computer-assisted self-interview using tablets. Multivariate Firth logistic regression model was conducted to examine correlations between total, attentional, motor, and non-planning impulsivity and aggressive behaviours, respectively.

Results

Totally, 7.48% of participants reported aggressive behaviours toward others during the past 6 months. The proportion of aggressors among boys and girls was 10.60% and 4.18%, respectively. Results of the multivariate regression suggested the risk of aggressive behaviours was significantly increased among those with the highest tertile of total impulsivity (adjusted OR (aOR)boys=3.14, 95% CI: 1.48 to 6.65; aORgirls=3.74, 95% CI: 1.10 to 12.76) and motor impulsivity (aORboys=2.91, 95% CI: 1.46 to 5.82; aORgirls=3.57, 95% CI: 1.25 to 10.20.), comparing with those with the lowest tertile, for boys and girls, respectively. Besides, younger age, lower social cohesion and being bullied within 6 months were associated with a higher risk of aggressive behaviours among girls. Less family caring and being bullied within 6 months were associated with the risk among boys.

Conclusions

The present study indicates a positive association between impulsivity and aggressive behaviours, with a more salient correlation between motor impulsivity subtrait and aggressive behaviour among both boys and girls. Furthermore, adolescents’ aggressive behaviours were affected by multiple factors from individuals, family, peers and community. Comprehensive intervention strategies such as controlling the aggressor’s impulsivity, helping them better channel their anger, creating a better family, school and neighbourhood environment, and providing support and services for victims of violence are needed.