bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Formation Mechanism of Food Safety Risk in Catering O2O Distribution Link
Authors: Wu Ting , Pei Yilei , Li Dandan , Su Peng
Published: November 2021

This paper aims to solve the problem of food safety in catering O2O distribution link. We applied the system dynamics method to model the formation mechanism of food safety risk in the distribution link. The results of our experiment include identifying the risk factors that may be faced by food safety in the distribution link from five perspectives: O2O catering enterprise’s own risk, logistics distribution team’s distribution risk, O2O catering platform supervision risk, user-supervision risk, and government department supervision risk, and establishing a risk index evaluation system based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process. With the help of the system dynamics model, the corresponding risk formation mechanism system model flow diagram is established, and the model simulation analysis is carried out. Through this research, we concluded that we can use the risk model to understand the risks faced by different subjects so as to make targeted countermeasures.
The Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Cytokine Storm due to COVID‐19
Authors: Li Xun , Yan Mengchao , Chen Jun , Luo Yang
Published: November 2021

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has seriously affected public health and social stability. The main route of the transmission is droplet transmission, where the oral cavity is the most important entry point to the body. Due to both the direct harmful effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 and disordered immune responses, some COVID‐19 patients may progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome or even multiple organ failure. Genetic variants of SARS‐CoV‐2 have been emerging and circulating around the world. Currently, there is no internationally approved precise treatment for COVID‐19. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can traffic and migrate towards the affected tissue, regulate both the innate and acquired immune systems, and participate in the process of healing. Here, we will discuss and investigate the mechanisms of immune disorder in COVID‐19 and the therapeutic activity of MSCs, in particular human gingiva mesenchymal stem cells.
N-Acetylcysteine Slows Down Cardiac Pathological Remodeling by Inhibiting Cardiac Fibroblast Proliferation and Collagen Synthesis
Authors: Zhou Jin , Xu Jing , Sun Shan , Guo Mengyuan , Li Peng , Cheng Aijuan
Published: November 2021

Objective. By observing the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the proliferation and collagen synthesis of rat cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) to explore the effect of NAC on cardiac remodeling (CR). Methods. In vivo, first, the Sprague Dawley (SD) rat myocardial hypertrophy model was constructed, and the effect of NAC on cardiac structure and function was detected by echocardiography, serological testing, and Masson staining. Western blotting (WB) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to detect the expression level of antioxidant enzymes, and flow cytometry was used to detect the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) content. In vitro, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and 5-ethynyl-2

′

-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining were used to detect cell proliferation, and the expression level of the NF-κB signaling pathway was detected. Results. Compared with the control group, the model group had disordered cardiac structure, reduced cardiac function, and obvious oxidative stress (OS) response. However, after NAC treatment, it could obviously improve the rat cardiac structure and cardiac function and alleviate redox imbalance and cardiology remodeling. At the same time, NAC can inhibit the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and reduce the proliferation level of CFs and the amount of 3H proline incorporated. Conclusions. NAC can inhibit AngII-induced CF proliferation and collagen synthesis through the NF-κB signaling pathway, alleviate the OS response of myocardial tissue, inhibit the fibrosis of myocardial tissue, and thus slow down the pathological remodeling of the heart.
The Application of Targeted Nanodrugs with Dual Responsiveness of PH and Ros in Preventing and Treating Vascular Restenosis
Authors: Zhang Jin
Published: November 2021

In order to study the application of PH- and Ros-responsive targeted nanodrugs in preventing and treating vascular restenosis, a method based on pH-responsive and reactive oxygen species- (ROS-) responsive carrier materials synthesized in the early stage and rapamycin as a model drug was proposed. This method evaluated the therapeutic advantages of PH and Ros dual-responsive nanoparticles and the effect of dual-responsive active targeted drug delivery nanoparticles on vascular restenosis in vivo by comparing with nonresponsive PH or Ros single responsive nanotherapy. By optimizing the feed mass ratio of pH-responsive materials (ACD) and ROS-responsive materials (OCD), the best pH and ROS responsive nanoparticles were prepared. It has been proved that nanoparticles have ultrasmall volume (10–1000 nm) and can easily pass through the blood vessel wall without causing damage and have the characteristics of targeting and sustained release, so they are an ideal carrier for local administration. Nanoparticles as gene vectors have also achieved good results.
Research on Industry Difference and Convergence of Green Innovation Efficiency of Manufacturing Industry in China Based on Super-SBM and Convergence Models
Authors: Yan Yongcan , Li Jian , Xu Yi
Published: November 2021

To accurately grasp the current situation of green innovation efficiency in the manufacturing industry in China, this paper analyzes the differences and convergence characteristics of green innovation efficiency in various industries. Based on the panel data of 29 manufacturing industries in China from 2010 to 2019, the super-slack-based measure (Super-SBM) model measures the green innovation efficiency of manufacturing industries whose evolution characteristics are classified and analyzed from the perspective of technical demand. The Dagum Gini coefficient decomposition method indicates the source of industry differences in green innovation efficiency of the manufacturing industry in China with its convergence characteristics analyzed from the time dimension by constructing σ and β convergence models. The results reveal the improvement of green innovation efficiency of the Chinese manufacturing industry with obvious distinctions among different sectors and the industries with high green innovation efficiency, mostly high-end technology ones. The narrowing overall difference of green innovation efficiency in the manufacturing industry is accompanied by the lowest contribution rate of super-variable density, with the disparities between groups being the main source. It also shows the fluctuation of the intermittent σ convergence characteristics of the national manufacturing industry as a whole and low-end and high-end technology industry groups. However, the entire manufacturing industry and the three groups witness the absolute β convergence trend, with an ununiform convergence rate. The research will provide a reference for further upgrading the efficiency of green innovation in the industry and help to achieve the goals of carbon emission reduction and neutrality with the policy implications for promoting high-quality development of the manufacturing industry.
Detecting Insider Threat from Behavioral Logs Based on Ensemble and Self-Supervised Learning
Authors: Zhang Chunrui , Wang Shen , Zhan Dechen , Yu Tingyue , Wang Tiangang , Yin Mingyong
Published: November 2021

Recent studies have highlighted that insider threats are more destructive than external network threats. Despite many research studies on this, the spatial heterogeneity and sample imbalance of input features still limit the effectiveness of existing machine learning-based detection methods. To solve this problem, we proposed a supervised insider threat detection method based on ensemble learning and self-supervised learning. Moreover, we propose an entity representation method based on TF-IDF to improve the detection effect. Experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively detect malicious sessions in CERT4.2 and CERT6.2 datasets, where the AUCs are 99.2% and 95.3% in the best case.
Effect of Sijunzi Pills on Pharmacokinetics of Omeprazole in Beagle Dogs by HPLC-UV: A Herb-Drug Interaction Study
Authors: Xia Hua-ling , Zhao Xin-jie , Zhang Yu-ji , Su Xiao-hang , Sun Bo , Qiu Xiang-jun
Published: November 2021

A sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV) method for determination of omeprazole in beagle dog plasma was developed and to investigate the effect of Sijunzi pills (SJZPs) on the pharmacokinetics of omeprazole in beagle dogs. The beagle dog plasma was extracted with ethyl acetate and n-hexane under alkaline conditions. Omeprazole and internal standard (IS, fluconazole) were separated on an XDB-C18 column, and acetonitrile and 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid were used as the mobile phase. Omeprazole and IS were detected by using a diode array detector. This experiment adopts the experimental design of double-cycle self-control. In the first cycle (group A), six beagle dogs were given omeprazole 0.67 mg/kg orally in a single dose. In the second period (group B), the same six beagle dogs were orally given SJZPs 0.2 g/kg twice a day for 7 consecutive days, and then, omeprazole was orally given. At the different time points after omeprazole was given in the two periods, the blood samples were collected. The concentration of omeprazole was detected by the developed HPLC method. DAS 2.0 was used to calculate the pharmacokinetic parameters of omeprazole. Under the current experimental conditions, this UPLC method showed good linearity in the detection of omeprazole. Interday and intraday precision did not exceed 10%, and the range of accuracy values were from −1.43% to 2.76%. The results of extraction recovery and stability met the requirements of FDA approval guidelines of bioanalytical method validation. The Cmax of omeprazole in group B was 61.55% higher than that in group A, and the AUC(0−t) and AUC(0−∞) of omeprazole in group B were 63.96% and 63.65% higher those that in group A, respectively. At the same time, the clearance (CL) and apparent volume of distribution (Vd) decreased in group B. In this study, an HPLC method for the determination of plasma omeprazole concentration was established. SJZPs could inhibit the metabolism of omeprazole and increase the concentration of omeprazole in beagle dogs. It is suggested that when SJZPs are combined with omeprazole, attention should be paid to the herb-drug interactions and possible adverse reactions.
A Bayesian Neural Network-Based Method to Calibrate Microscopic Traffic Simulators
Authors: Chen Qinqin , Ni Anning , Zhang Chunqin , Wang Jinghui , Xiao Guangnian , Yu Cenxin
Published: November 2021

Calibrating the microsimulation model is essential to enhance its ability to capture reality. The paper proposes a Bayesian neural network (BNN)-based method to calibrate parameters of microscopic traffic simulators, which reduces repeated running of simulations in the calibration and thus significantly improves the calibration efficiency. We use BNN with probability distributions on the weights to quickly predict the simulation results according to the inputs of the parameters to be calibrated. Based on the BNN model with the best performance, heuristic algorithms (HAs) are performed to seek the optimal values of the parameters to be calibrated with the minimum difference between the predicted results of BNN and the field-measured values. Three HAs are considered, including genetic algorithm (GA), evolutionary strategy (ES), and bat algorithm (BA). A TransModeler case of highway links in Shanghai, China, indicates the validity of the proposed calibration method in terms of error and efficiency. The results demonstrate that the BNN model is able to accurately predict the simulation and adequately capture the uncertainty of the simulation. We also find that the BNN-BA model produces the best calibration efficiency, while the BNN-ES model offers the best performance in calibration accuracy.
Subspace Based Adaptive Beamforming Algorithm with Interference Plus Noise Covariance Matrix Reconstruction
Authors: Du Yuxi , Cui Weijia , Wang Yinsheng , Ba Bin , Mei Fengtong
Published: November 2021

As we all know, the model mismatch, primarily when the desired signal exists in the training data, or when the sample data is used for training, will seriously affect algorithm performance. This paper combines the subspace algorithm based on direction of arrival (DOA) estimation with the adaptive beamforming. It proposes a reconstruction algorithm based on the interference plus noise covariance matrix (INCM). Firstly, the eigenvector of the desired signal is obtained according to the eigenvalue decomposition of the subspace algorithm, and the eigenvector is used as the estimated value of the desired signal steering vector (SV). Then the INCM is reconstructed according to the estimated parameters to remove the adverse effect of the desired signal component on the beamformer. Finally, the estimated desired signal SV and the reconstructed INCM are used to calculate the weight. Compared with the previous work, the proposed algorithm not only improves the performance of the adaptive beamformer but also dramatically reduces the complexity. Simulation experiment results show the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed beamforming algorithm.
Learner Autonomy in L2 Writing: The Role of Academic Self-Concept and Academic Achievement
Authors: Tajmirriahi Tayebeh , Rezvani Ehsan
Published: November 2021

Embracing a learner-based approach in line with a psychological perspective, the present study investigates learner autonomy (LA) in L2 writing with a focus on the role of academic self-concept (ASC) and academic achievement of Iranian English-as-a-Foreign-Language (EFL) university students. The research entailed three interrelated phases: In phase one, the readiness of 69 EFL students in three intact English essay writing classes was measured in terms of certain factors of autonomy in writing. Besides, their ASC was surveyed and the participants were asked to report their overall grade point average (GPA) as an index of their academic achievement. In phase two, a focus group interview was administered. Three emergent themes were derived from their comments, namely, insignificant position of writing, insufficient strategy use, and instructors’ unconvincing support for autonomy in writing. The last phase of the study was assigning the findings of phase one to several regression and correlation analyses to investigate the triangular potential relationships of LA in writing, ASC, and academic achievement. The results of the study indicated that, compared with skills and strategy use, EFL university students were most autonomous in their attitudes towards writing, while they did not show a desirable level of ASC. Moreover, ASC and LA in writing proved to have a relatively significant relationship; nonetheless, academic achievement turned out insignificant in relation to them, proving no triangular correlation among the given variables. Implications for EFL teachers and materials developers focused on writing skill will be provided.
Optimization of the Transverse Electric Photonic Strip Waveguide Biosensor for Detecting Diabetes Mellitus from Bulk Sensitivity
Authors: S. Prasanna Kumaar , A. Sivasubramanian
Published: November 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The present paper investigates the bulk sensitivity of silicon and silicon nitride strip waveguides in the transverse electric (TE) mode. At 1550 nm wavelength, silicon on insulator (SOI) and silicon nitride (Si3N4) are two distinct waveguides of the same geometry structure that can react to refractive changes around the waveguide surface. This article examines the response of two silicon-based waveguide structures to the refractive index of urine samples (human renal fluids) to diagnose diabetes mellitus. An asymmetric Mach–Zehnder interferometer has waveguide sensing and a reference arm with a device that operates in the transverse electric (TE) mode. 3D FDTD simulated waveguide width 800 nm, thickness 220 nm, and analyte thickness 130 nm give the bulk sensitivity of 1.09 (RIU/RIU) and 1.04 (RIU/RIU) for silicon and silicon nitride, respectively, high compared to the regular transverse magnetic (TM) mode strip waveguides. Furthermore, the proposed design gives simple fabrication, contrasting sharply with the state-of-the-art 220 nm wafer technology.
Towards Designing Personal Health Information Management System Based on Java
Authors: Chen Yitao , Wan Linhua
Published: November 2021

Health information management systems help gather, compile, and analyze health data to help manage population health and reduce healthcare costs. It can support the clinical decision, help diagnose individual patients, and improve patient care. In this study, a personal health information management system based on Java is presented. Based on the Java platform, the overall hierarchical structure of the system is designed including a health information management module, personal health data synchronization module, and full-text retrieval module, to realize the functions of the system. To improve the security of personal health information, the data encryption standard (DES) algorithm is implemented to encrypt and protect personal healthcare information. The system is evaluated in terms of health information acquisition accuracy, information security, and system response time. To verify the robustness of the proposed health information management system, it is compared with two related studies. The maximum health information acquisition accuracy of the system is 99%, the safety factor reported is above 0.9, and the maximum response time is only 0.8 s. The experimental results show that the designed personal health information management system can collect health information more accurately and ensure the security of information, and the overall response time is shorter.
[Retracted] The Influence of ICAM1 3′UTR Gene Polymorphism on the Occurrence and Metastasis of Primary Liver Cancer
Authors: He Li , Wang Suwen , Ma Xusheng
Published: November 2021

Objective. In this study, we explored the influence of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the noncoding region of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) gene on the occurrence and metastasis of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PHC). Methods. Sanger sequencing was used to analyze the genotypes of rs3093032, rs923366, and rs281437 locus in the 3 ′untranslated region (UTR) of the ICAM1 gene. The level of plasma ICAM1 was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. After adjusting for risk factors such as BMI, smoking, drinking, family history of tumors, and hepatitis B virus test results, the CT genotype at rs3093032 of the ICAM1 gene (OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.08‐0.44, P < 0.01), dominance model (OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.11‐0.48, P < 0.01), and T allele (OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.14‐0.53, P < 0.01) were related to the reduced risk of PHC susceptibility. rs923366 locus CT genotype (OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.44‐0.90, P = 0.01), TT genotype (OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.10‐0.53, P < 0.01), dominant model (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.39‐0.77, P < 0.01), recessive model (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12‐0.62, P < 0.01), and T allele (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.42‐0.73, P < 0.01) were related to a reduction in the risk of PHC susceptibility. rs281437 locus CT genotype (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.40‐3.09, P < 0.01), TT genotype (OR = 5.20, 95% CI: 2.22‐12.17, P < 0.01), dominant model (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.69‐3.54, P < 0.01), recessive model (OR = 4.32, 95% CI: 1.86‐10.06, P < 0.01), and T allele (OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.79‐3.38, P < 0.01) were significantly related to the increased risk of PHC susceptibility. SNPs at rs3093032, rs923366, and rs281437 of the ICAM1 gene were significantly correlated with TNM stage and tumor metastasis of PHC patients (P < 0.05). Conclusion. SNPs at rs3093032, rs923366, and rs281437 in the 3 ′UTR region of the ICAM1 gene are related to the occurrence and metastasis of PHC.
Global Bifurcation of Fourth-Order Nonlinear Eigenvalue Problems’ Solution
Authors: Aydin Akgun Fatma
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we study the global bifurcation of infinity of a class of nonlinear eigenvalue problems for fourth-order ordinary differential equations with nondifferentiable nonlinearity. We prove the existence of two families of unbounded continuance of solutions bifurcating at infinity and corresponding to the usual nodal properties near bifurcation intervals.
Stroke Disease Detection and Prediction Using Robust Learning Approaches
Authors: Tazin Tahia , Alam Md Nur , Dola Nahian Nakiba , Bari Mohammad Sajibul , Bourouis Sami , Monirujjaman Khan Mohammad
Published: November 2021

Stroke is a medical disorder in which the blood arteries in the brain are ruptured, causing damage to the brain. When the supply of blood and other nutrients to the brain is interrupted, symptoms might develop. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is the greatest cause of death and disability globally. Early recognition of the various warning signs of a stroke can help reduce the severity of the stroke. Different machine learning (ML) models have been developed to predict the likelihood of a stroke occurring in the brain. This research uses a range of physiological parameters and machine learning algorithms, such as Logistic Regression (LR), Decision Tree (DT) Classification, Random Forest (RF) Classification, and Voting Classifier, to train four different models for reliable prediction. Random Forest was the best performing algorithm for this task with an accuracy of approximately 96 percent. The dataset used in the development of the method was the open-access Stroke Prediction dataset. The accuracy percentage of the models used in this investigation is significantly higher than that of previous studies, indicating that the models used in this investigation are more reliable. Numerous model comparisons have established their robustness, and the scheme can be deduced from the study analysis.
An Empirical Study on Interactive Flipped Classroom Model Based on Digital Micro-Video Course by Big Data Analysis and Models
Authors: Tian Na , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: November 2021

This paper provides an in-depth analysis and study of the interactive flipped classroom model for a digital micro-video for a big data English course. To improve the learning efficiency of English courses and reduce the learning pressure of students, the thesis also uses certain techniques to apply audiovisual language to the production of specific micro-class videos, broadcast the successfully recorded micro-class courses to students, and then use the questionnaire to randomly distribute the designed audiovisual language use questionnaire. Micro-classes earnestly perform data statistics for students and finally conduct data analysis to summarize and verify the effects of micro-class audiovisual language use. The improved algorithm can effectively reduce the fluctuation of the consumption of various resources in the cluster and make the services in the cluster more stable. The new distributed interprocess communication based on protocol and serialization technology is more efficient than traditional communication based on protocol standards, reduces bandwidth consumption in the cluster, and improves the throughput of each node in the cluster. The content design and scripting of micro-video teaching resources are based on this. Then, the production process of micro-video teaching resources is explained, according to the selection of tools, the preparation, recording, editing, and generation of materials.
An Embedded Multiscale Modelling to Guide Control and Elimination of Paratuberculosis in Ruminants
Authors: Netshikweta Rendani , Garira Winston
Published: November 2021

In recent years, multiscale modelling approach has begun to receive an overwhelming appreciation as an appropriate technique to characterize the complexity of infectious disease systems. In this study, we develop an embedded multiscale model of paratuberculosis in ruminants at host level that integrates the within-host scale and the between-host. A key feature of embedded multiscale models developed at host level of organization of an infectious disease system is that the within-host scale and the between-host scale influence each other in a reciprocal (i.e., both) way through superinfection, that is, through repeated infection before the host recovers from the initial infectious episode. This key feature is demonstrated in this study through a multiscale model of paratuberculosis in ruminants. The results of this study, through numerical analysis of the multiscale model, show that superinfection influences the dynamics of paratuberculosis only at the start of the infection, while the MAP bacteria replication continuously influences paratuberculosis dynamics throughout the infection until the host recovers from the initial infectious episode. This is largely because the replication of MAP bacteria at the within-host scale sustains the dynamics of paratuberculosis at this scale domain. We further use the embedded multiscale model developed in this study to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of paratuberculosis health interventions that influence the disease dynamics at different scales from efficacy data.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Talent Growth Factor Index System Based on Hesitant Fuzzy Language
Authors: Ji Xueer , Wang Lei , Xue Huifeng
Published: November 2021

An effective evaluation of the index system of talent growth factors can lay a solid foundation to build the talent pool, as well as select and establish talents. In this study, based on the theory of “Man-Machine-Environment” system engineering (MMESE), the MMESE talent growth factor index system is proposed and verified for its effectiveness by comparing it with the traditional system. Based on the text-free grammar and transformation function, expert judgments of talent growth factor indexes were transformed into hesitation fuzzy language terms, namely, pertinence, systematicness, practicability, foresight, and dynamics, which were then used to create a dataset to describe the comprehensive evaluation of the index system. The entropy of hesitation fuzzy language terms adopts the algorithm, which calculates the index weights according to the relative entropy values and adjusts the expert weights with the expert group consensus model. The expert evaluation information was weighed and transformed into the corresponding probability language combination which was calculated as the comprehensive evaluation result of the talent growth factor index system.
Applying Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis to Detect Tungsten Inclusions in Nuclear Fuel Rod End Plug TIG Welds
Authors: Gu Runqiu , Cheng Jianfeng , Lai Wanchang , Wang Guangxi
Published: November 2021

This study proposes a new method of detecting tungsten inclusions in nuclear fuel rod upper-end plug welds using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) analysis. The Monte Carlo simulation method was used to simulate the process of detecting tungsten inclusions in nuclear fuel rod upper-end plug welds by the EDXRF. The detectable tungsten particle diameters in the zirconium alloy at different depths in welds and the detection limits of the trace tungsten dispersed in welds were obtained. Then, we constructed an experimental device that uses a CdTe detector with an X-ray tube. The results showed that the relative standard deviation of the net count rate of tungsten K-series characteristic X-rays [W (Kα)] was 1.46%, and the optimum parameters are a tube voltage of 150 kV and current of 0.5 mA. These values were used to perform energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis. These results were compared to the X-ray radiographic results, which were broadly similar. Furthermore, the results of EDXRF analysis were more legible and reliable than those from X-ray radiographic inspections. This study demonstrates the feasibility of applying EDXRF analysis to detect tungsten inclusions.
Drug Use Changes at the Individual Level: Results from a Longitudinal, Multisite Survey in Young Europeans Frequenting the Nightlife Scene
Authors: Grabski Meryem , Waldron Jon , Freeman Tom P. , Mokrysz Claire , van Beek Ruben J.J. , van der Pol Peggy , Hauspie Bert , Dirkx Nicky , Schrooten Jochen , Elgán Tobias H. , Feltman Kristin , Benedetti Elisa , Scalia Tomba Gianpaolo , Fabi Francesco , Molinaro Sabrina , Gripenberg Johanna , van Havere Tina , van Laar Margriet , Curran H. Valerie
Published: November 2021

Background: Monitoring emerging trends in the increasingly dynamic European drug market is vital; however, information on change at the individual level is scarce. In the current study, we investigated changes in drug use over 12 months in European nightlife attendees. Method: In this longitudinal online survey, changes in substances used, use frequency in continued users, and relative initiation of use at follow-up were assessed for 20 different substances. To take part, participants had to be aged 18–34 years; be from Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, or the UK; and have attended at least 6 electronic music events in the past 12 months at baseline. Of 8,045 volunteers at baseline, 2,897 completed the survey at both time points (36% follow-up rate), in 2017 and 2018. Results: The number of people using ketamine increased by 21% (p < 0.001), and logarithmized frequency of use in those continuing use increased by 15% (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.07–0.23). 4-Fluoroamphetamine use decreased by 27% (p < 0.001), and logarithmized frequency of use in continuing users decreased by 15% (p < 0.001, 95% CI: −0.48 to −0.23). The drugs with the greatest proportion of relative initiation at follow-up were synthetic cannabinoids (73%, N = 30), mephedrone (44%, N = 18), alkyl nitrites (42%, N = 147), synthetic dissociatives (41%, N = 15), and prescription opioids (40%, N = 48). Conclusions: In this European nightlife sample, ketamine was found to have the biggest increase in the past 12 months, which occurred alongside an increase in frequency of use in continuing users. The patterns of uptake and discontinuation of alkyl nitrates, novel psychoactive substances, and prescription opioids provide new information that has not been captured by existing cross-sectional surveys. These findings demonstrate the importance of longitudinal assessments of drug use and highlight the dynamic nature of the European drug landscape.
Use of Topical Vancomycin Powder to Reduce Surgical Site Infections after Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery: UCSF Experience and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kondapavulur Sravani , Burke John F. , Volz Monica , Wang Doris D. , Starr Philip A.
Published: November 2021

Objective: Surgical site infection (SSI) is the most common serious complication of deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation surgery. Here, we report a single-surgeon experience on the efficacy of topical, intrawound vancomycin powder (VP) in reducing SSI for DBS surgery and present the first systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effect of topical vancomycin on SSI in patients after DBS surgery. Methods: For the retrospective review, all unique patients undergoing DBS surgery at UCSF for new hardware implantation or internal pulse generator (IPG) replacement by a single surgeon from September 2013 to March 2019, with at least 1 year of follow-up data, were included. For the meta-analysis, we included all primary studies that compared SSIs with and without application of topical vancomycin in DBS surgeries. Results: 368 unique patients met inclusion criteria; 195 patients received topical VP (VP group) and 173 did not (control). 99/195 patients in the VP group underwent new DBS implantation and 96/195 had IPG replacement. 71/173 patients in the control group had new DBS implantation and 102/173 had IPG replacement. There were 10 total cases of SSI: 4 patients from the VP group (3 new implants and 1 IPG replacement) and 6 patients from the control group (3 new implants and 3 IPG replacements), resulting in SSI rates of 2.1 and 3.5%, respectively (p value = 0.337). Including our retrospective analysis, 6 studies met inclusion criteria for the systematic review and meta-analysis. In the 4 studies that examined primary DBS implants, 479 total patients received topical VP and 436 did not; mean odds ratio for SSI with topical vancomycin was 0.802 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.175–3.678). Across the 5 studies that examined IPG implantations or replacements, 606 total patients received topical VP while 1,173 patients did not; mean odds ratio for SSI with topical vancomycin was 0.492 (95% CI 0.164–1.475). In either case, topical VP application did not significantly decrease risk of SSI. Conclusion: Surgical infections after DBS surgery are uncommon events, with studies demonstrating mixed results on whether topical vancomycin reduces this risk. Our single-institution retrospective analysis and systematic review of prior studies both demonstrated no significant SSI rate reduction with topical VP. This is likely due to low baseline SSI rates, resulting in a small effect size for prevention. Given the cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and low risk, topical, intrawound VP remains a treatment option to further reduce risk of SSI, particularly in settings with higher baseline infection rates.
Early, Subacute Coronary Stent Thrombosis: A Complication of COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Tabatabai Sadeq , Bazargani Nooshin , Al-Tahmody Kamaleldin , Alhashmi Jasem Mohammed
Published: November 2021

Soon after it was discovered in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) blow-out very fast and became a pandemic. The usual presentation is respiratory tract infection, but cardiovascular system involvement is sometimes fatal and also a serious personal and health care burden. We report a case of a 57-year-old man who was admitted with anterior wall acute myocardial infarction secondary to early coronary stent thrombosis and associated with COVID-19 infection. He was managed with primary coronary angioplasty and discharged home. Procoagulant and hypercoagulability status associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection is the most likely culprit. Choosing aggressive antithrombotic agents after coronary angioplasty to prevent stent thrombosis during the COVID-19 pandemic may be the answer but could be challenging.
The Effect of Body Weight and Alcohol Consumption on Hyperuricemia and Their Population Attributable Fractions: A National Health Survey in China
Authors: He Huijing , Pan Li , Ren Xiaolan , Wang Dingming , Du Jianwei , Cui Ze , Zhao Jingbo , Wang Hailing , Wang Xianghua , Liu Feng , Pa Lize , Peng Xia , Wang Ye , Yu Chengdong , Shan Guangliang
Published: November 2021

Introduction: The prevalence of hyperuricemia (HUA) is increasing worldwide; understanding of population attributable fraction of modifiable risk factors (MRFs) is important for disease prevention. Given the sparse evidence on how MRFs influence HUA in mainland China, we aimed to explore the effect of excess body weight and alcohol consumption and their population attributable fractions of HUA based on a national survey in mainland China. Methods: Using data from the China National Health Survey which included 31,746 Han Chinese of 20–80 years of age from 10 provinces, we estimated the prevalence and MRFs (overweight/obesity and alcohol consumption) of HUA. HUA was defined as serum uric acid >417 μmol/L in men and >340 μmol/L in women. Restricted cubic-spline models were used to demonstrate the linear and nonlinear associations between exposures and HUA. The adjusted population attributable risk (PAR) was calculated to understand the relative importance of each MRF. Results: The prevalence of HUA was 25.1% in men and 15.9% in women. The population fraction of HUA cases that could be avoided by weight loss was 20.6% (19.3%–22.0%) in men and 18.1% (17.1%–19.0%) in women. The PAR of alcohol consumption was 12.8% (8.5%–17.1%) in men. Participants from Southwest China (Yunnan) had the highest HUA prevalence (47.9% in men and 29.9% in women) but with lower PAR of MRFs, especially in men (16.7%). Subjects in North China had lower HUA prevalence but higher PAR of MRFs. Around 44.8% male HUA cases in Inner Mongolia (26.9% of HUA prevalence) and 37.7% cases in Heilongjiang (34.4% of HUA prevalence) were attributable to overweight/obesity and alcohol consumption. Conclusion: There are significant sex and geographic difference on PAR of HUA due to MRFs. More tailored prevention strategies are needed to prevent HUA through weight loss and reduction of alcohol consumption.
Assessment of Serum Spexin Levels in Obese Adolescents with Metabolic Syndrome Antecedents: Preliminary Results
Authors: Kalay Senturk Nida Gulderen , Dagdeviren Cakir Aydilek , Yildirmak Zeynep Yildiz , Ucar Ahmet
Published: November 2021

Objective: Spexin (SPX) is a novel peptide implicated in food intake and satiety. SPX levels are reduced in obese patients. Aim: This study aimed to compare serum SPX levels in obese adolescents versus healthy controls and to assess the associations of metabolic syndrome (metS) antecedents with serum SPX levels. Methods: Eighty consecutive obese adolescents aged 10–18 years and 80 healthy peers were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements, pubertal examinations, and clinical blood pressure measurements were performed. Fasting blood samples were drawn for glucose, insulin, lipids, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and SPX. metS was diagnosed using International Diabetes Federation criteria. Associations of serum SPX with clinical and laboratory variables were assessed. Results: Obese adolescents had lower serum SPX levels than healthy peers (50 pg/mL [25–75% IQR: 25–98 pg/mL] and 67.0 pg/mL [25–75% IQR: 32.5–126.0 pg/mL]; respectively, p = 0.035). Twenty (25%) obese adolescents were diagnosed as having metS. Obese adolescents with metS had lower SPX than those without metS (24.5 pg/mL [25–75% IQR: 15.3–49.5 pg/mL] and 69.0 pg/mL [25–75% IQR: 42.0–142.0 pg/mL]; respectively, p < 0.0001). The frequencies of hyperuricemia, IR, and elevated ALT were similar in obese adolescents with metS and those without metS (p > 0.05 for all). Serum uric acid levels were correlated significantly with serum SPX after correcting for BMI and HOMA-IR (r = −0.41, p < 0.05). A serum SPX level at a cutoff level of 49.5 pg/mL predicted the presence of metS in obese adolescents with 75% sensitivity and 71% specificity. Conclusions: Obese adolescents have reduced SPX levels, and this reduction is more pronounced in those with metS. Further research is needed to verify the utility of SPX as a biomarker in the diagnosis of metS in obese adolescents.
Diversity of aquatic insects and biomonitoring of water quality in the upper Ganga River, a Ramsar site: a preliminary assessment
Authors: De Kritish , Sarkar Arkojyoti , Singh Kritika , Uniyal Virendra Prasad , Johnson Jeyaraj Antony , Hussain Syed Ainul
Published: November 2021

Monitoring of freshwater habitats through aquatic insects is widely used. A study was carried out in March, 2019 at 14 sites in the Upper Ganga River between Brijghat and Narora, a riverine Ramsar site in India, to document the diversity of three major aquatic predatory insect groups—Odonata, Coleoptera, and Hemiptera—and determine their biomonitoring potential. The study recorded three species of Coleoptera, four Hemiptera, 14 dragonflies, and eight damselflies. The Shannon diversity index (H′) ranged from 2.465 to 2.782, Pielou’s Evenness index (J′) from 0.841 to 0.894, and Berger–Parker index of dominance (d) from 0.122 to 0.243. Families Libellulidae (Odonata), Coenagrionidae (Odonata) and Gerridae (Hemiptera) had high relative abundance and dominant status. The stream invertebrate grade number-average level (SIGNAL2) score (for family) ranged from 2.316 to 3.174, lying within quadrant 2 of the SIGNAL2 (family) quadrant diagram. This suggested that the water in the area is likely to have high levels of turbidity, salinity, or nutrients, caused  naturally or by anthropogenic activities, and the water has low levels of most toxic chemicals.
Butterflies of Amrabad Tiger Reserve, Telangana, India
Authors: Deepa Jaiswal  , B. Bharath  , M. Karuthapandi  , Shrikant Jadhav  , S. Prabakaran  , S. Rehanuma Sulthana
Published: November 2021

The butterfly diversity of Amrabad Tiger Reserve was assessed from March 2018 to February 2021. A total of 106 species belonging to the families Nymphalidae (36 species), Lycaenidae (30 species), Pieridae (18 species), Hesperiidae (14 species), and Papilionidae (8 species) were recorded. Of these, 12 species belonged to the Schedules I, II & IV of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, and four were common in this region.
On the IUCN status of Boesenbergia albolutea and B. rubrolutea (Zingiberaceae) and typification of B. rubrolutea
Authors: K. Aishwarya  , M. Sabu
Published: November 2021

The present study comments on the conservation status of two species of the genus Boesenbergia, viz., B. albolutea and B. rubrolutea. The study also identified and designated the lectotype for B. rubrolutea.
An enumeration of the flowering plants of Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary in eastern Sikkim, India
Authors: Dash Sudhansu Sekhar , Lahiri Subhajit , Mao Ashiho Asoshii
Published: November 2021

The present paper is the outcome of an extensive floristic survey conducted in two phases by the authors in Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, East Sikkim, India. During the study 411 taxa (400 species, 04 subspecies and 07 varieties) belonging to 173 genera and 54 families were recorded. The most dominating family was Asteraceae with 44 species followed by Ericaceae 28 species, Ranunculaceae 26 species, Polygonaceae 24 species and Rosaceae 20 species. These five families represent 34.13% of the total taxa recorded from the sanctuary. About 12 families were represented by only one species each. The most dominating genus was Rhododendron (18 species) followed by Primula (16 species), Pedicularis (15 species), Gentiana (11 species), and Impatiens (10 species). Among the different growth forms, herbs contributed the maximum (86.61 %) followed by shrubs (7.79%), trees (4.87%), climbers 0.49%, and epiphyte (0.24%).
If habitat heterogeneity is effective for conservation of butterflies in urban landscapes of Delhi, India?’ Unethical publication based on data manipulation
Authors: Das Sanjay Keshari , Rita Singh
Published: November 2021

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Ulcerative colitis: STRIDE-ing beyond symptoms with new standards
Authors: Tay Shu Wen , Teh Kevin Kim Jun , Ang Tiing-Leong , Tan Malcolm
Published: November 2021

The landscape of ulcerative colitis has changed in the last two decades. Advancements in pharmacotherapeutics have heralded the introduction of new treatment options, with many agents in development. Better clinical outcomes are seen with tighter disease control, made possible with greater understanding of inflammatory pathways and their blockade with drugs. There has been a resultant shift in treatment targets, beyond symptoms to endoscopic and histological healing. Controlling the burden of disease activity also lowers the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer screening now requires the use of dye-based agents and high-definition colonoscopy to improve the detection of colonic neoplasms.
Zingiber ultralimitale subsp. matarombeoense Ardiyani & Ardi (Zingiberaceae), a new subspecies from Sulawesi
Authors: ARDIYANI MARLINA , ARDI WISNU H. , SANTOSO WAHYUDI
Published: November 2021

A new subspecies of Zingiber ultralimitale Ardiyani & A.D.Poulsen was found at Matarombeo, South-East Sulawesi. Zingiber ultralimitale subsp. matarombeoense Ardiyani & Ardi, was described, illustrated and barcoded using four barcoding loci (rbcL, trnH-psbA, Internal Transcribed Spacer-ITS, and matK). Provisional conservation status assessment indicates a Critical Endangered (CR) status. The taxonomic placement into section was determined based on morphology, molecular, and pollen SEM data.
A new species and taxonomic notes on Lycianthes series Glanduliferae (Solanaceae) from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: COSTA-SILVA RAFAEL , GIACOMIN LEANDRO LACERDA , AGRA MARIA DE FATIMA
Published: November 2021

During our analyses of Lycianthes exsiccates, as part of the taxonomic treatment for the Brazilian flora, a new species was discovered and is described and illustrated here. The species is compared and contextualized within the infra-generic classification of Lycianthes. Analyses of indument and trichomes were performed by stereomicroscopy (SM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The new species, Lycianthes amazonica, is recognized as an endemic species to the Brazilian Amazon, which has its habitat described as secondary formations (capoeira) of terra-firme forests. It is closely related to L. sprucei, with which shares the scandent or vine habit, flexuous branches and ferrugineous indument of glandular trichomes. However, they are distinguished by several morphological features, including trichomes morphology, a sessile inflorescence and calyx appendages of equal length; both species belong to Lycianthes. subg. Polymeris sect. Eulycianthes ser. Glanduliferae. The description of this species expands the total number of Lycianthes species to the Brazilian Amazon to six, as well as thirteen to Brazil. The affinities of Lycianthes amazonica with its related species, distribution, ecology, and conservation status are discussed. Additionally, a lectotypification of Lycianthes sprucei, a species closely related to L. amazonica, is proposed.
Submental Island Flap After Prior Contralateral Neck Dissection: A Case Series and Technical Considerations
Authors: Larson Andrew R. , Abt Nicholas B. , Deschler Daniel G.
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

The submental island flap is a dependable workhorse in head and neck reconstruction. However, the viability of this flap has not been established for oral cavity reconstruction when a contralateral neck dissection has already been performed in an earlier surgical setting. The aim of this study is to highlight technical considerations and outcomes of this approach with a small case series.

Methods:

Three cases of oral cavity reconstruction with a submental island flap elevated in the context of a prior contralateral neck dissection are presented.

Results:

In all cases, a doppler was used to identify the maintenance of the submental perforator in the neck opposite the previous neck dissection. In 2 cases, level IA was included within the dissection field of the previous neck dissection. Additionally, the old neck scar was included within the skin paddle of the submental island flap in 2 cases. In all cases, excellent healing of the flap was observed without partial or complete loss.

Conclusions:

The submental island flap appears to be a reliable reconstruction when a previous contralateral neck dissection has been performed, even when level IA was included in the prior dissection.