bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of sodium hydroxide solution concentration on liquid entrainment in a steam boiler
Authors: Trinuruk Piyatida , Meekaew Somjate , Thong-in Ratchayothin , Satsananun Nut , Laklaem Thanapol
Published: May 2021

Liquid entrainment or carryover is a phenomenon that liquid droplets are carried out from a boiler or steam drum during steam generation. The droplets may convey some dissolved solids and cause damage to steam equipment such as scaling deposits in valves and steam piping and erosion of turbine blades. The appearance of dissolved solids in boiler water mainly comes from the internal water treatment process by dosing some chemical substances into the boiler in order to prevent corrosion and scale formation. Trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4) is one of chemical substances commonly added during boiler operation to control the pH of boiler water. However, it can cause the occurrence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution which results in the increase of total dissolved solid (TDS) concentration in boiler water. Therefore, this study is aimed to develop a test section in order to investigate the parameters affected by liquid entrainment in the boiler. The experiment is performed in ambient conditions under an air-water system. Three variable factors are taken into consideration, including the concentration of NaOH solution, the height of the water level in the test tank, and the gas superficial velocity which represents the flow velocity of steam during steam generation. The results show that the increase of the gas superficial velocity and the water level height in the tank resulted in the enhancement of the entrainment rate. The increase of the water level height played an important role on the liquid entrainment. The increase of NaOH concentration directly impacted the existing film bubbles and the longer stability of foam bubbles at the water surface which resulted in a higher entrainment rate. Therefore, TDS control was one of the most important factors which could be incorporated with the appropriate height of the water level and the consistency rate of steam generation in order to minimize the liquid entrainment.
Understanding the adsorption behavior of small molecule in MoS2 device based on first-principles calculations
Authors: Jiang Wenfeng , Chen Kaifei , Wang Jiawei , Geng Di , Lu Nianduan , Li Ling
Published: May 2021

Although layered MoS2 has been proposed as a potential candidate for gas detection devices due to high surface-to-volume ratio, high sensitivity, and selectivity, the adsorption behavior of small molecules is still ambiguous. Here, we performed the first-principles calculations to investigate the adsorption behavior of small molecules on layered MoS2 surface, and the effects of defects and environment are considered. Our results reveal that NO and NO2 can be chemically adsorbed on defective monolayer MoS2, which is attributed to the forming of covalent bonds. And the forming of covalent bonds can lead to an increase in adsorption energies. Whereas, gas molecules can only be physically adsorbed on perfect MoS2. Meanwhile, as compared with adsorption behavior of NH3, NO, and NO2 on clean MoS2, the environmental gases (CO2, N2, and H2O) may result in an increase in adsorption strength of NH3, NO, and NO2 on MoS2 surface.
Effect of ball-milling process in combination with the addition of carbide microparticles on the microstructure and wear resistance of a Co–Cr–W alloy prepared by powder metallurgy method
Authors: Wang S Y , Hou X Y , Wang L , Zhang H Y , Zhang W B , Xia Y P , Sun Y , Zhou Y Z
Published: May 2021

Co–Cr–W alloys were widely used in the inlet exhaust valve of aeroengine. However, the traditional manufacturing process of Co–Cr–W alloys can not meet the demand for higher comprehensive performance, and an optimum method needs to be developed. Herein, a Co–Cr–W alloy reinforced by exogenous carbides was prepared by the powder metallurgy method. Effect of ball-milling time on the microstructure and wear resistance of the alloy was investigated, and the formation mechanisms of the reinforcing phases were discussed. Results showed that with prolonging the ball-milling time, the uniformity of the reinforcing phases was improved, grain refinement was achieved, the hardness increased, a suitable bonding interface was formed between the matrix and reinforcing phases, and better wear resistance was thus achieved. However, when the ball-milling time increased from 60 h to 70 h, local segregation of the reinforcing phases occurred, the hardness decreased from 64 HRC to 60 HRC, and the friction coefficient increased from 0.53 to 0.58. Based on our experimental results, we proposed two formation mechanisms of the reinforcing phases (carbides): In-situ precipitation from the matrix and in situ autogenic reaction between the elements of the matrix and the added carbides (WC and Cr3C2 particles). Both mechanisms contributed to the formation of M23C6 and M6C carbides. Our results underscore the importance of added reinforcing phases and help to optimize the ball-milling process in preparing the Co–Cr–W alloys.
The effects of sintering temperature on the mechanical properties and toughening mechanisms of carbon fibre-reinforced HfB2-SiC composites
Authors: Chen Yaxi
Published: May 2021

HfB2-SiC composites were fabricated by the introduction of carbon fibres to meet the mechanical requirements, and hot pressing was the sintering route. Experiments were carried out to study the effects of the sintering temperature on the mechanical properties and microstructure of HfB2-SiC composites with 15 vol% carbon fibres. In this study, the straight carbon fibres became curved during the pressing process, and the reasons were discussed. The mechanical results showed that curved fibres enhanced the fracture properties when the composites were sintered at temperatures below 1900 °C , and the toughening mechanisms, interfacial debonding, crack bridging and pull-out from the matrix were valid. When fibres are employed to improve the fracture toughness of other ceramics, bent fibres might be a common phenomenon, and this paper can provide important guidance to other researchers.
Daily Associations Between Positive Emotion and Obesity-Related Behaviors and Their Interconnections Within Adolescent–Caregiver Dyads
Authors: Cummings Caroline , Lansing Amy Hughes
Published: May 2021

Background Greater overall positive emotion has been linked with increased physical activity and overeating. High approach positive emotions (HAPEs), a subtype of positive emotion, are theorized to facilitate this goal-driven behavior. However, the day-to-day associations of HAPE and physical activity and overeating, including both at the individual level and within caregiver–adolescent dyads, remain unknown.

Purpose We examined the independent and dyadic associations between HAPE (positive emotions that occur pregoal and motivate individuals toward approaching/acting upon that motive) and obesity-related behaviors, including physical activity and overeating, in adolescents and their primary caregivers.

Methods Adolescents (N = 47) aged 11–17 and their caregivers completed demographic questions and a 7-day diary at the end of each day about daily emotion, and physical activity and overeating behaviors.

Results For adolescents and their caregivers, increased day-to-day fluctuations in HAPE and greater average HAPE was associated with increases in their own daily physical activity levels. Greater average caregiver HAPE was also associated with increased overeating in caregivers. When examining interdependency within dyads, greater average caregiver HAPE was associated with greater adolescent overeating behavior.

Conclusions There is evidence that HAPE is related to obesity-related health promoting behaviors and health risk behaviors in adolescence and adulthood. Future studies should further explore mechanisms underlying these associations, including within the family system.
Perceived Stress and Molecular Bacterial Vaginosis in the National Institutes of Health Longitudinal Study of Vaginal Flora
Authors: Turpin Rodman , Slopen Natalie , Borgogna Joanna-Lynn C , Yeoman Carl J , He Xin , Miller Ryan S , Klebanoff Mark A , Ravel Jacques , Brotman Rebecca M
Published: May 2021

Vaginal microbiota provide the first line of defense against urogenital infections primarily through protective actions of Lactobacillus species Perceived stress increases susceptibility to infection through several mechanisms, including suppression of immune function. We investigated whether stress was associated with deleterious changes to vaginal bacterial composition in a subsample of 572 women in the Longitudinal Study of Vaginal Flora, sampled from 1999 through 2002. Using Cox proportional hazards models, both unadjusted and adjusted for sociodemographic factors and sexual behaviors, we found that participants who exhibited a 5-unit-increase in Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale had greater risk (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13, 1.74) of developing molecular bacterial vaginosis (BV), a state with low Lactobacillus abundance and diverse anaerobic bacteria. A 5-unit increase in stress score was also associated with greater risks of transitioning from the L. iners-dominated community state type (26% higher) to molecular-BV (adjusted HR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.56) or maintaining molecular-BV from baseline (adjusted HR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.47). Inversely, women with baseline molecular-BV reporting a 5-unit stress increase were less likely to transition to microbiota dominated by L. crispatus, L. gasseri, or L. jensenii (adjusted HR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.68, 0.99). These findings suggest that psychosocial stress is associated with vaginal microbiota composition, inviting a more mechanistic exploration of the relationship between psychosocial stress and molecular-BV.
FBA: feature barcoding analysis for single cell RNA-Seq
Authors: Duan Jialei , Hon Gary C
Published: May 2021

Motivation

Single cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq) has broadened our understanding of cellular heterogeneity and provided valuable insights into cellular functions. Recent experimental strategies extend scRNA-Seq readouts to include additional features, including cell surface proteins and genomic perturbations. These ‘feature barcoding’ strategies rely on converting molecular and cellular features to unique sequence barcodes, which are then detected with the transcriptome.

Results

Here, we introduce FBA, a flexible and streamlined package to perform quality control, quantification, demultiplexing, multiplet detection, clustering and visualization of feature barcoding assays.

Availabilityand implementation

FBA is available on PyPi at https://pypi.org/project/fba and on GitHub at https://github.com/jlduan/fba.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Diversity and evolution of the extraordinary vocal sacs of casque-headed treefrogs (Anura: Hylidae)
Authors: Moura Pedro Henrique Areco Gomes , Elias-Costa Agustín J , Nunes Ivan , Faivovich Julián
Published: May 2021

Vocal sacs are among the most conspicuous features of anurans and are particularly striking in casque-headed treefrogs (Hylidae: Hylinae: Lophyohylini) with their wide array of morphologies. In this paper, we assessed the anatomy of vocal sacs in representatives of the Lophyohylini, described eight discrete characters and studied their evolution. We inferred that dorsolateral projections of the vocal sacs were already present during the early evolution of the tribe. Subsequently, they reached surprising volumes in some species, whereas in others they were notably reduced. We inferred between nine and 11 independent events of reduction of the size and lateral projections of the vocal sac, showing unprecedented levels of plasticity for the structure. Moreover, these events were strongly correlated with the colonization of phytotelmata as breeding sites, probably due to their confined space which hampers the inflation of large vocal sacs. Finally, we discuss the evolution of paired lateral vocal sacs in different groups of anurans, and the extent to which the paired and dorsally-projecting lobes of most Trachycephalus differ from those of distantly related taxa. Our findings highlight how variation in internal structure affects the shape of the inflated vocal sac and provides a framework applicable across the Anura.
Hair product use and breast cancer incidence in the Black Women’s Health Study
Authors: Coogan Patricia F , Rosenberg Lynn , Palmer Julie R , Cozier Yvette C , Lenzy Yolanda M , Bertrand Kimberly A
Published: May 2021

Hair relaxers and leave-in conditioners and oils, commonly used by Black/African American women, may contain estrogens or estrogen-disrupting compounds. Thus, their use may contribute to breast cancer risk. Results of the few previous studies on this topic are inconsistent. We assessed the relation of hair relaxer and leave-in conditioner use to breast cancer incidence in the Black Women’s Health Study, a nationwide prospective study of Black women. Among 50 543 women followed from 1997 to 2017, 2311 incident breast cancers occurred. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using Cox proportional hazards regression for breast cancer overall and by estrogen receptor (ER) status. For heavy use (≥15 years of use for ≥7 times/year) of hair relaxers relative to never/light use (<4 years, no more than 1–2 times/year), the multivariable HR for breast cancer overall was 1.13 (95%CI: 0.96–1.33). Duration, frequency, age at first use and number of scalp burns were not associated with overall breast cancer risk. For heavy use of hair relaxers containing lye, the corresponding HR for ER+ breast cancer was 1.32 (95% CI: 0.97, 1.80); there was no association for non-lye products. There was no association of conditioner use and breast cancer. Results of this study were largely null, but there was some evidence that heavy use of lye-containing hair relaxers may be associated with increased risk of ER+ breast cancer. Consistent results from several studies are needed before it can be concluded that use of certain hair relaxers impacts breast cancer development.
An Optimized k-means Algorithm Based on Information Entropy
Authors: Liu Meiling , Zhang Beixian , Li Xi , Tang Weidong , Zhang GangQiang
Published: May 2021

Clustering is a widely used technique in data mining applications and various pattern recognition applications, in which data objects are divided into groups. K-means algorithm is one of the most classical clustering algorithms. In this algorithm, the initial clustering centers are randomly selected, this results in unstable clustering results. To solve this problem, an optimized algorithm to select the initial centers is proposed. In the proposed algorithm, dispersion degree is defined, which is based on entropy. In the algorithm, all the objects are firstly grouped into a big cluster, and the object that has the maximum dispersion degree and the object that has the minimum dispersion degree are selected as the initial clustering centers from the initial big cluster. And then other objects in the biggest cluster are partitioned to the initial clusters to which the objects are nearest. The partition process will be repeated until the cluster number is equal to the specified value k. Finally, the partitioned k clusters and their cluster centers are applied to k-means algorithm as initial clusters and centers. Several experiments are conducted on real data sets to evaluate the proposed algorithm. The proposed algorithm is compared with traditional k-means algorithm and max-min distance clustering algorithm, and experimental results show that the improved k-means algorithm is stable in selecting initial clustering, because it can select unique initial clustering centers. The optimized algorithm’s effectiveness and feasibility are also verified by experiments, and the algorithm can reduce the times of iterations and has more stable clustering results and higher accuracy.
A case report of an elderly male with isolated coronary sinus atrial septal defect
Authors: Okamoto Junko , Fukuhara Shinji , Ozawa Hideki , Katsumata Takahiro
Published: May 2021

Background

Isolated coronary sinus atrial septal defect (CSASD) is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly, comprising <1% of atrial septal defects. Elderly patients with this anomaly are even more uncommon and sometimes overlooked.

Case summary

A 73-year-old man with a history of electrical defibrillation therapy for atrial flutter presented with worsening exertional dyspnoea. Cardiac examination revealed CSASD without persistent left superior vena cava, showing only moderate tricuspid regurgitation. Surgical repair of the defect and regurgitant valve improved symptoms dramatically.

Discussion

Elderly patients with atrial arrhythmias might show uncommon presentations of congenital heart disease. Cardiologists should pay attention to enlarged right ventricle, pulmonary artery, and, in particular, enlarged coronary sinus. Direct closure with interrupted sutures secured with pledgets is effective in some case of terminal type of CSASD.
Shared decision making in breast cancer screening guidelines: a systematic review of their quality and reporting
Authors: Maes-Carballo Marta , Moreno-Asencio Teresa , Martín-Díaz Manuel , Mignini Luciano , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora , Khan Khalid Saeed
Published: May 2021

Background

Shared decision making (SDM) is a key component of evidence-based and patient-centred care. The aim of this study is to systematically review the quality of SDM proposals in clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and consensus statements (CSs) concerning breast cancer (BC) screening.

Methods

Guidances were identified, without language restrictions, using a prospectively planned systematic search (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus and guideline websites) from January 2010 to August 2020. Duplicate data extraction used a 31-item SDM quality assessment tool; reviewer agreement was 98%.

Results

SDM appeared only in 38 (49.4%) (33/68 CPGs, 4/9 CSs) documents (overall compliance with the quality tool: mean 5.74, IQR 3–8). CPGs and CSs specifically mentioning the term SDM (n = 12) had higher quality (mean 6.8, IQR 4–9 vs. mean 2.1, IQR 0–3; P = 0.001). No differences were found in mean quality comparing CPGs with CSs (3 vs. 1.6; P = 0.634), use of systematic review (4.2 vs. 2.9; P = 0.929) and publication in a journal (4 vs. 1.9; P = 0.094). Guidances with SDM were more recently reported than those without it (mean 41 vs. 57 months; P = 0.042).

Conclusion

More than half of all the guidelines did not meet SDM quality criteria. Those that explored it were more recently reported. There is an urgent need for promoting SDM in guidances concerning BC screening issued by institutions, professional associations and medical journals.
Mechanism of action of various terpenes and phenylpropanoids against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Nogueira Jéssica Oliveira e , Campolina Gabriela Aguiar , Batista Luís Roberto , Alves Eduardo , Caetano Alex Rodrigues Silva , Brandão Rafaela Magalhães , Nelson David Lee , Cardoso Maria das Graças
Published: May 2021

Foodborne, disease-causing microorganisms are increasingly resistant to commercial antibiotics. Thus, there is a need for the development of new agents capable of acting efficiently in the control of these pathogens. Terpenoids and phenylpropanoids stand out for having high biological activity and a broad spectrum of action. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the antibacterial potential of limonene, β-citronellol, carvone, carvacrol, eugenol and trans-cinnamaldehyde and to investigate the mechanism of activity of these compounds against the bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The terpene and phenylpropanoid compoundswere purchased and their antibacterial potential was assessed by macrodilution. The mechanism of action was verified by tests of potassium ion efflux, salt tolerance, extravasation of cellular contents, absorption of crystal violet and morphological changes analyzed by electron microscopy. Bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects caused by the compounds carvone, carvacrol, eugenol and transcinemaldehyde were observed in both species; antibacterial activity against only S. aureus was observed for β-citronelol and limonene. Reduced salt tolerance was found for strains of E. coli treated with carvacrol and S. aureus treated with β-citronelol. There was extravasation of cellular materials induced by treatments with carvone, carvacrol, eugenol and trans-cinnamaldehyde in both microorganisms. The absorption of crystal violet increased for E. coli after incubation with each treatment. Deleterious effects and morphological changes were observed. Therefore, the monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids under study are potentially applicable for antimicrobial use against E. coli and S. aureus, and the mechanism of action involves changes in membrane permeability without cell lysis.
Older People as Active Agents in Their Neighborhood Environments: Moving House Can Improve Quality of Life
Authors: Stephens Christine , Allen Joanne
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives

Neighborhood environments are an important aspect of well-being for older people. Developments of the general ecological model recognize older people as active agents who adapt their environments to fit their changing needs. We provide empirical support for a model suggested by Wahl et al., by examining interactions between neighborhood environments, personal situations, relocation, and quality of life (QoL) among older people.

Research Design and Methods

Two statistical models were tested with a sample of community-dwelling participants (aged 55–89) in the New Zealand Health, Work, and Retirement longitudinal surveys conducted in 2016 (T1) and 2018 (T2). Multiple linear regression assessed the association of perceptions of housing and neighborhood with QoL at T1 (n = 3682).

Results

QoL was predicted by housing satisfaction, and neighborhood satisfaction, accessibility, and trust (controlling for age, gender, marital status, home ownership, socioeconomic status, physical health, and mental health). Mixed analysis of variance showed that those who moved house between T1 and T2 reported lower housing and neighborhood satisfaction than nonmovers at T1. Over time T1–T2, movers reported less decline in housing satisfaction, and more positive change on all neighborhood perceptions, with higher perceptions of neighborhood accessibility than nonmovers at T2.

Discussion and Implications

These findings support the theoretical model and provide the impetus for a more detailed study of the effects of the environment on well-being in older age. Housing and neighborhood environments are a very practical focus for social policy change at local and national levels.
Mutant-TMEM230-induced neurodegeneration and impaired axonal mitochondrial transport
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Guo Gongbo , Zhang Jinru , Aebez Nicolas , Liu Zhaohui , Liu Chun-Feng , Ross Christopher A , Smith Wanli W
Published: May 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease with movement disorders including resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability. Recent studies have identified a new PD associated gene, TMEM230 (transmembrane protein 230). However, the pathological roles of TMEM230 and its variants are not fully understood. TMEM230 gene encodes two protein isoforms. Isoform2 is the major protein form (~95%) in human. In this study, we overexpress isoform2 TMEM230 variants (WT or PD-linked *184Wext*5 mutant) or knockdown endogenous protein in cultured SH-5Y5Y cells and mouse primary hippocampus neurons to study their pathological roles. We found that overexpression of WT and mutant TMEM230 or knockdown of endogenous TMEM230-induced neurodegeneration and impaired mitochondria transport at the retrograde direction in axons. Mutant TMEM230 caused more severe neurotoxicity and mitochondrial transport impairment than WT-TMEM230 did. Our results demonstrate that maintaining TMEM230 protein levels is critical for neuron survival and axon transport. These findings suggest that mutant-TMEM230-induced mitochondrial transport impairment could be the early event leading to neurite injury and neurodegeneration in PD development.
Sample logic
Authors: Gerner Matthias
Published: May 2021

The need for a ‘many-valued logic’ in linguistics has been evident since the 1970s, but there was lack of clarity as to whether it should come from the family of fuzzy logics or from the family of probabilistic logics. In this regard, Fine [14] and Kamp [26] pointed out undesirable effects of fuzzy logic (the failure of idempotency and coherence) which kept two generations of linguists and philosophers at arm’s length. (Another unwanted feature of fuzzy logic is the property of truth functionality.) While probabilistic logic is not fraught by the same problems, its lack of constructiveness, i.e. its inability to compose complex truth degrees from atomic truth degrees, did not make it more attractive to linguists either. In the absence of a clear perspective in ‘many-valued logic’, scholars chose to proliferate ontologies grafted atop the classical bivalent logic: ontologies for truth, individuals, events, situations, possible worlds and degrees. The result has been a collection of incompatible classical logics. In this paper, I present sample logic, in particular its semantics (not its axiomatization). Sample logics is a member of the family of probabilistic logics, which is constructive without being truth functional. More specifically, I integrate all the important linguistic data on which the classical logics are predicated. The concepts of (in)dependency and conditional (in)dependency are the cornerstones of sample logic.
Phase III study of palonosetron for prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in pediatric patients
Authors: Hara Junichi , Kosaka Yoshiyuki , Koh Katsuyoshi , Matsumoto Kimikazu , Kumamoto Tadashi , Fujisaki Hiroyuki , Ishida Yuji , Suzuki Ryoko , Mochizuki Shinji , Goto Hiroaki , Yuza Yuki , Koga Yuhki
Published: May 2021

Background

Palonosetron has demonstrated non-inferiority to ondansetron for prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in pediatric patients in the United States and Europe. We conducted a single-arm registration study to evaluate the efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of palonosetron in pediatric patients in Japan.

Methods

Key inclusion criteria were age of 28 days to 18 years and malignant disease for which initial highly emetogenic chemotherapy or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy was planned. Patients received palonosetron at 20 μg/kg over at least 30 s intravenously before the start of highly emetogenic chemotherapy or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy and received dexamethasone on Days 1–3. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving a complete response in the overall phase (0–120 h) in Course 1, and its threshold was set at 30%.

Results

From December 2016 to June 2019, 60 patients were enrolled, and 58 received at least one dose of palonosetron. The proportion of patients achieving a complete response during the overall phase was 58.6% (95% confidence interval, 44.9%–71.4%), showing the primary endpoint was met (P < 0.0001). Treatment-related adverse events occurred in two patients (3.4%). Regarding the pharmacokinetics of palonosetron, neither the plasma concentration immediately after administration nor the area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity differed significantly among the age groups.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the efficacy of palonosetron in pediatric patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy and confirmed the appropriateness of the 20 μg/kg dose, regardless of age, considering the safety and pharmacokinetic profiles.

Trial registration

JapicCTI-163305, registered 6 June 2016.
Vanillic acid–Zn(II) complex: a novel complex with antihyperglycaemic and anti-oxidative activity
Authors: Oke Ifedolapo M , Ramorobi Limpho M , Mashele Samson S , Bonnet Susanna L , Makhafola Tshepiso J , Eze Kenneth C , Noreljaleel Anwar E M , Chukwuma Chika I
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Our aim was to synthesize, characterize and evaluate the antihyperglycaemic and anti-oxidative properties of a new Zn(II) complex of vanillic acid.

Methods

The complex was synthesized using ZnSO4.7H2O and vanillic acid as precursors. NMR and FTIR techniques were used to characterize the synthesized complex. The cytotoxicity of the complex was measured. The antihyperglycemic and anti-oxidative properties of the complex were evaluated using in vitro, cell-based and ex vivo models and compared with those of its precursors.

Key findings

Zn(II) coordinated with vanillic acid via a Zn(O6) coordination, with the complex having three moieties of vanillic acid. The radical scavenging, Fe3+ reducing and hepatic antilipid peroxidative activity of the complex were, respectively, 2.3-, 1.8- and 9.7-folds more potent than vanillic acid. Complexation increased the α-glucosidase and glycation inhibitory activity of vanillic acid by 3- and 2.6-folds, respectively. Zn(II) conferred potent L-6 myotube (EC50 = 20.4 μm) and muscle tissue (EC50 = 612 μm) glucose uptake effects on vanillic acid. Cytotoxicity evaluation showed that the complex did not reduce the viability of L-6 myotubes and Chang liver cells.

Conclusions

The data suggest that Zn(II)–vanillic acid complex had improved bioactivity relative to vanillic acid. Thus, Zn(II) may be further studied as an antihyperglycaemic and anti-oxidative adjuvant for bioactive phenolic acids.
Multi-Polygenic Analysis of Nicotine Dependence in Individuals of European Ancestry
Authors: Risner Victoria A , Benca-Bachman Chelsie E , Bertin Lauren , Smith Alicia K , Kaprio Jaakko , McGeary John E , Chesler Elissa , Knopik Valerie S , Friedman Naomi P , Palmer Rohan H C
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Heritability estimates of nicotine dependence (ND) range from 40% to 70%, but discovery GWAS of ND are underpowered and have limited predictive utility. In this work, we leverage genetically correlated traits and diseases to increase the accuracy of polygenic risk prediction.

Methods

We employed a multi-trait model using summary statistic-based best linear unbiased predictors (SBLUP) of genetic correlates of DSM-IV diagnosis of ND in 6394 individuals of European Ancestry (prevalence = 45.3%, %female = 46.8%, µ age = 40.08 [s.d. = 10.43]) and 3061 individuals from a nationally-representative sample with Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence symptom count (FTND; 51.32% female, mean age = 28.9 [s.d. = 1.70]). Polygenic predictors were derived from GWASs known to be phenotypically and genetically correlated with ND (i.e., Cigarettes per Day [CPD], the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test [AUDIT-Consumption and AUDIT-Problems], Neuroticism, Depression, Schizophrenia, Educational Attainment, Body Mass Index [BMI], and Self-Perceived Risk-Taking); including Height as a negative control. Analyses controlled for age, gender, study site, and the first 10 ancestral principal components.

Results

The multi-trait model accounted for 3.6% of the total trait variance in DSM-IV ND. Educational Attainment (β = –0.125; 95% CI: [–0.149,–0.101]), CPD (0.071 [0.047,0.095]), and Self-Perceived Risk-Taking (0.051 [0.026,0.075]) were the most robust predictors. PGS effects on FTND were limited.

Conclusions

Risk for ND is not only polygenic, but also pleiotropic. Polygenic effects on ND that are accessible by these traits are limited in size and act additively to explain risk.

Implications

These findings enhance our understanding of inherited genetic factors for nicotine dependence. The data show that genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings across pre- and comorbid conditions of smoking are differentially associated with nicotine dependence and that when combined explain significantly more trait variance. These findings underscore the utility of multivariate approaches to understand the validity of polygenic scores for nicotine dependence, especially as the power of GWAS of broadly-defined smoking behaviors increases. Realizing the potential of GWAS to inform complex smoking behaviors will require similar theory-driven models that reflect the myriad of mechanisms that drive individual differences.
The Relationship Between Hepatitis C Virus Rates and Office-Based Buprenorphine Access in Ohio
Authors: Brook Daniel L , Hetrick Angela T , Chettri Shibani R , Schalkoff Christine A , Sibley Adams L , Lancaster Kathryn E , Go Vivian F , Miller William C , Kline David M
Published: May 2021

Background

The United States is experiencing an epidemic of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections due to injection drug use, primarily of opioids and predominantly in rural areas. Buprenorphine, a medication for opioid use disorder, may indirectly prevent HCV transmission. We assessed the relationship of HCV rates and office-based buprenorphine prescribing in Ohio.

Methods

We conducted an ecological study of the county-level (n = 88) relationship between HCV case rates and office-based buprenorphine prescribing in Ohio. We fit adjusted negative binomial models between the county-level acute and total HCV incidence rates during 2013–2017 and 1) the number of patients in each county that could be served by office-based buprenorphine (prescribing capacity) and 2) the number served by office-based buprenorphine (prescribing frequency) from January–March, 2018.

Results

For each 10% increase in acute HCV rate, office-based buprenorphine prescribing capacity differed by 1% (95% CI: –1%, 3%). For each 10% increase in total HCV rate, office-based buprenorphine prescribing capacity was 12% (95% CI: 7%, 17%) higher. For each 10% increase in acute HCV rate, office-based buprenorphine prescribing frequency was 1% (95% CI: –1%, 3%) higher. For each 10% increase in total HCV rate, office-based buprenorphine prescribing frequency was 14% (95% CI: 7%, 20%) higher.

Conclusions

Rural counties in Ohio have less office-based buprenorphine and higher acute HCV rates versus urban counties, but a similar relationship between office-based buprenorphine prescribing and HCV case rates. To adequately prevent and control HCV rates, certain rural counties may need more office-based buprenorphine prescribing in areas with high HCV case rates.
WRKY53 integrates classic brassinosteroid signaling and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway to regulate rice architecture and seed size
Authors: Tian Xiaojie , He Mingliang , Mei Enyang , Zhang Baowen , Tang Jiaqi , Xu Min , Liu Jiali , Li Xiufeng , Wang Zhenyu , Tang Wenqiang , Guan Qingjie , Bu Qingyun
Published: May 2021

In rice (Oryza sativa) and other plants, plant architecture and seed size are closely related to yield. Brassinosteroid (BR) signaling and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway (MAPK kinase kinase 10 [MAPKKK10]–MAPK kinase 4 [MAPKK4]–MAPK6) are two major regulatory pathways that control rice architecture and seed size. However, their possible relationship and crosstalk remain elusive. Here, we show that WRKY53 mediated the crosstalk between BR signaling and the MAPK pathway. Biochemical and genetic assays demonstrated that glycogen synthase kinase-2 (GSK2) phosphorylates WRKY53 and lowers its stability, indicating that WRKY53 is a substrate of GSK2 in BR signaling. WRKY53 interacted with BRASSINAZOLE-RESISTANT 1(BZR1); they function synergistically to regulate BR-related developmental processes. We also provide genetic evidence showing that WRKY53 functions in a common pathway with the MAPKKK10–MAPKK4–MAPK6 cascade in leaf angle and seed size control, suggesting that WRKY53 is a direct substrate of this pathway. Moreover, GSK2 phosphorylated MAPKK4 to suppress MAPK6 activity, suggesting that GSK2-mediated BR signaling might also regulated MAPK pathway. Together, our results revealed a critical role for WRKY53 and uncovered sophisticated levels of interplay between BR signaling and the MAPK pathway in regulating rice architecture and seed size.
Revisiting non-Gaussianity in non-attractor inflation models in the light of the cosmological soft theorem
Authors: Suyama Teruaki , Tada Yuichiro , Yamaguchi Masahide
Published: May 2021

We revisit the squeezed-limit non-Gaussianity in the single-field non-attractor inflation models from the viewpoint of the cosmological soft theorem. In the single-field attractor models, inflaton’s trajectories with different initial conditions effectively converge into a single trajectory in the phase space, and hence there is only one clock degree of freedom (DoF) in the scalar part. Its long-wavelength perturbations can be absorbed into the local coordinate renormalization and lead to the so-called consistency relation between n- and (n + 1)-point functions. On the other hand, if the inflaton dynamics deviates from the attractor behavior, its long-wavelength perturbations cannot necessarily be absorbed and the consistency relation is expected not to hold any longer. In this work, we derive a formula for the squeezed bispectrum including the explicit correction to the consistency relation, as a proof of its violation in the non-attractor cases. First one must recall that non-attractor inflation needs to be followed by attractor inflation in a realistic case. Then, even if a specific non-attractor phase is effectively governed by a single DoF of phase space (represented by the exact ultra-slow-roll limit) and followed by a single-DoF attractor phase, its transition phase necessarily involves two DoF in dynamics and hence its long-wavelength perturbations cannot be absorbed into the local coordinate renormalization. Thus, it can affect local physics, even taking account of the so-called local observer effect, as shown by the fact that the bispectrum in the squeezed limit can go beyond the consistency relation. More concretely, the observed squeezed bispectrum does not vanish in general for long-wavelength perturbations exiting the horizon during a non-attractor phase.
What Information Drives Asset Prices?
Authors: Ghosh Anisha , Constantinides George M
Published: May 2021

We contribute to identifying proxies for the information set of investors in financial markets. We show that the marketwide price-dividend ratio highly correlates with inflation and labor market variables that also forecast consumption, dividend, and GDP growth, but not with aggregate consumption or GDP growth. Our model with learning from inflation and wage earnings rationalizes the moments of consumption and dividend growth, market return, the price-dividend ratio, real and nominal term structures, the low predictive power of the price-dividend ratio for consumption and dividends, and the dynamics of the price-dividend ratio, unlike a nested model with learning from consumption alone. (JEL E3, G12, G14)
Contractual Restrictions and Debt Traps
Authors: Liu Ernest , Roth Benjamin N
Published: May 2021

Microcredit and other forms of small-scale finance have failed to catalyze entrepreneurship in developing countries. In these credit markets, borrowers and lenders often bargain over not only the interest rate but also implicit restrictions on types of investment. We build a dynamic model of informal lending and show this may lead to endogenous debt traps. Lenders constrain business growth for poor borrowers, yet richer borrowers may grow their businesses faster than they could have without credit. The theory offers nuanced comparative statics and rationalizes the low average impact and low demand of microfinance, despite its high impact on larger businesses.
Using Registry Data to Support National Quality Forum Endorsement of Quality Measures for Home-Based Medical Care
Authors: Foakes Gregory , Hurt Courtney , Lehner Jamie L. , Tinsley Heather , Valentine Joan , Doede Denise D. , Ritchie Christine , Leff Bruce
Published: May 2021

Homebound older adults receiving home-based medical care (HBMC) are high-need, high-cost patients. National Quality Forum (NQF)-endorsed quality measures for this population are lacking. The objective is to describe the reliability and validity testing of 2 new quality measures for such patients to support NQF endorsement. The authors developed 2 new clinical quality measures for HBMC: evaluation of (1) functional status and (2) cognitive function. Data from a large multistate HBMC practice in a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services-approved qualified clinical data registry were used to test both measures for reliability and validity. In 63 000 patient encounters, provider performance rates were 68% for evaluation of functional status and 40% for cognitive function. Reliability and validity were high for both. This article describes a replicable approach to leverage registry-type data to systematically address quality gaps for high-need, high-cost populations that will raise the profile of HBMC with measure developers and payers.
Using the AHEC Scholars Program to Enhance Health Professions Learners’ Self-Efficacy for Practice Transformation
Authors: Taylor Jennifer , Goletz Sarah , Bruno Danielle
Published: May 2021

The Indiana Area Health Education Centers Scholars program is a 2-year leadership program designed to supplement health professions students’ academic training and enhance practice readiness around 6 core topic areas including practice transformation. The study was a retrospective cohort study assessing learners’ reported level of self-efficacy on a set of 6 competencies around practice transformation and quality improvement. A total of 68 students graduating in the first cohort responded to the competency questions. Area Health Education Center Scholars reported a significant increase in self-efficacy on the competencies Identify issues emerging in health care delivery such as accountable care organizations, medical homes, and health insurance exchanges; understand how to practice effectively within the organization and culture of the interprofessional team, practice setting, and local health care system, and use an electronic health record to retrieve relevant information and to document care. This study found that learners reported a significant increase in self-efficacy related to implementing practiced transformation.
Retrospective Study of the Distal Biceps Tendon Repair Using “All-suture” Soft Anchors
Authors: Metikala Sreenivasulu , Saleh Zena , Bader Dov A. , Sebastianelli Wayne J. , Sherbondy Paul S.
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

Distal biceps repair is commonly performed using various fixation devices, each having its advantages and drawbacks. All-suture soft anchor (ASSA) is a recent device mitigating some of the issues associated with previous devices.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study including 20 patients (21 ruptures) aims to evaluate the safety and functionality of ASSA by modified tension-slide technique. All operations were performed through a single-incision anterior approach using two 2.9 mm anchors. All but 1 were men with a mean age of 50.5 years. The mean duration from injury to surgery was 14 days.

Results:

At a mean follow-up of 11.8 months, compared with contralateral extremity, 18 (86%) of 21 regained full biceps strength with 5/5 flexion-supination power, while 3 displayed 4/5 power. All, except 1, returned to the previous level of function at an average of 24 weeks. As per the modified Mayo Elbow Performance Index, 18 (86%) achieved excellent and 3 (14%) had good results. Complications included lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve palsy in 12 (resolved in 10), superficial radial nerve palsy in 1 (resolved), and heterotopic ossification in 1. No device-related complications or reruptures were noted.

Conclusion:

Primary repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures through the use of the ASSA is a viable option, which in conjunction with the proposed modification of tension-slide suture fixation technique yields clinically objective and functional results.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—therapeutic.
Perception of Nurses in a Federal and State-Owned Hospital in Nigeria Toward Electronic Health Record Integration
Authors: Ojo Iyanuoluwa Oreofe , Adegbile Faithful Iyeoluwa
Published: May 2021

The electronic health record is a growing concept that facilitates the use of standardized documentation, to improve the quality of care given to patients. This study assesses the perceptions and plausible barriers to the proper integration of the electronic health record among nurses in University College Hospital and Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, both located in Ibadan, Oyo State, in the Western part of Nigeria. The level of association between variables (age, level of academic qualification, and work experience) and nurses' perceptions of electronic health record was also tested. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that used a simple random sampling technique to recruit 384 nurses, who completed a well-structured questionnaire. Approximately 57.0% of the respondents held poor perceptions of electronic health record integration. Barriers included poor electricity supply, lack of Internet connectivity, and infeasibility of electronic health record integration. An association between level of academic qualification, work experience, and participant perceptions about electronic health record integration was not found (P = .104; P = .027), whereas age was statistically significant (P = .014). Overall, participant perceptions about the integration of electronic health record were poor. Relevant stakeholders would find this result useful and may be required to pay more attention to electronic health records and put the necessary structures that would adequately address the barriers to the integration of electronic health records and train nurses to incorporate the same.
Adapting Physical Therapy Management of Patients With COVID-19 in the Acute Care Setting: A Clinical Perspective
Authors: Bitzer Grant D. , Green Karlyn , Christopherson Ricki , Fogleman Sabrina , Dorn Sara , Medlin Thomas R. , Eustis Heather
Published: May 2021

Purpose:

Using emerging evidence and information pertaining to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a team of physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) at the Duke University Hospital (DUH) created a screening algorithm to guide PT/OT evaluation readiness and treatment decisions. This article aims to discuss factors that were considered in the initial development of therapy guidelines and, in so doing, emphasizes the need for ongoing analysis of such screening algorithms and treatment guidelines as evidence continues to emerge.

Summary of Key Points:

The interdisciplinary team, leveraging their collective experience combined with the updated literature, changed the initial medical management for patients diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As a result, the screening algorithm was adapted to reflect evolving evidence-based practices. This facilitated earlier and more skillful PT intervention as well as continued PT involvement in the treatment process throughout the course of the patients' stay in the hospital.

Conclusions:

To guide clinical decisions regarding medical stability of patients and appropriate timing for PT intervention, the therapists at DUH considered factors including defining and identifying stages of disease severity, assessment of laboratory values, and monitoring oxygen stability. Beyond medical complexity, mobility was limited by several additional isolation barriers which presented challenges for PTs, nursing staff, and the patient.